April 30, 2007

Oudry's Painted Menagerie

May 1

April 30

Oudry's Painted Menagerie
Date: Daily, May 1 - September 2, 2007,
Location: Exhibitions Pavilion, Getty Center
Admission: Free

Jean-Baptiste Oudry (French, 1686–1755) was the principal animal painter during the first half of Louis XV's reign. Commissioned to paint a portrait series of the animals in the king's royal menagerie at Versailles, Oudry employed his prodigious talents and illustrative power to produce life-size paintings of a lion, an antelope, a male and a female leopard, and several other exotic animals and fowl. Oudry's Painted Menagerie features twelve paintings, including a life-size portrait of a famous rhinoceros named Clara (the subject of a multiyear project of the Getty Museum's Paintings Conservation Department), and a group of Oudry's drawings. Meissen porcelain, clocks, paintings, prints, and drawings represent the sociocultural phenomenon of exotic animal celebrity in the 18th century. This exhibition has been organized by the J. Paul Getty Museum in association with the Staatliches Museum Schwerin and the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.

Jean-Baptiste Oudry: A Brief Biography

French artist Jean-Baptiste Oudry (1686-1755) was among the most influential court painters of his day in France and Germany. Known as the foremost painter of animals and landscapes in the late 18th century, the Paris-born Oudry became one of the major authorities in French visual culture under King Louis XV of France.

Oudry followed in the footsteps of his father, a painter and art dealer. He received his first serious training beginning at the age of 19 from the Flemish-trained portraitist Nicolas de Largillière (1656-1746), while also attending classes in drawing at the Académie de St-Luc and the Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture in Paris. Oudry’s mother was Nicole Papillon, whose family included the engraver Jean-Baptiste-Michel Papillon. He married Marie-Marguerite Froissé in 1709 and they had one son, Jacques-Charles (1720-1778), who also became a painter.

Oudry’s professional artistic career began with portrait commissions and still-life paintings. In 1719, he was accepted as a history painter by the French Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture, and became a professor there some 20 years later. Beginning in 1720 and throughout the decade, Oudry focused on drawing and painting animals, hunt scenes, and landscapes. It was this work— including highly finished, naturalistic animals — that garnered the attention and admiration of Louis XV. After 1724, Oudry was producing commissions of the royal hunt for the King, often in his presence at Versailles. He was also sought after for his paintings and decorative pieces by Czar Peter the Great of Russia, the Queen of Sweden, the King of Denmark, and the Duke of Mecklenburg at Schwerin. Oudry’s privileged position with Louis XV made him the most visible artist at the Salon of 1725, and he was given a solo exhibition at Versailles in 1726.

Oudry also enjoyed great success as a designer of tapestries. In 1734, he was named director of the Beauvais Tapestry Works, where he produced the world-famous illustrations to La Fontaine's Fables. Two years later, he became director of the Gobelins manufactory and designed the tapestry The Hunt of Louis XV. His position supervising all tapestry production gave him considerable influence on French decorative arts of the period.

Moving effortlessly among the media of painting, tapestry and engraving, drawing was also a central part of Oudry’s artistic practice, and he was among the most prolific draftsmen of his age. Besides sketching the live animals of the King’s menagerie, Oudry also copied animal motifs by other artists and made drawings after his own paintings. The majority of his drawings remained in his studio, serving as study material, records of his compositions, and references when preparing other works. As a group, Oudry’s animal drawings demonstrate both his versatility as a draftsman and his efforts to compose active and expressive animals.

One of Oudry’s best known paintings is the 1749 life-sized portrait of the famous female Indian rhinoceros, known as Clara, who toured Europe and inspired a dedicated following throughout the mid-1700s. Clara spent five months in Paris, where she created a sensation: letters, poems, and songs were written about her. It was at the Saint-Germain fair in Paris that Oudry painted hinoceros.

Oudry, however, painted little after suffering a stroke in 1754, and died at Beauvais in 1755. The legacy of his prodigious talents will be revitalized and on view in Oudry’s Painted Menagerie, a major exhibition of his life-sized paintings of a rhinoceros, lion, antelope, a leopard and leopardess, and several other animals and exotic fowl from the Staatliches Museum Schwerin. Several of his paintings, also displayed in this exhibition, formed the basis for engravings for the Comte de Buffon’s 44 volume Historie Naturelle, published from 1749-1804.

Clara: A Brief Biography

In a culture awash in instant and global access to information and images, it’s difficult to imagine the impact that a female Indian rhinoceros could have had on 18th-century Europe. But during her 17 years touring the continent, everyone wanted to make her acquaintance.

Miss Clara, as the hefty quadruped would affectionately come to be known, was the Age of Enlightenment’s equivalent of a modern day rock star.

In 1738, Jan Albert Sichtermann, a director of the Dutch East India Company adopted a one-month-old female rhino from the Assam region of India. She spent her first two years at his family’s estate near present-day Calcutta. Although quite tame—she was allowed to roam throughout the house and would often amuse dinner guests with her table skills—she would soon grow too large to be in the house without causing damage.

Dutch sea captain Douwemout Van der Meer of the Dutch East India Company acquired the young rhino when she was about three years old. After a seven-month sea voyage around Africa, Van der Meer and his rhino arrived in the Dutch port of Rotterdam in July of 1741. She was stabled and pastured in Leiden and Amsterdam and exhibited in the Netherlands for several years before she made her first trip abroad to Hamburg, Germany in 1744. Known as the “Dutch” Rhino, she acquired her nickname “Miss Clara” four years later when she visited the German town of Würzburg in August 1748.

Caring for a growing rhino on the road—at the age of eight she weighed nearly 5,000 lbs. — was not an easy undertaking, writes Glynis Ridley in her 2005 book, Clara's Grand Tour: Travels with a Rhinoceros in Eighteenth-Century Europe. Ridley was the first to document such details about the herbivore, whose typical daily diet would be 60 pounds of hay, 20 pounds of bread, and 14 buckets of water. During her sea voyage from India, she also became partial to orange peels, beer, and tobacco smoke. Clara’s skin required special moisturizers as well and, it is thought that, Van der Meer might have used fish oil to keep her comfortable.

When over-land travel was necessary, Clara rode in a custom built carriage, which required six pairs of oxen or 20 horses to draw it.

Between 1744 and her unexpected death in 1758, Clara traveled extensively throughout continental Europe. From 1746–1748, she toured the German states, the Holy Roman Empire, and the Swiss cantons, stopping in Hanover, Berlin, Breslau, Vienna, Munich, Regensburg, Freiberg, Dresden, Leipzig, Kassel, Frankfurt-am-Main, Mannheim, Bern, Zurich, Basel, Strasbourg, Stuttgart, Augsburg, Nuremberg, Würzburg, and Ansbach. She visited the Italian peninsula from 1749–1751 and went to London on three occasions, in 1751–1752, again in 1756, and a last time, dying there without fanfare, in 1758.

By the time Jean-Baptiste Oudry painted her portrait at the Saint-Germain fair in Paris in 1749, Clara was quite accustomed to attention and adoration from all classes of society. In addition to making public appearances, Clara was a highly sought-after guest of European society. She had private audiences with King Frederick II of Prussia in Berlin; Francis I and Empress Maria-Theresa in Vienna; King Louis XV in Versailles; Augustus III, Elector of Saxony and King of Poland; and Frederick II, Landgrave of Hesse.

As savvy as any modern-day marketer, Van der Meer commissioned souvenirs to be sold to patrons with varying budgets, including woodcuts, engravings, commemorative prints and medals. He was no doubt pleased when the passion for all things rhino- and Clara-related erupted during her stays in Paris and Versailles in the winter and spring of 1749. Interior

design elements and luxury goods of the day, including Meissen porcelain, clocks and music boxes, sported her plump likeness. Courtiers carried rhino snuffboxes. Fashionable coiffures, dresses and ribbons that season were ‘à la rhinoceros.’ Even horses weren’t immune: harnesses outfitted with feathers and ribbons (suggesting the rhino horn and tail, respectively) were a must.

Clara, however, was destined to be more than a mere fashion accessory. Prior to her arrival, a rhinoceros had not been seen in Europe since 1579. Most Europeans considered the rhino a mythical creature, much like the fabled unicorn. For those who understood that the rhino did exist, the image they would have been familiar with would have been a woodcut print by German artist Albrecht Dürer (1471–1528), which portrays the rhino with an armor-like hide, reptilian scales on its legs, and an extra horn protruding from between its shoulders.

Clara’s tours throughout Europe not only fixed the rhinoceros firmly in reality, but also provided scientists, or natural philosophers, as they were known, with an accurate model of the species. Clara appears in two seminal publishing projects of the Enlightenment period, Georges Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon’s 36-volume Histoire Naturelle, and the 17-volume Encyclopédie by Denis Diderot and Jean Le Rond d’Alembert.

Clara captivated many more than actually saw her in person, thanks to a generation of artists, scientists, philosophers and writers who sought to describe her in detail through their respective mediums.

“She was a gentle giant whose larger-than-life presence fascinated and delighted all, from the learned doctors of ‘natural philosophy’ to the common citizenry,” said Charissa Bremer-David, associate curator of sculpture and decorative arts, the J. Paul Getty Museum, who organized the “Clara-mania” section of the Oudry’s Painted Menagerie exhibition (on view at the J. Paul Getty Museum, Getty Center, from May 1 – September 2, 2007). “Her imprint on contemporary culture was recorded through the numerous painted portraits, life drawings, engraved profiles, ceramic and metal sculptures, prose and scientific reports. Yet, for all her familiarity in visual and printed forms, she remained a living wonder in the Age of Enlightenment.”

She continues to inspire interest today.

J. Paul Getty Museum Paintings Conservation At A Glance

When French artist Jean-Baptiste Oudry’s life-size Rhinoceros and Lion go on display at the J. Paul Getty Museum on May 1, 2007, it will mark the culmination of one of the longest conservation projects in the Museum’s history – and the first time the paintings have been seen by the public in more than 150 years.

The five-year project, which began in 2001, marks an ambitious collaboration with the Staatliches Museum Schwerin, and among several programs of the J. Paul Getty Trust, including the Museum’s Paintings Conservation and Paintings departments, and the Getty Conservation Institute, to repair and restore the damaged Oudry paintings to their original splendor. In addition, the Getty’s Paintings Conservation Council and the Friends of Heritage Preservation lent their financial support to the project.

Simultaneously, the Getty Foundation funded two conservation projects at the Staatliches Museum Schwerin, allowing for conservation research on paintings in the Museum’s Old Master collection.

Over the past 15 years, the Getty Museum’s Paintings Conservation Department has restored – free of charge – more than 105 important paintings for institutions around the world. Most projects are completed in four months to a year and involve conservators utilizing a range of practices to repair, clean, retouch, restore, preserve and maintain significant paintings. The conservators’ work necessitates familiarity with numerous fields of expertise, ranging from art history to chemistry and materials science.

The J. Paul Getty Trust is an international cultural and philanthropic organization devoted to the visual arts, and conservation is a fundamental mandate of its mission. Toward that end, the J. Paul Getty Museum’s Paintings Conservation Department routinely undertakes partnerships with other institutions in need of conservation assistance with their collections.

Additionally, the Getty Foundation funds conservation projects worldwide, complementing and extending the work of all the Getty programs.

The paintings come to the Getty on loan and are repaired and restored in exchange for allowing the Getty to exhibit the works in public galleries at the Getty Center after completion of the treatments. The newly restored paintings may also be featured in exhibition catalogues and scholarly journals.

Some of the highlights of the Paintings Conservation department’s work since 1990 include collaborations with the Museum of Fine Arts, Budapest, Hungary, on two paintings including Petrus Christus’s Virgin and Child in an Archway; the Kröller-Müller Museum, Otterlo, The Netherlands, on nine paintings including Pierre Auguste Renoir’s The Clown and Vincent van Gogh’s Cornfield and Tree in the Mountains; and the Staatliche Kunstsammlungen, Dresden, Germany on three paintings including Andrea Mantegna’s Holy Family.

“Partnering with other museums and cultural institutions in conserving major works of art allows the Getty Museum and our conservators, curators and the Getty Conservation Institute’s conservation scientists to work together to perform a significant public service by preserving important paintings and once again making them available for public view,” says Museum Director Michael Brand.

The Paintings Conservation department, started in 1974 with the opening of the J. Paul Getty Museum, is considered one of the world’s finest, featuring four paintings conservators, one frame conservator, and support staff responsible for the care and study of the approximately 450 paintings in the Museum’s permanent collection. The department also regularly hosts interns and guest conservators from other institutions.

Paintings Conservation is one of four conservation departments at the Getty Museum, which has about 25 conservators and support staff in total. In addition, the Getty Conservation Institute's Museum Research Laboratory, which played a major role in the work on Oudry’s Rhinoceros and Lion, works in close collaboration with the Museum’s conservation departments, performing scientific analysis of works of art to support treatments, studies of technology and materials, and collaboration with the conservators and other institutions.

Conservation was important to J. Paul Getty, who employed one of the leading conservators of paintings of the time, John Brealey, to look after his collection in London.

Brealey was later named head of the paintings conservation department at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York in 1975, where he trained a generation of conservators, including Mark Leonard, who now heads the J. Paul Getty Paintings Conservation Department, having joined the Getty in 1983.

Exciting upcoming projects include partnerships with the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum Museum in Amsterdam, The Netherlands, and the Museo del Prado in Madrid, Spain.

About the J. Paul Getty Museum

The J. Paul Getty Museum – with two locations at the Getty Villa in Malibu and the Getty Center in Los Angeles – is dedicated to making its collection meaningful and attractive to a broad audience by presenting and interpreting the collection through educational programs, special exhibitions, publications, conservation, and research. The Getty Center houses European paintings, drawings, sculpture, illuminated manuscripts, decorative arts, and European and American photographs. The Getty Villa in Malibu focuses on the arts and cultures of ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria.

About the Getty Conservation Institute

The Getty Conservation Institute works internationally to improve and advance the practice of conservation. One of the four programs of the J. Paul Getty Trust, the GCI pursues projects and initiatives that serve and benefit the conservation community through scientific research, education and training, field projects, and the sharing and dissemination of information.

About the Getty Foundation

As the J. Paul Getty Trust’s grant-making arm, the Getty Foundation provides support to institutions and individuals in Los Angeles and throughout the world, funding a diverse range of projects that promote the understanding and conservation of the visual arts. Through its grant making, the Foundation complements and extends the work of all the Getty programs.

The Foundation also encompasses the Getty Leadership Institute, the leading source of continuing professional development for current and future museum leaders.

About the Paintings Conservation Council

Since its inception in 2002, the Paintings Conservation Council of the J. Paul Getty Museum has provided generous support for the study and restoration of major works of art from an international array of museums and cultural institutions. The 23-member Paintings Conservation Council includes a diverse group of collectors and art enthusiasts with wide-ranging interests.

About the Friends of Heritage Preservation

The Friends of Heritage Preservation is a small, private association of members based in Los Angeles, dedicated to the recognition, preservation, and conservation of artistic and cultural heritage. The organization was founded by Suzanne Deal Booth, a member of the Getty’s Paintings Conservation Council.

Technically Speaking: A Conversation With Mark Leonard

In 2001, two paintings by the 18th-century French artist Jean-Baptiste Oudry that had been rolled up and stored for generations in the basement of the Staatliches Museum Schwerin in northeast Germany, were shown to Mark Leonard, conservator of paintings, and Scott Schaefer, curator of paintings, the J. Paul Getty Museum. The life-size animal portraits, ‘Rhinoceros’ and ‘Lion,’ among Oudry’s most important paintings, were in need of conservation. The Getty offered to repair and restore the paintings as part of an ambitious conservation partnership between the two museums. Mark Leonard tells us of the lengthy, detailed process that brought ‘Rhinoceros’ and ‘Lion’ back to life.

Q: How did the Getty Museum get involved in conserving these two paintings from the Staatliches Museum Schwerin?

A: As part of the Getty’s philanthropic mission, the Paintings Conservation department looks for conservation projects with other institutions in need of assistance. There’s an excellent conservation department in Schwerin, and additionally some very good restorers working nearby in Hamburg. But because of the incredible size of these paintings, they were simply not able to handle them physically. There wasn’t any room in the restoration studios at Schwerin and there weren’t any private conservators nearby who could take them on.

Q: Could you describe the conditions of the paintings when you first saw them?

A: The Lion was the more damaged of the two paintings. It had been folded in half down the vertical central seam and then rolled up fairly tightly – too tightly for an oil painting on canvas. It was also crushed on one side. There were a series of paint losses, not only down the central seam, but running horizontally in a regular pattern from having been crushed. The Rhinoceros was damaged, too, but to a lesser extent.

Q: What was your initial reaction when you saw the paintings?

A: My first thought when I saw both pictures was astonishment at the personalities that were captured in each of the animals. I was naturally, as I think many people are, drawn to the rhinoceros, because she is such a gentle giant. Even when we initially saw her (the painting) lying on the floor covered with a discolored varnish, under really bad lighting conditions, that eye that Oudry painted looking directly at us, just reached out to everybody in the room. We were engaged. I was completely taken with it. Frankly, that kind of joyful engagement with the animal was the primary thing on my mind.

Q: You didn’t think of how much work would lie ahead?

A: Yes, I did think it would be a lot of work. They’re both enormous canvases and working with large paintings always involves compromise and frustration. But given the quality and the enthusiasm of the subjects, I knew they would be interesting and exciting paintings to work on.

Q: How did Rhinoceros, for example, arrive at the Getty Museum?

A: The Rhinoceros painting arrived in Los Angeles by airplane, rolled up like a large tapestry or carpet put on a drum the same length – 10 feet – as the height of the picture. The drum was put in a wooden crate. When it arrived at the Getty, we unrolled it face up onto a large work surface in the restoration studio. We spent a few weeks trying to get to know the painting a little bit better.

Q: How did you do that?

A: We thought about what happened to it. We took some samples, did some cleaning tests and devised a plan to work, first of all, on the structural issues. Secondly, we’d deal with the cleaning and restoration of the surface.

Q: What were the first repairs on Rhinoceros?

A: We spent about a year working on the back of the painting, mending tears and inserting new pieces of canvas, particularly at the right edge where large sections of the original canvas had been missing. A large piece of canvas also on the right edge had become completely detached from the original. That was repaired and consolidated and then stitched back into the main structure of the canvas.

Q: Was there anything unusual about the painting?

A: The canvas was unlined, and we kept it unlined – meaning we did not add another layer of fabric onto the back of the painting. It’s extremely rare to come across a French 18th-century painting that has not been lined, and that has not had a new piece of fabric glued to the back.

Because of that rarity, and also because the picture remained quite flexible, we designed a treatment that would allow us to repair the structural problems with a minimal amount of intervention.

Q: How did you go about working on the painting?

A: We found there were two layers of varnish on the painting. The upper layer of varnish, which we think had been applied when the picture was framed, was very discolored but easily removed with very mild solvents. The second layer contained a fair amount of drying oil, which we discovered with the help of the scientists at the Getty Conservation Institute. It appeared to have been applied very early on in the life of the picture, and it was impossible to remove without damaging the original paint. We opted to leave it intact.

Q: What came next?

A: We then had to deal with all of the losses that were scattered across the surface of the painting. There were literally thousands of tiny damages where paint had flaked away, which had to be filled, first with a putty like material to bring the level of the loss up to the level of the original paint.

Q: What were some of the other discoveries that you made along the way?

A: As we worked on both the Rhinoceros and the Lion, we learned a lot about how these pictures were created. Oudry was a traditionalist, a teacher at the French Royal Academy, and followed a predictable and prescribed method of preparing his canvases and applying his paints.

Q: How did Oudry’s preparation of his canvases impact your efforts to fix the losses?

A: Oudry first applied a double ground, a double preparatory layer, to the canvas. The lower preparatory layer was a deep red color and on top of that was a very thin, light beige color. That provided, particularly with the deep red preparation, a kind of dark and luminous under-layer that reflects light back through the upper paint layers in such a way that it lends vibrancy, a depth to the colors.

Q: Was this unusual?

A: Not really. It was a technique that was first used in early Italian renaissance paintings. A red preparatory layer was applied underneath because it lends a lot of warmth and depth, providing a luminous and dense appearance to the canvas right away.

Q: What does this process say about Oudry as an artist?

A: The way he went about painting was extremely direct and very simple. These are pictures that have a relatively uncomplicated build-up of paint layers – unlike other artists where you’ll encounter from seven to 20 layers of paint to create a specific kind of illusion.

Q: What is the result of Oudry’s method?

A: Well, it’s much easier, and you get a more complex result painting over a dark ground than you do painting over a light ground. And he used that to his advantage. Once he had applied the dark ground, the sky for example, is a really just a single layer of blue under paint, modulated with only one additional layer on top.

Q: Did you use the same approach in trying to restore the painting to its original condition?

A: Yes, we used a red ground color, but it was not the same materials as Oudry’s original preparatory layer. What we did was mimic the look of it physically. The painting was then retouched with paints that were designed specifically for use by restorers, so that the losses would disappear to the naked eye.

Q: It’s really amazing to see the Rhinoceros and Lion “before” and “after.” Did you take steps to ensure that the paintings will remain in optimal condition?

A: Yes. The pictures were varnished and placed into newly designed, specially built frames. The paintings came to the Getty without frames. They were presumably discarded when the paintings were removed from their stretchers back in the 19th century. The Staatliches Museum Schwerin has what is called a “house frame” style, which means that almost every picture in the collection is framed with the same type of molding. We worked with the curators and conservators at Schwerin to create new frames that will travel with the paintings from here to Houston and then back to their home in Schwerin.

GETTY MUSEUM AWAKENS SLEEPING PAINTINGS BY

JEAN-BAPTISTE OUDRY

Oudry’s Painted Menagerie

At the J. Paul Getty Museum, the Getty Center,

May 1, 2007 – September 2, 2007

LOS ANGELES—When the J. Paul Getty Museum unveils the exhibition Oudry’s Painted Menagerie on May 1, 2007, two enormous artworks, Rhinoceros and Lion, will be on display for the first time in more than 150 years. The works, which belong to the Staatliches Museum Schwerin in Germany, were painted in the mid-1700s by Jean-Baptiste Oudry, considered the greatest animal painter during the first half of the reign of King Louis XV.

Oudry’s Painted Menagerie, at the J. Paul Getty Museum, the Getty Center from May 1– September 2, 2007, will mark the culmination of an important international collaboration of conservators, scientists, curators, and art historians. The exhibition will showcase the restored Rhinoceros and Lion, and 10 other Oudry paintings – including an antelope, two leopards, a Mufflon sheep, several exotic fowl, and more than 20 animal drawings. Most of these portraits celebrate star specimens of the French king’s menagerie at Versailles.

A French painter and professor at the Royal Academy, Oudry (1686-1755) was among the foremost court painters of his day in France and Germany. Oudry’s highly finished, naturalistic animals have been called elegant, dignified, and noble.

“As an artist, Oudry provides the kind of visual contact one longs for on a visit to the zoo, by giving us an intimate, tangible proximity to exotic, dangerous beasts that is generally blocked by fences, glass enclosures or crowds, not to mention the sometimes reluctant performances of the animals themselves,” says Mary Morton, the J. Paul Getty Museum’s associate curator of paintings and the exhibition’s organizing curator.

Jean-Baptiste Oudry

Rhinoceros, 1749 (pre-conservation)

Oil on canvas

Unframed: 310 x 456 cm

Courtesy of the Staatliches Museum Schwerin, Germany.

Oudry’s Rhinoceros is not just any rhinoceros. It is a life-sized portrait of Clara, a famous touring Indian rhinoceros who inspired a dedicated following throughout Europe in the mid-1700’s. A Dutch sea captain imported Clara from India, and orchestrated a European tour for the high-profile animal that lasted 17 years. Oudry painted Clara in 1749 at the annual Saint-Germain fair in Paris. Curious people came in droves to see the wondrous rhinoceros which German viewers, charmed by her docile nature, named Miss Clara.

An engaging section of the Getty’s exhibition will be devoted to the subject of “Clara-mania” and will showcase paintings, a beaded textile, Meissen porcelain, medals, prints, drawings and objects inspired by the celebrity rhino.

Oudry sold Rhinoceros and Lion in 1750 as part of a suite of 13 animal paintings. The buyer was Oudry’s principal patron at the time, Christian Ludwig II, the German Duke of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. After their purchase, the Duke shipped the paintings to his castle in northeast Germany – now a part of the Staatliches useum Schwerin. In the middle of the 19th century, Rhinoceros and Lion were removed from their stretchers and placed in storage.

In 2001, Mark Leonard, head of paintings conservation at the Getty Museum, and Scott Schaefer, curator of paintings at the Getty Museum, were traveling through Germany to review potential conservation and restoration projects and learned of the Rhinoceros and Lion. The Getty team viewed the paintings and offered to bring them to Los Angeles for study and treatment.

The Restoration Process

The restoration process offered a truly original opportunity, as neither Rhinoceros nor Lion had been touched for more than 150 years. Both pictures were covered with heavy layers of grime and discolored varnish, making them very difficult to view. In addition, Lion was folded on its central seam, then rolled and crushed on one side, leading to cracks, creases, and numerous missing flakes of color. There were also structural repairs needed to mend numerous old tears and losses. However, the parts of the paintings that remained intact were in exquisite condition—the old varnish that appeared so dark and discolored had in fact offered protection to the original painted areas, and the paintings’ physical inaccessibility meant that no one had made any potentially misguided attempts to clean or restore them in the past.

“Our assignment was unique,” explains Leonard. “It is rare to receive the opportunity to work with paintings that have not undergone regular upkeep in more than a century. Now that the restoration process is complete, these two paintings are among the best preserved of all remaining Oudry works.”

The Paintings Conservation team followed a conservative approach, thinning the existing varnish and then adding a new layer of varnish in order to offer visual consistency with the remainder of the Museum Schwerin’s suite of Oudry paintings. Then, conservators retouched the many scattered minor damages. In addition, Getty conservator Tiarna Doherty painstakingly re-wove shredded bits of canvas, using tweezers and a magnifying glass, a process that took 18 months.

The multi-year restoration process led to some compelling discoveries. During his time as a Professor of the Royal Academy under Louis XV, Oudry presented two lectures that included useful references to his painting techniques. These lectures provided helpful insights during the course of the restoration, and the information was supplemented by technical studies carried out by the scientists of the Getty Conservation Institute, including pigment identification and binding media analysis.

“We’ve learned quite a lot about the materials and techniques that Oudry used,” says Leonard. “In restoring the two paintings, we put every effort into designing treatments that are as minimally invasive as possible.”

The Getty’s unique capabilities came into play in other aspects of the restoration as well.

For example, in order to display and easily maneuver the life-size Rhinoceros, master craftsmen in the Museum’s workshops designed and created a series of temporary stretchers to allow for easy access to the front and back of the canvas for restoration. In addition, they created a giant metal easel to allow a single technician to turn the painting.

Simultaneously, the Getty Foundation funded two conservation projects at the Staatliches Museum Schwerin, allowing for conservation research on paintings in the Museum’s Old Master collection.

The Exhibition

The exhibition was organized by the J. Paul Getty Museum in association with the Staatliches Museum Schwerin and the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.

“The inspiration for Oudry’s Painted Menagerie was born from the extraordinary opportunity created through partnership and collaboration with other museums to conserve major works of art, provide our own staff with a unique professional experience and in the end benefit our audience by introducing works of art that would otherwise not be available for public view,” says Museum Director Michael Brand.

The conservation of Rhinoceros, Lion, and a third painting, Tiger, has been made possible by the J. Paul Getty Museum’s Painting Conservation Department, supported by the Paintings Conservation Council, a group that underwrites selected conservation partnerships. Additional support has been provided by the Friends of Heritage Preservation. Feldtmann Kulturell and FAMA Kunststiftung funded restoration of five other of the Oudry paintings.

The exhibition Oudry’s Painted Menagerie is being sponsored at the Getty by wachovia, the fourth largest bank holding company in the United States. This sponsorship is an example of Wachovia's commitment to California.

Following the exhibition at the Getty, Oudry’s Painted Menagerie will be on view at The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, October 7, 2007 to January 6, 2008. Following Houston, the paintings return to the Staatliches Museum Schwerin in Germany where they will be on view from April 4, 2008 to July 6, 2008.

Clara: The Movie

Oscar-winning film director William Friedkin (The French Connection, The Exorcist) as so captivated by the restoration of Clara that he followed and documented the entire conservation project from the day the painting first arrived at the Getty Museum. Portions of Friedkin’s documentary will be shown in conjunction with the exhibition. The complete 30-minute film will be sold in the Getty Museum store.

Related Program

Oudry’s Painted Menagerie has inspired an exciting collaboration between the Getty

Museum, nearby Skirball Cultural Center, the Los Angeles Zoo, and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. The four organizations will offer a summer “passport” program that allows visitors from each institution to experience all four places between May 28, 2007 – August 31, 2007. When a guest presents their passport at each institution, they will receive a stamp and, after all four stamps are received, guests can mail in their passport to receive a free gift.

Additionally, the Los Angeles Zoo will feature displays about the Getty exhibition that will include 18th century “fun facts” about the zoo animals that correspond with specific paintings and drawings in Oudry’s Painted Menagerie, including the rhinoceros, lion, tiger, tufted crane and cassowary.

Related Exhibition

Medieval Beasts

May 1-July 29, 2007

North Pavilion, Plaza Level, J. Paul Getty Museum at the Getty Center This exhibition focuses on the central role of beasts both in medieval art and the medieval conception of the world. Medieval Beasts, culled from the Getty Museum’s permanent collection features many of the Museum's most popular illuminated manuscripts, its two popular bestiaries and some books and leaves rarely displayed, including a lively manuscript of Aesop's fables. The 23 images chosen for Medieval Beasts are divided into three sections: Animals in Daily Life, Symbolic Creatures, and Fantastic Beasts, and all include a special feature created especially for the enjoyment and education of children.

The J. Paul Getty Trust is an international cultural and philanthropic institution devoted to the visual arts that features the Getty Conservation Institute, the Getty Foundation, the J. Paul Getty Museum, and the Getty Research Institute. The J. Paul Getty Trust and Getty programs serve a varied audience from two locations: the Getty Center in Los Angeles and the Getty Villa in Malibu.

Visiting the Getty Center:

The Getty Center is open Tuesday through Thursday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. It is closed Monday and major holidays. Admission to the Getty Center is always free. Parking is $8. No reservation required. Reservations are required for event seating and groups of 15 or more. For more information, call 310-440-7300 (English or Spanish); 310-440-7305 (TTY line for the deaf or hearing impaired).

Additional information is available at www.getty.edu.

Sign up for e-Getty at www.getty.edu/subscribe to receive free monthly highlights of events at the Getty Center and the Getty Villa via e-mail, or visit www.getty.edu for a complete calendar of public programs.

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Entertainment,Arts,Fashion & Technology

May 7

TRACY MORGAN TO HOST SPIKE TV’S FIRST ANNUAL “GUYS CHOICE”
Two-Hour Event Saluting Everything Guys Love
Premieres Wednesday, June 13th at 10 PM, ET/PT at 10 PM, ET/PT
All-Star Nominees Include Jessica Alba, Beyonce, Jessica Biel, Borat, Kobe Bryant,
George Clooney, Will Ferrell, James Gandolfini, Chuck Liddell, Masi Oka, Kiefer Sutherland, LaDainian Tomlinson And Rainn Wilson
Log-On To www.guyschoice.spiketv.com To Vote
New York, NY, May 7, 2007 – The preeminent night of the year for men will take place when comedian/actor Tracy Morgan hosts Spike TV’s first annual “GUYS CHOICE.” Spike TV is giving the biggest shout-outs in television history to the things guys love most and is relying on its millions of viewers to decide who to bow down to from the worlds of sports, music, film, television and the internet. The show is scheduled to tape on June 9 at CBS Radford in Los Angeles. Spike TV’s “GUYS CHOICE” premieres Wednesday, June 13 at 10:00 PM, ET/PT. It’s guys night out this June at 10:00 PM, ET/PT.
– The preeminent night of the year for men will take place when at 10:00 PM, ET/PT. It’s guys night out this June with this non-traditional awards show that promises to be a one-of-a-kind raucous and manly two-hour television spectacular. This star-studded event will feature everything guys want including comedy, the hottest women in the world, the best in music, sports and so much more. Also, for the first time in awards show history, Spike TV will narrow the field for all awards to only two nominees, so it can be settled like men: ‘mano a mano.’

In addition to honoring the coolest guys and the most awe-inspiring women from the past year, GUYS CHOICE will also feature unforgettable tributes to legendary entertainers, rockers and most viral videos, as well as edgy stand-up comedy and house-shaking musical performances.

Tracy Morgan has received critical acclaim for playing the wild and unpredictable movie star Tracy Jordan on NBC's "30 Rock." As a standup comic who headlined across the country, TV audiences first met Morgan in his role as "Hustleman" on the hit comedy series "Martin." Morgan next joined "Saturday Night Live" in 1996 where he appeared for seven seasons and created such memorable characters as "Astronaut Jones" and "Brian Fellows." Morgan’s feature-film credits include "The Longest Yard," "Little Man," "Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back" and "Head of State."

The official sponsors of Spike TV’s “GUYS CHOICE” are American Express, Cingular, now the new AT&T, Corona, Jeep® Patriot, Pizza Hut, SNICKERS®Brand, Southern Comfort® and U.S. Army.Voting for this year’s nominees are held online at

www.guyschoice.spiketv.com and wirelessly by texting "GUYS" to 22422. Wireless voting is sponsored exclusively by Cingular, now the new AT&T and runs through Friday, June 1. Also online, fans can log on to view exclusive red carpet and backstage coverage of the event.Following are the categories and nominees for Spike TV’s “GUYS CHOICE” (additional nominations will be announced shortly on SpikeTV.com): BIGGEST ASS KICKER
Gerard Butler (“300”) vs. Kiefer Sutherland (Fox’s “24”)
BALLSIEST BAND

Disturbed vs. Lamb of God

HOTTEST GIRL ON THE PLANET

Beyonce vs. Adriana Lima

LUCKIEST BASTARD

Dominic Monaghan (Evangeline Lilly’s boyfriend) vs. Cash Warren (Jessica Alba’s boyfriend)

FUNNIEST M.F.

Will Ferrell vs. Sacha Baron Cohen

GIFT FROM THE GODS
Minka Kelly (NBC’s “Friday Night Lights”) vs. Rashida Jones (NBC’s “The Office”)
MOST UNSTOPPABLE JOCK

Kobe Bryant vs. LaDainian Tomlinson

HOTTEST JESSICA

Jessica Alba vs. Jessica Biel

BEST GANGSTERTAINMENT
“The Departed” vs. “The Sopranos”
MOST DANGEROUS MAN

Chuck Liddell (UFC) vs. Dog (The Bounty Hunter)

FEMME FATAL
Tricia Helfer (Sci-Fi’s “Battlestar Galactica”) vs. Rose McGowan (“Grindhouse”) COCKIEST CREW
HBO’s “Entourage” crew vs. “Jackass 2” crew SICKEST RHYMES

Nas vs. Jay-Z

COOLEST GEEK
Rainn Wilson (NBC’s “The Office”) vs. Masi Oka (NBC’s “Heroes”) GUTSIEST MOVE
Steven Colbert (his speech from White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner) vs. Chris Peterson (head football coach at Boise State)KINGPIN (GUY OF THE YEAR)
(GUY OF THE YEAR)

James Gandolfini vs. George Clooney

Emmy Award-winning producer Joel Gallen of Tenth Planet Productions and Casey Patterson, Senior Vice President, Event Production & Talent Development for Spike TV will serve as executive producers. Alicia Portugal is the executive in charge of production for Spike TV.

Spike TV is available in 91.6 million homes and is a division of MTV Networks. A unit of VIACOM (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), MTV Networks is one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms.

Fans of Soul Songstress Jill Scott Can Enter the VerizonSurround 'Love Rain' Music Video Contest to Win Tickets to Her Concert and Autographed CDs
Verizon Presents Two Nights of Soul Starring Scott and Special Guests at Radio City Music Hall, June 13 and 14

-- Fans of Grammy Award-winning soul and rhythm and blues singer and songwriter Jill Scott can enter a music video contest and win the opportunity to meet with Scott and attend one of her two concert performances next month at Radio City Music Hall, featuring special guests Musiq Soulchild, Chaka Khan and Robin Thicke, courtesy of Verizon.

To enter the VerizonSurround "Love Rain" music video contest, visit http://verizon.net/jillscott. Contestants must submit a one-to-two-minute video file that gives an original interpretation performance inspired by Scott's song "Love Rain." Entry videos must include the lyrics of the song or a rework of the lyrics. (See official rules online.) Verizon's Scott video contest page is on the company's cutting-edge, broadband entertainment site, VerizonSurround (http://surround.verizon.net/), which features movie trailers, hot news, cool games and fast-paced message boards.

"Verizon is fast becoming the company for all your entertainment needs, so it only made sense for us to host this online contest to give Jill Scott's fans not only the chance to win cool prizes, but the chance to be creative," said Pat Hennebry, director of corporate sponsorships for Verizon." Scott will perform at Radio City Music Hall on June 13 and 14 at 8 p.m. Award- winning comedian, TV star and clothing designer Mo'Nique, who is presently starring in VH1's "Flavor of Love Girls Charm School," will join Scott on both nights as show host.

Scott's music has been described as a blend of 70s soul, jazz and blues, together with 80s hip-hop. Her debut album, "Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1," was released in July 2000. "Experience: Jill Scott 826+," appeared the following summer and featured the single "A Long Walk," earning her a Grammy nomination in early 2003 for Best Female Vocal Performance. Scott's "Beautifully Human: Words and Sounds, Vol. 2" came out in 2004 and the more recent "Collobarations" in 2007. Her next album, "The Real Thing," is expected to be released this summer.

Musiq Soulchild will be featured at Scott's June 13 performance. He made a blockbuster debut in 2000 and since then he has had multiple platinum albums and has won several awards, including Billboard Music Awards, Soul Train Music Awards and ASCAP Rhythm and Soul Awards, and multiple nominations for Grammy Awards and BET Awards.

Chaka Khan and Robin Thicke will join Scott's performance on June 14. Multiple Grammy Award-winner Khan is well known for her famous song, "I'm Every Woman," which became a smash hit again for Whitney Houston a decade after Khan released it.

Thicke's smash single, "Wanna Love You Girl," can be heard throughout the country on radio stations, formats and in clubs. His career began at 16 when, with no formal training, he began writing and producing music for recording artists like Brandy and Brian McKnight. Thicke has dozens of gold and platinum records with artists including Usher, Mary J. Blige, Michael Jackson and Christina Aguilera. Currently, his second U.S. single, "Lost Without U," is a smash hit on air and on the charts.

The grand-prize winner of Verizon's video contest will receive two tickets to Scott's June 14 performance, and three runners-up will win autographed CDs. The grand-prize winner will also have the opportunity to meet Scott backstage after the show.

Video files for the online contest will need to be in one of these formats: QuickTime (.mov), MPEG (.mpg), MPEG-4 (.mp4), Windows Media (.wmv), or (AVI (.avi). One video entry per person. Entries must be original works that have not been previously published nor infringe upon the copyrights, trademarks or other intellectual property, or other rights of any person or entity. For complete rules to the VerizonSurround "Love Rain" music video contest, please visit http://verizon.net/jillscott.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ) , headquartered in New York, is a leader in delivering broadband and other wireline and wireless communication innovations to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America's most reliable wireless network, serving 60.7 million customers nationwide. Verizon's Wireline operations include Verizon Business, which delivers innovative and seamless business solutions to customers around the world, and Verizon Telecom, which brings customers the benefits of converged communications, information and entertainment services over the nation's most advanced fiber-optic network. A Dow 30 company, Verizon has a diverse workforce of more than 238,000 and last year generated consolidated operating revenues of more than $88 billion. For more information, visit www.verizon.com.

MEET THE STARS OF SHOWTIME'S POPULAR
“DEBBIE DOES DALLAS ...AGAIN” SERIES ON THURSDAY, MAY 10TH AT TOKIO IN L.A.
VIVID GIRLS MONIQUE ALEXANDER, CASSIDEY AND
SUNNY LEONE TO HOST RELEASE PARTY FOR THE “DEBBIE DOES DALLAS ...AGAIN” MOVIE
WHO: Vivid Girls Monique Alexander, Cassidey and Sunny Leone, stars of the popular Showtime reality series and sizzling adult blockbuster of the year, "Debbie Does Dallas …Again," will host the release party in L.A.
: , and , stars of the popular reality series and sizzling adult blockbuster of the year, "," will host the release party in L.A. WHAT: “Debbie Does Dallas …Again” is the first adult movie to ever be released in both HD DVD and Blu-ray and has already received worldwide press coverage. The sequel to the 1978 classic is released by Vivid Entertainment, the world’s leading adult film company. The Showtime series followed the behind-the-scenes fun and drama in the making of the movie.
: “Debbie Does Dallas …Again” is the first adult movie to ever be released in both and and has already received worldwide press coverage. The sequel to the 1978 classic is released by , the world’s leading adult film company. The Showtime series followed the behind-the-scenes fun and drama in the making of the movie.

Guests will get to mix and meet with Monique, Cassidey and Sunny, who will also sign complimentary “Debbie” DVDs.

WHERE: Tokio, 1640 N. Cahuenga Blvd. ( Cross Street : Hollywood Boulevard ) - (323) 464-2065.
, 1640 N. Cahuenga Blvd. ( Cross Street : Hollywood Boulevard ) - (323) 464-2065. WHEN: Thursday, May 10^th from 8-10pm with open bar. Open to the public starting at 10pm.
from with open bar. Open to the public starting at .

…Again” tells the story of a team of sexy all-American cheerleaders who compete with one another in both cheerleading and sexual prowess as they practice for the National Cheerleading World Championships, their exploits on and off the practice field revealing hidden talents and skills that will keep viewers riveted to the film. The three-disc set includes the original “Debbie Does Dallas” and is the first Hi-Def DVD with multiple camera angle options.

About Vivid:

Founded in 1984, Vivid Entertainment Group is the world’s leading adult film company. Vivid has always placed heavy emphasis on high quality erotic film entertainment and has created wide brand-name awareness through its films and through a licensing and marketing program that extends to advertising, apparel, book publishing and other products.

The company’s Vivid-Alt imprint is headed by Eon McKai, alt-porn’s dominant icon. McKai has been widely credited as the founder of this new and edgy film genre. He has been profiled in The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times and The Village Voice. Visit Vivid-Alt’s popular website www.vividalt.com. Tristan Taormino, popular columnist with The Village Voice and an award winning director has also launched a Vivid-Ed imprint for the company. Visit www.vivid-ed.com.

Rising Star Daniel Merriweather Signs With J/Allido Records
First Single From Mark Ronson's Album "Stop Me" Featuring Merriweather #1 on UK Charts!

-- Australian singer Daniel Merriweather, whose soulful voice is taking England by storm, has signed an exclusive recording agreement with J Records, to be released on DJ/producer Mark Ronson's imprint Allido Records. Born in Melbourne, Australia and currently a resident of New York City, Daniel made his recording debut this month as the lead vocalist on "Stop Me," which was the #1 single on the UK airplay charts two weeks ago. "Stop Me" is the first single from DJ/producer Mark Ronson's forthcoming album Version which has been hailed by the UK Press: Q Magazine said: "Mark Ronson is the man of the moment. Version is a blast, the sound of someone enjoying their success and throwing a party for all corners." The Daily Mail calls "Stop Me" - "Brilliant."

An ingenious cover of the Smiths' 1987 classic (original title: "Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before"), "Stop Me" featuring Daniel Merriweather was first released as a digital download on April 2 and as a mini-EP via iTunes worldwide exclusive on April 9. Version, Ronson's debut will be released in stores in the US on June 12th (RCA/Allido Records). Daniel Merriweather is in elite company on Version - other artists featured on the album include Amy Winehouse, Robbie Williams, Lily Allen, and Kasabian.

States Mark Ronson: "I've worked with Daniel off and on for almost 5 years now and I've seen his voice leave everyone from Sean Paul to D'Angelo speechless. He has one of my favorite voices of anyone I've ever worked with and he's also a talented writer and musician. His talent scares me."

Currently, singer and producer are hard at work on Merriweather's forthcoming debut album to be released early 2008.

Mark Ronson and entrepreneur Rich Kleiman founded Allido Records in 2004. The label's first full-length release in July 2006 was the critically acclaimed debut album by Grammy Award-winning rapper Rhymefest Blue Hi Collar (Allido/J Records), with tracks produced by Ronson, Kanye West, No I.D., Just Blaze, and Cool & Dre.

Source: J Records

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

PBS KIDS Sprout(SM) Adds New Original Afternoon Block, The Let's Go Show, to Preschool Line-Up
Interactive show designed to encourage preschoolers to ask questions and be curious about the world around them debuts on Monday, June 25, 2007 at 3:00 pm EDT

PHILADELPHIA, May 7 /PRNewswire/ -- PBS KIDS Sprout (SproutOnline.com), the first and only 24-hour preschool destination available on TV, on demand and online for kids ages 2-5 and their parents and caregivers, is adding the original afternoon block, The Let's Go Show, to its line-up of gold-standard preschool programming on Monday, June 25, 2007. Airing every afternoon from 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. EDT, The Let's Go Show is designed to encourage preschoolers to ask questions, be curious about the world around them and participate in a daily musical adventure.

Host Miles (played by actor Milton Barnes) and his puppy friend Banjo (voiced and brought to life by puppeteer Ali Eisner), an adorable and spirited puppet who loves to play her homemade banjo, will embark each afternoon on a musical journey in their cardboard car, Carla. Miles loves to sing, discover new things and connect with viewers to help them learn through humor, music and interactive play. Always ready for adventure, Banjo represents the wonder, energy and curiosity of a preschooler.

"Sprout's programming is uniquely designed to follow the day of the preschooler from breakfast to bedtime," said Andrew Beecham, senior vice president of programming for PBS KIDS Sprout. "Whether it's discovering a new song with Miles and Banjo on The Let's Go Show or winding down for bed with Nina and Star on The Good Night Show, Sprout creates opportunities throughout the preschooler's day to invite their families into their world to share meaningful and playful moments together."

Between episodes of Sprout's gold-standard, curriculum-based shows -- such as Jim Henson's The Hoobs(TM), Angelina Ballerina(TM) and Bob the Builder(TM) -- Miles and Banjo will:

-- Learn a song and have a "boogie woogie break" at Music Hill;

-- Enjoy a special healthy snack prepared for them by Brussel Sprout at

the Sprout Diner Field;

-- Create age-appropriate science experiments at Wonder Why Valley;

-- Encourage viewers to become "Sprout Scouts" by helping Miles and Banjo

find their way to each location by asking questions;

-- Inspire kids to be creative and discover all the great things they can

make and do at home with their parents and caregivers.

Questions will be posed on-air during each show and viewers will be encouraged to try to figure out the answers at home or by visiting SproutOnline.com to find out more. The Association of Children's Museums (ACM), a professional service organization representing more than 350 children's museums around the world, worked with member museums to provide child-friendly and scientifically accurate explanations on SproutOnline.com for all the experiments featured on season one of The Let's Go Show.

Music also plays an important role on The Let's Go Show. Different styles of music and musical instruments will be introduced on each episode and viewers will be encouraged to create their own musical instruments -- such as a tissue box guitar -- and play along at home.

High-resolution images of Miles, Banjo and Carla are available in the media gallery at http://www.fishwithfeet.com/index-4.html.

About Sprout

PBS KIDS Sprout(SM) (SproutOnline.com) the first and only 24-hour preschool destination available on TV, on demand and online for kids ages 2-5 and their parents and caregivers, was created as a partnership among Comcast Corporation, the country's leading provider of cable, entertainment and communications products and services; HIT Entertainment, a leading provider of quality entertainment for young children; PBS (Public Broadcasting Service), the most trusted distributor of award-winning children's programming; and Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit educational organization behind Sesame Street(R).

The 24-hour network, which launched in September 2005, is available on digital cable and satellite to 20 million homes. With over 110 million orders in 2006, Sprout is the #1 Kids On Demand service. The network's program lineup of gold-standard, curriculum-based children's shows includes: Sesame Street(R), Bob the Builder(TM), Barney & Friends(TM), Thomas & Friends(TM), Angelina Ballerina(TM), Sagwa: The Chinese Siamese Cat(TM), Caillou(TM), The Berenstain Bears(R), Jay Jay the Jet Plane(R), Teletubbies(TM), Dragon Tales(TM), Pingu(TM), Make Way For Noddy(TM), Jakers! The Adventures of Piggley Winks(TM) and more.

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

Carrie Underwood's 'Before He Cheats' Soars Into the Top 10 of the Mainstream Top 40!
Powerhouse Single Spent Five Weeks atop the Country Chart, Underscoring Underwood's Cross-Format Undeniability!
'Before He Cheats' is the first country video ever played on TRL

CMA Female Vocalist of the Year and double GRAMMY winner Carrie Underwood recently wrapped a three-week reign at #1 on the country charts with "Wasted," and now her previous multi-week country chart-topper, "Before He Cheats," showcases her massive cross-format appeal as it cracks the Top 10 on the Billboard Mainstream Top 40 Radio Airplay chart this week at #9*. The last country song to break into the Top 10 on the Mainstream Top 40 Radio Airplay chart was Faith Hill back in 2000 with "Breathe."

Already a Top 10 at Hot AC, "Before He Cheats" notched a whopping five weeks as country's #1 single in late '06, scoring a People's Choice Award for Favorite Country Song and earning multiple trophies at the 2007 CMT Music Awards. Now in rotation at MTV, the video for "Before He Cheats" was a recent "First Look" on TRL and became the first country video ever to air on the show and the first country video added to MTV since Shania Twain's "Man, I Feel Like a Woman" in 1999. It's also red hot at VH1, where it's the #4 most- played video and #4 on the viewer-voted VSpot Top 20 Video Countdown.

"Before He Cheats" is from Carrie's Arista Records/19 Recordings breakthrough debut album, Some Hearts, now certified Quintuple Platinum. Released in November of 2005, the disc's incredible sales momentum has propelled it to #1 for a remarkable 23 of its 76 chart weeks -- holding the #1 position on Billboard's Top Country Albums chart across multiple weeks in 2005, 2006, and 2007, and reclaiming the top spot again on the current chart. Billboard's Album of the Year and Country Album of the Year in 2006, the disc's singles have amassed 14 weeks atop Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart. A GRAMMY winner for Female Country Vocal Performance as well as Best New Artist, Underwood has received honors from the American Music Awards, the Academy of Country Music, the Country Music Association, and more.

Source: Arista Records

'Elvis At The Movies' Available in Stores and Online June 5th 2007
40 Tracks On Two Cds
5 Elvis Movie Soundtracks Released Digitally Only

-- On June 5th, 2007, SONY BMG Music Entertainment will release "Elvis At The Movies" -- the most comprehensive Elvis Presley 2 CD movie package ever produced. The double-disc, 40-song collection features some of the popular tunes from Elvis Presley's remarkable run of 31 Hollywood movies, including show-stopping numbers like "Jailhouse Rock," "What I'd Say" from Viva Las Vegas, and "Rock A Hula Baby" from perennial fan-favorite Blue Hawaii. Also included are such #1 hits as "Love Me Tender" and "Teddy Bear" plus 17 more Top 40 singles and classic contributions from legendary songwriters Jerry Leiber & Mike Stoller, Doc Pomus & Mort Shuman, and Otis Blackwell.

At the same time SONY BMG Music Entertainment will make the following 5 Elvis movie soundtracks exclusively available for digital download: G.I. Blues, Frankie and Johnny, Girls! Girls! Girls, Spinout and Kissin' Cousins.

Track listing:

1) Love Me Tender - Love Me Tender

2) Loving You - Loving Room

3) Jailhouse Rock - Jailhouse Rock

4) Treat Me Nice - Jailhouse Rock

5) Hard Headed Woman - King Creole

6) King Creole - King Creole

7) G.I. Blues - G.I. Blues

8) Frankfort Special - G.I. Blues

9) Flaming Star - Flaming Star

10) Lonely Man - Wild In The Country

11) Can't Help Falling In Love - Blue Hawaii

12) Blue Hawaii - Blue Hawaii

13) Rock-A-Hula Baby - Blue Hawaii

14) Follow That Dream - Follow That Dream

15) King Of The White Wide World - Kid Galahad

16) Return To Sender - Girls!Girls!Girls!

17) One Broken Heart For Sale - It Happened At The Worlds Fair

18) They Remind Me Too Much Of You - It Happened At The Worlds Fair

19) Bossa Nova Baby - Fun In Acapulco

20) Viva Las Vegas - Viva Las Vegas

21) C'mon Everybody - Viva Las Vegas

22) Kissin' Cousins - Kissin' Cousins

23) Little Egypt - Roustabout

24) Do The Clam - Girl Happy

25) (Such An) Easy Question - Tickle Me

26) I'm Yours - Tickle Me

27) Shake That Tambourine - Harum Scarum

28) Frankie And Johnny - Frankie And Johnny

29) This Is My Heaven - Paradise Hawaiian Style

30) All That I Am - Spinout

31) I'll Be Back - Spinout

32) Long Legged Girl (with the short dress on) - Double Trouble

33) The Love Machine - Easy Come, Easy Go

34) Clambake - Clambake

35) Let Yourself Go - Speedway

36) Stay Away - Stay Away, Joe

37) A Little Less Conversation - Live A Little, Love A Little

38) Charro - Charro

39) Clean Up Your Own Back Yard - The Trouble With Girls

40) Rubberneckin' - Change Of Habit

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

Nick at Nite Celebrates Mother's Day With 'Momedy Saturday' and Finale of Funniest Mom in America 3
Winner of Funniest Mom in America 3 to Win $50,000 and Chance to Host a Special Night of Programming on Nick at Nite

Nick at Nite kicks off its Mother's Day celebration one day early this year on Saturday, May 12 at 10 p.m. ET/PT with "Nick at Nite's Momedy Saturday" -- a four-hour maternal marathon of some of the network's greatest Mom-isodes from shows like Full House, Roseanne, The Fresh Prince of Bel Air and The Cosby Show. The celebration doesn't stop there because on Mother's Day, Sunday, May 13 at 9 p.m. ET/PT, the network will air the much-anticipated one-hour finale of its six-part series, Funniest Mom in America 3, as the winner of the competition is selected to win $50,000 and the chance to host a special night of programming on Nick at Nite. The finale features the three remaining contestants in the series -- Vicki Barbolak of Vista, CA, Pat Candaras of Brooklyn, NY and Cathy Ladman of Santa Monica, CA -- as they compete for the title by performing their stand-up before an audience, the judges Kim Coles and Hal Sparks, and host Roseanne Barr. Following the premiere of the finale, the network will air more hilarious mom-isodes from its line-up of shows.

"Nick at Nite's Momedy Saturday" and Mother's Day schedule is as follows (all times ET/PT):

Saturday, May 12, 10 p.m. - 2 a.m.

10 pm - America's Funniest Home Videos

This is a Mother's Day-themed episode.

10:30 pm - Full House - "Matchmaker Michelle"

Michelle feels she needs a mother figure in the house, so she invites her teacher over for lunch in the hopes that she will fall in love with Danny and become her new mom.

11 pm - Roseanne - "Scenes from a Barbeque"

Shelley Winters guest-stars as Roseanne's grandmother, Mary, whose wisecracking personality charms everyone, so much so that Roseanne begs her to stay with the Conners - permanently.

11:30 pm - Roseanne - "Don't Make Me Over"

A glamorous Roseanne emerges from her Mother's Day makeover at the Beauty Box only to discover Becky and Darlene have an ulterior motive behind their very thoughtful gift - to attend a weekend rock concert.

12 am - The Fresh Prince of Bel Air - "Mothers' Day"

When Jazz and his wife try unsuccessfully to conceive a child, they ask Will to "father" the baby. Phil urges the kids to give Vivian thoughtful Mother's Day gifts.

12:30 am - The Fresh Prince of Bel Air - "Vying for Attention"

Will becomes childishly jealous when his mother arrives for a visit -- with a man who could easily become Will's new stepfather.

1 am - The Cosby Show - "One More Time"

When Clair babysits for a newborn baby, she yearns to have another child of her own. Cliff, however, doesn't think it's such a good idea. In an effort to change Clair's mind, he introduces her to Mrs. Burke, a patient of his who is expecting child number 13. But Cliff's plan backfires when Clair is struck by how good Mrs. Burke looks.

1:30 am - The Cosby Show - "Knight to Night"

When Cliff realizes that Clair is overstressed at home and in the office, he treats her to a night in a deluxe, first-class, spare-no-expense room at the Biltmore Hotel. Back at home, Denise is left to watch over the younger kids.

Sunday, May 13, 9 p.m. - 1 a.m.

9 pm - Funniest Mom in America 3 Finale

The three finalists face their biggest challenge yet: to bring home the crown and $50,000 check! To help insure that each mom is ready for her big chance at stardom, we're sending each home with a comedy coach to help her develop the routine that will bring down the house! Will the hard work payoff? We'll find out at the historic Alex Theatre in Los Angeles, where the fate of the Funniest Mom in America will rest in the hands of the studio audience.

10 pm Roseanne - "Sweet Dreams"

Experience the secret desires of a domestic goddess in Roseanne's ultimate dream fantasy. An exhausted Roseanne has only one wish - to take a long hot bath. But the kids are calling for her, and Dan won't leave the bathroom until he fixes the sink. While waiting, Roseanne falls asleep and dreams she is in paradise being pampered by attractive men, and loved beyond her wildest dreams. But even in her fantasy, Dan and the kids keep messing things up, so she takes matters into her own hands and kills them off in her own unique way. After returning to her man servants for her long awaited bath, she finds herself under arrest for murder and forced to undergo one of TV's strangest trials.

10:30 pm Roseanne - "Mommy Nearest"

Roseanne and Jackie's mother comes to town with shocking news. She's moving to Lanford! To ease the blow, she's giving her children thousands of dollars. Also, Jackie begins dating a much younger man.

11 pm The Fresh Prince of Bel Air - "Mommy Nearest"

Will tries to tell his mother that he doesn't want to return to Philadelphia with her after his high school graduation.

11:30 pm The Fresh Prince of Bel Air - The Young and the Restless

Will sneaks out with Philip's mother to a rap concert. Despite his anger, Philip realizes he must worry less about his mother's health and allow her to live life as she wants.

12 am - Funniest Mom Finale Encore

Funniest Mom in America 3 is executive produced by Allison Grodner (Big Brother, Blowout) and presented by KFC.

Nick At Nite is Nickelodeon's nighttime programming block that features timeless hit comedies including the Emmy Award-winning series The Cosby Show, the popular family comedies Full House, Growing Pains, and The Fresh Prince of Bel Air as well as Roseanne, one of the most talked about and celebrated sitcoms in television history. Nickelodeon, in its 27th year, is the number- one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books, magazines and feature films. Nickelodeon's U.S. television network is seen in almost 92 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for almost 12 consecutive years. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) .

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

Toby Keith to Entertain Troops on USO Tour to Germany and the Persian Gulf

Music superstar Toby Keith is set to embark on his fifth USO tour to the Persian Gulf and Germany. The two-time winner of the "Academy of Country Music Entertainer of the Year" award will perform, shake hands with service men and women, tour a variety of job posts and provide a break from the daily grind for the troops.

A strong supporter of our troops, the native Oklahoman previously traveled to Africa, Cuba, Belgium, Kuwait, Bosnia, Kosovo, Macedonia, Italy, Germany and numerous times to Iraq and Afghanistan for the USO. Keith's devotion becomes even clearer when listening to some of his most popular tracks including "American Soldier."

Selling more than 30 million records, Keith has toured the world, bringing his blend of country music to a devoted fan base. The success led to a number of awards, including honors from the Academy of Country Music, the Country Music Association, the American Music Awards and the Billboard Music Awards. His latest effort, "Big Dog Daddy," is scheduled to be released June 12.

This tour continues the USO's tradition of bringing celebrities to troops stationed far from home. Entertainers who recently participated in USO tours include Alex Trebek, Chely Wright, Gary Sinise, Five For Fighting, Carrie Underwood, Wilmer Valderrama, Jo Dee Messina, Larry The Cable Guy, Montgomery Gentry and Rascal Flatts.

AT&T, Inc. is the official telecommunications sponsor of USO entertainment tours.

About the USO: For more than 66 years, the USO (United Service Organizations) has been providing morale, welfare and recreational services to U.S. military personnel and their families. The USO is a nonprofit, charitable organization, relying on the generosity of the American people to support its programs and services. The USO is supported by Worldwide Strategic Partners AT&T Inc., BAE Systems North America, Clear Channel Communications, The Coca- Cola Company, DRS Technologies, Inc., Military Channel, S & K Sales Co., TriWest Healthcare Alliance and The Walt Disney Company. Other corporate donors, including the United Way and Combined Federal Campaign (CFC-11381), have joined thousands of individual donors to support the USO. For more information on the USO, please visit our Web site at http://www.uso.org/.

CONTACT: Reggie Borges of USO, +1-703-908-6471, rborges@uso.org

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

May 6

1	-	Spider-Man 3	Sony Pictures Releasing	$148,000,000	$148,000,000	1	4252
2	1	Disturbia	Paramount Pictures	$5,720,000	$59,883,000	4	3132
3	4	Fracture	New Line Cinema	$3,420,000	$26,453,000	3	2365
4	2	The Invisible	Buena Vista Pictures Distribution	$3,125,000	$12,346,000	2	2019
5	3	Next	Paramount Pictures	$2,768,000	$11,835,000	2	2733
6	-	Lucky You	Warner Bros. Pictures Distribution, Village Roadshow International, Warner Bros. Pictures International	$2,515,000	$2,515,000	1	2525
7	7	Meet the Robinsons	Buena Vista Pictures Distribution	$2,466,000	$91,771,000	6	2107
8	5	Blades of Glory	Paramount Pictures	$2,302,000	$111,632,000	6	2113
9	6	Hot Fuzz	Rogue Pictures (Focus)	$2,054,000	$16,145,000	3	1266
10	10	Are We Done Yet?	Sony Pictures Releasing	$1,700,000	$46,106,000	5	1704

May 4

ENVIRONMENTAL MOTORS GREEN CARS & GIBSON SUSTAINABLE GUITARS ON MAY 17th 2007.

Gibson/Baldwin who creates sustainable guitars, recycles and reclaims their product line of instruments along with Environmental Motors which is a Southern CA based electric car company are coming together to raise awareness. This event will create community energy as well a national press outreach on the topic of clean air & clean green living.

Musicians already involved include: Billy Morrison (his band Circus Diablo- about to go on the Ozzfest Tour) Paul Freeman (just signed to Clive Davis and album drops June) Michael DesBarres amongst others. Other notable talent invited include: Nick & Cisco Adler, Sharon Lawrence, Kelly Rutherford, Vanessa Williams, Rosanna Arquette, Jewel just to name a few!

This event will take place on the evening on May 17th, 2007 at the GIBSON BALDWIN SHOWROOM in Beverly Hills at 9350 Civic Center Drive.

Environmental Motors will be displaying their electric cars along with some very special musical guests playing acoustic guitars. There will be organic light fare and hosted beverage served through out the evening. We will also have other eco companies involved from furniture to apparel to beauty. We will be having a charity element as well as a foundation that works with the environment and improves the community. There will be a silent & a live auction component.

Their will 200 invited guests attending along with Media outlets including news crews, entertainment news shows, radio, all major magazine & newspapers outlets. We will interview all talent who attends as well. Gibson Showroom has a stage set up in the space, there are instruments galore- pianos, drums, guitars, bass etc.

We have also asked the City of Beverly Hills Council to attend, from the Mayor to the head of Public Works for Beverly Hills. We will be planting a tree in honor of this day we create as well as for the charity & the city.

ON LOKATION PRESENTS "SPRING FEVER"Socialite and Model Katie Rost hosts "Spring Fever," the fashion and design-themed charity event in the soon to be National Crime and Punishment Museum

WHO: On Lokation, the roving fashion retail concept with socialite and model Katie Rost
WHAT: Design-themed shopping and cultural experience
WHERE: 575 7th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20004
WHY: Shop and support the well deserved HoopsForAfrica, a HIV/AIDS charity for youth in Africa
HOW: Please RSVP to the media list at info@onlokation.com
DOOR: Tickets $40; $50 at the door

WASHINGTON, DC - On Lokation, the roving fashion-retail concept, continues its savvy shopping and cultural experiences with its upcoming spring and summer event, entitled "Spring Fever", on May 17, 2007 at the Tishman Speyer Main Tower location, which is the future location of the National Crime and Punishment Museum.

"Spring Fever" is a luxury shopping and art-infused event for hipsters, style connoisseurs and socialites, alike, delivering high fashion from designers from Italy, New York, LA, and Toronto.

"Imagine your favorite store from any of those cities, the art from your favorite museum and the food from your favorite restaurant all in one space, with your favorite DJ," says Kellie Crawford On Lokation's principle.

On Lokation will be “on location” on a gritty canvas of 9,000 square-feet of pre-construction raw space. Interior and interpretive design will be executed by the Jackson Design Group, LLC.. The Remedy Furniture is providing the contemporary interior design installation. Featured artists include metal sculptor Chris Tousimis and painter Alison Poland. Other artwork will be provided by the esteemed Zenith Gallery.

Stockholm Krystal Vodka is the exclusive spirit patron of the evening. Guests will experience it with hors d'oeuvres and the new Fever stimulation beverage. They will also enjoy runway presentation including the spring/summer collections from Lia Kes, Majo Lab, Jim Barnier, Susan Farber and the launch of the men's wear collection R.Lucien, whose philosophy focuses on a mix of fine tailoring and contemporary details.

The full experience is all under the glare of lights and cameras of the CW Network's Late Night with Erik Haase and all for a good cause. A portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit HoopsforAfrica, an organization dedicated towards HIV/AIDS awareness for youth in Africa. Thus far, Hoops for Africa has reached over 26,000 kids in three different countries, Cameroon, Kenya and Botswana. Their goal is to reach 2 million kids continent wide. Since 2003, supporters have included Chris Tucker, Larry King, Congressman Donald Payne, Senator James Inhofe, Ambassador of Botswana, Gabon and Rwanda, Morgan Stanley, and Verizon.

"This is a unique shopping experience for Washington, DC's fashion elite," says Crawford. "It is a lifestyle event set in partnerships. The people who start fashion trends, appreciate contemporary art, and believe in social innovation all have a similar aesthetic. Spring Fever" is set to be the high-fashion and cultural experience of the year."

On Lokation is a lifestyle driven men and women’s retail concept. It combines the best of its high fashion with art, architecture, interior design and music through its ever-growing network of revolutionary artists. With a history of partnership with both corporate and private firms, it is on the frontier of cross-branding and co-marketing. Previous events have been held at the award-winning Numark Gallery and the former Ford Model-T showroom at the T-Street flats. # # #

ARRIS Successfully Demonstrates Next Generation Video Delivery
System for the Chinese Market
ARRIS (Nasdaq ARRS) today announced the availability of its next generation wideband data and video delivery system as demonstrated during the recent CCBN Conference in Beijing. The solution is designed to assist Chinese cable operators looking for cost-effective solutions to deliver digital video IP VOD and Ultra High Speed Data services to their customers as part of the Government mandate to deliver digital video throughout the Chinese market.

The ARRIS solution consists of the D5™ Universal Edge QAM in combination with the C4® CMTS and Touchstone® Wideband Modems to deliver broadcast video, on-demand video and video over DOCSIS® as well as bi-directional wideband data over 120 Mbps wideband data and IPTV services to their customers. The solution offers cable operators cost efficient, flexible network and technology choices while delivering multiple service options to subscribers.

ARRIS has been working closely with national cable operator China Cable Network (CCN) in a SARFT-sponsored trial on Hainan Island, Hainan province in one of the first such IP Video over broadband trials in China.

"We are extremely impressed with the ability of the C4 and D5 in tandem to deliver basic and advanced video service in a cost-effective manner to our trial households," said Steven Sheng, Acting CTO of CCN. "The ARRIS solution clearly demonstrates the capability of DOCSIS technology to deliver the services required for the Chinese market in a cost-effective and highly reliable manner."

Steven Sheng will appear on an ARRIS-moderated panel entitled "IPTV Abroad: Global Drivers and Universal Lessons" -- Tuesday, May 8th from 8:00-9:15 AM in Ballroom L of the Mandalay Bay Convention Center during NCTA's Cable Show in Las Vegas.

About ARRIS
ARRIS provides broadband local access networks with best-in-class video, high-speed data, mobile and fixed-line telephony systems for the delivery of voice, video and data to their residential and small-to-medium sized business customers. ARRIS complete solutions enhance the reliability and value of converged services from the network to the end-user. Additionally, ARRIS provides a complete set of tools and cable system infrastructure products. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, ARRIS has R&D centers in Atlanta, Chicago, Cork, Ireland and Shenzhen, China and operates support and sales offices throughout the world. Information about ARRIS products and services can be found at www.arrisi.com.

For more information about the ARRIS C4 CMTS visit http://www.arrisi.com/c4. For more information about the ARRIS D5 Universal Edge QAM visit www.arrisi.com/d5.
ARRIS (Nasdaq ARRS) today announced the availability of its next generation wideband data and video delivery system as demonstrated during the recent CCBN Conference in Beijing. The solution is designed to assist Chinese cable operators looking for cost-effective solutions to deliver digital video IP VOD and Ultra High Speed Data services to their customers as part of the Government mandate to deliver digital video throughout the Chinese market. The ARRIS solution consists of the D5™ Universal Edge QAM in combination with the C4® CMTS and Touchstone® Wideband Modems to deliver broadcast video, on-demand video and video over DOCSIS® as well as bi-directional wideband data over 120 Mbps wideband data and IPTV services to their customers. The solution offers cable operators cost efficient, flexible network and technology choices while delivering multiple service options to subscribers. ARRIS has been working closely with national cable operator China Cable Network (CCN) in a SARFT-sponsored trial on Hainan Island, Hainan province in one of the first such IP Video over broadband trials in China."We are extremely impressed with the ability of the C4 and D5 in tandem to deliver basic and advanced video service in a cost-effective manner to our trial households," said Steven Sheng, Acting CTO of CCN. "The ARRIS solution clearly demonstrates the capability of DOCSIS technology to deliver the services required for the Chinese market in a cost-effective and highly reliable manner." Steven Sheng will appear on an ARRIS-moderated panel entitled "IPTV Abroad: Global Drivers and Universal Lessons" -- Tuesday, May 8th from 8:00-9:15 AM in Ballroom L of the Mandalay Bay Convention Center during NCTA's Cable Show in Las Vegas.ARRIS provides broadband local access networks with best-in-class video, high-speed data, mobile and fixed-line telephony systems for the delivery of voice, video and data to their residential and small-to-medium sized business customers. ARRIS complete solutions enhance the reliability and value of converged services from the network to the end-user. Additionally, ARRIS provides a complete set of tools and cable system infrastructure products. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, ARRIS has R&D centers in Atlanta, Chicago, Cork, Ireland and Shenzhen, China and operates support and sales offices throughout the world. Information about ARRIS products and services can be found at .For more information about the ARRIS C4 CMTS visit . For more information about the ARRIS D5 Universal Edge QAM visit .TOTALVID.COM AND THE WEATHER CHANNEL
TEAM UP TO OFFER STORM STORIES EPISODES FOR ON-DEMAND VIEWING &
PURCHASE

TotalVid.com's First Network TV Deal To Boost Worldwide Exposure and Sales for The Weather
Channel

Norfolk, Va., May 2, 2007 - TotalVid, Inc. and The Weather Channel (TWC) announced that they have reached a digital distribution agreement that will make original programming from TWC available for on-demand viewing and purchase through TotalVid's Internet video-on-demand platform. Initially, The Weather Channel will make thirty (30) episodes of its Storm Stories series available at www.totalvid.com and plans to add episodes of its It Could Happen Tomorrow series in coming months. Storm Stories features the real-life experiences of survivors and rescuers who have battled nature's astonishing weather events, capturing the drama of ordinary people caught in a wide variety of extraordinary circumstances.

"As a leader in enthusiast, educational and instructional video programming, TotalVid has always sought out programming that appeals to consumers who are passionate about their interests," said Karl Quist, TotalVid's president. "Storm Stories is a natural fit with our growing audience of action-sport and outdoor enthusiasts—many of whom have experienced extreme weather firsthand. We look forward to working with The Weather Channel and other leading cable networks to create the most comprehensive video subscription available online."

"We are pleased that our popular program, Storm Stories, will now have an online distribution outlet that offers consumers another opportunity to see the dramatic stories the series provides. We look forward to additional distribution of programming favorites by TotalVid.com," said Becky Powhatan, EV, Distribution and Business Affairs/General Counsel for The Weather Channel Companies.

The Weather Channel programming will be available on a download-to-own basis for $1.99 per episode, as well as part of TotalVid's unlimited download subscription plan. For $9.95 per month, consumers can choose from more than 4,000 full-length, premium videos in more than 110 subject-matter categories.

About TotalVid.com
TotalVid.com unleashes the power of broadband to deliver on-demand access to the world's largest collection of full-length enthusiast, educational, and instructional videos. With more than 4,000 titles across 100+ categories, TotalVid's content represents the collective interests and passions of more than 150 million people. Consumers can access TotalVid's library on www.totalvid.com or through a growing number of distribution partners. Headquartered in Norfolk, Virginia, TotalVid is a wholly owned subsidiary of Landmark Communications Inc., which also owns The Weather Channel, Q Interactive and a variety of other media businesses. Partners of TotalVid include AT&T, AOL, Blinkx, Comcast, D-Link, Google, Microsoft Windows Media (MSFT), The Platform, Verizon, W-Cities, Weather.com, Xbox 360, and Yahoo. With strong partnerships and a growing customer base, TotalVid.com is fast becoming a leading broadband video destination for consumers and a powerful distribution partner for content owners looking to expand their customer base.

About The Weather Channel
The Weather Channel®, a 24-hour weather network, is seen in almost 93 million U.S. households. Its Web site, weather.com, reaches more than 30 million unique users per month and is consistently ranked #15 among all Web sites by Nielsen//NetRatings. The Weather Channel also operates Weatherscan®, The Weather Channel Radio Network, The Weather Channel Newspaper Services, and is the leading weather information provider for emerging technologies. This includes PC applications, broadband and interactive television applications, with wireless weather products accessible through high-speed Internet services, mobile phones, pagers, and other personal digital assistants. The Weather Channel is owned by Landmark Communications, Inc., a Norfolk, VA-based, privately held media company.
Norfolk, Va., May 2, 2007 - TotalVid, Inc. and The Weather Channel (TWC) announced that they have reached a digital distribution agreement that will make original programming from TWC available for on-demand viewing and purchase through TotalVid's Internet video-on-demand platform. Initially, The Weather Channel will make thirty (30) episodes of its Storm Stories series available at and plans to add episodes of its It Could Happen Tomorrow series in coming months. features the real-life experiences of survivors and rescuers who have battled nature's astonishing weather events, capturing the drama of ordinary people caught in a wide variety of extraordinary circumstances. "As a leader in enthusiast, educational and instructional video programming, TotalVid has always sought out programming that appeals to consumers who are passionate about their interests," said Karl Quist, TotalVid's president. " is a natural fit with our growing audience of action-sport and outdoor enthusiasts—many of whom have experienced extreme weather firsthand. We look forward to working with The Weather Channel and other leading cable networks to create the most comprehensive video subscription available online.""We are pleased that our popular program, , will now have an online distribution outlet that offers consumers another opportunity to see the dramatic stories the series provides. We look forward to additional distribution of programming favorites by TotalVid.com," said Becky Powhatan, EV, Distribution and Business Affairs/General Counsel for The Weather Channel Companies.The Weather Channel programming will be available on a download-to-own basis for $1.99 per episode, as well as part of TotalVid's unlimited download subscription plan. For $9.95 per month, consumers can choose from more than 4,000 full-length, premium videos in more than 110 subject-matter categories. TotalVid.com unleashes the power of broadband to deliver on-demand access to the world's largest collection of full-length enthusiast, educational, and instructional videos. With more than 4,000 titles across 100+ categories, TotalVid's content represents the collective interests and passions of more than 150 million people. Consumers can access TotalVid's library on or through a growing number of distribution partners. Headquartered in Norfolk, Virginia, TotalVid is a wholly owned subsidiary of Landmark Communications Inc., which also owns The Weather Channel, Q Interactive and a variety of other media businesses. Partners of TotalVid include AT&T, AOL, Blinkx, Comcast, D-Link, Google, Microsoft Windows Media (MSFT), The Platform, Verizon, W-Cities, Weather.com, Xbox 360, and Yahoo. With strong partnerships and a growing customer base, TotalVid.com is fast becoming a leading broadband video destination for consumers and a powerful distribution partner for content owners looking to expand their customer base.The Weather Channel®, a 24-hour weather network, is seen in almost 93 million U.S. households. Its Web site, weather.com, reaches more than 30 million unique users per month and is consistently ranked #15 among all Web sites by Nielsen//NetRatings. The Weather Channel also operates Weatherscan®, The Weather Channel Radio Network, The Weather Channel Newspaper Services, and is the leading weather information provider for emerging technologies. This includes PC applications, broadband and interactive television applications, with wireless weather products accessible through high-speed Internet services, mobile phones, pagers, and other personal digital assistants. The Weather Channel is owned by Landmark Communications, Inc., a Norfolk, VA-based, privately held media company.
Joaquim de Almeida & Leisha Hailey Lead the Way Through a Very Intense Evening in "La Cucina"

May 04, 2007 -- Shelly (Leisha Hailey) is a pregnant newly-wed looking for advice from the lesbian who lives upstairs (Rachel Hunter), and finds the answers to all of her own woes in cooking.

Lily (Christina Hendricks) is a thirty year old woman dazzled by Michael (Joaquim de Almeida), a man twenty years her senior, but arguably one of the sexiest men alive, and a good cook to boot.

Theirs are two of the stories, in two of the kitchens that take us through one hot, intense and very revealing night in "La Cucina" with Joaquim de Almeida and Leisha Hailey leading the way.

Lily and Joaquim's character, Michael, dance around what they want in life as they dance around the kitchen, preparing their dinner in a seductive and emotional game, that barley allows them to eat at all.

Leisha's character, Shelly, is thirty one years old, pregnant with her first child and always thought that being married and pregnant was the answer to true happiness.

Now she knows different, and now she doesn't know what to do, so she's come to Jude for all the answers and ended up with a plate of ricotta sformato and more questions then she ever thought she had.

"La Cucina" wrapped principal photography in April. It was produced independently by Starlotte Smith, Jackie Olson, Zachary Kahn, Allison Wilke and Crystal Santos, written by A.W. Gryphon, and was directed by the husband and wife team of Allison Hebble & Zed Starkovich.

Jennifer Tilly Plays Predatory Teacher in New Teen Horror Film

"Camp is the Word" says writer/producer Jackie Linder Olson of this wickedly funny and spine-tingling film, "THE CARETAKER," that caught the eyes of Jennifer Tilly, Judd Nelson and a fantastic group of teenage up-and-comers.

"THE CARETAKER" follows a group of teenage boys out to give their girlfriends a good scare on Halloween. They head to an abandoned house in a grapefruit orchard where they are stalked by a real life urban legend, known as "The Caretaker."

Judd Nelson delivers a disarmingly creepy performance as an overprotective father. The teenagers' outlandish teacher, played by Ms. Tilly, is obsessed with getting famous by sleeping with a student. "We took a current trend that we found both tragic and disturbing and put it in the forefront of our film," says director Bryce Fridrik Olson. "No one could do a better job as this character than the sexy and talented Jennifer Tilly. We were lucky to have her and Judd."

"It's refreshing to be working on a fun genre picture with good scares, a lot of laughs and not too much gore," says Producer Allison Wilke. "The audience is going to love it."

"The Caretaker" stars Jennifer Tilly, Judd Nelson, Jonathan Breck ("Jeepers Creepers"), Jennifer Freeman ("You Got Served"), Andrew St. John, James Immekus, Diego Torres and Kira Verrastro. The project is currently in post production with original music being composed by Jim Lang ("John Carpenter's Body Bags," "In The Mouth Of Madness"). It is produced by Jackie Olson, Brynn McQuade and Allison Wilke, written by Jackie Linder Olson, and directed by Bryce Fridrik Olson, with Executive Producer and President of TRP Steve Vande Vegte.

May 3

BARBARA MANDRELL MAKES PEOPLE'S "MOST BEAUTIFUL" ISSUE

Barbara Mandrell has been listed in PEOPLE magazine's "Most Beautiful" issue. Nearly 10 years since she stepped off the stage and out of the spotlight, retiring from an illustrious 38 year career, Barbara is still turning heads. Perhaps she caught the eye of PEOPLE when she stepped back into the spotlight late last year for the release of a tribute album in her honor, She Was Country When Country Wasn't Cool: A Tribute to Barbara Mandrell . In addition to mega-stars and legends stepping up in her honor, GAC tipped their hat to Mandrell with a number of specials and series to commemorate the event. Also on her plate in the past year were presenting “Entertainer of the Year” to friend Kenny Chesney at the CMA Awards, honoring Reba McEntire at CMT Giants, and most recently presenting "Video of the Year" at the 2007 CMT Awards to Carrie Underwood.

Time Life is also recognizing Barbara with the release of The Best of Barbara Mandrell & The Mandrell Sisters to DVD for the very first time. The NBC variety show, starring Barbara Mandrell and her sisters Louise and Irlene, aired over two seasons (1980-1982). The show garnered a massive 40 million viewers a week and earned a combined eleven Emmy® and Golden Globe® nominations in its short two year run. It seems that even in retirement, and to no one's surprise, Barbara's legacy continues to thrive.

2007 MTV Video Music Awards Sets Up Next Act in Las Vegas
For One Night Only, The "2007 MTV Video Music Awards" Set to Air Live from The Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas on Sunday, September 9, 2007 at 9PM ET/PT

-- Christina Norman, President, MTV, announced today that MTV is bringing The 2007 MTV Video Music Awards to the city of Las Vegas to take over every available nook and cranny of the infamous celebrity stomping ground, The Palms Casino Resort. Demolishing the constraints of a traditional four walled venue, performances will be staged throughout The Palms Casino Resort from their intimate posh hotel suites to the mind blowing scenic rooftop. Nothing will be off-limits as for the first time ever MTV will program a whole VMA weekend featuring not-to-be-missed events, appearances and sizzling performances culminating with the star- studded music extravaganza. In an unprecedented move for the network, the show will air only once in its original form - so what happens in Vegas really will stay in Vegas. Encore presentations of this year's VMAs will be remixed versions that will be programmed by and for the viewers, deeply connecting them to a complete music experience across multiple platforms. MTV's 24th annual Video Music Awards will air live on Sunday, September 9, 2007 at 9PM (Live ET/Tape Delayed PT). Host, performers, nominees, and presenters for the 2007 MTV Video Music Awards will be announced at a later date.

"The VMA's have a tradition of creating some of the most unforgettable moments in pop culture history and now, this year's show is ready for its next act. We're deconstructing every expectation of what an awards show should be to deliver a music experience for our audience unlike anyone else connecting them beyond television," said Christina Norman, President, MTV. "We knew that we didn't have to look any further than the Maloofs and The Palms Casino Resort as they are the perfect partners and have the infamous reputation of throwing star-studded events. We look forward to a weekend of rock n' roll chaos and producing the most sinful and explosive musical showcase of the year."

"The Palms is honored to be host of the 2007 Video Music Awards. This is a Las Vegas first," said George Maloof, Owner of The Palms Casino Resort. "The opportunity to showcase The Pearl Concert Theater as the venue for the awards show is extremely exciting."

MTV has tapped Jesse Ignjatovic to executive produce this year's music spectacular. Ignatovic has a long history with the network having spent many years as Vice President of Music & Talent Development, creating, executive producing and developing shows like, MTV Ultimate Mash Ups featuring Jay- Z/Linkin Park, Life & Rhymes of ... , Jennifer Lopez: Beyond The Runway, Meet The Barkers, and MTV Icon. As Executive Producer, Ignjatovic will not only bring his creative genius to what will be the hottest event thrown in Las Vegas in 2007 but he will also bring with him the close relationships and friendships he has been able to create and maintain with talent over the years. In addition, this year's VMAs production team will also include Chris Choun who will lend her expertise as Co-Executive Producer.

"2007 MTV Video Music Awards" will continue to be everywhere our audience lives. The August 31st premiere of the "2006 MTV Video Music Awards" was also the most watched telecast for the night (8-11:30p) among P12-34 across all of television, even out delivering broadcast with total VMA programming through Sunday, Sept. 3rd reaching 40,082,000 million viewers. Online, MTV.com broke all kinds of stream records on Friday, Sept 1st with 6,675,632 streams making it our highest day ever by more than double. Uniques to MTV.com the day of and day after the VMA were 792,892 and 845,251, up +500% and 259% from a year ago, respectively. This year's three day VMA event is expected to generate more streams.

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 130 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of which are trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 200 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services. The network also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

The Palms Casino Resort, heralded as one of Las Vegas' hippest resorts, is an all-encompassing, one-stop resort destination. Owned by the Maloof family, the 703-room property boasts a diverse mix of bars and restaurants and a 95,000-square-foot casino. Amenities include the legendary Playboy Club - the first and only club of its kind to open in 25 years; The Pearl Concert Theater; Moon Nightclub; Nove Italiano; Little Buddha; The Palms Pool & Bungalows; Palms Spa and AMP salon; Brenden Theatres, a 14-theatre Cineplex; Rain Night Club; ghostbar; Hart and Huntington Tattoo Company; and over 60,000 square-feet of meeting space. The Palms is home to the Real World: Las Vegas and Bravo's Celebrity Poker Showdown, as well as E!'s Party at the Palms, hosted by Jenny McCarthy, and A&E's Inked. The resort features the hottest collection of Fantasy Suites including the Erotic Suite with its trademark Show Shower, the Real World Suite, as seen on MTV, and the Hardwood Suite, the only hotel room in the world with its own basketball court. E!'s Girls Next Door, VH1, MTV and CSI feature the Palms on a regular basis and the Victoria's Secret Angels made the Palms a featured destination on their "Angels Across America" tour. The Palms Casino Resort is located just west of the Las Vegas Strip and I-15 on Flamingo Road. For room reservation information, call toll free at (866) PALMS-RES, (866) 725-6773, or visit www.palms.com. For groups of 15 rooms or more, contact the Sales Department at (866) PALMS-MTG or (866) 725-6768.

Source: MTV

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

Sony Computer Entertainment America Expands Its Business Development Team, Announces New Licensing Department
Videogame and Legal Veteran to Direct Licensing for PlayStation(R) Brand

Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) Inc. today announced it is expanding its business development organization by forming an intellectual property (IP) licensing team designed to increase awareness of the company's brands and characters and to expand collaborations with new and existing business partners. As part of this expansion, the company has appointed Shelly Gayner to director of Licensing within Business Development, effective immediately. In this newly created position, Gayner will report to Phil Rosenberg, senior vice president of Sales and Business Development

As part of her role, Gayner will manage SCEA's licensing team, which is responsible for licensing the PlayStation(R) brand, including first-party game characters, for merchandise and entertainment products. She will also oversee the licensing of peripherals and accessories for PlayStation platforms including PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) and PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(TM)) computer entertainment system.

"Shelly has the perfect blend of legal expertise and videogame industry knowledge which will help us grow the PlayStation business by introducing our valued brands to a wider audience," said Phil Rosenberg, senior vice president of Business -- Development and Sales, Sony Computer Entertainment America. "We now have a dedicated team to help us capture licensing and revenue opportunities, which is important to our business and long-term growth."

Gayner brings more than fourteen years of industry experience to this role, with the most recent years being at SCEA. Previously, she was director of Legal and Business Affairs, where she negotiated a wide-range of intellectual property related agreements, including content, merchandise, software and end-user licenses. She also worked on the company's property licenses, which include MLB, NHL, the Gran Turismo(TM) series, Downhill Domination(R) and Tourist Trophy The Real Riding Simulator(TM). Prior to joining SCEA, Gayner held the position of corporate trademark counsel at Sun Microsystems Inc. and was corporate counsel for Sega of America.

About Sony Computer Entertainment America

Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation(R) and PS one(R) game console, the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, the PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system, and the ground-breaking PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(TM)) computer entertainment system.

Recognized as the undisputed industry leader, Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation family of products and develops, publishes, markets, and distributes software for the PS one game console, the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, the PSP system and the PS3 system for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif. Sony Computer Entertainment America, Inc. serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Visit us on the Web at http://www.us.playstation.com/

NOTE: "PlayStation," "PLAYSTATION," "PSP," "PS one" and the PlayStation logo are registered trademarks and "PS3" is a trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Source: Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

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

Dramatika Films Announces World Premiere of 'Man of a Thousand Faces'
Theatrical Docudrama on Life and Accomplishments of Legendary Actor James Hong to Premiere in Cannes, France

Las Vegas-based Dramatika Films, LLC, announced today it will premiere the new docudrama "Man of a Thousand Faces" in Cannes, France on May 19, 2007. The theatrical film chronicles the life of legendary actor James Hong, whose career spans more than half a century and includes nearly 500 film and television performances. The world premiere screening will be held at the American Pavilion in the Salle des Conferences with James Hong and director/producer Kym Secrist in attendance.

Although Hong's vast body of work has made him one of the most recognizable actors in the world, many moviegoers do not know him by name. Part documentary, part dramatization, "Man of a Thousand Faces" sheds light on the man behind the well-known face and his compelling journey to rise above ethnic prejudice and succeed in Hollywood.

This visually stunning film features highlights from Hong's illustrious career including blockbuster hits such as "Blade Runner," "Big Trouble in Little China," "Chinatown," "Black Widow" and "Wayne's World 2." It also features more than a dozen interviews with Hong's family and fellow actors including David Carradine, Tia Carrere, Dom DeLuise and the last interview with the late, great Japanese actor Mako.

"Every location we took the production, whether it was on the streets of Minneapolis or a hotel lobby in Beijing, people instantly recognized James and, beaming with a huge smile, would express how much they enjoyed his movies," said producer and director Kym Secrist. "He is a respected actor among his peers and critics, he is an icon to his loyal fans and admirers, and his achievements in film and television are unparalleled in virtually every country and culture."

Secrist, who also served as writer and director of photography, is an accomplished writer, director and cinematographer with more than 100 awards for commercials and music videos. "Man of a Thousand Faces" marks his theatrical directorial debut. Hong and Secrist met in 2000 and, along with producer Deborah Quan, formed the creative partnership that brought "Man of a Thousand Faces" to the big screen. An award-winning producer, Quan has enjoyed tremendous success in the independent feature and documentary film business.

"Man of a Thousand Faces" captures the early years of the actor's life in vivid, motion picture quality re-enactments, and features numerous clips from some of Hong's most memorable performances. The film tells of Hong's tireless efforts to combat stereotypes in Hollywood, where many Asians and Asian Americans are continually cast in stereotypical roles even today.

About Dramatika Films

Las Vegas-based Dramatika Films, LLC, is a full-service production company specializing in the financing and creation of outstanding independent motion pictures and documentaries with a number of planned motion picture projects on the horizon through 2010.

Source: Dramatika Films, LLC

Porter Wagoner Celebrates 50 Years With Grand Ole Opry With Special May 19 Performance Featuring Dolly Parton, Patty Loveless, and Others Including Televised Segment on GAC
Martin Issues Custom Guitar to Honor Wagoner; New CD "WAGONMASTER" a "Riveting Collection of Southern Gothic Numbers" in Stores June 5; "Committed to Parkview" Video on the Way

-- Country Music Hall of Famer PORTER WAGONER celebrates his 50th anniversary as a member of the Grand Ole Opry on Saturday, May 19 with a special performance featuring WAGONER, Patty Loveless, Dolly Parton -- PORTER's longtime duet partner in the '60s and '70s -- and others. Marty Stuart -- who produced PORTER's upcoming CD "WAGONMASTER" (out June 5 on Anti-) -- hosts a one-hour segment of the evening's event to be televised on Great American Country's "Grand Ole Opry Live," starting at 8pm EDT.

The Martin Guitar Company is honoring PORTER's half century with the Opry by introducing the Martin D-41 Porter Wagoner Custom Edition guitar. The visually arresting instrument is a fitting tribute to an artist instantly recognizable for his sparkling Nudie suits and flowing pompadour.

Meanwhile, PORTER was "Committed To Parkview" this past weekend, as he shot a video with director Brian Barnes for the Johnny Cash-penned track. The first single from the forthcoming "WAGONMASTER" was hand-picked for PORTER more than 25-years ago by Johnny Cash (after having previously been recorded by Cash and with the Highwaymen).

Marty Stuart explains: "In 1981, I was on tour with Cash in Europe, and I had a Porter tape and played it for Cash, and he and I got into a Porter listening marathon. And Cash said, 'I got a song for Porter, called 'Committed to Parkview,' -- because they had both been guests there -- and he gave me an envelope with a cassette in it to take to him. Well, we got home and I forgot all about it, but when we were choosing material for this album, I remembered and finally found it."

Already, "WAGONMASTER" is grabbing critics' ears. Writes Alanna Nash for Amazon.com: "One of the major problems with modern country revolves around the fact that -- save George Jones, Merle Haggard, and Loretta Lynn -- almost all the characters who poured the foundation for post-World War II hillbilly culture are dead or no longer recording. Which brings us to the miracle of Porter Wagoner's new album, "WAGONMASTER"... a riveting collection of Southern Gothic numbers."

12 Girls Band CD Coming from Manhattan Records in June
Chinese Ensemble Fuses Traditional Instrumentation with Eclectic Repertoire;
Asian Chart-Toppers Also Star in PBS Special Recorded Live in Shanghai with First Major U.S. Tour to Launch October 2nd on West Coast

-- A refreshing and innovative blend of East and West, pop and traditional -- that's what has made China's 12 Girls Band an international sensation like no other. With their latest US release, Shanghai, which arrives from Manhattan Records on June 5th, American audiences will have their best opportunity yet to discover these immensely talented and engaging young women. And with the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing fast approaching, the world's attention is already turning to the culture of China. And the biggest success story in that country's burgeoning music scene is 12 Girls Band.

Shanghai coincides with a very special milestone in the career of 12 Girls Band: "Live From Shanghai," their first pledge drive event on PBS, which airs this June on stations around the country. Notably, this debut marks the very first time an Asian artist or group has been celebrated with a PBS special. This television first was recorded live beneath Shanghai's famed Oriental Pearl Tower, a spectacular tourist attraction along the banks of the Huangpu River that dominates the city's dynamic, skyscraper-dotted landscape.

This fall, 12 Girls Band also launches their first major U.S. tour. Set to begin October 2nd in Oakland, CA., the tour will include a debut at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles (Oct. 5), as well as concerts in San Diego, Seattle, Portland, Chicago, Detroit, Cleveland, Philadelphia, Boston, New York, Dallas, Houston, Miami, Tampa, and Atlanta. With over 30 major markets in the States, the tour will cap a spectacular year for the ensemble.

12 Girls Band was formed in 2001, after its accomplished players-all of whom studied music at the most prestigious conservatories and schools across the People's Republic of China, and have played in China's top orchestras-were culled from a rigorous audition process. More than 4,000 young musicians applied, answering ads that were placed in newspapers across the country.

The idea behind the group was to fuse the ancient traditions of Chinese classical and folk music with the sounds of Western pop, classical, and jazz music. The enchanting result is 12 Girls Band. Their first concert, given in Beijing in October 2001, made 12 Girls Band into stars virtually overnight. Hailed by the Asian media as a perfect blend of grace, beauty, and musicianship, 12 Girls Band represented a modern-day incarnation of the Yue Fang, which were all-female ensembles that played in the royal courts of the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE).

The number twelve has important resonances in Chinese culture, astrology, and numerology, and twelve jinchai ("golden hairpins") represent womanhood in ancient Chinese mythology. (There are actually thirteen musicians in the band, so that there is always a substitute player available at a moment's notice.)

The musicians perform expertly on an array of ancient and fascinating Chinese instruments, including the stringed and bowed erhu; the pear-shaped plucked lute called a pipa; the guzheng zither; the yangqin hammered dulcimer; a transverse flute called the dizi and the vertical flute known as the xiao; a single-stringed zither called the duxianquin; and the hulusi, a three-piped gourd flute.

On Shanghai, 12 Girls Band presents an exhilarating multi-cultural array of songs and pieces that range from beloved Chinese traditional and folk tunes such as "High Mountain, Floating Water" to pop smash hits (Sting's "Fragile" and Celine Dion's "My Heart Will Go On," also known as the theme from the movie Titanic), as well as Dave Brubeck's iconic jazz masterpiece "Take 5". The young ladies also play a sampling of Western classical masterpieces, including Handel's Music for the Royal Fireworks, Puccini's famous aria "Nessun Dorma" from the opera Turandot (strikingly, an opera about a Chinese princess), and an homage to Bach's Violin Concerto in A minor.

All of these pieces appear on the Live From Shanghai PBS television special, along with bonus video material for the DVD release that includes appearances by two other Manhattan recording artists: a rendition of the "Habanera" from Bizet's opera Carmen featuring Mexican-American songstress Lila Downs, as well as the Hoagy Carmichael standard "Georgia on My Mind," performed by singer Tim Sheff.

12 Girls Band's first international release, 2003's Beautiful Energy, debuted first in Japan in 2003 and sold nearly two million copies there, giving 12 Girls Band the record for both the fastest- and highest-selling Chinese release in Japanese chart history. Their follow-up, 2004's Shining Energy, broke another Japanese sales record with the highest number of sales of any album in a single day. The group went on to a hugely successful tour of Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Taiwan.

Their first US release, 2004's Eastern Energy, reached No. 1 on the Billboard World Music album chart, and scored 12 Girls Band the No. 62 spot on the Billboard Top 200-the highest-ranking debut for any Asian artist in Billboard chart history.

Since then, 12 Girls Band has recorded two more hit albums in the Asian market: 2005's Romantic Energy, and White Christmas, the first-ever album of international seasonal classics played on traditional Chinese instruments.

The group's PBS debut "12 Girls Band: Live From Shanghai" will air in markets across the country during June pledge drives. Viewers should check their local PBS listings for details on scheduled broadcasts.

Source: Manhattan Records

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

R&B Singer/Songwriter Joe Debuts at #1 on Billboard R&B Charts
Set debuts at #2 on Billboard Hot 200

-- Jive recording artist and Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Joe debuts at #1 this week on Billboard's R&B Albums chart with his new album, Ain't Nothin' Like Me. The album also debuted in the #2 spot on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart selling 98,090 units. The album features collaborations with Nas, Yung Joc and label mate Papoose; with top- notch production by StarGate, Tim & Bob, Sean Garrett, Cool & Dre and others.

Ain't Nothin' Like Me, is the R&B balladeer's sixth album. Joe's single "If I Was Your Man" is currently a Top 5 staple on Billboard's Urban AC chart and is in rotation at BET and BET J. The album has received glowing reviews: AP raves, "Joe is still on his A-Game;" and The Dallas Morning News says the album "should reinforce his status as a certified soul crooner for the grown and sexy set ... "

Throughout his 14-year career, Joe has collaborated with a broad range of talented artists including: Mariah Carey, G-Unit and the late Big Pun. The Columbus, Georgia native has sold over 5 million albums to date. Joe recently performed his smash hit "If I Was Your Man" on The Late, Late Show with Craig Ferguson. Additional television appearances include BET's Mother's Day Special, and the new season of MTV's Making The Band.

Joe recently embarked on a national tour with fellow R&B singer Brian McKnight that kicked off in Oakland, CA on April 27 and will stop in most major markets including Detroit, Chicago, Atlanta and New York.

Source: Jive Records

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

Mobile Streams Introduces LifeGroovz Christian Ringtone & Mobile Media Service to Launch in June

-- Mobile Streams, the premier global mobile music and media provider, introduces LifeGroovz, the first service to offer the faith-based community popular mainstream Christian content for ringtones, mobile music, and graphics.

Christian and Gospel Music currently enjoys a strong following, and now for the first time, a mobile music and media service will offer fans and consumers the talents of a broad range of popular Christian and Inspirational artists.

This exclusive new service is maintained by Mobile Streams' "Vuesia" distribution platform. Mobile Streams partnered with music and media industry veteran, Paul Wright III to launch LifeGroovz. Wright is the founder and Chairman of Alliant Music Group as well as a respected label executive who has shepherded the careers of top Gospel artists including Fred Hammond, Hezekiah Walker, Donnie McClurkin, Lamar Campbell and more.

"This site is absolutely the only Christian full-service download site," said Wright. "I felt there was a void in the marketplace and really these days the average mobile download customer can easily find any genre of ringtones except for Christian/Gospel music. We definitely want to super serve that marketplace as we believe in the growing number of faith-based consumers."

The partnership with Wright and Mobile Streams will establish LifeGroovz as the ultimate destination for ringtones from all genres of Christian music; ranging from contemporary to traditional; Quartet to Hip Hop -- every fan of Christian and Gospel music will find something specifically tailored to their tastes and lifestyles.

Brian Patterson, Business Development Manager, at Mobile Streams said, "We are delighted to strengthen our consumer marketing presence in fostering the Christian community's desire to express itself through specialized ringtones and mobile downloads."

CBS News Partners With Brightcove for the Online Syndication of News Video

-- CBS News and Brightcove, the Internet TV pioneer, today announced that CBS News will use the Brightcove service to syndicate ad-supported video from CBS News across the Internet. The partnership will expand non-linear distribution of CBS News content, available today on AOL News, Comcast and YouTube, to thousands of small and medium-sized websites and blogs.

In partnering with CBS News, Brightcove adds broadcast network news content to its growing portfolio of partners in the Brightcove Syndication Marketplace and will also feature CBS News on Brightcove.com.

Through the Brightcove managed syndication service, approved website publishers will have the opportunity to embed a CBS News video player directly onto their sites. The CBS News video player will include the latest video from the CBS EVENING NEWS with KATIE COURIC, THE EARLY SHOW and other CBS News programs, as well as video produced by CBS News exclusively for the Web.

"This partnership underscores CBS News' ongoing strategy of making our programming available on multiple platforms, while also generating additional revenue," said Sean McManus, President, CBS News and Sports. "Through this arrangement with Brightcove, we hope to meet the seemingly insatiable appetite for news online by building new distribution relationships and creating new opportunities for our advertisers."

"CBS News is one of the leading news organizations in the world," said Jeremy Allaire, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brightcove. "We are excited to be chosen by CBS News as the syndication platform to grow an audience of website affiliates who will carry the latest news to Internet audiences around the globe."

Websites interested in carrying CBS News on their sites will be able to go to cbsnews.com or to the Brightcove Syndication Marketplace at http://studio.brightcove.com/affiliates/syndication-marketplace.cfm to apply to become an affiliate.

About CBS News

The CBS News Division operates a worldwide news organization serving the CBS Television and Radio Networks and CBSNews.com with regularly scheduled news and public affairs programming - including, among others, the CBS EVENING NEWS, THE EARLY SHOW, 60 MINUTES, 48 HOURS MYSTERY, FACE THE NATION and SUNDAY MORNING - and special reports on breaking news. The division maintains 19 news bureaus and offices in the United States and abroad in addition to its world headquarters in New York.

About Brightcove

Brightcove is an Internet TV service that empowers video producers and programmers to build broadband businesses while giving viewers more choices and control over their use of video and television. Founded by Internet pioneer Jeremy Allaire in 2004 and based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Brightcove is the market-leading Internet video partner for international news and entertainment businesses, including British Sky Broadcasting (Sky), Discovery Communications Inc., Dow Jones & Company, Inc., MTV Networks, The New York Times Company, Reuters, Sony BMG, Time Life, Warner Music Group, and Washingtonpost.Newsweek Interactive.

Source: CBS News; Brightcove

Web site: http://studio.brightcove.com/

ZAKK WYLDE TO PLAY SPECIAL PERFORMANCE AT ROCKWALK
“IN THIS RIVER” FOR DIMEBAG DARRELL’S INDUCTION
CONFIRMED PERFOMERS FOR THE BLACK TOOTH BASH &
ARTIST ROSTER FOR THE HAND PAINTED SIX STRING MASTERPEICES

HOLLYWOOD ( May 2, 2007 ) – May 17^th, 2007 marks the day of Dimebag Darrell Abbott’s induction to Guitar Center Hollywood RockWalk. Many of rock’s top players will be in attendance to honor our lost and beloved brother.

At the induction guitar virtuoso Zakk Wylde (Black Label Society, Ozzy) will perform live on Sunset Blvd. in tribute to his friend and brother. Wylde will play “In This River” - a song forever dedicated to Dimebag Darrell – According to Wylde, the song will never leave the set list for Black Label Society.

After the induction, come join us at the House of Blues Hollywood to further honor Dimebag Darrell Abbott where The Six String Masterpiece Auction will be held to benefit The Little Kids Rock Foundation. Dimebag’s Black Tooth Bash will immediately follow the auction with special performances comprised with some of Darrell’s closest friends and influences.

BLACK TOOTH BASH confirmed list of players are as follows:
confirmed list of players are as follows:

The Little Kids Rock Band

Vinnie Paul, Jamey Jasta, Scott Ian, Jerry Cantrell, William Duvall (Alice in Chains), M. Shadows (Avenged Sevenfold), Evil D (Morbid Angel), Paul Grey (Slipknot), Ripper Owens, Nick Bowcot, John 5, David Draiman (Disturbed), Bob Zilla (Damageplan), Aaron Lewis (Staind), Brent Smith and Jasin Todd (Shinedown), Dave Navarro, Stephen Perkins, Matt Byrne (Hatebreed), Chester Bennington (Linkin Park) and many more surprise artists!

SIX-STRING MASTERPIECES: THE DIMEBAG DARRELL ART TRIBUTE created by the following artists:
created by the following artists:

Zakk Wylde, Ace Frehley, Rob Zombie, Otep, Shinedown, Jerry Cantrell, Bob Zilla, Kelly Clarkson, Steve Stevens, Tommy Lee, Filip Leu (Leu Family Iron), Marilyn Manson, Ryan McGinness, Moby, Gill Montie, Tom Morello, Mark Mothersbaugh (Devo, Mutato Muzako), Munky (Korn)
Dave Navarro, Ted Nugent, Jim Root, Jack Rudy, Joe Satriani, Mike Shinoda (Linkin Park),

David Stoupakis (Sum 41), Mick Thompson (Slipknot), Greg Tribbett (Mudvayne), Hank Williams III plus many more – for a comprehensive list of all SIX STRING MASTERPIECES go to www.actionartsagency.com/sixstring1.html.

The collection comprises of over 60 DEAN ML guitars that have been hand-painted by world-famous Rock Stars and internationally known Tattoo & Visionary Artists in a memorial tribute to one of the greatest guitarists of all time, Dimebag Darrell Abbott. The guitars can be viewed prior to the auction May 4^th to May 16^th at LaLuz DeJesus Gallery in L.A. ( 4633 Hollywood Ave ).

The Little Kids Rock Foundation (501(C)3) is the charity of choice for Dimebag Darrell – so it’s Dime-Time folks and we are going to rock the house to honor Dimebag and raise money for the kids!
(501(C)3) is the charity of choice for Dimebag Darrell – so it’s Dime-Time folks and we are going to rock the house to honor Dimebag and raise money for the kids!

The gear companies are uniting as one to raise money for the kids. The night’s sponsors are Dimebag Hardware, Dean Guitars, Dunlop, Musicians Institute, Seymour Duncan, GHS Strings, EMG Pickups, Schecter Guitars with more joining us each day!!

For more information on the charity and the Six String masterpieces go to www.rockwalk.com www.littlekidsrock.org, www.actionartsagency.com, www.myspace.com/sixstringmasterpieces.

May 2

Modest Mouse, Incubus, The Shins, Wolf Parade, Among Featured Talent at Download 2007 Festival Events
Live Nation, World's Largest Live Music Festival Producer, Successfully Grows Acclaimed UK Festival, Expanding to Four U.S. Markets: Boston, Chicago, San Francisco and Washington State
Additional Artist Lineups to Be Announced Soon

Download -- the acclaimed music festival produced by Live Nation which began in 2003 in the UK, offering fans unparalleled connectivity to the bands they love -- is returning to the U.S. this year with a star-studded lineup presenting the best in alternative and modern rock artists. Download 2007 Festival events will feature performances by such marquee bands as Modest Mouse, The Shins, Incubus and Wolf Parade, with other artists to be announced soon (each market has a distinct lineup, which will be announced in May). Expanding beyond last year's Download appearances in Boston and San Francisco (which this year have been set for August 18, and October 6, respectively), Download Festival 2007 will make additional stops in Washington State (August 25), and Chicago (September 1), proving the British creation is now an American mainstay. Tickets will be available at www.livenation.com and www.downloadfestival.com, and will go on sale June 9th (Washington State), June 16th (Boston), June 23rd (Chicago) and July 22nd (San Francisco).

Entering its fifth successful year, Download has become a festival phenomenon with multiple-day concert and technology emersion events in the UK and North America, drawing an audience uniquely plugged into the latest of everything. This year's Download Festival aims to take the fan experience to an entirely new level, with many increased opportunities for fan and artist interaction including meet and greets, Q & A sessions, artist master class workshops and autograph activities. The ultimate play day in each city will feature ten hours of continuous music emanating from multiple stages, interspersed with interactive activities and access to world class vendors featuring an eclectic mix of fashion, food and technology items.

"The growth of Download Festival to two additional U.S. cities is indicative of our strategy to expand our festival presence in North America," said Jason Garner, Live Nation's President of North American Concerts. "We are thrilled to once again present some of the best alternative music and modern rock acts at this year's Download Festival."

"Download has resonated so deeply with music fans around the world because it provides rare opportunities for them to connect with artists and sponsors like no other festival. We are keenly focused on creating engaging fan experiences with the many interactive elements of these shows through our collaboration with key brand partners," said Christopher Swope, Vice President of National Alliances at Live Nation.

Download 2007 will also be enhanced through the participation of select strategic partners. As the official automotive sponsor for all Download events, Volkswagen will take center stage, using its one-of-a-kind VW Garage to deliver memorable music-oriented moments. Budding musicians who choose to jam on supplied instruments will be digitally recorded, and their riffs spotlighted on vw.com. VW owners will earn rock star treatment, and all festival-goers can pick up cool VW merchandise and chill out in the Garage. "Music is a powerful platform for building community, and a Volkswagen/Download partnership is a natural extension of our long history of supporting pioneering music properties and emerging artists," said Heidi Korte, Consumer Events Manager. "The Download Festival is innovative in its pairing of music with technology, and speaks directly to the people who buy Volkswagens."

"Music, design and technology are passions of W Hotels," said Ross Klein, President of Starwood Luxury Brands Group, another festival sponsor. "Just as W provides a destination for people to connect with one another, the Download Festival has created one of the most innovative and engaging music experiences to foster this connection." Other sponsors include Now What, who will be onsite providing an interactive booth where concert-goers can stop by to get their free online photo, win great prizes and much more! Additional sponsors to be announced in the coming weeks.

For additional information on Download 2007, please visit www.downloadfestival.com.

Download 2007 events are as follows:

August 18th - Boston @ The Tweeter Center of Performing Arts

August 25th - Washington State @ The Gorge Amphitheatre

September 1st - Chicago @ Alpine Valley Music Theater

October 6th - San Francisco @ Shoreline Amphitheatre

About Live Nation

Live Nation is the world's largest live music company. Our mission is to inspire passion for live music around the world. We are the largest promoter of live concerts in the world, the second-largest entertainment venue management company and have a rapidly growing online presence. We create superior experiences for artists and fans, regularly producing tours for the biggest superstars in the business, including The Rolling Stones, Barbra Streisand, Madonna, U2 and Coldplay. Globally, we own, operate, have booking rights for and/or have an equity interest in more than 160 venues, including House of Blues(R) music venues and prestigious locations such as The Fillmore in San Francisco, Nikon at Jones Beach in New York and London's Wembley Arena. Our websites collectively are the second most popular entertainment/event websites in the United States, according to Nielsen//NetRatings. In addition, we also produce, promote or host theatrical, specialized motor sports and other live entertainment events. In 2006, we connected nearly 60 million fans with their favorite performers at approximately 26,000 events in 18 countries around the world. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Live Nation is listed on the New York Stock Exchange, trading under the symbol "LYV." For more information regarding Live Nation and its businesses or concerts near you, please visit our website at www.livenation.com.

Web site: http://www.livenation.com/
http://www.downloadfestival.com/

I Want to Be Shrek (and Donkey) on Broadway!
http://iwanttobeshrek.com/

SHREK, the new Broadway-bound musical, with music by Jeanine Tesori, book and lyrics by Pulitzer Prize-winner David Lindsay-Abaire, and directed by Jason Moore, is looking for a Shrek and a Donkey to star on Broadway!

Produced by DreamWorks Animation and Neal Street Productions, Ltd. (principals Sam Mendes and Caro Newling), the SHREK creative team is planning a two-week reading this summer (July 23- August 3rd) in New York which will be followed by a Broadway opening in 2008!

The creative team is male seeking performers of all cultural backgrounds for these roles.

SHREK: 20s - 30s. An ogre. His imposing physical appearance disguises a

warm heart. A lonely outsider with soul, strength, and wit. Values his

peaceful solitary life in the swamp. Seeking actors with a powerful

presence and strength with true Rock or R&B voices. Preferably a baritone.

DONKEY: 20s - 30s. A performer with a contemporary, urban edge and great

humor. Joins Shrek on his journey to capture Princess Fiona. Seeking

unique performers especially from slam poetry, comedy, Hip Hop worlds or

clever actors with great comic skill.

Anyone, no matter how Far Far Away, can try and audition for these roles! If you or a friend think you have what it takes to play Shrek or Donkey, follow the directions below:

1. Make a video recording of yourself singing one song and copy it on to

a DVD. (No lip-syncing please -- must be live!) Please clearly label

the DVD with your name and contact information.

2. Take a photograph of yourself and print it out, or if you have one,

send a copy of your headshot.

3. Put together a resume or list of background experience and, VERY

IMPORTANT, your contact information -- including address, phone and

e-mail.

4. BY SNAIL MAIL send items 1, 2 and 3 to:

DreamWorks Animation

I Want To Be Shrek

PO Box 2693

New York, NY 10108

YOU MUST SUBMIT THIS MATERIAL BY FRIDAY, MAY 18, 2007

KEEP COPIES OF ANYTHING YOU SEND. The DVD and any other materials you send in will be retained by and will become the sole property of the Producers, and will not be returned to you whether or not you are considered for a role. The Producers are not responsible for lost, stolen, or incorrectly mailed materials. The Producers will not be able to answer questions about the receipt or status of any materials.

For updated information please go to: http://iwanttobeshrek.com/

For those living under a rock in a swamp: Based on a children's book by William Steig, the character of Shrek has been featured in two major animated films to date. The first Shrek feature film hit theaters in the Summer of 2001, and went on to win the first-ever Academy Award(R) for Best Animated Feature. In 2004, DreamWorks released a sequel, Shrek 2, which went on to become the highest-grossing animated film of all time. The next chapter of the Shrek story, Shrek the Third, hits theaters this May 18, 2007.

Source: Boneau/Bryan-Brown

Web site: http://iwanttobeshrek.com/

May 1

Cable TV and Phone Calls are Taxed at Twice the Rate of Other Goods, Study Finds

A new study produced by a team of researchers from The Heartland Institute and Beacon Hill Institute finds taxes and fees imposed on cable TV and telephone subscribers are twice as high as the average sales tax on other products.

The average household pays approximately $250 a year in taxes and fees on cable TV and telephone services, and would save $126 a year if taxes and fees on communication services were no higher than retail sales taxes on other goods.

"Consumers pay more than $37 billion a year in communication taxes and fees," said coauthor David Tuerck, executive director of the Beacon Hill Institute and professor and chairman of the Department of Economics at Suffolk University in Boston, Massachusetts.

"Many of these taxes and fees are hidden in phone and cable bills. Because they are so high, they distort consumer decisions and business investment decisions, costing billions more every year in lost consumer benefits," Tuerck said.

The research team collected information on cable television, wireline and wireless telephone, and Internet access for 59 U.S. cities.

The study found:

-- Cable TV and phone service (wireline and wireless) customers pay taxes

and fees averaging 13.52 percent, twice as high as the national average

sales tax on other goods.

-- Taxes and fees on communication services nationally add up to $37

billion a year.

-- Communication taxes and fees are highly regressive. Families in the

lowest quintile of earnings pay 10 times as much as families in the

highest quintile, as a percentage of their income.

-- Taxes and fees vary dramatically from city to city, with consumers in

some cities paying more than three times as much as consumers in other

cities.

-- In some cities, taxes and fees on wireline telephone service are higher

than taxes on beer, liquor, and tobacco.

-- Economists estimate the value of services lost due to high taxes and

fees on communication services add up to a "deadweight loss" to society

of $11.4 billion a year.

The authors recommend that local governments reform cable franchise laws. They further recommend that state officials and the national government consider policies to preempt local franchising authority and to prohibit discriminatory taxation of communication services.

Talking points, an executive summary, and the full text of the study are available on The Heartland Institute's Web site at http://www.heartland.org/.

Source: The Heartland Institute

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

The Palazzo to Showcase Broadway's Mega-Hit, 'Jersey Boys'
Tony-Award Winning Musical 'Too Good to be True' for Las Vegas

-- The much-anticipated opening of The Palazzo Resort Hotel Casino in Las Vegas just got bigger with the addition of the Tony-Award winning smash hit musical, Jersey Boys. The perennially sold-out show based on the life story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons has taken Broadway by storm and now has set its sights on Las Vegas, opening on the Strip in early 2008.

"With advance ticket sales over $30 million on Broadway we are confident that visitors from all over the world will come to see what is currently the hottest ticket on Broadway," said Rob Goldstein, president of The Venetian and The Palazzo. "Jersey Boys appeals to a wide range of audiences, beyond the traditional theatergoer. The spectacular musical is the type of entertainment that has become the hallmark of The Venetian: award-winning, great quality and distinctive. We expect The Palazzo, together with The Venetian, to continue to be the preeminent entertainment destination in Las Vegas."

Jersey Boys, which opened to rave reviews on November 6, 2005, continues to set weekly box office records and has been among the top grossing shows on Broadway ever since. As well as being a critical and audience favorite, the show won four 2006 Tony Awards including Best Musical. The original Broadway cast recording on Rhino Records won the Grammy Award for Best Show Recording and remains one of the best-selling show CDs in the US.

The smash hit musical follows the rags-to-riches tale of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, four blue-collar kids working their way from the streets of Newark to the heights of stardom, and features such hits as "Sherry," "Big Girls Don't Cry," "Can't Take My Eyes Off of You," "Oh, What a Night," and many more.

The Broadway creative team, including director Des McAnuff, choreographer Sergio Trujillo, authors Marshall Brickman & Rick Elice, and The Four Seasons, will be directly involved in the Las Vegas production of Jersey Boys.

"BASE Entertainment and our producing partners Michael David and The Dodgers are extremely excited to be bringing this smash hit to, what we expect will be, the most luxurious resort in Las Vegas," said Scott Zeiger, co-CEO of BASE Entertainment. "The state-of-the-art theater housing this production will serve as a perfect setting for this extraordinary show."

The Palazzo is a stand-alone resort currently being built by Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE:LVS) in the heart of the famed Las Vegas Strip. When combined with the neighboring Venetian and Sands Expo and Convention Center, The Palazzo will give the company the largest hotel and convention complex in the world. In addition to Jersey Boys, the $1.8 billion Palazzo will feature more than 3,000 all-suite rooms and offer its new shopping, dining and entertainment on two luxurious levels. The 450,000-square-foot retail space, The Shoppes at The Palazzo(TM) will be highlighted by Barneys New York and connected to The Venetian via The Grand Canal Shoppes. It will house approximately 60 high-end and mid-level stores from the most recognizable brands to the hottest newcomers and unique one-of-a-kind boutiques drawn from all over the world. Additionally, The Palazzo will offer 14 new restaurants from renowned chefs, many of whom are not yet featured in the Las Vegas area.

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

ABOUT LAS VEGAS SANDS CORP.

Las Vegas Sands Corp. (NYSE:LVS) is one of the leading international developers of multi-use integrated resorts.

The Las Vegas, Nevada-based company owns and operates The Venetian Resort-Hotel-Casino and the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Las Vegas and the Sands Macao in the People's Republic of China (PRC) Special Administrative Region of Macao. The company is currently constructing four additional integrated resorts: The Venetian Macao Resort-Hotel in Macao; The Palazzo Resort-Hotel-Casino in Las Vegas; Sands Bethworks(TM) in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania; and The Marina Bay Sands(TM) in Singapore.

LVS is also creating The Cotai Strip(TM), a master-planned development of resort-casino properties in Macao. Additionally, the company is working with the Zhuhai Municipal People's Government of the PRC to master-plan the development of a leisure resort and convention complex on Hengqin Island in the PRC.

About BASE Entertainment:

BASE Entertainment is an intellectual property based operating company and live entertainment studio with offices in New York, Las Vegas, and Houston. BASE develops, produces and manages intellectual properties which reach audiences through various platforms, including live, digital, broadcast and licensing.

BASE Entertainment partners include Brian Becker, Scott Zeiger, and Clarity Partners. Co-founders Brian Becker and Scott Zeiger have 45 years combined experience in the live entertainment industry. Becker previously served as Chairman and CEO of Clear Channel Entertainment (CCE), the world's leading producer and promoter of live entertainment events. Zeiger previously served as Chairman and CEO of CCE's North American Theatrical division and the CCE Productions Group. Clarity Partners, L.P. is a private equity firm focused exclusively on investments in media, communications, and business services. Clarity's current portfolio includes Vue Entertainment, Oxygen Media, Crescent Entertainment/Village Roadshow Pictures, Liberation Entertainment, and ImpreMedia.

BASE Entertainment's current projects include Phantom - The Las Vegas Spectacular, Gordie Brown and Wayne Brady: Making It Up at The Venetian, STOMP OUT LOUD at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, the Planet Hollywood Theater for the Performing Arts, and Wintuk, a new Cirque du Soleil winter holiday production coming to Madison Square Garden.

Source: Las Vegas Sands Corp.

'The Wumblers' Partners With ELH Enterprises for Plush Toy License
Groundbreaking Original Animated Preschool Television Series Signs on Plush Manufacturer, ELH Enterprises, to Kick Off Licensing Program

-- The Giddy Gander Company LLC is proud to announce a licensing partnership with ELH Enterprises for the manufacturing and retail distribution of plush merchandise based on characters from the upcoming preschool television series, The Wumblers. Heidi Schwartz, Director of Licensing, is pleased to kick off The Wumblers licensing program with ELH because of their innovative manner, clear understanding and enthusiasm for the series and brand as well as their continuous dedication to the production of high quality merchandise.

Richard Esposito, CEO of ELH Enterprises stated, "all of us at ELH are very excited about the opportunity to work with Laura Wellington and Heidi Schwartz on the Wumblers. This is more than just a new brand; it is a great story for children. Both Laura and Heidi are fantastic to work with and show amazing passion and drive for this mission they call The Wumblers. We are looking forward to bringing exciting new product to the consumer!"

Laura J. Wellington is the CEO of The Giddy Gander Company LLC and creator of The Wumblers. The Wumblers is dedicated to making the world a better place for all. The Wumblers are multi-colored, bulbous-shaped characters whose food falls from the sky, whose babies come from watermelon, and whose stories blend inspiration, imagination, and fun -- all to teach positive social attitudes and interactions, foster the concept that differences can unite rather than divide, and present the world as a global community. The Wumblers, an innovative animated pre-school TV series designed to teach children about values and global consciousness is set to begin airing on both the Trinity Broadcasting Network and Smile of a Child Network in the Fall of 2007.

ELH Enterprises based in Pleasanton, CA, specializes in the creation, design, manufacturing, marketing and distribution of high quality innovative "Gifts of Joy", including plush, collectibles, novelties, room decor, jewelry and stationery. Utilizing superior design and manufacturing processes, the company creates premium product lines featuring some of the most popular and classic licenses in the industry.

Source: The Giddy Gander Company LLC

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

MTV Networks' Music Group Allows Viewers to Cast Themselves in Future Seasons of MTV's 'The Real World' and VH1's 'I Love New York'
RealWorldCasting.com and ILoveNewYork2.com Provide Paths for Viewers to Appear on TV

-- Giving viewers paths to appear on TV, MTV Networks' Music Group is unveiling sites where fans can submit themselves for consideration as cast members on such popular shows as MTV's "The Real World" and VH1's "I Love New York." The sites add entirely new dimensions to the way in which viewers interact with their favorite programs by allowing them to visualize the makeup of the shows' casts and also potentially become cast members themselves. "The Real World" and "I Love New York" sites mark the first time television shows will be democratically influenced by communities of viewers prior to their on-air premieres and underscore MTVN's commitment to making viewers part of the fabric of its programs.

Beginning tomorrow, viewers can go to "The Real World" Casting site at http://www.realworldcasting.com/ to try for one coveted spot in the house or snag a seat on the casting director's couch to judge who should make it on-air. Fans of VH1's "I Love New York" can now go to http://www.ilovenewyork2.com/ to submit themselves for consideration and decide who gets to appear on the second season of "I Love New York." The "Real World" and "I Love New York" casting sites are just two of several "hyper-programmed" vertical channels that MTV Networks' Music & Logo group has introduced in recent months, including: BestWeekEver.tv, the companion vertical to VH1's 'Best Week Ever' franchise; WebJunk.tv, an extension of VH1's "Web Junk 20" program and Acceptable.TV, the site accompanying the viewer-interactive VH1 series of the same name; and Logo's recently acquired AfterEllen.com, AfterElton.com and 365Gay.com sites.

"'The Real World' and 'I Love New York' sites introduce new dimensions to the way we program our popular franchises and become doors through which our viewers can step into the TV," said Brian Graden, President of Entertainment for MTV Networks' Music Group. "These sites represent new models of engagement for our audience, giving disaggregated fans the power to come together as one community to affect the way we program our channels and our shows."

The Real World

"The Real World" Casting site is designed to be a highly immersive experience that engages viewers on multiple levels, from castee to judge. Viewers who join the community can register to be considered for the show or serve as a judge to help determine who makes the cut. In either instance, they are connected to the larger community of "The Real World" fans who share similar passions and who want to stay connected to -- and help influence -- the story arcs, characters and themes they see on-air.

Viewers who throw their hat into the ring for the cast of Season 20 must submit a 90-second 'confessional' video detailing their passions, life experiences and phobias. Viewers who elect to serve as judges can climb a virtual casting hierarchy to serve in any number of roles, from Head of Casting, to VP of Casting, Casting Director, Casting Associate, Casting Intern or just plain Voter. The hierarchy is determined by the number of votes a registered user casts; the more one votes, the higher on the ladder they climb. But it's not just castees who make it onto MTV. Even judges may appear throughout the season to discuss whom they voted for and why.

The current season of "The Real World: Denver" ranks #1 in its time period (10-10:30 p.m. Wednesdays) among P12-34 versus cable competition and has reached 91.4 million total viewers season-to-date. The season finale of "The Real World: Denver" is May 16. The next season -- season 19 -- will take place in Sydney, Australia and is currently in production. The viewers chosen through the RealWorldCasting.com site will be members of "The Real World" season 20.

"The Real World: Denver" is a massive hit on mtv.com as well. In the month of April, viewers streamed 4 million full episodes, sneak peaks and after shows, making "The Real World: Denver" the most-watched show at mtv.com. And since the show's on-air premiere in November, "The Real World: Denver" has delivered nearly 24 million streams, consistently making it one of the most- viewed TV shows on mtv.com.

"The Real World" was created for MTV by Jon Murray and Mary Ellis-Bunim of Bunim-Murray Productions, and Jon Murray and Jim Johnston serve as Executive Producers. Drew Tappon and Jacquelyn French are Executives Producers for MTV.

I Love New York 2

Five contestants in "New York's" next quest for love will be determined through user participation at ILoveNewYork2.com. The "I Love New York" casting site works in two ways: fans can submit themselves for consideration in the next installment of the series and they can vote to determine who makes the cut in the next competition for "New York's" heart. Online casting will be determined during three rounds of voting between April 29 and June 15. Round one submissions must include an uploaded video profile, biographical information and photos. After round one, the 60 would-be suitors with the most votes will move on to the next round. Details and requirements for each round of voting can be found at ILoveNewYork2.com.

The recent "I Love New York Reunion Special," resonated with viewers across broadband, mobile and linear platforms. VH1's "I Love New York Reunion Special" drew 5 million total viewers, making it the most watched episode of the season and catapulted VH1 to its third highest-rated day ever in the network's history. The series was also the second highest-rated season of any VH1 series ever. Close to 1 million video streams on VSPOT were logged in the 24 hours following the on-air special. Additionally, more than 50,000 mobile text messages were received that day by viewers responding to a dynamic on-air VH1 Mobile poll question related to the show. The series was also the most watched show on VH1 Mobile throughout its season.

The second season of "I Love New York" is scheduled to premiere later this year.

VH1's "I Love New York" is created and executive produced by Mark Cronin and Cris Abrego for Mindless Entertainment and 51 Pictures, who also produce the record-breaking hits "Flavor of Love," "The Surreal Life" and "My Fair Brady." Jeff Olde, Jill Holmes, Kristen Kelly and Michael Hirschorn oversee the series for VH1.

The casting sites complement the online hubs for both shows at MTV.com and VH1.com, which deliver full episodes, exclusive after shows, sneak peaks and cast photos.

MTV Networks

MTV Networks' goal is to be the premier portfolio of targeted Global Entertainment Communities. Our brands engage, empower and connect diverse audiences with culturally relevant creative content and unique experiences across every platform.

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 130 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 200 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

Source: MTV Networks Music Group

Web site: http://www.mtv.com/
http://www.realworldcasting.com/

T.I. Races to the Top With Chevrolet's Impala SS; King of Hip-Hop Teams Up With General Motors for Major Marketing Campaign; New Album, "T.I. vs. TIP," on Track for Summer '07

-- Grand Hustle/Atlantic recording artist T.I. and General Motors Corp. have united for a major promotional blitz celebrating the new Chevrolet Impala SS. The multi-million dollar campaign confirms the Grammy Award-winning rap superstar's status as one of the most visible and influential artists in modern hip-hop.

The promotion -- created in association with Translation Consultation & Brand Imaging, a New York City-based brand marketing firm headed by founder and Chief Creative Officer Steve Stoute -- kicked off late last year with the companion video for T.I.'s top 10 rap smash, "Top Back (Remix)." The clip -- which was a #1 rotation hit at BET and the MTV networks -- featured a number of vintage and current Chevys.

A trio of commercials co-starring T.I. and the new Impala SS followed in early 2007, the first created using footage from the smash "Top Back (Remix)" video. A second commercial, entitled "Infield," effectively merged two of America's biggest cultural phenomena -- hip-hop and motorsports -- by bringing together T.I. and NASCAR legends Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Tony Stewart. The campaign's third installment, dubbed "Ain't We Got Love," made its debut during the 2007 Super Bowl festivities and featured an all-star cast including T.I., Earnhardt Jr., Mary J. Blige, and Big N' Rich.

"Together, the Chevy brand team and Translation have displayed true creativity and vision in partnering with T.I.," said Camille Hackney, Atlantic Senior Vice-President of Brand Partnerships and Commercial Licensing. "This is only the beginning of a relationship that is sure to lead to more innovative concepts and pioneering ideas. T.I. and Atlantic are looking forward to expanding our partnership with Chevy and Translation in the coming months."

"I believe that T.I. represents a mindset shared by many young adults, regardless of gender and race," said Translation founder Steve Stoute. "Chevy is a brand that represents a voice of American Revolution, and T.I. shares some of those same values. The campaign has been very successful, as people have paid attention to the diverse usage of songs from country to hip-hop. Having T.I. represent the hip-hop perspective was the only choice that Translation felt would be solid and authentic."

The success of the Chevrolet promotion marks the beginning of what looks to be T.I.'s biggest year to date. The ATL-based superstar was the king of February's 49th Annual Grammy Awards, scoring the "Best Rap Solo Performance" award for his smash single, "What You Know." T.I. also received an additional prize for "Best Rap/Sung Collaboration," marking his alliance with Justin Timberlake on the #1 hit, "My Love." The twin Grammys capped off an incredible 2006-07 awards season for T.I., following his triumphs at last year's BET Awards, BET Hip-Hop Awards, and Billboard Music Awards.

"T.I. vs. TIP," the eagerly awaited follow-up to 2006's RIAA double-platinum, Billboard 200-topping smash, "KING," is slated for release on July 3rd. Recently ranked by XXL Magazine as one of the most anticipated releases of 2007, the album will feature a star-studded line-up of guests, including Justin Timberlake, Eminem, R. Kelly, Nelly, Akon, and Lil' Wayne. The production roster is equally impressive, with contributions from such studio luminaries as Timbaland, Scott Storch, Mannie Fresh, Wyclef Jean, Danjahandz, and Just Blaze.

Later this year, T.I. will follow his acclaimed big-screen acting debut in last year's "ATL" by co-starring in what is among 2007's most anticipated new films, "American Gangster." Due November 2nd, the Ridley Scott-directed crime drama will see T.I. sharing the screen with Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe. A slate of further projects -- via T.I.'s own Grand Hustle Films -- will be announced in the coming weeks.

For more information, please visit www.trapmuzik.com and www.myspace.com/trapmuzik

Three Films Explore Identity in Academy/UCLA Documentary Series Screening

Beverly Hills, CA — The documentary short subject “Positively Naked,” the Oscar®-nominated documentary short subject “The Mushroom Club” and the documentary feature “Unknown White Male” will be screened on Wednesday, May 23, as the next installment in the 2006–2007 Contemporary Documentaries series, presented by the Academy Foundation of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the UCLA Film & Television Archive. The screenings will begin at 7 p.m. at the Academy’s Linwood Dunn Theater in Hollywood. Admission is free.

“Positively Naked” looks at 85 HIV-positive strangers who, with an art installation as their focus, find the opportunity to band together as a strong and proud community. Though many members of the group have experienced ostracism at one time or another, all have learned to thrive instead of perish – with strength, humor and heart. The film was directed and produced by Arlene Donnelly Nelson and David Nelson, both of whom will attend the screening and discuss the making of the film; Helen Hood Scheer was also a producer on the film.

At once a personal reflection and a moving portrait of a city and its people, “The Mushroom Club” explores the legacy of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. Directed and produced by Steven Okazaki, the Oscar-nominated film looks at the myths surrounding the devastating incident, the lives of the remaining survivors and the city’s monuments to its dead. It reveals how Japan struggles to this day with a fateful moment in its past.

“Unknown White Male” introduces Doug Bruce, a 35-year-old stockbroker-turned-photographer who one day, riding alone on a New York subway train, could not remember his name, where he worked, who his friends were or how much money he had in his bank account. Suffering from one of the rarest forms of amnesia, Bruce embarks on a profound journey to learn who he was and who he will become. The film was directed by Rupert Murray and produced by Beadie Finzi.

All screenings in the series are free and open to the public. Doors open at 6 p.m. The Linwood Dunn Theater is located at the Academy’s Pickford Center for Motion Picture Study, 1313 Vine Street, at the northwest corner of Fountain Avenue and Vine Street in Hollywood. Parking is available behind the building through the entrance on Homewood Avenue, one block north of Fountain. For more information, call (310) 247-3600 or (310) 206-FILM.

©A.M.P.A.S.®

April 30

MTV PUTS FANS IN THE DIRECTOR'S CHAIR AS
NOMINEES FOR “2007 MTV MOVIE AWARDS” ARE ANNOUNCED
“300” Leads the Way With 5 Nominations Followed By
“Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest” With 4 Nods
MTV Unveils New Categories “BEST MOVIE SPOOF”
And “BEST SUMMER MOVIE YOU HAVEN’T SEEN YET”
Sarah Silverman Will Host The “2007 MTV Movie Awards”
LIVE On Sunday, June 3^rd at 8PM/7c

April 30, 2007 (Santa Monica, CA) - The destiny of the coveted golden popcorn lies in the hands of the viewers as MTV: Music Television today announced the nominees for the “2007 MTV Movie Awards.” Dominating the pack is “300” with 5 nominations followed by “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest” with 4 nods. Also vying for the much sought-after statue is “Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan,” “Blades of Glory,” and “The Devil Wears Prada” with 3 nominations each. The 16^th annual awards show will be executive produced by Emmy Award^® winning producer Mark Burnett. Airing LIVE for the first time ever, the “2007 MTV Movie Awards” will be broadcast from the Gibson Amphitheatre in Universal City, CA on Sunday, June 3^rd at 8pm/7c. Performers and presenters for the “2007 MTV Movie Awards” will be announced at a later date.

It is all about the fans this year as MTV rolls out its first-ever user generated category, “BEST MOVIE SPOOF” where viewers have the opportunity to submit their own original movie shorts parodying films from the past year. As previously announced, MTV and Yahoo! have partnered to launch this interactive website via Yahoo! Movies (http://mtvmovieawards.yahoo.com) which explores the convergence of entertainment and technology like never before allowing fans to be part of the show. The undiscovered talent will be revealed to the world during the “2007 MTV Movie Awards.” Additionally, MTV unveils another new category, BEST SUMMER MOVIE YOU HAVEN’T SEEN YET giving a nod to upcoming summer blockbusters. And making its return this year is the mtvU Best Filmmaker on Campus award, offering the winner national exposure at the 2007 MTV Movie Awards and a $25,000 development deal with MTV Films.

“This year's star-studded show will be live, and inspired by all the new ways our audience experiences the movies,” said Christina Norman, President, MTV. “From texting their vote for 'Best Fight,' to uploading their own original movie spoofs, to posting photos online, fans are just a click away from being in the spotlight in this year's celebration of the movies and stars they love.”

Fans can vote by visiting movieawards.mtv.com before May 29th. Viewers can also vote from their mobile phones by texting “MOVIES” to 22422. Voting is also available by dialing toll free to 1-877-MTV-VOTE where fans can support their favorite nominees in each category. For the first time ever, the “2007 MTV Movie Awards” will offer live voting during the show. One category will remain open and viewers will be asked to cast their votes via mtv.com and text messaging on their wireless phones.

The “2007 MTV Movie Awards” will be available to a potential viewing audience of more than 1.4 billion people via MTV's global network of 55 channels reaching 492.7 million households around the world as well as through syndication. In addition, its convergent programming & content will reach the entire interactive community, via MTV's more than 200 digital media properties around the world.

Nominees for the “2007 MTV Movie Awards” are:

BEST MOVIE
300 (Warner Bros. Pictures)
(Warner Bros. Pictures) Blades of Glory (Paramount Pictures)
(Paramount Pictures) Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (20^th Century Fox)
(20 Century Fox) Little Miss Sunshine (Fox Searchlight)
(Fox Searchlight) Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest (Walt Disney Pictures)
(Walt Disney Pictures) BEST PERFORMANCE

Gerard Butler- 300 (Warner Bros. Pictures)

Johnny Depp- Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest (Walt Disney Pictures)

Jennifer Hudson- Dreamgirls (Paramount Pictures/DreamWorks SKG)

Keira Knightley- Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest (Walt Disney Pictures)

Beyoncé Knowles- Dreamgirls (Paramount Pictures/DreamWorks SKG)

Will Smith- The Pursuit of Happyness (Sony Pictures)

BREAKTHROUGH PERFORMANCE

Emily Blunt- The Devil Wears Prada (20^th Century Fox)

Abigail Breslin- Little Miss Sunshine (Fox Searchlight)

Lena Headey- 300 (Warner Bros. Pictures)

Columbus Short- Stomp the Yard (Screen Gems)

Jaden Smith- The Pursuit of Happyness (Sony Pictures)

Justin Timberlake- Alpha Dog (Universal Pictures)

BEST COMEDIC PERFORMANCE

Emily Blunt- The Devil Wears Prada (20^th Century Fox)

Sacha Baron Cohen- Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (20^th Century Fox)

Will Ferrell- Blades of Glory (Paramount Pictures)

Adam Sandler- Click (Sony Pictures)

Ben Stiller- Night at the Museum (20^th Century Fox)

BEST KISS

Cameron Diaz & Jude Law- The Holiday (Sony Pictures)

Will Ferrell & Sacha Baron Cohen- Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby (Sony Pictures)

Columbus Short & Meagan Good- Stomp the Yard (Screen Gems)

Mark Wahlberg & Elizabeth Banks- Invincible (Walt Disney Pictures)

Marlon Wayans & Brittany Daniel- Little Man (Sony Pictures)

BEST VILLAIN

Tobin Bell- Saw III (Lions Gate Films)

Jack Nicholson- The Departed (Warner Bros. Pictures)

Bill Nighy- Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest (Walt Disney Pictures)

Rodrigo Santoro- 300 (Warner Bros. Pictures)

Meryl Streep- The Devil Wears Prada (20^th Century Fox)

BEST FIGHT

Jack Black & Hector Jimenez vs. Los Duendes- Nacho Libre (Paramount Pictures)

Gerard Butler vs. “The Uber Immortal”- 300 (Warner Bros. Pictures)

Sacha Baron Cohen vs. Ken Davitian- Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (20^th Century Fox)

Will Ferrell vs. Jon Heder- Blades of Glory (Paramount Pictures)

Uma Thurman vs. Anna Faris- My Super Ex-Girlfriend (20^th Century Fox)

BEST SUMMER MOVIE YOU HAVEN’T SEEN YET
Evan Almighty (Universal Pictures)
(Universal Pictures) Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (20^th Century Fox)
(20 Century Fox) Hairspray (New Line Cinema)
(New Line Cinema) Harry Potter & the Order of the Phoenix (Warner Bros. Pictures)
(Warner Bros. Pictures) Rush Hour 3 (New Line Cinema)
(New Line Cinema) Transformers (Paramount Pictures)
(Paramount Pictures) mtvU BEST FILMMAKER ON CAMPUS
Robert Dastoli (University of Central Florida) – “Southwestern Orange County vs.
The Flying Saucers”
Maria Gigante (Columbia College, Chicago) – “Girls Room”
Josh Greenbaum (University of Southern California) – “Border Patrol”
Alexander Poe (Columbia University) – “Please Forget I Exist”
Andrew Shipsides (Savannah College of Art and Design) – “Bottleneck”

2007 MTV Movie Awards
Total Number of Combined Category Nominations

300 5
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest 4
Blades of Glory 3
Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Kazakhstan 3
The Devil Wears Prada 3
Dreamgirls 2
Little Miss Sunshine 2
The Pursuit of Happyness 2
Stomp the Yard 2
Alpha Dog 1
Click 1
The Departed 1
Evan Almighty 1
Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer 1
Hairspray 1
Harry Potter & the Order of the Phoenix 1
The Holiday 1
Invincible 1
Little Man 1
My Super Ex-Girlfriend 1
Nacho Libre 1
Night at the Museum 1
Rush Hour 3 1
Saw III 1
Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby 1
Transformers 1
* Nominees are chosen through a national poll of MTV and MTV2 viewers.

Mark Burnett serves as Executive Producer for the “2007 MTV Movie Awards.” Salli Frattini is Executive Producer for MTV. Audrey Morrisey and Ted Smith are Producers, Joe DeMaio is the Director and Kathy Flynn serves as Event Producer.

Official sponsors of “The 2007 MTV MOVIE AWARDS” are GM, glacéau vitaminwater, Old Navy, Orbit, Secret, Sprint and Taco Bell Corp.®.

About MTV Networks

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), is one of the world’s leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 120 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services – MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 95 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

About Mark Burnett Productions

Mark Burnett Productions (MBP) is a leading production company in content for both primetime television and the internet. MBP revolutionized television with hits such as Eco-Challenge, Survivor, The Apprentice, The Contender, Rock Star: INXS, Rock Star: Supernova and its upcoming co-production with Steven Spielberg and DreamWorks Television, On The Lot (FOX). Other upcoming MBP projects include: Pirate Master (CBS) and Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader (FOX). MBP also partnered with AOL on the highly successful adventure Gold Rush, the first-ever unscripted project to be produced exclusively for the internet. MBP also successfully reintroduced product placement as an integral part of each of its shows and has garnered a total of 42 Emmy nominations since 2001.

# # #

ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS, FASHION & TECHNOLOGY

Posted by Bill at 05:09 PM | Permalink

April 29, 2007

Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach

Day 2

Part 2

(C)MBN 2007

Part 1

Day 1

Photos From the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach

Posted by Bill at 12:57 PM | Permalink

April 27, 2007

Nopi Drift 2007

June 5

NOPI Motorsports is proud to announce their 2007 television schedule on SPEED TV. Starting in July NOPI TunerVision will be airing on Thursday’s, Friday’s and Sunday’s with new up to the date coverage of NOPI Motorsports events. With SPEED TV adding additional television coverage from the previous half an hour spot to an extended hour-long segment. The new hour segment will be cut into two with the new episode airing first and a re-run of the previous NOPI event after. You can be sure there will be plenty of action throughout the entire episodes.

Michael Meyers, President of NOPI Motorsports said, "SPEED TV extended the coverage of NOPI Tunervision from the original 1 show into the new format of 2 episodes with the extra episode making it an hour long segment, the second half hour being a re-run. We feel that with this format the NOPI events will finally get the attention that they deserve. With the new hour long segments catching all the action should no longer be a problem."

So this July starts the new 2007 show season and you will also notice a change in production as well. NOPI TV is now working with City Lights on the production of the NOPI TV shows, which is going to elevate the excitement of NOPI Tunervision. Things have never been better for NOPITV. From NDRA to NOPI’s New Professional Drift Series and the ever-impressive NOPI Car Show to the beautiful NOPI Chic’s, you will not want to miss any episodes. If you do, SPEED TV will be running the shows in rotation so you will be able to see any reruns of any event that you may have missed!

NOPI would like to thank you for your continuing support for NOPI Motorsports.

May 28

Wow! What can we say, if you were not at the NDRA event this past weekend at Maryland International Raceway, man did you miss out! There was a ton of close exciting races and there were even a handful of 200mph passes! The NDRA racers and teams are really getting a hold of their racecars and the results are definitely starting to show.

Glenn Woods, Race Director for NOPI Motorsports said, “This weekend’s event had the most side by side racing in every class that we have seen in a few years! It was nice to see the level of competition between not only the drivers but the crews that support these vehicles.” Michael Meyers, President of NOPI Motorsports said “With an event like this past weekend, there is nothing to show me that this market is slowing down. We had over 300 cars in competition in the NOPI Car Show and the attendance soared over 20k! All in all this weekend was a huge success and all that attended was sure to have a fantastic time!”

A few exciting things happened this weekend with one of them being Jason Hunt in the Pro Outlaw FWD class taking the win light twice this weekend. The first win was a makeup race from the previous NDRA event that had been rained out, that final was Jason Hunt vs. Gary Gardella. Jason took the win and posted his first 200mph pass! The second win light for Hunt happened for the Maryland International Raceway event and this run was again Hunt vs. Gardella! Jason took the win again and has currently won all 4 finals and sits comfortably atop of the point’s schedule.

NOPI Motorsports is proud of the racers this past weekend and would like to thank and congratulate them! “Keep up the good work guys and thanks for all of the exciting races this weekend, I am sure that there is plenty more where that came from!” said Michael Meyers.

NOPI looks forward to seeing you at the next event and would like to thank you for your continuing support for NOPI Motorsports.

May 20

Vaughn Gittin Jr. continues to prove his skills behind any machine thrown his way

JR jumps into a Miller Motorsports-built Mustang for some road racing in Tooele, Utah for GT Live and Falken Tire Drift Experience.

and .

JR proved himself worthy in a 240 hp SR-powered Corolla for D1 US season opener in Englishtown, NJ.

Hopping back into the Falken Tire Mustang for Formula D Round 2 at Road Atlanta, JR was defeated by Mother Nature and a misshift.

and .

Tooele, UT – Recently featured in a Super Street editorial column, Vaughn Gittin Jr. spoke about the troubles and triumphs in recently giving up his full-time IT job to work in a suit – a racing suit that is! JR promised his fans, family, and sponsors nothing but hard work and dedication, and thus far, he has kept his word.

JR traveled to Utah in late April for GT Live to participate in the Falken Tire Drift Experience. The Falken Tire Drift Experience is an event dedicated to giving fans a true, intimate feeling of being in a professional drift car on Falken Tires. JR says, “Falken Tire has worked unbelievably hard to make this dream for fans come true.”

“Miller Motorsports Park is an absolutely amazing dreamland for any motorsports enthusiast,” says JR. Miller Motorsports Park contains multiple tacks, karting facilities and supermoto tracks.

On practice day, JR and his team realized that the Falken Tire Mustang had some issues that needed to be taken care of before they got any worse. The team decided to pull the car out of the event to prepare it for D1 and Formula D coming up because the competition series is a number one priority.

“Being at this event and not being able to drive is like taking a little kid to a candy store and not letting him get a Snickers.” Fortunately for JR, he was graciously allowed behind the wheel of one of the Miller Motorsports Mustang Challenge cars to participate in the Time Attack and do some road racing.

Always wanting to improve his skills, JR talked to many of the other drivers in order to learn some of the tricks and lines of the course. Only his second time participating in road racing, JR gave it is all and won 3^rd overall and 1^st in the RWD class. The Mustang JR was racing is one of the many Miller Motorsports Mustang challenge cars built for sale or rental by the general public; the car was lightly modified but good for road racing according to JR.

JR says he was “very impressed with the way it handled in general and the guys at Miller Motorsports do a great job of building reliable and affordable cars for someone who wants to improve their skills, or just for those ‘weekend racers’.” JR genuinely appreciates the guys at Miller Motorsports for allowing him to have such a great experience and race one of their awesome cars.

Englishtown, NJ – Returning to the place where he started drifting about 4 years ago, JR was super excited to participate in the D1 U.S. season opener. This was truly a landmark event for JR and the rest of the boys of Drift Alliance, mainly because this venue was so special to their drifting careers. JR was excited to have his family, friends and East Coast fans in attendance supporting him at an event local to his hometown.

Engine problems arose during practice Friday and the team decided to pull the plug on driving his Mustang in order to get ready for Formula D Round 2 the following weekend.

Eric Davis, one of JR’s best friends, was at the event with his SR-powered Corolla built by Mid-Atlantic Motorsports with hopes of attaining his D1 license from the drivers search. Unfortunately, Eric did not get his license and ending up hitting a wall during practice – leaving the car with quite a nasty bruise. But luckily for JR, Eric agreed to let him drive his car for the competition.

JR was determined not to let his family, friends, and fans down and, without hesitation, hopped in the Corolla and qualified 11^th after only two practice runs! Switching from a lighter, extremely less-powered vehicle proved to be no match for JR’s skills behind the wheel. “I was ecstatic… I was just having so much fun driving this little Corolla. It was a whole new challenge for me to conquer.”

For the Top 16 battles, JR was paired up with Takahiro Ueno in the 530hp Toyota Soarer. After an amazing battle and two “one more times”, Ueno took the victory over JR. Overall, JR was thrilled that he could just hop in a crashed Corolla and put on such a show for the crowd.

“one more times”, Ueno took the victory over JR. Overall, JR was thrilled that he could just hop in a crashed Corolla and put on such a show for the crowd.

“I’m very confident in my new mechanics this year – Doug from Streetwise is a genius. Problems that we are having with the Mustang are a result of what we have done to give the car more bite. The car’s suspension is really working very well, but the motor is getting a lot more loaded from working so hard than it has in the past. We are finding that the motor-build that we have gone with in the past is not going to work for us this season. We have some new tricks up our sleeves and we are hoping to get through Atlanta with our spare motor, and we are doing everything possible to debut our new secret at Summit Point.”

Atlanta, GA –Vaughn Gittin Jr. traveled to “Hotlanta” in hopes of packing a major punch in Round Two “Fight Night” Formula D, and boy was it a scorcher. Due to the motor problems from the previous weekend, Vaughn Gittin Jr.’s Falken Tire Mustang ran with a spare motor. JR was in high spirits Friday even though the car was down in power about 100 hp. JR was forced to go down two sizes in tires as the power of the spare motor was unable to spin his usual massive 315 Falken RT615s.

Due to a dose of bad luck during qualifying Saturday, JR was the only driver who had to run during a heavy downpour. After making his way down the hill, his first entry was like a sheet of ice and threw him into the gravel pit. JR was very disappointed but decided to not let this occurrence get him down.

For the second qualifying round, JR put down the fastest entry speed of the day – 93 mph. His run started off beautifully, but on the last entry he misshifted into first rather than third gear. JR straightened up and unfortunately was completely taken out of the ballgame.

“I was feeling great all weekend. The guys from Falken Tire and Streetwise made sure I had an amazing car setup considering the circumstances. I made a very big mistake and it really cost me the event. It was a very big wake-up call – the first time I’ve had to sit on the sidelines for the top sixteen in three years! You can bet I will be putting this minor bump in the road behind me and I will be ready to rock at Summit Point in West Virginia June 2nd!

Written and edited by Abby Baker

May 14

Well, if you thought that it couldn’t get any better running with NOPI Motorsports, you were wrong! NOPI Motorsports has teamed up with Wench Jewelry to create something completely unique to the NOPI Professional Drift Series and NDRA (NOPI Drag Racing Association). What both companies have come up with is sure to create some major buzz in the market and among the drivers.

“This is a special year for us, and we wanted to do something unique for our drivers. NOPI and Wench Jewelry have collaborated to come up with a series specific ring that will only be handed out to the top drivers.” Said Michael Meyers, President of NOPI Motorsports. “We wanted to go over and above every expectation for this years events, and I believe that this helps us accomplish that!”

Wench Jewelry will be creating and presenting 13 rings in total, 10 for the NDRA events that will be split up by classes, 7 rings for the pro class, 3 rings for the sport class and 3 rings for the top 3 drivers at the NOPI Professional Drift Series events. All of the rings will be made with Tiffany grade silver and there will be different sizes for all of the podium winners for NDRA: First Place will receive a 7millimeter wrench ring and second and third place winners will have 5.5millimeter wrench rings. All of the NDRA rings will have “NOPI NDRA” molded into the outside of the rings and will have an engraving on the inside of the band.

For the NOPI Professional Drift Series, there will be 3 rings awarded to the podium winners. First place will receive a 7millimeter wrench ring, Second place will receive a 5.5millimeter wrench ring and Third place will receive a 4millimeter wrench ring. These rings will also have a “NOPI DRIFT” logo molded to the outside bands and an inscription on the inside of the ring band as well. Needless to say, these rings will be extremely well made and will be a perfect addition to any driver’s trophy collection or hands! This excitement comes by being apart of the NOPI Motorsports family.

NOPI looks forward to seeing you at both NDRA and NOPI Professional Drift events, and would like to thank you for your continuing support for NOPI Motorsports.

The NOPI Professional Drift Series and NDRA Series are here! The time is now – be part of the excitement. To learn more about the NOPI Professional Drift Series, please contact Caleb

May 7

NDRA Maryland International Raceway – Maryland - May 19^th & 20th

NDRA has another exciting event coming up this weekend. On May 19^th & 20^th NDRA will be at Budd’s Creek Raceway in Maryland, with the points lead going back and forth the race to the finish is getting closer each and every event!

As many of you have come know and love the NOPI events, the Budd’s Creek NDRA event will not disapoint at all. There will be a full car show with cash prizes, as well as a Swimsuit Contest with the hottest girls from the northeast competing for the prize. Vendor row will be in full effect with top companies in attendance showing off their newest products for you to come by and check out. As always, there is too much going on at each NOPI event to list. You can be sure that both Saturday and Sunday will be action packed and worth every penny!

“NOPI Motorsports likes to provide entertainment throughout the entire race weekend. From the intense Drag Racing to the Swimsuit Contest and the NOPI Car Show, there is always something for everyone. NOPI Motorsports has always worked hard to bring a fantastic array of entertainment to each event. With the spotlight this weekend being on a band called the “Politicks”. NOPI is proud to have this group of performers on their stage and we are anticipating their debut performance with NOPI Motorsports.” Said Michael Meyers, President of NOPI Motorsports.

Since coming together in 2001 while at Radford University, the Politicks have performed on the east coast from New York to Florida, shared the stage with several Grammy Award winning artists, recorded in Los Angeles and received regular radio play in their hometown of Washington, DC.   Last summer the Politicks performed with icons of soul and hip-hop including Al Green, Lauryn Hill, The Roots and India Arie. In the fall they joined the Heineken Red Star Soul tour, performing with major artists in soul and R&B including Raphael Saadiq, Floetry, Raheem DeVaughn, Chrisette Michele, Claudette Ortiz & Ryan Toby (City High). Most recently, the Politicks brought in 2007 with the Sugar Hill Gang, Pat McGee band and DC101 at the Downtown Countdown NYE event in DC. While working on their professional debut album, Two Coffees, One Juice, the band wrote and recorded the theme song for a major motion picture, entitled "The Perfect Game."  Politicks features Matthew Green on vocals, Brian Chafin and Mike Trella on guitars, Brad Moore on bass, and Brendan McCourt on drums. Make sure to come out and check out the Politicks live in concert at this weekends NDRA event held at Bud’s Creek Raceway.

For more information on the Politicks check out - http://www.myspace.com/politicks

NOPI looks forward to seeing you this weekend and would like to thank you for your continuing support for NOPI Motorsports.

The NOPI Professional Drift Series and NDRA Series is upon us! The time is now – be part of the excitement. To learn more about the NOPI Professional Drift Series, or the NDRA series, please contact Caleb Garrett at caleb@nopi.com or Glenn Woods at glennw@nopi.com.

May 4

Vaughn Gittin Jr. starts the Season off the right way!

It is no secret that Vaughn Gittin Jr. has been working extremely hard during this year’s “off season”. Between developing and testing the new Mustang with Team Falken and Street wise, the mental training of his transition to a full time professional driver was a lot to deal with. JR and Team Falken are doing everything possible to prevent the minor issues that have held them back the past 2 years and with the start of the much anticipated Formula D season opener in the “Streets of Long beach” was a

testament to all of the hard work of everyone involved.

While JR showed up feeling good and looking good in his brand new custom AlpineStar race suit, the Team Falken Mustang was also sporting some new looks for itself. The weekend didn’t start out as good as JR had hoped for. After successful testing

sessions with the Falken Tire Mustang, the car decided to have some freak engine issues that resulted in broken rocker arms during practice the day before qualifying. The only solution was to work all night and replace the head to ensure that JR would at least make it to qualifying in the morning. “I am very fortunate to have a team that is willing to do whatever it takes to get me on the track.” Said JR, Driver for Team Falken.

JR missed practice prior to qualifying because of some car demons, so his first qualifying run was his first full run through the course on game day, so he had no room for error. JR came around the first turn inches from the wall and he was FLYING! He nailed the run and it was impressive enough to place him 2nd overall in qualifying. “It was one of those situations where I felt I was lucky to even be at qualifying, considering where we were the night before with the engine. I just went out and gave my all. I knew when I left the line it was going to be incredibly awesome or simply disastrous!”

JR was placed “head to head” against Falken teammate Robbie Nishida for the Sweet 16 match-ups. With crazy close runs and even a “one-more-time” chant, JR gained the advantage and sent his Falken Tire teammate

packing! “I love running with Robbie! I think he pushes a bit harder whenever we are paired up, especially due to the fact he wants his revenge from Seattle last year. He’s a great driver, however there is no mercy for anyone after the starting line, even a teammate.”

For the Top Eight competition, JR was paired up with his biggest rival Samuel Hubinette – a battle JR had been craving all winter! While Sam was leading and JR was following, a crazy once-in-lifetime moment occurred; JR was so close to Sam’s Charger that his front right wheel was actually inside Sam’s back left wheel-well long enough to paint the wheel black. JR said, “Sam and I have gone back and forth for years and he is one of the drivers I push VERY HARD to beat and our battles are always intense. I am very happy to have been paired up with him and shown last years champ the fire in my eyes.”

JR moved on to compete in the Top Four, with yet another Falken teammate, Mitsuru Haraguchi. JR went all out with his “never lift” mentality and made a mistake in the first head to head, which made the judges’ decision a little easier. Going for redemption and getting the advantage with the second run wasn’t enough to regain his triumph – JR had lost to Haraguchi. “Haraguchi is a great driver, he holds an extremely deep angle which makes him a bit slower then most but still very fun and challenging to battle. I went a little bit to hard while I was leading the battle and made a simple

mistake that possibly could have been avoided if I was taking it a bit easier. I have the hardest time driving light. I fell like I’m cheating myself and fans if I don’t drive 110%.” Said JR, Driver for Team Falken.

Finishing fourth overall after one last battle with Daijiro Yoshihara, JR made quite an impact on the amazing audience of Formula D Round One by giving them nothing less than expected by “The Captain Clutchkick” himself – lots of smoke, excitement, smoke, American muscle, smoke, speed and did we mention smoke?

“Long beach was such an amazing event. Our sport and Formula D has grown so much. It is amazing seeing more and more fans with diverse backgrounds and interest at each event. I cannot wait for the rest of the stops on the Formula D Schedule While I am only content with our finish at the season opener I am thrilled with the fact the Team Falken Mustang is dialed in and there is no doubt I’m ready to rock”, said Vaughn Gittin Jr.

With a great start to an exciting upcoming season, JR is craving to stand on that desired winners’ podium that he came so close to during the season opener. He wants to thank all his sponsors and the fans who continue to support him and Formula D; and he hopes to see YOU at Round Two “Fight Night” in Atlanta where he will be prepared to give his famous “one-hitter quitter” to any and all challengers.

April 27

NDRA Atco New Jersey – April 28^th and 29^th

Records Will Be Broken!

OK drag race fans…… NDRA is coming this week (April 28^th and 29^th ) with a full action packed event held at Atco Raceway in New Jersey. You won’t be lacking action here as there will be plenty of drag racing action during this 2-day event, as well as a full blown car show, entertainment, swimsuit contest and much much more! You can be assured that you will leave the event with complete satisfaction on all entertainment levels!

Michael Meyers, President of NOPI Motorsports says, “We want for everyone who comes out to have a great time! NOPI Motorsports strives for perfection in everything that we do and there is no exception when it comes to the NDRA events. With the incredibly skilled field of drivers and the constant flux of entertainment throughout the weekend NOPI is sure that you will have a great time!”

This weekend will kick off the third NDRA event of 2007 and the competition has already started to heat up. With just about every event this season, the points lead a change, which has brought a lot of teams to NDRA as they put their best on the starting line! With the Atco Raceway hosting the event, there isn’t a bad seat in the house!

For all you racers out there that want to put your car to the test, don’t hesitate to come out. There are plenty of cash prizes and trophies to go around. For the race fans, this is a weekend that you won’t want to miss. Plenty of high-powered racing will be going on throughout the weekend, with records to be broken.

NOPI TV will be in the house filming for brand new TV shows that will be aired on Speed TV and also available on the Apple iTunes Store.

NOPI looks forward to seeing you there and would like to thank you for your continuing support for NOPI Motorsports.

For up to date online coverage of NOPI Motorsports, please go to†http://www.speedtv.com/articles/automotive/

Nopi Drift 2007 News

Posted by Bill at 08:38 PM | Permalink

April 26, 2007

Fox Feature Films

Rise Of The Silver Surfer

Posted by Bill at 01:37 PM | Permalink

April 24, 2007

Craft In America

April 25

April 24

PBS

01. Nakashima, George. Conoid Bench with Back. Designed: c. 1961. Production date of this example: 1974. American

black walnut, hickory, East Indian rosewood. 31” x 113” x 40”. Image courtesy of Mira Nakashima. As featured in

CRAFT IN AMERICA.

02. Bennett, Garry Knox. GR #13, (front) 2003. Wood, fiberglass, paint, 23k gold-plated brass. 31 ½” x 14 ½” x 19 ½”

Photo by: M. Lee Fatherree. As featured in CRAFT IN AMERICA.

03. Carson, Kit. Saguero Pin, 2006. Hand engraved. Silver, 18k yellow, green, pink gold, carico lake turquoise, green

turquoise, blue turquoise, spiny oyster shell, amethyst, 18k pull clasp. Photo by: Doug Hill. As featured in CRAFT

IN AMERICA.

04. Gurney, David. Tree of Life, 2006. Photo by: Doug Hill. 14”x 10” x 3”. Hand built, hand painted terra cotta. As

featured in CRAFT IN AMERICA.

05. Look, Dona. Basket #2004-5, White birch bark and silk thread. 13” x 13 ¾” x 13 ¾”. Photo by: Susan Einstein. As

featured in CRAFT IN AMERICA.

06. Loeber, Ken. Rose Brooch. Sterling silver and 18K gold. Forged and fabricated. 2.125" x 2.375" x .375”. As

featured in CRAFT IN AMERICA.

07. Makins, James. Ewer, 2002. Hand thrown Shigaraki clay with terra sigillata. Photo by: Lloyd Solly. As featured in

CRAFT IN AMERICA.

08. Maloof, Sam. Photo by: Gene Sasse. As featured in CRAFT IN AMERICA.

09. Maloof, Sam. Double Rocker, 1996. Handmade. Walnut. Photo by: Gene Sasse. As featured in CRAFT IN

AMERICA.

10. Nash, Geraldine. Geraldine’s Strings, 1999. Machine pieced top, hand quilted cotton. 72” x 84”. Photo by: Rachel

Gehlhar. As featured in CRAFT IN AMERICA.

11. Notkin, Richard. Cube Skull Teapot (Variation #23), Yixing Series, 2000, Stoneware. 11 1/2” x 4 ¾” x 3 ¼”. Photo

by: R. Notkin. As featured in CRAFT IN AMERICA.

12. Siemon, Caleb. Banded Low Bowl, Cranberry/Apricot, 2006. Blown glass. 9”x 15” x 15”x Photo by: Lloyd Solly.

As featured in CRAFT IN AMERICA.

13. Singletary, Preston. Killer Whale Hat, 2004. Blown and sandcarved glass. 7” x 17” x 17” Photo by: Russell Johnson.

As featured in CRAFT IN AMERICA.

14. Sisson, Karyl. Container XIII, 1990. Mini wood clothespins and wire. 4” x 14 ½” x 14 ½”. Photo by Lloyd Solly. Asfeatured in CRAFT IN AMERICA.

15. Wallace, Denise and Samuel. Crossroads of Continents Belt, 1990. Hand fabricated sterling silver, hand cut stones.

1Yager, Jan. Tiara of Useful Knowledge.

Stick Pins, Tie Tack, Pendant, and Headband. Oxidized Sterling Silver, 18K & 14K Gold. Photo by: Jack Ramsdale.

As featured in CR

17. de la Torre, Jamex and Einar. Italian Style. 2006 Blown glass, mixed media 34” x 15” x 14”. As featured in CRAF

IN AMERICA.

18. Jaeger, Sarah. Small Tureen &Tray. 2006. Porcelain. Wheel thrown, wax resist glaze decoration, oxidation fired.

8”h x 10” diameter. Photo by:

19. Carson, Kit_Portrait Artist, Kit Carson, Smithsonian Craft Show, April 2006 as featured in CRAFT IN AMERICA.

Photo by Jennifer Gerardi

20. Penland_Teruyama, Shoko. Artist in Residence, Shoko Teruyama at work on a hand built ceramic box, June 2006.

Penland School of Crafts as featured in CRAFT IN A

21. Darwall, Randall_Portrait Artist, Randall Darwall, weaver at the Smithsonian Craft Show, April 2006 as featured in

CRAFT IN AMERICA. Poto by Jennifer Gerardi

22. Jackson, Mary_Portrait Artist, Mary Jackson, basket maker at the Smithsonian Craft Show, April 2006 as featured in

CRAFT IN AMERICA. Ph

23. Gold, Pat Courtney_Portrait. Artist, Pat Courtney Gold, Wasco basket maker. Photo by Trish Reynolds. As featurein CRAFT IN AMERICA.

24. Penland Weavers. Amy Putansu, Teacher and students in weaving studio, June 2006. Penland School of Crafts as featured in CRAFT IN AMERICA. Photo by Jennifer Gerardi

CRAFT IN AMERICA: Expanding Traditions

An Eight-City Nationally Touring Exhibition

“There is an extraordinary wealth of objects that mean so much to who we are as a nation, part of our living heritage, that are often hiding in plain sight” – Carol Sauvion, Executive Director, CRAFT IN AMERICA Handcrafted objects have been created by every civilization since the beginning of time. These artifacts not only are essential to daily existence, they also are a culture’s tribute to its own character and place in history; they embody the desire to remember, reflect, and connect - serving as bridges between individuals, community and the environment. CRAFT IN AMERICA: Expanding Traditions provides the opportunity to examine how compelling and thought-provoking craft objects produced in the last two centuries - including a range of everyday objects of use and extraordinary objects of contemplation - extend the historical traditions and cultural lineage. These innovative and vital objects also will reveal how craft taps into, and shapes, wider cultural streams, flowing freely into the broader narrative of contemporary art.

Exhibition Details

Chief Curator: Jo Lauria

Contributing Curators: Jeannine Falino, Dale Gluckman, Steven L. Grafe, Kenneth R. Trapp

Objects: Approximately 200

Education: Gallery guide free to all visitors; educational plans provided to museum educators, local teachers

Exhibition Schedule

Arkansas Arts Center, Little Rock, Arkansas

April 13 through June 24, 2007

Museum of Contemporary Craft, Portland, Oregon

July 22 through September 23, 2007

Mingei International Museum, San Diego, California

October 20, 2007 through January 27, 2008

Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, Houston, Texas

February 22 through May 4, 2008

Cranbrook Art Museum, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan

June 8 through September 14, 2008

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

October 11, 2008 through January 18, 2009

Palm Springs Art Museum, Palm Springs, California

February 18 through May 24, 2009

Fuller Craft Museum, Brockton, Massachusetts

June 27 through September 27, 2009

CRAFT IN AMERICA:

Celebrating Two Centuries of Artists and Objects

A Clarkson-Potter Publication

“Craft, both historical and contemporary, is all around us. For me craft recognizes and communicates so much about what we are as a country. It is our identity and our legacy” – President Jimmy Carter, from his prologue to CRAFT IN AMERICA

For the millions of Americans who collect, study, and work with craft materials, CRAFT IN AMERICA: Celebrating Two Centuries of Artists and Objects explores the significance of craft in the last 200 years and complements the upcoming PBS television series (airing nationwide May 30, 2007 at 8pm on all PBS outlets) and nationally touring exhibition of the same name.

The only work of its kind, CRAFT IN AMERICA: Celebrating Two Centuries of Artists and Objects features the work of America’s most original and esteemed craftspeople past and present. Illustrated with more than 200 compelling photographs and encompassing objects from furniture, wood, ceramics and glass to fiber, quilts, jewelry, metal and basketry, this definitive work showcases some of the most important pieces of craft over the last two centuries and explores what makes American crafts uniquely American.

Authors

Jo Lauria an independent curator of crafts and decorative arts, was formerly a curator at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. She has organized numerous exhibitions, directed documentary films and written several books on art and design.

Steve Fenton is a respected writer, longtime collector of American craft and an esteemed communications professional.

President Jimmy Carter (prologue) is a dedicated craftsman and craft advocate who has created much of the furniture in his Georgia home. As president, Mr. Carter established the White House Collection of American Crafts.

Book Details

Title CRAFT IN AMERICA: Celebrating Two Centuries of Artists and Objects

Publisher Clarkson Potter (Random House)

Publication Date October 2007

Detail Hardcover / 304 pages / 9” x 11” / 200+ Photographs / $60.00 US / $77.00 CAN

ISBN 978-0-307-34647-6

Craft In America Comes to PBS, May 30, 2007

Life Becomes Art: CRAFT IN AMERICA Celebrates the Rich Legacy of An American Artform

Landmark project comprises 3-part PBS series, national touring exhibition and major publication.

Craftsman and longtime craft advocate President Jimmy Carter contributes to unprecedented project

CRAFT IN AMERICA
PBS Television Series: Airing on three consecutive Sundays, April 29, May 6 and May 13; Check local listings for details

LOS ANGELES – A visitor to an art-filled home may quickly take note of paintings or photographs on the walls, but may overlook the finely wrought furniture, ceramics, glassware or fabrics, though the skill and artistry involved in creating these useful and often stunning objects has been quietly recognized for centuries. CRAFT IN AMERICA celebrates these works of art and recognizes them as important pieces of history linking us to the very soul and essence of American culture. Comprising a three-part PBS television series airing in April 2007, a nationally-touring museum exhibition, a lavishly illustrated book and the most comprehensive Web site of its kind, CRAFT IN AMERICA is poised to become a national phenomenon.

CRAFT IN AMERICA is a multi-faceted journey into the origin and continuation of craft traditions. The project illustrates the craftsmanship passed from artist to artist over the last two centuries—and highlights the cultural significance of this craftsmanship. Ceramics, glass, wood, furniture, metalwork, jewelry, fiber and baskets are included in this ground-breaking project.

“There is an extraordinary wealth of objects that mean so much to who we are as a nation, part of our living heritage, that are often hiding in plain sight,” explains Carol Sauvion, executive director of CRAFT IN AMERICA. “Everything from the iconic Revere bowl, to a free-form Sam Maloof rocking chair, to a quilt that’s been passed down in your family from generation to generation.”

First-run Airdates:
Memory May 30, 2007; 8p EDT/PDT
Landscape May 30, 2007; 9p EDT/PDT
Community May 30, 2007; 10p EDT/PDT
Please check local listings to confirm all airdates/times

“In each of the three episodes – Memory, Landscape, and Community – we meet artists and their work in a way that goes beyond the media they work in. We explore the relationship between what they do, how they do it, and why they have chosen a life of creating great and moving art for all to enjoy and appreciate.”

Some of the series’ featured artists include Mary Jackson – a basket weaver who continues a South Carolina tradition that started with slaves from Africa; Richard Notkin – a Montana potter of protest who makes teapots and tiles that argue eloquently for peace and humanity; and Tom Joyce, a New Mexico blacksmith and recipient of a MacArthur “Genius” fellowship, who instills a sensitivity to the land and its people in each of his works.

Experience Craft in America: Nationally Traveling Museum Exhibition

An extensive museum exhibition, Craft in America: Expanding Traditions, begins its eight-city, two-year tour at the Arkansas Arts Center in Little Rock on April 13, 2007. The exhibition then travels to Portland, OR; San Diego, CA; Houston, TX; Bloomfield Hills, MI; Oklahoma City, OK; Palm Springs, CA; and Brockton, MA (with additional dates and cities pending).

This landmark historical survey features more than 200 works, spanning a period of nearly two hundred years. Beginning with the Industrial Revolution, the exhibition explores the many cultures and movements that have contributed to the development and refinement of American crafts during the last two centuries. Integrating the various media of handcrafted furniture, ceramics, fiber and textiles, basketry, glass, wood, jewelry and metal, the exhibition represents a broad base of craft-makers including: traditional craft makers, designer craftsmen of the Arts & Crafts Movement, the artists of the WPA programs of the 30s, post World-War II studio craft pioneers and contemporary studio craft artists.

The exhibition is developed around the same three themes highlighted in the PBS production: Memory, Landscape and Community.

Reading Craft: Craft in America Book Hits Shelves in May 2007 with
Prologue by President Carter

President Jimmy Carter, a long time craftsman and craft advocate, contributed the prologue to the companion book, Craft in America: Celebrating Two Centuries of Artists and Objects. Published by Random House imprint Clarkson-Potter, this lavishly illustrated book features more than 300 images and showcases some of the greatest works of craft of the last two centuries. The publication explores what makes craftwork in America uniquely American while highlighting the objects created by America’s most original and esteemed craftspeople.

With an eye to the contribution craft has made to America’s vitality, history and identity, Craft in America: Celebrating Two Centuries of Artists and Objects examines: craft as communicator, the evolution of American craft, communities of craft (Shakers, Amish & native movements), and more.

In the prologue to the book, President Jimmy Carter says, “While president, I always had in my mind the desire to somehow recognize the skill and singularly American style that was present in craft objects. I was fortunate that Joan Mondale, wife of my vice president, Walter Mondale, shared my love and interest in the handmade expressions of our native artists. In no other place in the world will you find the unbridled creativity exhibited by the tens of thousands of craft artists who make craft a unique part of the American experience.”

Online Craft Source: www.craftinamerica.org

The project’s Web site, www.craftinamerica.org, is an online vortex that brings together all elements of this ambitious project. “CraftinAmerica.org will be an unparalleled resource,” says CRAFT IN AMERICA Executive Director Carol Sauvion. “If the public wants to learn more about well-known artists or discover those making creative break-throughs, it’s there. Plus histories, tools, and techniques – and ways to start learning a craft yourself.” The extensive Web site also will provide middle and secondary school teachers and students plans and activities to continue their journey.

CRAFT IN AMERICA will enlighten and satisfy the curiosity of all who have looked at a bowl, a necklace, a chair – and wondered how it came to be, and turned out the way it did. As Sauvion says, “Art is history; craft is our story.”

ABOUT CRAFT IN AMERICA
CRAFT IN AMERICA, Inc. is a Los Angeles-based non-profit organization with a mission to promote and advance original handcrafted work, through educational programs in all media. The CRAFT IN AMERICA multi-faceted project includes a PBS documentary, traveling museum exhibition and illustrated book. For additional information on CRAFT IN AMERICA the public should visit www.craftinamerica.org.

CRAFT IN AMERICA on PBS
Carol Sauvion is creator and co-executive producer of CRAFT IN AMERICA. Kyra Thompson is co-executive producer and writer of the series. Directors: Nigel Noble (“Memory”); Dan Seeger (“Landscape”); Hilary Birmingham (“Community”).

CRAFT IN AMERICA is a co-production of Craft in America, Inc. and the Independent Television Service (ITVS) with funding provided by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), and is presented in association with KCET/Los Angeles. Executive in Charge of production for KCET is Joyce Campbell. Production Executive for KCET is Robert McDonnell.

Posted by Bill at 03:59 PM | Permalink

Fabulous Fords Forever 2007

April 24

Part 1

Posted by Bill at 02:16 PM | Permalink

Bonhams & Butterfields News

Natural History Sold December 2^nd

at Bonhams & Butterfields in Los Angeles

“There was competitive bidding for many lots, both on the telephones and in the salesroom for natural wonders of all sorts. Gold nuggets and meteorite specimens were the true highlights of the December 2, 2007 sale at Bonhams & Butterfields, as were several items that posses rare and unusual qualities,” said Natural History Department Consulting Director Tom Lindgren.

The top lot of the Winter Natural History sale at Bonhams & Butterfields in Los Angeles was a complete brilliantly mirror-polished Seymchan meteorite. Discovered in Russia, the slice displays an unusual and dramatic presentation of its iron composition. The lot is one of the largest complete slices of an iron meteorite ever offered. The Seymchan slice sold for $96,000 while its book match, a slice of Seymchan offered separately as the preceding lot, brought $48,000.

Additional meteorites of note included a fine Gibeon Octahedrite (on a custom patinated bronze base sculpted by lapidary artist Lawrence Stoller). Its astonishing aesthetic form includes a deep scoop and innumerable regmaglypts, or thumb prints. Its shard-like shape is a result of the force with which the outer space invader sliced through Earth’s atmosphere, the intensity of its descent twisting and crushing the molten metal as it rained down to Africa (sold for: $33,000).

Featured within a section comprising Native Metals were several lots of Australian gold nuggets such as a large 23.5-ozt nugget of rugged character with great three-dimensionality. The edges have a somewhat “molten” appearance and the specimen exhibits an overall warm buttery patina (sold for $39,000). Another nugget, weighing 14-ozt, was also catalogued as possessing dramatic character and three-dimensionality, it brought $22,800. The final lot of gold nuggets sold for $8,400, this example weighed approximately 4.9-ozt. The only example of domestic gold, a 0.61-ozt crystallized gold specimen from Nevada, sold for $3,600. -More-

Nat. Hist. @ B&B -2-

The sale’s Décor section was robust, highlighted by an immense petrified wood desk (sold for $24,000) comprised of a polished slab of extinct pine with textured edges atop a mesquite base with two drawers. According to Lindgren: “The market for petrified wood and items comprised of this exceptional material continues to be strong.”

Highlighting the Curiosities section of the sale was a large Narwhal tusk. A widely unknown creature, the narwhal is a majestic marine mammal, a species of whale (cetacean) most closely related to the Beluga whale and the Irrawaddy dolphin, the species still dwells in the Arctic Ocean today.

Male narwhals are easily identified by their single, exceedingly long spiraling tusk -- which is actually a tooth that projects from the left side of the upper jaw. While the body of an adult male can grow up to 18-feet, the tusk can grow to be five to ten feet long — an extraordinary percentage of the beast’s overall length. Offered on a custom marble base, the tusk is impressively large and brought $11,000. Bidding was active for insect taxidermy during the start of the Sunday sale, well-prepared butterflies, spiders and even a display of four distinct species of bats attracted bidder attention, many selling above estimate (the bats brought twice their estimate, selling for $1,680).

Additional highlights from the December 2 sale included: a superb Tanzanite of impressive size – weighing approximately 103.73-carats (sold for: $42,000); a very large Woolly Mammoth tusk (sold for: $36,000) and a fossil palm frond with fish on an irregular matrix sold for $19,200.

Perfect Holiday Gifts for the Entertainment Biz Insider: Entertainment Memorabilia Auction Brings Rare Collectibles from Superstars of Stage and Screen

Marilyn, Joan Crawford, Jerry Garcia, The Beatles, and many more at

Bonhams & Butterfields

Live from the Sunset Strip, a star-studded line-up of vintage and contemporary TV, film and rock memorabilia from pop culture icons and groundbreaking artists comes to auction at Bonhams & Butterfields. Media Previews open in Los Angeles at B&B on Sunset Blvd. on Friday, Dec. 7 and members of the press are invited to preview the lots. Rare glimpses into the private lives of superstars include: a Marilyn Monroe archive of never before seen documents and personal items related to the star including her first contract from 20th Century Fox, documents linked to the infamous 'Happy Birthday Mr. President' gown, a never before seen group of telephone bills from her personal archive documenting calls to Washington D.C. and a snapshot taken in 1952 while the star was filming Niagara ...

Highlights include: a Geisel drawing of a Dr. Seuss character titled The I & E Officer and the Bee (est. $75/100,000); two guitars once owned by Jerry Garcia, (est. $40/50,000 each); a collection of love letters handwritten to a beau by a teenage Joan Crawford (est. $3/5,000); a Buddy Holly costume worn on stage (est. $15/20,000); a rare Beatles Butcher Cover for the now notorious 1966 album (est. $10/15,000); a one-sheet film poster from David O. Selznick's 1939 Academy Award®-winning epic Gone with the Wind (est. $10/15,000); a never-before-seen life-sized wax figure of Lady Diana (est. $6,000/6,500); a Victorian style cut-glass inkwell prop from the Academy Award®-winning film My Fair Lady (est. $1,000/1,500) and much more...
a Geisel drawing of a Dr. Seuss character titled The I & E Officer and the Bee (est. $75/100,000); two guitars once owned by Jerry Garcia, (est. $40/50,000 each); a collection of love letters handwritten to a beau by a teenage Joan Crawford (est. $3/5,000); a Buddy Holly costume worn on stage (est. $15/20,000); a rare Beatles Butcher Cover for the now notorious 1966 album (est. $10/15,000); a one-sheet film poster from David O. Selznick's 1939 Academy Award®-winning epic Gone with the Wind (est. $10/15,000); a never-before-seen life-sized wax figure of Lady Diana (est. $6,000/6,500); a Victorian style cut-glass inkwell prop from the Academy Award®-winning film My Fair Lady (est. $1,000/1,500) and much more...

A World Awash in Color and Light
Bonhams & Butterfields Announces December 10 Sale of California & American Paintings and Sculpture

Winter sale to feature works by American masters

Thomas Moran, E. Charlton Fortune and Guy Rose

Bonhams & Butterfields, California's oldest and largest auctioneers, is pleased to announce the December 10, 2007 sale of California and American Paintings and Sculpture. Barbizon and other 19^th century landscapes, Western scenes, Impressionist and Modernist compositions including plein air paintings, genre scenes, and cityscapes by established California and American artists; including those by Thomas Moran, Guy Rose, E. Charlton Fortune, Maynard Dixon, William Keith, Granville Redmond, Joseph Raphael, Frank Tenney Johnson, John Marshall Gamble, Selden Connor Gile and Maurice Braun, among others; will be on offer.

"The demand for fresh-to-market California and American works is high," said Scot Levitt, Director of California & American Paintings and Sculpture sales for Bonhams & Butterfields. "We continue to see buyer interest, particularly for better known artists and A-plus examples," continued Levitt.

The marquee lot from the sale is a rare impressionist work entitled Late Afternoon, Monterey (est. $300/500,000) by E. Charlton Fortune. Working in obscurity for most of her career, Fortune utilized the 'E.' to disguise the name Euphemia and her gender.

Although she is best known for her later work in the genres of landscape, portrait and religious compositions, Late Afternoon, Monterey is an earlier impressionistic style

painting with emphasis on color and light. The fresh-to-market work captures the natural beauty of the rugged Monterey Coast captivating the viewer.

"Fortune's works, although rare to public auction, are becoming highly collectible. Buyers are looking for her early works, such as Late Afternoon, Monterey on offer this December and Mending Nets which sold at Bonhams & Butterfields in August 2007 for $480,000 - a new world auction record for the artist," said Vice President and Fine Arts Department Director Scot Levitt.

Additional works by female artists in the winter sale include Customs House by Monterey artist M. Evelyn McCormick (est. $20/30,000) and Catherine Carter Critcher's Artist's Studio in Taos, New Mexico (est. $60/80,000).

Also in the December offing is Guy Rose's Yellow Trees, Giverny (est. $300/500,000). Rose is considered one of the most important California Impressionist painters. A native Californian, Rose studied at the California School of Design before traveling to France to study in 1888. After a time in New York, he returned to France in 1899 settling in Giverny and working closely with master painter Claude Monet. It is from this period that the oil on canvas Yellow Trees, Giverny comes. According to Levitt, "Good examples of Rose's work from that period, such as Yellow Trees, Giverny, are not seen on the market often. The work is fresh-to-market, coming from a Southern California private collection, where it has been held for some time."

A lovely western watercolor by American master, Thomas Moran, is being offered at an estimate of $250,000 to $350,000. Best known for his watercolors of the American West, most notably the works from his 1871 and 1873 expeditions to Yellowstone, Moran painted this work shortly after his first visit to the Acoma Pueblo in New Mexico's northwestern desert. "Good quality, early American western scenes are becoming harder and harder to come by in this market." says Levitt. "This work should do well considering the scarcity of high-end works of this sort."

Joseph Raphael's monumental work Spring Morning (est. $80/120,000) is also on offer. Measuring 26 x 37 inches, the painting is large in stature and impressionist in style, featuring interesting brushwork and use of light with pastel tones highlighting the overall movement across the canvas. "The market for paintings with modernist overtones and themes is strong," said Levitt. "We continue to see strong prices for impressionist works such as Spring Morning," continued Levitt.

A work entitled Study for 'Destination Unknown', a 1938 Social Realist work by Maynard Dixon, will also highlight the upcoming sale. The rare oil on board study is typical of

Dixon's Depression Era work and a drawing for the final painting, which was titled Going Nowhere. Considered highly desirable by collectors, the work depicts a homeless man with a bedroll on his back walking along railroad tracks. "The call for American master Maynard Dixon remains lively," said Levitt. "We expect the work bring $60,000 to $80,000 on December 10," continues Levitt.

Additional highlights from the winter sale include Land's End, San Francisco, 1873, by William Keith (est. $80/120,000); a colorful oil entitled Under the Open Sky, 1936, by Frank Tenney Johnson (est. $100/150,000); John Marshall Gamble's Prickly Phlox (est. $60/80,000), Sunset through the Trees by Granville Redmond ($100/150,000); an endearing portrait entitled Mother and Child, Marin County by Selden Connor Gile (est. $40/60,000) and two works by Maurice Braun - A Field of Bluebonnets (est. $80/120,000) and Lower Gale Lake, High Sierras (est. $40/60,000).

Design of the Century
20^th Century Furniture & Decorative Arts to be Offered at Bonhams & Butterfields in Los Angeles
September 24 auction features strong examples of Arts & Crafts, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Mid-Century Modern, Contemporary Studio Artists
and works with strong California roots

Timed to coincide with the closing of the celebrated California Design Biennial, Bonhams & Butterfields' September 24, 2007 auction of 20^th Century Decorative Arts features a diverse grouping of works spanning a century of design. Held in Los Angeles, the Fall sale highlights an enticing range of 20^th century artistic output -- from the important early years through the modern and contemporary periods - including works by California designers Sam Maloof, Sami Hayek, Po Shun Leong, Beatrice Wood, Michael Taylor, Sally Sirkin Lewis, and John Dickinson, among others.

Contemporary designers are well-represented in the Fall sale. Featured makers include: Ron Arad, Danny Lane, Martin Szekely, Galtano Pesce and Oswald Mathias Ungers for Sawaya & Moroni. "We are pleased to add two new names to our offering this season: Eric Powell and Sami Hayek. The latter is brother of actress Selma Hayek, a California-based artist and burgeoning 'Designer to the Stars'. We are honored to be the first major auction house to offer works by these artists," said Frank Maraschiello, 20^th Century Design Department Director.

Of interest to an international pool of collectors will be designs of Ron Arad. Arad, a self-taught designer-maker of sculptural furniture, an artist and an architect, founded the London-based architecture and design firm One Off Limited (also called Office Cum Showroom) with Caroline Thorman in Covent Garden in 1981.

One of the first pieces of furnishings produced by Arad was a compilation of two everyday objects selected and designated as art. Assembled from a seat from a Rover 2000 auto and secured to a frame of 1930s designed Kee-Klamp scaffolding, the work titled Rover Chair paved the way for other ground breaking compilations that followed, including his iconic stereo cast in concrete. Credited with capturing the essence of 1980s London, Arad designs and other pieces from One Off Limited paved the way for lost individualism in the new urban landscape that followed punk.

This month, Bonhams & Butterfields is offering a Ron Arad Rover two-seater (est. $10/15,000) and one seat (est. $4/6,000), both designed in 1981, and a concrete stereo, designed in 1983 (est. $10/15,000). Among the artists whose works were shown at Arad's One Off Limited is the American-born glass artist Danny Lane. Recognizable by the distinctive work with layer upon layer of sheet glass, a pair of Lane stacking glass side chairs come to auction with an estimate of $4,000 to $6,000 each.

On offer will be a desk commissioned by Elizabeth Letts Janss, daughter of Harold Janss, a prominent Los Angeles real estate developer who laid out the plans for Westwood, Holmby Hills and other LA County subdivisions. Ms. Janss was the granddaughter of Arthur Letts who founded The Broadway department stores and financed the chain of Bullocks department stores in the mid-1950s. The desk is a prominent, yet understated work executed with mid-century grace (est. $4/6,000) designed by Paul Laszlo. Laszlo's designs were popular with the Hollywood celebrity set and social elite of the day including: future-US President Ronald Reagan, Gary Cooper, Barry Goldwater, Fritz Lang, the Vanderbilts, Barbara Hutton, Debbie Reynolds, Billy Wilder, John D. Hertz and Barbara Stanwyck, among others.

An additional highlight from the sale's California Design section is a handsome contemporary open steel and Douglas fir bookcase by noted sculptor Eric Powell. The piece towers seven-feet tall and is signed and dated by the artist (est. $3/5,000). Highly sought after for his talents, Powell has garnered much attention from museum exhibitions and been offered important commissions for public works. His awards and accolades include those from the Museum of Modern Art, New York, a sculpture for the Northern California BART train system - viewable at the 16^th and Mission station very near the auctioneer's San Francisco salesroom, and a commission for the city of Oakland, California, among others.

Also on offer in September is property from the estate of the late Dr. Simon Pinhas, respected Beverly Hills ophthalmologist and a noted collector of fine 20^th century works in glass. Initially trained as a jeweler, Pinhas pursued a degree as a corneal specialist at New York Medical College. Over the years he became fascinated with the optical properties of glass and the history of the ancient art form. His collection will offer a full range of early pieces and rare later works in glass including examples by Daum, Gallé, Schneider, Almeric Walter, Duc de Caranza, D'Argental and others.

Another California artist represented in the September sale is Beatrice Wood. On offer will be a whimsical sculpture entitled The Cat Who Went to Philadelphia (est. $5/8,000), a small closed form vase and folded shallow bowl (est. $1,000/1,500) as well as a spherical vase (est. $1,000/1,500).

Also on offer: a collection of ceramic works including studio pottery from Gertrude and Otto Natzler displaying unusual glazes; two 1910 rare Teco vases - Model 157 by William Dodd (est. $5/8,000) and a punch bowl by Fritz Albert (est. $4/6,000); an eight-inch wide green glaze Tiffany Studios Favrile pottery tulip bowl (est. $4/6,000) and work from Harrison McIntosh. Additional ceramicists featured include Clarice Cliff, Janet Lowe and James Melchert.

The marquee lots within the sale's Art Deco section include two French Art Deco rosewood dining room suites by Lyonaise designer Christian Krass. Comprising a dining table and six chairs (est. $10/15,000) and a handsome sideboard (est. $18/25,000), this 1930s suite features sleek Modernist lines and elegant nickeled hardware.

Three lots of work by interior decorator Tony Duquette will also be featured. One highlight, a fanciful gouache on board entitled Tony Cat, is offered with an estimate of $3,000 to $5,000. The work, within a butterfly-adorned painted frame, was a wedding gift to the consignor.

Three unusual Aubusson tapestries will be offered in Los Angeles. The first, Paon de Nuit (est. $3/5,000), is by Jean Lurcat, famed painter and carpet and tapestry designer. Lurcat's works for Myrbor and the Aubusson weavers are highly appreciated -- so much so that the cultural center in Aubusson bears his name. The second, by Elie Grekoff, is a vibrant landscape scene (est. $2/3,000) and the third is by master colorist Victor Vasarely, known for his illusionary Op-Art paintings and prints (est. $4/6,000).

The Modern Design section will include furniture by Isamu Noguchi, Florence Knoll, Hans Wegner, Robert Venturi, Karl Springer and Frank Lloyd Wright for Heritage Henredon, among others.

The September 24 sale of 20^th Century Furniture and Decorative Arts is expected to attract collectors and connoisseurs alike with its wonderful examples of style, grace and a century of elegance on the auction block. Los Angeles preview events are scheduled for September 21-23 in Bonhams & Butterfields' Sunset Boulevard galleries.

August 29

World Record Auction Prices Highlight

Bonhams & Butterfields August Paintings Sale

California & American Paintings and Sculpture sale brings
over $5.4-million and sets 15 new records

New buyers and seasoned collectors filled Bonhams & Butterfields' galleries in San Francisco and Los Angeles for the opportunity to bid on works by legendary California and American masters on 7 August, 2007.

Simulcast between Northern and Southern California, the highly competitive sale garnered 15 new auction world records for well-known artists such as: E. Charlton Fortune, Alson Skinner Clark, Benjamin C. Brown, Mary DeNeale Morgan, Paul de Longpre, Frank Cuprien, Ross Dickinson, Emil Kosa, Jr., Annie Lyle Harmon, Paul Grimm, Charles Chapel Judson, John Ottis Adams, Rachel Hartley and contemporary artists Robert Clunie and Standish Backus Jr.

The standing room only salerooms played host to highly competitive bidding both on the telephones and in the rooms for American Impressionist works, Colorist and Plein Air paintings, Western and American landscapes, seascapes and still-life paintings, among others.

The marquee lot of the sale was an oil on canvas board painting titled Mending Nets by artist E. Charlton Fortune. The work depicts a French harbor scene -- unusual subject matter for a work by an American artist. "The sale of this painting for $480,000, not only establishes a new auction world record for the artist, but solidifies the place of California and American artists in the global art market," said Vice President and Fine Arts Department Director Scot Levitt.

Working in obscurity for most of her career, Fortune utilized the 'E.' to disguise her female gender. "Fortune's works, although rare to public auction, are becoming highly sought after. Collectors are looking for her early works, such as Mending Nets, as well as later examples," continued Levitt. The color pallet and the brush strokes of this impressionist work are exquisite, greatly differing from Fortune's later body of work which is composed mainly of portraiture and religious compositions. The painting has been a part of several museum exhibits, the earliest in 1989 at the Monterey Peninsula Museum of Art.

Much like Fortune's Mending Nets, Bridge Builders by Alson Skinner Clark also depicts a European scene. Achieving a new auction world record at $204,000, the impressionistic painting was debuted in 1906 as part of a large show at the Art Institute of Chicago. The work infuses the canvas with graceful color and a sense of movement. One author wrote that the artist received the highest compliment when his former teacher William Merritt Chase purchased this work for his own collection.

"The market for American master Maynard Dixon continues to be strong. Bonhams & Butterfields sold each Dixon oil painting offered during the August sale above its high estimate," said Levitt. Along with the bountiful offering of traditional Dixon watercolors and rolling Western landscapes, a pair of gouache mural studies by the artist attracted collector interest. Utilizing Dixon's strong desert pallet, the two works depict human forms within ethereal Egyptian and classical scenes. According to Donald Hagerty, these sketches are likely the preliminary images for a Dixon mural done in 1929 for the U.S. Savings and Loan Association in San Francisco. A rarity at public auction, the four-foot wide Pair of Mural Studies, 1929, sold for $45,000.

Bringing nearly six times the pre-sale estimate, Bouquet of Pink and White Peonies by Paul de Longpre is, according to Levitt, "one of the largest floral works to come to market in recent history." Setting a new auction world record at $144,000, the 1891 painting is alive with blooms in the saturated tones of dainty pink, rich mauve, assorted greens and a skilled application of white, cream and ivory. The work will be available to the public as it was acquired by the Irvine Museum in Irvine California.

Dynamic bidding was seen for Maurice Prendergast's Two Women Seated with Parasols in a Park. "Typically associated with auctions held in the East, the artist [Prendergast] was well received at Bonhams & Butterfields on the West Coast. The overwhelmingly successful result demonstrates the broad reach of our buying base," explains Levitt.

The unframed watercolor has a rich and striking composition. Detailed facial expressions from both of the seated ladies are distinct, along with folds in clothing and accessories in the ladies' possession. Initially estimated to fetch as much as $50,000, Two Women Seated with Parasols in a Park brought $204,000.

Additional post-sale highlights of the August auction include: Granville Redmond's A Field of California Poppies which brought $420,000; Moonlight Reflections also by Redmond sold for $204,000; Lake in the Sierras by Edgar Payne surpassed its high estimate of $150,000 selling for $264,000 and John Marshall Gamble's Wild Heliotrope near Laguna Beach brought $144,000. Strong prices were also seen for contemporary Plein Air, watercolors and Southern California artists such as Robert Clunie and Harley Brown.

The next sale of California and American Painting and Sculpture will held at Bonhams & Butterfields in December 2007. The auction will feature an assortment of important Western scenes, Plein Air, Society of Six, genre painting, land and cityscapes by established California and American artists including Maynard Dixon, Frank Tenny Johnson and John Marshall Gamble, among others.

A work entitled Homeless Man a study for 'Destination Unknown', a 1938 Social Realist work by Maynard Dixon, will highlight the upcoming sale. Considered rare to the market, the highly desirable oil on board work depicts a homeless man with a bedroll on his back walking along the railroad tracks. Typical of Dixon's depression era work and a study for the final work entitled Going Nowhere, the piece is expected to bring $80,000 to $120,000.

Guy Rose, considered one of the most important California Impressionist painters, is to be represented in the December offering. A native Californian, Rose studied at the California School of Design before traveling to France to study in 1888. After a time in New York, he returned to France in 1899 settling in Giverny and working closely with master painter Claude Monet. It is from this period that the oil on canvas Yellow Trees, Giverny comes. According to Levitt, "Good examples of Rose's work from that period, such as this, are not seen on the market often. The work comes from a private collection in Los Angeles where it has been held for some time."

Additional sale highlights for the winter auction will be announced in the coming months.

June 20

Design of the Century
20^th Century Furniture & Decorative Arts
at Bonhams & Butterfields in September
Fall sale to feature strong examples of Arts & Crafts, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, Mid-Century Modern and works by Contemporary Studio artists

Bonhams & Butterfields' fall 2007 auction of 20^th Century Decorative Arts, to be held in Los Angeles on September 24, 2007, features a diverse group of works spanning a century of design. The works on offer will highlight the full range of 20^th century artistic output, from the important early years through the modern period.

One highlight of the Fall sale is a selection of Ron Arad designs. Arad, a self-taught designer-maker of sculptural furniture, an artist and an architect, founded the London-based architecture and design firm One Off Limited (also called Office Cum Showroom) with Caroline Thorman in Covent Garden in 1981.

One of the first pieces of furnishings produced by Arad was a compilation of two everyday objects selected and designated as art. Assembled from a seat from a Rover 2000 auto and secured to a frame of 1930s designed Kee-Klamp scaffolding, the work titled Rover Chair paved the way for other ground breaking compilations that followed, including the iconic stereo cast in concrete. Credited with capturing the essence of 1980s London, Arad and other pieces from One Off Limited, paved the way for lost individualism in the new urban landscape that that followed punk.

This September, Bonhams & Butterfields is offering a Ron Arad Rover two-seater (est. $10/15,000) and one seat (est. $4/6,000), both designed in 1981, and a concrete stereo, designed in 1983 (est. $10/15,000).

Among the artists whose works were shown at Arad's One Off Limited is the American-born glass artist Danny Lane. Bonhams & Butterfields is offering a pair of Lane stacking glass side chairs with an estimate of $4,000 to $6,000 each.

Also included in the sale is a creation of the English-born California furniture designer, architect and wood carver Po Shun Leong. Born in 1941 after his parents emigrated from China, Leong also trained as an architect and, for a short period of time studied with pioneering architect Le Corbusier. After working in Europe, he lived in Mexico for 15 years before moving to California in 1982. The Fall sale includes a Leong carved 23½ inch Art box. The intricate and puzzle-like work is comprised of dyed mixed wood and was inscribed and dated by the artist in 1996 (est. $3/4,000).

Three unusual Aubusson tapestries will be offered. The first, Paon de Nuit (est. $3,000/5,000), is by Jean Lurcat, famed painter and carpet and tapestry designer. Lurcat's works for Myrbor and the Aubusson weavers are highly collected -- so much so that the cultural center in Aubusson bears his name. The second, by Elie Grekoff, is a vibrant landscape scene (est. $2,000/3,000) and the third is by master colorist Victor Vasarely, known for his illusionary Op-Art paintings and prints (est. $4,000/6,000).

A French Art Deco rosewood dining room suite by Lyonaise designer Christian Krass will be offered. Comprising a dining table and six chairs (est. $10/15,000) and a handsome sideboard (est.$18/25,000), this 1930s suite features sleek Modernist lines and elegant nickeled hardware.

The Modern Design section offered in Los Angeles will include furniture by Isamu Noguchi, Florence Knoll, Hans Wegner, Robert Venturi, Karl Springer, Frank Lloyd Wright for Heritage Henredon, Sami Hayek, and seminal California designers Michael Taylor, Sally Sirkin Lewis, and John Dickinson.

Additional offerings include a pair of Grosfeld House serpentine front mahogany chests of three drawers. Designed by Lorin Marsh in the 1940s, the highly sought-after pair is expected to bring as much as $6,000 at auction. A matching pair of nightstands will also be offered (est. $1,000/1,500).

Works by Contemporary Studio Artists will include ceramics by Beatrice Wood, Harrison Macintosh and Otto and Gertrude Natzler.

Los Angeles preview events are scheduled for September 21-23 in Bonhams & Butterfields' Sunset Blvd. gallery. The auction's illustrated catalog will be online for review and purchase in the weeks preceding the sale at www.bonhams.com/us.

The 20th Century Furniture and Decorative Arts Department at Bonhams & Butterfields presents two auctions each year held in the firm's Los Angeles salesrooms and two sales in the Bonhams New York galleries. Virtually every major design movement of the 20th century is well-represented in these sales with fine examples executed in the mediums of ceramics, metalwork, glass and furniture regularly offered and bringing strong prices.

June 4

Going, Going... Gone - Disney Ducks Fly at Auction
World Auction Record Set for Comic Painting Today at Bonhams & Butterfields

Carl Barks Original Art Featuring Beloved Disney Characters Sets New World Auction Record in Los Angeles

From the Sunset Strip to Abbey Road, International Fine Arts Auctioneers Bonhams & Butterfields announced the record-breaking sale of a highly sought after Carl Barks "Money Bin" painting entitled Hands Off My Playthings today in Los Angeles.

"It was a strong sale reflecting the continuing strength and interest in Hollywood memorabilia and animation" said Margaret Barrett, Director of Entertainment Memorabilia, "We are very pleased with today's result, and will continue to build on our reputation as a preeminent source for Entertainment Memorabilia in the marketplace."

An original and highly sought after Carl Barks "Money Bin" painting entitled Hands Off My Playthings sold for $204,000 - setting a world auction record for a comic painting. Barks, an unsung comic book hero, drew Donald Duck for decades while working for Disney Studios. His offered work featured depictions of timeless Disney characters Huey, Duey and Louie making a castle out of thousand dollar bills and gold coins while Donald admires himself while donning a crown and Scrooge throws a fit in the background. Dated 1975, the highly recognizable oil on masonite work is signed in the lower left. Barks commented publicly that this was his favorite "money bin" painting -- according to the auctioneers, it was one of the most compelling examples of Barks' paintings ever brought to public auction.

Also on the block at Bonhams & Butterfields today was a fresh to market archive of Marilyn Monroe collectibles featuring a classic black & white headshot of the actress autographed in red ink. In the lower left corner the "Blonde Bombshell" wrote "To Diana & Joe Ellen / Love & Kisses / Marilyn Monroe;" the signees being the daughters of Second Unit Director Joseph E. Rickards, who worked with Monroe on the 1955 classic The Seven Year Itch. Initially estimated between $3,000-3,500, the lot sold for $14,400.

Additional highlights from the archive included: a limited edition suite of color and black and white photographs of the actress taken by David Conover in 1945 (sold for: $7,200); a set of her handwritten notes for the 1957 romantic comedy The Prince and the Showgirl (sold for: $4,800); a late 1950s-era typed and signed letter from noted playwright Arthur Miller, her husband at the time, regarding Marilyn's problems and his sadness at their temporary separation -- she was in Los Angeles and he was in New York (sold for: $3,900); a Screen Actors Guild (SAG) membership card belonging to the actress (sold for: $2,700) and the 1953 Marilyn Monroe issue of Playboy Magazine (sold for: $2,700).

A collection of household items from the Palm Desert residence of the late actor/producer/director William Boyd was also on offer. Known affectionately to most as the cowboy character he portrayed in countless films and TV shows "Hopalong Cassidy," highlights from his residence included: two William Boyd personalized writing pens initially estimated at $25-50 which brought $300; a group of bolo ties - all worn at various times by "Hoppy" sold for $7,800; a black and white signed image depicting "Hoppy" next to his beloved horse Topper (sold for: $330) and a brass horse head door knocker which brought more than double the estimate to sell for $720.

Also on offer was a selection of vintage movie posters including property from the Louis Leithold Collection. Much of the collection was offered in large lots, according to Barrett, "perfect for the new collector or seasoned dealer." The offering featured an array of titles spanning the history of cinema -- from the silent era to the contemporary blockbuster. Select highlights from the offering include posters from noted films such as: Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, La Dolce Vita, Citizen Kane, Bon Jour Tristesse, a variety of Western films. Prices realized include: a large collection of 1940s linen-backed one-sheets ($3,900); a collection of Brigitte Bardot posters ($840) and a linen backed one-sheet from the 1959 Marilyn Monroe classic comedy Some Like It Hot ($1,200).

Other highlights from the Entertainment Memorabilia sale include: a black wool Victorian-style knee-length coat worn by Spencer Tracy in the first scene of the 1941 classic film Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (sold above the high estimate for $2,280); a complete set of Beatles signatures (sold for: $7,800); a massive collection of autographs featuring a "Who's Who" of mid-to-late 20^th century movie stars (brought: $7,800); a Rex Harrison costume design sketch from the original 1967 Doctor Dolittle (brought $3,000);an inscribed black and white photograph of Cary Grant (sold for: $1,680); a Frank Sinatra geometric pattern shirt worn on his wedding day to Barbara Marx in 1976 (brought: $1,020); a rare Carl Barks -Artist Proof to An Embarrassment of Riches (sold for: $9,600); and a red, beige and gold majorette-style hat worn by Judy Garland in MGM's 1941 Ziegfeld Girl sold above estimate for $1,320.

June 3

Natural History Sale Brings Over $1.1-Million Today at Bonhams & Butterfields in Los Angeles

Bonhams & Butterfields June 3, 2007 sale of Natural History in Los Angeles brought more than $1-million Sunday. The sale featured property from the collection of Tucson-based gem and mineral dealer Albert Jon 'Zee' Haag - one of the most significant private collections of natural wonders to be sold at auction for many decades, unique fossil specimens from other collections and highly desirable décor, mineral carvings, meteorites, gold and wearable art.

Featured works from the Haag Collection included: an illuminated quartz and wrought iron sculpture titled "The Goddess with the Golden Heart" designed by Haag and sold for $20,400; an impressive petrified wood tree stump sold above the high estimate for $19,200; a unique Burlwood tree root bench brought $6,600; a classic iron Campo del Cielo meteorite on customized stand from Gran Chaco, Argentina sold for $4,500 and a selection of unmounted gemstones, lapidary, rough cut gems, spheres, classic Arizona and international minerals, sculpture, fossils, meteorites and large-scale décor from across the globe also brought strong prices. The offering was comprised of approximately 60 works and specimens, featuring examples of Haag's own design as well as pieces acquired by the Tucson-based collector.

The décor section was highlighted by an immense Smoky Quartz Specimen from the Govenador Valadares, Minas Gerais, Brazil prepared by Oregonian gemstone sculptor Lawrence Stoller. The present example exhibits completely natural texture, displays two points of deep amber/citrine color and, on some faces, the interesting surface pattern known as crocodile skin. It represents one of the very few specimens of the original discovery available on the market. Resting on an artful, custom-fitted bronze stand designed by Stoller, the work brought $60,000. According to Consulting Department Director Thomas Lindgren, "Works by Stoller could one day be sought after and collected with the same desire and fascination as Faberge eggs.

Each piece is a work of art that expresses the harmony of beauty found in nature." Additional lots by Stoller from the June 3 sale include: "Down the Rabbit Hole" - a Large Drusy Quartz Geode on bronze stand (sold: $30,000) and a Shikhote Alin Meteorite on a custom base which sold above its high estimate for $32,400.

Highlighting the Lapidary Works of Art was a virtuoso flower study of very large scale, several times larger than creator Manfred Wild's typical flower studies sold previously at Bonhams' auctions. The work incorporates five separate stems, each with a different flower set - lilies and lilacs - in a removable rock crystal vase. The 18-inch study sold for $84,000.

Other featured works from the June 3 sale include: a 2-million year-old fossil of a now extinct species of Giant Armadillo (brought $36,000); a fantastic museum-quality Morganite specimen from the Urucum mine in Brazil (sold for $72,000); a magnificently aesthetic Woolly Mammoth Tusk on a custom wooden stand (brought $24,000); a

very large 110.75-carat Melo pearl from Vietnam (sold for $34,800); a massive petrified wood log which surpassed its high estimate of $10,000, selling for $16,800; a 95.12-carat rare yellow sapphire from Sri Lanka (brought $42,000) and a suite of Aquamarine and freshwater pearl jewelry (sold for $25,200).

Bonhams & Butterfields' Natural History auctions are the largest of their kind, both in terms of number of lots and overall estimated value. Each sale includes an extensive selection of distinctive mineral specimens, gold, lapidary works of art and gemstones & jewelry. Along with the exceptional offerings are numerous well-preserved fossils suitable for display (and for use in décor as wall art and sculpture).

May 31

Carl Barks

Carl Barks (March 27, 1901 – August 25, 2000) was a famous Disney Studio illustrator and comic book creator, who invented Duckburg and many of its inhabitants, such as Scrooge McDuck (1947), Gladstone Gander (1948), the Beagle Boys (1951), Gyro Gearloose (1952) and Magica De Spell (1961). The quality of his scripts and drawings earned him the nick names The Duck Man and The Good Duck Artist.

In November 1935, when he learned that Walt Disney was seeking more artists for his Studio, Carl decided to apply. He was approved for a try-out which entailed a move to Los Angeles, California. Carl was one of two in his class of trainees who was hired. His starting salary was 20 dollars a week. He started at Disney Studios in 1935, more than a year after the debut of Donald Duck on June 9, 1934 in the short The Wise Little Hen.

Carl initially worked as an "inbetweener". This involved being teamed and supervised by one of the head animators who did the key poses of character action (often known as extremes) for which the inbetweeners did the drawings between the extremes to provide smoothness to the illusion of movement. While an inbetweener, Carl submitted gag ideas for cartoon storylines being developed and showed such a knack for creating comical situations that by 1936 he was transferred to the story department.

In 1937 when Donald Duck became the star of his own series of cartoons instead of co-starring with Mickey Mouse and Goofy as previously, a new unit of storymen and animators was created devoted solely to this series. Though he originally just contributed gag ideas to some duck cartoons by 1937 Barks was (principally with partner Jack Hannah) originating story ideas that were storyboarded and (if approved by Walt) put into production. He collaborated on such cartoons as Donald's Nephews (1938), Donald's Cousin Gus (1939), Timber (1941), The Vanishing Private (1942) and The Plastics Inventor (1944).

Unhappy at the emerging wartime working conditions at Disney plus bothered by ongoing sinus problems caused by the studio's air conditioning, Barks quit in 1942. After quitting the Studio, Barks relocated to the Hemet/San Jacinto area in the semi-desert inland empire region east of Los Angeles where he hoped to start a chicken farm. But to earn a living in the meantime he inquired whether Western Publishing, which had published Pirate Gold, had any need for artists for Donald Duck comic book stories. He was immediately assigned to illustrate the script for a 10 page Donald Duck story for the monthly Walt Disney's Comics and Stories. At the publisher's invitation he revised the storyline and the improvements impressed the editor sufficiently to invite Barks try his hand at contributing both the script and the artwork of his follow-up story. This set the pattern for Barks' career in that (with rare exceptions) he provided art (pencil, inking, solid blacks and lettering) and scripting for his stories.

The Victory Garden, that initial 10 page story published in April, 1943 was the first of about 500 stories featuring the Disney ducks Barks would produce for Western Publishing over the next three decades, well into his purported retirement. These can be mostly divided into two categories:

10 pagers, comedic Donald Duck stories that were the lead for the monthly flagship title Walt Disney's Comics and Stories (whose circulation peaked in the mid-50s at 3 million copies sold a month!)

Humorous adventure stories, usually of 24-32 pages in length. In the 1940s these were one shots in the Four Color series (issued 4-6 times a year) that starred Donald and his nephews. From the early 1950s Barks undertook the quarterly adventures of Uncle Scrooge and the duck clan in Scrooge's own title.

He surrounded Donald Duck and nephews Huey, Dewey and Louie with a cast of eccentric and colorful characters, such as the aforementioned Scrooge McDuck—the wealthiest duck in the world, Gladstone Gander—Donald's obscenely lucky cousin, inventor Gyro Gearloose, the persistent Beagle Boys, the sorceress Magica De Spell, Scrooge's rivals Flintheart Glomgold and John D. Rockerduck, Daisy's nieces April, May and June, Donald's neighbour Jones, and The Junior Woodchucks organization

At the urging of fan Glenn Bray, Barks requested and obtained permission from Disney to produce and sell oil paintings of scenes from his stories. These paintings quickly became highly sought after and their price rocketed much to Barks' astonishment.

From 1993-1998 the Carl Barks Studio guided Barks' career. This involved numerous projects and activities, including a tour of 11 European countries in 1994, appearances at several Disneyana conventions and the release of prints of paintings along with high-end art objects (such as tiles and statutes) based on designs by Barks. Tensions between Barks and the Studio eventually resulted in a lawsuit that was settled with an agreement that included the disbanding of the Studio. By this time Barks had ceased drawing and declared his chief activity thereafter would be watching football on TV.

May 30

Minerals, Meteorites, Gold and Wearable Art

June Sale of Natural History at Bonhams & Butterfields Highlights Works from American Artists

Oregon's Lawrence Stoller, Santa Barbara's George Brooks,

Honolulu's Robert Wander and wonders of the natural world

Bonhams & Butterfields, international fine arts auctioneers, will offer several examples of the most significant and highly desirable mineral carvings, meteorites, gold and wearable art ever to come to auction in its June 3, 2007 sale of Natural History in Los Angeles.

Since its inception in 1998, the Natural History Department at Bonhams & Butterfields has conducted a series of exciting auctions, establishing the firm as the field's international forerunner. A wide range of decorations and collectibles are offered in June including objects for every taste and collecting category: unmounted faceted and cabochon gemstones, cat's eye and other rare phenomenal gemstones, mineral specimens, amber, pearls, seashells, meteorites, archeological artifacts, petrified wood, ammonites, plant and animal fossils, dinosauria and renowned jewelry and gemstones by artists from around the globe -- including award-winning Oregonian gemstone sculptor Lawrence Stoller, Santa Barbara's George Brooks and Honolulu's Robert Wander, among others.

Stoller is widely known for his work on the American Express 9/11 memorial in New York City. He's previously teamed with gemstone carver and jewelry designer Glenn Lehrer of San Rafael, California to create the world's largest gemstone sculpture, known as "Bahia." The Bonhams & Butterfields sale features two Stoller works. The first is a spectacular geode specimen of drusy quartz from Brazil on a bronze stand exhibiting sparkling drusy quartz crystals in the interior, its shape wonderfully accented by the custom-made bronze stand. The work measures 40 x 30in with an overall height of 69in and is estimated to bring $30,000 to $35,000.

The second work, from the Govenador Valadares, Minas Gerais, Brazil is an immense smoky quartz specimen. In February of 2000, excavators near Govenador Valadareswere searching for aquamarine crystals when they found a thin area of stone while tunneling deep into the mountain. (Rudimentary methods of searching for crystal-bearing cavities include tapping on the earth's rocky surface to detect hollow chambers which might yield the amethyst, citrine and aquamarine for which Minas Gerais is famous.) To the excavators' astonishment, they'd opened a treasure trove of immense smoky quartz crystals. Dubbed the Pocket de Venancio crystals--the largest point eight feet in height - the collection of smoky quartz represents a remarkable discovery. Thirty-eight pieces were removed from the cave by hand, and carried down the mountainside.

The present example, exhibiting completely natural texture, displays two points of deep amber/citrine color and, on some faces, the interesting surface pattern known as crocodile skin. It represents one of the very few specimens of the original discovery available on the market. Resting on an artful, custom-fitted bronze stand designed by Stoller the work is estimated at $60,000 to $80,000 and measures 71 x 26 x 26 inches, including the stand.

According to Consulting Department Director Thomas Lindgren, "Works by Stoller could one day be sought after and collected with the same desire and fascination as Faberge eggs. Each piece is a work of art that expresses the harmony of beauty found in nature."

A relatively recent find on the auction block is a large highly sculptural gold nugget, weighing approximately 76.73 ozt (2,326.4 grams). From Maryborough, Central Victoria, Australia, the nugget is bright and buttery in color, while exhibiting a tiny bit of residual clay. The matte patina bears evidence of large expanses of molten surfaces, yet it possesses sharp, semi-crystalline features to the interior. This highly sought after nugget is expected to fetch $95,000 to $110,000.

Highlighting the Lapidary Works of Art section is a spectacular carved flower study by artist Manfred Wild from the renowned carving and lapidary center of Idar-Oberstein, Germany. An 18-inch high virtuoso flower study is several times larger than Wild's typical diminutive flower studies (several examples previously sold in Bonhams' auctions). It incorporates five separate stems, each with a different flower set into a removable rock crystal vase (est. $65/85,000).

Also on offer during the June sale will be an exceptional array of jewelry, led by a suite of work by modernist jeweler George Brooks. Trained in sculpture in his native Montreal, Canada, Brooks went on to master goldsmithing. Initially he studied at the well-known Canadian jeweler Henry Birks & Sons, and then as an apprentice to Georges Delrue, a contemporary jewelry designer. It was there that he learned to produce one-of-a-kind hand-fabricated jewelry (without casting) by forging, shaping, welding and soldering materials. Applying techniques of hammering and doming metal previously used in silversmithing, he was able to achieve a more sculpted, three-dimensional look for his jewelry. In 1962 he opened his own store, first in Santa Barbara and then in Montecito Village, where he remained until 1991.

Working in a style of fine jewelry started in the 1950s and known as "wearable art," George Brooks' jewelry is appealing for the Modernist aesthetic it conveys. His jewelry has been exhibited in numerous galleries and museums, most recently in 2007 at The State Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg, Russia for a "Modernism in Jewelry" exhibition.

Also on offer is a suite of aquamarine and freshwater pearl jewelry by Hawaii-based jeweler, Robert Wander, owner of Winc Creations. From the "Crystal Candy" Collection, the piece consists of an 18k yellow gold choker necklace, a bracelet, a ring and a pair of earrings formed of 21 "mirror-cut" sea-blue Brazilian aquamarines. The piece weighs a total of approximately 154.5 carats, within borders of small brilliant-cut blue, orange and yellow sapphires and tsavorite garnets alternating with 22 very large freshwater pearls.

Additional highlights from the June 4 sale include: a desk of petrified wood from Arizona (est. $25/30,000); a gem-quality Imperial topaz mineral specimen (est. 30/35,000); several Australian gold nuggets with estimates ranging from $9,000 to 95,000; a multi strand Burmese ruby necklace (est. $25/35,000); and a fantastic museum-quality Morganite specimen from the Urucum mine in Brazil (est. $70/80,000).

Auction previews open to collectors and Natural History enthusiasts on Friday, June 1 and continue daily from 10am-5pm until the start of the auction.

May 22

Rocks & Rock n' Roll

Natural History and Entertainment Memorabilia Auctions in LA Feature Rare Fossils, Meteorites and Collectibles from Super-Stars of Stage and Screen

Marilyn & Elvis, Dinos & Décor, and much more at Bonhams & Butterfields - Special Media Preview: Thursday, May 31 10AM-1PM

Incredible examples of natural wonders, organic design and evidence of evolution, as well as vintage and contemporary TV, film and rock memorabilia from pop culture icons come to auction at Bonhams & Butterfields in early June. Media Previews for the two auctions will open in Los Angeles at Bonhams & Butterfields on Sunset Blvd. on Thursday, May 31 and members of the press are invited to preview select lots including scientific wonders and unique personal items from celebrities: a 50 million-year-old intact miniature fossil horse skeleton (est. $75/95,000); an archive of materials related to Marilyn Monroe featuring her SAG card and Joe DiMaggio honeymoon photos (estimates vary); one of the largest and most complete Stegodon skulls ever discovered in Southeast Asia ($35/40,000); an Elvis Presley personal checkbook from his $1-million dollar account ($25/30,000); three prodigious sculptural creations synergizing metals with crystals/semi-precious stone; William "Hopalong Cassidy" Boyd's collection from his Palm Desert, CA home and a highly recognizable original Donald Duck painting featuring Disney characters Huey, Duey and Louie and Scrooge (est. $150/200,000). Along with a wide selection of fine fossils, lapidary works of art, gold, meteorites, amber, gemstones, archeological artifacts and rock n' roll, entertainment and animation and first issues of classic comic books....

Who: Bonhams & Butterfields, the premier West Coast auctioneers

What: Preview two auctions: Natural History and Entertainment Memorabilia with Rock n' Roll Collectibles, as well as Classic Animation Art and Vintage Film Posters

Where: Bonhams & Butterfields, 7601 Sunset Blvd. (at Curson)

Comments/sound bites from experts Margaret Barrett, Tom Lindgren and Claudia Florian; excellent visuals

May15

Auction features property from Hollywood greats and music and TV legends: Monroe, Presley, "Hopalong Cassidy," Sinatra, James Dean, Spencer Tracy and Bill Bixby ...

Bonhams & Butterfields, the world's most dynamic auctioneers, is tuning up for the Summer 2007 auction of vintage and contemporary film and rock memorabilia in Los Angeles. The sale will feature collectibles from the heydays of Hollywood and Rock-n-Roll and will be offered on Monday, June 4, 2007.

Sale highlights include:

· A Marilyn Monroe Archive
An interesting archive of materials related to Marilyn Monroe on offer this June is comprised of several fresh to market lots including a set of never-before-seen honeymoon photographs featuring her and her then-new husband Joe DiMaggio. Evidently shot moments apart at what appears to be a press conference, the 4x6-inch black & white snapshots capture the newly married couple in a brief, happy moment. The candid images were taken during their honeymoon trip to Japan in 1954 by an amateur photographer.

A classic black and white headshot of the actress is autographed in red ink. In the lower left corner the "Blonde Bombshell" wrote "To Diana & Joe Ellen / Love & Kisses / Marilyn Monroe." The signees are the daughters of Second Unit Director Joseph E. Rickards, who worked with Monroe on the classic film The Seven Year Itch. Included with the lot is a handwritten letter of provenance from the original owner stating that he received this 8x10-inch photograph from Rickards' widow in 1992 (est. $3,000/3,500).

Additional Monroe lots on offer include: a late 1950s-era typed and signed letter from noted playwright Arthur Miller, her husband at the time, regarding some unspecified problems she was having and expressing his sadness at their temporary separation -- she was in Los Angeles and he was in New York when the letter was written (est. $2,000/2,500).

· An Elvis Presley personal checkbook
A rare but brief and fascinating look into Presley's daily expenses for a six-month span in the early 1970s is found in a lot estimated to sell for $25,000 to $30,000. The Presley checkbook maintains unused checks printed with his Graceland address from "The King's" personal account held at the National Bank of Commerce in Memphis, Tennessee. Check stubs, thirteen with handwritten notes indicating to whom the checks were written, are dated from October 1971 to April 1972 -- each penned in blue ballpoint ink (in three different hands). Some of Elvis's expenses included $4,000 for "Expenses" on November 11, 1971, payment of airline tickets, and even a $150 payment to the "Dept. of Motor Vehicles / Regst. of Dune buggy / and penalty" on April 24, 1972

The checkbook was consigned by Sonny West, Elvis' longtime friend, bodyguard, and member of his inner-circle. According to Mr. West,"This particular checking account of Presley's always had a minimum balance of $1,000,000 in it at all times because Elvis liked the idea of being able to write out a personal check for that amount which the recipient could cash right away." West also informed the auctioneers that Presley himself rarely wrote out the checks, but would have his trusted friends and inner-circle members handle much of his day-to-day affairs. Notes from West himself appears on the stubs as does the writing of several other Presley confidants. Included with this lot is a letter of authenticity signed by Sonny West, discussing this piece.

· A Collection from the Palm Desert, California Residence of William "Hopalong Cassidy" Boyd
A collection of household items from the Palm Desert residence of actor/producer/director William Boyd, known affectionately to most as the cowboy character he portrayed in countless films and TV shows "Hopalong Cassidy".

Featured highlights from his residence include: a collection of seven horse saddles that he converted to outdoor bar stools - all named for 19^th and 20^th century iconic Western film stars (and their horses) including Roy Rogers and "Trigger," Gene Autry and "Champion," The Lone Ranger and "Hi Ho Silver," Wyatt Earp and "Jughead," and Doc Holiday and "Red" (most saddles are estimated at $2,000-2,500 a piece). Although it's not clear if these saddles actually belonged to the actors or if Boyd simply named them (as an homage), it is more than likely that the barstool marked "Hopalong Cassidy / Topper" was actually one of the saddles he used on his adored stallion (est. $3,000/5,000). Additionally, a custom club chair in Boyd's signature colors (black and white) will be offered (est. $1,000/1,500) as will a 1960s-era Exercycle exercise bike custom-painted black and white (est. $800/1,200). Items such as a matching pair of horse statuette lamps, a brass horsehead doorknocker, and a personalized 1950s-era rotisserie with a plaque engraved "Hoppy" should attract collector interest.

· A Gold Record Collection (Janis Joplin, Doobie Brothers, Santana, Heart, etc.) Consigned by Robert E. Gordon
Robert E. ("Bob") Gordon is an attorney, born in Los Angeles, who has been active in representing major musical acts since the early 1960s. He was the founding lawyer for A&M Records and over the years was primary counsel for such noteworthy recording and performing artists as: Big Brother and the Holding Company, Janis Joplin, the Doobie Brothers, Jefferson Airplane, the Estate of Jerry Garcia and many others. He relocated his practice to the San Francisco Bay Area in l972 and currently practices Entertainment and Music Law from offices in Sausalito. In addition to his law practice, Mr. Gordon served as Adjunct Professor of Entertainment Law at Hastings College of Law in San Francisco and taught that subject at UC Berkeley (Boalt Hall). He was awarded a "Bammie" (SF's version of a Grammy^®) in 1982 for service to the SF Bay Area music community. Mr. Gordon served as Executor for the Estate of Janis Joplin and accepted the induction of Joplin into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995 (the only practicing lawyer ever granted that privilege). In the course of his music representations, his various clients presented him with a large number of "Gold" and "Platinum" award plaques issued by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Mr. Gordon's gold record collection is estimated to fetch a few thousand dollars.

Other highlights from the June 4 sale include: a Frank Sinatra 3-piece tuxedo with interior label "Frank Sinatra / June '75." (est. $1,000/1,500); a Bill Bixby archive of color slides and other ephemera from The Incredible Hulk TV series (est. $300/500); a James Dean life mask by artist Kenneth Kendall who also created a statue of Dean which stands in LA's Griffith Park (est. $2,000/2,500); a short but funny Lenny Bruce note handwritten in 1960 to the owner of a comedy club (est. $1,000/1,500); an autographed Roscoe "Fatty" Arbuckle photograph (est. $1,000/1,500); a black wool Victorian-style knee-length coat worn by Spencer Tracy in the first scene of the film "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" (est. $600/800); a large archive of 1940s-'80s movie star autographs, (est. $3/5,000) and for animation buffs - The Carl Barks Collection of selected paintings, animation and illustrations.

Also on offer this summer is additional property from the Louis Leithold Collection of vintage movie posters - to be sold without reserve. Much of the collection will be offered in large lots, according to auction house specialist, "perfect for the new collector or seasoned dealer." The lots feature an array of titles spanning the history of cinema -- from the silent era to the contemporary blockbuster. Selected highlights from the collection include posters from noted films such as: Breakfast at Tiffany's, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, La Dolce Vita, Citizen Kane, Bon Jour Tristesse, a variety of Western cinematography, countless Brigitte Bardot films and many, many others. Estimates range from $25 to $3,000.

Previews open to the public June 1-4 in Los Angeles.

May 8

Ram Rod's Grateful Dead Collection Brings

More than $1.1-Million Today in San Francisco

Deadheads were Live and Bidding at Bonhams & Butterfields

Bonhams & Butterfields' Tuesday, May 8, 2007 auction of Grateful Dead memorabilia from the Ram Rod Shurtliff Collection fetched more than $1.1-million today -- garnered from competitive bidding on telephones and in the crowded San Francisco auction room. Top lots of the day included guitars played on stages and in-studio by Jerry Garcia, original art used on album covers and equipment and collectibles associated with the Grammy Award®-winning band.

Lawrence 'Ram Rod' Shurtliff, long-time Road Manager and President of the Grateful Dead's corporation, passed away in 2006. The property on offer was consigned for sale by his son Rudson Shurtliff.

Spotlighted in the sale were Jerry Garcia-played instruments including an electric guitar custom-made by noted San Francisco guitar-maker Doug Irwin in 1971, known as "The Eagle." It sold for $186,000. A circa 1975 Garcia electric guitar made by Travis Bean has been seen in numerous photos, played on stages as well as in studio recording sessions - the cream-colored guitar sold for $312,000 (est. $250/300,000). It was offered with its custom black leather case and several collector treasures: Garcia's Vinci guitar strings, a tuning fork, a string winder and an unopened pack of Garcia's cigarettes (Camel non-filters). A buyer paid $102,000 for a Jerry Garcia acoustic guitar and $39,000 was paid for a Garcia Gibson electric.

Jerry Garcia's circa 1973 stage-worn tooled leather guitar strap by Nudie's, "Western tailors to the stars," sold for $20,400, quadrupling its estimate, while a flight case filled with Garcia's picks, never-opened guitar strings and other accessories sold for $16,800.

April 27

Bonhams & Butterfields Offers

Fine European Furniture and Decorative Arts

in Los Angeles on April 30

April 24

The Silver Screen Collectibles Sizzle at
Bonhams & Butterfields in June

Auction features property from Hollywood greats and music and TV legends: Monroe, Presley, "Hopalong Cassidy," Sinatra, James Dean, Spencer Tracy and Bill Bixby ...

Sale highlights include:

· A Marilyn Monroe Archive

An interesting archive of materials related to Marilyn Monroe on offer this June is comprised of several fresh to market lots including a set of never-before-seen honeymoon photographs featuring her and her then-new husband Joe DiMaggio. Evidently shot moments apart at what appears to be a press conference, the 4x6-inch black & white snapshots capture the newly married couple in a brief, happy moment. The candid images were taken during their honeymoon trip to Japan in 1954 by an amateur photographer.

Monroe's personally owned Screen Actor's Guild card and an autographed headshot of the actress will be offered, as will a set of her handwritten notes for the 1957 romantic comedy The Prince and the Showgirl (est. $3/5,000). The actress was nominated for a "Best Foreign Actress" award by The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) for her work in this film. A classic black and white headshot of the actress is autographed in red ink. In the lower left corner the "Blonde Bombshell" wrote "To Diana & Joe Ellen / Love & Kisses / Marilyn Monroe." The signees are the daughters of Second Unit Director Joseph E. Rickards, who worked with Monroe on the classic film The Seven Year Itch. Included with the lot is a handwritten letter of provenance from the original owner stating that he received this 8x10-inch photograph from Rickards' widow in 1992 (est. $3,000/3,500).

· An Elvis Presley personal checkbook

A rare but brief and fascinating look into Presley's daily expenses for a six-month span in the early 1970s is found in a lot estimated to sell for $25,000 to $30,000. The Presley checkbook maintains unused checks printed with his Graceland address from "The King's" personal account held at the National Bank of Commerce in Memphis, Tennessee. Check stubs, thirteen with handwritten notes indicating to whom the checks were written, are dated from October 1971 to April 1972 -- each penned in blue ballpoint ink (in three different hands). Some of Elvis's expenses included $4,000 for "Expenses" on November 11, 1971, payment of airline tickets, and even a $150 payment to the "Dept. of Motor Vehicles / Regst. of Dune buggy / and penalty" on April 24, 1972

· A Collection from the Palm Desert, California Residence of William "Hopalong Cassidy" Boyd

A collection of household items from the Palm Desert residence of actor/producer/director William Boyd, known affectionately to most as the cowboy character he portrayed in countless films and TV shows "Hopalong Cassidy".

The house is also for sale through the realty firm of Pacific Auction Exchange in Pleasanton, California.

· A Gold Record Collection (Janis Joplin, Doobie Brothers, Santana, Heart, etc.) Consigned by Robert E. Gordon

Robert E. ("Bob") Gordon is an attorney, born in Los Angeles, who has been active in representing major musical acts since the early 1960s. He was the founding lawyer for A&M Records and over the years was primary counsel for such noteworthy recording and performing artists as: Big Brother and the Holding Company, Janis Joplin, the Doobie Brothers, Jefferson Airplane, the Estate of Jerry Garcia and many others. He relocated his practice to the San Francisco Bay Area in l972 and currently practices Entertainment and Music Law from offices in Sausalito. In addition to his law practice, Mr. Gordon served as Adjunct Professor of Entertainment Law at Hastings College of Law in San Francisco and taught that subject at UC Berkeley (Boalt Hall). He was awarded a "Bammie" (SF's version of a Grammy^®) in 1982 for service to the SF Bay Area music community. Mr. Gordon served as Executor for the Estate of Janis Joplin and accepted the induction of Joplin into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995 (the only practicing lawyer ever granted that privilege). In the course of his music representations, his various clients presented him with a large number of "Gold" and "Platinum" award plaques issued by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Mr. Gordon's gold record collection is estimated to fetch a few thousand dollars.

Previews open to the public June 1-4 in Los Angeles.

Bonhams & Butterfields Offers
Fine European Furniture and Decorative Arts
in Los Angeles on April 30
April sale brings an eclectic selection of property from around the globe including a prominent Santa Barbara philanthropist's collection

Offering a global array of works for all collecting tastes, the April 30, 2007 Bonhams & Butterfields auction of Fine European Furniture Decorative Arts and Silver in Los Angeles will showcase pieces from the 16^th through 20^th centuries, with origins from Paris to Russia. The sale is timed to coincide with the 12^th annual Los Angeles Antique Show sponsored by the Antique Dealers Association of California, held at the Santa Monica Air Center in the Barker Hangar.

The Spring auction features a wide variety of interesting material for private and institutional collectors, dealers and those with an eye for quality and the whimsical -- from two wonderful imposing Regency mahogany wine coolers to a 19^th century bone ship model of a man'o'war. Highlights from the 560-lot sale include furnishing and decorations from the estate of Ernestine Koska Smith of Santa Barbara and other owners with a diverse selection of English, French, Italian, Spanish, KPM German porcelain, clocks, silver by Georg Jensen and other prominent makers, garden furniture, architectural elements, carvings and Continental automotons.

The crown jewel of the English section is a fine George III breakfront bookcase (est. $20/30,000). Highly sought after for residential or corporate interiors, this outstanding breakfront bookcase successfully blends design and handcrafted skill of the highest order with premium grade timbers and embellishments. On the block during the Continental section is a selection of eight KPM Berlin porcelain plaques. Estimates for these colorful and intricately painted panels range from $3,000 to $30,000. Varying in subject matter from beautiful exotic women to Biblical scenes, the 19x16 inch works should peak collector interest.

In the French section of the sale is a rare late 19^th century clock of gilt, silvered brass and rouge marble in the shape of an industrial weather station -- said to illustrate Europe's fascination with the life and times of the industrial revolution." With a working automaton steam engine, it is expected to bring $6,000 to $8,000. Also on offer will be a large selection of Louis XV and XVI style decorative works and furnishings including several pieces by Francois Linke, F Barbedienne and G. Durand (estimates range from $3,000 to $80,000) highlighted by a late 19^th century French gilt bronze mounted and paint decorated Linke cabinet (est. $60/80,000).

From the Netherlands comes an 18^th century inlaid walnut automaton tall case clock by Henricus Van Vlymen Amsteldam (est. $12/15,000). The painted automaton dial depicts a mythological scene of vessels at sea with Perseus riding Pegasus in flight, Cupid in pursuit, the figures of Mercury and Neptune, and a small town in the background. The nine-foot tall clock is expected to garner interest from Antique Show attendees and collectors alike.

The April sale will feature a large collection of property from the Estate of Ernestine Koska Smith, a prominent Santa Barbara resident. Smith was born in 1919 in Zanesville, Ohio. She attended Wellesley College in Massachusetts and the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA). She and her family went on to live in York, Pennsylvania and Palm Beach, Florida, before settling in Montecito, California in the 1970s. Smith held a seat on the Board of Directors for the St. Francis Hospital in Santa Barbara. As a world traveler and connoisseur of the arts, her Estate's property features a range of offerings including two large Regency carved mahogany wine coolers (est. $8/12,000 and $12/18,000) and a selection of 18^th century Sevres porcelain. Considered plain by later tastes, several of the porcelain pieces were repainted a vivid canary yellow in the 19^th century (estimates range from $400 to $800).

The sale also features a strong Italian section of furnishings and decorative arts. A magnificent Baroque shell and ivory inlayed walnut secretary bookcase from Milan highlights the offerings. Made in the late 17^th century, both the upper and lower cases are decorated with classical figures and fabulous beasts. The piece stands more than eight feet tall and is estimated to bring $60,000 to $80,000 on April 30^th.

A selection of carvings from around the globe will be included in the sale. For the garden is a set of four imposing carved marble figures of the Four Seasons (est. $40/60,000). Of interest is a private collection of finely carved French and German ivory figures depicting people in elegant attire and mythological subjects. Also on offer is an unusual polychrome decorated carved wood near life-size automaton chestnut vendor from the second half of the 19^th century with moving eyes and head and a working oven (est. $10/15,000). Black Forest furniture includes a late 19^th century carved eagle attributed to Swiss artist Alfred Stähli. Standing very patriotic at nearly three-feet tall, each of the eagle's feathers is carved with painstaking detail (est. $4/6,000).

Additional highlights from the sale include: an unusually large and colorful Crown Darby porcelain dessert service with more than 18 plates (est. $4/6,000); four services of stunning Georg Jensen silver (estimates range from $6,000 to $15,000); an 18^th century Flemish Baroque garden tapestry (est. $6/8,000); a bone model of a 19^th century thirty-four gun war ship more than 4 ft-8inches in length (est. $8/12,000); a George III silver four-arm five basket epergne by Robert Hennell, London, 1781 with armorial (est. $15/20,000); a pair of 19^th Venetian polychrome decorated carved pine console tables each supported by a vibrantly painted harlequin and masquerader (est. $20/30,000) along with other Venetian Grotto style furnishings and decorative items.

Previews of the property will open to the pubic April 27-29, or by appointment during the 12^th annual Los Angeles Antique Show. For Los Angeles clients and Show attendees, private appointments will be available in addition to the adjusted preview hours -- Friday, April 27, Saturday 28^th open 10am-5pm each day- Sunday, April 29, open: 12 noon-5pm. Auction starts 10am Monday 30^th April

Posted by Bill at 12:55 PM | Permalink

Sports & Auto News

May 2

HOTCHKIS LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE
Online Resource Includes News, Product Info, Tech Articles and More
SANTA FE SPRINGS, Calif. – Hotchkis Sport Suspension has launched an all-new website that provides high-performance handling news, technical details, feature stories and product information. The new site, www.hotchkis.net, is an exhaustive online resource dedicated to helping serious drivers improve their suspension systems with proven, well-engineered hardware for maximum driving enjoyment.
Hotchkis Sport Suspension has launched an all-new website that provides high-performance handling news, technical details, feature stories and product information. The new site, , is an exhaustive online resource dedicated to helping serious drivers improve their suspension systems with proven, well-engineered hardware for maximum driving enjoyment.

"Whether they drive a performance car, SUV or truck, we’re dedicated to providing our customers with more than just improved handling and feedback," explains company owner John Hotchkis. “We have always gone a step further to provide convenience, product durability, and all the necessary hardware so our kits install quickly and easily. This new website is just one more tool we can use to help. More than just a product showcase, the new www.Hotchkis.net website has an archive of technical articles and instruction manuals and even Product Development and Testing pages that feature some of the hot new products coming soon.”

A detailed application guide makes researching and shopping for new suspension hardware easy, and an online shopping cart means you can surf the net Thursday an have parts in time to work on your car that weekend. If you’d prefer to buy parts locally, a complete list of authorized dealers is also available.

Finally, the website features an online vehicle gallery divided by make, and customers are encouraged to share photos and videos of their vehicles in action. To explore the all-new Hotchkis Sport Suspension website, go to www.hotchkis.net.

To preview the entire line of Hotchkis Sport Suspension parts and components, please visit www.hotchkis.net, email doliver@hotchkis.net, or contact them at Hotchkis Performance, 12035 Burke Street Suite 13, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670, 877-4-NOROLL, 877-466-7655.

Hi everyone. AutoMatters #231 is now online in the www.AutoMatters.net 2007 Column Archives. Its direct link is:

http://www.automatters.net/2007%20Columns/0231.htm

Entitled "2007 Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach," it is about events leading up to and including the race weekend. This column is so big that I had to divide it into three parts for the newspapers but it appears as one feature-length column in AutoMatters Online. The online version also features 145 photos, which is a record. Read and enjoy...

Jan

To see more, go to the AutoMatters.net Column Archives at: http://www.automatters.net/2007%20Columns/0231.htm.

- - - - - - -

For new visitors to AutoMatters online, here is some more information that you might find useful:

You may access this column by navigating to it in the 2007 Column Archives via the Home Page at www.AutoMatters.net. If you prefer, you can go directly to this column by clicking on the above link (or, depending upon how your email is set up, you may have to cut and paste it into the address line of your browser). If there are a lot of photos in this column, it may take a bit longer than usual to display on your computer. If one or two photos don't fully display, try clearing your Internet temp file and then do a View --> Refresh.

While at the AutoMatters Web site, take a few moments to look at some of the other columns and photography that is there. The 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007 Columns Archives are now complete. I hope to have time to finish the 2002 and 2003 Column Archives eventually, but in the meantime I'm working on making it possible for you to order photos that you see on this Web site. Speaking of photos, a clickable, descriptive thumbnail photo is included with the title of each column in the Column Archives lists.

(IMPORTANT NOTE: People have asked me how they can see previous AutoMatters columns in the Column Archives if they follow the above link directly to the current column, thus bypassing the website's home page. It's easy. Just scroll back up to the top of the page and then click the "COLUMN ARCHIVES" button. Another way would be to click on www.AutoMatters.net which is in the last paragraph of every column. Jan)

As always, I hope you enjoy reading AutoMatters as much as I enjoy creating it.

Jan

Mr. Jan Wagner

AutoMatters automotive columnist/photojournalist & multimedia writer

Memberships: Motor Press Guild, American Auto Racing Writers' & Broadcasters' Association (AARWBA), Nikon Professional Services
In newspapers and online at www.AutoMatters.net
AARWBA first place awards for color photography in 50th. Anniversary journalism competition
San Diego, CA
AutoMatters@gmail.com

May 1
April Auto Sales.
BMW Brand Sales Up 4.9 Percent Year-To-Date
April 2007 one of the strongest months ever for BMW Group in the U.S.
The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI brands combined) reported sales of 104,125 vehicles year-to-date, a 2.9 percent increase over the 101,151 vehicles sold in the same period of 2006.
The BMW Group also reported a slight increase of 0.5 percent in April sales. 28,692 vehicles were sold compared to 28,563 vehicles reported in the same month a year earlier. This makes April 2007 one of the strongest months ever reported by the BMW Group in the U.S.
BMW Brand Reports Increase in Year-To-Date Sales
BMW brand continues to be strong with sales up 4.9 percent year-to-date, as the company reported sales of 92,670 vehicles compared to 88,353 vehicles sold in first four months of 2006.
April sales of BMW brand vehicles increased by 0.2 percent and reached 25,310 compared to 25,250 reported in the same month a year ago.
BMW Automobile Sales
BMW's automobile sales are up 10.1 percent in April to 20,290 versus 18,427 in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date sales also are up 5.3 percent, to 71,907 automobiles compared to 68,311 in the same period of 2006.
BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Sales
April sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles are down 26.4 percent to 5,020 vehicles over the 6,823 sold last April. This is due to a very high comparable basis for X3 sales in April 2006. Both the X3 and the X5 continue to be very well received, with the X5 showing a sales increase of 21.8 percent in April 2007 compared to the same month a year ago.
Year-to-date, sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles are up 3.6 percent, to 20,763 vehicles compared to the 20,042 sold in the same period of 2006.
Certified Pre-Owned
The company reported sales of 7,368 CPO sales in April 2007, a decrease of 12.0 percent over April of 2006. Year-to-date, CPO sales are down 7.9 percent, to 26,376 over the 28,630 reported in the same period in 2006.
MINI Brand
MINI Automobiles
MINI USA reported April sales of 3,382 automobiles, up 2.1 percent from the 3,313 cars sold in April 2006. Year-to-date, the division reported sales of 11,455 automobiles, a drop of 10.5 percent, compared to the 12,798 cars reported in the first four months of 2006.
BMW Group In America
BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, an industrial design firm in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group's global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all Z4 models and X5 Sports Activity Vehicles. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 338 BMW passenger car centers, 335 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 142 BMW motorcycle retailers, 81 MINI passenger car dealers, and 30 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group's sales headquarters for North, Central and South America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.
Information about BMW Group products is available to consumers via the Internet at:
www.bmwgroupna.com
www.bmwusa.com
www.bmwmotorradusa.com
www.miniusa.com
www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com

BMW Car Sales Report for April 2007
2007 2006
April 20,290 18,427
Year-to-Date 71,907 68,311
Model Year-to- Year-to-
April Date April Date
2007 2007 2006 2006
325i (E90 & E46) 240 797 4,888 16,914
325Ci (E46) 7 26 304 1,162
325Ci Convertible (E46) 6 31 513 1,531
325i Sports Wagon (E91) 0 0 0 4
325xi (E90 & E46) 11 39 1,489 5,785
325xi Sports Wagon (E90 & E46) 4 21 209 820
328i (E90) 4,439 16,721 0 0
328i Coupe (E92) 1,045 3,772 0 0
328i Convertible (E93) 1,545 2,253 0 0
328i Sports Wagon (E91) 97 554 0 0
328xi (E90) 1,537 7,727 0 0
328xi Coupe (E92) 416 2,080 0 0
328xi Sports Wagon (E91) 135 619 0 0
330i (E90 & E46) 41 195 1,572 5,571
330Ci (E46) 1 4 164 696
330Ci Convertible (E46) 2 17 525 1,633
330xi (E90 & E46) 5 18 1,074 3,504
335i (E90) 1,489 6,040 0 0
335i Coupe (E92) 823 3,486 0 0
335i Convertible (E93) 998 1,558 0 0
335xi (E90) 298 360 0 0
M3 (E46) 0 3 255 817
M3 Convertible (E46) 3 12 158 493
3 Series 13,142 46,333 11,151 38,930
Z4 2.5i Roadster (E85) - US 14 55 41 221
Z4 3.0i Roadster (E85) - US 444 1,382 628 1,119
Z4 Roadster 3.0si (E85) - US 275 732 357 541
Z4 M Roadster (E85) - US 49 143 154 299
Z4 Coupe 3.0si (E86) - US 61 265 0 0
Z4 M Coupe (E86) - US 68 240 0 0
Z4 911 2,817 1,180 2,180
525i (E60) 209 3,180 993 4,160
525xi (E60) 232 1,533 306 1,961
528i (E60) 541 541 0 0
528xi (E60) 271 271 0 0
530i (E60) 327 3,350 813 3,899
530xi (E60) 441 2,460 574 3,007
530xi Sports Wagon (E60) 39 356 188 1,000
535i (E60) 471 471 0 0
535xi (E60) 400 400 0 0
535xi Sports Wagon (E60) 48 48 0 0
545i (E60) 0 0 0 6
550i (E60) 472 1,619 643 2,341
M5 (E60) 141 490 182 1,424
5 Series 3,592 14,719 3,699 17,798
645Ci (E63) 0 0 0 21
650i Coupe (E63) 163 592 242 956
645Ci Convertible (E64) 0 0 0 16
650i Convertible (E64) 412 1,258 473 1,863
M6 (E63) 80 361 58 58
M6 Convertible (E64) 147 512 0 0
6 Series 802 2,723 773 2,914
ALPINA B7 47 115 0 0
745Li (E65) 0 0 0 0
750i (E65) 376 1,203 386 1,465
750Li (E66) 1,407 3,935 1,195 4,866
760i (E66) 0 0 4 21
760Li (E65) 13 62 39 136
7 Series 1,843 5,315 1,624 6,488
Z8 0 0 0 1
Z8 Alpina 0 0 0 0
Z8 0 0 0 1

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle (light trucks) Sales Report for April 2007
2007 2006
April 5,020 6,823
Year-to-Date 20,763 20,042

Model Year-to- Year-to-
April Date April Date
2007 2007 2006 2006
X3 2.5i (E83) 0 2 28 156
X3 3.0i (E83) 61 222 4,568 10,483
X3 3.0si (E83) 2,246 8,757 0 0
X3 2,307 8,981 4,596 10,639
X5 3.0i (E53) - US 18 93 1,643 7,023
X5 3.0si (E70) - US 1,802 7,696 0 0
X5 4.4i (E53) - US 13 70 495 2,014
X5 4.8i (E70) - US 879 3,915 0 0
X5 4.8is (E53) - US 1 8 89 366
X5 2,713 11,782 2,227 9,403

MINI Sales Report for April 2007
2007 2006
April 3,382 3,313
Year-to-Date 11,455 12,798

Model Year-to- Year-to-
April Date April Date
2007 2007 2006 2006
MINI Cooper (R50) 22 1,760 892 3,673
MINI Cooper (R56) 1,278 2,905 0 0
MINI Cooper S (R53) 18 1,553 1,340 5,638
MINI Cooper S (R56) 1,395 3,036 0 0
MINI Cooper Convertible 259 898 334 1,086
MINI Cooper S Convertible 407 1,275 747 2,401
MINI Cooper S JCW GP 3 28 0 0
Total MINI 3,382 11,455 3,313 12,798
Source: BMW Group

Mercedes-Benz USA Reports 20,895 April New Vehicle Sales, Delivering Best-Ever Year-to-Date Sales of 76,880
-- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported April sales of 20,895 new vehicles; the second best April ever (after April 2006 with sales of 21,270). This represents the best-ever year-to-date sales volume, bringing the total to 76,880 new vehicles for 2007 - a six percent increase over sales during the same period in 2006.
The C-Class was once again the volume leader for the month with sales of 5,131 new vehicles (up 27.1% over April 2006), closely trailed by the E-Class with sales of 4,011 (6.2% increase vs. April 2006). The M-Class, ranked third with sales of 2,382, followed closely by the top-of-the line sedan, the S- Class, with 2,067 sales for April.
The CL-Class, the Mercedes-Benz new flagship coupe, also continued to exhibit high demand with sales of 330 units for the month, an increase of 416%. In the luxury light truck segment, the GL-Class continued to show strong momentum with sales of 1,866, while the iconic G-Class more than doubled its volume to 101.
Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned program, MBUSA sold 4,073 vehicles in April, bringing year-to-date sales to 16,773, a 15.6 percent increase over the same period last year.
Mercedes-Benz USA, headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey, is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of all Mercedes-Benz and Maybach products in the United States. In 2006, MBUSA achieved an all-time sales record of 248,080 new vehicles, setting the highest sales volume ever in its history and achieving 13 consecutive years of sales growth. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found on the Internet at www.mbusa.com and www.maybachusa.com.
April April Monthly YTD YTD
Model '07 '06 % 2007 2006 Yearly%
C-CLASS 5,131 4,037 27.1% 17,413 14,017 24.2%
E-CLASS 4,011 3,778 6.2% 14,458 12,437 16.2%
S-CLASS 2,067 3,033 -31.8% 8,713 10,651 -18.2%
CL-CLASS 330 64 415.6% 1,114 220 406.4%
SL-CLASS 703 1,112 -36.8% 2,098 2,953 -29.0%
CLK-CLASS 1,456 2,202 -33.9% 5,490 7,790 -29.5%
SLK-CLASS 856 1,202 -28.8% 2,546 3,644 -30.1%
CLS-CLASS 779 1,038 -25.0% 2,822 3,882 -27.3%
R-CLASS 1,213 1,672 -27.5% 4,151 6,742 -38.4%
M-CLASS 2,382 2,590 -8.0% 9,783 9,447 3.6%
GL-CLASS 1,866 499 273.9% 7,838 499 1470.7%
G-CLASS 101 43 134.9% 454 230 97.4%
GRAND TOTAL 20,895 21,270 -1.8% 76,880 72,512 6.0%
Source: Mercedes-Benz USA

All-Time Sales Record in April for Maserati North America
Following Maserati's Best Ever First Quarter Sales
In an overall luxury segment that has shown declined sales performance during the first quarter of 2007, Maserati North America has shown considerable gains, marking a continued rise for the company.
According to Jim Selwa, President and CEO of Maserati North America, Inc., the performance of Maserati is strong, mirroring the performance of the elegant brand. "The luxurious Maserati Quattroporte is the leader in the $100,000 sport sedan segment. Hand-crafted Pininfarina design, true performance and meticulous attention to quality have found the select audience who value a unique and special automobile."
April 2007 total sales for Maserati reached 242 units, beating the previous top sales month of 235, set in July of 2005 - a point in time where Maserati jumped over 90% in volume. Year-to-date Maserati sales are up 14% over 2006, which was another record year for Maserati.
As anticipated, the new Quattroporte Automatic has appealed to those looking for the ultimate sedan amongst its competitors. The DuoSelect Maserati Quattroporte is appreciated by those who desire the most pure sport sedan on the planet. Sales remain strong with the DuoSelect commanding over 50% of Quattroporte sales.
Like the Quattroporte, Maserati Financial Services has reported a record volume month, providing clients with competitive financing and leasing solutions.
Maserati will continue the positive momentum of the brand with the introduction of the globally acclaimed two-door Maserati GranTurismo in the fourth quarter of 2007.
Maserati North America expanded its reach in 2006 with the opening of two high-profile locations in the Southern California market, where it derives 35% percent of sales. Maserati currently benefits from 49 dealers across North America. In 2007 the expansion of the dealer network will continue with a target of 55 retail points strategically located in key markets. Maserati North America is proud to have the top selling dealer in the world, The Collection in Coral Gables, Florida. The southeast is the second leading region for Maserati in the U.S. followed by the New York Tri-State area.
Maserati North America, Inc., headquartered in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the exclusive distributor for Maserati-branded vehicles in the United States, including the Quattroporte high performance luxury sedan. For more information, please view www.maseratiusa.com.
Source: Maserati North America, Inc.
Kia Motors America Announces April Sales
Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced April sales of 26,007 units and year-to-date sales of 99,610 units, a 7.5-percent increase over the same period last year. Sales for the month were led by the Kia Spectra boasting its best month of 2007 at 7,203 units.
The Optima midsize sedan also had its best month of the year in April with 4,538 units, a 20.3-percent increase over the same month last year, while the Rio compact sedan followed suit with its best month of 2007 selling 3,279 units.
"The entire Kia brand is continually lifted by our award-winning pillar models, Spectra and Sportage, as evidenced this month by outstanding Spectra volume," said Len Hunt, executive vice president and COO of KMA. "The full vehicle line has received accolades that denote its confidence and integrity with consumers, and it is now on the verge of pushing through to the next level that will instill pride and passion among buyers."
Kia Motors America -- the sales, marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corp. in Seoul, South Korea -- offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 630 dealers throughout the United States. For more information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com.
MONTH OF APRIL YEAR-TO-DATE
Model 2007 2006 2007 2006
Rio 3,279 1,898 9,588 9,726
Spectra 7,203 8,560 21,696 20,067
Optima 4,538 3,771 13,963 10,511
Amanti 528 558 3,266 2,312
Sportage 3,695 2,868 15,410 12,503
Sorento 2,883 5,674 12,962 15,932
Sedona 2,698 4,479 18,622 21,590
Rondo 1,183 N/A 4,103 N/A
Total 26,007 27,807 99,610 92,641
Source: Kia Motors America

Acura Announces April Sales
Light Trucks Post Record Sales
Record sales of light trucks pushed Acura April sales to 15,193 units, off 15.0 percent from record April 2006 based on the daily selling rate*, the division announced today. Acura year-to-date sales reached 58,854.
Strong sales of the redesigned MDX luxury SUV and RDX turbocharged SUV helped set an April sales record of 6,648 for total light trucks, surpassing the previous record of 5,073 set in 2005. The MDX strong posted sales of 4,497, up 10.4 percent versus last year. Year-to-date MDX sales of 17,765 units outpaced last year's total by 3.0 percent. Additionally, demand for the RDX continued to grow with April sales of 2,151 units, driving year-to-date sales to 8,407.
The TL performance luxury sedan was the top-selling model for April, posting sales of 5,350 units. The TSX sports sedan sold 2,519 units for the month, bringing year-to-date sales to 11,148.
* Based on 24 selling days in April 2007 versus 26 selling days in April 2006
American Honda Vehicle Sales For April 2007
Month-to-Date Year-to-Date
April April DSR** April April DSR**
2007 2006 % Chg. 2007 2006 % Chg.
MODEL BREAKOUTS
BY DIVISION
Acura Division
Total 15,193 19,372 -15.0% 58,854 65,023 -9.5%
RSX 18 2,036 -99.0% 275 6,186 -95.6%
TL * 5,350 7,975 -27.3% 19,054 24,779 -23.1%
TSX 2,519 3,911 -30.2% 11,148 13,144 -15.2%
RL 658 1,031 -30.9% 2,205 3,633 -39.3%
NSX 0 5 0 34
MDX * 4,497 4,414 10.4% 17,765 17,247 3.0%
RDX * 2,151 0 8,407 0
Selling Days 24 26 101 101
* Honda and Acura vehicles are made of domestic and global sourced
parts.
** Daily Selling Rate
Source: Acura

American Honda Reports April Sales
Fuel-efficient Fit and CR-V Set April Records
-- American Honda Motor Co., Inc., posted sales of 126,419 Honda and Acura vehicles in April, down 1.6 percent on a daily-selling-rate basis*, the company announced today. American Honda light-truck sales rose 5.6 percent to 55,300 units. American Honda year-to-date sales totaled 480,627 units, up 1.6 percent.
Led by its most fuel-efficient models, Honda Division posted April sales of 111,226 cars and light trucks, up 0.6 percent on a daily-selling-rate basis* against last year's all-time best April. On sale now for one full year, the Fit set a new April record with 3,958 units sold, up 13.1 percent. Recording its fifth consecutive month of record sales, the all-new CR-V sold 17,379 units, up 39.4 percent. The Civic posted a 1.0 percent increase with 29,155 units sold. Honda Division year-to-date sales were up 3.4 percent with 421,773 units sold, on track for another record year.
"Fuel prices are again driving customers toward fuel-efficient vehicles," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda. "The strength of small cars and crossovers like Fit, Civic and CR-V underscores the prevailing consumer sentiment about fuel prices."
Acura Division posted 15,193 sales in April, off 15.0 percent from last April's record month. Strong sales of the redesigned MDX luxury SUV and RDX turbocharged SUV helped set an April sales record of 6,648 for total light-trucks, surpassing the previous record of 5,073 set in 2005.
Consumer information is available at www.honda.com and www.acura.com. * Based on 24 selling days in April 2007 versus 26 selling days in April 2006.
American Honda Vehicle Sales For April 2007
Month-to-Date Year-to-Date
April April DSR** April April DSR**
2007 2006 % Chg. 2007 2006 % Chg.
American Honda
Total 126,419 139,124 -1.6% 480,627 472,968 1.6%
Total Car
Sales 71,119 82,372 -6.5% 265,669 272,175 -2.4%
Total Truck
Sales 55,300 56,752 5.6% 214,958 200,793 7.1%
Honda Total
Car Sales 62,574 67,414 0.6% 232,987 224,399 3.8%
Honda Total
Truck Sales 48,652 52,338 0.7% 188,786 183,546 2.9%
Acura Total
Car Sales 8,545 14,958 -38.1% 32,682 47,776 -31.6%
Acura Total
Truck Sales 6,648 4,414 63.2% 26,172 17,247 51.7%
Domestic Car
Sales * 58,809 63,306 0.6% 211,653 221,263 -4.3%
Honda Division 53,459 55,331 4.7% 192,599 196,484 -2.0%
Acura Division 5,350 7,975 -27.3% 19,054 24,779 -23.1%
Domestic Truck
Sales * 38,901 43,247 -2.6% 151,620 154,937 -2.1%
Honda Division 32,253 38,833 -10.0% 125,448 137,690 -8.9%
Acura Division 6,648 4,414 63.2% 26,172 17,247 51.7%
Import Car Sales 12,310 19,066 -30.1% 54,016 50,912 6.1%
Honda Division 9,115 12,083 -18.3% 40,388 27,915 44.7%
Acura Division 3,195 6,983 -50.4% 13,628 22,997 -40.7%
Import Truck
Sales 16,399 13,505 31.5% 63,338 45,856 38.1%
Honda Division 16,399 13,505 31.5% 63,338 45,856 38.1%
MODEL BREAKOUTS
BY DIVISION
Honda Division
Total 111,226 119,752 0.6% 421,773 407,945 3.4%
Fit 3,958 3,792 13.1% 12,795 3,792 237.4%
Accord * 28,926 31,608 -0.9% 121,516 108,562 11.9%
Memo: Accord
Hybrid 318 614 -43.9% 1,263 2,329 -45.8%
Civic * 29,155 31,259 1.0% 97,295 109,738 -11.3%
Memo: Civic
Hybrid 2,855 3,087 0.2% 9,375 10,264 -8.7%
S2000 533 645 -10.5% 1,378 1,987 -30.6%
Insight 2 110 -98.0% 3 320 -99.1%
FCX 0 0 0 0
Odyssey * 12,241 16,850 -21.3% 49,587 56,054 -11.5%
Pilot * 12,047 12,566 3.9% 46,128 46,432 -0.7%
CR-V * 17,379 13,505 39.4% 64,951 45,856 41.6%
Element * 3,415 4,765 -22.4% 13,541 16,909 -19.9%
Ridgeline 3,570 4,652 -16.9% 14,579 18,295 -20.3%
Acura Division
Total 15,193 19,372 -15.0% 58,854 65,023 -9.5%
RSX 18 2,036 -99.0% 275 6,186 -95.6%
TL * 5,350 7,975 -27.3% 19,054 24,779 -23.1%
TSX 2,519 3,911 -30.2% 11,148 13,144 -15.2%
RL 658 1,031 -30.9% 2,205 3,633 -39.3%
NSX 0 5 0 34
MDX * 4,497 4,414 10.4% 17,765 17,247 3.0%
RDX * 2,151 0 8,407 0
Selling Days 24 26 101 101
* Honda and Acura vehicles are made of domestic and global sourced
parts.
** Daily Selling Rate
Source: American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Nissan North America Announces April Sales
Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today reported sales of 71,124 units in April, down 11.1 percent from the prior year. Nissan Division sales decreased by 14.0 percent over last year. Infiniti Division posted a sales increase of 12.0 percent versus the prior year.
NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS
* April sales for Nissan-brand vehicles of 61,179 units decreased by 14.0
percent on a daily sales rate basis compared with last year's 77,102
units sold.
INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS
* Sales for Infiniti were up 12.0 percent, with 9,945 units sold, as
compared with last April's 9,618 units.
* The all-new G Sedan contributed sales of 4,491 units, up 71.9 percent
over last April.
NNA INFORMATION
* For the month of April, Nissan and Infiniti sales totaled 71,124, an
11.1 percent decrease over April 2006 when compared with last year's
sales of 86,720 units.
In North America, NNA's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. More information on NNA and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.nissannews.com.
NISSAN DIVISION SALES
Monthly CYTD
April April DSR % CYTD CYTD DSR %
2007 2006 Change 2007 2006 Change
Nissan Division Total 61,179 77,102 -14 307,615 311,142 -1.1
Versa 5,013 N/A N/A 21,208 N/A N/A
Sentra 6,502 12,242 -42.5 32,325 43,029 -24.9
Altima 16,309 20,176 -12.4 90,338 80,804 11.8
Maxima 3,504 5,195 -26.9 17,101 21,785 -21.5
350Z 1,838 2,811 -29.2 7,096 9,844 -27.9
Total Car 33,166 40,424 -11.1 168,068 155,462 8.1
Frontier 5,230 7,573 -25.2 22,440 27,397 -18.1
Xterra 3,045 4,945 -33.3 18,653 23,561 -20.8
Pathfinder 4,089 5,702 -22.3 20,240 26,950 -24.9
Murano 6,316 6,879 -0.5 32,733 30,075 8.8
Quest 2,067 2,489 -10 10,525 8,942 17.7
Armada 2,344 2,665 -4.7 11,186 11,053 1.2
Titan 4,922 6,425 -17 23,769 27,702 -14.2
Total Truck 28,013 36,678 -17.3 139,547 155,680 -10.4
North American Produced 53,025 67,412 -14.8 267,786 271,220 -1.3
Car 31,328 37,613 -9.8 160,972 145,618 10.5
Truck 21,697 29,799 -21.1 106,814 125,602 -15
Import 8,154 9,690 -8.8 39,829 39,922 0
Car 1,838 2,811 -29.2 7,096 9,844 -27.9
Truck 6,316 6,879 -0.5 32,733 30,078 8.8

INFINITI DIVISION SALES Monthly CYTD
April April DSR % CYTD CYTD DSR %
2007 2006 Change 2007 2006 Change
Infiniti Division Total 9,945 9,618 12 42,490 38,805 9.5
I35 0 0 N/A N/A 1 N/A
G Sedan 4,491 2,831 71.9 19,814 12,169 62.8
G Coupe 1,183 1,821 -29.6 4,174 6,789 -38.5
M 1,872 2,417 -16.1 8,136 8,938 -9
Q45 2 49 -95.6 18 233 -92.3
QX56 823 801 11.3 3,322 3,878 14.3
FX 1,574 1,699 0.4 7,027 6,795 3.4
Total Car 7,548 7,118 14.9 32,141 28,130 14.3
Total Truck 2,397 2,500 3.9 10,349 10,675 -3.1
COMBINED NISSAN AND
INFINITI SALES Monthly CYTD
April April DSR % CYTD CYTD DSR %
2007 2006 Change 2007 2006 Change
TOTAL VEHICLE 71,124 86,720 -11.1 350,105 349,947 0
Total Car 40,714 47,542 -7.2 200,209 183,592 9.1
Total Truck 30,410 39,178 -15.9 149,896 166,355 -9.9
Selling Days 24 26 101 101
*All numbers include Hawaii.
Source: Nissan North America, Inc.

Hyundai Motor America Reports April 2007 Sales
-- Hyundai Motor America today reported April sales of 39,137. The all-new 2007 Santa Fe showed strong gains over the previous year, posting an 85 percent increase. However, sales were down 4.6 percent from Hyundai's record April sales in 2006.
"The industry continues to be very competitive," said Dave Zuchowski, Hyundai's vice president of national sales. "We are encouraged with the sales increase of our all-new 2007 Santa Fe and our premium sedan Azera and are confident our sales growth will continue across all models, despite the fact overall consumer spending is down for the first quarter of 2007."
All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by the Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty. Hyundai buyers are protected by a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 7-year/unlimited-mile anti-perforation warranty and 5-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance protection.
Following is the sales breakdown for April 2007:
CARLINE APR/2007 APR/2006 CY2007 CY2006
ACCENT 2,918 3,491 11,190 8,256
SONATA 10,434 15,716 40,431 58,587
ELANTRA 8,166 9,121 30,998 34,906
TIBURON 1,154 1,674 4,057 5,337
SANTA FE 6,743 3,639 27,982 14,091
XG350/AZERA 2,812 2,601 8,676 8,861
TUCSON 3,563 4,657 13,257 16,849
ENTOURAGE 2,697 126 5,923 126
VERACRUZ 650 0 828 0
TOTAL 39,137 41,025 143,342 147,013
Source: Hyundai Motor America

Mazda Reports April Sales
-- Mazda North American Operations today reported U.S. sales of 21,060 in April 2007, a drop of 5.9 percent compared to the same period the year prior. Calculated on a daily selling- rate basis however, Mazda's U.S. sales were up 1.9 percent, as there were 24 selling days this month, versus 26 in April 2006. On a year-to-date basis, U.S. sales are up 11.7 percent to 100,134.
Combined U.S., Canada and Mexico sales rose five percent to 32,555 vehicles, compared to the same period a year ago. Mazda Canada had its best- ever sales month in the company's 39-year history with sales of 10,341 vehicles. Mazda Motor de Mexico reported 1,154 sales, more than double the previous year.
"Falling consumer confidence over credit and housing uncertainties made for a challenging month for us and the entire U.S. auto industry, especially compared to last month," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO of Mazda North American Operations. "At Mazda, we feel we have the right products in our showrooms to keep our incentive spending in check and help us make gains in an increasingly volatile and unpredictable market."
Individually, U.S. sales on a carline basis were led by the MAZDA3, with 8,046. Even in its fourth year of production, day's supply at the start of the month was very low (under 40 days) for MAZDA3, and incentive spending throughout the month has been virtually nonexistent. On a year-to-date basis, sales of 39,972 MAZDA3s are up 29.8 percent.
The CX-7 and CX-9 crossover SUVs continue to appeal to customers looking for car-like drivability and economy combined with SUV utility and styling. CX-7 posted sales of 2,740 for the month, bringing its year-to-date total to 12,680. CX-9 posted sales of 1,776 for the month for a total of 5,469 for the first four months of the year.
Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario, Canada, and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.
Mazda North American Operations - April 2007
Month-To-Date Year-To-Date
April April % April April %
2007 2006 Change 2007 2006 Change
Mazda3 8,046 9,059 (11.2)% 39,972 30,791 29.8%
Mazda5 1,214 1,260 (3.7)% 5,764 6,321 (8.8)%
Mazda6 4,189 5,518 (24.1)% 24,361 24,733 (1.5)%
MX-5 Miata 1,663 1,767 (5.9)% 6,036 6,129 (1.5)%
RX-8 474 584 (18.8)% 2,206 3,501 (37.0)%
Protege -- -- N/A -- 1 N/A
CX-7 2,740 -- N/A 12,680 -- N/A
CX-9 1,776 -- N/A 5,469 -- N/A
Tribute 754 2,951 (74.4)% 2,456 11,429 (78.5)%
B-Series Truck 203 352 (42.3)% 1,069 1,634 (34.6)%
MPV 1 894 (99.9)% 121 5,117 (97.6)%
Total Vehicles
CARS 15,586 18,188 (14.3)% 78,339 71,476 9.6%
TRUCKS 5,474 4,197 30.4% 21,795 18,180 19.9%
TOTAL 21,060 22,385 (5.9)% 100,134 89,656 11.7%

MEMO:
IMPORT CAR 11,397 12,670 (10.0)% 53,978 46,743 15.5%
IMPORT TRUCK 4,517 894 405.3% 18,270 5,117 257.0%
IMPORT TOTAL 15,914 13,564 17.3% 72,248 51,860 39.3%
DOMESTIC CAR 4,189 5,518 (24.1)% 24,361 24,733 (1.5)%
DOMESTIC TRUCK 957 3,303 (71.0)% 3,525 13,063 (73.0)%
DOMESTIC TOTALS 5,146 8,821 (41.7)% 27,886 37,796 (26.2)%
Note: MPV & Protege is a discontinued vehicles.
Source: Mazda North American Operations

Toyota Reports April Sales
-- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported April sales of 210,457 vehicles, an increase of 3.7 percent over April 2006.
"Despite rising gas prices, Tundra posted best-ever April sales as the market's appetite for light trucks picked up this month," said Jim Lentz, TMS executive vice president.
The Toyota Division posted April sales of 184,462, up 2.3 percent. The Lexus Division reported April sales of 25,995 units, an increase of 14.1 percent.
Toyota Division
Toyota Division passenger cars recorded April sales of 104,239, a decrease of 1.5 percent over the same period last year. Passenger car sales were led by Camry, which posted April sales of 37,911, up 2.2 percent over the same period last year. Camry Hybrid reported sales of 4,410 units in April. The Prius hybrid gas-electric mid-size sedan posted best-ever April sales of 13,056, an increase of 71.8 percent. The Yaris subcompact posted best-ever April sales totaling 7,232, an increase of 22.6 percent. Corolla reported April sales of 32,289 units.
Toyota Division light truck sales were up 7.8 percent, with an April total of 80,223 units. Light truck sales were led by the RAV4 compact sport utility vehicle (SUV), which reported April sales of 14,495, up 13.3 percent over the same period last year. The all-new Tundra full-size pickup reported best-ever April sales of 14,200, an increase of 74.1 percent over the year-ago month. Highlander and Highlander Hybrid posted combined April sales of 10,122, up 2.4 percent over the same period last year. The Highlander Hybrid gas-electric mid-size SUV reported sales of 2,394 units for the month. FJ Cruiser reported April sales of 4,587 units.
Scion posted April sales of 7,960 units. The tC sports coupe led the way with April sales of 5,333 units. Scion xA posted sales of 1,454 units for the month.
Lexus Division
Lexus passenger cars reported best-ever April sales of 16,317 units, an increase of 32.9 percent over April 2006. Passenger car sales were led by the ES 350 luxury sedan with best-ever April sales of 6,544 units, up 54 percent. The all-new LS 460 and LS 460 L reported combined sales of 3,182, an increase of 221.9 percent.
Lexus Division light trucks reported April sales totaling 9,678 units. The RX 350 and RX 400h enjoyed combined April sales of 7,861 units. The RX 400h hybrid luxury utility vehicle reported sales of 1,384 units for the month.
TMS calendar-year-to-date hybrid sales totaled 83,053 units, an increase of 66 percent over the same period last year. In April, TMS posted sales of 21,418 hybrid vehicles, up 61 percent over last April. Toyota Division posted sales of 19,860 hybrids, up 79 percent over the same period last year. Lexus Division posted sales of 1,558 hybrids.
There were 24 selling days this month, as compared to 26 selling days last April.
Public Web sites: http://www.toyota.com/
http://www.lexus.com/
http://www.scion.com/

TOYOTA RETAIL SALES
(INCLUDES FLEET & HAWAII)
April, 2007
----- CURRENT MONTH --- -- CALENDAR YEAR TO DATE --
DSR% DSR%
2007 2006 CHG 2007 2006 CHG
YARIS 7,232 6,393 22.6 26,418 7,732 241.7
COROLLA 32,289 36,155 -3.3 120,484 118,442 1.7
CAMRY 37,911 40,203 2.2 143,774 133,978 7.3
AVALON 5,791 8,239 -23.9 25,426 30,782 -17.4
PRIUS 13,056 8,234 71.8 52,738 30,357 73.7
SCION xA 1,454 3,331 -52.7 6,799 10,494 -35.2
SCION xB 1,173 5,678 -77.6 9,673 18,648 -48.1
SCION tC 5,333 6,435 -10.2 20,426 22,658 -9.9
TOTAL TOYOTA
DIV. PASS. CAR 104,239 114,670 -1.5 405,740 373,113 8.7
ES 350 6,544 4,603 54.0 24,594 15,390 59.8
LS 460 3,182 1,071 221.9 11,745 4,617 154.4
SC 430 341 579 -36.2 1,295 1,963 -34.0
GS 350 1,701 1,963 -6.1 6,365 7,638 -16.7
GS 430/450h 186 373 -46.0 739 1,208 -38.8
IS 250/350 4,363 4,715 0.2 16,772 17,880 -6.2
TOTAL LEXUS
PASS. CAR 16,317 13,304 32.9 61,510 48,696 26.3
TOTAL TOYOTA
PASS. CAR 120,556 127,974 2.1 467,250 421,809 10.8
SIENNA 12,773 13,912 -0.5 47,732 54,302 -12.1
RAV4 14,495 13,854 13.3 55,900 47,798 17.0
FJ CRUISER 4,587 5,649 -12.0 20,632 8,433 144.7
4RUNNER 7,093 9,406 -18.3 31,030 37,331 -16.9
HIGHLANDER 10,122 10,712 2.4 41,505 40,115 3.5
LAND CRUISER 191 255 -18.9 873 1,140 -23.4
SEQUOIA 1,991 2,771 -22.2 8,929 11,839 -24.6
TOTAL SUV 38,479 42,647 -2.3 158,869 146,656 8.3
4X2 TACOMA 8,813 9,109 4.8 35,840 33,808 6.0
4X4 TACOMA 5,958 6,111 5.6 25,259 23,219 8.8
TOTAL TACOMA 14,771 15,220 5.1 61,099 57,027 7.1
TUNDRA 14,200 8,837 74.1 43,386 40,662 6.7
TOTAL PICKUP 28,971 24,057 30.5 104,485 97,689 7.0
TOTAL TOYOTA
DIV. LT TRUCK 80,223 80,616 7.8 311,086 298,647 4.2
LX 470 240 507 -48.7 1,066 1,992 -46.5
GX 470 1,577 1,978 -13.6 6,816 8,071 -15.5
RX 350/400h 7,861 8,890 -4.2 30,094 34,297 -12.3
TOTAL LEXUS
LIGHT TRUCK 9,678 11,375 -7.8 37,976 44,360 -14.4
TOTAL TOYOTA
LIGHT TRUCK 89,901 91,991 5.9 349,062 343,007 1.8
TOTAL TOYOTA DIV. 184,462 195,286 2.3 716,826 671,760 6.7
TOTAL LEXUS 25,995 24,679 14.1 99,486 93,056 6.9
TOTAL TOYOTA 210,457 219,965 3.7 816,312 764,816 6.7
MEMO:
DOM. COROLLA 28,352 30,769 -0.2 106,896 104,819 2.0
DOM. CAMRY 33,538 34,299 5.9 115,792 117,476 -1.4
DOM. PICKUP 28,971 24,057 30.5 104,485 97,689 7.0
DOM. RX 350 6,044 5,361 22.1 21,273 20,669 2.9
SELLING DAYS 24 26 101 101
TOYOTA DIV.
IMPORT CAR 36,558 41,363 -4.3 157,626 120,036 31.3
LEXUS IMPORT CAR 16,317 13,304 32.9 61,510 48,696 26.3
TOYOTA DIV NA
BUILT CARS 67,681 73,307 0.0 248,114 253,077 -2.0
TOTAL TOYOTA CARS 120,556 127,974 2.1 467,250 421,809 10.8
TOYOTA DIV.
IMPORT LT TRUCK 36,488 39,876 -0.9 149,940 134,817 11.2
LEXUS IMPORT
LT TRUCK 3,634 6,014 -34.5 16,703 23,691 -29.5
TOYOTA DIV NA
BUILT LT TRUCK 43,735 40,740 16.3 161,146 163,830 -1.6
LEXUS NA BUILT
LT TRUCK 6,044 5,361 22.1 21,273 20,669 2.9
TOTAL TOYOTA
LT TRUCK 89,901 91,991 5.9 349,062 343,007 1.8
SPORT UTILITY
VEHICLES 43,570 48,373 -2.4 176,213 182,583 -3.5
Memo: Lexus
Sport Utility 9,678 11,375 -7.8 37,976 44,360 -14.4
SMALL VANS 12,773 13,912 -0.5 47,732 54,302 -12.1
PICKUPS 28,971 24,057 30.5 104,485 97,689 7.0
* NORTH AMERICAN
BUILT VEHICLES
COROLLA 28,352 30,769 -0.2 106,896 104,819 2.0
CAMRY 33,538 34,299 5.9 115,792 117,476 -1.4
AVALON 5,791 8,239 -23.9 25,426 30,782 -17.4
SIENNA 12,773 13,912 -0.5 47,732 54,302 -12.1
PICKUP 28,971 24,057 30.5 104,485 97,689 7.0
SEQUOIA 1,991 2,771 -22.2 8,929 11,839 -24.6
RX 350 6,044 5,361 22.1 21,273 20,669 2.9
TOTAL 117,460 119,408 6.6 430,533 437,576 -1.6
N.A. VEHICLES
% OF TOTAL 55.8% 54.3% 52.7% 57.2%
SELLING DAYS 24 26 101 101
DSR = DAILY SELLING
RATE
Source: Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc.

DaimlerChrysler AG Reports One Percent Increase in U.S. Sales for Passenger Vehicles for April 2007
-- Chrysler Group Reports Sales of 193,104 Vehicles, a 2 Percent Increase for April 2007
-- Mercedes-Benz USA Reports Sales of 20,895 Vehicles, Delivering Best-Ever Year-to-Date Sales of 76,880
DaimlerChrysler AG (NYSE:DCX) , the third largest U.S. auto maker, today reported total group sales of 213,999 passenger vehicles in the U.S. for April 2007, a 1 percent increase compared to April 2006. All sales figures in this release are on an unadjusted basis unless otherwise noted.
Chrysler Group, consisting of the Chrysler, Jeep(R) and Dodge brands, posted sales of 193,104 vehicles in the U.S., an increase of 2 percent. Total Jeep brand sales increased 29 percent in April on the strength of the Jeep Wrangler and new brand models including the Jeep Patriot. In addition, Chrysler and Dodge minivan sales rose 10 percent in April based on momentum from "National Minivan Month". Following its most aggressive product launch in company history of 10 all-new vehicles in 2006, Chrysler Group continues its product offensive with the launch of eight all-new vehicles in 2007.
MBUSA recorded its second highest April on record with sales of 20,895 units, a decrease of 1.8 percent over the 21,270 vehicles sold in April 2006. April sales bring Mercedes year-to-date sales to 76,880, a 6 percent increase over sales over the same period in 2006, demonstrating the best year- to-date for Mercedes-Benz.
Detailed vehicle sales information for MBUSA and Chrysler Group will be announced later today in separate press releases issued by the groups. April 2007 had 24 selling days and April 2006 had 26 selling days.
DaimlerChrysler AG U.S. Sales Summary Through April 2007
Month Sales % Sales CYTD %
Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Curr Yr Pr Yr Change
CHRYSLER GROUP 193,104 190,095 2% 730,353 752,339 -3%
MERCEDES-BENZ
USA 20,895 21,270 -2% 76,880 72,512 6%
DAIMLERCHRYSLER 213,999 211,365 1% 807,233 824,851 -2%
Selling Days 24 26 101 101

Source: DaimlerChrysler AG
Chrysler Group's April 2007 U.S. Sales Rise 2 Percent
-- Jeep(R) brand up 29 percent led by Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Patriot
-- Chrysler and Dodge Minivans up 10 percent with momentum from "National Minivan Month" in April
-- Five-Star crash-rated Dodge Ram pick up rises 2 percent in competitive segment
-- Chrysler Sebring Sedan rises 56 percent
-- Inventory down by 18 percent and more than 100,000 units
Chrysler Group reported sales for April 2007 of 193,104 units; up 2 percent compared to April 2006 with 190,095. All sales figures are reported unadjusted.
"Chrysler Group increased sales in April based on a solid retail performance - despite two less selling days than in the previous year and a challenging market environment," said Steven Landry, Executive Vice President - NAFTA Sales, Global Marketing, Service and Parts. "Driven by the continuously strong Jeep Wrangler and the new Jeep Patriot, sales for the Jeep brand were up significantly by 29 percent."
Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited posted sales of 10,776 units, up 75 percent compared to April 2006 with 6,154 units. The Jeep Patriot continued to gain momentum and finished April with sales of 2,904 units, up 38 percent from March 2007. The vehicle is one of Chrysler Group's recently introduced fuel- efficient offerings that achieve 30 miles per gallon or better in highway driving.
Driven by Chrysler Group's "National Minivan Month" in April, sales of the Chrysler Town & Country increased 24 percent compared to the previous year and posted sales of 15,701 units. Dodge Caravan and Grand Caravan finished the month with an increase of 2 percent compared to April 2006 and sales of 23,095 units.
The Dodge Ram pick up truck increased year-over-year sales by 2 percent with sales of 31,503 units in a highly competitive segment and on the heels of an already successful first quarter.
The Chrysler Sebring Sedan posted sales of 6,111 units in April, up 56 percent compared to the previous year. The all-new Chrysler Sebring Convertible started with more than 1,400 units into its first month of availability. The redesigned Sebring Convertible offers what no other convertible has offered before - three automatically latching convertible top options: vinyl, cloth and a body-color painted steel retractable hard top, all of which can be retracted with a push of a button on the key fob.
With the continued pressure on gas prices Chrysler Group's incentives in May will focus on the company's full line of cars and small and compact SUVs with the launch of the 'Maximize Your Miles' program. The program will communicate the vehicle's fuel economy message across all three Chrysler Group brands. A key part of it will be low rate finance and additional bonus cash which will give customers a great package.
Chrysler Group finished the month with 482,786 units of inventory, or a 60-day supply. Inventory is down by 18 percent compared to April 2006 when it was at 586,263 units.
DaimlerChrysler Corporation U.S. Sales Summary Thru April 2007
Month Sales DR % Vol %
Model Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Change
Sebring 7,558 7,268 13% 4%
300 9,136 12,804 -23% -29%
Crossfire 746 2,709 -70% -72%
PT Cruiser 7,753 10,878 -23% -29%
Aspen 1,964 0 0% 0%
Pacifica 8,583 5,691 63% 51%
Town & Country 15,701 12,629 35% 24%
CHRYSLER BRAND 51,441 51,979 7% -1%
Compass 3,239 0 0% 0%
Patriot 2,904 0 0% 0%
Wrangler 10,776 6,154 90% 75%
Liberty 9,543 9,924 4% -4%
Grand Cherokee 9,536 10,506 -2% -9%
Commander 5,202 5,301 6% -2%
JEEP BRAND 41,200 31,885 40% 29%
Neon 0 2,558 -100% -100%
Caliber 9,306 11,236 -10% -17%
Stratus 227 10,932 -98% -98%
Avenger 8,214 0 0% 0%
Charger 10,057 9,662 13% 4%
Viper 47 141 -64% -67%
Magnum 2,389 3,812 -32% -37%
Dakota 4,106 7,620 -42% -46%
Ram P/U 31,503 30,814 11% 2%
Caravan 23,095 22,567 11% 2%
Durango 4,674 5,243 -3% -11%
Nitro 5,637 0 0% 0%
Sprinter 1,208 1,646 -20% -27%
DODGE BRAND 100,463 106,231 2% -5%
TOTAL CHRYSLER GROUP 193,104 190,095 10% 2%
TOTAL CG CAR 46,665 58,411 -13% -20%
TOTAL CG TRUCK 146,439 131,684 20% 11%
Selling Days 24 26

Sales CYTD DR % Vol %
Model Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Change
Sebring 28,493 34,372 -17% -17%
300 39,512 52,136 -24% -24%
Crossfire 3,027 4,103 -26% -26%
PT Cruiser 33,086 43,404 -24% -24%
Aspen 9,208 0 0% 0%
Pacifica 25,015 29,235 -14% -14%
Town & Country 52,572 51,617 2% 2%
CHRYSLER BRAND 190,913 214,867 -11% -11%
Compass 15,077 0 0% 0%
Patriot 5,832 0 0% 0%
Wrangler 42,367 23,837 78% 78%
Liberty 33,906 45,348 -25% -25%
Grand Cherokee 40,392 51,073 -21% -21%
Commander 22,098 24,578 -10% -10%
JEEP BRAND 159,672 144,836 10% 10%
Neon 0 13,980 -100% -100%
Caliber 36,512 19,174 90% 90%
Stratus 1,169 41,598 -97% -97%
Avenger 23,729 0 0% 0%
Charger 40,980 38,570 6% 6%
Viper 200 510 -61% -61%
Magnum 10,814 17,169 -37% -37%
Dakota 19,505 26,628 -27% -27%
Ram P/U 122,816 121,200 1% 1%
Caravan 75,984 81,191 -6% -6%
Durango 19,264 26,152 -26% -26%
Nitro 25,334 0 0% 0%
Sprinter 3,461 6,464 -46% -46%
DODGE BRAND 379,768 392,636 -3% -3%
TOTAL CHRYSLER GROUP 730,353 752,339 -3% -3%
TOTAL CG CAR 177,751 208,820 -15% -15%
TOTAL CG TRUCK 552,602 543,519 2% 2%
Selling Days 101 101
Source: Chrysler Group

Mitsubishi Reports 11 Percent Sales Increase in April
-- Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) today reported April sales of 12,047 units, up 11.1% from last April's total of 10,841.*
Year-to-date, Mitsubishi sales are up 19.6%, compared to the January-April period in 2006.
"We are particularly pleased that sales of our all-new fuel-efficient 2008 Lancer are off to a tremendous start," said MMNA CEO Hiroshi Harunari. "At the same time our all-new Outlander crossover SUV continues to sell very well."
Lancer sales for the month were 3,860, up 263.5% compared to April 2006. This was the largest sales month for Lancer in nearly three years (May 2004).
Other April sales highlights:
- Outlander closed at 2,047 units up 152.4% from last year's volume.
- Endeavor sales were 1,375, up 3.4% from April 2006.
- For six consecutive months -- and nine of the last ten months --
Mitsubishi sales have increased compared to the same month of the prior
year.
* -- the DSR increase for April was 20.4%, with 24 selling days in 2007,
and 26 selling days in 2006.
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all manufacturing, finance, sales, marketing, research and development operations of the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation in the United States. Mitsubishi Motors sells coupes, convertibles, sedans, sport utility vehicles, and light trucks through a network of approximately 520 dealers. Source: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.

Audi Announces Record April Sales
Sixth Consecutive Record Sales Month
-- Audi of America, Inc. today announced April sales totaled 8,106, an increase of 9.4% compared to last year's numbers, and a record for the month of April. For the year, Audi sales are up 15.2% over last year's sales volume.
April 2007 marked the sixth consecutive month when Audi dealers posted a monthly all-time record.
The all-new 2008 TT Coupe and Roadster models started arriving at dealerships at the end of April, and fill a gap Audi had not occupied during the 2007 model year. The A4 Cabriolet model line had the largest increase for the month at 22.7%.
"Yearly sales are on track for another record year," stated Johan de Nysschen, Executive Vice President for Audi of America, Inc. "We have the all-new TT models now arriving in showrooms, and the Audi Q7 continues to be a strong performer. And new offerings arrive later this year, including the R8 mid-engine sports car and the S5 Coupe."
Significant gains were recorded by dealers in Texas (+67.0%), Michigan (+28.0%), and New Jersey (+25.7). Key metro regions also saw big gains, including Atlanta (+41.1%) and New York (+27.1%).
Audi Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) sales are also up 6.8% for the year with 8,254 vehicles delivered.
Audi's history in America dates to 1969, when the brand was first introduced to the U.S. market. Today, a network of over 260 Audi dealers currently offers a line of premium vehicles that include the Audi A3 compact; the sporty A4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the high performance S4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the high-revving RS 4 sports sedan; the design-leading A6 sedan and Avant; the all-new Audi Q7 performance SUV; the all-aluminum Audi A8; the new V10-powered S6 and S8 performance sedans; and the all-new 2008 TT Coupe and Roadster models.
AUDI OF AMERICA, INC
APRIL 2007 SALES

AUDI US SNAPSHOT ------YEAR TO DATE-------
Apr-07 Apr-06 Yr/Yr % Apr-07 Apr-06 Yr/Yr %
Actual Actual change YTD YTD change
actual actual
A3 662 746 -11.3 % 2,150 3,093 -30.5 %
TT 388 142 173.2 % 684 355 92.7 %
A4/S4/RS 4 2,852 3,623 -21.3 % 10,934 11,443 -4.4 %
A4/S4 Cabriolet 1,054 859 22.7 % 2,994 2,499 19.8 %
A6/S6 898 1,555 -42.3 % 3,730 6,042 -38.3 %
A8/S8 355 487 -27.1 % 1,287 1,864 -31.0 %
Q7 1,897 - - 7,355 - -
Total 8,106 7,412 9.4 % 29,134 25,296 15.2 %
Source: Audi of America, Inc.

Volvo Cars North America Sales Report for April
Volvo Cars of North America, LLC, reports sales in the United States of 8,139 units for April, representing a 16.5 percent decrease compared to the same period last year.
Overall, Volvo sales for North America (United States, including Puerto Rico, Canada and Mexico) were 9,324 units, which is 14.1 percent down compared to the beginning of 2006. Volvo Canada sales were up slightly by 1.4 percent, with 995 units sold, while Volvo sales in Mexico were ahead of last year by 48.4 percent, selling 190 units.
Volvo Cars of North America, LLC (VCNA), based in Irvine, Calif., is a subsidiary of Volvo Car Corporation of Goteborg, Sweden. VCNA provides marketing, sales, parts, service, technology and training support to Volvo automobile retailers in the United States, and oversees Volvo operations in Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.
Volvo has been building cars with safety in mind for 80 years. The current 2007 model lineup of Volvo cars includes: the award-winning new S40 and its wagon counterpart the V50; the award-winning XC90; the sporty S60 sedan -- including the award-winning performance sedan -- S60 R and the performance wagon version -- V70 R; the versatile V70 wagon and rugged XC70 (Cross Country); the new Volvo C70 -- the convertible with the innovative retractable hardtop, and the all-new Volvo S80.
* U.S. sales include Puerto Rico

VOLVO CARS OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC
Retail Sales by Model 01-May-07
UNITED STATES
April* Year-to-Date*
2007 2006 % 2007 2006 %
Volvo Model
S40 1,738 2,109 -17.6% 7,431 8,290 -10.4%
V50 255 311 -18.0% 977 1,389 -29.7%
S60 1,504 1,892 -20.5% 5,882 8,170 -28.0%
V70 250 464 -46.1% 1,099 1,760 -37.6%
XC70 756 1,034 -26.9% 3,834 4,284 -10.5%
C70 477 435 9.7% 1,488 520 186.2%
S80 990 922 7.4% 4,093 2,637 55.2%
XC90 2,169 2,582 -16.0% 10,288 11,150 -7.7%
USA TOTAL 8,139 9,749 -16.5% 35,092 38,200 -8.1%

CANADA
April Year-to-Date
2007 2006 % 2007 2006 %
Volvo Model
C30 102 n/a n/a 230 n/a n/a
S40 118 125 -5.6% 302 451 -33.0%
V50 82 63 30.2% 208 265 -21.5%
S60 208 237 -12.2% 689 797 -13.6%
V70 54 114 -52.6% 145 328 -55.8%
XC70 109 125 -12.8% 413 567 -27.2%
C70 67 0 n/a 165 0 n/a
S80 57 36 58.3% 196 139 41.0%
XC90 198 281 -29.5% 749 992 -24.5%
CANADA TOTAL 995 981 1.4% 3,097 3,539 -12.5%

MEXICO
April Year-to-Date
2007 2006 % 2007 2006 %
Volvo Model
C30 0 n/a n/a 20 n/a n/a
S40 76 60 26.7% 428 360 18.9%
V50 0 3 -100.0% 7 8 -12.5%
S60 14 13 7.7% 87 93 -6.5%
V70 0 0 n/a 0 0 n/a
XC70 0 0 n/a 2 4 -50.0%
C70 12 0 n/a 37 0 n/a
S80 17 1 1600.0% 77 11 600.0%
XC90 71 51 39.2% 285 261 9.2%
MEXICO TOTAL 190 128 48.4% 943 737 28.0%

NAFTA TOTAL 9,324 10,858 -14.1% 39,132 42,476 -7.9%

* U.S. totals include Puerto Rico
Source: Volvo Cars of North America, LLC

Ford Motor Company's U.S. sales in April were 228,623, down 13 percent from a year ago. -- New crossovers help Ford increase its share in the industry's fastest- growing category. -- Sales of the Ford Edge crossover were 9,134, and Lincoln MKX sales were 2,901. -- Land Rover sales rose 13 percent, as all-new LR2 debuts.
Ford Motor Company's (NYSE:F) April U.S. sales totaled 228,623, down 13 percent compared with a year ago.
"With April behind us, we remain focused on getting the word out about the strength of our new products, and our marketing offensive is moving into high gear," said Mark Fields, Ford's President of The Americas. "Customers are responding very positively to our new 'Ford Challenge' ads that pit Ford vehicles against the best of the competition, so we're accelerating our plans."
Today, Ford begins airing two new F-Series truck ads starring Mike Rowe, creator and star of the Discovery Channel's hit show "Dirty Jobs." The ads demonstrate the clear advantages of Ford Tough trucks in safety, strength and capability.
Ford's internal data show that the Ford Challenge campaign has generated a strong response in product favorability, purchase consideration and sales. Following the start of the successful "Fusion Challenge" ads in January, the Ford Fusion posted double-digit sales increases throughout the first quarter. Strong Crossover Growth Continues
Although April sales for most products were lower than a year ago, new crossover utilities helped Ford increase its share of the industry's fastest growing category. Ford Edge sales were 9,134, and Lincoln MKX sales were 2,901. In addition, Land Rover introduced its first crossover utility, the LR2, and first month sales were 1,302. Total Ford Motor Company crossover sales were 28 percent higher than a year ago during April.
"The success of our newest products - Ford Fusion, Edge, Lincoln MKX, Ford Super Duty and Ford Expedition - gives us encouragement that we're creating the products our customers really want, and we're beginning to stabilize our retail market share," Fields said.
"Three years ago, 70 percent of new Ford Motor Company vehicles sold in the U.S. were trucks and traditional SUVs. Today, the balance is nearly 50 percent cars and crossovers, and 50 percent trucks and SUVs," Fields explained. "We will continue to introduce new crossovers and even more small cars in the U.S., as they represent the consumer growth segments going forward."
FORD MOTOR COMPANY APRIL 2007 U.S. SALES
April Month % April CYTD %
2007 2006 Change 2007 2006 Change
Sales By Brand
Ford 185,553 215,824 -14.0 708,141 831,724 -14.9
Mercury 17,481 20,368 -14.2 61,354 68,014 -9.8
Lincoln 11,832 11,067 6.9 46,959 43,571 7.8
Jaguar 1,424 1,991 -28.5 5,672 7,115 -20.3
Volvo 8,122 9,736 -16.6 35,044 38,101 -8.0
Land Rover 4,211 3,736 12.7 14,413 15,035 -4.1
Total Ford Motor
Company 228,623 262,722 -13.0 871,583 1,003,560 -13.2
Memo: Cars and Trucks
Cars 80,732 105,655 -23.6 297,009 384,078 -22.7
Trucks 147,891 157,067 -5.8 574,574 619,482 -7.2
Total Ford Motor
Company 228,623 262,722 -13.0 871,583 1,003,560 -13.2

FORD BRAND APRIL 2007 U.S. SALES
April Month % April CYTD %
2007 2006 Change 2007 2006 Change
Crown Victoria 7,389 6,640 11.3 23,922 23,185 3.2
Five Hundred 6,657 7,846 -15.2 23,391 30,808 -24.1
Taurus 0 14,668 -100.0 0 66,501 -100.0
Fusion 12,303 12,613 -2.5 51,981 42,458 22.4
Focus 16,626 17,917 -7.2 56,463 60,168 -6.2
Mustang 12,509 15,868 -21.2 47,082 56,560 -16.8
Thunderbird 0 0 NA 0 469 -100.0
GT 0 180 -100.0 231 735 -68.6
Total Ford Cars 55,484 75,732 -26.7 203,070 280,884 -27.7
Escape 14,788 16,011 -7.6 54,105 58,279 -7.2
Edge 9,134 0 NA 33,612 0 NA
Freestyle 4,893 6,491 -24.6 14,686 23,333 -37.1
Explorer 11,956 13,772 -13.2 46,679 60,488 -22.8
Expedition 8,008 6,305 27.0 32,157 27,133 18.5
Excursion 0 0 NA 0 965 -100.0
Freestar 150 5,149 -97.1 2,176 20,681 -89.5
Econoline/Club Wagon 15,740 16,886 -6.8 62,246 58,042 7.2
Ranger 7,499 9,070 -17.3 25,990 31,448 -17.4
F-Series 56,692 64,749 -12.4 228,343 264,550 -13.7
Low Cab Forward 205 318 -35.5 4,209 1,193 252.8
Heavy Trucks 1,004 1,341 -25.1 868 4,728 -81.6
Total Ford Trucks 130,069 140,092 -7.2 505,071 550,840 -8.3
Total Ford Brand 185,553 215,824 -14.0 708,141 831,724 -14.9

LINCOLN AND MERCURY BRAND APRIL 2007 U.S. SALES
April Month % April CYTD %
2007 2006 Change 2007 2006 Change
Grand Marquis 6,514 7,204 -9.6 20,956 23,693 -11.6
Montego 2,295 2,760 -16.8 6,585 8,867 -25.7
Milan 3,365 3,557 -5.4 13,601 11,187 21.6
Total Mercury Cars 12,174 13,521 -10.0 41,142 43,747 -6.0
Town Car 3,712 3,693 0.5 15,357 13,902 10.5
LS 0 1,218 -100.0 0 4,583 -100.0
MKZ 2,740 3,378 -18.9 10,838 11,162 -2.9
Total Lincoln Cars 6,452 8,289 -22.2 26,195 29,647 -11.6
Total Mercury
and Lincoln Cars 18,626 21,810 -14.6 67,337 73,394 -8.3
Mariner 3,065 4,330 -29.2 11,495 14,327 -19.8
Mountaineer 2,135 2,218 -3.7 8,133 8,557 -5.0
Monterey 107 299 -64.2 584 1,383 -57.8
Total Mercury Trucks 5,307 6,847 -22.5 20,212 24,267 -16.7
MKX 2,901 0 NA 9,964 0 NA
Navigator 1,801 1,600 12.6 7,894 7,594 4.0
Aviator 0 157 -100.0 0 1,711 -100.0
Mark LT 678 1,021 -33.6 2,906 4,619 -37.1
Total Lincoln Trucks 5,380 2,778 93.7 20,764 13,924 49.1
Total Mercury
and Lincoln Trucks 10,687 9,625 11.0 40,976 38,191 7.3
Total Mercury
and Lincoln Vehicles 29,313 31,435 -6.8 108,313 111,585 -2.9
Total Lincoln Brand 11,832 11,067 6.9 46,959 43,571 7.8
Total Mercury Brand 17,481 20,368 -14.2 61,354 68,014 -9.8

JAGUAR BRAND APRIL 2007 U.S. SALES
April Month % April CYTD %
2007 2006 Change 2007 2006 Change
XJ 452 465 -2.8 1,584 1,845 -14.1
S-TYPE 283 575 -50.8 1,348 2,424 -44.4
X-TYPE 252 407 -38.1 1,052 1,836 -42.7
XK 437 544 -19.7 1,688 1,010 67.1
Total Jaguar 1,424 1,991 -28.5 5,672 7,115 -20.3

VOLVO BRAND APRIL 2007 U.S. SALES
April Month % April CYTD %
2007 2006 Change 2007 2006 Change
S40 1,725 2,100 -17.9 7,398 8,229 -10.1
V50 255 310 -17.7 977 1,382 -29.3
S60 1,502 1,891 -20.6 5,879 8,160 -28.0
V70 250 464 -46.1 1,099 1,760 -37.6
XC70 756 1,034 -26.9 3,833 4,281 -10.5
C70 476 435 9.4 1,484 520 185.4
S80 990 922 7.4 4,093 2,634 55.4
XC90 2,168 2,580 -16.0 10,281 11,135 -7.7
Total Volvo 8,122 9,736 -16.6 35,044 38,101 -8.0

LAND ROVER BRAND APRIL 2007 U.S. SALES
April Month % April CYTD %
2007 2006 Change 2007 2006 Change
Range Rover 854 929 -8.1 3,763 3,691 2.0
Range Rover Sport 1,247 1,548 -19.4 5,048 5,877 -14.1
LR3 808 1,254 -35.6 4,299 5,443 -21.0
LR2 1,302 0 NA 1,302 0 NA
Discovery 0 0 NA 0 1 NA
Freelander 0 5 -100.0 1 23 -95.7
Total Land Rover 4,211 3,736 12.7 14,413 15,035 -4.1
Source: Ford Motor Company

April 24

Being Penny-Wise Results in Tire Safety and Gas Savings
AAA-Approved Auto Repair Shops Offer Free 38-pt. Maintenance Inspection With Paid Service Throughout Tire Safety Week, April 23-27
-- Motorists can maximize their fuel economy by making sure their tires are properly inflated, according to the Automobile Club of Southern California. National Tire Safety Week, April 23-27, was launched to help drivers understand the economic and safety benefits of basic tire care. Research shows that about 85% of drivers don't properly check tire pressure.
"Keeping tires inflated, moving components lubricated and ignition and emission systems operating properly will help ensure maximum fuel efficiency and the life of your vehicle," said Dave Skaien, the Auto Club's Approved Auto Repair Program Development Manager. "Under-inflated tires also reduce gas mileage. Correct tire inflation also is important for safe driving. A penny in your pocket can help check the health of your tires by allowing you to do a simple tread depth inspection."
Motorists can use a tread depth gauge or a coin to determine if tires are worn out. Place a U.S. penny, Lincoln's head first, into several tread grooves. If part of Lincoln's head is covered by tread, then more than 2/32" tread depth remains. (Don't place the coin on top of the wear bar, a thick elevated strip of rubber running across the base of tire grooves.) California and many other states have minimum tread depth laws. Passenger cars shouldn't operate on tires below 2/32" tread depth. If you need to purchase new tires, be sure replacements meet manufacturers speed/load specifications for your vehicle.
"Worn out tires are unsafe," said Skaien. "Every other fill-up, motorists should walk around their vehicle and visually check tires for uneven or excessive tread wear and proper inflation. They can refer to the vehicle's doorjamb or glove box for original specifications or the manufacturer of the replacement tire for tire pressure inflation," he added.
Any Auto Club member whose vehicle is being serviced this week at any AAA-Approved Auto Repair facility may request a free 38-pt. maintenance inspection that includes a tire inspection and tire pressure check with their paid service. Repair locations can be found at www.AAA.com and in Auto Club offices or by calling (800) 713-0003.

Key Code" Bill Would Help Stranded Motorists
-- Motorists would get 24-hour, 7-days-a-week access to information needed to replace high-tech, electronic vehicle keys when they have been stolen, damaged, or lost under a bill supported by AAA Hawaii.
Senate Bill 1011 has been approved by the Senate and House of Representatives and is being considered by a joint conference committee to make any final bill changes. The bill requires setting up a safe, secure and convenient option for consumers to obtain replacement keys through pre-approved and registered locksmiths. The registered locksmiths will be able to securely obtain electronic code information to reproduce many of today's high-tech vehicle keys.
"Vehicles today come equipped with high-tech, electronic keys designed to prevent auto theft," said Richard Velazquez, AAA Hawaii's regional manager. "However, motorists who have their keys stolen, damaged, or lost often face long delays, inconvenience, added risk, and significantly more expense in replacing keys because locksmiths and other car repair facilities cannot obtain the coded information from car manufacturers needed to reproduce electronic keys."
Thousands of Hawaii motorists are stranded each year without a functioning vehicle key because consumers don't have the information needed to replicate the keys -- information that could easily and safely be provided in a secure manner that would allow pre-approved and registered locksmiths to quickly and more affordably make a new key.
Many Hawaii motorists and visitors now endure long waits, great expenses and risk their personal safety while locksmiths tear apart steering columns or car doors to obtain needed key information. Other times, vehicles must be towed to car dealers and drivers forced to wait hours, days or even longer to get a replacement key and get back on the road again.
"AAA Hawaii believes that when a motorist buys a vehicle, he or she also buys everything needed to operate it, including all the information necessary to make a replacement key," Velazquez said. "An auto manufacturer should be able to provide vehicle owners with a secure and contemporary way to obtain this information when and where owners need a replacement key."
In addition to AAA Hawaii, supporters of SB 1011 include consumer groups, insurers, the visitor industry and motorists -- who sent their elected officials more than 1,200 letters asking the Legislature and Governor to approve the bill.
"Greater vehicle security is an asset for consumers, but security improvement should not come at the expense of placing motorists in an unsafe situation or forcing them to wait hours or days or pay unnecessarily high prices to obtain replacement keys," said Velazquez. "SB 1011 will provide an up-to-date option for consumers who need a way to get replacement keys."
SB 1011 is similar to a new law in California that requires vehicle manufacturers to make this information available to pre-approved and registered locksmiths starting in 2008. This same option and protections should be provided to Hawaii consumers, said Velazquez.
AAA Hawaii has served members since 1921. Today, AAA Hawaii provides services to its members that include roadside assistance, maps, international and domestic travel planning and reservations; pedestrian and traffic safety programs; automotive pricing, financial services, including consumer loans, deposit accounts and credit cards. Information about these products and services is available on AAA Hawaii's web site at www.AAA.com.

SPORTS & AUTO NEWS

Posted by Bill at 10:59 AM | Permalink

April 23, 2007

Entertainment,Arts,Fashion & Technology

April 30

“All That Jazz” Is “Great To Be Nominated”

Beverly Hills, CA — The 1979 Best Picture nominee “All That Jazz” will be screened as the next feature in the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences’ “Great To Be Nominated” series. The Bob Fosse film, based on Fosse’s own life as a womanizing, drug-using choreographer, will screen on Monday, May 7, at 7:30 p.m. in the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater. Several members of the cast and crew, including actors Deborah Geffner, John Lithgow and Kathryn Doby; film editor Alan Heim; associate producer and assistant director Wolfgang Glattes; executive producer Daniel Melnick; production sound mixer Chris Newman; production designer Philip Rosenberg; cinematographer Giuseppe Rotunno; and music editor Michael Tronick will participate in a post-screening discussion.

In “All That Jazz,” Roy Scheider stars as Joe Gideon, a workaholic choreographer and director, based on Fosse himself, whose lifestyle catches up with him. The film took home the Oscars® for Art Direction (Philip Rosenberg, Tony Walton; Set Decoration: Edward Stewart, Gary Brink); Costume Design (Albert Wolsky); Film Editing (Alan Heim); and Music – Adaptation Score (Ralph Burns). It also received nominations for Best Picture (Robert Alan Aurthur, producer); Actor in a Leading Role (Roy Scheider); Cinematography (Giuseppe Rotunno); Directing (Bob Fosse); and Writing – Screenplay written directly for the screen (Arthur, Fosse).

The Oscar®-nominated animated short “Dream Doll” and the Oscar-nominated live action short “The Solar Film” will be screened prior to the feature.

Passes for the remaining screenings in part four of “Great To Be Nominated” are $30 for the general public and $25 for Academy members and students with a valid ID. A $5 discount is available for those who wish to renew their passes from parts one, two or three of the series. Individual tickets are $5 for the general public and $3 for Academy members and students with a valid ID. Passes and tickets may be purchased by mail, in person at the Academy during regular business hours or, depending on availability, on the night of the screening when the doors open at 6:30 p.m. Curtain time for all features is 7:30 p.m., and pre-show elements will begin 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.®

Chow Yun-Fat, Daniel Dae Kim, Grace Park, Vivienne Tam and Nobu Matsuhisa Set to Appear at the 2007 AZN Asian Excellence Awards(R)
Lost's Daniel Dae Kim and Battlestar Galactica's Grace Park to Host
Chow Yun-Fat, Vivienne Tam and Nobu Matsuhisa Honored With Special Achievement Awards

-- The stars are lining up to be a part of one of the biggest nights for Asian Americans in Hollywood -- The 2007 AZN Asian Excellence Awards(R) presented by JCPenney. Hosting the show, which will air on AZN Television on May 28 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT, will be Lost's Daniel Dae Kim and Battlestar Galactica's Grace Park. In addition, the star-studded event will pay special tribute to three influential and talented individuals who have made an impact throughout the US and around the world: acclaimed actor Chow Yun-Fat (Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End; Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon), renown fashion designer Vivienne Tam and celebrity chef/restaurateur Nobu Matsuhisa.

This year's co-host, Daniel Dae Kim, an Asian Excellence Awards(R) winner last year for Outstanding Male TV Performance, stars as Jin Kwon on ABC's hugely successful drama Lost. Kim will share hosting duties with Grace Park, who stars as Lt. Sharon "Boomer" Valerii on Sci-Fi channel's hit Battlestar Galactica.

The Lifetime Achievement Award is being presented to actor Chow Yun-Fat, whose career has spanned two decades and several continents. He began his career in Hong Kong acting in TV and film. After receiving acclaim and numerous awards for several roles in the early 80s, he captured the attention of John Woo, who cast him in the fast-paced gangster film Yin hung boon sik (aka A Better Tomorrow), which went on to be an enormous commercial success. A string of other John Woo films escalated Chow's popularity even higher. With the global interest in the Hong Kong action genre, he was lured to the US and appeared in The Replacement Killers with Mira Sorvino, The Corruptor with Mark Wahlberg and Anna and the King. He returned to Asia in 2000 for Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, a huge global success. Currently, he stars in the third installment of the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End.

Vivienne Tam is being honored with the Visionary Award. Born in Canton, China and raised and educated in Hong Kong, Tam now makes her home in New York City. She has become known for her signature East-West style. In 1994, her collection of Eastern inspired clothing with a modern edge took the New York runways by storm, and a year later she introduced the influential "Mao' collection that crossed over from the fashion world to the art world. In 1997, she launched the Buddha collection, pieces of which, along with the Mao collection, were ultimately incorporated into the permanent archives of the Andy Warhol Museum, the Museum of FIT and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

The Pioneer award will be presented to Nobu Matsuhisa. Born and raised in Japan, Matsuhisa apprenticed in the sushi bars of Tokyo before he ventured overseas to Lima, Peru. Classically trained, he was challenged by the culture and regional ingredients in Peru, which ultimately contributed to his inventive style. From Peru, he went to Argentina and then back to Japan, Alaska and, finally, Los Angeles where he opened his first restaurant in 1987. In 1993, the New York Times chose Matsuhisa as one of the Top 10 restaurant destinations in the world. A year later, he opened "Nobu" in partnership with actor Robert DeNiro in New York City. Today, he has two restaurants in New York, as well as restaurants in Beverly Hills, Malibu, Los Angeles, London, Aspen, Tokyo and Las Vegas.

The AZN Asian Excellence Awards(R) is the only nationally televised event celebrating significant Asian and Asian American achievements in entertainment, the arts and other disciplines that have had a profound impact on American culture.

"We are delighted to have stars of such critically acclaimed and successful television series join us as co-hosts this year, as their involvement will no doubt continue to raise the profile of the show and ultimately Asian and Asian American achievements in entertainment," said Rod Shanks, General Manager of AZN Television. "Additionally, the special honorees represent the pinnacle of their respective fields and are truly an inspiration to future generations of Asian American leaders, artists and entertainers."

AZN has partnered with E! Entertainment Television, the top global source for everything red carpet, to further promote the show with an hour-long special featuring red carpet arrivals, behind-the-scenes excitement and highlights from the event. The special will air on E! on May 24 at 6:00 p.m. ET/PT. The hour-long special will serve as a preview of the full awards program on AZN on May 28 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT. E! will provide information and updates on the network's website, E! Online, including exclusive, behind-the-scenes footage on the popular broadband channel, The Vine @ E! Online.

JCPenney is the presenting sponsor for the 2007 AZN Asian Excellence Awards(R). State Farm Insurance and Anheuser-Busch, Inc. are corporate sponsors of the event.

The 2007 AZN Asian Excellence Awards(R), which debuted on AZN last year, will be taped live on May 16 at UCLA's Royce Hall in Los Angeles. Welly Yang and Teddy Zee are executive producers of the show. Yang, the creator of the awards show, is an actor, singer, producer and founder of the Asian theatrical group Second Generation, which produced the earlier version of the "Asian Excellence Awards" known as "The Concert of Excellence." Zee is a film producer with credits including "The Pursuit of Happyness," "Hitch" and "Saving Face."

About AZN Television

AZN Television is the network for Asian America. A wholly-owned company of Comcast Corporation, the channel's programming targets the fast-growing, affluent and multi-generational Asian American community, as well as a broader American audience interested in the Asian experience. Genres include the most popular Asian films, dramas, documentaries, anime, and news, as well as original programming. A majority of programming on AZN is either in English or subtitled in English. For more information, visit azntv.com.

Source: AZN Television

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

COMEDY CENTRAL's Best Bets for the Weeks of May 6 and May 13

Sunday, May 6

"Mind of Mencia"

10:00 p.m. - ep # 306 (All-New Episode)

Just when viewers thought they had seen all things Carlos Mencia, the

man is back with all new episodes of "Mind of Mencia." Each week,

Mencia takes stand-up to a whole new level of tell-it-like-it-is comedy.

Don't miss this week's in-your-face all-new episode!

"RENO 911!"

10:30 p.m. - ep # 413 (All-New Episode)

This week, Dangle visits his ex-wife and her new husband on their

anniversary. Meanwhile, the lady deputies stake-out a lecherous meth

dealer and his girlfriends. Tune in to COMEDY CENTRAL at 10:30 p.m.

this Sunday for an all-new laugh-packed episode of "RENO 911!"

Monday, May 7 - Thursday, May 10

"The Daily Show with Jon Stewart"

11:00 p.m. (All-New Episodes)

The Emmy(R) and Peabody(R) Award-winning "The Daily Show with Jon

Stewart" takes a reality-based look at news, trends, current events and

politics with an alternative point of view. In each show, anchorman Jon

Stewart and his team of correspondents including Dan Bakkedahl, Samantha

Bee, Jason Jones, Aasif Mandvi, Rob Riggle and John Oliver, comment on

the day's stories, employing actual news footage, taped field pieces,

in-studio guests and on-the-spot coverage of important news events.

"The Colbert Report"

11:30 p.m. (All-New Episodes)

Move over O'Reilly, Carville and Scarborough -- there's another

loudmouth pundit in town, blowing a whole lot of hot air. Hosted by "The

Daily Show's" standout correspondent, Stephen Colbert, the Emmy(R)-

nominated "The Colbert Report" features no-holds-barred discussions in

which the important topics of our time and the daily news are treated

with absolutely no seriousness whatsoever.

"South Park: Week of Rage!"

10:00 p.m. - 12:30 a.m.

Get ready to rumble this week as rage attacks South Park! Don't miss a

punch as Jimmy and Timmy pummel one another in the cripple fight of the

century. Watch in horror as the maddening side effects of stem cells

unfold before the world's eyes. Next, prepare to be shocked as the evil

origins of the diabolical Professor Chaos are revealed. Finally, pray

the boys can escape the vengeance of a schoolmate from their past who is

annihilating everyone in his path. It's a week overloaded with so much

out of control fury that viewers will need anger management classes for

the next year to recover!

Wednesday, May 9

"Halfway Home"

10:30 p.m. - ep # 107 "Halfway Working" (All-New Episode)

This week on "Halfway Home," Kenny forces the residents to seek

employment at a shopping mall, where minimum wage jobs prove more

challenging than expected. Meanwhile, rats infest Crenshaw House.

Thursday, May 10

"The Showbiz Show with David Spade"

10:30 p.m. - ep. #308 (All-New Episode)

David Spade has returned for a third season to expose the satire hiding

in Hollywood's happenings and the twisted world of the entertainment

industry. The third season consists of new segments and includes the

returning favorites, the googly-eye dolls, "There I Said It" segments

and Spade's celebrity sit-downs.

There are new correspondents on the show including Edi Patterson and

Coleen Smith. Andy Daly has returned this season. If viewers thought

Hollywood was funny before, wait until they see "The Showbiz Show with

David Spade" take another turn poking fun at the famous.

Friday, May 11

"Friday Night Stand-Up Unplugged"

10:00 p.m. - 12:30 a.m.

COMEDY CENTRAL is rolling out a line of their funniest musically-

inspired comedians in a mix tape they call "FNSU Unplugged." First, at

10 p.m., Stephen Lynch shares his drunken serenade he wrote for his

buddy. Next, it's the strumming of Demetri Martin's guitar in "Demetri

Martin. Person." It's time for a piano concert from Zach Galifianakis

and the set closes with the lyrical genius of Kyle Dunnigan at midnight.

Saturday, May 12

"Saturday Three-For-All"

12:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

COMEDY CENTRAL is paying homage to the voices of "Shrek the Third."

First, at 12:30 p.m., Cameron Diaz shows off more than her vocal chords

in "The Sweetest Thing." At 2:30 p.m., Mike Meyers hones his Scottish

accent in "So I Married an Axe Murderer." Finally, Eddie Murphy moves

from the low life to the high life in "Trading Places" at 4:30 p.m.

Sunday, May 13

"Mother of All Sundaes"

4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Join COMEDY CENTRAL this Mother's Day for the mother of all movie double

features. Get wowed by the less-than-ambitious Shaun as he fights to

save his dear old mum from hordes of zombies in "Shaun of the Dead" at

4:00 p.m. At 6:00 p.m., stay tuned for the mother of all scary movie

parodies, "Scary Movie 3."

"Mind of Mencia"

10:00 p.m. - ep # 307 (All-New Episode)

Just when viewers thought they had seen all things Carlos Mencia, the

man is back with all new episodes of "Mind of Mencia." Each week Mencia

takes stand-up to a whole new level of tell-it-like-it-is comedy. Don't

miss this week's in-your-face all-new episode!

"RENO 911!"

10:30 p.m. - ep # 410 (All-New Episode)

This week, Dangle accepts a wedding proposition from his ex-wife's

husband, but before he ties the knot, Wiegel gives an even bigger

surprise than she had planned. Tune in to COMEDY CENTRAL at 10:30 p.m.

this Sunday for an all-new laugh-packed episode of "RENO 911!"

Monday, May 14 - Thursday, May 17

"The Daily Show with Jon Stewart"

11:00 p.m. (All-New Episodes)

The Emmy(R) and Peabody(R) Award-winning "The Daily Show with Jon

Stewart" takes a reality-based look at news, trends, current events and

politics with an alternative point of view. In each show, anchorman Jon

Stewart and his team of correspondents including Dan Bakkedahl, Samantha

Bee, Jason Jones, Aasif Mandvi, Rob Riggle and John Oliver, comment on

the day's stories, employing actual news footage, taped field pieces,

in-studio guests and on-the-spot coverage of important news events.

"The Colbert Report"

11:30 p.m. (All-New Episodes)

Move over O'Reilly, Carville and Scarborough -- there's another

loudmouth pundit in town, blowing a whole lot of hot air. Hosted by "The

Daily Show's" standout correspondent, Stephen Colbert, the Emmy(R)-

nominated "The Colbert Report" features no-holds-barred discussions in

which the important topics of our time and the daily news are treated

with absolutely no seriousness whatsoever.

Wednesday, May 16

"Halfway Home"

10:30 p.m. - ep # 109 "Halfway Innocent" (All-New Episode)

This week on "Halfway Home," Alan's wife hires a high-powered attorney

to exonerate her husband. Meanwhile, Eulogio meets one of his former

customers, who hasn't gotten over their sexual encounter.

Thursday, May 17

"The Showbiz Show with David Spade"

10:30 p.m. - ep. #309 (All-New Episode)

David Spade has returned for a third season to expose the satire hiding

in Hollywood's happenings and the twisted world of the entertainment

industry. The third season consists of new segments and includes the

returning favorites, the googly-eye dolls, "There I Said It" segments

and Spade's celebrity sit-downs. There are new correspondents on the

show including Edi Patterson and Coleen Smith. Andy Daly has returned

this season. If viewers thought Hollywood was funny before, wait until

they see "The Showbiz Show with David Spade" take another turn poking

fun of the famous.

Friday, May 18

"Friday Night Stand-Up Fresh!"

9:30 p.m. - Midnight

COMEDY CENTRAL is putting the freshness back into the weekend with "FNSU

Fresh!" First, at 9:30 p.m., Josh Sneed ponders how the fresh-eyed

children of America will get along mixing Bob the Builder with Hip-Hop

music. Next, John Caparulo talks about settling into his job as a

stand-up comedian at 10:00 p.m., then at 10:30 p.m. Lisa Landry opens up

about her new marriage. Finally, at 11:00 p.m., Finesse Mitchell talks

about his new job on TV, followed by Steve Byrne at 11:30 p.m., who has

finally learned the correct way for a man to lie down.

"Live at Gotham" -- Second Season Premiere

Midnight (All-New Episode)

"Live at Gotham," COMEDY CENTRAL's underground, cutting-edge sensation,

returns for a second season. Each week, COMEDY CENTRAL heads to Gotham

Comedy Club in New York City to bring viewers six of the newest,

funniest comics on the scene, hosted by such comedians as Artie Lange,

Jim Breuer and Lewis Black.

*All Times ET/PT

Source: COMEDY CENTRAL

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

CBS Television Stations Adopt Microsoft Silverlight for New User-Generated Content Initiative on the Web

-- CBS Television Stations, a division of CBS Corporation (NYSE:CBS.A) (NYSE:CBS) , today announced the development of an innovative community-generated content initiative for its network of local Web sites that uses the new Microsoft Silverlight technology, a cross-browser, cross-platform plug-in for media experiences and applications on the Web.

The new initiative, which is being displayed in proof-of-concept form at the MIX07 conference in Las Vegas this week, helps bridge the gap between user-generated digital media and traditional TV broadcast while capturing the hearts, minds and local stories of the CBS stations' audiences across the country.

"Central to our 'Always On' strategy has been the desire to create an interactive environment where our audiences can participate in the local broadcast process," said Jonathan Leess, President and General Manager of CBS Television Stations Digital Media Group. "This project, using Microsoft Silverlight technology, allows us to empower the massive long tail of untapped local media content which is waiting to converge with the broadband and broadcast mediums."

The new local initiative will allow users of the CBS-owned stations' sites to view, upload, share, rate, comment, sort and search video, images, audio and text submissions. A key component of the application is its full integration into the existing content publishing workflow of the CBS Television Stations' digital media groups. It allows the community-generated content to be managed alongside the station's professional content in a single workflow.

"We are excited about working with an industry leader such as CBS Television Stations," said S. Somasegar, Corporate Vice President of the Developer Division at Microsoft Corporation. "CBS has demonstrated a commitment to unique digital media experiences and a drive to develop platforms that incorporate the voice of the community, while also delivering the highest quality experiences."

"Broadcasting is no longer a one-way directional medium," Leess said. "Audiences and advertisers are looking for compelling local content that speaks to them, to their families, to their neighbors. This project allows us to help foster that connection."

The CBS project will be built on the recently announced Microsoft Silverlight browser plug-in for Windows and Mac-based Web browsers and Microsoft Expression Media Encoder, a new tool for client and server-based encoding and publishing of Silverlight-based content. Silverlight integrates with existing Web technologies and assets to provide higher-quality experiences with lower costs for media delivery. Delivered to end users through a seamless, fast installation, Silverlight also offers consistent experiences to both Macintosh and Windows users on a variety of browsers including Internet Explorer, Firefox and Safari.

CBS Television Stations is working with Microsoft to build the Silverlight-powered beta version of its community-generated content initiative, which is expected to launch in select markets later this year.

About CBS Television Stations

CBS Television Stations (http://www.cbslocal.com/) is part of CBS Corporation, a mass media company with constituent parts that reach back to the beginnings of the broadcast industry, as well as newer businesses that operate on the leading edge of the media industry. The Company, through its many and varied operations, combines broad reach with well-positioned local businesses, all of which provide it with an extensive distribution network by which it serves audiences and advertisers in all 50 states and key international markets. It has operations in virtually every field of media and entertainment, including broadcast television (CBS and The CW - a joint venture between CBS Corporation and Warner Bros. Entertainment), cable television (Showtime and CSTV Networks), local television (CBS Television Stations), television production and syndication (CBS Paramount Network Television and CBS Television Distribution), radio (CBS Radio), advertising on out-of-home media (CBS Outdoor), publishing (Simon & Schuster), interactive media (CBS Interactive), music (CBS Records), licensing and merchandising (CBS Consumer Products), video/ DVD (CBS Home Entertainment) and motion pictures (CBS Feature Films). For more information, log on to http://www.cbscorporation.com/

The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

Web site: http://www.cbslocal.com/
http://www.cbscorporation.com/

Sony Pictures Creates International Motion Picture Production Group
Schindler Named President; Teamed With Wigan to Run New Department

In recognition of the evolution and significance of the international film market, Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is creating an International Motion Picture Production department, to be jointly led by Gareth Wigan and Deborah Schindler, it was announced today by Michael Lynton, SPE Chairman and CEO and Amy Pascal, Co-Chairman.

Schindler has been promoted to President of the new division and will join Wigan in running it. Wigan, who is Vice-Chairman of the Columbia TriStar Motion Picture Group, has been chiefly responsible for building the studio's local language business over the past 10 years.

Schindler is the former head of Red Om Films and was Julia Roberts' producing partner. Her producing credits include Maid in Manhattan, Mona Lisa Smile, How Stella Got Her Groove Back and Waiting to Exhale. Since 2005, she has run the East Coast motion picture production and development operation for Columbia Pictures.

SPE is the only major studio to maintain stand-alone, local language production units throughout Europe, Asia and Latin America, and it has helped bring such hits as Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Snatch and Kung Fu Hustle, among others, to the global market.

Wigan and Schindler will be closely involved with the studio's recently announced film ventures in India and Russia, two of the most dynamic movie markets in the world. The new department will solidify and expand upon the studio's international production initiatives. SPE is currently active in motion picture production in China, Spain, France and Mexico.

"Under Gareth's leadership, we have made great strides in building relationships with filmmakers around the world and in producing and releasing terrific movies on several continents," said Pascal. "And Deb and I have known each other since we both started working in Hollywood more than twenty years ago, so I'm thrilled we'll be working together on movie-making in the international market. As a global company, this move reflects our commitment to artists and filmmakers who are telling stories in their own language for audiences in their own countries as well as around the world."

"With the maturation of this business, Gareth asked Deb to join him and help us take our international movie production to the next level," said Lynton. "Making more films in other countries is clearly consistent with our financial and artistic goals over the next several years."

"I am delighted that Deb Schindler has agreed to join me to head up this new department," said Wigan. "Deb's experience and record of working with renowned filmmakers and discovering talent will be invaluable as we grow this business. From Europe to Asia to Latin America, I have spent a great deal of time with film makers over the past several years. The expansion is phenomenal and I am excited to have a partner who loves international cinema as much as I do."

"We are entering a new age of movie-making in many parts of the world, and Sony Pictures' leadership in this arena puts us in the middle of this very exciting field," said Schindler. "I look forward to working with Michael, Amy, Gareth and everyone at Columbia Pictures to help bring great new pictures to audiences around the world." Wigan and Schindler will report to Lynton and Pascal. Wigan is based at SPE's Culver City studio and Schindler works in the SPE offices in New York.

Schindler began her film career as an assistant to Martin Scorsese, working on such films as Raging Bull and The Color of Money. She was an associate producer on Scorsese's After Hours. She has also worked at 20th Century Fox and Columbia Pictures. Her title prior to becoming President of the International Motion Picture Production Group was Executive Production Consultant.

Source: Sony Pictures Entertainment

Elite Moving Service Rolls out the Red Carpet for Make-A-Wish Foundation(R) of Greater Los Angeles Fundraiser
NorthStar Moving Company Donates Premier Moving Service for 'Uncork a Wish' Wine Tasting and Auction

NorthStar Moving Corporation, the leading residential and commercial mover in California, offering local, intrastate, interstate, and international moves, as well as storage services, today announced it is providing free moving services to ensure that prized artwork and fragile items for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Greater Los Angeles' upcoming fundraiser are handled with the utmost care.

Renowned for its RED CARPET SERVICE, NorthStar Moving has become the mover of choice for celebrity clientele. Now, as the stars come out for the Make-A- Wish Foundation of Greater Los Angeles' 14th Annual "Uncork A Wish" Wine Tasting and Auction fundraiser on Saturday, May 5, 2007, NorthStar Moving will help provide a smooth and successful gala affair. NorthStar Moving has granted Make-A-Wish Foundation's wish by being their mover for this event and others throughout the year.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation grants wishes to children battling life threatening medical conditions. The Greater Los Angeles chapter has fulfilled over 5,800 wishes since it began in 1983. Its annual "Uncork a Wish" Fundraiser plays an important role in fulfilling these wishes. This highly anticipated event features tasting from over 75 vintners and delicious meals from top Los Angeles venues. The highlight of the evening is the silent and live auctions where attendees bid on fine wines, exquisite artwork, luxury trips, sports and entertainment memorabilia, and one-of-a-kind packages.

The 14th annual event evokes the style and fun of the roaring twenties, complete with an art deco motif and jazz music. Preparations for this elaborate affair require the utmost care. Fragile glassware and china as well as precious artwork must be carefully packed and moved from the Make-A-Wish Foundation's offices in Los Angeles and from their storage at NorthStar Moving's facilities (which they provide at no cost throughout the year) to the event site inside the Santa Monica Air Center's Barker Hangar.

"The Make-A-Wish Foundation has played such an important role in bringing smiles to the faces of youngsters facing immense health challenges," said NorthStar Moving Corporation Founder and President Ram Katalan. "We are pleased that in our own small way we can help to make this year's fundraiser a terrific success."

Three-time Emmy winning actor and comedian Brad Garrett of the Fox comedy "Til Death" is the special guest host and live auctioneer alongside Ed Beardsley of "Bonhams & Butterfields". Celebrity guests include Chris Cornell of Soundgarden/Audioslave, Gregory Itzin of "24", Cheryl Tiegs, Micky Dolenz of the Monkees, and Patrick O'Neal of "FSN".

For more information about the "Uncork a Wish" Wine Tasting and Auction or about the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Los Angeles, visit http://www.wishla.org/. For more information about NorthStar Moving's luxury moving services, please call (800) ASK PROS, or visit the company online at http://www.northstarmoving.com/.

About the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Greater Los Angeles

The Make-A-Wish Foundation(R) of Greater Los Angeles grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. Established in 1983, the Greater Los Angeles chapter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation has fulfilled the wishes of over 5,800 children throughout Los Angeles County battling life-threatening medical conditions. For more information about the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Greater Los Angeles, go to http://www.wishla.org/ or call 310-788-9474.

About NorthStar Moving Corporation

Founded in 1994, Los Angeles-based NorthStar Moving Corporation has redefined the moving and storage industry. Recommended by The Franklin Report, MovingInsurance.com, and an impressive list of celebrity clientele, recipients of Angie's List Super Service Award(R), "A" rated by the Better Business Bureau, and voted Citysearch Best Mover 2007, NorthStar Moving has proven the state-of-the-art way to move is with its red carpet service. The company's services include local, long distance, international, residential, and commercial moves, as well as full-service storage. NorthStar Moving Corporation's mission is to exceed their clients' expectations with graceful customer care and to move service back into what should have always been the ultimate service industry: the moving industry. For more information, please call (800) ASK PROS, or visit the company online at http://www.northstarmoving.com/.

Source: NorthStar Moving Corporation

Web site: http://www.northstarmoving.com/
http://www.wishla.org/

VH1 Classic Expands Its Online Presence With a New Site Dedicated to the Music of the 70's, 80's and Early 90's
New Site Launches Today at VH1Classic.com

Beginning today, VH1 Classic fans have a new online site for all the music videos and VH1 Classic programming they know and love. With thousands of videos and exclusive VH1 Classic performances and programming, VH1Classic.com is an immersive, online extension of the TV channel dedicated to the classic music and artists of the 70's, 80's and early 90's.

With today's launch, the site offers a catalog of VH1 Classic videos from artists ranging from Led Zeppelin and The Sex Pistols, to Madonna, Michael Jackson and Nirvana. The video library also includes interview segments with artists like Kiss and John Mellencamp from VH1 Classic's "Hanging With" series and performances from past VH1 events including "VH1 Rock Honors" and "VH1 Hip Hop Honors." The site also includes classic-themed elements like, the VH1 Classic Arcade with old-school gaming favorites like Spy Hunter and Defender and exclusive VH1 Classic ringtones for mobile phones.

Additional site features focused on user-interaction and online community building will roll out in the coming months. Tools included in future site rollouts will allow users to rate, comment on, review and submit content. These features will give fans a way to interact with others and will allow them to build communities around similar interests and tastes in music. Additional original video programming will be added throughout the year as well.

"We know that VH1 Classic fans are passionate about their music and our programming around that music. We've also seen that they are inclined to participate in online discussions and interactive programming in a significant and meaningful way," said Tom Calderone, Executive Vice President and General Manager, VH1. "Because of this, we have been expanding Classic's online presence over the last year -- first with a dedicated broadband video channel and now with a new site that will evolve over the next few months to include not only our extensive catalog of music, but elements that will give fans the means to develop a strong online community around the music they love."

A feature of the initial site release launching today offers extensive programmed video playlists that highlight various sub-genres of VH1 Classic's library. Sample playlists include:

-- "The Alternative (The 80's)" with videos by artists like, Depeche Mode

and The Cure;

-- "I Love The 90's" with videos by artists like Nirvana and Pearl Jam;

-- "Metal Mania" with videos by artists like Metallica and Motley Crue;

-- "Rock Fest" with videos by artists like Cream, The Who and Dire

Straits;

-- "Pop Show" with videos by artists like Cyndi Lauper, Whitney Houston

and Culture Club.

VH1 Classic has seen significant online growth in the last year. With the launch of VH1 Classic-themed online video playlists in March, 2006 and the follow up launch of a dedicated VH1 Classic broadband channel in February, 2007 VH1 Classic video streams have grown an average of 20 percent (month over month) during the last 12 months.

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 90 million households in the U.S. VH1 also has an array of digital services including VH1 Classic, VH1 Soul and VSPOT, VH1's broadband channel. Connect with VH1 at www.VH1.com.

Launched in May 2000, VH1 Classic is a 24-hour network that present videos, concerts and music specials all day long, featuring the best of rock, soul and pop artists from the 70's, 80's and early 90's, including The Beatles, The Stones, Tina Turner, Led Zeppelin, Marvin Gaye, The Who, Stevie Wonder, The Police and many more. Learn more at www.vh1classic.com

Source: VH1

Web site: http://www.vh1classic.com/
http://www.vh1.com/

April 27

NYU Professor Takes the Podium for Inaugural Academy Film Scholars Event

Beverly Hills, CA — To kick off a new lecture series celebrating the work of Academy Film Scholars, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will present Dana Polan, professor of cinema studies at the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University, in a discussion of his new book, Scenes of Instruction: The Beginnings of the U.S. Study of Film, on Tuesday, May 15, at 7:30 p.m. at the Linwood Dunn Theater in Hollywood. Polan’s presentation will spotlight the Academy’s involvement in creating film appreciation curricula at the University of Southern California and Stanford University in the late 1920s.

Scenes of Instruction examines the social, cultural, practical and aesthetic approaches of university film programs from 1915 through the mid-1930s, as well as milestones in the development of film studies, including Terry Ramsaye’s lectures on cinema at the New School for Social Research in 1926 and Joseph Kennedy’s 1927 Harvard Business School courses on the film industry.

“The Academy has been instrumental in fostering high-level research by today’s film scholars. It has been particularly illuminating for me to examine the Academy’s early commitment to developing university film programs,” said Polan.

The Institutional Grants Committee of the Academy Foundation, which is the educational wing of the Academy, selected Polan as a grant recipient in 2002; this event will celebrate the completion of his work.

Established in 1999, the Academy Film Scholars program is designed to “stimulate and support the creation of new and significant works of film scholarship about aesthetic, cultural, educational, historical, theoretical or scientific aspects of theatrical motion pictures.” Film scholars receive $25,000 to research and produce new works of film scholarship, which can take the form of books, multimedia presentations, curatorial projects, DVD-ROMs or Internet sites.

For grant guidelines and information about the Academy Film Scholars program, visit http://www.oscars.org/grants/filmscholars.

Admission to the inaugural Academy Film Scholars presentation is free. To guarantee seating at this event, call (310) 247-3111. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. All seating is unreserved. The Linwood Dunn Theater is located at 1313 Vine Street in Hollywood. Free parking is available through the entrance on Homewood Avenue.

# # #

©A.M.P.A.S.®

OWC LAUNCHES NEW MERCURY ON-THE-GO USB2+eSATA PORTABLE DRIVE SOLUTION
Universally Accessible on Any Computer with a USB Port – No A/C Adapter Needed
Also Supports eSATA for Maximum Drive Performance

April 26, 2007, Woodstock , IL -- Other World Computing (OWC) http://www.macsales.com, a leading Mac and PC technology company, announced today the new OWC Mercury On-The-Go USB2+eSATA Portable Drive Solution. Universally accessible on any computer with a USB Port , the new OWC 2.5” portable hard drive provides exceptional performance via USB and USB 2.0 bus interfaces. Even greater levels of performance are available via the solution’s external SATA (eSATA) port connection, providing transfer rates well beyond what USB and USB 2.0 Bus interfaces are able to support.

Shock-Isolation for Maximum Data Protection

Stylishly designed in a sleek, impact-resistant acrylic enclosure, the OWC Mercury On-The-Go USB2+eSATA Portable Drive Solution incorporates shock-isolation technology to give maximum protection for your precious data. Weighing less than 11 ounces, the portable drive is a must-have for users requiring reliable high-performance compact storage small enough to fit in a shirt pocket.

OWC Mercury On-The-Go Portable Drives can be used between any computer with an available USB or eSATA port. The solutions are portable and low-cost, utilizing the latest SATA 2.5” hard drives for maximum performance and reliability. Via USB, the drives power via the bus through the USB interface cable, so no A/C adapter is needed. However, since eSATA does not provide bus power, the included A/C Adapter must be used for powering the drive when connecting to eSATA.

The OWC Mercury On-The-Go USB2+eSATA Portable Drive Solution includes the cables for USB2 and eSATA and full retail licensed versions of the award-winning data backup software utilities, Prosoft DataBackup III for Apple OSX and NovaStor NovaBackup for Windows (a $59 and $49.95 retail value). The OWC Mercury On-The-Go USB2+eSATA Portable Drive Solutions are available immediately priced starting at $117.99, with capacities of 80GB to 200GB. A USB 2.0-only version is also available, priced starting at $99.97. It uses the same drives as the OWC Mercury On-The-Go USB2+eSATA Portable Drive Solutions and is fully USB bus-powered, but does not offer eSATA port support. For more information, see http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/firewire/on-the-go.

About Other World Computing (OWC)

Other World Computing (OWC) has been providing quality hardware products and support to the computer industry since 1988. The Illinois based company is a strategic partner with Axiotron and worldwide and exclusive US distributor of the award winning Axiotron Modbook^TM. OWC operates the popular www.MacSales.com e-commerce portal which features one of the largest online catalogs of computer and iPod enhancement products, including Mercury, Neptune , and NewerTech acceleration, storage, and FireWire product lines.

OWC is a Premiere Level Apple Developer Connection member and provides extensive technical support for Macintosh users around the world. The company’s management umbrella includes leading Internet Service Providers www.fastermac.net and www.owc.net and is a leading technology employer as ranked by McHenry County Business Journal. For more information, see www.otherworldcomputing.com or www.macsales.com.

U.S. House Resolution Supporting School-Based Music Education Passes Unanimously
Resolution Demonstrates Congress' Continued Support of the Importance of Music Education for All Children

-- April 26, 2007 -- Members of Congress discussed the benefits and importance of school-based music education for children on the House floor today resulting in the passage of House Concurrent Resolution 121. After some discussion, the Resolution was passed unanimously, showing a display of continued support from Congress for music education as part of a complete education for all children.

NAMM recently met with Reps. Jim Cooper (D-Tenn.) and Jon Porter (R-Nev.), providing them with research outlining the many social, developmental and educational benefits for school-aged children who receive music education in the school curriculum. Reps. Cooper and Porter presented the bi-partisan Resolution with strong support last year, and this year, more than 25 cosponsors signed the Resolution.

The Resolution states that learning music in schools is important because it develops skills needed by the 21st century workforce such as critical thinking, creative problem solving, effective communication and team work; keeps students engaged in school and makes them more likely to graduate; and helps students achieve in other academic subjects such as math, science and reading.

"A lot of folks who have had the privilege of a music education take it for granted," said Rep. Jim Cooper (D-Tenn.). "But 30 million or more of our children across this country every day are being deprived of that chance to not only experience the joy of music but as my colleagues have mentioned, the increased and enhanced learning abilities that music offers and also the ability of music to deter people from gangs and drugs and other undesirable activities... Whether it's band or whether it's orchestra or whether it's students on their own learning the guitar or other instruments, it's a wonderful way to not only enjoy life but to enhance their skills."

"My passion for music began in the first grade with my parents' encouragement for which I am deeply grateful," said Rep. Jon Porter (R-Nev.) "It has been the greatest gift. Music brings people together whether it is at church, in school or at a concert. The discipline and teamwork I learned throughout the years, playing individually or collaboratively have been invaluable lessons applicable to every aspect of my life."

"One of the basic reasons that every child must have an education in music is that music is a part of the fabric of our society," said Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.) "The intrinsic value of music for each individual is widely recognized in the many cultures that make up American life. Music helps shape individual abilities and character. Success in society is predicated on success in school. Skills learned through the discipline of music transfer to study skills, communication skills and the cognitive skills useful in every part of the curriculum. Participation in music brings countless benefits to every individual throughout life. The benefits may be psychological, spiritual or physical. I ask my colleagues to support this Resolution and support the next generation of music lovers."

"Research has shown that students' involvement in their school music program is crucial to a complete education," said Rep. Joe Wilson (R-S.C.). "Musical study develops critical thinking and self-discipline skills and improves a child's early cognitive development, basic math and reading abilities, self-esteem, SAT scores, ability to work in teams, spatial reasoning skills and school attendance. In an analysis by the U.S. Department of Education [outlining] data on more than 25,000 secondary school students, research has found that students who report consistent high levels of involvement in instrumental music over the middle and high school years showed significantly higher levels of mathematics proficiency by grade 12 regardless of a student's socioeconomic status."

"This Resolution expressing support for music education is a message from the U.S. Congress that music education is a critical element of a complete education for all children," said Mary Luehrsen, director of public affairs and government relations at NAMM. "The Resolution also serves to remind states and local communities to assure access to music education for all students and that music education stands along side other core academic subjects in helping students achieve in school and in life. Music and arts education are, for many students, the reason for coming to and staying in school. This Resolution supports the ongoing work of educators, parents and citizens who believe that music education is not a frill or extra-curricular activity -- it is basic to a whole education for every child."

Cosponsors of the bill included Rep. Howard Berman (D-Calif.), Rep. Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.), Rep. John Conyers Jr. (D-Mich.), Rep. Joseph Crowley (D-N.Y.), Rep. Lincoln Davis (D-Tenn.), Rep. Susan Davis (D-Calif.), Rep. John Duncan, Jr. (R-Tenn.), Rep Bob Etheridge (D-N.C.), Rep. Baron Hill (D-Ind.), Rep. Ruben Hinojosa (D-Texas), Rep. Rush Holt (D-N.J.), Rep. Patrick Kennedy (D-R.I.), Rep. Ron Kind (D-Wis.), Rep. Betty McCollum (D-Minn.), Rep. Thaddeus McCotter (R-Mich.), Rep. James McGovern (D-Mass.), Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.), Rep. George Miller (D-Calif.), Rep. Dennis Moore (D-Kan.), Rep. James Moran (D-Va.), Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.), Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton, (D-D.C.), Rep. Donald Payne (D-N.J.), Rep. Heath Shuler (D-N.C.), Rep. Louise McIntosh Slaughter (D-N.Y.), Rep. John Spratt (D-S.C.), Rep. John Tanner (D-Tenn.), Rep. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Rep. Joe Wilson (R-S.C.), Rep. Michael Capuano (D-Ma.), Rep. Lynn Woolsey (D-Calif.), Rep. Ron Paul (R-Texas), Rep. Lois Capps (D-Calif.), Rep. Kenny Hulshof (R-Mo.).

About NAMM

NAMM is the not-for-profit association that unifies, leads and strengthens the international musical instruments and products industry. NAMM's activities and programs are designed to promote music making to people of all ages. NAMM is comprised of approximately 9,000 Member companies. For more information about NAMM or the proven benefits of making music, interested parties can visit www.namm.org or call 800-767-NAMM (6266).

Was Kat Von D Fired From MIAMI INK Or Did She Quit? Surprise MIAMI INK Season Finale Airs May 8
TLC Announces Spin-Off Series, LA INK

SILVER SPRING, Md., April 26 /PRNewswire/ -- Tattoos are going bicoastal as TLC provides more of what viewers love with August premiere of the new series LA INK, featuring Kat Von D. A spin-off of TLC's highly rated and youngest skewing show MIAMI INK, the catalyst for LA INK was months of in- fighting between artists Ami James and Kat Von D that results in a dramatic showdown featured in the season finale on Tuesday, May 8th at 10PM ET. In each of the last few riveting episodes leading up to the finale, the tension becomes visible, tempers flare and terse words are exchanged, culminating with Kat Von D leaving the shop and moving back to Los Angeles.

TLC smashed the taboo of tattoos with the genre-setting series MIAMI INK. A breakout success since the premiere in 2005, the demand for more tattoo related programming has grown exponentially. With LA INK, TLC breaks down the stereotypes of a tattoo artist further by featuring several strong, independent working women. "Kat Von D is a legitimate television star who has remained a true artist and authentic personality in the tattoo community," says Christian Drobnyk, senior vice president of programming for TLC. "Kat's tremendous talent, dedication to her fans and compassionate heart make her the perfect person to anchor LA INK."

LA INK digs deeper into the tattoo culture and the artists behind it, capturing more stories behind the tattoos and life in and out of the newest and hottest tattoo shop in Los Angeles, owned by Kat Von D. The new shop has a distinct rock-n-roll flavor reflecting Kat's personal style. Filled with gorgeous black and white photography and memorabilia signed by legendary rock artists and professional athletes, LA INK has a glam-rock feel that is inviting to celebrities, athletes, rockers and regular people alike. Adding to the cache are the four other artists, including three women, giving LA INK a uniquely female touch in a male dominated industry.

Since leaving Miami Ink, Kat Von D moved back home to Los Angeles to be closer to her family and friends and made one of her dreams come true by opening a tattoo shop in the city that she loves. "I love L.A.," enthuses Kat Von D. "The amazing weather, art, music, shopping, diversity, people and action - it's just rad that I got to open a shop here. As far as the guys at Miami Ink go, I appreciate everything they did for me, and I wish them all the best! Working with them, I was able to learn some really important life lessons, and am excited about using these lessons in all my future endeavors!"

While MIAMI INK won't be quite the same without Kat Von D, the boys are rejuvenated and already filming the third season of MIAMI INK, which returns on Tuesday, June 12th at 10PM ET. Filled with more intricate tattoos, the stories behind them, nudists, Satanists and trips to Las Vegas, NV and the Aleutian Islands in Alaska, the new season of MIAMI INK promises to offer more adventures than ever before.

LA INK is produced by Original Media for TLC. Charlie Corwin and Clara Markowicz are the executive producers for Original Media. Pamela Deutsch is the executive producer for TLC for LA Ink. Christo Doyle is the executive producer for TLC for Miami Ink.

TLC is the only television network dedicated to lifelong learning for viewers who want to grow up, not old. Featuring programming that explores life's key transitions and turning points, TLC presents high-quality, relatable and authentic personal stories. TLC connects more than 94 million homes in North America to the human experience with life's lessons you can't learn from books. TLC is a property of Discovery Communications, the number- one nonfiction media company reaching more than 1.5 billion people in over 170 countries. Through TV and new media, Discovery's 100-plus worldwide networks include Discovery Channel, TLC, Travel Channel, Animal Planet and Discovery Health. DCI is owned by Discovery Holding Co. (Nasdaq: DISCA; DISCB), Cox Communications Inc., Advance/Newhouse Communications and John S. Hendricks, Discovery's founder and chairman. For more information please visit http://www.discovery.com/ .

Source: TLC

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

Academy Award Winner Forest Whitaker Teams With AT&T to Promote Wireless Courtesy at the Movies
New Public Service Trailer Marks First Time Whitaker has Written, Directed and Starred in Production

After giving one of the most moving acceptance speeches of the 2007 Academy Awards, Forest Whitaker is asking moviegoers to "take a moment and listen." For the first time ever, Whitaker has lent his writing, acting and directing skills to a single production, creating a 30-second public service announcement for AT&T's Be Sensible wireless courtesy program. Whitaker's spot will begin appearing in movie theaters nationwide beginning Friday, April 27, at AMC Entertainment, Cinemark USA, Loews and Regal Entertainment Group theaters.

For six years, AT&T's wireless unit, formerly Cingular Wireless, has sponsored a theater campaign that asks moviegoers to silence their wireless devices during movies. The company's most recent spot was created by Academy Award-winning film director Sydney Pollack.

The public service announcement features Whitaker and another male actor quietly requesting that a large crowd, gathered around a stage in a park, listen to the silence that exists within themselves.

"Just take this moment and listen," he says softly into the microphone. "Escucha" (which means listen), says another man in Spanish. A woman hurries to the front of the crowd to hear better, and as she steps forward and heeds their advice, she closes her eyes and smiles, seemingly relaxing in the solitude and tranquility of the moment. The entire crowd appears to take a collective breath, relishing the silence.

"If you find the voice inside of you, you can change the world," Whitaker whispers in the spot, echoing his statement from his Academy Award acceptance speech that "through our combined belief, we can create a new reality."

"I wanted to take part in this endeavor because of my strong belief in the light that exists in all of us," Whitaker said. "If we take the time to connect first to ourselves by being silent, then we can connect to others -- whether through entertainment or through personal interactions," he added. "Acting, writing and directing is my way of connecting to everyone. Films can create a deep connection; they can get people talking and listening. So it's important to be silent for those short few hours in the dark of the cinema."

"I decided to do this because AT&T's program reaches 550 million moviegoers annually, and if we can reach some of those 550 million people with this message, we will all enjoy the movies more. We can leave the theater and accomplish a little more or feel a little more connected than we did when we arrived," Whitaker said.

"One of the most well-respected actors in Hollywood has embraced our campaign to remind people to silence their cell phones in theaters," said Tim Klein, AT&T vice president of the wireless unit. "Going to the movies is one of the few respites from our busy world today, and we are proud to continue to help create a more enjoyable experience for all moviegoers through our Be Sensible wireless courtesy program."

"We are pleased to work so closely with AT&T to remind American moviegoers of cell phone courtesy," said Cliff Marks, president of sales and chief marketing officer of National CineMedia, the cinema advertising and marketing company that brings AT&T's wireless courtesy program to theaters nationwide. "These efforts, based on research showing that people will silence their phones when reminded, clearly make a difference. To have someone of Whitaker's stature lend his talents to our program is a testament to the power of this program and to the medium of film."

National CineMedia brings AT&T's wireless courtesy campaign to 14,000 screens in more than 1,000 theaters in 46 states and the District of Columbia.

View AT&T's Be Sensible Wireless Courtesy PSA with Forest Whitaker: http://www.att.com/Common/files/multimedia/Take_a_Moment.wmv

ABOUT AT&T

AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates, AT&T operating companies, are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. Among their offerings are the world's most advanced IP-based business communications services and the nation's leading wireless, high speed Internet access and voice services. In domestic markets, AT&T is known for the directory publishing and advertising sales leadership of its Yellow Pages and YELLOWPAGES.COM organizations, and the AT&T brand is licensed to innovators in such fields as communications equipment. As part of its three-screen integration strategy, AT&T is expanding its TV entertainment offerings. Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com/.

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

Star Wars CELEBRATION IV to Host Special Preview of Star Wars-Themed Comedy Fanboys
Revelers at World's Biggest Star Wars Party Will Be First to View Footage from Fanboys and Meet Film's Creators

Star Wars fans will meet Fanboys on Friday, May 25, when the world's biggest Star Wars party hosts an exclusive look at select scenes from the upcoming comedy, followed on Saturday by a special panel discussion with the filmmakers.

In Fanboys, director Kyle Newman has fashioned an uproarious comedy that follows a group of young friends on a cross-country quest to break into Skywalker Ranch and see Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace before it is released. Fanboys stars Sam Huntington (Superman Returns), Chris Marquette ("Joan of Arcadia"), Dan Fogler (the upcoming Kung Fu Panda), Kristen Bell ("Veronica Mars"), Jay Baruchel and Seth Rogen (both of the upcoming Knocked Up). Fanboys is a Weinstein Company presentation being released in theaters by MGM.

In a special presentation - held on the 30th anniversary of Star Wars - fans at CELEBRATION IV will see scenes from the film that Newman will introduce on-stage.

As a special bonus, a unique "prequel" comic book to Fanboys, which follows the characters' obsessive love of Star Wars, will be offered to fans as a limited edition at CELEBRATION IV.

"There couldn't be a more perfect pairing of movie and audience," said Newman, who will be joined by Fanboys producers Dana Brunetti, Matthew Perniciaro and Kevin Mann at CELEBRATION IV. "Fanboys has truly been a labor of love for everyone involved, so to know that some of the world's biggest Star Wars fans will be among the first to see highlights from the movie is very exciting."

In addition, members of the Fanboys cast are expected to attend CELEBRATION IV, pending production schedules for the popular young actors.

Four-day and one-day passes to CELEBRATION IV are available online at http://www.gencon.com/2007/swciv. (Thursday, May 24, is a special preview day exclusively for members of the Official Star Wars Fan Club.)

CELEBRATION IV is expected to draw tens of thousands of fans from around the world for four days filled with live entertainment; celebrities from all six movies; special film and video presentations; special exhibits; exclusive merchandise sold at a 24-hour-a-day store; pop-culture tributes; immersive events; costume contests; and scores of additional activities.

More information on CELEBRATION IV can be obtained by visiting the official Star Wars website at http://www.starwars.com./celebration.

Lucasfilm, the Celebration IV logo, STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. All other trademarks and trade names are properties of their respective owners.

Source: The Weinstein Company

Web site: http://www.starwars.com./celebration
http://www.gencon.com/2007/swciv

April 26

SARAH SILVERMAN TO HOST
“2007 MTV MOVIE AWARDS”
Star-Studded Awards Ceremony To Broadcast LIVE
from Gibson Theater in Universal City, CA on Sunday, June 3, 2007

MTV today announced that the brilliantly funny Sarah Silverman will take the hosting reins for the “2007 MTV Movie Awards.” Star of both big screen and small, Silverman will lend her unique brand of provocative comedy to this year’s ceremony which will be broadcast live from the Gibson Theater in Universal City, California on Sunday, June 3, 2007. As previously announced, the “2007 MTV Movie Awards” will be executive produced by Emmy Award^® winning producer Mark Burnett. Additionally, as was also announced, MTV and Yahoo! have partnered to launch an interactive website via Yahoo! Movies which will explore the convergence of entertainment and technology like never before allowing fans to be part of the show. Performers, nominees, and presenters for the “2007 MTV Movie Awards” will be announced at a later date.

"The other day I sat down too hard and sprained my labia majora. I'm okay, but I took it as a sign from God to host the MTV Movie Awards," said Sarah Silverman.

“Sarah’s irreverent, no holds barred sarcasm and humor have made her one of the hottest up and coming comedians in the industry,” said Christina Norman, President, MTV. “Sarah is just the person to orchestrate the madness and keep everyone guessing about who’ll be her next target.”

The MTV Movie Awards is just the most recent addition to Sarah Silverman’s growing list of credits. From stand-up comedy to film and television, Silverman has seen her share of success and 2007 has certainly been the year of proof. Recently, her show, “The Sarah Silverman Program,” launched on Comedy Central scoring high ratings and rave reviews, and has been picked up for a second run in the Fall of 2007. Silverman also made a splash with the feature length film version of her one-woman show, “Sarah Silverman: Jesus is Magic.” Silverman most recently co-starred in the feature film, “School For Scoundrels” opposite Billy Bob Thornton and John Heder. Silverman also starred in Jeff Garlin’s “I Want Someone to Eat Cheese With,” and the acclaimed “The Aristocrats.” Before that, she co-starred opposite Jack Black, Mike White, and Joan Cusack in “The School of Rock,” as well as a number of films, including the blockbuster “There’s Something About Mary,” “The Way of The Gun,” Ivan Reitman’s “Evolution,” “The Bachelor,” and “Say It Isn’t So.”

On television, Silverman also co-starred in the comedy series “Greg The Bunny” opposite Eugene Levy. And she has guest starred in a slew of acclaimed and notable television shows such as “The Larry Sanders Show,” “Seinfeld,” and “Mr. Show with Bob and David.” Additionally, Silverman also lends her voice to the hugely successful Comedy Central show, “Crank Yankers.

As previously announced, this year fans will be given the chance to realize their dreams of standing on stage at the “2007 MTV Movie Awards” to accept the legendary golden bucket of popcorn. Viewers have the opportunity to submit their own original movie shorts parodying films from the past year for consideration in the first ever “BEST MOVIE SPOOF” User Generated Category. The undiscovered talent will be revealed to the world during the ceremony. In addition to the movie spoof award, the show will feature a “World Wide Web Wall” that will be integrated into the live broadcast, giving a voice to all the those up-and-coming filmmakers or those who simply like to quarterback from the sidelines.

Official sponsors of the “2007 MTV Movie Awards” are GM, glacéau vitaminwater, Old Navy, Orbit, Secret, Sprint and Taco Bell Corp.®.

About MTV Networks

About Mark Burnett Productions

April 25

Veoh Premiere Billboard , the worlds most trusted source of music, video and digital entertainment news, charts, reviews and analysis, has teamed up with Veoh Networks , the leading pioneer in Internet television, to launch an exclusive Billboard channel on Veoh.com.

The Billboard channel will feature news, interviews and performances from todays hottest artists from around the world. We are very pleased to partner with Veoh as a leading innovator in Internet television. said Scott McKenzie, Group Editorial Director at Billboard. This partnership will bring select Billboard video programs to a larger audience, while providing our viewers with the latest in webcast and downloadable video options. The Billboard channel on Veoh.com will feature Billboards original-produced series, Billboard in Sixty and Billboard Underground - weekly updated webisodes of news, interviews and performances. The shows, originally launched on Billboard.com in October 2006, will be available to view with Veohs innovative web applications, offering a downloadable, broadcast quality picture over the Web. Billboard in Sixty will launch with a total of 16 episodes and Billboard Underground will launch with 15 episodes - each will continue to update regularly as the series proceed. The following is a brief description of each: Billboard in Sixty is a 60-second window into the world of music news. The show offers a brief encapsulation of the weeks music news, special events and interviews with your favorite stars. Artists recently featured on the show include Jennifer Lopez, T.I., Sheryl Crow, Bon Jovi, Arctic Monkeys, Ne-Yo, DJ Drama, Fratellis and American Idol contestants. Billboard Underground is a show dedicated to interviews, performances and outtakes with the hottest unsigned emerging artists. A recent example includes Laura Warshauer, an up-and-coming starlet whose debut performance on Billboard Underground landed her a contract with Island Def Jam. Danielle Flora hosts both Billboard in Sixty and Billboard Underground. A former pop star turned choreographer to the stars, Flora provides viewers with a unique and uncensored insight into the world of music. All show clips will be archived on the Billboard channel at Veoh.com, but fans will want to get the Veoh Player and Home Delivery System to automatically download full-screen, DVD-quality versions of episodes as they become available. Music fans are already some of the most tech-savvy audiences online today and Billboard is one of the most respected music brands in the business. We are excited to offer their cutting-edge and entertaining programming to our viewers, said Dmitry Shapiro, CEO of Veoh Networks. Combined with Veohs peer-to-peer technology, the easy-to-use Veoh Player, and our Home Delivery System, this partnership is part of the next evolution in how the world will view video content both on- and offline. The Veoh Player is a free, quick-to-download desktop application that can turn any fans hard drive into a virtual DVR. This application allows users to download and save episodes of their favorite Billboard shows to watch at a later date, with or without an Internet connection. Its unique technology also allows users to subscribe to the series and have new episodes sent directly to their Player as soon as they are posted. For those on the go, the Veoh Home Delivery System is a new feature that goes one step further by allowing users to browse and select content from any computer with an Internet connection. While at work or when traveling, users can send the content directly to their home computer with a Veoh Player. This allows users to enjoy their favorite videos in a full-screen, DVD-quality format as soon as they arrive home without any additional downloading time. To access Home Delivery, users need to simply log on to their Veoh account from any computer and enable the Home Delivery feature. The Billboard channel on Veoh.com officially launches on April 25, 2007. About Billboard Now in its 112th year, Billboard is the world's premier weekly music publication and a diverse digital, events and brand, content and data licensing platform. Billboard publishes the most trusted charts and offers unrivaled reporting about the latest music, video, gaming, media, digital and mobile entertainment issues and trends. Billboard is the flagship property for the Billboard Information Group, which also consists of Billboard.biz, Billboard.com, Billboard Chart Alert, Billboard Information Network (BIN), Billboard Directories, Billboard Books, Billboard Licensing & Events and Radio & Records. Billboards many strategic partners include Microsoft, Reuters, Sirius Satellite Radio, Telemundo, Univision Radio, ABC Radio Networks, Azteca America and Billboard sister companies Nielsen SoundScan and Nielsen Broadcast Data Systems. These partnerships leverage Billboards proprietary data, charts and information resources to develop broadcast entertainment, digital and mobile platforms and contextual commerce applications that expand Billboards franchise and consumer reach. About Veoh Networks, Inc. Veoh Networks is a new, innovative Internet television broadcasting system that delivers broadcast-quality entertainment and informational content via the Internet, using unique distribution technologies to allow for unlimited capacity for both long- and short-form programming. Veoh allows content producers from major entertainment studios and television networks to independent video producers and enthusiasts to deliver high-quality, full-screen video directly to consumers without financial, geographical or capacity restrictions found in traditional broadcasting systems. This democratization of video distribution fundamentally changes the dynamics of television, creating unprecedented choice for consumers and a compelling marketplace for content providers and advertisers. Veoh Networks is a privately-held company that is backed by leading technology and media investors, including Spark Capital, Michael Eisners Tornante Company, Time Warner Inc. and Shelter Capital Partners. Veoh has offices in Los Angeles and San Diego, California

NBC's Passions to Work Its Magic on DIRECTV Viewers with All-New Episodes Beginning September 17

Fan Favorite Daytime Drama Joins DIRECTV's The 101 Lineup; New Episodes Produced by NBC Universal Television Studio Will Air on DIRECTV

NBC Universal Television Studio and DIRECTV, the nation's leading satellite television provider, today announced that the NBC Universal-produced daytime drama Passions has found a new home on DIRECTV where the popular program will continue for a 9th season. Under the new agreement, NBC Universal Television Studio will produce brand-new episodes to air Monday-Thursday on DIRECTV's original programming channel, The 101.

The celebrated daytime drama, which currently averages 2 million viewers and enjoys an intensely dedicated fan base, will end its network run on NBC September 7 with a series of cliffhangers and will resurface on DIRECTV September 17, picking up where the series left off. The show will remain in its current time slot of 2 PM ET and DIRECTV will air encore marathons of the show each weekend. The majority of the cast and crew are expected to return when the one-hour series begins shooting the new DIRECTV episodes in August.

"Passions fans no longer need to mourn the demise of their beloved program as it has found new life on DIRECTV," said Eric Shanks, executive vice president of Entertainment for DIRECTV. "We care about this show and are extremely proud to give it an exclusive home here at DIRECTV."

"This new arrangement with DIRECTV is truly a landmark development that allows NBC Universal to extend the Passions brand in a fresh and entirely new way to DIRECTV's 16 million homes," said Marc Graboff, president, NBC Universal Television, West Coast. "It will reward the dedicated fans of the daytime drama who can continue to enjoy it on DIRECTV and also opens up a great new model for other television programs to find new life on other non-traditional platforms."

Those fans without DIRECTV will have plenty of time to switch before the new season begins. DIRECTV will make it easy for Passions viewers to keep track of the happenings in "Harmony" by providing fans free installation, a DVR or HD receiver upgrade, and a portable DVD player by calling a special phone number (866-788-0003) or visiting the Web (www.directv.com/passions). Passions fans can also visit www.nbc.com for more information about the show.

Passions will be the first scripted drama series to join The 101 original program lineup which includes viewer favorites like Project MyWorld, The Fizz, havoc on The 101, and Championship Gaming Series. The series will broadcast four one-hour episodes per week, as well as a weekend marathon of that week's shows so fans can catch up on the action each week.

Passions explores the lives, loves and losses of four core families in the small New England town of Harmony: the Cranes, the Lopez-Fitzgeralds, the Bennetts and the Russells, each of whom have their own distinct and diverse personalities. The series debuted on NBC in 1999 and has routinely been amongst the top daytime programs for women ages 18-34, and currently is tied for #1 among all daytime dramas in both women ages 18-24 and females 12-24.

New episodes of Passions will begin shooting in August and will continue to be taped at the CBS Studio Center in Studio City, Calif. The show is produced by NBC Universal Television Studio in association with Outpost Farms Productions, Inc.

About DIRECTV

DIRECTV, Inc., the nation's leading satellite television service provider, presents the finest television experience available to more than 16 million customers in the United States, through exclusive content, industry-leading customer satisfaction (which has surpassed cable for six years running) and superior technologies. Each day, DIRECTV subscribers enjoy access to over 250 channels of 100% digital picture and sound, exclusive programming and the most comprehensive collection of sports programming available anywhere, including NFL SUNDAY TICKET(TM) and MLB EXTRA INNINGS(R). DIRECTV (NYSE:DTV) also leads the digital television technology revolution with exclusives such as NFL SUNDAY TICKET SuperFan(TM), US Open Interactive and YES Network Interactive and will soon have the capacity to offer over 150 channels in HD. For the most up-to-date information on DIRECTV, please visit directv.com.

About NBC Universal:

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

SOURCE: DIRECTV, Inc.

ROLAND SHIPS EDIROL M-10DX DIGITAL MIXER

Portable Modern Mixer with Flagship Features Los Angeles, CA, April 25, 2007More portable and affordable than its M-16DX big brother, the M-10DX 10-channel digital mixer packs an amazing amount of high-end features into its small frame, including a 24-bit/96kHz processing engine and a backlit LCD so you can see the effects in operation as well a graphical spectrum analysis. This all-in-one solution offers built-in pro-quality FX, including insert effects, reverb/echo and finalize effects, flexible analog and digital I/O, Room Acoustic Control for instant automatic room compensation. Based on the same high-resolution processing engine as the flagship M-16DX, the M-10DX provides full 24-bit/96kHz processing for the ultimate in transparent, noise-free digital mixing. Mixing is made simple, with dedicated channel controls for 3-Band EQ, Pan, Aux, Select and Level. Scene memories allow instant recall of channel and effect parameters. For maximum portability, the M-10DX condenses almost all of the M-16DXs functions into a compact tabletop package for easy portability and use anywhere. It even retains the backlit LCD from its big brother, so you can see the effects in operation as well a graphical spectrum analysis. AC adaptor comes included. - - - - - - - Roland is a world leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of electronic musical instruments, professional audio equipment, multimedia products, and music accessories.

April 24

Megastar Collin Raye Commits to Nashville Records(TM) Recording Contract

Nashville Records, Inc. is proud to announce that Collin Raye is the first of three prominent artists to be selected to record on the Nashville Records' label. He will also be featured on the Company's upcoming Christmas album.

Collin is considered one of the most magical and gifted singers in country music today with Fifteen #1 hits, including "Love Me," "That's My Story," "One Boy, One Girl," and "In This Life."

Collin has captured eight top five singles and fifteen #1 music videos. CMT (Country Music Television) lists four of Collin's videos among the top 100 music videos of all time; one certified gold album; and five certified platinum albums. Not only have 23 of Collin's 25 singles reached the top 10 on the country music charts, but he has also been nominated for thirteen ACM (Academy of Country Music), CMA (Country Music Association), and/or Dove Awards. His recent releases clearly demonstrate the breadth and depth of his musical artistry ranging from "The Walls Came Down" album, with its mastering of notes and lyric interpretation to his DVD/CD "Power In You"(performed live with the Salt Lake Symphony and the Choral Arts Society of Utah), which is filled with a variety of inspirational songs, both new and classical. His concert schedule continues to top 100 performances a year.

Recently, an entirely new management team has been assembled for Collin, headed by Pat Melfi and Ken Kragen. One of the best-known managers in the music business, Ken Kragen is an artist manager & television producer. He managed superstar Kenny Rogers for over 30 years as well as notable stars Trisha Yearwood, Travis Tritt and Lionel Richie. Kragen is arguably the most successful behind-the scenes operator in show businesses.

According to Nashville Records President, Gene Sibbett, the Company is already busy recording material for Collin's album, and will begin next week preparing for album and single releases. "Nashville Records and Collin's management team have put together some incredible plans for upcoming releases and videos that will once again clearly showcase Collin's charisma, passion and electrifying performance," emphasized Sibbett.

Nashville Records anticipates announcing the second of its label artists by the 4th quarter of 2007 and the third artist in the 2nd quarter of 2008. Along with these three prominent artists will be one male artist, just 27 years old, who has been garnering awards and being prepared for release. A second female artist, just 19 years old, who is not only gorgeous but her producer has stated she is one of the most gifted and unique voices to ever hit the scene. One of the Company goals is to sign only those artists, whose performances create widespread fanfare and product sales, while, at the same time, building a valuable publishing catalogue.

Accomplishments and audio clips of Collin Raye can be found on the Company's website: www.nashvillerecords.com

Nashville Records, Inc. is a Nashville-based record label located in the heart of Music Row. The key management and advisors were industry-retired individuals that were dissatisfied with the direction in which the music industry was headed. In the past, this combined management team is credited with sales of well into the billions of dollars and has been responsible for hundreds of charted hits.

Legal Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

The statements in this press release that relate to the Company's expectations with regard to the future impact on the Company's results are forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The statements in this document may also contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Since this information may contain statements that involve risk and uncertainties and are subject to change at any time, the Company's actual results may differ materially from expected results.

OPERA ♥’s LA
$20 for All Seats to
Designated Performances of
Porgy and Bess and The Merry Widow
$20 Tickets Go on Sale April 25 to the
May 18 Porgy and Bess and May 20 The Merry Widow Los Angeles, CA (April 24, 2007) – “For the first time in LA Opera’s 21-year history,” announced Plácido Domingo, the Eli and Edythe Broad General Director, “we will offer $20 tickets for every seat in the house at two designated performances of Porgy and Bess and The Merry Widow. I have always believed that it is very important for us to make opera accessible to as many people as possible, and I am certain that our special $20 tickets will cultivate new fans for opera and give many a chance to experience the drama and passion of this classic art form. If this proves a success, we hope to again offer an introduction to opera in our upcoming seasons.” Both the Friday, May 18, 7:30pm performance of Porgy and Bess and the Sunday, May 20, 7:30pm performance of The Merry Widow will be available to all at only $20 per ticket.
(April 24, 2007) – “For the first time in LA Opera’s 21-year history,” announced Plácido Domingo, the Eli and Edythe Broad General Director, “we will offer $20 tickets for every seat in the house at two designated performances of and . I have always believed that it is very important for us to make opera accessible to as many people as possible, and I am certain that our special $20 tickets will cultivate new fans for opera and give many a chance to experience the drama and passion of this classic art form. If this proves a success, we hope to again offer an introduction to opera in our upcoming seasons.” Both the Friday, May 18, 7:30pm performance of and the Sunday, May 20, 7:30pm performance of will be available to all at only $20 per ticket. Opera ♥’s LA is a new community-focused initiative that invites new audiences to experience opera first-hand by making great seats available to all for an unprecedented price of just $20 each. “Porgy and Bess and The Merry Widow are a perfect fit to introduce new fans to the genre of opera and operetta,” said LA Opera’s Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Hope Boonshaft. “Not only are these well-known works sung in English, but Porgy and Bess boasts some of George Gershwin’s best known tunes while Franz Lehár’s The Merry Widow is a lighter operetta that entertains with opulent staging and beautiful waltzes. These two productions are some of the most accessible in the repertoire today. Though LA Opera does sell select seats at most performances for an affordable $30, these special performances where tickets are only $20 each, give our audiences a chance to try out new seats anywhere in the house.”
is a new community-focused initiative that invites new audiences to experience opera first-hand by making great seats available to all for an unprecedented price of just $20 each. “ and are a perfect fit to introduce new fans to the genre of opera and operetta,” said LA Opera’s Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Hope Boonshaft. “Not only are these well-known works sung in English, but boasts some of George Gershwin’s best known tunes while Franz Lehár’s is a lighter operetta that entertains with opulent staging and beautiful waltzes. These two productions are some of the most accessible in the repertoire today. Though LA Opera does sell select seats at most performances for an affordable $30, these special performances where tickets are only $20 each, give our audiences a chance to try out new seats anywhere in the house.”
Opera ♥’s LA $20 tickets to Porgy and Bess (May 18, 7:30pm) and The Merry Widow (May 20, 8pm) go on sale Wednesday, April 25 at www.LAOpera.com and are subject to availability. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Los Angeles Opera Box Office during regular business hours (Monday-Saturday, 10am-6pm).
$20 tickets to (May 18, 7:30pm) and (May 20, 8pm) go on sale Wednesday, April 25 at and are subject to availability. Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Los Angeles Opera Box Office during regular business hours (Monday-Saturday, 10am-6pm).

Regular priced tickets to performances of The Merry Widow (April 28, May 3, 9, 12, 23 and 26 at 7:30pm, May 6 at 2pm and May 19 at 1pm) and Porgy and Bess (May 4, 5, 8, 10, 11, 15, 17 at 7:30pm, May 19 at 8pm, May 13, 16 at 2:00pm and May 20 at 1:00pm) ranging from $30 to $220 are on sale now. All performances take place at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Music Center, 135 North Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012.

The Search is on for the Next Project MyWorld Adventure Star

DIRECTV's Hit Original Entertainment Show Looks to Add New

Fearless Female to the Cast, Submissions Due May 2

The search is on! Renee Intlekofer and Shaina Fewell, the stars and co-creators of DIRECTV's hit reality show Project MyWorld, are kicking off a nationwide search in hopes of finding an adventurous female to join them as they head Down Under for the program's second season. Kicking off today, candidates will have two weeks to send in their most outrageous videos before judges from The 101 select finalists for in-person auditions in Los Angeles, with the winner announced on May 18. Details of the search will be available on the show's website: www.myspace.com/projectworld.

Following a successful debut season, Renee and Shaina, are about to head out again and need the help of a daring diva to explore the world and meet the real people behind their MySpace pages. The new "Adventure Girl" they are seeking will have to be outrageous and an incredibly well connected MySpacer to join them as they explore the best of Australia and New Zealand. The duties of this fearless, fun and--not afraid to get her hands dirty--lady will be to introduce the group to the exciting death-defying adventures and exotic wonders each city has to offer. Whether it's scuba diving with the predators of the Great Barrier Reef, Zorbing with the Kiwis or heli-skiing in New Zealand, no adventure should be too wild or outrageous for this daredevil.

To qualify, candidates must create a home video of themselves that demonstrates their daring nature and send it to DIRECTV's The 101 Headquarters in Culver City, California. Submissions are due by May 2, at which time a team of judges from The 101, including Shaina and Renee, will review the footage and choose finalists to come to LA for a casting call on May 8 and May 9, with call backs on May 14 and 16. Contenders can also show up to the casting call, without having to submit a video, if they are in the Los Angeles area on May 8 and think they have what it takes to make the cut. The winner will be announced by May 18, giving the new adventure girl plenty of time to do her homework before the trio departs on June 12.

Project MyWorld debuted last October on The 101 as DIRECTV's fourth original series and is part documentary, part international odyssey and part internet experience come to life. Each season follows the stars as they travel the world in search of the real people behind their MySpace pages and set out to fulfill their own personal missions. Shaina is on the look out for the best indie rock bands in each city, while Renee is on the prowl for "Mr. Right," or at least "Mr. Right-Now." The show also chronicles their adventurous cohort as she finds the most amazing experiences each city has to offer.

The inaugural season of Project MyWorld followed Renee, Shaina and the adventure girl from last season, Taryn Southern, as they made their way through Europe and experienced La Tomatina in Spain, Oktoberfest in Germany, romance in Venice, and indie bands in Croatia, Paris and the UK. Now, Renee and Shaina are looking for their next partner-in-crime to push them to the limit as they begin season two.

Staying true to the premise of Project MyWorld, the show's creators and stars, Shaina and Renee, will serve as executive producers while displaying their-own unique personalities for the ultimate in viewer-generated content. The two women will also serve as executive producers and maintain the show's website on MySpace at www.myspace.com/projectmyworld.

About DIRECTV

Gym Class Heroes Continue to Rule the Top 40; "Cupid's Chokehold / Breakfast in America" Remains at #1; First Group to Top the Charts for Four Consecutive Weeks Since 2005

-- Decaydance/Fueled By Ramen recording group Gym Class Heroes has locked onto the top of the charts with their smash single "Cupid's Chokehold / Breakfast in America." The track -- which was originally written by Roger Hodgson and Rick Davies of Supertramp and features the Geneva, NY-based band's good friend, Patrick Stump -- stands tall at #1 on the CHR/Top 40 national airplay chart for an astonishing fourth consecutive week. No other band has accomplished this amazing feat since multiple Grammy Award-winning group Green Day in 2005. With a total audience at 85 million, the track is also #1 in audience at the CHR/Top 40 format. What's more, "Cupid's Chokehold / Breakfast in America" remains firmly ensconced in the top 10 of Billboard's "Hot 100" for the tenth consecutive week, and has proven to be a cross-over hit, jumping into the top 25 of both the CHR/Rhythmic and Hot AC charts.

"Cupid's Chokehold / Breakfast in America" -- which is featured on Gym Class Heroes' breakthrough second album, "AS CRUEL AS SCHOOL CHILDREN" -- has also blown up online, reaching #1 on Billboard's "Hot Digital Tracks," as well as #2 on the "Hot Digital Songs" chart. In addition, the song has proven a massive ringtone smash, recently reaching the top 5 on the weekly Ringscan ranking.

The lyrics and catchy melody of "Cupid's Chokehold / Breakfast in America" were originally written and composed by Roger Hodgson and Rick Davies of famed rock group Supertramp. "Breakfast in America" was the title track of Supertramp's biggest album, which topped the charts for a year in 1979 and sold over 18 million copies. Hodgson has been recognized as one of the most gifted composers, songwriters, and lyricists of our time. His timeless hit songs continue to find their way into the hearts of more than three generations around the world and are currently reaching a new audience with the Gym Class Heroes' remake of the classic song. For more information about Roger Hodgson, go to www.rogerhodgson.com.

2007 has seen Gym Class Heroes dominating MTV, with "Cupid's Chokehold / Breakfast in America" recently topping the network's playlist. Last month, the group played a raucous set on MTV's "Spring Break '07 Live," a spectacular performance that featured two tracks -- "The Queen & I" and "New Friend Request" -- which quickly went on to be among the most-streamed clips on MTV.com. Excerpts from the "Spring Break '07 Live" show have also been featured on MTV's "TRL." Longtime supporters mtvU also featured the band on their own Spring Break show. Gym Class Heroes will headline an upcoming installment of "MTV Live," slated to air sometime in May (check local listings).

As if that weren't enough, "Cupid's Chokehold / Breakfast in America" is in "Power" rotation at MTV Hits and "Recurrent" rotation at MTV Tr3s. The video has gone into "Large" rotation at VH1, after instantly becoming a "Countdown Contender" on the weekly "VSpot Top 20 Countdown." In addition, "Cupid's Chokehold / Breakfast in America" is the week's #3 most-played video on Fuse, and a "Power" rotation favorite at Mun2.

Additional Gym Class Heroes TV appearances include a recent live rendition of "Cupid's Chokehold / Breakfast in America" on NBC's "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," following previous performances on NBC's "Late Night with Conan O'Brien," ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live," NBC's "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," DirecTV's "CD USA," and the syndicated "Fearless Music TV."

The next single from "AS CRUEL AS SCHOOL CHILDREN" will be the anthemic "Clothes Off!" A companion video clip has just been filmed and will premiere sometime in the coming weeks.

In other news, Sunkist Soda, the number one orange soda brand, has teamed up with Gym Class Heroes to cover the Beach Boys' classic "Good Vibrations" for a TV ad campaign that will launch later this month, and be integrated into an episode of the CW Network's "One Tree Hill" in May. Listen to the Gym Class Heroes version online at www.sunkistsoda.com.

A remarkably dedicated live act, Gym Class Heroes has just wrapped its "Darryl Hall For President Tour '07." The headlining trek was met by sold-out crowds on nearly every date, including a packed-to-the-rafters MySpace Secret Show at Mr. Small's Funhouse in Millvale, Pennsylvania. The band will continue to tour for the foreseeable future, including North American headline shows, radio festivals, and an eagerly anticipated trip Down Under to support Gwen Stefani on her upcoming Australian tour. For an up-to-the-minute tour itinerary, see the band's official website, www.gymclassheroes.com, or its MySpace page, www.myspace.com/gymclassheroes.

Produced by S*A*M, aka Sam Hollander (Method Man, the Sounds, and Earth, Wind & Fire), and Sluggo, the alter-ego of renowned session bassist Dave Katz (Roger Daltrey), "AS CRUEL AS SCHOOL CHILDREN" also features co-production from Fall Out Boy's Patrick Stump. The album drew rapturous praise in a number of national publications, including Alternative Press, which awarded the collection its top five-starred rating.

Gym Class Heroes first garnered critical acclaim for their unique sound and approach with their Decaydance/Fueled By Ramen debut, 2005's "THE PAPERCUT CHRONICLES." It was the band's alternative hip-hop style and use of live instruments in favor of looped samples and canned beats that caught the attention of Fall Out Boy's Pete Wentz, who immediately signed the group to his Decaydance imprint. With constant touring, and a huge online presence, the band has built a large and dedicated fan base.

Named one of the MTV2's "Artists To Watch 2007," the group spent much of the past two years on the road, including sold-out headline dates in the US and the UK, support slots alongside Fall Out Boy and the All American Rejects, a number of radio-sponsored holiday shows, and a stint on Vans Warped Tour '06 which had them playing two sets a day to rapturous audiences across North America.

Gym Class Heroes are: Travis McCoy (lead vocalist), Disashi Lumumba-Kasongo (guitarist), Eric Roberts (bassist), and Matt McGinley (drummer).

DIMEBAG DARRELL ABBOTT to be INDUCTED TO THE HOLLYWOOD ROCKWALK
HONORS TO TAKE PLACE ON THURSDAY, MAY 17TH, 2007

– Guitar monster shredder, Dimebag Darrell Abbott, has been chosen as the next inductee for the famed Hollywood RockWalk at the Hollywood Guitar Center on Sunset Blvd. The induction begins at 12:00 noon with many of Dimebag’s friends to speak and others who will come together to honor their brother.

Dimebag Darrell Abbott was loved by all and a hero to many. His unexpected departure from our world has been a great loss, yet he left us a legacy that will continue forever. It is a legacy to his family, friends and fans of the great music that he loved to perform as well as his crazy, charismatic sense of humor that touched many.

The ceremony for Dimebag Darrell Abbott’s induction begins at 12:00 noon, May 17^th, 2007 at the Guitar Center Hollywood on Sunset Blvd.

RockWalk
7425 Sunset Boulevard
Hollywood, CA 90046

For more information on the Rock Walk go to www.rockwalk.com

Pop Sensations #1 Crush Sign With Mathew Knowles' Music World Entertainment

Pop/Rock girl group, and local Houston darlings, #1 Crush officially signed a management and record deal with Mathew Knowles' Music World Inc., it was announced today. The group joins artists like Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, Michelle Williams, J Xavier, 2Much and Sunshine Anderson who have flourished under the keen direction of Mr. Knowles.

"We are especially excited about #1 Crush joining the Music World Entertainment family. #1 Crush has the core components for Pop success in the music industry; they are young, have incredible talent, tenacity, are excited and work hard.We anticipate great things in their career with Music World," said Mathew Knowles (President / CEO, Music World Entertainment).

#1 Crush, individually known as Monica Matocha, 15, Brittany Marling, 14, and Alli Cannon, 16, are already off to a fast start. The group, who has become known for an awesome mix of singing and innovative dancing, has performed all over the country opening for major pop artists such as Ashley Simpson. Their energetic and captivating show caught the attention of Radio Disney who booked the group to perform for their New Year's Eve Jingle Jam Tour in Boston, MA. As the girls' careers developed, so did Disney's interest in them. #1 Crush was recently featured on the highly coveted "Incubator" program on Radio Disney. To check out #1 Crush on Radio Disney's Incubator, visit http://radio.disney.go.com/artists/incubator/index.html.

#1 Crush is a high-energy, musically-gifted, crowd-pleasing group with a rock/pop sound that will thrust them into pop music superstardom along with the likes of Hannah Montana, Hillary Duff, and the Cheetah Girls. The Houston, Texas-based group is currently recording in the studio to put the finishing touches on their debut project with producer Dwight Baker, who has worked with Kelly Clarkson and Brandy Carlile. The album is due out this summer. Fans may preview portions of the upcoming album by logging on to the #1 Crush MySpace page, www.myspace.com/1crush. The enormously popular page receives over 30,000 hits and has more than 10,000 friends to date.

Music World Entertainment (MWE) is one of the world's leading entertainment and music conglomerates dedicated to bringing quality entertainment to the world. MWE worldwide business includes record labels, artist and producer management, staff producers, artist development, Master catalog series, investment and property holdings, including offices in Houston, Los Angeles, New York and London. MWE is the brainchild of President and CEO Mathew Knowles, the powerhouse management behind the success of Grammy Award-winners Beyoncé and global phenomenon Destiny's Child, the most successful "girl group" in the history of pop music.

Music World is one of the most successful labels in the world with over 100 million records sold to date including releases by Destiny's Child, Beyoncé, Solange Knowles, Michelle Williams, Sunshine Anderson, the "Dreamgirls Music from the Motion Picture Soundtrack," "Roll Bounce Soundtrack" and the highly anticipated upcoming Music World Master Series releases which includes Chaka Kahn and The O'Jays. www.musicworldentertainment.com

Superstar Mickey Gilley Joins Nashville Records' Christmas Album

-- In the news release, "Superstar Mickey Gilley Joins Nashville Record's Christmas Album," issued earlier today by Nashville Records, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: NSHV), we are advised by the company that the mention of Gilley's Club in first sentence of the second paragraph should read "Gilley's Club in Pasadena, Texas," rather than "Gilley's Club in Pasadena, California" as originally issued. Additionally, in the headline the company name should read "Nashville Records'" rather than "Nashville Record's." Complete corrected text follows.

Superstar Mickey Gilley Joins Nashville Records' Christmas Album

Nashville Records, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: NSHV) announced today that legendary vocalist and pianist Mickey Gilley will appear on the Company's upcoming Christmas album. The album is already beginning to create widespread excitement in the county music industry and elsewhere as more and more popular performers line up to participate in this unprecedented production.

Mickey Gilley -- the cousin of Jerry Lee Lewis -- has been a leader in country music for more than three decades starting in 1970 when he opened Gilley's Club in Pasadena, Texas, which became the "in-place" for performers and audiences interested in country music, specifically honky tonk. His hit "Room Full of Roses" not only topped the country music charts but crossed-over to pop music as well -- rising to #50 on the charts. This highly popular recording was followed by 16 #1 hits, many "countrypolitan honky tonk," including "I Overlooked an Orchid," "City Lights," "She's Pulling Back Again," "True Love Ways," "Stand by Me," "That's All That Matters," and "A Headache Tomorrow (Or a Heartache Tonight)."

It was Gilley's cameo appearance (and songs) in the movie "Urban Cowboy" that catapulted his musical career into national prominence bringing him 6 straight #1 country music singles and a series of top 10 hits. The recipient of many country music awards in the mid-1970s (album of the year, entertainer of the year, single of the year, song of the year, top male vocalist and most promising male artist of the year), Gilley currently stars at his own permanent theater in Branson, Missouri in which hundreds of thousands of people go to see Mickey each year and buy his albums. Nashville Records President Gene Sibbett observed that, "There are few entertainers in the country music business that are as recognizable and popular as Mickey Gilley. To have Mickey join Nashville Records in what will possibly become a record-selling album is both an honor and a special treat -- clearly, it doesn't get any better."

Legal Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Blu-ray Disc Sales Surpass One Million Mark
Blu-ray Accounts For 70 Percent of High-Definition Movies Sold During First Quarter, According to Home Media Research Sales Figures

Blu-ray Disc has become the first high definition format to sell more than one million discs, a milestone it has achieved in less than a year. Blu-ray Disc sales also accounted for 70 percent of the high-definition movies sold during the first quarter of 2007, according to sales figures published today by Home Media Research.

Blu-ray's sales lead has increased each month since the first of the year and nearly three out of every four high-definition movies sold in March were on Blu-ray Disc, according to the HMR sales figures.

Industry projections suggest that this steady growth trend will continue based on the fact that seven of the eight major studios are releasing an increasing number of blockbuster movies on Blu-ray Disc, most of which will only be available in high-definition on Blu-ray Disc. In 2006, 18 of the top 20 selling DVD's were released by studios that are publishing their movies on Blu-ray Disc.

Blu-ray Disc titles accounted for eight of the top ten selling high definition titles in the first quarter of this year and since the introduction of both high definition formats, seven of the top ten selling high definition movies are on Blu-ray Disc.

"Sales of Blu-ray Disc titles have taken off since the first of the year," said Andy Parsons, Chairman of the Blu-ray Disc Association's U.S. Promotion Committee and Senior Vice President New Product Development at Pioneer Electronics. "Blu-ray Discs have been outselling HD DVD by more than two to one since the beginning of the year and the gap is steadily widening. It's exactly what we've said all along would happen - the strong support for Blu-ray among movie studio and equipment manufacturers means that consumers have more choices when it comes to players and titles. And they're choosing Blu-ray by an ever-increasing margin."

The sustained sales advantage enjoyed by Blu-ray throughout the first three months of the year will continue as studios maintain an aggressive release schedule to bring the biggest Hollywood movies to high definition. In the coming months, Blu-ray Disc studios will be releasing blockbuster titles such as Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, Night at the Museum, Cars and Dreamgirls (for a complete release schedule, see attached chart).

About Blu-ray Disc

Blu-ray Disc is the next-generation optical disc format being developed for high-definition video and high-capacity software applications. A single-layer Blu-ray Disc will hold up to 25 gigabytes of data and a double-layer Blu-ray Disc will hold up to 50 gigabytes of data.

About the Blu-ray Disc Association

The Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA) is responsible for promoting and further developing business opportunities for Blu-ray Disc - the next-generation optical disc for storing high-definition movies, games, photos and other digital content. The BDA has more than 180 members. Its Board of Directors consists of Apple; Dell Inc.; HP; Hitachi, Ltd.; LG Electronics Inc.; Mitsubishi Electric Corporation; Panasonic (Matsushita Electric); Pioneer Corporation; Royal Philips Electronics; Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.; Sharp Corporation; Sony Corporation; Sun Microsystems, Inc.; TDK Corporation; Thomson; Twentieth Century Fox; Walt Disney Pictures and Television; Warner Bros. Entertainment. -0-

Blu-ray Disc Association Product and Title Release Schedule

April 23, 2007(a)

Blu-ray Disc Movie Titles

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

Now Playing

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

US Title European Japan Studio

Release Release Release

Date Date Date

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

April 2007

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

3rd

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

Identity Sony

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

(1)Volver Sony

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

(2)King Arthur (2)4/9/2007 Disney

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

(2)GI Jane Disney

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

7th

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

Warner

A Scanner Darkly Bros.

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

Dog Day Warner

Afternoon Bros.

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

10th

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

Payback: Paramount

Straight Up -

The Director's

Cut

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

17th

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

Warner

Enter the Dragon Bros.

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

Warner

The Dirty Dozen Bros.

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

March 2007

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

7th

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

Hoosiers MGM

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

13th

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

(2)Casino March 2007 Sony

Royale(1)

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

The Holiday Sony

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

Layer Cake Sony

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

20th

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

(2)Chicken (2)March 2007

Little (2)4/25/07 Disney

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

(2)Finding (2)March 2007

Neverland Disney

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

(1)Eragon Fox

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

(2)Rocky Balboa Sony

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

Big Fish March 2007 Sony

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

21st

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

Cinderella Man -

Japan Only (2)3/21/07

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

Face/Off - Japan

Only (2)3/21/07

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

27th

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

National Warner

Geographic: Bros.

Relentless

Enemies

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

March of the Warner

Penguins Bros.

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

Happy Feet Warner Bros

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

Incubus - Alive Sony

at Red Rocks

(Blu-ray/CD

Combo)

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

Warriors of Sony

Heaven and

Earth

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

The Pursuit of Sony

Happyness

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

February 2007

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

6th

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

(2)Running with

Scissors(1) Sony

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

(2)The Tailor of

Panama Sony

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

Reservoir Dogs Lionsgate

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

Young Guns Lionsgate

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

American Psycho Lionsgate

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

First Blood Lionsgate

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

13th

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

Chronos Koch

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

The World's

Fastest Indian Magnolia

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

(1)The Usual

Suspects MGM

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

(2)Ladder 49 Disney

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

Reign of Fire Disney

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

The Sentinel 4/9/07 Fox

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

Entrapment Fox

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

Broken Arrow Fox

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

Phone Booth Fox

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

Planet of the

Apes (2001) Fox

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

Chain Reaction Fox

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

The Marine Fox

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

The Usual

Suspects MGM

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

Warner

The Departed Bros.

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

20th
20th

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

(1)Babel Paramount

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

(2)Vertical

Limit Sony

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

Destiny's Child

- Live in

Atlanta Sony

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

(2) The

Prestige(1) Disney

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

27th

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

Warner

Bullitt Bros.

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

Warner

The Getaway Bros.

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

(2)Stranger than March 2007

Fiction(1) Sony

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

Nine Inch Nails:

Beside You in

Time Interscope

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

January 2007

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

2nd

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

The Covenant Sony

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

9th

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

(1)Crank Lionsgate

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

16th

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

GoodFellas Warner

Bros.

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

Scooby Doo: The Warner

Movie Bros.

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

(2)The Gridiron Sony

Gang

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

Resident Evil: Sony

Apocalypse

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

Employee of the Lionsgate

Month

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

23rd

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

Saw II Lionsgate

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

(1) Saw III Lionsgate

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

The Manchurian

Candidate Paramount

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

We Were Soldiers Paramount

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

(2) Casanova Disney

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

(2) Chicago Disney

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

(2) The Guardian (2)March 2007 (2)6/20/07 Disney

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

(2) The (2)March 2007

Hitchhiker's

Guide to the

Galaxy 12/6/06 Disney

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

Black Rain 12/22/2006 Paramount

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

Alien Vs.

Predator 4/9/2007 Fox

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

Men of Honor 4/9/2007 Fox

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

Courage Under

Fire 4/9/2007 Fox

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

30th

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

(1) Open Season Sony

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

Flyboys MGM

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

Hart's War MGM

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

Warner

The Wicker Man Bros.

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

Beerfest Warner

(Unrated) Bros.

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

December 2006

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

5th

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

(1) Rocky MGM

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

Bulletproof Monk MGM

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

Flight of the March 2007

Phoenix Fox

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

Rising Sun 4/9/2007 Fox

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

The Architect Magnolia

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

Entrapment Fox

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

National Warner

Lampoon's Bros.

Christmas

Vacation

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

A Christmas Warner

Story Bros.

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

6th

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

The Pacifier -

Japan Only 12/6/06

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

The Innocence -

Japan Only 12/6/06

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

12th

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

Kung Fu Hustle March 2007 Sony

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

Talladega Sony

Nights: The

Ballad of Ricky

Bobby

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

Tony Bennett: An Sony

American

Classic

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

The Devil Wears Fox

Prada

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

(1) World Trade Paramount

Center

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

19th

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

Lady in the Warner

Water Bros.

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

(2) Flightplan (2)March 2007 (2)1/26/07 Disney

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

(1) Invincible Disney

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

(2) Pearl Harbor (2)March 2007 (2)1/26/07 Disney

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

The Sopranos: Warner

Season 6, Part Bros.

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

All the King's Sony

Men

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

26th

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

Transporter 2 Fox

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

The Descent Lionsgate

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

November 2006

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

3rd

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

John Legend:

Live at the

House of Blues

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

7th

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

(1) Little Man Sony

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

Reds Paramount

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

Nacho Libre Paramount

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

14th

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

X-Men: The Last March 2007 Fox

Stand

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

Behind Enemy March 2007 Fox

Lines

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

Fantastic Four 11/06 Fox

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

Kingdom of 11/06 Fox

Heaven

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

The Omen 11/06 11/10 Fox

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

Kiss of the 11/06 Fox

Dragon

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

The League of March 2007

Extraordinary

Gentlemen Fox

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

Speed March 2007 Fox

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

The Transporter 11/06 Fox

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

Million Dollar Warner

Baby Bros.

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

Warner

The Last Samurai Bros.

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

Warner

ATL Bros.

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

(2) Black Hawk Sony

Down

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

21st

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

Ice Age: The

Meltdown 11/13/2006 11/13/2006 Fox

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

Annapolis Disney

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

(2) Enemy of the (2)March 2007 Disney

State (2)2/23/07

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

Goal: The Dream Disney

Begins

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

Sky High (2)March 2007 (2)1/26/07 Disney

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

The Wild (2)4/25/07 Disney

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

28th

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

Windtalkers MGM

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

Warner

Superman Returns Bros.

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

Superman: The Warner

Movie Bros.

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

Superman II: The Warner

Donner Cut Bros.

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

Warner

The Ant Bully Bros.

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

October 2006

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

3rd

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

The Pat Metheny Eagle Rock

Group: The Way

Up Live

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

John Legend - Sony

Live at the

House of Blues

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

10th

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

Warner

Syriana Bros.

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

Warner

16 Blocks Bros.

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

Aeon Flux Par

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

U2: Rattle and Par

Hum

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

One Last Thing Magnolia

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

The War Within Magnolia

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

Bikini Magnolia

Destinations:

Triple Fantasy

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

Bubble Magnolia

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

HDNet World Magnolia

Report: Shuttle

Discovery's

Historic

Mission

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

Enron: The Magnolia

Smartest Guys

in the Room

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

(2) Click 11/13/06 Sony

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

17th

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

Glory Road Disney

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

Haunted Mansion 11/8/06 Disney

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

Gone in 60 (2)March 2007 Disney

Seconds 11/8/06

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

Dark Water Disney

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

The Brothers Disney

Grimm

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

24th

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

Italian Job Paramount

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

Sahara Paramount

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

Legends of Jazz LRS Media

Showcase

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

Monster House 12/8/06 Sony

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

30th

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

(1) Mission: Paramount

Impossible III

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

(1) Mission: Paramount

Impossible -

Box Set

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

Alice Cooper: Eagle Rock

Live in

Montreux 2005

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

The Phantom of Warner

the Opera Bros.

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

Warner

The Searchers Bros.

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

Warner

Unforgiven Bros.

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

Warner

Under Siege Bros.

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

September

2006

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

5th

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

Warner

Lethal Weapon Bros.

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

Blazing Saddles Warner

Bros.

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

Full Metal Fall 2006 Warner

Jacket Bros.

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

Fall 2006 Warner

Firewall Bros.

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

19th

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

A Knight's Tale 10/16/06 Sony

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

The Big Hit Sony

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

S.W.A.T. (2003) 10/16/06 Sony

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

Tears of the Sun 10/16/06 Sony

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

Dinosaur (2)4/9/2007 11/8/06 Disney

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

8 Below (2)March 2007 11/8/06 Disney

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

The Great Raid Disney

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

Jay and Silent

Bob Strike Back Disney

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

26th

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

(1) The Lake Warner

House Bros.

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

Tim Burton's Warner

Corpse Bride Bros.

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

Warner

Swordfish Bros.

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

Fall 2006 Warner

Space Cowboys Bros.

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

Warner

Lethal Weapon 2 Bros.

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

Warner

The Fugitive Bros.

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

Warner

House of Wax Bros.

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

Four Brothers Paramount

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

Laura Croft: Paramount

Tomb Raider

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

Sky Captain & Paramount

the World of

Tomorrow

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

Sleepy Hollow Paramount

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

August 2006

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

1st

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

Kiss Kiss, Bang Warner

Bang Bros.

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

Fall 2006 Warner

Training Day Bros.

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

Good Night and Warner

Good Luck Bros.

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

Warner

Rumor Has It Bros.

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

15th

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

(1) RV 10/16/06 Sony

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

Memento Sony

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

Into The Blue

(2005) 11/13/06 Sony

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

22nd

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

(1) Silent Hill Sony

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

29th

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

Stargate LG

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

Devil's Reject LG

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

Stir of Echoes LG

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

Total Recall LG

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

July 2006

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

11th

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

(1)Basic

Instinct 2:

Risk Addiction Sony

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

25th

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

Species MGM

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

Stealth 11/13/06 Sony

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

(1)The Sony

Benchwarmers

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

The Last Waltz MGM

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

June 2006

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

20th

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

50 First Dates 11/13/06 Sony

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

The Fifth

Element 10/16/06 Sony

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

House of Flying

Daggers Sony

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

Hitch 10/16/06 Sony

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

Underworld

Evolution 10/16/06 Sony

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

XXX: State of

The Union 11/13/06 Sony

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

Terminator MGM

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

27th

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

(1) Ultraviolet 10/16/06 Sony

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

Crash Lionsgate

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

Lord Of War Lionsgate

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

The Punisher Lionsgate

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

Terminator 2 -

Judgment Day Lionsgate

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

Saw Lionsgate

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

-0-

Blu-ray Disc Movie Titles

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

Coming Soon

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

US Title European Japan Studio

Release Release Release

Date Date Date

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

April 2007

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

24th

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

Night at the

Museum Fox

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

Ultimate

Avengers/Ultimate

Avengers 2 Lionsgate

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

(2)The Queen(1) Disney

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

(2)Deja vu (2)April 2007 Disney

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

Failure to Launch Paramount

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

Planet Earth: The

Complete

Collection BBC

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

Secret Window Sony

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

May 2007

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

1st

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

(1)Dreamgirls Paramount

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

Happily N'Ever Lionsgate

After

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

8th

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

Dirty Dancing 20th

Anniversary

Edition Lionsgate

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

Catch and Release Sony

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

Donnie Brasco Sony

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

Revenge Sony

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

Chris Botti - Live

with Orchestra

and Special

Friends Sony

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

15th

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

Stomp the Yard Sony

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

Battle of the Warner

Bulge Bros.

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

Warner

The Road Warrior Bros.

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

22nd

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

Flags of our

Fathers Paramount

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

(2)Pirates of the (2)May 2007 (2)5/23/07

Caribbean: Curse

of the Black

Pearl (two disc

set: 50GB + 25GB) Disney

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

(2)Pirates of the (2)May 2007 (2)5/23/07

Caribbean: Dead

Man's Chest (two

disc set: 50GB +

25GB) Disney

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

(2)Apocalypto Disney

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

Closer Sony

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

29th

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

Blood and Sony

Chocolate

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

Curse of the Sony

Golden Flower

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

Weeds Season 1 Lionsgate

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

Basic Instinct Lionsgate

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

June 2007

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

5th

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

Coming to America Paramount

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

Trading Places Paramount

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

Cars Disney

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

Hellboy Sony

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

Meatballs Sony

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

The Messengers Sony

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

Rescue Me - Season Sony

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

Bruce Springsteen Sony

With The Sessions

Band Live in

Dublin

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

Warner

Rio Bravo Bros.

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

Warner

The Cowboys Bros.

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

Warner

Blood Diamond Bros.

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

8th

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

Con Air (2)June 2007 Disney

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

Crimson Tide (2)June 2007 Disney

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

The Rock (2)June 2007 Disney

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

12th

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

(2)Primeval Disney

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

Daddy's Little Lionsgate

Girls

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

19th

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

(2)Bridge to Disney

Terabithia

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

June TBD

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

Cruel Intentions Sony

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

Ghost Rider Sony

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

Seven Years in Sony

Tibet

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

TBD 2007

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

The Complete Warner

Matrix Trilogy Bros.

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

The Ultimate Warner

Matrix Collection Bros.

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

(1)Titles released day-and-date with DVD

(2)50GB Blu-ray Disc Title

(a) Data is accurate as of April 23, 2007 and is based on information

provided by BDA member companies.

"SPIDER-MAN 3 Soundtrack" Album to Be Released May 1, 2007

Special Limited Edition Package Available Online Only

-- As previously announced, Record Collection will release the original soundtrack to "SPIDER-MAN 3," one of the most anticipated album and film events of the summer. Featuring all new, exclusive music, the album is scheduled for release on May 1, 2007, and is already garnering huge attention due in part to tremendous radio visibility from the first single "Signal Fire," by Glasgow-based stars SNOW PATROL.

A Limited Edition Soundtrack package will also be available and will contain a 32-page embossed hard-cover book featuring stills from the movie and 5 collectable movie cards housed inside an 8"x8" box made from a replica of the rubberized Spider-Man suit. Additionally, this version will also contain a bonus track by THE FLAMING LIPS titled, "Theme From Spider-Man." This special package is available online only at: www.spiderman3soundtrack.com.

Into vinyl? The album will be available in 4 different collectable picture discs enclosed in clear gatefold sleeves. Images from the film will be pressed on one side of the vinyl. These will be limited to 1,000 numbered edition pressings of each. A standard double album in a gatefold sleeve will be available as well. Details of where and when fans can purchase the limited vinyl editions to be announced shortly.

In the meantime, the second single to be featured from the soundtrack will be "Red River," by THE WALKMEN. A video for the track will be filmed this week. "Red River" will impact radio waves on April 24th. The Walkmen are on tour now. Check www.walkmen.com for details.

April 23

DIMEBAG DARRELL’S BLACK TOOTH BASH @ THE HOUSE OF BLUES
SIX STRING MASTERPIECES is proud to present:
THE DIMEBAG DARRELL ART TRIBUTE AUCTION to benefit
The LITTLE KIDS ROCK FOUNDATION

– Please join us at the House of Blues Hollywood to honor Dimebag Darrell Abbott and The Dimebag Darrell Art Tribute Auction to benefit The Little Kids Rock Foundation. This event is held after the induction of Dimebag Darrell Abbott to the Hollywood Guitar Center Rock Walk May 17th, 2007 .

The night will start out with ring-master Jamey Jasta of Hatebreed and Headbanger's Ball leading us into the 3-ring circus in honor of Dimebag Darrell Abbott and his induction. Jasta opens the night with introducing to the masses the L.A Chapter of the Little Kids Rock. The kids will rock out and show you how a little love from us can help change the lives of these gifted kids that would not normally have the chance to learn and play instruments.

Jasta will then head up the now famed BLACK TOOTH BASH. This nights BLACK TOOTH BAND will comprise of performances by Vinnie Paul Abbott, Scott Ian, Ripper Owens, John 5, David Draiman (Disturbed), Bob Zilla (Damageplan), Aaron Lewis (Staind), Ace Frehley, Brent Smith and Jasin Todd (Shinedown), Dave Navarro, Stephen Perkins, Matt Byrne (Hatebreed), Chester Bennington (Linkin Park) and many more surprise artists!

SIX-STRING MASTERPIECES: THE DIMEBAG DARRELL ART TRIBUTE is a collection of over 60 DEAN ML guitars that have been hand-painted by world-famous Rock Stars and internationally known Tattoo & Visionary Artists in a memorial tribute to one of the greatest guitarists of all time, Dimebag Darrell Abbott. The guitars can be viewed prior to the auction May 4^th to May 16^th at LaLuz DeJesus Gallery in L.A. ( 4633 Hollywood Ave ).

The Little Kids Rock Foundation (501C3) is the charity of choice for Dimebag Darrell – so it’s Dime-Time folks and we are going to rock the house to honor Dimebag and raise money for the kids!
(501C3) is the charity of choice for Dimebag Darrell – so it’s Dime-Time folks and we are going to rock the house to honor Dimebag and raise money for the kids!

The gear companies are uniting as one to raise money for the kids. The night’s sponsors are Dimebag Hardware, Dean Guitars, Coffin Case, Seymour Duncan, GHS Strings, EMG Pickups, Schecter Guitars with more joining us each day!!

For more information on the charity and the Six String masterpieces go to www.rockwalk.com www.littlekidsrock.org, www.actionartsagency.com, www.myspace.com/sixstringmasterpieces.

ANIME EXPO® 2007 RECEIVES DEATH NOTES Nation¹s Largest Convention Obtains Guests of Honor and EXCLUSIVE Films Anaheim, California (April 23, 2007) ‹ ³The human whose name is written in this note shall die.² Famed director Tetsuro Araki and character designer Masaru Kitao announce their attendance at Anime Expo® 2007 as Official Guests of Honor. In addition, Anime Expo® has also obtained the rights to screen the blockbuster films, starring Tatsuya Fujiwara, from Japan DEATH NOTE (123 minutes) and DEATH NOTE: THE LAST NAME (140 minutes) on 35 mm print at the highly anticipated 2007 convention June 29-July 2 at the Long Beach Convention Center. More information can be found on the website www.anime-expo.org <http://www.anime-expo.org> . Born November 5, 1976, in the Saitama Prefecture and a graduate of the School of Literature at Senshu University, Tetsuro Araki gained mass fame and media attention as the director of the "Desu nôto" (2006 also known as DEATH NOTE) TV Series (produced by Madhouse, Nippon Television, Shueisha and VAP). Based on the Japanese manga series centering around a high school student who decides to rid the world of evil with the help of a supernatural notebook, dropped by a rogue Shinigami Death God, that kills anyone whose name is written in it. The popularity of the TV series made a great synergy for two live-action films which topped the Japanese box office for two straight weeks as well as a video game entitled DEATH NOTE: KIRA GAME. Mr. Araki made his debut as a storyboard artist and director for a short animated version of CARDCAPTOR SAKURA. Since then, he has engaged with a number of animated TV series as a ³thoroughbred² Madhouse director including DI GI CHARAT NYO and GUNGRAVE. Mr. Araki came under the spotlight for his unique and sometimes ³outrageous² sense of humor in the GALAXY ANGEL series. Mr. Araki also made his directorial debut with OTUGIJUSHI AKAZUKIN. Masaru Kitao gained mass fame and media attention as the sole character designer of the "Desu nôto" (2006 also known as DEATH NOTE) TV Series characters (produced by Madhouse, Nippon Television and VAP). Mr. Kitao was responsible for such memorable characters from the TV series such as Light Yagami (Kira), L, Miss Amane, Ryuk and Rem. Mr. Kitao has been involved with many other acclaimed anime titles including Rozen Maiden, X, CARDCAPTOR SAKURA, CARDCAPTOR SAKURA: THE SEALED CARD (USA) and the classic anime METROPOLIS. Exceeding 15 million copies sold, the manga best seller, DEATH NOTE has been adopted into a series of live-action feature films as DEATH NOTE part 1, 2 and (most recently announced to be produced) 3 which topped the box office for 2 straight weeks pushing THE DA VINCI CODE into 2nd place. Anime Expo® 2007 brings the two Japanese blockbuster films on 35 mm print to the viewing pleasure of its attendees. DEATH NOTE (synopsis): ³The human whose name is written in this note shall die². Weary Shinigami the Death drops a notebook (the notebook of death that determined people¹s death) within the human world where a weary genius picks it up. Light Yagami (Fujiwara), an extremely bright and elite university student, ends up possessing the ultimate tool that should remain only in the hands of Gods. Light decides to create an ideal world and begins to hold the scales to judge criminals by his discretion. Meanwhile a mysterious detective named ³L² begins to investigate the unresolved cases caused by the Light. The future of mankind is at the mercy of the crucial and fierce battles of the two men. Tetsuro Araki and Masaru Kitao joins ORESKABAND and Mary Elizabeth McGlynn as Anime Expo® 2007 Official Guests of Honor. All registrants who register before the end of March are automatically placed into the drawing. Those who have already pre-registered are also automatically entered into this drawing. Secure pre-registration can be done via online at https://secure.rhq.com/anime/anime2007/attreg/index.cgi <file://localhost/anime/anime2007/attreg/index.cgi> . Attendees interested in booking flights, car rentals and/or other hotels for Anime Expo® 2007 can do so via the AX Travel Store located at www.AXTravelStore.com <http://www.AXTravelStore.com> . About Anime Expo® Located in Long Beach, California - Anime Expo®, the nation¹s largest anime/manga convention, serves to foster trade, commerce and the interests of the general public and animation/ comics industry. This event serves as a key meeting place for the general public to express their interest and explore various aspects of anime/manga, as well as for members of the industry to conduct business. AX 2007 will be held June 29 July 2, 2007 at the Long Beach Convention Center in Southern California. SPONSORS: ADV Films, Bandai Entertainment, Copic Markers, Digital Manga, Gaia Online, Go! Media, Infinity Studios, Informasian TV (IaTV) and the Los Angeles Times. More information can be found at its website (www.anime-expo.org). About Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation The Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation (SPJA) is a non-profit organization with a mission to popularize and educate the American public about anime and manga, as well as provide a forum to facilitate communication between professionals and fans. This organization is more popularly known by its entertainment property Anime Expo®. More information can be found at its website (www.spja.org). The statements made in this press release that are not historical facts are "forward-looking statements." These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties. The Company cautions readers of this press release that a number of important factors could cause Anime Expo®/SPJA¹s actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in any such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, without limitation, product delays, industry competition, rapid changes in technology and industry standards, protection of proprietary rights, maintenance of relationships with key personnel, vendors and third-party developers, international economic and political conditions. The Company may change its intention, belief or expectation, at any time and without notice, based upon any changes in such factors, in the Company's assumptions or otherwise. The Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events

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April 20, 2007

In The Land of Women

Credits & Production Notes

Aspiring writer Carter Webb has just been dumped by his true love, Sophia. Heartbroken

and depressed, Carter escapes Los Angeles to suburban Michigan to care for his ailing

grandmother and to work on a book he has always wanted to write.

Soon after his arrival, Carter stumbles into the lives of the family living directly across

the street: Sarah Hardwicke, and her daughters, Paige and Lucy. His relationships with all of

these women help Carter discover that what felt like an end was only just the beginning of

something else....

Warner Bros. Pictures and Castle Rock Entertainment present an Anonymous Content

Production, “In the Land of Women,” starring Adam Brody, Kristen Stewart, and Meg Ryan.

Written and directed by Jonathan Kasdan in his feature debut, In the Land of Women is produced

by Steve Golin and David Kanter and executive produced by Lawrence Kasdan. The director of

photography is Paul Cameron. The production designer is Sandy Cochrane. The film is edited by

Carol Littleton, A.C.E. The soundtrack is available on Lakeshore Records.

“In the Land of Women” will be released by Warner Bros. Pictures. The film has been

rated PG-13 for sexual content, thematic elements and language.

www.myspace.com/itlow

Aspiring writer Carter Webb has just been dumped by his true love Sophia. Heartbroken and

depressed, Carter escapes Los Angeles to suburban Michigan to care for his ailing grandmother and to

work on a book he has always wanted to write.

Soon after his arrival, Carter stumbles into the lives of the family living directly across the street:

Sarah Hardwicke, and her daughters, Paige and Lucy. His relationships with all of these women help

Carter discover that what felt like an end was only just the beginning of something else....

Warner Bros. Pictures and Castle Rock Entertainment present an Anonymous Content

Production, In the Land of Women, starring Adam Brody, Kristen Stewart, and Meg Ryan. Written and

directed by Jonathan Kasdan in his feature debut, In the Land of Women is produced by Steve Golin and

David Kanter, and executive produced by Lawrence Kasdan. The director of photography is Paul

Cameron. The production designer is Sandy Cochrane. The film is edited by Carol Littleton, A.C.E. The

soundtrack is available on Lakeshore Records.

In the Land of Women will be released by Warner Bros. Picutres. The film has been rated PG-13

for sexual content, thematic elements and language.

PRESS CONTACTS

Los Angeles New York

Jessica Kimiabakhsh Susan Senk

MPRM Public Relations Susan Senk PR

5670 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 2500 41 Union Square West #320

Los Angeles, CA 90036 New York, NY 10003

T: 323.933.3399 T: 212.206.8974

JKimiabakhsh@MPRM.com SusanSenkPR@aol.com

TECH SPECS

Format: 35mm Color Aspect Ratio: Scope, 2:35

Running Time: 1hr 38min Sound: Quad

For photos: http://press.warnerbros.com

For as long as he could remember, Carter Webb (ADAM BRODY) had been falling in love with

women. And for as long as he could remember, he’d been searching for the right one. He found

everything he was looking for in Sophia (ELENA ANAYA) and for a little while he was happy.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t meant to be.

When Carter is dumped by Sophia in a North Hollywood coffee shop, he sees his entire life flash

before his eyes. Heartbroken and depressed, Carter escapes Los Angeles, heading across the country to

suburban Michigan to care for his ailing grandmother (OLYMPIA DUKAKIS). An eccentric and

complicated personality, Grandma offers Carter a uniquely different perspective on life and especially

death.

Soon after his arrival, Carter stumbles into the lives of the family living directly across the street,

Sarah Hardwicke (MEG RYAN), the mother of two daughters: Paige (MAKENZIE VEGA), a

precocious, effervescent eleven-year-old and her older sister Lucy (KRISTEN STEWART), an angst-

ridden teenager. While Sarah faces her own personal crisis, Lucy wrestles with the fears that define her.

Through his relationships with these women, as well as his grandmother, Carter begins to discover that

what felt like the end was really only just the beginning of his adventure....

Warner Bros. Pictures and Castle Rock Entertainment present an Anonymous Content

Production, In the Land of Women, starring Adam Brody, Kristen Stewart, and Meg Ryan. Written and

directed by Jonathan Kasdan in his feature debut, In the Land of Women is produced by Steve Golin and

David Kanter, and executive produced by Lawrence Kasdan. The director of photography is Paul

Cameron. The production designer is Sandy Cochrane. The film is edited by Carol Littleton, A.C.E. The

soundtrack is available on Lakeshore Records.

In the Land of Women will be released by Warner Bros. Picutres. The film has been rated PG-13

for sexual content, thematic elements and language.

www.myspace.com/itlow

ABOUT THE STORY

In his directorial debut, writer Jonathan Kasdan presents a personal and poignant story about the

serendipitous way in which people’s lives can intersect at the most critical times. Guided by the

formidable words of wisdom dispensed to all writers, write what you know, Kasdan found shifting gears

from the daily rigors of writing for television to penning a feature-length screenplay, became an act of

following his own heart and focusing on his love for film.

Kasdan explains, “I’ve been inundated with movies since my earliest memories. Films are my

passion. It took a couple of scripts for me to realize that what I had to do was write something that was,

among other things, fun. What I ended up writing was far more dramatic and more personal that I had

intended.” He continues, “When I sat down to write a movie about what I really loved, it seemed obvious

that what I really loved were women, being around them and trying to figure out my relationship with

them.”

Carter Webb’s adventure is one of self-discovery . where often the bumpy road traveled is more

illuminating than the final destination you arrive at. “The movie is really about a guy who is in the

process of falling in love with his life. When we meet Carter,” Kasdan says, “he’s struggling, conflicted

and a bit lost. At the end of the movie, his changes are very subtle as he’s had a couple of those moments

where he comes into contact with the overwhelming thrill of the journey of his life.”

The script’s ability to connect with those defining moments of everyday life was what attracted

producers Steve Golin and David Kanter to the screenplay. “This is a movie about humanity,” says

Kanter. “It’s fresh and original and the dramatic questions posed are very relevant and couched in real

language . the dialogue is funny and smart. You’re always hoping to find material that will leave an

impact on the audience.”

For Golin what makes In the Land of Women such a compelling story, is people colliding at a

time when everything in their lives, everything they thought they controlled, is slipping through their

fingers, and in that moment, find allies in each other. “The movie spans a very brief period of time. Both

Carter and Sarah are going through their own personal crises and for this short window they develop a

very poignant bond with each other. It’s about two people at the right time at the right place.”

Adam Brody adds “It's a really positive movie that's in love with life, in love with people, and in

the end, appreciates the everyday moments of life. It’s about relationships and love, and all those things

intersecting.”

In the Land of Women is a glimpse inside a female-centric world from a young man’s perspective.

What continually caught the actors off-guard was Kasdan’s uncanny ability to articulate a woman’s

perspective with such sensitivity.

“It’s the mystery of the movie. How does he know about all these relationships?” muses Meg

Ryan. “The tension in the family, all this unspoken stuff and how it plays out and how it affects

everything about each of their lives. All the things that are not said and that finally need to be said, and

that’s the great catharsis of the movie, is when things are finally expressed and they can finally be

healed.”

Olympia Dukakis offers, “Jon is so open, he doesn’t attempt to be something he’s not. He’s a

very sensitive, vulnerable guy who has tremendous enthusiasm. I think he’s had his own unique

experiences with women and understands the gravity of some relationships, the damage that can be done

and the joy that can be there. He’s written all of that in this story.”

Kanter suggests where Kasdan may have started to learn about the psychology of the opposite

sex. “Jon told us a story about when he attended this very renowned private school in West Los Angeles

and apparently wrote an advice column for the girls who attended this fancy girl’s private school in

Brentwood. He was giving advice to high school girls while being a teenager himself. It’s part of his

charm. He has an innate ability to observe human behavior and then to write about it.”

The cast is quick to weigh in with praise regarding Kasdan’s talent in his directorial debut. “Jon

blows me away. He’s so calm,” says Adam Brody. “It’s his first movie but you’d think it was his tenth.

He knows every aspect of a movie shoot, not just about setting up shots, but also different ways to light,

work with actors.”

Makenzie Vega adds, “Right before a scene, Mr. Kasdan comes over to me and reminds me about

little things with my character, he helped me so much. He’s so cool!” The coolness factor was one

admired by all the cast. “I think Jon is unbelievable and just so passionate about what’s he’s doing,” says

Kristen Stewart. “He wrote the script and you can ask him any question and he can tell you every thing

you want to know. It’s like he is every character!”

“I think audiences are really going to enjoy the humor in this story,” continues Dukakis, “seeing

all these characters at different ages grappling with love and love’s disappointments and expectations. I

suppose the passages of life are full of contradictions – they have joys, pains, disillusionment and

wonder.”

What is the director’s ultimate hope for what audiences will experience? “I feel like I’ve had that

a couple of times where I’ve been able to catch myself in a moment and think ‘This is the best, being

alive!’” says Kasdan. “It comes back to a Woody Allen quote from Deconstructing Harry where he’s

visited by the ghost of his old friend who’s just died. He’s in the jail cell and he says to the ghost, ‘I know

it sounds trite, but I just want to be happy’ and the ghost says ‘To be alive is to be happy. Take it from

me.’ That has stuck with me forever and it has become one of the formative pieces of dialogue in my life.

“This film speaks to this idea that is powerful in my life, which is some sort of synchronicity existing in

the universe where events seem to come together at the strangest moments, and sort of work together.

Hopefully that’s what audiences will see . that kind of magic.”

CAST AND CHARACTERS

Production was put on hold for eight months until lead actor Adam Brody was available, a

decision that the producers and Kasdan have never regretted. “Adam is the heart, soul and life blood of

this film,” says Kasdan. “I spent five months looking for an actor to play the lead in this largely

autobiographical story. What I discovered was that I wasn’t really looking for an actor to play me, I was

looking for a movie star to play someone way more attractive and far less neurotic! In Adam I found

everything I wanted for Carter. Adam is a pure, classic leading man in the tradition of Tom Hanks and

Cary Grant.”

Golin concurs, “Adam brings a lot of good will to Carter. He appears effortless in terms of his

performance . he’s very natural and that’s one of Adam’s big strengths. The audience wants to like him

even though sometimes he’s doing things that may be questionable. Audiences can’t help but give him the

benefit of the doubt.”

A struggling writer, Carter has fallen in love with a beautiful actress, a woman who may well be

out of his league, but it’s clear at the start of the film that he has built his world around her. The last

words the hopeless romantic ever thought he’d hear were that Sophia was moving on with her life and

career without him. When Carter goes home to break the news to his mother, Agnes (JoBeth Williams),

that Sophia has ended the relationship, Agnes seems more devastated than her son, recounting and

wallowing in her own tales of a broken heart. Agnes confides in Carter that she’s concerned his

dementia-prone grandmother living in Michigan has taken a turn for the worse.

Confesses Kasdan, “Carter is a character not unlike me in a lot of ways. He’s a very, very verbal

young guy who has lived his life sort of in a neurotic kind of active and imaginative way . all of his

successes and failures have been related to his ability to express himself. He’s one of those guys who’s

seen a lot of movies and who has lived as much on the other side of the screen as he has in the real world.

The thing he’s always fantasized about and worked his hardest at is this relationship with Sophia. But she

doesn’t want to be with him anymore.”

“Getting dumped by Sophia sends Carter into a tailspin,” says Brody. “He sees going to Michigan

to care for his grandmother as an opportunity to run away from his life for awhile, get his bearings and

hopefully figure some things out. Even though he doesn’t quite really know what those things are.”

While Carter’s and Sarah’s story unfolds, so does the viewer’s understanding that In the Land of

Women is not so much a physical place, as it is an emotional landscape where Carter learns about

relationships . about their frailties and their fleeting nature.

“When I finished the script and read it,” says Kasdan, “it became immediately clear that Sarah’s

part was an incredible opportunity to use Meg Ryan. I have been a fan of hers for a long time .she has a

real skill and craft that allows her to be funny and attractive . but also she has this incredible evolved

soulfulness. I’ve always felt like all the stories I tell on some level are about that space between your

ideals and your desires

what you want to be and what you are, and how you reconcile those things on a

day-to-day basis.”

Ryan says she was deeply flattered that Kasdan chose her for the part and signed on without any

hesitation. The actress was excited to play such a complex woman who finds her world unraveling and is

desperate to put her life in order. “It was unbelievable because it’s such a fantastic part,” says Ryan.

“Dramatically it’s what every actor wants to get their hands on, a peaked emotional experience when you

have to accept that life is finite. But also, Sarah’s a bit funny and a little odd – everything you want to

indulge in. What I found interesting is that there are two protagonists in this movie, Carter and Sarah.

That doesn’t happen a lot of times for women in films. You’re usually the object of the director’s interest,

not the subject.”

Sarah Hardwicke is a typical suburban wife and mother who is in the throes of sifting through her

own life, a life that from all appearances is perfectly managed. With two teenage daughters, Lucy

(Kristen Stewart) and Paige (Makenzie Vega), in different stages of growing up, Sarah works to resolve

unattended relationships and realities.

“When we meet Sarah, she’s somebody who has up to now led a bottled up, unexpressed life,”

says Ryan. “We find her in chaos right off the bat. I love that! She’s got a tremendous relationship with

one daughter and a very compromised relationship with the other. She’s also in a marriage that’s not

making her or anybody else happy. Sarah’s a very composed, sort of sharp-cornered person, and into her

life comes this kid who actually turns out to be the catalyst for her to change her life the way she needs to

change it.

“What’s great about Sarah and Carter is what happens in so many lives,” says Ryan. “You expect

the people who influence you the most are going to be the longest lasting, but that is not always the case.

People come in, they float into your life and they alter your direction a hundred and eighty degrees. Carter

and Sarah meet and they change each other irreversibly for the better. I think for myself, that’s how the

angelic realm really operates on the planet. You do things for someone, not even knowingly.”

Portraying Grandma Archer is Academy Award®-winning actress Olympia Dukakis, who

welcomed the opportunity to experiment and have fun with the role of a deliciously fragmented old

woman. The film’s best comedic moments are those exchanges between Carter, with his laid-back, self

effacing charm, and a feisty, sharp-tongued old woman who switches between having flashes of wisdom

to hurtling insults.

“I thought Grandma would be a lot of fun. She’s out there, quite outrageous. I love how she can

be so helpless one minute then give you the finger the next,” laughs Dukakis.

“When Carter comes out to take care of her,” Dukakis continues, “he has no idea what’s waiting

for him . no idea how eccentric and how demanding and needy she is. He can’t just be a boarder at her

house, he has to engage with her . she doesn’t let him just drift through. Initially the grandmother and

Carter are very much at odds with each other, coming from very different worlds and realities. The fact

that they somehow find a way to bridge, not just a generation gap, but that they actually see in each other

something of value is truly wonderful.”

Playing the role of Lucy is Kristen Stewart, who embodies the essence of an anxious teenager

rebelliousness, beauty and sexual awkwardness.

“Lucy is a very inward person,” comments Stewart. “Painting is where she expresses herself.

With Carter, she gets her first sense of puppy love, even though he’s way too old for her. At first she has

romantic expectations, but it’s more that she’s lost and here’s this guy that is there for her and he listens

to her. Maybe he can offer some unbiased point of view because he’s so far outside of her life, and then

she starts falling for him because Adam plays such a charismatic, endearing guy.”

“One of the things I really liked about In the Land of Women is that it didn’t stereotype or wasn’t

a cliché on teen angst,” continues Stewart. “Lucy is like so many of my friends, so many girls I know.

She’s kind of grooving along being herself then all of a sudden she’s like the popular girl and all that

attention kind of freaks her out. She doesn’t know how to deal with that plus she’s got this complicated

relationship with her mother that holds a lot of resentment. Carter teaches her a very valuable lesson

you can’t allow your fears and resentment to inhibit your life.”

With regards to capturing on camera the strained relationship between Sarah and Lucy, Kasdan

was very deliberate with the blocking, always making sure there were physical objects between Ryan and

Stewart, or as one actor approached the other, one was moving away, intensifying the estrangement

between mother and daughter.

As Ryan explains, the emotional gulf between Sarah and Lucy is the complete opposite of the

effortlessly tender relationship she enjoys with her younger daughter Paige, played by Makenzie Vega.

“With Paige they have this sort of miraculously easy, close relationship that neither of them have

to try at,” says Ryan. “They have the same sense of humor, and there’s something about Paige that’s all-

knowing. Sarah doesn’t know why it’s so easy with one and so difficult with the other daughter. There’s

this constant kind of confusion and battle – she’s the same person but somehow different with each of

them.”

Golin provides further insight into what can fuel teenage-angst. “Lucy is going through a bit of

an identity crisis. She’s trying to figure out and come to terms with her womanhood . her sexuality and

independence from her mother. Lucy’s at that age where it’s very typical and natural to rebel against her

mother and Carter comes along and he’s charming, older and she’s quite intrigued by him.”

Kasdan adds, “Lucy’s character is struggling at every moment of her life with a sort of deep

confusion, which leads to an enormous amount of fear. It comes from some unfortunate events in her past

but things that so many people will be able to relate to. Her fear is not one some external danger, one of

betrayal and shame and being made to look like a fool, or not so much a fool as a freak.”

Makenzie Vega brings irresistible charm to the character of Sarah’s youngest daughter, Paige.

Poised at the edge of puberty, Paige approaches life with a wide-eyed honesty and stills holds onto the

magic of believing her mother is the center of the universe.

“Paige is kind of spunky and thinks she’s an adult,” says Vega. “I wanted to do this movie

because this character suits me. In one of the scenes she’s spitting out words that are bigger than she is,

like that’s something that makes her more intelligent. When we all meet Carter, he takes Lucy to the

movies and I want to tag along, and because I think I’m an adult, I think it’s my date but it’s not!”

“Meg Ryan is not like any of those soccer moms, she’s more laid-back. She’s a caring mom but

she’s not on top of every single one of our moves. We had a pretty close relationship,” adds Vega.

Having three sisters in real life, Vega established a very natural rapport with Stewart. “It’s really

easy with Kristen and we play off each other. Sometimes it’s hard for me to get loud in a scene, it’s a little

embarrassing for me but Kristen would help me by getting louder so I would too.”

For Kasdan, it was critical to find the right pairing of energy, looks and talent when it came to

casting the roles of Lucy and Paige.

“Kristen has her own special kind of charisma that’s more completely natural and directly

connected to adolescence. Being an actual teenage girl, she has an authentic kind of self-consciousness

that creates raw energy and power. She is somewhere between being a kid and being a young woman and

you can see her reconciling those two opposing forces in herself at every moment of her performance.

“Makenzie, on the other hand, is truly just a kid, not self-conscious at all, completely uninhibited. She has

a kind of light, a glow that is irrepressible.”

THE LOOK AND LOCATION

Production Designer Sandy Cochrane and Costume Designer Trish Keating were brought on as

key collaborators for ensuring Kasdan’s vision was translated onto the screen.

The two key sets in the movie, the Hardwicke house and Grandma’s house, were brought to life

by Cochrane. After an exhaustive search that took the filmmaker scouting various cities across Canada,

the city of Victoria, located on Vancouver Island, had all the elements that Kasdan was looking for.

“Jon wanted a slightly heightened reality and we spent a lot of time talking about that when we

were driving around looking for locations,” says Cochrane. “The story starts off in Los Angeles then

shifts to Michigan, so when you arrive in the suburbs of the mid-west, there’s an overwhelming sense of

green as opposed to the overexposed, sun-parched landscape of Los Angeles.”

“Both Jon and I are from Southern California, which doesn’t have the most traditional suburbs,’

Brody says, “To us and to Carter, the suburbs are this pristine place you've seen in movies - football

games, prom - sort of John Hughes meets Norman Rockwell. Jon’s got a great crew and they’ve found

and transformed our location into this ideal suburb. My character’s curiosity of wanting to explore this

other side of the world, in a way, is satisfied when he runs away to Michigan, in search of something he’s

seen in movies.”

“The pairing of the houses was the most critical element to finding the locations we wanted. For

Grandma’s house, we needed to find a house where the owners would allow us to take their beautifully

kept home and make it a visually distressed residence. Then we needed to find a house directly across the

street, where there couldn’t be any impediment view-wise, which had to have a certain kind of

architecture that presented a completely different aesthetic.”

Once the houses were found, movie magic stepped in and both houses were transformed. The

entrance to Grandma’s house was dressed with overgrown shrubs and weeds to give it the appearance of a

dark burrowing world. The interior of the house was completely redone to reveal a home that had been

neglected, where newspapers and mementos cluttered every inch of space. Across the street where the

Hardwicke House stood, immaculate green lawns and an abundance of carefully groomed flower beds

presented the opposite impression . a family that was very concerned about outward appearances.

The rest of the locations needed; a mall, ice cream shop, a hospital among others, posed no

problem and Victoria easily doubled for the Michigan suburbs. For the Los Angeles portion of the shoot,

Kasdan already had real landmarks in mind that he wanted to shoot at such as the 101 Coffee Shop and

the Santa Monica Pier.

Cochrane explains that Kasdan’s clear vision of what he wanted, meant “asking the right

questions, listening very carefully and taking every opportunity to bounce ideas off him. Jon has a vast

knowledge of film, he has a long list of films that he can reference so that you can go back, look at these

films and know exactly what he’s going for.”

But besides providing the physical locations needed for In the Land of Women’s intimate world,

the Uplands neighborhood where the Hardwicke House and Grandma’s House were located, also became

much more of a home away from home than anyone had expected. An experience not lost on Meg Ryan.

“I loved shooting in Victoria and this neighborhood was just crazy! I couldn’t have made it up!”

the actor remembers. “They were so cool to let us into their neighborhood night after night, day after day.

They would walk their dogs and wave to me, then they started baking things and bringing them by the

trailer . I got chai tea from someone’s grandma. It was the biggest, open-armed hug all the time. Adam

would leave his dog at one the neighbor’s house who left the door open so that when we stopped shooting

around 3am, Adam would just go inside and call ‘Penny, Penny’ and Penny would come out – their dogs

would hang together. It was just so sweet!”

Producer David Kanter adds, “The neighborhood of Uplands was incredibly accommodating to

our shooting and it took some leading people in the neighborhood to get everybody to allow us to come in

and disrupt their lives for five weeks. These neighbors became part of our crew and every night people

would come out at cocktail hour with their glasses of white wine and watch us shoot, which sometimes is

like watching paint dry. We met some incredible people on this film and we’re so grateful.”

In the Land of Women is a character-driven story and Kasdan wanted the wardrobe to enhance

and reflect the reality of each character. “Jon had done a lot of tear sheets himself from magazines,” says

Keating. “He had a very clear idea of what each character’s wardrobe should be.how it ties into and

tracks the progression of the character.”

With Sarah’s wardrobe, the objective was to capture the character’s shift from a very contained

and repressed person to a woman that begins to reconnect to her sensuality and becomes more

emotionally available.

“Sarah plays the part of a very frustrated, upper-middle class wife and mother,” observes Keating.

“As she meets Carter, a certain awareness comes to her about life and she loosens up considerably, which

we reflect in her clothing. We'll see a change from cooler colors at the beginning, to warmer colors

toward the end, as well as more casual styles.”

As for Carter’s character, both Kasdan’s and Brody’s love of true vintage clothing, was utilized to

express this young man’s physical as well emotional journey to Michigan.

“We wanted to get as far away from what he wears on the O.C. as possible,” says Keating. “We

also wanted to take Adam to an older level of clothing, so that he would be playing twenty-five, which is

his real age.”

For Grandma Archer, the process of inhabiting that character was a little more involved and

carefully constructed. “I like to have a lot of input in the costumes and had really good conversations with

Trish Keating, The first thing I asked for was a hump,” laughs Dukakis. “So they built me a little hump,

then I asked for all the sleeves to be a shorter so that my little bony arms would stick out. I wore these

droopy bright colored crocheted sweaters. I didn’t want her to be drab.”

Transforming the vivacious actress to that of a much older octogenarian also involved over two

hours of make-up every morning. Dukakis found the experience rewarding as an actor but also a little

unnerving on a personal level, as she explains. “We put latex on my face to create deep wrinkles and I

also put a wig on. People say that if you want to know what you’ll look like when you’re old, look at your

mother. After this show, I know exactly what I’m going to look like and it’s going to be much worse. It

was a really interesting journey.”

Rounding out the talents Kasdan enlisted to make In the Land of Women is editor Carol Littleton.

Even at a young age, Littleton says Kasdan’s curiosity and talent as an aspiring filmmaker were self-

evident

“I’ve known Jon since the day he was born. Ever since he was a little kid, Jon was very tuned in,

very smart and very funny. He used to hang out in the cutting room and always have the most

extraordinary questions about the process. When he came into the editing room, I’d give him a piece of

film to experiment with and after a while he’d suggest cutting a scene in a certain way so I’d stop what I

was doing, and do it his way so he could see why something would work or not work.

“The biggest challenge in this film is the mixture of tone. It’s definitely a comedy but there is a

serious undertone to the whole movie . a basic humanity we must preserve. It’s this constant changing

of gears that is challenging but inspiring for an editor. I’m so impressed by Jon’s talent . the writing is

extraordinary and he knows exactly what he wants, that’s very rare, yet alone with someone so young.

He’s a very committed and serious filmmaker.”

* * *

ABOUT THE CAST

ADAM BRODY (Carter Webb), A dynamic young actor, Adam Brody has crafted a distinguished career

in film and television and is quickly becoming one of the finest newcomers to hit the big screen.

Brody will soon be seen in Warner Bros. romantic comedy In the Land of Women, starring

opposite Meg Ryan. Directed by Jonathan Kasdan, the film focuses on a young television writer whose

world is in complete disorder after his break-up with his girlfriend. As he struggles to reconcile his own

inner conflicts, he is drawn into the pains and loves of the women of a neighborhood family -- all of

whom, in their way, fall in love with him, and all of whom, in their own way, help him find his way back.

In addition, Adam will appear in two highly anticipated independent feature films-- Smiley Face and The

Ten. Smiley Face follows a young actress’ misadventures after she unknowingly eats her roommate's pot

brownies. The Ten, directed by David Wain, focuses on ten stories, each inspired by one of the ten

commandments. Both films premiered at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival.

Brody recently appeared in Thank you for Smoking, a satirical comedy that follows the

machinations of Big Tobacco's chief spokesman, Nick Naylor, who spins on behalf of cigarettes while

trying to remain a role model for his twelve-year-old son. Prior to that, Brody was seen opposite Brad

Pitt and Angelina Jolie in the box office success Mr. and Mrs. Smith. Additional film credits include

Warners Bros.’Grind, the hit 2002 thriller The Ring, and Missing Brendan with Ed Asner and Illeana

Douglas.

Brody is seen weekly as Seth Cohen on Fox’s celebrated television series “The O.C.” The

ensemble drama revolves around the young adult community of the Orange County area. Additional

television credits include a recurring role as Coop in “Once and Again,” a recurring role as Dave in the

WB’s Emmy-nominated “Gilmore Girls” and standout guest-starring roles in “Judging Amy,” “Family

Law” and Smallville.”

MEG RYAN (Sarah Hardwicke) exhibits her versatility and natural charm in every role she plays. She

will stars in Jonathan Kasdan’s directorial debut In the Land of Women opposite Adam Brody.

Meg has three projects currently in production; an HBO mini-series, The Best Awful, in which

Meg also co-produces, is an adaptation of the Carrie Fisher novel recounting the further adventures of the

heroine from Fisher’s best-selling novel Postcards From The Edge; A remake of George Cukor's 1939

film The Women, with Anne Hathaway and Candice Bergen; and will next start filming The Deal with costar

William H. Macy. Ryan recently completed filming Homeland Security with Antonio Banderas.

Ryan was last seen in the hit film Against the Ropes, inspired by the true story of Jackie Kallen,

the most successful female manager in boxing history. Previously, she starred in Jane Campion’s In The

Cut, a psychological thriller, opposite Mark Ruffalo. The film premiered at The Toronto Film Festival in

2003 and opened the London Film Festival of that same year.

Ryan starred in the 2001 Miramax romantic comedy Kate And Leopold, opposite Hugh Jackman.

Her other recent work includes the Castle Rock thriller Proof of Life and Diane Keaton’s comedy

Hanging Up, in which she starred opposite Keaton, Lisa Kudrow and Walter Matthau. She also starred in

Nora Ephron’s romance You’ve Got Mail, opposite Tom Hanks, which garnered her a third Golden Globe

nomination, and Anthony Drazan’s searing independent film version of Hurly Burly, with Sean Penn,

Chazz Palminteri, Gary Shandling, Kevin Spacey and Robin WrightPenn.

Ryan’s comedic appeal was widely recognized in her first Golden Globe-nominated performance

as Sally Allbright in When Harry Met Sally, directed by Rob Reiner and written by Nora Ephron. She

went on to star in Nora Ephron’s hit romantic comedy Sleepless In Seattle, opposite Tom Hanks,

garnering a second Golden Globe nomination.

Acclaim has also come to Ryan for her distinctive dramatic portraits, including her role opposite

Denzel Washington as the first military woman nominated for a Medal of Honor in Courage Under Fire,

directed by Ed Zwick, and her moving portrayal of a wonderful woman with a drinking problem in Luis

Mandoki’s When A Man Loves A Woman, opposite Andy Garcia. For her performance opposite Kiefer

Sutherland in the Sundance Institute’s Promised Land, she earned an Independent Spirit Award

nomination. Ryan has also starred opposite Nicolas Cage in City of Angels, with Matthew Broderick in

Addicted to Love and with Kevin Kline in French Kiss.

Her additional film credits include I.Q., Anastasia, Innerspace, D.O.A., The Presidio, Joe Versus

The Volcano, The Doors, Prelude to a Kiss, Flesh And Bone, and Restoration. A Fairfield, Connecticut

native, Ryan embarked on her acting career after studying journalism at New York University. She made

her motion picture debut as Candice Bergen’s daughter in Rich and Famous, and attracted the attention of

moviegoers and critics in her 1986 performance as a fighter pilot’s wife in Top Gun.

KRISTEN STEWART (Lucy Hardwicke) was introduced to worldwide audiences with her outstanding

performance alongside Jodie Foster in Panic Room.

Stewart is currently starring in Screen Gems “The Messengers” directed by The Pang Brothers.

She will next star this April in the Castle Rock Entertainment/Warner Bros film In the Land of Women,

alongside Meg Ryan and Adam Brody for writer/director Jonathan Kasden. In September she will be

seen in Paramount Vantage’s “Into The Wild” for director Sean Penn. Additionally, she will star in the

independent film “The Cake Eaters” for director Mary Stuart Masterson.

Currently Stewart is in production on the independent film “The Yellow Handkerchief” alongside

William Hurt and Maria Bello and will soon begin filming “What Just Happened” alongside Robert De

Niro and Sean Penn for director Barry Levinson.

Stewart’s additional film credits include “Zathura,” “Speak,” “Fierce People,” “Catch That Kid,”

“Undertow,” “Cold Creek Manor,” and “The Safety of Objects.”

Stewart resides in Los Angeles.

OLYMPIA DUKAKIS (Grandma Archer), during a career that spans over 40 years, has worked as an

actress, director, producer, teacher, activist and most recently, author with her best-selling memoir Ask

Me Again Tomorrow. She received an Academy Award in the Best Supporting Actress category, the

New York Film Critics Award, the Los Angeles Film Critics Award and the Golden Globe Award for her

work in the Norman Jewison film “Moonstruck”.

Dukakis’ distinguished stage career includes two OBIE Awards, for Bertolt Brecht's A MAN'S A

MAN, and Christopher Durang's “The Marriage of Bette and Boo,” at Joseph Papp's Public Theatre.

Other notable appearances at the Public include Sam Shepard's “Curse of the Starving Class,” “Titus

Andronicus,” “Electra,” and “Peer Gynt.” Dukakis starred in the world premiere of Timberlake

Wertenbaker’s “Credible Witness” at London’s Royal Court Theatre. Dukakis made her London debut in

1999 on stage at the Royal National Theatre in Martin Sherman’s one-woman play, “Rose,” to rave

reviews. Dukakis then opened “Rose” on Broadway in the spring of 2000. She also made her debut on

British television (BBC) in a made-for-TV movie “A Life for a Life” (BAFTA nomination) and on BBC

Radio starring in “Hecuba.”

Prior to “Rose”, Dukakis was last seen on Broadway in “Social Security” directed by Mike

Nichols. In 2004, Dukakis starred as Clytemnestra in NY’s Aquila Theatre Company’s production of

“Agamemnon,” featuring Dukakis’ husband Louis Zorich in the title role. She also performed at A.C.T.

in “The Mother” by Gorky adapted by Constance Congdon.

Very involved in the development of new work and companies, Dukakis is currently

collaborating on adaptations of The Tempest and Phaedra (A.C.T.) Other new work includes the

adaptation of Hecuba by Timberlake Wertenbaker at A.C.T., Singer’s Boy by Leslie Ayvazian at A.C.T.,

Shakespeare and Company’s “Lear and Her Daughters,” and “Voices of Earth.”

As a founding member and Producing Artistic Director of the Whole Theatre in Montclair, New

Jersey for 19 years (1971-1990), she directed and appeared in many productions, winning accolades time

and again. In 1992, Olympia Dukakis became the proud recipient of the New Jersey Governor's Walt

Whitman Creative Arts Award.

Dukakis has appeared in over 125 productions Off-Broadway and regionally, at venues including

Studio Arena in Albany, American Place Theatre, APA Phoenix, Circle Rep and the Williamstown

Summer Theatre Festival where she also served as Associate Director. Dukakis taught Acting in the

graduate school at New York University for fifteen years and currently teaches master classes at various

universities and colleges throughout the country.

Feature films to be released in 2005 include Three Needles, (shot in S. Africa) The Librarian and

The Thing About My Folks, with Paul Reiser. Recent films include the highly acclaimed The Event and

The Intended (shot in Malaysia and directed by Kristian Levring).

Other feature films include Mr. Holland’s Opus with Richard Dreyfus, Woody Allen’s Mighty

Aprodite and I Love Trouble with Nick Nolte and Julia Roberts. Audiences continue to seek out videos of

The Cemetary Club, Steel Magnolias directed by Herbert Ross, Dad co-starring Jack Lemmon, and Look

Who’s Talking with John Travolta and Kirstie Alley.

With regards to television, most recent credits include the CBS sitcom “Center of the Universe”

with John Goodman, Jean Smart, and Ed Asner.

Dukakis co-starred in “Last of the Blond Bombshells” with Judy Dench for HBO and in “Ladies

and the Champ” with Marion Ross for ABC. One of her favorite projects, “Tales of the City”, a 6-hour

mini-series based on the novel by Armistead Maupin, was a controversial ratings blockbuster for PBS.

She went on to star in the sequels “More Tales of the City” and “Further Tales of the City” (Showtime)

for which she earned Emmy, Screen Actors Guild and BAFTA nominations.

She starred with Frank Sinatra and Dukakis' real-life husband Louis Zorich in “Young At Heart”

on CBS (Emmy nomination). Other TV movie projects include “Strange Relations,” “Scattering Dad,”

“A Century of Women,” a 6-hour mini-series for TBS, “Fire In The Dark” for CBS, “Lucky Day” costarring

Amy Madigan for ABC for which she received an Emmy nomination, “The Last Act Is A Solo”

for which she received an ACE Award, and “Sinatra” a mini-series for CBS in which Dukakis portrayed

Frank Sinatra's mother and was nominated for an Emmy.

MAKENZIE VEGA (Paige Hardwicke) has already become one of Hollywood’s youngest stars at just

eleven years old. She captured our hearts as Nicolas Cage’s daughter in Universal Pictures’ Family Man

at the young age of 5. At such a young age, Vega enjoys an impressive list of feature film credits

including Made, starring Vince Vaughn and Jon Favreau and S.A.W., with Danny Glover. She went on to

give a captivating and heart-felt performance portraying the younger character of ‘Nancy’ (Jessica Alba)

in Robert Rodriguez’s provocative action/crime thriller Sin City. Vega will next be seen starring

alongside Lindsay Lohan and Chris Pine in Just My Luck for New Regency. Vega has also appeared as a

series regular in the ABC sitcom “The Geena Davis Show”.

DUSTIN MILLIGAN (Eric Watts) Dustin Milligan was born and spent much of his early life in the

small northern town of Yellowknife, in the North West Territories which lie in the far north of Canada.

Being a natural ham led him to the drama program in his high school where he discovered his true love of

acting and his desire to become a professional actor. As soon as he graduated he packed up his life and

moved to Vancouver to pursue his dream. Since then he has not looked back.

Dustin has four films being released in 2007; "In The Land of Women" with Meg Ryan and

Adam Brody for Warner Bros., "The Messengers" directed by the Pang Bros for Columbia Pictures , "The

Butterfly Wheel" with Pierce Bronson for Icon Entertainment as well as the sequel "The Butterfly Effect

II" for New Line Cinema.

When not acting Dustin can usually be found on his skateboard or on the slopes with his sister

Molly who is a professional snowboarder.

CLARK GREGG’S (Nelson Hardwicke) film work includes Paul Weitz’s In Good Company, Spartan

and State and Main for David Mamet, Nicole Holofcener’s Lovely and Amazing, The Human Stain, We

Were Soldiers, One Hour Photo, Magnolia and the role of Hank/Henrietta in Tod Williams’ The

Adventures of Sebastian Cole for which he received an Independent Spirit Award nomination. Currently

he is filming When a Stranger Calls, directed by Simon West. He soon begins filming Wil Shriner’s

Hoot.

Television acting work includes the recurring role of Agent Michael Casper on “The West

Wing,” HBO movies “Tyson” and “Live From Baghdad,” as well as guest roles on “The Shield, ” “Will

and Grace,” “Sports Night,” “Sex and the City,” and many others. He currently stars with Julia Louis

Dreyfus in the CBS comedy “The New Adventures of Old Christine.”

New York stage credits include the premieres of Jez Butterworth’s plays “Mojo” and “The Night

Heron,” “Boys’ Life” (Drama Desk nomination), Aaron Sorkin’s “A Few Good Men” on Broadway, as

well as new works by John Guare, Craig Lucas, A. R. Gurney, and many others.

A founding member and former artistic director of the Atlantic Theater Company in New York,

whose members include David Mamet, William H. Macy and Felicity Huffman. He directed the New

York and Los Angeles premieres of Kevin Heelan’s “Distant Fires.” The New York production was

nominated for Drama Desk, Obie and Outer Critics Circle awards and moved to the Circle-in-the-Square

downtown. The Los Angeles production starring Samuel L. Jackson won three L.A. Weekly awards

including Best Direction, Best Ensemble and Best Play and was nominated for four Ovation Awards

including Best Director. He directed the critically acclaimed 1998 New York revival of David Mamet’s

“Edmond,” and created, co-wrote and directed the Los Angeles serialized play, “The Big Empty.”

His screenwriting debut, What Lies Beneath for Dreamworks starred Harrison Ford and Michelle

Pfeiffer and was directed by Robert Zemeckis. It is presently ranked 121 on the list of highest grossing

movies of all time. He is writing a movie about the last days of Pompeii for director Fernando Meirelles

(City of God) and producer Barry Mendel (Rushmore) at Universal. In the spring of 2006 he is scheduled

to make his feature directing debut with his own adaptation of Chuck Palahniuk’s (Fight Club) book,

Choke. Clark has also written or re-written scripts for Disney, Universal, Paramount, Fox and Fox 2000.

ABOUT THE FILMMAKERS

JONATHAN KASDAN (Director / Screenplay) grew up in Los Angeles, California. Jonathan’s previous

writing credits include the television series “Dawson’s Creek” and “Freaks & Geeks.” In the Land of

Women marks his directorial debut.

STEVE GOLIN (Producer) is the founder and CEO of Anonymous Content, a multimedia development,

production and talent/management company based in Culver City, California, and an award-winning

producer of three dozen film and television projects distinguished by an original and often quirky

sensibility.

Golin produced one of the AFI’s Top 10 Films of 2004 and Golden Globe Best Picture nominee

“Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” starring Best Actor nominee Jim Carrey, Best Actress nominee

Kate Winslet, Best Screenplay nominee Charlie Kaufman (“Being John Malkovich”) and directed by

Michel Gondry (“Human Nature”).

Currently, Golin is developing the screen adaptation of Ted Heller’s novel “Slabrat” at United

Artists and the adaptation of William Gibson’s novel “Pattern Recognition” at Warner Bros., with Peter

Weir (“Master and Commander”) attached to direct. Golin recently produced the box office hit “50 First

Dates,” starring Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore, written by Anonymous client George Wing, which

earned more than $180 million worldwide. He executive produced “Searching for the Wrong Eyed

Jesus,” a documentary by Anonymous director Andrew Douglas which was in competition at the 2004

Tribeca Film Festival.

In the realm of television Golin recently served as executive producer of the ABC Family telefilm

“Celeste in the City” and currently serves as executive producer of Showtime’s new hit series “The L-

Word,” the fasted renewed series in the network’s history.

Since the founding of Anonymous Content, Golin has produced the critically acclaimed “Being

John Malkovich,” starring John Malkovich, John Cusack and Cameron Diaz (multiple Oscar, Golden

Globe, SAG and DGA nominations, Grand Prize winner at the 1999 Deauville Film Festival, Independent

Spirit Awards winner for Best New Film); “Nurse Betty,” starring Morgan Freeman, Chris Rock and

Oscar winner Renée Zellweger (Best Screenplay winner at the 2000 Cannes Film Festival); and “Bounce”

starring Ben Affleck and Gwyneth Paltrow.

During his tenure as founder and co-chairman of Propaganda Films, Golin produced David

Fincher’s “The Game,” starring Michael Douglas and Sean Penn; Barry Levinson’s “Sleepers,” starring

Brad Pitt, Robert DeNiro and Billy Crudup; Jane Campion’s “Portrait of a Lady,” starring Nicole Kidman

and John Malkovich (nominated for an Oscar and Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress – Barbara

Hershey); David Lynch’s “Wild at Heart,” starring Nicolas Cage and Laura Dern (winner of the Palme

d’Or at Cannes 1990 and Oscar-nominated for Best Supporting Actress – Diane Ladd); John Dahl’s “Red

Rock West,” starring Nicolas Cage and Lara Flynn Boyle (nominated for Best Director and Best

Screenplay, 1995 Spirit Awards); Dom Sena’s “Kalifornia,” starring Brad Pitt and David Duchovny; and

Madonna’s provocative “Truth or Dare.” He also produced such telefilms, special and series as “Beverly

Hills, 90210,” David Lynch’s “Twin Peaks,” “Heat Wave” (winner of four Cable ACE Awards including

Best Movie and an Emmy for Best Supporting Actor – James Earl Jones), “Tales of the City” (Peabody

winner) and the Showtime series “Fallen Angels,” with episodes directed by Tom Hanks, Tom Cruise,

Steven Soderbergh and Phil Joanou, among others.

Under Golin’s management, Anonymous Content currently represents the following roster of

prominent and rising directors for commercial and music video representation: David Fincher, Guy

Ritchie, David Kellogg, Gore Verbinski, Mark Romanek, Andrew Douglas, Malcolm Venville, Robert

Logevall and many others for commercials and music videos. Its talent management division includes

such acting clients as Academy Award nominee Patricia Clarkson, Tony Goldwyn, Omar Epps, Tom

Everett Scott, Maura Tierney, Shane West, Ever Carradine, Orlando Jones, Ron Rifkin, Gabrielle Union

and Peter Gallagher, as well as Academy Award-winning writer Stephen Gaghan and Pulitzer Prizewinning

writer Donald Margulies.

Prior to Anonymous, Golin co-founded Propaganda Films in 1986, which set a new creative

standard for music videos and commercial production with its revolutionary style and sophistication.

Golin built Propaganda into the largest music video and commercial production company in the world,

and Propaganda has won more MTV Video and Cannes Palmes d’Or awards (for commercial excellence)

in those mediums than any other company. Under the direction of Golin, Propaganda’s music video

division earned a stellar reputation through its work with such diverse artists as Michael Jackson,

Madonna, The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, George Michael, The Beastie Boys and The Red Hot Chili

Peppers. Propaganda’s commercial division produced award-winning spots for such leading advertisers

as AT&T, IBM, Nike,

Apple, McDonald’s and Budweiser. While at Propaganda, Golin was involved in developing the careers

of some of Hollywood’s best directors, including David Fincher, Spike Jonze, Michael Bay, Alex Proyas,

Antoine Fuqua, Gore Verbinski, Alex Proyas, David Kellogg and Simon West.

Steve Golin attended New York University, graduated from the American Film Institute with an

MFA in producing, and is currently a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and

the Producers Guild of America.

DAVID KANTER (Producer) is a producer and manager at Anonymous Content, a multimedia

development, production and talent management company in Culver City, California.

Upcoming films that Kanter produced include the directorial debut of screenwriter Jon Kasdan,

“In the Land of Women,” a co-production with Castle Rock and Warner Bros. Independent starring Meg

Ryan and Adam Brody, scheduled for a Spring 2007 release; the controversial Tony Kaye documentary

“Lake of Fire” that premiered at the 2006 Toronto International Film Festival that ThinkFilm is releasing;

New Line Cinema’s “Rendition,” directed by Gavin Hood and starring Reese Witherspoon, Jake

Gyllenhaal, Meryl Streep and Alan Arkin; Universal Pictures’ “Dead I May Well Be,” directed by John

Lee Hancock; and “Across the Medicine Line,” a co-production with National Geographic Films about

the relationship between the legendary Sioux Chief Sitting Bull and his Saskatchewan protector, James

Walsh. Other films that Kanter has in development include “Chronically Metropolitan,” “Jeremy Orm is

a Pervert,” “One Night in Bangkok” and “Something Old, Something New.” TV credits for Kanter

include “To Love and Die in L.A.” which debuts in June for USA Network, which he executive produced,

and “Law & Order: Crime & Punishment,” a series documentary for NBC that he co-created and

executive produced.

As a manager, Kanter has built an impressive client roster including Patrick Sheane Duncan

(writer, “Courage Under Fire,” “Mr. Holland’s Opus”), Chad Lowe (director/producer, “Beautiful Ohio,”

“Chronically Metropolitan”), Barry Blaustein (director, “The Ringer,” writer, “The Nutty Professor,”

“Boomerang”), Donald Margulies (Pulitzer Prize winning-author of “Dinner with Friends”, “Sight

Unseen” and the upcoming “Keith Moon” with Mike Meyers), Edward Neumeier (writer, “Robocop,”

“Starship Troopers”), Emmy-winner Larry Ramin (“The Gathering Storm,” Universal’s “The

Ambassador”), Stephen Metcalfe (writer, “Beautiful Joe,” “Roommates,” “Jacknife”) and Lesli Linka

Glatter (director/producer, “The Proposition,” “Now and Then,” “The Gilmore Girls”).

LAWRENCE KASDAN (Executive Producer) has directed ten films: “Body Heat,” “The Big Chill,”

“Silverado,” “The Accidental Tourist,” “I Love You To Death,” “Grand Canyon,” “Wyatt Earp,” “French

Kiss,” “Mumford” and “Dreamcatcher”. He has written or co-written all of these pictures except John

Kostmayer’s “I Love You To Death” and Adam Brook’s “French Kiss”.

In addition, Kasdan has written or co-written four of the most successful films in motion picture

history. “Raiders Of The Lost Ark,” “The Empire Strikes Back,” “Return Of The Jedi” and “The

Bodyguard”.

Born in Miami Beach, Florida and raised in West Virginia, Kasdan grew up in a family in which

writing was encouraged. He attended the University of Michigan, helped financially by winning the

Hopwood Award in Creative Writing four times. He then went on to earn a master’s degree in education.

For the next five years, Kasdan worked as an advertising copywriter in Detroit (three years at

W.B. Doner) and Los Angeles while trying to sell his screenplays. The sixth screenplay he submitted,

“The Bodyguard,” was the first to be purchased in 1977.

His next screenplay, “Continental Divide,” caught the attention of Steven Spielberg, who

introduced the writer to George Lucas. Spielberg and Lucas asked Kasdan to write the screenplay for

“Raiders Of The Lost Ark”. When screenwriter Leigh Brackett died before finishing the script to the Star

Wars sequel “The Empire Strikes Back,” Kasdan was asked to take over as writer. He went on to co-write

“Return Of The Jedi” with Lucas.

Kasdan made his critically acclaimed directorial debut with “Body Heat,” in which he cast two

little-known actors, William Hurt and Kathleen Turner, in the lead roles. Next, he directed “The Big

Chill,” which he co-wrote with Barbara Benedek and which was nominated for three Academy Awards,

including Best Picture. His next effort was the sprawling western “Silverado,” which he directed,

produced and co-wrote with his brother Mark.

Kasdan next directed “The Accidental Tourist,” based on the novel by Anne Tyler and adapted by

Kasdan and Frank Galati. The film was named Best Picture of 1988 by the New York Film Critics,

received four Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, and earned Geena Davis a Best

Supporting Actress award.

1990’s “I Love You To Death,” starring Kevin Kline, Tracey Ullman, Joan Plowright, River

Phoenix, Keanu Reeves and William Hurt and written by John Kostmayer, was the first script that Kasdan

directed that he did not write.

The script for “Grand Canyon,” co-written with his wife Meg Kasdan, earned them Academy

Award and Golden Globe nominations for Best Original Screenplay. The film, which stars Danny Glover,

Steve Martin, Kevin Kline, Mary McDonnell, Alfre Woodward and Mary-Louise Parker, received the

Golden Bear Award for Best Picture at the 1992 Berlin Film Festival.

In 1992, Kasdan’s seventeen-year-old script for “The Bodyguard” was filmed, starring Kevin

Costner and Whitney Houston under the direction of Mick Jackson. Kasdan, Jim Wilson and Kevin

Costner produced the movie, which went on to gross $400 million in theatres worldwide.

Kasdan produced the 1987 comedy “Cross My Heart,” directed by Armyan Bernstein, and in

1989 executive produced “Immediate Family,” written by Barbara Benedek and directed by Jonathan

Kaplan. In 1998 he produced “Home Fries” with Mark Johnson, Barry Levinson and Charles Newirth,

starring Drew Barrymore.

In 1994, Kasdan directed the Warner Bros. release of “Wyatt Earp,” the epic story of the Earps of

Tombstone, starring Kevin Costner, Dennis Quaid and Gene Hackman. In 1995, Kasdan took a

completely different turn and directed “French Kiss,” a romantic comedy written by Adam Brooks which

starts Meg Ryan as a hapless American lost in France and Kevin Kline as the suspicious Frenchman who

befriends her.

Kasdan made his theatrical stage debut in the fall of 1995 as director of John Patrick Shanley’s

“Four Dogs & a Bone”. This dark comedy, an ironic look at the seamier side of Hollywood, starred

Elizabeth Perkins, Martin Short, Brendan Fraser and Parker Posey, and was the inaugural play of the

newly renovated and renamed Geffen Playhouse.

“Mumford,” a comedy that Kasdan wrote and directed, and produced with Charles Okun, was a

fall 1999 release of Touchstone Pictures. At the San Sebastian Film Festival it won the award for Best

Screenplay given by the Circle of Cinema Writers.

Kasdan most recently directed “Dreamcatcher,” based on the novel by Stephen King, for Castle

Rock Entertainment and Warner Bros. Adapted for the screen by William Goldman and Lawrence

Kasdan, the film was produced by Kasdan with Charles Okun. It was released in March 2003.

BARBARA KELLY (Co-Producer / Production Manager) has worked on a variety of projects since she

began her career in film and television production. Kelly’s co-producer film credits include the recently

completed “MEM-O-RE” starring Billy Zane, Ann Margret and Dennis Hopper, “They” for Radar

Pictures/Miramax Pictures and “A Pyromaniac’s Love Story” directed by Joshua Brand.

As Production Manager, some of her feature film credits include the blockbuster

“I Robot,” (20th Century Fox) “Ballistics/ Ecks vs Sever,” (Franchise Pictures/Warner Bros) “40 Days &

40 Nights,” (Working Title/Miramax Films) “Speaking Of Sex,” (Omnibus/Canal Plus) “This Is My

Life” (20th Century Fox) and “Sea Of Love” (Universal) directed by Harold Becker.

A few of her television producing credits include the Columbia/Tri-Star crime drama series

“Secret Agent Man;” the mini-series “Atomic Train;” MOWs credits are “Different,” “Oklahoma City

Bombing,” “Circle of Deceit,” “Jitters,” “Second Chances” and “Little Criminals”.

Kelly is a Political Science graduate of Carleton University, as well as holding a BA in

Anthropology and ARTC/Teaching Certificate from the Royal Conservatory of Music.

PAUL CAMERON’s (Director of Photography) career has exploded in the past several years to include

work on some of the most acclaimed action thrillers to come out of Hollywood.

Having worked on films including “Collateral,” “Man on Fire” and “Swordfish,” Cameron’s

inventive visual style has been hailed by critics everywhere. His cinematography on “Collateral” received

dozens of nominations for awards, culminating with the 2004 Los Angeles Critics Award for Best

Cinematography.

In 2003, his masterful lensing caught the eye of the Clio Awards for his brilliant photography on

the BMW featurette “Beat the Devil,” for which he took top cinematography honors.

Cameron has worked with some of the finest director’s in the industry, perfecting his style on

projects helmed by Tony Scott, Michael Mann and Dominic Sena.

Born in Montreal, Quebec, Cameron was exposed early on to theater and film by his older brother

before enrolling at State University of New York’s Purchase College to study filmmaking. Joining the

film union Nabet 15 while still in college, Cameron religiously attended the NY Film Festival and became

enamored with international cinema.

Making a name early on in music videos and commercials, Cameron credits his early work

experience with helping to develop the distinctive style he brings to features.

CAROL LITTLETON (Editor) A.C.E. is one of Hollywood’s most talented and successful film editors.

Her editing career spans 30 years, with more than 30 feature films to her credit. Ms. Littleton began a

close collaboration with writer-director Lawrence Kasdan in 1981 with his directorial debut, “Body

Heat”. She continued her collaboration with Kasdan on eight more films, including “The Big Chill,”

“Silverado” and “Grand Canyon”. Ms. Littleton has also collaborated with director Jonathan Demme on

four films, including his latest, “The Manchurian Candidate”.

Littleton received an Academy Award nomination in 1982 for Steven Spielberg’s “E.T.: The

Extraterrestial”. Other films she has edited include “Places In The Heart,” “Tuesdays With Morrie”

(Emmy Award for editing) and the restoration of Erich Von Stoheim’s 1926 classic, “Greed”. In 1994,

she edited “China Moon,” the directorial debut of her husband, noted cinematographer John Bailey,

A.S.C.

A native of Miami, Oklahoma, Ms. Littleton graduated with honors from the University of

Oklahoma. As a Fulbright Scholar at the University of Paris, Ms. Littleton completed her master’s thesis

and was awarded her MA in French from the University of Oklahoma in 1969. The University of

Oklahoma, College of Arts and Sciences again honored Ms. Littleton 30 years later with the

Distinguished Alumnae Award.

In 1987, Littleton was elected President of the Editors Guild and served two terms, only the

second woman to hold that office. In the mid-90’s she and John Bailey were elected to the Board of

Governors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences—the first time a married couple had

served together since Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks. Littleton and Bailey reside in Hollywood

and in New York City.

SANDY COCHRANE (Production Designer) trained and worked in theatre for 15 years before arriving

in Vancouver in the early 80’s where he soon discovered a growing film industry. Twenty years later,

Cochrane has had the pleasure of art directing and designing over 25 film and television projects. Feature

film credits as Art Director include “Paycheck,” “The Santa Clause 2,” “Along Came A Spider,” “I’ll Be

Home For Christmas,” “Wrongfully Accused,” “Hideaway,” “Look Who’s Talking Now,” “This Boy’s

Life,” and “Leaving Normal.” As Production Designer, some of his television projects are “Saving

Milly,” “Meltdown,” “Double Bill,” “Lady and The Champ,” “Personally Yours,” and “Miracle On The

17th Green.”

TRISH KEATING (Costume Designer) started off her career in Nova Scotia, Canada where she earned a

B.Sc. degree in clothing and textiles. After teaching school in Montreal for a few years, Keating headed

west to Vancouver where her career flourished as a costume designer for film and theatre.

Keating has worked on over 50 feature films and television projects. Feature film credits include

“Man About Town,” “Hope Springs,” “The Sixth Day,” “Spooky House,” “Disturbing Behaviour,”

“Carpool,” “Tales From The Crypt,” “Arctic Blue,” “Knight Moves,” “Run,” “The Accused,” “The

Boy Who Could Fly,” “The Thing,” “Never Cry Wolf” and “All Washed Up.”

STEPHEN TRASK (Composer) is the co-creator, composer/lyricist of the Off-Broadway Musical, multi

award winning, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, which developed into the feature film release by Fine Line

Features. His instrumental score for the movie was his feature film debut, and the film's soundtrack was

Stephen’s first commercial release as a record producer.

Immediately thereafter Stephen was tapped by director Alex Steyermark to score and produce

songs for Prey for Rock and Roll, starring Gina Gershon. For Prey Stephen assembled an all-star all-girl

rock band featuring Sara Lee (Gang of Four, Indigo Girls & B-52's), Sam Maloney (Hole, Motley Crue),

Cheri Lovedog, who wrote the screenplay and the songs, and rock legend Joan Jett.

Then Tom McCarthy called Stephen to score the award winning The Station Agent (Miramax),

followed by Paul Weitz’ Synergy aka In Good Company at Universal starring Scarlett Johannson and

Topher Grace,

Currently, Stephen is in development at National Artists with Barry Weisler with the stage

adaptation of The Blue Angel as composer/lyricist.

For Hedwig, Stephen received an Obie Award, the Outter Critics Circle Award for Outstanding

off-Broadway Musical, a 1998 New York Magazine Award, Drama Desk nominations for Outstanding

Music, Lyrics and New Musical, A Grammy nomination for Best Cast Album, two GLAMA Awards, and

Entertainment Weekly Best Soundtrack Award for 2001.

* * *

WARNER BROS. PICTURES

and CASTLE ROCK ENTERTAINMENT Present

An ANONYMOUS CONTENT Production

“IN THE LAND OF WOMEN”

END CREDITS

Written and Directed by

JONATHAN KASDAN

Produced by

STEVE GOLIN

and DAVID KANTER

Executive Producer

LAWRENCE KASDAN

Director of Photography

PAUL CAMERON

Production Designer

SANDY COCHRANE

Edited by

CAROL LITTLETON, A.C.E.

ADAM BRODY

KRISTEN STEWART

and MEG RYAN

“IN THE LAND OF WOMEN”

OLYMPIA DUKAKIS

MAKENZIE VEGA

ELENA ANAYA

CLARK GREGG

JoBETH WILLIAMS

DUSTIN MILLIGAN

GINNIFER GOODWIN

Casting by

AMANDA MACKEY

CATHY SANDRICH GELFOND

WENDY WEIDMAN, SIG deMIGUEL

Costumes Designed by

TRISH KEATING

Original Score by

STEPHEN TRASK

Music Supervisors

MANISH RAVAL and TOM WOLF

Co-Producer

BARBARA KELLY

Unit Production Manager .............................................................. BARBARA KELLY

Production Manager ...................................................................... JULIA NEVILLE

First Assistant Director.................................................................. PAUL K. BARRY

Second Assistant Director ............................................................. PAUL BURGER

CAST

In Order of Appearance

Sofia Buñuel.................................................................................. ELENA ANAYA

Carter Webb .................................................................................. ADAM BRODY

Teenage Girls ................................................................................ KELSEY KEEL

DANIELLE SAVRE

GINA MANTEGNA

Avi Rosenberg............................................................................... ROBERT REINIS

Agnes Webb .................................................................................. JoBETH WILLIAMS

Paige Hardwicke............................................................................ MAKENZIE VEGA

Lucy Hardwicke ............................................................................ KRISTEN STEWART

Sarah Hardwicke ........................................................................... MEG RYAN

Phyllis............................................................................................ OLYMPIA DUKAKIS

Eric Watts...................................................................................... DUSTIN MILLIGAN

Gabe Foley .................................................................................... GRAHAM WARDLE

Tiffany........................................................................................... ELISE GATIEN

Tanya............................................................................................. CHRISTINE DANIELLE

Nelson Hardwicke ......................................................................... CLARK GREGG

Howard Portchnik.......................................................................... JEFF CUNNINGHAM

Party Girls...................................................................................... TAMARA LOVEGROVE

BRITTANY STARLING

Nelson's Assistant.......................................................................... ILYSE MIMOUN

Dr. Ida Rosen................................................................................. KARIN KONOVAL

Janey.............................................................................................. GINNIFER GOODWIN

Bozo .............................................................................................. ANGUS

Stunt Coordinators......................................................................... DEAN CHOE

DUANE DICKINSON

DAVE HOSPES

Stunts............................................................................................. JON KRALT

LAURA LEE CONNERY

Art Director ................................................................................... MARGOT READY

Assistant Art Director.................................................................... BRIAN CUNNINGHAM

Set Decorator................................................................................. LOUISE ROPER

Lead Dresser.................................................................................. STEVE KILLI

On Set Dresser............................................................................... CODY LARSON

"A" Camera Operator/Steadicam................................................... DAVID CRONE

"A" Camera First Assistant ........................................................... SEAN HARDING

"A" Camera Second Assistant ....................................................... TYLER WOESTE

"B" Camera Operator .................................................................... SCOTT MacDONALD

"B" Camera First Assistant............................................................ GEORGE MAJOROS

"B" Camera Second Assistant ....................................................... JEAN MARC SALDINI

Stills Photographers....................................................................... LIANE HENTSCHER

LOREY SEBASTIAN

Co-Editor....................................................................................... MARTIN LEVENSTEIN

First Assistant Editor ..................................................................... OFE YI

Assistant Editors............................................................................ JASON DALE

SUZY ORTEGA

Post Production Supervisor ........................................................... TRICIA MILES

Second Assistant Directors............................................................ JACKIE FROST

RUBY STILLWATER

Third Assistant Director ................................................................ JENNIFER ZIMMER

DGA Trainee ................................................................................. PHIL NEE NEE

Re-Recording Mixers .................................................................... STEVE PEDERSON

BRAD SHERMAN

Supervising Sound Editor.............................................................. JOEL SHRYACK

Sound Designer ............................................................................. ROBERT GRIEVE

Sound Mixer.................................................................................. DAVID HUSBY

Boom Operator.............................................................................. CHARLES O'SHEA

Cable.............................................................................................. COLIN ORCHARD

Video Assist Supervisor ................................................................ DAVE JOSHI

Script Supervisor ........................................................................... PORTIA BELMONT

Assistant Costume Designer.......................................................... GAIL BARRETT

Costume Supervisor ...................................................................... VAL HALVERSON

Costume Set Supervisor ................................................................ ELIZABETH NEEDHAM

Makeup Department Head............................................................. LISA LOVE

1st Assistant Makeup..................................................................... CJ WILLS

Prosthetics ..................................................................................... WILLIAM TEREZAKIS

Hair Department Head................................................................... PAULINE TREMBLAY

Makeup and Hairstylist for Ms. Ryan ........................................... NORIKO WATANABE

Makeup and Hairstylist for Ms. Dukakis ...................................... TOM BRUMBERGER

Assistant Hairstylist....................................................................... SHARON MARKELL

Hair Double ................................................................................... KRISTA BAILEY

Property Master ............................................................................. JIM LEBANC

Assistant Property Master ............................................................. DAVE ROSYCHUK

On Set Props.................................................................................. SHER EDMONDS

Chief Lighting Technician............................................................. STUART HAGGERTY

Assistant Chief Lighting Technician ............................................. SHAWN MILSTED

Generator Operator........................................................................ ROGER BAILEY

Key Grip........................................................................................ JOHN WESTERLAKEN

Best Boy Grips .............................................................................. TONY THORPE

GARETH FARFAN

Dolly Grips.................................................................................... CHRIS BANTING

BRYCE SHAW

Special Effects Coordinator........................................................... DAVID ALLINSON

Special Effects............................................................................... PIERRE PAUL

CHARBONEAU

Location Manager.......................................................................... DEBORAH BOSE

Assistant Location Managers ........................................................ DAVID TAMKIN

DANA HERRIOTT

Construction Coordinator .............................................................. LYALL HEIGHTON

Construction Foreman ................................................................... MITCHELL BAKER

Transportation Coordinator ........................................................... LAURIE MORRIS

Transportation Captain .................................................................. RANJ JAWANT

Transportation Co-Captain ............................................................ BRAD BOWE

Production Accountant .................................................................. DONALD H. WALKER

1st Assistant Accountant ............................................................... JANE MASON

Production Coordinator ................................................................. ANDREA BOORMAN

Assistant Production Coordinators................................................ DANNY McNAIR

CARL GRUELL

Consultant...................................................................................... MARK KASDAN

Assistant to Jonathan Kasdan ........................................................ JUSTIN MAGGIO

Assistant to Lawrence Kasdan....................................................... WILMA DAVIS

Assistant to Steve Golin ................................................................ ELYSE JERRY

Assistant to David Kanter.............................................................. MICHAEL A. KOSSART

Staff Assistants.............................................................................. JENNIFER MALLOY

VOLNEY McFARLIN III

SARAH HUGHES

TYLER BLISS

MICHELLE HARRIS

TAMMY NIELSEN

ASTRID STARKE

JEREMY LUNDSTROM

Staff Assistants (cont.) .................................................................. DEBBIE PALINKAS

KEVIN GUNS

SEBASTIAN BAUER

RANDALL BOL

Production Associates ................................................................... BRIANNE BENTZON

JENNIFER COUVELIER

(space)

Canadian Casting........................................................................... STUART AIKINS, C.S.A.

SEAN COSSEY, C.S.A.

(space)

Casting Assistants.......................................................................... FARRAH FOX-COLLIS (LA)

SAMANTHA FINKLER (NY)

ELISA BAYLEY (CANADA)

Extras Casting................................................................................ ANNIE KLEIN

Studio Teachers ............................................................................. PAT JACKSON

JAMES HERTZ

Unit Publicist................................................................................. JACKIE BISSLEY

International Sales Agent .............................................................. KATHY MORGAN

INTERNATIONAL

Sound Effects Editors.................................................................... AI LING LEE

KEITH BILDERBECK

Dialogue Editor ............................................................................. JEENA PHELPS

First Assistant Sound Editor.......................................................... NANCY TRACY

Foley Artists .................................................................................. ANDY MALCOLM

GORO KOYAMA

Foley Mixer ................................................................................... DON WHITE

ADR Mixers .................................................................................. THOMAS J. O'CONNELL

ERIC GOTTHELF

GREG STEELE

Supervising Music Editor.............................................................. CHUCK MARTIN

Music Editors ................................................................................ ROBB BOYD

TANYA HILL

TIM BOOT

Score Recorded and Mixed by ...................................................... TIM O'HEIR

First Aid/Craft Service .................................................................. NANCY KRESS

Catering ......................................................................................... BE CINEMA SCENES

Animal Coordinator....................................................................... PAUL JASPER

Titles.............................................................................................. ERIC FITZGERALD

Digital Intermediate and Opticals by............................................. TECHNICOLOR DIGITAL

INTERMEDIATES

Digital Film Colorist ..................................................................... TRENT JOHNSON

Soundtrack Album on Lakeshore Records

"Leisure Time"

Written and Performed by Mike Viola

Courtesy of Good Morning Monkey Records

"Spanish Stroll"

Written by Willy DeVille

Performed by Mink DeVille

Courtesy of Capitol Records

Under License from EMI Film & Television Music

"Hot Blooded"

Written by Lou Gramm and Mick Jones

Performed by Foreigner

Courtesy of Atlantic Recording Corp.

By Arrangement with Warner Music Group Film & TV Licensing

"Harness and Wheel"

Written by Bill Taylor, Ryan Richardson, Clarque Blomquist and Paul Finn

Performed by The Kingsbury Manx

Courtesy of Yep Roc Records

By Arrangement with Ocean Park Music Group

"Lester Hayes"

Written by Lateef Daumont and Xavier Mosley

Performed by Lateef & The Chief

Courtesy of Quannum Projects

By special arrangement with Bank Robber Music and Zync Music

"Hey You"

Written and Performed by Tommy Stinson

Courtesy of Sanctuary Records Group

"Do You Believe In Love"

Written by Robert John Lange

Performed by Huey Lewis and The News

Courtesy of Capitol Records

Under License from EMI Film & Television Music

"Better Never Than Late"

Written by Liam Corcoran, Derek Ellis, Andrew MacDonald and Alec O'Hanley

Performed by Two Hours Traffic

"Blending In"

Written by Mike Viola

Performed by Mike Viola and Bob Hoffnar

Courtesy of Good Morning Monkey Records

"Goods (All In Your Head)

Written by Kori Gardner and Jason Hammel

Performed by Mates of State

Courtesy of Polyvinyl Record Co.

"So Good To See You"

Written by Jerry Kalaf

Performed by The JK Jazz Ensemble

"Missing You"

Written by Jerry Kalaf

Performed by The JK Jazz Ensemble

"A Good Idea At The Time"

Written by Damian Kulash, Jr. and Timothy Nordwind

Performed by OK Go

Courtesy of Capitol Records

Under License from EMI Film & Television Music

"Publish My Love"

Written by Zach Rogue

Performed by Rogue Wave

Courtesy of Sub Pop Records

"Wanna Get Dead"

Written by Jeffrey Christian Whalen

Performed by TSAR

Courtesy of TVT Records

"Iceman"

Written and Performed by Bruce Springsteen

Courtesy of Columbia Records

By Arrangement with SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT

"The Night"

Written by Jerry Kalaf

Performed by The JK Jazz Ensemble

"Try Whistling This"

Written and Performed by Neil Finn

Courtesy of Epic Records

By arrangement with SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT/EMI Records Ltd.

"Seinfeld" Theme

Written by Jonathan Wolff

"Beautiful Girl"

Written by Andrew Farriss

Performed by INXS

Courtesy of Mercury Records Limited

Under license from Universal Music Enterprises/Atlantic Recording Corp.

By arrangement with Warner Music Group Film & TV Licensing

"When I Write The Book"

Written by Nick Lowe, Dave Edmunds, Billy Bremner and Terry Williams

Performed by Rockpile

Courtesy of Riviera Global Records Ltd.

By Arrangement with Ocean Park Music Group

"Seinfeld" Clip Courtesy of Castle Rock Entertainment

CORBIS

Final Draft Software provided by FINAL DRAFT INC.

Filmed on Location in Victoria, British Columbia and Los Angeles, California

The Producers Wish to Thank the following for their Assistance:

The City of Victoria, British Columbia

The Families of Weald Street

Chapman Camera Cranes & Dollies provided by P S PRODUCTION SERVICES, LTD. - -

Canada

Filmed with PANAVISION ® Cameras and Lenses

Color by TECHNICOLOR ®

KODAK Motion Picture Products

FUJIFILM Motion Picture Products

DOLBY Digital (logo) DTS Digital (logo) SDDS (logo)

Approved #42613 (emblem)

Motion Picture Association of America

(IATSE LABEL)

This motion picture

Story and Screenplay

Original Score

All material is protected by Copyright Laws of the United States and all countries throughout the

Bros. is the author of this motion picture for purposes of copyright and other laws. Any

unauthorized exhibition, distribution or copying

of this film or any part thereof (including soundtrack) is an infringement of the relevant copyright

and will subject the infringer to severe civil and criminal penalties.

The story, all names, characters and incidents portrayed in this production are fictitious. No

identification with actual persons, places, buildings and products is intended or should be

inferred.

Warner Bros. Distribution Closing Cloud Shield Logo

Posted by Bill at 09:14 PM | Permalink

April 17, 2007

Treasury Department News

July 27

Secretary Paulson Statement on Foreign Investment and National Security Act
Washington, DC--Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. issued the following statement on the enactment of the Foreign Investment and National Security Act and the need for congressional approval of four pending free trade agreements:
--Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. issued the following statement on the enactment of the Foreign Investment and National Security Act and the need for congressional approval of four pending free trade agreements:

I commend Congress, especially the Senate Banking and the House Financial Services Committee, for their successful efforts to reach bipartisan agreement. These efforts resulted in a law that will accomplish our mutual goals of ensuring that the Committee on Foreign Investment in the U.S., CFIUS, can continue to address national security imperatives while also reaffirming that America welcomes foreign investment.

The CFIUS process applies only when a transaction may be related to national security, and that is a very small percentage of foreign investment. The vast majority are mergers, acquisitions and investments, and don't receive a CFIUS review. Last year, and historically, only 10 percent of foreign direct investments were reviewed by CFIUS, and the vast majority of those received a review which was resolved without controversy. Importantly, the new law maintains CFIUS' narrow focus on transactions that raise national security concerns.

President Bush, through his open economies statement on May 10, 2007, and the Congress, through their actions on this bill, have reaffirmed that the U.S. continues to welcome foreign investment.

Foreign investment in America creates jobs and revitalizes communities. Foreign owned companies directly provide jobs to over 5 million U.S. workers, or almost 5 percent of our domestic workforce, and they support almost the same number of jobs indirectly.

Today, the United States sends a clear signal to the rest of the world that we continue to have an open economy. We are committed to encouraging other countries to deepen their commitment to open investment policies.

An open economy includes vigorous promotion of open investment, free markets and trade. And so, open investment is an important, but not the entire, statement of our principles. It is equally important to enact laws that encourage trade. Four Free Trade Agreements - three in Latin America and a fourth with South Korea – are awaiting Congressional action.

Approval of the Peru, Colombia and Panama FTAs are critical. We need to support democratic countries in our neighborhood. These countries are working to develop greater opportunities for their citizens. Economic opportunity that arises out of free trade will help build a thriving middle class in these countries, reducing poverty and creating new markets for U.S. goods.

The Korean FTA will create new opportunities for U.S. exporters and investors with our seventh largest trading partner.

We have worked with Congressional leaders to address their concerns about labor and environment provisions. In May, the FTAs were revised to include these agreed-upon changes, and that was to clear the way for Congressional approval.

Instead, congressional action is being delayed because some are now insisting that Peru, Colombia and Panama change their domestic laws before Congress will consider these agreements. That requirement is unprecedented and unfair and raises doubts about the ability of the United States to deliver on our international commitments.

We need Congress to ratify these FTAs, and I hope we will see Congress act on all of them in September.

The U.S. has long been a world leader in working to expand trade and break down barriers to trade, and to promote investments that benefit our citizens and the citizens of other nations. These policies are vital to ensuring a strong domestic and global economy.

Paulson Closing Statement at the
U.S. Business Tax Competitiveness Conference
Washington, DC--I hope that this morning's discussions have been as informative for you as they have been for me.
I hope that this morning's discussions have been as informative for you as they have been for me.

The distinguished experts and leaders who joined us did not disappoint; we have heard a variety of perspectives and candid discussion. And there is a strong consensus that our business tax system is far from optimal, and is undermining the competitiveness of American workers.

The business tax system has a very tangible impact on workers' daily lives and living standards. The goal of a business tax regime should be to minimize economic distortions and allow capital to flow to its most efficient use. Capital is the necessary fuel that provides workers the greatest opportunity for productive jobs, higher incomes, and living standards. Higher living standards, efficient use of capital and maintaining competitiveness are our mutual goals. They are the answer to the question "What are we trying to achieve?"

This morning we examined the options for answering the logical next question, which is "How do we best achieve it?" We heard from professors and policy-makers who have studied how to address the issues of complexity, targeted preferences, depreciation regimes, and incentives for entrepreneurship for many years. CEOs educated us on the impact the tax system has on investment, innovation, and expansion decisions. We heard some ideas for improving the system without sacrificing revenue, which could bring greater prosperity through new jobs and increased opportunities for workers.

It is clear from our discussion that America needs to remain alert and responsive to changing global economic conditions. Other nations have seen the results of the bold tax reforms enacted by the U.S. in the 1980s and they have moved to follow our example. And with much of the world having reduced their corporate rates, we now have the second highest statutory corporate tax rate among OECD nations.

The American economy today is healthy and we have record-low unemployment. But we must look to our future competitiveness with the goal of making sure that our policies recognize and respond to changes in the global marketplace.

We can't turn back the clock on globalization, nor should we want to. A globally integrated economy leads to greater innovation by American companies and gives American consumers a wider variety of choices and lower prices on a wide range of products from food to clothes to cars. Our business tax system must be one that will help our companies and workers successfully compete in a dynamic global economy.

We heard many good ideas and relevant insights here today. Much of our discussion confirmed what we at Treasury have already identified as elements of our business tax system that are obstacles to U.S. competitiveness. We also heard insights and ideas that have prompted additional thinking. We will spend some time digesting today's discussion and will then develop specific follow-up steps in the coming months to build support for the need to improve our business tax system, and ideas for doing just that.

It is important to act comprehensively and prudently, rather than respond on an ad hoc basis to current headlines. Promoting an efficient business tax system is a high priority for me, and I look forward to working with you on this complicated and significant endeavor.

Thank you again for joining us this morning.

Paulson Opening Statement at the U.S. Business Tax Competitiveness Conference
Washington, DC-- Good morning; thank you for coming today. And, thank you to the distinguished group of business, policy, and academic leaders who have joined us. With me here on stage for our first session are:
Good morning; thank you for coming today. And, thank you to the distinguished group of business, policy, and academic leaders who have joined us. With me here on stage for our first session are:

Michael Boskin, professor of economics at Stanford University and former chairman of the President's Council of Economic Advisors;

Safra Catz, President and CFO of Oracle Corporation;

Martin Feldstein, professor of economics at Harvard University and former chairman of the President's Council of Economic Advisors;

Alan Greenspan, former Chairman of the U.S. Federal Reserve Bank;

Jim Owens, Chairman and CEO of Capterpillar, Inc.; and,

Fred Smith, Chairman, President and CEO of FedEx Corporation.

Welcome, and I look forward to our panel.

My goal is to promote the policies and conditions for economic growth that will maintain and enhance our competitiveness, and lead to greater American prosperity. Enhanced competitiveness means new and better-paying jobs and higher living standards for American workers.

We all know two facts: first, that taxes are a drag on economic growth, and second, that taxes are necessary to raise revenues to fund federal government priorities. The question we must ask ourselves, then is this: for a given level of revenue, what business tax regime best maximizes job creation and economic growth and in doing so promotes higher standards of living for Americans?

Our current business tax system is clearly not optimal. It includes ad-hoc policies and preferences that result in a narrow tax base and create distortions that divert capital from its most efficient use. These include: complex, targeted provisions; depreciation schedules without clear rationale; taxation of capital income that discourages saving and investment; and, double taxation of corporate profits that can lead to misallocation of capital.

We have made great strides in the last few years. The 2001 reduction of individual income tax rates has helped flow-through businesses flourish and create jobs. In 2003 we reduced -- although we did not eliminate -- double taxation of dividends. Now, though, it is time for a comprehensive look at our system for taxing business.

Systemic distortions impact not only corporate owners, the shareholders, but also the employees. When capital is available to purchase new machine tools, to modernize an assembly line, or purchase laptop computers for a traveling sales force, employees are more productive. Greater productivity means a company can expand, increase wages, and provide new opportunities for employee advancement.

When an inefficient business taxation system discourages marginal investments, our workers pay the price.

We will discuss the economic distortions caused by the current system during our first roundtable session.

The business tax system must also take into account the reality of an integrated global economy, marked by borderless capital. Although many American workers don't feel that they are the essential drivers of the world's most powerful economy, they are.

Global economic expansion is not a zero-sum proposition -- it is no more true that a job created in Dublin means one less job in Denver, than that a job created in Miami means one less job in Minneapolis.

Foreign investments made by U.S. corporations bring real benefits to the domestic economy. A U.S. production facility overseas creates new export platforms, producing goods for sale in the world market that wouldn't be possible otherwise. U.S. companies support this international expansion by creating entry-level, mid-range, and high-paying jobs here -- productive jobs that raise living standards.

If American companies miss opportunities to build and sell overseas, it's a sure bet in this global economy that some other company will step in when we do not. Then the productivity and wage gains will go abroad, not to Americans. In today's competitive marketplace, if American companies can't expand globally, they risk stagnating at home.

Our business tax system should therefore not discourage inward and outward investment flows that are critical to U.S. businesses' ability to maintain their leadership positions around the world. Our second roundtable will look at the international tax system, and how we can best maximize our position in the global economy.

Now, when our economy is in a position of strength, is an opportune time to discuss the business tax system and its impact on workers, investment, and the United States' ability to compete in the world marketplace.

I look forward to hearing the panel's views and will ask them to start our conversation with this question: What is the impact of the business tax system on the competitiveness of U.S. businesses and how important are taxes relative to other factors which determine our economic competitiveness?

Statement of David H. McCormick
Nominee for Under Secretary of the Treasury
for International Affairs to the
U.S. Senate Committee on Finance

Chairman Baucus, Ranking Member Grassley, and members of the Committee on Finance, thank you for the opportunity to appear before you today. I am honored that President Bush has nominated me to serve as Under Secretary of the Treasury for International Affairs and, if confirmed, to have the opportunity to work with Secretary Paulson, the Treasury staff and others in the administration. I'd also like to take a moment to thank my wife Amy and our four children - who are here today - for their unwavering support for my public service.

If confirmed, I also look forward to working closely with this committee, the United States Senate, and your colleagues in the House of Representatives to advance U.S. economic interests at home and abroad.

My experiences as a senior member of the President's economic team, as a public company CEO, and as a former military officer have prepared me well for the position to which I have been nominated.

In my first role in government as Under Secretary of Commerce for Export Administration, I led a 250-person organization responsible for balancing the promotion of U.S. technology exports with the imperative of protecting our national security by controlling the transfer of militarily-sensitive technologies. In this position, I coordinated with other government agencies consulted actively with members of Congress and their staffs, worked closely with the business community, and engaged senior foreign officials in reaching agreement on multilateral approaches for satisfying both of these objectives.

This experience has been crucial to my success as the President's principal White House advisor for international economic policy with responsibilities closely aligned with those of the Under Secretary of Treasury for International Affairs. In my current role, I have led the US-Japan sub-cabinet economic dialogue, directed White House involvement in policies affecting foreign investment in the United States, and coordinated U.S. policy regarding multilateral debt relief, the President's U.S. AIDS Initiative, and the Millennium Challenge Account. I have also served as the President's personal representative for major economic summits such as those of the US-EU, APEC, and the G8.

My experiences in the private sector too are relevant to the responsibilities of the Under Secretary of Treasury. As a consultant serving Global 2000 companies, I worked with senior executives to develop and execute strategies for improving the growth and performance of their businesses. As an entrepreneur and public company CEO, I helped build and lead a profitable 1,000+ person technology organization with 25 offices worldwide. During this time, I collaborated with business leaders around the globe, and I witnessed firsthand their challenges in maintaining competitiveness in times of accelerating change.

Prior to my business career, I was a veteran of the first Gulf War and I served for five years as an active Army officer. From this experience, I learned the importance of setting a clear direction for an organization, communicating clearly and often, and leading by example. I followed this service with formal training in economics and foreign policy, receiving a Ph.D. from Princeton in 1996. Since that time, I have written regularly on economic, national security, and business-related issues.

I'm confident that based on these experiences I have the capacity to take on the responsibilities of Under Secretary and execute them successfully. If confirmed, I will immediately focus on pressing issues such as addressing growing global imbalances, accelerating China's stable integration into the global economy, and ensuring that development assistance from the multilateral development banks is deployed effectively around the world. I will also focus on advancing the President's vision for opening foreign markets for U.S. goods and services and accelerating the transition of many developing countries to true market-based economies. I will emphasize the critical importance of economic growth, good governance, and the rule of law in ensuring that all parts of the global economy can become vibrant and prosperous, while at the same time maintaining vigilance to try to prevent future financial crises.

Mr. Chairman, Senator Grassley, I am grateful for this opportunity to appear before you today. I would be pleased to answer any questions you and other members of the Committee may have.

Treasury Releases Business Taxation and
Global Competitiveness Background
Paper
Washington, D.C.--The Treasury Department released today a background paper concerning some of the many issues to be discussed Thursday, July 26 at the Treasury Conference on Business Taxation and Global Competitiveness.
The Treasury Department released today a background paper concerning some of the many issues to be discussed Thursday, July 26 at the Treasury Conference on Business Taxation and Global Competitiveness.

The paper details:

the extent to which special provisions narrow the business tax base;

the importance of the non-corporate sector generally subject to the individual tax rather than the corporate tax;

the various ways the tax system distorts economic decisions; and

how the level of U.S. tax compares with our major trading partners (G7, OECD, and emerging market countries).

The paper also discusses the U.S. system for taxing international income and examines how that affects business decisions. A PDF copy of the paper is attached.

REPORTS
Tax Conference Background Paper

Twin Treasury Actions Take Aim at Hizballah’s Support Network

The U.S. Department of the Treasury today targeted Hizballah's support network by designating the Iran-based Martyrs Foundation, including its U.S. branch, and the finance firm Al-Qard al-Hassan (AQAH) under Executive Order 13224. Two individuals were also designated today for the role they play in Hizballah's support network.

"We will continue to target those who form the financial backbone of Hizballah, Hamas, PIJ and other terrorist groups that are attempting to destabilize Lebanon and target innocent civilians," said Stuart Levey, Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence. "We will not allow organizations that support terrorism to raise money in the United States or to evade our measures and continue to operate simply by changing their names."

The Martyrs Foundation

The Martyrs Foundation is an Iranian parastatal organization that channels financial support from Iran to several terrorist organizations in the Levant, including Hizballah, Hamas, and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ). To this end, the Martyrs Foundation established branches in Lebanon staffed by leaders and members of these same terrorist groups. Martyrs Foundation branches in Lebanon has also provided financial support to the families of killed or imprisoned Hizballah and PIJ members, including suicide bombers in the Palestinian territories.

In addition to fundraising responsibilities, senior Martyrs Foundation officials were directly involved in Hizballah operations against Israel during the July-August 2006 conflict. In addition, a Lebanon-based leader of the Martyrs Foundation has directed and financed terrorist cells in the Gaza Strip that worked with Hizballah and PIJ.

Today's designation includes the Goodwill Charitable Organization (GCO), a fundraising office established by the Martyrs Foundation in Dearborn, Michigan. GCO is a Hizballah front organization that reports directly to the leadership of the Martyrs Foundation in Lebanon. Hizballah recruited GCO leaders and has maintained close contact with GCO representatives in the United States.

GCO has provided financial support to Hizballah directly and through the Martyrs Foundation in Lebanon. Hizballah's leaders in Lebanon have instructed Hizballah members in the United States to send their contributions to GCO and to contact the GCO for the purpose of contributing to the Martyrs Foundation. Since its founding, GCO has sent a significant amount of money to the Martyrs Foundation in Lebanon.

Al-Qard al-Hassan

Hizballah has used AQAH as a cover to manage its financial activity. AQAH is run by Husayn al-Shami, a senior Hizballah leader who has served as a member of Hizballah's Shura Council and as head of several Hizballah-controlled organizations.

Following the September 7, 2006 designation of al-Shami, along with Bayt al-Mal and Yousser Company for Finance and Investment, AQAH assumed a more prominent role in Hizballah's financial infrastructure. As of February 2007, bank accounts of Bayt al-Mal and Yousser Company were changed and re-registered in the name of senior employees of AQAH.

Further, after the majority of Bayt al-Mal's offices were destroyed during the summer 2006 conflict, Hizballah transferred a portion of its financial activity to AQAH, giving Hizballah access to the international banking system.

Individuals

Treasury's action today also targets Qasem Aliq, a Hizballah official who was previously the director for the Martyrs Foundation branch in Lebanon. In addition to overseeing Martyrs Foundation's operation, Aliq worked closely with senior Hizballah officials. Aliq currently serves as the director of Jihad al-Bina, a Lebanon-based construction company formed and operated by Hizballah and previously designated by the Treasury.

Also designated today was Ahmad al-Shami, who has worked for the Martyrs Foundation in Lebanon and has been in frequent contact with GCO. Money raised by GCO was sent to al-Shami in Lebanon to be distributed to the Martyrs Foundation. Hizballah leadership placed Ahmad al-Shami in his position at the Martyrs Foundation in Lebanon.

Today's action is being taken pursuant to Executive Order 13224, which is aimed at financially isolating terrorists and their support networks. Designations under E.O. 13224 freeze any assets the designees may have under U.S. jurisdiction and prohibit transactions by U.S. persons with the designees.

Steel Statement on Basel II Resolution

Treasury Under Secretary for Domestic Finance Robert K. Steel released the following statement today regarding the Basel II Accord agreement among the Federal Reserve, the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Office of Thrift Supervision:

"The federal financial regulators must be commended today for their work on Basel II. Resolution on this matter is an essential component of any effort to modernize our regulatory structure and to strengthen American capital markets' competitiveness.

"This is a challenging issue, requiring a complex balance of safety, soundness and global competitiveness concerns. The regulators demonstrated a willingness to work together with the best interests of the United States in mind and I look forward to seeing the results of their cooperation."

United States and Other Paris Club Creditors Provide Further Debt Relief to Afghanistan
Washington, D.C.--The United States and fellow Paris Club members Russia and Germany agreed Wednesday to provide additional debt relief to Afghanistan under the terms of the enhanced Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative. This agreement allows Afghanistan to benefit from debt reduction under the HIPC initiative of 92 percent, which is worth approximately $1 billion.
The United States and fellow Paris Club members Russia and Germany agreed Wednesday to provide additional debt relief to Afghanistan under the terms of the enhanced Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) initiative. This agreement allows Afghanistan to benefit from debt reduction under the HIPC initiative of 92 percent, which is worth approximately $1 billion.

Under the HIPC framework, the three bilateral creditors will cancel 90 percent of the non-concessional debt payments Afghanistan would owe during its current IMF program, deepening the relief the three countries agreed to provide in the Paris Club in July 2006. The United States will go beyond the HIPC framework and forgive 100 percent of all debt payments falling due.

The debt relief follows a decision by the executive boards of the World Bank and IMF – with strong U.S. support – to declare earlier this month that Afghanistan had formally qualified for the HIPC initiative. To achieve this, the Afghan government had to adhere to the terms of its IMF program as well as meet certain other requirements. All remaining debt will be forgiven by the United States, Russia and Germany once Afghanistan reaches the completion point of its HIPC program. Total debt relief for Afghanistan will equal more than $11 billion, which represents more than 99 percent of its total debt.

It is a major achievement of the Afghan government to qualify for HIPC debt relief. This debt relief is a crucial step towards normalizing Afghanistan's relations with the international financial community and in helping Afghanistan move towards economic sustainability.

The United States urges Afghanistan's other bilateral creditors to join the Paris Club members by providing 100 percent debt reduction.

July 6

Treasury Awards $3.6 Million to Organizations ServingEconomically Distressed Native American Communities
Crazy Horse, South Dakota – The director of the U.S. Treasury Department's Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund, Kimberly A. Reed, visited South Dakota's Crazy Horse Memorial today to announce awards totaling $3,632,292 to 19 organizations serving Native American or Alaskan Native communities in 12 states. The awards were made through the CDFI Fund's Native American CDFI Assistance (NACA) Program.
The director of the U.S. Treasury Department's Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund, Kimberly A. Reed, visited South Dakota's Crazy Horse Memorial today to announce awards totaling $3,632,292 to 19 organizations serving Native American or Alaskan Native communities in 12 states. The awards were made through the CDFI Fund's Native American CDFI Assistance (NACA) Program.

"Today, we are recognizing 19 Native organizations that are on the front lines to provide important financial education, create critically needed jobs and help Native families and communities build personal wealth," said CDFI Fund Director Reed. "We are very pleased to know that the over $3.6 million being awarded today will provide these community-based lenders the resources to do more of this important work in Native American and Alaskan Native communities."

Treasury held the national award announcement at the Crazy Horse Memorial to highlight the four South Dakota-based award recipients: First Nations Oweesta Corporation (Rapid City), The Lakota Fund (Kyle), Mazaska Owecaso Otipi Financial, Inc. (Pine Ridge), and the Teton Coalition, Inc. (Rapid City) – all of which are leaders serving the community development needs of their Native communities. The awardees were selected after a competitive review of 29 applications received by the CDFI Fund from organizations across the nation that requested nearly $11 million in funding under the 2007 round of the NACA Program.

Since 2002, the CDFI Fund has made 148 awards totaling $23.1 million through its various funding programs aimed at benefiting Native communities. In five short years, the number of Native CDFIs has grown from 14 to 43 – a 307 percent increase. In addition, the CDFI Fund has awarded over $7.5 million in contracts to organizations that provide capacity-building and financial services training programs that are focused on Native Communities.

Background

The CDFI Fund invests in and builds the capacity of community-based, private, for-profit and non-profit financial institutions with a primary mission of community development in economically distressed communities. These institutions – certified by the CDFI Fund as community development financial institutions, or CDFIs – are able to respond to gaps in local markets that traditional financial institutions are not adequately serving. CDFIs provide critically needed capital, credit and other financial products in addition to technical assistance to community residents and businesses, service providers, and developers working to meet community needs.

In 2004, the CDFI Fund introduced the NACA Program, which was specifically designed to encourage the creation and strengthening of CDFIs that primarily serve Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian communities. Organizations funded serve a wide range of Native communities, and reflect a diversity of institutions in various stages of development – from organizations in the early planning stages of creating a CDFI, to tribal entities working to certify an existing lending program, to established CDFIs in need of further capacity building assistance. Two types of funding are available: financial assistance awards, available only to certified CDFIs and primarily used for financing capital; and technical assistance grants used to acquire products or services such as computer hardware and software, staff training, etc.

The CDFI Fund's vision is an America in which all people have adequate access to affordable capital, credit and financial services.

For more information about these awards, or about the CDFI Fund and its programs, please visit the Fund's website at: http://www.cdfifund.gov.

HP-482

Secretary Paulson Announces New Latin American and
Caribbean Initiative to Catalyze Private Finance for Infrastructure
Washington, DC-- Secretary Paulson announced a new proposal today to increase investment in infrastructure projects in Latin America and the Caribbean. The United States will partner with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private sector arm of the World Bank Group, to create a program to catalyze private investment in infrastructure in Latin America. This initial $17.5 million infrastructure project development program will include a $4.6 million U.S. contribution, and a $1.9 million contribution from Brazil. The IFC is prepared to seek an increase in funding over time if warranted by demand for its services.
Secretary Paulson announced a new proposal today to increase investment in infrastructure projects in Latin America and the Caribbean. The United States will partner with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private sector arm of the World Bank Group, to create a program to catalyze private investment in infrastructure in Latin America. This initial $17.5 million infrastructure project development program will include a $4.6 million U.S. contribution, and a $1.9 million contribution from Brazil. The IFC is prepared to seek an increase in funding over time if warranted by demand for its services.

"The United States' interest in the Americas is strong. We are committed to helping the region reduce poverty, fight corruption, build a middle class, and generate more opportunities, including for those who currently feel excluded from the region's growing prosperity," said Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr.

"Last month I announced an initiative to catalyze market-based bank lending to small businesses in Latin America and the Caribbean. The initiative involves a combination of new lending models, sharing part of the lending risk, and technical, regulatory assistance so that more banks can finance options for small businesses.

"The Americas face another serious constraint to economic growth – that is a lack of critical infrastructure. Latin America, for example, currently spends less than 2 percent of GDP on infrastructure annually. Underinvestment in electricity, transport, and potable water hamstring the region's entrepreneurs and citizens.

"Today I am pleased to announce a new initiative aimed at addressing this constraint. This initiative will attack the information, technical capacity, and regulatory barriers which block the flow of private finance."

Underinvestment in infrastructure has had a direct impact on the quality of life and economic performance in Latin America. 59 million people in the region lack access to potable water and 135 million have no adequate sanitation. Meanwhile, 55 percent of entrepreneurs complain that infrastructure is a serious problem. Improving the region's infrastructure could reduce inequality by as much as 20 percent, according to the World Bank.
59 million people in the region lack access to potable water and 135 million have no adequate sanitation. Meanwhile, 55 percent of entrepreneurs complain that infrastructure is a serious problem. Improving the region's infrastructure could reduce inequality by as much as 20 percent, according to the World Bank.Major investments in infrastructure are needed to boost productivity and competitiveness, connect the poor and small entrepreneurs to markets, and provide them with adequate basic services. Investment in infrastructure is a regional priority and mobilizing private financing is essential given the magnitude of investment needs and the constraints on public finance. The objective of this program is to target three critical constraints that block the flow of private finance for infrastructure: lack of reliable, objective information identifying good projects for potential investors; lack of know-how on structuring and tendering projects; and problems with the regulatory environment – particularly as it pertains to specific transactions.
lack of reliable, objective information identifying good projects for potential investors; lack of know-how on structuring and tendering projects; and problems with the regulatory environment – particularly as it pertains to specific transactions.
The program, to be managed by the IFC, will help identify productive infrastructure projects suitable for private participation, make information about these projects publicly available, and provide technical assistance on structuring projects, tendering concessions, and improving regulatory regimes. Project proposals can be made to the program by sovereign governments, sub-sovereign governments (including municipal governments), or private sponsors. The program will provide assistance in two phases: first, identifying and analyzing projects through feasibility assessments, and, second, advising project sponsors on how to structure, market, and tender projects successfully.
Project proposals can be made to the program by sovereign governments, sub-sovereign governments (including municipal governments), or private sponsors. The program will provide assistance in two phases: first, identifying and analyzing projects through feasibility assessments, and, second, advising project sponsors on how to structure, market, and tender projects successfully.

Once a project reaches contractual closure, the investor will reimburse the program through a cost-recovery fee. The program can also assist private investors in identifying possible sources of financing in order to move projects to financial closure and implementation. A project manager will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of this process. The program is expected to be fully operable in one year. Interested parties should contact the Advisory Services Department at the International Finance Corporation, http://www.ifc.org/Advisory.

The IFC estimates that the program's impact could be as much as $800 million to $1 billion in creating new investments and $300 to $400 million in fiscal savings to local governments.

President Bush called for this program in 2005 at the Summit of the Americas.

The $4.6 million grant from the U.S. comes from FY06 and FY07 State Department Economic Support Fund appropriations.

July 5

Treasury Secretary Paulson to Visit Brazil, Uruguay and Chile Next Week

Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. will travel to South America next week to reinforce our strong ties with Brazil, Uruguay, and Chile and to stress our stake in the economic success of Latin America. He will meet with finance ministers and heads of state in the region, as well as local business leaders to discuss ideas on how to spread opportunity, reduce poverty, and build the middle class in the region and talk about what the United States is doing to help.

Secretary Paulson will travel to Belo Horizonte on Monday, July 9, where he plans to meet with Governor Aécio Neves and venture capitalists. On Wednesday he will be in Brasilia where he will meet with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio "Lula" da Silva, Finance Minister Guido Mantega, Chief of Staff Dilma Rousseff, Central Bank President Henrique Meirelles, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Celso Amorim. He will also attend a lunch on access to finance and local capital market development.

Paulson will spend Thursday in Montevideo where he will meet with Uruguayan President Tabare Vasquez and Minister of Finance Danilo Astori. From there he will travel to Santiago to hold meetings Friday with Chilean President Michelle Bachelet, Minister of Foreign Affairs Alejandro Foxley, Minister of Finance Andres Velasco, and Central Bank Chairman Vittorio Corbo.

These visits to Brazil, Uruguay, and Chile will be his first to those countries as Treasury Secretary. Secretary Paulson traveled to Mexico in April of 2007, Guatemala and Peru in March of 2007, and Colombia in August of 2006.

Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. today issued the following statement on the importance of Trade Promotion Authority to the U.S. and global economies: "America's openness has made our economy the most vibrant and dynamic in the world. To keep our economy strong and competitive, we must continue to push forward on the trade agenda. The 110th Congress has an important opportunity to demonstrate bipartisan leadership and help to strengthen our economy by reauthorizing Trade Promotion Authority. "Trade fosters the environment of innovation and research that leads to better goods and services at lower prices, which in turn helps Americans provide for their families. "Members of Congress should move quickly to reauthorize Trade Promotion Authority. Americans benefit from open markets here at home and open markets abroad for our exports. Together with my colleagues in the Administration, we will fight to keep markets open to the benefit of American manufacturers, farmers, and service providers."

Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. today issued the following statement on the departure announcement of International Monetary Fund Managing Director Rodrigo de Rato: "Rodrigo de Rato brought vision and dedication to his tenure as Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund. He launched the Medium Term Strategy, a plan that provides a foundation for important reforms to ensure the institution reflects today's global economy. Rodrigo helped to strengthen the Fund by creating this road map for reform, which will enable the Fund to remain a strong, relevant institution and resource for the global financial system. His leadership was also instrumental in the Fund's revision of its exchange rate surveillance framework, which is a highly critical piece of the road map. I wish him continued success in his future endeavors."

Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. issued the following statement today on the World Bank's Executive Board approval of Robert Zoellick to be World Bank President: "I welcome the board's action approving Bob Zoellick to lead the World Bank. Bob brings a wealth of experience, a passion for development and a proven track record of working with colleagues around the world to get results. "He has the trust, respect and support of governments in all regions of the world and I have no doubt his leadership will ensure continued support of World Bank members. He will be an aggressive advocate for overcoming poverty, investing in growth, and creating opportunity and hope."

Treasury International Capital (TIC) data for April are released today and posted on the U.S. Treasury web site (www.treas.gov/tic). The next release, which will report on data for May, is scheduled for July 17, 2007. Net foreign purchases of long-term securities were $84.1 billion. * Net foreign purchases of long-term U.S. securities were $97.4 billion. Of this, net purchases by foreign official institutions were $25.3 billion, and net purchases by private foreign investors were $72.1 billion. * U.S. residents purchased a net $13.3 billion of long-term foreign securities. Net foreign acquisition of long-term securities, taking into account adjustments, is estimated to have been $76.5 billion. Foreign holdings of dollar-denominated short-term U.S. securities, including Treasury bills, and other custody liabilities decreased $25.9 billion. Foreign holdings of Treasury bills decreased $28.6 billion. Banks' own net dollar-denominated liabilities to foreign residents increased $61.2 billion. Monthly net TIC flows were $111.8 billion. Of this, net foreign private flows were $93.6 billion, and net foreign official flows were $18.2 billion.

June 23

REMARKS BY ANNA ESCOBEDO CABRAL U.S. TREASURER U.S. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY BEFORE THE NEW MEXICO MORTGAGE LENDERS ASSOCIATION Albuquerque, NM- Good afternoon. Thank you, Ryan, for that introduction. I want to thank Dan and the New Mexico Mortgage Lenders Association for your warm welcome. I applaud the important work you're doing here in New Mexico to promote and maintain sound mortgage lending practices. I'm pleased to join you here today with our federal partners and so many others dedicated to fostering the American Dream of homeownership. For many Americans, owning a home is a giant step on the ladder of economic mobility. It's a symbol of hard work, a source of pride, and a foundation for security. I know President Bush is deeply committed to helping all Americans fulfill the dream of owning a home. Today, more and more individuals and families are achieving this dream. Nearly 70 percent of Americans own homes, and the rate of minority homeownership has risen above 50 percent since the President took office. The Departments of Housing and Urban Development and Agriculture do a tremendous amount of work to ensure this success and extend the opportunity of homeownership to more and more Americans. At Treasury, we're equally committed to fostering an ownership society. One of the ways we do this is by empowering individuals to make wise and informed decisions about their finances. In today's increasingly complex mortgage market, often the greatest challenge to consumers is having enough information to navigate through the variety of products available and choose the one that best fits their needs. A 2001 study revealed that homeownership counseling can reduce 90-day mortgage delinquencies by an average of 19 percent. Of course, knowledge is also our best protection against predatory lenders and fraud. When we talk about effective homeownership counseling, we need to think beyond the specific states of pre-purchase, post-purchase, and foreclosure. After all, the goal should be to ensure individuals and families are equipped not just to buy their homes, but also to remain in their homes. Buying a home is often the biggest purchase most of us will make in our lifetime, and information is critical to ensuring that we make this purchase wisely. Homeownership counseling and training provides an ideal opportunity to educate consumers on general personal finance issues such as credit and money management that are critical to helping them manage their new mortgage and avoid foreclosure. Therefore, good homeownership counseling programs take a more holistic approach to address a range of finance topics. Without question, homeownership fuels the economy and enhances quality of life in our communities. It's in the best interest of financial institutions to help their customers continue on a successful and secure economic path once they purchase their homes. In talking with communities throughout the country, we've found the most effective way to deliver this important financial education message is by working together. Grassroots organizations can be extremely successful in reaching their local community members to deliver homeownership counseling. We also know that HUD regional offices across the country as well as programs like NeighborWorks America are advancing homeownership education through innovative outreach, aggressive public awareness campaigns, and intensive counseling. Just this week the Federal Reserve Board announced a new online Mortgage Comparison Calculator that consumers can use to compare what their monthly mortgage payments will be and how much equity they will build up in the future. This is a user-friendly and accessible financial education tool that will help consumers make informed decisions about mortgage options. These are just some of the financial education programs and resources out there. By working together, federal, state, and local governments, financial institutions and community organizations have the potential to empower all Americans with the information they need to achieve their dream of buying a home. Finally, I want to mention another important Treasury-led effort. As some of you may know, in 2003 Congress established the Financial Literacy and Education Commission under the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act. The Commission brings together 20 different federal agencies – including HUD and USDA – with the single goal of improving financial education. Since that time, the Commission has released The National Strategy for Financial Literacy, and launched a financial education web site and toll-free hotline, MyMoney.gov and 1-888-MyMoney in English and Spanish. The Strategy – which can be downloaded from the website looks at a variety of important finance topics including homeownership. In fact, the section of the Strategy on homeownership has been nationally recognized as a valuable source of information. The MyMoney website also offers helpful links such as the Federal Reserve Board's mortgage calculator I mentioned earlier. I encourage those of you who haven't seen the Strategy to go on line and take a look. I think you'll find it offers some truly valuable resources. Over the last year, Treasury and HUD have co-hosted meetings with financial institutions, lenders, policy makers, community organizations, and counseling agencies to discuss the issues surrounding homeownership and build new partnerships to advance this important goal. Treasury continues to work with HUD and our Commission partners to engage in similar discussions throughout the country. We're making great progress in offering homeownership opportunities to more Americans and building a more prosperous future for our communities. But much work remains. I'm confident that working together we will continue to boost homeownership – especially among the nation's most underserved consumers – and create a more financially informed public. I thank you for your continued partnership, hard work and commitment to this important endeavor. Thank you.

REMARKS BY ACTING UNDER SECRETARY FOR INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS CLAY LOWERY ON SOVEREIGN WEALTH FUNDS AND THE INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL SYSTEM --The financial crisis that struck East Asia ten years ago had many causes – fixed but adjustable exchange rate regimes, balance sheet mismatches in the financial and corporate sectors, and inadequate financial sector regulation and supervision, among others. Ultimately these causes manifested themselves in large-scale capital outflows and insufficient official foreign exchange reserves. At the time, a number of working groups were established to address issues coming out of that crisis. One group recommended that the international community – largely led by the IMF – improve the coverage, frequency, and timeliness of data on foreign exchange reserves. The idea was to improve financial stability by providing clarity on what had been shown to be misleading data regarding gross reserves. Though much has been accomplished, further progress, particularly on coverage, is needed. East Asia today looks considerably different in many respects, but perhaps none more so than foreign exchange reserve holdings. In East Asia, and around the world, reserve accumulation has sharply accelerated. From 1997 to 2001, global foreign exchange reserves including gold increased at 6 percent per year on average. Since 2002, the annual average increase has been a phenomenal 20 percent. Global reserves currently stand at roughly $5.6 trillion. Many countries with large reserves surpass, by several multiples, benchmarks of reserve adequacy developed after the Asian Financial Crisis. But reserves do not tell the whole story as they generally do not include Sovereign Wealth Funds. Sovereign Wealth Funds are not new – they have existed for over three decades, even if the term as such was only coined to my knowledge in 2005. What is new is the number of Sovereign Wealth Funds and their sheer current and projected sizes. Private analysts put current Sovereign Wealth Fund assets in a range of $1.5 – 2.5 trillion, which would bring total foreign assets held by sovereigns to roughly $7.6 trillion, or 15 percent of global GDP. These trends raise broad, strategic issues for the international financial system. What are the underlying policies driving the accumulation, and should they be adjusted? What financial market and, over the medium-term, financial protectionism challenges could arise from this tremendous increase in sovereign cross-border asset holdings? How can countries in which these funds are invested best promote openness and welcome foreign capital? The common objective should be an international financial system where countries do not accumulate more foreign assets than they want or need, and where cross-border investment remains healthy and open. At Treasury we are actively considering these issues, and potential steps that could be taken multilaterally, bilaterally, and by national authorities. While we clearly do not have all the answers, I would like to walk you through some of our initial thinking. I believe that the IMF and World Bank could take a very constructive step through the drafting of best practices for Sovereign Wealth Funds. Complementing the work of the International Financial Institutions, I would expect that the issue of sovereign foreign asset accumulation will increasingly arise in informal multilateral discussions. National authorities will also have an important role to play. Moreover, the U.S. government itself has responsibilities. Definitions and Differences First let us be clear on what we are talking about. There is no universal, agreed definition of a Sovereign Wealth Fund. I will use the term to mean a government investment vehicle which is funded by foreign exchange assets, and which manages those assets separately from official reserves. Sovereign Wealth Funds generally fall into two categories based on the source of the foreign exchange assets. * Commodity funds are established through commodity exports, either owned or taxed by the government. They serve different purposes, including stabilization of fiscal revenues, inter-generational savings, and balance of payments sterilization. Given the recent extended sharp rise in commodity prices, many funds initially established for fiscal stabilization or balance of payments sterilization purposes have evolved into savings funds. * Non-commodity funds are typically established through transfers of assets from official foreign exchange reserves. Large balance of payments surpluses have enabled non-commodity exporters to transfer "excess" foreign exchange reserves to stand-alone investment funds to be managed for higher returns. There are three key differences between these two types of funds: * First is their asset-liability structure. Commodity funds often derive from foreign currency accruing directly to the government, so the foreign currency is not converted to domestic currency, does not enter the domestic economy, and does not need to be sterilized through the issuance of domestic debt to avoid unwanted inflationary pressures. In contrast, non-commodity Sovereign Wealth Fund assets often derive from exchange rate intervention, much of which is usually sterilized. These funds' net return will depend on the difference between the yield they earn on their investments and the yield they pay on their sterilization debt. So they may be thought of more as "borrowed funds" than traditional "wealth." * A second difference involves how countries have allocated their foreign assets to Sovereign Wealth Funds and reserves. Commodity exporters have typically chosen Sovereign Wealth Funds, while Asian countries have chosen reserves. There are exceptions – Singapore created its Government Investment Corporation back in 1981 and Russia established its oil stabilization fund only in 2003 – but the general trend has stood. Now, though, Asian countries are increasingly establishing non-commodity Sovereign Wealth Funds. * A third difference concerns the future pace of asset accumulation. Oil exporters in particular are essentially replacing a real asset in the ground with a financial asset in an account. If oil prices remain high, these governments are likely to accumulate foreign assets going forward even after the implementation of sensible domestic fixed investment plans. In contrast, the extent of asset accumulation in non-commodity funds will depend heavily on how successful emerging markets are in shifting to increased exchange rate flexibility. Benefits and Risks The creation and expansion of Sovereign Wealth Funds is understandable given the significant increase in official reserves. To be considered reserves, foreign currency must be invested in liquid and marketable instruments that are readily available to the monetary authorities to meet a balance of payments need. The idea of a Sovereign Wealth Fund is to diversify foreign exchange assets and earn a higher return by investing in a broad range of asset classes, including longer-term government bonds, agency and asset-backed securities, corporate bonds, equities, commodities, real estate, derivatives, alternative investments, and foreign direct investment. Some back-of-the envelope math demonstrates why this trend toward higher risk-return management of official assets is to some extent inescapable, or what has been perceptively called "forced diversification." In 2006, official foreign exchange reserves grew by 20% or $843 billion. If we assume for simplicity a similar percent increase in Sovereign Wealth Fund assets, we add $336 billion. Setting aside valuation changes, this brings total 2006 official flows to nearly $1.2 trillion. In comparison, 2006 net issuance of the most traditional reserve assets – U.S. Treasuries, U.S. Agencies, euro area government securities, and UK Treasuries – totaled $461 billion. So even if reserve and Sovereign Wealth Fund managers had purchased all 2006 net issuance of these traditional reserve assets, they would still have had some $720 billion left over. Of course this remainder can be invested in the existing stock of these securities, but part is also likely to find its way to other assets and asset classes. These trends can bring benefits to countries in which these funds are invested. From the U.S. perspective, we unequivocally support international investment in this country – both portfolio and direct investment – and are committed to ensuring that the United States continues to be the most attractive place in the world to invest. Most market estimates, though highly dependent upon underlying assumptions, expect future official flows to have a material though moderate impact in bidding up prices and lowering risk premia of riskier, less liquid assets, while at the same time resulting in continued strong demand for traditional reserve assets. This may contribute to continued benign financing conditions. There are also risks, however. The first concerns these funds' potential impact on financial market stability. To be sure, there is much that is reassuring. Sovereign Wealth Funds are, in principle, long-term investors that can be expected to stick with a strategic asset allocation despite short-term losses. They are not highly leveraged. They cannot be forced by capital requirements or investor withdrawals to liquidate positions rapidly. They have access to, and frequently make use of, well-regarded private fund managers, consultants, administrators, and custodians. Yet it is hard to dismiss entirely the possibility of unseen, imprudent risk management with broader consequences. Sovereign Wealth Funds are already large and projected to get much larger. Little is known about their investment policies, so that minor comments or rumors will increasingly cause volatility as market participants react to what they perceive Sovereign Wealth Funds to be doing. Sovereign Wealth Funds are typically not directly regulated by their domestic financial authorities, and the extent of indirect regulation may also be limited. Investor discipline will depend on what their citizens know and how active they are in monitoring fund activities, rather than the market discipline of savvy institutional investors. Further, the funds' counterparties and any creditors may simply assume a sovereign guarantee and fail to exercise market discipline. The second risk is that, over the medium term, the size, investment policies, and/or operating methods of these funds fuel financial protectionism. It is no secret that globalization, despite its benefits, is raising sensitivities around the world. This is not just a U.S., European, or even industrialized country issue. Emerging markets have also at times expressed sensitivity to certain investments by other emerging markets. There will likely be much public attention to whether Sovereign Wealth Funds exercise the voting rights of their equity shares, and if so, how. If Sovereign Wealth Funds obtain operational control of the companies in which they invest, the fact that they are government entities may invite additional scrutiny. Finally, these sensitivities and pressures to block sovereign investment would worsen if Sovereign Wealth Fund investment decisions were made for non-economic reasons. I think I can identify two other risks, which are largely domestic but could potentially be international. One is that with so much money invested across a wider range of asset classes, Sovereign Wealth Funds will need to have strong fiduciary controls and good checks and balances to prevent corruption. Another is that, while Sovereign Wealth Funds should be managed as professionally and independently as possible, my experience in government suggests that once a bureaucracy is created, shutting it down becomes difficult. Therefore, a fund created to handle what could be a temporary phenomenon should not impede thorough examination of underlying policies and avoid becoming self-perpetuating. The Work Ahead of Us We want of course to maximize the benefits of these funds while reducing the risks. A sound global financial system and the maintenance of open markets are in the common interests of all. Sovereign Wealth Funds raise issues of the appropriate institutional arrangements, governance, operational and risk management, accountability, and – critically – transparency of the funds' rules, operations, and asset management guidelines and performance. So what to do? First, I believe that the IMF and World Bank could take a very useful step by developing best practices for Sovereign Wealth Funds, perhaps through a joint task force. The IMF has the requisite expertise on wider systemic and macroeconomic subjects, such as the link to fiscal policy. The World Bank is knowledgeable about country governance and accounting and fiduciary issues, including the fiduciary duty these funds have to their citizens as investors. The IMF and World Bank also have the broad membership of 185 member countries, including countries that have these funds, countries in which they invest, and countries that simply have a stake in a healthy overall international financial system. One caveat is that I do not think that the International Financial Institutions should be in the business of competing with the private sector to manage reserves or Sovereign Wealth Fund assets on behalf of countries. This is clearly beyond their mandates. Proposals along these lines have been justified by the concern that an individual reserve manager may be reluctant to invest excess reserves more aggressively for fear of disapproval (or worse) if returns are negative in a given year. This issue is best addressed by building support domestically, including through the establishment of a stand-alone domestic institution if appropriate. A country naturally also retains the right to fire asset managers that underperform their designated benchmarks. Finally, it is critical that the International Financial Institutions avoid feeding a misperception that more reserves are necessarily better, both for the countries themselves and the broader system. Second, the subject of sovereign foreign asset accumulation will increasingly arise in informal multilateral discussions, which can complement and provide impetus to the work of the International Financial Institutions. At last April's meeting of G-7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors, the Treasury Department hosted a special outreach dinner with Russia, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates to discuss investment flows from oil exporters, including in the form of Sovereign Wealth Funds. In May, Treasury and the Federal Reserve co-hosted with the South African Treasury and Reserve Bank a meeting of G-20 Finance Ministry and Central Bank officials on Commodity Cycles and Financial Stability, where we discussed, among other topics, Sovereign Wealth Funds. Third, national authorities will have an important role to play, and certainly at Treasury we will continue to explore ways to address the challenges and opportunities provided by Sovereign Wealth Funds. Finance Ministries and Central Banks are in increasing contact with these funds to promote common understanding. National securities regulators should treat these funds as they would any large institutional investor. National governments also maintain mechanisms to review foreign direct investment in a manner that preserves national security without creating unnecessary and counterproductive barriers. Long-established and well-run Sovereign Wealth Funds may wonder why they should adjust their practices, particularly on transparency. I hope they will find that transparency is good for the funds as well as the international financial system. Lack of transparency puts heavy demands on the quality of fund administration. Even where fund administration is solid, greater transparency would enhance the likelihood that the fund serves its intended purposes and reduce the likelihood of future governance problems. The experience of large corporations in the industrialized world demonstrates that potential for error and abuse exists even in apparently highly-rated and well-managed organizations. From a systemic perspective, transparency will facilitate the maintenance of openness to investment. What may have been tenable in a world where Sovereign Wealth Funds manage only several hundred billion dollars may not be tenable in a world where Sovereign Wealth Funds manage several trillion dollars. Finally, the U.S. government also has a direct responsibility – which is making our investment regime as open and consistent as possible for welcoming Sovereign Wealth Fund investment. We are doing that by working with Congress to get a sound CFIUS bill and we are doing that by reaching out around the world to explain the U.S. investment climate. Just this week for instance Deputy Secretary Kimmitt has been traveling in Beijing and Moscow meeting with government officials and business leaders to promote open investment policies and to gain clarity on their new investment laws and to better understand the nature and investment priorities of their soon to be established sovereign wealth funds. The message delivered clearly to the Deputy Secretary from officials in both countries is that the funds would focus primarily on portfolio investments such as corporate bonds and equities. When asked about the possibility of foreign direct investment acquisitions, officials in both countries indicated that is not in their current planning but if such an opportunity arose in the future, it would be in non-sensitive sectors. Never Forget the Underlying Issues In considering Sovereign Wealth Funds, we should not lose sight of the underlying issues – the need for increased exchange rate flexibility in many emerging markets and the need for oil exporters to formulate and implement fixed investment plans even if further foreign asset accumulation can reasonably be expected. Otherwise the official sector would be doing the equivalent of treating the symptoms rather than the condition. However, Sovereign Wealth Funds are not going away, and it will be increasingly necessary to work to integrate these funds as smoothly as possible into the international financial system.

Testimony of
Treasury Assistant Secretary for Financial Institutions
David G. Nason
Before the U.S. House Committee on Financial Services
Subcommittee on Capital Markets, Insurance
and Government Sponsored Enterprises
Washington - Thank you, Chairman Kanjorski, Ranking Member Pryce, and other members of the Subcommittee for inviting me to appear before you today.
Thank you, Chairman Kanjorski, Ranking Member Pryce, and other members of the Subcommittee for inviting me to appear before you today.

The market for terrorism risk insurance in the United States was significantly changed by the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Of course, prior to September 11, terrorism risk clearly existed in the United States. We experienced the 1993 bombing of the World Trade Center, the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, the 1996 Centennial Olympic Park bombing, and the "Millennium Bomber's" December 1999 attempted bombing of the Los Angeles International Airport. Despite these events, most commercial property and casualty insurance companies continued to provide coverage for terrorism risk in the insurance policies sold to their commercial policyholders.

The terrorist attacks of September 11 resulted in insured losses of approximately $32 billion, which at the time was the largest single insured loss event in U.S. history. The recognition that terrorist attacks could cause losses of such scale spread across multiple insurance products and concentrated in a relatively small geographic area, caused the insurance industry to undertake a broad reassessment of the likelihood and potential losses associated with terrorism. Immediately following September 11, commercial property and casualty insurers sought to exclude coverage for terrorism risk in many policies. Reinsurance contracts also began excluding coverage for terrorism.

In the months after September 11, there were increasing concerns about potential economic disruptions caused by the unwillingness of many insurance companies to provide terrorism insurance. In response, Congress passed and the President signed the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act (TRIA) in late 2002. TRIA established a temporary federal program of shared public and private compensation for privately-insured commercial property and casualty losses resulting from acts of terrorism. The TRIA legislation stated that the purposes of the legislation were to address market disruptions, to ensure the continued widespread availability and affordability of commercial property and casualty insurance for terrorism risk, and to allow for a transition period for the private markets to stabilize and build capacity while preserving State insurance regulation and consumer protections. While TRIA was largely successful in achieving its original purposes, given some remaining uncertainty surrounding the development in the market for terrorism risk insurance, TRIA was temporarily extended in 2005 for an additional two years by the Terrorism Risk Insurance Extension Act of 2005 (the "Extension Act").

Today, I would like to provide an overview of the key features of TRIA and the Extension Act, the key findings of the President's Working Group on Financial Markets' (PWG) 2006 report to Congress on terrorism risk insurance, and some principles for the federal government's role in the market for terrorism risk insurance going-forward. Our view of TRIA is shaped by the belief that the most efficient, lowest cost, and most innovative methods of providing terrorism risk insurance will come from the private sector. The Administration believes that three elements are critical if TRIA is to be reauthorized for a second time: the program remains temporary and short-term; private sector retentions are increased; and there is no expansion of the program. Treasury cannot support efforts that move the program in a direction that is inconsistent with these key elements.

The Terrorism Risk Insurance Act and the Extension Act

TRIA essentially established a government reinsurance program. Much like typical provisions found in reinsurance, the TRIA program requires that insurers first retain a portion of terrorism risk exposure themselves (referred to as "deductible") with the insurer and government then sharing in the losses above the initial retention (referred to as "co-share" or "co-pay"). Unlike a typical reinsurance policy, however, there is no up-front premium charged for the reinsurance coverage provided under TRIA; but instead, any federal expenditure can be collected, or recouped, after a loss through surcharges applied to premiums paid by commercial policyholders regardless of whether their insurers had received TRIA payments. Some key features of TRIA and the Extension Act include the following:

Private Sector Retentions

An insurer's "retention" under TRIA generally refers to the amount of terrorism risk exposure that an insurer retains. An insurer's retention is comprised of its insurer deductible, its co-share of the insured losses above its deductible, or all of its losses if an attack results in industry-wide losses below an event size threshold, called the "Program Trigger." An insurer's retention under TRIA is a key provision that governs the amount of terrorism risk exposure held by the private sector. The general structure of TRIA and the Extension Act requires increases in private sector retentions over time to encourage development of private market capacity to provide terrorism risk insurance over time.

An insurer's deductible is company specific and is calculated based on the size of the insurer's prior year's premium revenue from the types of insurance covered by TRIA. Insurer deductibles have increased throughout the TRIA program – from its 2003 level of 7 percent of an insurer's prior year's direct earned premiums, to 10 percent in 2004, and 15 percent in 2005. The Extension Act further increased insurer deductibles to 17.5 percent in 2006 and 20 percent in 2007. In the event of a certified terrorist act, each insurer will cover 100 percent of the insured losses up to its deductible before being eligible for federal payments under TRIA. Tying an insurer's deductible to its revenue helps ensure that the amount of insured losses the company itself is responsible for is commensurate with its size and assets. Some of the largest insurers that participate in the program have deductibles in the billions of dollars.

Once an insurer pays insured losses up to its deductible, insured losses above its deductible amount would then be shared between the insurer and the federal government. The federal share of insured losses above the insurer's deductible had been 90 percent through the first four years of the TRIA program, and was reduced to 85 percent in 2007 – thus increasing the private sector's share from 10 percent to 15 percent. This provision of TRIA encourages proper claims adjustment as insurers will have "skin in the game" in deciding and settling insurance claims, much the same as provisions included in private sector reinsurance contracts.

In addition to the deductible and co-share, an insurer retains all of its losses if industry-wide aggregate losses are below the minimum event size eligible for payments under TRIA, or what has come to be known as the "Program Trigger." Under TRIA, in order for an event to be certified as an act of terrorism, the losses suffered by the insurance industry as a whole must exceed at least $5 million in the aggregate. As originally structured, certified acts of terrorism resulting in losses above $5 million would have been eligible for federal payments under TRIA, essentially making the certification and the event's eligibility for federal payments under TRIA equivalent. The minimum event size qualifying an event for federal payments under TRIA was raised beginning in 2006 by the Extension Act, which specifically added the concept of a Program Trigger to TRIA. Under the Program Trigger concept, the Treasury Secretary is directed not to compensate insurers under TRIA unless the aggregate industry insured losses exceed certain "trigger" amounts: $50 million in 2006 and $100 million in 2007. Once the threshold is met, program payments can then be made to an insurer once it has paid claims and met its company-specific deductible.

Lines of Coverage

Insurance coverage under TRIA is limited to commercial property and casualty insurance, which was the primary area of concern in terms of dislocations associated with the September 11 terrorist attacks. TRIA does not apply to personal insurance, such as homeowners, automobile, or life insurance. While TRIA did not specifically define commercial property and casualty insurance, it did specifically include excess insurance, workers' compensation insurance, and during the first three years of the TRIA program, surety insurance. In addition, TRIA specifically excluded certain types of insurance:

· Federal or private crop insurance;
· Private mortgage insurance, or title insurance;
· Financial guaranty insurance offered by a monoline financial guaranty insurance corporation;
· Insurance for medical malpractice;
· Health or life insurance, including group life insurance;
· Federal flood insurance; and,
· Reinsurance or retrocessional reinsurance.

In implementing the definition of commercial property and casualty insurance, Treasury relied on the lines of business ("lines") under which insurers report their premiums in annual statement filings pursuant to forms and rules adopted by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). The specific lines that were included in the program were established by Treasury through regulation, in consultation with the NAIC. With respect to implementing the program, policies whose premiums are reported to the NAIC on designated commercial lines qualify for TRIA coverage.

The Extension Act scaled back the scope of the program so that TRIA no longer covers:

· Commercial automobile insurance;
· Burglary and theft insurance;
· Surety insurance;
· Professional liability insurance (but not directors' and officers' liability insurance); and,
· Farmowners' multiple peril insurance.

Terrorism risk insurance for these lines of insurance, which was covered only during the first three years of the program, was successfully transitioned back to the private market without any signs of market disruption.

Certified TRIA Events

The TRIA program covers losses from certified acts of terrorism. In order to qualify as an act of terrorism, an event must be certified by the Secretary of the Treasury with the concurrence of the Secretary of State and Attorney General of the United States as being:

· a violent act, or an act dangerous to life, property or infrastructure;
· resulting in damage within the U.S., or to a U.S. air carrier or U.S. flag vessel, or on the premises of a U.S. mission; and,
· committed by an individual or individuals acting on behalf of any foreign person or foreign interest, as part of an effort to coerce the civilian population of the U.S. or to influence the policy or affect the conduct of the U.S. government by coercion.

Terrorism coverage is often described as "certified acts" coverage (based on the TRIA definition) and "non-certified acts" coverage (acts of terrorism that are not certified under TRIA because they do not meet one or several of the certification requirements). "Certified acts" are synonymous with foreign acts of terrorism due to the requirement that the act be "committed by an individual or individuals acting on behalf of any foreign person or foreign interest."

Under TRIA, an act committed by a "home-grown" terrorist could currently be certified as an act of terrorism and covered by TRIA so long as the terrorist was acting on behalf of any foreign person or foreign interest, and the other requirements are met. However, purely domestic terrorism, such as eco-terrorist attacks or an attack like Oklahoma City, would not be covered by TRIA. Such non-certified risks generally continue to be insured by the private market.

Recoupment

Unlike a private sector reinsurance company, the TRIA program does not require insurers to pay up-front premiums and does not build up surplus to pay future claims. Instead, the program is funded on a post-loss basis. TRIA provides authority for Treasury to recoup its federal payments through annual surcharges on commercial policyholders of up to three percent of a policy's premium. Certain recoupment is mandatory, while in other circumstances TRIA authorizes discretionary recoupment.

Mandatory recoupment is based on the concept of an "insurance marketplace aggregate retention" amount, which specifies the amount of losses the private sector as a whole must absorb in any given year. If the insured losses that the insurers collectively retain (individual company deductibles plus the co-pay portions paid above deductibles) are lower than the marketplace aggregate retention, Treasury must recoup the difference. In addition, Treasury has the discretion to seek recoupment of up to the full amount paid out based on consideration of specific factors described in TRIA. The "insurance marketplace aggregate retention" amounts have increased each year of the program, going from $10 billion in the first year to $27.5 billion in 2007.

Key Outcomes of the Extension Act

The TRIA program was originally designed as a three-year program set to expire on December 31, 2005. The temporary program structure allowed the federal government to re-evaluate the program in the context of current market conditions.

As the debate surrounding the extension of TRIA took place in 2005, the Administration focused on encouraging the private insurance market to develop innovative solutions and build capacity. This serves to reduce potential exposure to taxpayers. The core changes ultimately adopted as part of the Extension Act – increasing deductibles and co-share amounts, elevating program trigger levels, and eliminating coverage for certain lines of insurance – all focused on encouraging greater private market participation over time. The impact of these changes and an overall evaluation of the market for terrorism risk insurance formed the basis for much of the President's Working Group on Financial Market's (PWG) 2006 report on terrorism risk insurance.

The Findings of the President's Working Group on Financial Markets

The Extension Act required the PWG to perform an analysis regarding the long-term availability and affordability of insurance for terrorism risk, including group life coverage; and coverage for chemical, nuclear, biological, and radiological events. In conducting this analysis, the PWG was assisted by staff of the member agencies who reviewed academic and industry studies on terrorism risk insurance, sought additional information and consultation through a Request for Comment published in the Federal Register, and also met with insurance regulators, policyholder groups, insurers, reinsurers, modelers, and other government agencies. The PWG submitted its report to Congress last September. Key findings of the report are summarized below.

Long-Term Overall Availability and Affordability of Terrorism Risk Insurance

One of the key findings of the PWG report was that overall the availability and affordability of terrorism risk insurance has improved since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. The general trend observed in the market has been that as insurer retentions have increased under TRIA and policyholder surpluses have risen, prices for terrorism risk have fallen, and take-up rates have increased.

Much of the improvement in the terrorism risk insurance market is due to several important factors, including better risk measurement and management, improved modeling of terrorism risk, greater reinsurance capacity, and a recovery in the financial health of property and casualty insurers.

· Since September 11, insurers have made greater use of sophisticated models that allow them to identify and manage concentrations of risk in order to avoid accumulating too much risk in any given location. This improvement in risk accumulation management has allowed insurers to better diversify and control their terrorism risk exposures, which has enhanced their ability to underwrite terrorism risk. In addition, a significant effort has been made by the insurance industry in modeling the potential frequency and severity of terrorist attacks; however, given the uncertainty of terrorism in general and, in particular, the uncertainty associated with these modeling efforts, insurers appear to have limited confidence to date in these models for evaluating their risk exposures.

· In terms of market capacity, the PWG found that the quantity of terrorism risk reinsurance capacity has increased since the period following September 11. In addition, the financial health of insurers has recovered since September 11. As a result, insurers have more available capacity to allocate to terrorism risk as demonstrated by the increased provision of terrorism risk insurance coverage over the past few years.

Despite these overall improvements, the PWG report found that a significant number of policyholders are still not purchasing terrorism coverage – approximately 40 percent of all policyholders do not purchase coverage. Even in major cities, a high proportion of policyholders are not purchasing terrorism risk insurance. For example, in 2004, 46 percent of policyholders in New York City had not purchased terrorism insurance; in Los Angeles, 61 percent had not purchased terrorism insurance; in Chicago, 42 percent; and in Washington, D.C., 40 percent. Recently reported data for 2006 suggests this has improved for some cities; for example, approximately one-quarter of policyholders in the New York metropolitan area are uninsured, as compared to 46 percent in 2004. The PWG's report, Treasury's own 2005 study, and others have found that the primary reasons for non-purchase were price, perceptions of low risk, and perhaps to some degree an expectation that federal disaster aid might be available if a significant attack were to occur.

The PWG report concluded that further improvements in insurers' ability to model and manage terrorism risk will likely contribute to the long-term development of the terrorism risk insurance market. However, the high level of uncertainty currently associated with predicting the frequency of terrorist attacks, along with what appears to be a general unwillingness of some insurance policyholders to purchase insurance coverage, makes any prediction of the potential degree of long-term development of the terrorism risk insurance market somewhat difficult.

Group Life Insurance

As passed by Congress in 2002, TRIA did not include group life insurance in the program. Treasury was required to evaluate market conditions and determine whether to include it in the program if both insurance and reinsurance were not available, or not likely to be available in the future. In 2003, Treasury found that group life insurance coverage was readily available for consumers. Thus, group life was not added to the program. In 2005, when TRIA was extended by Congress, group life was not added to the program.

The PWG report found that group life insurance is still widely available in the private market even though it is not part of the TRIA program. In particular, the group life market is highly competitive and is very price sensitive. Group life insurers concede that competitive pressures have caused them to make coverage available, even in the absence of TRIA protection. In contrast to property and casualty insurers, group life insurers have decided to forgo purchasing reinsurance and to focus less on managing risk accumulations.

Chemical, Nuclear, Biological, or Radiological (CNBR) Coverage under TRIA

CNBR is currently covered under TRIA. However, TRIA does not require insurers to make CNBR terrorism coverage available to policyholders if CNBR coverage for non-terrorism events is similarly not provided. Although not required by TRIA, if CNBR terrorism coverage is provided by the insurance policy, such as with workers' compensation insurance, TRIA covers insured losses from a certified terrorist event involving CNBR.

CNBR is currently covered under TRIA. However, TRIA does not require insurers to make CNBR terrorism coverage available to policyholders if CNBR coverage for non-terrorism events is similarly not provided. Although not required by TRIA, if CNBR terrorism coverage is provided by the insurance policy, such as with workers' compensation insurance, TRIA covers insured losses from a certified terrorist event involving CNBR.

The PWG report found that historically CNBR risks (caused by a terrorist or by any other event) were typically not covered by insurance (except when mandated by state law, such as with workers' compensation). The factors determining the availability and affordability of CNBR coverage have more to do with the nature, scale, and uncertainty of the damage and losses from CNBR events – however caused – and less to do with terrorism specifically. In addition, policyholder expectations regarding their own potential terrorism risk exposure are probably lower and their expectations about the likelihood of post-disaster federal aid are probably higher for CNBR attacks than for relatively smaller-scale conventional terrorist attacks.

The Federal Government's Role in the Market for Terrorism Risk Insurance

As a basic principle, the federal government's role in any market, including the market for terrorism risk insurance, should be limited to those areas where private markets cannot function and hence broader costs are imposed on our Nation's overall economy. In playing such a role at a time when it was needed, TRIA appears to have been successful. TRIA provided time for insurers and others to adjust to the risks made clear by the September 11 terrorist attacks. Subsequently, there have been positive market responses by insurers and reinsurers to the reductions in the federal role over the five years that TRIA has been in place, most notably by assuming additional terrorism risk exposure in each year of the program. And as insurers have increased their terrorism risk exposure as TRIA was scaled back, prices for terrorism risk coverage have declined or remained stable. In some sense, we have conducted a market experiment under TRIA that has illustrated that the private sector is capable of taking on increasing amounts of terrorism risk as the federal government's role recedes. TRIA has generally been effective in encouraging the greater provision of terrorism risk insurance, while at the same time encouraging and supporting private market development. However, by providing a terrorism risk reinsurance without any up-front premiums, it may also have displaced some private sector alternatives.

As has been clear from the outset, TRIA was designed as a temporary program. A permanent or long-term federal subsidy of free federal reinsurance was never intended. We firmly believe that temporary programs should be just that – temporary. Given the success achieved under TRIA to date, the obvious question is should the federal government maintain a limited role in the provision of terrorism risk insurance? It is clear that some challenges remain in the market for terrorism risk insurance almost five years after the passage of TRIA and nearly six years after September 11. Insurers have made great strides in modeling loss exposure and managing their concentration of risk; however, the ability of the insurance industry to model the frequency of terrorism attacks is uncertain, and market participants are skeptical of their current reliability. As a result, insurers are cautious in allocating more capacity to terrorism risk, although it appears that gradual increases have been occurring over time. If TRIA were to expire, our general view is that the market for terrorism risk insurance in much of the country would largely be unaffected, but that there could be some dislocations in certain markets and industries.

Based on where the market for terrorism risk insurance is today, our view is that TRIA should be phased out in order to increase private sector participation. The following three elements are critical if TRIA is to be reauthorized for a second time: the program remains temporary and short-term; private sector retentions are increased; and there is no expansion of the program. Unfortunately, H.R. 2761 does not meet these critical elements.

It is important that the program remain temporary and short-term. When the President signed TRIA in 2002 he said that it should be temporary, and the Administration maintains this position. Given the positive market developments during the last five years under a TRIA program where the federal role has been scaled-back further and further each year, we clearly do not believe the federal government's role in terrorism risk insurance should be made permanent. Similarly, if the program were extended for a long period of time there would be less urgency surrounding the development of private sector solutions, which would lead to market complacency. In considering the length of any extension we must maintain incentives for industry participants to continue to improve their systems (e.g., modeling) and develop private market capacity and innovative solutions. We believe the ten year extension in H.R. 2761 is not consistent with the critical element of keeping the program temporary and short-term.

It is also important to continue the trend of increasing the private sector's participation and reducing the role of the Federal Government. Private sector retentions provide financial incentives for insurers to encourage their policyholders to mitigate risk through such measures as improved physical security and evacuation and business continuation planning. Private sector retentions can be increased through deductibles, co-shares, or program triggers. Any extension of TRIA should not backtrack from current levels, but rather should reflect some real amount of increased private sector participation. As has been demonstrated by the increased willingness of insurance companies to take on terrorism risk exposure during the life of TRIA, there is ample opportunity to continue increasing private sector retentions. In addition, recent increases in the capacity of property and casualty insurers, as evidenced by growing surplus and profit levels as well as increased reinsurance availability, should allow for greater private sector retentions. Unfortunately, a number of provisions in H.R. 2761 move away from requiring increased private sector participation, such as leaving insurer deductibles and co-payment amounts flat and unchanged, lowering the program trigger level, and lowering retentions for subsequent events through a reset mechanism. Treasury would oppose these provisions as they are inconsistent with phasing out TRIA and encouraging private provision of terrorism risk insurance – which is the fundamental goal of TRIA.

The program should not be expanded to introduce new lines or types of coverage willingly provided by the private market. For example, we do not see any evidence of problems in the market for group life insurance or in coverage for domestic terrorism. These markets continue to function despite not having access to the TRIA program. Expanding the TRIA program to include additional coverage for well functioning markets – as H.R. 2761 proposes – is inconsistent with the appropriate role of the federal government in the terrorism risk insurance market. Treasury would oppose any such efforts that move the program in the wrong direction.

Finally, there have been questions raised about the lack of coverage for CNBR terrorism risks. As noted previously, outside of workers' compensation insurance, coverage for CNBR risk has generally not been provided by insurers. However, TRIA does provide coverage for CNBR risk if insurers include such coverage in their policies. If policyholders were to demand CNBR coverage and were willing to pay appropriate prices, we would expect some additional capacity to emerge for CNBR risks. At this time the lack of CNBR coverage does not appear to be leading to any disruptions or imposing any broader costs on our Nation's overall economy. We do not support H.R. 2761's expansion of TRIA's "make available" provision that would require insurers to offer coverage for CNBR risks or its provisions that would lower insurer retentions. Nevertheless, outside the debate surrounding TRIA, we should continue to consider the potential economic implications associated with the limited amount of CNBR terrorism risk insurance coverage that is currently being provided.

Conclusion

We appreciate the efforts of the Chairman and Members of the Subcommittee in evaluating issues associated with terrorism risk insurance and TRIA. Unfortunately, the risk of terrorism is likely to remain a part of our lives for some time to come, but that is precisely why the federal government needs to encourage the development of the most creative and cost effective means of covering terrorism risks. The most efficient, lowest cost, and most innovative methods of providing terrorism risk insurance will come from the private sector. TRIA should be phased out in order to increase private sector participation.

The three critical elements that we have set forth surrounding an acceptable extension of TRIA – (1) the program remain temporary and short-term; (2) private sector retentions are increased; and (3) there is no expansion of the program – reflect the positive experience under TRIA to date, and are grounded in the basic principle of limited government involvement in private markets. Without these critical elements, we would not be supportive of extending TRIA as, in our view, the program would be moving in the wrong direction. H.R. 2761 does not meet our objectives. In Treasury's view, from both a market and economic perspective, it would be better to have no TRIA than a bad TRIA. We are willing to continue to work with Congress toward finding an appropriately balanced solution and to establish the appropriate increases in private sector participation.

We look forward to continuing to work with Congress on this important issue. Thank you. I look forward to answering your questions.

Testimony of Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr.
before the House Committee on Financial Services
on the State of the International Financial System
Washington, DC -- Thank you, Chairman Frank, Ranking Member Bachus and Committee members, for the opportunity to appear today to discuss the state of the international financial system.
-- Thank you, Chairman Frank, Ranking Member Bachus and Committee members, for the opportunity to appear today to discuss the state of the international financial system.

The Bush Administration is committed to strengthening U.S. and global economies by promoting domestic and international growth. Our policies encourage openness, competition, financial stability, and development, both at home and abroad.

As countries around the world have reformed and opened their economies, global integration has provided businesses greater access to markets around the world, more choices for consumers, and reduced the prices of goods and services, which is a real benefit, especially to those with lower incomes in the United States and abroad.

Our aim is to help ensure that more people share in the benefits created by economic growth and trade opportunities, to help every nation reduce poverty and build a strong middle class.

To further expand on these points, my testimony will touch on the following:

The economic outlook for the U.S. and the global economy.

Contributions that the U.S. and other economies have made toward global re-balancing and additional steps that are required.

The vital importance of continued U.S. openness to foreign investment and trade, while ensuring national security, to keep our economy dynamic and competitive; and the imperative of addressing anxieties about globalization and successfully concluding the Doha trade round.

Why the international financial institutions are key instruments through which to pursue U.S. economic interests abroad and what needs to be done to maintain their relevance and credibility. On the IMF side, this includes an overhaul of governance structure.

The importance of multilateral debt and development initiatives, which serve U.S. interests – both moral and practical – by lifting people out of poverty, promoting private-sector led growth, helping rebuild war-torn societies.

How the Treasury is working bilaterally and multilaterally to detect and disrupt financial networks related to money laundering, terrorism, WMD proliferation.

How Treasury's international assistance program supports the achievement of many of these goals.

U.S. and Global Economic Developments

A strong U.S. economy benefits the international economy, and the U.S. economy is strong. Most recent data show that employers are hiring more than 100,000 people per month, businesses are starting to invest again and consumers are spending at a healthy pace.

The global economy continues to be very robust, with sustained strong growth from 2003 through 2006. In 2006, global GDP grew 5.4 percent, the highest rate of growth in over 30 years. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects continued strong growth, at about 5 percent, in 2007 and 2008. The U.S. and China are key engines of global growth, accounting for over 40 percent of world growth for the past 5 years. Emerging markets and developing countries have made a huge contribution to global growth, growing, on average, 4.8 percentage points faster than the advanced economies from 2003 through 2006. And with both Europe and Japan also experiencing faster growth, the global economy is now firing on all engines in a way that produces better balance, more sustained growth, and expanding opportunities.

At the same time there has been a substantial increase in the amounts of funds invested across borders, a near doubling in cross-border investment flows since 2000 to $6 trillion annually. Not surprisingly, given the depth, liquidity and attractiveness of our financial markets, the U.S. has attracted international investment that has enabled us to achieve higher rates of growth, higher levels of capital formation, and greater job creation than would have been possible otherwise.

The issue of global imbalances remains on the international agenda. Some historical perspective is useful in this discussion. Global imbalances have evolved and developed over a long time period and are the result of a myriad of global forces, including the massive amounts of international investment mentioned earlier and the relative attractiveness of U.S. financial markets to foreign investors. Another reason is the consistently faster pace of demand growth in the United States relative to our foreign partners.

However, progress is being made, as suggested in last week's release of first quarter 2007 data showing the U.S. current account deficit has declined to 5.7 percent of U.S. GDP, down from a peak of 6.8 percent in the fourth quarter of 2005. Our partners are growing faster, particularly in Europe, where demand has strengthened. We continue to seek further re-balancing of global demand through stronger demand growth in Japan and Europe, as well as by oil exporting economies and China.

We are doing our part. The U.S. fiscal position continues to improve. The FY 2006 federal budget deficit was $248 billion, $70 billion less than in FY2005. This is considerable progress and we are on track to further reduce the deficit in 2007. As a share of GDP, the deficit amounted to 1.9 percent in FY 2006, down from a recent peak of 3.6 percent in FY 2004 and below the 40-year average of 2.3 percent. The U.S. labor market remains healthy with a low unemployment rate, steady job gains and solid real wage growth. Core measures of inflation appear to be contained, although energy and food price increases continue to boost the headline inflation figures.

In sum, global economic growth is widespread and moving at a faster pace than in the 1980s or the 1990s. Inflation is down, fiscal positions have improved, and vulnerabilities have been reduced. We still have work to do, however, to further re-balance global demand, expand global trade and open markets.

The Strategic Economic Dialogue with China

Since becoming Secretary, I have emphasized the United States' economic relationship with China. Rapid growth in China has helped power the global economy. And, as a major global economic participant, China must address the need for structural reform.

Our relationship with China is multi-faceted, and we welcome China's growth and integration into the world economy. As our relationship with China matures, tensions will naturally emerge. Less than one year ago, President Bush and President Hu established the Strategic Economic Dialogue, which is a focused and effective framework for addressing issues of mutual concern. The first SED meeting was held in Beijing in December, and the second one was held last month here in Washington. We have tangible results to show for our work so far, such as agreements in civil aviation, energy, the environment and financial services.

Through the SED, which allows us to speak to senior Chinese officials with one voice, avoiding the stove-piping that had sometimes characterized past discussions, we can work to strengthen the U.S. – China economic relationship. It is very important to both of our countries that we get this right.

The United States supports a stable and prosperous China; a stable and prosperous China will be a growing market for U.S. goods and services, even if it will be an economic competitor at times. We are not afraid of the competition; we welcome it, because competition makes us stronger. It is in our interest to support China's continuing efforts to reform and open its economy. Our policy disagreements are not about the direction of change, but about the pace of change.

You recently received the foreign exchange report, which emphasizes the need for stronger, faster action from China. Treasury did not determine that China's exchange rate policy was carried out for the purpose of preventing effective balance of payments adjustment or gaining unfair competitive advantage in international trade. But, Treasury continues to press the Chinese to increase the flexibility of their exchange rate.

Although they have taken some steps towards greater flexibility in the short term, they need to accelerate that movement and move more quickly to a market-determined exchange rate in the medium term. While currency reform is not going to eliminate our trade deficit, a market-determined exchange rate that reflects the underlying fundamentals of the Chinese economy is an important ingredient to sustainable, balanced economic growth in China, which is critical to continued stable growth around the world. The huge inflow of liquidity under the current exchange rate policy undermines the effectiveness of China's monetary policy and fuels excessive growth in credit, which itself poses significant risks for the Chinese economy's performance. The risk that China now faces is moving too slowly on exchange rate reform, rather than moving too quickly.

Rebalancing China's growth to be less dependent on exports is key to reducing China's trade surplus, and assuring that China can continue to grow in the future without generating large imbalances. Moving more quickly to embrace competition and market principles will also spread the benefits of China's growth to all of China's people. Just as important is addressing the structural reasons why Chinese households save so much and consume so little. Precautionary savings rates would likely decrease, and consumption increase, if there were a stronger social safety net. Competitive retail financial services would allow the Chinese public to insure against risk, finance major expenditures like education, and garner a higher return on their savings. Investments driven by market signals and expected profitability, rather than by administrative guidance, combined with a reduction in precautionary savings, would shift the economy from its infrastructure and export manufacturing focus and spread prosperity more widely. This can only be beneficial, and China's consumption and import level can only increase.

We will have our third SED meeting in December. Between now and then, we will continue to actively work on the trade agenda, on opening markets, increasing transparency and innovation, rebalancing growth and promoting energy efficiency and security, as well as environmental protection measures. We will continue our focus on financial services, moving at a faster pace towards a market-driven currency and expanding U.S. access in the services sector. We have room to be more creative and accomplish a good deal more.

Promoting Open Trade and Investment

A central U.S. policy priority is promoting further opening to international trade while addressing the sources of globalization anxieties. I have been and will continue to be an outspoken advocate for maintaining and extending open trade. This is fundamental to the long term competitiveness of the U.S. economy. As the world opens its doors, we must resist the sentiment that favors economic isolationism; this is not the time to retreat from the principles which have made America so strong and competitive.

We have worked hard to open markets and liberalize trade, in order to promote economic growth and development worldwide. Free trade agreements (FTAs) also bring significant benefits to Americans and the American economy as well as to our FTA partners. Over the last six years, the Administration has put free trade agreements into effect with ten countries. Agreements with the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica and Oman have passed Congress and await implementation.

The Administration is working hard to complete the Doha round, which has the potential to lift hundreds of millions out of poverty. Last month, congressional leaders and the Administration reached bipartisan agreement on labor, environmental and other issues related to pending free trade agreements with Peru, Panama, Colombia and Korea. We are hopeful that congressional approval of these agreements will soon unlock their important benefits.

Openness to trade and competition fuels economic dynamism, innovation, and deployment of new technologies that raise standard of living and productivity across the globe. Countries which have opened up to international competition have prospered, while others have been left behind. But a dynamic economy does create dislocations and change, and we must help workers succeed amidst this change. However, we cannot turn back the clock; the global economy is here to stay.

A successful Doha round would expand trade in agriculture, manufactured goods and services. The World Bank estimates that full liberalization of global merchandise trade alone would increase annual global income by $287 billion (0.7 percent of global GDP) and lift 65 million people out of poverty by 2015. Agriculture in particular is crucial for developing countries, especially for the poorest ones. On average, agriculture represents 40 percent of GDP, 35 percent of exports, and 50–70 percent of total employment in the poorest developing countries

Financial services are particularly important for developing countries because they are linked to increased economic growth and development. A Doha Round without significant liberalization in these areas would be a missed development opportunity. Capital markets are the lifeblood of an economy. They connect those who need capital with those who invest or lend capital. They play a vital role in helping entrepreneurs implement new ideas and businesses expand operations, creating new jobs. Financial sector openness has been shown to increase growth rates by over one percentage point in developing countries and to help the poor disproportionately, making commitments in the financial sector a win-win proposition. Cross-country analysis shows that greater involvement by private and foreign banks leads to more efficient lending and higher growth.

Foreign Direct Investment

On May 10, 2007, President Bush reaffirmed our nation's commitment to "open economies that empower individuals, generate economic opportunity and prosperity for all, and provide the foundation for a free society." A free and open international investment regime is vital for a stable and growing economy, both here at home and throughout the world. Foreign investment in the United States strengthens our economy, improves productivity, creates jobs, and spurs healthy competition.

Thank you, Chairman Frank, Ranking Member Bachus and Committee members for your efforts to improve and strengthen the CFIUS process. Your bill will contribute to creating a sound process to assess national security risks in those limited investments where they may arise, while signaling to the rest of the world that the United States remains open for investment. The CFIUS process has historically applied to less than 10 percent of foreign acquisitions of U.S. firms and the vast majority of reviews take place without controversy.

Modernizing the International Financial Institutions

We have a strong stake in maintaining the credibility, relevance and legitimacy of the IFIs. The IFIs are indispensable to promoting the United States' global economic interests, which cannot be effectively pursued through bilateral means alone.

As you know, the President has nominated Ambassador Robert Zoellick to be World Bank President. Positive feedback from my extensive consultation with foreign ministers around the world reinforced our confidence in Ambassador Zoellick's ability to lead the Bank's vital mission of economic growth. I believe he will rightly keep Africa at the center of the Bank's focus and continue the vital campaign to fight corruption and reduce poverty.

At the IMF, we have reached an important moment for reform. Failure to follow through will undermine the credibility and legitimacy of the IMF. Within the past days, the IMF took action to update its operational framework for its surveillance over members' exchange rate policies. The U.S. has been a strong voice in favor of such reform.

The IMF's exchange rate surveillance framework was 30 years old and badly needed updating to reflect developments such as the tremendous rise in international capital flows and increased prevalence of freely floating exchange rates. The reform will permit firmer surveillance in areas such as insufficiently flexible exchange rate regimes or weak macroeconomic policies which do not adequately support the exchange rate regime. The U.S. will continue to emphasize that for the reform to be meaningful, it must be carried through in the day-to-day surveillance work undertaken by staff. Nothing is more important for the relevance of the IMF than rigorous execution of its most fundamental responsibility.

Firm, multilateral-based exchange rate surveillance has the potential to be a strong complement to bilateral diplomacy. A multilateral approach places exchange rate issues in a broader, less politically-charged context where the win-win aspects of reform can be more persuasively emphasized.

The United States has led the call for reforms of the IMF's governance structure so that it better reflects the world economy in which we live. The chief goal of governance reform must be to boost the voting share of dynamic emerging market economies. Major emerging market economies produce an increasing share of global output, and will increasingly drive global growth. Reform can and should be accomplished while protecting the voting share of the poorest countries. The U.S. has demonstrated its commitment to reform by offering to forego the additional quota which would otherwise be due to us. We continue to call on similarly situated countries to follow our lead.

Supporting Economic Growth in Developing Countries

This administration has pursued a proactive reform agenda on development. President Bush has made a strong case for why international development assistance is squarely in the U.S. interest. Treasury supports these international development objectives through active leadership in the multilateral development banks (MDBs) and international debt initiatives. Lifting unsustainable debt burdens from the poorest countries allows a greater focus on economic growth and frees up resources that can be spent on poverty-reduction priorities.

In 2005 the G-8 agreed to support a multilateral debt relief agreement to cancel up to $60 billion in debt obligations owed to the World Bank's International Development Association (IDA), the African Development Bank and the IMF by countries eligible for the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative. In response to U.S. leadership, the Inter-American Development Bank has followed suit, agreeing to provide additional debt reduction to its five most heavily-indebted borrowers: Bolivia, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras and Nicaragua, with debts totaling $3.4 billion.

The U.S. seeks to preserve the gains made under these historic debt relief initiatives, and to end the "lend and forgive" cycle that has plagued many of the poorest countries in recent decades. This will require not only prudent debt management by borrowing countries, but greater attention by lenders to responsible lending policies and practices.

A key tool is the joint World Bank/IMF Debt Sustainability Framework, the DSF, for low-income countries, a forward-looking assessment of potential risk of debt distress. DSF must be put to use not only by borrowers to promote prudent management of new debt, but also by lenders, beyond the MDBs. It should include explicit guidance on recommended level of concessionality of lending.

We are concerned that some commercial creditors and non-OECD bilateral creditors have increased non-concessional lending to Low-Income Countries following the extension of debt relief, in effect "free riding" on the debt relief for these countries paid for by others. We are working within various forums, including the OECD Export Credit Group, to explore how use of the DSF might be expanded to other creditors. We are also working to engage the G-20 on a "Charter for Responsible Lending" to promote collaboration with emerging creditors. In this context, we are also working to help HIPCs avoid costly litigation.

Largely through U.S. leadership, the MDBs have been making significant progress in support of our international policy priorities: promoting private sector-led growth, reducing poverty, fighting corruption, and assisting post-conflict countries in rebuilding their war-torn economies.

We are now engaged with our donor partners around the world in replenishment negotiations for the International Development Association, the concessional arm of the World Bank and the African Development Fund. Successful negotiations are particularly important for Africa, which receives half of the IDA's resources. U.S. leadership is essential to advance the following key objectives:

Making sure the institutions measure, report and demonstrate results concretely and consistently; and continue to allocate more resources to countries that are reforming and performing well;

Improved work in fragile states such as Afghanistan and Liberia;

Increased transparency of the Bank's country operations;

Greater attention to debt sustainability in poor, debt vulnerable countries;

Continued efforts to fight against corruption.

The U.S. and the MDBs are strengthening their commitment to the financial sector in Africa, which is critically important for supporting sustainable economic growth. President Bush recently announced the Africa Financial Sector Initiative to provide financial and technical assistance to overcome barriers to capital markets development in Africa. This will complement work of the MDBs to strengthen Africa's financial markets.

The World Bank's new "Making Finance Work for Africa" initiative aims to increase efficiency of financial intermediation, provide greater access to finance for households and small business, and deepen financial markets. The IFC provides financial and technical assistance to help African financial institutions lend profitably to small and medium-sized enterprises. World Bank/IMF financial sector assessments help African countries develop financial sector reform strategies.

The MDBs also play a key role in addressing the needs of fragile states, which complements U.S. policy of helping to rebuild war-torn economies in countries like Afghanistan, Liberia, Haiti and Lebanon. Successfully addressing the special needs of fragile states is critical for advancing global economic and political stability. We are encouraging the MDBs to focus on the core issues of capacity and governance, since shortcomings in these areas often make it difficult for fragile states to effectively absorb aid. We also emphasize the need for the MDBs to achieve measurable results.

The Administration wants to continue to work with Congress on this proactive development agenda. In order for the United States to maintain its leadership in these important efforts, we must address the past payments due to these valuable institutions, as was requested in the President's FY 2008 budget.

Helping Small Businesses in Latin America

In March, President Bush asked the Treasury and State Departments to develop an initiative to "help U.S. and local banks improve their ability to extend good loans to small businesses" in Latin America and the Caribbean. On June 12, Treasury announced a three part program specifically designed to assist the estimated 90 percent of small businesses in the region that are often frozen out of the formal financial sector. The initiative is aimed at helping more people share in the benefits of economic freedom and growth that occur when small businesses thrive.

It is a three-part plan to catalyze market-based bank lending to small, profitable businesses with growth potential in Latin America and the Caribbean, that would be carried out in conjunction with in the Multilateral Investment Fund (MIF) of the Inter-American Development Bank, the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) and the IDB Group's Inter-American Investment Corporation (IIC).

Household financial education is also vital to the success of this initiative. Many entrepreneurs get their start using their own savings or personal loans. Treasurer Anna Cabral will host a regional conference this fall to discuss ways we can enhance access to financial services, including financial service access of entrepreneurs in the region.

Strengthening the International Framework against Illicit Finance

In 2004, Treasury became the first finance ministry in the world to develop in-house intelligence and analytic expertise to use specific, current, and reliable intelligence to evaluate potential national security threats. We use reliable financial intelligence to build conduct-based cases, working to achieve a multilateral alignment of interests. Multilateral support is critical to the success of targeted financial measures; this support is also vital to bolstering the integrity of the international financial system and to underpinning sustainable growth and development.

Treasury continues an intensive effort to track and disrupt terrorist financing that has been effective on several levels. Perhaps the best example of a multilateral program of targeted financial measures is evidenced when the target provides support to al Qaida or the Taliban. In that case, a U.N. Security Council list requires all member states to freeze the assets of designated actors.

We are applying targeted financial measures against narcotics trafficking, terrorism threats and to counter the threat of proliferation, particularly the threats posed by Iran and North Korea. We have used our authorities to financially isolate entities central to the financing of terrorism and proliferation, such as Iran's Bank Sepah and Bank Saderat. We have worked to ensure that targeted financial measures are a central part of multilateral efforts to combat WMD proliferators; these measures are included in key UNSCRs related to North Korean and Iranian proliferation activities.

One of the greatest challenges of this century will be to keep the most dangerous weapons out of the hands of dangerous people. As I travel and meet with my colleagues in finance ministries around the world, everyone acknowledges that we must find effective ways to deal with these threats, short of military measures. Other nations can move more quickly to accomplish our shared goals of protecting the financial system and combating security threats by implementing the laws necessary to give their finance ministries the authority to access and use intelligence, and by integrating financial and security functions. This will enable further cooperation and multilateral action, which is in the world's best interest. And, these authorities must be available not only for use against terrorist financing and money laundering, but also for the dangerous, emerging practice of proliferation financing.

In conjunction with these targeted financial measures, Treasury has worked to enhance transparency across the international financial system and creating a dialogue with the international banking and financial service industries. Treasury is working with FATF to reinforce anti-money laundering/counter-terrorist financing framework to safeguard against threats such as WMD proliferation. FATF is a centerpiece of multilateral efforts, but cannot function effectively in isolation, the IFIs are major partners. Countering illicit finance promotes international financial stability and is therefore complementary to the missions of the IFIs.

The U.S. has been working very closely with the IMF and MDBs on anti-money laundering issues since 1999 and on terrorist financing issues since 2001. Our efforts have been very successful in gaining their commitment and engagement to combat terrorist financing and money laundering. A major step forward occurred in March 2004, when IMF and World Bank Executive Boards agreed to make countries' compliance with the FATF 40 + 9 recommendations, the anti-money laundering and terrorist financing standard, a regular part of their financial sector surveillance and diagnostic work, including in the Financial Sector Assessment Program.

The IMF and World Bank continue to undertake country assessments and provide technical assistance to help countries strengthen their AML/CFT regimes. They have performed 80 country assessments since 2002. The IMF has provided technical assistance to 158 countries; conducted 57 training workshops/seminars at national or regional level, involving 1,873 participants. And the World Bank has undertaken 196 outreach activities and 314 technical assistance missions, training approximately 2,200 officials in 140 countries.

Treasury Technical Assistance

Treasury seeks to advance the international economic agenda, and the specific goals that I have discussed today, in many ways, primarily through bilateral policy dialogue, through Treasury's participation in international organizations, and through specialized groupings such as the G-7/G-8.

Another, less visible, way is Treasury's international technical assistance program. It is a very small program that "punches above its weight" and merits your support. Let me give you a few specific examples that illustrate how Treasury assistance is supporting our efforts to combat illicit finance, to promote economic growth in developing countries, and to promote open trade and investment:

In Afghanistan, Treasury advisors have assisted the Afghan Central Bank in a successful effort to license and regulate the vast network of informal currency changers, also known as "hawaladars." This was a major step forward in the effort to bring hawaladars into the formal financial system and thereby reduce vulnerability to money laundering and terrorist financing.

In Zambia, Treasury advisors are helping the Finance Ministry to create a new Treasury Department that unifies and makes more transparent revenue and expenditure collection, and introduces new cash management tools.

In Mauritius, Treasury advisors have provided critical assistance in advancing "aid for trade" initiatives. With Treasury's help, Mauritius has introduced more advanced budget techniques that will help the authorities plan for and mitigate the budgetary impact of steps to liberalize its trade regime.

Conclusion

Taken together, policies to embrace openness, promote trade and assist developing economies will enhance economic security and prosperity for people around the world. These goals reflect what is best in the American people, and I look forward to working with you to achieve them. Thank you and I welcome your questions.

TREASURY SEEKS NOMINATIONS FOR AUDITING COMMITTEE The Treasury Department issued a notice in the Federal Register this week seeking nominations of individuals to serve on the Advisory Committee on the Auditing Profession. Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. announced his intention to create the committee last month to assist Treasury in examining the sustainability of a strong and vibrant auditing profession, as part of the first stage of the Secretary's capital markets competitiveness initiative. Treasury will select 15 to 21 committee members representing the views of non-government entities or groups having an interest in the auditing profession, such as auditors, investors, public companies, and other financial market participants. The Department also requested names of professional and public interest groups that should be represented on the committee. The public committee will evaluate and make recommendations to strengthen the auditing profession, which the Department expects the committee to release within a year. All full committee meetings will be open to the public. Topics the committee is expected to consider include: the auditing profession's ability to attract and retain the human capital necessary to meet developments in the business and financial reporting environment; audit market competition and concentration; and the financial resources of the auditing profession, including the effect of existing limitations on auditing firms' structure; as well as those factors affecting audit quality. Treasury will direct the committee to conduct its work with a view to furthering Treasury's mission to promote the conditions for prosperity and stability in the United States and the rest of the world and to predict and prevent, to the extent possible, economic and financial crises. Nominations should be sent to acapmembership@do.treas.gov or to the Advisory Committee on the Auditing Profession Membership, Office of Financial Institutions Policy, Department of the Treasury, Main Treasury Building, Room 1418, 1500 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, D.C. 20220. Nominations are due by July 11.

FINANCIAL LITERACY COMMISSION HOSTS BOSTON MEETING ON HOMEOWNERSHIP The Financial Education and Literacy Commission, chaired by the U.S. Treasury Department, visited Boston, Mass., today for a discussion on successful financial education programs to improve homeownership. "Homeownership is a journey not a destination. Good homeownership counseling services need to be available before, during and after the purchase transaction," said Treasury Deputy Assistant Secretary for Financial Education, Dan Iannicola, Jr., who attended today's conference. "The community groups we met with today understand this and that is why they're making a difference here in Boston and the surrounding areas." Treasury and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development led a discussion with financial institutions, lenders, policymakers, community organizations and counseling agencies on how public-private sector partnerships can better deliver grassroots counseling and training programs. Representatives from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation also attened the event, which was part of broader national and regional efforts to highlight National Homeownership Month. The discussion focused on helping home-buyers better understand the terms of their mortgages to help them stay in their homes. Homeownership counseling can reduce 90 day mortgage delinquencies by 19 percent, according to a 2001 study. Today's meeting was part of the Financial Literacy and Education Commission's national strategy for improving Americans' understanding of issues like homeownership, credit management, and retirement savings. The report, released in 2006, and other free homeownership counseling publications can be found at MyMoney.gov. -30- -- You are currently subscribed to the All US Treasury Press Releases and Documents list as: williamhhoehne@montebubbles.net Unsubscribe from this list by replying to this message.

STATEMENT BY SECRETARY PAULSON ON IMF REVISION OF EXCHANGE RATE SURVEILLANCE FRAMEWORK Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. today issued the following statement on International Monetary Fund Managing Director De Rato's announcement that the Fund revised its framework for exercising surveillance over members' exchange rate policies: "The United States welcomes the revision, and I want to commend particularly Managing Director De Rato for his leadership on this important issue. The revised decision sends a strong message that the IMF will put exchange rate surveillance back at the core of its duties and rigorously implement its rules on exchange rate surveillance going forward. The revised decision also demonstrates that the IMF is serious about reforming itself and enhancing its legitimacy and relevance in today's global economic and financial system."

UNITED STATES TERMINATES ESTATE AND GIFT TAX TREATY WITH SWEDEN The Treasury Department today announced that on June 7, 2007 the United States delivered to the Government of Sweden a notice of termination of the tax treaty between the two countries with respect to estates, inheritances, and gifts. In accordance with the provisions of the treaty, the notice of termination provides that the treaty will cease to have effect as of January 1, 2008. At the time the treaty was signed, Sweden maintained a tax on inheritances and gifts. Sweden has since abolished this tax such that the treaty is no longer needed to prevent double taxation with respect to taxes on estates, inheritances and gifts

TREASURY DESIGNATES AL QAIDA, LIFG OPERATIVES

The U.S. Department of the Treasury today designated three Libyan

individuals who are members of both al Qaida and the Libyan Islamic

Fighting Group (LIFG). Today's action was taken pursuant to

Executive

Order 13224, which is aimed at prohibiting transactions with

terrorists and their supporters and freezing their assets.

"These terrorists execute roles throughout al Qaida and LIFG, from

recruitment to military training to procurement of explosive

components," said Adam J. Szubin, Director of the Office of Foreign

Assets Control (OFAC). "We are publicly holding them to account for

their dangerous actions."

Identifying Information

Nur Al-Din Al-Dibiski

* AKAs: Salem Nor Eldin Amohamed al-Dabski

* Salim Nur al-Din al-Dabski

* Salim Nur al-Din al-Dabaski

* Abdallah Rajab

* Abdullah Ragab

* Abu al-Ward

* `Abd al-Ward

* Abu al-Wurud

* Abu Naim

DOB: circa 1963

POB: Tripoli, Libya

PASSPORT: 1990/345751 (Libya)

Nur al-Din al Dibiski traveled to Afghanistan in the early 1990s,

where he joined al Qaida and received military training in al

Qaida's

camps. Dibiski is believed to be a senior member of the LIFG and a

member of that terrorist group's military committee. Dibiski also

joined the LIFG while he was in Afghanistan, and as of August 2005

was

identified as a member of the LIFG in Iran.

Sa'id Yusif Ali Abu Azizah

* AKAs: Said Youssef Ali Abu Aziza

* Sa'id Yusif Ali Abu Azizat

* Sa'id Yusif Abu Aziz

* Sa'ud Abu Aziz

* Abu Therab

* Abu Thurab

* Abu Turab

* Abdul Hamid

* Abd al-Hamid

DOB: 1958

POB: Tripoli, Libya

PASSPORT: 87/437555 (Libya)

Sa'id Yusif Ali Abu Azizah is a member of and recruiter for al

Qaida,

and was responsible for al Qaida's publications and mass media

operations. Azizah, who underwent terrorist training in an al Qaida

training camp, supervised one of bin Laden's guesthouses in

Peshawar,

Pakistan.

Azizah joined the LIFG in 1995. Azizah has long been involved in

recruiting new LIFG members and sending them to Afghanistan for

military training and combat experience. On behalf of LIFG, Azizah

has

focused on the return of recruits to Libya to conduct operations

against the government.

Azizah was identified as a member of al Qaida in Canada in 2003, and

became the leader of the LIFG in Canada in 2004.

`Ali Sulayman Mas'ud `Abd Al-Sayyid

* AKA: Aly Soliman Massoud Abdul Sayed

* AKA: Mohamed Osman

* AKA: Ibn al-Qayyim al-Jawziyyah

* AKA: Ibn al-Qayyim

* AKA: Ibn El Qaim

* AKA: Al-Zawl

DOB: 1969

POB: Tripoli, Libya

PASSPORT: 96/184442 (Libya)

`Abd al-Sayyid is one of al Qaida's early members and is reportedly

member of the al Qaida military committee. He was assigned by al

Qaida's leadership to deliver messages to al Qaida members in Libya

that contained instructions for terrorist plots in Libya. `Abd

al-Sayyid was also tasked by LIFG to enter Libya secretly, and was

involved in arming an al Qaida group in Libya.

`Abd al-Sayyid was at one time in charge of al Qaida activities in

Yemen, where he tasked one al Qaida operative to obtain electrical

"igniters" for explosives. In 1993, `Abd al-Sayyid coordinated with

LIFG member to bring an explosives expert to Yemen to make an

improvised explosive device to be catapulted on the U.S. Embassy in

Sanaa.

`Abd al-Sayyid later returned to Sudan, where he was in charge of al

Qaida operations and was a regional LIFG leader. He followed orders

the LIFG leadership, particularly LIFG leader and Specially

Designated

Global Terrorist (SDGT) Abd al-Rahman al-Faqih. `Abd al-Sayyid also

received funds from a Switzerland-based LIFG member.

In 2003, `Abd al-Sayyid received explosives detonators from a LIFG

security committee member in Sudan and was involved in planning an

attack on the Sudanese president and vice president.

TREASURY ACTION TARGETS INDIVIDUALS INVOLVED IN IRAN’S NUCLEAR PROGRAM The U.S. Department of the Treasury today designated two Iranian individuals, Mohammad Qannadi and Ali Hajinia Leilabadi, for their involvement in Iran's nuclear program. "Even individuals who are active in Iran's nuclear program are going to be held to account for their conduct and isolated by the international financial community," said Stuart Levey, Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence. This action was taken pursuant to Executive Order 13382, an authority aimed at freezing the assets of proliferators of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their supporters. Designations under E.O. 13382 are implemented by Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), and they prohibit all transactions between the designees and any U.S. person and freeze any assets the designees may have under U.S. jurisdiction. Mohammad Qannadi acts or purports to act for or on behalf of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI). The AEOI manages Iran's overall nuclear program and reports directly to the Iranian president. Identified by President George W. Bush in the Annex to E.O. 13382, the AEOI is the main Iranian institute for research and development activities in the field of nuclear technology, including Iran's centrifuge enrichment program and experimental laser enrichment of uranium program. Ali Hajinia Leilabadi acts or purports to act for or on behalf of the Mesbah Energy Company, an AEOI subordinate designated by OFAC in January 2006. Mesbah has been used to procure products for Iran's heavy water project. Heavy water is essential for Iran's heavy-water-moderated reactor project, which will provide Iran with a potential source of plutonium well-suited for nuclear weapons. Heavy water is believed to have no credible use in Iran's civilian nuclear power program, which is based on light-water reactor technology. The AEOI and Mesbah Energy Company are both named in the Annex to United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1737 for their involvement in Iran's nuclear program. Mohammad Qannadi and Ali Hajinia Leilabadi were also both included in the Annex to UNSCR 1737 for their respective roles with AEOI and Mesbah. The UN identified Qannadi as AEOI's Vice President for Research and Development, while identifying Leilabadi as the Director General of the Mesbah Energy Company. In August 2006 the Iranian President awarded government medals to Qannadi, Leilabadi, and 12 other individuals, for their contributions in the field of nuclear technology. Qannadi received the second medal for research for his role as AEOI research and technology deputy. Leilabadi was awarded the third medal of excellence in management for his role as director and deputy manager of Mesbah. Background on E.O. 13382 Today's action builds on President Bush's issuance of E.O. 13382 on June 29, 2005. Recognizing the need for additional tools to combat the proliferation of WMD, the President signed the E.O. authorizing the imposition of strong financial sanctions against not only WMD proliferators, but also entities and individuals providing support or services to them. In the Annex to E.O. 13382, the President identified eight entities operating in North Korea, Iran, and Syria for their support of WMD proliferation. E.O. 13382 authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of State, the Attorney General, and other relevant agencies, to designate additional entities and individuals providing support or services to the entities identified in the Annex to the Order. In addition to the entities identified in the annex of E.O. 13382, the Treasury Department has designated 29 entities and four individuals as proliferators of WMD, specifically: * Eight North Korean entities on October 21, 2005; * Two Iranian entities on January 4, 2006; * One Swiss individual and one Swiss entity tied to North Korean proliferation activity on March 30, 2006; * Four Chinese entities and one U.S. entity tied to Iranian proliferation activity on June 8, 2006; * Two Iranian entities on July 18, 2006; * Three Syrian entities on January 4, 2007; * One Iranian entity, one British entity, and one individual tied to Iranian missile proliferation on January 9, 2007; * Three Iranian entities on February 16, 2007; and * Three Iranian entities on June 8, 2007; and * Two Iranian individuals on June 15, 2007. The designation announced today is part of the ongoing interagency effort by the United States Government to combat WMD trafficking by blocking the property of and prohibiting transactions with entities and individuals that engage in proliferation activities and their support networks. - 30 -

June 14

REMARKS BY TREASURY SECRETARY PAULSON ON TARGETED FINANCIAL MEASURES TO PROTECT OUR NATIONAL SECURITY This Department of Good morning. Thank you, Hank, and thank you to the Council on Foreign Relations for hosting us. It is a pleasure to be with you. New York is the heart of the world's financial system and Treasury Secretaries often come here to talk about the role that system plays in our economic health. Today, I want to talk about something a little different - the financial system's importance to our national security. Throughout history, Treasury Secretaries have focused their efforts on promoting policies and actions to help ensure the safety and soundness of our financial system. Today, the Secretary must focus on the security of the financial system, as well as its safety and soundness. Global financial flows are growing rapidly and greatly exceed the trade in goods and services. This is a positive trend; open finance and free trade enhance the economic security and prosperity of people in this country and around the world. But bad actors seek to abuse this global financial system to support their illicit purposes. The world of finance and the world of terror and weapons proliferation intersect through the same system that spreads prosperity at home and abroad. National security is not only an integral part of my job; it is also a sobering one. Our enemies are determined, and there are significant threats that aren't going away anytime soon. As part of the National Security Council, I work with the President and his Cabinet to address these threats. Treasury is now a key pillar of the President's national security and foreign policy strategy. An integrated world economy presents challenges and opportunities. The challenge and importance of protecting the integrity of our global financial network have never been greater. Our financial system also presents us with enormous opportunities because technology and integration have made it more difficult for anyone using the financial system to hide. This makes financial intelligence a particularly valuable tool to detect and disrupt bad actors. Recognizing this, Congress and the President have provided an expanded set of tools that allow innovative and more focused uses of financial intelligence. These targeted financial measures are proving to be quite effective, flying in the face of a widely-held historical view that dismisses sanctions as ineffective, harmful to innocents, or both. There are certainly times when that conventional wisdom is true, particularly with broad, country-wide sanctions that are perceived as political statements. It can be difficult to persuade other governments and private businesses to join such sanctions. Even when other governments agree with us politically, they generally tend to be unwilling to force their nation's businesses to forego opportunities that remain open to others. When the private sector views such broad sanctions as unwelcome political barriers to trade, companies are unmotivated to do more than what is minimally necessary to comply. Indeed, history is replete with examples of participants in the global economy working to evade such sanctions while their government turns a blind eye. The dynamic is different when we instead impose financial measures specifically targeted against those individuals or entities engaging in illicit conduct. When we use reliable financial intelligence to build conduct-based cases, it is much easier to achieve a multilateral alignment of interests. It is difficult for another nation, even one which is not a close political ally, to disagree with targeted measures to isolate actors who are demonstrably engaged in conduct that threatens human rights or global security. And multilateral support is critical to the success of financial measures in today's world. When we use targeted financial measures aimed at explicit wrongdoing, the private sector around the world tends to support these measures thereby amplifying their effectiveness. Rather than grudgingly complying with, or even trying to evade our sanctions, we have seen the banking industry in particular voluntarily go above and beyond their legal requirements because they do not want to do business with terrorist supporters, money launderers or proliferators. This is a product of good corporate citizenship and a desire to protect their institution's reputation. Once some in the private sector decide to cut off those we have targeted, it becomes an even greater reputational risk for others not to follow, and so they often do. Such voluntary implementation by the private sector in turn makes it even more palatable for governments to impose similar measures, thus creating a mutually-reinforcing cycle of public and private action. In the end, if we do our jobs well, especially by sharing critical information with the key governmental and private sector parties around the world, there is the potential for us to create a multilateral coalition to apply significant pressure on those who threaten our security. Because we are learning to apply our tools in this way, our financial actions have produced demonstrable impacts on threats ranging from terrorist groups to narcotics cartels, and on dangerous regimes in North Korea and Iran. This new strategy uses conduct-based, intelligence-grounded, targeted financial measures to harness the power of the private sector and form the basis of multilateral coalitions, adding an innovative financial dimension to our national security effort. Treasury can effectively use these tools largely because the U.S. is the key hub of the global financial system; we are the banker to the world. We understand that maintaining this standing, which makes our strategy possible, requires focused and fact-based action, so that the private sector and other governments are most likely to amplify our measures. Financial Intelligence The starting point for Treasury's approach to targeted financial measures is information. To identify and act against threats, we need specific, current, and reliable intelligence. And the global financial system is a rich source of the information we need. Illicit actors who otherwise try to avoid detection often use the formal financial system because there is no good alternative and, in many cases, no alternative at all. Proliferation networks need import and export financing to buy materials and equipment. Rogue nations depend on the financial system for everything from holding reserves to currency transactions. Terrorist networks use the system to raise and move funds when more opaque alternatives are too cumbersome or risky. These transactions typically leave a trail of detailed information which we can follow to identify key actors and their networks. Opening an account or initiating a funds transfer requires a name, an address, a phone number; identification information that does not lie. Unlike a phone call or conversation that essentially disappears if it's not captured at the moment it occurs, the financial system produces records that tend to survive. In 2004, Treasury became the first finance ministry in the world to develop in-house intelligence and analytic expertise to use this information. We now work with the broader intelligence community, requesting the data necessary to understand the financial networks that threaten our national security. Treasury then evaluates this information with an eye towards potential action – be it a designation, an advisory to the private sector, or a conversation to alert other finance ministers to a particular threat or bad actor. It is also critical that the government handle and use the information it gathers appropriately. As Treasury implements these efforts to help protect national security, we simultaneously take rigorous steps to protect privacy and preserve civil liberties. We seek to discover those who are abusing the system, keeping in place sufficient controls and safeguards to protect those who are not. Innovative Use of Financial Authorities When considering how best to approach a threat, Treasury draws on an array of powerful authorities. Some are very old, such as the Trading with the Enemy Act, originally passed in 1917. Some are much newer, such as the authority to cut off access to the U.S. financial system for an entity that is "of primary money laundering concern" under Section 311 of the PATRIOT Act. The innovative use of these authorities against national security threats is fairly recent. We have drawn on lessons learned from earlier programs aimed at Colombian drug cartels. Over the last ten years, as these cartels, their associates and financial holdings have appeared on a Treasury list designating them as narcotic traffickers, U.S. banks have frozen their accounts and assets. Colombian and other countries' banks have then followed suit, refusing to hold or move their money. When given good information, honest bankers won't do business with these criminals. Treasury has designated over 1,400 individuals and companies, and caused the disruption or seizure of more than $1 billion in proceeds related to these cartels. The cartels refer to being placed on the Treasury list as "muerte civil" or civil death. Since September 11th, Treasury has been applying these lessons in a more focused effort against global terrorist threats, beginning with a September 23, 2001 Executive Order that authorized the identification and designation of terrorists and their facilitators worldwide. We have based our actions on clear evidence and encouraged the private sector and other nations to follow suit. Under a U.N. resolution, worldwide, targeted sanctions are now in place against members and supporters of al Qaida and the Taliban. The European Union and other nations have joined the United States in designating the terrorist group Hamas, and the United Nations has designated individuals responsible for the genocide in Darfur. The targeted financial measures used against terrorists and their supporters are likely to be as effective in combating proliferation networks. While terrorist organizations may attempt to shift their financial dealings to informal networks or cash couriers, proliferators tend to depend upon access to the formal financial system, where our controls and visibility are greatest. Those seeking to procure items for a nuclear program, for example, often seek to disguise their efforts by making the transaction appear to be for a legitimate commercial purpose. Those who participate in a proliferation transaction because of profit, rather than ideology, are susceptible to being deterred from such transactions if we can credibly threaten to publicly expose and isolate them. Recognizing this fact, in 2005, President Bush took a visionary first step---issuing a new Executive Order authorizing Treasury to target proliferators and their support networks, just as we do terrorists. The consequences of these targeted measures can be seen on a number of levels, some obvious and some less so. Most directly, when the U.S. designates a terrorist supporter or a weapons proliferator, U.S. entities and persons, wherever located, must freeze the target's assets and stop doing business with them. Given the U.S. financial system's prominence, this can have a severe impact. All major U.S. and foreign banks have offices dedicated to protecting their institutions from infiltration by illicit money. Our designations let these officials know who they need to protect against. These measures have also led to a base of international, private sector support. Reputable banks around the world don't want to hold accounts for terrorists and proliferators any more than U.S. banks do. My strong view, based on personal experience, is that the major financial institutions, and the individuals who run them, care deeply about the integrity of the financial system and the reputations of the institutions they run. They genuinely want to be good corporate citizens and want nothing to do with illegal behavior. Additionally, a lack of vigilance on their part is not worth the risk of a regulatory action. These institutions, which are, in a sense, the true gatekeepers of the financial system, have also become more effective in detecting and combating illicit money flows. As a result, they have made us all safer, and they have become sounder and stronger. We strive to make information-sharing a truly two-way street by expanding and improving the information we provide, to help them make better-informed decisions about their customers. The information the financial sector shares with the government is critically important to our efforts, and they do so under obligations that they sometimes perceive as unduly burdensome. We will continue to work to ensure that the security benefits justify the regulatory obligations, and will make adjustments as warranted. If we communicate well with the private sector, I believe that we can make our regulations more efficient and simultaneously be more effective in protecting our national security. Targeted Financial Measures in Action The impacts of these new financial measures are evident around the world. I would like to highlight a few notable examples. Terrorism Treasury continues an intensive effort to track and disrupt terrorist financing that has been effective on several levels. This effort has involved government-wide cooperation, applying law enforcement, military, intelligence, and financial tools depending on the target and the situation. While individual terrorist attacks may be inexpensive to carry out, global terrorist groups need large sums of money to pay operatives, to recruit and train members, to acquire false documents and travel. By exploiting the financial intelligence generated by that activity and combining it with other available information, we have made progress in mapping these terrorist networks. In many ways, that has been the Treasury Department's most important, but least visible, contribution to the fight against terrorist groups. Our actions have had additional disruptive effects. We have frozen assets and closed off conduits, such as terrorist-supporting charities in the United States. Some international entities have shut down simply by virtue of being publicly designated and exposed. When we restrict the flow of funds to terrorists groups or disable a link in their financing chain, they then have to shift their focus from planning attacks to concern about their financial viability. These designations may also have a deterrent effect on the financiers who want to keep one foot in the legitimate business world while supporting murder and violence on the side. When the target provides support to al Qaida or the Taliban, we have perhaps the best example of a multilateral program of targeted financial measures: a U.N. Security Council list that requires all member states to freeze the assets of designated actors. Even when we don't have that multilateral regime, such as in the case of financial supporters of Hizballah or the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, we have found that our designations make an impact beyond their formal, legal reach, as many banks around the world, who are not obliged to do so, screen their customers and transactions against our list of designated terrorist supporters. North Korea In North Korea, we have used targeted financial measures to help protect the U.S. financial system from the DPRK's illicit financial conduct. We used our authorities to designate several North Korean entities involved in its weapons programs. Because it served as a primary conduit for North Korean illicit actors to access the international financial system, we have also cut off Macau-based Banco Delta Asia's access to the U.S. financial system. The real impact, however, has come from the information made public in conjunction with these actions. Worldwide, private financial institutions decided to terminate their business relationships with the designated entities as well as others suspected of engaging in similar conduct. The result is North Korea's virtual isolation from the global financial system. The effect on North Korea has been significant, because even the most reclusive regime depends on access to the international financial system It is clear to everyone in the world today that the U.S. government takes very seriously its responsibility to preserve the security of the financial system and protect it against abuses of WMD proliferation, money laundering and other illegal activities. We have potent tools that can change behavior. In this case, our financial measures are part of a wider campaign to change North Korean behavior, including the State Department-led effort to bring about a de-nuclearized Korean Peninsula. Iran We are currently in the midst of an effort to apply these same lessons to the very real threat posed by Iran. It is well known that Iran is pursuing nuclear weapons in violation of international agreements and channeling hundreds of millions of dollars to terrorist groups. Still, when I was first briefed on the details, I was surprised to learn the extent to which Iran was exploiting global financial ties to pursue and finance its dangerous behavior, and the extent to which reputable financial institutions were being drawn into these schemes. Financial institutions that would exercise extreme caution to avoid even small-time crooks were unknowingly handling the money of Iran's proliferation front companies. I knew that the people who run these financial institutions would be shocked and disturbed, to say the least, if they were aware of the facts. So, to combat the Iranian threat, we embarked on a strategy that combines the use of intelligence-based targeted financial measures with a concentrated outreach strategy to inform financial leaders, in governments and, especially in the private sector, of what was happening. Treasury put together a briefing describing the range of Iran's deceptive financial conduct. We explained how Iran uses front companies and other mechanisms that make it difficult, if not impossible, for businesses dealing with Iran to "know their customer" or counterparty. We also explained how the Iranian regime uses its state-owned banks to pursue its missile procurement and nuclear programs, as well as fund terrorism. Repeatedly, state-owned Iranian banks, including the Central Bank of Iran, ask other financial institutions to remove their names from global transactions. This practice aims to evade risk-management controls and threatens to involve responsible financial institutions in transactions they would never knowingly handle. At around the same time, in September 2006, Treasury cut Iran's state-owned Bank Saderat off from any direct or indirect access to the U.S. financial system, and publicly disclosed some of the information underlying that decision, including that the Central Bank of Iran was sending money through Bank Saderat to Hizballah. We also disclosed evidence that Bank Saderat was providing financial services to other terrorist groups such as the Palestinian Islamic Jihad and Hamas. Almost immediately, financial institutions around the world began to adjust their business with all Iranian state-owned banks and with Bank Saderat, specifically. The private sector, when presented with our solid evidence, is able to act much more quickly than governments who often lack the necessary authority or the political will to take action on their own. As part of our outreach, we shared extensive information with some of our allies about another Iranian state-owned bank, Bank Sepah, which was providing financial services to Iranian missile firms and trying to disguise its activities. It was our hope that another nation would take the lead in pursuing an action against Bank Sepah, especially when we learned that one of our allies had independently corroborated the information we had shared. Due to a lack of legal authorities and political will, that did not happen. So, in January of this year, we unilaterally designated Bank Sepah as a facilitator of Iranian proliferation. Other nations often seem to lack the political will to take unilateral actions, and our goal has always been multilateral action. To that end, our outreach eventually proved to be successful when our allies joined us in persuading the United Nations Security Council to blacklist Bank Sepah in its most recent resolution against Iran. Now the entire world must freeze Bank Sepah's assets, and isolate it from the global financial system. As a result of our outreach and targeted measures, financial institutions around the world are more sensitive than ever about the very substantial risks posed by doing business with Iran. Most of the world's top financial institutions have now dramatically reduced their Iranian business or stopped it altogether. For the most part, they are not legally required to take these steps but have decided, as a matter of prudence and integrity that they do not want to be the bankers for such a regime. To those banks that have decided to stop dollar-based business, but continue to transact Iran's business in other currencies, I would say that the risk of transacting Iran's business is present in every currency. The engagement of Iran's state-controlled banks and its Central Bank in advancing the regime's policies should be cause for great concern to financial institutions around the world. Due to our State Department's outstanding work, the UN has passed two unanimous Security Council resolutions sanctioning Iran, and is working on a third. As we approach this next resolution, we are increasingly focused on the role of Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The IRGC, a paramilitary arm of the regime, has been directly involved in the planning and support of terrorist acts, as well as funding and training other terrorist groups to pursue the military objectives of the regime. Based on its role in proliferation activities, the UN has targeted IRGC companies and officials in recent resolutions. The IRGC is so deeply entrenched in Iran's economy and commercial enterprises, it is increasingly likely that if you are doing business with Iran, you are somehow doing business with the IRGC. In a country where the regime uses its state-owned banks, military entities, and state-run industries to fund, facilitate, and conceal its WMD and missile programs, the eyes of the world will inevitably turn to the decision maker, the regime itself, and demand that it be held accountable. By approaching the Iran issue the way we have, focusing intensely on specific illicit conduct and making the private sector a partner in the effort, we are in a better position to discuss broader measures with our allies. While the financial isolation of the entire regime may impose costs on our partners and on us, it would be far less costly than a nuclear-armed Iran. The Way Forward As these examples show, the innovative use of targeted financial measures has advanced our national security, but there are gaps in this effort that must be filled. One of the greatest challenges of this century will be to keep the most dangerous weapons out of the hands of dangerous people. As I travel and meet with my colleagues in finance ministries around the world, everyone acknowledges that we must find effective ways to deal with these threats, short of military measures. Yet other nations are not moving quickly enough to accomplish this goal. Specifically, nations must implement the laws necessary to give their finance ministries the authority to access and use intelligence, and they must move to integrate financial and security functions. This will enable further cooperation and multilateral action, which is in the world's best interest. And, these authorities must be available for use against terrorist financing, money laundering and the dangerous, emerging practice of proliferation financing. Although there has not been a terrorist attack on American soil since 9/11, terrorists have struck London, Madrid, Jakarta, Mumbai, Amman, Bali, and Istanbul. Several of our key allies who support the global effort against terrorism have yet to take such basic steps as adequately criminalizing money laundering and terrorist financing. An even greater number of countries have failed to develop the national authorities and capabilities necessary to apply targeted financial measures to any terrorist group other than Al Qaida and the Taliban. We have a shared responsibility for our mutual security, and our allies, who confront risks at least as great as those confronting the United States, must find the political will to enact the authorities they need to join in effective multilateral action. These authorities may not deal a knock-out-punch, but they can and will produce results and change behavior. My finance ministry counterparts and I have the same responsibility: to broaden our role beyond economic stewardship and become valuable contributors to help ensure our countries' and our citizens' security. In performing these dual roles we seek essentially the same end: preserving the global financial system's integrity, which will enhance economic security and prosperity for people around the world.

ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL MARKETS ANTHONY W. RYAN REMARKS BEFORE THE TREASURY MARKETS PRACTICE GROUP AT THE FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF NEW YORK New York City- Good morning. Let me begin by expressing my thanks for inviting me to join you today. Collectively, everyone here shares the privilege of working in the best capital markets in the world. With such a privilege comes responsibility. To maintain our leadership status and to accrue the associated benefits, certain characteristics must define our marketplace. These include investor confidence, market integrity, and competitiveness. We must also recognize that the responsibility for maintaining and strengthening these traits is borne by both the public and private sectors. We all have a role to play in enhancing the competitiveness of our capital markets. In doing so, we leverage the important contribution that competitive and efficient capital markets make to our nation's economy. Such efforts also bring direct benefits to investors and users of capital. Competitive capital markets foster innovation and serve to attract investors, capital, and talent. In turn, these advantages reinforce and strengthen the competitive position of our economy and improve the lives of all Americans. The confidence displayed by global investors in our deep, liquid markets is a direct byproduct of the integrity and transparency of our markets. Certainly all of that is true when we focus on the U.S. Treasury marketplace. As the Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Treasury for Financial Markets, I can assure you how much we value the symbiotic relationship that we have with Treasury market participants. Because our operating principles of transparent, regular, and predictable debt management practices are well established, buyers of Treasury securities come to us in greater numbers, bid with more confidence, and in larger amounts. Our predictability, coupled with our unitary financing approach to debt issuance, increases the depth and liquidity of the Treasury marketplace and results in lower cost borrowing for the government. For investors, the U.S. Treasury market represents a safe, broad and liquid universe for investing their capital. U.S. Treasury securities are the global standard by which all other fixed income instruments are valued. In addition to its risk free status, the Treasury market is diverse. Instruments range across the entire investment spectrum: from bills to notes to bonds. Due to this range of options, buyers can select the securities that best meet their objectives. In addition, the Treasury market enables investors to diversify their exposure across nominal and real securities, and hence their exposure to the risk of inflation. Treasury inflation protected securities (TIPS) currently exceed $400 billion in market value and span the yield curve out more than 10 years. As a result of the presence of these instruments, the market pricing of inflation risk is now better quantified dynamically through the actions of market participants. Even if investors do not invest in TIPS, they benefit from the additional information provided to the marketplace by the presence of these securities. TIPS are integral to both the Treasury portfolio and market participants and our commitment to the program remains strong. Additional benefits to investors include scale and liquidity. Treasury issues over $4 trillion in marketable debt each year, with trading volume exceeding over $500 billion per day. With the existence of robust swaps, options, and futures trading based off of the cash market in Treasuries, investors have the benefit of additional liquidity and flexibility. Just as open economies are best suited to grow, the same can be said of capital markets. Open investment and the free flow of capital are essential to healthy capital markets. Let me take this opportunity to assure investors from around the world that they are welcome in our markets. Just last month, President Bush released his Open Investment Policy. He stated that, "The United States unequivocally supports international investment in this country and is equally committed to securing fair, equitable, and nondiscriminatory treatment for U.S. investors abroad." Certainly we have embraced this philosophy as it relates to the U.S. Treasury marketplace. Our market is truly global and buyers of our securities are increasingly diverse. My comments this morning have been about the importance and benefits of competitive capital markets. I'd now like to discuss one way we can approach this important goal. As policymakers, we need our regulatory environments to be optimally positioned in order to allow our markets and our economy to compete. However, regulatory approaches, like the markets themselves, must be flexible, dynamic, and globally oriented. As participants within the Treasury marketplace, we all recognize that by comparative standards, our marketplace is lightly regulated. This is a direct result of the operating integrity, transparency, and sound practices that characterize the actions of both the Treasury debt managers and the various market participants. Every stakeholder benefits from the current regulatory regime, and thus has strong incentives to act in accordance with principles that enhance the stability and integrity of the marketplace. By doing so, participants will help to ensure that the liquidity, efficiency, and quality of our market remains the finest in the world. From a regulatory perspective in the U.S., we have historically largely relied on rules. There are clear benefits to knowing and following the rules, but we should not limit ourselves by creating and relying on an ever expanding rulebook. Given the pace, scale, and complexity of the global capital markets in which we operate and compete, we will by necessity need to complement our rules by developing, applying, and consistently updating principles and best practices to meet well defined objectives. The introduction of the principles-based framework outlined by the Treasury Market Practices Group (TMPG) is encouraging. The principles and guidelines comprising the document lay a strong foundation for all stakeholders. In particular, the document provides a framework for market participants to evaluate and enhance their current activities in the secondary markets and to fulfill their responsibilities as stakeholders in the Treasury market. The guidelines are practical, and possess the flexibility to deal with the global and dynamic environment in which stakeholders operate. There are significant benefits in having guidelines and clearly defined practices complement regulations. I should add it is not just registered broker-dealers who are encouraged to subscribe to these guidelines. All Treasury market participants should adopt and implement them and should hold each other accountable. We all benefit from the high confidence in and integrity of the Treasury market and we all stand to lose significantly if that integrity is challenged. It is important to recognize that while much effort went into developing the practices comprising the document, the real test comes with how stakeholders collectively apply these practices. Success will be determined by how market participants interpret and implement these practices, and how market practices evolve from this point forward. The introduction of these practices represents another step in the continual process of enhancing our Treasury market. Surely more steps will follow as participants contribute to efforts that serve to define, update and enhance these practices. The practices put forth by the TMPG represent a positive development as the application of principles creates flexibility, as well as place pressure on all participants to follow their spirit and intent. While these practices and guidelines complement existing rules, we will of course continue to monitor the markets. Along with us, each of you can help ensure liquid and efficient Treasury markets. I want to recognize Tom Wipf for his leadership and for chairing the TMPG and guiding the group to develop these best practices. Tom, I look forward to the panel discussions, and thank you and the others on the Treasury Market Practices Group for your efforts and initiative. I also want to acknowledge SIFMA for its many constructive contributions, efforts, and its ongoing initiatives aimed at further enhancing the U.S. Treasury market. All of this strikes at the core of collective responsibility. Let me conclude my remarks by stating how grateful we are at the U.S. Treasury Department for the numerous contributions made by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and for its efforts in enhancing the treasury marketplace. Our combined efforts serve to enhance investor confidence by improving the integrity, efficiency, orderliness, and competitiveness of the U.S. Treasury market. In doing so, we facilitate our economy's ability to compete and thrive. Thank you.

FACT SHEET: TARGETED FINANCIAL MEASURES TO PROTECT OUR NATIONAL SECURITY "Treasury's strategy uses conduct-based, intelligence-grounded, targeted financial measures to harness the power of the private sector and form the basis of multilateral coalitions, adding an innovative financial dimension to our national security effort." – Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. June 14, 2007 Protecting National Security and Strengthening the Global Financial System "The challenge and importance of protecting the integrity of our global financial network have never been greater. Our financial system also presents us with enormous opportunities because technology and integration have made it more difficult for anyone using the financial system to hide. Illicit actors who otherwise try to avoid detection often use the formal financial system because there is no good alternative and, in many cases, no alternative at all. These transactions typically leave a trail of detailed information which we can follow to identify key actors and their networks. The starting point for Treasury's approach to targeted financial measures is information. And the global financial system is a rich source of the information we need. Recognizing this, Congress and the President have provided an expanded set of tools that allow innovative and more focused uses of financial intelligence. These targeted financial measures are proving to be quite effective… We have based our actions on clear evidence and encouraged the private sector and other nations to follow suit. These measures have also led to a base of international, private sector support. When we use reliable financial intelligence to build conduct-based cases, it is much easier to achieve a multilateral alignment of interests. It is difficult for another a nation, even one which is not a close political ally, to disagree with targeted measures to isolate actors who are demonstrably engaged in conduct that threatens human rights or global security. And multilateral support is critical to the success of financial measures in today's world. " – Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. Treasury Efforts to Combat Terrorism "Treasury continues an intensive effort to track and disrupt terrorist financing that has been effective on several levels. This effort has involved government-wide cooperation, applying law enforcement, military, intelligence, and financial tools depending on the target and situation. While individual terrorist attacks may be inexpensive to carry out, global terrorist groups need large sums of money to pay operatives, to recruit and train members, to acquire false documents and travel. By exploiting the financial intelligence generated by that activity and combining it with other available information, we have made progress in mapping these terrorist networks." – Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. Ø Since September 11, 2001, Treasury has engaged in a more focused effort against global terrorist threats, beginning with a September 23, 2001 Executive order that authorized the identification and designation of terrorists and their facilitators worldwide. o When the United States designates a terrorist supporter, U.S. entities and persons – wherever located – must freeze the target's assets, block all transactions, and stop conducting business with the designated entity. Ø The Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control has designated 470 individuals and entities as terrorists, their financiers or facilitators, since Executive Order 13224 was issued. * Over 40 of these designations have targeted charities, exposing and disrupting a conduit used by groups such as al Qaida, Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad and Hizballah to funnel funds and exploit charitable giving to advance terrorism. * The U.S. designated Adel Batterjee, one of the world's leading terrorist financiers, who employed his private wealth and a host of charitable fronts to fund al Qaida. Following the U.S. action, the United Nations followed suit, leading to a worldwide freeze of his assets, including in his home country of Saudi Arabia. These designations often make an impact beyond their legal reach, as many banks around the world screen their customers and transactions against the U.S. list of designated terrorist supporters, even though they are not obligated to do so. Treasury cut off Iran's Bank Saderat from the U.S. financial system in September 2006, due to its facilitation of transactions flowing from Iran to Hizballah, Hamas, and other terror groups. The USA PATRIOT Act of 2001 amended the Bank Secrecy Act to strengthen the anti-money laundering (AML) controls of U.S. financial institutions, with new safeguards to counter terrorist financing and other illicit financial activity. * The Act gives Treasury expanded authority to regulate the financial services community and share information with partners in the financial sector. * Section 311 of the PATRIOT Act authorizes the Treasury to protect the U.S. financial system from abuse from foreign jurisdictions, banks, or classes of transactions that are found to be of "primary money laundering concern." The Treasury Department has coupled its domestic actions with coordinated multilateral efforts and engagement of the international financial community. Through bilateral cooperation and multilateral action by the United Nations, more than 170 countries have implemented blocking orders to freeze the assets of terrorists. * These authorities allow the United States to effectively implement our international obligations under United Nations Security Council Resolutions 1267 and 1373, which respectively target the networks supporting al Qaida, the Taliban, Usama bin Laden, and global terrorists. Treasury Efforts to Combat Proliferation "The targeted financial measures used against terrorists and their supporters are likely to be as effective in combating proliferation networks. Those who participate in a proliferation transaction because of profit, rather than ideology, are susceptible to being deterred from such transactions if we can credibly threaten to publicly expose and isolate them." – Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. In 2005, President Bush issued a new Executive order authorizing Treasury to target proliferators and their support networks in the same way terrorists and their supporters are targeted. * A designation under Executive Order 13382 freezes any assets the designee may have under U.S. jurisdiction, denies the targeted entities access to the U.S. financial and commercial systems and puts the international community on notice about the threat posed to global security. * These prohibitions have a powerful effect, as the financiers and facilitators of proliferation networks tend to have commercial presences and accounts around the world that make them vulnerable to exactly this kind of financial action. Since E.O. 13382 was issued, the Treasury Department has designated 41 proliferators and their supporters involved in North Korean, Syrian and Iranian proliferation efforts. * Bank Sepah, the fifth largest Iranian state-owned bank was designated by the Treasury under E.O. 13382 on January 9, 2007 for providing financial services to Iran's missile program. * Including Bank Sepah, the Treasury has acted against 19 entities and individuals supporting Iran's proliferation programs. As a result of Treasury's outreach and targeted measures, financial institutions around the world are more sensitive than ever about the very substantial risks posed by doing business with Iran. Treasury has also designated several North Korean entities involved in weapons programs. And even greater impact has come from the information made public in conjunction with these actions. Worldwide, private financial institutions decided to terminate their business relationships with the designated entities as well as others suspected of engaging in similar conduct. The result is North Korea's virtual isolation from the global financial system. These multilateral efforts have yielded critical success in the fight against proliferation financing. * United Nations Security Council Resolution 1540 calls on all states to develop and implement authorities to combat proliferation, including by denying proliferators and their supporters access to the financial system. * North Korea: The Security Council has required specific financial action against North Korean proliferators. United Nations Security Council Resolutions 1695 and 1718 obligate states to prevent the flow of financial and economic resources to, and freeze the assets of, entities involved or supporting North Korean WMD and missile proliferation. * These financial measures are part of a wider campaign to change North Korean behavior, including the State Department-led effort to bring about a denuclearized Korean Peninsula. * Iran: The United States and our allies worked together to unanimously pass United Nations Security Council resolution 1747 on March 27, 2007 to blacklist Bank Sepah. Resolution 1747 reaffirms and expands UN Security Council Resolution 1737 of December 2006. These resolutions target Iran's nuclear and missile programs, and among other requirements, obligate states to freeze the assets of named entities and individuals associated with those programs. Now the entire world must freeze Bank Sepah's assets, and isolate it from the global financial system. The Way Forward "One of the greatest challenges of this century will be to keep the most dangerous weapons out of the hands of dangerous people. As I travel and meet with my colleagues in finance ministries around the world, everyone acknowledges that we must find effective ways to deal with these threats, short of military measures. Yet other nations are not moving quickly enough to accomplish this goal." – Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. Since 9/11, terrorists have struck a number of cities around the world, including London, Madrid, Jakarta, Mumbai, Amman, Bali and Istanbul. Several of our allies who support the global effort against terrorism have yet to take basic steps, such as adequately criminalizing money laundering and terrorist financing. "Specifically, nations must implement the laws necessary to give their finance ministries the authority to access and use intelligence, and they must move to integrate financial and security functions. And, these authorities must be available for use against terrorist financing, money laundering and the dangerous, emerging practice of proliferation financing. My finance ministry counterparts and I have the same responsibility: to broaden our role beyond economic stewardship and become valuable contributors to help ensure our countries' and our citizens' security. In performing these dual roles we seek essentially the same end: preserving the global financial system's integrity, which will enhance economic security and prosperity for people around the world." – Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr.

June 11

The Honorable Nicole R. Nason

Administrator, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

U.S. Department of Transportation

Before the

House Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming

June 8, 2007

Mr. Chairman, Congressman Sensenbrenner, members of the Select Committee, thank you for the opportunity to testify regarding the President’s May 14Executive Order and the Supreme Court's decision in Massachusetts v. EPA.

In January, the President announced in the State of the Union address his “Twenty in Ten” proposal that would reduce domestic gasoline consumption by twenty percent in 2017. A key component of the President’s “Twenty in Ten” plan is to significantly boost fuel economy standards for cars and light trucks. The President’s aggressive goal to raise fuel efficiency would save up to 8.5 billion gallons of gasoline annually in 2017 and reduce consumption by 5 percent. Towards that end, the Administration forwarded draft legislation at the request of Chairmen Dingell and Boucher to grant the Secretary of Transportation the statutory authority to restructure corporate average fuel economy (CAFE) so we could then safely and responsibly raise fuel economy standards for passenger cars.

The Bush Administration has a proven record in this area. This Administration raised the CAFE standards for light trucks for seven consecutive years, from model years 2005 to 2011. The higher standards are expected to save 14 billion gallons of fuel over the life of the affected vehicles.

The saving of 14 billon gallons of fuel means that there will also be a net reduction in carbon dioxide emissions of 107 million metric tons. This is because as fuel economy is increased, the reduction in fossil fuel consumption necessarily translates into a commensurate reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.

Since the nation first decided to establish CAFE standards, fuel economy has improved and, therefore, carbon dioxide emission rates have decreased significantly. If fuel economy had not increased above the 1975 level, cars and light trucks would have pumped an additional 11 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere between 1975 and 2005. That is nearly the equivalent of emissions from all U.S. fossil fuel combustion for two years (2004 and 2005).

As important, the attribute-based structure that we have established promises that these and even greater benefits can be obtained without jeopardizing safety, without causing job loss, and without sacrificing consumer choice. Basing our reforms on the landmark 2002 study on CAFE by the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), we changed the structure of the CAFE program to make it more effective, safer and fairer.

We accomplished this by using a structure that incentivizes manufacturers to add fuel-saving technologies instead of downsizing vehicles. Under an attribute-based CAFE system, fuel economy standards were restructured by basing them on a measure of vehicle size (the “footprint”) measured as the vehicle’s wheelbase times its track width. A target level of fuel economy is established for each increment in footprint. Smaller footprint light trucks have higher targets and larger ones have lower targets. Under the new standards, some light trucks will now be subject to a fuel economy target of 28.4 milers per gallon, higher than today’s standard for passenger cars. All manufacturers will be required to comply with the reformed CAFE standard by model year 2011.

This reform has a number of benefits. First, it will result in more fuel savings than under the old CAFE because now all automakers will have to make their light trucks more fuel efficient.

This reform also has the benefit of preserving consumer choice. Under the old CAFE program, an automaker generally manufactures a certain quantity of small light trucks to balance out the larger light trucks it produces to meet the standard. Our attribute-based CAFE system not only allows automakers the freedom to produce vehicles consumers want, it also benefits new vehicle buyers by having all sizes of vehicles – small, mid-size or large -- become more fuel efficient.

We also tackled what NAS described as the CAFE “safety penalty.” The NAS study estimated that CAFE was partially responsible for between 1,300 and 2,600 lives lost in one year alone, 1993. This occurred because the flat standard encouraged manufacturers to meet much of their compliance obligations by downsizing cars, which is often the cheapest way to improve fuel economy. Since our restructuring of CAFE incentivizes automakers to add fuel-saving technologies instead of downsizing vehicles, we have been able to minimize safety impacts.

Mr. Chairman, our successful effort to reform and raise CAFE for light trucks will guide the way in meeting our next challenge. In response to Massachusetts v. EPA, on May 14 the President directed EPA and the Departments of Transportation, Energy, and Agriculture to take the first steps toward regulations that would cut gasoline consumption and thus reduce greenhouse gas emissions from motor vehicles, using as a starting point his “Twenty in Ten” plan to reduce U.S. gasoline consumption by 20 percent over the next ten years. The steps called for in the May 14 Executive Order will ensure coordinated efforts on regulatory actions aimed at protecting the environment with respect to greenhouse gas emissions from new motor vehicles that proceed in a manner consistent with sound science, analysis of benefits and costs, public safety, and economic growth.

This is a complicated legal and technical matter that will take time to fully resolve, but the President has directed us to complete the regulatory process by the end of 2008. In preparing this rulemaking, we expect to propose using an attribute-based system. We have received the manufacturers’ product plans for cars, and will receive their plans for light trucks by the end of this month.

Mr. Chairman, given the Supreme Court’s interpretation of the Clean Air Act, there are now in effect two agencies with authority to regulate motor vehicle fuel economy and carbon dioxide tailpipe emissions. While NHTSA and EPA have convened several meetings to discuss the analysis necessary to responsibly raise CAFE standards for cars and light trucks, as the President stated, our regulatory efforts are “not a substitute for effective legislation.” Accordingly, we ask Congress to enact the President’s “Twenty in Ten” proposal as the most responsible way to raise fuel economy standards, reduce our dependence on foreign oil, and cut greenhouse gas emissions while preserving autoworker jobs in the United States and protecting consumer choice and passenger safety.

Thank you.

ASST SEC RYAN TO DISCUSS TREASURY MARKETS AT NEW YORK FED This Department of Treasury press release may be viewed at: http://www.treas.gov/press/releases/hp454.htm Treasury Assistant Secretary for Financial Markets Anthony W. Ryan will discuss current topics related to the Treasury markets Thursday at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York in New York City, NY. Assistant Secretary Ryan will be the featured speaker at the Treasury Markets Practice Group Conference.

SECRETARY PAULSON RECOGNIZES INDIVIDUALS FOR DEDICATION TO VOLUNTEER SERVICE Atlanta, GA- Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. presented the President's Volunteer Service Award to Charles Bruce, Andrea Eva and Dr. Michael Petelle as part of the USA Freedom Corps Presidential Volunteer Service Recognition Program today in Atlanta, Georgia. Both Bruce and Eva have served countless hours at Volunteer Income Tax Assistance sites while Dr. Petelle has dedicated his time to improving the environment. Charles Bruce has been a volunteer with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program since 1998. Under his leadership over the past nine years, thousands of low-income individuals have received free tax preparation and e-file services. Bruce is currently the Site Coordinator for one of the premiere sites in Metro-Atlanta – Clarkston Library. Andrea Eva serves as the Community Affair Committee Director of the National Association of Black Accountants, which adopted the Westend Mall Volunteer Income Tax Assistance site as a community service project. She took the lead in training all new preparers for the site, developed a refresher class for the professionals and increased the volunteer lifeline. Dr. Michael Petelle has spent his life involved in improving the environment, going back to high school when he single-handedly planted 3600 trees to forest a pasture. Petelle has sponsored the environmental club SAVE at North Cobb High School for 16 years where they recycle, plant trees, organize clean-ups and monitor water quality in local lakes and streams. Each award recipient has individually dedicated more than 4,000 hours of volunteer service over their lifetime. In his January 2002 State of the Union Address, President Bush called on all Americans to make a difference in their communities through volunteer service. He created USA Freedom Corps, an Office of the White House, to strengthen and expand volunteer service. Americans are responding to the President's Call to Service. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 61 million Americans volunteered in 2006. Go to www.volunteer.gov or call 1-877-USA-CORPS to find an existing volunteer service opportunity in your area or to find more information about service programs, including national service programs such as the Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, Senior Corps, and Citizen Corps. USA Freedom Corps is also highlighting youth volunteer service. Visit www.volunteerkids.gov for games and ideas designed to show how America's youth are making a difference. The President's Volunteer Service Award was created at the President's direction by the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation. The Award is available to youth ages 14 and under who have completed 50 or more hours of volunteer service; to individuals 15 and older who have completed 100 or more hours; and to families or groups who have completed 200 or more hours. For more information about the Award, please visit www.presidentialserviceawards.gov .

FACT SHEET: TREASURY PROPOSAL TO EXPAND SMALL BUSINESS LENDING IN LATIN AMERICA I'm also directing Secretary Rice and Secretary Paulson to develop a new initiative that will help U.S. and local banks improve their ability to extend good loans to small businesses [in Latin America]. It's in our interest that businesses flourish in our own neighborhood. Flourishing business will provide jobs for people at home." –President Bush, March 5, 2007"A thriving small business community can reduce poverty and inequality, as well as create jobs. When individuals turn their ideas into productive businesses, they make a transition from workers to owners. Ownership helps create sustainable and stable economies with broader opportunities for all citizens. Economic and social mobility have always been at the core of the U.S. system. We want to help Latin American countries create the same mobility for their citizens." –Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson. Jr., June 12, 2007 Secretary Paulson announced today a three-part plan to provide the ways and means to encourage market-based bank lending to small businesses. The first two elements will provide support to banks willing to commit to specific and ambitious targets for small business lending. The third will address the regulatory environment. First, introduce new lending models that fit the unique characteristics of smaller firms. One key barrier to credit is that banks lack information about, and experience with, smaller companies. Banks are often more comfortable lending to larger companies that have collateral, formal financial statements and documentation. Small companies may not yet have these resources. Banks need the tools necessary to assess the value and risk of these smaller companies. We will promote the spread of new lending models that fit the unique characteristics of smaller companies. We will help banks build capacity to quickly and accurately assess the credit quality of small companies. Subject to approval from its donor committee, the Inter-American Development Bank's Multilateral Investment Fund (MIF) will engage with selected interested and eligible banks to provide tailored technical assistance to work with banks to expand small business lending. * MIF would provide financing to support consulting services related to credit officer training, material development, software and computer equipment, credit scoring systems, and other relevant assistance required to implement a successful small business lending program and minimize per-loan costs. * MIF is proposing to its donor committee that it finance up to $10 million per year over five years for this initiative, with no more than $1 million per single bank. * This technical assistance would be provided on a cost-sharing basis to ensure banks have committed capital as well as capacity. Second, assume a portion of the risks associated with this lending. Sharing the initial risk of lending to new, small business customers can help banks address the uncertainty and lack of knowledge about this new client base. The Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), the U.S. government agency responsible for promoting social and economic development by mobilizing U.S. private capital, will offer risk-sharing guarantees and loans to eligible banks to extend/catalyze their financing activity for small and medium-sized businesses in the region. OPIC will provide support through three vehicles: Credit guarantees for U.S. bank loans to local banks to support "on-lending" (when one bank borrows from another bank and uses those funds to make smaller loans) to small business. * Guarantees on bond issues to allow local financial institutions, including microfinance institutions, to raise funds to finance small and medium enterprise (SME) loans in the local capital markets. * Guarantees to local banks on portfolios of small business loans in which OPIC and the local banks would share risk of loss. OPIC currently anticipates $150 million will be available for SME lending through these vehicles. The factors that will determine whether a bank qualifies for OPIC support are the potential benefit to economic development from the bank's SME lending activity, the bank's ability and commitment to build an SME loan portfolio efficiently and profitably, and the bank's ability to utilize OPIC support in a manner consistent with OPIC statutory requirements. The Inter-American Investment Corporation (IIC) of the IDB Bank Group is focused on providing financing to SMEs in the region. The IIC will build upon its relationships in the region to offer a similar menu of options to banks under the initiative, particularly those that do not qualify for OPIC support. Third, ensure that small business lending is not unnecessarily constrained by burdensome regulations or bureaucracy. In many cases, bank regulatory authorities perceive small businesses to be very high risk borrowers and impose heavy collateral and/or provisionary requirements. We will help introduce best practice regulatory models that ensure prudentially sound lending while avoiding requirements more suited to lending to larger firms. * Treasury's Office of Technical Assistance – which has 33 advisors working in 16 countries in Latin America – will allocate one regional advisor to help identify regulatory changes needed for more credit to be made available to the SME sector. * MIF will engage the Latin American Association of Supervisors of Banks of the Americas (ASBA) and facilitate cross-border seminars and regional workshops to define and promote the adoption of best practices in SME and microlending among its members. Measurable Results. Tracking of the small business lending results is expected to be overseen by a program manager housed at the MIF. A steering committee will be created to oversee performance under the initiative and meet twice a year to ensure the program's effectiveness in catalyzing lending to small businesses. * Eighty percent of the volume of lending under this initiative will be composed of loans under $100,000. * Participating banks will also likely sign a policy statement, similar to a business plan, outlining a strategy for lending to small business. The statement would incorporate several indicators of measurable results we would target for this effort, such as the total volume of loans disbursed to small businesses, the average loan amount and the number of loan officers trained.

REMARKS BY TREASURY SECRETARY HENRY M. PAULSON, JR. ON SUPPORTING SMALL BUSINESS IN THE AMERICAS AT THE AMERICAS COMPETITIVENESS FORUM Atlanta, GA-- Thank you, Carlos, for that kind introduction. This inaugural meeting of the Americas Competitiveness Forum is possible because of your leadership. This is a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful discussion about ways to enhance competitiveness and economic prosperity in our region. I would also like to acknowledge Rob Mosbacher, the President of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation. OPIC does valuable work mobilizing one of our greatest assets, U.S. private capital, to promote social and economic development in the Western Hemisphere and around the world. I welcome this opportunity to share my thoughts and to emphasize the U. S.' stake in the economic success of Latin America. This region is moving towards its enormous potential as an engine of growth, opportunity and poverty reduction for its own citizens and for the global economy. In recent years, a number of governments have strengthened their policies – shored up public finances, reduced debt vulnerability, opened markets, and laid the foundation for the growth we are now seeing. My message today is that spreading economic opportunity within and between the nations of the Americas is urgent and possible. President Bush often refers to the growing ties between Western Hemisphere nations. We share two-way trade flows of more than $1 trillion and two-way investment of more than $1 trillion. Last year workers from the region employed in the United States sent an estimated $45 billion home to their families. The U.S. acts in our own and, we believe, the region's best interest when we help neighboring nations build open economies and create opportunity for all their people. This includes those who have not yet benefited from this progress. A key to spreading prosperity is supporting entrepreneurs. More people share in the benefits of economic freedom and growth when small businesses thrive. Small businesses tend to be labor intensive and are usually responsible for over 50 percent of new job creation. They are the engine of job and wealth creation in most economies. So, in March, when the President asked the Treasury and State Departments to develop an initiative to "help U.S. and local banks improve their ability to extend good loans to small businesses," I was pleased to accept his charge. A thriving small business community can reduce poverty and inequality, as well as create jobs. When individuals turn their ideas into productive businesses, they make a transition from workers to owners. Ownership helps create sustainable and stable economies with broader opportunities for all citizens. Economic and social mobility have always been at the core of the U.S. system. We want to help Latin American countries create the same mobility for their citizens. We need to get real support to these entrepreneurs. They have good ideas, markets to serve and the skills to operate in an often tough environment. They can also form constituencies that drive governments to strengthen their business climates and improve governance. But, they often are frozen out of the formal financial sector. It is estimated that only 10 percent of small businesses in Latin America have access to financing from banks and commercial lenders. The other 90 percent depend on friends, relatives or other informal sources of capital that can charge 10 percent or more in daily interest. One key barrier to credit is that banks lack information about, and experience with, smaller companies. Banks are often more comfortable lending to larger companies that have collateral, formal financial statements and documentation. Small companies may not yet have these resources, and so traditional lending criteria don't apply. Banks need the tools necessary to assess the value and risk of these smaller companies. Lack of finance may mean the difference between success and failure, growth or stagnation. These entrepreneurs need capital to expand into bigger space, purchase additional inventory to serve growing demand and new markets, to buy capital equipment. We see evidence in economies around the world that greater availability of finance not only enhances growth, it reduces poverty and inequality, and helps to build a middle class. I'm pleased to announce our answer to President Bush's call – we have developed a three-part plan to catalyze market-based bank lending to small businesses in Latin America. By breaking down the barriers that block commercial bank financing, we can work to build this necessary function in developing economies. This initiative targets small, profitable firms with growth potential, and it has three elements. The first two will provide support to banks willing to commit to specific and ambitious targets for small business lending. The third will address the regulatory environment. First, we will promote the spread of new lending models that fit the unique characteristics of smaller companies. We will offer the tools to adopt these models so that banks can build capacity to quickly and accurately assess the credit quality of small companies. This capacity building facility would be housed in the Multilateral Investment Fund, MIF, of the Inter-American Development Bank. We have committed to replenish this fund and we are actively working with the MIF to develop a program which would provide up to $50 million over five years for this purpose. Second, the Overseas Private Investment Corporation, OPIC, and the IDB Group's Inter-American Investment Corporation, IIC, will assume a portion of the risks associated with this lending. OPIC has already identified banks with the potential to provide up to $150 million using OPIC support through various vehicles that address particular market needs. The IIC will also build upon its relationships in the region to offer a similar menu of options to banks under the initiative. These vehicles include credit guarantees to banks to support small business on-lending by banks in Latin America; local currency guarantees on small business loan portfolios held by local banks; and partial guaranties for bond issues to fund small business loans. A third and equally important step is making sure that small business lending isn't unnecessarily constrained by burdensome regulations or bureaucracy. Treasury's Office of Technical Assistance and the MIF will work with local authorities to review existing regulations. The team will identify and address obstacles to small business lending, such as excessive collateral and capital requirements and interest rate restrictions. The MIF, with support from Treasury, will also engage with regional banking regulators and supervisors to define and promote the adoption of best practices in micro, small and medium lending. Taken together, these three steps – building new lending models, sharing the initial risk for early-stage loans and helping to ensure a constructive bank regulatory environment – will open new opportunities for banks to lend and for small businesses to grow. Public efforts and funds will leverage private money to support small businesses, and create the foundation for sustainable, non-governmental market-based lending. We'll kick-start the model to help existing businesses in the region best positioned to expand, and to help entrepreneurs with good ideas get started. Once participating banks demonstrate that it is profitable to lend to small businesses, competition will bring other banks into the market and the need for on-going assistance should diminish. Application of this model in Eurasia has created over $12 billion in new small business lending to nearly two million companies and, especially for small countries, transformed financial sectors. Household financial education is also vital to the success of this initiative. Many entrepreneurs get their start using their own savings or personal loans. Treasurer Anna Cabral will host a Latin America Regional Conference this fall to discuss ways we can enhance access to financial services, including financial service access of entrepreneurs in the region. Our interest in Latin America is strong, and it will continue. The countries of the Americas are brought together by geography and history, and bound together by common interest. The United States is committed to helping Latin America reduce poverty, fight corruption, build the middle class, and generate more opportunities for people who feel excluded from the region's growing prosperity. Since becoming Treasury Secretary, I have visited Colombia, Guatemala, Peru and Mexico. This region is a high priority for me, and I will return to South America in July. I'll also continue discussing with my regional colleagues how we can work together to improve economic and social opportunities for people throughout Latin America. Thank you. I welcome the opportunity to answer a few questions.

TREASURY ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL MARKETS ANTHONY W. RYAN REMARKS BEFORE THE MANAGED FUNDS ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE Chicago- Good afternoon. Thank you for inviting me to join you here in Chicago. It's a pleasure to be here. There must be 300 people in the audience and collectively, you represent a significant portion of the approximately $1.4 trillion in assets under management in hedge funds. In addition, hedge funds represent anywhere from 30 to 60 percent of trading activity, depending on the asset class or instrument. No wonder there has been a lot of discussion regarding your impact on the financial markets. Private pools of capital bring many advantages to our capital markets but also pose challenges including systemic risk and investor protection. While it is important to address both of these challenges, I would like to focus on the issue of systemic risk. We will never eliminate the potential for systemic risk, but we can seek to reduce the probability of it occurring and its impact. My purpose today is to sensitize all of us as to how systemic risk operates and urge all stakeholders in our capital markets to take the necessary steps to implement policies, procedures and efforts to mitigate it. Numbers Let me begin by offering an observation. You like to quantify and measure things. You quantify returns, risk, hurdles, assets under management, leverage, spreads, premiums and discounts, drawdowns, locks ups and let's not forget fees. Why do people like to quantify things so much? I would argue that people gain comfort in being able to define and measure certain characteristics. In doing so, they seek a framework and perspective in which to make assessments, draw comparisons and make forecasts – frequently with a great deal of conviction. As a group, you've gotten to be pretty good at defining characteristics and measuring them. That being said, I know you're a competitive lot and do not like to be outdone, but another group has you beat. Like you they are passionate and committed to their pursuit. This group also keeps copious and meticulous records, and makes fervent prognostications. The group that I speak of is baseball fans. In the investment community, one of the hardest things to do is to produce returns with the least risk possible, hence the frequently mentioned goal of a high Sharpe ratio. In baseball the same is true. Players seek to get hits with the least outs possible with the ultimate goal being a high batting average. Now baseball has been played for a long time. Players get several "at bats" per game and they play a lot of games in a season. As a result, there is no shortage of observations. So how do hitters fare? Admittedly, hitting a major league pitch is a tough thing to do. It is also perhaps unfair to make comparisons across history. Think about how many more eligible players there are today and how well trained they are versus when the game began over 100 years ago. Because you like to measure things, let me share some numbers with you. The batting average for the entire major league from 1876-1890 was .259. Now, one hundred years later, despite all of the changes, the major league batting average for the decade ending in 1990 was .259.[i] All of those games, all of those at bats, and the league batting average did not change 1/1000. But, something did change during that period. During the first few decades of play, there were 34 different batters that had a season batting average over .400.[ii] Then, 11 years went by without a single player accomplishing the goal. Finally, in 1941, the Boston Red Sox' Ted Williams batted .406. During the last 65 years not a single major leaguer has batted over .400. I know that getting 4 out of 10 investment decisions correct on average is unlikely to generate stellar returns, but in baseball it's likely to get you a ticket to the Hall of Fame. Now most of you probably have never heard of Stephen Jay Gould. He was not some great hedge fund manager or professional baseball player, but he was a prominent evolutionary biologist and Red Sox fan. He postulated that like many other species through time, the .400 hitter has become extinct. Using statistical measures – many of which are the same used by so many risk measurement systems and trading desks today – he concluded that .400 averages were simply outliers in the overall distribution of averages.[iii] Gould wrote, "[V]ariation in batting averages must decrease as improving play eliminates the rough edges that great players could exploit."[iv] There has been a compression of talent towards the league average; hence, the "tails of the distribution" have shortened because of better play. This is true for the best batters, as well as for those batters with the lowest averages. All players' batting averages moved towards the mean, despite the mean not moving over time. It is something to think about. PWG Let me return to hedge funds. As I am sure you are all aware, the policymakers and regulators comprising the President's Working Group on Financial Markets (PWG) have evaluated hedge funds over the years. The PWG is chaired by the Secretary of the Treasury and also includes the chairmen of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Since 1988, the PWG's overarching, non-partisan mission has been to maintain investor confidence and enhance the integrity, efficiency, orderliness, and competitiveness of U.S. financial markets. Earlier this year the PWG released an agreement outlining its views on private pools of capital, which include hedge funds. The PWG stated its collective belief that the most effective mechanism to mitigate systemic risk is market discipline and that a combination of market discipline and regulatory policies is the best way to protect investors. As I mentioned at the outset, I'd like to confine my remarks this afternoon to the issue of systemic risk. Systemic Risk Systemic risk can be defined as the potential that a single event, such as a financial institution's loss or failure, may trigger broad dislocation or a series of defaults that impact the financial system so significantly that the real economy is adversely affected. Some may posit that the increasing sophistication of risk management systems coupled with other developments and efforts has placed systemic risk on the endangered species list. For supportive proof they point to the lack of extensive ripple effects upon the financial markets following some relatively recent shocks.[v] I'd like to elaborate why, given market conditions, I believe that subscribing to this thesis is both potentially misleading and imprudent. Let's begin with answering the question: how could a systemic risk event manifest itself? Meteorologists describe atmospheric conditions conducive to producing a perfect storm. What are the atmospherics for a perfect financial storm? While there would be several, let me name a few: easy credit and leverage, highly correlated strategies, connected and concentrated lenders, inadequate information, and underdeveloped financial market infrastructure. Let's look at those elements more closely. Credit and Leverage We must understand the impact of the remarkable surge in liquidity available today to borrowers, such as private pools of capital. Interest rates around the world are low and the competition to deploy this capital has evidenced itself in numerous ways including declining lending standards. Institutions and investors have exposure to balance sheet leverage, and perhaps more importantly, embedded leverage as a result of both simple and complex strategies and instruments they utilize. We must ensure that the implications of this degree of leverage are well understood. Correlations We should also consider the increase in the correlation of returns among hedge funds. Returns moving in the same direction when facing similar market conditions could suggest an increasing concentration of risk. Many will recall almost 10 years ago, the markets received a real shock when a highly levered hedge fund imploded as its diversification strategy was compromised by just such an occurrence of rising correlation. In fact, we are seeing a rise in correlation of returns among hedge funds today. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York recently commented on this and appropriately highlighted an important difference between the rising correlation of returns we witnessed a decade ago with what we see today. The recent increase in correlation results mainly from a decline in the volatility of returns, while the earlier rise was driven by high covariance.[vi] On the one hand that is comforting, but we need to appreciate that covariance can increase and correlations can change during periods of market stress. Connectivity and Concentration We must also appreciate the concentration among counterparties and creditors. A few large financial institutions serve as the principal counterparties and creditors to hedge funds. The concentrated and connected network of these core financial institutions raises the specter of a major market event having a systemic impact. This March, E. Gerald Corrigan, chairman of the Counterparty Risk Management Group, stated "the potential damage that could result from such shocks is greater due to the increased spread, complexity, and tighter linkages that characterize the global financial system."[vii] Although these sophisticated institutions have improved their capital positions and risk management practices over the past decade, there is room for additional improvement. Inadequate Information The availability of information also plays an important role. Only with accurate and timely information can counterparties, creditors, and investors understand and adequately assess their risk exposure. Much of this information can only be disclosed by the managers of the private pools of capital. If investors, counterparties and creditors are to define and create effective market discipline, they must have access to reliable and timely information. Financial Market Infrastructure It is also critical that we appreciate the importance of our financial systems' underlying structure. It facilitates liquidity. It includes the market-making capacity and the system for clearing and settlement of financial transactions. Market infrastructure must adapt quickly to product innovation and increasing trading volume. Not having effective and rapid clearing and settlement procedures could stimulate a systemic contagion effect if there were a failing counterparty or highly leveraged market participant.[viii] The state of these conditions contributes to defining the atmospheric environment for a systemic risk event. We must now ask ourselves: Should we be concerned about systemic risk? Returning to Gould Let me return to Gould's prior conclusion regarding the .400 hitter. Recall, he postulated that because of the better play, there has been a compression of talent towards the overall league batting average; hence, the tails of the distribution of individual players' batting averages have shortened. As a result, the .400 hitter is extinct. Could our capital markets practices' better play have influenced the distribution of risk events such that the tails of the distribution have shortened? It is true that the dispersion of risk is greater. The presence of so many derivatives strategies and instruments do help to hedge risk, and markets have adjusted to "tremors." At the same time, we can also observe that the capital markets, with a few periodic exceptions, are not pricing risk and future volatility anywhere near close to long-term averages.[ix] Stakeholders in our markets must not operate under the false illusion that systemic risk is not a real possibility. Whether examining batting averages or financial market risk, we must account for the possibility of outliers. Let's take it a step further. Outliers, by definition, are long tail events. They are distant from the norm. But not all outliers, or long tails, significantly impact the norm. Another .400 hitter would be a long tail event, but it would not significantly impact the overall major league batting average. When an outlier is impactful, it is considered a fat tail. Look at baseball salaries. On a prorated basis, the New York Yankees will pay Roger Clemens $28 million this year. That is almost seven times the average salary of his teammates, and as such, has a real impact on the team's average compensation. No wonder fans call Clemens the Rocket! So, the long tails of some distributions may also be a lot fatter than people frequently assume. Besides baseball salaries, there are many other data series where the distributions are anything but normally distributed. Look at "book sales per author…populations of cities…numbers of speakers per language, damage caused by earthquakes, deaths in war, deaths from terrorist incidents…or the sizes of companies."[x] Could the same be true of capital markets, commodity prices, inflation rates, and economic data? If so, what are the implications? What if such events occur with much more frequency than people recognize, and what are the consequences if we do a particularly poor job in preparing for them? One student of such distributions is Nassim Taleb. He defines an occurrence such as a systemic risk event as follows: "First, it is an outlier, as it lies outside the realm of regular expectations, because nothing in the past can convincingly point to its possibility. Second, it carries an extreme impact. Third, in spite of its outlier status, human nature makes us concoct explanations for its occurrence after the fact, making it explainable and predictable."[xi] If we can not predict a systemic market event in advance, and we seek to reduce the impact of such an event, we must prepare.[xii] The PWG's Principles and Guidelines released last February are a call to action to foster preparedness. They direct all stakeholders to undertake efforts that seek to mitigate the likelihood and impact of a systemic risk event.[xiii] These Principles and Guidelines highlight how potential systemic risk is best mitigated within the current regulatory framework by market discipline that is developed and applied by creditors, counterparties and investors. Let's return to the environmental conditions that I outlined earlier: easy credit and leverage; rising correlations, connected and concentrated lenders; information flow; and financial market infrastructure. Credit and Leverage First, the Principles and Guidelines call upon financial institutions to determine appropriate credit terms. In doing so, they must assess market, credit, liquidity and operational risk. Financial institutions also need to be disciplined and independent in quantifying valuations. Importantly, they need to guard against the risks to their reputation. They should expect their prudential regulators to closely monitor their management of these risks and assess whether their performance is in line with expectations set out in supervisory guidance. To deal with these challenges, counterparties and creditors must maintain appropriate policies, procedures, and protocols. They must clearly define, implement and continually enhance best risk management practices. These practices must address how the quality of information from a client affects margin, collateral, and other credit terms and other aspects of counterparty risk management. Correlations, Connectivity and Concentration In terms of combating the network effects of increased risk concentration, the PWG guidelines encourage lenders to private pools of capital to frequently measure their exposures, taking into account collateral to mitigate both current and potential future exposures. Credit exposures, in addition to being measured frequently, should also be subject to rigorous stress testing, not just at the level of an individual counterparty, but also aggregated across counterparties and should consider scenarios of adverse liquidity conditions. The liquidity of the counterparty's positions should be a factor in exposure measurement, since concentrated or illiquid positions can lead to crowded trades and unexpected exposures in the event of a counterparty default or market volatility. Inadequate Information A debate has emerged over disclosure. While the arguments are somewhat confused, the premise is somewhat less so. Disclosure does help. The PWG expects enhanced disclosure and communication between three explicit groups: managers and investors, managers and their counterparties, and creditors and their regulators. Information should be disclosed frequently enough and with sufficient detail that investors, counterparties and creditors stay informed of strategies and the amount of risk being taken. On a regular basis, investors, counterparties and creditors should seek to obtain from the manager both quantitative data and qualitative information on the pool's net asset value, performance, market and credit risk exposure, and liquidity. The PWG articulated that regulators' clear communication of expectations regarding prudent management of counterparty credit exposures to hedge funds is also critical. Financial Market Infrastructure Regarding post-trade obligations, managers, counterparties and creditors should also continue to strengthen and enhance their processing, clearing, and settlement arrangements, particularly for OTC derivatives. This will limit the contagion effect of weak post-trade processes if there is a failing counterparty or highly leveraged institution. Conclusion We cannot get lulled into a false sense of confidence because of the increased dispersion of risk, the presence of diverse and flexible instruments and strategies to manage and hedge risk, or the abundance of capital and liquidity characterizing the recent benign market environment. I began my remarks this afternoon with an observation, so I will conclude with another. Maybe the tails are longer than Gould thought. I'd bet that somewhere in the world there is a kid dreaming about being the next .400 hitter. I have enough suspicion in models and statistics to think the potential for that kid to accomplish that dream is a real possibility. While I hope it does occur, another .400 hitter may or may not happen. If it does, it will have a big impact on sports media but virtually no impact on the overall league batting average. So the tails may be longer than people imagine, and the tails could also easily be fatter. We must therefore be humble enough to realize that a systemic event in the financial markets cannot be discounted and its impact will be significant. Preparedness is therefore key and all stakeholders in the capital markets must contribute to the effort. As Taleb illustrates, fat tail events occur. When one does, it will be rare, have a big impact, and many experts retrospectively, although not prospectively, will argue it was predictable. When the next outlier occurs, regardless of its type, let's make sure the experts are commenting on something positive like the baseball player's hitting acumen rather than some systemic event in our capital markets. Thank you very much. --------------------------------------------------------------------- [i] Thomas J. Miceli, Minimum Quality Standards in Baseball and the Paradoxical Disappearance of the .400 Hitter, Economics Working Papers, University of Connecticut (May 2005), at 1. [ii] Miceli at 7. [iii] Stephen Jay Gould, Why No One Hits .400 Any More in Triumph and Tragedy in Mudville: A Lifelong Passion for Baseball (2003) (first published as Entropic Homogeneity Isn't Why No One Hits .400 Any More in Discover (Aug. 1986)). [iv] Gould at 163 (emphasis added). [v] But cf., E. Gerald Corrigan, Chairman, Counterparty Risk Management Group, Hedge Funds and Systemic Risk in the Financial Markets, Statement before the Committee on Financial Services, U.S. House of Representatives (Mar. 13, 2007) at 9-10 (describing the reasons why a hedge fund's collapse did not pose a systemic risk). [vi] Tobias Adrian, Measuring Risk in the Hedge Fund Sector, Current Issues in Economics and Finance, Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Vol. 13, No. 3 (Mar./Apr. 2007). [vii] E. Gerald Corrigan, Chairman, Counterparty Risk Management Group, Hedge Funds and Systemic Risk in the Financial Markets, Statement before the Committee on Financial Services, U.S. House of Representatives (Mar. 13, 2007), at 8. See also Timothy Geithner, President and Chief Executive Officer, Federal Reserve Bank of New York, Liquidity Risk and the Global Economy, Remarks at the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta's 2007 Financial Markets Conference--Credit Derivatives (May 15, 2007) at 3 ("And yet this overall judgment, that both financial efficiency and stability have improved, requires some qualification. Writing a decade ago about the history of the financial shocks of the 1980s and early 1990s, Jerry Corrigan argued that these same changes in financial markets we see today, though less pronounced then than now, created the possibility that financial shocks would be less frequent, but in some contexts they could be more damaging. This judgment, that systemic financial crises are less probable, but in the event they occur could be harder to manage, should be the principal preoccupation of market participants and policymakers today.") [viii] Donald L. Kohn, Vice Chairman, Federal Reserve Board, Financial Stability and Policy Issues, Remarks at the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta's 2007 Financial Markets Conference--Credit Derivatives (May 16, 2007) at 4 ("Weaknesses in such [clearing and settlement] systems can be a source of systemic contagion. Conversely, when such arrangements are robust, the potential for contagion is significantly diminished."). [ix] See e.g., Andrew Bary, A World at Risk, Barron's (Mar. 15, 2007) (profiling historian Niall Ferguson and his views on the "`paradox of diminishing risk in an apparently dangerous world'"). [x] Nassim Nicholas Taleb, The Black Swan 35 (2007). [xi] Taleb at xvii-xviii. [xii] Taleb at 208, 213. [xiii] Cf., E. Gerald Corrigan, Chairman, Counterparty Risk Management Group, Hedge Funds and Systemic Risk in the Financial Markets, Statement before the Committee on Financial Services, U.S. House of Representatives (Mar. 13, 2007), at 8 ("[O]ur collective capacity to anticipate the specific timing and triggers of future financial [systemic] shocks is extremely low, if not nil. Indeed, if we could anticipate the timing and triggers such shocks would not occur. Thus, since we certainly cannot rule out future financial shocks we have no choice but to strengthen what I like to call the "shock absorbers" of the global financial system in order to limit and contain the damage caused by future financial shocks when – not if – they occur.")

TREASURY TAKES ADDITIONAL MEASURES TO COMBAT IRANIAN WMD PROLIFERATION IRANIAN NUCLEAR & MISSILE FIRMS TARGETEDU.S. Department of the Treasury today designated four Iranian companies, Pars Tarash (a/k/a Pars Trash Company), Farayand Technique, Fajr Industries Group, and Mizan Machine Manufacturing Group, for their role in Iran's proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. This action was taken pursuant to Executive Order 13382, an authority aimed at freezing the assets of proliferators of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and their supporters. Designations under E.O. 13382 are implemented by Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), and they prohibit all transactions between the designees and any U.S. person and freeze any assets the designees may have under U.S. jurisdiction. "So long as Iran continues to pursue a nuclear program in defiance of the international community's calls to halt enrichment, we will continue to hold those responsible to account for their conduct," said Stuart Levey, Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence (TFI). Pars Tarash and Farayand Technique are owned or controlled by, or act or purport to act for or on behalf of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) and/or the Kalaye Electric Company, an AEOI subsidiary designated by OFAC on February 16, 2007. The AEOI manages Iran's overall nuclear program and reports directly to the Iranian president. Identified by President George W. Bush in the Annex to E.O. 13382, the AEOI is the main Iranian institute for research and development activities in the field of nuclear technology, including Iran's centrifuge enrichment program and experimental laser enrichment of uranium program. The AEOI is named in the Annex to United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1737 for its involvement in Iran's nuclear program. Pars Tarash and Farayand Technique were also listed in the Annex to UNSCR 1737 for their involvement in Iran's centrifuge program and were identified in reports of the International Atomic Energy Organization (IAEA). According to IAEA reports, Iran disclosed the existence of these two entities in October of 2003, and indicated that they were involved in the domestic production of centrifuge components. It was revealed to the IAEA in January 2004 that Pars Tarash and Farayand were subsidiaries of the Kalaye Electric Company, an AEOI subsidiary. Farayand Technique has had a number of different roles in Iran's centrifuge enrichment program, and performs quality control on components used at the uranium enrichment facility at Natanz. Farayand Technique also has capabilities suitable for the testing and assembly of centrifuges. Pars Tarash has been identified by the IAEA as a site used by Natanz and the Kalaye Electric Company to store centrifuge equipment. Also designated today are Fajr Industries Group and Mizan Machine Manufacturing Group, two entities owned or controlled by, or acting or purporting to act for or on behalf of Iran's Aerospace Industries Organization (AIO). The AIO, which was also identified by President Bush in the Annex to E.O. 13382, is a subsidiary of the Iranian Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics, and is the overall manager and coordinator of Iran's missile program. Fajr Industries Group is subordinate to the AIO and involved in the production and acquisition of precision equipment for missile guidance and control systems. Fajr has consistently procured a wide range of missile guidance and control equipment on behalf of the AIO over the years. Since the late 1990s, Fajr has purchased high strength steel alloy, useful for guidance equipment in ballistic missiles and missile-related technology and items. Fajr Industries Group was also identified in the Annex to UNSCR 1737 for its involvement in Iran's ballistic missile program. Mizan Machine Manufacturing Group is one of several front companies utilized by AIO in commercial transactions. In particular, Mizan Machine Manufacturing Group has been used by AIO to acquire sensitive material for Iran's ballistic missile program. For example, in April 2005, Mizan Machine Manufacturing Group purchased a state-of-the-art crane for Iran's weapons program. An investigation of this transaction determined the crane was probably intended for use in Iran's Shahab missile program. Cranes can be used to support missiles, like the Shahab, in the field or at storage facilities. Mizan Machine Manufacturing Group has also acted on behalf of the Shahid Hemmat Industrial Group (SHIG), a subordinate entity of the AIO which is listed in UNSCR 1737 for its direct role in advancing Iran's ballistic missile program. In 2005, Mizan Machine Manufacturing Group was connected to the acquisition of equipment, on behalf of SHIG, that could be used to calibrate guidance and control instruments for more accurate targeting of Iran's ballistic missiles. Background on E.O. 13382 Today's action builds on President Bush's issuance of E.O. 13382 on June 29, 2005. Recognizing the need for additional tools to combat the proliferation of WMD, the President signed the E.O. authorizing the imposition of strong financial sanctions against not only WMD proliferators, but also entities and individuals providing support or services to them. In the Annex to E.O. 13382, the President identified eight entities operating in North Korea, Iran, and Syria for their support of WMD proliferation. E.O. 13382 authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Secretary of State, the Attorney General, and other relevant agencies, to designate additional entities and individuals providing support or services to the entities identified in the Annex to the Order. In addition to the entities identified in the annex of E.O. 13382, the Treasury Department has designated thirty entities and two individuals as proliferators of WMD, specifically: * Eight North Korean entities on October 21, 2005; * Two Iranian entities on January 4, 2006; * One Swiss entity and one Swiss individual tied to North Korean proliferation activity on March 30, 2006; * Four Chinese entities and one U.S. entity tied to Iranian proliferation activity on June 8, 2006. * Two Iranian entities on July 18, 2006; * Three Syrian entities on January 4, 2007; * One Iranian entity, one British entity, and one individual tied to Iranian missile proliferation on January 9, 2007; * Three Iranian entities on February 16, 2007; and * Four Iranian entities on June 8, 2007. The designation announced today is part of the ongoing interagency effort by the United States Government to combat WMD trafficking by blocking the property of entities and individuals that engage in proliferation activities and their support networks.

May 22

FINANCIAL SECTOR REFORM FACT SHEET - SECOND MEETING OF THE U.S.-CHINA STRATEGIC ECONOMIC DIALOGUE As leaders in the global economy and in the international financial and trading systems, the United States and China share a responsibility to promote balanced and sustained growth in their economies. A competitive and efficient financial sector will be an engine for growth in China's fast-growing economy, providing opportunities for American manufacturers, farmers, and other service providers. As China becomes progressively more integrated into the global economy and financial system, stability in China's financial sector becomes increasingly important for the U.S. economy. Introduction of U.S. securities firms, asset managers and insurance companies will help to develop expertise and depth in China's markets and improve the stability of the market. During the second meeting of the Strategic Economic Dialogue, China announced it will take steps to encourage growth and competition in its financial sector. * Expansion of U.S. Financial Services Industry: China agreed to remove a block on the entry of new foreign securities firms and resume licensing securities companies, including joint-ventures, in the second half of 2007. In addition, China will announce before SED-III that it will allow foreign securities firms to expand their operations in China to include brokerage, proprietary trading and fund management. This will create opportunities for U.S. firms and provide new competition and expertise in the Chinese securities industry. * Increased Qualified Foreign Institutional Investors (QFIIs) Quotas: To develop broader and deeper integration into the global financial market, China will raise the quota for Qualified Foreign Institutional Investors from $10 billion to $30 billion. The United States also welcomes China's May 10, 2007 announcement to expand QDII investment to include equity investment. This change can help diversify financial sector assets in China, which in turn can help enhance financial sector stability. * Pending Foreign Property Insurance Company Conversion Applications: The China Insurance Regulatory Commission will make decisions by August 1, 2007 on applications for conversion from branch to subsidiary that have been pending for more than a year. China also commits to abide by regulations that require 60 day processing for future applications. This will allow for more efficient and cost effective operations. * RMB Transactions by Foreign Banks: China agreed to immediately allow foreign-invested banks to offer their own brand of RMB-denominated credit and debit cards. This will allow U.S. banks to offer a full range of RMB services to compete with Chinese banks that currently offer these services. * Market Access for Insurance Firms -- Enterprise Annuities: The Chinese Government agreed to streamline by SED-III the application and licensing process for the provision of enterprise annuities by financial institutions, which will allow U.S. insurance firms already operating in China to widen the range of services they provide and increase the amount of capital under their management for investment.

DEVELOPMENTS SINCE THE FIRST MEETING OF THE STRATEGIC ECONOMIC DIALOGUE IN DECEMBER 2006 The SED is a management tool for the U.S.-China economic relationship, not merely a biannual event. Under the SED, interaction between the U.S. and China is frequent and ongoing. Progress will occur and be announced throughout the year, such as the following actions by the Chinese Government which occurred between the first and second meetings of the SED: * Transparency and accountability: In April, China's State Council issued new regulations to promote government transparency. This is an important priority for the U.S. business community. * Protecting private property: In March, China's National People's Congress approved landmark legislation to protect property rights. This legislation is an unprecedented, significant step towards China becoming a market economy and the development of legal rights. * Market access: The conversion of bank branches to subsidiaries under foreign bank regulations has been a smooth and quick process. In March, four banks had their applications approved, including one U.S. bank, Citibank. In April, these banks began accepting RMB deposits, a first in decades. In December 2006, Citibank purchased a 20 percent stake in Guangdong Development Bank. * Construction and engineering services: In March, China issued implementing regulations that relaxed residency requirements, allowing regulators to recognize the foreign qualifications of license applications of technical experts. * Reducing export subsidies: In March, China agreed to terminate the subsidy that allowed major Chinese exporters to receive discounted loans not available to other companies. * Reduction of Value-Added Tax Rebates: In April, China announced the reduction of export tax rebates on textile and apparel products, the elimination of the VAT on some chemical and steel exports, and a reduction of the VAT rebate to 5 percent on higher-value steel. * Tax rebates for imports: In April, China announced tax rebates on imported components for advanced equipment. These rebates apply to imports by 16 industries, including large power-generating plants and transmission equipment. * Energy Security: In April, officials from China's National Reform and Development Council (NDRC) visited the national renewal energy lab in Colorado and the Strategic Petroleum Reserve in Texas as they continue to develop their strategic petroleum reserves and engage in international cooperation. * Reducing Tariffs: China announced on May 21, effective June 1, that it will raise export taxes on 142 goods and cut import tariffs on 209 goods to rein in its trade surplus, improve energy efficiency, and promote domestic consumption, effective June 1.

FACT SHEET: SECOND MEETING OF THE U.S.-CHINA STRATEGIC ECONOMIC DIALOGUE Body of Press Release: The United States and China today concluded the second meeting of the Strategic Economic Dialogue (SED). President Bush and President Hu established the Strategic Economic Dialogue in September 2006 as a focused and effective framework to address shared priorities and mutual concerns. For the meeting held May 22 and 23 in Washington, 17 U.S. Cabinet officials and agency heads joined Secretary Paulson for discussions with China's Vice Premier Wu Yi and a delegation of 15 ministers and representatives from a total of 21 Chinese government ministries and agencies. The Strategic Economic Dialogue is a management tool for our bilateral economic relationship and is an on-going process involving continuous discussions between officials from both nations. The SED addresses long-term structural issues and seeks near-term results which build confidence on both sides and demonstrate progress toward long-range objectives. At the meeting this week, leaders from both countries agreed to increase market access, open the financial sector, foster energy security, protect the environment, and strengthen the rule of law. Increasing Market Access Trade fosters an environment of competition, innovation, research and investment, which leads to higher incomes and a wider range of goods and services at lower prices. Increased access to markets in China creates opportunities for American companies. During this second meeting of the Strategic Economic Dialogue, the United States reached new agreements to further open China's markets to U.S. products and services. * Air Services Liberalization: The United States and China committed to expand the existing bilateral aviation agreement through liberalization of air services rights. This new accord provides for a doubling of daily passenger flights from the United States to China by 2012, starting with the addition of a new daily flight this year. The agreement also will provide U.S. cargo carriers with virtually unfettered access to Chinese markets by lifting all government-set limits on the number of cargo flights and cargo carriers serving the two countries by 2011. U.S. and Chinese officials have committed to resume negotiations in 2010 to establish a timetable to achieve the mutual objective of full liberalization. * Promoting Growth in the Tourism Industry: The United States and China signed a declaration of intent to launch negotiations to facilitate Chinese group leisure travel to the United States. The Chinese travel market is expected to grow to 100 million travelers within the next 15 years according to the United Nations World Travel Organization. Allowing tourism companies to arrange trips for Chinese travelers to the United States is a significant step, given that one in seven jobs in the United States is related to the tourism industry. * Expanding U.S. Exports: The Export-Import Bank of the United States and the Export-Import Bank of China signed a memorandum of understanding that will provide loan guarantees for the export of large scale capital goods from the United States to China, supporting U.S. export jobs and promoting China's sustainable development. Opening the Financial Sector Financial markets connect money with ideas and ambition, the lifeblood of innovation and dynamism. U.S. financial institutions are helping to expand a vast new market in China for American financial services products. During the second meeting of the Strategic Economic Dialogue, the United States and China committed to further financial sector reform, including: * Expansion of U.S. Financial Services Industry: China agreed to remove a block on the entry of new foreign securities firms and resume licensing securities companies, including joint-ventures, in the second half of 2007. In addition, China will announce before SED-III that it will allow foreign securities firms to expand their operations in China to include brokerage, proprietary trading and fund management. This will create opportunities for U.S. firms and provide new competition and expertise in the Chinese securities industry. * Increased Qualified Foreign Institutional Investors (QFIIs) Quotas: To develop broader and deeper integration into the global financial market, China will raise the quota for Qualified Foreign Institutional Investors from $10 billion to $30 billion. * The United States also welcomes China's May 10, 2007 announcement to expand Qualified Domestic Institutional Investors (QDII) investment to include equity investment. This change can help diversify financial sector assets in China, which in turn can help enhance financial sector stability. * Pending Foreign Property Insurance Company Conversion Applications: The China Insurance Regulatory Commission will now make decisions by August 1, 2007 on applications for conversion from branch to subsidiary that have been pending for more than a year. China also commits to abide by regulations that require 60 day processing for future applications. This will allow for more efficient and cost effective operations. * RMB Transactions by Foreign Banks: China agreed to immediately allow foreign-invested banks to offer their own brand of RMB-denominated credit and debit cards. This will allow U.S. banks to offer a full range of RMB services to compete with Chinese banks that currently offer these services. * Market Access for Insurance Firms: Enterprise Annuities: The Chinese Government agreed to streamline by SED-III the application and licensing process for the provision of enterprise annuities by financial institutions, which will allow U.S. insurance firms already operating in China to widen the range of services they provide and increase the amount of capital under their management for investment. Promoting Energy Security and Protecting the Environment Energy security and environmental protection are shared priorities for both the United States and China. This creates demand and incentives for the rapid development and deployment of clean and efficient energy technology. At the second meeting of the Strategic Economic Dialogue, both countries agreed to: * Coal-Mine Methane (CMM) Capture: Over the next five years, the United States and China will develop up to 15 large-scale CMM capture and utilization projects in China. * Develop Clean Coal Technologies: The United States and China will provide policy incentives to promote the full commercialization of advanced coal technologies and will advance commercial use of carbon capture and storage technologies. China uses twice as much coal as the United States to power its growth and economy, and that number is expected to double by 2020. * Reduce and Eliminate Trade Barriers: The United States and China agreed to work together as part of the WTO Doha negotiations to discuss reducing or eliminating tariff and non-tariff barriers to environmental goods and services. Working together, the United States and China can increase access and reduce the costs of these important environmental technologies and services. Strengthening the Rule of Law * Fighting Counterfeit Goods and Protecting Our Borders: Protecting intellectual property rights, welcoming competition, promoting transparency and observing the rule of law are all critical to creating the framework within which creative ideas can flourish. During the second meeting of the SED, the United States and China signed an agreement to strengthen the enforcement of intellectual property rights laws. The agreement provides for an exchange of information on counterfeit good seizures, experiences with counterfeit goods and dialogue among respective Customs staff to improve intellectual property rights enforcement in our nations.

CLOSING STATEMENT BY SECRETARY HENRY M. PAULSON, JR. AT THE MAY 2007 MEETING OF THE U.S.-CHINA STRATEGIC ECONOMIC DIALOGUE Thank you, Vice Premier Wu Yi and your distinguished colleagues for a very productive two days. My colleagues and I have been impressed by, and grateful for, the openness and positive spirit you brought to this meeting of the Strategic Economic Dialogue. Over the last five months, China and the United States have come together to discuss our shared economic interests with mutual respect. We agree on many issues. We agree that it is vital to the prosperity of both our nations, that China rebalance its economic growth, encourage consumption and spread development more broadly among its people. We agree that by combining the power of our economies, we can spur further development of clean energy technology. We agree that strengthening and deepening our two-way trading relationship will create jobs and give our citizens a wider variety of choices and lower prices on goods. While we have much more work to do, we have tangible results for our efforts thus far. These results are like signposts on the long- term strategic road, building confidence and encouraging us to continue moving forward together. The United States and China understand that getting our economic relationship right is vital not only to our people, but to the world economy. Vice Premier Wu and I see an important part of our job is to communicate frequently, iron out differences, and keep the economic relationship on an even keel, even during times of tension. Our relationship works best when it produces mutual benefits, which lead to growth, balance and a stronger global economy. We agreed today on a wide variety of next steps, including significant items in financial services, energy and the environment, and civil aviation. The dialogue will continue; our cooperative spirit will continue as well. At our next meeting, we will focus on capturing the benefits and managing the challenges of global economic integration. We have built strong relationships since our inaugural meeting in Beijing. Those relationships will continue to grow stronger and produce on-going returns. On behalf of the American delegation, thank you for coming and we look forward to returning to China later this year.

UNDER SECRETARY STEEL STATEMENT ON PASSAGE OF HOUSE GSE BILL , DC - Treasury Under Secretary for Domestic Finance Robert K. Steel issued the following statement today regarding the passage of H.R. 1427 to reform the housing government sponsored enterprises: "The House made progress to reform the oversight of the housing GSEs today. Treasury commends Chairman Frank for working in a bipartisan manner to pass legislation addressing this goal. "Regretfully the House significantly weakened the regulator's abilities to examine systemic risk issues. Additionally, we remain troubled by the provisions relating to conforming loan limits, the Federal government's appointment of directors and aspects of the affordable housing fund. "Treasury appreciates the efforts of the Financial Services Committee to advance the process of creating a strong GSE regulator but as a result of amendments adopted on the floor, the Department does not believe this bill adequately guards our financial system with the necessary oversight. We look forward to working with the Senate to address reforms critical to the safety and soundness of the U.S. financial system."

OPENING STATEMENT BY SECRETARY HENRY M. PAULSON, JR. AT THE MAY 2007 MEETING OF THE U.S.-CHINA STRATEGIC ECONOMIC DIALOGUE Washington, DC – Good morning. It is with great pleasure that I welcome Vice Premier Wu and your colleagues to Washington, and the second meeting of the Strategic Economic Dialogue. Your visit is historically unprecedented. Never before have so many Ministers from China gathered in one place in the United States. The number of senior officials who are focusing their time and attention on this effort is a demonstration of our shared and on-going commitment to the vision and purpose of this dialogue. We both recognize how critical it is for our countries that we get our long-term economic relationship right. When President Bush and President Hu created the SED last August, their leadership set us on a course that led to our inaugural December meeting in Beijing, has continued through a series of meetings among Chinese and U.S. officials since then, to this Washington gathering, and will continue after we leave here. An open, honest economic relationship between our two countries is pivotal to the future of the global economy. The SED is a forum to manage that relationship on a long-term strategic basis, for our mutual benefit, and to work towards near-term agreements that build confidence on both sides. Our task is not an easy one. We must address the immediate concerns that are impacting our industries and citizens and simultaneously identify tomorrow's issues. We must maintain a partnership, and engage in this process to solve what may seem unsolvable. We conduct our talks under the wary eyes of politicians, business leaders and workers in both of our countries. We both face challenges of domestic protectionism and questions about the merits of trade and globalization. There is a growing skepticism in each country about the others' intentions. Unfortunately, in America this is manifesting itself as anti-China sentiment as China becomes a symbol of the real and imagined downside of global competition. That argument is fueled by the evidence of persistent trade and financial imbalances. China has its own opposition, with its own set of arguments. The purpose of this on-going dialogue is to have candid discussions and find ways to ease, rather than increase, these tensions. A look back demonstrates, of course, that increasing our ties has benefited both our people. China's presence in the global economy has raised living standards in China and fueled growth around the world. Ten years ago, China was an outsider in the global marketplace; other countries set the rules and China was expected to abide by them. Now, China is a member of the WTO, a dynamic economic force and a model for other developing countries. China is able to help lead and define the rules. Neither America nor China can shrink from the role we have carved for ourselves in the world. We both must exercise leadership, in positive and productive ways. I have no doubt that our proud, strong countries can fulfill this responsibility. The United States is supportive of a stable and prosperous China. We are not afraid of the competition. We welcome it, because competition makes us stronger. It is therefore in our interest to support China's continuing efforts to open its economy. As I have said before, our policy disagreements are not about the direction of change, but about the pace of change. Americans have many virtues ---we are a hard-working, innovative people---but we are also impatient. Even the notion of a "dialogue" may seem too passive for America's action-oriented ethic. It is up to us, over these two days and in the work that follows, to show that words are precursors to action. The SED allows us to look forward, together, and define our future bilateral economic relationship. We are creating a roadmap for the future. So, welcome again, Madame Wu, distinguished Ministers and colleagues. Let's get to work.

UPDATE: U.S. AND CHINA TO HOLD SECOND MEETING OF THE STRATEGIC ECONOMIC DIALOGUE IN WASHINGTON NEXT WEEK This Department of Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. will host the second meeting of the U.S.-China Strategic Economic Dialogue next week. Secretary Paulson will be joined by Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns, Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez, Labor Secretary Elaine Chao, Health and Human Services Secretary Michael Leavitt, Transportation Secretary Mary Peters, Energy Secretary Sam Bodman, U.S. Trade Representative Susan Schwab, EPA Administrator Stephen Johnson, Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte, and other Administration officials. In addition, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben S. Bernanke will participate in the Strategic Economic Dialogue discussions. The opening session will include a presentation by the Honorable Henry Kissinger. The second meeting of the U.S.-China Strategic Economic Dialogue will review progress on work plans agreed to at the December meeting and continue discussions in areas including policies to address economic imbalances to ensure continued global growth, China's economic development and further integration into the world trading system, greater openness of markets, cooperation on energy security and the environment, and innovation. The dialogue was launched by Presidents Bush and Hu in September 2006. The talks will take place May 22-23 at the Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium. The following events are open to media with SED credentials only: What: Opening Statements and Introductions When: Tuesday, May 22, 2007, 9:15 a.m. EDT Where: Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium 1301 Constitution Ave., NW Washington, DC Note: SED Credentialed press may begin setting up at 5:00 a.m., equipment must be in place for security sweep no later than 6:00 a.m. What: Presentation by the Honorable Henry Kissinger When: Tuesday, May 22, 2007, 9:45 a.m. EDT Where: Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium 1301 Constitution Ave., NW Washington, DC What: Family Photo When: Wednesday, May 23, 2007, 8:00 a.m. EDT Where: Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium 1301 Constitution Ave., NW Washington, DC Note: SED Credentialed photographers may begin setting up at 5:00 a.m., equipment must be in place for security sweep no later than 6:00 a.m. What: Closing Statements When: Wednesday, May 23, 2007, 10:45 a.m. EDT Where: Environmental Protection Agency East Building 1201 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Washington, DC Note: SED Credentialed press must be pre-set by 10:00 a.m. What: U.S. Delegation Press Conference When: Wednesday, May 23, 2007, 11:30 a.m. EDT Where: Environmental Protection Agency East Building 1201 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Washington, DC Links to press materials: DECEMBER: 11/28/2006: U.S. and China to Hold First Meeting of the Strategic Economic Dialogue in Beijing Next Month 12/13/2006: Introductory Remarks by Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. at the U.S.-China Strategic Economic Dialogue 12/13/2006: Opening Statement by Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. before the Opening Session of the U.S.-China Strategic Economic Dialogue 12/15/2006: Fact Sheet 12/15/2006: Statement from Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. at the Closing of the U.S.-China Strategic Economic Dialogue 12/15/2006: Statement by Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. at the Closing Press Conference SEPTEMBER 09/20/2006: U.S.-China Statement on Strategic Economic Dialogue 09/20/2006: Fact Sheet on Creation of the U.S.-China Strategic Economic Dialogue 09/21/2006: Strategic Economic Dialogue Press Briefing Transcript

TREASURY IDENTIFIES FINANCIAL NETWORK OF ISMAEL ZAMBADA GARCIA The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) today designated six companies and twelve individuals in Mexico that act as fronts for Ismael Zambada Garcia, the leader of a Sinaloa, Mexico-based drug trafficking organization. Ismael Zambada Garcia was named as a Tier I drug kingpin by President George W. Bush on May 31, 2002, pursuant to the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act (Kingpin Act). "Zambada Garcia is one of Mexico's most powerful drug kingpins and a fugitive from justice," said Adam Szubin, Director of the Office of Foreign Assets Control. "Today's action further exposes the network of front companies and financial associates that Zambada Garcia uses to hide and launder his drug monies and cuts them off from the U.S. financial system." The OFAC designation targets Nueva Industria de Ganaderos de Culiacan S.A. de C.V., a large, Sinaloa, Mexico-based cattle and dairy company. Zambada Garcia's former spouse, Rosario Niebla Cardoza, and their four adult daughters, Maria Teresa, Midiam Patricia, Monica del Rosario, and Modesta Zambada Niebla, are also designated today on the basis of their role in the ownership or control of Zambada Garcia front companies and assets in Mexico. Other companies designated today are Establo Puerto Rico S.A. de C.V., Jamaro Constructores S.A. de C.V., Multiservicios Jeviz S.A. de C.V., Estancia Infantil Niño Feliz S.C., and Rosario Niebla Cardoza A. en P. Ismael Zambada Garcia is a U.S. fugitive and the State Department has offered a $5 million dollar reward for information leading to his arrest. In January 2003, the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia returned an indictment against Ismael Zambada Garcia and two key lieutenants, Javier Torres Felix and his son Vicente Zambada Niebla. Javier Torres Felix was extradited to the United States in December 2006. "The Zambada Garcia organization cannot hide behind front companies like the Sinaloa cattle and dairy business," said DEA Administrator Karen P. Tandy. "We're working with OFAC to expose these traffickers' front companies for what they really are – not legitimate businesses, but illegal cash cows that fuel the drug trade, its violence and corruption. We're relentlessly following the financial trail to deprive these traffickers of their assets, draining the lifeblood from their criminal drug enterprises." This action is part of an ongoing U.S. Government effort under the Kingpin Act to apply financial measures against significant foreign drug kingpins worldwide. More than 300 businesses and individuals associated with the 62 drug kingpins have been designated since June 2000. Today's designation would not have been possible without key support from the Drug Enforcement Administration. Today's designation action freezes any assets the 18 designees may have under U.S. jurisdiction and prohibits U.S. persons from conducting financial or commercial transactions with these individuals and entities. Penalties for violations of the Kingpin Act range from civil penalties of up to $1,075,000 per violation to more severe criminal penalties. Criminal penalties for corporate officers may include up to 30 years in prison and fines of up to $5,000,000. Criminal fines for corporations may reach $10,000,000. Other individuals face up to 10 years in prison for criminal violations of the Kingpin Act.

UNDER SECRETARY FOR DOMESTIC FINANCE ROBERT K. STEEL REMARKS BEFORE THE COUNCIL ON COMPETITIVENESS "STRENGTHENING OUR CAPITAL MARKETS COMPETITIVENESS" Thank you very much. Deborah, thank you for that introduction and to everyone gathered here this morning, thank you for welcoming me. It is a privilege to be here at the Council on Competitiveness. You are fortunate to have Deborah's strong leadership. She has served here at the Council since 1993 and has helped your organization develop a great reputation of excellence. For nearly two decades, the Council on Competitiveness has brought together our nation's business, academic and labor leaders to help us chart a course for global competitiveness. Your mission reflects a commitment to the future prosperity of all Americans and enhanced U.S. competitiveness in a global economy. These important objectives echo one of Secretary Paulson's key goals for the Treasury Department – to encourage the competitiveness of U.S. capital markets. Strengthening our Bridge Today, Secretary Paulson announced the first stage of his plan to enhance U.S. capital markets competitiveness. These steps focus on strengthening financial reporting to enhance investor protection and encourage a vibrant, sustainable auditing profession. I will discuss today's announcement in more detail, but first would like to offer some general perspectives on how we think about issues of competitiveness. For some, optimism about the future of our capital markets comes less easily today. We at Treasury do not share that view. Instead, we start with the fact that our markets are the strongest in the world. Earlier in this decade, our markets passed safely through several perils, including the burst of the technology bubble, a terrorist attack and a series of corporate accounting scandals. Today, our economy is healthy – the labor market is strong, core inflation is contained and we are transitioning from an unsustainable to a sustainable rate of growth. Our markets are deep, vibrant and efficient, and our financial system remains the envy of the world. We plan to keep things that way. Maintaining this leadership requires having the confidence to continually self-assess our position and when appropriate, make changes or adjustments. For that reason, Secretary Paulson has asked the Treasury Department to engage in a broad, ongoing initiative to strengthen the competitiveness of our capital markets. Our efforts kicked off last November with a major speech by Secretary Paulson in New York, which served to frame the issues. Since his address, an enriching period of public discourse has followed, highlighted by the release of three separate and independent reports. In March, Secretary Paulson hosted a conference on capital markets competitiveness. We heard from key policymakers, consumer advocates, business representatives and academics, each with different perspectives on ways to keep U.S. capital markets the strongest and most innovative in the world. The many voices involved both in our conference and the three reports have illuminated the vital role capital markets play in our economy. Markets serve as a bridge, connecting suppliers of capital with users of capital. They connect those who have resources to invest with those who could use this capital to turn new ideas into businesses, generating jobs and contributing to the economy. The most effective bridges allow participants and their capital to cross from one side to the other with as little friction as possible. Effective bridges facilitate an open, transparent flow of information, and are built on strong pillars of investor protection, market integrity and risk mitigation. The structure, management and regulation of a bridge are each crucial. We seek to ensure that the policies in place for managing our bridge are effective in protecting investors and consumers, while at the same time enhancing the entrepreneurial spirit and innovation that has made America great. As keepers of our bridge, we must carefully consider what measurements we will use to gauge the strength of our markets, not just for today but also for the future. The indicators we examine include more than just public offerings. IPOs have become an often-referenced benchmark of capital markets competitiveness, but focusing solely on that measurement is too simple and not forward-looking enough. We should start with a global vision and look broadly at measures that gauge our ability to foster human capital, encourage innovation and reward efficiency. As these conditions are met, we will continue to excel in areas such as: * skills for asset management; * alternative asset management, such as venture capital, private equity and hedge funds; * trading and execution models characterized by leading-edge technology; * innovation in all types of investor products, including listed and unlisted derivatives; * and the accessible advice of a trusted advisor for governments, companies and investors. By most measurements we remain the uncontested world leader. We are well ahead of the rest of the world in mutual fund and hedge fund assets, venture capital and private equity, securitization, syndicated loans, and yield in equities and exchange-traded derivatives. * 45% of global mutual fund assets are housed in the U.S., compared to 35% in Europe and 11% in Asia. * Of the $2.1 trillion in global hedge fund assets, $1.5 trillion resides here in the U.S. * Worldwide, there are 351 hedge funds with at least a $1 billion in assets, and almost 70% (241) of them are located in the U.S. * Last year, more than 80% of outstanding OTC foreign exchange derivatives worldwide were in the U.S. Dollar. * The number of futures contracts traded on organized exchanges in the U.S. in 2006 was 1.3 times higher than what was traded in Europe and more than 5 times higher than trading volume in Asia. Let's be straightforward here: Financial markets in the U.S. are second to none. Our exchanges in New York and Chicago, asset management industry based all across the U.S., and commercial and investment banks with a global reach are unrivaled on an international scale. Additionally, our accounting and auditing professions, legal advice and management and consulting industries are the strongest in the world. Globalization is an Opportunity to Advance our Leadership Certainly, our markets are not immune to challenges. But we view challenges as an opportunity to improve – to make the best capital markets even better. Often when you are doing well proves to be the best time to focus on improvement. We are a nation and an economy that overcomes challenges and creates solutions. Americans are a creative, innovative people; we are entrepreneurs, risk-takers, and most of all competitors and winners. Secretary Paulson's capital markets competitiveness initiative is about using recent trends like globalization as an opportunity to leverage our competitiveness and bring even greater benefits to our economy and citizens. Today, emerging markets throughout the world are rapidly expanding and progressing. More and more countries are borrowing our expertise, emulating our success and moving to market-based systems. As a result their economies are growing and becoming stronger. Leaders around the world now realize that a market-driven economy has the best chance of producing economic growth and productivity, a higher standard of living and lower rates of unemployment. Without a doubt, financial capital is more mobile now than ever before, and with more choices, investors are able to access capital all over the world that was once available only in the U.S. This development is not something to fear. In fact, during my career in the financial services industry, I worked with many companies to take advantage of globalization, helping firms develop new markets overseas and working with small companies to become big corporations. Just as athletes perform better under the pressure of healthy competition, so too can we use this opportunity to raise our game and further enhance our competitive edge. A New Approach to Regulation The world has continued to evolve. Competition has become more flexible, but there are many things we can do to compete more effectively, including addressing internal challenges that our system itself has created over time. The current U.S. regulatory structure has been evolved together over 150 years – with act on top of act, initiative on top of initiative – so that today we have a series of individual regulations, each designed in response to specific circumstances and lacking an overarching set of guiding principles. This creates a difficult environment for both regulators and those being regulated. Certainly, regulators must find ways to appropriately balance issues of investor protection, market integrity and systemic risk, as well as the historic tension between state and federal boundaries. In addition, our structure was born institutionally focused and now is adapting into one that regulates activities rather than entities. As we heard from participants at our conference, these ambiguities generate inconsistent applications and reduce predictability of outcomes. If we were starting fresh and had a blank page, no one would choose to draw a regulatory structure that resembles our current picture. Too often, however, discussions about ideal regulatory philosophy and structure have been reduced to a black and white debate of rules vs. principles. This oversimplification undermines the complexity of these issues, and is not constructive. As Chairman Bernanke said earlier this week, it is a mischaracterization to draw a "sharp distinction" between the approach to financial regulation in the U.K. and the U.S. In fact, the U.K.'s so-called "principles-based" system supplements their eleven principles with over 8,000 pages of rules, and our system in the U.S. utilizes some principles. At Treasury, our goal is to elevate public thinking, so that we are not engaging in an either/or debate. The optimal construct should balance both rules and principles. We need a new, modernized approach to regulation – one that is risk-based, globally oriented and flexible in scope. A prudent approach recognizes that we should be guided by principles at an overarching level. But regulation at the retail level will require some focus on rules, particularly to protect less sophisticated market participants, where investor protection must be a paramount focus. Other key elements of this risk-based approach are: * Benefit-Burden Analysis – We reject calling for regulation just for regulation's sake. Instead, we should engage in rigorous cost-benefit analysis of proposed and current regulation. * Materiality – Regulators need to focus on issues that are material to investors and consumers. It is not simply a matter of collecting more material to review; rather, we should have measures in place to ensure that we are collecting appropriate, useful material. * Engagement between regulators and the regulated – We need to facilitate a move for constructive dialogue between regulators and the entities they regulate. There should be a clear process for businesses to engage with their regulators when they have questions or need clarification. In short, the modernized regulatory regime we seek should be, in the words of Chairman Bernanke, "principles-based, risk-focused, and consistently applied." Other Components of Treasury's Competitiveness Initiative We have already made some progress toward these goals. For instance, earlier this year the President's Working Group on Financial Markets (PWG) – chaired by the Secretary of the Treasury – released principles and guidelines for private pools of capital. Private pools of capital, which include hedge funds, private equity and venture capital, exemplify the creativity and innovation that have helped make our financial markets the strongest in the world. These principles and guidelines show that issues of systemic risk and investor protection are best addressed by a combination of market discipline and government oversight. They put forth a forward-looking, principles-based framework specifically designed to possess the flexibility to deal with global and dynamic nature of modern capital markets. These principles are not an endorsement of the status quo. They represent a uniform view from a broad group of key independent regulators that heightened vigilance is necessary and desired to address market developments. Treasury is currently actively engaged to ensure the adoption of these principles among each respective group of stakeholders – investors, pool managers, and creditors and counterparties. Other important steps toward modernized regulation are being taken by the regulators, and Treasury strongly supports these steps. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 brought much needed reform and restored investor confidence. This successful piece of legislation is now being replicated around the world. Public companies have faced significant costs and challenges in the application of Sarbanes-Oxley's Section 404 internal control requirements, but we do not believe new legislation is required to amend it. A reinterpretation is currently in progress, which will reduce unintended and unnecessary costs of Section 404 to small businesses. Treasury supports the work of the SEC and the PCAOB, who are actively engaged in replacing Auditing Standard 2 (AS2) with Auditing Standard 5 (AS5). These efforts will make the implementation process of Sarbanes-Oxley section 404 more risk-based. As a result, we are optimistic that this change will achieve the appropriate balance. Another encouraging development that is underway at the SEC is the move to allow foreign companies to file their financial statements according to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) without reconciling to US GAAP. As contemplated, the U.S. would recognize both major accounting languages – US GAAP and IFRS. However, the auditing industry faces other challenges, which if remedied will enhance our competitiveness. These solutions will take time to develop, but we will begin to lay the groundwork now for longer-term improvements. As he announced in an op-ed this morning, Secretary Paulson has asked us to establish a non-partisan, public federal advisory committee that will develop proposals for creating a stronger, sustainable auditing profession. We have asked former SEC Chairman Arthur Levitt and former SEC Chief Accountant Donald Nicolaisen to co-chair this effort. This soon-to-be-chartered committee will develop recommendations to address challenges facing this profession, such as industry concentration, competition, financial soundness, and employee recruitment and retention. The group will focus on three areas: (1) audit market competition and concentration, (2) human capital and (3) financial resources. We will solicit a broad range of individuals representing views from the auditing profession, public companies, investor community, and other financial market participants. We intend to solidify membership this summer and anticipate a first meeting in the fall. Auditing plays a unique role in our economy. A resilient and quality auditing profession is vital to the strength of our capital markets. Of course, management is ultimately responsible for a company's financial statements but requiring these companies to have their financial statements audited by an independent accounting firm enhances investor confidence. Strong, trustworthy auditing helps to encourage entrepreneurs and capital providers to take appropriate risks. At the same time, Treasury will seek solutions that will serve to enhance financial reporting, make the presentation of financial information more meaningful and accessible to investors, and gain a better understanding of why financial restatements have increased over the past decade. We will also encourage managers, directors and investors to focus on long-term value creation while maintaining frequent and accurate financial reporting. Conclusion The steps I have outlined today represent the first in a series of initiatives that we will undertake to strengthen our bridge that connects suppliers and users of capital. The maintenance of this bridge will require that some tolls be paid. These tolls will pay for sound and effective regulation. They enable the free movement of capital, support appropriate protections for consumers and investors, while also encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship. Our markets remain the most liquid, efficient and transparent in the world. And we are committed to maintaining that competitive edge. The world is indeed changing, but we will use this as an opportunity to reassess our position and improve our leadership. As we undergo a period of construction, the work on our bridge will take time and require patience. These issues do not lend themselves to easy fixes. But I am confident that we will succeed, and the legacy we leave behind will be one of enhanced capital markets competitiveness. Thank you.

PAULSON: FINANCIAL REPORTING VITAL TO US MARKET INTEGRITY, STRONG ECONOMY The Financial Times published the following opinion editorial today from U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr., discussing the first stage of his plan to enhance U.S. capital markets competitiveness: The Key Test of Accurate Financial Reporting is Trust By Henry Paulson Accurate and transparent financial reporting is vital to the integrity of our capital markets and the strength of the US economy. In an address last November, I spoke about the importance of strong capital markets, pointing out that capital markets rely on trust. That trust is based on financial information presumed to be accurate and to reflect economic reality. Our capital markets are the best in the world and so is our financial reporting system. We must work to keep them that way. On Thursday, the Treasury department is announcing several important steps to ensure we preserve an efficient financial reporting system that provides reliable information, is supported by a sustainable auditing industry, and has enhanced compatibility with foreign reporting standards. In March, Christopher Cox, the Securities and Exchange Commission chairman, and I co-chaired a conference on capital markets competitiveness. Financial reporting was one of the main topics of discussion. A strong auditing profession is essential for a well-functioning reporting system. The auditor's role is key: to examine financial statements and express an opinion that conveys reasonable, but not absolute, assurance as to the truth and fairness of those statements. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 enhanced financial reporting integrity, including mandating major changes affecting the auditing profession. The act created the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board to replace self-regulation, and mandated auditor independence requirements. As these changes took effect, new challenges arose. We now have fewer major accounting firms, and legitimate questions about the sustainability of the auditing profession's business model. These new challenges require understanding and solutions. To achieve this, the Treasury has asked Arthur Levitt, former SEC chairman, and Donald Nicolaisen, former SEC chief accountant, to serve as co-chairs of a non-partisan committee to address auditing industry concentration, and to consider options available to strengthen the industry's financial soundness and its ability to attract and retain qualified personnel. Through this public forum, investors, advocates, and companies can present a wide range of views, engage in informed debate and provide recommendations. In addition to changes in the auditing profession, Section 404 of Sarbox appropriately emphasised the importance of internal controls over financial reporting. However, implementation has proven more costly and burdensome than originally anticipated. Mr Cox, Mark Olson, PCAOB chairman, and their commissioners and board members have sought to improve the application of Section 404. A more risk-based implementation will be a positive step. Another emerging challenge is the soaring number of financial restatements over the past decade. In 1997, there were 116 restatements; in 2006, there were 1,876, or more than 10 per cent of public companies. Restatements pose significant costs on our capital markets. They have the potential to confuse investors and erode public confidence in financial reporting. Some of these restatements might not be material to investors, and others may simply reflect new accounting standards interpretations. This volume of restatements reflects, in part, the complexity of our financial reporting system. Mr Cox and Robert Herz, Financial Accounting Standard Board chairman, are to be commended for their efforts to reduce that complexity. To complement this move, the Treasury intends to commission a rigorous analysis of factors driving financial restatements, and their impact on investors and the capital markets. The increasing globalisation of our markets also means that we must enhance the comparability of foreign company financial statements. Mr Cox's leadership has been instrumental. He has taken positive steps towards the convergence of US GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards, and eliminating the US GAAP reconciliation requirements for IFRS-reporting foreign companies by 2009. As the SEC has said, its actions are key steps "toward a future regulatory framework in which IFRS may be used on a stand-alone basis by foreign private issuers and possibly also by US issuers." When fully implemented, this will enhance financial statement consistency and facilitate cross-border transactions and cash flows. We will pursue each of these initiatives, and other steps that will be part of the broader competitiveness discussion, to ensure that US capital markets remain efficient, innovative and continue to drive capital to its most productive uses. Our markets must retain the integrity and efficiency that has contributed greatly to prosperity in America and around The writer is US Treasury secretary

May 10

STATEMENT OF DAVID G. NASON NOMINEE FOR ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS AND TO BE A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR THE NATIONAL CONSUMER COOPERATIVE BANK U.S. TREASURY DEPARTMENT BEFORE THE SENATE COMMITTEE ON BANKING, HOUSING AND URBAN AFFAIRS Washington, D.C.- Chairman Reed, Ranking Member Shelby and members of the Committee, thank you for inviting me to appear before you today. I am grateful to President Bush and Secretary Paulson for their trust and confidence in me. I am honored to be here today as the President's nominee to be Assistant Secretary for Financial Institutions at the Treasury Department and to be a member of the Board of Directors for the National Consumer Cooperative Bank, an organization established to assist underserved communities across the nation. I would like to thank my family for their unyielding support of my decision to continue in public service. I'd like to introduce my wife, Nicole, my best friend and closest adviser, who is also a dedicated public servant, and our daughters, Alexandra, 6, and Abigail, 2. My parents George and Ann Nason are also here today. Aside from being very supportive parents, they are two of the greatest grandparents in the world. If confirmed, I look forward to working with Secretary Paulson, Under Secretary Steel and the rest of the Treasury team, along with others in the Administration and Congress, on a variety of important issues impacting our financial institutions. In my current role as Deputy Assistant Secretary, I have had the opportunity to engage on numerous important issues that affect our capital markets and financial institutions, including Treasury's positions on banking and insurance regulation. I also serve as an advisor to Secretary Paulson in his capacity as chair of the President's Working Group on Financial Markets. If confirmed, I will work constructively in my role as Assistant Secretary for Financial Institutions to ensure that the Department faithfully carries out its responsibilities related to financial institutions policy, critical infrastructure protection, and financial education. These topics are diverse, complex, and have a direct impact on the lives of Americans. The legal and regulatory structure imposed on our financial institutions must guard against systemic risk, protect consumers, and enhance their confidence. If confirmed, I will help Secretary Paulson shape and implement his agenda on capital markets competitiveness. I share the Secretary's view that robust and vibrant capital markets are directly tied to future economic prosperity for all Americans. I believe that my prior professional experience has prepared me for this important responsibility. Before coming to Treasury, I served at the Securities and Exchange Commission as counsel to a commissioner. I was there at a critical moment in the SEC's history – when the agency implemented the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the most comprehensive piece of securities legislation in decades. My experience there has contributed significantly in preparing me for this next challenge at the Treasury Department. Prior to the SEC, I spent time in the private sector as an attorney at Covington & Burling where I focused on securities offerings, mergers and acquisitions, and federal tax planning. If confirmed, I would seek to ensure a constructive dialogue with members of Congress and their staffs. I appreciate the time that members of this Committee have taken to consider my nomination, and I would be happy to answer any questions.
Washington, D.C.- Chairman Reed, Ranking Member Shelby and members of the Committee, thank you for inviting me to appear before you today. I am grateful to President Bush and Secretary Paulson for their trust and confidence in me. I am honored to be here today as the President's nominee to be Assistant Secretary for Financial Institutions at the Treasury Department and to be a member of the Board of Directors for the National Consumer Cooperative Bank, an organization established to assist underserved communities across the nation. I would like to thank my family for their unyielding support of my decision to continue in public service. I'd like to introduce my wife, Nicole, my best friend and closest adviser, who is also a dedicated public servant, and our daughters, Alexandra, 6, and Abigail, 2. My parents George and Ann Nason are also here today. Aside from being very supportive parents, they are two of the greatest grandparents in the world. If confirmed, I look forward to working with Secretary Paulson, Under Secretary Steel and the rest of the Treasury team, along with others in the Administration and Congress, on a variety of important issues impacting our financial institutions. In my current role as Deputy Assistant Secretary, I have had the opportunity to engage on numerous important issues that affect our capital markets and financial institutions, including Treasury's positions on banking and insurance regulation. I also serve as an advisor to Secretary Paulson in his capacity as chair of the President's Working Group on Financial Markets. If confirmed, I will work constructively in my role as Assistant Secretary for Financial Institutions to ensure that the Department faithfully carries out its responsibilities related to financial institutions policy, critical infrastructure protection, and financial education. These topics are diverse, complex, and have a direct impact on the lives of Americans. The legal and regulatory structure imposed on our financial institutions must guard against systemic risk, protect consumers, and enhance their confidence. If confirmed, I will help Secretary Paulson shape and implement his agenda on capital markets competitiveness. I share the Secretary's view that robust and vibrant capital markets are directly tied to future economic prosperity for all Americans. I believe that my prior professional experience has prepared me for this important responsibility. Before coming to Treasury, I served at the Securities and Exchange Commission as counsel to a commissioner. I was there at a critical moment in the SEC's history – when the agency implemented the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the most comprehensive piece of securities legislation in decades. My experience there has contributed significantly in preparing me for this next challenge at the Treasury Department. Prior to the SEC, I spent time in the private sector as an attorney at Covington & Burling where I focused on securities offerings, mergers and acquisitions, and federal tax planning. If confirmed, I would seek to ensure a constructive dialogue with members of Congress and their staffs. I appreciate the time that members of this Committee have taken to consider my nomination, and I would be happy to answer any questions.

Fact Sheet
An Open Economy is Vital to United States
Prosperity
Today, President Bush reaffirmed America's continuing commitment to advancing open economies at home and abroad, including open investment and trade.

"The United States has a longstanding commitment to open economies that empower individuals, generate economic opportunity and prosperity for all, and provide the foundation for a free society. . . . A free and open international investment regime is vital for a stable and growing economy, both here at home and throughout the world."
- President George W. Bush

Focusing on the benefits of open investment, Secretary of the Treasury Henry M. Paulson Jr. will moderate a panel discussion on the gains to the United States economy from foreign investment here.

"Foreign investment in the United States strengthens our economy, improves productivity, creates good jobs, and spurs healthy competition. Americans have prospered as foreign companies have put their money to work here."
- Secretary Henry M. Paulson Jr.

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the United States Creates High-Paying Jobs
Foreign companies in the U.S. employed more than 5 million U.S. workers in 2005, providing 4.5% of all private sector employment in the United States.
Manufacturing jobs accounted for 33% of the jobs created by foreign companies in the U.S. (2004 data). The manufacturing sector accounts for just 12% of overall U.S. private sector employment. Thus, FDI is disproportionately bolstering this important sector.
An additional 4.6 million U.S. jobs indirectly depend on foreign investment in the U.S. (2005 data). Foreign companies in the U.S. buy 80% of their inputs from U.S. companies. This additional business indirectly supports almost as many U.S. jobs as FDI creates directly.
Compensation at foreign companies in the U.S. is on average 30% higher than the U.S. national average. Foreign-owned firms paid U.S. workers an average of $63,428 in 2004.
Foreign Direct Investment in the United States Strengthens Our Economy
Foreign firms in the U.S. account for 5.7% of U.S. economic output, as well as 10% of all investment in plant and equipment in the United States.
Foreign firms in the U.S. re-invested $48.6 billion (45% of their income) back into the U.S. economy in 2004. This investment furthers innovation and promotes economic growth.
Foreign firms generate 19% of U.S. exports ($153.9 billion in 2006). This contribution is greater than their overall percentage of U.S. economic output, which means they are doing more than their share to help improve the U.S. trade balance.
Foreign firms in the U.S. generate a disproportionate share of national R&D spending (13%, totaling $29.9 billion). This spending strengthens U.S. global competitiveness in pharmaceuticals, high-tech, and other key sectors and produces innovative products that help to improve our standard of living.
The economic benefits generated by inflows of foreign capital help strengthen economic leadership. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, some pointed with alarm to Japanese purchases of U.S. assets, fearing they foreshadowed the Japanese overtaking our economic leadership. Twenty years later, the resulting jobs and economic growth show those fears were misplaced.
Maintaining U.S. Competitiveness in Attracting FDI Requires Renewed Commitment
At $1.9 trillion, the total stock of FDI in the United States in 2005 was equivalent to 15% of U.S. GDP. Foreign investment in the U.S. is the ultimate vote of confidence in our economy. It signals a long-term belief in the strength of our markets and the skill of our workforce.
In the last few years, the United States has not received as high a share of total worldwide FDI as it did before 2000. This trend could be due to the growth of opportunities in emerging markets, burdensome U.S. legal, regulatory and corporate tax regimes, or the misperception that the United States is no longer open to foreign direct investments.
However, this trend is cause for some concern. In 2000, foreign firms directly employed 5.7 million people in the U.S. (5.1% of the private sector workforce) and indirectly supported 6.5 million more jobs. In 2005, those figures had fallen to 5.1 million (4.7% of the private sector workforce) and 4.6 million, respectively. Foreign firms' R&D spending as a share of total R&D spending in the U.S. has also slightly declined since 2000.
This trend reinforces the need for the United States to renew its commitment to open investment, and to policies that make the U.S. attractive for FDI.
Our National Security Review Process Has Not Restricted the United States' Openness to Foreign Direct Investment
Since 1988, the interagency Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) has carefully reviewed the potential national security impact of proposed foreign investments in the United States.
CFIUS's recently more public profile has created the misconception in some quarters that the United States is becoming less open to foreign investment. However, CFIUS is continuing its long history of fairly, efficiently, and narrowly reviewing individual transactions for national security concerns alone, without any protectionist influence on its decisions.

Less than 10% of foreign investments in U.S. companies were reviewed by CFIUS in 2006, and the average since 2000 is about 5%. The vast majority of foreign investment does not raise national security implications – and is untouched by the CFIUS process.

May 7

REPORT HIGHLIGHTS OFAC’S SUCCESS IN COMBATING NARCOTICS TRAFFICKERS

The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) today released the Impact Report on Economic Sanctions Against Colombian Drug Cartels, which reviews OFAC's highly effective efforts to expose and isolate significant Colombian narcotics traffickers and their associates and to disrupt and dismantle their business empires. "Since it's inception in 1995, the Specially Designated Narcotics Traffickers (SDNT) program has been extremely successful in disrupting the financial operations of Colombian drug lords and stripping the cartels of their ill-gotten gains," said OFAC Director Adam J. Szubin. The Impact Report details the illicit activities of each of the 22 Colombian drug cartel principals and organizations that have been targeted by OFAC. The report also focuses on specific highlights of the SDNT program, including the historic September 2006 plea agreement between the United States Government and the leaders of Colombia's infamous Cali drug cartel, Miguel and Gilberto Rodriguez Orejuela. This sanctions program was established by Executive Order 12978. "We believe the report will be valuable to the Congress and law enforcement agencies, both domestic and abroad. The report will also inform foreign governments, fostering closer coordination in fighting the scourge of narcotics trafficking," Szubin continued. The Impact Report on Economic Sanctions Against Colombian Drug Cartels, as well as additional information about the SDNT program, can be accessed through the following link:

2007 NATIONAL MONEY LAUNDERING STRATEGY RELEASED

The U.S. Departments of Treasury, Justice, and Homeland Security today joined together in issuing the 2007 National Money Laundering Strategy, a report detailing continued efforts to dismantle money laundering and terrorist financing networks and bring these criminals to justice. "The 2007 National Money Laundering Strategy is a direct result of close cooperation by the Departments of Justice, Treasury and Homeland Security, along with our foreign counterparts, and signifies our collective commitment to fight money laundering," said Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Justice Department's Criminal Division. "Implementation of this strategy will greatly assist in efforts to seize and forfeit millions in illegal proceeds that flow through the international financial system." The 2007 Strategy addresses the priority threats and vulnerabilities identified by the Money Laundering Threat Assessment released in 2006, the product of an extremely valuable investigation into the current and emerging trends and techniques used by criminals to raise, move, and launder proceeds. The Assessment – the first government-wide analysis of its kind – brought together the expertise of regulatory, law enforcement, and investigative officials from across the government, culminating in a comprehensive analysis of specific money laundering methods, patterns of abuse, geographical concentrations, and the associated legal and regulatory regimes. "The 2007 National Money Laundering Strategy builds upon the groundbreaking work of the Money Laundering Threat Assessment," said Pat O'Brien, Treasury's Assistant Secretary for Terrorist Financing. "Focusing on well-established money laundering methods and emerging trends identified in the Assessment, we have created a robust strategy for combating money laundering, deterring criminals, and addressing areas vulnerable to exploitation." The 2007 Strategy builds on initiatives and programs pioneered in preceding National Money Laundering Strategies. The constant searching by criminals for new ways to launder and hide dirty money is evidence of our successful regulatory and law enforcement efforts to safeguard the banking system. With an aim at continuing these robust efforts, the 2007 Strategy places an emphasis on bolstering the efficiency of the anti-money laundering processes currently in place. "In every type of case, from human smuggling and drug trafficking to intellectual property rights violations and illegal alien employment schemes, the need to hide and move ill-gotten gains is a constant. ICE's anti-money laundering initiatives are at the forefront of attacking existing and emerging money laundering threats" said Julie L. Myers, Assistant Secretary for Immigration and Customs Enforcement at the Department of Homeland Security. "ICE's trade transparency unit, bulk cash smuggling initiative and programs targeting illegal money service businesses and stored value card schemes are making it less profitable to commit these crimes." Additionally, the 2007 Strategy focuses on leveling the playing field internationally, helping to ensure U.S. financial institutions are not disadvantaged through the implementation of controls and standards to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. Indeed, money laundering is a global threat the United States is working to address through international bodies, including the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), and through direct private sector outreach in regions around the world.

Testimony of Treasury
Acting International Tax Counsel
John Harrington
Before the Senate Finance Committee on
Offshore Tax Evasion
Washington, D.C.--Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member Grassley, and distinguished Members of the Committee, thank you for the opportunity to participate this morning and discuss the serious problem of offshore tax evasion.
Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member Grassley, and distinguished Members of the Committee, thank you for the opportunity to participate this morning and discuss the serious problem of offshore tax evasion.
Introduction

From the standpoint of tax administration, offshore tax evasion historically has been a very difficult area to address. Questionable use of low- or no-tax jurisdictions has been an issue for decades. Globalization, however, has made foreign investment and foreign activities common, with overseas markets becoming an increasingly important source of income for U.S. individuals and businesses.

Individuals invest in foreign entities for a variety of reasons. In most instances, these investments represent legitimate business transactions, using foreign entities in ways that are typical for international commerce. At times, however, foreign entities can be used for tax evasion. For example, some individuals invest through a jurisdiction with a reputation for secrecy and opaqueness, hoping to stymie the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in its administration of the Internal Revenue Code. Others try to hide income from the IRS by setting up elaborate business structures and financial arrangements, some components of which are located offshore.

These varied scenarios make it clear that a one-size-fits-all approach will not work to stop offshore tax abuse while continuing to permit legitimate cross-border transactions, which are vital to the United States' participation in the global economy. This is why the Treasury Department has undertaken a multi-faceted approach to deal with the problem of offshore tax evasion. I would like to describe the actions we have taken and continue to take, especially regarding information exchange, to deal with this difficult but important issue. It is critical to bear in mind that this has been a long-term problem, and we must continue to take a long-term view in combating offshore tax evasion, while managing expectations about the speed with which progress can be made in addressing it.

The Treasury Department is very concerned about the use of offshore jurisdictions to evade U.S. tax. There plainly have been abuses in this area. We have been aggressively pursuing such abuses, and we intend to continue doing so.

We have sought to target our efforts on the sources of abuse and avoid actions that are so blunt that they hinder the legitimate cross-border trade and investment activities, which are so critical to U.S. business and U.S. jobs. Cross-border transactions are now standard business operations, as globalization has led to increased cross-border investment opportunities. We have to make sure that our tax rules reflect the current economic environment, without hurting the competitiveness of U.S. workers and businesses.

Regulatory and Administrative Actions

As part of our overall effort to improve compliance, the Treasury Department and the IRS have taken a number of important steps on the administrative front and are continuing to work on other avenues to address offshore tax abuses. Although determined tax evaders may flaunt the tax rules, some taxpayers opportunistically seek to take advantage of ambiguous or outdated tax rules. Accordingly, we modify or update U.S. tax rules when we determine that they are being used to perpetrate such abuse. Recent published guidance projects that will improve compliance and that target potential areas of abuse include:

Foreign Tax Credit: We have taken strong steps to halt misuse of the foreign tax credit. In November 2006, we issued final regulations regarding the proper allocation of partnership expenditures for foreign taxes. In March 2007, we issued proposed regulations that would disallow foreign tax credits tied to participation in certain artificially engineered, highly structured transactions. In August 2006, we issued proposed regulations that would address the inappropriate separation of creditable foreign taxes from foreign source income. We intend to make appropriate modifications and finalize both sets of proposed regulations as soon as possible.

: We have taken strong steps to halt misuse of the foreign tax credit. In November 2006, we issued final regulations regarding the proper allocation of partnership expenditures for foreign taxes. In March 2007, we issued proposed regulations that would disallow foreign tax credits tied to participation in certain artificially engineered, highly structured transactions. In August 2006, we issued proposed regulations that would address the inappropriate separation of creditable foreign taxes from foreign source income. We intend to make appropriate modifications and finalize both sets of proposed regulations as soon as possible.

Transfer Pricing: We have produced, and continue to produce, significant guidance in the area of transfer pricing. In an increasingly globalized economy, cross-border transactions between controlled entities present significant compliance challenges, making guidance in the transfer pricing area an important part of our administrative efforts to address noncompliance. In August 2006, we issued temporary and final regulations addressing the treatment of cross-border services, and followed them up with additional guidance in December 2006. We issued proposed transfer-pricing regulations addressing cost-sharing in August 2005. We intend to finalize both sets of regulations, with appropriate modifications.

: We have produced, and continue to produce, significant guidance in the area of transfer pricing. In an increasingly globalized economy, cross-border transactions between controlled entities present significant compliance challenges, making guidance in the transfer pricing area an important part of our administrative efforts to address noncompliance. In August 2006, we issued temporary and final regulations addressing the treatment of cross-border services, and followed them up with additional guidance in December 2006. We issued proposed transfer-pricing regulations addressing cost-sharing in August 2005. We intend to finalize both sets of regulations, with appropriate modifications.

Other Abusive Transactions: We have also shut down arrangements that utilized foreign jurisdictions to perpetuate abuse of the Internal Revenue Code. For example, in October 2006, we published proposed regulations regarding the Federal tax treatment of annuity contracts. These proposed regulations address a type of widely marketed transaction in which taxpayers claimed to be able to defer or avoid gain on the exchange of highly appreciated property for the issuance of annuity contracts. Recent Congressional hearings have highlighted how taxpayers were applying prior law treatment of these contracts to facilitate abusive private annuity arrangements, often involving offshore issuers. The proposed regulations, when adopted as final, will shut down those arrangements.

: We have also shut down arrangements that utilized foreign jurisdictions to perpetuate abuse of the Internal Revenue Code. For example, in October 2006, we published proposed regulations regarding the Federal tax treatment of annuity contracts. These proposed regulations address a type of widely marketed transaction in which taxpayers claimed to be able to defer or avoid gain on the exchange of highly appreciated property for the issuance of annuity contracts. Recent Congressional hearings have highlighted how taxpayers were applying prior law treatment of these contracts to facilitate abusive private annuity arrangements, often involving offshore issuers. The proposed regulations, when adopted as final, will shut down those arrangements.

The IRS has also undertaken several compliance initiatives, including the Offshore Voluntary Compliance Initiative, aimed at taxpayers who used offshore payment cards or other offshore financial arrangements to hide their income, and the Offshore Credit Card Program, designed to identify taxpayers who use offshore bank accounts to hide income and offshore credit cards issued by secrecy jurisdiction banks to repatriate the unreported income. The IRS is continually monitoring this area for opportunities to implement new programs that will stop abusive transactions and improve compliance.

Obtaining Information from Other Jurisdictions

In most cases, however, the problem of offshore tax abuse lies not with our tax rules but with attempts to hide from them. Accordingly, to enforce our tax laws, we have to exchange information with other countries. Information exchange is an area in which the Treasury Department has been working assiduously for several years, and our steady and persistent efforts are bearing fruit.

In today's global economy, countries must be able to obtain and exchange the information needed to enforce their domestic tax laws. A key element of U.S. tax treaties, therefore, is the provision for exchange of information between the tax authorities. Under tax treaties, the competent authority (i.e., the tax authorities designated under the tax treaty) of one country may request from the other competent authority such information as may be relevant for the proper enforcement of the first country's tax laws. The information provided by the other country is subject to the strict domestic confidentiality protections that generally apply to taxpayer information. Because access to information from other countries is critically important to the full and fair enforcement of the U.S. tax laws, information exchange is a priority for the United States in its tax treaty program.

A tax treaty is not feasible or appropriate in all cases, however. In some cases, there simply may not be the type of cross-border tax issues between the United States and the foreign country that are best resolved by treaty. For example, in the case of a country that does not impose significant income taxes, there may be little possibility of the double taxation of income that tax treaties are designed to address. In cases where a full tax treaty is not appropriate or feasible, the Treasury Department seeks to provide for the bilateral exchange of tax information by entering into a tax information exchange agreement ("TIEA") with the other country.

Information Exchange Generally

There are three primary forms of information exchange.

Exchange of information on request: Exchange of information on request occurs when the competent authority of one country asks for particular information regarding specific taxpayers from the competent authority of another country.

Exchange of information on request occurs when the competent authority of one country asks for particular information regarding specific taxpayers from the competent authority of another country.

Automatic exchange of information: Information that is exchanged automatically is typically information comprised of many individual cases of the same type. Usually, this type of information exchange consists of details of income arising in the source country (e.g., interest, dividends, royalties, or pensions). This information is obtained on a routine basis (generally through reporting of the payments by the payer) by the sending country and is thus available for transmission to its treaty partners.

: Information that is exchanged automatically is typically information comprised of many individual cases of the same type. Usually, this type of information exchange consists of details of income arising in the source country ( interest, dividends, royalties, or pensions). This information is obtained on a routine basis (generally through reporting of the payments by the payer) by the sending country and is thus available for transmission to its treaty partners.

Spontaneous exchange of information: Information is exchanged spontaneously when a country, having obtained information in the course of administering its own tax laws, which it believes will be of interest to one of its treaty partners for tax purposes, passes on the information without the latter having asked for it.

: Information is exchanged spontaneously when a country, having obtained information in the course of administering its own tax laws, which it believes will be of interest to one of its treaty partners for tax purposes, passes on the information without the latter having asked for it.
Tax Treaties

Tax treaties typically permit all three types of information exchange. Both the United States Model Income Tax Convention (U.S. Model Tax Convention) and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development Model Tax Convention on Income and on Capital (the OECD Model Tax Convention) provide for broad information exchange and do not limit the form or manner in which information exchange can take place. For example, Article 26 of the U.S. Model Tax Convention generally provides that "the competent authorities of the Contracting States [the treaty partners] shall exchange such information as may be relevant for carrying out the provisions of this Convention or of the domestic laws of the Contracting States concerning taxes of every kind imposed by a Contracting State to the extent that the taxation thereunder is not contrary to the Convention, including information relating to the assessment or collection of, the enforcement or prosecution in respect of, or the determination of appeals in relation to, such taxes." The Article confirms that each Contracting State must maintain and protect the confidentiality of the tax information it receives from the other State, with disclosure permitted only to persons or authorities (including courts and administrative bodies) involved in the assessment, collection, or administration of, the enforcement or prosecution in respect of, or the determination of appeals in relation to, such taxes, or the oversight of such functions.

The Article further provides that each Contracting State "shall use its information gathering measures to obtain the requested information, even though that other State may not need such information for its own purpose." Thus, a treaty partner may not decline to supply information to the other treaty partner merely because the first treaty partner has no domestic interest in the information. For example, a country may not refuse to provide information on request about the holder of a bank account simply because the country does not tax interest and, therefore, does not collect such information.

Article 26 permits a Contracting State to refuse to share information in certain specified cases, however. A Contracting State may refuse (a) to carry out administrative measures at variance with the laws and administrative practice of that or of the other Contracting State; (b) to supply information that is not obtainable under the laws or in the normal course of the administration of that or of the other Contracting State; or (c) to supply information that would disclose any trade, business, industrial, commercial, or professional secret or trade process, or information the disclosure of which would be contrary to public policy. The Article specifically prohibits, however, a treaty partner from refusing to obtain or exchange information because of bank secrecy rules.

The information exchange article in the OECD Model Tax Convention has substantially similar provisions to those described above.

TIEAs

Compared to tax treaties, TIEAs are a more recent phenomenon. In 1983, as part of the Caribbean Basin Initiative, Congress granted the Treasury Department the authority to enter into bilateral or multilateral TIEAs with designated countries in the Caribbean and Central America. This authority was extended in 1986 to allow the Treasury Department to enter into bilateral TIEAs with other countries.

There are several items that are essential to the United States when negotiating a TIEA. First, the TIEA must provide for the exchange of information on request for both criminal and civil tax matters. Many jurisdictions are more willing to exchange information with respect to criminal tax matters, but such a restriction would greatly limit the utility of a TIEA from a U.S. standpoint. Second, the TIEA must provide for the exchange of information even if such information relates to a person who is not a resident or national of the United States or the TIEA partner. We may be more interested in the beneficial owner of an entity formed under the jurisdiction of the TIEA partner than we are in the entity itself. Finally, the TIEA must provide for the disclosure of information regardless of local "confidentiality" laws that may prohibit such disclosure, including laws relating to bank secrecy or bearer shares. Indeed, such laws may be one of the principal attractions for offshore tax evaders.

Many of our TIEA partners have small tax administrations, and the TIEAs acknowledge this reality. Accordingly, a TIEA often will specify the details that a request for information under the TIEA should contain and also require the IRS to explain why it is making the request. Although each TIEA partner is usually expected to bear the routine costs of fulfilling its obligations under the agreement, TIEAs often require the requesting party to bear "extraordinary costs." This type of feature is often necessary to induce a small jurisdiction to agree to a TIEA.

Information Exchange Is Not Just a Bilateral Issue

The United States is not the only country that has encountered the problem of offshore tax evasion, but it has been a leader in increasing worldwide standards of information exchange to combat such evasion. We have worked with other countries, particularly through the OECD, to raise international standards of information exchange. Although exchange of taxpayer information is effected on a bilateral basis, pursuant to a tax treaty or TIEA, the information exchange practices of third countries matter significantly. Some of the more complicated cases may involve transactions in several jurisdictions, requiring exchange of information with multiple jurisdictions. Thus, the adoption of high standards of international information exchange facilitates our ability to obtain the information we need through our agreements, thereby promoting the sound and effective administration of U.S. tax laws.

We have made great strides in raising international standards. It is now rare for a country to insist that it can only exchange information in which it has a domestic tax interest. In addition, the countries that assert that they cannot provide information because of bank secrecy are becoming fewer and fewer.

Improving the quality of the information available for exchange (e.g., removing bank secrecy and eliminating the requirement of a domestic tax interest) is one of the most important developments in the last few years. In other words, access to relevant information is more important than the method of exchange (e.g., whether automatic or not). In particular, automatic exchange does no good if the underlying information is too limited to be of help.

We also have to make sure that tax information is properly protected. Under U.S. law, we cannot exchange taxpayer information unless we know the other country will protect the confidentiality of that information.

Exchange of non-taxpayer-specific information is also important. Countries often share experiences and schemes that they have encountered. For example, the Treasury Department recently issued proposed foreign tax credit regulations to shut down abusive foreign tax credit "generator" transactions. We learned about these transactions from foreign tax authorities. This kind of communications can be as important as the more traditional exchange of information.

The IRS has been actively involved in the development of several multilateral information exchange programs. The Joint International Tax Shelter Information Centre (JITSIC) was formed by tax authorities in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. The objectives of JITSIC are to deter promotion of and investment in abusive tax schemes, particularly through information exchange and knowledge sharing. IRS Commissioner Everson has described JITSIC as having sharply improved IRS knowledge and understanding in a number of important international tax areas.

In addition to JITSIC, in January 2006 the IRS and the tax administrations of nine other countries agreed to the establishment of the so-called "Leeds Castle" Group. Under this arrangement, the commissioners of the revenue agencies of China, India, and South Korea agreed to meet regularly with their counterparts from the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, Canada, France and Germany to consider and discuss issues of global and national tax administration in their respective countries. By providing additional opportunities to share information and experience, these organizations are a significant tool in combating offshore evasion.

Taking Stock of Information Exchange

Successes in information exchange do not come overnight. We have the access to information that we have today due to years of patient negotiations and cultivation of information exchange relationships. Moreover, new efforts today may not bear fruit until years from now. For that reason, we are committed to a multi-year approach to expanding our information exchange network. It is important to take a long-term perspective. At times, there have been criticism that we are devoting too much time and resources to expanding our information exchange network; other times we hear that we are not devoting enough. Because this is an area where steady pressure is essential and missteps (or overreaching) can undo years of work, we have to be careful not to disrupt the steady progress we have made.

It is also important to remember that information exchange is inherently voluntary. We cannot force any country to agree to exchange tax information. Sometimes negotiations on this issue are very difficult. The treaty or TIEA partner may be required to repeal or modify domestic law. In addition, signing a tax treaty or a TIEA is only the first step in the process. A healthy information exchange relationship requires us to maintain good relations with our treaty and TIEA partners. Even an ideally drafted agreement is of limited value if the tax authorities do not have a cooperative relationship. For example, if a treaty or TIEA partner believes that the information exchange relationship is not respected or appreciated by the United States, this may have a chilling effect on exchange of information on request or, particularly, on spontaneous exchange of information.

We have more to do in this area. Nonetheless, we have made great strides in recent years. Several new TIEAs have entered into force with jurisdictions that have figured prominently in previously documented accounts of offshore tax evasion. Within the last two years alone, TIEAs have fully entered into force with the Cayman Islands, the British Virgin Islands, the Bahamas, the Netherlands Antilles, Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man. We also recently signed a TIEA with Brazil, and the newly signed tax treaty with Belgium provides greater information exchange than we have previously been able to achieve with that country.

Moreover, it must be kept in mind that TIEAs and the information exchange article in tax treaties are enforcement tools. Accordingly, there are limits in what we can say publicly about the manner in which we use them and the frequency with which we make requests, without undermining their deterrent effects. The goal is to enforce our laws, and we do not want to convey inadvertently to tax evaders any specific information about how and with whom we exchange information.

However, it is worth noting a few of the public successes that have resulted in part from our information exchange agreements.

Recently, the U.S District Court in Washington sentenced an individual to nine years in prison for failing to report $365 million in income. This individual, Walter Anderson, had attempted to evade his tax responsibilities by hiding earnings in offshore entities in the British Virgin Islands, Bermuda, the Channel Islands, and Panama. Information that the IRS and Department of Justice gathered through our TIEA with Bermuda helped in the prosecution of this case.

In 2004, Almon Glenn Braswell was sentenced to 18 months in prison and ordered to pay over $10 million in back taxes, interest and penalties. Mr. Braswell's use of a Bermuda corporation and bank account as part of his tax evasion scheme was uncovered through requests made under our TIEA with Bermuda.

Conclusion

As both Secretary Paulson and Assistant Secretary Solomon stated in recent testimony before this Committee, the Treasury Department is committed to improving tax compliance without unduly burdening honest taxpayers who currently meet their tax obligations. Tax compliance with respect to offshore transactions is an important aspect of that endeavor. By focusing on information exchange, we seek to reduce offshore tax evasion while achieving these goals.

Thank you again, Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member Grassley, and other Members of the Committee for the opportunity to appear before the Committee today. I would be pleased to answer any questions you may have.

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE TREASURY BORROWING ADVISORY COMMITTEE OF THE SECURITIES INDUSTRY AND FINANCIAL MARKETS ASSOCIATION MAY 1, 2007

The Committee convened in closed session at the Hay-Adams Hotel at 11:35 a.m. All Committee members except Richard A. Axilrod were present. Under Secretary Robert Steel, Assistant Secretary Anthony Ryan, Deputy Assistant Secretary Matthew Abbott and Office of Debt Management Director Karthik Ramanathan welcomed the Committee and gave them the charge. The Committee addressed the first question in the Committee charge (attached) regarding debt issuance in light of intermediate and longer-term fiscal trends as well as recent economic and market conditions. Director Ramanathan presented a series of charts discussing the continued strong growth in individual, corporate, and non-withheld receipts as well as the slower growth of outlays in fiscal year 2007. In addition, the charts showed the Administration's projections of a rapidly improving fiscal outlook with a balanced budget by 2012. Director Ramanathan noted that increased issuance of State and Local Government Series (SLGS) securities has led to a decline of nearly $50 billion in marketable borrowing needs. In order to promote large, liquid sizes in its benchmark securities and in light of potential reduced borrowing needs in the near future, Director Ramanathan noted that one possible option would be to discontinue the 3-year note following the May 2007 auction. Director Ramanathan noted that current issuance sizes across bills and coupons may be approaching their lower limits. Discontinuing the 3-year note would promote liquidity in bills and other benchmark securities and eliminate the need for Treasury to resort to larger cuts across the curve which could impede market efficiency. Moreover, given the fiscal outlook and portfolio considerations, adjusting the auction calendar at this time was feasible. Director Ramanathan stated that Treasury had the capacity to raise more than $200 billion through increased bill and coupon issuance if needed through its current menu of offerings. Another chart noted that TIPS and longer term securities – based on current issuance patterns and sizes – would be primary tools in raising funds in the future. If positive fiscal trends continue in the future, additional reductions may be necessary through coupon reductions or calendar adjustments across the portfolio. The TBAC in the February 2007 meeting had suggested the 5-year TIPS as well as a consolidation of the 10-year note as other possible options. These options and others may need to be explored if current positive trends persist. Director Ramanathan then noted that the TBAC may want to consider several factors when contemplating adjustments to the auction calendar including portfolio considerations, the intermediate to long-term trends, non-marketable borrowing, and potential legislative changes. From a portfolio perspective, the ability to offer the market large, liquid offerings on its benchmark securities and grow the bill sector was important. The economic outlook remains stable but Treasury's current auction calendar has the ability to raise a large amount of funds fairly rapidly. Non-marketable borrowing trends, particularly those related to SLGS, could moderate, but a low interest rate environment may precipitate additional refinancings and issuance over the next few years. Finally, legislative changes related to tax policy or entitlement reform could occur and impose additional funding requirements, but the Treasury generally remained capable of funding such needs. The Committee turned to the decision facing the Treasury regarding the discontinuance of the 3-year note. One member noted that there is no futures contract and that any 3-year assets that investors want could be obtained through the Eurodollar market and swaps. Given both the decline in fiscal needs and concern about maintaining large liquid benchmarks, the Committee member noted that discontinuing the 3-year note at this point was sensible. Another member noted that market participants hoping to invest in the three-year space could purchase off the run 5-year notes as they roll down the curve. One member raised caveats including uncertainty about the Alternative Minimum Tax provisions, war expenditures, and cash outflows starting in 2008 and 2009. This member noted that if the fiscal situation becomes more pessimistic, the discontinuance of the 3-year note may put significant pressures on other instruments. This same member noted, however, that outlays remain below trend, and this might continue into the 2008 elections as Congress potentially remains in gridlock. Some members expressed the view that there was significant capacity to increase issuance in benchmark issues and bills. Several members noted that the market would welcome larger sizes in the core benchmark securities should the situation warrant such action. Other members noted that if at some future date, it was determined that more intermediate financing was needed, Treasury could reintroduce the 3-year note without significant disruption to the market. This member acknowledged that generally Treasury has considered the 3-year note to be a fairly flexible security, and that the market would not view reintroduction of the security negatively if such a move was properly telegraphed. Several members agreed with this perspective. At this point, Committee members reached consensus that discontinuing the 3-year note at this time was advisable. The Committee then considered the question of what might be done if the fiscal situation improves further. Committee members noted that Treasury may need to consider additional adjustments to the calendar if the fiscal outlook improved more rapidly than expected. Several members suggested that Treasury continue to evaluate other options in the event they need to be acted upon, including eliminating the 5-year TIPS, the consolidation of the 10-year note auction cycle, and any other prudent measures. One member pointed out that 5-year TIPS cash flows were not that unique and that real money investors where more interested in the cash flows generated by longer-dated TIPS. Another member noted that Treasury has shown commitment to the TIPS program, and given that inflation-indexed securities are a core element of the overall portfolio, TIPS need to be reviewed just as any other security. Another member suggested that Treasury should be flexible in considering all options. Most members felt that Treasury should keep its options open regarding the future fiscal situation and the potential need to cut financing. Members suggested that Treasury wait and evaluate technical and market factors as well as consider modifications of issue sizes and or elimination of reopenings in certain nominal or real issues. The Committee then addressed the second question in the charge regarding debt management within a framework of improving fiscal trends. Specifically, the Committee was asked to address what practices Treasury and market participants should consider in a significantly improving fiscal or surplus environment, given volatility in budget forecasts and the Administration's long-term plan to balance the budget. In addition, the Committee was asked to discuss what lessons can be learned from the 1998-2002 experience. A presenting member led the discussion with a high level overview of the current debt management framework-- where the framework is working-- and where Treasury might consider improvements. The member cited three key areas in the overall framework 1) debt management 2) cash management, and 3) risk management. In the area of debt management, the member felt Treasury had adequate tools to manage the debt in all environments. The set of tools, which have been clearly elucidated to market participants, includes changing issue sizes, frequencies, and finally, the menu of offerings. Debt management has been proceeding very well on all fronts, according to the member, particularly with respect to transparency and issuance decisions. Transparency worked greatly to Treasury's advantage in reducing borrowing costs. The member noted that Treasury has used buybacks in the past and should be prepared to use this tool in the future should the fiscal outlook rapidly improve. Regarding buybacks, the presenting member pointed out that Treasury had used one form of buybacks quite effectively in the past, and it may want to study another form of the buyback called "the switch" which is used by other countries. A switch involves issuing debt in one part of the yield curve to repurchase debt in another part of the curve. The member pointed out that previous buyback program had created significant cost savings for Treasury according to one study. The member also suggested the idea of continuous buybacks in small sizes to better balance the overall portfolio and maturity structure. In the area of cash management, the member noted that the timing of receipts often presented problems for Treasury, and that the Treasury Tax and Loan program was suboptimal from both a capacity and return standpoint. The member suggested that Treasury consider using excess cash to buy short-term bills and coupons and also consider engaging in repurchase agreements. Both options may offer greater returns to the Treasury. The presenting member then discussed Treasury's risk management, noting at the outset that other countries were further ahead in this area than the US. Specifically, the member suggested that Treasury consider using derivative transactions and swaps to change rollover risk. The member noted that such transactions would introduce credit risk into Treasury's portfolio, and that Treasury would need to decide if it wanted to accept such risk. The member noted that other counties such as Australia and Canada used these tools to continuing issuance despite having surpluses. The presenting member than solicited comments and reaction from other Committee members. One member stated that the way the past buyback program operated, in which Treasury asked the market for offers on a basket of securities and selected only the best offers, was not good for real-money accounts because there was uncertainty about which issues would be repurchased. Other members pointed out that the former buyback program, which focused generally on the long end of the market, was predicated on the idea that the US would be in surplus indefinitely and as such, long-term funding was no longer needed. Those members pointed out that fiscal outlooks change rapidly, and that such a motivation may have led to less than optimal repurchases. A discussion arose whether Treasury should engage in continuous buybacks - continuous purchases of small lots in the market in the range of $50 to $100 million to retire debt - as opposed to the buybacks in the past, which were reverse auctions as large a $3 billion. Several members thought continuous buybacks were not advisable because it may not fall into Treasury's regular and predictable behavior framework. Another member suggested that using excess cash to opportunistically retire maturing debt – particularly when large maturities were coming due – was prudent. With regard to using swaps, several members member thought that using such a tool ran counter Treasury's objectives. The Committee generally agreed that Treasury should continue to review its debt, cash, and risk management tools in light of the rapidly improving fiscal outlook in the event such instruments are necessary sooner rather than later. Finally, the Committee was asked about trends related to international flows and capital investments, and if the Committee had any thoughts or suggestions with regard to these trends and the impact of the trends on Treasury's mission. A Committee member presented a series of slides describing and characterizing international capital flows both into and out of the U.S. The member shared his thoughts on capital flows into various US capital markets including fixed income (Treasuries, agencies, corporate bonds), equities, direct investments (merger and acquisition related transactions), and private equity. The member noted the diverse set of inflows and the importance such inflows play in the U.S. economy. The Committee member noted that foreign capital inflows provide a rising share of U.S. debt financing and allow stable U.S. investment, despite low savings, at lower interest rates. Estimates regarding how much lower rates are from these foreign capital inflows varied between 20 and 150 basis points, though such estimates are extremely difficult to verify. The member also stated that the U.S. net foreign investment position is still modest relative to GDP, but is forecasted to grow significantly in coming years. The member noted that sources of foreign inflows are vulnerable to disruptions due to potential protectionist legislation, and that Congress should be wary of passing legislation related to international investment given their potential far reaching consequences. Several members agreed that international investment was critical to ensuring strong, competitive capital markets in the United States. One member noted that opportunities abound globally, but that international investors still seek U.S. investments in one form or another given the depth of its markets. Another member noted that the recent trend in establishing sovereign investment vehicles in Norway, China, Korea and other nations was a natural trend and that large flows of capital would still seek the most liquid, developed capital markets in the long run. One member suggested that Treasury offer products tailored to central banks given the amount of liquidity which they are seeking. Director Ramanathan noted that Treasury seeks to have the broadest base of investors through its security offerings, and that tailoring specific products for specific audiences was currently not being contemplated. Several members noted that the market needed to be aware that international investments came from many avenues and through many vehicles, and that forming a conclusion based on reviewing just one sector of the market, be it equities or Treasuries, was not wise. The meeting adjourned at 12:55 p.m. The Committee reconvened at the Hay-Adams Hotel at 6:10 p.m. All Committee members were present except for Richard A. Axilrod and Gary Cohn. The Chairman presented the Committee report to Assistant Secretary Ryan. A brief discussion followed the Chairman's presentation but did not raise significant questions regarding the report's content. The meeting adjourned at 6:20 p.m.

TREASURY ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR FINANCIAL MARKETS ANTHONY RYAN MAY 2007 QUARTERLY REFUNDING STATEMENT WASHINGTON, DC

- We are offering $32.0 billion of Treasury securities to refund approximately $54.6 billion of privately held securities maturing on May 15 and to pay down approximately $22.6 billion. The securities are: - A new 3-year note in the amount of $14.0 billion, maturing May 15, 2010; - A new 10-year note in the amount of $13.0 billion, maturing May 15, 2017; - A reopening of the 30-year bond in the amount of $5.0 billion, maturing February 15, 2037 These securities will be auctioned on a yield basis at 1:00 PM EDT on Monday, May 7, Tuesday May 8, and Thursday, May 10, respectively. All of these auctions will settle on Tuesday, May 15. The balance of our financing requirements will be met with weekly bills, monthly 2-year and 5-year notes, the June 10-year note reopening, and the July 10-year TIPS and 20-year TIPS reopening. Treasury also is likely to issue cash management bills in late May and early June. Debt Issuance Considerations Since our February 2007 statement, Treasury's ongoing monitoring of the fiscal and economic outlook has resulted in our decision to discontinue issuance of the 3-year note. Discontinuing the 3-year note will allow Treasury to ensure large liquid benchmark issuances, better balance its portfolio, and manage the improving fiscal outlook. The final scheduled auction of the 3-year note will be held on May 7, 2007. Treasury will continue to assess the fiscal and economic outlook and to review the size, frequency and issuance of securities. Thirty-Year Bond Issuance As noted in our August 2006 statement, Treasury will auction a new 29 ¾ - year bond with three months' accrued interest in August 2007, followed by a reopening of that bond in November 2007. This new 29 ¾ - year bond will mature in May 2037. Treasury Markets and Investor Participation Treasury places great importance on maintaining a highly liquid and efficient government bond market. As part of ongoing efforts to enhance the efficiency of debt management operations, including reducing risks and lowering borrowing costs, we are examining ways to enhance our cash and debt management practices. In addition, as we stated in February, we are in the process of updating our auction system. With respect to overall market efficiency and participation, Treasury acknowledges and supports private sector efforts to enhance the operating integrity of the Treasury marketplace, including the creation of principles-based guidance for all stakeholders in the US Treasury markets. Please send comments and suggestions on these subjects or others relating to Treasury debt management to debt.management@do.treas.gov. The next quarterly refunding announcement will take place on Wednesday, August 1, 2007.

April 30

Testimony of Dan Iannicola, Jr.
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Financial Education
Before the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Oversight of
Government Management, the Federal
Workforce, and the District of Columbia
Washington, DC- Good afternoon Chairman Akaka, Ranking Member Voinovich and distinguished members of the Subcommittee. Thank you for this opportunity to appear before you today to talk about the important issue of financial literacy in America. As Financial Literacy Month comes to a close, I would like to recognize the strong bi-partisan emphasis on this important topic. Thank you for sponsoring the Senate resolution supporting April as Financial Literacy Month. I would like to commend the House for their recognition of Financial Literacy Month as well. Additionally, President Bush issued a statement observing April as Financial Literacy Month.
Good afternoon Chairman Akaka, Ranking Member Voinovich and distinguished members of the Subcommittee. Thank you for this opportunity to appear before you today to talk about the important issue of financial literacy in America. As Financial Literacy Month comes to a close, I would like to recognize the strong bi-partisan emphasis on this important topic. Thank you for sponsoring the Senate resolution supporting April as Financial Literacy Month. I would like to commend the House for their recognition of Financial Literacy Month as well. Additionally, President Bush issued a statement observing April as Financial Literacy Month.

Secretary Paulson, along with the rest of the Administration, believes in the importance of increasing financial literacy levels across our nation. In fact, just last week President Bush recommitted his Administration to the cause of financial literacy and charged Secretary Paulson with building on the Financial Literacy and Education Commission's efforts to bring financial education to all Americans. Mr. Chairman, I commend you for your continued leadership on the issue of financial education and for focusing a national spotlight on this critical topic.

I would like to briefly discuss the financial literacy issue we are faced with, then discuss the responses to that issue to date and conclude with a discussion of next steps.

The Issue

Today Americans are faced with a robust marketplace of financial products and services which give them many more options than ever before in structuring their finances. However this has not always been the case. For example, there used to be only a few ways to finance a home, now there are numerous mortgage options. Credit cards used to be hard to come by, now consumer credit is widely available. At one time your employer managed your retirement, now with the steady migration from defined benefit plans to defined contribution plans, the individual has much more to think about.

Times have changed on us. This generation doesn't know any less about money than our parents or grandparents. It is simply that we need to know more now than they did then. It is as if every American has awoken to find himself or herself promoted to the position of CFO of his or her own household. Are we ready for the job? And if not, how do we address the new reality that our economic choices have simply outpaced our financial knowledge?

The answer, of course, is financial education. Only when we learn more about our money will we be able to move forward confidently in the modern financial marketplace. As a nation we need to learn more about saving and investing, using credit wisely, avoiding fraud and a number of other financial topics.

The Response

Three players are responding to the financial literacy issue: non-profits, businesses and the government.

Non-profits

Non-profit organizations of many varieties are involved in financial education. Some are large national organizations, while others are community-based groups that operate on the grass roots level. They address a variety of financial education issues for adults like banking the unbanked, providing credit counseling or free tax preparation, or helping people build assets to prepare for financial emergencies or to achieve financial goals. Other non-profits, including schools, center their efforts on young people. Some of these groups focus on school based programs that train students and teachers on money matters while other groups focus on reaching youth outside of the classroom.

Businesses

Many companies have also wisely recognized financial education as a cause worthy of their attention. Some companies develop curricula or donate funds for use in support of youth and adult financial education programs. Other companies encourage their associates to volunteer their time on financial literacy programs of non-profit organizations. Still other private sector firms devote resources to financially educate their own employees on money matters.

Federal Government

While the efforts of state and local governments to spread financial education have been commendable, this testimony will focus on the efforts at the federal level.

The Department of the Treasury supports the expansion of financial education both through its own work and through its leadership of a multi-agency commission. I will describe both roles.

Department of the Treasury

Several bureaus and offices within the Treasury Department work in the field of financial education. These include the Bureau of Public Debt (BPD), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Mint, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), Office of Thrift Supervision (OTS), and the Office of the Treasurer. While all of these offices perform important tasks in financial education, Treasury's main effort in the field is conducted by its Office of Financial Education.

In 2002 Treasury established the Office of Financial Education. Since that time, the office has developed rapidly and now stands as a policy leader in the field of financial education in the U.S. and around the world. The office has five key functions.

1) Outreach

First, the office promotes and delivers financial education across the country through its ambitious outreach efforts. The Office has traveled to 42 states and held 304 financial education sessions reaching over 24,000 people and generating 470 media stories. Many of the people reached are educators, counselors, journalists, community leaders, or service providers who themselves engage in financial literacy outreach to many more Americans. This creates a multiplier effect which only increases the office's total impact.

The office has performed its work wherever needed, ranging from classrooms to corporate boardrooms to military bases, and even to the Gulf Coast region to counsel Katrina victims. The office has reached out to students of all ages, teachers, lenders, credit counselors, accountants, attorneys, community activists, the media and the public at large. The message to each group varied according to its specific needs but the theme has been the same, that financial knowledge is an empowering force that helps people improve their lives and realize their dreams.

2) Setting Standards for Quality Programs

The office's second function is to set standards for quality financial education. It does this through the development and dissemination of the "Eight Elements for Successful Financial Education" programs. Financial educators across the country have been using these qualitative standards to evaluate and enhance financial education programs.

3) Technical Assistance

Third, the office operates a Technical Assistance Center in English and Spanish for those seeking advice on establishing or improving financial education programs in their communities.

4) Brokering Partnerships

Fourth, the office uses its unique position within the financial education community to broker partnerships between the supply side and demand side of financial education. Some organizations have financial education resources to offer, while other organizations are in need of such resources. The office works with groups nationwide to help the right people get connected with the right resources to advance financial education.

5) Federal Government Coordination

The fifth and final role of the office is to coordinate financial education efforts across the federal government. Treasury's office of Financial Education performs this task by coordinating the activities of the Financial Literacy and Education Commission. The details of this function are described below

The Financial Literacy and Education Commission

The Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions (FACT) Act of 2003 established a twenty agency group called the Financial Literacy and Education Commission. The FACT Act named the Secretary of the Treasury as chair of the Commission and gave the Commission and Treasury four mandates: a Web site, a hotline, a multimedia campaign and a national strategy.

I will describe progress on each of these projects.

1) Web Site

In October 2004, the Commission launched MyMoney.gov, a Web site designed to be a one-stop shop for federal financial education information which is available in English and Spanish. Operated by the General Services Administration (GSA), the Web site is organized intuitively, the way Americans live their lives instead of the way their government is structured--organized by topic rather than agency. Topics include Paying for Education, Saving and Investing, Home Ownership and Privacy, and Frauds and Scams. MyMoney.gov also provides links to financial education grants offered by different Commission agencies. The site has 399 links and has had 1,717,247 visitors, 1,053,004 in 2006 alone. On the site, visitors can also access an interactive, instructional quiz on financial literacy, view a public service announcement promoting MyMoney.gov and get information on the activities of the Commission.

2) Toll Free Hotline

In October 2004, the Commission also launched a toll free hotline called 1-888-MyMoney. Operated by the GSA, the hotline is available in English and Spanish and permits callers to order a free MyMoney toolkit. The English language toolkit contains eight federal publications covering topics from savings to investing to understanding the Social Security system. The Spanish language toolkit has six publications. To date, the MyMoney Hotline has received 18,781 calls, 15,508 calls in 2006 alone.

3) Multimedia Campaign

The Treasury is working with the Ad Council on the production of a campaign that will address the topic of credit literacy, emphasizing the impact of one's credit score. The project has progressed through the research and focus group stages and is now in the creative stage where advertising professionals are working to develop creative concepts to communicate the campaign message. The campaign is scheduled to launch in the fall of 2007.

4) National Strategy

The FACT Act also required the Commission to develop a national strategy for financial literacy. In April of 2006, the Commission released Taking Ownership of the Future - the National Strategy for Financial Literacy. The Strategy is a comprehensive blueprint for improving financial literacy in America, covering 13 areas of financial education in 13 chapters. At the end of each chapter are specific, numbered calls to action. Most of the actions are assigned to the federal government, but some of the activities are recommendations to the private sector or to individuals.

Since the launch of the Strategy just over a year ago, the Commission has been busy executing these "calls to action." These calls to action are milestones for the Commission which allows us to measure its performance and could not have been accomplished without the cooperation of all 20 member agencies. Below is a summary of progress on the Strategy's calls to action.

Chapter 1: General Saving

1-1 In April of 2007, Treasury and the American Savings Education Council launched a public service announcement on the importance of saving. The PSA promotes the website, MyMoney.gov and toll-free hotline, 1-888-MyMoney.
In April of 2007, Treasury and the American Savings Education Council launched a public service announcement on the importance of saving. The PSA promotes the website, MyMoney.gov and toll-free hotline, 1-888-MyMoney.

Chapter 2: Homeownership

2-1 In July of 2006, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Treasury co-hosted a roundtable which highlighted successful partnerships that have advanced homeownership. During the meeting, the complexity of identifying partners to advance homeownership was discussed at length. Participants cited best practices which have helped with foreclosure prevention, non-traditional mortgage products, and the identification of a variety of hidden costs.
In July of 2006, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Treasury co-hosted a roundtable which highlighted successful partnerships that have advanced homeownership. During the meeting, the complexity of identifying partners to advance homeownership was discussed at length. Participants cited best practices which have helped with foreclosure prevention, non-traditional mortgage products, and the identification of a variety of hidden costs.

Chapter 3: Retirement Saving

3-2 In April of 2006, the Small Business Administration (SBA) linked its online retirement training tools for small businesses to MyMoney.gov. In addition, the Department of Labor (DOL) and IRS developed and released a new publication, Payroll Deduction IRAs, to complement a series on retirement plan options for small employers. DOL conducted six fiduciary education seminars in coordination with IRS, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Society of Human Resources Management.
In April of 2006, the Small Business Administration (SBA) linked its online retirement training tools for small businesses to MyMoney.gov. In addition, the Department of Labor (DOL) and IRS developed and released a new publication, , to complement a series on retirement plan options for small employers. DOL conducted six fiduciary education seminars in coordination with IRS, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Society of Human Resources Management.

Chapter 4: Credit

4-1 In 2005, Treasury entered into an agreement with the Ad Council to develop and execute a multimedia public service announcement campaign on credit literacy for young adults. The campaign is scheduled to launch in the fall of 2007. It will also be available in Spanish.
In 2005, Treasury entered into an agreement with the Ad Council to develop and execute a multimedia public service announcement campaign on credit literacy for young adults. The campaign is scheduled to launch in the fall of 2007. It will also be available in Spanish.

Chapter 5: Consumer Protection

5-2 In April of 2006, Treasury released the DVD "Identity Theft: Outsmarting the Crooks," and made it available to the public through MyMoney.gov and 1-888-My Money. To date, 60,750 copies have been distributed.
In April of 2006, Treasury released the DVD "Identity Theft: Outsmarting the Crooks," and made it available to the public through MyMoney.gov and 1-888-My Money. To date, 60,750 copies have been distributed.

Chapter 6: Taxpayer Rights

6-2 In the first full year of the "Go Direct" campaign, which ended in June of 2006, Treasury and the Federal Reserve Banks converted 600,000 paper check recipients to direct deposit enrollees. An additional 160,000 people were enrolled as of December of 2006. The success of the program would not be possible without the cooperation and support of financial institutions across the country. The program will continue through 2007.
In the first full year of the "Go Direct" campaign, which ended in June of 2006, Treasury and the Federal Reserve Banks converted 600,000 paper check recipients to direct deposit enrollees. An additional 160,000 people were enrolled as of December of 2006. The success of the program would not be possible without the cooperation and support of financial institutions across the country. The program will continue through 2007.
6-3 As a result of the Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) public awareness campaign on the new Medicare drug benefit that encourages seniors and people with disabilities to take a look at their prescription drug coverage options, over 90 percent of those with Medicare have some form of drug coverage. Of those, almost 24 million have prescription drug coverage through the new Medicare Part D benefit. HHS worked with 40,000 partners and conducted more than 12,000 events to educate taxpayers and beneficiaries on enrolling in the Part D program. As of late January 2007, more than 1.4 million beneficiaries have enrolled in Medicare's Part D program since June of 2006, bringing the total number of people with Medicare receiving comprehensive prescription drug coverage to more than 39 million.
As a result of the Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) public awareness campaign on the new Medicare drug benefit that encourages seniors and people with disabilities to take a look at their prescription drug coverage options, over 90 percent of those with Medicare have some form of drug coverage. Of those, almost 24 million have prescription drug coverage through the new Medicare Part D benefit. HHS worked with 40,000 partners and conducted more than 12,000 events to educate taxpayers and beneficiaries on enrolling in the Part D program. As of late January 2007, more than 1.4 million beneficiaries have enrolled in Medicare's Part D program since June of 2006, bringing the total number of people with Medicare receiving comprehensive prescription drug coverage to more than 39 million.

Chapter 8: The Unbanked

8-1 To date, three regional conferences have been held on how to reach the unbanked. The conferences were held in Chicago, IL in May 2006; Edinburg, TX in December 2006; and Seattle, WA in March 2007. The conferences have touched on topics such as building partnerships and identifying solutions, serving immigrant communities, reaching young customers, and providing financial education to help new and potential bank customers. The conferences were accomplished by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), OCC, OTS, Treasury, the Federal Reserve Banks of Chicago, Dallas, and San Francisco, along with assistance from HUD, partnering to bring a wide range of attendees together on the topic of the unbanked population. After the final regional conference is completed in the fall of 2007, a white paper will be released which will summarize the conferences findings and make recommendations based on them.
To date, three regional conferences have been held on how to reach the unbanked. The conferences were held in Chicago, IL in May 2006; Edinburg, TX in December 2006; and Seattle, WA in March 2007. The conferences have touched on topics such as building partnerships and identifying solutions, serving immigrant communities, reaching young customers, and providing financial education to help new and potential bank customers. The conferences were accomplished by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), OCC, OTS, Treasury, the Federal Reserve Banks of Chicago, Dallas, and San Francisco, along with assistance from HUD, partnering to bring a wide range of attendees together on the topic of the unbanked population. After the final regional conference is completed in the fall of 2007, a white paper will be released which will summarize the conferences findings and make recommendations based on them.

Chapter 9: Multilingual / Multicultural Populations

9-1 In March of 2007, the first roundtable took place at Treasury and was focused on the Native populations. The roundtable touched on the needs and wants of Native populations and how financial education can help. Other topics included public and private partnerships, access to financial institutions and services, and public awareness events on reservations.
In March of 2007, the first roundtable took place at Treasury and was focused on the Native populations. The roundtable touched on the needs and wants of Native populations and how financial education can help. Other topics included public and private partnerships, access to financial institutions and services, and public awareness events on reservations.

Chapter 10: Kindergarten – Postsecondary Financial Education

10-1 In February of 2007, the Department of Education (ED) and Treasury co-hosted a two-day summit on kindergarten through postsecondary financial education. The summit brought together teachers, students, program providers and researchers from across the country to discuss the role of financial education at school, non-school venues and college level programs to assist others who are starting or enhancing programs. The summit findings will be made available to the public in the summer of 2007.
In February of 2007, the Department of Education (ED) and Treasury co-hosted a two-day summit on kindergarten through postsecondary financial education. The summit brought together teachers, students, program providers and researchers from across the country to discuss the role of financial education at school, non-school venues and college level programs to assist others who are starting or enhancing programs. The summit findings will be made available to the public in the summer of 2007.

Chapter 12: Coordination

12-1 The Commission continues to enhance MyMoney.gov. In 2006, the "Money 20" interactive quiz was added to the Web site, where visitors can test their knowledge with a 20-question online quiz which covers a variety of personal finance issues. Currently, all Commission members have links to MyMoney.gov from their agencies' Web sites.
The Commission continues to enhance MyMoney.gov. In 2006, the "Money 20" interactive quiz was added to the Web site, where visitors can test their knowledge with a 20-question online quiz which covers a variety of personal finance issues. Currently, all Commission members have links to MyMoney.gov from their agencies' Web sites.
12-2 In August of 2006, GSA and Treasury completed the first survey of Federal financial education programs and resources. Findings have shown very little overlap or duplication among Federal financial education efforts. The overlap noted was found to be minor and necessary to the completeness of a particular resource or topic.
In August of 2006, GSA and Treasury completed the first survey of Federal financial education programs and resources. Findings have shown very little overlap or duplication among Federal financial education efforts. The overlap noted was found to be minor and necessary to the completeness of a particular resource or topic.
12-5 In April of 2007, Treasury and Office of Personnel Management (OPM) hosted the inaugural meeting of the "National Financial Education Network" of federal, state and local governments. The network will meet regularly by phone to discuss topics related to financial education.
In April of 2007, Treasury and Office of Personnel Management (OPM) hosted the inaugural meeting of the "National Financial Education Network" of federal, state and local governments. The network will meet regularly by phone to discuss topics related to financial education.

Efficiency

Since part of the focus of this Subcommittee is government management, I wanted to comment briefly on the manner in which this Commission has been managed. During its work, the Commission has sought to carry out the purpose of the FACT Act by coordinating the federal effort and helping the 20 agencies to work together more efficiently on the issue of financial education. Many of the mandates of the FACT Act can be met through such cooperation. The consequence of this is that, in many cases, the Commission has been able to add value without needing to add resources. As good stewards of federal funds, the Commission is obligated to seek the least costly way to meet its obligations under the law. With a number of accomplishments and few expenditures, the Commission has been successful thus far in achieving good value for Congress, the Administration and the American taxpayer.

Government Accountability Office Review of the Commission

In December of 2006, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) issued a report on the Commission. We on the Commission welcomed the insights of GAO on how we could better accomplish our important mission on behalf of the American people. The Commission chose to consider the GAO recommendations as part of the Commission's annual review of the Strategy which is required by the FACT Act. During that review the Commission incorporated many of the GAO recommendations into its 2007 revisions to the Strategy. For instance, GAO recommended that definitions to "financial education" and "financial literacy" be added to the Strategy; in response the Commission defined and incorporated both terms. Also consistent with GAO's recommendations, the Commission plans to conduct usability testing of and measure customer satisfaction with MyMoney.gov by 2009.

Additionally, GAO suggested an independent review of the federal financial education programs and resources. Although the FACT Act does not require an independent review of such programs and resources, the Commission decided to pursue such a review, with the first series of assessments to be completed in 2009. Lastly, GAO recommended that the Commission work closely with private entities and state and local governments to improve financial literacy. In response, on April 17, 2007 Treasury and OPM co-hosted the Commission's inaugural meeting of the "National Financial Education Network" of federal, state and local governments at Treasury. This network will facilitate precisely the type of cooperation called for in the GAO report.

Next Steps

The Strategy outlines clear steps for the Commission to implement in the next few years.

In the remainder of 2007, the Commission will continue working on issues pertaining to credit literacy, general savings, retirement planning, homeownership preservation and youth financial education while performing special outreach to minority communities. To succeed, we will convene those leading efforts in the private and public sectors through regional conferences, national roundtables and an international summit. The Commission will issue policy papers and meeting findings to further national efforts on financial education. In addition, Treasury plans to launch a multimedia campaign. Lastly, the Commission will continue performing regular enhancements to MyMoney.gov and 1-888-MyMoney.

In 2008, the Commission will host a roundtable discussion on insurance issues as well as an academic research symposium on financial education.

Later in 2009, the Commission intends to conduct a usability testing and customer satisfaction survey of MyMoney.gov as well as complete the first series of independent assessments of federal financial education programs and resources.

Conclusion

I hope this discussion has given an insightful overview of Treasury's and the Commission's work on financial literacy.

While it is valuable to look at this issue from a high level as a policy matter, it is also helpful to view it in terms of the individual and the difference it can make to his or her future. Put simply, there are two paths before each person we are all trying to help. The first is a rocky path that leads to a place where the complexity of the marketplace appears overwhelming, where people are easy prey for fraud and where bad choices lead to bad outcomes that can last a lifetime.

The other path travels through financial literacy and it takes people to a place where understanding replaces apprehension, where people make the most of their abundant options and where they have a tangible, enduring stake in their futures – it is a place some of us refer to as the Ownership Society. It comes from the idea that a true community is based more on shared aspirations than shared geography. Each of us wants to provide for our families, have a comfortable retirement and achieve financial security. These goals become more obtainable when we are financially literate, and that is why financial education is a priority for Secretary Paulson and for this Administration. We hope that through our emphasis on increased financial literacy people gain the skills to make better decisions and live better lives.

Now, I will be happy to answer any questions from the Subcommittee concerning financial literacy.

CROSS-BORDER DERIVATIVES REPORTING SYSTEM BECOMES OPERATIONAL Washington, DC – The Treasury Department today announced that it will begin publication on May 15, 2007, of a quarterly data series on U.S. cross-border derivatives contracts on the Treasury International Capital (TIC) reporting system website. These series are the result of a new TIC data collection and will expand information on U.S. international portfolio capital movements and the U.S. international investment position. Templates for the website derivatives data files and a brief description of the data are available in the news section on the U.S. Treasury TIC web site (www.treas.gov/tic). The new data will provide information on gross positive and gross negative fair-value positions, and on net cash settlements, by type of contract and by country. The data are collected on the basis of the residence of the counterparties, and conform to international guidelines for reporting derivatives data to be used in the computation of the balance of payments accounts and the international investment position. A more complete description of the data will be published by the Federal Reserve Board on its website, also on May 15. The data on U.S. derivatives released on May 15 will cover the period beginning as of December 31, 2005, through December 31, 2006. Thereafter, the data will be updated in January, April, July and October on the day that monthly TIC data are published

Treasury Statement on Release of President
Bush’s
ID Theft Task Force Strategy
Washington, DC- President Bush's Identity Theft Task Force today released its strategic plan for combating identity theft, the top consumer fraud reported to the Federal Trade Commission.
- President Bush's Identity Theft Task Force today released its strategic plan for combating identity theft, the top consumer fraud reported to the Federal Trade Commission.

Treasury Deputy Assistant Secretary for Critical Infrastructure Protection and Compliance Policy D. Scott Parsons, who led the Department's efforts with the taskforce, released the following statement today:

"President Bush recognized that identity theft is a crime with global reach and potentially serious consequences for our security and economic well-being. The criminals are sophisticated and the crimes can have a lasting impact on victims' lives.

"Many agencies, like the Treasury, have existing plans to combat identity theft, but this strategy promotes enhanced coordination among federal, state, and local authorities and recognizes the need for private sector participation. The report will serve as a blueprint for preventing and tracking down identity thieves and giving them due justice. More importantly, it charts a course to improve public awareness and data security, to prevent the opportunities for these crimes and to assist victims."

The Treasury Department is a member of the 17-agency task force, co-chaired by Attorney General Alberto Gonzales and FTC Chairman Deborah Majoras. The group, created by executive order in May 2006, developed 31 major recommendations for the plan. More information can be found at www.idtheft.gov.

Treasury Secretary Henry M. Paulson, Jr. Statement on the 2007 Social Security and Medicare Trust Fund Reports

WASHINGTON--The Social Security and Medicare Board of Trustees met this afternoon to complete their annual financial review of the programs and to transmit the Trustees Reports to Congress. I welcome my Cabinet colleagues and the Public Trustees, Tom Saving and John Palmer, two well-respected experts in their field. The nation is indeed fortunate to have your service.

For decades, Social Security and Medicare have provided vital support for Americans. As the baby boom generation moves into retirement, these programs face progressively larger financial challenges. If we do not take action soon to reform Social Security and Medicare, the coming demographic bulge will jeopardize the programs' ability to support people who depend on them. Without change, rising costs will drive government spending to unprecedented levels, consume nearly all projected federal revenues, and threaten America's future prosperity. I urge my friends in Congress to join me in a bipartisan effort to strengthen both programs for future retirees.

This year's Social Security report again demonstrates that the Social Security program is financially unsustainable and requires reform. In just 10 years, cash flows are projected to turn negative, and the Trust Funds are projected to be exhausted in 2041. Reform is needed and time is of the essence. The longer we delay, the larger the required adjustments will be – and the burden of making those adjustments will fall more heavily on future generations.

Social Security's unfunded obligation - the difference between the present values of Social Security inflows and outflows less the existing trust fund - equals $4.7 trillion over the next 75 years and $13.6 trillion on a permanent basis. The actuarial imbalance expressed as a percent of taxable payroll is 1.95 percent over 75 years and 3.5 percent over the indefinite future. This means that, to make the system whole on a permanent basis, the combined payroll tax rate would have to be raised immediately by about one-third from 12.4 percent to about 15.9 percent, or benefits reduced immediately by 22 percent.

This report confirms the need for action; the sooner we take action to strengthen Social Security's financial footing, the less drastic the needed reforms will be. President Bush has called for solutions that generate a permanently sustainable Social Security system through bipartisan efforts. The President has put forward a number of well-considered ideas. And he has asked me to reach out to lawmakers in both parties and listen to all ideas. We need serious and thoughtful engagement from all sides to make sure Social Security is strengthened and sustained for future generations.

The 2007 Medicare Trustees Report shows even greater financial challenges. Medicare faces the same demographic trends as Social Security, and, in addition, the system must cope with large increases in health care costs.

Cash flow for the Hospital Insurance (HI) Trust Fund is projected to be negative this year and for all subsequent years. The HI Trust Fund is projected to become insolvent in 2019, one year later than projected in last year's report, and the 75-year estimated actuarial imbalance as a percent of payroll is 3.55, a slight deterioration from last year's report. On a permanent basis, the imbalance is unchanged at 5.8 percent of payroll.

The Supplementary Medical Insurance (SMI) Trust Fund, which includes Part B for outpatient services and the new Part D prescription drug benefit, is financed in large part by general revenues as well as beneficiary premiums. SMI expenditures are projected to increase rapidly, resulting in growing pressures on future federal budgets and, in turn, the U.S. economy. General revenue financing for SMI is expected to increase from about 1 percent of GDP in 2006 to nearly 5 percent in 2081.

Today, seniors all over America have guaranteed access to affordable prescription drug coverage. The market-based structure of the new prescription drug benefit appears to be working. Average premiums for Part D have come down this year.

The facts are clear: reforms to both Medicare and Social Security are urgently needed. The serious concerns raised by the Trustees Reports demand the attention of America's policymakers and the public. Americans who depend on Social Security and Medicare are relying on those of us in public to address the long-term funding issues. Successful long-term reform of these programs is a shared responsibility and we all have to rise to the challenge.

April 20

STATEMENT ON NORTH KOREAN-RELATED FUNDS FROZEN AT BANCO DELTA ASIA The United States understands that the Macau authorities are prepared to unblock all North Korean-related accounts currently frozen in Banco Delta Asia. Based on previous discussions with Chinese, Macanese, and DPRK officials, as well as understandings reached with the DPRK on the use of these funds, the United States would support a decision by the Macau authorities to unblock the accounts in question. Throughout this process we have appreciated the consistent help, goodwill, and professionalism shown by the Macanese authorities and look forward to continued cooperation between the United States and Macau.

TREASURY, IRS ISSUE FINAL REGULATIONS ON NONQUALIFIED DEFERRED COMPENSATION WASHINGTON, DC--The Treasury Department and the IRS today issued final regulations on the treatment of nonqualified deferred compensation plans and arrangements under section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code. "Since the enactment of section 409A in 2004, Treasury and the IRS have worked hard to develop these regulations on the treatment of nonqualified deferred compensation plans," said Treasury Assistant Secretary for Tax Policy Eric Solomon. "These regulations comprehensively address how employers can identify nonqualified deferred compensation plans and arrangements subject to section 409A and provide rules to help employers and employees comply." The regulations provide guidance regarding the requirements for deferral elections and payment timing under section 409A. Affected plans and arrangements are required to comply with documentation requirements established in the final regulations by December 31, 2007. The final regulations generally implement the rules provided in the proposed regulations published on September 30, 2005, but include revisions reflecting numerous comments received from the public. The regulations are in response to legislation enacted by Congress in 2004 to address concerns involving reported abuses of nonqualified deferred compensation plans. Published along with the regulations was Notice 2007-34, which includes additional guidance regarding the application of section 409A to split-dollar life insurance arrangements and provides that certain amendments of such arrangements to comply with section 409A will not be treated as a material modification. A copy of the final section 409A regulations and a copy of Notice 2007-34 are attached. Related Documents: Final Regulations on Nonqualified Deferred Compensation (TD 9321.pdf) http://www.treas.gov/press/releases/reports/td9321.pdf Notice 2007-34 http://www.treas.gov/press/releases/reports/notice200734.pdf

STATEMENT BY TREASURY SECRETARY HENRY M. PAULSON, JR. FOLLOWING MEETING OF G-7 FINANCE MINISTERS AND CENTRAL BANK GOVERNORS Washington, DC--I was pleased to host the G-7 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors today here in Washington. We addressed many important issues on a very full agenda. The current global expansion provides a positive backdrop to our discussions. The U.S. economy is healthy and is making a transition to a sustainable expansion. GDP growth in the 4th quarter was 2.5 percent and U.S. output is up by 3.1 percent over the past 4 quarters. Inflation remains moderate and the U.S. labor market is healthy, with low unemployment, steady job gains, and strong real wage growth. The overall strength of the U.S. economy has led to an improved federal budget situation over the past two years. The deficit, which was 1.9 percent of GDP in FY2006, has been cut in half three years ahead of schedule and the Administration's budget projects a return to a surplus by 2012. We continue to watch developments in the subprime mortgage market. While challenges in this market do not appear to pose a serious risk to the overall economy, many families have been affected. As I testified before Congress earlier this month, we are working closely with housing sector regulators on this issue. Nevertheless, we remain aware of risks to the world economy. Fuel prices remain high and volatile. Protectionist pressures are rising. Global financial markets are vulnerable to reversals, as we saw earlier this year, though the system has proved to be resilient and adjustments orderly. My colleagues and I discussed the initial progress made towards implementing policies to help reduce global imbalances, including some rebalancing of global demand. However, more needs to be done. We need global demand to be underpinned by strong domestic demand in major economies such as Japan and Europe, and the cyclical upswings need to be translated into lasting improvements in potential growth. Greater exchange rate flexibility and stronger domestic demand in China are critical parts of rebalancing, and it is crucial that China move now with greater urgency. Oil exporters also need to undertake measures to increase investment and consumption. Tonight I will have a working dinner with my G-7 and Chinese colleagues. We will be joined by our counterparts from Russia, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates to discuss investment flows from oil exporters to gain a sharper understanding of this increasingly important issue. I have emphasized that our capital markets in the United States and abroad are vital to global economic growth. At our meetings today, I talked with my colleagues about the United States' approach to private pools of capital, including hedge funds, provided by the U.S. President's Working Group on Financial Markets (PWG). The PWG recognized the rapid growth of this industry and the increasing complexity of the financial instruments that hedge funds use. The U.S. federal regulators and policymakers unanimously moved in February to give unified, forward-leaning guidance for market participants for enhanced vigilance and market discipline. The PWG will continue to encourage market participants to take up this guidance. In our meetings today, we also discussed how robust domestic bond markets are necessary for the growth and stability of all economies, including the emerging markets. We continued our discussion about securities and mutual recognition among comparable regulatory regimes. In today's global marketplace, I believe this is an idea well worth considering and I will be supportive of our regulators' efforts to make progress in this area. We are at a critical juncture for progress on the Doha Development Round of trade negotiation, and we had a serious discussion on the way forward. I urged my fellow Finance Ministers to encourage their trade ministers to achieve an ambitious deal because of the Round's potential to stimulate growth and economic development. Substantial progress on services, including financial services, must be integral part of a development round, so Finance Ministries need to work together to reinvigorate the financial services negotiations. Progress must be based on a substantive break-through. As major shareholders of the IMF, the G-7 have a strong interest in safeguarding the legitimacy and effectiveness of that institution. To do so, we must make the IMF look more like the world economy in which it operates. The rise of emerging markets needs to be reflected in the IMF's governance structure. That is why it is essential, first and foremost, that we be bold and follow through with fundamental reform of IMF quotas. I think there is a path forward that could achieve this objective, but doing so will require a rededication by many countries to the understanding that a strong IMF benefits us all. A more representative IMF, however, will mean little without significant improvements in the institution's surveillance over exchange rate policies. For this reason, the G-7 reaffirmed our strong support for quick action to update the IMF's 30-year-old principles and procedures for exchange rate surveillance. We had a good discussion on policies to promote development in low-income countries, especially ways to address debt sustainability concerns. Responsible lending policies and practices are fundamental to our efforts to enhance support to low-income countries. The key to preserving debt sustainability is to build upon and support the work reflected in the IMF/World Bank Joint Debt Sustainability Framework, and for all creditors to incorporate the framework into their lending practices. We reaffirmed our commitment to vigorously counter money laundering, terrorist financing, and other illicit finance to promote the stability and integrity of the international financial system. We called on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) to address emerging threats, including the threat of WMD proliferation finance, and to enhance implementation of FATF standards around the world. Energy efficiency and security were also on the agenda. The United States is committed to improving energy security and tackling the important issue of climate change, as evidenced by the Administration's January announcement of the "Twenty in Ten" initiative. I urged my colleagues to explore creative policies to address these issues that will engage developing countries. We also need to explore options for accelerating market penetration of low-carbon energy technologies. Solving climate change is fundamentally a technology challenge, so we must consider how best to achieve this goal. Thank you.

STATEMENT BY U.S. TREASURY SECRETARY HENRY M. PAULSON, JR. AT THE INTERNATIONAL MONETARY AND FINANCIAL COMMITTEE MEETING WASHINGTON, DC--Today's meeting is taking place against the backdrop of a continued strong and resilient global economy, which provides a favorable setting for overcoming the challenges we face. Both advanced and emerging economies have put in place improved policy frameworks that are underpinning sustained growth. With global growth expected to be near 5% this year, the past five years mark the strongest period of world growth since the early 1970s. Recent bouts of moderate financial turbulence, in mid-2006 and again in early 2007, have tested the system, but it has performed well. While ongoing vigilance is required, inflation risks appear contained and international trade continues to expand. Prospects for the U.S. economy are good. While economic activity slowed below potential in late 2006, we expect GDP growth to rebound to 3% by the end of this year. Inflation risks appear to be contained, while the labor market is healthy – with 7.8 million new jobs created since mid-2003, low unemployment and strong real wage growth. I am happy to report that the U.S. continues to make excellent progress in steadily shrinking our federal fiscal deficit, which fell from 3.6% in FY2004 to 1.9% in FY2006, a pace faster than most thought likely. We are committed to keeping the U.S. economy open to trade and investment, which underpins our economic strength, and to opposing protectionism whenever and wherever it arises. Trade liberalization remains essential to economic growth for all countries and a key catalyst for poverty reduction in the less developed countries. Now that Doha Round negotiations have resumed, we must seize the opportunity to reach agreement. All countries will benefit from an agreement, and all countries – both developed and developing – must contribute through real market access commitments in agriculture, manufacturing, and services, including financial services. The financial sector in particular is the backbone of a modern economy with virtually every other sector of the economy depending on its services. Over the last several months, the United States has been a participant in the IMF-sponsored Multilateral Consultations on global imbalances. While these consultations were never intended to produce joint policy commitments, they have still contributed importantly to improved understanding about the participants' shared responsibilities for promoting adjustment of imbalances. Indeed, there has been some re-balancing of global demand over the last year, but it is important to ensure that the cyclical upturn now underway in many countries is translated into lasting improvements in underlying potential growth. Looking forward, we hope for faster sustained demand growth from Europe and Japan, more demand growth from major surplus countries, and greater exchange rate flexibility in Asian emerging economies, especially China. The counterpart to a falling U.S. trade deficit, by definition, is falling trade surpluses in other economies. Progress on IMF Reform The IMF is an essential organization for international monetary cooperation. It has proven this since its inception – fostering growth and integration in the wake of World War II; strengthening international surveillance after the breakdown of the Bretton Woods System; helping the global financial system overcome the debt crises of the 1980s and 1990s; and facilitating the transition of command economies. In serving the global economy, the Fund has adapted to changing times while adhering to its basic principles. The world is fast changing again. For the IMF to remain modern and relevant, it must re-invent itself. That is what our discussions on the Medium Term Strategy are all about. First and foremost, the IMF must fundamentally reform its approach to surveillance over exchange rates. Let us be clear: exercising firm surveillance over members' exchange rate policies is the core function of the institution. The 1977 Decision on Surveillance over Exchange Rate Policies must be updated to reflect the dramatic rise of capital flows and the wider use of market-determined floating exchange rates, and to sharpen the focus on fundamental exchange rate misalignment. This should enable firmer surveillance in areas where market forces are not the prevailing paradigm, such as insufficiently flexible exchange rate regimes, or areas where macroeconomic policies and performance are poor even if the exchange rate freely floats. The updating should be accomplished in a manner that creates no new obligations under the IMF Articles. It should also incorporate the realities of how surveillance is actually undertaken in this day and age, and ensure that the conduct of surveillance is even-handed and candid. If exchange rate issues are not debated critically and openly at the Fund, alternative venues and approaches will necessarily emerge. For us, reform of the IMF's foreign exchange surveillance is the lynchpin on which other reforms depend, and we look forward to action in this important area very soon after these meetings. Moreover, it is not simply enough to revise the 1977 Decision. The IMF staff must do a better job in addressing foreign exchange surveillance on a day-to-day basis, particularly in Article IV reports. Second, as part of the modernization and re-invention process, the IMF's governance structure needs to be overhauled. The Fund no longer looks like the world economy in which we live. Marginal reforms that do not fundamentally alter relative quota shares are insufficient – bold action is needed to boost the share of dynamic emerging market countries. Major emerging markets are producing an increasing share of global output, assuming greater responsibility for the functioning of the system, and will increasingly drive global growth. We continue to support protecting the shares of the poorest countries through an increase in basic votes. We reiterate the commitment of the United States to forgo the additional quota due us in the second stage ad hoc increase beyond what we need to maintain our pre-Singapore voting share and we reiterate our as of yet largely unheard call on other similarly situated countries to join us in doing this. As part of this broader reform package, we have listened to our colleagues in emerging markets and we will support a new liquidity instrument to promote further reduction of vulnerabilities to capital account crises, provided the instrument is well-designed. We expect the instrument to include a high standard for qualification and provide that a country, which fully draws its funding under the instrument and subsequently requires additional resources, do so under a new IMF program. Policy actions to deepen domestic local currency capital markets should be an important part of efforts to mitigate the risks to national balance sheets. Two important external reports have been issued since we last met, both of which have provided useful insights on key issues facing the Fund. The Malan Report on Bank/Fund Collaboration provides recommendations on sharpening the focus of the IMF's work in low-income countries. We very much agree with these recommendations. The Fund has a very important role to play in poor countries, through surveillance, technical assistance, and financing when appropriate. But the IMF is not a development agency, and we strongly concur with the report's recommendation that the IMF's financing role in low-income countries should focus on actual balance of payments needs, as it does in emerging market members. The Crockett Report will help catalyze the Executive Board's thinking on the important issue of how the IMF finances itself in the longer-term. The IMF has ample reserves to cover shortfalls in the immediate term, permitting time to fully consider the merits of the Report's recommendations. In parallel, options for further budget restraint must also be fully explored. If low levels of credit persist, the Board will need to give serious consideration to the appropriate role and size of the IMF going forward. The Report puts forward a number of financing options, and we are prepared to consider each on their merits in time. Since we last met, there has been important progress on strengthening the joint World Bank/IMF Debt Sustainability Framework and Debt Sustainability Analyses (DSAs) for low-income countries. Vigilance will be required to deter the rapid re-accumulation of debt for post-MDRI countries, and we urge emerging bilateral creditors to exercise good judgment and lend responsibly. To this end, we hope that lenders and borrowers will use the DSAs as a tool for analysis and decision making. Vigorous global efforts to combat terrorist financing, WMD proliferation financing, and other forms of illicit financing are necessary to promote international financial stability and global security. We must continue to assist countries in implementing the Financial Action Task Force's (FATF's) international standards on money laundering and terrorist financing. The IMF and World Bank have been major partners in this vital global effort, and we look for their continued close collaboration with FATF going forward. We also call on all countries to fulfill their UN obligations by implementing UN Security Council Resolutions 1540, 1718, 1737, and 1747 against WMD proliferation, particularly the economic and financial provisions of those resolutions. We commend FATF's effort to examine the risks of WMD proliferation financing and to enhance surveillance of emerging threats to the financial system. Thank you.

G-7 DEPUTIES EXCHANGED VIEWS WITH THE PRIVATE SECTOR ON HEDGE FUNDS Washington, DC- In the follow up of G-7 Finance Ministers' discussion in Essen on the role of hedge funds, G-7 Deputies had an exchange of views with hedge fund managers, prime brokers and counterparties at the margins of the spring meeting of the Bretton Woods institutions in Washington DC. The meeting was co-chaired by the G-7 presidency, State Secretary Thomas Mirow and Under Secretary of the Treasury, Tim Adams. After hearing a presentation by Under Secretary of the Treasury, Robert Steel, on the "Principles and Guidelines Regarding Private Pools of Capital" of the President's Working Group on Financial Markets, a progress report was given by the chairman of the Financial Stability Forum, Mario Draghi, on the update of the institution's 2000 report on Highly Leveraged Institutions. In addition, the chairman of the "Counterparty Risk Management Policy Group II", E. Gerald Corrigan, briefed participants on the implementation of the group's 2005 report's findings. The discussion with private sector participants focused on best practices on risk management, current hedge fund and private equity regulations and disclosure issues, including a discussion of best practices. G-7 Deputies agreed to keep the matter under further consideration

Testimony of Treasury Assistant Secretary For Tax Policy
Eric Solomon
Before the Senate Finance Committee on
Ways to Reduce the Tax Gap

Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member Grassley, and distinguished Members of the Committee, thank you for the opportunity to discuss our strategy to reduce the tax gap, including the legislative proposals included in the President's Fiscal Year (FY) 2008 Budget request to Congress.

The vast majority of Americans pay their taxes voluntarily and on time. The voluntary compliance rate is approximately 85 percent. Nonetheless, there remains a substantial difference between what taxpayers should pay and what they actually pay. The IRS estimates that the tax gap was $290 billion in 2001, after accounting for late payments and enforcement activities. Each year, compliant taxpayers are required to make up for this shortfall.

The Administration is committed to reducing the tax gap without unduly burdening honest taxpayers who currently meet their tax obligations. In September 2006, the Office of Tax Policy released a comprehensive strategy (the Treasury Strategy) to reduce the tax gap. This strategy forms the basis for our legislative and IRS appropriation proposals in the FY 2008 Budget, while also emphasizing that any strategy must take into account additional components such as a commitment to research, improvements to information technology, and strengthening taxpayer service.

Magnitude and Source of Tax Gap

In recent months, there has been a significant level of discussion about the tax gap. Much of this discussion has focused on the IRS's release last February of estimates of the tax gap in 2001. These estimates included the results from the 2001 National Research Program (NRP), which examined compliance with the individual income and self-employment (SECA) taxes. The estimates of compliance with other types of taxes were projections derived from older studies.

Before focusing on our proposals, it is important to differentiate between the gross tax gap and the net tax gap. The "gross tax gap" is the difference between the amount of tax that taxpayers should pay under the tax law and the amount they actually pay on time. The IRS estimates that the gross tax gap was $345 billion in tax year 2001, resulting in a voluntary compliance rate of 83.7 percent. This estimate, however, does not take into account taxes that were paid voluntarily but late, or recoveries from IRS enforcement activities. Taking these factors into account, the "net tax gap" was an estimated $290 billion in tax year 2001, which represents a net compliance rate of 86.3 percent. Thus, $55 billion of the gross tax gap for 2001 is in the government coffers.

These compliance rates are consistent with historical patterns. IRS estimates of voluntary compliance rates have ranged between 80 and 85 percent for over two decades, although research limitations generally prevent us from measuring fluctuations during this time period. The tax gap is not a new problem, and it will not be eliminated overnight.

The tax gap results from a variety of errors, including non-filing, underreporting of taxes, or underpayment of taxes. It is estimated that over 80 percent of the gross tax gap is attributable to underreporting of tax (including underreported income or overstated deductions and credits). Over 40 percent of the gross tax gap is attributable to underreporting of net business income by individuals (affecting both individual income and self-employment taxes).

Noncompliance is highest among taxpayers whose income is not subject to third-party information reporting or withholding requirements. For 2001, it was estimated that 54 percent of net income from proprietors (including businesses, farms, and ranches), rents and royalties was misreported. In contrast, only one percent of tax due on wage income, which is reported by employers and subject to withholding, was not reported to the IRS by return filers in 2001.

IRS data do not reveal the extent to which the tax gap results from intentional evasion rather than unintentional errors by well-meaning taxpayers who are confused by the increasing complexity of the tax law. Determining taxpayer intent during a regular examination is very difficult. For obvious reasons, taxpayers do not concede that their erroneous reporting is intentional, and any analysis of the nature of the error by IRS examiners is inherently subjective. Moreover, complexity provides those taxpayers who are predisposed to taking aggressive positions the opportunity to argue that their errors were unintentional.

It is safe to assume that both intentional and unintentional errors contribute to the tax gap and that any strategy to reduce the gap must address both intentional evasion as well as taxpayer confusion due to the complexity of the tax code.

Treasury's Tax Gap Strategy

These findings suggest the need for a targeted response designed to address the most significant sources of noncompliance. Four key principles have guided the development of our tax gap strategy:

Unintentional taxpayer errors and intentional taxpayer evasion should both be addressed.

Sources of noncompliance should be targeted with specificity.

Enforcement should be combined with a commitment to taxpayer service

Tax policy and compliance proposals should be sensitive to taxpayer rights and maintain an appropriate balance between enforcement activity and imposition of taxpayer burden.

These principles point to the need for a comprehensive, integrated, multi-year strategy to improve tax compliance. Components of this strategy must include: (1) legislative proposals to reduce opportunities for evasion; (2) a multi-year commitment to compliance research; (3) continued improvements in information technology; (4) improvements in IRS compliance activities; (5) enhancements of taxpayer service; (6) simplification of the tax law; and (7) coordination between the government and its partners and stakeholders.

Since release of the Treasury Strategy last September, the Administration has taken a number of steps to implement each of its seven components. The FY 2008 Budget requests $409.5 million in new funding for initiatives aimed at reducing the tax gap. These initiatives include additional compliance research, investments in information technology, enhancements of front-line enforcement activities, and improvements in taxpayer service aimed at increasing voluntary compliance. The Budget also includes 16 legislative proposals designed to reduce opportunities for evasion. In addition, the FY 2008 Budget contains legislative proposals to simplify the tax treatment of families and savings incentives which, if enacted, would help to eliminate some of the complexity that gives rise to unintentional noncompliance.

We have also been working with our partners and stakeholders to develop and refine our tax gap strategy. Commissioner Everson and I held a public roundtable at the IRS last month to discuss ways to address the tax gap. Panelists at the roundtable included a former IRS Commissioner and a former Assistant Secretary for Tax Policy, researchers, and members of organizations representing businesses and preparers. In addition, we have been meeting regularly with Finance Committee staff to discuss and refine our legislative proposals to reduce the tax gap.

Legislative Proposals

As outlined above, development of legislative proposals to reduce opportunities for evasion is one element of our broader strategy to increase taxpayer compliance, improve tax collection, and reduce the tax gap. As presented in the FY 2008 Budget, our compliance legislative proposals fall into four categories: (1) expand information reporting; (2) improve compliance by businesses; (3) strengthen tax administration; and (4) expand penalties. On the front end, the legislative proposals would help to apprise the IRS of the payment of income through third-party information reporting, one of the most effective tools in improving compliance. On the back end, the legislative proposals would increase incentives to comply with existing law through strengthened penalties. The package of legislative proposals includes targeted provisions that, if enacted, would assist the IRS in enforcing the tax law more efficiently and effectively in targeted areas that present risks of noncompliance.

The legislative proposals are designed to reduce the tax gap, not to raise revenue through a change in the baseline against which compliance is measured. In addition, the legislative proposals attempt to reduce the tax gap by making compliance more efficient while balancing the burden placed on compliant taxpayers. If, on the other hand, draconian measures were to be enacted, they could become so burdensome as to detract from voluntary compliance, compounding rather than reducing the tax gap.

Although the legislative proposals set forth an approach toward improved tax compliance, we recognize that they do not come close to eliminating the tax gap. Making collection of the entire tax gap a reality, however, would require universal audits followed by draconian collection practices, imposing prohibitive costs and burdens on taxpayers as well as the IRS, and fundamentally changing the relationship between taxpayers and the government. Through the multi-pronged approach set forth in the Treasury Strategy, however, we can make significant progress in improving compliance.

In addition to the sixteen legislative proposals, the FY 2008 Budget indicates that the Treasury is continuing to develop proposals to improve compliance and reduce the tax gap. In particular, the Budget mentioned that IRS coordination with State governments could be improved. Under current law, State tax agencies may adjust taxpayer returns in response to an IRS audit. A proposal under development would permit reciprocal adjustments by the IRS in response to a State audit determination. This proposal raises technical issues relating to the assessment limitations period that we are currently working to resolve. Another aspect of Federal-State tax coordination could involve expanded information sharing. In particular, State governments maintain databases in connection with numerous licenses issued pursuant to State law, such as driver's and professional licenses. In some cases, States may suspend certain licensing privileges in connection with State tax noncompliance. Access to such State data could assist the IRS in improving Federal tax compliance. The Treasury Department continues to consider the advantages and disadvantages of these additional proposals to improve tax compliance.

Technical Issues

The President's FY 2008 Budget recommends sixteen changes to the tax code that, if enacted, would improve compliance and reduce the tax gap. Since the Budget was released in early February, members of my staff and I have been meeting regularly with Finance Committee staff to discuss and refine the Administration's proposals and to address a number of technical issues that they present. Those discussions have been useful both in improving the proposals and in helping to highlight the challenges that we face in reducing the tax gap through targeted changes to the tax law. A brief description of some of the technical issues arising under several of the legislative proposals will help to frame the issue and illustrate the limitations of legislative solutions to this problem.

Basis Reporting. One of the Budget proposals would require that brokerage firms report to their customers basis information in connection with the sale of certain publicly traded securities. This proposal builds on section 6045 of the Code, which requires reporting of gross sale proceeds, which must be combined with basis information to determine the tax treatment of the sale. The proposal also builds on a growing trend in the securities industry to provide basis information voluntarily to customers.

. One of the Budget proposals would require that brokerage firms report to their customers basis information in connection with the sale of certain publicly traded securities. This proposal builds on section 6045 of the Code, which requires reporting of gross sale proceeds, which must be combined with basis information to determine the tax treatment of the sale. The proposal also builds on a growing trend in the securities industry to provide basis information voluntarily to customers.

The basis-reporting proposal raises a number of technical issues that are derived from the complex treatment of securities sales under our tax laws. Those issues include, for example: (1) defining the universe of "securities" subject to basis reporting; (2) putting mechanisms in place to ensure that brokers subject to the proposal have relevant basis information from both their customers and from issuers of securities; (3) determining basis for so-called "transferred-in" securities that were not purchased through the broker, including securities purchased separately and transferred into a brokerage account, gifts and inheritances; (4) addressing the interaction of the proposal with taxpayer-specific basis adjustment provisions that operate independently of the broker, such as the wash-sale rules in section 1091, the straddle rules in section 1092, and rules requiring capitalization of certain interest and carrying costs under section 263(g); and (5) determining an appropriate effective date to ensures a smooth transition to the new basis reporting regime.

Payment Card Reporting. Technical issues presented by the Budget proposal regarding information reporting on merchant payment card reimbursements also highlight the challenges of our work in this area. Proprietors, merchants, and other business taxpayers frequently receive income through their customers' use of credit or debit cards. While the use of such payment cards creates a paper trail, that trail does not lead to the IRS, unless a revenue agent were to seek it on a case-by-case basis. At the same time, that existing paper trail would make it relatively easy to generate information reports to the IRS, systematically addressing the possibility of unreported income. Because the existing payment-card system routinely delivers exact dollar and cents amounts to the correct payees, often at the speed of electronic dispatch, it is certain that the information that the IRS needs is accessible. Information reports regarding payment-card reimbursements would result in better compliance by merchants who accept these cards.

. Technical issues presented by the Budget proposal regarding information reporting on merchant payment card reimbursements also highlight the challenges of our work in this area. Proprietors, merchants, and other business taxpayers frequently receive income through their customers' use of credit or debit cards. While the use of such payment cards creates a paper trail, that trail does not lead to the IRS, unless a revenue agent were to seek it on a case-by-case basis. At the same time, that existing paper trail would make it relatively easy to generate information reports to the IRS, systematically addressing the possibility of unreported income. Because the existing payment-card system routinely delivers exact dollar and cents amounts to the correct payees, often at the speed of electronic dispatch, it is certain that the information that the IRS needs is accessible. Information reports regarding payment-card reimbursements would result in better compliance by merchants who accept these cards.

Nevertheless, there are numerous technical issues to be addressed. The payment-card system is complex, involving payment-card organizations, merchant acquiring banks, various service providers, and other entities. In the case of a payment card branded with the name of a particular retail chain, the bank may reimburse the retail chain, which in turn may reimburse a franchise proprietor. In this situation, who should obtain the merchant's Taxpayer Identification Number and generate an information report? We have met with representatives of the payment card industry to understand their concerns with the proposal. Many in this industry are concerned with the incremental burden of reporting, including potential duplication of reporting responsibilities, and have requested greater clarity regarding the party responsible for the reporting when there are other agents involved as intermediaries between the banks and the merchants. Others are concerned about how the IRS will use the data. We recognize these concerns and, while the gross reimbursements reported would not be an equivalent to gross income, the proposed information reporting would assist the IRS by providing the merchant's overall volume of payment card sales in relation to expenses claimed and cash transactions reported. The reporting would also assist the IRS in analyzing the accuracy of reporting for payment card sales.

There are also other technical issues presented by the proposal, such as treatment of "charge backs," in which a merchant is debited for the amount that a credit-card company refunded to a consumer attributable to a defective item, as well as payment-card transactions in which a merchant may sell some goods but also provide "cash back" to consumers. The Budget proposal would grant explicit authority to promulgate administrative rules that address such technical complications, by eliminating duplication of reporting requirements and creating exceptions to reporting of amounts that are not useful for compliance purposes.

Erroneous Refund Penalty. Another legislative proposal raising some technical questions is the erroneous refund penalty. Under current law, the accuracy-related penalty that a taxpayer might pay generally would depend on the amount of underpayment of tax. If a taxpayer wrongfully claims a refund, however, there may be no penalty as long as no additional tax liability is attributable to the wrongful claim, as often happens when there has been overwithholding. Consequently, the IRS has observed aggressive behavior that is undeterred by the tax code's current accuracy-related penalty framework, which is geared toward deterrence of reported tax deficiencies. As a practical matter, some taxpayers and their advisors may be taking advantage of the existing penalty structure by aggressively claiming credits that generate refunds, in an effectively risk-free gamble. To address this problem, our proposal would impose a penalty on an unreasonable claim for refund or credit.

. Another legislative proposal raising some technical questions is the erroneous refund penalty. Under current law, the accuracy-related penalty that a taxpayer might pay generally would depend on the amount of underpayment of tax. If a taxpayer wrongfully claims a refund, however, there may be no penalty as long as no additional tax liability is attributable to the wrongful claim, as often happens when there has been overwithholding. Consequently, the IRS has observed aggressive behavior that is undeterred by the tax code's current accuracy-related penalty framework, which is geared toward deterrence of reported tax deficiencies. As a practical matter, some taxpayers and their advisors may be taking advantage of the existing penalty structure by aggressively claiming credits that generate refunds, in an effectively risk-free gamble. To address this problem, our proposal would impose a penalty on an unreasonable claim for refund or credit.

The proposal seeks to create a parallel system of deterrence applicable even if the taxpayer is in a refund, rather than a deficiency, procedural posture, thus stemming the tide of aggressive claims that are made without reasonable basis or reasonable cause, regardless of the procedural context. There remain open questions about the scope of this proposal. In addition to refunds, should the proposal cover erroneous claims that purport to reduce tax liability? Should there be a threshold amount below which the proposed penalty would not apply? If a taxpayer were subject to penalties in addition to the proposed penalty, in which stacking order should the multiple penalties apply? Should the proposed penalty apply to excise or other types of taxes in addition to income taxes? The goal of the Treasury proposal would be to assert the highest applicable penalty, without duplication of penalties. In this regard, the Treasury proposal's creation of the new penalty would carve out Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) refund claims from the scope of the penalty because these claims are already governed by their own compliance regime.

Prison Scam Disclosure Authorization. The Treasury Department's proposal for disclosure of certain tax violations by Federal and State prisoners would allow the IRS to disclose limited information about such violations so that prison officials could deter such conduct through administrative sanctions. Under existing law, when the IRS discovers that prison inmates are making fraudulent refund claims, taxpayer privacy laws do not permit the IRS to share this information with prison officials, who may be most proximately positioned to address this misconduct. While cooperation among law enforcement officials would appear to be reasonable, numerous technical questions have arisen. What information should be disclosed? When would be the proper time for disclosure, during or after an investigation? To whom should a disclosure be made, Federal officials, State employees, or local wardens? What limitations should be imposed on further use of the IRS information? Does the proposal properly preserve prisoner rights?

. The Treasury Department's proposal for disclosure of certain tax violations by Federal and State prisoners would allow the IRS to disclose limited information about such violations so that prison officials could deter such conduct through administrative sanctions. Under existing law, when the IRS discovers that prison inmates are making fraudulent refund claims, taxpayer privacy laws do not permit the IRS to share this information with prison officials, who may be most proximately positioned to address this misconduct. While cooperation among law enforcement officials would appear to be reasonable, numerous technical questions have arisen. What information should be disclosed? When would be the proper time for disclosure, during or after an investigation? To whom should a disclosure be made, Federal officials, State employees, or local wardens? What limitations should be imposed on further use of the IRS information? Does the proposal properly preserve prisoner rights?

Collection Due Process. Similar questions may arise regarding the Treasury Department's proposal to amend the Collection Due Process (CDP) procedures as they apply to employment taxes. Employment taxes include employer and employee shares of Federal Insurance Contribution Act (FICA) tax as well as Federal Unemployment Tax Act amounts and income tax withheld from employee wages. Employee FICA shares and withheld income tax constitute the largest portion of employment taxes. These taxes are often referred to as "trust fund" taxes, because employers are supposed to hold them in trust for the government after they are withheld from employee wages. These amounts include Social Security Trust Fund taxes credited to employees, whether or not actually paid to the Treasury.

. Similar questions may arise regarding the Treasury Department's proposal to amend the Collection Due Process (CDP) procedures as they apply to employment taxes. Employment taxes include employer and employee shares of Federal Insurance Contribution Act (FICA) tax as well as Federal Unemployment Tax Act amounts and income tax withheld from employee wages. Employee FICA shares and withheld income tax constitute the largest portion of employment taxes. These taxes are often referred to as "trust fund" taxes, because employers are supposed to hold them in trust for the government after they are withheld from employee wages. These amounts include Social Security Trust Fund taxes credited to employees, whether or not actually paid to the Treasury.

Unpaid employment tax liabilities are some of the most difficult taxes for the IRS to collect. In some cases, an employer may be able to retain employees and stay in business by paying only net wages, even if he or she cannot pay employment tax. Employment taxes are due quarterly and, when there are successive failures to pay quarterly employment tax installments, they continue to accrual over successive periods resulting in a "pyramid" of liability. In a case like this, employment taxes often pile up while the IRS attempts to collect, ultimately by imposing a levy. Under the CDP provisions in the Code, the IRS generally must provide the taxpayer with notice and an opportunity for an administrative hearing, with judicial review, before levy. In the employment tax context, an opportunity for a CDP hearing must be provided for every quarter that there are unpaid taxes the IRS seeks to collect. By the time this CDP procedure is completed, the employment taxes may have become uncollectible, even if determined to be due by the end of the review.

The Treasury Department's proposal would add employment taxes to the exception that allows a CDP hearing to be held within a reasonable time after, rather than before levy. While collection of employment taxes would be in the best interest of employees and the Federal Trust Fund, there nevertheless may be concerns that amendment to the CDP provision might abridge taxpayer rights. On the other hand, the opportunities available to the taxpayer who in good faith seeks to address an unpaid employment tax balance prior to levy and the urgency of the pyramiding problem are factors that support the adoption of the proposal. To be clear, under the proposal, employment tax returns showing a balance due would not be subject to levy until after the IRS has made several attempts to correspond with the taxpayer regarding the balance due a process whereby taxpayers have several opportunities to contact the IRS and enter into a voluntary payment arrangement prior to enforced collection. Those taxpayers who fail to address payment would be subject to a levy, and would have the opportunity for a post-levy CDP hearing.

We are pleased that a number of the Budget proposals have been introduced and considered in different legislative vehicles this year. We look forward to working with the Committee to address the technical issues so these proposals can achieve their intended purposes.

Regulatory Projects and Other Initiatives

The Treasury Strategy identified our published guidance program as an important component of the multi-pronged strategy to improve compliance. Published guidance clarifies ambiguous areas of the law, increasing voluntary compliance. With the increasing complexity of the tax law, it is more important than ever for us to publish timely guidance to give direction to those taxpayers who make a good faith effort to comply with the law, but have difficulty doing so because of uncertainty in its application. Published guidance is also an important tool to target specific areas of noncompliance and prevent abusive behavior.

Each year, the Treasury Department and the IRS publish a Priority Guidance Plan. The 2006-2007 plan includes 264 guidance projects scheduled for completion between July 2006 and June 2007. Numerous projects are added during the year as new tax laws are enacted or new compliance issues are identified.

Recent published guidance projects that will improve compliance and that target potential areas of abuse include:

Transfer Pricing: We have produced, and continue to produce, significant guidance in the area of transfer pricing. In an increasingly globalized economy, cross-border transactions between controlled entities present significant compliance challenges, making guidance in the transfer pricing area an important part of our administrative efforts to address the tax gap. In August 2006, we issued temporary and final regulations addressing the treatment of cross-border services, and followed them up with additional guidance in December 2006. We issued proposed transfer pricing regulations addressing cost-sharing in August 2005. We intend to finalize both sets of regulations, with appropriate modifications.

: We have produced, and continue to produce, significant guidance in the area of transfer pricing. In an increasingly globalized economy, cross-border transactions between controlled entities present significant compliance challenges, making guidance in the transfer pricing area an important part of our administrative efforts to address the tax gap. In August 2006, we issued temporary and final regulations addressing the treatment of cross-border services, and followed them up with additional guidance in December 2006. We issued proposed transfer pricing regulations addressing cost-sharing in August 2005. We intend to finalize both sets of regulations, with appropriate modifications.

Foreign Tax Credit: We have taken strong steps to halt misuse of the foreign tax credit. Last month we issued proposed regulations that would disallow foreign tax credits tied to participation in certain artificially engineered, highly structured transactions. In August 2006, we issued proposed regulations that would address the inappropriate separation of creditable foreign taxes from foreign source income. We intend to make appropriate modifications and finalize both sets of regulations as soon as possible.

: We have taken strong steps to halt misuse of the foreign tax credit. Last month we issued proposed regulations that would disallow foreign tax credits tied to participation in certain artificially engineered, highly structured transactions. In August 2006, we issued proposed regulations that would address the inappropriate separation of creditable foreign taxes from foreign source income. We intend to make appropriate modifications and finalize both sets of regulations as soon as possible.

Information Sharing: We continue to update and expand our network of tax treaties and tax information exchange agreements ("TIEAs"). We are also renegotiating tax treaties that do not have sufficient limitation on benefits or exchange of information provisions. We are entering into new TIEAs, such as the one signed with Brazil in March 2007, and bringing signed TIEAs into force, with jurisdictions such as the Netherlands Antilles, the British Virgin Islands, and the Cayman Islands. These information-sharing agreements are critical tools for the IRS to combat cross-boarder aspects of compliance.

: We continue to update and expand our network of tax treaties and tax information exchange agreements ("TIEAs"). We are also renegotiating tax treaties that do not have sufficient limitation on benefits or exchange of information provisions. We are entering into new TIEAs, such as the one signed with Brazil in March 2007, and bringing signed TIEAs into force, with jurisdictions such as the Netherlands Antilles, the British Virgin Islands, and the Cayman Islands. These information-sharing agreements are critical tools for the IRS to combat cross-boarder aspects of compliance.

Private Annuities: In October 2006, we published proposed regulations regarding the Federal tax treatment of private annuity contracts. Recent Congressional hearings have highlighted how taxpayers were applying prior law treatment of these contracts to facilitate abusive private annuity arrangements, often involving off shore issuers. The proposed regulations, when adopted as final, will shut down those arrangements.

: In October 2006, we published proposed regulations regarding the Federal tax treatment of private annuity contracts. Recent Congressional hearings have highlighted how taxpayers were applying prior law treatment of these contracts to facilitate abusive private annuity arrangements, often involving off shore issuers. The proposed regulations, when adopted as final, will shut down those arrangements.

Trust Information Reporting: In 2006, we published a series of regulations that provide a comprehensive set of information reporting rules for grantor trusts where ownership interests in those trusts are held indirectly. Historically, taxpayers who held such interests were often unable to comply fully with their tax obligations because they lacked necessary information about the activities of the trust. This project highlights work that can be done administratively to ensure that taxpayers who make every effort to meet their obligations have the information they need to determine and report their liability accurately.

: In 2006, we published a series of regulations that provide a comprehensive set of information reporting rules for grantor trusts where ownership interests in those trusts are held indirectly. Historically, taxpayers who held such interests were often unable to comply fully with their tax obligations because they lacked necessary information about the activities of the trust. This project highlights work that can be done administratively to ensure that taxpayers who make every effort to meet their obligations have the information they need to determine and report their liability accurately.

Reportable Transaction Rules: In the American Jobs Creation Act, Congress enacted a number of changes to the statutory rules requiring disclosure to the IRS of potentially abusive transactions, strengthening the IRS' hand in this area. In October 2006, we published proposed regulations that follow prior interim guidance and, when adopted as final, will build on the expanded statutory provisions to ensure that the IRS knows about and is able to react quickly to, emerging problematic transactions.

: In the American Jobs Creation Act, Congress enacted a number of changes to the statutory rules requiring disclosure to the IRS of potentially abusive transactions, strengthening the IRS' hand in this area. In October 2006, we published proposed regulations that follow prior interim guidance and, when adopted as final, will build on the expanded statutory provisions to ensure that the IRS knows about and is able to react quickly to, emerging problematic transactions. Conclusion

An effective approach to dealing with the tax gap requires multiple, interrelated strategies. I have discussed the work that the Treasury Department is doing with regard to the legislative and regulatory components of the Treasury Strategy. Each of the multiple components of the strategy is necessary, but none is sufficient in isolation. We look forward to continuing our work with this Committee and others in Congress to implement our strategy and looking for new ways to reduce the tax gap.

Thank you again, Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member Grassley, and other Members of the Committee for the opportunity to appear before you today. I would be pleased to answer any questions you may have.

April 17

GLASER LEADS TREASURY DELEGATION TO CHINA WASHINGTON, DC – Daniel Glaser, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Terrorist Financing and Financial Crimes, leads a Treasury delegation to Beijing, China Saturday to offer assistance to the Macanese and Chinese in addressing the issue of North Korean-related funds frozen at Banco Delta Asia (BDA). "The policy and diplomatic issues have been solved – this is now down to implementation. The Macanese and Chinese have made clear that they want to ensure implementation of the agreement is consistent with their own laws and with their international obligations. We are bringing Treasury expertise to help the Macanese and Chinese wade through some of these implementation issues," said Glaser.

STATEMENT BY TREASURY DEPUTY SECRETARY KIMMITT ON UNSCR 1747

This Department of Treasury press release may be viewed at: WASHINGTON, DC – Treasury Deputy Secretary Robert M. Kimmitt issued the following statement today on the adoption of UNSCR 1747: "The Treasury Department welcomes the unanimous adoption of UNSCR 1747, which reaffirms and expands UNSCR 1737 of December 2006. These resolutions target Iran's nuclear and missile programs, and among other requirements, obligate states to freeze the assets of named entities and individuals associated with those programs. "Of particular note is Resolution 1747's designation of Iranian state-owned Bank Sepah and Bank Sepah International, which finance and support Iran's development of ballistic missiles. The Treasury Department urges governments and financial institutions around the world to swiftly implement their obligation to freeze the assets and economic resources of all listed entities and individuals, but in particular Bank Sepah and Bank Sepah International. In the coming days, we also urge states and financial institutions to be particularly vigilant and prevent efforts by Sepah to move assets, including to other Iranian state-owned institutions, or otherwise evade sanctions."

Testimony of Treasury Secretary
Henry M. Paulson, Jr.
Before the U.S. House Appropriations
Subcommittee on Financial Services and
General Government
Washington, DC- Chairman Serrano, Ranking Member Regula, and Members of the Subcommittee. Thank you for the opportunity to appear before you today to discuss the President's Fiscal Year (FY) 2008 Budget for the Department of the Treasury.
- Chairman Serrano, Ranking Member Regula, and Members of the Subcommittee. Thank you for the opportunity to appear before you today to discuss the President's Fiscal Year (FY) 2008 Budget for the Department of the Treasury.

I am pleased to be here today to provide an overview of the President's Budget for Treasury in FY 2008. The President's FY 2008 Budget reflects the Department's budget priorities and dedication to promoting economic growth and opportunity, strengthening national security, and exercising fiscal discipline.

The $12.1 billion request focuses resources on key programs necessary to promote economic growth, fund the activities of the federal government and effectively fight the war on terror. The request is $523 million above the amount provided by the FY 2007 funding level, a 4.5 percent increase. By collecting the revenue due to the federal government and working to reduce illicit threats to the financial system, the Department of the Treasury contributes to the financial integrity of the United States.

Treasury has a primary role as steward of the U.S. economic and financial systems, including the role of the U.S. as an influential participant in the international economy. Treasury promotes financial and economic growth at home and abroad. Treasury also performs a critical and far-reaching role in national security. The Department battles national security threats by coordinating financial intelligence, targeting and imposing sanctions on supporters of terrorism, narcotics traffickers, and proliferators of weapons of mass destruction, improving the safeguards of our financial systems, and promoting international relationships to combat the financial underpinnings of terrorist and other criminal networks.

Managing these complex tasks requires expanded capabilities. Fully funding the President's FY 2008 Budget request will allow the Treasury Department to continue and improve its ability to study, recommend, and support initiatives that strengthen the U.S. economy, create more jobs for Americans, and enhance citizens' economic security. The Department will actively work to protect the security of pensions, reform Social Security, and improve the federal income tax system by providing timely, usable, and comprehensive analyses that advance the policy process.

Promoting Economic Growth, Security and Opportunity

The Treasury Department works diligently to fulfill its role as the Administration's chief economic advisor. We strive to provide the President with the best information available on a broad range of domestic and international economic issues. Treasury's Offices of International Affairs, Tax Policy, Economic Policy, and Domestic Finance support this role through the provision of technical analysis, economic forecasting, and policy guidance on issues ranging from federal financing to responding to international financial crises. The Treasury Department supports policies that stimulate U.S. economic growth, strengthen and modernize entitlement programs, and minimize regulatory burdens while ensuring the safety and soundness of financial institutions.

The FY 2008 Budget request funds Treasury's efforts to promote domestic and international economic growth through financial diplomacy. Treasury stimulates economic growth and job creation by working to open trade and investment, encouraging growth in developing countries, and promoting responsible policies regarding international debt, finance, and economics. Treasury supports trade liberalization and budget discipline through its role in negotiating and implementing international agreements pertaining to export subsidies. These agreements open markets, level the playing field for U.S. exporters, and provide effective subsidy reductions that save the U.S. taxpayer millions of dollars annually. Since 1991, cumulative budget savings from these arrangements are estimated at over $10 billion. The growth of these activities makes it necessary to enhance policy coordination and resources through the addition of regional experts. Treasury's FY 2008 Budget request provides additional staff to support key policy dialogues around the globe. These experts will enhance policy coordination on international matters and will support key policy dialogues with priority countries like China.

Treasury also remains committed to protecting the homeland from international investments that may threaten our national security. The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) is an interagency group responsible for investigating the national security implications of the merger or acquisition of U.S. companies by foreign persons. One of my key responsibilities as Secretary is to chair this committee, and to make sure that the interagency CFIUS process performs as efficiently as possible. As foreign investment in the United States has increased, so has the number of cases reviewed by CFIUS. As a result, the FY 2008 Budget request provides additional resources to support Treasury's investigations of foreign investments.

The President's FY 2008 request for Treasury also includes $28.6 million for the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund. CDFI Fund's mission is to expand the capacity of financial institutions to provide credit, capital, and financial services to underserved populations and communities in the United States. In order to ensure that the CDFI program continues to operate in the most efficient and effective manner, Treasury is proposing to phase out the CDFI Bank Enterprise Awards (BEA) program in 2008. There is no evidence that the BEA program improves economic development, and we believe that the program's goals are better served through other CDFI Fund activities.

Strengthening National Security

The sponsorship of terrorism and potential acquisition of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) by rogue regimes and non-state entities represent grave threats to U.S. national security and the security of all free and open societies. Terrorists, WMD proliferators and other non-state threats require support networks through which money and material flow. The Treasury Department draws on financial and other all-source intelligence, and also works to utilize its unique regulatory and law enforcement authorities, to combat national security threats and safeguard the financial system.

The Department's Office of Terrorism and Financial Intelligence (TFI) provides financial intelligence analysis, develops and implements systems to combat money laundering and terrorist financing, administers the Bank Secrecy Act, and administers and enforces the U.S. Government's economic sanctions programs.

Treasury exercises a full range of intelligence, regulatory, policy, and enforcement tools in tracking and disrupting terrorists' support networks, proliferators of weapons of mass destruction, rogue regimes, and international narco-traffickers, both as a vital source of intelligence and as a means of degrading their ability to function. Treasury's actions include:

Freezing the assets of terrorists, proliferators, drug kingpins, and other criminals and shutting down the channels through which they raise and move money;

Cutting off corrupt foreign jurisdictions and financial institutions from the U.S. financial system;

Developing and enforcing regulations to reduce terrorist financing and money laundering;

Tracing and repatriating assets looted by corrupt foreign officials; and

Promoting a meaningful exchange of information with the private financial sector to help detect and address threats to the financial system.

The FY 2008 President's Budget will enable Treasury to enhance these capabilities. Treasury requests funding for investments to further the Department's national security mission in three critical areas. First, this budget, if enacted, will enable Treasury to expand its capacity to identify potential national security threats and to enforce U.S. policies to counter those threats. Next, Treasury will enhance the information technology and physical infrastructure of TFI and its component bureaus and offices to improve data security, access, and quality. Finally, the Budget would provide funds to help integrate TFI's Office of Intelligence Analysis into the broader Intelligence Community.

Specifically, this request includes an additional $5.3 million to respond to emerging national security threats, provide strategic policy coordination in regions key to the fight against terrorist financing, and to enhance implementation of sanctions against state sponsors of terrorism and WMD proliferation. The request also includes $8.1 million for infrastructure and information technology projects to enhance data access, security, and quality, including construction of a Sensitive, Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF), stabilization and maintenance of the Treasury Foreign Intelligence Network, and the Critical Infrastructure Protection program. Finally, $1 million is requested for initiatives to further Treasury's integration into the broader intelligence community.

The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) is responsible for administering the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA). The FY 2008 Budget request provides funding to strengthen recovery capability for mission-critical information technology systems and emergency operation capabilities; and improve information technology planning and oversight.

Managing U.S. Government Finances

The Treasury Department manages the nation's finances by collecting money due the United States, making its payments, managing its borrowing, investing when appropriate, and performing central accounting functions. Key priorities in managing the government's finances include maximizing voluntary compliance with tax laws and regulations, continually improving financial management processes, and financing the government at the lowest possible cost over time. The FY 2008 Budget request provides the funding necessary to properly administer these functions.

Collecting Taxes
Collecting taxes in a fair and consistent manner is a core mission of the Treasury Department. Treasury's priorities in tax administration are enforcing the nation's tax laws fairly and efficiently while balancing taxpayer service and education to promote voluntary compliance and reduce taxpayer burden. In an effort to maximize tax compliance, the FY 2008 Budget includes $11.1 billion for the IRS, which is an increase of $498 million above the amount provided in the FY 2007 funding levels.

The FY 2008 Budget request provides funding to enhance coverage of high-risk compliance areas, as well as to address the tax gap, which represents the annual difference between taxes owed and taxes collected, including a multi-year research effort that will provide continuous feedback on noncompliance. Enforcement will focus on critical reporting, filing, and payment compliance programs, and highlight abusive tax avoidance transactions and high income individual examinations involving pass-through entities (e.g., partnerships and trusts). The IRS will also continue to reengineer its examination and collection procedures to reduce audit time, increase yield, and expand coverage. As in FY 2006 and FY 2007, the Administration proposes to include IRS enforcement increases as a Budget Enforcement Act program integrity cap adjustment.

The IRS will continue efforts to improve services offered to taxpayers, primarily focusing on those outside of traditional telephone access. For example, the FY 2008 request provides funding to expand the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program. The IRS will also implement the Taxpayer Assistance Blueprint, a five year strategic plan to deliver taxpayer service; a collaborative effort of the IRS, the IRS Oversight Board, and the National Taxpayer Advocate.

Finally, the FY 2008 request will allow the IRS to make critical IT infrastructure upgrades. IRS will continue to invest in technology, process improvements, and training to achieve consistent quality service with reduced costs. The Budget also includes funding for the IRS's Business Systems Modernization program, which is designed to provide IRS employees the tools they need to continue to administer and improve both service and enforcement programs.

The President's Budget also includes a number of legislative proposals intended to improve tax compliance with minimum taxpayer burden. Once implemented, it is estimated that proposals will generate $29 billion over ten years. These proposals are presented in detail in the FY 2008 Department of the Treasury Blue Book. The legislative proposals fall into four categories: expand information reporting, improve compliance by businesses, strengthen tax administration, and expand penalties.

Treasury's Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau also collects excise taxes on alcohol, tobacco, firearms, and ammunition. In FY 2006, the Bureau collected $14.8 billion in excise taxes, interest, and other revenues on these products and also regulates the manufacture of alcohol and tobacco products.

Ensuring Efficient Fiscal Service Operations
The FY 2008 Budget request provides the funds necessary for Treasury to meet its responsibilities as the federal government's financial manager.

Treasury's management of the federal government's finances includes making payments, collecting revenue, preparing public financial statements and collecting delinquent debt owed to the federal government through the Financial Management Service (FMS). Treasury oversees a daily cash flow in excess of $58 billion and disburses 85 percent of all federal payments. The Department is working to improve its payments and collections processes by moving toward an all-electronic Treasury. In FY 2006, Treasury issued 742 million electronic payments including income tax refunds, Social Security benefits, and veterans' benefits. Treasury is also encouraging Social Security and Supplemental Security Income recipients to switch to Direct Deposit through the Go Direct campaign. Direct Deposit represents a cost savings to the federal government, and consequently to the American taxpayer, of 80 cents per transaction compared to a check payment.

Treasury's Bureau of the Public Debt manages all of the public debt, which includes marketable securities, savings bonds, and other instruments held by state and local governments, federal agencies, foreign governments, corporations, and individuals. To improve debt management and offer better customer service, Treasury offers TreasuryDirect, an electronic, web-based system that electronically issues securities to retail customers and enables investors to manage their accounts on-line.

The Budget also includes three legislative proposals for FMS that are estimated to save the federal government over $3 billion over ten years. These proposals will allow the government to trace and recover federal payments sent electronically to the wrong account, eliminate the ten-year limitation on the collection of delinquent non-tax federal debts, and remove the disincentive for the IRS to refer tax debts to FMS for collection.

Strengthening Financial Institutions

One of the principal objectives of the Treasury Department is to enable commerce. The Department is responsible for the safety and soundness of national banks and federally-chartered savings associations. The Treasury Department also produces the coins and currency needed for commerce, and guards against counterfeiting and other misuse of our money. While the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), the Office of Thrift Supervision (OTS), the U.S. Mint (Mint), and the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) are funded through direct annual appropriations, their contribution to Treasury's mission cannot be understated.

Treasury, through OCC and OTS, maintains the integrity of the financial system of the United States by chartering, regulating, and supervising national banks and savings associations. In FY 2006, OCC and OTS oversaw financial assets held by these financial institutions totaling $8.1 trillion.

The Mint and BEP are responsible for producing the nation's coins and currency, respectively. In FY 2006, the Mint and BEP produced 16.2 billion coins and 8.2 billion paper currency notes, respectively. The Mint issued five new quarters for the 50 State Quarters program and BEP introduced the new $10 currency note into circulation. Also, despite significant increases in the price of metals, the Mint was able to return $750 million to the Treasury General Fund in FY 2006.

Managing Treasury Effectively

Treasury is committed to using the resources provided by taxpayers in the most efficient manner possible. The Department will drive improved results through decision-making that considers performance and cost. The Treasury Department strives to serve its stakeholders in the most effective way while working to leverage resources across the Department and across government.

Funding requested in Treasury's Departmental Offices and Department-wide Systems and Capital Investments Program (DSCIP) is sought for building a strong information technology infrastructure, ensuring that Treasury remains a world-class organization that meets the President's standard of a citizen-centered, results-oriented government.

The DSCIP account funds technology investments to modernize business processes throughout Treasury, helping the Department improve efficiency. In FY 2008, Treasury requests $18.71 million for ongoing modernization and critical information technology infrastructure projects, and for investment in other new technologies that will improve efficiency and service to the American people. The budget request includes:

$6 million to begin work on a Treasury-wide Enterprise Content Management System. The initial system will meet the business requirements of the Office of Foreign Assets Control and the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network;

$2 million for the continued stabilization of the Treasury Secure Data Network; and

$4 million to improve Treasury's FISMA performance, strengthen the Department's overall security posture, leveraging the President's Management Agenda, including the E-Government initiatives, across the Department.

This budget request also includes funding for the Office of the Inspector General and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. These offices play important oversight roles in the overall management of the Department and the fair administration of the nation's tax laws.

Conclusion

Mr. Chairman, thank you again for the opportunity to come here today to discuss with you and the Committee the President's FY 2008 Budget request for Treasury. I look forward to working with you and the members of the Committee in ensuring that Treasury maximizes its resources and funding so that the American people can be assured that their tax dollars are being used in the most effective way possible. I would be more than happy to answer any questions.

TREASURY TAKES ACTION AGAINST MAJOR MEDELLIN-BASED TRAFFICKER AND HIS FINANCIAL EMPIRE

Washington, DC-- The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) today named Fabio Enrique Ochoa Vasco (a.k.a."Carlos Mario"), a major Medellin-based drug trafficker, as a principal individual on its list of Specially Designated Narcotics Traffickers (SDNTs). At the same time, OFAC designated 45 companies and 64 individuals in Ochoa Vasco's extensive criminal and financial network, across Colombia, Belize, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, and Panama. "Fabio Enrique Ochoa Vasco is the head of one of the most powerful Medellin-based drug trafficking organizations today," said OFAC Director Adam J. Szubin. "Our action today strikes at his massive financial empire with the aim of depriving him of the benefit of his criminal activities." This action is part of an ongoing interagency effort to implement Executive Order 12978 (October 21, 1995), which applies economic sanctions against Colombia's drug cartels. This effort includes the Departments of the Treasury, Justice, State and Homeland Security. Today's designation action freezes any assets the designees may have subject to U.S. jurisdiction, and prohibits all financial and commercial transactions by any U.S. person with the designated companies and individuals. This is OFAC's first designation of a significant narcotics trafficker operating out of Medellin, Colombia since the issuance of E.O. 12978 in October 1995. Fabio Enrique Ochoa Vasco and twelve other individuals were charged with cocaine trafficking in a September 2004 U.S. federal indictment in the Middle District of Florida, Tampa Division. OFAC has worked closely over the past three years with Operation Panama Express on the investigation of Fabio Enrique Ochoa Vasco and his organization. Operation Panama Express is an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Strike Force investigation conducted by ICE, DEA, FBI, IRS, Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office with the U.S. Attorney's Office in Tampa, Middle District of Florida. The investigation was also supported by the ICE Attaché - Bogotá, DEA Cartagena, Colombia Resident Office and DEA Belize Country Office. The U.S. government is offering up to $5 million for information leading to the arrest of Fabio Enrique Ochoa Vasco. "ICE is proud of our investigative partnership with other Panama Express member agencies and our contribution to this OFAC case." said Julie L. Myers, DHS Assistant Secretary for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. "By freezing their assets, we will continue to shut down the ability of drug kingpins like Fabio Enrique Ochoa Vasco to conduct their illegal businesses." Fabio Enrique Ochoa Vasco has been involved in narcotics trafficking activities from Colombia to the United States since at least 1981. Ochoa Vasco participated in narcotics trafficking with key figures in Colombia's Medellin Cartel such as Luis Fernando Galeano Berrio, Gerardo "Kike" Moncada, Diego Fernando Murillo Bejarano (a.k.a. "Don Berna"), and kingpin Pablo Escobar Gaviria. The network of 45 Ochoa Vasco businesses designated today includes Duratex S.A., a Colombian carpet/textile company located in Bogota, Colombia; Inversiones y Representaciones S.A. (IRSA), a real estate firm in Medellin, Colombia; Florida Soccer Club S.A. in Itagui, Antioquia, Colombia; Hotel La Cascada S.A., a hotel in Girardot, Colombia; Yamaha Veranillo Distribuidores, a marina in Barranquilla, Colombia; and a network of real estate firms - Inversiones MPS S.A., Proyectos y Soluciones S.A., Proyectos y Soluciones Inmobiliaria Ltda., and Gerencia de Proyectos y Soluciones Ltda. - located in Bogota, Colombia. OFAC also designated Duratex S.A. front companies located in Ecuador (Comercializadora Mor Gaviria S.A. and Comercializadora Mordur S.A.), Guatemala (Overseas Trading Company), and Mexico (MC Overseas Trading Company S.A. de C.V). A clothing store, Lizzy Mundo Interior, in Guadalajara, Mexico was also named. The OFAC action targeted seven key financial managers for Fabio Enrique Ochoa Vasco, including Jaime Dib Mor Saab, Jorge Ernesto Caicedo Rojas, Gustavo Alberto Pabon Alvarado, Silvio Yepes Velez, Jhon Jairo Castrillon Vasco, Fernando Maldonado Escobar, and Gabriel Andres Calvo Lombana, as well as three Mexican financial associates, Porfirio Miguel Cadenas Viramontes, Luis Pacheco Mejia, and Gloria Elisa Briseno Mar. In addition, important criminal associates of Fabio Enrique Ochoa Vasco were named, including John Jairo Gallego Valencia, Miyer Alberto Garcia Buitrago, Victor Hugo Castro Garzon, Carlos Heneris Varela Serna and Ricardo Castro Garzon. The assets of a total of 1,477 business and individuals in Aruba, Barbados, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Spain, Vanuatu, Venezuela, the Bahamas, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, and the United States have been designated pursuant to E.O. 12978. The 570 SDNT businesses include agricultural, aviation, consulting, construction, distribution, financial, hotel, investment, manufacturing, maritime, mining, offshore, pharmaceutical, real estate, retail, service, sporting, telecommunication, and textile firms. The SDNT list now includes 22 kingpins from the Cali, Medellin, North Valle, and North Coast drug trafficking organizations in Colombia. For a complete list of the individuals and entities designated today, please visit:

PREPARED STATEMENT BY SECRETARY HENRY M. PAULSON, JR. AT THE DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING

Washington, DC--Over the past five years the world economy has grown at a pace not seen in over three decades. This robust growth has been particularly strong in low income countries and has helped reduce poverty. The world is well on its way to halving the share of people living in extreme poverty. While this is a remarkable accomplishment, progress is neither great enough nor balanced enough for us to congratulate ourselves. The Global Monitoring Report appropriately highlights the difficulties with progress in fragile states, many of which are located in sub-Saharan Africa, and draws attention to the need to ensure that the benefits of growth are equally open to all members of society, both male and female. While the community of donors recognizes the need for continuing substantial aid flows, one of the most critical of the many lessons we have learned in the 60-year history of the World Bank is that higher aid flows by themselves do not guarantee less poverty. Assuring that our assistance is directed to effective, efficient, well-coordinated projects that can make lasting changes in people's lives remains a key and daunting challenge. It requires intellectual vigor, the willingness to constantly reassess and question the effectiveness of our approaches, and a true hard-nosed dedication to the pursuit of measurable results at all levels of our programs. It also means that resources need to be applied to their most efficient use, and that institutions focus on their core competencies. Sub-Saharan Africa We are heartened by the early indications of success with the Bank's Africa Action Plan (AAP). It is too early to determine the long-term effectiveness of the AAP, but there is sufficient evidence that results are moving in the right direction. We are particularly pleased with positive country policy performance, a key ingredient for development results. One area highlighted in the AAP where more work should be done is statistical capacity building. Without data, African countries will always be at a disadvantage in policy creation and adaptation, and private sector firms will be less confident in investing. As we think about a post-2015 Africa, many areas of activity, such as infrastructure, the private sector, and governance deserve significant attention. While we support the IDA-IFC micro, small and medium-size enterprise facility, the AAP needs a greater focus on private sector support and improving financial sector access. It is the financial sector that provides a loan to start an enterprise, grow a business, or buy a house. Access to capital helps people acquire assets that give them a foothold in the economy – personal financial wherewithal they can leverage into greater prosperity and economic security. Trade Reducing trade barriers is also essential for providing people opportunities. The best way to alleviate poverty and raise living standards is through greater openness, so more people can benefit from the expanding global economy. The most important driver for poverty reduction has been the rapid growth of developing countries that opened to trade, notably in several Asian economies. For instance, Mexico's poverty rate fell by more than 20% and its rate of extreme poverty fell by more than 30% between 1994 and 2005 – the years following the passage of NAFTA. We need to continue pushing forward on the trade agenda, including a successful Doha Round of negotiations, to keep all our economies growing. The case for trade liberalization is clear and compelling. And if we want more people to support it, we need to ease anxieties and help more people realize the benefits of trade. The Aid for Trade agenda launched at the Hong Kong Ministerial can help allay these fears. Fragile States Fragile states pose a special development challenge because they are frequently unable to sustain any forward momentum on reforms and growth. As such, fragile states do not typically respond to standard development interventions and require a rethinking of donor engagement to ensure positive results. Paramount among these is careful consideration of resource investment. Due to weak governance and weak institutional capacity, the ability of fragile states to absorb and effectively utilize resources is limited. This is particularly relevant given the potentially negative macroeconomic implications of scaling up in low-capacity countries. Given the challenges posed by fragile states and the limited applicability of standard development tools to their situations, a new framework needs to be developed to assist donor institutions to engage effectively. Key elements of such a framework include: (1) developing a cohesive definition of fragility that focuses on the sources of fragility and not its outcomes; (2) developing and adopting an approach of selective intervention; and (3) developing a high quality and integrated monitoring and evaluation system. Governance Finally, we welcome and support the updated version of the World Bank Group's Governance and Anticorruption (GAC) strategy. We applaud the Bank for an extensive public consultation process, which has helped to sharpen the GAC's approach and has opened the door to new partnerships. We are confident that the strategy will strengthen the Bank's role in helping borrowing countries promote good governance and fight corruption and in playing a leadership role with global partners. We believe the GAC rightly focuses on the most important issues: building effective and accountable institutions; country ownership; and government commitment to governance and anti-corruption. Further, we support the call to help countries address the problem of asset seizure and repatriation and greater disclosure of assets by public officials. The core proposal to revamp the country assistance strategy (CAS) process to systematically address governance issues in country strategies assumes a continuing framework for fighting corruption in a way that applies central principles to country-specific circumstances. Going forward, we would like to see more use of the Public Expenditures and Financial Accountability indicators within the Bank fiduciary diagnostics and their link to the preparation of country assistance strategies. Conclusion The challenge of global poverty can be overcome only when the appropriate resources are married to the right policies. The MDGs intentionally set a very high bar, and achieving them will require that we remain focused in our purpose and efficient in our methods. We look forward to working closely with all our partners to achieve our common goal: to create the conditions and opportunities for the world's poor to improve their livelihoods and overcome poverty.

TREASURY INTERNATIONAL CAPITAL (TIC) DATA FOR FEBRUARY

This Treasury International Capital (TIC) data for February are released today and posted on the U.S. Treasury web site (www.treas.gov/tic). The next release, which will report on data for March, is scheduled for May 15, 2007. Net foreign purchases of long-term securities were $58.1 billion. * Net foreign purchases of long-term U.S. securities were $77.9 billion. Of this, net purchases by foreign official institutions were $12.6 billion, and net purchases by private foreign investors were $65.3 billion. * U.S. residents purchased a net $19.8 billion in long-term foreign securities. Net foreign acquisition of long-term securities, taking into account adjustments, is estimated to have been $43.2 billion. Foreign holdings of dollar-denominated short-term U.S. securities, including Treasury bills, and other custody liabilities increased $20.8 billion. Foreign holdings of Treasury bills increased $5.3 billion. Banks' own net dollar-denominated liabilities to foreign residents increased $30.4 billion. Monthly net TIC flows were $94.5 billion. Of this, net foreign private flows were $61.6 billion and net foreign official flows were $32.9 billion.

TREASURY DEPARTMENT NEWS

Posted by Bill at 08:55 AM | Permalink

April 16, 2007

Alma Awards 2007

EVA LONGORIA, NCLR PRESIDENT AND CEO JANET MURGUÍA AND MARIO LOPEZ ANNOUNCE NOMINATIONS FOR "THE 2007 ALMA AWARDS"
Megastar Musician Prince to Perform at the Awards Show, Which Honors Outstanding Latino Artistic Achievement in Television, Film and Music, And Airs Tuesday, June 5 Additional Talent and Performers Scheduled to Appear Include Jessica Alba, Andy Garcia, George Lopez, Mario Lopez, Los Lonely Boys, Carlos Mencia and Eva Mend
Nominations for "The 2007 ALMA Awards" were announced today during a press conference at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. Telecast host Eva Longoria ("Desperate Housewives"), NCLR President and CEO Janet Murguía and Mario Lopez made the announcement. "The 2007 ALMA Awards" will tape on Friday, June 1 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium and air TUESDAY, JUNE 5 (9:00-11:00 p.m. ET) on the ABC Television Network. In addition to the nominated awards, a series of special achievement honors will also be presented. It was also announced that megastar musician Prince will perform with a special surprise guest. Additional talent and performers scheduled to appear include Jessica Alba, Andy Garcia, George Lopez, Mario Lopez, Los Lonely Boys, Carlos Mencia and Eva Mendes. An added feature will be the celebration of ten top Latino designers who will be dressing Longoria throughout the telecast in custom couture gowns, as well as designer shoes, bags and jewelry. The two-hour special is presented by the National Council of La Raza (NCLR) - the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the U.S. The annual ALMA (American Latino Media Arts) Awards special recognizes and celebrates the outstanding artistic achievement of Latinos in film, television and music. The Title Sponsor for this year's show is Chevy. Gold Sponsors are Frito-Lay/PepsiCo and Prudential, and Silver Sponsors include American Airlines, Bank of America, Comcast, Ford Motor Company, McDonald's Corporation, State Farm Insurance Companies, Time Warner and Verizon. This year the executive producers are Michael B. Seligman, Janet Murguía and David Chavez. Eva Longoria returns as producer, joined by director Louis J. Horvitz, co-producer/talent executive Danette Herman and music producer Scott Igoe. Additional information on the telecast can be found at www.almaawards.com. A complete list of categories and nominees follows: OUTSTANDING ACTOR – MOTION PICTURE Gael García Bernal – “Babel” Jesse Garcia – “Quinceañera” Michael Pena – “World Trade Center” OUTSTANDING ACTOR - MOTION PICTURE Alfonso Cuarón - "Children of Men" Emilio Estevez - "Bobby" Alejandro González Iñárritu - "Babel" OUTSTANDING ACTRESS - MOTION PICTURE Adriana Barraza - "Babel" Cameron Diaz - "The Holiday" Eva Mendes - "Trust the Man" Emily Rios - "Quinceañera" OUTSTANDING DIRECTOR - MOTION PICTURE Alfonso Cuarón - "Children of Men" Emilio Estevez - "Bobby" Andy Garcia - "The Lost City" Alejandro González Iñárritu - "Babel" OUTSTANDING SCREENPLAY - MOTION PICTURE Guillermo Arriaga - "Babel" Alfonso Cuarón, David Arata, Timothy J. Sexton, Mark Fergus, Hawk Ostby - "Children of Men" Emilio Estevez - "Bobby" OUTSTANDING TELEVISION SERIES, MINI-SERIES, OR TV MOVIE "George Lopez" - ABC "Ugly Betty" - ABC "Walkout" - HBO OUTSTANDING ACTOR - TELEVISION SERIES, MINI-SERIES, OR TV MOVIE Santiago Cabrera - "Heroes" - NBC Miguel Ferrer - "Crossing Jordan" - NBC George Lopez - "George Lopez" - ABC Carlos Mencia - "Mind of Mencia" - Comedy Central Edward James Olmos - "Battlestar Galactica" - Sci Fi Channel Michael Peña - "Walkout" - HBO OUTSTANDING ACTRESS - TELEVISION SERIES, MINI-SERIES, OR TV MOVIE America Ferrera - "Ugly Betty" - ABC Constance Marie - "George Lopez" - ABC Sara Ramirez - "Grey's Anatomy" - ABC Alexa Vega - "Walkout" - HBO OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING ACTOR - TELEVISION SERIES, MINI-SERIES, OR TV MOVIE Yancey Arias - "Walkout" - HBO Jorge Garcia - "Lost" - ABC Mark Indelicato - "Ugly Betty" - ABC Benito Martinez - "The Shield" - FX Tony Plana - "Ugly Betty" - ABC Miguel Sandoval - "Medium" - NBC OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING ACTRESS - TELEVISION SERIES, MINI-SERIES, OR TV MOVIE Tonantzin Esparza - "Walkout" - HBO Aimee Garcia - "George Lopez" - ABC Belita Moreno - "George Lopez" - ABC Marisol Nichols - "24" - FOX Ana Ortiz - "Ugly Betty" - ABC Roselyn Sanchez - "Without a Trace" - CBS Nadine Velazquez - "My Name Is Earl" - NBC Lauren Vélez - "Dexter" - Showtime OUTSTANDING DIRECTOR - TELEVISION SERIES, MINI-SERIES, OR TV MOVIE Linda Mendoza - "Scrubs" - "My Déjà Vu" - NBC Edward James Olmos - "Walkout" - HBO Kenny Ortega -"High School Musical" - Disney Channel OUTSTANDING WRITING - TELEVISION SERIES, MINI-SERIES, OR TV MOVIE Marcus De Leon, Ernie Contreras, Timothy J. Sexton - "Walkout"- HBO Adam E. Fierro (Charles H. Eglee) - "The Shield," "Enemy of Good" - FX Silvio Horta - "Ugly Betty," "Pilot" - ABC Dailyn Rodriguez - "Ugly Betty," "After Hours" - ABC OUTSTANDING MADE-FOR-TV DOCUMENTARY "Al Otro Lado (To the Other Side)" - PBS "From Mambo to Hip Hop: A South Bronx Tale" - PBS "Lalo Guerrero: The Original Chicano" - PBS "Pancho Gonzalez: Warrior of the Courts" - PBS

EVA LONGORIA, NCLR PRESIDENT AND CEO JANET MURGUÍA AND MARIO LOPEZ
ANNOUNCE NOMINATIONS FOR "THE 2007 ALMA AWARDS"

Megastar Musician Prince to Perform at the Awards Show, Which Honors
Outstanding Latino Artistic Achievement in Television, Film and Music,
And Airs Tuesday, June 5

Additional Talent and Performers Scheduled to Appear Include Jessica Alba, Andy Garcia,
George Lopez, Mario Lopez, Los Lonely Boys, Carlos Mencia and Eva Mend

Nominations for "The 2007 ALMA Awards" were announced today during a press conference at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. Telecast host Eva Longoria ("Desperate Housewives"), NCLR President and CEO Janet Murguía and Mario Lopez made the announcement.

"The 2007 ALMA Awards" will tape on Friday, June 1 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium and air TUESDAY, JUNE 5 (9:00-11:00 p.m. ET) on the ABC Television Network. In addition to the nominated awards, a series of special achievement honors will also be presented.

It was also announced that megastar musician Prince will perform with a special surprise guest. Additional talent and performers scheduled to appear include Jessica Alba, Andy Garcia, George Lopez, Mario Lopez, Los Lonely Boys, Carlos Mencia and Eva Mendes.

An added feature will be the celebration of ten top Latino designers who will be dressing Longoria throughout the telecast in custom couture gowns, as well as designer shoes, bags and jewelry.

The two-hour special is presented by the National Council of La Raza (NCLR) - the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the U.S. The annual ALMA (American Latino Media Arts) Awards special recognizes and celebrates the outstanding artistic achievement of Latinos in film, television and music.

The Title Sponsor for this year's show is Chevy. Gold Sponsors are Frito-Lay/PepsiCo and Prudential, and Silver Sponsors include American Airlines, Bank of America, Comcast, Ford Motor Company, McDonald's Corporation, State Farm Insurance Companies, Time Warner and Verizon.

This year the executive producers are Michael B. Seligman, Janet Murguía and David Chavez. Eva Longoria returns as producer, joined by director Louis J. Horvitz, co-producer/talent executive Danette Herman and music producer Scott Igoe.

Additional information on the telecast can be found at www.almaawards.com.

A complete list of categories and nominees follows:

OUTSTANDING ACTOR – MOTION PICTURE
Gael García Bernal – “Babel”
Jesse Garcia – “Quinceañera”
Michael Pena – “World Trade Center”

OUTSTANDING ACTOR - MOTION PICTURE
Alfonso Cuarón - "Children of Men"
Emilio Estevez - "Bobby"
Alejandro González Iñárritu - "Babel"

OUTSTANDING ACTRESS - MOTION PICTURE
Adriana Barraza - "Babel"
Cameron Diaz - "The Holiday"
Eva Mendes - "Trust the Man"
Emily Rios - "Quinceañera"

OUTSTANDING DIRECTOR - MOTION PICTURE
Alfonso Cuarón - "Children of Men"
Emilio Estevez - "Bobby"
Andy Garcia - "The Lost City"
Alejandro González Iñárritu - "Babel"

OUTSTANDING SCREENPLAY - MOTION PICTURE
Guillermo Arriaga - "Babel"
Alfonso Cuarón, David Arata, Timothy J. Sexton, Mark Fergus, Hawk Ostby - "Children of Men"
Emilio Estevez - "Bobby"

OUTSTANDING TELEVISION SERIES, MINI-SERIES, OR TV MOVIE
"George Lopez" - ABC
"Ugly Betty" - ABC
"Walkout" - HBO

OUTSTANDING ACTOR - TELEVISION SERIES, MINI-SERIES, OR TV MOVIE
Santiago Cabrera - "Heroes" - NBC
Miguel Ferrer - "Crossing Jordan" - NBC
George Lopez - "George Lopez" - ABC
Carlos Mencia - "Mind of Mencia" - Comedy Central
Edward James Olmos - "Battlestar Galactica" - Sci Fi Channel
Michael Peña - "Walkout" - HBO

OUTSTANDING ACTRESS - TELEVISION SERIES, MINI-SERIES, OR TV MOVIE
America Ferrera - "Ugly Betty" - ABC
Constance Marie - "George Lopez" - ABC
Sara Ramirez - "Grey's Anatomy" - ABC
Alexa Vega - "Walkout" - HBO

OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING ACTOR - TELEVISION SERIES, MINI-SERIES, OR TV MOVIE
Yancey Arias - "Walkout" - HBO
Jorge Garcia - "Lost" - ABC
Mark Indelicato - "Ugly Betty" - ABC
Benito Martinez - "The Shield" - FX
Tony Plana - "Ugly Betty" - ABC
Miguel Sandoval - "Medium" - NBC

OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING ACTRESS - TELEVISION SERIES, MINI-SERIES, OR TV MOVIE
Tonantzin Esparza - "Walkout" - HBO
Aimee Garcia - "George Lopez" - ABC
Belita Moreno - "George Lopez" - ABC
Marisol Nichols - "24" - FOX
Ana Ortiz - "Ugly Betty" - ABC
Roselyn Sanchez - "Without a Trace" - CBS
Nadine Velazquez - "My Name Is Earl" - NBC
Lauren Vélez - "Dexter" - Showtime

OUTSTANDING DIRECTOR - TELEVISION SERIES, MINI-SERIES, OR TV MOVIE
Linda Mendoza - "Scrubs" - "My Déjà Vu" - NBC
Edward James Olmos - "Walkout" - HBO
Kenny Ortega -"High School Musical" - Disney Channel

OUTSTANDING WRITING - TELEVISION SERIES, MINI-SERIES, OR TV MOVIE
Marcus De Leon, Ernie Contreras, Timothy J. Sexton - "Walkout"- HBO
Adam E. Fierro (Charles H. Eglee) - "The Shield," "Enemy of Good" - FX
Silvio Horta - "Ugly Betty," "Pilot" - ABC
Dailyn Rodriguez - "Ugly Betty," "After Hours" - ABC

OUTSTANDING MADE-FOR-TV DOCUMENTARY
"Al Otro Lado (To the Other Side)" - PBS
"From Mambo to Hip Hop: A South Bronx Tale" - PBS
"Lalo Guerrero: The Original Chicano" - PBS
"Pancho Gonzalez: Warrior of the Courts" - PBS

Posted by Bill at 10:12 AM | Permalink

April 14, 2007

Latin DVD 4

April 14

HOME MEDIA MAGAZINE ANNOUNCES THE THIRD ANNUAL LATINO DVD AWARD WINNERS

One of Xenon Pictures’s most popular telenovelas took top honors at the third annual Latino DVD Awards, presented April 10 in West Hollywood, Calif.

La Madrastra, a Televisa production distributed by Xenon Pictures and Vivendi Visual Entertainment, was named best of show among the seven other Latino DVDs honored during the ceremony, presented by Home Media Magazine to recognize achievements in the rapidly growing Latino DVD market. Vivendi Visual Entertainment won another award in the Best TV DVD category for their Palm Pictures’ production of the gritty Brazilian series City of Men.

Laguna Productions walked away with two awards: La Tragedia de Marcario won for Best Nontheatrical and Tizoc, Amor Indio won for Best Classic/Catalog.

Other winners, selected by a panel of entertainment journalists and critics by Home Media Magazine, are:

Best Theatrical — La Mujer de Mi Hermano, Lionsgate
Best Children’s DVD — Dora the Explorer: World Adventure!, Paramount Home Entertainment
Best Music DVD — Alex Lora: Esclavo del Rocanrol, Desert Mountain Media
Best Bonus Materials/Special Features — Solo Con Tú Pareja, Image Entertainment

The winners were chosen from more than 40 entries submitted by suppliers, producers and distributors of Latino-related DVDs. All titles released in calendar 2006 were eligible.

The Latino DVD Awards were part of Latino DVD 4: The Fourth Annual Latino DVD Conference, produced by Home Media Magazine in cooperation with DEG: The Digital Entertainment Group, the Entertainment Merchants Association and The Hollywood Reporter. The conference attracted more than 150 attendees, including top executives with such key studios as HBO Video, Warner Home Video and Laguna Productions, Inc.

Home Media Magazine is the leading business-to-business publication serving the home entertainment market. The weekly tabloid is published by Questex Media Group, Inc.

# # #

Thank you to our 2007 Latino DVD 4 Sponsors!
Platinum	Gold
Warner Home Video	Image Entertainment
Laguna Productions	Lionsgate
HBO Video	Genius Products
	Universal Studios Home Entertainment
	Supporting
Silver	DVA: Distribution Audio & Video
Xenon Pictures	First Look Home Entertainment / Studio Latino
Paramount Home Entertainment	Woodhaven Entertainment
Starz Home Entertainment	DigiFilm
Venevision International	Media
Vivendi Visual Entertainment	Latin Vision Inc.
	Latin Heat
	TVMAS Magazine
	Portada
	Creative Handbook

Produced by Home Media Magazine in cooperation with
The Hollywood Reporter, DEG: The Digital Entertainment Group and the Entertainment Merchants Association.

From Latin DVD 3

Latin DVD Conference 3

Today I attended the third annual Latin DVD conference held by Home Media Retailing.

Its moderator was Thomas K Arnold.

The conference was devided up in the following sessions:

Opening remarks about the industry from Univision Television group representative, Adriana Olvarez.
about the industry from Univision Television group representative, Adriana Olvarez. Generation Si:The evolving face of the market hosted by Mr. Arnold with panelists Ana Aguilar direcxtor of marketing Univision Home Entertainment, Elart Coello, present Laguna Productions, Greta Nodar, director of sales and Latin programming Image Entertainment, Julio Noriega director of the film division Venevision international and Antonio Sosa Vp of multicultural sales Warner Home Studio.
hosted by Mr. Arnold with panelists Ana Aguilar direcxtor of marketing Univision Home Entertainment, Elart Coello, present Laguna Productions, Greta Nodar, director of sales and Latin programming Image Entertainment, Julio Noriega director of the film division Venevision international and Antonio Sosa Vp of multicultural sales Warner Home Studio.

hosted by Mr. Arnold with panelists Ana Aguilar direcxtor of marketing Univision Home Entertainment, Elart Coello, present Laguna Productions, Greta Nodar, director of sales and Latin programming Image Entertainment, Julio Noriega director of the film division Venevision international and Antonio Sosa Vp of multicultural sales Warner Home Studio.

This was followed by a networking break where I talked to otherrs there about the market.

Next was Latino Niches: Beyond The Basic Drama: The host was Stephanie Prange of Home Media Retailing. Panelists included Christ Lynch EVP and GM of Ventura Home Entertainment, Michael Rathauser VP marketing Lionsgate, Monica Ricardez national Latin product director Tower Records and Video,Leigh Savidge present Xenon Pictures, Soumya Sriraman Vp marketing & operations Visual Entertainment.

This was followed by lunch and the Latin DVD Awards hosted by Joey Madina a young Latin whose Latin Palooza DVD will be coming out July 18^th, 2006.

After lunch was Talent Talk: The Latinos Behind the Films hosted by Angelique

Flores of Home Media Entertainment with panelists Julio Caro, producer,writer actor Rick Najera, and Leonard Villareal producer.

Much valuable information was given at the conference including clues as to why the fuss about immigration reform.

There are currently 40 to 50 million Latinos in this country at the moment and growing. One out of every five children being born in this country are Latinos. They are fastest growing minority in this nation making up over 47 percent of the total population growth.

In Los Angeles county 72 percent of all those under the age of 30 are Latino and most are born in the USA. 28 percent of all under 30 in this country are Latin and 80 percent born here. They represent 30 percent of the box office in this country.

They like family entertainment and skew towards the types of family entertainment produced in the 40’s 50’s and 60’s by the major American production companies.

While the English speaking sales of records, CD’s and DVD’s have fallen or stalled the Latin market is up by 12 percent.

In this country as of last estimate they are a 700 billion dollar a year buying force and by 2025 will be a three trillion dollar a year force.

The younger Lations tend to speak Spanish more then do their parents.

Over 10 million own DVD players.

They tend to be more family oriented hence the desire to seek family entertainment out.

More to come tomorrow

William Hoehne

Latin DVD Awards

Cronicas," a thriller about a Miami TV reporter who investigates a string of gruesome child murders in Ecuador, won top honors at the second annual Latino DVD Awards, presented Tuesday in West Hollywood.

The film, directed by Sebastian Cordero was named best of show, beating more than 30 contenders that were entered into the annual contest, produced by trade publication Home Media Retailing magazine.

The film also won for best special features, with one judge calling the "Cronicas" DVD "a model for U.S. releases, with its well-crafted menu, detailed introductions to deleted scenes and shocking alternate ending." It was released by Palm Pictures and Visual Entertainment.

A panel of entertainment journalists judged the contest, in which Spanish-language DVDs

released domestically in 2005 competed in seven categories.

The other winners:

Best theatrical DVD: "The Sea Inside" (New Line Home Entertainment), director Alejandro Amenabar's true-life story of a Spanish man who fought a 30-year campaign in support of euthanasia.

Best nontheatrical DVD: "Flores De Otro Mundo" (Image Entertainment), about three women and three men whose lives connect at a bachelor party.

Best classic/catalog DVD: "The Mambo Kings Special Edition" (Warner Home Video), the 1992 film about two musician brothers who leave Cuba for the U.S. in the 1950s in the hopes of making it big in the booming Latino music scene.

Best U.S. production: "Carlito's Way: Ultimate Edition," (Universal Studios Home Entertainment), the Brian De Palma gangster film with Al Pacin as a Puerto Rican ex-con trying desperately to go straight.

Best children's DVD: "The Three Wise Men" (Buena Vista Home Entertainment), the tale of the Magi.

The second annual Latino DVD Awards were part of the third annual Latino DVD Conference

Posted by Bill at 02:15 PM | Permalink

April 12, 2007

Academy of Country Music

May 10

FINAL ROUND OF PERFORMERS AND PRESENTERS SET FOR "THE 42nd ANNUAL ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS," TO BE BROADCAST LIVE FROM LAS VEGAS, TUESDAY, MAY 15 ON THE CBS TELEVISION NETWORK

Faith Hill, Toby Keith, Martina McBride and Big & Rich with Special Guest John Legend Set to Perform

Special Guest Shania Twain Will Participate, Making Her First Awards Show Appearance in Two Years

"CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" Stars Gary Dourdan and Eric Szmanda, Sara Evans, Heartland, Brad Mates of Emerson Drive, Justin McBride, Dr. Phil and Robin McGraw, Craig Morgan, Joe Nichols, Kellie Pickler, Gabrielle Reece, Emma Roberts, Darius Rucker, Luke Wilson and Chris Young Set to Present

Faith Hill, Toby Keith, Martina McBride and Big & Rich with special guest John Legend are set to perform, while special guest Shania Twain will participate, making her first awards show appearance in two years, and "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" stars Gary Dourdan and Eric Szmanda, Sara Evans, Heartland, Brad Mates of Emerson Drive, Justin McBride, Dr. Phil and Robin McGraw, Craig Morgan, Joe Nichols, Kellie Pickler, Gabrielle Reece, Emma Roberts, Darius Rucker, Luke Wilson and Chris Young are set to present on THE 42nd ANNUAL ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS, hosted by Reba McEntire, to be broadcast live from Las Vegas' MGM Grand, Tuesday, May 15 (8:00-11:00 PM, live ET/delayed PT) on the CBS Television Network. The event honors country music's top talent as well as the industry's hottest emerging talent.

These artists join previously announced performers Jason Aldean, Rodney Atkins, Brooks & Dunn, Kenny Chesney, Vince Gill, Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town, Tim McGraw, Brad Paisley, Rascal Flatts, George Strait, Sugarland, Taylor Swift, Josh Turner, Carrie Underwood, Reba McEntire with special guest Kelly Clarkson, and previously announced presenters Terri Clark, Montgomery Gentry, Tracy Lawrence, Blake Shelton, CBS' "The Young and the Restless" star Michelle Stafford, CBS News' "Early Show" Co-Anchor Hannah Storm and The Wreckers. McEntire will host the event for an unprecedented ninth time.

Faith Hill is nominated for Top Female Vocalist and has previously won 14 Academy of Country Music Awards.

Toby Keith is nominated for Top Male Vocalist and has previously won nine Academy of Country Music Awards, including two back-to-back Entertainer of the Year Awards.

Martina McBride is nominated for Top Female Vocalist -- her 16th career nomination by the Academy -- and has previously won three Academy of Country Music Awards. She has also been honored with the Academy of Country Music/Home Depot Humanitarian Award.

Big & Rich are nominated for Top Vocal Duo, Video of the Year for "8th of November" and for Vocal Event of the Year for "That's How They Do It In Dixie," with Hank Williams Jr., Gretchen Wilson and Van Zant. John Rich has an additional nomination for producing Gretchen Wilson's single, "Politically Uncorrect," which brings his total to five nominations. They have previously been nominated for six Academy of Country Music Awards. This will be John Legend's first performance at the Academy of Country Music Awards.

Presenting awards at THE 42nd ANNUAL ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS are Gary Dourdan and Eric Szmanda, who play Warrick Brown and Greg Sanders, respectively, on the hit CBS drama series "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation"; Sara Evans; Heartland; Brad Mates of Emerson Drive; Justin McBride; Dr. Phil & Robin McGraw; Craig Morgan; Joe Nichols; Kellie Pickler; Gabrielle Reece; Emma Roberts; Darius Rucker; Luke Wilson and Chris Young.

The Academy of Country Music, an artist and industry-driven organization, exists to produce a world-class network television awards show, and its associated events, to provide the financial resources to ensure the ongoing philanthropic work of its Charitable Fund. Academy of Country Music Charitable Fund promotes and supports music education and humanitarian programs that transform the human spirit. Through its charitable donations, the ACMCF works toward two main goals: encouraging Learning Through Music and Healing Through Music. The Academy, which is comprised of more than 4,500 professional members and more than 40,000 associate members, was established in 1964 and is headquartered in Encino, Calif.

THE 42nd ANNUAL ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS is produced for television by dick clark productions. The show is executive produced by Allen Shapiro and R.A. Clark, and produced by Barry Adelman. The executive in charge of production is Bob Bardo, and the executive in charge is Fran LaMaina.

RATING: To Be Announced

April 25

Jason Aldean, Vince Gill, Little Big Town, Taylor Swift and Josh Turner Set to Perform
Terri Clark, Montgomery Gentry, Tracy Lawrence, Blake Shelton,
"The Young and the Restless" Star Michelle Stafford,
CBS News' "The Early Show" Co-Anchor Hannah Storm and The Wreckers Set to Present

Jason Aldean, Vince Gill, Little Big Town, Josh Turner and new artist Taylor Swift are set to perform, while Terri Clark, Montgomery Gentry, Tracy Lawrence, Blake Shelton, "The Young and the Restless" star Michelle Stafford, "The Early Show" Co-Anchor Hannah Storm and The Wreckers are set to present on THE 42nd ANNUAL ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS, hosted by Reba McEntire, to be broadcast live from Las Vegas' MGM Grand, Tuesday, May 15 (8:00-11:00 PM, live ET/delayed PT) on the CBS Television Network. The event honors country music's top talent as well as the industry's hottest emerging talent.

These artists join previously announced performers Rodney Atkins, Brooks & Dunn, Kenny Chesney, Miranda Lambert, Tim McGraw, Brad Paisley, Rascal Flatts, George Strait, Sugarland, Carrie Underwood, and Reba McEntire with special guest Kelly Clarkson. McEntire will host the event for an unprecedented ninth time.

Jason Aldean is nominated for Song of the Year and Video of the Year for "Amarillo Sky." Last year, he won the Top New Male Vocalist Award.

Vince Gill is nominated for Album of the Year for These Days and Vocal Event of the Year for "Building Bridges" with Brooks & Dunn and Sheryl Crow, and has previously won six Academy of Country Music Awards. Last year, he was the recipient of the ACM/The Home Depot Humanitarian Award.

Little Big Town is nominated for Top Vocal Group and Top New Vocal Duo or Group. This will be the second time they perform on the Academy of Country Music Awards.

Taylor Swift is nominated for Top New Female Vocalist, her first Academy of Country Music Award nomination. This is the first time she will perform live on a network-televised country music awards show. Her three-to-five minute "Road to the ACM Awards" diary entries can currently be seen on Cingular, Sprint and Verizon wireless as part of a CBS Mobile campaign.

Josh Turner is nominated for Song of the Year and Single Record of the Year for "Would You Go With Me" and for Vocal Event of the Year for "Me and God" featuring Dr. Ralph Stanley and Marty Roe, Dana Williams and Gene Johnson of Diamond Rio.

Presenting awards at THE 42nd ANNUAL ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS are Terri Clark; Montgomery Gentry's Eddie Montgomery and Troy Gentry; Tracy Lawrence; Blake Shelton; Michelle Stafford, who plays Phyllis Abbott on CBS' "The Young and the Restless," television's number one daytime drama; Hannah Storm, co-anchor of CBS News' "The Early Show"; and The Wreckers' Michelle Branch and Jessica Harp.

RATING: To Be Announced

April 15

04.16.2007 BROOKS & DUNN, KENNY CHESNEY, GEORGE STRAIT, SUGARLAND AND REBA McENTIRE WITH SPECIAL GUEST KELLY CLARKSON ARE SET TO PERFORM ON THE "42ND ANNUAL ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS" TO BE BROADCAST LIVE FROM LAS VEGAS, MAY 15 ON THE CBS TELEVISION NETWORK

Brooks & Dunn, Kenny Chesney, George Strait, Sugarland and host Reba McEntire with special guest Kelly Clarkson are set to perform on the 42ND ANNUAL ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS, to be broadcast live from Las Vegas' MGM Grand, Tuesday, May 15 (8:00-11:00 PM, live ET/delayed PT) on the CBS Television Network. The event honors country music's top talent as well as the industry's hottest emerging talent.

Brooks & Dunn are nominated for seven awards including Top Vocal Duo and Album of the year for Hillbilly Deluxe. They have previously won 21 Academy of Country Music Awards and are the 2007 recipients of the Academy of Country Music/The Home Depot Humanitarian Award.

Reigning and back-to-back Academy of Country Music Entertainer of the Year, Kenny Chesney, is slated to perform. Should he win Entertainer of the Year again, he will become only the fourth performer in the Academy's history to win the coveted title three or more times. One of the six elite ACM Triple Crown winners -- for Best New, Top and Entertainer -- Chesney's The Road and The Radio Tour in 2006 was North America's most attended concert tour in any genre. He is also nominated for Top Male Vocalist.

George Strait leads with eight nominations including Entertainer of the Year and Top Male Vocalist and is being recognized as an artist and producer for his album It Just Comes Natural. In his career, Strait has accepted 15 Academy of Country Music Awards, including Entertainer of the Year. In 2003, he was honored with a Career Achievement Award from the Academy for having more number one singles than any other country artist.

Sugarland is nominated for Top Vocal Duo, giving them six Academy of Country Music Award total nominations over the last two years. Jennifer Nettles was also nominated for Vocal Event last year with Bon Jovi. In addition, they took home Top New Duo or Vocal Group honors.

Host Reba McEntire and Kelly Clarkson will perform their song from McEntire's new album, Duets. McEntire has hosted the show for a record-breaking nine years and has previously won 11 Academy of Country Music Awards. Grammy-winning artist Kelly Clarkson performed for the first time on a country music award show last year with Rascal Flatts.

The ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS is produced for television by dick clark productions. The show is executive produced by Allen Shapiro and R.A. Clark, and produced by Barry Adelman. The executive in charge of production is Bob Bardo, and the executive in charge is Fran LaMaina.

RATING: To Be Announced

April 12

Big & Rich to Host and Two Foot Fred to Co-Host Academy of Country Music(R) 1st Annual Charity Poker Tournament on Monday, May 14, 2007 in Las Vegas

1st Annual Celebrity Poker Tournament to Support the Academy of Country Music(R) Charitable Fund

As a part of the Week Vegas Goes Country(R), the Academy of Country Music announced their plans for the 1st Annual Charity Poker Tournament today. The event will be benefiting the Academy of Country Music Charitable Fund. Big & Rich will host the event on Monday, May 14, 2007 with co-host Two Foot Fred at 2:00pm in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The Academy of Country Music Charity Poker Tournament is an exclusive event that will help continue the week long celebration in Las Vegas. The MGM Grand will not only be home to the 42nd Annual Academy of Country Music Awards, but it will also host the tournament. The 1st place winner could receive up to $10,000 and other cash prizes will be awarded to the top ten players. With a maximum of one hundred participants during the tournament, a portion of their buy-in will go to the Academy of Country Music Charitable Fund.

"We are thrilled to be a part of the 1st ever ACM Charity Poker Tourney," says Big Kenny. "We hope to see some big winnings come out of this throw down as we have spent some major time at these tables, so get ready for some Big & Rich fun."

John Rich continues, "We are here for the party, and the ACM's sure know how to throw one. And having us host the inaugural tournament is both and honor and privilege to rack up some chips for charity, watch out, we are here to make some big bucks."

To register for this year's Academy of Country Music Charity Poker Tournament please visit www.acmcountry.com. Registration fee is $375.00, with portions of the proceeds benefiting the Academy of Country Music(R) Charitable Fund. You must be 21 years of age or older to participate.

With more than 40 years giving to those in need, the Academy of Country Music Charitable Fund promotes and supports music education and humanitarian programs that transform the human spirit. Through its charitable donations, the ACMCF achieves two main goals, Learning Through Music and Healing Through Music. For more information on the Academy of Country Music Charitable Fund please visit www.acmcf.org.

The 42nd ANNUAL ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS ceremony honoring country music's top talent as well as the industry's hottest emerging talent, will be broadcast LIVE from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on Tuesday, May 15, 2007 at 8:00 PM live ET/delayed PT on the CBS Television Network.

The ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC, an artist and industry-driven organization, exists to produce a world-class network television awards show, and its associated events, to provide the financial resources to ensure the on-going philanthropic work of its Charitable Fund. The Academy, which is comprised of more than 4,500 professional members and more than 40,000 associate members, was established in 1964 and is headquartered in Encino, Calif. For more information on the ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS and the Academy of Country Music, please visit www.acmcountry.com.

Source: Academy of Country Music

Academy of Country Music

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

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

NOMINATIONS ANNOUNCED FOR THE 42nd ANNUAL ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC® AWARDS COUNTRY MUSIC’S PARTY OF THE YEAR®

Posted by Bill at 07:02 PM | Permalink

PERFECT STRANGER CREDITS

In English & Spanish

Revolution Studios Presents

“PERFECT STRANGER”

Directed By

James Foley

Screenplay by Todd Komarnicki

Story by Jon Bokenkamp

Produced by

Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas

Executive Producers

Ron Bozman

Deborah Schindler

Charles Newirth

Director of Photography

Anastas Michos, ASC

Production Designer

Bill Groom

Edited by

Christopher Tellefsen, A.C.E.

Music by

Antonio Pinto

Halle Berry

Bruce Willis

Giovanni Ribisi

Gary Dourdan

Richard Portnow

Patti D’Arbanville

Clea Lewis

Casting by

Todd Thaler

Co-Producers

Stephanie Langhoff

Daniel A. Thomas

Music Supervisor

Denise Luiso

Costume Designer

RenÈe Ehrlich Kalfus

A Film by James Foley

Unit Production Manager

Harvey Waldman

Unit Production Manager

Ron Bozman

First Assistant Director

Glen Trotiner

Second Assistant Director

ddie Micallef

Associate Producer

Stephen Eads

Cast

Rowena Halle Berry

Harrison Hill Bruce Willis

Miles Giovanni Ribisi

Narron Richard Portnow

Cameron Gary Dourdan

Lieutenant Tejada Florencia Lozano

Grace Nicki Aycox

Elizabeth Clayton Kathleen Chalfant

Senator Sachs Gordon MacDonald

Josie Daniella Van Graas

Mia Hill Paula Miranda

Esmeralda Patti D’Arbanville

Gina Clea Lewis

Bethany Tamara Feldman

Jon Kirshenbaum Gerry Becker

Kenneth Phelps Jared Burke

Jesse Drake Jay Wilkison

Gunnar Hope Aaron Nauta

Toni Jane Bradbury

Capital Policeman Jeffrey Bellamy

Coroner Charles Thomas

Bill Patel Jason Antoon

As Herself Heidi Klum

District Attorney Daniel A. Thomas

Defense Attorney Jack Menz

Jury Foreman Liliane Thomas

CSI Witness Todd Komarnicki

CSI Guy Daniel Cheswick

CSI Analyst James Mazzola

Donna Emma Heming

Carol Whittier Kristy Hinze

Banker Jay Coyle

Photographer’s Assistant Stephen Eads

Judge Michael Tolan

Ro’s Mother Yvonna Kopacz

Ro’s Mother (Older) Jacqueline Cannon

Ro’s Father Vincent Lamberti

9-Year-Old Ro Maya N. Blake

9-Year-Old Grace Nadine Jacobson

Reebok Executives Jonathan Ave

Thomas Sullivan

Human Resources Woman Pat Pritchett Lewis

Newsstand Vendor Gaetano Lisi

Coffee Stand Vendor Brandhyze Stanley

Security Guard Maurice Ballard

Man On Elevator Justin Ritson

Clients Lauren Potter

Robert L. Haber

Mitch Giannunzio

NYPD Computer Tech John Heinlein

Man In Bar Mike O’Brien

Hill’s Doorman Joe Paparone

Singer James “D-Train” Williams

Stunt Coordinators George Aguilar

John Cenatiempo

Stunts Anthony Vincent

Helicopter Pilot Al Cerullo

Art Director Charley Beal

Set Decorator Susan Tyson

Property Master Jim Mazzola

Script Supervisor Massoumeh Emami

Location Manager Maria T. Bierniak

Production Coordinator Anne Nevin

Production Accountant Mike Phillips

“A” Camera Operator Patrick Capone

First Assistant “A” Camera Heather Norton

Second Assistant “A” Camera Ed Nessen

“B” Camera Operator/Steadicam Operator Will Arnot

First Assistant “B” Camera Geb Byers

Second Assistant “B” Camera Amanda Hudson

Film Loader Pierson Silver

Assistant Costume Designer Richard Schurkamp

Costume Supervisors M.J. McGrath

Thomas Stokes

Key Costumers Jennifer M. Moore

Rhonney Greene

Dresser for Ms. Berry Nina Johnston

Dresser for Mr. Willis Michelle Teague

Costume Shop Supervisor Joni M. Huth

Department Head Hair Wayne Herndon

Key Hair Stylist Diana Sikes

Hair Stylist for Ms. Berry Barbara Lorenz

Hair Stylist for Mr. Willis Linda Arnold

Co-Key and Makeup Artist for Mr. Willis Richard Dean

Co-Key Makeup Artist Leslie Fuller

Makeup Artist for Ms. Berry Norma Hill-Patton

Makeup Artist Frances A. Kolar

Gaffer Andrew Day

Best Boy Electric Ralph Crowley

Lighting Board Operator Kelly Britt

Lamp Operators David Baney

Peter Russell

Bill Almeida

Michael Hunold

William MacGhee

Joshua Van Praag

Jamie Gallagher

Rigging Gaffer Charles Grubbs

Best Boy Rigging Electric William Hines

Key Grip Tommy Prate

Best Boy Grip Chris Kilduff

Dolly Grips Matt Blades

Gregory Cahill

Grips Tony Arnaud

Balint Pinczehelyi

Gerald Gloster

William Moran

Key Rigging Grip Kevin W. Flynn

Best Boy Rigging Grip Franz J. Yeich

Sound Mixer Allan Byer

Boom Operators Alfredo Viteri

John Gutierrez

Video Assist Brian Carmichael

Joe Trammell

24 Frame Video Supervisor James Domorski

Special Effects Coordinator Mark Bero

Special Effects Foreman Bob Scupp

Assistant Location Managers Ian MacGregor

Guy Efrat

Kip Davis Myers

Parking Coordinators Maurice Cabrera

Mike Fermin

Assistant Production Coordinator Meegan Neeb

Production Secretary Betsy Davis

Assistant Accountants Theresa L. Marsh

Deborah A. Becker

Payroll Accountant Darryl A. Smith

Accounting Clerks Katherine DeJesus

Jennie Myers

Construction Coordinator Raymond M. Samitz

Key Shopcraftsman Gerard Furey

Shopcraft Foremen Charles Romanello

Brian Becker

Key Construction Grips Todd MacNicholl

Rolf H. Bortner

Best Boy Construction Grip Vincent J. Biscaino

Stage Manager Jan Claire Tynes

Master Scenic Artist Robert Topol

Camera Scenic Artist M. Tony Trotta

Scenic Foreman Lyvan A. Munlyn

Scenic Foreperson Maggie Ryan

Scenic Artists Rand Angelicola

Diane Rich

Stephen Caldwell

Assistant Art Directors Emily Beck

Michael Auszura

Heesoo Kim

Assistant Art Director/Graphics Mark Pollard

Graphic Artist Kevin L. Raper

Storyboard Artist Steven Glazman

Art Department Coordinator Judith L. Buckley

Assistant Set Decorator Alyssa Winter

Leadman Bruce Lee Gross

2nd Set Dresser D. Scott Gagnon

On-Set Dressers Ruth A. Deleon

Steve Brennan

Set Dressers Hank Liebeskind

Jason A. Brown

James Whelan

Assistant Property Masters Vinny Mazzarella

Dave Schanker

Tonero Williams

Unit Publicist Eric Myers

Still Photographer Barry Wetcher

Second 2nd Assistant Director Chris DeAngelis

DGA Trainee Matt McLoota

Assistant to Mr. Foley Lindsay Jaeger

Assistants to Ms. Goldsmith-Thomas Brooke Schaiberger

Sean Dooley

Assistant to Mr. Bozman Gabrielle Cran

Assistant to Ms. Schindler Jessica Kantor

Assistant to Mr. Newirth Dawn Clounch

Assistant to Ms. Langhoff Brian Cruey

Assistant to Mr. Thomas Michelle Vicidomini

Production Assistants

Adam Bernard Filipe Bessa

Antonio Bonilla Natalie S. Brown

Kate Carcaterra Brian Chang

Glenn Ferrara Danielle Goldsmith

Amir Khan Kendra Levenberg

Siddeeqah Malik Jeremy Mohler

Matthew S. Pratt-Hewitt Justin Ritson

Aton Roberts Chris Rodriguez

Katie Ryan Roth Omar Vaid

Ryan Westphal Zach Wolf

John Wu Zachary Zirlin

Casting Assistant Philip Huffman

Background Casting Lee Genick

Catering Tomkats

Chef John Edmunds

Craft Service Wilson Rivas

Angel Rivas

Marcia Rivas

Security Wayne Petrucelli

Security for Ms. Berry G.S.I.S.

Set Medic Kathleen Cossu

Transportation Captain James P. Whalen, Jr.

Transportation Co-Captain Timothy J. Shannon

Drivers

Mike Buckman Joseph J. Buonocore, Jr.

Dan Connolly Telly Davis

Bob Dwyer William Featherstone

Roy Fortier Brian Hogan

Joseph J. Parvis Timothy J. Shannon

Donald Yeager

POST PRODUCTION

1st Assistant Editor/VFX Editor Kent Blocher

Assistant Editor/VFX Production John Sosnovsky

Post Production Supervisor Paul A. Levin

Post Production Coordinator Ann Gray

Supervising Sound Editor Ron Bochar

Dialogue Editor Branka Mrkic-tana

Supervising ADR Editor Gina R. Alfano

ADR Editors Marissa Littlefield

Mary Ellen Porto

Sound Effects Editor Heather Gross

Foley Editor Kam Chan

Assistant Sound Editors Alexa Zimmerman

Chad Birmingham

Apprentice Sound Editors Lidia Tamplenizza

Serge Stanley

Foley Engineer George A. Lara

Foley Artist Leslie Bloom

Voice Casting by Sondra James

Re-recording Mixers Ron Bochar

Michael Barry

Re-Recording Engineer Eric Hirsch

Post Services Provided by C5, Inc.

Sound One N.Y.

Music Editors Mick Gormaley

Nic Ratner

Orchestrator Ed CÙrtes

Scoring Mixer John J. Kurlander

Conductor Bruce Fowler

Music Contractor Sandra Park

Copyist Tony Finno

Programmer Gui Amabis

Score Coordinator Marilia Franco

End Titles Nina Saxon Design

Scarlet Letters

Digital Intermediate by Technicolor

Digital Colorist Joe Gawler

D.I. Producer Dana Bloder

D.I. Engineering Mike Whipple

Emery Anderson

D.I. Editor Jesse Morrow

Lab Color Timer Chris Regan

Dailies Advisor Joey Violante

Visual Effects and Main Title Design by rhinofx

New York City

Visual Effects Supervisor/Art Director Arman Matin

Visual Effects Producer Karen Bianca Bisignano

Design Lead Chris DiFiore

Compositors Nitant Karnik

Rodrigo de la Parra

Lead TD Vadim Turchin

Animation Lead Jeff Lopez

Visual Effects Coordinator Elena Casanova

Visual Effects Associate Producer Mitchell Ferm

Visual Effects Executive Producer Camille Geier

Additional Visual Effects by & Company

Special Makeup Effects by KNB Efx Group

Soundtrack on Lakeshore Records

MUSIC

“Steady Baby”

Written by James Small, Cedric Lindsey and Anthony Carl Nollie

Performed by Dukes Of Daville

Courtesy of Hell Ya! Records

“These Arms Of Mine”

Written and Performed by Otis Redding

Courtesy of Atlantic Recording Corp.

By arrangement with Warner Music Group Film & TV Licensing

“Don’t Cry Baby”

Written by Saul Bernie, James Johnson and Stella Unger

Performed by Etta James

Courtesy of Geffen Records

Under license from Universal Music Enterprises

“Can’t Get You Out Of My Mind”

Written and Performed by Sonya Kitchell

Courtesy of Velour Music Group

By arrangement with Music For The Masses

“Feel Good Inc.”

Written by Damon Albarn, Jamie Hewlett,

Brian Burton and David Jolicoeur

Performed by Gorillaz

Courtesy of EMI Records Ltd.

Under license from EMI Film & Television Music

“You Sexy Thing”

Written by Errol Brown

Produced by Matt Chiaravalle

Performed by James “D-Train” Williams

“My Funny Valentine”

Written by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart

Produced by Matt Chiaravalle

Performed by James “D-Train” Williams

“Stir It Up”

Written and Performed by Bob Marley

Courtesy of The Island Def Jam Music Group

Under license from Universal Music Enterprises

“Like A Star”

Written and Performed by Corinne Bailey Rae

Courtesy of Capitol Records

Under license from EMI Film & Television Music

“Nausea”

Written by Beck Hansen

Performed by Beck

Courtesy of Interscope Records

Under license from Universal Music Enterprises

“Walk On By” (S&K Remix)

Written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David

Performed by Seal

Courtesy of Warner Bros. Records Inc.

By arrangement with Warner Music Group Film & TV Licensing

“I Put A Spell On You”

Written by Jay Hawkins

Performed by Nina Simone

Courtesy of The Verve Music Group

Under license from Universal Music Enterprises

“A Transa”

Written by Antonio Pinto and Ed CÙrtes

Performed by Antonio Pinto, Ed CÙrtes & Band

Courtesy of 02 Filmes Curtos Ltda. and Hank Levine Film GmbH

Under license from Milan Entertainment, Inc.

“White Flag”

Written by Dido Armstrong, Rollo Armstrong and Rick Nowels

Performed by Dido

Courtesy of Arista Records, Inc. /

SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT (UK) Limited

By arrangement with SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT

“The Lie”

Written and Performed by James Newton Howard

Courtesy of Revolution Studios Distribution Company LLC

Under license from Columbia Pictures Industries, Inc.

“Troubled Waters”

Written by Sam Coslow and Arthur Johnston

Performed by Cat Power

Courtesy of Matador Records

Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC is the author of this film (motion

picture) for the purpose of copyright and other laws.

BlackTailÆ , Leg ShowÆ, JuggsÆ and Oriental DollsÆ

are registered trademarks of Mavety Media Group Ltd.

NY1 News logo used with permission.

Courtesy Howard Greenberg Gallery, NYC

Special Thanks to

The New York City Mayor’s Office of Film, Theatre and Broadcasting

The New York City Police Film And Television Unit

The New York State Governor’s Office for Motion Picture & Television Development

Larry A. Silverstein

7 World Trade Center, LLC

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority and MTA Bridges and Tunnels

MADE IN NY

ESFPC NY LOVE FILM

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PANAVISIONÆ

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Color by Technicolor Æ

This is a work of fiction. The characters, incidents, and locations portrayed and the names herein are fictitious, and any similarity to or identification with the location, name, character or history of any person, product or entity is entirely coincidental and unintentional.

This motion picture photoplay is protected pursuant to the provisions of the laws of the United States of America and other countries. Any unauthorized duplication and/or distribution of this photoplay may result in civil liability and criminal prosecution.

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COLUMBIA PICTURES

A SONY PICTURES ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY

Revolution Studios Presenta

“PERFECT STRANGER”

Dirigida por

James Foley

GuiÛn de Todd Komarnicki

Historia por Jon Bokenkamp

Producida por

Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas

Productores Ejecutivos

Ron Bozman

Deborah Schindler

Charles Newirth

Director de FotografÌa

Anastas Michos, ASC

DiseÒador de ProducciÛn

Bill Groom

Editada por

Christopher Tellefsen, A.C.E.

M·sica de

Antonio Pinto

Halle Berry

Bruce Willis

Giovanni Ribisi

Gary Dourdan

Richard Portnow

Patti D’Arbanville

Clea Lewis

Casting por

Todd Thaler

Co-Productores

Stephanie Langhoff

Daniel A. Thomas

Supervisora Musical

Denise Luiso

DiseÒadora de Vestuario

RenÈe Ehrlich Kalfus

Una PelÌcula de James Foley

Gerente Unidad de ProducciÛn

Harvey Waldman

Gerente Unidad de ProducciÛn

Ron Bozman

Primer Asistente al Director

Glen Trotiner

Segundo Asistente al Director

ddie Micallef

Productor Asociado

Stephen Eads

Elenco

Rowena Halle Berry

Harrison Hill Bruce Willis

Miles Giovanni Ribisi

Narron Richard Portnow

Cameron Gary Dourdan

Teniente Tejada Florencia Lozano

Grace Nicki Aycox

Elizabeth Clayton Kathleen Chalfant

Senador Sachs Gordon MacDonald

Josie Daniella Van Graas

Mia Hill Paula Miranda

Esmeralda Patti D’Arbanville

Gina Clea Lewis

Bethany Tamara Feldman

Jon Kirshenbaum Gerry Becker

Kenneth Phelps Jared Burke

Jesse Drake Jay Wilkison

Gunnar Hope Aaron Nauta

Toni Jane Bradbury

PolicÌa de Capital Jeffrey Bellamy

Coronel Charles Thomas

Bill Patel Jason Antoon

Como Ella Misma Heidi Klum

Fiscal de Distrito Daniel A. Thomas

Abogado Defensor Jack Menz

Jury Foreman Liliane Thomas

Testigo De CSI Todd Komarnicki

Tipo De CSI Daniel Cheswick

Analista De CSI James Mazzola

Donna Emma Heming

Carol Whittier Kristy Hinze

Banquero Jay Coyle

Asistente del FotÛgrafo Stephen Eads

Juez Michael Tolan

Mam· De Ro Yvonna Kopacz

Mam· De Ro (Mayor) Jacqueline Cannon

Pap· De Ro Vincent Lamberti

Ro a los 9 AÒos Maya N. Blake

Grace a los 9 AÒos Nadine Jacobson

Ejecutivos De Reebok Jonathan Ave

Thomas Sullivan

Mujer de Recursos Humanos Pat Pritchett Lewis

Vendedor De Puesto De Diarios Gaetano Lisi

Vendedor De Puesto De CafÈ Brandhyze Stanley

Guardia De Seguridad Maurice Ballard

Hombre En Elevador Justin Ritson

Clientes Lauren Potter

Robert L. Haber

Mitch Giannunzio

TÈcnico De Computadoras De NYPD John Heinlein

Hombre En Bar Mike O’Brien

Portero De Hill Joe Paparone

Cantante James “D-Train” Williams

Coordinadores de Dobles George Aguilar

John Cenatiempo

Dobles Anthony Vincent

Piloto De HelicÛptero Al Cerullo

Director de Arte Charley Beal

Decorador de Sets Susan Tyson

Encargado de Ubicar Objetos en el Set Jim Mazzola

Supervisor de GuiÛn Massoumeh Emami

Gerente de Locaciones Maria T. Bierniak

Coordinador de ProducciÛn Anne Nevin

Contador de ProducciÛn Mike Phillips

Operador C·mara “A” Patrick Capone

Primer Asistente C·mara “A” Heather Norton

Segundo Asistente C·mara “A” Ed Nessen

Operador C·mara “B”/Operador Steadicam Will Arnot

Primer Asistente C·mara “B” Geb Byers

Segundo Asistente C·mara “B” Amanda Hudson

Recargador de C·mara Pierson Silver

DiseÒador de Vestuario Asistente Richard Schurkamp

Supervisores de vestuario M.J. McGrath

Thomas Stokes

Vestuaristas Principales Jennifer M. Moore

Rhonney Greene

Vestuarista para la Sra. Berry Nina Johnston

Vestuarista para el Sr. Willis Michelle Teague

Supervisor de Compra de Vestuario Joni M. Huth

Cabeza Departamento de Peinados Wayne Herndon

Estilista Principal Diana Sikes

Estilista para la Sra. Berry Barbara Lorenz

Estilista para el Sr. Willis Linda Arnold

Artista de Maquillaje Co-Principal para el Sr. Willis Richard Dean

Artista de Maquillaje Co-Principal Leslie Fuller

Artista de Maquillaje para la Sra. Berry Norma Hill-Patton

Artista de Maquillaje Frances A. Kolar

Electricidad Andrew Day

Ayudante de Electricidad Ralph Crowley

Operador Consola de Luces Kelly Britt

Operadores de Focos David Baney

Peter Russell

Bill Almeida

Michael Hunold

William MacGhee

Joshua Van Praag

Jamie Gallagher

Electricidad Principal Charles Grubbs

Ayudante de la Electricidad Principal William Hines

Coordinador del Personal de ProducciÛn Tommy Prate

Ayudante del Coordinador del Personal

de ProducciÛn Chris Kilduff

Personal de ProducciÛn a Cargo del

Movimiento de C·mara Matt Blades

Gregory Cahill

Personal de ProducciÛn Tony Arnaud

Balint Pinczehelyi

Gerald Gloster

William Moran

Coordinador Principal del Personal de ProducciÛn Kevin W. Flynn

Ayudante del Coordinador Principal del

Personal de ProducciÛn Franz J. Yeich

Mezclador de Sonido Allan Byer

Operadores de MicrÛfono Alfredo Viteri

John Gutierrez

Asistencia de Video Brian Carmichael

Joe Trammell

Supervisor de Video en 24 Cuadros James Domorski

Coordinador de Efectos Especiales Mark Bero

Encargado de Efectos Especiales Bob Scupp

Asistentes al Gerente de Locaciones Ian MacGregor

Guy Efrat

Kip Davis Myers

Coordinadores de Estacionamiento Maurice Cabrera

Mike Fermin

Asistente al Coordinador de ProducciÛn Meegan Neeb

Secretaria de ProducciÛn Betsy Davis

Contadores Asistentes Theresa L. Marsh

Deborah A. Becker

Contador Encargado de Sueldos Darryl A. Smith

Empleados de ContadurÌa Katherine DeJesus

Jennie Myers

Coordinador de ConstrucciÛn Raymond M. Samitz

Artesano en Metales Gerard Furey

Capataz en ArtesanÌa de Metales Charles Romanello

Brian Becker

Coordinadores de Personal de ProducciÛn

de ConstrucciÛn Todd MacNicholl

Rolf H. Bortner

Ayudante del Coordinadores de Personal

de ProducciÛn de ConstrucciÛn Vincent J. Biscaino

Gerente de Escenario Jan Claire Tynes

Maestro EscÈnico Robert Topol

Artista de C·mara EscÈnico M. Tony Trotta

Encargado de EscenografÌa Lyvan A. Munlyn

Ayudante al Encargado de EscenografÌa Maggie Ryan

Artistas EscÈnicos Rand Angelicola

Diane Rich

Stephen Caldwell

Directores de Arte Asistentes Emily Beck

Michael Auszura

Heesoo Kim

Director de Arte Asistente/Gr·ficos Mark Pollard

Artista Gr·fico Kevin L. Raper

Artista de Bocetos Steven Glazman

Coordinador Departamento de Arte Judith L. Buckley

Asistente al Decorador de Sets Alyssa Winter

Hombre LÌder Bruce Lee Gross

2do Vestuarista del Set D. Scott Gagnon

Vestuaristas en el Set Ruth A. Deleon

Steve Brennan

Vestuaristas de Sets Hank Liebeskind

Jason A. Brown

James Whelan

Asistentes al Encargado de Ubicar Objetos en el Set Vinny Mazzarella

Dave Schanker

Tonero Williams

Publicista de la Unidad Eric Myers

FotÛgrafo de Tomas Quietas Barry Wetcher

Segundo 2do Asistente al Director Chris DeAngelis

Pasante DGA Matt McLoota

Asistente al Sr. Foley Lindsay Jaeger

Asistentes a la Sra. Goldsmith-Thomas Brooke Schaiberger

Sean Dooley

Asistente al Sr. Bozman Gabrielle Cran

Asistente a la Sra. Schindler Jessica Kantor

Asistente al Sr. Newirth Dawn Clounch

Asistente a la Sra. Langhoff Brian Cruey

Asistente al Sr. Thomas Michelle Vicidomini

Asistentes de ProducciÛn

Adam Bernard Filipe Bessa

Antonio Bonilla Natalie S. Brown

Kate Carcaterra Brian Chang

Glenn Ferrara Danielle Goldsmith

Amir Khan Kendra Levenberg

Siddeeqah Malik Jeremy Mohler

Matthew S. Pratt-Hewitt Justin Ritson

Aton Roberts Chris Rodriguez

Katie Ryan Roth Omar Vaid

Ryan Westphal Zach Wolf

John Wu Zachary Zirlin

Asistente al Casting Philip Huffman

Casting para el Fondo Lee Genick

Catering Tomkats

Chef John Edmunds

Servicios de Mantenimiento Wilson Rivas

Angel Rivas

Marcia Rivas

Seguridad Wayne Petrucelli

Seguridad para la Sra. Berry G.S.I.S.

MÈdico del Set Kathleen Cossu

Capit·n de Transporte James P. Whalen, Jr.

Co- Capit·n de Transporte Timothy J. Shannon

Choferes

Mike Buckman Joseph J. Buonocore, Jr.

Dan Connolly Telly Davis

Bob Dwyer William Featherstone

Roy Fortier Brian Hogan

Joseph J. Parvis Timothy J. Shannon

Donald Yeager

POST PRODUCCI”N

1er Asistente de Editor/Editor VFX Kent Blocher

Asistente de Editor/ProducciÛn de VFX John Sosnovsky

Supervisor de Post ProducciÛn Paul A. Levin

Coordinador de Post ProducciÛn Ann Gray

Editor de Sonido Supervisor Ron Bochar

Editor de Di·logos Branka Mrkic-tana

Editor Supervisor de ADR Gina R. Alfano

Editores de ADR Marissa Littlefield

Mary Ellen Porto

Editor de Efectos de Sonido Heather Gross

Editor de Sonidos de Fondo Kam Chan

Editores de Sonido Asistentes Alexa Zimmerman

Chad Birmingham

Aprendices de Editores de Sonido Lidia Tamplenizza

Serge Stanley

Ingeniero del Sonido de Fondo George A. Lara

Artista de Sonido de Fondo Leslie Bloom

Casting de Voces por Sondra James

Mezcladores de Regrabado Ron Bochar

Michael Barry

Ingeniero de Regrabado Eric Hirsch

Servicios de Post ProveÌdos por C5, Inc.

Sound One N.Y.

Editores Musicales Mick Gormaley

Nic Ratner

Orquestador Ed CÙrtes

Mezclador de M·sica de Fondo John J. Kurlander

Conductor Bruce Fowler

Contratista Musical Sandra Park

Copista Tony Finno

Programador Gui Amabis

Coordinador de M·sica de Fondo Marilia Franco

TÌtulos Finales Nina Saxon Design

Scarlet Letters

Intermedio Digital por Technicolor

Colorista Digital Joe Gawler

Productor de D.I. Dana Bloder

IngenierÌa de D.I. Mike Whipple

Emery Anderson

Editor de D.I. Jesse Morrow

Cronometrista de Laboratorio Color Chris Regan

Asesor de PeriÛdicos Joey Violante

Efectos Visuales y DiseÒo de TÌtulos Principales por rhinofx

New York City

Supervisor de Efectos Visuales / Director de Arte Arman Matin

Productor de Efectos Visuales Karen Bianca Bisignano

DiseÒo Principal Chris DiFiore

Compositores Nitant Karnik

Rodrigo de la Parra

TD Principal Vadim Turchin

AnimaciÛn Principal Jeff Lopez

Coordinadores de Efectos Visuales Elena Casanova

Productor de Efectos Visuales Mitchell Ferm

Productor Ejecutivo de Efectos Visuales Camille Geier

Efectos Visuales Adicionales por & Company

Efectos Especiales de Maquillaje por KNB Efx Group

Banda Sonora en Lakeshore Records

M/SICA

“Steady Baby”

Escrita por James Small, Cedric Lindsey y Anthony Carl Nollie

Interpretada por Dukes Of Daville

CortesÌa de Hell Ya! Records

“These Arms Of Mine”

Escrita e Interpretada por Otis Redding

CortesÌa de Atlantic Recording Corp.

Bajo arreglos con Warner Music Group Film & TV Licensing

“Don’t Cry Baby”

Escrita por Saul Bernie, James Johnson y Stella Unger

Interpretada por Etta James

CortesÌa de Geffen Records

Bajo licencia de Universal Music Enterprises

“Can’t Get You Out Of My Mind”

Escrita e Interpretada por Sonya Kitchell

CortesÌa de Velour Music Group

Bajo arreglos con Music For The Masses

“Feel Good Inc.”

Escrita por Damon Albarn, Jamie Hewlett,

Brian Burton y David Jolicoeur

Interpretada por Gorillaz

CortesÌa de EMI Records Ltd.

Bajo licencia de EMI Film & Television Music

“You Sexy Thing”

Escrita por Errol Brown

Producida por Matt Chiaravalle

Interpretada por James “D-Train” Williams

“My Funny Valentine”

Escrita por Richard Rodgers y Lorenz Hart

Producida por Matt Chiaravalle

Interpretada por James “D-Train” Williams

“Stir It Up”

Escrita e Interpretada por Bob Marley

CortesÌa de The Island Def Jam Music Group

Bajo licencia de Universal Music Enterprises

“Like A Star”

Escrita e Interpretada por Corinne Bailey Rae

CortesÌa de Capitol Records

Bajo licencia de EMI Film & Television Music

“Nausea”

Escrita por Beck Hansen

Interpretada por Beck

CortesÌa de Interscope Records

Bajo licencia de Universal Music Enterprises

“Walk On By” (S&K Remix)

Escrita por Burt Bacharach and Hal David

Interpretada por Seal

CortesÌa de Warner Bros. Records Inc.

Bajo arreglos con Warner Music Group Film & TV Licensing

“I Put A Spell On You”

Escrita por Jay Hawkins

Interrpetada por Nina Simone

CortesÌa de The Verve Music Group

Bajo licencia de Universal Music Enterprises

“A Transa”

Escrita por Antonio Pinto y Ed CÙrtes

Interpretada por Antonio Pinto, Ed CÙrtes & Band

CortesÌa de 02 Filmes Curtos Ltda. and Hank Levine Film GmbH

Bajo licencia de Milan Entertainment, Inc.

“White Flag”

Escrita por Dido Armstrong, Rollo Armstrong y Rick Nowels

Interpretada por Dido

CortesÌa de Arista Records, Inc. /

SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT (UK) Limited

Bajo arreglos con SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT

“The Lie”

Escrita e Interpretada por James Newton Howard

CortesÌa de Revolution Studios Distribution Company LLC

Bajo licencia de Columbia Pictures Industries, Inc.

“Troubled Waters”

Escrita por Sam Coslow y Arthur Johnston

Interpretada por Cat Power

CortesÌa de Matador Records

Revolution Studios Distribution Company, LLC es el autor de esta pelÌcula (largometraje)

Para los propÛsitos de derechos de autor y otras leyes.

BlackTailÆ , Leg ShowÆ, JuggsÆ and Oriental DollsÆ

Son marcas registradas de Mavety Media Group Ltd.

Logo de NY1 News usado con permiso.

CortesÌa de Howard Greenberg Gallery, NYC

Especiales agradecimientos a

La Oficina de Cine, Teatro y Transmisiones Televisivas del Alcalde de Nueva York

La Unidad de Cine y TelevisiÛn de la PolicÌa de la Ciudad de Nueva York

La Oficina de Largometrajes & Desarrollo Televisivo del Gobernador del Estado de Nueva York

Larry A. Silverstein

7 World Trade Center, LLC

La Autoridad de Transporte Metropolitano y la MTA de Puentes y T·neles

REALIZADO EN NY

ESFPC NY LOVE FILM

Filmado con

PANAVISIONÆ

C·maras & Lentes

Color por Technicolor Æ

Este es un trabajo de ficciÛn. Los personajes, incidentes, y locaciones representados y sus respectivos nombres son ficticios, y cualquier similitud o identificaciÛn con la locaciÛn, nombre, personaje o historia de cualquier persona, producto o entidad es enteramente una coincidencia y no intencional.

Esta cinta de largometraje est· protegida bajo las previsiones de las leyes de los Estados Unidos de NorteamÈrica y otos paÌses. Cualquier duplicaciÛn y/o distribuciÛn no autorizada de esta cinta puede resultar en acciones civiles y criminales.

ESTRENADA POR

COLUMBIA PICTURES

UNA COMPA—ÕA DE SONY PICTURES ENTERTAINMENT

Posted by Bill at 03:14 PM | Permalink

April 10, 2007

Travel News

July 27

New Wilhelm Tell Express Tour Package From Rail Europe

A getaway to the breathtaking lake and mountain scenery of Switzerland is just the antidote to the summer doldrums.

Named after the legendary hero of Swiss independence, the new Wilhelm Tell Express Tour hotel and rail package from Rail Europe takes you from the jagged peaks and pine forests of the German-speaking Alpine heart of Switzerland (Lucerne) to the palm-fringed lakeshores and charming villages of the Italian-speaking south (Lugano or Locarno).

Offered May through October, the tour includes 1st class tickets on the fabled Wilhelm Tell Express scenic route connecting Lucerne and Lugano/Locarno, two nights in 3-star hotels (one each in Lucerne and Lugano/Locarno; upgrade to 4-star hotels available), and 1st class transfers by rail from any Swiss airport or border point to the starting and ending points of the tour. The tour package is priced at $395 US/$492 CAN per person (based on double occupancy), including mandatory seat reservations and a light meal on the boat. The journey may be booked in either direction.

Children under 16 travel for free with a paying adult. As a bonus, purchasers of the Wilhelm Tell Tour receive a 50% discount on any additional rail, boat, bus or cable car ticket if they wish to extend their stay in Lucerne or Lugano/Locarno.

Two cultures, two styles of travel

The 6-hour Wilhelm Tell Express is a study in contrasts: not only between German and Italian regions of Switzerland, but also in the pace and style of travel.

First you glide leisurely between Lucerne and Flüelen on star-shaped Lake Lucerne aboard an elegant old-fashioned paddle steamer -- with a light meal prepared in the beautifully restored boat restaurant.

Then you ride a train in wall-to-ceiling panoramic cars along the amazing Gotthard rail line, an engineering marvel with 32 tunnels and 13 viaducts through mountains, steep ravines and precipitous cliffs. Over the short course of 17.4 miles, the Gotthard line -- celebrating its 125th anniversary this year -- climbs 694 yards through spiral and horseshoe-shaped tunnels.

Pan Gottardo rotating seats -- a multimedia experience

To celebrate 125 years of the Gotthard line, a special Pan Gottardo panoramic observation car with 26 rotating seats is available on two departures daily in both directions. The seats allow an infinitely adjustable range of viewing angles. Headphones with a choice of languages provide information on sights, landscape and how the railroad was built. Flat screen panels show entertaining films throughout the journey.

For more information or to book the Wilhelm Tell Express Tour package, or any other Swiss or other European rail product or railpass for individual or group travel in more than 30 countries across Europe and the UK, consult a travel agent or log on to Rail Europe's web site, www.raileurope.com (in the U.S.) or www.raileurope.ca (Canada) or call Rail Europe at 1-888-382-7245 (U.S.) or 1-800-361-7245 (Canada).

Cruise America RV Celebrates Its 35th Anniversary With Milestones and Memories

Founded in 1972, Cruise America Is the largest RV Rental Company in the United States MESA, AZ In a time when travel trends come and go, at least one company has staying power: Cruise America RV. Celebrating its 35th anniversary this month, the organization is one of the oldest RV rental and sales companies in the world.

Cruise America has grown dramatically over the past three-and-a-half decades. From its roots in Florida, where Robert Smalley, Sr. -- a former president of car rental giant Hertz -- first opened up shop in 1972, the company has expanded from a small family operation to the largest RV rental company in the U.S., as well as one of the top sellers of used Class C motorhomes.

In 1993 Cruise America shifted operations to Mesa, Ariz., where it is still located today. Now operating 136 RV rental locations and 16 motorhome sales centers throughout the U.S. and Canada, the company has served nearly 1 million rental customers and sold more than 25,000 used RVs over its 35-year history.

Despite its rapid growth and national success, Cruise America still maintains its family-oriented focus. Top executives at the company include Robert Smalley, Jr. and Randall Smalley, both sons of founder Robert Smalley, Sr., with other family members holding key positions as well.

"Family ties have been integral to Cruise America's success since the start," says Robert Smalley, president of Cruise America. "We're a close-knit company, and we believe that this focus makes us better able to serve our customers, many of whom are families as well."

In fact, Cruise America is more than just a family business -- it's a legacy that dates back to the 1920s, Smalley adds.

"My great-grandfather, Frank Couture, was a pioneer in the car rental industry more than 80 years ago," Smalley says. "My brother and I represent the fourth generation of our family to dedicate ourselves to the vehicle rental business, and we couldn't be prouder about reaching this important milestone."

As the company celebrates its 35th anniversary, it plans to hold sales, promotions and specials throughout the year -- including giving a free GPS to RV buyers at any of the company's 13 U.S. sales locations between now and August 31. For details and restrictions on the GPS promotion, customers should visit www.cruiseamerica.com/35.

Cruise America RVs are available in compact, standard and large sizes, sleeping from four to seven people and offering a kitchen, bathroom and living area. For vacationers who'd rather drive their own vehicle, Cruise America also offers camping trailers for rent, as well as one-way RV rentals at locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Founded in Florida in 1972 and now based in Mesa, Ariz., Cruise America is the largest RV rental and sales company in the U.S., employing around 300 full-time employees in the U.S. and Canada during peak seasons. Family-owned and operated, Cruise America was founded by Robert Smalley, Sr., and is now led by his sons, CEO Randall Smalley and President Robert Smalley, Jr. Visit Cruise America online for more information or to find hot deals on used RVs for sale and read more about planning your RV vacation. France's New High Speed Rail Line, TGV East, Just Launched; Boosts Ticket Sales 65% Over Last Year

Build a high-speed rail line and they will come -- this has proven true time and again in Europe since the first high-speed line (Paris-Lyon) was launched.

History is repeating itself with the new TGV* East line, which opened today, slashing previous train travel times by one-third to one-half between Paris and eastern France (Reims, Metz, Nancy, Colmar, Strasbourg, etc), Germany, Luxembourg and Switzerland.

Since Rail Europe announced the availability of TGV East tickets (on April 10, 60 days before service started), the number of North American passengers buying tickets for these routes has increased an average of 65% over the same period last year (when journey times were longer). Some routes have seen ticket sales increase as much as 400% (Nancy-Strasbourg) or 368% (Paris-Stuttgart). On other routes, ticket sales are nearly double what they were during April-June 2006: Mulhouse-Paris (94%), Metz-Paris (92%), Paris-Strasbourg (84%).

Besides cutting travel times nearly in half, the launch of TGV East has also increased the frequency along routes to and within eastern France 15-20%, plus now there are many direct trains, where previously passengers had to transfer at intermediate stations.

High-speed rail has traditionally captured the major share of combined air/rail traffic along routes where train journeys are under 3 hours. The new TGV line is expected to garner 75% of the Paris-Strasbourg market within one year and eventually 90%. Air France previously announced plans to discontinue flights Paris-Metz in July.

Faster travel times

Between with TGV East Previous travel time

Paris-Reims 45 min. 1 hr. 35 min.

Paris-Nancy 1 hr. 30 min. 2 hr. 40 min.

Paris-Strasbourg 2 hr. 20 min. 4 hr.

Paris-Luxembourg 2 hr. 5 min. 3 hr. 35 min.

Paris-Zurich 4 hr. 32 min. 5 hr. 50 min.

Paris-Frankfurt 3 hr. 50 min. 6 hr. 15 min.

Paris-Stuttgart 3 hr. 40 min. 6 hr.

Ticket prices**

The following prices are for one-way, full-fare (fully exchangeable/refundable) tickets. Special offers will appear at www.raileurope.com (U.S.) or www.raileurope.ca (Canada).

Paris-Reims: $43 US/$51 CAD (2nd cl.) or $75 US/$88 CAD (1st)

Paris-Nancy: $76 US/$ 89 CAD (2nd) or $135 US/$ 158 CAD (1st)

Paris-Strasbourg: $ $96 US/$113 CAD (2nd) or $170 US/$199 CAD (1st)

Paris-Basel: $128 US / $150 CAD (2nd) or $193US / $226 CAD (1ST)

Paris-Stuttgart: $144 US/$169 CAD (2nd) or $250 US/ $293 CAD (1st)

A France Railpass -- which covers 3 days of unlimited rail travel throughout France within a one-month period -- starts at $227 US/$ 266 CAD. (Seat reservations, which are required on all TGVs, must be purchased separately). Holders of France Railpass receive special low Passholder fares on international routes (France-Germany, France-Switzerland or on Eurostar or Thalys high-speed trains) that can save 70-80% over regular fares. In addition, the pass provides discounts on Bateaux Parisiens cruises, city passes for Nancy and Strasbourg, museums, scenic rail journeys in other parts of France and more.

For more information or to book railpasses or tickets for individual or group travel on TGV East or high-speed, scenic, and overnight trains throughout Europe and the UK, consult a travel agent or log on to www.raileurope.com (U.S.) or www.raileurope.ca (Canada) or call Rail Europe at 1-888-382-7245 (U.S.) or 1-800-361-7245 (Canada).

Notes:

*TGV = Train a Grande Vitesse (French high-speed train)

**Prices subject to change. For the latest prices, log on to

www.raileurope.com (U.S.) or www.raileurope.ca (Canada)

June 7

Cruise Industry's Most Popular Blog Continues to Set Records, Offers Lighthearted Look at Shipboard Life

Carnival Freedom Senior Cruise Director John Heald's Postings Earn Top 25 Ranking Among WordPress.com's One Million Blogs, Attracting 300,000 Visitors

The on-line blog by Carnival Freedom Senior Cruise Director John Heald continues to grow in popularity and, last week for the first time, achieved a top 25 ranking among the more than one million blogs of WordPress.com, a leading blog-hosting service.

Heald's blog has been on a steady climb since it was introduced some 12 weeks ago. It first broke into the top 100 in mid-May and by early June it had moved up to number 23. During this time, the blog has attracted more than 300,000 visitors.

The blog, which is located at carnival.com/freedom, was launched in conjunction with the entry into service of the new Carnival Freedom in early March. "We thought the blog's popularity would probably peak during the first month from the curiosity over the new ship and then gradually start to decrease over time," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO. "In fact, the exact opposite has happened, which is a testament not only to John's unique personality but also the work he puts forth in keeping his blog fresh and exciting for his readers," he added.

Heald, too, is surprised that the popularity keeps climbing. "I envisioned the blog as a simple recap of the day's events. However, it really has turned into more of a sounding board - not only serving as my own personal diary but also an open forum for readers to convey their own cruise experiences. To me, it's the perfect illustration on why cruising attracts such a diverse group of people. I consider the blog an extension of my cruise director duties and really cherish the opportunity to interact with readers on a regular basis."

Readers from all over the world have been attracted to Heald's blog and, according to posts, some are even booking cruises because of the blog. "That's been the most surprising thing," noted Heald. "This includes bookings on Carnival Freedom, other Carnival ships and even on some of our sister companies' ships. Among these are many first timers."

The blog has proven so popular that it has even inspired the "John Heald Bloggers Cruise" hosted by the popular cruise director aboard Carnival Freedom round-trip from Miami Jan. 19-26, 2008.

Through his blog, Heald provides a lighthearted account of life aboard the Carnival Freedom, with fascinating, humorous and sometime poignant tales of the guests and crewmembers he comes in contact with each day, all with his trademark wit and self-deprecating manner.

In keeping with Heald's vision of the blog as a forum for an open discussion on a wide-range of areas, a popular feature on the blog is a question-and-answer section in which he personally answers readers' queries about working aboard a cruise ship, the Carnival vacation experience, and various other cruise-related topics.

Heald's blog also shares stories about life aboard the Carnival Freedom with his wife, Heidi, the ship's assistant cruise director and occasional blog contributor. He also offers his own travel tips and recommendations, along with personal photos from Carnival Freedom's European cruises and even a recent trip to visit his parents in the UK.

One of the most popular cruise directors in the industry, Heald joined Carnival in 1986 as a bartender and, after transferring to the entertainment department, was named a social host three years later. He was promoted to cruise director in 1990 and in 2004 was named senior cruise director - currently the only individual to hold that position within the Carnival fleet.

Carnival is currently accepting reservations for the "John Heald Bloggers Cruise" aboard the Carnival Freedom, which will operate round-trip from Miami Jan. 19-26, 2008, and will visit three of Heald's favorite ports: Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman and Cozumel.

For additional information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com.

Carnival Cruise Lines, a unit of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), is a proud member of the exclusive World's Leading Cruise Lines. Our exclusive alliance also includes Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Costa Cruises, and The Yachts of Seabourn. Sharing a passion to please each guest, and a commitment to quality and value, our member lines appeal to a wide range of lifestyles and budgets. Together, we offer exciting and enriching cruise vacations to the world's most desirable destinations.

Source: Carnival Cruise Lines

Web site: http://www.carnivalcorp.com/
http://carnival.com/freedom

May 25

Rail Europe's "Pass Finder" Helps You Buy the Right Railpass

With all the different European railpasses available, how do you choose the right one? If you pick a pass that gives you more than you need, you've spent too much money, but buying "too small" a pass means you won't be covered for all the train travel you're planning.

To help guide you to the right choice, Rail Europe has just introduced an easy-to-use Pass Finder function on its website, www.raileurope.com [US] or www.raileurope.ca [Canada].

The Pass Finder is located on the homepage. Simply enter the country or countries you're planning on visiting, specifying the number of days you want to use the train and the number of days you'll be in each country -- and voilà, you will be presented with both first and second class options.

In addition to railpasses, Rail Europe also offers a wide range of point-to-point tickets for high-speed (such as Eurostar and Thalys), scenic and other trains. Passholders receive discounts on these special trains as well as other money-saving bonuses.

"With the Pass Finder, you don't have to be a rail expert, or wait to speak to one of our reservation agents to get advice on which pass or combination of passes to buy," says Fabrice Morel, President and CEO of Rail Europe. "Several thousand travelers to Europe have already tried the Pass Finder, and they appreciate its simplicity, accuracy and ease of use."

Rail Europe is the largest North American distributor of European rail travel products, with the broadest selection of railpasses, rail tickets on high-speed, scenic, and regional trains operating in more than 30 countries.

For more information or to book travel for individual or groups (10 or more) , contact a travel agent or Rail Europe at www.raileurope.com or by calling an experienced Rail Europe reservation agent at 1-888-382-7245 (U.S.) or 1-800-361-7245 (Canada).

May 22

The Travel Industry Soars Ahead - Now Using Internet TV to Reach Vacationers

the TV on the Internet Company, is changing the way the travel industry delivers information to its audience. Cutting-edge travel companies such as Britain's Best Breaks are using Narrowstep's industry-leading technology system, TelvOS(TM), to promote their destinations and services via broadband TV.

Internet TV allows travel companies to reach global audiences more economically than by other, more traditional, advertising and marketing tactics. Furthermore, Narrowstep's industry-leading technology allows for revenue streams from local and international travel merchants wishing to advertise directly to a highly targeted audience.

Britain's Best Breaks broadcasts half-hour, linear shows on Sky and http://www.britainsbestbreaks.tv/. These programs highlight the best of British travel to viewers worldwide who are looking to travel anywhere in the UK - from Land's End to John O'Groats.

"The travel sector has consistently led the way in adopting new technology and has always had a strong online presence," said David C. McCourt, Chairman and interim CEO of Narrowstep, Inc. "It isn't surprising that internet television is proving so popular. We're really excited to be working with Britain's Best Breaks and their partnership with us further proves that we really are the leaders in monetising high-quality, online content."

"Internet TV was the next vital step for us," said Stewart Rickersey, Managing Director of Richland Media Holdings, which owns Britain's Best Breaks. "We turned to Narrowstep because we needed partners who really knew the business and could advise us on how best to proceed. We know that travellers primarily look to the internet when researching destinations and by offering our program on broadband, we are making this an even more comprehensive experience."

About Narrowstep

Narrowstep(TM) Inc. (BULLETIN BOARD: NRWS) , the TV on the Internet company, is a leading global provider of broadband television services. Narrowstep's proprietary technologies and customer-focused services enable TV channels to be delivered over the Internet. 100+ companies worldwide have chosen Narrowstep because it offers the most television-like and true community building broadband experience. The company's telvOS(TM) (Television Operating System(TM)) and nBed(TM) technologies enable the most comprehensive delivery of video to mobile, wireless, Internet, broadband, VOIP and entirely new IP-delivered broadcast services. For more information, visit www.narrowstep.com.

About Britainsbestbreaks.tv

Britain's Best Breaks is a dedicated half-hour travel programme that puts the spotlight on destinations in the UK. About to start its 5th series, the show continues to develop and showcase the very best that Britain has to offer. Helping people discover short break ideas, explore exciting new destinations, or rediscover old favourites is what Britain's Best Breaks is all about. For more information about Britain's Best Breaks, please visit www.britainsbestbreaks.tv.

CONTACT: Franklin Rae Communications - +44

Source: Narrowstep Inc.

May 9

U.S. Travel Goods Sales Hit Record in 2006
Travel Goods Association Releases Report on State of the U.S. Travel Goods Market 1992-2006: A Profile of the U.S. Travel Goods Market

-- The continued growth in the use of travel goods in everyday life led to record travel goods sales during 2006, according to a new report from the Travel Goods Association (TGA). Travel goods are defined as luggage, backpacks, travel/sports bags, business cases/computer bags, handbags, personal leather goods and luggage locks. TGA estimates that U.S. consumers spent a record $20.7 billion on travel goods in 2006, fueled by burgeoning consumer demand in virtually all travel goods categories.

"There are two factors driving the growth in sales," explains Michele Marini Pittenger, TGA's president. "First, more people are traveling today, and second, travel goods are becoming a part of our everyday life. Totes and backpacks were previously used mainly in schools and airports; today they are more and more common in the workplace. Handbags and business cases traditionally held personal items and important papers; but now they must also accommodate cell phones, iPods, PDAs and laptops. And consumers want all of these products to be smaller, stylish and lightweight."

With more and more demands being placed on the travel goods they use, consumers are demanding new and better products -- and the U.S. travel goods industry is delivering. "These changing demands mean consumers will no longer wait until their tote or briefcase wears out, but will instead buy the new backpack or briefcase to go with their new laptop or cell phone -- translating into a surge in demand for these items," commented Pittenger.

This growth, however, has curbed sales of more traditional travel goods such as luggage and handbags as people find alternatives that better suit their changing lifestyles.

Stated Pittenger, "Because consumers now buy travel goods because they 'need' them, they are focusing on new, functional, innovative and stylish products rather than simply comparing costs. This should lead to stabilizing prices after years of deflation, and since it looks like the consumers' appetite for well-designed, original and fashionable travel goods shows no signs of abating, 2007 should be another great year for the industry."

Here's a quick look at how TGA estimates each of the major travel goods categories performed in 2006:

Luggage

The key phrase for U.S. luggage sales in 2006 is "quality over quantity." Luggage sales faced new pressures as consumers continued to utilize less traditional travel goods -- like business cases/computer bags, travel/sports bags and backpacks -- for their travels. While TGA estimates that the unit volume of luggage sold in the United States slipped from the record sales set in 2005, the average price of each piece of luggage sold in 2006 jumped 22.1% over the 2005 average price -- showing that while consumers became more particular, they were willing to pay to get the exact piece of luggage they were looking for.

Backpacks

Backpacks are no longer restricted to school campuses and campgrounds, but are now ubiquitous, being seen everywhere from airports to board rooms. Why? Because U.S. travel goods firms have successfully transformed backpacks from something that just carries your books or your camping gear into cutting-edge, versatile and multi-functional products that can cross over to every aspect of consumers' lives and meet their varying lifestyles. And, consumers have responded. TGA estimates that unit volume sales surged 13.0% in 2006. Just as important, the average price of a backpack grew for the first time in years -- registering a small, but significant, 2.3% increase.

Travel/Sports Bags

While this category remains dominated by "freebies," or promotional bags used by companies to give away to customers and at conferences and events, the growth in the use of multi-functional totes, duffels and other travel/sports bags for both travel and everyday use led to a TGA-estimated 5.7% growth in sales in 2006. The average price paid by consumers for those bags also grew, increasing 8.6% in 2006.

Business Cases/Computer Bags

With U.S. travel goods firms producing innovative products to match the changing lifestyles of consumers -- providing versatile and fashionable business cases/computer bags for travel as well as for everyday use -- TGA estimates that consumers pushed unit volume sales in this category up 9.9% in 2006. Consumers also were willing to pay more for these inventive and increasingly stylish products, pushing up the price for the average business case/computer bag by 12.4%.

Handbags

If you only looked at the TGA-estimated 9.7% fall in unit volume sales of handbags in 2006, you might think women's fascination with owning multiple handbags was waning. And although some handbag purchases may have migrated to the business cases/computer bags or travel/sports bags category, a quick look at the estimated average price women paid for handbags, which surged 15.8% in 2006, should make you think twice. It seems that women just don't want any handbag anymore, they want "the" handbag -- and they are willing to pay for it.

Personal Leather Goods

In this category, it appears that U.S. travel goods firms are the victims of their own success. Having successfully incorporated pockets and/or holders for consumers' glasses, PDAs, cell phones, iPods and the many other goodies consumers use today into multi-functional business cases, computer bags, totes, backpacks, and handbags, U.S. travel goods firms have essentially eliminated the need for the personal leather goods that used to hold and protect these items. Further, the continued growth of MP3 players and PDAs have also slowed the need for CD cases and day planners, two traditional personal leather goods categories. As a result of these changes, TGA estimates that sales of personal leather goods have started to decline from their record highs of a few years ago, with 2006 down 4.1% from 2005.

Luggage Locks

With the rule changes implemented in 2006 restricting what you could carry onto airplanes -- from personal hygiene items to wrapped presents -- consumers were forced to carry many of these items in their checked luggage. Growing concerns about the safety of that checked luggage (and the new items they contained) led consumers to buy 3.3% more luggage locks in 2006.

May 7

Carnival to Re-Brand its Fantasy-Class Ships in Tandem With Multi-Million-Dollar Refurbishment Program

In conjunction with its recently announced $250 million "Evolutions of Fun" ship refurbishment program, Carnival will re-brand its eight Fantasy-class ships by introducing an updated version of each ship's name as it appears on the vessel's hull, as well as in various marketing and collateral materials. As each ship goes into drydock for refurbishment, the name 'Carnival' and the company's logo will be combined with the vessel's name to provide an updated look and feel.

"The names of the majority of Carnival's ships which entered service starting in the latter 1990's begin with 'Carnival,' and those ships have become synonymous with expansive, high quality amenities and features," said Bob Dickinson, Carnival president and CEO. "As each of our Fantasy-class ships undergoes transformation to incorporate the wide-ranging enhancements under the 'Evolutions of Fun' initiative, it is only fitting that those vessels be re-branded to better align them with our other ships."

All marketing materials going forward will feature the new ship names Carnival Fantasy, Carnival Ecstasy, Carnival Sensation, Carnival Fascination, Carnival Imagination, Carnival Inspiration, Carnival Paradise and Carnival Elation.

As each ship goes into drydock to receive the "Evolutions of Fun" upgrades, signage on the ships' bow, stern and upper deck areas will be modified. Among the planned "Evolutions of Fun" enhancements are expansive children's water parks, a new design style and features for the pool areas, and the creation of the Serenity adults-only deck area.

Also being phased in and already in place on some ships are fully remodeled staterooms and suites, including new bathrooms, along with flat- screen televisions in staterooms and select public areas, atrium lobby bars, updated sound and lighting systems in various lounges and clubs, coffee bars, nine-hole miniature golf courses, new art and photo galleries, New York-style delis in the Lido restaurants, and purpose-built conference facilities. By 2009, upgrades to the entire Fantasy-class will be completed.

For additional information on the "Evolutions of Fun" initiative, visit www.carnival.com/evolutions. For cruise information and reservations, contact any travel agent, call 800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com.

Carnival Cruise Lines, a unit of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) (NYSE:CUK) , is a proud member of the exclusive World's Leading Cruise Lines. Our exclusive alliance also includes Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Costa Cruises, and The Yachts of Seabourn. Sharing a passion to please each guest, and a commitment to quality and value, our member lines appeal to a wide range of lifestyles and budgets. Together, we offer exciting and enriching cruise vacations to the world's most desirable destinations.

Source: Carnival Cruise Lines

Web site: http://www.carnivalcorp.com/
http://www.carnival.com/evolutions

May 4

North to Alaska: Holland America Line Launches 2007 Seattle - Alaska Cruise Season

-- Underscoring the popularity of Alaska as a favorite vacation destination, Holland America Line kicks off its Seattle to Alaska cruise season tomorrow with versatile programs offering expanded optional excursions and destinations.

"No other cruise offers such a sweeping and majestic view of Alaska than what guests experience onboard a premium Holland America Line cruise," said Richard D. Meadows, CTC, executive vice president, marketing, sales, and guest programs for Holland America Line. "From the Inside Passage to Glacier Bay, we've crafted a wonderful choice of itineraries and optional excursions that showcase the this beautiful cruising destination, providing our guests with an exceptional experience."

With roundtrip sailings from Seattle, Holland America boasts 58 Alaskan Explorer departures with port calls to Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan and Victoria, BC. Two new Vista ships -- the ms Noordam (Sunday departures) and the ms Oosterdam (Saturdays) -- join the flagship ms Amsterdam (Fridays). The Noordam visits Glacier Bay on all departures while the Amsterdam visits either Tracy Arm and Sawyer Glaciers, or Glacier Bay. The Oosterdam continues cruising to the immense Hubbard Glacier or Wrangell-St.Elias National Park.

Drawing from numerous Washington-based vendors and suppliers, Holland America Line's cruise operations have a significant economic impact locally and statewide. Based on five ships scheduled for 64 cruises with a combined total of nearly 115,000 passengers, Holland America Line estimates the total statewide benefit to be approximately $469 million. Direct spending in Seattle is estimated to be $170 million and $199 million statewide.

For the 2007 cruises to Alaska brochure, contact a professional travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (1-877-724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

- www.hollandamerica.com -

About Holland America Line [a division of Carnival Corporation and plc (NYSE:CCL) (NYSE:and) (NYSE:CUK) ]

Holland America Line's fleet of 13 ships offers nearly 500 cruises to more than 320 ports. Two- to 108-day itineraries visit all seven continents, including Antarctica, South America, Australia/New Zealand and Asia and Grand World Voyages; and popular sailings to ports in the Caribbean, Alaska, Mexico, Canada/New England, Europe and Panama Canal.

In the 2006 Portrait of Affluent Travelers survey by Yesawich, Pepperdine, Brown and Russell, Holland America Line topped the list of cruise lines sought after by affluent leisure travelers. Its recently completed $225 million fleetwide Signature of Excellence enhancements added features such as the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine -- a state-of-the-art onboard show kitchen where more than 60 celebrated guest chefs and culinary experts provide cooking demonstrations and classes -- Explorations Cafe powered by The New York Times, teens-only activity areas and all new stateroom amenities highlighted by flat-panel TVs and plush Euro-top Mariner's Dream Beds. For more information, consult a travel agent, call 1-877-SAIL-HAL (877- 724-5425) or visit www.hollandamerica.com.

World's Leading Cruise Lines

Among the highest-rated cruise lines in the world, Holland America Line is a member of the exclusive World's Leading Cruise Lines alliance, which also includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Princess Cruises, Cunard Line, Seabourn Cruise Line, and Costa Cruises. Sharing a passion to please each guest and a commitment to quality and value, these lines appeal to a wide range of lifestyles and budgets. The World's Leading Cruise Lines offer exciting and enriching cruise vacations to the world's most desirable destinations.

  AKCruises 07

April 27

Hundreds Gather for 'School Assembly' Event to Honor Pilots, Teachers, and Students Who Have Contributed to the School-to-Career Mentorship Program

What if you could inspire struggling students to believe in themselves -- and in their future careers?

What if you could ignite a students' desire to pursue a degree in science,

math, writing, or other fields? What if you could look back on the past ten

years and see that you made a difference?

Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) today celebrated the contribution of

hundreds of Pilots who have helped make a difference in their local

communities by volunteering in the Southwest Airlines Adopt-A-Pilot community

education program that is celebrating its 10th Anniversary this year. The

"school assembly" style event included hundreds of Employees, Southwest

leadership, and special VIP guests who cheered amid sky-high confetti as

Southwest Airlines unveiled a Boeing 737-700 plane dedicated to the Adopt-A-

Pilot program.

The plane unveiling marked the finale of the event that included comments

from Southwest CEO Gary Kelly, President Colleen Barrett, and former NASA

Astronaut turned Southwest Pilot, Captain Robert "Hoot" Gibson. Also featured

was a "class reunion" with "original" Pilots who have volunteered in the

program continuously since 1997, including Phoenix-based Captain Jesus Melian,

who was reunited with former Adopt-A-Pilot student Chun Mei Yu. Melian

mentored Yu's class several years ago at a small Connecticut school. She is

now pursuing a nursing degree at the University of Connecticut and credits

Adopt-A-Pilot with helping inspire her when she was a young immigrant,

acclimating to her new life in the United States.

"Ten years ago, Southwest Airlines launched a fledgling education and

community relations program called Adopt-A-Pilot with the hope that we could

unite at least 50 Pilots with 50 classrooms," says Colleen Barrett, Southwest

Airlines President. "Today, more than 650 Pilots are volunteering in

classrooms coast-to-coast, reaching more than 30,000 students. We couldn't be

more proud to work with the exemplary teachers and students who have made this

program possible. And our hats are off to the Pilots for their personal

investment of time and energy, as they exemplify the Southwest Spirit that our

Employees share in every community, every day."

Other event highlights included a presentation to two Adopt-A-Pilot

students who created winning designs for the official Adopt-A-Pilot 2007 Tie.

The Adopt-A-Pilot ties are worn year round by Pilot program participants as a

uniform piece. The winning students from Tucson, Arizona, and Glencoe,

Illinois, attended today's event along with their parents and teachers.

Each year from February through May, fifth-grade students across the

country "adopt" Southwest Airlines Pilots in this award-winning educational

mentorship program that leads students through a variety of core subjects with

an aviation twist. Students learn to research careers, develop life values,

and realize the importance of achieving and staying in school. During the

four-week long mentorship program, Pilots volunteer their time in adoptive

classrooms and correspond from the "road" via e-mail, postcards, and the

program blog at http://www.adoptapilot.blogs.com . Classrooms chart the

Pilot's course on an official United States map and complete lessons covering

a broad range of subjects - all related to the Pilot's monthly flying

schedule. Program curriculum and other program details can be viewed at

http://www.southwest.com/adoptapilot .

Southwest Airlines, the nation's largest carrier in terms of domestic

passengers enplaned, currently serves 63 cities in 32 states. Based in Dallas,

Southwest currently operates more than 3,200 flights a day and has 32,000+

Employees systemwide.

April 18

25th Anniversary Laughlin River Run Set for April 25-29, 2007
Proceeds From West's Largest Motorcycle Rally to Benefit Charities

The rumble will be loud and the chrome brightly polished when more than 70,000 motorcycle enthusiasts roar into Laughlin April 25-29 for the 25th annual Laughlin River Run. Started in 1983 with only 426 people, this annual event has grown to become the largest ride-in motorcycle rally in the West, with hundreds of vendors, exhibits and top-name entertainment.

In addition to the giant trade show exhibit areas in casino parking lots along the length of Casino Drive, annual special events include Poker Runs, Custom Bike Show, Miss Laughlin River Run Pageant and test rides on new Harley-Davidson motorcycles, the official motorcycle of the 25th Annual Laughlin River Run available at the Harley-Davidson factory display.

"The Laughlin River Run has everything one would desire from a resort destination coupled with all the manufacturers, distributors, exhibits and entertainment a biker would want," said Joe O'Day, Laughlin River Run organizer. "That's what makes the River Run so unique among bike rallies. There is so much, you can park your motorcycle when you first arrive in Laughlin and never get back on it until you leave."

Top-name entertainment runs throughout the weekend with performances scheduled by classic rock band ZZ Top at the Aquarius Amphitheater, The Fabulous Thunderbirds in Don's Celebrity Theatre, Warrant & LA Guns at the Pioneer Hotel & Gambling Hall and Grammy Award winning blues Guitarist Jonny Lang in the Rio Vista Amphitheater at Harrah's Laughlin.

Among the exhibits set up all along Casino Drive will be a Rolling Art Custom Motorcycle display at the Golden Nugget featuring the creations of Arlen Ness, Corey Ness, Russell Mitchell, and Gard Hollinger -- all veterans of the Discovery Channel's Great Biker Build-Off series and American Thunder TV. The Speed Channel will again be on the scene to produce an episode of the American Thunder TV show.

Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep is an official presenting sponsor of the Laughlin River Run and will have the newest Daimler Chrysler concept vehicles and new 2007 Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep models on display. The Jack Daniels traveling museum also will be part of this year's Laughlin River Run.

The Laughlin River Run raises money for charity each year through the Laughlin River Run Foundation. Last years benefactors included Easter Seals, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Colorado River, Colorado River Food Bank, Silver Rider Christmas Fund and American Heroes Foundation, which benefits veterans in the region.

Official River Run event registration starts Wednesday, April 25, in the Starview Showroom located on the second floor at Don Laughlin's Riverside Resort. The $45 fee includes an official event bandana, commemorative ride pin, souvenir program and a chance to win a new 2007 Harley-Davidson FXST Deuce and Harley-Davidson merchandise certificates. For information, visit www.laughlinriverrun.com

River Run History

Dal-Con Promotions, Inc., is the originator and official promoter of the Laughlin River Run. Founder Dale Marschke was a franchised Harley-Davidson dealer in Southern California seeking a destination to ride with his customers for a weekend of fun. Dale was a frequent visitor to the area once known as South Point, and became acquainted with Don Laughlin, who had re-opened a bankrupt casino. The town was soon renamed after him. Dale's frequent visits forged a relationship that set the stage for the first River Run in 1983, with just 426 participants. Since then, motorcycle enthusiasts have made the annual trek each April to Laughlin for what has become the largest motorcycle event on the West Coast, with over 70,000 participants meeting at the Colorado River to enjoy four days of fun in the sun.

About Laughlin

Located 90 miles south of Las Vegas, Laughlin offers visitors a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. This city by the river has grown to include nine resorts with affordable first-class accommodations, 24-hour casino gaming, gourmet dining and outlet shopping. Laughlin, a unique resort destination that welcomes nearly 5 million visitors annually, has also become one of the leading special event destinations in the Southwest. From world-class rodeo action to daring desert racing to an amateur long-drive golf competition, Laughlin has plenty to offer the adventurous spectator.

Source: Dal-Con Promotions, Inc.

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

April 16

Celebrity Cruises Opens Bookings for Alaska, Pacific Northwest, Hawaii and Panama Canal

From luaus to loons, Celebrity Cruises' most recent slate of itinerary openings offers unforgettable experiences sure to please nature lovers, wine enthusiasts, and cruise aficionados. Yesterday, the top-rated line opened 2008 bookings for its Alaska, Hawaii, Pacific Northwest and Panama Canal seasons as well as for some of its 2009 sailings.

Alaska

-- Celebrity Infinity will bookend her Alaska season with "Ultimate

Alaska" itineraries. The first is an 11-night itinerary northbound from

San Francisco, California, on April 28, 2008, arriving in Vancouver,

British Columbia on May 9. The second is southbound out of Vancouver on

September 19, 2008, with a 14-night itinerary that arrives in San

Francisco on October 3. Both sailings feature ports of call in Alaska

and British Columbia; the southbound trip includes stops in Washington

and Oregon.

-- Celebrity Millennium will kick off her 2008 Alaska season with a 14-

night "Ultimate Alaska" itinerary, sailing roundtrip from San Francisco

on May 5. On May 19, Celebrity Millennium will sail an 11-night West

Coast and Alaska cruise from San Francisco to Vancouver. The end of

Celebrity Millennium's Alaska season features another 14-night

"Ultimate Alaska" sailing on September 22 from Vancouver to San Diego,

California.

-- Celebrity Mercury will sail a 14-night "Golden Gate to Alaska" cruise

from San Francisco to Vancouver on April 27.

-- Between May and September, Celebrity Infinity will sail a series of

seven-night Hubbard Glacier itineraries roundtrip from Seattle,

Washington. Celebrity Millennium will alternate between seven-night

northbound and southbound sailings between Seward, Alaska and

Vancouver. During the same months, Celebrity Mercury will sail a series

of seven-night Hubbard Glacier itineraries roundtrip from Vancouver

before an eight-night trip from Vancouver to Seattle on September 14.

-- Celebrity Millennium's May 30 northbound sailing will be the vessel's

first sailing of the season that offers the line's Alaska cruisetour

packages.

-- Beginning May 11, cruisetour packages are available for all of

Celebrity Mercury's 2008 sailings roundtrip from Vancouver, including

the opportunity to explore the Canadian Rockies or Whistler either

before or after an Alaska Hubbard Glacier cruise. With the 2008 season,

the line is introducing a Frasier Discovery tour offered exclusively in

conjunction with Celebrity Mercury's sailings. During this tour, guests

will travel through the unique northern interior of British Columbia,

and includes stops at Calgary, Banff, Jasper, Quesnell, Whistler, and

Vancouver.

California/Pacific Northwest

-- Before the Alaska season, Celebrity Mercury will sail three seven-night

and one eight-night Pacific Coastal cruises roundtrip from San

Francisco beginning March 29, 2008, with stops in Oregon, Washington

and British Columbia. The eight-night itinerary also visits Monterey,

California.

-- At the end of the 2008 Alaska season, Celebrity Mercury will offer a

series of three- and four-night Pacific Northwest sailings roundtrip

out of Seattle.

-- On October 13, Celebrity Mercury will sail a nine-night wine cruise

from Vancouver to San Diego, featuring stops in British Columbia,

Washington, Oregon, and California, including an overnight stay in San

Francisco.

-- On September 19, Celebrity Millennium will present a three-night

British Columbia cruise roundtrip from Vancouver.

Hawaii

-- On March 16, 2008, Celebrity Mercury will sail a 12-night Hawaii

northbound cruise from Honolulu, Hawaii to Ensenada, Mexico, featuring

overnight stays in both Honolulu and Kailua Kona, Hawaii.

-- On October 6, 2008, Celebrity Millennium will sail an 11-night Hawaii

southbound cruise from Ensenada to Honolulu, featuring overnight stays

in Lahaina and Honolulu.

-- On October 22, November 6, and December 19, 2008, and on February 28

and March 15, 2009, Celebrity Mercury will sail 15-night Hawaii

itineraries roundtrip out of San Diego. The November sailing features

an evening sail around Mount Kilauea, and the October and December

sailings include an overnight stay in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii.

Panama Canal

-- On April 13, 2008, Celebrity Infinity will sail a 15-night Panama Canal

cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Florida to San Francisco, with stops in

Jamaica, Colombia, Costa Rica and Mexico.

-- On April 20, 2008, Celebrity Millennium will sail a 15-night Panama

Canal cruise from Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco.

-- Celebrity Infinity will sail a 16-night Panama Canal cruise from San

Francisco to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on October 3, 2008. Celebrity

Infinity will also sail two 14-night Panama Canal cruises from Fort

Lauderdale to San Diego on October 19, 2008, and March 29, 2009, and a

13-night Panama Canal cruise from San Diego to Fort Lauderdale on

November 2.

-- Celebrity Mercury will sail a 14-night eastbound Panama Canal itinerary

from San Diego to Fort Lauderdale on November 21, 2008, and return west

on another 14-night sailing between the same cities on December 5. In

2009, Celebrity Mercury will sail transcanal sailings between Fort

Lauderdale and San Diego on January 3, January 17, January 31, February

14 and March 30.

Celebrity Cruises offers comfortably sophisticated, upscale cruise experiences with highly personalized service, exceptional dining, and extraordinary attention to detail. Celebrity sails in Alaska, Antarctica, Bermuda, California, Caribbean, Europe, Galapagos Islands, Hawaii, Mexican Riviera, Panama Canal and South America, and will begin sailing in Australia and New Zealand this year. The line also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Canada, Europe and Australia through its cruisetour affiliate. Noted for "The World's Best Large Ships," as voted by the readers of Conde' Nast Traveler (February 2007 Cruise Poll), Celebrity's current fleet will be joined by Celebrity Journey and Celebrity Quest this year, Celebrity Solstice in 2008, Celebrity Equinox in 2009, and Celebrity Eclipse in 2010. For more information, call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111 or visit www.celebritycruises.com.

Source: Celebrity Cruises

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

April 10

Newest, Fastest European High-Speed Rail Line Starts Service June 10; TGV East Tickets and Schedules Available Now From Rail Europe

One week after the French broke the new world speed record for steel-wheel-on-steel-rails (357 mph) and 60 days before the start of commercial service, tickets and schedules for the newest high-speed TGV* rail line, TGV East, are available from Rail Europe. Rail Europe is a subsidiary of the French National Railroads (SNCF) and the largest North American supplier of European rail travel.

TGV East will cut current train travel times by one-third to one-half between 20 destinations in France, as well as between Paris and 10 destinations in Germany, Switzerland and Luxembourg. The frequency of service will increase by 15-20% along the new line, which runs from Paris east through the Champagne, Lorraine and Alsace regions of France, serving cities such as Reims, Nancy, Metz and Strasbourg. The new line also provides faster rail connections from eastern France to other regions, including Ile-de-France, northern, western and southeastern France -- to cities such as Lille, Bordeaux, and Nantes. [See table comparing current and new travel times below.]

65% increase in rail travel expected -- half of this at expense of air

The French National Railroads (SNCF) expects TGV East to increase the number of rail passengers traveling along the route by 65% in the first year. Half of that growth will come from those who currently fly, the other half from either those who now drive or entirely new passengers who will decide to travel because of the convenience of the new rail service. "These predictions are in line with what has historically happened whenever a high-speed rail line is launched," explains Fabrice Morel, President and CEO of Rail Europe.

Faster, more comfortable trains

The world record run on April 5 took place on a section of the new TGV East track using a specially-modified train. Standard operating speed for TGV East service, starting June 10, will be 199 mph (320 km/hr) -- faster than any other train in Europe. Top speed of current TGV (and other European high-speed) trains is 186 mph (300 km/hr).

With interiors designed by Christian Lacroix, the new TGV East trains will not only be faster, but more comfortable: more spacious reclining seats, adjustable lighting and special "family" areas with game board tables, as well as electrical outlets at each 1st class seat and more legroom in 2nd class. Passengers in 1st class can also reserve (onboard the train) a taxi for their arrival in Paris or Strasbourg Monday-Friday. "Meeting spaces" for 2-3 people and 4 electrical outlets make it easy for business travelers to work along the way.

Five stations on the TGV East route have Wi-Fi access, 21 stations (including Paris East and Strasbourg) have been thoroughly modernized and renovated, and three new TGV stations have been built, which offer connections to nearby towns by frequent regional trains or shuttle buses.

Emphasis on Service

Onboard each train and each platform served by TGV East, there will be train managers who can help passengers with information about connecting trains/tracks at each stop.

In preparation for the launch of TGV East, SNCF created a Service University to educate station and train personnel on customer-oriented service.

Faster travel times

Between with TGV East (from June 10) Current time

Paris-Reims 45 min. 1 hr. 35 min.

Paris-Nancy 1 hr. 30 min. 2 hr. 40 min.

Paris-Strasbourg 4 hr. 2 hr. 20 min.

Paris-Luxembourg 2 hr. 5 min. 3 hr. 35 min.

Paris-Zurich 4 hr. 32 min. 5 hr. 50 min.

Paris-Frankfurt 3 hr. 50 min. 6 hr. 15 min.

Ticket prices**

The following prices are for one-way, full-fare (fully exchangeable/refundable) tickets. Special offers will appear at www.raileurope.com.

Paris-Reims: $43 US/$51 CAD (2nd cl.) or $75 US/$88 CAD (1st)

Paris-Nancy: $76 US/$89 CAD (2nd) or $135 US/$158 CAD (1st)

Paris-Strasbourg: $96 US/$113 CAD (2nd) or $170 US/$199 CAD (1st)

Paris-Basel: $128 US /$150 CAD (2nd) or $193 US /$226 CAD (1st)

Paris-Stuttgart: $144 US/$169 CAD (2nd) or $250 US/$293 CAD (1st)

For more information or to book railpasses or tickets for individual or group travel on TGV East or trains throughout Europe and the UK, consult a travel agent or log on to www.raileurope.com (U.S.) or www.raileurope.ca (Canada) or call Rail Europe at 1-888-382-7245 (U.S.) or 1-800-361-7245 (Canada).

TRAVEL NEWS

Posted by Bill at 06:29 PM | Permalink

Entertainment,Arts,Fashion & Technology

April 19

TNT & TBS Renew Contract for Screen Actors Guild Awards®

14th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards® to be Simulcast on TNT & TBS on Sun., Jan. 27, 2008

TNT, television’s top-rated destination for drama, and, TBS, the top-rated comedy network, have renewed their agreement with the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) to continue carrying the Screen Actors Guild Awards®, according to an announcement today from Steve Koonin, president of Turner Entertainment Networks, and Doug Allen, SAG’s national executive director.

TNT has been home to the SAG Awards™ since 1998. TBS began its simulcast of the prestigious awards show in 2006. The Sunday, Jan. 28, simulcast of this year’s 13th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards® ranks as the most-watched telecast of the awards ceremony since it came to cable in 1998. Its audience of more than 5.8 million viewers topped the previous year’s record-setting performance.

The 14th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards® will be simulcast live on TNT and TBS from the Los Angeles Shrine Exposition Center Sunday, Jan. 27, 2008, at 8 pm ET/PT, 7 pm CT and 6 pm MT.

The Screen Actors Guild Awards® commend the year’s finest achievements in acting in five film categories and eight television categories, including the distinctive ensemble awards, which honor the collaborative performance by a cast in a motion picture and by the ensemble casts of both comedy and dramatic television series.

“Since the SAG Awards honors both dramatic and comedic performances, TNT, television’s first network for drama, and TBS, television’s premier network for comedy, have proven to be ideal companions to present this exciting annual event,” said Koonin. “The appeal of the Screen Actors Guild Awards to both drama fans and comedy lovers is reflected in the SAG Awards’ steady ratings growth and has allowed to us to utilize the brands of both networks to market the presentation in ways that speak to both audiences. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Screen Actors Guild.”

Screen Actors Guild National Executive Director Doug Allen agreed that the partnership has been positive and has delivered significant benefits. “We are pleased to once again partner with Turner Broadcasting System on the telecast of the Screen Actors Guild Awards. Turner’s efforts over the last 10 years have contributed to the tremendous popularity of our celebration of acting excellence.” Allen said. “Turner’s recognition of the SAG Awards’ unique place in the industry and its wide appeal to the global home audience has helped make the SAG Awards one of the most important events of the awards season.” he added.

The Screen Actors Guild Awards, which began in 1995, was the first televised awards show to acknowledge the work of union members. Of the top industry honors presented to performers, it is the only one selected exclusively by actors’ peers. The ceremony is one of the awards season’s premiere events and is closely watched by the industry as a precursor to possible Oscar® and Emmy® recognition and by viewers as a memorable night of live television.
television’s top-rated destination for drama, and, the top-rated comedy networkhave renewed their agreement with the to continue carrying the , according to an announcement today from Steve Koonin, president of Turner Entertainment Networks, and Doug Allen, SAG’s national executive director. TNT has been home to the SAG Awards™ since 1998. TBS began its simulcast of the prestigious awards show in 2006. The Sunday, Jan. 28, simulcast of this year’s 13th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards® ranks as the most-watched telecast of the awards ceremony since it came to cable in 1998. Its audience of more than 5.8 million viewers topped the previous year’s record-setting performance.The 14th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards® will be simulcast live on TNT and TBS from the Los Angeles Shrine Exposition Center Sunday, Jan. 27, 2008, at 8 pm ET/PT, 7 pm CT and 6 pm MT.The Screen Actors Guild Awards® commend the year’s finest achievements in acting in five film categories and eight television categories, including the distinctive ensemble awards, which honor the collaborative performance by a cast in a motion picture and by the ensemble casts of both comedy and dramatic television series. “Since the SAG Awards honors both dramatic and comedic performances, TNT, television’s first network for drama, and TBS, television’s premier network for comedy, have proven to be ideal companions to present this exciting annual event,” said Koonin. “The appeal of the Screen Actors Guild Awards to both drama fans and comedy lovers is reflected in the SAG Awards’ steady ratings growth and has allowed to us to utilize the brands of both networks to market the presentation in ways that speak to both audiences. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Screen Actors Guild.”Screen Actors Guild National Executive Director Doug Allen agreed that the partnership has been positive and has delivered significant benefits. “We are pleased to once again partner with Turner Broadcasting System on the telecast of the Screen Actors Guild Awards. Turner’s efforts over the last 10 years have contributed to the tremendous popularity of our celebration of acting excellence.” Allen said. “Turner’s recognition of the SAG Awards’ unique place in the industry and its wide appeal to the global home audience has helped make the SAG Awards one of the most important events of the awards season.” he added.The Screen Actors Guild Awards, which began in 1995, was the first televised awards show to acknowledge the work of union members. Of the top industry honors presented to performers, it is the only one selected exclusively by actors’ peers. The ceremony is one of the awards season’s premiere events and is closely watched by the industry as a precursor to possible Oscar® and Emmy® recognition and by viewers as a memorable night of live television. Submissions for nominations consideration for the 14th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards® will open on Monday, July 16, 2007. Nominations will be announced on Thursday, December 20, 2007, carried live on TNT, tnt.tv and tbs.com.

Each year, SAG also presents a Life Achievement Award to an actor who fosters the “finest ideals of the acting profession.” Screen Actors Guild’s 44th Life Achievement Award recipient will be announced in the fall of 2007. The honoree will receive the Life Achievement Award during the 14th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards® simulcast.

Screen Actors Guild is the nation’s largest labor union representing working actors. Established in 1933, SAG has a rich history in the American labor movement, from standing up to studios to break long-term engagement contracts in the 1940s to fighting for artists’ rights amid the digital revolution sweeping the entertainment industry in the 21st century. With 20 branches nationwide, SAG represents nearly 120,000 actors who work in film, television, industrials, commercials, video games, music videos and other new media. The Guild exists to enhance actors’ working conditions, compensation and benefits and to be a powerful, unified voice on behalf of artists’ rights. Headquartered in Los Angeles, SAG is a proud affiliate of the AFL-CIO. More information is available online at www.sag.org.

Turner Network Television (TNT), television’s destination for drama and one of cable’s top-rated networks, offers original movies and series, including the acclaimed detective drama The Closer, starring Golden Globeâ winner and Emmy® and Screen Actors Guild Awardsâ nominee Kyra Sedgwick; Saving Grace, a bold new drama starring Oscar® winner Holly Hunter; Heartland, a powerful medical drama with Treat Williams and Kari Matchett; and this summer’s eagerly anticipated television event The Company, executive-produced by Ridley Scott and starring Chris O’Donnell, Michael Keaton and Alfred Molina. TNT is also home to powerful one-hour dramas, such as Without a Trace, Law & Order, Las Vegas, Cold Case, ER, Charmed and Judging Amy; broadcast premiere movies; compelling prime-time specials, such as the Screen Actors Guild Awards; and championship sports coverage, including NASCAR and the NBA. TNT is also available in high-definition.

TBS, a division of Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., is television’s top-rated comedy network. It serves as home to such hot contemporary comedies as Sex and the City, Everybody Loves Raymond, the King of Queens, Family Guy, Seinfeld and Friends; original comedy series like My Boys, The Bill Engvall Show, 10 Items or Less and The Frank Show; first-run comedies, such as Tyler Perry’s House of Payne; specials and special events, like Funniest Commercials of the Year and The Comedy Festival in Las Vegas; blockbuster movies; and hosted movie showcases.

Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a TimeWarner company, is a major producer of news and entertainment product around the world and a leading provider of programming for the television industry.
Starz Cinema Announces New Lineup for Monthly 'Musaic' Series
Exclusive Independent Music Series With Films Featuring U.K. Rock Band Stereophonics, Toronto Group Metric, Singer/Songwriter Paul Weller and Underground Band Rise Against

Starz Cinema today announced the upcoming lineup of exclusive films for its popular monthly independent music series, "Musaic." The series will continue this month with the U.S. television premiere of Stereophonics: Language. Sex. Violence. Other? airing on Starz Cinema Monday, April 30 at 10 p.m. (ET/PT). This exclusive documentary and live concert experience chronicles the U.K.'s Stereophonics throughout the making of their fifth studio album "Language. Sex. Violence. Other?"

The "Musaic" series airs the last Monday of each month at 10 p.m. (ET/PT) and will feature all U.S. television premiere films with the exception of Metric: Live At The Metropolis. Upcoming films that will air on Starz Cinema as part of the series include:

* Metric: Live At The Metropolis (airs May 28): Concert film featuring

indie-rock band Metric with Emily Haines (vocals/synths), Jimmy Shaw

(guitar), Josh Weinstead (bass) and Joules Scott-Key (drums).

* Paul Weller: As Is Now (airs June 25): Paul Weller, former lead singer

of The Jam, performs classic hits and new selections.

"'Musaic' has been a popular series for Starz Cinema," said Jonathan Shair, vice president of programming and scheduling for Starz Entertainment. "The series gives viewers a chance to connect with some of the finest in independent music with exclusive interviews and performances."

Starz Entertainment, LLC, is a premium movie service provider operating in the United States. It offers 16 movie channels including the flagship Starz(R) and Encore(R) brands with approximately 15.5 million and 27.3 million subscribers respectively. Starz Entertainment airs more than 1,000 movies per month across its pay TV channels and offers advanced services including Starz HD, Starz On Demand and Vongo(SM). Starz Entertainment (www.starz.com) is an operating unit of Starz, LLC, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Liberty Media Corporation that is attributed to Liberty Capital Group.

Source: Starz Entertainment, LLC

Tony Bennett's Tri-C JazzFest Cleveland Appearance Rescheduled for October 19

Tony Bennett's Tri-C JazzFest Cleveland appearance, which was scheduled for Friday, April 20th, at Playhouse Square's Allen Theatre, has been rescheduled for Friday, October 19, 2007.

Bennett postponed his concert appearance as a result of continuing flu symptoms including congestion. The 15-time Grammy winner was advised by his doctor to restrict plane travel and to rest for the next five days.

Bennett is expected to return to his full concert schedule, which includes a concert tour of the UK and US, in May.

Tickets sold for the concert will be honored on the new date. Tony Bennett's performance in Cleveland is part of his AARP Presents "Tony Bennett The Best Is Yet to Come" tour for 2007.

Source: Cuyahoga Community College

Web site: http://www.tri-c.edu/

mtvU & ROO Partner to Bring On-Demand Video to Network of Over 500 Online College Newspapers
Online Video Application and Customizable Video Channels Now Available to Nation's Largest Network of Online Campus Publications

NEW YORK, April 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- mtvU, MTV's 24-hour college network and a division of Viacom Inc.'s (NYSE: VIA; VIA.B) MTV Networks, and Internet video specialist ROO (BULLETIN BOARD: RGRP) , today announced a partnership to offer a best-in-breed video player and customizable video channels to the more than 500 online college newspapers in mtvU's College Publisher network.

Each of the network's student-run publications will now have free access to a customizable, private-label video player and a wide variety of on-demand content channels -- including news, sports and entertainment from leading providers such as The Associated Press, Reuters and many other leading brands. The ROO content team will work closely with mtvU to develop and secure new original video exclusively for this growing network. The ROO player will also enable the online student papers to distribute their own video content, or to partner with a university's TV station to make its programming available worldwide.

The video players will be individually branded to reflect the look and feel of each college newspaper site, integrate seamlessly with a paper's online edition and be powered by the ROO Video Exchange (VX) platform. Publications that install the plug-and-play applications will also be able to capitalize on a new video advertising revenue stream. With the addition of online video, and several other recently introduced multi-media features, today mtvU also announces the re-naming of College Publisher to the College Media Network.

"Partnering with ROO reflects our commitment to empower student publications with cutting-edge digital tools that benefit their readers, business and staff," said Stephen Friedman, GM, mtvU. "This video platform unlocks new creative possibilities and sources of revenue for our affiliates and will enable them to continue inventing the newsroom of tomorrow - with the College Media Network as their laboratory."

"College students are probably the most discriminating, demanding and sophisticated consumers of video in the market today," said Robert Petty, CEO of ROO. "They watch online video more than any other group and their expectations for content and technical quality are extraordinarily high. Our vast, ever expanding content library and our unique technology platform ensure that the College Media Network will be able to offer up video channels of the most dynamic content that will draw even more students around the country to the newspaper sites."

While the name of mtvU's online college newspaper network will be new, the content management solution used by campus publications nationwide will keep the College Publisher title. The College Publisher platform is the only online publishing system designed specifically for college newspapers. The Web-based suite of tools allows multiple users to control all facets of digital publishing, including content management, multimedia administration and online advertising.

In August 2006, mtvU acquired Y2M: Youth Media & Marketing Networks, the parent company of College Publisher. Since the acquisition, the network has grown from 450 campus publications to 510, and now serves institutions with a combined enrollment of over 5.5 million students, reaching an average of 5 million unique users each month.

About ROO

ROO Group Inc. (OTCBB: RGRP) through its 100% subsidiary ROO Media Corporation, is the online video solutions company focused on meeting the specific needs of large enterprise companies globally. The company's proprietary platform, the ROO Video Exchange, simultaneously services multiple video channels, audience segments and advertisers and, as such, has become a leading platform in content aggregation, distribution and targeted advertising. ROO's unique ability to offer a "many-to-many" service has helped secure its position as the Internet broadcast company of choice for companies seeking effective strategies for monetizing online video.

About mtvU

Broadcasting to 750 colleges across the country, with a combined enrollment of over 7.2 million, mtvU is the largest, most comprehensive television network just for college students. Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, mtvU can be seen in the dining areas, fitness centers, student lounges and dorm rooms of campuses throughout the U.S. mtvU is dedicated to every aspect of college life, reaching students everywhere they are, through a three pronged approach - on-air, online and on campus. mtvU focuses on content including music videos from emerging artists which can't be seen anywhere else, news, student life features, events and pro-social initiatives. mtvU is always on campus, with more than 500 events per year, including exclusive concerts, giveaways, shooting mtvU series and more. For more information about mtvU, and for a complete programming schedule, visit www.mtvU.com.

In September 2005, mtvU became the first MTV Networks channel to also be distributed in its entirety online. Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, mtvU is simulcast and available on demand at mtvU.com, featuring all of network's on-air content plus exclusive new music, original series and student-produced programming for college students and music fans everywhere.

mtvU also owns and operates the College Media Network, the largest interactive network of online college newspapers in the US, and RateMyProfessors.com, the Internet's largest listing of collegiate professor ratings. The College Media Network comprises over 510 campus publications that serve institutions including Brown University, the University of Illinois, the University of Southern California, the University of Texas at Austin and Duke University, with a combined enrollment of over 5.5 million students, reaching an average of 5 million unique users each month. RateMyProfessors.com reaches approximately 10 million college students each year, via the site's more than 6.6 million student-generated ratings of over 1,000,000 college professors.

About MTV Networks

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with 135 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN/THE N, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 200 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

FCMN Contact: erossi@kwitco.com

Source: mtvU

CONTACT: Jason Rzepka of mtvU, +1-212-654-7198,
jason.rzepka@mtvstaff.com; David French of MTV, +1-212-846-6406,
david.french@mtvstaff.com; Ellie Jones Rossi, +1-646-747-7151,
erossi@kwitco.com, for ROO

Web site: http://www.mtvu.com/
http://www.roo.com/

Sony Computer Entertainment America Announces Extensive Second-Quarter Line-up for PLAYSTATION(R)3, PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) and PlayStation(R)2
More Than 100 First- and Third-Party Games to Launch in Spring 2007

FOSTER CITY, Calif., April 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) today announced its 2007 second-quarter software line-up for PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(TM)), PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable), and PlayStation(R)2 (PS2) computer entertainment systems.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20020701/SFM066LOGO )

More than 100 first- and third-party PS3, PSP and PlayStation 2 titles will launch during the next few months of 2007, bringing to consumers an impressively robust software line-up. The catalog encompasses the most popular game genres, featuring industry leading franchises as well as new intellectual properties that will appeal to game enthusiasts of any level.

"Our second-quarter line-up of PS3, PSP and PlayStation 2 software titles demonstrates a continued commitment from both SCEA and third-party developers to the PlayStation family of products," said Peter Dille, senior vice president of marketing, SCEA. "We are excited by the content being developed by our partners, but are also looking forward to launching PlayStation-branded exclusive games created by our own worldwide studios this quarter and throughout the rest of 2007."

In addition to disc-based games available at retailers nationwide, SCEA ushered in a new way for consumers to get games with the launch of PS3 last fall. PLAYSTATION(R)Store, accessible through the PLAYSTATION(R)Network, allows for the downloading of a wide variety of games, from new original intellectual property playable only on PS3, such as Calling All Cars(TM), to old-school classic PlayStation games for PSP. Here is a rundown of what will be available at retail and on the PLAYSTATION Store this quarter:

PS3

Key Titles

Available Through Retail Channels

F.E.A.R.(TM) Vivendi

Spider-Man 3 Activision

Ninja Gaiden(R) Sigma Tecmo

MLB 07 The Show(TM) Sony Computer Entertainment

America

Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End Disney Interactive Studios

The Darkness(R) 2K Games

The Bigs 2K Sports

TRANSFORMERS: The Game Activision

Available Through the PLAYSTATION Store

Calling All Cars(TM) Sony Computer Entertainment

America

Championship Sprint(TM) Sony Online Entertainment

Gauntlet II(TM) Sony Online Entertainment

Joust(R) Sony Online Entertainment

Mortal Kombat II(R) Sony Online Entertainment

Rampage(TM) World Tour Sony Online Entertainment

Super Puzzle Fighter(TM) II HD Remix Capcom

Rampart(R) Sony Online Entertainment

PSP

Key Titles

Alien Syndrome(TM) Sega

Crazy Taxi(TM): Fare Wars Sega

CRUSH(TM) Sega

Dungeon Maker: Hunting Ground XSEED JKS

FINAL FANTASY(R) Square Enix

FINAL FANTASY II(R) Square Enix

Harvest Moon(R) Boy & Girl Natsume

Ridge Racer 2 Namco

Test Drive(R) Unlimited Atari

Tom Clancy's Ranbow Six(R) Vegas Ubisoft

Valhalla Knights XSEED JKS

PlayStation 2

Key Titles

DAWN of MANA(TM) Square Enix

Fantastic Four(TM)

Rise of the Silver Surfer 2K Games

.hack(R)//G.U. (TM) Vol. 2: Reminisce(TM) Namco

Harry Potter

AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX(TM) Electronic Arts, Inc.

Lara Croft Tomb Raider(R): Anniversary Eidos

Manhunt 2 Rockstar

NCAA(R) Football 08 Electronic Arts, Inc.

NARUTO(TM): Ultimate Ninja(TM) 2 Namco

Odin Sphere(R) Atlus

Ratatouille THQ

Shrek The Third(TM) Activision

Spider-man 3 Activision

Tony Hawk's(TM) Downhill Jam Activision

About Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

Visit us on the Web at www.playstation.com.

*All game titles are trademarked by their respective owners. HDMI cable not included. Additional equipment may be required to use the HDMI connector. Video output in HD requires cables and an HD-compatible display, both sold separately. Use of the PLAYSTATION(R) Network is subject to terms of use: www.us.playstation.com/termsofuse, and applicable privacy policy. Children under 18 will require parental consent. Broadband internet service is required (sold separately). Some broadband services may not work with the PLAYSTATION(R) Network and performance may vary. PLAYSTATION(R) Network may not be available in all regions and certain content or services may not be available to children under 13. Features and offerings of the PLAYSTATION(R) Network may change without notice. For more information, please visit www.us.playstation.com/termsofuse .

NOTE: "PLAYSTATION", "PlayStation", "PSP" and "PS one" are registered trademarks and "PS2" is a trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20020701/SFM066LOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.

CONTACT: Jennifer Clark, +1-650-655-5994,
Jennifer_clark@playstation.sony.com, or Sheila Bryson, +1-650-655-6093,
Sheila_bryson@playstation.sony.com, both of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

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

Warner Bros. Pictures' Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix to feature IMAX(R) 3D finale
IMAX's Proprietary 2D to 3D Conversion Technology Creates New Dimension for Harry Potter Fans

LOS ANGELES, April 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- IMAX Corporation and Warner Bros. Pictures today announced that select scenes of the IMAX DMR(R) version of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix will be digitally converted into An IMAX 3D Experience(R). IMAX Corporation plans to use its proprietary 2D to 3D conversion technology to transform approximately 20 minutes at the end of the film - which is being digitally re-mastered into the unparalleled image and sound quality of The IMAX Experience(R) using IMAX DMR (Digital Re-Mastering) technology - into IMAX(R) 3D. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix will be released in IMAX(R) theatres and conventional theatres on July 13, 2007, and Warner Bros. Pictures will be the exclusive distributor of the film to IMAX theatres worldwide.

The film is based on the best-selling J.K. Rowling book and is the fifth installment of the widely successful Harry Potter film series. The previous installment of the series, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire which opened on November 18, 2005, shattered numerous IMAX 2D box office records at the time and has grossed more than $20 million in IMAX theatres worldwide.

"We are so pleased to be bringing audiences yet another outstanding Harry Potter film to the big screen in both 35mm and IMAX theaters," said Dan Fellman, President of Domestic Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures. "This is the Studio's biggest franchise to date, and we expect this highly-anticipated fifth film to play phenomenally well in all theaters throughout the summer."

"The Harry Potter films are an enormous draw all over the world, and this film should prove to be no different," added Veronika Kwan-Rubinek, President of Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures International. "The last 20 minutes in IMAX 3D will add a new element of excitement to the Harry Potter experience, making this a must-see for fans of all ages. We're looking forward to a long and very successful run."

"We couldn't be happier to help bring this Harry Potter film to life in a new way," said IMAX Co-Chairmen and Co-CEOs Richard L. Gelfond and Bradley J. Wechsler. "IMAX theatres are the only place to experience this year's most anticipated movies in the world's most immersive format, and we anticipate that moviegoers will want to enjoy Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix featuring scenes in IMAX 3D more than once."

"We are delighted to once again work with David Heyman and the Harry Potter team, and Warner Bros. Pictures on another memorable Harry Potter movie," added Greg Foster, Chairman and President of IMAX Filmed Entertainment. "We know that through the magic of IMAX, fans will already feel as is if they are right next to Harry, Ron and Hermione in IMAX's larger-than-life 2D format, and we are thrilled to treat them to an even more immersive experience with the finale of the film brought to you in IMAX 3D."

About IMAX Corporation

IMAX Corporation is one of the world's leading entertainment technology companies, specializing in digital and film-based motion picture technologies. The worldwide IMAX network is among the most important and successful theatrical distribution platforms for major event Hollywood films around the globe, with IMAX theatres delivering the world's best cinematic presentations using proprietary IMAX, IMAX(R) 3D, and IMAX DMR(R) technology. IMAX DMR is the Company's groundbreaking digital remastering technology that allows it to digitally transform virtually any conventional motion picture into the unparalleled image and sound quality of The IMAX Experience(R). IMAX's renowned projectors display crystal-clear images on the world's biggest screens, and the IMAX brand is recognized throughout the world for extraordinary and immersive entertainment experiences for consumers. As of September 30, 2006, there were 280 IMAX theatres operating in 40 countries.

IMAX(R), IMAX(R) 3D, IMAX DMR(R) , IMAX MPX(R) and The IMAX Experience(R)

are trademarks of IMAX Corporation. More information on the Company can

be found at www.imax.com.

This press release contains forward looking statements that are based on management assumptions and existing information and involve certain risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from future results expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. Important factors that could affect these statements include the timing of theatre system deliveries, the mix of theatre systems shipped, the timing of the recognition of revenues and expenses on film production and distribution agreements, the performance of films, the viability of new businesses and products, the outcome of the Company's current accounting review, risks arising from potential material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting, the ability to satisfy the reporting covenant by the amended filing deadlines, the extent and impact of the restatement of our financial statements, the outcome of the appeal of the NASDAQ Staff Determination letter and fluctuations in foreign currency and in the large format and general commercial exhibition market. These factors and other risks and uncertainties are discussed in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005.

Source: IMAX Corporation

CONTACT: Media: IMAX Corporation, New York, Sarah Gormley, (212)
821-0155, sgormley@imax.com; Entertainment Media: Newman & Company, Los
Angeles, Al Newman, (310) 278-1560, asn@newman-co.com; Warner Bros. Pictures,
Los Angeles, Andrea Marozas, (818) 954-4849, andrea.marozas@warnerbros.com;
Investors: Integrated Corporate Relations, Amanda Mullin, (203) 682-8243;
Business Media: Sloane & Company, New York, Whit Clay, (212) 446-1864,
wclay@sloanepr.com

DMGI Announces New Music Acquisitions
Company Adds Music and Video From Todd Rundgren, The Alarm, Dwight Twilley, Richard Clayderman, and Wayne Newton to Growing Music Catalog

-- Digital Music Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:DMGI) , a content owner and global leader in the digital distribution of independently owned music and video catalogs, today announced the acquisition of both music and video content through digital distribution, master purchase, and digital rights purchase agreements with artists including Todd Rundgren, The Alarm, Dwight Twilley, Richard Clayderman, and Wayne Newton. The total number of music tracks included under these agreements is approximately 3,000.

"DMGI continues to build its catalog with high quality content from legendary artists, including unreleased, rare, and never-before-heard tracks," said Mitchell Koulouris, Chief Executive Officer of DMGI. "Today's announcement of previously unreleased work by these artists underscores our commitment to acquiring and making available great music to fans and music enthusiasts around the world."

The agreements announced today include:

* Todd Rundgren/Utopia: The Todd Rundgren and Utopia archive features

approximately 2,000 never-before-released live recordings, demos,

out-takes, and alternate versions from 1977 to 2000. It also includes a

significant array of never-before seen video footage as well. Rundgren,

both an accomplished songwriter and producer whose hits "I Saw the

Light," "Can We Still Be Friends," "Hello, It's Me," and "Bang the Drum"

vaulted him from a cult following to stardom, formed Utopia in the

mid-1970s. The archive includes never before seen or heard rare audio

and video performances from both Rundgren as a solo artist and Utopia.

The first of these previously unreleased audio and video performances

will be released in the summer of 2007.

* The Alarm: One of the true powerhouses of the 1980s, The Alarm recorded

some of the most important rock records of the decade including

"Declaration" and "Strength." This video catalog features some of the

great performances of the band including music videos and never before

seen live performances. The catalog also features the VH1 special

"Bands Reunited."

* Dwight Twilley: This power pop icon scored two top-twenty hits with "I'm

on Fire" in 1975 and "Girls" (featuring Tom Petty on background vocals)

in 1984. This archive features never-before released masters from the

power pop legend including demo recordings of "10,000 American Scuba

Divers Dancing," "Wild Dogs," as well as other rare and

previously-unreleased tracks. Also included are cover versions of The

Beatles' "Come Together," Badfinger's "I Can't Take It," Marvin Gaye's

"I'll Be Doggone," and Sam Cooke's "Twistin' the Night Away." These

previously unreleased tracks will be issued in a series of five

compilations starting in the summer of 2007. In addition, the

compilation "The Best of the Rest of Dwight Twilley" will also be

released in the summer of 2007 as well as an extended and remastered

version of Twilley's classic Christmas album, "Have a Twilley

Christmas."

* Richard Clayderman: International pop instrumentalist Richard Clayderman

is referred to in the Guinness Book of World Records as "the most

successful pianist in the world." With a broad international following,

Clayderman routinely sells out concerts and sells millions of records.

His first album sold more than 20 million copies and a live concert

broadcast on Chinese television in 1987 attracted more than 800 million

viewers. This catalog features Clayderman at his best including nearly

1,000 never-before released romantic standards, ballads, and hits of the

world.

* Wayne Newton: Music legend Wayne Newton is best known for his phenomenal

success as a performer in Las Vegas. As a recording artist in the 1960s

and 1970s, Newton scored a number of memorable hits including "Danke

Schoen," "Red Roses for A Blue Lady," and "Daddy Don't You Walk So

Fast." This catalog features tracks from this music legend that have

never been previously available in digital channels.

About DMGI

Founded in 2005, Digital Music Group Inc. (NASDAQ:DMGI) is a content owner and global leader in the digital distribution of independently owned music and video content. DMGI acquires the digital rights to media catalogs and digitally encodes them into multiple formats for distribution to digital entertainment services operating over the Internet and wireless, cable and mobile networks. Our digital entertainment service partners include: the iTunes Store, Google Video, YouTube, AOL/In2TV, RealNetworks, Napster, Wal-Mart Music, MusicNet, Verizon, Sprint, InfoSpace, Moderati, Zingy, 9 Squared, and many others. For more information, please visit www.dmgi.com.

Digital Music Group is a trademark of Digital Music Group, Inc. Other names mentioned herein are the property of their respective owners.

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements (including, without limitation, information regarding Digital Music Group's distribution of the Todd Rundgren, The Alarm, Dwight Twilley, Richard Clayderman, and Wayne Newton music and video catalogs and making these catalogs available through current and future digital entertainment services) that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause the results of Digital Music Group to differ materially from management's current expectations. Actual results may differ materially due to a number of factors including, among others: unforeseen difficulties assembling and processing the music and video content; the market demand for digital music and video recordings and potential changes in consumers' tastes and preferences in music and video; and our dependence on digital entertainment services for the distribution and sale of our music and video content. The matters discussed in this press release also involve risks and uncertainties described in Digital Music Group's most recent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Digital Music Group assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking information contained in this release.

Source: Digital Music Group, Inc.

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

Munchkin(R) Ready to 'Rock' Baby Products Industry at JPMA 2007
Award-winning Munchkin Finalist for JPMA Innovation Award for the Seventh Time

-- Munchkin(R) -- maker of multiple award-winning baby and toddler products -- is heading to this year's Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association Show (JPMA) with an impressive line-up of new products including CRIB ROCKERS(TM), a 2007 nominee for the coveted JPMA Innovation Award. Known for developing creative products that exemplify how "it's the little things" that often make the biggest difference, Munchkin has won the honor several times prior and is a strong contender for this year's show being held at the County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla. on April 23-25.

CRIB ROCKERS (TM) is a clever innovation that easily transforms an ordinary crib into a rocking bed for baby, sure to promote restful sleep and put smiles on both mom and child. Because it operates all on its own, there are no worries of a battery dying out suddenly and ruining precious naptime. This easy-to-use and helpful product is expected to top mom's registry wish list in 2007 and is a wonderful example of Munchkin's creativity and insights into what "little things" parents need the most. Since its inception in 1991, Munchkin has won six JPMA Innovation Awards for their trend-setting products.

"Munchkin is honored to be a finalist again for the JPMA Innovation Award," said Doug Gillespie, Vice President, Marketing at Munchkin." CRIB ROCKERS(TM) is a great example of how we make life easier for parents with clever, uncomplicated products."

Also being unveiled at JPMA will be the following new products that solve a wide variety of issues for today's parents.

* Feeding Friend Portable Hook-on Chair (SRP $42.99) -- For busy moms,

this delightful hook-on chair makes sure there is always a safe and fun

place for baby at the table, at home or on-the-go. It is available in

fun animal characters and adjusts to various table sizes. When not in

use, it folds up for easy storage.

* Peek-A-Boo Bear (SRP $24.99) -- This soft plush bear for baby says over

ten unique phrases, including "Peek-A-Boo, I love you!" Moms will love

that this cuddly cub promotes early speech development and lots of

interactive play, as baby discovers the joys of cause and effect.

* Elite Cruiser (Baby Carrier) (SRP $49.99) -- What do you get when you

combine form, function and fashion? A beautifully designed, easy-to-use

baby carrier. With a fashion forward design, an easy 3-buckle system

and multi-point padded lumbar support that lessens back strain, this

carrier is perfect for today's on-the-go modern mom (or dad).

* Shakey Eggs (TM) ($3.50 for 3pk) -- For babies ages 6 months and up,

this entertaining egg-shaped toy shakes, rattles and rolls. Sure to

bring out the giggles, they are available in bright colors, fun patterns

and multiple characters.

* Nickelodeon(R) Re-usable Straw Cups ($4.99 for 3pk) -- Adding fun to

mealtime whether at the kitchen table or at school, this new collection

of straw cups allows kids to drink with their favorite TV friends.

Available in packs of three, they are durable enough to wash and re-use,

but inexpensive enough to lose. Dishwasher safe.

For more information about the company and its line of smart baby and toddler products, visit www.munchkin.com.

About Munchkin, Inc.

A privately held company headquartered in North Hills, Calif., Munchkin, Inc. designs, manufactures and markets baby products that excite, delight and make life easier for families. Founded in 1991, Munchkin, Inc. has placed great emphasis on anticipating parents' needs and finding clever ways to address them. As a result of this focus on innovation, Munchkin has pioneered numerous concepts in the baby care industry including the Bottle & Nipple Brush (1995), White Hot technology(R) (1996), Teething Blanket (1997), Teether Babies (1998), and the Insulated Spill-Proof Trainer Cup (2004). In addition, Munchkin has been granted more than 50 United States patents and has won over 30 industry awards, including the coveted Target(R) Corporation Partner Award of Excellence in 2005. Endorsed and recommended by lactation consultants, medical professionals, toy specialists and parents, Munchkin products can be found at more than 25,000 retail outlets internationally. For more information, visit www.munchkin.com

Source: Munchkin

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

22^nd Annual ASCAP Film & Television Music Awards

Tuesday, April 17, 2007

Kodak Theatre, Los Angeles, CA

List of Winners

TOP BOX OFFICE FILMS

This Award honors the composers with scores from the top box office films of 2006.

JON BRION

JOHN O’BRIEN (additional music)

(additional music)
The Break-Up

ERRAN BARON COHEN (PRS)

(PRS)
Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan

CHRIS CORNELL (additional music)

(additional music)
Casino Royale

RAMIN DJAWADI

PAUL WESTERBERG

Open Season

MICHAEL GIACCHINO

Mission: Impossible III

RUPERT GREGSON-WILLIAMS (PRS)

(PRS)
Click

ANDREA GUERRA (SIAE)

(SIAE)
The Pursuit of Happyness

MARK ISHAM

Eight Below

HENRY MANCINI

The Pink Panther (original theme)
(original theme)

RANDY NEWMAN

Cars

DOUGLAS PIPES

Monster House

JOHN POWELL

Happy Feet
Ice Age: The Meltdown
X-Men: The Last Stand

HOWARD SHORE

The Departed

ALAN SILVESTRI

Night at the Museum

HANS ZIMMER

The Da Vinci Code
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest

TOP TELEVISION SERIES

This award honors ASCAP composers who have written the themes and underscore for the highest rated series during the period of January 1 – December 31, 2006.

J.J. ABRAMS

MICHAEL GIACCHINO

Lost (ABC)
(ABC)

JOHN ADAIR

PAUL BESSENBACHER

The Suite Life of Zack and Cody (Disney)
(Disney)

LEE ARONSOHN

GRANT GEISSMANTwo and a Half Men (CBS)SEAN CALLERY

24 (FOX)
(FOX)
Shark (CBS)
(CBS)

JEFF CARDONI

CSI: Miami (CBS)
(CBS)

ADAM COHEN

STEVE FRANKS

JOHN ROBERT WOOD

Psych (USA)
(USA)

LISA COLEMAN

WENDY MELVOIN

Heroes (NBC)
(NBC)

CATHERINE DENNIS (PRS)

(PRS)

JULIAN GINGELL (PRS)

(PRS)

BARRY STONE (PRS)

(PRS)
American Idol (FOX)
(FOX)

ROB DUNCAN

The Unit (CBS)
(CBS)

MARC FANTINI

STEFFAN FANTINI

SCOTT GORDON

Criminal Minds (CBS)
(CBS)

ELIZABETH FRASER (PRS)

(PRS)
House (FOX)
(FOX)

MATTHEW GERRARD

ROBBIE NEVIL

Hannah Montana (Disney)
(Disney)

ALEX GREENWALD

JASON SCHWARTZMAN

O.C. (FOX)
(FOX)

MATTHEW HAWKINS

MAURICE “m.O” JACKSON

NEIL MARTIN

NCIS (CBS)

REINHOLD HEIL

JOHNNY KLIMEK

Without a Trace (CBS)
(CBS)

JOHN KEANE

CSI (CBS)
(CBS)

RUSS LANDAU

DAVID VANACORE

Survivor: Cook Islands (CBS)
(CBS)
Survivor: Panama – Exile Island (CBS)
(CBS)

MICHAEL LEVINE

FRANZ VONLICHTEN

HELMUT VONLICHTEN

Cold Case (CBS)
(CBS)

RICHARD MARKMANN

DANIEL PINNELLA

The New Adventures of Old Christine (CBS)
(CBS)

DANIEL MCGRATH (PRS)

(PRS)

JOSH PHILLIPS (PRS)

(PRS)
Dancing With The Stars (FOX)
(FOX)

BLAKE NEELY

Brothers & Sisters (ABC)
(ABC)

RANDY NEWMAN

Monk (USA)
(USA)

DAVID PORTER

Saved (TNT)
(TNT)

MARK T WILLIAMS

Unan1mous (FOX)
(FOX)

MOST PERFORMED THEMES

This award honors the ASCAP composers whose works have earned the highest number of performance credits on television in the category of themes for the 2006 survey year.

JOEL BECKERMAN

MICHAEL KARP

RUSS LANDAU

BRANFORD MARSALIS

DAVID VANACOREMOST PERFORMED UNDERSCORE

This award honors the ASCAP composers whose works have earned the highest number of performance credits on television in the category of dramatic underscore for the 2006 survey year.

SEAN CALLERY

RUSS LANDAU

DAVID NICHTERN

MARK SNOW

DAVID VANACORE

STOP THE PRESSES: VIVID’S LATEST BIG BUDGET MOVIE, “LAYOUT,” PARODIES REALITY WITH A STORY ABOUT A ‘PORN RAG’

“Any Resemblance to AVN is Purely Intentional”

LOS ANGELES – (April 19, 2007) – “Layout” is the latest big budget film from Vivid Entertainment starring the wildly popular Vivid Girl Briana Banks. The movie was written and directed by Paul Thomas, the most award winning director in the history of adult film and will be in stores around the country starting April 25.

(additional music) (PRS) (additional music) (PRS) (SIAE) (original theme) (ABC) (Disney) (FOX) (CBS) (CBS) (USA) (NBC) (PRS) (PRS) (PRS) (FOX) (CBS) (CBS) (PRS) (FOX) (Disney) (FOX)(CBS) (CBS) (CBS) (CBS) (CBS) (CBS) (PRS) (PRS) (FOX) (ABC) (USA) (TNT) (FOX) – (April 19, 2007) – “” is the latest big budget film from starring the wildly popular. The movie was written and directed by the most award winning director in the history of adult film and will be in stores around the country starting April 25.

“Layout” trails a young reporter as he accepts a position at adult magazine AVG and becomes immersed in the world of pornography. Embroiled in a disastrous libel suit, the magazine struggles to maintain objectivity.

Scandal soon unfolds with the discovery of an underage porn star, awards show tampering, blackmail and fiery hot liaisons. Interoffice politics and relationships take center-stage in this parody of reality.

According to the boxcover copy, “Any resemblance to AVN is purely intentional.”

“Layout” features strong performances and intense sex scenes. The film also stars Penny Flame, Kylie Ireland, Tom Byron and Tyce Bune.

"I can offer a sense of reality, of really being there, but it is impossible without good acting,” says Paul Thomas. “Fans of Briana will not be disappointed and Tom Byron, Tyce Bune, and especially Penny Flame are absolutely, positively wonderful. I guarantee award time for all three actors. If you don't ache to have Penny for your own by the end of the film...I pity the fool."

Briana is a German-born beauty and is known for the best-selling “Briana Loves Jenna” movie and her 36" long legs. The former Penthouse Pet has often declared that when her adult acting career is over, she wants to go behind the scenes to direct her own line of adult movies, work on her website and maybe return to college full-time.

About Vivid:

The Vivid Entertainment Group is the world’s leading adult film company. Founded in 1984, Vivid pioneered the “Vivid Girl” concept, under which top adult film stars are signed to exclusive agreements that are styled on the old Hollywood contract star system. Vivid has always placed heavy emphasis on high quality erotic film entertainment for the couples market. It has created wide brand-name awareness through its films and through a licensing and marketing program that extends to advertising, apparel, book publishing, virility supplements, condoms, snowboards, calendars and comic books. The company is known for its innovative technological advances such as full function DVDs, a fast growing wireless program that is already active in 20 countries, its Burn-to-DVD technology and its popular website www.vivid.com. On April 11th Vivid will be the first adult company to release a movie on both HD DVD and Blu-ray with “Debbie Does Dallas …Again.” Vivid is a major supplier of content for pay-per-view networks in North America and internationally. The best selling hardcover book How to Have a XXX Sex Life: The Ultimate Vivid Guide, was co-authored by the Vivid Girls and published by HarperCollins.

The company started the Vivid-Alt imprint in 2006 which is headed by Eon McKai, alt-porn’s dominant icon. McKai has been widely credited as the founder of this new and edgy film genre. He has been profiled in The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times and The Village Voice. Visit Vivid-Alt’s popular website www.vividalt.com. Tristan Taormino, popular columnist with The Village Voice and an award winning director has also launched a Vivid-Ed imprint for the company. Visit www.vivid-ed.com.

For more information contact rm@vivid.com.

April 18

Tony Bennett's Tri-C JazzFest Cleveland Appearance to be Rescheduled

Tony Bennett's Tri-C JazzFest Cleveland appearance, which was scheduled for Friday, April 20th, at Playhouse Square's Allen Theatre, will be rescheduled.

Bennett has postponed his concert appearance as a result of continuing flu symptoms including congestion. The 15-time Grammy winner was advised by his doctor to restrict plane travel and to rest for the next five days.

Bennett is expected to return to his full concert schedule, which includes a concert tour of the UK and US, in May.

A new date for Bennett's concert in Cleveland will be announced as soon as possible. Tickets sold for the concert will be honored on the new date, yet to be announced.

Source: Cuyahoga Community College

Web site: http://www.tri-c.edu/

Fight Melanoma With Joe Pesci and James Woods!

On Monday, May 7th, Joe Pesci, James Woods, Rick Dees as well as many other top celebrities will tee it up at the 4th Annual Hack n' Smack, Kerry Daveline Memorial, Celebrity Golf Classic, held at the prestigious El Caballero country club in Tarzana, CA. This event is presented, in part, by The Actors Network (www.actors-network.com) and 100% of the net proceeds benefit the Melanoma Research Foundation (www.melanoma.org).

Player registration is limited but still available at: www.hacknsmack.org The 12pm, Modified Best Ball shotgun format, features a Hole-in-One from Keyes Mercedes, as well as a Man up and go for it hole sponsored by Top Flite D2 golf balls. The Movin 93.9 street crew will be on the scene, and there will be live music after the tournament from The Beach Toys (The most highly acclaimed Beach Boys tribute band in America). Visit www.thebeachtoys.com.

Join the fight against "The cancer we can see, but no one talks about."

Additional Celebrities scheduled to appear, but not limited to: Josh Duhamel (Las Vegas), Lorenzo Neal (Chargers Pro Bowler), Gregory Itzin (24), Patrick Warburton (Rules of Engagement), Christopher Gorham (Ugly Betty), Michael Chiklis (The Shield), Richard Schiff (West Wing), Scott Foley (The Unit), Justin Hartley (Smallville), Jeffrey Nordling (Dirt), Chris Chandler (St. Louis Rams), Shawn Ryan (ExecProd, The Unit/The Shield), Bill Smitrovich (The Practice), Kate Linder (Young and The Restless), Kevin Weisman (Alias/Clerks II), Chad Brown (NBC Poker Challenge Finalist), Ron Perlman (Hellboy), and Paul Logan (Days of Our Lives).

Source: The Actors Network

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

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

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

Web site: http://www.actors-network.com/

In the Lead, Yoda Is!

Voting for Your Favorite Star Wars(TM) Stamp Gets Even Easier

The light side and the dark side are battling for honors in the race to become America's favorite Star Wars stamp.

After two weeks of voting, Yoda is in the lead -- but Darth Vader is menacingly lurking close by. Now, voting is easier than ever! Fans no longer have to wait for a confirmation e-mail, once an e-mail address has been entered the vote is cast. The site has even added an option to receive a reminder to vote the next day.

Voting continues through May 23 on http://www.uspsjedimaster.com/ . The winning stamp will be announced at the first-day-of-issue ceremony of the Star Wars stamp sheet on May 25 during Star Wars Celebration IV in Los Angeles.

The commemorative stamps feature images from all six movies in the Star Wars saga: Luke Skywalker; Han Solo and Chewbacca; Princess Leia Organa with R2-D2; C-3PO; Yoda; Queen Padme Amidala; Obi-Wan Kenobi as seen in Episodes IV through VI; Anakin Skywalker battling Obi-Wan Kenobi; Darth Vader; Emperor Palpatine; Darth Maul; Imperial Stormtroopers; Boba Fett; the Millennium Falcon; and an X-wing fighter. Which one is your favorite?

Of the 15 images on the Star Wars stamp sheet, the Postal Service has invited the public to vote on its favorite. The stamp receiving the most votes will be honored with the issuance of a single stamp, which will be for sale later this summer.

Check http://www.uspsjedimaster.com/ for regular updates on voting -- it's up to America to choose which Star Wars stamp wins the honor of a single-stamp sheet release.

Pre-order the Star Wars stamp sheet

The set of 15 stamps will be released at a first-day-of-issue ceremony on Friday, May 25, at Star Wars Celebration IV, the biggest Star Wars event in the galaxy, at the Los Angeles Convention Center. The stamps will be available for purchase on May 25 in post offices, on http://www.usps.com/ and by calling 1-800-STAMP-24.

Customers may pre-order these stamps for $6.15 starting April 25 (30 days in advance of May 25), by going to http://www.usps.com/ or by calling 1-800- STAMP-24. For those outside the U.S., the same options apply. Your postal administration will deliver them as any other delivery from the U.S. All Star Wars stamps preorders will be shipped on May 25.

Stay tuned and visit http://www.uspsjedimaster.com/ for more information and to vote on your favorite stamp!

Pre-order the Star Wars pre-paid Express Mail envelopes

This set includes three pre-paid Express Mail envelopes featuring artwork images of Yoda, Darth Vader and Obi Wan Kenobi as well as the new Marine One Express Mail stamp. The set of three envelopes costs $48.75 and will be available only from May 6 through Sept. 1. Customers may pre-order the envelope set now at http://www.usps.com/ , by telephone at 1-800-STAMP-24 and in the quarterly USA Philatelic catalog. They are not available in post offices.

Become a Jedi shipping and mailing master to win a trip

Through May 7, customers can enter this sweepstakes by solving six different challenges about Postal Service products and services featuring a Star Wars theme. As each question is answered correctly, customers are automatically moved to the next challenge. At the start of the sweepstakes, customers enter their contact information into a sweepstakes form. There is a limit of one entry per challenge, for a total of six entries.

The Jedi shipping and mailing master challenge is a fun, interactive Web tool that reminds customers of the quick, easy and convenient suite of services available from the Postal Service, including ZIP Code Lookup, International Shipping, Flat-Rate Boxes, Click-N-Ship, Priority Mail and free Package Pickup. The winner of this sweepstakes will receive an all-expenses- paid trip for four to the 30th Anniversary Star Wars Celebration IV in Los Angeles, which runs from May 24 to May 27. (For details, go to http://www.starwars.com/celebration .)

(Note: To obtain a downloadable 300 dpi image of these stamps visit the 2007 Commemorative Stamp Program release link at http://www.usps.com/communications/newsroom/2007stamps/starwars/welcome.htm)

An independent federal agency, the U.S. Postal Service is the only delivery service that visits 146 million homes and businesses, six days a week. It has 37,000 retail locations and relies on the sale of postage, products, and services to cover its operating expenses. The Postal Service has annual revenues of $73 billion and delivers nearly half the world's mail.

STAR WARS and related character names and properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. TM & (C) Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. All other trademarks and trade names are properties of their respective owners.

Source: U.S. Postal Service

Web site: http://www.usps.com/
http://www.uspsjedimaster.com/
http://www.starwars.com/celebration

'BROKEN WINDOWS,' a Full Length SAG Independent Feature Film, Produced by Meherio Productions in Conjunction With Sightline Entertainment, Begins Principle Photography

A Compelling Story About the Interwoven Lives of Four Women, Starring Larisa Oleynik, Sarah Thompson, Jennifer Hall and Sara Jane Nash, Begins Filming on Location in Los Angeles and La Jolla, CA.

Meherio Productions and Sightline Entertainment are pleased to announce the commencement of principle photography for the feature film "Broken Windows." Written and directed by Tony Hickman, produced by Thomas J. Rasera and executive produced by Christophe Jouin and Rick Kornfeld.

Shot on location in Los Angeles and La Jolla, CA, the film follows the life of four women over three days, with an outstanding ensemble cast that includes Larisa Oleynik ("10 Things I Hate About You," "The Secret World of Alex Mack"), Sarah Thompson ("7th Heaven," "Angel," "Cruel Intentions 2"), Jennifer Hall ("Nip/Tuck"), Sara Jane Nash ("Unspoken"), Corri English ("Bedford Diaries," "CSI: Miami"), Jonathan Murphy ("Mini's First Time," "October Road"), Jason George ("What About Brian?," "Barbershop"), Devon Gummersall ("My So-Called Life," "The L Word"), and Michael Gross ("Family Ties," "Tremors," "ER").

"Broken Windows" is a story that intertwines the uncertainties of life, our ideas and our unfulfilled dreams. It is a journey through emotions and an attempt to reconcile, to go on, to live. It is an insightful and powerful portrayal of how people struggle with problems.

Writer/Director Tony Hickman tells a compelling story with women at the center of the film:

"These are four powerful and interesting women who are being tested and pushed to their limits," said Hickman. "I wrote the script to reflect real women with real lives, like the ones I see around me everyday who love and inspire me."

Principle photography for "Broken Windows" began on April 16th 2007 and will continue through to May 14th 2007.

Source: Meherio Productions

Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson to Host 2007 Taurus World Stunt Awards

Show to Air on AMC on Friday, May 25th at 10:30 p.m.

Burt Reynolds, Gerard Butler and Jeanne Epper to Be Honored

The Taurus World Stunt Foundation is pleased to announce that Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson will host the 2007 Taurus World Stunt Awards taking place on Sunday, May 20th at Paramount Pictures. The show, which will air domestically on Friday, May 25th at 10:30 p.m. EDT/PDT on AMC, is the entertainment industry's only award show that honors and celebrates Hollywood's top stunt professionals who consistently push the limits thrilling movie goers throughout the world. Now in its sixth year, the Taurus World Stunt Awards has solidified its stature as the highest achievement that a stunt person can earn.

Johnson previously hosted the Taurus World Stunt Awards in 2005 and will next be seen in Disney's "The Game Plan," due out this Fall. In addition, Johnson is currently shooting "Get Smart" opposite Steve Carrell for Warner Bros.

"I have the utmost respect for the stunt community, which is why I am so happy to be hosting the TWSA for the second time. As actors, we truly appreciate all that they do as they literally put their life on the line for the sake of filmmaking. The stunt community is like family to me and I'm proud to be a part of honoring them."

"AMC is pleased to be broadcasting the Taurus World Stunt Awards and believe it will be a valuable addition to our programming slate," said Rob Sorcher, AMC's Executive Vice President of Programming & Production. "We look forward to honoring the industry's outstanding stunt men and women who contribute a great deal to the world of action feature films, and to providing our viewers with access to one of Hollywood's most exciting events."

This year, the Taurus World Stunt Awards will honor Gerard Butler, star of the blockbuster hit film "300" with The Action Movie Star of the Year Award. In his powerful portrayal of King Leonidas, Butler did many of his own stunts in the film which retells the story of the battle of Thermopylae. In preparation for "300," Butler trained extensively for seven months; including training with stunt men from the film.

Butler said, "It is such a special honor to receive this award from the stunt community. In each action film I'm a part of, I am continually amazed by their remarkable talent. While I am proud to receive this accolade, I am keenly aware of who the real action heroes are."

Burt Reynolds will receive the Taurus Lifetime Achievement Award for an Action Star. Throughout his career, Reynolds has been an avid supporter of the stunt industry. He became a fixture behind the wheel during iconic car chase scenes from such hit films as "Cannonball Run" and the "Smokey and the Bandit" franchises. Reynolds joins an exclusive club of actors to be recognized with this honor that includes Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone, and Harrison Ford.

Reynolds said, "I have the highest respect for the stunt professionals who risk their lives every day. I want to thank the Taurus World Stunt Awards for not only bestowing me with this honor, but taking the time to honor these professionals and the amazing work they do."

In addition, the Taurus World Stunt Awards will be honoring movie star and stunt icon Jeanne Epper with the highly coveted Taurus Lifetime Achievement Award. Epper becomes the first woman to be recognized by the stunt industry's most prestigious honor for her action-packed career spanning more than 50 years. Epper's work can be seen in more than 200 film and television productions including "Wonder Woman," "Charlie's Angels," "Romancing the Stone," "Fletch," "Armageddon," and "Kill Bill Vol. 2." A pioneer as a woman in the field, Epper's life and career was chronicled in the 2004 award winning documentary, "Double Dare."

Epper said, "It is an amazing gift to be honored by my peers with this award. It is especially gratifying to be the first woman to be honored with the Taurus Lifetime Achievement Award. I want to thank Red Bull and Dietrich Mateschitz for their continuing support of the stunt industry and bringing this show to life each year."

The Taurus Lifetime Achievement Award is voted on by a Blue Ribbon Committee consisting of nineteen (19) stunt men and women who are leaders within their field. Epper joins an exclusive club of stunt icons who have been paid tribute with this distinction including Ronnie Rondell, Buddy Van Horn, Hal Needham, Terry Leonard and Vic Armstrong.

In addition to airing on AMC, the Taurus World Stunt Awards has become a global fixture and airs in more than 160 countries worldwide, captivating millions of viewers. The Taurus World Stunt Awards is the only show completely devoted to recognizing these behind-the-scenes heroes and their death defying work. Winning the 'Taurus' has proven to be the most prestigious honor a stunt professional can take home.

In the coming weeks, the Taurus World Stunt Awards will be announcing the nominees in nine (9) categories including: Best Fight, Best Fire, Best High Work, Best Work with Vehicle, Best Specialty Stunt, Hardest Hit, Best Overall Stunt by a Stunt Woman, Best Action in a Foreign Film and Best Stunt Coordinator and/or 2nd Unit Director.

The Taurus World Stunt Awards will also announce the Taurus World Stunt Awards Foundation recipient and a star-studded list of presenters in the coming weeks. Past presenters include David Arquette, Michael Bay, Jason Biggs, Vin Diesel, Michael Clarke Duncan, James Gandolfini, Jennifer Garner, Brad Garrett, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Kelly Hu, Johnny Knoxville, Kristanna Loken, Matthew McConaughey, Carrie-Anne Moss, Jonathan Mostow, Kevin Nealon, Bill Paxton, Keanu Reeves, Michelle Rodriguez, Seann William Scott, Jason Statham, Quentin Tarantino, Gabrielle Union, Vince Vaughn, and many more.

The show will be executive produced by Michael Dempsey (MTV Movie Awards, VH1 Big in '06, TV Land Awards), as well as Mitch Geller and Andrew Stefan.

About AMC

AMC, a division of Rainbow Media's Entertainment Services, which also includes WE tv and IFC Companies, is a 24-hour, movie-based network, dedicated to the American movie fan. The network, which reaches over 90 million homes, offers a comprehensive library of popular movies and a critically-acclaimed slate of original programming that is a diverse, movie-based mix of original series, documentaries and specials. AMC has garnered many of the industry's highest honors, including 14 Emmy awards. AMC is "TV for movie people."

About The Taurus World Stunt Awards

The Taurus World Stunt Awards benefits the Taurus World Stunt Awards Foundation, which was envisioned by Red Bull(R) Energy Drink CEO Dietrich Mateschitz. The Foundation was established by an endowment from Mateschitz to provide financial assistance to stunt performers who experience a debilitating stunt related injury.

Source: Taurus World Stunt Awards

LAMAR ODOM’S RICH SOIL ENTERTAINMENT SHOWCASE

A Night of Music and Fashion at Air Conditioned Supper Club

WHAT: On Wednesday April 11^th, LA Lakers starting forward, Lamar Odom hosted a private showcase for his eponymous record label, Rich Soil Entertainment at Air Conditioned Supper Club in Venice. The intimate event featured an exclusive performance by Rich Soil’s leading solo artist, Ali Vegas. 2006 Justos Mixtape Award winner DJ Superstar Jay kept the tunes cranking behind the ones and twos.

NBA players, sports execs, and music and fashion industry heavyweights mixed and mingled in the candle lit bar while enjoying specialty cocktails and delectable appetizers such as Tuna Tartar Sliders, Bite-Size Angus Burgers, Jumbo Grilled Shrimp Skewers and Sweet Potato and Classic French Fries. Partygoers enjoyed the outdoor patio lounge featuring hand-rolled cigars.

Fashionistas previewed Odom’s premiere clothing line, “Son of Man,” which fuses sports, hip-hop and spiritual aesthetics. This active wear collection, consisting of inspirational pieces such as the Angel Hoodie and Honor, Faith, Revelation, Cross, Son of Man and Jesus Tees, was modeled throughout the evening. The items featured at the event will be available for purchase at Up Against The Wall stores (Beverly Center and Fox Hills locations) as well as at www.lamarodom.com.

WHO: Host: Lamar Odom. Marques Houston (Artist), Omarion (Artist), Carson Daly, Marcellus Wiley (Jacksonville Jaguars), Chris Stokes (B2K Music Producer), First Cousins (Artists) and Slim the Mobster (Artist). LA Lakers: Maurice Evans, Jordan Farmar, Smush Parker, Ronny Turiaf and Shammond Williams.

Special Performance by: Ali Vegas (Rich Soil Artist), DJ Superstar Jay

WHERE: Air Conditioned Supper Club

625 Lincoln Blvd.

Venice, California

MORE: The Showcase benefited Odom’s Foundation, Cathy’s Kids, a 501C3 benefiting disadvantaged youth and providing opportunity in the LA and NYC communities.

Listen Up! Academy Series Tunes into Sound Effects

Beverly Hills, CA — On Saturday, April 28, the Academy’s Science and Technology Council will launch its “Sound, Camera, Action!” series at the Linwood Dunn Theater with a screening of “Grand Prix” (1966). The series highlights eight popular films from the past four decades that have earned Academy recognition for sound. While these films have often been singled out for their striking visuals, spectacular sequences or career-making performances, their success owes a considerable debt to the ability of sound to augment and clarify action.

The series also includes a special 20th anniversary screening, featuring a panel hosted by screenwriter Shane Black, of “Lethal Weapon” on Friday, May 4 at the Samuel Goldwyn Theater. A rare 70mm archival print from the original release will be screened courtesy of Warner Bros.

The complete list of screenings in the series is:

Saturday, April 28, 7 p.m., Linwood Dunn Theater
“Grand Prix” (1966)
Academy Award® winner for Film Editing, Sound and Sound Effects
“Grand Prix” (1966) Academy Award® winner for Film Editing, Sound and Sound Effects
Sunday, April 29, 7 p.m., Linwood Dunn Theater
“The French Connection” (1971)
Academy Award winner for Actor, Directing, Film Editing, Best Picture and Adapted Screenplay
Oscar® nominee for Supporting Actor, Cinematography and Sound
“The French Connection” (1971)Academy Award winner for Actor, Directing, Film Editing, Best Picture and Adapted ScreenplayOscar® nominee for Supporting Actor, Cinematography and Sound

“Jaws” (1975)
Academy Award winner for Film Editing, Original Score and Sound
Oscar nominee for Best Picture

Friday, May 4, 8 p.m., Samuel Goldwyn Theater
“Lethal Weapon” (1987)
Oscar nominee for Sound
“Lethal Weapon” (1987)Oscar nominee for Sound

The evening will feature a panel discussion with producer-director Richard Donner; actor Gary Busey, who played Joshua; and sound rerecording mixers Les Fresholtz and Vern Poore.

Saturday, May 5, 7 p.m., Linwood Dunn Theater
“Top Gun” (1986)
Academy Award winner for Original Song
Oscar nominee for Film Editing, Sound and Sound Effects Editing
“Top Gun” (1986)Academy Award winner for Original SongOscar nominee for Film Editing, Sound and Sound Effects Editing

“Platoon” (1986)
Academy Award winner for Directing, Film Editing, Best Picture and Sound
Oscar nominee for Supporting Actor (two nominations), Cinematography and Original Screenplay

Sunday, May 6, 7 p.m., Linwood Dunn Theater
“Total Recall” (1990)
Recipient of Academy Special Achievement Award – Visual Effects
Oscar nominee for Sound and Sound Effects Editing
“Total Recall” (1990)Recipient of Academy Special Achievement Award – Visual EffectsOscar nominee for Sound and Sound Effects Editing

“Speed” (1994)
Academy Award winner for Sound and Sound Effects Editing
Oscar nominee for Film Editing

The “Sound, Camera, Action!” series will culminate on May 17 with “The Sound behind the Image,” a program, hosted by Oscar-winning sound designer Ben Burtt and 19-time Academy Award-nominated sound mixer and Academy governor Kevin O’Connell. “The Sound behind the Image” will explore the extraordinary impact of sound in the history of the action-adventure genre and pay tribute to the sound design of the 1977 Oscar-winning classic “Star Wars.” A panel discussion with key members of the “Star Wars” sound crew will be moderated by O’Connell.

Tickets to each evening of the “Sound, Camera, Action!” series and “The Sound behind the Image” are $5 for the general public and $3 for Academy members and students with a valid ID. Tickets may be purchased in advance, either by mail or in person at the Academy’s ticket office, located at 8949 Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly Hills.

The Linwood Dunn Theater is located at the Academy’s Pickford Center for Motion Picture Study at 1313 Vine Street, Hollywood. Doors open at 6 p.m. All seating is unreserved. Free parking is available behind the building through the entrance on Homewood Avenue.

The Samuel Goldwyn Theater is located at 8949 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills. Doors open at 7 p.m. for the May 4 screening. For more information, call (310) 247-3600.

# # #

©A.M.P.A.S.®

Academy/UCLA Documentary Series Screening
Gets in Step with the Power of Dance

Beverly Hills, CA — Two documentary features, “Rize” and “Favela Rising,” will be screened on Wednesday, May 9, as the next installment in the 2006–2007 Contemporary Documentaries series, presented by the Academy Foundation of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the UCLA Film & Television Archive. The screenings will begin at 7 p.m. at the Academy’s Linwood Dunn Theater in Hollywood. Admission is free.

Directed by David LaChapelle, “Rize” explores a dance phenomenon occurring in the streets of South Central Los Angeles known as “krumping.” The film focuses on a sub-community of young performers who, despite being surrounded by drug addiction, gang activity and poverty, remain optimistic and upbeat. The spirit and creativity of these krumpers allow them to rise above their environment and foster a sense of family where none existed before. “Rize” was produced by LaChapelle, Marc Hawker, Ellen Jacobson-Clarke, Richmond Talauega and Tone Talauega. Following the screening, LaChapelle will discuss the making of the film and take questions from the audience.

“Favela Rising” takes viewers to Vigario Geral, one of Rio de Janeiro’s most notorious slums, or favelas – home to teenage drug armies, ferocious violence and countless murders. In the film, one man, Anderson Sa, rallies his community to deploy music and dance as weapons against drug lords, corrupt police and the oppression of their surroundings. But just as the AfroReggae movement is showing signs of success, a tragic accident threatens its future. “Favela Rising” was directed and produced by Jeff Zimbalist and Matt Mochary.

# # #

©A.M.P.A.S.®

April 17

THE SEARCH FOR THE NEW MENUDO IS ON
National Casting Comes to NEW YORK on April 28^th
Reggaeton Superstar don OMAR AND renowned music manager johnny wright to judge auditions

Want to be part of the legacy that released 32 albums and sold over 20,000,000 records worldwide and sold out Radio City Music Hall for 13 consecutive nights? The search to recreate Menudo, one of the biggest and most successful Latin pop singing groups comes to New York on April 28^th. The casting sessions kicked off in Los Angeles and additional castings will take place in Dallas and New York through the end of April.

When: Saturday, April 28
: Saturday, April 28

11:00AM – 4:00 PM

Where: Queens Center Mall, 9015 Queens Boulevard, Elmhurst
: Queens Center Mall, 9015 Queens Boulevard, Elmhurst Who: Renowned music manager, Johnny Wright
Recording artist, Don Omar
: Renowned music manager,Recording artist,

Additional celebrity judges to be announced

Celebrity judge Don Omar, along with renowned music manager Johnny Wright and others will be on hand to audition teenage boys on their natural singing and dancing abilities, charisma and stage presence. The auditions are open to males who are at least 15 years old and appear to be less than 19 years old. All contestants will be asked to sing a song, in English or Spanish, from a pre-selected song list available on mtvtr3s.com. A legal guardian who can sign a release must accompany contestants under 18. Complete eligibility requirements are available at mtvtr3s.com.

Once selected, Menudo will be part of the Epic Records family. The partnership between Epic and Menudo kicks off with a first single in July and the group's “debut” album in December 2007.

MTV Tr3́s will chronicle the entire journey of thousands from the first audition to the last, culminating with the selection of seven finalists in “Road to Menudo” which debuts on May 12. The road continues on MTV this fall when the band will dwindle down to the five final members of the new Menudo as the channel air the 10-episode reality series (title TBD.) Reveille, producer of the two-time Golden Globe winner and Latin crossover hit “Ugly Betty,” is producing the MTV series in association with Road Games.

MENUDO’S LEGACY

Menudo was the mega group that started the boy group craze. In 1977, Edgardo Diaz formed the first Menudo in Puerto Rico. The original group consisted of two sets of brothers: Carlos, Oscar, and Ricky Melendez and Nefty and Fernando Sallaberry.

The group targeted pre-teens and young teens and had a policy that as any member turned 16 he would be replaced by a new member. More than 30 different boys made up Menudo over its years of existence. This made Menudo the only truly revolving group and gave the brand staying power in its young market.

Menudo released 32 albums and sold over 20,000,000 records worldwide.

Over the years, Menudo toured worldwide and holds numerous attendance records including 13 consecutive sellout performances at Radio City Music Hall, 200,000 fans at the soccer stadium in Rio de Janeiro, and over 500,000 at a Mexico City concert.

RICKY MARTIN REMEMBERS HIS MENUDO DAYS

During a rare break from his Blanco Y Negro tour in Guadalajara, Mexico, Ricky Martin commented about his start with Menudo and what it meant for him: "It's incredible for me - a very important time in my life. It was the beginning of my career, it was my schooling. In Menudo I learned what was discipline. I learned what it was to work in a way so intense in order to achieve something! I wish all who are involved in this project from the technical side to the talent side all the best. To the talent, take risks. Risk it, even if you think it's ridiculous! Just be yourself and don't fear what people will say - I think that's the key to success."

ABOUT DON OMAR

Without a doubt Don Omar has become one of the biggest international stars. During his triumphant musical career, The “King of Reggaeton” has traveled all over the world taking his music everywhere. During his most recent visit to Latin America Don Omar visited Chile and attended the prestigious Vina del Mar festival as the closing performer, he sang at the Estadio Nacional in front of 80,000 people and traveled to Egypt to record and film a duet with famous Egyptian singer Hakim.

Currently Don Omar is working on his English cross over; he recently filmed the video for his first English only song “Calm my Nerves” in New York City and continues working on promoting his highly successful album King of Kings: Armageddon Edition.

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SIRIUS Satellite Radio To Debut Siriusly Sinatra Channel

April 19th NEW YORK, April 17, -- SIRIUS Satellite Radio (Nasdaq: SIRI) and the family of Frank Sinatra announced today that they will premiere their new, one-of-a-kind radio channel dedicated to the music, time and spirit of Frank Sinatra this Thursday, April 19 at 3 pm ET. The Siriusly Sinatra channel will debut with a special live performance from Frank Sinatra recorded at the Sands Hotel in Las Vegas in 1966. Siriusly Sinatra will be the only channel available on radio produced by the Sinatra family and will broadcast recordings spanning Sinatra's entire career- including his extensive catalog of hits, rarities and his wonderful concerts-as well as favorite standard hits performed by other classic artists from our time. Siriusly Sinatra will be heard exclusively on Sirius Satellite Radio on channel 75. In addition to playing Sinatra's music, the Siriusly Sinatra channel will feature The Chairman's Hour, hosted by Frank himself, created by the Sinatra family and SIRIUS using archival material. Nancy Sinatra will also host The Nancy Sinatra Show, a weekly show. The launch dates of these shows will be announced shortly. Nancy Sinatra said, "My father's music finally has a home so every generation can drop by and listen to all of his wonderful music. I'm thrilled that all of dad's songs will be playing on SIRIUS around the clock" "SIRIUS is proud to work with the Sinatra family to create this truly special channel," Scott Greenstein, SIRIUS President, Entertainment and Sports, said. "Over 60 years after his first single, Frank Sinatra still thrills music fans everywhere. The Siriusly Sinatra channel is certain to be one of the jewels in the SIRIUS lineup, and it's an example of the exclusive and outstanding music programming that makes SIRIUS The Best Radio on Radio." A recipient of 13 GRAMMY(R) awards, Frank Sinatra and his recording career is unmatched in American popular music. From a recording catalog ranging from hits like "I'll Never Smile Again," which was #1 for twelve weeks in 1940, to the 1980 classic "Theme from New York, New York," few other recording artists have had the staying power of Sinatra in our shared musical experience. Reprise, the record company founded by Sinatra, recently released Sinatra: Vegas, the critically-acclaimed and best-selling box set of previously- unreleased, legendary Sinatra Las Vegas performances. Sinatra, a multi-media production, concluded a five-month engagement at the Palladium in London last year, and is scheduled to tour Europe and parts of Asia in the coming year. To learn more about SIRIUS, please visit www.sirius.com. About SIRIUS SIRIUS, "The Best Radio on Radio," delivers more than 130 channels of the best programming in all of radio. SIRIUS is the original and only home of 100% commercial free music channels in satellite radio, offering 69 music channels. SIRIUS also delivers 65 channels of sports, news, talk, entertainment, traffic, weather and data. SIRIUS is the Official Satellite Radio Partner of the NFL, NASCAR, NBA and NHL, and broadcasts live play-by- play games of the NFL, NBA and NHL, as well as live NASCAR races. All SIRIUS programming is available for a monthly subscription fee of only $12.95. SIRIUS Internet Radio (SIR) is a CD-quality, Internet-only version of the SIRIUS radio service, without the use of a radio, for the monthly subscription fee of $12.95. SIR delivers more than 75 channels of talk, entertainment, sports, and 100% commercial free music. SIRIUS products for the car, truck, home, RV and boat are available in more than 25,000 retail locations, including Best Buy, Circuit City, Crutchfield, Costco, Target, Wal-Mart, Sam's Club, RadioShack and at shop.sirius.com. SIRIUS radios are offered in vehicles from Audi, Bentley, BMW, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Infiniti, Jaguar, Jeep(R), Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mercury, Maybach, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Rolls Royce, Scion, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Volvo. Hertz also offers SIRIUS in its rental cars at major locations around the country. Click on www.sirius.com to listen to SIRIUS live, or to purchase a SIRIUS radio and subscription. Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance with respect to SIRIUS Satellite Radio Inc. are not historical facts and may be forward-looking and, accordingly, such statements involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Accordingly, any such statements are qualified in their entirety by reference to the factors discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Among the key factors that have a direct bearing on our operational results are: our dependence upon third parties, including manufacturers of SIRIUS radios, retailers, automakers and programming providers, our competitive position and any events which affect the useful life of our satellites.

April 16

HFPA ANNOUNCES TIMETABLE FOR 'THE 65TH ANNUAL GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS'
Published: April 16, 2007

April 16, 2007 - Philip Berk, President of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, announced the timetable for "The 65th Annual Golden Globe Awards" to be telecast Sunday, January 13, 2008 from 8-11 PM (EST) live from the Beverly Hilton on NBC.

Key dates are as follows:

October 18, 2007 (Thursday) - Final screening date for Television entries

October 19, 2007 (Friday) - Final date for press conferences for Television entries

November 9, 2007 (Friday) - Deadline for submission of Golden Globe entry forms

November 14, 2007 (Friday) 9 a.m. - Cecil B. DeMille/Miss Golden Globe Announcement

November 30, 2007 (Friday) - Deadline for nomination ballots to be mailed by Ernst & Young to all HFPA members

December 5, 2007 (Wednesday) - Final screening date for Motion Pictures

December 6, 2007 (Thursday) - Final date for Motion Picture press conferences

December 10, 2007 (Monday) - Deadline for receipt by Ernst & Young of nomination ballots

December 13, 2007 (Thursday) - 5:00 a.m. Nomination announcement of the 65th Annual Golden Globe Awards

December 14, 2007 (Friday) - Deadline for receipt of media credential applications

December 26, 2007 (Wednesday) - Final ballots mailed by Ernst & Young to all HFPA members

January 2, 2008 (Wednesday) - Deadline for receipt of publicist credential applications

January 9, 2008 (Wednesday) - Deadline for receipt by Ernst & Young of final ballots

January 13, 2008 (Sunday) - Presentation of "The 65th Annual Golden Globe Awards" Live telecast on NBC Television at 8 p.m. EST

"The 65th Annual Golden Globe Awards" will be seen in more than 150 countries worldwide and is one of the few awards ceremonies that span both television and motion picture achievements. The special will be produced by dick clark productions in association with the Hollywood Foreign Press Association.

ORESKABAND TO ATTEND ANIME EXPO® 2007 AS OFFICIAL GUESTS OF HONOR Nation¹s Largest Convention Teams Up with Sony Music Anaheim, California (April 13, 2007) ‹ The hottest teen girl sextet from Osaka, ORESKABAND, storms into Anime Expo® with their brand of ³entertainment ska rock² as the 2nd Guest of Honor for the highly anticipated 2007 convention June 29-July 2 at the Long Beach Convention Center. More information can be found on the website www.anime-expo.org <http://www.anime-expo.org> . Formed in 2003, ORESKABAND is composed of middle school classmates-TOMI (bass & vocals), TAE-SAN (drums), SAKI (trumpet), MORIKO (tenor sax), LEADER (trombone) and IKASU (guitar & vocals). They began playing at local clubs and quickly built a following with their energetic live shows and colorful personalities. From performing at local venues and appearing in a TV commercial for POCKY, ORESKABAND continues to showcase their unique and fresh ³ska-pop² sound and has performed at the prestigious annual FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL. ORESKABAND kicked off their first tour starting from SXSW music festival from Austin, TX and continues to amaze American audiences throughout the U.S. ORESKABAND will be performing live at Anime Expo® 2007. ORESKABAND¹s song PINOCCHIO is the featured song for the official Anime Expo® 2007 commercial. ORESKABAND joins Mary Elizabeth McGlynn as Anime Expo® 2007 Official Guests of Honor. All registrants who register before the end of March are automatically placed into the drawing. Those who have already pre-registered are also automatically entered into this drawing. Secure pre-registration can be done via online at https://secure.rhq.com/anime/anime2007/attreg/index.cgi <file://localhost/anime/anime2007/attreg/index.cgi> . Attendees interested in booking flights, car rentals and/or other hotels for Anime Expo® 2007 can do so via the AX Travel Store located at www.AXTravelStore.com <http://www.AXTravelStore.com> . About Anime Expo® Located in Long Beach, California - Anime Expo®, the nation¹s largest anime/manga convention, serves to foster trade, commerce and the interests of the general public and animation/ comics industry. This event serves as a key meeting place for the general public to express their interest and explore various aspects of anime/manga, as well as for members of the industry to conduct business. AX 2007 will be held June 29 July 2, 2007 at the Long Beach Convention Center in Southern California. SPONSORS: ADV Films, Bandai Entertainment, Copic Markers, Digital Manga, Gaia Online, Go! Media, Infinity Studios, Informasian TV (IaTV) and the Los Angeles Times. More information can be found at its website (www.anime-expo.org). About Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation The Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation (SPJA) is a non-profit organization with a mission to popularize and educate the American public about anime and manga, as well as provide a forum to facilitate communication between professionals and fans. This organization is more popularly known by its entertainment property Anime Expo®. More information can be found at its website (www.spja.org). The statements made in this press release that are not historical facts are "forward-looking statements." These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties. The Company cautions readers of this press release that a number of important factors could cause Anime Expo®/SPJA¹s actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in any such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, without limitation, product delays, industry competition, rapid changes in technology and industry standards, protection of proprietary rights, maintenance of relationships with key personnel, vendors and third-party developers, international economic and political conditions. The Company may change its intention, belief or expectation, at any time and without notice, based upon any changes in such factors, in the Company's assumptions or otherwise. The Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. ORESKABAND official website: www.oreskaband.com

Bonhams & Butterfields Offers

Fine European Furniture and Decorative Arts

in Los Angeles on April 30

April sale brings an eclectic selection of property from around the globe including a prominent Santa Barbara philanthropist's collection

April 12

OLIVIA MOJICA MAKES HISTORY AS FIRST "AMERICAN IDOL" CONTESTANT TO GO HARDCORE

“Hardcore Idol” to be in Stores on May 3rd
– Beautiful brunette singer Olivia Mojica just missed becoming a finalist on “American Idol,” but she will now show she can go all the way in another field – the first contestant on the show to make a hardcore sex video.
A Texas native, the vivacious, green-eyed Mojica is the latest celebrity to see a video she recently made with her boyfriend find its way into the public arena and get broad distribution from Vivid Entertainment, the world's leading adult film company. The DVD will be in stores across the country on May 3rd. Vivid is the same firm that is currently distributing the blockbuster sex video made by sultry socialite Kim Kardashian and R&B artist Ray J.
“We have a great combination here. ‘American Idol’ may be the most popular show in the history of television. Olivia is really cute, the sex is really hot and there is much controversy surrounding the show,” said Steven Hirsch, co-chairman of Vivid. “If she was in the adult business, she would be an instant superstar.”
Mojica was ranked as one of the “best of the rest” in the second season of the wildly popular Fox TV show “American Idol,” when she was just 18. She performed last on March 3, 2003, singing “Because You Loved Me” made popular by Celine Dion, but lost out to a field that included Ruben Studdard, Corey Clark and Clay Aiken. She is currently singing at clubs and other venues across the country as well as working on a full length album which is expected to be in stores nationwide in the first quarter of 2008.
The video, which Mojica made with her boyfriend Adam Roberts a month ago in her New York City apartment, was obtained by Vivid, which is currently trying to contact Mojica to see if she will help promote the video and share in revenue from its sale.
A bit of scandal seems to surround the “American Idol” show each season. This year it to revolves around Sanjaya Malakar who may be getting votes generated by Howard Stern, despite of his lack of singing ability. Olivia Mojica’s role in the show’s history is bound to be noted as well.
About Vivid:
The Vivid Entertainment Group is the world’s leading adult film company. Founded in 1984, Vivid pioneered the “Vivid Girl” concept, under which top adult film stars are signed to exclusive agreements that are styled on the old Hollywood contract star system. Vivid has always placed heavy emphasis on high quality erotic film entertainment for the couples market. It has created wide brand-name awareness through its films and through a licensing and marketing program that extends to advertising, apparel, book publishing, virility supplements, condoms, snowboards, calendars and comic books. The company is known for its innovative technological advances such as full function DVDs, a fast growing wireless program that is already active in 20 countries, its Burn-to-DVD technology and its popular website www.vivid.com. On April 11th Vivid will be the first adult company to release a movie on both HD DVD and Blu-ray with “Debbie Does Dallas …Again.” Vivid is a major supplier of content for pay-per-view networks in North America and internationally. The best selling hardcover book How to Have a XXX Sex Life: The Ultimate Vivid Guide, was co-authored by the Vivid Girls and published by HarperCollins.
The company started the Vivid-Alt imprint in 2006 which is headed by Eon McKai, alt-porn’s dominant icon. McKai has been widely credited as the founder of this new and edgy film genre. He has been profiled in The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times and The Village Voice. Visit Vivid-Alt’s popular website www.vividalt.com. Tristan Taormino, popular columnist with The Village Voice and an award-winning director has also launched a Vivid-Ed imprint for the company. Visit www.vivid-ed.com
LAMAR ODOM’S RICH SOIL ENTERTAINMENT SHOWCASE
A Night of Music and Fashion at Air Conditioned Supper Club
WHAT: Last night, Wednesday April 11th, LA Lakers starting forward, Lamar Odom hosted a private showcase for his eponymous record label, Rich Soil Entertainment at Air Conditioned Supper Club in Venice . The intimate event featured an exclusive performance by Rich Soil’s leading solo artist, Ali Vegas. 2006 Justos Mixtape Award winner DJ Superstar Jay kept the tunes cranking behind the ones and twos.
NBA players, sports execs, and music and fashion industry heavyweights mixed and mingled in the candle lit bar while enjoying specialty cocktails and delectable appetizers such as Tuna Tartar Sliders, Bite-Size Angus Burgers, Jumbo Grilled Shrimp Skewers and Sweet Potato and Classic French Fries. Partygoers enjoyed the outdoor patio lounge featuring hand-rolled cigars.
Fashionistas previewed Odom’s premiere clothing line, “Son of Man,” which fuses sports, hip-hop and spiritual aesthetics. This active wear collection, consisting of inspirational pieces such as the Angel Hoodie and Honor, Faith, Revelation, Cross, Son of Man and Jesus Tees, were modeled throughout the evening. The t - shirts modeled at the event will be available for purchase at Up Against The Wall stores ( Beverly Center and Fox Hills locations) as well as at www.lamarodom.com.
WHO: Host: Lamar Odom. Marques Houston (Artist), Omarion (Artist), Carson Daly. Marcellus Wiley ( Jacksonville Jaguars Lineman), Chris Stokes (B2K Music Producer), First Cousins (Artists), Slim the Mobster (Artist), LA Lakers: Maurice Evans, Jordan Farmar, Smush Parker, Ronny Turiaf, and Shammond Williams. More names to come…
Special Performance by: Ali Vegas (Rich Soil Artist), DJ Superstar Jay
WHERE: Air Conditioned Supper Club
625 Lincoln Blvd.
Venice , California
MORE: The Showcase benefited Odom’s Foundation, Kathy’s Kids, a 501C3 benefiting disadvantaged youth and providing opportunity in the LA and NYC communities.
VEOH ANNOUNCES NEW "HOME DELIVERY" SERVICE
New Veoh Feature Allows Remote Download of Online Video LOS ANGELES, CA (April 12, 2007) - Veoh Networks (www.veoh.com), the leading innovator in Internet television, today announced that a new, pioneering feature has been added to their unique Veoh Player - Home Delivery.
Veoh's Home Delivery feature gives users the freedom to browse and select video content at any time, from any place with an Internet connection, and have it waiting on their hard drive's Veoh Player when they are ready to view it. For instance, Veoh users can now browse and select content while still at work, and have it downloaded and ready to watch once they get home. Using Home Delivery to select and send videos to a remote Veoh Player avoids any downloading time, allowing users more time and flexibility to enjoy their videos in full-screen, DVD-quality.
"We believe that Home Delivery represents the next step in the evolution of Internet television: First we rented videos; then we had them delivered by mail; now Veoh users can push videos directly to their hard-drives from anywhere in the world with an Internet connection," said Dmitry Shapiro, CEO of Veoh Networks.
To access Home Delivery, users need simply log on to their Veoh account from any computer and enable the Home Delivery feature. Then, once they have "turned on" Home Delivery at any other computers they use, viewers can automatically send and save videos to them, remotely. Home Delivery is free and requires only that users register on Veoh.com and download the Veoh Player to use it. The Player is a free, quick-to-download desktop application that turns users' hard drives into virtual DVRs, allowing users to download and save videos to a virtual library to watch at their leisure, with or without an Internet connection.
About Veoh Networks
Veoh Networks is a new, innovative Internet television broadcasting system that delivers broadcast-quality entertainment and informational content via the Internet, using unique distribution technologies to allow for unlimited capacity for both long- and short-form programming. Veoh allows content producers from major entertainment studios and television networks to independent video producers and enthusiasts to deliver high-quality, full-screen video directly to consumers without financial, geographical or capacity restrictions found in traditional broadcasting systems. This democratization of video distribution fundamentally changes the dynamics of television, creating unprecedented choice for consumers and a compelling marketplace for content providers and advertisers. Headquartered in San Diego , California with additional offices in Los Angeles , Veoh Networks is privately held company that is backed by leading technology and media investors, including Spark Capital, Michael Eisner's Tornante Company, Time Warner Inc. and Shelter Capital Partners.
Veoh Networks is a new, innovative Internet television broadcasting system that delivers broadcast-quality entertainment and informational content via the Internet, using unique distribution technologies to allow for unlimited capacity for both long- and short-form programming. Veoh allows content producers from major entertainment studios and television networks to independent video producers and enthusiasts to deliver high-quality, full-screen video directly to consumers without financial, geographical or capacity restrictions found in traditional broadcasting systems. This democratization of video distribution fundamentally changes the dynamics of television, creating unprecedented choice for consumers and a compelling marketplace for content providers and advertisers. Headquartered in San Diego , California with additional offices in Los Angeles , Veoh Networks is privately held company that is backed by leading technology and media investors, including Spark Capital, Michael Eisner's Tornante Company, Time Warner Inc. and Shelter Capital Partners.
April 11
Nashville Records(TM) Announces Name & Ticker Symbol Change
Nashville Records, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: NSHV) is proud to announce the official name change and new ticker symbol change. The new ticker symbol is: NSHV.
Nashville Records, Inc. President, Gene Sibbett, says, "We were hoping for a great symbol that would represent Nashville Records and the first thing that came to my mind upon receiving the email from the NASDAQ was 'it can't get much better than this.'"
The Company has held off on some of its news and plans until several items could be established; namely the symbol change and further contracts to completion. Sibbett commented that the changes make the company feel less encumbered and the communication to the Investor Relations will open up more, which in turn will result in better communication to the investors. He did however caution that there are numerous negotiations with artists, production firms, movie companies, joint ventures, and industry executives, and that the company will only release the information as these items come to complete fruition.
Sibbett claims there are literally hundreds of independent labels who know that marketing and distribution is 99% of their challenge yet they rarely crack it. He says these labels would love to get their hands on Nashville Records' distribution and marketing deals. Sibbett says these strategies will never be disclosed and encourages all investors to not recommend nor discuss Nashville Records' plans. "We get emails every day from someone wishing to know our strategy... They AIN'T gettin' it," he says.
Nashville Records, Inc. is a Nashville-based record label located in the heart of Music Row. The key management and advisors were industry-retired individuals that were dissatisfied with the direction in which the music industry was headed. In the past, this combined management team is credited with sales of well into the billions of dollars and has been responsible for hundreds of charted hits.
Legal Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
The statements in this press release that relate to the Company's expectations with regard to the future impact on the Company's results are forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The statements in this document may also contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Since this information may contain statements that involve risk and uncertainties and are subject to change at any time, the Company's actual results may differ materially from expected results.
Emmy(R) Award Winner Kirstie Alley ('Cheers') Stars In and Executive Produces the Lifetime Original Movie 'Write & Wrong,' (Formerly 'And She Was') About a Middle-Aged Screenwriter Whose Script-Selling Scheme to Beat Hollywood's Youth Obsession Goes Awry
Kirstie Alley ("Cheers," "Fat Actress") stars in and executive produces the upcoming Lifetime Original Movie "Write & Wrong" (formerly "And She Was"), a satiric comedy about a middle-aged screenwriter who learns she is all washed up in Hollywood because she is considered too old. She enlists the help of her 20-something nephew who passes himself off as the writer of her scripts. But when he falls in love with a studio executive, her plan to reveal that she is, in fact, the talented wordsmith, is jeopardized. "Write & Wrong" will premiere Sunday, June 3 at 8:00 PM (ET/PT) on Lifetime Television. The movie will be followed by the premiere of the new Lifetime series "Army Wives" starring Kim Delaney and Catherine Bell at 10:00 PM (ET/PT).
In "Write & Wrong," Birdie Langdon (Alley) is an Academy Award(R)-winning writer approaching her 50th birthday who gets continually stonewalled finding work in an industry that prizes youth above all else. In desperation, she dreams up a plan to have her attractive car-salesman nephew Neil (Eric Christian Olsen, "The Loop," "Tru Calling") pose as a screenwriter using her scripts. The ruse succeeds perfectly. But just as Birdie begins to feel twinges of conscience, Neil falls for a studio development executive named Andrea. If Birdie decides to expose the deception, it could cost Neil his budding relationship and Andrea her job. While she struggles with her quandary, Birdie discovers for herself, and demonstrates to others, that being a woman of a certain age does not mean life is over, and that there are second chances for everyone.
Kirstie Alley's career has been punctuated by multiple awards and success in top-grossing films and highly acclaimed television programs. Alley most recently appeared in her own Showtime series "Fat Actress" and the television movies "Family Sins" and "While I Was Gone." She is best known for her portrayal of Rebecca Howe on NBC's "Cheers," for which she won Emmy(R), Golden Globe(R), and People's Choice(R) Awards during her six years on the hit comedy. Other television credits include "Veronica's Closet," the CBS movie "David's Mother," for which she won an Emmy(R) and two miniseries "The Last Don" and "Salem Witch Trials." In 2003, Alley portrayed the mentally disabled Donna Lee Shelby Thornton in the CBS film "Profoundly Normal." Alley's film credits include "Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan," "Look Who's Talking," "Look Who's Talking Too," "Look Who's Talking Now," "Deconstructing Harry," "Drop Dead Gorgeous" and "For Richer or Poorer."
Eric Christian Olsen was most recently seen in the FOX series "The Loop" and had a recurring role on "Tru Calling." He will soon be seen in the feature films "License to Wed" and "The Comebacks." His additional film credits include "The Last Kiss" with Zach Braff, "Beerfest," "Cellular," "Dumb and Dumberer: When Harry Met Lloyd," "The Hot Chick," "Local Boys," "Not Another Teen Movie" and "Pearl Harbor."
"Write & Wrong" is produced by Jaffe/Braunstein Films for Lifetime Television. Executive producers are Howard Braunstein, Michael Jaffe (Lifetime's "Not Like Everyone Else" and "Odd Girl Out"), Richard Fischoff (Lifetime's "For One Night") and Kirstie Alley. Graeme Clifford ("Profoundly Normal") directs from a script written by George Beckerman ("Man of the People").
Lifetime is the leader in women's television and one of the top-rated basic cable television networks. A diverse, multi-media company, Lifetime is committed to offering the highest quality entertainment and information programming, and advocating a wide range of issues affecting women and their families. Lifetime Television, LMN, Lifetime Real Women, Lifetime Home Entertainment and Lifetime Online (www.lifetimetv.com) are part of Lifetime Entertainment Services, a 50/50 joint venture of The Hearst Corporation and The Walt Disney Company.
Source: Lifetime Television
Web site: http://www.lifetimetv.com/
Independent Music Artists Level the R&B/Hip-Hop/Rap Playing Fields
-- Atlanta is filled with hip-hop heavyweights, but creative R&B/hip-hop singer Ariel Glover (http://www.myspace.com/arielglover) and his brother, the radical rap/hip-hop artist Jonathan " G-Lover" Glover (http://www.myspace.com/atlglover), are standing out from the crowd. The two use the SNOCAP Digital Registry in conjunction with MySpace.com to sell their music and get closer to their fans.
Both of the Atlanta-based music artists have taken advantage of SNOCAP's online distribution deals with online services and retailers to create virtual MySpace music stores. Current and new fans can now go directly to the brothers' MySpace Web pages to sample and buy music as well as share comments and feedback as MySpace friends.
"With the recent decline in traditional CD sales in record stores and the ever-increasing number of music consumers buying on the Internet, independent artists like us are in a better position to manage our success and get our slice of the big money pie," said Ariel Glover. Glover (artist photo: http://www.ereleases.com/pr/2007-ArielGlover.jpg) is a professional singer, songwriter, vocal coach and producer. He specializes in R&B, hip-hop, inspirational and soul, and his singing style is described as a blend of Luther Vandross, Brian McKnight and Donny Hathaway.
G-Lover (artist photo: http://www.ereleases.com/pr/2007-GLover.jpg) acquired an early exposure and love for music through church involvement at his childhood home in Memphis, Tenn. At the age of 14, he proclaimed that he would pursue a career as a rapper and now melds his lyrical skills with positive messages of social consciousness. "The freedom to communicate directly with my fan base is a dream come true," G-Lover said. "I want my fans to always feel close to my music. As music artists, we spend countless long and hard hours creating songs for our fans. The comfort of knowing I have an avenue to distribute my music around the world is truly a blessing."
Both Glover and G-Lover believe in connecting beat-oriented modern styles with the old-school melodies of their genres. By cultivating and mastering the new and the old school, they have devised innovative styles through which they aspire to create timeless songs that reach across social, ethnic and geographic boundaries.
The two independent music artists are no strangers to entrepreneurial and musical success. Previously, they collaborated with another singer on a CD, which sold a large number of units in the U.S. and overseas markets through their online marketing efforts. "We're forecasting big things with this new SNOCAP online distribution deal," said Ariel Glover. "We are positioning ourselves for superstardom success in the very near future." The SNOCAP registry and distribution channels are also being used by both major and independent record labels.
The MySpace song tracks can be downloaded for $0.99 each, and purchasers can listen to full-length versions of featured songs or excerpts of any song before buying. To learn more or buy music, visit http://www.myspace.com/arielglover and http://www.myspace.com/atlglover.
Contact:
Ariel A. Glover
(770) 896-6521
gloverariel@yahoo.com
This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com/.
Source: Ariel Glover
CONTACT: Ariel A. Glover, +1-770-896-6521, gloverariel@yahoo.com
Web site: http://www.myspace.com/arielglover
http://www.myspace.com/atlglover
Carrie Underwood's 'Wasted' Becomes the Best New Artist GRAMMY Winner's 4th Consecutive #1 Country Single! 'Before He Cheats,' Carrie's Third #1, Now a Hot AC Top 10 and on the Air at MTV!
NASHVILLE, Tenn., April 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Double-GRAMMY winner and reigning CMA Female Vocalist of the Year Carrie Underwood is atop the country airplay charts once again this week as her fourth single, "Wasted," follows the #1 success of "Jesus, Take the Wheel," "Don't Forget to Remember Me," and "Before He Cheats." With "Wasted," Carrie becomes the first female country artist in the monitored era to achieve four #1 singles from her debut album. She joins superstar labelmates Alan Jackson and Brooks & Dunn as the three most recent artists in country music to enjoy this remarkable feat on their first album.
Even as "Wasted" becomes country radio's most-played song in the nation, Carrie's third smash, "Before He Cheats," is now powering its way up the Hot AC chart, entering the Top 10 this week. This marks the first time a solo country female has hit the Hot AC Top 10 since Faith Hill's "The Way You Love Me" in December of 2000!
MTV wants its Carrie Underwood, too, as the Oklahoma beauty and GRAMMY- winning Best New Artist sees the video for "Before He Cheats" newly added into MTV rotation. Remarkably, Carrie becomes the first country artist to hit MTV since 1999's Shania Twain smash, "Man, I Feel Like a Woman."
The singles are all from Underwood's unstoppable 19 Recordings/Arista debut disc, Some Hearts, now RIAA-certified 5x Platinum.
Fans can also be looking for a cover feature on Carrie in the May issue of Cosmopolitan, on sale now.
Source: Arista Records
Web site: http://www.jrecords.com/
Las Vegas Hilton Signs Diana Krall to Four Exclusive Las Vegas Performances Grammy Winning Artist Performs June 14-17
LAS VEGAS, April 12 /PRNewswire/ -- The Las Vegas Hilton has signed Grammy winner Diana Krall to her first Las Vegas appearance, with the popular entertainer performing four nights, June 14 -17 in the legendary Hilton Theater -- featuring The Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra -- it was announced today by Las Vegas Hilton executives.
"Diana Krall is an incredible talent, and we're delighted that the Las Vegas Hilton will be the site of her Las Vegas debut," said Ken Ciancimino, the resort's executive vice president. "Diana continues the Las Vegas Hilton tradition of bringing great entertainment to the next level." This exclusive engagement also marks the start of her three-month long U.S. tour in support of her latest release, From This Moment On (Verve).
From This Moment On, both in songs, mood and delivery, reflects Krall's personal love for that golden era of song-making, when Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald and Nat King Cole were in their prime. The Hilton engagement is one of only two exclusive performances featuring Krall with the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, which also was featured on the album.
In 1993, Krall released her first album, Stepping Out, which she recorded with John Clayton and Jeff Hamilton. Her third, All for You: A Dedication to the Nat King Cole Trio (1996), was nominated for a Grammy and continued for 70 weeks on the Billboard jazz charts. She has won two Grammys, one for "Best Jazz Vocal Performance" (1999) for When I Look In Your Eyes (the first ever Jazz record nominated for "Best Album") and the other for "Best Jazz Vocal Album" (2002) for Live in Paris.
Krall has transcended the barriers of genre to become a popular artist who has carved herself a permanent position at the top of the jazz charts.
Diana Krall will perform June 14-17 at 8 p.m. in the Hilton Theater. Tickets are Golden Circle $125.00 (plus tax and service charge); Remaining Front Orchestra $115.00 (plus tax and service charge); Rear Orchestra $105.00 (plus tax and service charge); and Balcony $95.00 (plus tax and service charge). Tickets can be purchased at the Las Vegas Hilton box office or by logging onto www.lvhilton.com, www.ticketmaster.com, or www.Vegas.com or by phone at 702-732-5755 or 1-800-222-5361. Tickets go on sale Saturday, April 14 at 10:00 a.m.
Source: Las Vegas Hilton
April 10
HOME MEDIA MAGAZINE ANNOUNCES THE THIRD ANNUAL LATINO DVD AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCES THE THIRD ANNUAL LATINO DVD AWARD WINNERS
West Hollywood, Calif. (April 10, 2007) — One of Xenon Pictures’s most popular telenovelas took top honors at the third annual Latino DVD Awards, presented April 10 in West Hollywood, Calif.
La Madrastra, a Televisa production distributed by Xenon Pictures and Vivendi Visual Entertainment, was named best of show among the seven other Latino DVDs honored during the ceremony, presented by Home Media Magazine to recognize achievements in the rapidly growing Latino DVD market. Vivendi Visual Entertainment won another award in the Best TV DVD category for their Palm Pictures’ production of the gritty Brazilian series City of Men.
, a Televisa production distributed by Xenon Pictures and Vivendi Visual Entertainment, was named best of show among the seven other Latino DVDs honored during the ceremony, presented by to recognize achievements in the rapidly growing Latino DVD market. Vivendi Visual Entertainment won another award in the Best TV DVD category for their Palm Pictures’ production of the gritty Brazilian series .
Laguna Productions walked away with two awards: La Tragedia de Marcario won for Best Nontheatrical and Tizoc, Amor Indio won for Best Classic/Catalog.
Other winners, selected by a panel of entertainment journalists and critics by Home Media Magazine, are:
Best Theatrical — La Mujer de Mi Hermano, Lionsgate
Best Children’s DVD — Dora the Explorer: World Adventure!, Paramount Home Entertainment
Best Music DVD — Alex Lora: Esclavo del Rocanrol, Desert Mountain Media
Best Bonus Materials/Special Features — Solo Con Tú Pareja, Image Entertainment
The winners were chosen from more than 40 entries submitted by suppliers, producers and distributors of Latino-related DVDs. All titles released in calendar 2006 were eligible.
The Latino DVD Awards were part of Latino DVD 4: The Fourth Annual Latino DVD Conference, produced by Home Media Magazine in cooperation with DEG: The Digital Entertainment Group, the Entertainment Merchants Association and The Hollywood Reporter. The conference attracted more than 150 attendees, including top executives with such key studios as HBO Video, Warner Home Video and Laguna Productions, Inc.
Home Media Magazine is the leading business-to-business publication serving the home entertainment market. The weekly tabloid is published by Questex Media Group, Inc.
is the leading business-to-business publication serving the home entertainment market. The weekly tabloid is published by Questex Media Group, Inc.
Viacom and Yahoo! Strike Multi-Year Search Marketing Deal Yahoo! to be Exclusive Provider of Sponsored Search and Contextual Ads Across MTVN and BETN Global Websites
Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) and Yahoo! Inc. (NASDAQ:YHOO) today announced a multi-year partnership under which Yahoo! will serve as the exclusive provider of sponsored search and contextual ads to all of Viacom's 33 broadband sites, including MTV.com, VH1.com, Nickelodeon.com, comedycentral.com and BET.com, with potential expansion to more than 140 additional Viacom websites across the globe. The ads will be powered by Yahoo!'s newly launched search marketing system, known by its project name "Panama".
Philippe Dauman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Viacom, said, "This far reaching partnership brings together world-class content and technology for the benefit of users and advertisers alike. Yahoo! has made impressive strides with its new search marketing system. As a global leader in content for every screen and platform, we couldn't be more pleased to have them as a partner and we look forward to growing our relationship even more over time."
Yahoo! provides search marketing products and services to hundreds of thousands of advertisers in 22 countries worldwide. Currently available in the U.S., Yahoo!'s new search marketing system is designed to deliver even more relevant sponsored search and contextual ad results to users. By encouraging advertisers to focus on the quality of their sponsored search and contextual advertisements, Yahoo!'s new system creates a more valuable marketplace for users, advertisers and publishers.
"Viacom is a global leader in entertainment that shares Yahoo!'s commitment to connecting users to the content, products and services for which they are looking while respecting copyrights and other intellectual property rights at the same time," said Terry Semel, chairman and chief executive officer, Yahoo! Inc. "Aligning Viacom's popular brands, leading content and large audience with Yahoo!'s more targeted, relevant advertising, marks the beginning of a powerful and engaging partnership between our two companies."
"Our strategy is to provide our audiences with the most immersive entertainment experience possible - on every platform, and this deal with Yahoo! increases the monetization of our growing online portfolio," said Judy McGrath, Chairman and CEO of MTV Networks.
Viacom is the number-one online entertainment destination and the 11th most-popular overall destination on the Web. In February 2007, more than 90 million unique viewers flocked to Viacom's online properties, which include an array of MTVN and BETN Web sites, as well as its other online properties (according to Internal Web Analytics Tracking and duplication from comScore Media Metrix February 2007). The company's sites continue to hit new highs in traffic and streaming video. MTV.com delivered a record 84 million streams in January, exceeded that mark in February with 85.1 million streams and again in March set a new record with 93.1 million. MTV.com also delivered a record 25.6 million unique visitors in March. Also in March, Nickelodeon's online properties had their strongest monthly performance, with Nick.com pulling in almost 19 million unique users and TurboNick posted more than 80 million streams. comedycentral.com had its best month ever for total traffic in March, with 10.7 million unique visitors.
About Yahoo!
Yahoo! Inc. is a leading global Internet brand and one of the most trafficked Internet destinations worldwide. Yahoo!'s mission is to connect people to their passions, their communities, and the world's knowledge. Yahoo! is headquartered in Sunnyvale, California.
About Viacom
Viacom is a leading global entertainment content company, with prominent and respected brands. Engaging its audiences through television, motion pictures and digital platforms, Viacom seeks to reach its audiences however they consume content. Viacom's leading brands include the multiplatform properties of MTV Networks, including MTV: Music Television, VH1, CMT: Country Music Television, Logo, Nickelodeon, Nick at Nite, COMEDY CENTRAL, Spike TV, TV Land, and more than 130 networks around the world, as well as digital assets such as MTV.com, comedycentral.com, VSPOT, TurboNick, Neopets, Xfire and iFilm; BET Networks; Paramount Pictures; DreamWorks; and Famous Music. More information about Viacom and its businesses is available at http://www.viacom.com/.
Source: Viacom
Web site: http://www.viacom.com/
Growing Spanish TV Network Takes Another Big Step Towards National Coverage; LAT TV(TM) Expands From Five Stations in Texas and Arizona to 22 Other Cities
-- LatinAmerica Broadcasting Inc. a general entertainment Spanish language broadcaster located in Houston, Texas, announced today it has entered into an affiliate agreement with Equity Media Holdings, Corporation, headquartered in Little Rock, to launch its widely appealing content in 22 additional markets increasing its geographic coverage across the U.S. This move brings LAT TV(TM) closer to its goal of becoming a full broadcast network reaching 70% of the Nielsen DMA coverage within the next two years. Under FCC definitions, LAT TV(TM) is considered a network as it offers an interconnected program service on a regular basis for 15 or more hours per week to at least 25 of its affiliated television licensees in 10 or more States.
LAT TV(TM) debuted on May 19, 2006 in Houston (KCVH-30), Dallas/Fort Worth (KJJM-34), Phoenix (KVPA-42), Austin (KVAT-17) and San Antonio (KISA-40) -- four of which are in the top ten Hispanic designated market areas (DMA) -- serving 5.2 million Hispanics and 17.4 percent of the U.S. Latino population ages 18-49.
On May 30th, LAT TV(TM) launch cities include Atlanta, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, Denver, Seattle and Portland as well as certain parts of California and Florida. "Three years ago we set out to build a new Hispanic network knowing that we would need to partner with groups like Equity Media Holdings," says Rocky Springstead CEO and President. "We are pleased to be doing business with a group that will assist us with the growth of our network as we extend our brand across the country."
LAT TV(TM) provides a compelling addition to the current Hispanic broadcasting landscape and expects to reach 40% Nielsen coverage by early 2008. With the initial five stations, launched in May '06 and the additional 22-market expansion, LAT TV(TM) is positioned to become the 4th largest Hispanic TV broadcasting group in terms of DMA coverage in less than two years.
LAT TV's(TM) rapid growth stems from several key factors: an experienced management team, an emphasis on consistent programming, and a lean and efficient cost structure.
The company has built an infrastructure with a network operations center in Houston that includes state of the art systems to manage traffic and sales across the network. To date, the company has successfully gained cable carriage in three of its markets -- San Antonio and Austin on Grande Communications and in Phoenix on Qwest Communications -- and plans to be on cable in all five of the original markets by summer 2007.
The Company is developing marketing and sales campaigns with cable and satellite operators that build local subscriptions and viewers in the process. "Our business model is built upon increasing viewers' mind share through their association with LAT TV(TM) creating a very pleasant and enjoyable experience," states Springstead.
LAT TV's(TM) infrastructure has been built upon a solid foundation of cooperation and partnership with its content suppliers, advertisers and signal distributors. Larry Morton, Chairman and CEO and President of Equity Media Holdings, Corp., says, "Equity Media Holdings is pleased to have LatinAmerica Broadcasting Inc. LAT TV(TM) join our broadcast family as they bring programming that viewers will want to welcome into their homes."
LAT TV(TM) offers viewers fresh Spanish language programming that addresses the changing and growing Hispanic market of the United States. Springstead emphasizes, "This is a very large market for us to address and serve. LAT TV(TM) offers content that is appealing to all Hispanic/Latinos living in the U.S. We believe that our rapid growth and recent success is a testament to our partnering strategy and our willingness to think outside the box."
LAT TV(TM) currently has 65 employees, with 35 located in sales offices in the 5 markets, and 30 located in the Houston headquarters and network operations center.
Source: LatinAmerica Broadcasting Inc.
The Entertainment Industry Foundation Revlon Run/Walk For Women Celebrates 14 Years in Los Angeles on May 12 Revlon Spokesperson Sheryl Crow & Michael Chiklis Will Host Annual Fundraising Event Along With Special Guest Mandy Moore
-- Since the inception of the Entertainment Industry Foundation's Revlon Run/Walk For Women in Los Angeles fourteen years ago, cancer research, treatment and prevention has -- like for the thousands of Run/Walk participants -- come a long way.
The 2007 cancer statistics reported the American Cancer Society provides some hopeful news for women. The incidence rates (the rate at which new cancers are diagnosed) have decreased for ovarian, uterine and cervical cancers and have stabilized for breast cancer. Even more promising, death rates for cervical and breast cancer -- the most frequently diagnosed cancers for women -- have been steadily declining since 1990. As ACS reports, "These decreases are due to a combination of early detection and improved treatment."
Thanks to the unwavering support of some 90,000 men, women and children who participate in these New York and Los Angeles annual events, EIF's Revlon Run/Walk for Women grants have helped fund cutting-edge research -- research that contributed to the development of the breakthrough gene treatment Herceptin(R), as well as other targeted therapies, bringing new and innovative treatment approaches to women's cancers worldwide. To date, nearly $45 million has been distributed, in addition to funding life-saving research, grants made also support a number of caring organizations that provide education, advocacy and outreach services to those affected by women's cancers.
This year's Run/Walk, an Entertainment Industry Foundation event in Los Angeles, will take place on Mother's Day Weekend, Saturday, May 12 (the New York fundraiser takes place on Saturday, May 5), beginning and ending at the L.A. Memorial Coliseum. With participation expected from more than 50,000 men, women and children, the 2007 Run/Walk in L.A. will be hosted by Revlon spokesperson Sheryl Crow and Michael Chiklis along with special guest Mandy Moore.
The Entertainment Industry Foundation Revlon Run/Walk For Women was created through the combined efforts of Lilly Tartikoff, Ronald O. Perelman and EIF. They have grown each year to rank among the largest 5K events in the U.S. (the L.A. event is now the biggest fundraiser of its kind for women's cancers in the nation).
"During its fourteen years in L.A., the Run/Walk has seen millions of dollars raised, and put to good use. We're proud of facilitating progress in cancer research and education during this time, and look forward to making even greater strides in the years ahead," stated Ronald O. Perelman, chairman of Revlon, Inc., co-founder of the Run/Walk and co-founder of the Revlon/UCLA Women's Cancer Research Program.
"Every year we see an outpouring of support from our community, support that has made a huge difference in the fight against women's cancers. My heartfelt thanks goes out to everyone who has joined us in the past and to those who will cross the finish line with us this year," says Lilly Tartikoff, co-founder of the event and co-founder of the Revlon/UCLA Women's Cancer Research Program.
"We applaud the entertainment community, all of the employees working at the studios, networks, guilds, union, agencies and other entertainment services, for playing such a lead role in the continued success of Run/Walk, and we are truly overwhelmed by the tremendous support of the hundreds of thousands of people who take part in this empowering event," stated Lisa Paulsen, CEO of the Entertainment Industry Foundation and co-founder of the event.
This year's 2007 beneficiaries of the L.A. Run/Walk include: the Revlon/UCLA Women's Cancer Research Program; The Actors Fund -- Phyllis Newman Women's Health Initiative; AltaMed Health Services Corporation; Asian American Network for Cancer Awareness, Research & Training; Cedars-Sinai Gilda Radner Cancer Detection Program; Citrus Valley Medical Center's Cancer Resource Center; John Wayne Cancer Institute; Los Angeles Breast Cancer Alliance; National Women's Cancer Research Alliance; Providence Saint Joseph Foundation; Team Survivor Los Angeles; T.H.E. (To Help Everyone) Clinic, Inc.; UCLA Digital Mammography Program; USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center and Hospital Women's Cancer Program; The Wellness Community; weSPARK Cancer Support Center; and Women of Color Breast Cancer Survivors' Support Project.
The Entertainment Industry Foundation, as a philanthropic leader of the entertainment industry, has distributed hundreds of millions of dollars and provided countless volunteer hours to raise awareness and funds for critical health, education and social issues. For more information please visit www.eifoundation.org.
Revlon is a worldwide cosmetics, skin care, fragrance, and personal care products company. The Company's vision is to deliver the promise of beauty through creating and developing the most consumer preferred brands. The Company's brands include Revlon(R), Almay(R), Ultima(R), Charlie(R), Flex(R) and Mitchum(R). Revlon has championed women's health by devoting financial and employee resources in support of medical research programs, physician training, clinical care, as well as education and awareness initiatives. Websites featuring current product and promotional information can be reached at www.revlon.com, www.almay.com, and www.mitchumman.com. Corporate and investor relations information can be accessed at www.revloninc.com.
Among those sponsors for the 2007 EIF Revlon Run/Walk for Women are: title sponsor, Revlon; double platinum sponsors, Macy's, CVS/pharmacy and Toyota; platinum sponsors, Northrop Grumman, Dasani, McDonald's and ABC7; media sponsors, KBIG 104.3, People, 790 KABC Talk Radio, and Daily News; and gold sponsors, Quaker Rice Snacks, Unified Western Grocers, United States Postal Service, VOLT, The Walking Company and TheZenith.
Registration is $25 before May 2, $30 after the deadline. All participants who register before 1:00 p.m. PT on May 7 will receive their registration packets in the mail. On event day, May 12, press check-in begins at 6:30 a.m.; participant check-in, pledge drop-off and health expo at 7:00 a.m., celebrity opening ceremonies at 8:00 a.m., the Run at 8:45 a.m., and the Walk at 9:00 a.m. For further information or to register, call (310) 322-3344 or visit www.revlonrunwalk.com.
Web site: http://www.revlonrunwalk.com/
NAB/Carmel Group White Paper Fundamentally Misinterprets the Competitive Environment for Satellite Radio, Satellite Consultant Claims
The following is being issued by Telecom, Media and Finance Associates, Inc. (TMF Associates):
Telecom, Media and Finance Associates, Inc. (TMF Associates), the specialist Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) consulting firm, today released a research note on the competitive landscape for satellite radio in light of the proposed XM/Sirius merger.
This research analyzes the positions taken by Carmel Group in its recent white paper on behalf of the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) and concludes that this white paper ludicrously overstates the case for opposing the merger of XM and Sirius and fundamentally misinterprets the competitive environment for satellite radio.
Tim Farrar, author of the note, commented, "Satellite radio is essentially a car-based audio service at present, so the primary alternative for consumers is free-to-air AM and FM radio, supplemented by the playback of pre-recorded music such as CDs. The competitive position of these subscription-free services vis-a-vis satellite radio has been substantially enhanced by the widespread use of accessory adapters, allowing iPods and other MP3 players to be connected to car stereos, and we estimate that today as many drivers have access to MP3 content in their vehicles as subscribe to satellite radio. Carmel Group's assertion that MP3 players are not even relevant to today's in-car audio market is quite simply bizarre. In our view, increasingly convenient access to pre-recorded content via MP3 players will enable subscription-free services to dominate the in-car audio market for many years to come and therefore even if Sirius and XM were to merge, it would be inappropriate to describe them as having a monopoly of in-car audio services."
The research note forms part of TMF Associates' information service on Mobile Satellite Services and can be downloaded from http://www.tmfassociates.com/articles . It was produced independently, and was not commissioned, funded or instigated by XM, Sirius or any other party. More details about TMF Associates' research publications are available at http://www.tmfassociates.com/reports .
TMF Associates, headquartered in Menlo Park, California, is a leading consulting and research firm providing business and technical analysis in satellite, wireless and broadband telecommunications. The firm specializes in Mobile Satellite Services, including Ancillary Terrestrial Component (ATC) technology, and works with operators, investors and equipment manufacturers to analyze complex market issues. For additional information, please visit http://www.tmfassociates.com/ .
Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click appropriate link. Tim Farrar http://profnet.prnewswire.com/Subscriber/ExpertProfile.aspx?ei=60577
Source: TMF Associates
Web site: www.tmfassociates.com
Universal Music Publishing Group Signs Singer/Songwriter/Producer, 10x GRAMMY Winner, Kenneth 'Babyface' Edmonds to an Exclusive, Worldwide Agreement
Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) announced today the signing of legendary singer/songwriter, Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds, to an exclusive, worldwide agreement.
David Renzer, Chairman & CEO, Universal Music Publishing Group said of the signing, "Babyface has long been one of our industry's leading lights as a writer, artist, producer and entrepreneur. He has written, produced and in many cases performed many of our modern day 'classic' songs. We are sure that the story of hitmaking will continue for him, and are thrilled to welcome him to the UMPG family."
"I am pleased to be working with Universal Music Publishing," said Kenneth Edmonds. "The team has demonstrated their appreciation of my music, and their commitment to my career as an artist, producer and songwriter."
Babyface is currently recording his new album to be released on Def Jam, and he has cuts on Katherine McPhee, Fallout Boy, Nelly, Keisha Cole, KeKe Palmer and Ashanti. He was previously signed to Sony/ATV who retain his back catalogue.
In addition to releasing over ten solo albums, Babyface's hit-making skills have been credited on over 320 albums and he has produced for some of music's biggest legends and top-selling artists, including: Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige, Toni Braxton, Madonna, Aretha Franklin, OutKast, Vanessa Williams, New Edition, En Vogue, Usher, Phil Collins, Faith Evans, George Michael, Deele, Eric Clapton, Pink, Backstreet Boys, NSYNC, Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Carole King, Whitney Houston, Bobby Brown, TLC, Boyz II Men, Bell Biv Devoe, John Mellencamp, Paula Abdul, Heather Headley, and many more.
Babyface has produced a vast number of motion picture original soundtracks including, "The Bodyguard," "Waiting to Exhale," "Boomerang," "Soul Food," and "Josie & The Pussycats." He also has had tracks featured on the following soundtracks "Ghostbusters 2," "Poetic Justice," "Bad Boys," "Home Alone 2," "Mr. 3000," "The Preachers Wife," "Phenomenon," "Simon Birch," "Duets," "The Prince of Egypt" and many more.
Babyface is a 10x GRAMMY award winner, including four wins for Producer of the Year (1992, 1995, 1996, 1997); three wins for Best R&B Song ("End of the Road" "I'll Make Love to You" "Exhale"); Album of the Year (The Bodyguard); Record of the Year ("Change the World"); and Best Male R&B Vocal Performance ("When Can I See You Again").
About Universal Music Publishing Group
With 47 offices in 41 countries worldwide, Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) is part of the Universal Music Group. Owning or administering more than 1 million copyrights, UMPG's writers and catalogs include: U2, Elton John, 50 Cent, Dave Grohl, Prince, Diana Krall, Ludacris, Godsmack, Ice Cube, Vanessa Carlton, Mary J. Blige, The Corrs, Eve, Musiq, Jill Scott, Brian McKnight, No Doubt, Blink-182, 3 Doors Down, Beastie Boys, Anastacia, Fatboy Slim, DMX, Gloria and Emilio Estefan, Paul Simon, the catalog of Henry Mancini, among many others. For more information, visit: www.umusicpub.com.
Source: Universal Music Publishing Group
Web site: http://www.umusicpub.com/
Working Poor and Filthy Rich Spotlighted in Academy/UCLA Documentary Series Screening
Beverly Hills, CA — The documentary feature “Waging a Living” and the Oscar®-nominated documentary feature “Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room” will be screened on Wednesday, April 25, as the next installment in the 2006–2007 Contemporary Documentaries series, presented by the Academy Foundation of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the UCLA Film & Television Archive. The screenings will begin at 7 p.m. at the Academy’s Linwood Dunn Theater in Hollywood. Admission is free.
Directed and produced by Roger Weisberg, “Waging a Living” focuses on the day-to-day battles of four low-wage earners who in the film serve to represent the more than 30 million Americans who live at or below the federal poverty level. The film offers a sobering view of the frustrations and accomplishments of a diverse group of people pursuing the American Dream. Weisberg will be present at the screening to discuss the film and take questions from the audience.
“Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room” is the inside story of one of the biggest business scandals in recent history. The film shows how top executives at America’s seventh largest corporation reaped over a billion dollars while leaving investors and employees with nothing. Using damning company audio and videotapes to make its point, “Enron” exposes the moral vacuum and excessive avarice that are often disguised as corporate philosophy. The film was directed by Alex Gibney and produced by Gibney, Jason Kliot, Susan Motamed and Alison Ellwood.
All screenings in the series are free and open to the public. Doors open at 6 p.m. The Linwood Dunn Theater is located at the Academy’s Pickford Center for Motion Picture Study, 1313 Vine Street, at the northwest corner of Fountain Avenue and Vine Street in Hollywood. Parking is available behind the building through the entrance on Homewood Avenue, one block north of Fountain. For more information, call (310) 247-3600 or (310) 206-FILM.
©A.M.P.A.S.®

ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS, FASHION & TECHNOLOGY

Posted by Bill at 05:49 PM | Permalink

Warner Home Video First to Break the 100K Sold Mark in High Definition Titles with ''The Departed''

Warner Home Video Leads the High Definition Disc Market with Two of the Top-Selling HD DVD and Blu-Ray Disc Titles

Today Warner Home Video (WHV) announced that it is the first studio to surpass sales of 100,000 copies of a high definition title with Martin Scorsese's 2006 Academy Award(R) Best Picture winner, "The Departed".

With the number one and two highest selling titles on high definition formats - "The Departed" and "Superman Returns" - as well as three other titles in the top ten, ("Batman Begins", "Happy Feet" and "Goodfellas") Warner Home Video continues to be the market share leader in high definition disc sales.

"It's no accident that Warner is the first studio to reach this benchmark. We owe this success to a combination of great content and our decision to support both high definition formats," said Ron Sanders, President of Warner Home Video. "By releasing titles on HD DVD and Blu-ray, Warner Home Video not only increases our potential audience reach, but also offers consumers assurance that regardless of the format they choose they can enjoy our movies."

With more than 30-percent market share of DVD sales in the high definition market, Warner Home Video has sold more high definition product and released more titles than any other studio. WHV's support of HD DVD and Blu-ray Disc allows consumers to watch the Studio's award-winning entertainment on any high definition home viewing device or player they choose.

"High definition media represents an incredible opportunity for the industry, and we, as content providers, can help push mainstream adoption by producing in both formats and giving the consumer a simple choice," continued Sanders. "At a time when the home video business is flat and high definition media presents our best hope for near term growth, it is unfortunate that we as an industry continue to perpetuate consumer confusion."

The winner of four Academy Awards(R) including Picture of the Year and Best Director (Martin Scorsese), "The Departed" features powerful performances from an all-star cast including three-time Academy Award(R) winner Jack Nicholson ("A Few Good Men", "As Good As It Gets"), two-time Academy Award(R) nominee Leonardo DiCaprio ("Blood Diamond", "The Aviator", "Gangs of New York"), Academy Award(R) winner Matt Damon ("Good Will Hunting", "Ocean's Eleven", "Ocean's Twelve") and Mark Wahlberg ("The Italian Job", "Boogie Nights").

Warner Bros. Records Claims the Number One Spot in Overall Market Share for 2007
Linkin Park, Michael Bublé, and Wilco Dominate the Top Five on Soundscan Chart This Week, Pushing Label to Top Sales Slot for the Year

BURBANK, CA -- (MARKET WIRE) -- May 24, 2007 -- Thanks to chart-topping sales by Linkin Park and Michael Bublé, Top 10 debuts by Neil Young, Arctic Monkeys, and Ashley Tisdale, and continued success of albums by Josh Groban, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and My Chemical Romance, Warner Bros. Records has taken over as the Number One label in overall market share for 2007.

This week, Linkin Park's new album, "Minutes to Midnight," debuted at Number 1, selling 622,827 copies, the biggest first-week sales of any artist in 2007. "Minutes to Midnight" replaced Michael Bublé's "Call Me Irresponsible" at Number 1 on the Soundscan Top 200 album chart. "Call Me Irresponsible" is currently Number 3, followed by Wilco's "Sky Blue Sky" (released on Nonesuch Records, a division of Warner Bros.), which debuted at Number 4 -- the highest-charting album of the band's career. Warner Bros. Records has a 19.11 percent share of current album sales for the week, nearly one out of five current albums sold in the U.S. In addition, Warner Bros. has dominated digital track sales this year and is currently the Number 1 digital label for both albums and tracks.

"Minutes to Midnight" is the third Number 1 debut for Linkin Park. The album is already platinum internationally, with 1.56 million copies sold around the world and Number 1 debuts in 22 countries, including the UK, Canada, and Japan. "Call me Irresponsible" is Bublé's first Number 1 album. With 445,430 copies sold in just three weeks, it is on track to become his third multi-platinum album. "Call Me Irresponsible" also claimed the top spot in seven countries, including Germany, Australia, and Bublé's native Canada. Wilco's fourth album for Nonesuch, "Sky Blue Sky," sold 87,342 copies this week, a first-week career high for the critically acclaimed Chicago rock band in the U.S.

Warner Bros. Records' Number 1 status speaks to the breadth of the label's roster, which in addition to Linkin Park, Bublé, Groban, Chili Peppers, and My Chemical Romance, also include charted albums by country artists Blake Shelton and The Wreckers, emerging alt-rock singer-songwriter Regina Spektor, career rockers Stevie Nicks, Madonna, Green Day and Neil Young, comedy superstar Larry the Cable Guy, and soundtracks for award-winning box office smash films "The Departed" and "Spider-Man 3."

Coming this summer, Warner Bros. Records will release albums by The White Stripes, Mike Jones, Smashing Pumpkins, Big & Rich, Faith Hill, Paul Simon, as well as "Instant Karma: The Amnesty International Campaign to Save Darfur," a collection of iconic songs by John Lennon recorded by Green Day, U2, and R.E.M., among others.

May 17

The Cribs Go Digital Next Week; Conan O'Brien and U.S. Tour Confirmed; "Album and Single of the Week" in the U.K.

May 17, 2007 -- Wakefield, U.K. working class heroes THE CRIBS are gearing up to release their Warner Bros. Records debut album in the U.S. on July 17, 2007. That same night, THE CRIBS will perform live on NBC's "Late Night with Conan O'Brien." "MEN'S NEEDS, WOMEN'S NEEDS, WHATEVER," produced by Franz Ferdinand's Alex Kapranos and mixed by Andy Wallace, will be released by Wichita Recordings in the U.K. on May 21, where radio and press are already raving. Last week "Men's Needs," the album's first single, was NME's "Single of The Week." This week, NME dubbed the album "Album of The Week," and described it as: "The sexiest, dirty-pop record of the year... pop genius."

Good news for fans over here. No need to wait! On May 22, "MEN'S NEEDS, WOMEN'S NEEDS, WHATEVER" will become available digitally worldwide. See your favorite digital retailer for details.

Still healing from the band's sweaty/bloody performances at Coachella, Bamboozle, San Francisco, New York and Boston, THE CRIBS have confirmed a full US tour set for July and August 2007. Dates and venues will be announced next week. THE CRIBS are not to be missed live: "Unlike the countless terrible Brit pop dawdlers puffed-up as 'the next biggest band ever to hit the earth since Jesus,' this three piece actually has songs. And lyrics. And sneaky ennui. And a sense of humor. In short, be prepared to believe the hype this time. We're impressed: self-aware, smart and stupendously hooky, The Cribs are a real life 'next' band worth checking for." -- Blender

Remember it! THE CRIBS "MEN'S NEEDS, WOMEN'S NEEDS, WHATEVER."

Digital release: May 22, 2007.

Domestic CD release: July 17, 2007.

The Cribs live on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" July 17, 2007 --

check local listings!

American tour: July, August 2007.

First single/video: "Men's Needs." Check out the video here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oCNTYi9fHuo

THE CRIBS:

Ryan Jarman Guitar/Vocals

Gary Jarman Bass/Vocals

Ross Jarman Drums

www.thecribs.com

Warner/Chappell Music Signs Worldwide Publishing Agreement With R&B Singer/Songwriter Lloyd

May 17, 2007 -- Warner/Chappell Music (WCM), the award-winning publishing arm of Warner Music Group Corp. (NYSE: WMG), and one of the world's largest music publishers, today announced a worldwide publishing agreement with chart-topping R&B singer/songwriter Lloyd. Under this agreement, Warner/Chappell will publish Lloyd's future compositions as well as Lloyd's catalog of songs.

In making the announcement, Chris Hicks, Senior Vice President, Urban A&R and Head of Urban Music, Warner/Chappell Music, said, "Lloyd has demonstrated his strong songwriting skills through hit singles and we are proud that he has chosen to partner with Warner/Chappell in developing his career as a songwriter."

"I'm excited about this relationship with Warner/Chappell," said Lloyd. "Their track record of success and their experienced staff were a big draw for me."

Lloyd's new album "Street Love," released March 13th, debuted at #2 on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop albums chart. Of the 15 songs on the album, Lloyd co-wrote eight of the songs including the first single "You," which features fellow Warner/Chappell writer, Lil' Wayne. In February, the song reached No. 1 on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop songs chart. Lloyd's second single, "Get it Shawty," which features fellow Warner/Chappell writer Yung Joc on the remix, is currently climbing the charts at #8 on Billboard's R&B/Hip Hop songs chart and #22 on Billboard's Hot 100. Eleven of "Street Love's" 15 tracks reflect the contributions of Warner/Chappell songwriters and producers including Lil' Wayne, Jazzy Pha, Zak Wallace, Don Vito, Eric Hudson and Bryan Michael Cox.

Lloyd has collaborated on records with hip-hop artists ranging from Rick Ross and Young Jeezy to DJ Khaled. He is currently on tour with Bow Wow.

About Warner/Chappell Music

Warner/Chappell Music is WMG's award-winning global music publishing company. The Warner/Chappell Music catalog includes standards such as "Happy Birthday To You," "Rhapsody in Blue," "Winter Wonderland," the songs of Cole Porter and George and Ira Gershwin, as well as the music of Dido, Dr. Dre, Eric Clapton, Green Day, Led Zeppelin, Madonna, Nickelback, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Sheryl Crow, T.I. and others. Warner/Chappell Music is a leader in creating innovative strategies for marketing and promoting its songwriters and their music. The company's extensive catalog makes it a natural first stop for A&R executives and record producers, feature film and television production companies, and others looking to record or license some of the world's greatest music.

Madonna Writes New Song "Hey You" for Upcoming Live Earth Concert Series on July 7th
Song to Release at MSN May 16 in Downloadable MP3 Format; Microsoft Pledges Donation Making First Million Downloads Free to the Public; Warner Bros. Records to Release LIVE EARTH CD/DVD of Worldwide Shows

-- May 17, 2007 -- Inspired by the upcoming July 7th Live Earth series of concerts, Madonna has written a new song, "Hey You," which will be available to be downloaded in the MP3 format on Microsoft's home page, www.msn.com, on May 16. The first million downloads of "Hey You" will be free as Microsoft has pledged to donate $0.25 per download to the Alliance for Climate Protection for the first million downloads.

Madonna is scheduled to perform "Hey You" live at the Wembley Stadium Live Earth concert in London, it was confirmed by her record label, Warner Bros. Records, who have also announced that they will be releasing a live CD/DVD of the Live Earth Concert Series.

Madonna's new song, "Hey You," recorded in London, was produced by Pharrell Williams and Madonna. She is one of seventeen headliners that have been announced including Red Hot Chili Peppers, Genesis, Beastie Boys and others who will perform at Wembley as part of the 24-hour, 7-continent Live Earth Concert Series.

"On 7/7/07, Live Earth will inspire people from around the world to combat global warming with live performances from superstar artists like Madonna," Live Earth Founder Kevin Wall said. "The early release of 'Hey You' is an incredible boost to our efforts to get people engaged in the environmental cause. We are thrilled that Madonna donated her art to Live Earth and is a part of this movement for us."

Live Earth is a monumental music event on 7/7/07 that will bring together more than 100 headlining music artists and 2 billion people to launch an ongoing, mass movement to combat the climate crisis. Concerts will take place in New York; London; Sydney; Tokyo; Shanghai; Johannesburg; Rio de Janeiro; and Hamburg. Live Earth's 24 hours of music across 7 continents will deliver a call to action and the solutions needed to answer the call. Live Earth marks the beginning of a multi-year campaign led by The Alliance for Climate Protection to move individuals, corporations and governments to take action.

The concerts will be streamed live at www.liveearth.msn.com and available on CD/DVD.

New Album Release Date Set for Mike Jones' "The American Dream" -- July 10th
Fans Can Reach Out to Mike Directly on New "Ask Mike Jones" Email Address
Jones Soon to Launch New Skits "The American Hater"

-- Platinum-selling rap star Mike Jones' sophomore debut "The American Dream" will now be released on July 10, 2007 instead of the original date of May 8, 2007.

The hip hop marketing genius has also set up an "Ask Mike Jones" email address where fans can reach out to him directly with whatever questions or comments their hearts' desire at AskMikeJones@gmail.com. Jones promises to personally answer all of his fans' emails.

"Because I received so many calls on 281.330.8004 there were many times where my friends (fans) couldn't get through. With the email address it will be much easier for me to communicate with them because I receive emails from that address on my BlackBerry that is always with me," states Mike Jones.

Mike Jones is also set to release a hilarious set of skits to help set up the release of his new CD called "The American Hater," where comedian Alex Thomas plays a rapper called Money $tack$ who has nothing but hate to spew on Mr. Jones.

In 2004 with the release of his debut CD, "Who Is Mike Jones?," the Houston rapper changed the playing field in hip hop by using a new and innovative method of self-promotion that skyrocketed his debut to double platinum status. With his colleagues Slim Thug and Paul Wall on the hit single "Still Tippin'," Jones was able to bring the culture of Houston to the lime light with its candy paint, slowed down beats and flashy grills.

"My 64," featuring Snoop Dogg, the current single from "The American Dream," was one of the most added singles at radio the week of its add week and is growing at a steady pace. The video for "My 64" is a tribute to Eazy-E and features his son, Lil' Eazy-E along with Snoop, in the clip.

Here is what radio stations across the nation are saying about "My 64":

"I love the new Mike Jones single, 'My 64,' it's a hot joint for the streets." -- Barbara A. McDowell: Music Director WPWX, Power 92 Chicago

"The West Coast meets the South, instantly recognizable! I love that Lil' Eazy-E is in the video!" -- Robert Scorpio: Program Director, 93.5 KDAY Los Angeles

"Mike Jones is still tippin' on this one. 'My 64' puts you right on the strip in the middle of Summer, turning heads with Mike Jones blasting out the speakers." -- Paul "PStew" Stewart: Music Director/Creative Services WKYS Radio Station, Washington, DC

Check out Mike Jones as he premieres his new video for "My 64" on May 18th on BET "106 and Park." He also has an appearance on MTV's "Sucker Free" on May 16th and will perform on "My Super Sweet Sixteen," which airs on July 9th.

May 2

Talib Kweli to Release New Album -- "Ear Drum" -- on Warner Bros. Records/Blacksmith Music on July 24th
Sixth Album From Critically Acclaimed Hip-Hop Artist Features Production by Kanye West, will.i.am, Madlib and Hi-Tek, and Guest Appearances by Norah Jones, Jean Grae and UGK

-- Hip-hop's premier MC Talib Kweli will release his eagerly awaited new album -- "Ear Drum" -- on July 24th. A career-defining work that showcases the Brooklyn rapper's advanced lyricism and faultless musical taste, "Ear Drum" is Kweli's first album released on his own label, Blacksmith Music and Warner Bros. Records.

Kweli says the album's title comes from "the image of the ear and of the drum, which are powerful enough by themselves, but put them together and it's an instrument in your body that helps you hear. They're also two very simple, yet powerful words. I wanted to focus on finding a sound that makes you move, and that's where the word 'eardrum' popped in my head."

With lyrics that touch on life's journeys and struggles, "Ear Drum" also showcases Talib's sonic versatility with tracks ranging from the silky-soulful "Soon The New Day," which features vocals by best-selling chanteuse Norah Jones, to the sexy first single "Hot Thing" and the hard-edged "Say Something," which features rapping by Blacksmith artist Jean Grae.

"Ear Drum" boasts innovative production work by such vanguard artists as Kanye West, who worked on Kweli's 2002's gold-certified "Quality" and 2004's "The Beautiful Struggle"; Black-Eyed Peas founder will.i.am; rapper-producer Madlib; and Black Star producer Hi-Tek, who also collaborated with Kweli on the gold-certified 2000 album "Reflection Eternal." Of his desire to collaborate with a variety of producers and artists, Kweli says: "We need to challenge our audience, but we also need to challenge ourselves to know that whatever our new experiences are, we can write about them, be creative, and bring that to an audience without them feeling alienated."

Since making his debut with Mos Def as Black Star in 1988, Kweli has become known as an exceptional and socially aware artist who has rejected mainstream rap's embrace of violence and bling in favor of addressing issues of black consciousness and self-love. "Ear Drum" solidifies his status as one of rap's most talented and important voices.

www.talibkweli.com

Artists Unite in Donating Tracks to "Instant Karma: The Amnesty International Campaign to Save Darfur," to Be Released by Warner Bros. Records June 12
Historic Double CD Features More Than 20 John Lennon Songs Recorded by U2, Green Day, R.E.M., Avril Lavigne, Big & Rich, Christina Aguilera, Snow Patrol, Corinne Bailey Rae, Regina Spektor and More; Tracks by Additional Artists Such as Duran Duran, Deftones, Ozzy Osbourne and Willie Nelson -- More Than 50 in All -- Available for Digital Download

-- In an historic effort to mobilize activism around the human rights atrocities occurring in Darfur, Sudan, more than 50 international recording artists and over 30 record labels have united behind "Instant Karma: The Amnesty International Campaign to Save Darfur." The collection features iconic songs by legendary musician and peace activist John Lennon recorded by an array of best-selling artists and will be available for purchase both on CD and as digital downloads via online retailers.

In keeping with its long tradition of activism powered by music, Amnesty International, the world's largest grassroots human rights organization, will use Yoko Ono's generous gift of Lennon's solo catalogue as the centerpiece of its campaign to rally activists toward human rights activism for the people of Darfur. The "Instant Karma" mobilization centers on saving the lives of innocent women, children and men who are dying by the thousands and restoring peace in the region.

The two-CD set of "Instant Karma," which will be released by Warner Bros. Records on June 12, boasts a stellar line-up of 23 world-class artists from a variety of genres putting their own unique spin on classic songs from Lennon's solo songbook. The artists -- who come from the worlds of rock, pop, hip-hop and country -- include longtime activists U2 ("Instant Karma"), Green Day ("Working Class Hero"), R.E.M. ("#9 Dream") and Jackson Browne ("Oh My Love"); female pop powerhouses Christina Aguilera ("Mother"), Avril Lavigne ("Imagine"), and Corinne Bailey Rae ("I'm Losing You"); country stars Big & Rich ("Nobody Told Me"); alternative favorites Snow Patrol ("Isolation"), The Flaming Lips ("(Just Like) Starting Over"), Postal Service ("Grow Old With Me") and Regina Spektor ("Real Love"); best-selling rockers Aerosmith ("Give Peace a Chance"), Lenny Kravitz ("Cold Turkey") and Los Lonely Boys ("Whatever Gets You Thru the Night"); and pensive singer-songwriters Jakob Dylan with Dhani Harrison ("Gimme Some Truth") and Ben Harper ("Beautiful Boy").

The rights to Lennon's songs were generously donated by Yoko Ono, who has donated all music publishing royalties. Amnesty International chose to harness the power of Lennon's music to inspire a new generation of activists to stand up for human rights. Proceeds from CD and digital sales will support Amnesty International and its campaign to focus attention and mobilize activism around the urgent catastrophe in Darfur, and other human rights crises.

"It's wonderful that, through this campaign, music that is so familiar to many people of my era will now be embraced by a whole new generation," Ono says. "John's music set out to inspire change, and in standing up for human rights, we really can make the world a better place."

Larry Cox, executive director of Amnesty International U.S.A., adds, "We know music's power to unite and inspire people. With hundreds of thousands dead, millions driven from their burned out villages and rape being used as a tactic in the Darfur conflict, the world needs a mass mobilization demanding action and justice. The 'Instant Karma' campaign combines John Lennon's passionate desire for us to imagine a more peaceful world with Amnesty International's expertise in achieving justice. 'Instant Karma' allows ordinary people to lend their hand in saving lives -- a notion we think would make John proud."

"John Lennon was not just a famous Beatle, he was the social conscience of his generation," says Jeff Ayeroff, one of the album's executive producers. "By reinterpreting his music and reintroducing it to a new generation, we shine a light on the darkness that is Darfur. Yoko Ono's gift of John's music to Amnesty International, whose work points out the pain and injustice in the world, is a true beacon of light. Give peace a chance is all we are saying."

Winner of the 1977 Nobel Peace Prize, Amnesty International includes people from all walks of life taking action and is composed of more than 2.2 million human rights activists worldwide. Its members protect people wherever justice, freedom, truth and dignity are denied. Amnesty International investigates and exposes abuses, educates and mobilizes the public and helps transform societies to create a safer, more just world.

Amnesty International has a long history of activism involving musicians including 1988's worldwide Human Rights Now! Tour and 1998's Paris concert, which honored the 40th and 50th anniversaries of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, respectively. Collectively, the concerts featured performances by Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, Sting, Peter Gabriel, Tracy Chapman, Youssou N'Dour, Alanis Morissette, Jimmy Page, Robert Plant and Radiohead.

For more information about "Instant Karma: The Amnesty International Campaign to Save Darfur" or Amnesty International, please visit InstantKarma.org in the United States or www.amnesty.org/noise outside the United States.

The full track-listing for "Instant Karma: The Amnesty International Campaign to Save Darfur" is as follows:

Disc One:

U2 -- "Instant Karma"

R.E.M. -- "#9 Dream"

Christina Aguilera -- "Mother"

Aerosmith -- "Give Peace A Chance"

Lenny Kravitz -- "Cold Turkey"

Los Lonely Boys -- "Whatever Gets You Thru the Night"

Corinne Bailey Rae -- "I'm Losing You"

Jakob Dylan featuring Dhani Harrison -- "Gimme Some Truth"

Jackson Browne -- "Oh My Love"

Big & Rich -- "Nobody Told Me"

Disc Two:

Green Day -- "Working Class Hero"

Black Eyed Peas -- "Power to the People"

Jack Johnson -- "Imagine"

Snow Patrol -- "Isolation"

Matisyahu -- "Watching the Wheels"

Ben Harper -- "Beautiful Boy"

Postal Service -- "Grow Old With Me"

Jaguares -- "Gimme Some Truth"

Avril Lavigne -- "Imagine"

The Flaming Lips -- "(Just Like) Starting Over"

Regina Spektor -- "Real Love"

www.instantkarma.org

www.amnesty.org/noise

www.wbr.com

SOURCE: Warner Bros. Records

April 24

Welcome Back, Kotter: The Emmy-Nominated 70's Hit Comedy Series' First Season Available on DVD for the First Time June 12, 2007 from Warner Home Video

Four-Disc Collector's Set Features 22 Episodes and Never-Before-Seen Bonus Material Including the Actors' Original Screen Tests

Fans will recall such memorable catchphrases as "up your nose with a rubber hose" when the first full season of Welcome Back, Kotter, one of the 70's biggest comedy hits, is released on DVD June 12, 2007 from Warner Home Video (WHV). Welcome Back, Kotter: The Complete First Season will include all 22 episodes from the show's first season, as well as never-before-seen exclusive bonus material, in a four-disc collector's set and will retail for $29.98.

Available for the first time ever on DVD, Welcome Back, Kotter: The Complete First Season follows the life of teacher and former "Sweathog" Gabe Kotter (Gabriel Kaplan). Kotter returns to his former high school to teach the same remedial class in which he himself had been a student as a teenager. Still referred to as the "Sweathogs," the lovable losers and delinquents of Buchanan High accept their new teacher as they provide a nonstop string of laughs.

Welcome Back, Kotter is an Emmy-nominated series, which originally aired on ABC from September 1975 to May 1979. The show launched the career of John Travolta, who portrayed the role of heartthrob Vinnie Barbarino. The series also starred Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs as the always cool Freddie "Boom-Boom" Washington, Robert Hegyes as the tough Juan (Luis Pedro Phillipo de Huevos) Epstein, Ron Palillo as the sheepish Arnold Dingfelder Horshak, Marcia Strassman as Julie Kotter and John Sylvester White as Mr. Michael Woodman. During season one, award-winning, renowned film and television actor James Woods makes a guest appearance in the show's first episode, titled The Great Debate, portraying drama teacher Alex Welles. The first season of Welcome Back, Kotter received two Emmy nominations, including one for Outstanding Comedy Series.

DVD Never-Before-Seen Bonus Features Include:

-- Actors' Original Screen Tests - includes John Travolta, Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs, Marcia Strassman, Robert Hegyes and Ron Palillo.

-- Only a Few Degrees From a Sweathog - An entertaining featurette which illustrates how all roads lead to Bensonhurst, Brooklyn. The original Sweathogs reflect on the influence of the show, their personal experiences and memorable moments.

"Welcome Back, Kotter is one of the 70's biggest television comedies. It was unique in the sense that it featured a set of multicultural characters and also tackled some serious social issues but always managed to remain fresh, funny and entertaining," commented Rosemary Markson, WHV Vice President, TV Marketing. She added, "Welcome Back, Kotter is one of those memorable shows that has made its mark on the history of American pop culture. Decades after its initial broadcast, television audiences still remember it fondly, making it a terrific addition to TV DVD collections."

April 20

Warner Home Video Honors Memory of Mexican Golden Age of Cinema Icon Pedro Infante with the Release of a Special DVD Collection for the First Time Ever in the US

Pedro Infante Website Goes Live with Movie Clips and Synopsis of All 23 Individual Films on DVDs Loaded with Extras Including English Subtitles Release date timed to coincide with 50th Anniversary of Pedro Infante's Untimely Death

Warner Home Video has announced the release of 23 of the most renowned and acclaimed films starring Pedro Infante - one of Latin America's most revered cultural icons. From whimsical comedies to dramatic romances to inspiring musical performances, the titles featured within the PEDRO INFANTE COLLECTION represent some of the very best work, directed by the acclaimed Ismael Rodriguez to come out of Mexico's Golden Age of Cinema.

The recent April 10 release was made possible through a partnership agreement between Warner Home Video and Peliculas Rodriguez and comes at the footsteps of a month-long celebration in memory of the larger than life Pedro Infante. Each re-mastered film on DVD is loaded with extra features, such as musical sing-a-longs, subtitles in English, Spanish, French and Portuguese as well as featurettes with interviews, and is now available, for the first time ever in the US, in major retailers, bookstores, online stores and also places that cater to the growing US Latino consumer.

Eleven of the twenty-three titles were released by Warner Home Video on April 10th, 2007, with an SRP of $14.98; among the titles included is the popular "Trilogy of Bittersweet Poverty" ("Nosotros Los Pobres," "Ustedes Los Ricos," and "Pepe, El Toro"), "El Seminarista," "Cuando Lloran los Valientes," "Las Islas Marias," "Dicen que Soy Mujeriego," "El Seminarista," "La Mujer que Yo Perdi," "Sobre Las Olas," "Angelitos Negros," and the documentary "Asi era Pedro Infante," which features scenes from the Golden Globe(R) Award winning film "Tizoc" that garnered Mr. Infante a Berlin Festival Silver Bear Award as Best Actor -- given to him posthumously.

To complement the release of such classic films on DVD, Warner Home Video has launched a special website (http://www.warnervideo.com/coleccionpedroinfante), in both English and Spanish, with a synopsis and movie clips of each film that encompassed the PEDRO INFANTE COLLECTION.

A prolific artist who performed in over 60 films and recorded over 365 songs, Pedro Infante is one of the most captivating personalities of all time whose rabid fan base surpasses millions worldwide. A timeless icon, Pedro Infante continues to inspire countless contemporary performers, from Mexican crooner Luis Miguel, to Latin crossover sensation Juanes, to the 2007 World Music nominee Lila Downs. Mr. Infante's death at age 40 in a plane crash on April 15th, 1957 triggered a national day of mourning in Mexico for their Idolo de Guamuchil. Numerous tributes are now taking place throughout the United States, Mexico and Latin America to honor the 50th anniversary of Infante's untimely passing.

April 12

The Flaming Lips to Release First-Ever Live DVD on July 10

"U.F.O.s at the Zoo: The Legendary Concert in Oklahoma City" Captures Manic Energy of Band's First Hometown Show in Years

April 12, 2007 -- Grammy Award-winning "Gonzo wig-lifters," THE FLAMING LIPS will release their first-ever live DVD, titled "U.F.O.s AT THE ZOO: THE LEGENDARY CONCERT IN OKLAHOMA CITY," on July 10th, 2007. Filmed at the Zoo Amphitheater in the band's hometown of Oklahoma City on September 15th, 2006, the DVD captures the complete over-the-top Technicolor thrill of band's first local show in several years to an absolutely manic capacity crowd of furry fanatics.

For as long as the Lips have been touring, fans have demanded live concert footage. Check YouTube for further proof! Finally, the wait is over and well worth it. Fans will be floored by this blazing panoply of sonic and visual sensory-overload that is The Flaming Lips live experience. For those who have never seen the Lips live, imagine a rock & roll happening hosted by the freshly-dosed minds of Lewis Carroll, P.T. Barnham and Timothy Leary spiking the collective punch-bowl at the world's biggest birthday party. There could only be one house band and the result might be something like the show you'll see on this DVD. The track listing includes Lips favorites such as, "Race For The Prize," "Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots" (Parts 1 and 2), "Do You Realize??," and a rarely performed version of "Love Yer Brain," from 1987's "OH MY GAWD!!!... THE FLAMING LIPS," their 2nd studio album. Live tracks will be interspersed with backstage sneak peeks and various absurd events of the day preparing for the big homecoming spectacle.

"U.F.O.s AT THE ZOO: THE LEGENDARY CONCERT IN OKLAHOMA CITY" will be released as a single disc on the new MVI format (Music Video Interactive, formerly known as the DVD album format), so it will be packaged in a slightly larger-sized jewel case and enclosed booklet. The disc will include the entire Oklahoma City concert, MP3s of the audio, digital artwork, a ringtone application, which will allow fans to make and buy their own Lips ringtones. The URT one application will enable fans to select portions of Lips studio recordings (but not live versions) for a more personal choice of available ringtone options. Thirteen different tracks in all will be available for selection.

The ROM zone portion of the disc will contain a PDF of the art booklet, Buddy icons, photos and various digital extras that will make this the ultimate special package for fans of The Flaming Lips.

The Flaming Lips, who recently took home two more Grammy Awards for their current album "AT WAR WITH THE MYSTICS," are on the road this month making select U.S. appearances. A full-scale American tour is planned for this summer. Details to be announced shortly. For more news on the band, check out their website www.flaminglips.com.

The full track and segment listing for "U.F.O.s AT THE ZOO: THE LEGENDARY CONCERT IN OKLAHOMA CITY" is as follows:

1.  "The Freaks Get Restless and Wake the Animals" 2.  "The Mothership Descends" 3.  "Race For the Prize" 4.  "Free Radicals" 5.  "Expecting Everyone's Head to Explode" 6.  "Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots" 7.  "Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots, Part 2" 8.  "Should We Free the Animals?" 9.  "Vein of Stars" 10. "Hot Dog Eating Contest" 11. "The Yeah Yeah Yeah Song" 12. "The Spark That Bled" 13. "Preparing the U.F.O. Mothership" 14. "The W.A.N.D." 15. "My Cosmic Autumn Rebellion" 16. "Santas and Aliens" 17. "She Don't Use Jelly" 18. "Do You Realize??" 19. "How Much Red Duct Tape?" 20. "A Spoonful Weighs A Ton" 21. "Captain America Splits the Audience" 22. "Love Yer Brain" 23. "The Mothership Departs" 24. "The Greatest Audience in the Galaxy"

A mindblowing trailer for "U.F.O.s AT THE ZOO" has just launched a way to post on your website:

As a weblink: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pj3gv9_ynTU

For tour dates, merchandise and general info visit: www.flaminglips.com

April 10

Linkin Park Debuts at Top Spot for Record Breaking Sixth Time

"What I've Done" Is 6th Consecutive #1 Single; New Album to Be Released on Warner Bros. Records May 15th

Multi-platinum Grammy® award-winning Linkin Park explodes at the top of the charts this week with their first single, "What I've Done," from their long awaited third studio album, "Minutes to Midnight." Breaking an all time record with six consecutive #1s in a row, Linkin Park debuted at #1 at Alternative and #3 on Active charts. In addition to its radio impact, the song has already sold over 100,000 downloads on iTunes. The video for "What I've Done," directed by band member / DJ Joseph Hahn, premiered on MTV and AOL last week. "Minutes to Midnight," co-produced by Mike Shinoda and Rick Rubin is due out on May 15 on Machine Shop/Warner Bros.

Linkin Park is Chester Bennington (vocals), Rob Bourdon (drums), Brad Delson (guitar), Joe Hahn (DJ), Dave "Phoenix" Farrell (bass), and Mike Shinoda (vocals). They have earned two Grammy Awards, the first for Best Hard Rock Performance in 2002 with their hit single "Crawling" and the second for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration with Jay-Z in 2006 for the innovative "Numb/Encore." Linkin Park has sold 40 million records worldwide since their debut in 2000. The Diamond-Certified "Hybrid Theory" has alone sold more than 18 million copies. In addition, Linkin Park established Music For Relief in January 2005 to help aid victims of world catastrophes and combat global warming. For more information on Linkin Park and Music For Relief, please log on to www.linkinpark.com or www.musicforrelief.org.

April 9

Warner Home Video and Turner Classic Movies Present TCM Spotlight: Esther Williams

Due July 17

The ravishing bathing beauty who pioneered a new genre of moviemaking -- "Aqua Musicals" -- will be seen in some of her splashiest roles when Warner Home Video and Turner Classic Movies showcase TCM Spotlight: Esther Williams on July 17. The collection includes the DVD debuts of five Technicolor films from 'America's Favorite Mermaid' - Bathing Beauty, On an Island with You, Easy to Wed, Neptune's Daughter and Dangerous When Wet.

Also included are special features such as TCM host Robert Osborne's recent "Private Screenings" interview with Esther (featured on the Bathing Beauty DVD), Academy Award(R)-winning vintage shorts, musical number outtakes, and classic cartoons. The films will be available only as a collection in a collectible digi-pak gift and will sell for $49.92 SRP.

Bathing Beauty

Red Skelton joins Esther Williams in this buoyant (literally) comedy about a lovesick songwriter who enrolls in a women's college to woo his estranged swimming-teacher wife.

On an Island with You

Moonlight swims, swaying palms, Technicolor(R) sunsets and...cannibals?! Esther Williams, Peter Lawford, Ricardo Montalban and Cyd Charisse get the swimming, swaying and sunsets and Jimmy Durante gets the cannibals in this tune-filled paradise for fans of musical comedy.

Easy To Wed

When the local paper runs an untrue story claiming an heiress (Williams) is a husband stealer, she prepares to sue for libel. So a newspaper honcho (Keenan Wynn) devises a counter scheme to compromise her image: He'll arrange a sham wedding between his fiancee (Lucille Ball) and a newsroom Romeo (Van Johnson), send the Romeo to woo the heiress, and make the phony story come true!

Neptune's Daughter

Longing for a Latin lover, boy-crazy Betty Barrett (Betty Garrett) mistakes girl-shy Jack Spratt (Red Skelton) for the South American polo team captain Jose O'Rourke (Ricardo Montalban). Meanwhile, the real O'Rourke pursues Betty's elegant sister Eve (Esther Williams). Soon mistaken identities and romantic complications spin into a dizzy mix of slapstick and flirtatious fun.

Dangerous When Wet (1953)

Williams plays Katy, a farm girl who finds romance while training for a swim across the English Channel. In the film's key sequence, Williams swims, swirls and swoops with cartoon stars Tom and Jerry in a concoction "brimful of attractive people and attractive performances" (Clive Hirschhorn, The Hollywood Musical).

Posted by Bill at 07:13 PM | Permalink

ABC Tonight

April 24

Quick Take for Thursday, April 19, 2007 – (Fast Affiliate Ratings)

ABC Wins Thursday Night, Leading Second-Place CBS

By 6% in Total Viewers and by 44% in Adults 18-49

ABC’s “Ugly Betty” Ranks No. 1 in its Hour with Adults 18-34 and Women 18-34

ABC’s “Grey’s Anatomy” Leads its Nearest Competition in the Hour by 8.4 Million Viewers and Beats the Combined Adults 18-49 Ratings of CBS, NBC and Fox by 12%

ABC’s “October Road” Returns, Winning the 10 O’clock Hour in Adults 18-49,

Beating Originals of CBS’ “Shark” by 40% and NBC’s “E.R.” by 14%

Thursday Night (8:00-11:00 p.m.)

With an all-original lineup featuring the return of “October Road” this week, ABC led Thursday night, outperforming second-place CBS by 6% in Total Viewers (13.4 million vs. 12.7 million) and by 44% in Adults 18-49 (5.2/15 vs. 3.6/10).

“Ugly Betty” (8:00-9:00 p.m.)

Opposite competition that included CBS’ “Survivor: Fiji” and Fox’s “Are You Smarter the a 5^th Grader?,” ABC’s “Ugly Betty” ranked No. 1 in its hour among Adults 18-34 (2.8/9 - tied) and Women 18-34 (4.3/13).

“Grey’s Anatomy” (9:00-10:00 p.m.)

ABC's “Grey's Anatomy” dominated the 9 o’clock hour in Total Viewers (20.9 million) and Adults 18-49 (8.5/22). The ABC drama outdrew its closest competition by 8.4 million viewers (CBS = 12.5 million) and beat the combined Adult 18-49 ratings for CBS, NBC and Fox in the hour by 12% (CBS/NBC/Fox = 7.6/21).

“October Road” (10:00-11:00 p.m.)

Airing against original programming, ABC’s “October Road” returned to the lineup with a time period winning performance in Adults 18-49 (4.2/12), beating CBS’ “Shark” by 40% (3.0/8) and NBC’s “E.R.” by 14% (3.7/10). In fact, “October Road’s” victory marked the first time ever that a regularly- scheduled, ABC entertainment series beat an original episode of “E.R.” in the key young adult demo.

“October Road” ranked as the No. 2 program of the night in Adults 18-34 (4.4/14) and across each of the key women demos [Women 18-34 (6.3/18), Women 18-49 (6.2/16) and Women 25-54 (6.3/15)], behind only “Grey’s Anatomy.”

“October Road” was up from its most recent telecast (4/5/07) by 2.2 million (9.9 million vs. 7.7 million) and by 40% in Adults 18-49 (4.2/12 vs. 3.0/9).

Source: Nielsen Media Research, NTI (Fast Affiliate Ratings, Live+SD), 4/19/07.

END

COVERAGE OF THE TRAGEDY AT VIRGINIA TECH DRIVES

LANDMARK NUMBER OF USERS TO ABC†NEWS†DIGITAL

On Tuesday, April 17, as more details began to unfold about the tragedy and victims at Virginia Tech, 2.3 million unique visitors went to ABCNEWS.com for coverage and information. This was the site’s highest single-day number of unique visitors since its coverage of the September 11 attacks, registering a 210% increase for ABC News Digital from a week ago.

On Monday ABCNEWS.com’s coverage brought 2 million unique visitors to the site, a 172% increase compared to the same time last week. The site’s increase in video views was 420% over week-ago levels.

ABCNEWS.com is the 24-hour online news service of ABC News launched in May 1997 and is consistently ranked among the top news sites. ABC News Now, a 24-hour digital network that offers a wide range of live and on-demand programming, is currently available to more than 30 million users across cable, broadband and mobile.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 18, 2007

EDIE FALCO, TYRA BANKS, VANESSA REDGRAVE AND JOAN RIVERS

ARE AMONG THE GUESTS FEATURED ON “THE VIEW,” APRIL 23-27

Regina King (“Year of the Dog”) and Carrie Ann Inaba (ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars”) to Co-host

“The View,” ABC’s EmmyÆ Award-winning talk/entertainment program, welcomes Joan Rivers, Vanessa Redgrave (“The Year of Magical Thinking”), Mia Farrow, Tyra Banks, Edie Falco (“The Sopranos”) and musical performances from Donny Osmond and Neil Sedaka the week of April 23-27. Guest co-hosts are Regina King (“Year of the Dog”) on April 24 and Carrie Ann Inaba (ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars”) on April 26.

“The View” is produced by and features ABC News correspondent Barbara Walters, entertainer Rosie O’Donnell, comedian Joy Behar and former “Survivor: The Australian Outback” participant Elisabeth Hasselbeck. “The View” is the original forum in which real women discuss everyday issues and share their no-holds-barred opinions and engage in colorful conversations. The show recently received its 10^th consecutive Daytime EmmyÆ Award nomination in 10 years for both Outstanding Talk Show and Outstanding Talk Show Host honoring Barbara Walters, Rosie O’Donnell, Joy Behar and Elisabeth Hasselbeck. The 34^th annual Daytime Emmy Awards will be held on Friday, June 15.

Currently celebrating its 10th season, “The View” has received 20 Daytime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Talk Show. The show has received numerous nominations, including ten consecutive nominations for Outstanding Daytime Talk Show and Outstanding Talk Show Host. “The View” is seen live MONDAY-FRIDAY (11:00 a.m.-12:00 noon, ET; CLOSED-CAPTIONED; in stereo, TV-14), on ABC. “The View” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s HDTV format, in stereo).

ABC.com now streams select daily clips of the “Hot Topics” discussed on “The View.” In addition the clips are available on all of Disney-ABC Television Group’s mobile partners’ services for viewing on cell phones. Log on to abc.com (keyword: theview).

Scheduled guests for April 23-27, are as follows (subject to change):

MONDAY, APRIL 23 – Joan Rivers; musical guest Neil Sedaka.

TUESDAY, APRIL 24 – Guest co-host Regina King (“Year of the Dog”); Vanessa Redgrave (“The Year of Magical Thinking”).

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 – Mia Farrow; musical guest Donny Osmond.

THURSDAY, APRIL 26 – Guest co-host Carrie Ann Inaba (ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars”); Tyra Banks; couple eliminated from ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars.”

FRIDAY, APRIL

April 18, 2007

Quick Take for Tuesday, April 17, 2007 – Final Ratings

ABC Sees its Strongest Tuesday Night Performance Since November

“Dancing with the Stars the Results Show” Shoots Up from its Lead-in, Posting 100% Retention in Adults 18-49 Over the Prior Week and Growing Among Adults 18-34

Tuesday Night (8:00-10:02 p.m.)

ABC placed second on the night in Total Viewers (11.8 million) and Adult 18-49 (3.0/8), registering its best Tuesday numbers in both Nielsen measures since November – since 11/14/06 and 11/28/06, respectively.

“Dancing with the Stars the Results Show - TU” (9:00-10:02 p.m.)

Surging from its lead-in by 9.6 million viewers and by 133% among young adults against Fox’s “American Idol”-fueled “House” in the 9 o’clock hour, ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars the Results Show - TU” posted a competitive second-place finish in its time period in Total Viewers (16.5 million) and Adults 18-49 (4.2/10). NBA Hall of Famer Clyde Drexler was the fourth celebrity dancer to be eliminated from the ABC dance contest.

“DWTS the Results Show” retained 100% of its Adults 18-49 rating (4.2/10) from the prior week, while posting increases among Adults 18-34 (2.9/8 vs. 2.8/8) and Women 18-34 (4.1/10 vs. 3.9/10).

Source: Nielsen Media Research (Fast Affiliate Ratings, Live+SD), 4/17/07.

END

ABC.COM ADDS REMAINING EPISODES OF “SIX DEGREES” TO ITS BROADBAND PLAYER

Dedicated to expanding its network and channel brands across multiple platforms and connecting viewers with their favorite shows anytime and anywhere, Disney-ABC Television Group announced today that it will add the remaining unaired episodes of “Six Degrees” to ABC.com's broadband player.

The first unaired episode of “Six Degrees” will be added to ABC.com on Friday, April 27, with a new episode added every Friday for four consecutive weeks (five episodes total).

About “Six Degrees”

Whom will you touch in life? Who will touch you? They say that anyone on the planet can be connected to any other person through a chain of six people, which means that no one is a stranger… for long. In this drama six very different New Yorkers go about their lives without realizing the impact they're having on one another – yet. A mysterious web of coincidences will gradually draw them closer, changing the course of their lives forever. Is it happenstance? Is it fate? Is there a greater force at work in our world, guiding us along and connecting our lives?

“Six Degrees” stars Jay Hernandez (“Friday Night Lights”) as Carlos Green, Bridget Moynahan (“Sex and the City”) as Whitney Crane, Erika Christensen (“Flightplan”) as Mae, Dorian Missick (“Lucky Number Slevin”) as Damian, with Campbell Scott (“The Secret Lives of Dentists”) as Steven Caseman and Hope Davis (“About Schmidt”) as Laura.

The series was shot on location in New York City and is produced by Bad Robot, Nosebleed Productions and ABC Television Studio. Executive producers are J.J. Abrams, Stuart Zicherman, Raven Metzner, Bryan Burk and Ken Biller. Peter Horton is consultant.

NEWS

April 12, 2007

PREACHER PREDATORS: INVESTIGATING CHILD SEX ABUSE IN THE PROTESTANT CHURCH

-- JIM AVILA REPORTS ON ABC NEWS’ “20/20,” FRIDAY, APRIL 13

And: A Cardio-Free Diet… Too Good to Be True?

Plus: A Man Among Wolves -- Shaun Ellis Reflects on His Extraordinary Experience

Raising Wolf Pups and Living Among the Pack

Child sex abuse by Catholic priests has been headline news in recent years, but is the same abuse happening within Protestant churches? In a six-month investigation, ABC News’ “20/20” found preacher predators in every corner of the country, including several affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) -- the largest Protestant denomination. Jim Avila’s exclusive report airs on “20/20,” FRIDAY, APRIL 13 (10:00-11:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

Avila’s reporting finds that the SBC -- an organization of 43,000 independent churches and 16.3 million members – has an overall structure that makes it difficult to police preacher predators. One example includes a profile of an SBC pastor who abused kids in Kentucky and then moved on to do the same to eight boys in Missouri, before he was finally sent to prison. In an interview with Avila, the SBC president concedes that there is a problem with tracking predators.

“20/20” lists numerous SBC preachers who have been convicted or charged with child sex abuse, including pastors still identified on the SBC’s own website or ordained ministers. Avila also interviews a preacher who admits that, in his jobs as Southern Baptist preacher and teacher in East Texas, he molested more than 40 boys. For the first time, Ken Ward speaks publicly about how he manipulated families and churches as he targeted and molested children in his care, and how the church is actually a magnet for predators. “I wanted them to love me and that was part of the strategy,” Ward tells Avila. He also gives insight to parents about how to spot a predator.

Also: What if a fitness expert said to kiss the treadmill goodbye – that the only way to lose weight and keep it off is to build muscle? Deborah Roberts reports on a controversial new book on weight loss, ABC News Now contributor Jim Karas’ “The Cardio-Free Diet.”

Plus: Shaun Ellis, founder of a wolf sanctuary at the Combe Martin Wildlife Park on England’s southwest coast, gave up comfort, a family and the civilization that surrounded him to live with wolves. In 2004, when the lives of three pups at the sanctuary were at risk because their mother had stopped nursing them, Ellis decided to use years of knowledge he had accumulated to raise the captive pups himself by teaching them how to behave like wolves. He moved in with the young pack and assumed the role of tutor and leader -- the alpha wolf. “I was always drawn towards the animals more than I was a human society,” Ellis said. The experiment was documented by a British television producer, Bernard Walton, whose footage will be broadcast next week on the National Geographic Channel. “What was extraordinary was the relationships that developed between the different wolves and Shaun,” Walton said. “He had refined everything down to a fine art to be a wolf.” Bob Brown reports.

“20/20” is anchored by Elizabeth Vargas and John Stossel. David Sloan is executive producer.

NEWS

April 12, 2007

†

ABC NEWS PRESENTS “PLANET EARTH 2007:†SEVEN WAYS

TO HELP SAVE THE WORLD,” FRIDAY, APRIL 20

Unprecedented Global News Event Features Series of Reports from All Seven Continents

Diane Sawyer Anchors Special “20/20,” Friday at 10 PM

ABC News is marking Earth Day 2007 with a daylong look at the state of the planet, featuring a special “20/20,” anchored by Diane Sawyer. ABC News’ “Planet Earth 2007: Seven Ways to Help Save the World” will report on the most crucial environmental issues today and on solutions currently being employed across the globe. This unprecedented global news event will feature ABC News anchors and correspondents†live from around the globe, with reports†airing from†seven continents throughout the day on Friday, April 20. The coverage will span “Good Morning America,” “World News with Charles Gibson,” “20/20,” “Nightline,” ABCNEWS.com, ABC News Now and ABC News Radio.

ABC News’ groundbreaking broadcast will take viewers around the world to witness the†key environmental challenges each continent faces and present working solutions from each place. The coverage will outline the most pressing environmental issues, including increasing and decreasing water levels, deforestation, species extinction and power usage.

AFRICA: Elizabeth Vargas will report from an eco-lodge reserve near the Kruger wildlife area in South Africa to show how conservation can save species.

EUROPE: Chris Cuomo will be in the city of lights, Paris, reporting on how people can conserve power and ways that science could help take carbon dioxide out of the air.

SOUTH AMERICA: John QuiÒones will be in the Brazilian rain forest reporting on how conservation groups are working to replant the rain forest and how these forests can be worth more as a standing resource than as logs and soybean fields.

NORTH AMERICA: Jay Schadler will report from an astonishing solar power plant in Arizona on how alternative power solutions will help the energy grid.

AUSTRALIA: Bill Weir will be at the barrier reef off the Australian coast to report on how desalination plants may be an answer to water shortages.

ASIA: Cynthia McFadden will be in China to explore what is perhaps the most fundamental issue of all: Is the world willing to make the changes needed?

ANTARCTICA: ABC News will report on what progress has been made on the hole in the ozone.

ABC News will also assemble seven leading experts on the environment -- from scientists to businessmen -- to weigh in on the most important problems and the most promising solutions.

Additionally, “Planet Earth 2007: Seven Ways to Help Save the World” will focus on how we all can make a difference. “Many Americans are saying they want to do what they can to slow the damaging effects of global warming, and this broadcast will offer concrete solutions that could be achieved on a global level, as well as a smaller level inside our viewers’ own homes,” said co-executive producer John Green.

John Green and Rudy Bednar are the executive producers of “Planet Earth 2007: Seven Ways to Help Save the World.” The program will be broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with stereo sound.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 12, 2007

JESSICA BIEL, SIGOURNEY WEAVER AND CRAIG FERGUSON

ARE AMONG THE GUESTS FEATURED ON “THE VIEW,” APRIL 16-20

RenÈ Syler, Aisha Tyler and Whoopi Goldberg to Co-host

The Cast of Broadway’s “The Pirate Queen” to Perform, April 17

“The View,” ABC’s EmmyÆ Award-winning talk/entertainment program, welcomes Robert Wagner and co-host Robert Vaughn (“Hustle”), Craig Ferguson (“Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson”), Rue McClanahan (author, “My First Five Husbands”), Jessica Biel (“Next”), Olympia Dukakis (“In the Land of Women”), Sigourney Weaver (“The TV Set” and “Snow Cake”) and a musical performance from Broadway’s “The Pirate Queen” the week of April 16-20. Guest co-hosts are RenÈ Syler (4/17), Aisha Tyler (4/18) and Whoopi Goldberg (4/20).

Entertainment Weekly raves: “’The View’ is one of the most electrifying shows on the air,” and “The View does for daytime what ‘The Daily Show’ does for nighttime.”

Scheduled guests for April16-20, are as follows (subject to change):

MONDAY, APRIL 16 – Bill Maher (“Real Time with Bill Maher”).

TUESDAY, APRIL 17 – Guest co-host RenÈ Syler; Robert Wagner and Robert Vaughn (“Hustle”); musical performance from Broadway’s “The Pirate Queen.”

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18– Guest co-host Aisha Tyler; Craig Ferguson (“Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson”); Rue McClanahan (author, “My First Five Husbands”).

THURSDAY, APRIL 19 – Jessica Biel (“Next”); Olympia Dukakis (“In the Land of Women”); couple eliminated from ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars.”

FRIDAY, APRIL 20 – Guest co-host Whoopi Goldberg; Sigourney Weaver (“The TV Set” and “Snow Cake”).

April 12, 2007

Fringe Ratings Report for ABC News’ “Nightline”

For the Week of April 2, 2007

†

“NIGHTLINE”†BEATS “LETTERMAN”

IN TOTAL†VIEWERS†AND ADULTS 25-54

“NIGHTLINE” OUTPERFORMS “LETTERMAN”

BY A SIGNIFICANT 550,000 IN TOTAL VIEWERS

†

According to Nielsen Media Research for the week of April 2, 2007, ABC News’ “Nightline” outperformed CBS’ “Late Night with David Letterman” in both Total Viewers and the key Adults 25-54 demographic. The last time “Nightline” beat “Letterman” in both Total Viewers and Adults 25-54 was September 4, 2006. In addition, “Nightline” grew wee to week in Total Viewers. “Letterman” aired original programming last week.

In Total Viewers, “Nightline” posted 3.51 million, a significant 550,000 viewers more than “Letterman’s” 2.96 million viewers. The program also grew 5% compared to last week. “NBC’s “The Tonight Show” posted 5.71 million in Total Viewers.

Among Adults 25-54, “Nightline” again outperformed “Letterman,” posting 1.60 million viewers (1.3 demo rating), 90,000 viewers more than “Letterman’s” 1.51 million viewers (1.2 demo rating). NBC’s “The Tonight Show” posted 2.76 million viewers (2.3 rating) in the Adults 25-54 demo.

*“Letterman” aired late on Monday due to the NCAA, and on Thursday and Friday due to Master’s Golf highlights.

ABC News’ “Nightline” is anchored by Cynthia McFadden, Terry Moran and Martin Bashir. James Goldston is the executive producer.

(Week of April 2, 2007)†††

†††

†

††††††††††††††††††††††††††TOTAL VIEWERS†††††††A25-54 (000)/†Rtg†

ABC†“Nightline”†††††††††††††3,510,000†††††† 1,600,000/ 1.3

CBS “Late Show”†††††††††††††2,960,000††††††††† 1,510,000/ 1.2

NBC “Tonight”†††††††††††††††5,710,000†††††††† †2,760,000/ 2.3

†

Source: NTI and NSI

†

A April 5, 2007

Fringe Ratings Report: ABC Daytime Programming

Week of April 2, 2007

ABC DAYTIME’S FULL AND DRAMA LINEUPS RANKED NO. 1 FOR THE WEEK

(BOTH ABC LINEUPS HAVE RANKED NO. 1 FOR 28 OF 29 WEEKS THIS SEASON

AMONG WOMEN 18-49), AND ABC’S FULL AND DRAMA LINEUPS RANK NO.1

SEASON TO DATE AMONG WOMEN 18-49

ABC DAYTIME’S FULL AND DRAMA LINEUPS RANKED NO. 1

FOR THE WEEK AMONG FEMALE TEENS

ABC’S FULL LINEUP IS UP 3% SEASON TO DATE AMONG TOTAL VIEWERS (MOST GROWTH), AND IS UP 1% IN WOMEN 18-34, MAKING ABC THE ONLY NETWORK UP IN WOMEN 18-34

“THE VIEW” IS UP SEASON TO DATE AMONG WOMEN 18-49,

WOMEN 18-34 AND TOTAL VIEWERS

“GENERAL HOSPITAL” RANKED NO. 1 AMONG WOMEN 18-49, MARKING THE TENTH WEEK

IN A ROW THAT “GH” HAS RANKED NO. 1 AMONG WOMEN 18-49 IN RATING

“GENERAL HOSPITAL” IS THE ONLY DAYTIME DRAMA TO SHOW

SEASON-TO-DATE GROWTH IN WOMEN 18-34

ABC WON THE COMMON 1-3 P.M. TIME PERIOD FOR THE WEEK,

OUTPERFORMING NBC BY 24% AND CBS BY 12% AMONG WOMEN 18-49

Week of April 2, 2007

ABC’s daytime Drama lineup was No. 1 for the week among Women 18-49, with a 1.6 rating and a 10 share, delivering one million Women 18-49 for the week of April 2, 2007. The lineup outperformed CBS by 18% and NBC by 32%. The lineup was up 2% vs. the prior week among Women 18-49, and up 134% among Female Teens.

ABC’s Full daytime schedule was No. 1 for the week among Women 18-49, with a 1.5 rating and a 10 share, delivering an average audience of 960,000 Women 18-49. The lineup outperformed CBS by 12% and NBC by 22% among Women 18-49. The Full lineup is also up 1% season to date among women 18-34, making ABC the only network to show season-to-date growth in the demo. Among Total Viewers, the Full lineup is up 3% season to date (more than any other network). The lineup was also up 154% week to week among Female Teens.

ABC delivered three out of the top six shows among Women 18-49:

“The View,” during a week of encore performances, had a 1.1 rating and an 8 share, delivering an average audience of 733,000 Women 18-49. Season to date, “The View” is up 18% among Women 18-49. Among Women 18-34, it is up 22% season to date. Among Female Teens, it was up 344% vs. the prior week and up 48% vs. the same week last year.

Among Total Viewers, “The View” had a 1.0 rating and a 7 share, delivering 3 million Total Viewers for the week. The talker is up 17% season to date with Total Viewers.

“General Hospital” was the No. 1-ranked program for the 10^th straight week, with a 1.8 rating (tied with Y&R) and an 11 share, delivering 1.2 million Women 18-49, and was up 1% vs. last week. “GH” beat “Days of Our Lives” by 33% among Women 18-49. Additionally, “General Hospital” beat its time period rival, “Guiding Light,” by 53% for the week among Women 18-49. “GH” was up 98% among Female Teens week to week, and was up 71% vs. the same week last year. Among Total Viewers, “General Hospital” is up 1% vs. last week and is up 1% season to date. Among Women 18-34, the program is up 4% season to date, the only daytime drama to show growth vs. last year.

“One Life to Live” was the No. 3*-ranked program of the week, with a 1.5 rating and a 10 share, delivering 994,000 Women 18-49. “OLTL” was up 4% vs. last week, and outperformed time period competitors “As the World Turns” by 37% and “Passions” by 43% for the week. Among Women 18-34, the program was up 6% vs. last week and was up 148% among Female Teens vs. last week.

“All My Children” was the No. 4*-ranked program of the week, with a 1.4 rating a 9 share, delivering 948,000 Women 18-49. “AMC was up 3% vs. the prior week among Women 18-49. The “AMC” advantage over time period competitor “Days” was 9% among Women 18-49. “AMC” was up 205% among Female Teens vs. the prior week, and was up 1% in Total Viewers vs. the prior week.

Season to date, ABC Daytime’s drama lineup ranks No. 1, with a 1.7 rating and an 10 share, delivering 1.1 million Women 18-49 – outperforming CBS by 18% and NBC by 17% in actuals. In the Full lineup, ABC Daytime is No. 1, with a 1.7 rating and an 11 share, delivering 1.1 million Women 18-49, outperforming CBS by 20% and NBC 15% in actuals.

Following are the Daytime drama and full Daytime ratings averages for the week:

†

DAYTIME DRAMAS: TOTAL VIEWERS WOMEN 18-49

No. 1 CBS 3,719,000 No. 1 ABC 1.6/10

No. 2 ABC† 3,060,000 No. 2 CBS 1.3/9

No. 3 NBC† 2,195,000 No. 3 NBC† 1.2/8

FULL DAYTIME: TOTAL VIEWERS WOMEN 18-49

No. 1 CBS† 4,082,000 No. 1 ABC 1.5/10

No. 2 ABC† 3,015,000 No. 2 CBS† 1.3/9

No. 3 NBC† 2,195,000 No. 2 NBC† 1.2/8

Pre-emptions for the week of 3/26/07

Monday (4/2/07):†
*ATWT, B&B and Y&R were preempted in Philadelphia (2.642%) due to baseball.
*ATWT was preempted in Columbus (0.807%) due to a special news report.
*Days and Passions were interrupted in Columbus (0.807%) due to a special news report.
††Thursday (4/5/07):†
†*AMC, ATWT, B&B, PR1 & PR2, The VIEW, OLTL, Y&R were preempted in Charlotte (0.939%) due to a special news report.
†Friday (4/6/07):†
*AMC, ATWT, B&B, Days, PR1 & PR2, The VIEW, Y&R and OLTL were preempted in Charlotte (0.939%) due to a special news report.
*OLTL and Passions were interrupted in Charlotte (0.939%) from 2-2:45p due to a special news report.
*Passions was preempted in Cleveland (1.381%) due to baseball.
†

**all data above reflects “Live + Same Day”

CORRECTION/UPDATE

As of THURS., APRIL 12 (all times ET unless noted)

MONDAY, APRIL 16

TIME CHANGE “DANCING WITH THE STARS: 405” is now scheduled 8:00-9:31 p.m.

(originally was 8:00-9:30 p.m.)

“THE BACHELOR: OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN: 1003” is now 9:31-11:00 p.m. (originally was 9:30-11:00 p.m.)

TUESDAY, APRIL 17

TIME CHANGE “DANCING WITH THE STARS THE RESULTS SHOW: 405A” is now scheduled 9:00-10:01 p.m. (originally was 9:00-10:00 p.m.)

“BOSTON LEGAL: Guise ‘n Dolls” is now 10:01-11:00 p.m. (originally was 10:00-11:00 p.m.)

SUNDAY, APRIL 22

TIME CHANGE “DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES: God, That’s Good” is now scheduled 9:00-10:02 p.m. (originally was 9:00-10:01 p.m.)

“BROTHERS & SISTERS: Sexual Politics” is now 10:02-11:00 p.m. (originally was 10:01-11:00 p.m.)

MONDAY, APRIL 23

TIME CHANGE “DANCING WITH THE STARS: 406” is now scheduled 8:00-9:31 p.m.

(originally was 8:00-9:30 p.m.)

“THE BACHELOR: OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN: 1004” is now 9:31-11:00 p.m. (originally was 9:30-11:00 p.m.)

TUESDAY, APRIL 24

TIME CHANGE “DANCING WITH THE STARS THE RESULTS SHOW: 406A” is now scheduled 9:00-10:01 p.m. (originally was 9:00-10:00 p.m.)

“BOSTON LEGAL: Angle of Death” is now 10:01-11:00 p.m. (originally was 10:00-11:00 p.m.)

April 12, 2007
Quick Take for Wednesday, April 11, 2007 (Based on Fast Affiliate Ratings)

ABC Takes Second to Fox’s Expanded “American Idol” Lineup

on Wednesday in Adults 18-49 and Adults 18-34

ABC’s “George Lopez” Attracts ABC’s Largest Audience

in the 8pm Half-Hour in 2 Months

Surging at 10pm, “Lost” Beats CBS’ “C.S.I. NY” by a Substantial 50% in Adults 18-49, the ABC Drama’s Largest Margin of Victory in the Key Young Adult Demo

“Lost” Grows Week to Week Among Total Viewers and Adults 18-49,

and Delivers Its Strongest Women 18-34 Performance in 5 Weeks

Wednesday Night (8:00-11:00 p.m.)

ABC finished second to Fox on Wednesday among Adults 18-49 (3.0/8 – tied) and Adults 18-34 (2.7/8). In fact, opposite Fox’s lineup of the “’Til Death” season finale and an expanded 1-hour “American Idol,” ABC saw an 8% increase in Adults 18-34 (2.7/8 vs. 2.5/8) over the previous week.

“George Lopez” (8:00-8:30 p.m.)

“George Lopez” attracted ABC’s largest audience (6.5 million) in the half-hour in 2 months – since 2/14/07

“Lost” (10:00-11:00 p.m.)

Building on its lead-in by 8.1 million viewers (11.9 million vs. 3.8 million) and by 240% in young adults (5.1/13 vs. 1.5/4), “Lost” dominated Wednesday’s 10 o’clock hour across the adult demographics: Adults 18-34 (4.7/13), Adults 18-49 (5.1/13) and Adults 25-54 (5.5/14). In fact the ABC drama has won its hour in the key Adult 18-49 sales demographic on all 10 telecasts since entering its new time slot.

ABC’s “Lost” defeated CBS’ “C.S.I.: NY” by a substantial 50% among Adults 18-49 (5.1/13 vs. 3.4/9), the largest margin of victory for the ABC drama over the CBS series in originals.

“Lost” topped its week-ago deliveries in both Total Viewers (11.9 million vs. 11.7 million) and Adults 18-49 (5.1/13 vs. 4.9/13). In addition, “Lost” posted its strongest Women 18-34 (5.5/14) performance in 5 weeks – since 3/7/07.

“Lost” improved the hour for ABC over the same night last year by 5.5 million viewers and 104% in Adults 18-49 (6.4 million & 2.5/7 on 4/12/06).

Source: Nielsen Media Research (Fast Affiliate Ratings), Live+SD 4/11/07.

END

“LOST” VIDEO PODCAST FEATURING COMPOSER MICHAEL GIACCHINO

AVAILABLE AT ABC.COM BEGINNING THURSDAY, APRIL 12

An exclusive “Lost” video podcast will be available Thursday, April 12 at www.abc.com and iTunes. The podcast features well known soundtrack composer Michael Giacchino, as he takes viewers on a behind-the-scenes tour with his orchestra during the scoring session for the episode “ExposÈ.”

About Michael Giacchino

Michael Giacchino is a well known soundtrack composer who has written the scores for many popular movies, television series and video games. His first major composition was for “The Lost World: Jurassic Park.” He has also provided the scores for video games including “Call of Duty” and “Call of Duty: Finest Hour.” In 2005 Giacchino won an Emmy for Music Composition for a Series (Dramatic Underscore) for “Lost.”

About “Lost”

“Lost” stars Naveen Andrews as Sayid, Henry Ian Cusick as Desmond, Emilie de Ravin as Claire, Michael Emerson as Ben, Matthew Fox as Jack, Jorge Garcia as Hurley, Josh Holloway as Sawyer, Daniel Dae Kim as Jin, Yunjin Kim as Sun, Evangeline Lilly as Kate, Elizabeth Mitchell as Juliet, Dominic Monaghan as Charlie and Terry O’Quinn as Locke.

“Lost” was created by Jeffrey Lieber and J.J. Abrams & Damon Lindelof. Abrams, Lindelof, Bryan Burk, Jack Bender, Jeff Pinkner and Carlton Cuse serve as executive producers. It’s filmed entirely on location in Hawaii and premiered on September 22, 2004, is from ABC Television Studio.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 10, 2007

ATTEN-SHUN!

THE BACHELORETTES GET A REAL TASTE OF NAVY LIFE WHEN A DRILL SERGEANT

PUTS THEM THROUGH THE RIGOROUS PACES OF A BOOT CAMP, ON

“THE BACHELOR: OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN,” APRIL 16, ON ABC

Dr. Andy Baldwin Treats a Bachelorette Injured at Boot Camp;

A Mud Spa Proves to Be a Down and Dirty Battle Among the Women for Private Time with Andy

“Episode 1003” – A physical Bachelor boot camp proves too much for one bachelorette, who receives top notch medical attention from Andy. Then a relaxing mud spa turns out to be the backdrop for a wild group date where the women clash to get some time alone with the Bachelor. In another over-the-top confrontation racing high performance Saleen supercharged cars, the ladies are all revved up to land a one-on-one date with Andy, and a final date on an aircraft carrier will be the end of the road for one woman, on “The Bachelor: Officer and a Gentleman,” MONDAY, APRIL 16 (9:30-11:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

The bachelorettes get a rude wake-up call from a drill sergeant, as they participate in a rough and tumble Bachelor boot camp, with one tough woman winning a rose. Unfortunately Bevin is injured, but Andy shows off his medical expertise and bedside manner, rushing to her rescue. He then unwinds with five beautiful ladies at a mud spa, which quickly turns into a down-and-dirty tussle to capture some alone time with the Bachelor. In the end, one lucky woman gets a private massage from the handsome doctor.

Next, four fabulous ladies accompany the Bachelor to a racetrack to see who revs his engine and who stalls out. Andy chooses one bachelorette to take on a romantic sunset drive to the beach.

On the dramatic final date, Andy gives two women an inside look at his life as a naval officer when they visit an aircraft carrier in San Diego. But there’s a catch: At the end of it, there’s only one rose to hand out. While one woman goes home in tears, Andy sweeps the other woman off her feet and into a waiting helicopter.

At the rose ceremony, Andy must send three ladies home in heartbreak, as he narrows the field from 12 bachelorettes to nine.

The 12 remaining women are:

Amanda, 26, financial analyst, who currently resides in Dallas, TX.

Amber, 23, teacher, who currently resides in Sugar Land, TX.

Bevin, 28, clinic research coordinator, who currently resides in Palo Alto, CA.

Danielle I., 25, graphic designer, who currently resides in Bethel, CT.

Erin, 24, financial analyst, who currently resides in Dallas, TX.

Kate, 24, boutique owner, who currently resides in Charleston, SC.

Nicole, 26, sales manager, who currently resides in Charleston, SC.

Peyton, 24, sorority recruiter, who currently resides in Dallas, TX.

Stephanie T., 27, organ donor coordinator, who currently resides in Folly Beach, SC.

Stephanie W., 23, project manager, who currently resides in Overland Park, KS.

Tessa, 26, social worker, who currently resides in San Francisco, CA.

Tina, 26, medical student, who currently resides in Hollywood, CA.

Hosted by Chris Harrison, “The Bachelor: Officer and a Gentleman” is a production of Next Entertainment in association with Warner Horizon Television. Mike Fleiss and Lisa Levenson are the executive producers. Martin Hilton and David Bohnert are the co-executive producers.

“The Bachelor: Officer and a Gentleman” is broadcast with Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning. A TV parental guideline will be posted closer to airdate.

Ratings Report: ABC News Programming††††††††††††††††††††††††††† April 10, 2007
Week of April 2-6, 2007

†

“World News with Charles Gibson” Is the #1 Evening Newscast

Among Total Viewers, Households and Adults 25-54

ABC Posts Largest Total Viewer Advantage Over NBC in Nearly 19 Months

ABC Ranks #1 Among Total Viewers for 6^th Time in 9 Weeks

ABC Places First in Key Demo Rating for 8^th Time in 10 Weeks

“World News” Is the Only Evening Newscast to Grow Its Total Viewing Audience Versus a Year Ago and Season to Date

††

“ABC’s World News with Charles Gibson” was the #1 evening newscast among Total Viewers, Households and Adults 25-54 for the week of April 2. Averaging 8.08 million Total Viewers and a 2.0/8 among Adults 25-54, “World News” outperformed NBC’s “Nightly News” by 440,000 Total Viewers and 60,000 key demo viewers. This marks ABC’s greatest Total Viewing advantage over NBC in nearly 19 months (week of August 8, 2005).

“World News” had a single sponsor and limited commercial interruptions on Monday, April 2 and outperformed NBC by 480,000 Total Viewers that night. Continuing the trend of the last two months, “World News” has now finished first among Total Viewers six times in the last nine weeks. Among Adults 25-54, “World News” has placed first in the key demo rating eight times in the last ten weeks.

For the week, “World News” was the only evening newscast to post year-to-year gains among Total Viewers, increasing 3%; NBC declined 8% and CBS fell 10%.

Season to date, “World News” is the only evening newscast to grow its Total Viewing audience, increasing 1%; NBC is down 6% and CBS is down 4%. The Total Viewing gap between ABC and NBC is 69% smaller this season than it was at this time last year. Additionally, the demo gap between ABC and NBC is 75% smaller season to date versus a year ago.

For the week “World News” averaged 1.89 million more Total Viewers than CBS’ “Evening News.” This marks the fifteenth consecutive week the Total Viewing gap between the two programs has exceeded 1.5 million.

“World News” placed first among Women 25-54 (2.3), the 21st consecutive week the ABC broadcast has placed first in this demo.

On April 2, “World News” aired with limited commercial interruptions due to a single sponsorship arrangement. Airing in conjunction with the sponsorship deal, which continues for the next three Mondays in April, is a special series – “Key to the World” – reported by Bill Weir. Last Monday Weir reported from Kiribati, a nation of thirty-three islands in the Pacific Ocean, where global warming is not a distant, theoretical hazard but an imminent danger due to rising sea levels. The broadcast also featured two exclusive reports from Chief Investigative Correspondent Brian Ross on Iran’s nuclear capabilities and a Pakistani tribal militant group responsible for a series of deadly guerrilla raids inside Iran.

Jon Banner is the executive producer of “ABC’s World News with Charles Gibson.”

†

EVENING NEWS (Week of April 2, 2007)

Total Viewers A25-54 and 000 Households

ABC 8,080,000 2.0/8; 2,400,000 5.6/12

NBC 7,640,000 1.9/8; 2,340,000 5.4/11

CBS 6,190,000 1.6/6; 1,900,000 4.4/9

†

Source: Nielsen, NTI

ENTERTAINMENT

April 10, 2007

More information about “The Bachelor: Officer and a Gentleman”

In the third episode, airing Monday, April 16 (9:30-11:00 p.m., ET), a physical Bachelor boot camp proves too much for one bachelorette, who receives top notch medical attention from Andy. Then a relaxing mud spa turns out to be the backdrop for a wild group date where the women clash to get some time alone with the Bachelor. In another over-the-top confrontation racing high performance Saleen supercharged cars, the ladies are all revved up to land a one-on-one date with Andy, and a final date on an aircraft carrier will be the end of the road for one woman.

The bachelorettes get a rude wake-up call from a drill sergeant, as they participate in a rough and tumble Bachelor boot camp, with one tough woman winning a rose. Andy then unwinds with five beautiful ladies at a mud spa, which quickly turns into a down-and-dirty tussle to capture some alone time with the Bachelor. In the end, one lucky woman gets a private massage from the handsome doctor. Next, four fabulous ladies accompany the Bachelor to a racetrack to see who revs his engine and who stalls out. Andy chooses one bachelorette to take on a romantic sunset drive to the beach.

On the dramatic final date, Andy gives two women an inside look at his life as a naval officer when they visit an aircraft carrier in San Diego. But there’s only one rose to hand out. While one woman goes home in tears, Andy sweeps the other woman off her feet and into a waiting helicopter.

At the rose ceremony, three ladies will go home in heartbreak, as the field narrows from 12 to 9.

Primetime Ratings Report April 10, 2007
For the week of April 2, 2007

Growing Week to Week Among Viewers and Young Adults, ABC

Draws its Largest Audience Since the Week of the Academy Awards

ABC Airs 7 of the Top 20 TV Shows for the Week in Adults 18-49,

With 3 of the Top 10 Programs in Both Viewers and Young Adults

ABC’s “Lost” and “Brothers & Sisters” Qualify as TV’s Top 2

10 O’clock Series of the Week in the Key Adult 18-49 Sales Demo

Leading is Time Slot, ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” is the Monday’s

No. 1 Non-Sports TV Program Among Total Viewers and Adults 18-49

“The Bachelor: Officer and a Gentleman” Premieres with the Largest

Audience for “The Bachelor” Opener in 3 Years, Five Editions Ago

Tuesday at 9pm, “DWTS the Results Show” Catapults Over its Lead-in,

Places a Strong Second Against an “Idol”-Fueled “House” and Improves the

Time Period for ABC by 11.8 Million Viewers and by 225% in Adults 18-49

ABC’s “Boston Legal” Takes Second Place Tuesday at 10pm, Producing the Series’ Biggest Audience in 4 Months and its Best Women 18-34 Number Since October

Growing its Audience Week to Week, ABC’s “Lost” Jumps from its Lead-in to Win Wednesday at 10pm in Viewers and Key Adults, Greatly Improving the Slot for ABC

Building on its Lead-in Among Adults 18-34 for the Second Week in a Row,

ABC’s “October Road” Leads Thursday’s 10 O’clock Hour with Young Women

ABC Wins Saturday in Viewers and Young Adults with “The Ten Commandments”

ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” Wins Sunday at 8pm, Outdrawing Second-Place CBS’ “Amazing Race” by 2.9 Million Viewers and by 45% Among Adults 18-49

The No. 1 TV Program on Sunday, ABC’s “Desperate Housewives” Dominates its Slot

ABC’s “Brothers & Sisters” Tops Sunday’s 10 O’clock Hour Among Adults 18-49

WEEK No. 29:

ABC took second place to Fox during the week in Adults 18-34 (2.3/7-tie), Teens 12-17 (1.5/6) and Kids 2-11 (1.2/5). The Net won the week with Women 25-54 (4.6/12). ABC outdelivered NBC during the week by 2.2 million viewers (9.3 vs. 7.1 million) and by 36% in Adults 18-49 (3.0/9 vs. 2.2/6).

ABC was up over the prior week by 7% in Total Viewers (9.3 million vs. 8.7 million) and by 7% in Adults 18-49 (3.0/9 vs. 2.8/8). The Net attracted its largest audience in 6 weeks – since the w/o 2/19/07, the week of the Academy Awards telecast.

Weekly Rankings: ABC aired 7 of the Top 20 TV programs during the week among Adults 18-49, including 3 of the Top 10 shows: “Desperate Housewives” – No. 6, “Lost” – No. 8, “Dancing with the Stars” – No. 9, “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” – No. 12, “Brothers & Sisters” – No. 13, “Dancing with the Stars the Results” – No. 15 and “The Bachelor: Officer and a Gentleman” – No. 18. ABC also delivered 3 of the Top 10 most-watched television shows during the week: “DWTS” – No. 6, “Desperate Housewives” – No. 7 and “DWTS the Results Show” – No. 9. With “Lost” and “Brothers & Sisters,” ABC claimed the Top 2 10 o’clock series for the week in Adults 18-49.

Monday

Boosted by another strong turn-out for “Dancing with the Stars” leading into the premiere of “The Bachelor: Officer and a Gentleman,” ABC stood as Monday’s most-watched network (14.8 million) for the third consecutive week. The Network also held the No. 1 position for the evening in each of the women demographics (W18-34 – 5.3/14, W18-49 – 6.3/16 & W25-54 – 7.2/17) and among Kids 2-11 (1.6/7). Competing against CBS’ NCAA Basketball Championship coverage during prime, ABC ranked as the top non-sports network on Monday in Adults 18-49 (4.3/11), topping Fox by 10% (3.9/10) and NBC by 54% (2.8/7).

ABC was up from the same Monday last year -- when it also went up against CBS’ NCAA Championship Basketball Game -- by 6.8 million viewers and by 34% in Adults 18-49 (8.0 million & 3.2/8 on 4/3/06). In fact ABC delivered its highest numbers opposite the NCAA Championship Basketball Game in 12 years among Total Viewers, and in 9 years among Adults 18-49 – since 4/3/95 and 3/30/98, respectively.

“Dancing with the Stars” (8:00-9:45 p.m.)

Winning its time period, ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” was the No. 1 non-sports program on Monday night in Total Viewers (18.2 million) and Adults 18-49 (4.8/13). Topping the NCAA Championship, “DWTS” ranked as the No. 1 TV program of the night across each of the women demographics (W18-34/W18-49/W25-54) and among Kids 2-11.

Despite going up against the championship college basketball game for part of its broadcast, “Dancing with the Stars” increased its overall audience from the comparable third installment of the show last season (18.2 million vs. 17.9 million on 9/26/06).

“The Bachelor: Officer and a Gentleman” (9:45-11:00 p.m.)

ABC's “The Bachelor: Officer and a Gentleman” opened with an average audience of 9.9 million viewers and a 3.7 rating, 9 share in Adults 18-49. Trailing only “DWTS,” “The Bachelor” ranked as the No. 2 program of the night across the key women demos: W18-34 (4.8/13), W18-49 (5.4/13) and W25-54 (5.6/13).

ABC's “The Bachelor: Officer and a Gentleman” opened with 2.4 million more viewers (9.9 million vs. 7.5 million) and with 19% more Adults 18-49 (3.7/9 vs. 3.1/8) than the most recent edition of the franchise (“The Bachelor: Rome” on 10/2/06). In fact it was the most-watched season premiere for “The Bachelor” in 3 years (Five “The Bachelors” ago) – since 4/7/04.

Tuesday

“Dancing with the Stars the Results Show” (9:00-10:00 p.m.)

Launching from its lead-in by 10.8 million viewers (15.0 million vs. 4.2 million) and by 160% among young adults (3.9/10 vs. 1.5/4) against Fox’s “American Idol”-fueled “House” in the 9 o’clock hour, ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars the Results Show” posted a strong second-place finish in its time period in Total Viewers and Adults 18-49. Although CBS had a decided lead-in advantage coming into the time slot, “DWTS the Results Show” moved ahead of third-place CBS in the hour by 5.2

million viewers and by 34% in Adults 18-49 (“The Unit” (R) = 9.8 million & 2.9/7). Miss USA 2004, Shandi Finnessey, was the second celebrity dancer to be eliminated from the ABC dance competition. From start to finish, the ABC unscripted program gained 1.1 million viewers (14.4 million to 15.5 million) and 8% among Adults 18-49 (3.7/9 to 4.0/10).

“DWTS the Results Show” improved the hour for ABC by 11.8 million viewers and by 225% in Adults 18-49 (3.2 million & 1.2/3 in AD18-49 on 4/4/06).

Despite increased competition in its time period, “DWTS the Results Show” was up from its comparable second installment for the most recent edition last September (9/20/06) among Adults 18-49 (+5%), across the key women demos (W18-34 +8%, W218-49 +6% and W25-54 +2%) and Teens 12-17 (+33%).

Boston Legal” (10:00-11:00 p.m.)

ABC’s “Boston Legal” delivered a solid second place during the 10 o’clock hour among Total Viewers (10.0 million) and Adults 18-49 (2.6/7).

“Boston Legal” attracted its largest audience in 4 months and its top Adult 18-49 number since February – since 12/5/06 and 2/13/07, respectively. In the hour, the ABC legal drama posted its strongest Women 18-34 number (2.3/7) since October – since 10/17/06.

Wednesday

ABC took second place to Fox on Wednesday evening among Adults 18-49 (3.1/9), besting third-place CBS by 15% (2.7/8) and fourth-place NBC by 41% (2.2/6).

“George Lopez” (8:30-9:00 p.m.)

Growing from its lead-in, “George Lopez” generated ABC’s top Total Viewer (6.5 million) and Adult 18-49 (2.5/7) numbers in the time period since January – since 1/17/07 and 1/10/17, respectively. Among Adults 18-49, ABC’s “George Lopez” beat its CBS and NBC competition in its time period, including “Jericho” (2.2/6) and “Friday Night Lights” (2.0/6).

“Lost” (10:00-11:00 p.m.)

Building on its lead-in by 6.9 million viewers (11.7 million vs. 4.8 million) and by 145% in young adults (4.9/13 vs. 2.0/5), “Lost” dominated Wednesday’s 10 o’clock hour in Total Viewers (11.7 million) and across the adult demographics: Adults 18-34 (4.3/13), Adults 18-49 (4.9/13) and Adults 25-54 (5.5/14). In fact the ABC drama has won its hour in the key Adult 18-49 sales demographic on all 9 telecasts since entering its new time slot.

Despite its late time period and declining TV usage levels, “Lost” grew its viewer (11.5 million to 11.8 million) and young adult audience (4.8/13 to 5.0/14) from its first half-hour to its second half-hour.

“Lost” increased its overall audience week to week (11.7 million vs. 11.5 million) and was also up in Adults 25-54 (5.5/14 vs. 5.4/14).

“Lost” improved the hour for ABC over the same night a year ago by 4.0 million viewers and 63% in Adults 18-49 (7.7 million & 3.0/8 on 4/5/06).

Thursday

With 2/3 of ABC’s schedule in repeat, the Net finished second on the night behind CBS’ all original lineup in Total Viewers (7.5 million) and across each of the key women demographics: Women (3.1/9), Women 18-49 (3.8/10) and Women 25-54 (4.3/11).††

†

“Grey’s Anatomy” (9:00-10:01 p.m.)

A repeat airing of ABC's “Grey's Anatomy” took second place in the 9 o’clock hour in Total Viewers (8.7 million) and Adults 18-49 (3.1/9), behind CBS’ original “C.S.I.”† ABC’s repeat “Grey’s
defeated third-place NBC’s original comedies (“30 Rock”/”Scrubs”) by 3.6 million viewers and by 29% in Adults 18-49 (NBC = 5.1 million & 2.4/7).

“October Road” (10:01-11:00 p.m.)

“October Road” ranked No. 1 in the 10 o’clock hour among Women 18-49 (4.5/12) and Women 18-34 (3.6/12), while placing a strong second with viewers (7.7 million) and young adults (3.0/9).† Additionally, the new ABC drama was the No. 2 TV show on Thursday night with Women 18-34, behind only CBS’ original airing of the veteran “C.S.I.”

For the second week in a row, “October Road” built on its lead-in among Adults 18-34 (2.5/8 vs. 2.3/7) and Women 18-34 (3.9/12 vs. 3.6/10).† The new series held 97% of its Adult 18-49 lead-in (3.0/9 vs. 3.1/9).

Friday

“Wife Swap” (9:01-10:00 p.m.)

Airing against all-original programming, ABC’s repeat airing of “Wife Swap” took second in the hour among Adults 18-49 (1.8/6), defeating NBC’s “Raines” (1.7/5) and Fox’s “Wedding Bells” (1.3/4). ††

†

“Wife Swap” posted week-to-week increases for ABC in the hour of 1.5 million viewers (4.6 million vs. 3.1 million) and of 64% among Adults 18-49 (1.8/6 vs. 1.1/4).†

Saturday

Saturday Primetime: “The Ten Commandments” (8:00-11:00 p.m.)

ABC’s annual broadcast of the 1956 theatrical, “The Ten Commandments,” made the Network No. 1 on Saturday in Total Viewers (7.9 million) and Adults 18-49 (2.4/8).

†

Sunday

Although ABC aired repeat programming in the first hour of prime against all-original competition on CBS and NBC, ABC dominated Easter Sunday among Adults 18-49. During Sunday’s primetime, ABC (4.2/12) beat out second-place CBS by 45% (2.9/8), third-place NBC by 100% (2.1/6) and fourth-place Fox by 121% (1.9/5).

ABC’s “Desperate Housewives” stood as Sunday’s No. 1 TV show in Total Viewers and Adults 18-49. ABC aired the Top 3 TV programs of the evening in Adults 18-49, with “Housewives,” “Home Edition” and “Brothers & Sisters.”

“America’s Funniest Home Videos” (7:00-8:00 p.m.)

ABC’s repeat airing of “America’s Funniest Home Videos” delivered a strong second place to CBS during the 7 o’clock, beating third-place NBC’s original “Dateline” by 2.3 million viewers (7.6 million vs. 5.3 million) and by 85% in Adults 18-49 (2.4/8 vs. 1.3/4). The replay “Videos” ranked No. 1 in the hour among Adults 18-34 (1.6/6-tie), Teens 12-17 (1.4/6) and Kids 2-11 (2.2/10).

“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” (8:00-9:00 p.m.)

ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” won the 8 o’clock hour, beating second-place CBS’ “Amazing Race All-Stars” by 2.9 million viewers (12.1 million vs. 9.2 million) and by 45% in Adults 18-49 (4.2/12 vs. 2.9/8). ABC’s broad skewing “Home Edition” qualified as No. 1 TV show on Sunday evening with Kids 2-11 (2.9/11).

“Desperate Housewives” (9:00-10:01 p.m.)

On its first original telecast since the beginning of March, ABC’s “Desperate Housewives” overshadowed its time period competition. The No. 1 TV program of the night, “Housewives” bested its nearest competition in the 9 o’clock hour by 4.2 million viewers (15.9 million vs. 11.3 million - CBS’ “Cold Case”) and by 118% in Adults 18-49 (6.1/15 vs. 2.8/7 – NBC’s “Deal Or No Deal”).

“Brothers & Sisters” (10:01-11:00 p.m.)

ABC’s “Brother’s Sisters” ranked a strong No. 1 during the 10 o’clock hour in Adults 18-49, topping second-place CBS’ “Without a Trace” by 8% (4.0/10 vs. 3.6/9). The ABC freshman drama also won
its time period among Adults 18-34 (3.8/8) and across each of the women demographics: W18-34 (4.0/11), W18-49 (5.5/14) and W25-54 (6.3/15).

WEEK NO. 29: ADULTS 18-49 TOTAL VIEWERS

No.1 FOX 3.8 No.1 CBS 11,510,000

No.2 CBS 3.2 No.2 FOX 9,660,000

No.3 ABC 3.0 No.3 ABC 9,320,000

No.4 NBC 2.2 No.4 NBC 7,070,000

No.5 CW 1.0 No.5 CW 2,570,000

Source: Nielsen Media Research, NTI (Live+SD or Most Current), week of 4/2/07, or as dated.

I. T. R. S.

RANKING REPORT

01 THRU 102 (OUT OF 102 PROGRAMS)

DAYPART: PRIMETIME MON-SUN

FROM 04/02/07 THROUGH 04/08/07

REGULAR AND SPECIAL PROGRAMS

LIST RANKED BY: VIEWR 2+ (000)

WEEKLY RANKINGS WE 4.8.07

- ------

VIEWR VIEWR

RANK 2+ 2+

(000) RTG

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

1 AMERICAN IDOL-TUESDAY 26670 9.4

2 AMERICAN IDOL-WEDNESDAY 26100 9.2

3 CSI 21690 7.7

4 HOUSE 20350 7.2

5 CBS NCAA BSKBL CHAMPSHIPS 19560 6.9

6 * DANCING W/THE STARS-MON 18240 6.4

7 * DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES 15930 5.6

8 SHARK 15100 5.3

9 * DANCING W/STARS RESULT-TU 14990 5.3

10 WITHOUT A TRACE-SPECIAL 14120 5.0

11 TIL DEATH 13950 4.9

12 NCIS 13790 4.9

13 SURVIVOR: FIJI 13580 4.8

14 60 MINUTES SPECIAL 13170 4.6

15 * EXTREME MAKEOVER:HOME ED. 12100 4.3

16 PRELUDE TO A CHAMPIONSHIP 11940 4.2

17 * LOST 11660 4.1

18 DEAL OR NO DEAL-MON 11450 4.0

19 COLD CASE - SPECIAL 11330 4.0

20 LAW AND ORDER:SVU 11160 3.9

21 24 10950 3.9

22 DEAL OR NO DEAL-MON 4/2 10930 3.9

NUMB3RS 10930 3.9

24 CLOSE TO HOME 10820 3.8

25 * BROTHERS & SISTERS 10800 3.8

26 BONES 10530 3.7

27 SMARTER THAN 5TH GRADER 10330 3.6

28 CRIMINAL MINDS 10290 3.6

29 CSI: NY 10270 3.6

30 DEAL OR NO DEAL-SUN 4/8 10160 3.6

31 * BOSTON LEGAL 9970 3.5

32 * BACHELOR:OFFICER&GENTLEMN 9860 3.5

33 UNIT, THE 9830 3.5

34 GHOST WHISPERER 9660 3.4

35 AMAZING RACE 11 - SPECIAL 9290 3.3

36 * GREY'S ANATOMY-THU 9PM 8660 3.1

37 MEDIUM 8420 3.0

38 LAW AND ORDER 8220 2.9

39 PRISON BREAK 8120 2.9

40 JERICHO 8000 2.8

41 CSI: MIAMI - TUESDAY SPCL 7930 2.8

42 * OCTOBER ROAD 7680 2.7

43 * AMER FUNN HOME VIDEOS 7610 2.7

44 CROSSING JORDAN 7570 2.7

45 * 20/20-FRI 7260 2.6

46 LAW AND ORDER:CRIM INTENT 7140 2.5

47 CRIMETIME SATURDAY 7090 2.5

48 48 HOURS MYSTERY 7070 2.5

49 TWO AND A HALF MEN-830PM 6860 2.4

CRIMETIME SATURDAY 8PM 6860 2.4

51 OFFICE 6740 2.4

52 RAINES 6670 2.4

53 APPRENTICE 6 4/8 6610 2.3

54 * GEORGE LOPEZ-WED 8:30P 6530 2.3

55 DATELINE SUN-7PM 4/8 6420 2.3

56 * UGLY BETTY 6240 2.2

57 LAW & ORDER:CI-SAT 6180 2.2

58 AMW: AMERICA FIGHTS BACK 6090 2.1

59 IDENTITY 6050 2.1

60 * GEORGE LOPEZ 5990 2.1

61 COPS 2 5900 2.1

62 DATELINE NBC-TUE 5800 2.0

63 HOUSE-FRI 8P 5600 2.0

64 HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER 5580 2.0

65 FAMILY GUY-EASTER 9P 5470 1.9

66 * ACCORDING TO JIM 9PM 5430 1.9

67 30 ROCK 5370 1.9

68 DATELINE-SAT 5350 1.9

69 FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS 5330 1.9

70 BLACK DONNELLYS 5300 1.9

71 AMERICA'S TOP MODEL-2 5220 1.8

72 LAW AND ORDER-SAT 5110 1.8

73 AMERICAN DAD-EASTER 9:30P 4980 1.8

COPS 4980 1.8

75 SIMPSONS-EASTER 8P 4950 1.7

76 SCRUBS 4890 1.7

77 * IN CASE OF EMERGENCY 4810 1.7

78 KING OF HILL-EASTER 8:30P 4690 1.7

79 * WIFE SWAP-FRI 4600 1.6

80 FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN 4330 1.5

81 * GEORGE LOPEZ-TU 8PM 4300 1.5

82 FAMILY GUY-THURS 9:30P 4270 1.5

83 * ACCORDING TO JIM-TU 8:30P 4180 1.5

84 FAMILY GUY-THURS 9P 4160 1.5

85 ANDY BARKER, P.I. 4/5 4070 1.4

86 * GREY'S ANATOMY-FRI 8PM 3830 1.4

87 WEDDING BELLS 3800 1.3

88 MY NAME IS EARL 4/5 3760 1.3

89 PUSSYCAT DOLLS-WED 3070 1.1

90 WAR AT HOME-EASTER 7:30P 2670 .9

91 SMALLVILLE 2530 .9

92 PUSSYCAT DOLLS PRESENT 2290 .8

93 7TH HEAVEN 2150 .8

94 WAR AT HOME-EASTER 7P 2060 .7

95 SUPERNATURAL 1960 .7

96 EVERYBODY HATES CHRIS 1790 .6

97 GAME, THE 1760 .6

98 ALL OF US 1680 .6

99 GILMORE GIRLS 1650 .6

100 GIRLFRIENDS 1630 .6

101 AMERICA'S TOP MODEL-2-ENC 1590 .6

102 ONE TREE HILL-SUN 890 .3

5 NETWORKS AVERAGED 8530 3.0

5 NETWORKS SUMMED 40610 14.3

I. T. R. S.

RANKING REPORT

01 THRU 224 (OUT OF 224 PROGRAMS)

DAYPART: PRIMETIME MON-SUN

FROM 09/18/06 THROUGH 04/08/07

REGULAR PROGRAMS

LIST RANKED BY: VIEWR 2+ (000)

STD RANKINGS WE 4.8.07

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

NO/OF VIEWR VIEWR

RANK T/C 2+ 2+

(000) RTG

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

1 AMERICAN IDOL-WEDNESDAY 12 31650 11.2

2 AMERICAN IDOL-TUESDAY 12 31630 11.2

3 * DANCING WITH THE STARS 10 20690 7.3

4 CSI 26 20640 7.3

5 * DANCING W/THE STARS-MON 2 20430 7.2

6 * DANCING W/STARS RESULTS 9 19420 6.9

7 * GREY'S ANATOMY-THU 9PM 28 19190 6.8

8 HOUSE 15 18810 6.6

9 * LOST 6 17840 6.3

10 * DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES 23 17500 6.2

11 CSI: MIAMI 25 17120 6.0

12 NBC SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL 13 16470 5.8

13 * DANCING W/STARS RESULT-TU 2 16410 5.8

14 DEAL OR NO DEAL-MON 26 15930 5.6

15 SURVIVOR: COOK ISLANDS 12 15750 5.6

16 SURVIVOR: FIJI 7 14990 5.3

17 SMARTER THAN 5TH GRADER 6 14960 5.3

18 TWO AND A HALF MEN 25 14870 5.2

19 HEROES 19 14840 5.2

20 HOUSE 2 14800 5.2

21 WITHOUT A TRACE 19 14720 5.2

22 NCIS 28 14640 5.2

23 COLD CASE 19 14630 5.2

24 CRIMINAL MINDS 29 14490 5.1

25 TIL DEATH 4 14440 5.1

26 CSI: NY 29 14270 5.0

27 24 12 14000 4.9

28 * EXTREME MAKEOVER:HOME ED. 24 13910 4.9

29 * LOST 9 13780 4.9

30 60 MINUTES 24 13750 4.9

31 SHARK 26 13550 4.8

32 HALLMARK HALL OF FAME 1 12810 4.5

33 WEDDING BELLS 1 12610 4.4

34 RULES OF ENGAGEMENT 8 12370 4.4

35 LAW AND ORDER:SVU 27 12350 4.4

36 E.R. 20 12130 4.3

37 OT, THE 7 12110 4.3

38 OLD CHRISTINE 17 11770 4.2

39 * UGLY BETTY 26 11580 4.1

40 AMAZING RACE 10 12 11490 4.1

41 DEAL OR NO DEAL-FRI 6 11440 4.0

42 UNIT, THE 25 11290 4.0

43 DEAL OR NO DEAL-SUN 5 11270 4.0

44 * EXTREME MAKEOVER:HM ED-7P 1 11090 3.9

SUNDAY NIGHT NFL PRE-KICK 13 11090 3.9

46 * BROTHERS & SISTERS 23 11010 3.9

47 DEAL OR NO DEAL-THU 8 10850 3.8

48 FOX NEXTEL CUP WNNRS CIRC 2 10740 3.8

49 NUMB3RS 27 10670 3.8

50 * OCTOBER ROAD 4 10610 3.7

51 JERICHO 12 10520 3.7

52 CLOSE TO HOME 24 10480 3.7

53 AMAZING RACE 11 7 10180 3.6

54 GHOST WHISPERER 24 10100 3.6

55 SMITH 3 10060 3.5

56 HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER 3 9900 3.5

57 * BACHELOR:OFFICER&GENTLEMN 1 9860 3.5

58 DEAL OR NO DEAL-WED 9 9800 3.5

59 * SIX DEGREES 6 9680 3.4

60 1 VS 100 20 9630 3.4

61 LAW AND ORDER:CRIM INTENT 27 9300 3.3

62 * BOSTON LEGAL 22 9290 3.3

63 3 LBS 3 9280 3.3

64 * AMER FUNN HOME VIDEOS 22 9260 3.3

65 BONES 19 9250 3.3

PRISON BREAK 19 9250 3.3

67 MY NAME IS EARL 23 9230 3.3

68 LAW AND ORDER 25 9150 3.2

69 CLASS, THE 3 9030 3.2

70 LAS VEGAS 18 9020 3.2

71 * MEN IN TREES 13 9010 3.2

72 * SUPERNANNY 12 8950 3.2

73 FOOTBALL NT AMERICA PT 3 13 8850 3.1

74 SIMPSONS 21 8770 3.1

75 KING OF QUEENS 5 8730 3.1

76 DATELINE FRI 3 8710 3.1

77 MEDIUM 20 8660 3.1

78 HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER 22 8640 3.0

79 STUDIO 60 17 8480 3.0

80 * BACHELOR: ROME 8 8450 3.0

81 JERICHO 6 8430 3.0

82 * HELP ME HELP YOU 9 8410 3.0

83 OFFICE 25 8360 2.9

84 FAMILY GUY 21 8310 2.9

85 BIGGEST LOSER 3 11 8270 2.9

86 CLASS, THE 19 8260 2.9

87 STANDOFF 2 8100 2.9

88 * NINE, THE 7 8060 2.8

89 DATELINE-WED 5 8040 2.8

90 FAMILY GUY-SUN 9:30P 4 7970 2.8

91 * WIFE SWAP 21 7700 2.7

92 * 20/20-FRI 27 7660 2.7

93 * SAT NIGHT FOOTBALL 8 7640 2.7

94 AMERICAN DAD 10 7630 2.7

95 CROSSING JORDAN 6 7620 2.7

96 * ACCORDING TO JIM-8PM 3 7590 2.7

97 48 HOURS MYSTERY 26 7560 2.7

98 APPRENTICE 6 11 7480 2.6

99 GREASE:ONE THAT I WANT 11 7460 2.6

100 CROSSING JORDAN 5 7410 2.6

101 HOUSE-MON 9P 1 7390 2.6

102 * SHOW ME THE MONEY 4 7260 2.6

* MEN IN TREES 7 7260 2.6

104 LAW & ORDER:CI-SAT 10 7170 2.5

105 CRIMETIME SATURDAY 23 7140 2.5

106 OLD CHRISTINE 3 7060 2.5

107 VANISHED 3 6970 2.5

108 AMERICAN DAD 5 6950 2.5

109 IDENTITY 4 6890 2.4

110 KING OF THE HILL 5 6850 2.4

111 RAINES 2 6820 2.4

112 SCRUBS 17 6810 2.4

113 * ACCORDING TO JIM-8:30PM 7 6770 2.4

114 LAW & ORDER:SVU-SAT 11 6760 2.4

115 * AMER FUNN HOME VIDEOS-FRI 4 6690 2.4

116 DATELINE NBC-TUE 15 6680 2.4

117 KIDNAPPED-SAT 1 6670 2.4

118 KIDNAPPED 3 6620 2.3

119 * DAY BREAK 5 6610 2.3

120 JUSTICE 2 6600 2.3

121 CRIMETIME SATURDAY 8PM 21 6540 2.3

BLACK DONNELLYS 6 6540 2.3

123 * GEORGE LOPEZ-WED 8:30P 1 6530 2.3

124 * GEORGE LOPEZ 10 6490 2.3

125 JUSTICE 3 6460 2.3

126 WINNER, THE-SUN 8:30P 3 6450 2.3

127 HOUSE-FRI 8P 5 6420 2.3

128 COPS 2 24 6410 2.3

30 ROCK 4 6410 2.3

130 AMW: AMERICA FIGHTS BACK 23 6400 2.3

131 * PRIMETIME:THE OUTSIDERS 7 6370 2.2

132 BONES-WED 9P 6 6260 2.2

133 FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS 9 6200 2.2

DATELINE SUN-7PM 6 6200 2.2

135 ARMED & FAMOUS 3 6110 2.2

136 * PRIMETIME 9 6100 2.2

137 LAW AND ORDER-SAT 7 6090 2.1

138 WAR AT HOME 7 6070 2.1

139 * AMER FUNN HOME VIDEOS-TUE 12 5970 2.1

140 FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS 13 5900 2.1

141 * WHAT ABOUT BRIAN 18 5890 2.1

142 DATELINE-SAT 23 5840 2.1

143 * ACCORDING TO JIM 9PM 7 5750 2.0

144 WINNER, THE-SUN 9:30P 3 5680 2.0

LAW & ORDER:SVU-SAT 5 5680 2.0

146 30 ROCK 16 5620 2.0

147 20 GOOD YEARS 4 5550 2.0

148 COPS 23 5490 1.9

149 * GREY'S ANATOMY-FRI 8PM 20 5450 1.9

150 STANDOFF 6 5390 1.9

151 * SAT NIGHT FTBL PRE-GAME 8 5370 1.9

152 AMERICA'S NEXT TOP MODEL 12 5360 1.9

153 * ABC SAT MOVIE OF THE WEEK 15 5310 1.9

AMERICA'S TOP MODEL-2 6 5310 1.9

155 ANDY BARKER, P.I. 3 5290 1.9

156 FOOTBALL NT AMERICA PT 2 15 5270 1.9

157 * BIG DAY 8 5260 1.9

158 * KNIGHTS OF PROSPERITY 4 5160 1.8

159 TIL DEATH 16 5140 1.8

160 WEDDING BELLS 4 4890 1.7

161 * WIFE SWAP-FRI 4 4870 1.7

162 * IN CASE OF EMERGENCY 11 4850 1.7

* EXTREME MAKEOVER 1 4850 1.7

164 * KNIGHTS OF PROSPERITY 5 4810 1.7

FAMILY GUY-THURS 9P 4 4810 1.7

166 NANNY 911 8 4650 1.6

167 WAR AT HOME 9 4620 1.6

168 TRADING SPOUSES 16 4590 1.6

169 LAW & ORDER:CI-SAT 1 4580 1.6

170 JUSTICE 4 4570 1.6

171 * GREAT AMERICAN DREAM VOTE 1 4540 1.6

172 FRIDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN 28 4520 1.6

TIL DEATH-THU 8:30P 4 4520 1.6

174 7TH HEAVEN 2 4360 1.5

175 * GEORGE LOPEZ-TU 8PM 1 4300 1.5

176 * BROTHERS & SISTERS-FRI 1 4290 1.5

FAMILY GUY-THURS 9:30P 2 4290 1.5

178 O.C. 15 4280 1.5

179 * BIG DAY-9:30PM 3 4250 1.5

180 KIDNAPPED 2 4210 1.5

181 * ACCORDING TO JIM-TU 8:30P 1 4180 1.5

182 SMALLVILLE 27 4150 1.5

183 RICH LIST 1 4120 1.5

184 AMERICAN DAD-THURS 9:30P 1 4030 1.4

BEAUTY AND THE GEEK 8 4030 1.4

186 * SIX DEGREES 2 3940 1.4

SIMPSONS-SUN 7P 3 3940 1.4

188 HAPPY HOUR 2 3880 1.4

189 AMERICAN DAD-SUN 7P 1 3850 1.4

190 CELEBRITY DUETS 2 3800 1.3

191 WAR AT HOME 4 3790 1.3

192 GILMORE GIRLS 28 3700 1.3

193 NANNY 911 2 3680 1.3

194 CELEBRITY DUETS-FRIDAY 2 3650 1.3

195 REBA 13 3630 1.3

196 WAR AT HOME-SUN 7:30P 2 3350 1.2

VANISHED 2 3350 1.2

198 PUSSYCAT DOLLS-WED 5 3280 1.2

199 7TH HEAVEN 20 3190 1.1

200 SUPERNATURAL 25 3120 1.1

201 ONE TREE HILL 19 2990 1.1

202 PUSSYCAT DOLLS PRESENT 5 2960 1.0

203 WAR AT HOME-SUN 7P 3 2940 1.0

204 EVERYBODY HATES CHRIS 23 2850 1.0

205 GIRLFRIENDS 2 2810 1.0

206 REBA SUN 13 2690 .9

207 GAME, THE 2 2640 .9

208 AMERICA'S TOP MODEL-ENC 3 2590 .9

209 VERONICA MARS 20 2580 .9

210 ALL OF US 23 2540 .9

211 GIRLFRIENDS 23 2500 .9

212 EVERYBODY HATES CHRIS 2 2420 .9

213 ALL OF US 2 2410 .8

214 GAME, THE 23 2340 .8

215 RUNAWAY 2 2040 .7

216 AMERICA'S TOP MODEL-2-ENC 6 2030 .7

217 AMERICA'S TOP MODEL-ENC 1 1990 .7

218 TOP MODEL:BRIT INVASION 2 1960 .7

219 AMERICA'S TOP MODEL-ENC 8 1950 .7

220 RUNAWAY 1 1800 .6

221 BEAUTY AND THE GEEK-ENC 8 1700 .6

222 PUSSYCAT DOLLS PRESENT-EN 3 1560 .6

223 TOP MODEL:BRIT INVSN-ENC 1 1020 .4

224 ONE TREE HILL-SUN 1 890 .3

5 NETWORKS AVERAGED 2393 9450 3.3

5 NETWORKS SUMMED 2393 45450 16.1

April 10, 2007

Quick Take for Monday, April 9, 2007 – Final Ratings

ABC is Monday’s Most-Watched Net for the 4th Straight Week, Delivering

The No. 1 Position on the Evening in Adults 18-49 on 3 of the Last 4 Weeks

Leading its Time Period Across the Board, ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars”

Stands as Monday’s No. 1 TV Program in Total Viewers and Adults 18-49

With Strong Retention of its Week-Ago Premiere in Viewers and Young Adults,
“The Bachelor: Officer and a Gentleman” is Monday’s No. 1 Show in Women 18-34

Monday Night (8:00-11:00 p.m.)

With more impressive results from “Dancing with the Stars” and “The Bachelor: Officer and a Gentleman,” ABC stood as Monday’s most-watched TV network (14.0 million) for the 4th week in a row. For the 3rd time in 4 weeks, ABC ranked No. 1 on the night among Adults 18-49 (4.1/11 – tied w/CBS).

“Dancing with the Stars” (8:00-9:31 p.m.)

Dominating its time period, ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars” was the No. 1 TV program on Monday in Total Viewers (18.8 million) and Adults 18-49 (4.8/13). In addition to winning with Total Viewers and Adults 18-49, the broad appealing ABC unscripted program also ranked No. 1 in its time period among Adults 25-54 (6.1/15), Adults 18-34 (3.3/10), Teens 12-17 (2.2/7) and Kids 2-11 (2.7/9).

“Dancing with the Stars” was up from the prior week in Total Viewers (18.8 million vs. 18.2 million), while retaining 100% of its Adult 18-49 audience (4.8/13).

“The Bachelor: Officer and a Gentleman” (9:31-11:00 p.m.)

“The Bachelor: Officer and a Gentleman” ranked No. 1 in its time slot and stood as Monday’s No. 1 television program with the series’ targeted audience of Women 18-34 (5.0/13), tied with ABC’s “DWTS.” The show ranked second in its slot with Women 18-49 (5.2/13) and Women 25-54 (5.2/12)

On its second telecast, ABC's “The Bachelor: Officer and a Gentleman” exhibited strong retention of its week-earlier season premiere delivery in viewers and young adults: Total Viewers (92% - 9.1 million vs. 9.9 million), Adults 18-49 (92% - 3.4/9 vs. 3.7/9) and Adults 18-34 (94% - 3.0/9 vs. 3.2/9). “The Bachelor” was up 4% from its season opener with Women 18-34 (5.0/13 vs. 4.8/13).

“The Bachelor: Officer and a Gentleman” posted increases from the second installment of its most recent edition (“The Bachelor: Rome” on 10/9/06) in both Total Viewers (9.1 million vs. 7.9 million) and Adults 18-49 (3.4/9 vs. 3.1/7). It was the most-watched Week 2 for “The Bachelor” in 3 years (Five “The Bachelors” ago) – since 4/14/04.

Source: Nielsen Media Research (Preliminary, Live+SD), 4/9/07.

END

Fast Facts for Sunday, April 8, 2007 (Based on Fast Affiliate Ratings)

Despite Starting off the Night with Repeat Programming, Opposite All-Original Lineups on CBS and NBC, ABC Leads Easter Sunday by 45% in Adults 18-49

ABC’s Repeat “America’s Funniest Home Videos” Tops Original Competition at 7pm

ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” Leads at 8pm, Outdrawing Second-Place

CBS’ “Amazing Race” by 2.8 Million Viewers and by 45% Among Adults 18-49

The No. 1 TV Program on Sunday, ABC’s “Desperate Housewives” Dominates at 9pm

ABC’s “Brothers & Sisters” Tops Sunday’s 10 O’clock Hour Among Adults 18-49

Sunday Primetime (7:00-11:00 p.m.)

Although ABC aired repeat programming in the first hour of prime against all-original competition on CBS and NBC, ABC dominated Easter Sunday among Adults 18-49. During Sunday’s primetime, ABC (4.2/11) beat out second-place CBS by 45% (2.9/8), third-place NBC by 100% (2.1/6) and fourth-place Fox by 121% (1.9/5).

“America’s Funniest Home Videos” (7:00-8:00 p.m.)

ABC’s repeat airing of “America’s Funniest Home Videos” delivered a strong second place to CBS during the 7 o’clock, beating third-place NBC’s original “Dateline” by 2.4 million viewers (7.6 million vs. 5.2 million) and by 77% in Adults 18-49 (2.3/8 vs. 1.3/4). The replay “Videos” ranked No. 1 in the hour among Adults 18-34 (1.6/6-tie), Teens 12-17 (1.4/6) and Kids 2-11 (2.2/10).

“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” (8:00-9:00 p.m.)

ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” won the 8 o’clock hour, beating second-place CBS’ “Amazing Race All-Stars” by 2.8 million viewers (12.0 million vs. 9.2 million) and by 45% in Adults 18-49 (4.2/12 vs. 2.9/8). ABC’s broad skewing “Home Edition” qualified as No. 1 TV show on Sunday evening with Kids 2-11 (2.8/11).

“Desperate Housewives” (9:00-10:00 p.m.)

On its first original telecast since the beginning of March, ABC’s “Desperate Housewives” overshadowed its time period competition. The No. 1 TV program of the night, “Housewives” bested second-place CBS’ “Cold Case” in the 9 o’clock hour by 4.2 million viewers (15.7 million vs. 11.5 million) and by 114% in Adults 18-49 (6.0/15 vs. 2.8/7).

“Brothers & Sisters” (10:01-11:00 p.m.)

ABC’s “Brother’s Sisters” ranked a strong No. 1 during the 10 o’clock hour in Adults 18-49, topping second-place CBS’ “Without a Trace” by 14% (4.1/11 vs. 3.6/9). The ABC freshman drama also won

its time period among Adults 18-34 (3.0/9) and across each of the women demographics: W18-34 (4.2/11), W18-49 (5.7/14) and W25-54 (6.4/15).

Source: Nielsen Media Research (Fast Affiliate Ratings, Live+SD), 4/8/07

ENTERTAINMENT

April 9, 2007

with the help of “extreme makeover: Home Edition,” A Family in which

the father and son became paralyzed within a TWO-year span will get

a new home that will allow them more freedom to enjoy their lives

“Westbrook Family” -- Ty and the gang of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” will create a home that is accessible for the entire Westbrook family of Lawton, OK, who have suffered much hardship and two separate accidents that left both father and son paralyzed. The episode airs SUNDAY, APRIL 22 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

Gene Westbrook, the father of three children -- Elizabeth, Katie and James -- volunteered to fight in Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he was left paralyzed and received a purple heart. After being medically discharged from the military, he devoted his time to speaking about his experiences and helping others in his town. Along with his wife, Peggy, they are respected members of a close knit community, but Gene had to jump through many hoops just to be able to afford a handicapped-accessible van that allowed him to drive.

On June 10, 2006, a year after Gene was paralyzed in Iraq, a second tragedy hit the Westbrooks. While on their way to a friend’s house, the wheel of their van evidently became loose, causing Gene to drive across oncoming traffic and the vehicle to roll over in a ravine. The family doesn’t remember much about the accident, but suffered serious injuries: Son James was paralyzed from the waist down, daughter Katie required surgery to remove one of her kidneys, and Gene broke his ankle and knee and now suffers from short-term memory loss. With over a million dollars in medical bills, the Westbrooks can’t afford to make their house accessible for someone in a wheelchair, let alone two people. This double tragedy has been very tough on Peggy, though she has shown great courage in keeping the family together during their difficulties.

Gene is a hero, wounded fighting for his country; now it’s up to “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” to make the Westbrook home safe and handicapped-accessible, and in turn give Gene and James the freedom that they so want back.

While Ty and the designers, local builder Ron Nance's The Oaks Development Company and hundreds of volunteers and workers are rebuilding the home in just seven days, the Westbrook family will go away to a non-profit organization called the Lakeshore Foundation.

The design team for this episode of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” will feature team leader Ty Pennington and designers Paul DiMeo, Ed Sanders, Preston Sharp and Tracy Hutson. The series is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. It’s executive-produced by Denise Cramsey. David Goldberg is the president of Endemol USA.

“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” is broadcast with Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning. This program carries a TV-PG parental guideline.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 9, 2007

A WISTERIA LANE RESIDENT IS SUSPECTED OF MURDER,

ON ABC’S “DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES”

“God, That’s Good” – Susan calls off a wedding, Gaby decides to move forward with a wedding, and a Wisteria Lane resident is suspected of murder, on “Desperate Housewives,” SUNDAY, APRIL 22 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

“Desperate Housewives” stars Teri Hatcher as Susan Mayer, Felicity Huffman as Lynette Scavo, Marcia Cross as Bree Van De Kamp, Eva Longoria as Gabrielle Solis, Nicollette Sheridan as Edie Britt, Brenda Strong as Mary Alice Young, James Denton as Mike Delfino, Doug Savant as Tom Scavo, Ricardo Antonio Chavira as Carlos Solis, Kyle MacLachlan as Orson Hodge, Andrea Bowen as Julie Mayer, Shawn Pyfrom as Andrew Van De Kamp, Joy Lauren as Danielle Van De Kamp, Josh Henderson as Austin Britt, Rachel Fox as Kayla Huntington and Brent and Shane Kinsman as Porter and Preston Scavo.

Guest starring are Peri Gilpen as Maggie Gilroy, John Slattery as Victor Lang, Dougray Scott as Ian Hainsworth, Kathryn Joosten as Mrs. McCluskey, Pat Crawford Brown as Ida Greenberg, Jason Gedrick as Rick Coletti, Darien Pinkerton as Penny, Kerstin Pinkerton as Penny, Brien Perry as fireman, Todd Sherry as Russell, Cody McMains as Hector, Jeffrey Stubblefield as Jerome, Chris Damiano as cop, Richard Jenik as officer #1, Christine Clayburg as reporter #1, Kim Delgado as reporter #2, Sean Smith as yuppie man, Ryan Christiansen as paramedic, Darlene Kardon as Mrs. Epstein and Joleen Lutz as yuppie woman.

“God, That’s Good” was directed by Larry Shaw and written by Josh Senter & Dahvi Waller.

”Desperate Housewives” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

A TV parental guideline will be assigned closer to airdate.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 9, 2007

KEVIN HAS A NEW LOVE INTEREST, ON ABC’S “BROTHERS & SISTERS”

Jason Lewis (“Sex and the City”) Guest Stars as Chad Berry

“Sexual Politics” -- Kevin falls for a soap opera actor (guest starring Jason Lewis as Chad Berry) who is confused about his own sexuality. Meanwhile, Kitty and Nora dearly regret being sucked in by the sales pitch of an executive matchmaker, on “Brothers & Sisters,” SUNDAY, APRIL 22 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network. (Rebroadcast. OAD 1/14/07)

“Brothers & Sisters” stars Calista Flockhart as Kitty, Rachel Griffiths as Sarah, Sally Field as Nora Holden, Ron Rifkin as Saul Holden, Patricia Wettig as Holly, Balthazar Getty as Thomas, Dave Annable as Justin, Matthew Rhys as Kevin, John Pyper-Ferguson as Joe, Sarah Jane Morris as Julia and Kerris Lilla Dorsey as Paige.
“Brothers & Sisters” stars Calista Flockhart as Kitty, Rachel Griffiths as Sarah, Sally Field as Nora Holden, Ron Rifkin as Saul Holden, Patricia Wettig as Holly, Balthazar Getty as Thomas, Dave Annable as Justin, Matthew Rhys as Kevin, John Pyper-Ferguson as Joe, Sarah Jane Morris as Julia and Kerris Lilla Dorsey as Paige.

Guest starring are Rob Lowe as Senator McCallister, Caroline Aaron as Elise, Mark Harari as the instructor, Jason Lewis as Chad Berry, Rachel Montez Collins as L.A. babe, Paul Cassell as Gary Morris, Ryan Michelle Bathe as Noreen, Sophia Rachel Garcia as Nicole, Susan Santiago as Vanessa, Sulekah Naidu as the hostess, Jim Anzie as the waiter, Robert Michael Morris as Lawrence Magill, Christian Keyes as the bouncer, Chris Flanders as the reporter and Roxy Olin as Michelle.

“Sexual Politics” was written by Monica Owusu-Breen and Alison Schapker and directed by Sandy Smolan.

“Brothers & Sisters” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning.

This program carries a TV-14,S parental guideline.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 9, 2007

GEORGE TAKES DESPERATE MEASURES TO PROVE THAT VIC’S FIANCÉE

IS BEING FAITHFUL, ON ABC’S “GEORGE LOPEZ”

Stacy Keibler (“Dancing with the Stars”) Guest Stars

“George Thinks Vic’s Fiancée is Lion about Being a Cheetah” – George seeks help from a popular reality TV game show in order to expose Vic’s cheating, gold-digging fiancée (guest starring Stacy Keibler), on “George Lopez,” TUESDAY, APRIL 24 (8:00-8:30 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network. (Rebroadcast. OAD 2/28/07)

“George Lopez” stars George Lopez as George, Constance Marie as Angie, Valente Rodriguez as Ernie, Luis Armand Garcia as Max, Belita Moreno as Benny, Emiliano Díez as Vic Palmero and Aimee Garcia as Veronica.

Guest starring are Stacy Keibler as Lindsay and Joel S. Greco as Joey Greco.

“George Thinks Vic’s Fiancée is Lion about Being a Cheetah” was written by Luisa Leschin and directed by Bob Koherr

“George Lopez” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

This program carries a TV-PG,D parental guideline.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 9, 2007

VIC CAJOLES GEORGE INTO A FATHER-SON GOLF GAME,

ON ABC’S “GEORGE LOPEZ”

Champion Boxer Oscar De La Hoya Guest Stars

“George’s Bogey-ous Relationship with Vic is Putt to the Test” – Vic feigns fatherly love so George will play in a father-son golf tournament against his long time rival and his son, Tony (guest starring Oscar De La Hoya), on “George Lopez,” TUESDAY, APRIL 24 (8:30-9:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

Guest starring are Oscar De La Hoya as Tony and Eloy Casados as Dr. Anthony Tovar.

“George’s Bogey-ous Relationship with Vic is Putt to the Test”” was written by Rick Nyholm and directed by Joe Regalbuto.

“George Lopez” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

This program carries a TV-PG parental guideline.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 9, 2007

DENNY CRANE, ALAN SHORE AND THE AMBITIOUS VANESSA WALKER HEAD TO

NEW ORLEANS TO DEFEND A DOCTOR ACCUSED OF EUTHANIZING PATIENTS

DURING HURRICANE KATRINA, ON ABC’S “BOSTON LEGAL”

Guest Stars Include Nia Long as Vanessa Walker

“Angel of Death” – Denny Crane and Alan Shore, joined by ambitious new attorney Vanessa Walker (Nia Long), head to New Orleans to defend a doctor accused of euthanizing patients during Hurricane Katrina. Meanwhile Claire Simms’ new secretary, the cross-dressing Clarence, wants to file a lawsuit when he’s kicked out of an all-women’s gym, and Denise Bauer weighs the pros and cons of dating Jeffrey Coho, on “Boston Legal,” TUESDAY, APRIL 24 (10:00-11:00 p.m., ET) on The ABC Television Network. (Rebroadcast. OAD 1/9/07)

“Boston Legal” stars James Spader as Alan Shore, Julie Bowen as Denise Bauer, Mark Valley as Brad Chase, Rene Auberjonois as Paul Lewiston, Craig Bierko as Jeffrey Coho and Constance Zimmer as Claire Simms and Gary Anthony Williams as Clarence/Clarice Bell, with Candice Bergen as Shirley Schmidt and William Shatner as Denny Crane.

Guest starring are Nia Long as Vanessa Walker, Ann Cusack as Dr. Donna Follette, Dakin Matthews as Judge Harvey Fletcher, Matt Letcher as A.D.A. Adam Mersel, Merrin Dungey as Sandy Zionts, Brent Jennings as Marshall Gottlieb and Maree Cheatham as Georgina Babineaux.

“Angel of Death” was written by Craig Turk & Janet Leahy & David E. Kelley and directed by Tom Verica.

“Boston Legal” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning.

This program carries a TV-14,D,S parental guideline.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 9, 2007

JIM AND ANDY BATTLE IT OUT OVER A GRILL,

ON ABC’S “ACCORDING TO JIM”

“The Grill II” – Andy’s attempt to sell a grill that Jim gave him a few years ago results in a wildly destructive tug-of-war between the two, on “According to Jim” WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 (8:00-8:30 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

“According to Jim” stars Jim Belushi as Jim, Courtney Thorne-Smith as Cheryl, Kimberly Williams-Paisley as Dana, Larry Joe Campbell as Andy, Taylor Atelian as Ruby, Billi Bruno as Gracie and Conner Rayburn as Kyle.

Guest-starring is Siobhan Dunn as officer.

“The Grill II” is written by Christopher J. Nowak and directed by Dennis Capps.

“According to Jim” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning.

A TV parental guideline will be posted closer to airdate.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 9, 2007

PREGNANCY’S WELCOME AND UNWELCOME SURPRISES BEGIN

TO SURFACE, ON ABC’S “NOTES FROM THE UNDERBELLY”

“Oleander” -- Andrew and Lauren are quickly discovering the pros and cons of being pregnant, including the things that get in the way of intimacy. A definite plus for Andrew, though, are Lauren’s highly noticeable “pregnancy” breasts, which also prove to be the object of attention for the students she counsels. On the downside, Lauren’s sex drive has diminished and Andrew worries they won’t have time to be intimate once the baby arrives. Heartened by his concerns, Lauren makes several attempts to get “in the mood,” only to be foiled by various things. Surprises are also in store for Danny and Cooper when they discover they have something in common, on ABC’s “Notes from the Underbelly,” WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 (8:30-9:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

“Notes from the Underbelly” stars Jennifer Westfeldt as Lauren, Peter Cambor as Andrew, Michael Weaver as Danny, Rachael Harris as Cooper, Melanie Paxson as Julie and Sunkrish Bala as Eric.

“Oleander” was written by Steve Joe and Greg Schaffer and directed by Michael Patrick Jann.

“Notes from the Underbelly” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning.

This program carries a TV-PG,D parental guideline.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 9, 2007

CHARLIE QUESTIONS WHETHER DESMOND HAS HAD ANOTHER “FLASH”

FORESHADOWING HIS DEATH WHEN COAXED INTO JOINING A TREK

ACROSS THE JUNGLE, AND JEALOUSY MOTIVATES KATE TO TURN TO

AN UNSUSPECTING SAWYER, ON ABC’S “LOST”

“Catch-22” – Desmond coaxes Charlie, Hurley and Jin on a trek across the jungle after experiencing one of his future-prophesizing “flashes” -- but is he purposely placing Charlie’s life in harm’s way? Meanwhile, Kate turns to an unwitting Sawyer after seeing Jack alone with Juliet, on “Lost,” WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 (9:00-10:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network. (Rebroadcast. OAD 4/18/07)

Guest starring are Sonia Walger as Penny Widmore, Jack Maxwell as Derek, Joanna Bool as Ruth, Andrew Connolly as Brother Campbell, Andrew Trask as older monk and Marsha Thomason as Naomi.

“Catch-22” was written by Jeff Pinkner & Brian K. Vaughan and directed by Stephen Williams.

”Lost” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

A TV parental guideline will be assigned closer to airdate.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 9, 2007

SUN DISCOVERS THE IDENTITY OF HER UNBORN CHILD’S FATHER AFTER

BEING EXAMINED BY JULIET, AND DESMOND ALLOWS AN UNLIKELY FOE TO HELP

SAVE THE LIFE OF A MYSTERIOUS NEW ISLAND INHABITANT, ON ABC’S “LOST”

“D.O.C. – After discovering that all of “The Others’” pregnant women died before giving birth on the island, an extremely reticent Sun allows Juliet to examine her -- and uncovers the identity of the unborn child’s father. Meanwhile, Desmond allows an unlikely nemesis to help save the life of a new, mysterious island inhabitant, on “Lost,” WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 (10:00-11:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

Guest starring are Byron Chung as Mr. Paik, Andrew Divoff as Mikhail, Marsha Thomason as Naomi, John Shin as Mr. Kwon, Alexis Rhee as older woman, Esmond Chung as Paik’s associate and Jean Chung as Paik’s secretary.

“D.O.C.” was written by Edward Kitsis & Adam Horowitz and directed by Fred Toye.

”Lost” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

A TV parental guideline will be assigned closer to airdate.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 9, 2007

LOVE’S ALL AROUND AT MODE, EXCEPT FOR BETTY, WHO TRIES TO

AVOID THE PEOPLE SHE CARES FOR MOST, ON ABC’S “UGLY BETTY”

“Petra-gate” – Betty, fed up with Daniel, Christina and Henry and how they’ve all disappointed her, does her best to avoid all three. Meanwhile, love’s all around at Mode, as Alexis gets asked out on her first date as a woman; Amanda begins a flirtation with a designer (guest star Mykel Shannon Jenkins) who she assumes is gay; Wilhelmina struggles to deal with the tireless advances of her latest conquest, and Hilda gets a surprise from Santos (guest star Kevin Alejandro). Meanwhile, Daniel goes it alone in dealing with the aftermath of his one-time hook-up with Petra, on “Ugly Betty,” THURSDAY, APRIL 26 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network. Cristian de la Fuente (“The Class,” Univision’s “Sonar No Cuesta Nada”) guest stars as Rodrigo, Alexis’ admirer.

“Ugly Betty” stars America Ferrera as Betty Suarez, Eric Mabius as Daniel Meade, Alan Dale as Bradford Meade, Tony Plana as Ignacio, Ana Ortiz as Hilda, Ashley Jensen as Christina, Becki Newton as Amanda, Mark Indelicato as Justin, Michael Urie as Marc, Kevin Sussman as Walter, Rebecca Romijn as Alexis Meade and Vanessa Williams as Wilhelmina Slater.

Guest starring are Christopher Gorham as Henry, Kevin Alejandro as Santos, Jayma Mays as Charlie, Cristian de la Fuente as Rodrigo, Annalynne McCord as Petra, Ivana Milicevic as Lena and Mykel Shannon Jenkins as Dijan.

“Petra-gate,” was written by Gabrielle Stanton & Harry Werksman and directed by Paul Lazarus.

”Ugly Betty” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

A TV parental guideline will be posted closer to airdate.

ABC Media Relations: Ellen Gonzalez (818) 460-7185, Ellen.M.Gonzalez@abc.com

Photography is available at www.abcmedianet.com or at (818) 460-6611

-- ABC --

ENTERTAINMENT

April 9, 2007

THE ATTENDINGS ARE EXTRA ATTENTIVE TO A PATIENT (WHO HAPPENS TO BE

THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HOSPITAL BOARD), BURKE PLANS THE WEDDING

WITH LITTLE HELP FROM CRISTINA, AND THINGS HEAT UP BETWEEN

ADDISON AND ALEX, ON ABC’S “GREY’S ANATOMY”

Mitch Pileggi (“The X-Files”) Guest Stars

Elizabeth Reaser (“Sweet Land”) Returns as Jane Doe

“Desire” – As the interns of Seattle Grace cram for their upcoming exam, the attendings vie for the Chief’s position by tending to the chairman of the hospital board after he’s admitted as a patient. Meanwhile, Burke struggles to involve Cristina in the wedding planning, things heat up between Addison and Alex, and Derek questions his relationship with Meredith, on “Grey’s Anatomy,” THURSDAY, APRIL 26 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

“Grey’s Anatomy” stars Ellen Pompeo as Meredith Grey, Patrick Dempsey as Derek Shepherd, Sandra Oh as Cristina Yang, Isaiah Washington as Preston Burke, Katherine Heigl as Isobel “Izzie” Stevens, Justin Chambers as Alex Karev, T.R. Knight as George O’Malley, Chandra Wilson as Miranda Bailey, James Pickens, Jr. as Richard Webber, Kate Walsh as Addison Shepherd, Sara Ramirez as Callie Torres and Eric Dane as Mark Sloan.

Guest starring Elizabeth Reaser as Jane Doe, Kali Rocha as Dr. Sydney Heron, Mitch Pileggi as Larry Jennings, Mary-Margaret Humes as Nancy Jennings, Rowena King as Celeste Newman, and Ramon De Ocampo as James Benton. Co-Starring Stewart Skelton as Dr. Fischer.

“Desire” was written by Mark Wilding and directed by Tom Verica.

“Grey’s Anatomy” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

A TV parental guideline will be posted closer to airdate.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 9, 2007

SEASON FINALE

AUBREY WANTS NICK TO CHOOSE BETWEEN HER AND HANNAH, PHYSICAL PHIL ASKS OWEN’S HELP TO GET PIZZA GIRL BACK, RAY CONTINUES HIS MISSION TO DESTROY

THE GANG, A SURPRISE FOR EDDIE BRINGS ON AN UNPREDICTABLE RESPONSE, AND

NICK MEETS AN UNEXPECTED VISITOR AT HANNAH’S, ON ABC’S “OCTOBER ROAD”

“Best Friend Windows” – Aubrey suspects Nick still has feelings for Hannah and wants him to choose between the two of them, but then Nick meets an unexpected out of town visitor at Hannah and Sam’s. Meanwhile, Nick and the guys give Eddie what they thought would be a welcome surprise, but Eddie surprises them with an unpredictable response; Ray continues his mission to destroy the gang by telling Owen about Ikey and Alison’s secret; and Physical Phil makes a life-changing decision to get Pizza Girl (Lindy Booth) back and asks for Owen’s help, on the Season Finale of “October Road,” THURSDAY, APRIL 26 (10:01-11:00 p.m. ET), on the ABC Television Network.

“October Road” stars Bryan Greenberg as Nick Garrett, Laura Prepon as Hannah Daniels, Tom Berenger as The Commander, Warren Christie as Ray “Big Cat” Cataldo, Brad William Henke as Owen Rowan, Evan Jones as Ikey, Jay Paulson as Physical Phil, Slade Pearce as Sam Daniels, Geoff Stults as Eddie Latekka and Odette Yustman as Aubrey.

Guest starring are Rebecca Field as Janet “The Planet” Meadows, Jonathan Murphy as Ronnie, Penny Johnson Jerald as Dean Leslie Etwood, Elizabeth Bogush as Alison Rowan, Lindy Booth as Pizza Girl, Bo Mitchell as Doodie, David Galbraith as pizza guy/dude, Charles Black as local businessman and Reed Diamond as Gavin Goddard.

“Best Friend Windows” was written by Josh Applebaum, Andre Nemec and Scott Rosenberg, and directed by Gary Fleder.

“October Road” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC's selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning.

This program carries a TV-PG,D,L parental guideline.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 9, 2007

A FLASHY DIVA MOM FROM VEGAS SWAPS LIVES WITH

A DOWN AND DIRTY MOM WHO OWNS A SCRAP YARD,

ON ABC’S “WIFE SWAP”

This week in “Browne/Robinson,” a diva mom who raises her kids to be primped and perfect divas-in-training swaps lives with a laid-back mom whose family owns a scrap yard and can barely control her immature husband and pack of unruly boys, on “Wife Swap,” FRIDAY, APRIL 27 (9:01-10:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

Each week from across the country, two families with very different values are chosen to take part in a two-week long challenge. The wives from these two families exchange husbands, children and lives (but not bedrooms) to discover just what it’s like to live another woman’s life. It’s a mind-blowing experiment that often ends up changing their lives forever.

Vegas mom D’eva Robinson (31) has always known that she was born to be a diva, and she even changed her name to fulfill her destiny. D’eva is a salon manager whose prized possessions are her wardrobe full of glamorous, over-the-top clothes and her shelf full of stylish wigs. D’eva demands that her whole family be every bit as fabulous as she is, so husband Dwayne (47) and children Taylore (12), Jourdyn (10), Eli (8) and Journi (5) must complete household chores and time-consuming beauty regimens to keep their house -- and themselves -- looking great. D’eva has even inspired Dwayne to go to cosmetology school so the family can open up hair salons all over Vegas.

D’eva travels to the Texas home of the Browne Family, where wife Christie (39), husband Trenton (39), and their sons, Jeremy (14), Joshua (12), Benjamin (11) and live-in nephew Charles (17) run a scrap yard and live in a messy house where the rambunctious boys rule the roost. Christie is a laid back computer teacher’s aide who believes that boys should be boys and kids should have the freedom to goof off and learn from their mistakes. Trenton acts more like a friend than a father to the boys, even letting the underage boys drive cars from the scrap yard around the family’s private property. Trenton and the boys treat the living room like a wrestling ring and eschew all chores, but mellow Christie doesn’t mind, even when the boys are out toilet papering the neighbor’s house.

In the first week of the swap, D’eva must put up with the wild antics and pranks of the Browne boys, and is shocked to find that the underage boys are allowed to drive. Meanwhile, tomboy Christie must transform herself into a diva with a glamorous dress and wig, and must enforce D’eva’s strict chore and beauty regimen on Dwayne and the Robinson kids.

In the second week of the swap, when the wives change the rules and turn the tables, D’eva takes the Browne boys to the laundromat to teach them to do chores, and the boys get into such an intense argument that the police are called. In Vegas, Christie takes the Robinson children to a scrap yard to learn how to change the oil of a car, and frees the kids from their chores and enforced primping so that they can look and act like kids.

At the end of the swap, when the couples are reunited, will D’eva drop the diva attitude and let her kids be kids? Will Christie scrap their scrap yard and clean up her family’s act?

“Wife Swap” is an RDF USA production. It was created by Stephen Lambert and is executive-produced by Stef Wagstaffe and Stephen Lambert of RDF Media (“Faking It” and “Junkyard Wars”) and Michael Davies of Embassy Row (“Who Wants to be a Millionaire”). Mitchell Rosenbaum, Stephanie Schwam Adams and Mike Gamson are the co-executive producers.

“Wife Swap” is broadcast with Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning. A TV parental guideline will be assigned closer to airdate.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 9, 2007

“PEARL HARBOR,” THE ACTION-PACKED ROMANTIC DRAMA

STARRING BEN AFFLECK, JOSH HARTNETT & KATE BECKINSALE,

AIRS SATURDAY, APRIL 28 ON THE ABC TELEVISION NETWORK

“Audiences will find themselves swept away . . .”
Mick LaSalle, San Francisco Chronicle

“Pearl Harbor,” the blockbuster theatrical feature starring Ben Affleck, Josh Hartnett and Kate Beckinsale, will air as the “ABC Saturday Movie of the Week,” APRIL 28 (8:00-11:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network. The Academy Award-winning epic, airing in HDTV format with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio, also stars Cuba Gooding Jr., Jon Voight, Alec Baldwin, Tom Sizemore and William Lee Scott. (Rebroadcast. OAD: 2/8/04)

In “Pearl Harbor,” Ben Affleck (“Daredevil,” “The Sum of All Fears,” Academy Award-winner for “Good Will Hunting”) and Josh Hartnett (”Sin City,” “Hollywood Homicide”) are boyhood friends who achieve their dream of becoming pilots. Affleck meets, pursues and falls in love with a military nurse (Kate Beckinsale, “The Aviator,” “Van Helsing”), but he is anxious to see action and heads to England, where war is raging. He enlists in the Royal Air Force and is later reported killed in action. The efforts of his best friend and girlfriend to comfort each other’s grief lead to their own romance.

The feature won its Academy Award for Best Effects, Sound Effects and was nominated for three additional Oscars – Best Effects, Visual Effects; Best Music, Song; and Best Sound. Among the movie’s stunning effects is a bomb’s-eye view as the explosive crashes through three decks of the battleship Arizona, and gut-churning aerial sequences as Affleck and Hartnett battle Japanese Zeros in the skies above Pearl Harbor’s burning Battleship Row. Oscar winner Cuba Gooding Jr. (“End Game,” “Radio,” “Jerry Mcguire”) portrays real-life Navy cook “Dorie” Miller, who won the Navy Cross for his action on December 7; Oscar winner Jon Voight (TV’s “Pope John Paul II,” “The Five People You Meet in Heaven”) portrays President Roosevelt, Alec Baldwin (“Brooklyn Rules,” “The Aviator,” “Along Came Polly”) stars as daring aviator “Jimmy” Doolittle, Tom Sizemore (TV’s “Dr. Vegas,” “Big Trouble”) is Sgt. Earl Sistern, and William Lee Scott (“The Butterfly Effect”) is Lt. Billy Thompson.

Starring in “Pearl Harbor” are Ben Affleck as Capt. Rafe McCawley, Josh Hartnett as Capt. Danny Walker, Kate Beckinsale as nurse Lt. Evelyn Johnson, Cuba Gooding Jr. as Petty Officer Doris “Dorie” Miller, Jon Voight as President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Alec Baldwin as Lt. Col. James “Jimmy” Doolittle, Tom Sizemore as Sgt. Earl Sistern, William Lee Scott as Lt. Billy Thompson, Jennifer Garner (ABC’s “Alias”) as nurse Sandra, Sara Rue (ABC’s “Less than Perfect”) as nurse Martha, Greg Zola as Lt. Anthony Fusco, Ewen Bremner as Lt. Red Winkle, Jaime King as nurse Betty Bayer and Catherine Kellner as nurse Barbara.

“Pearl Harbor,” released in 2001, was directed by Michael Bay (“Bad Boys” series; “Armageddon”) and written by Randall Wallace (“We Were Soldiers,” “Braveheart”). The film is a production of Jerry Bruckheimer Films and Touchstone Pictures. (CLOSED-CAPTIONED)

“PEARL HARBOR” IN HDTV:

The ABC Television Network’s HDTV broadcast of “Pearl Harbor” will air in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio.

This film carries a TV-14,L,S,V parental guideline. Due to some violence and issue content, viewer discretion is advised.

CORRECTION/UPDATE

As of MONDAY, APRIL 9 (all times ET unless noted)

MONDAY, APRIL 9

TIME CHANGE “DANCING WITH THE STARS: Episode 404” is now scheduled 8:00-9:31 p.m.

Originally was 8:00-9:30 p.m.

TIME CHANGE “THE BACHELOR: OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN - Episode 1002” is now scheduled 9:31-11:00 p.m.

Originally was 9:30-11:00 p.m.

TUESDAY, APRIL 10 (8:00-9:03 PM)

PROGRAM CHANGE Delete: “GEORGE LOPEZ: George Gets Caught in a Powers Play” (8:00-8:30) and “ACCORDING TO JIM: Cheryl Gone Wild” (8:30-9:00)

INSERT: “DANCING WITH THE STARS: PERFORMANCE RECAP SHOW #2” (TV-PG) (HD/5.1; Spanish audio via SAP) (CC)

TIME CHANGE “DANCING WITH THE STARS: Episode 404A” is now scheduled 9:03-10:01 p.m.

Originally was 9:00-10:00 p.m.

TIME CHANGE “BOSTON LEGAL: “Brotherly Love” is now scheduled 10:01-11:00 p.m.

Originally was 10:00-11:00 p.m.

SUNDAY, APRIL 15

TIME CHANGE “DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES: Liaisons” is now scheduled 9:00-10:02 p.m.

Originally was 9:00-10:01 p.m.

TIME CHANGE “BROTHERS & SISTERS: Game Night” is now scheduled 10:02-11:00 p.m.

Originally was 10:01-11:00 p.m.

SUNDAY, APRIL 22 (7:00 – 8:00 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is “AMERICA’S FUNNIEST HOME VIDEOS: 1721” -- Program information to come. (TV-PG) (CC; Spanish subtitles via secondary CC).

MONDAY, APRIL 23 (8:00 – 9:30 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is “DANCING WITH THE STARS: 406” -- Program information to come. (TV-PG) (HD/5.1; Spanish audio via SAP) (CC)

(9:30 – 11:00 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is “THE BACHELOR: OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN: 1004” -- Program information/TV parental guideline to come. (CC; Spanish subtitles via secondary CC).

TUESDAY, APRIL 24 (9:00 – 10:00 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is “DANCING WITH THE STARS THE RESULTS SHOW: 406A” -- Program information to come. (TV-PG) (HD/5.1; Spanish audio via SAP) (CC)

FRIDAY, APRIL 27 (8:00 – 9:01 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is “GREY’S ANATOMY: Desire” (OAD: 4/26/07) -- TV parental guideline to come. (HD/5.1; Spanish audio via SAP) (CC)

(10:00 – 11:00 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is “20/20” – Information to come. (CC)

END

ONE-HOUR SPECIAL, “GREY’S ANATOMY: EVERY MOMENT COUNTS,” TO DEBUT

WORLD BROADCAST PREMIERE OF “GREY’S ANATOMY” MUSIC VIDEO

SET TO “THE STORY,” THE HIT SONG BY COLUMBIA RECORDS

RECORDING ARTIST BRANDI CARLILE

Special Premieres Thursday, April 12

The one-hour special, “Grey’s Anatomy: Every Moment Counts,” premiering THURSDAY, APRIL 12 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET), will debut the world broadcast premiere of a music video combining scenes from the hit series and singer/songwriter Brandi Carlile’s title track video from her new album, “The Story.“

The special, which highlights some of the most memorable moments from the last three seasons, will be hosted by actor Jeffrey Dean Morgan, loved by “Grey’s Anatomy” fans for his role as Denny on the series.

On her new album, “The Story,” Brandi Carlile opens up her heart, soul and psyche in a series of memorable songs that invite you into her world. To her growing community of fans, it’s Carlile’s revelatory imagery, stark emotive vocals and finely-detailed songs which provide the keys to who she is, where she’s been and where’s she’s going. The title track provides a perfect backdrop for the drama and intensity of the experiences of the characters on “Grey’s Anatomy.”

About “Grey’s Anatomy”

Shonda Rhimes (“Introducing Dorothy Dandridge”) is creator and executive producer. Betsy Beers (“Casanova”), Mark Gordon (“Saving Private Ryan”) and Krista Vernoff (“Law & Order”) are executive producers. “Grey’s Anatomy” is an ABC Television Studio Production.

About Brandi Carlile

Shortly after the release of her critically acclaimed self-titled debut (Rolling Stone named her one of the magazine’s “10 Artists to Watch in 2005”), Carlile left her home in Seattle and set out with twin brothers Tim (guitar) and Phil (bass) Hanseroth, with whom she’d worked on her earliest recordings and independent regional tours. The tightly knit trio, which forms the core of her band today, spent the better part of two years on the road. By the end of 2006, Carlile had embarked on several headlining tours and supported a variety of artists, including The Fray, Ray LaMontagne, Chris Isaak, Tori Amos and Shawn Colvin. Her new album, “The Story,” will be in stores and online April 3.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 2, 2007

DO YOU JIMMY?

ABC Announces Largest New Ad Campaign for “Jimmy Kimmel Live” Since the Launch of the Show

Dedicated Site Launches at www.DoYouJimmy.com

Starting today, ABC is launching a ground-breaking branding campaign for the hit late-night talk show “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” including outdoor, wild postings, spot cable, radio buys and a college targeted component. The campaign was teased on-air beginning March 26.

Based on Jimmy Kimmel’s name, the campaign is a call to action, asking the public to “Jimmy” to generate awareness and excitement about the show. A dedicated site at www.DoYouJimmy.com is also launching and will feature video with Uncle Frank, Aunt Chippy, Guillermo and everyday fans talking about how they “Jimmy.”

Now in its fifth season and posting the most growth in Total Viewers for any late-night entertainment talk show, ABC is going to thirty college campuses across the country and to college newspapers, postering and providing removable mirror clings and door hangers that could potentially reach over one million students. Messages will include “Real Men Jimmy” and “Nice Girls Jimmy Too” on the clings for bathroom mirrors and “Come in and We’ll Jimmy Together” or “Keep Out, I’m Gonna Jimmy Alone” on the door hangers. In addition, T-shirts will be distributed that read “The More I Jimmy the Better I Feel,” and a special two-minute trailer will be screened at college movie theatres. The “Do You Jimmy” shirt will also be available for purchase at www.abc.com.

Additional outdoor exposure includes wild postings, taxi tops, bus sides and LCD panels at subway entrances in New York, with messages such as “For a Better Tomorrow… Jimmy Tonight” and “Jimmy 5 Nights a Week.”

About “Jimmy Kimmel Live”

Emmy-winner Jimmy Kimmel serves as host and executive producer of “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” the ABC Television Network’s distinctive late-night talk show, now in its fifth season. The show features a diverse lineup of guests, including celebrities, athletes, comedians, politicians and human interest subjects.

Jimmy Kimmel and Jill Leiderman serve as executive producers and Jason Schrift and Douglas DeLuca as co-executive producers. “Jimmy Kimmel Live” is shot live in front of a studio audience and produced by Jackhole Industries in association with ABC Television Studio.

April 2, 2007

Fast Facts for Sunday, April 1, 2007 (Based on Fast Affiliate Ratings)

Although 1/2 of its Lineup is Rebroadcast Programming Against Mostly

Originals Series on the Other Nets, ABC Dominates Sunday in Adults 18-49

ABC’s “America’s Funniest Home Videos” Wins the 7 O’clock Hour Across

The Key Adult Demographics, as well as Among Teens 12-17 and Kids 2-11

ABC’s Repeat “Home Edition” is No. 1 at 8pm in Viewers and Young Adults

ABC’s “Desperate Housewives: The Juiciest Bites” Clip Show Wins the 9 O’clock

Hour in Adults 18-49, Tying as the No. 1 TV Show of the Night in the Key Sales Demo

ABC’s “Brothers & Sisters” Wins the 10 O’clock Hour Among Adults 18-34

And Young Women, Ranking as Sunday’s No. 1 TV Program in Women 18-49

Sunday Primetime (7:00-11:00 p.m.)

Although its middle 2-hours were comprised of rebroadcast programming against mostly original series on the other networks, ABC dominated Sunday night among Adults 18-49. During Sunday’s primetime, ABC (3.3/9) beat out second-place CBS by 18% (2.8/8), third-place Fox by 27% (2.6/7) and fourth-place NBC by 50% (2.2/6).

In Total Viewers (9.4 million) and Adults 18-49 (3.3/9), the Network posted its strongest Sunday in 4 weeks – since 3/4/07.

“America’s Funniest Home Videos” (7:00-8:00 p.m.)

ABC’s “America’s Funniest Home Videos” won the 7 o’clock hour in Adults 18-49, beating its nearest competitor by 35% among Adults 18-49 (2.7/9 vs. 2.0/7 – CBS’ “60 Minutes”). The venerable ABC video clip show also ranked No. 1 in the hour among Adults 25-54 (3.2/10), Adults 18-34 (2.0/7), Teens 12-17 (1.6/6) and Kids 2-11 (2.2/9).

“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” (8:00-9:00 p.m.)

A rebroadcast installment of ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” won the 8 o’clock hour in viewers and young adults. “Home Edition” bested its closest competition by 9% in Total Viewers (9.8 million vs. 9.0 million – NBC’s “Dateline”) and by 10% in Adults 18-49 (3.4/9 vs. 3.1/9 – Fox’s “The Simpsons”/”King of the Hill”). ABC’s replay of broad skewing “Home Edition” was the No. 1 TV show of the evening with Kids 2-11 (2.7/10).

“Desperate Housewives: The Juiciest Bites” (9:00-10:00 p.m.)

ABC’s special clip show, “Desperate Housewives: The Juiciest Bites,” led Sunday’s 9 o’clock hour in Adults 18-49 (3.5/9), also qualifying as the No. 1 TV show of the night in the key young adult sales demo (tied w/CBS’ “Cold Case” at 10:00 p.m.). The “Housewives” season recap special also won its time slot and ranked as Sunday’s No. 1 television show with Women 18-34 (4.0/11) and Women 18-49 (4.7/11).

“Brothers & Sisters” (10:00-11:00 p.m.)

ABC’s “Brother’s Sisters” took second place in the 10 o’clock hour among Total Viewers (9.1 million) and Adults 18-49 (3.3/9), while ranking No. 1 with Adults 18-34 (2.5/7-tie), Women 18-49 (4.7/12) and Women 18-34 (3.4/9). “Brothers & Sisters” tied “Desperate Housewives: The Juiciest Bites” to rank as Sunday’s No. 1 TV show among Women 18-49.

Source: Nielsen Media Research (Fast Affiliate Ratings, Live+SD), 4/1/07

ENTERTAINMENT

April 2, 2007

THE SECOND COUPLE TO BE ELIMINATED FROM THE COMPETITION IS REVEALED,

ON ABC’S “DANCING WITH THE STARS THE RESULTS SHOW”

Ciara, Josh Groban and Survivor Perform

“Episode 403A” – The second couple will be dismissed on “Dancing with the Stars the Results Show,” TUESDAY, APRIL 3 (9:00-10:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network. Grammy-winning recording artist Ciara takes to the stage to perform her hit, “Like a Boy.” Music sensation Josh Groban will then sing “So She Dances,” as Tony Dovolani and Julianne Hough perform. In addition, the rock band Survivor will perform the classic “Eye of the Tiger” as the professionals do a group Paso Doble.

Late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel (“Jimmy Kimmel Live”) will also be featured in his weekly segment entitled “Dance Along at Home with Jimmy Kimmel.” Each week Jimmy will offer up his parking lot security guard, Guillermo, to hilariously demonstrate a ballroom dancing technique.

By evening’s end, the couple with the lowest composite score will be eliminated, as determined by a combination of the judges’ scores and viewers’ votes. Who among the following ten teams will be dismissed from the competition?

Laila Ali (undefeated world boxing champion) and partner Maksim Chmerkovskiy

Billy Ray Cyrus (actor & singer on Disney Channel’s “Hannah Montana”) and partner Karina Smirnoff

Clyde Drexler (NBA Hall of Famer) and partner Elena Grinenko

Joey Fatone (*NSYNC star) and partner Kym Johnson

Shandi Finnessey (Miss USA 2004) and partner Brian Fortuna

Leeza Gibbons (talk show host) and partner Tony Dovolani

Heather Mills (charity activist & campaigner) and partner Jonathan Roberts

Apolo Anton Ohno (Olympic speed skating gold medalist) and partner Julianne Hough

John Ratzenberger (actor & author) and partner Edyta Sliwinska

Ian Ziering (TV & Broadway star) and partner Cheryl Burke

“Dancing with the Stars” is the U.S. version of the international smash hit series, “Strictly Come Dancing.” This version is produced in America by BBC Worldwide Productions. Conrad Green is executive producer and Izzie Pick is co-executive producer. Rob Wade and Matilda Zoltowski are supervising producers. Alex Rudzinski directs.

“Dancing with the Stars” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP. This program carries a TV-PG parental guideline.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 2, 2007

PRACTICAL JOKES AND A DOG GONE WILD,

ON ABC’S “AMERICA’S FUNNIEST HOME VIDEOS”

“Episode No. 1720” – Clip highlights include practical jokes, with one man scaring his wife by putting a rubber bird in the freezer; a man getting a pistachio nut stuck to his lip; and a dog that makes a really big mess of the yard, on “America’s Funniest Home Videos,” SUNDAY, APRIL 15 (7:00-8:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

Tom Bergeron hosts.

In its 17 seasons to date, “America’s Funniest Home Videos” has given away over $9 million in prize money and evaluated more than half a million videotapes from home viewers. Viewers wishing to submit home videos to “America’s Funniest Home Videos” should visit www.abc.com for details.

Vin Di Bona is executive producer, with Todd Thicke and Michele Nasraway serving as co-executive producers. “America’s Funniest Home Videos,” which premiered on January 14, 1990 and is from Vin Di Bona Productions, airs with Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning.

This program carries a TV-PG parental guideline.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 2, 2007

“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” FULFILLS THE DYING WISH OF A FATHER

WHO RECENTLY SUCCUMBED TO CANCER AND WANTED NOTHING MORE than

TO provide a happy and safe home for THE family HE LEFT BEHIND

“Koepke Family” -- Ty and the gang builds a new and renovated home for the Koepke (pronounced kep-key) family of Campbellsport, WI, who recently lost their loving father, Matthew, to cancer, on “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” SUNDAY, APRIL 15 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network. (Rebroadcast. OAD 11/19/06)

At the age of 41, Matthew was diagnosed with metastatic melanoma in April 2006. Once the doctors became aware of the disease, the cancer had already spread from his left arm to his brain. He was expected to live another five years, but passed away only a few short months later, on August 21, 2006, leaving behind mother Christine and children Derek, Jayna, Mitchell and Johanna.

In addition to being a loving father, Matthew was an active community member who played a huge role in initiating and leading several local projects. Matt’s greatest achievement was the initial restoration of the old town Mill into an historical landmark that today is the center of community gatherings and the “heart” of the town. In addition to his work on the Mill Park, Matt was the President of Dundee Mill Park and helped build the Sportsman’s Lodge and baseball park.

Matt had dreams of renovating his home and finishing the renovations on the town Mill, but those plans were put on hold once he was diagnosed. He will be missed but never forgotten. Before Matt died, he had a chance to ask EMHE for one wish -- to take care of his family and give them the home they deserved.

While the Ty and the “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” design team, local builder Monarch Homes, contractors and hundreds of workers and volunteers remember Matt’s dreams and work together to transform the Koepke house into a dream home in a remarkable seven days, the family will go on vacation to San Diego.

The design team for this episode of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” will feature team leader Ty Pennington, as well as Michael Moloney, Ed Sanders, Paige Hemmis and Preston Sharp.

“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” which has won back-to-back Emmy Awards as Best Reality Program (non-competitive), is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. Denise Cramsey is the executive producer. David Goldberg is the president of Endemol USA.

“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” is broadcast with Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning. This program carries a TV-PG parental guideline.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 2, 2007

A WISTERIA LANE NEIGHBOR’S DARKEST SECRET IS REVEALED,

ON ABC’S “DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES”

“Liaisons” – Tom feels threatened by the interest a new Scavo’s Pizzeria employee shows in Lynette, Susan considers moving from Wisteria Lane and a neighbor’s darkest secret is revealed, on “Desperate Housewives,” SUNDAY, APRIL 15 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

Guest starring are John Slattery as Victor Lang, Dougray Scott as Ian Hainsworth, Jake Cherry as Travers McLain, Jason Gedrick as Rick Coletti, Kathryn Joosten as Mrs. McCluskey, Corey Mendell Parker as doctor, Kenneth Kimmins as Mayor Johnson, Mel Fair as moderator, Kylie Sparks as Kim, Pat Asanti as Arnold, Pat Crawford Brown as Ida Greenberg, Michael Guarnera as Toby, Thomas Crawford as campaign rally introducer, Ron Rogge as middle-aged man, John Harnagel as Gilbert McCluskey and Wayne Lopez as Clyde.

“Liaisons” was directed by David Grossman and written by Alexandra Cunningham & Jenna Bans.

”Desperate Housewives” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

A TV parental guideline will be assigned closer to airdate.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 2, 2007

THE WALKER FAMILY LITERALLY TRIES TO KEEP UP WITH THE JONESES

IN A WILD GAME NIGHT REMATCH, ON ABC’S “BROTHERS & SISTERS”

Jenna Elfman, Susan Sullivan (“Dharma & Greg”) and

Eric Winter (“Days of Our Lives”) Guest Star

“Game Night” – The Walkers challenge their all-too-perfect lifelong nemesis family, the Jones (guest starring Susan Sullivan as Miranda Jones and Jenna Elfman as Lizzie Jones-Baker), to a long overdue game night rematch and cautiously begin to embrace Rebecca as their sister. Meanwhile, Kitty soon regrets introducing Kevin to the Senator’s brother (guest starring Eric Winter as Jason McCallister), on “Brothers & Sisters,” SUNDAY, APRIL 15 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

Guest starring are Rob Lowe as Senator McCallister, Maxwell Perry Cotton as Cooper Whedon, Eric Winter as Jason McCallister, Paul Cassell as Gary Morris, Perry King as Curtis Jones, Susan Sullivan as Miranda Jones, Jenna Elfman as Lizzie Jones-Baker, Elina Madison as Stephanie Jones-Reed, Kim Murphy Zandell as Donna Jones, Duffy Dibley as Doug Jones, Clint Carmichael as Ken Baker, Bryan Krasner as Roger Jones, James Ritz as Wallace, Jack Ritter as Ken Junior and Darcy Rose Byrnes as Gwyneth.

The story for “Game Night” is by Peter Calloway and Cliff Olin and the script written by Molly Newman. The episode was directed by Matt Shakman.

“Brothers & Sisters” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning.

A TV parental guideline will be posted closer to airdate.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 2, 2007

ANGIE’S ABSENT BROTHER RETURNS TO TOWN LOOKING TO

MAKE AMENDS, ON ABC’S “GEORGE LOPEZ”

Andy Garcia (“Oceans Eleven”) Guest Stars

“George Doesn’t’ Trustee Angie’s Brother” – Angie’s scam artist brother, Ray (guest starring Andy Garcia as Ray), reappears after a long absence looking to make amends with his estranged daughter, Veronica, and the Lopez family. But George is the first to see through Ray’s transparent scheme when TUESDAY, APRIL 17 (8:00-8:30 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network. (Rebroadcast. OAD 3/1/06)

“George Lopez” stars George Lopez as George, Constance Marie as Angie, Valente Rodriguez as Ernie, Masiela Lusha as Carmen, Luis Armand Garcia as Max, Belita Moreno as Benny and Emiliano Díez as Vic Palmero.

Guest starring are Andy Garcia as Ray and Aimee Garcia as Veronica.

”George Doesn’t Trustee Angie’s Brother” was written by Paul A. Kaplan & Mark Torgove, and directed by Sheldon Epps.

“George Lopez” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

This program carries a TV-PG parental guideline.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 2, 2007

JIM, ANDY AND RYAN SNEAK THE KIDS INTO THE DINOSAUR EXHIBIT

AFTER HOURS, ON ABC’S “ACCORDING TO JIM”

“Dino-Mite” – Dana and Cheryl hesitantly entrust Ryan and Jim to watch the kids and baby Tanner while they have a girls’ night out. But Jim sneaks the brood into the museum after hours to see the dinosaur exhibit, and their shenanigans result in the destruction of the Tyrannosaurus Rex display, on “According to Jim,” TUESDAY, APRIL 17 (8:30-9:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network. (Rebroadcast. OAD 2/28/07)

Guest-starring is Mitch Rouse as Ryan.

“Dino-Mite” is written by Hayes Jackson and directed by James Widdoes.

“According to Jim” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning.

This program carries a TV-PG parental guideline.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 2, 2007

ALAN SHORE GOES UP AGAINST JERRY ESPENSON WHEN A DEPARTMENT STORE IS

ACCUSED OF SELLING RACY DOLLS TO CHILDREN, DENNY CRANE’S POLITICALLY

INCORRECT STATEMENT TO AN AFRICAN-AMERICAN JOB APPLICANT COULD COST

HIM HIS JOB, AND DENISE BEGINS TO RE-THINK HER FUTURE WITH BRAD,

ON ABC’S “BOSTON LEGAL”

“Guise ‘n Dolls” – Alan Shore finds himself pitted against old friend Jerry Espenson in a case of a woman suing a department store for selling “pornographic” dolls to kids. Meanwhile, Shirley Schmidt and Paul Lewiston must decide the fate of Denny Crane after he makes a politically incorrect statement to an African-American under consideration for employment at the firm, and a colleague’s valued opinion causes Denise Bauer to re-think her future with Brad, on “Boston Legal,” TUESDAY, APRIL 17 (10:00-11:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

“Boston Legal” stars James Spader as Alan Shore, Julie Bowen as Denise Bauer, Mark Valley as Brad Chase, Rene Auberjonois as Paul Lewiston, Constance Zimmer as Claire Simms and Gary Anthony Williams as Clarence/Clarice Bell, with Candice Bergen as Shirley Schmidt and William Shatner as Denny Crane.

Guest starring are Christian Clemenson as Jerry Espenson, Gail O’Grady as Judge Gloria Weldon, Jaleel White as Kevin Givens, Kate Hodge as Kaye Kent, Michael Bofshever as Charles Costello and Jim Jansen as Marshall Kennedy.

“Guise ‘n Dolls” was written by Sanford Golden & Karen Wyscarver & David E. Kelley and directed by John Terlesky.

“Boston Legal” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning.

A TV parental guideline will be posted closer to airdate.

ENTERTAINMENT

April 2, 2007

SEASON FINALE

HARRY AND MAUREEN TRY GETTING BACK TOGETHER, JOANNA DISCOVERS

A HIDDEN ATTACHMENT TO JASON, AND SHERMAN’S BOOK GOES #1

IN JAPAN, ON THE SEASON FINALE OF ABC’S “IN CASE OF EMERGENCY”

“The Picture” – Harry and Maureen try their hand at getting back together. Meanshile Joanna discovers a hidden attachment to Jason, and Sherman’s book goes #1 in Japan -- making him a celebrity again -- on the Season Finale of “In Case of Emergency,” WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18 (9:30-10:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

“In Case of Emergency” stars David Arquette as Jason Ventress, Jonathan Silverman as Harry Kennison, Greg Germann as Sherman Yablonsky, Kelly Hu as Kelly Lee, Jackson Bond as Dylan and Lori Loughlin as Joanna.

Guest-starring Leigh Allyn Baker as Maureen, Arabella Field as Stephanie, Natsuko Ohama as Madam and David Norona as Paul.

“The Picture” is written by Rosalind Moore & Howard J. Morris and directed by Linda Mendoza.

“In Case of Emergency” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1 channel surround sound and Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning.

This program carries a TV-PG,D parental guideline.

-- ABC --

ENTERTAINMENT

April 2, 2007

CHARLIE QUESTIONS WHETHER DESMOND HAS HAD ANOTHER “FLASH”

FORESHADOWING HIS DEATH WHEN COAXED INTO JOINING A TREK

ACROSS THE JUNGLE, AND JEALOUSY MOTIVATES KATE TO TURN TO

AN UNSUSPECTING SAWYER, ON ABC’S “LOST”

“Catch-22” – Desmond coaxes Charlie, Hurley and Jin on a trek across the jungle after experiencing one of his future-prophesizing “flashes” -- but is he purposely placing Charlie’s life in harm’s way? Meanwhile, Kate turns to an unwitting Sawyer after seeing Jack alone with Juliet, on “Lost,” WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18 (10:00-11:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

Guest starring are Sonia Walger as Penny Widmore, Jack Maxwell as Derek, Joanna Bool as Ruth, Andrew Connolly as Brother Campbell, Andrew Trask as older monk and Marsha Thomason as parachutist.

“Catch-22” was written by Jeff Pinkner & Brian K. Vaughan and directed by Stephen Williams.

”Lost” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

A TV parental guideline will be assigned closer to airdate.

-- ABC --

ENTERTAINMENT

April 2, 2007

BETTY STRUGGLES TO KEEP DANIEL ON THE STRAIGHT AND NARROW

AS A TABLOID WRITER STALKS THE MEADE FAMILY, ON ABC’S “UGLY BETTY”

“Punch Out” – Betty frantically tries to keep Daniel focused on work as he reverts to his old hard-partying ways, including romancing a multitude of stunning models. Things go from bad to worse when a tell-all writer (Emmy winner Leslie Jordan, “Will & Grace,” “Boston Legal”) in possession of Fey Sommer’s diaries starts stalking the Meades. Another Suarez, Ignacio, feels the heat when Immigration caseworker Constance (guest star Octavia Spencer) pressures him to make their relationship a romantic one, and Wilhelmina and Alexis both try to get their hands on Fey’s diaries -- but for different reasons -- on “Ugly Betty,” THURSDAY, APRIL 19 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network. Bond girl Ivana Milicevic (“Casino Royale”) guest stars as Lena.

Guest stars include Leslie Jordan as Quincy Combs, Ivana Milicevic as Lena, Annalynne McCord as Petra, Eric Edelstein as Ben, Jeff Meacham as Kevin, Max Greenfield as Nick Pepper, Bailey Chase as Becks and Octavia Spencer as Constance.

“Punch Out,” was written by Oliver Goldstick, and directed by Miguel Arteta.

”Ugly Betty” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

A TV parental guideline will be posted closer to airdate.

-- ABC --

ENTERTAINMENT

April 2, 2007

IZZIE FACES HER PAINFUL PAST WITH GEORGE BY HER SIDE,

DEREK AND MEREDITH QUESTION THEIR RELATIONSHIP,

AND ALEX GROWS INCREASINGLY ATTACHED TO HIS PATIENT,

ON ABC’S “GREY’S ANATOMY”

Mare Winningham Returns as Susan Grey

Elizabeth Reaser (“Sweet Land”) and Roger Rees (“The Prestige”)

Return as Jane Doe and Dr. Colin Marlow

“Time After Time” – Izzie faces her past and finds comfort in George, while Alex becomes more attached to Jane Doe (Elizabeth Reaser), Meredith and Derek question their own status, and Cristina resolves to fight for her relationship with Burke -- despite her past with Colin Marlow (Roger Rees) -- on “Grey’s Anatomy,” THURSDAY, APRIL 19 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

Editors note: This program will repeat Friday, April 20 (8:00-9:01 p.m., ET).

Guest starring Elizabeth Reaser as Jane Doe, Roger Rees as Dr. Colin Marlowe, Dee Wallace as Joan Waring, Brent Jennings as Charles, Suzanne Cryer as Caroline Klein, Tim Hopper as Dustin Klein, Marc Vann as hematologist, Steven W. Bailey as Joe, with Mare Winningham as Susan Grey

“Time After Time” was written by Stacy McKee and directed by Christopher Misiano.

“Grey’s Anatomy” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

A TV parental guideline will be posted closer to airdate.

-- ABC --

ENTERTAINMENT

April 2, 2007

CASEMAN WORKS ON A PROJECT WITH LAURA AND SPARKS FLY,

BUT RAY THINKS WHITNEY IS ALSO INTERESTED IN CASEMAN,

ON ABC’S “SIX DEGREES” FRIDAY, APRIL 20

“Surstromming or a Slice” – Ray hires Laura and Caseman to decorate his new office space, and while working together, they figure out that they have chemistry. However Ray learns that Caseman means more to Whitney than he originally thought. Meanwhile Damien goes to work for Ray and uses his boss’ name to pull a favor for Carlos, who lands a new job, and Mae finds out about a woman who may be her mother while babysitting for Laura and Caseman, on “Six Degrees,” FRIDAY, APRIL 20 (9:01-10:00 p.m. ET) on the ABC Television Network.

“Six Degrees” stars Jay Hernandez as Carlos, Bridget Moynahan as Whitney, Erika Christensen as Mae, Dorian Missick as Damian, with Campbell Scott as Steven Caseman and Hope Davis as Laura.

Guest starring Josh Charles as Ray Jones, Caroline Lagerfelt as JT Zeff, Deborah Craig as Melanie, Jill Flint as Lisa, Ben Livingston as Arne Bengston, J. Smith-Cameron as Maggie Newton, John Ventimiglia as Jimmy, Samantha Buck as Susan Clayman, Mark La Mura as partner and Miles Chandler as Max.

“Surstromming or a Slice” is written by Ken Biller and Peter Elkoff and directed by David Petrarca.

”Six Degrees” is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning.

This program carries a TV-PG,D,S parental guideline.

-- ABC --

ENTERTAINMENT

April 2, 2007

“HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S STONE” TO AIR IN HIGH DEFINITION

TELEVISION AS THE “ABC SATURDAY MOVIE OF THE WEEK,” APRIL 21

“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” a magical adventure tale nominated for three Academy Awards, will air as a presentation of “ABC Saturday Movie of the Week,” APRIL 21 (8:00-11:00 p.m., ET). The feature will be broadcast in HDTV format with 5.1-channel surround sound and with Spanish audio. (Rebroadcast. OAD: 5/9/04)

Based on the first of J.K. Rowling’s popular children’s novels about Harry Potter, the live action family adventure film “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” tells the story of a boy who learns on his 11th birthday that he is the orphaned son of two powerful wizards and possesses unique magical powers of his own. Invited to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Harry embarks on the adventure of a lifetime and finds the home and the family he has never had.

“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” stars Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, Emma Watson as Hermione Granger, Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley, John Cleese as Nearly Headless Nick, Robbie Coltrane as Rubeus Hagrid, Warwick Davis as Professor Flitwick, Richard Griffiths as Uncle Vernon, Richard Harris as Professor Albus Dumbledore, Ian Hart as Professor Quirrell, John Hurt as Mr. Ollivander, Alan Rickman as Professor Snape, Fiona Shaw as Aunt Petunia,Maggie Smith as Professor Minerva McGonagall and Julie Walters as Mrs. Weasley.

“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” released in 2001, was directed by Chris Columbus (“Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,” “Home Alone” series, “Mrs. Doubtfire”) and the screenplay was written by Steven Kloves (“The Wonder Boys,” “Harry Potter” series) based on the novel by J.K. Rowling. The film is produced by David Heyman. The executive producers are Mark Radcliffe, Michael Barnathan and Duncan Henderson. “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” is a production of 1492 Pictures, Heyday Films and Warner Bros. Pictures. (CLOSED-CAPTIONED) (Broadcast in stereo where available)

“HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER’S STONE” IN HDTV:

The ABC Television Network’s HDTV broadcast of “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” will air in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format and 5.1-channel surround sound and with Spanish audio.

This film carries a TV-PG,V parental guideline.

-- ABC --

CORRECTION/UPDATE

As of MONDAY, APRIL 2 (all times ET unless noted)

MONDAY, APRIL 16 (8:00 – 9:30 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is “DANCING WITH THE STARS: 405” -- Program information to come. (TV-PG) (HD/5.1; Spanish audio via SAP) (CC)

(9:30 – 11:00 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is “THE BACHELOR: OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN: 1003” -- Program information/TV parental guideline to come. (CC; Spanish subtitles via secondary CC).

TUESDAY, APRIL 17 (9:00 – 10:00 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is “DANCING WITH THE STARS THE RESULTS SHOW: 405A” -- Program information to come. (TV-PG) (HD/5.1; Spanish audio via SAP) (CC)

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18 (8:00 – 9:00 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is TBA.

(9:00 – 9:30 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is “ACCORDING TO JIM: The Grill II” -- Program information/TV parental guideline to come. (HD/5.1) (CC; Spanish subtitles via secondary CC)

THURSDAY, APRIL 19 (10:01 – 11:00 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is “Notes from the Underbelly” -- Episodes TBA. Program information/TV parental guideline to come. (HD/5.1) (CC; Spanish subtitles via secondary CC)

FRIDAY, APRIL 20 (8:00 – 9:01 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is “GREY’S ANATOMY: Time After Time” (OAD: 4/19/07) -- TV parental guideline to come. (HD/5.1; Spanish audio via SAP) (CC)

(10:00 – 11:00 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is “20/20” – Information to come. (CC)

-- ABC --

END

March 29, 2007

DILIP BALA PROMOTED TO VICE PRESIDENT, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT,

ABC ENTERTAINMENT AND ABC TELEVISION STUDIO

Dilip Bala has been promoted to vice president, Business Development, ABC Entertainment and ABC Television Studio, it was announced today by Bruce Gersh, senior vice president, Business Development, ABC Entertainment and ABC Television Studio, to whom he reports.

In his new role Mr. Bala is responsible for mobile and e-commerce new media business development related to ABC and ABC Television Studio for the Disney-ABC Television Group’s digital media team. This includes projects for ABC Entertainment’s Daytime, Primetime and Late Night, as well as ABC Television Studio around the world.

“Dilip has made significant contributions towards developing our wireless and digital media initiatives,” said Mr. Gersh. “Under his direction, ABC-related mobile content continues to raise the bar in the industry, and I am confident that he will add leadership and more value to the company in his new role.“

Specifically Mr. Bala oversees production and distribution of all mobile content, including video, personalization products and games. He also manages e-commerce activities for ABC. He is charged with developing and managing mobile initiatives related to ABC’s annual broadcast of the Academy Awards; and this year marked the first time Oscar content was available on mobile for the 79^th Academy Awards show.

Employed by ABC since 2004, Mr. Bala most recently served as director, Business Development, ABC Entertainment and ABC Television Studio. Prior to joining ABC, he headed up operations for a direct marketing start-up and was previously with The Walt Disney Company for over six years in various finance and planning roles. He began his career at Ernst & Young, where he earned his CPA credentials.

Mr. Bala resides in Los Angeles with his wife and two children.

Disney-ABC Television Group is home to all of The Walt Disney Company’s worldwide entertainment and news television properties. The Group includes the ABC Television Network, Disney Channel’s worldwide portfolio of kids’ channels, ABC Family and SOAPnet; as well as television production and syndication divisions ABC Television Studio, Walt Disney Television Animation, Buena Vista Worldwide Television and Walt Disney Television International. Disney-ABC Television Group also manages the Radio Disney Network in addition to the Company’s equity interest in Lifetime Entertainment Services and A&E Television Networks.

-- DISNEY-ABC TELEVISION GROUP --

NEWS

March 29, 2007

IS YOUR PHARMACY ERROR-PROOF, OR IS IT A PRESCRIPTION FOR DISASTER?

A BRIAN ROSS EXCLUSIVE INVESTIGATION, ON ABC NEWS’ “20/20,” FRIDAY, MARCH 30

Also: Barbara Walters Interviews Presidential Candidate Rudy Giuliani’s Wife,

Judith Giuliani; Former Mayor Joins Interview

After reports from around the country of devastating prescription errors, ABC News’ “20/20” embarked on a four-month investigation led by ABC News Chief Investigative Correspondent Brian Ross to examine what some industry experts fear is an unreported epidemic of pharmacy errors at the country’s fast growing chain drug stores. As Ross reports, overworked pharmacists are pushed to fill prescriptions at a fast pace and frequently rely on pharmacy technicians -- who often are just high school students -- to actually fill the prescriptions. “20/20” cameras go undercover to investigate the rate of error and find a widespread failure to spot potentially dangerous drug interactions, and customers signing away their right to get information on the drugs they are taking without realizing it. The exclusive report airs on “20/20” on FRIDAY, MARCH 30 (10:00-11:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

Mary Ann Wagner, senior vice president of the Washington, DC trade group representing the big drug store chains, said huge sums of money are being spent in new training and high tech programs that help prevent errors in the billions of prescriptions filled by the chains each year, and that “patient safety is our number one concern.” But she cannot answer Ross’ question -- “how can you say this industry is taking serious steps to prevent errors if they don’t even know how big the problem is?” -- because, in all but four states, the industry is not required to report pharmacy errors, even those resulting in serious injury or death.

Ross also reports on cases in which pharmacy errors led to a devastating brain injury for a four-month-old baby in suburban Chicago and a crippling stroke for a mother of three from Florida who was given a dosage 10 times higher than what her doctor prescribed.

Plus: Barbara Walters interviews Judith Giuliani, wife of presidential candidate and former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani. This is her first in-depth television interview since becoming Mrs. Giuliani, and she responds to numerous questions, including whether she was responsible for the break-up of her husband’s second marriage, her relationship with her step children, the role she will play in her husband’s campaign and what kind of First Lady she would be. Former Mayor Giuliani also joins in the far-reaching interview and addresses these and other topics.

Also: Should cops be held accountable when innocent bystanders are killed during high speed police chases? Bill Ritter reports on a tragic accident in New Jersey last September that took the lives of two teenage sisters when a State Trooper ran a stop sign at high speed, hitting the girls in their car.

“20/20” is anchored by Elizabeth Vargas and John Stossel. David Sloan is executive producer.

-- ABC --

March 29, 2007

Fringe Ratings Report: ABC Daytime Programming LIVE +SD data

Week of March 19-25, 2007

ABC DAYTIME’S FULL AND DRAMA LINEUPS RANKED NO. 1 FOR THE WEEK

(BOTH ABC LINEUPS HAVE RANKED NO. 1 FOR 26 OUT OF 27 WEEKS

THIS SEASON AMONG WOMEN 18-49)

ABC DAYTIME’S FULL AND DRAMA LINEUPS ALSO RANKED NO. 1

FOR THE 7^th WEEK IN A ROW AMONG WOMEN 18-34

ABC’S FULL AND DRAMA LINEUPS RANK NO.1 SEASON TO DATE AMONG WOMEN 18-49

ABC’S FULL LINEUP IS UP 3% SEASON TO DATE AMONG TOTAL VIEWERS (MOST GROWTH), AND IS ALSO UP 1% AMONG WOMEN 18-34, MAKING ABC THE ONLY NETWORK UP

AMONG WOMEN 18-34

“GENERAL HOSPITAL” RANKED NO. 1 AMONG BOTH WOMEN 18-49 AND FEMALE TEENS, MARKING THE SEVENTH WEEK IN A ROW THAT “GH” HAS RANKED NO. 1

WITH BOTH DEMOS IN RATING

“GENERAL HOSPITAL” IS THE ONLY DAYTIME DRAMA TO SHOW SEASON-TO-DATE GROWTH

IN WOMEN 18-34

“THE VIEW” RANKED IN THE TOP 5 DAYTIME PROGRAMS AMONG WOMEN 18-49

FOR THE 26^TH STRAIGHT WEEK, AND IS UP SEASON TO DATE AMONG WOMEN 18-49,

WOMEN 18-34 AND TOTAL VIEWERS

ABC WON THE COMMON 1-3 P.M. TIME PERIOD FOR THE WEEK,

OUTPERFORMING NBC BY 29% AND CBS BY 5% AMONG WOMEN 18-49

Week of March 19, 2007

ABC’s daytime Drama lineup was No. 1 for the week among Women 18-49, with a 1.6 rating and a 10 share, delivering 1.1 million Women 18-49 for the week of March 19, 2007. The lineup outperformed CBS by 16% and NBC by 40%. Among Women 18-34, the lineup was also No.1 for the week, with a 1.2 rating and an 8 share, delivering 396,000 women 18-34.

ABC’s Full daytime schedule was No. 1 for the week among Women 18-49, with a 1.6 rating and a 10 share, delivering an average audience of 1.02 million Women 18-49. The lineup outperformed CBS by 14% and NBC by 35% among Women 18-49. Among Women 18-34, the lineup was also No. 1 for the week, with a 1.1 rating and an 8 share, delivering 380,000 Women 18-34. The Full lineup is up 1% season to date, making ABC the only network to show season-to-date growth among women 18-34. Among Total Viewers, the Full lineup is up 3% season to date (more than any other network).

This week marks the seventh week in a row that both ABC’s Full and Drama lineups ranked
No. 1 among Women 18-49 and Women 18-34.

ABC won three of its four time periods and delivered three out of the top five shows in Women 18-49:

“The View” was the No. 4*-ranked program of the week (tied with “All My Children” and “The Price Is Right 2” in rating), with a 1.4 rating and a 10 share, delivering an average audience of 901,000 Women 18-49. The program was up 18% vs. the same week last year (the only daytime program up) among Women 18-49. “The View” beat the average of the combined half-hours of “the Price is Right” by 8%, “As the World Turns” by 14% and “Guiding Light” by 26% among Women 18-49. Season to date, “The View” is up 21% among Women 18-49. Among Women 18-34, it was up 38% vs. the same week last year and is up 23% season to date.

Among Total Viewers, “The View” had a 1.2 rating and a 9 share, delivering 3.5 million Total Viewers for the week. It was up 34% vs. the same week last year, and is up 18% season to date.

“General Hospital” was the No. 1-ranked program for the 8^th straight week, with a 1.9 rating (tied with Y&R) and a 12 share, delivering 1.23 million Women 18-49. “GH” beat “Days of Our Lives” by 40% among Women 18-49. Additionally, “General Hospital” beat its time period rival, “Guiding Light,” by 71% for the week among Women 18-49.

Among Women 18-34, “GH” was No.2 for the week, with a 1.4 rating and a 9 share, delivering 470,000 Women 18-34. “GH” is up 5% season to date among Women 18-34 (the only daytime drama up among women 18-34.) Among Female Teens, “GH” was the No. 1 ranked program for the week, and was up 23% vs. the prior week and up 42% versus the same week last year. Also, “GH” outperformed “Days” by 118% among Female Teens. Among Total Viewers, “General Hospital” is up 1% season to date. This week marks the seventh week in a row “GH” has ranked No. 1 in both Women 18-49 and Female Teens.

“One Life to Live” was the No. 3*-ranked program of the week, with a 1.5 rating and a 10 share, delivering 1.01million Women 18-49. “OLTL” outperformed time period competitors “As the World Turns” by 27% and “Passions” by 57% for the week. “One Life to Live” was also up 4% versus last week among Female Teens.

“All My Children” was the No. 4*-ranked program of the week (tied in rating with “The View” and “The Price is Right 2”), with a 1.4 rating a 10 share, delivering 947,000 Women 18-49. The “AMC” advantage over time period competitor “Days” was 8% among Women 18-49.

Season to date, ABC Daytime’s drama lineup ranks No. 1, with a 1.7 rating and an 11 share, delivering 1.1 million Women 18-49 – outperforming CBS by 18% and NBC by 16% in actuals. In the Full lineup, ABC Daytime is No. 1, with a 1.7 rating and an 11 share, delivering 1.1 million Women 18-49, outperforming CBS by 20% and NBC 15% in actuals.

Following are the Daytime drama and full Daytime ratings averages for the week:

DAYTIME DRAMAS: TOTAL VIEWERS WOMEN 18-49

No. 1 CBS 3,689,000 No. 1 ABC 1.6/10

No. 2 ABC 3,140,000 No. 2 CBS 1.4/9

No. 3 NBC 2,230,000 No. 3 NBC 1.2/8

FULL DAYTIME: TOTAL VIEWERS WOMEN 18-49

No. 1 CBS 4,021,000 No. 1 ABC 1.6/10

No. 2 ABC 3,224,000 No. 2 CBS 1.4/9

No. 3 NBC 2,230,000 No. 2 NBC 1.2/8

*All information is based on Live + Same Day data.
Monday 3/19/07
Price Is Right 1 was preempted in New York (6.616%)
Price is Right 2 was interrupted in all east coast and central markets from 11:30am-11:45am EST
The View was interrupted in all east coast and central markets from 11:30am-11:45am EST
Wednesday 3/21/07
Bold & The Beautiful was preempted in San Antonio (.696%)
Days of Our Lives was interrupted from 12pm-12:30pm in San Antonio (.696%)
Thursday 3/22/07
All My Children was interrupted from 11:15am-11:30am in Dallas (2.136%), Cleveland (1.381%), San Antonio (.696%), Louisville (0.582%), Oklahoma City (0.595%)
Guiding Light was preempted in San Diego (0.925%) due to NCAA BB Tournament and ran late night in entirety
Friday 3/23/07
Guiding Light was preempted in San Diego (0.925%) due to NCAA BB Tournament and ran late night in entirety

-- ABC -- CORRECTION/UPDATE

As of THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2007 (all times ET unless noted)

MARCH 29

TIME CHANGE “GREY’S ANATOMY: From a Whisper to a Scream” now scheduled 9:00-10:02 p.m.

Originally was 9:00-10:01 p.m.

TIME CHANGE “OCTOBER ROAD: Tomorrow’s So Far Away” now scheduled 10:02-11:00 p.m.

Originally was 10:01-11:00 p.m.

THURSDAY, APRIL 12 (10:01 –11:00 PM)

CORRECTION “NOTES FROM THE UNDERBELLY” will air episodes (TBA) seamlessly as a one-hour telecast in the 10:01-11:00 p.m. hour. (HD/5.1) (CC; Spanish subtitles via secondary CC)

-- ABC --

END

ABC ANNOUNCES FOURTEEN EARLY PICK-UPS FOR THE 2007-08 SEASON

ABC Television Network today announced fourteen early pick-ups for the 2007-08 season for new breakout series “Brothers & Sisters,” “Ugly Betty” and “MEN IN TREES,” as well as returning hits “The Bachelor,” “Boston Legal,” “Dancing with the Stars,” “Desperate Housewives,” “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Jimmy Kimmel Live” and “Lost.” The announcement was made by ABC Entertainment President Stephen McPherson at the March Development Meeting in Los Angeles. These series join previously announced “America’s Funniest Home Videos,” “Supernanny” and “Wife Swap,” which have also been renewed for the 2007-08 season.

“We have had a strong year, with two of the season’s breakout hits, ‘Ugly Betty’ and ‘Brothers & Sisters,’ and the solid performance of ‘MEN IN TREES,’” said McPherson. “We are pleased that viewers have invested in these new favorites along with our other returning series. These shows provide us with a substantial foundation to make 07-08 our best schedule yet.”

“Brothers & Sisters”

In this compelling drama about the Walker family, we meet a collection of intertwined and somewhat damaged adult siblings who embrace one another unconditionally while striving to reflect the perceived perfection of their role model parents. In the days ahead, they will navigate waves of temptation, deception and grief.

“Brothers & Sisters” leads its CBS drama competition (“Without a Trace”/”Cold Case”) in Sunday’s
10 o’clock hour this season among adults (18-34/18-49), and dominates its time period with each of the key women demos. The freshman drama stands as the No. 2 new series on any network in its hour this season with Adults 18-49, behind only ABC’s high-rated debut of “October Road” (3/15/07).

Ken Olin, Jon Robin Baitz and Greg Berlanti are executive producers. The series is produced by ABC Television Studio.

“Ugly Betty”

The award winning drama from ABC Television Studio, based on the Columbian telenovela “Yo Soy Betty La Fea,” has become an international phenomenon. If you took a moment to get to know Betty Suarez, you’d see how sweet, intelligent and hard-working she is. But few people do, because in the world of high fashion, Betty is the oversized peg in the petite round hole.

The freshman “Ugly Betty” has established itself a competitive second to CBS’ time period veteran, “Survivor,” in Total Viewers, while ranking No. 1 with its core audience of Women 18-34. It has substantially improved the time period, representing ABC's top scripted series in the hour in 12 years.

The series stars America Ferrera as Betty Suarez, Eric Mabius as Daniel Meade, Alan Dale as Bradford Meade, Tony Plana as Ignacio, Ana Ortiz as Hilda, Ashley Jensen as Christina, Becki Newton as Amanda, Mark Indelicato as Justin, Michael Urie as Marc, Kevin Sussman as Walter, Rebecca Romijn as Alexis Meade and Vanessa Williams as Wilhelmina Slater.

Academy Award nominee and Emmy Award winner Salma Hayek is executive producer, along with Silvio Horta, Ben Silverman, Jose Tamez, James Hayman and Marco Pennette.

“MEN IN TREES”

“MEN IN TREES” looks at the relationships between men and women through the eyes of relationship coach Marin Frist, who questions her own advice and resolves to temporarily stay in Elmo, Alaska -- where the ratio of men to women is ten to one -- to get started on her new book… about men.

In its Thursday 10 o’clock time period, "MEN IN TREES" ranks second to NBC’s time period veteran, “ER,” beating CBS’ freshman “Shark” among Adults 18-34. On its most recent original airing (2/15/07), “MEN IN TREES” achieved series-high ratings among Adults 18-49 and with key women.

The series stars Anne Heche as Marin Frist, Abraham Benrubi as Ben Thomasson, Emily Bergl as Annie O’Donnell, Seana Kofoed as Jane, Suleka Mathew as Sara, Derek Richardson as Patrick Bachelor, Cynthia Stevenson as Celia Bachelor, Sarah Strange as Theresa, Lauren Tom as Mai Washington, James Tupper as Jack Slattery and John Amos as Buzz Washington.

Created by Jenny Bicks, Bicks, James Mangold and Cathy Konrad are executive producers of the series, which is filmed in Vancouver, Canada, and is from Tree Line Films, Perkins Street Productions and NS Pictures, Inc. in association with Warner Bros. Television.

“The Bachelor”

“The Bachelor” is the original primetime reality romance series that offers one lucky man and 25 lucky women the unique opportunity to find true love.

romance .

“The Bachelor: Rome” was a strong draw with younger viewers, ranking second to NBC’s “Heroes” in Adults 18-34, Women 18-34 and Teens 12-17. The franchise consistently delivers among its core audience of young women, one of the top TV series this season (No. 3).

“The Bachelor” is hosted by Chris Harrison and produced by Next Entertainment in Association with Warner Horizon Television. Mike Fleiss and Lisa Levenson are executive producers. David Bohnert is co-executive producer.

“Boston Legal”

Back-to-back Emmy Award winners James Spader and William Shatner play Alan Shore and Denny Crane, unlikely kindred spirits among the litigators at Crane Poole & Schmidt. Shirley Schmidt (five-time Emmy winner Candice Bergen), a founding partner of the firm, has been coaxed back to bring order to the office. She keeps an eye on all, particularly Denny – with whom she shares a checkered past.

“Boston Legal,” a consistent performer for ABC, generates an extremely upscale audience. The drama stands as the No. 1 TV show this season, based on the concentration of high income viewers in its young adult audience (Adult 18-49 index w/$100K+ annual income).

It stars James Spader as Alan Shore, Julie Bowen as Denise Bauer, Mark Valley as Brad Chase, Rene Auberjonois as Paul Lewiston, Constance Zimmer as Claire Simms, Gary Anthony Williams as Clarence/Clarice Bell, with Candice Bergen as Shirley Schmidt and William Shatner as Denny Crane.

Created by David E. Kelley, Kelley, Bill D’Elia and Janet Leahy are executive producers of the series, which is produced by David E. Kelley Productions in association with Twentieth Century Fox Television, and premiered October 3, 2004.

“Dancing with the Stars”

“Dancing with the Stars” has established itself as one of television’s most popular programs. During its Fall run, it was the second-most-watched program on television, and the No. 1 unscripted TV series in Total Viewers and Adults 18-49. On its season finale during the 2006 November Sweep, the show achieved its most-watched telecast ever, with an average audience of 27.5 million. In its fourth season premiere, “Dancing with the Stars” delivered its best opening numbers ever.

Hosted by Tom Bergeron and Samantha Harris, celebrities perform choreographed dance routines which are judged by renowned Ballroom judge Len Goodman and dancer/choreographers Bruno Tonioli and Carrie Ann Inaba.

“Dancing with the Stars” is the U.S. version of the international smash hit series, “Strictly Come Dancing.” This version is produced in America by BBC Worldwide Productions. Conrad Green and Richard Hopkins are executive producers, and Izzie Pick is co-executive producer. Rob Wade and Matilda Zoltowski are supervising producers. Alex Rudzinski directs.

“Desperate Housewives”

A primetime soap with a truly contemporary take on the “happily ever after,” this hit series takes a darkly comedic look at suburbia, where the secret lives of housewives aren’t always what they seem.

For the third season in a row, “Desperate Housewives” is Sunday’s No. 1 TV program in Total Viewers and Adults 18-49. It qualifies as the second-highest-rated scripted TV program this season among Adults 18-49, behind only ABC’s “Grey’s Anatomy.”

“Desperate Housewives” stars Teri Hatcher as Susan Mayer, Felicity Huffman as Lynette Scavo, Marcia Cross as Bree Van De Kamp, Eva Longoria as Gabrielle Solis, Nicollette Sheridan as Edie Britt, Brenda Strong as Mary Alice Young, James Denton as Mike Delfino, Doug Savant as Tom Scavo, Ricardo Antonio Chavira as Carlos Solis, Andrea Bowen as Julie Mayer, Shawn Pyfrom as Andrew Van De Kamp, Joy Lauren as Danielle Van De Kamp, Josh Henderson as Austin Britt, Rachel Fox as Kayla Huntington and Brent and Shane Kinsman as Porter and Preston Scavo.

Marc Cherry is executive producer and creator. “Desperate Housewives” is produced by ABC Television Studio and is the winner of both the 2005 and 2006 Golden Globe Award for Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy.

“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”

“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” makes dreams come true in every episode. It features a race against time, involving a team of designers, contractors and several hundred workers who all have just seven days to totally rebuild an entire house – and change the lives of the lucky families forever.

For the fourth straight season, ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” ranks No. 1 in its Sunday
8 o’clock time period in the key Adult 18-49 demographic.

The design team includes team leader and carpenter Ty Pennington, Paul DiMeo (carpentry/attitude), Paige Hemmis (carpentry/nut & bolts), Michael Moloney (interiors/glamour), Ed Sanders (construction), Preston Sharp (exteriors/big ideas), Tracy Hutson (shopping/style), Tanya McQueen (interiors) , Eduardo Xol (landscaping) and new designer John Littlefield (nuts & bolts).

“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. David Goldberg is president of Endemol USA. The series is executive-produced by Denise Cramsey and premiered December 3, 2003 on the ABC Television Network.

“Grey’s Anatomy”

The award-winning drama follows the interconnecting relationships of Seattle’s hottest doctors who live life to its fullest amid the daily life-and-death stakes of their jobs. It’s the drama and intensity of medical training mixed with the funny, sexy, painful lives of interns who are discovering that neither medicine nor relationships can be defined in black and white. Real life only comes in shades of grey.

“Grey’s Anatomy” has established a strong presence on Thursday night, winning its 9 o’clock time period and qualifying as Thursday’s No. 1 TV show across each of the adult demographics. It’s the highest-rated scripted show on all of television this season with key adults.

The series stars Ellen Pompeo as Meredith Grey, Patrick Dempsey as Derek Shepherd, Sandra Oh as Cristina Yang, Isaiah Washington as Preston Burke, Katherine Heigl as Isobel “Izzie” Stevens, Justin Chambers as Alex Karev, T.R. Knight as George O’Malley, Chandra Wilson as Miranda Bailey, James Pickens, Jr. as Richard Webber, Kate Walsh as Addison Shepherd, Sara Ramirez as Callie Torres and Eric Dane as Mark Sloan.

Shonda Rhimes is creator and executive producer. Betsy Beers, Mark Gordon and Krista Vernoff are executive producers. “Grey’s Anatomy” is an ABC Television Studio production.

“Jimmy Kimmel Live”

Emmy-winner Jimmy Kimmel serves as host and executive producer of “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” a distinctive late-night talk show with a diverse lineup of guests, including celebrities, athletes, comedians, politicians and human interest subjects.

“Jimmy Kimmel Live” turned in a record-setting February, attracting the show’s biggest February Sweep audience ever. This season “JKL” is up 12% in Total Viewers and 17% among Adults 18-49 over the same point last year. In fact it’s up the most among the late-night entertainment talkers, and is the only show to grow its delivery in the key Adult 18-49 demographic.

Jimmy Kimmel and Jill Leiderman serve as executive producers and Jason Schrift and Douglas DeLuca as co-executive producers. “Jimmy Kimmel Live” is shot live in front of a studio audience and is produced by Jackhole Industries in association with ABC Television Studio.

“Lost”

The band of friends, enemies and strangers continue to work together to stay alive. But as they have discovered during their 70-plus days on the island, danger and mystery loom behind every corner, and those they thought could be trusted may turn against them. Even heroes have secrets.

For the third consecutive season, “Lost” ranks No. 1 in its time period in Adults 18-49. It is Wednesday’s highest-rated scripted TV program in Adults 18-49, and since entering the hour also qualifies as the No. 1 10:00 p.m. series on any network.

-- ABC --

JENNIFER WESTFELDT

Lauren on the ABC Television Network’s “Notes from the Underbelly”

Jennifer Westfeldt is best known for co-writing, co-producing and playing the title role in the indie hit, “Kissing Jessica Stein,” released by Fox Searchlight Pictures.

“Kissing Jessica Stein” won the Audience Award for Best Feature at the Los Angeles International Film Festival, the Audience Favorites Award at the Chicago International Film Festival, the FedEx Audience Award at the Miami Film Festival, Best Feature at the Louisville Jewish Film Festival, and the GLAAD Media Award for Best Picture. Westfeldt won the Golden Satellite Award for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical, a Special Jury Prize for Writing and Acting at the Los Angeles International Film Festival, and a nomination for an Indie Spirit Award for Best First Screenplay.

Her television credits include “Two Guys, a Girl and a Pizza Place” (series regular), “Holding The Baby” (series regular), “Judging Amy” (recurring), “Hack” (recurring), David E. Kelley’s “Snoops” and many pilots.

Westfeldt’s most recent films include “How to Lose Your Lover,” “Keep Your Distance,” and her latest solo screenwriting effort, in which she co-stars, “Ira and Abby,” which recently premiered at the Los Angeles Film Festival.

Raised in Connecticut and educated at Yale University, Westfeldt started her career as a New York-based theater actress, starring in more than 25 Off-Broadway and regional productions, including the long-running hit, “The Fantasticks.”

More recently she made her Broadway debut in the critical and commercial hit, “Wonderful Town,” directed by Kathleen Marshall, for which Westfeldt was nominated for a Tony Award as Best Actress, and she co-starred opposite two-time Tony Award winner Donna Murphy.

Westfeldt resides in both Los Angeles and New York.

PERSONAL INFORMATION

HOMETOWN Guilford, CT

BIRTHDATE February 2

-- 2006-07 --BIOGRAPHY

PETER CAMBOR

Andrew on the ABC Television Network’s “Notes from the Underbelly”

Peter Cambor makes his television debut as the expectant father, starring opposite Jennifer Westfeldt, in “Notes From the Underbelly.” He was cast in the series when the show’s creator and executive producer, Stacy Traub, saw him in a production of “The Cherry Orchard” with Annette Benning and Alfred Molina at the Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles in 2006.

Cambor studied at Deerfield High School, where he was required to take an arts class. His mother suggested taking an acting class and, once he started, he never looked back.

Acting in both high school and in college productions at Wesleyan University, Cambor received a bachelor’s degree in English. Post-graduation, he moved to New York to pursue acting while also bartending and waiting tables. It was then that he decided to continue his studies and received an M.F.A. in acting from the American Repertory Theatre’s Institute for Advanced Theatre Training at Harvard University and the Moscow Art Theatre in Russia.

Cambor recently relocated to Los Angeles from New York. He has played guitar for about 15 years and was in a country band in college. One of his other great passions in life is food, and he enjoys cooking elaborate meals – a talent his parents taught him when he was a child.

PERSONAL INFORMATION

HOMETOWN Houston, TX

BIRTHDAT September 28

-- 2006-07 --BIOGRAPHY

MICHAEL WEAVER

Danny on the ABC Television Network’s “Notes from the Underbelly”

Michael Weaver, a musician and singer initially, was performing in a pub in Vancouver when an agent suggested he consider acting. After taking some classes, Weaver booked his first job -- a scene opposite Jack Lemmon. Shortly thereafter he moved to New York to study full time.

After attending director Mike Nichols’ New Actors Workshop in New York City, Weaver was involved in various off-off Broadway productions, including “Geography of a Horse Dreamer” and “Urban Empire’s Worldly Acts,” as well as work at the Upright Citizen’s Brigade Theater. In addition to his stage work, he showed his diversity with guest starring roles on the critically acclaimed NBC dramas “Law & Order” and “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” and in the Fox Searchlight feature film, “Super Troopers,” from the Broken Lizard Comedy Troupe.

Looking to make a permanent leap into film and television, Weaver relocated to Los Angeles and quickly landed a recurring role on NBC’s “Providence.” Guest starring roles followed on “NCIS,” “Cold Case,” “Monk” and the short-lived ABC comedy, “Hot Properties,” among others. One of Weaver’s greatest assets is his ability to excel in both comedy and drama.

Teaming up with Broken Lizard again, Weaver appeared in their second Fox Searchlight release, “Club Dread,” starring Bill Paxton. Paxton was so impressed by Weaver that he cast him in the Disney film “The Greatest Game Ever Played,” on which he served as director.

Adding writing to his list of talents, Weaver recently sold his own television show to Warner Bros. with Broken Lizard, but the show has been put on hold due to his involvement in “Notes from the Underbelly.”

Weaver continues to play music and has released several records, most recently with his New York based band, The New Black. He currently resides in Venice, California, with his wife, Jennifer, and an occasionally annoying hound dog, both of whom are helping him through his addiction to soccer and golf.

PERSONAL INFORMATION

HOMETOWN Vancouver, Canada

BIRTHDATE February 17

-- 2006-07 --BIOGRAPHY

RACHAEL HARRIS

Cooper on the ABC Television Network’s “Notes from the Underbelly”

Rachael Harris is not just a pretty face. Her boundless humor and quick wit are certain to earn her a place at the top of the comedy world. She will be seen in director Christopher Guest’s upcoming film, “For Your Consideration,” this November.

Harris recently wrapped work on two additional feature films, “Evan Almighty,” starring Steve Carell, and “License to Wed,” starring Robin Williams. Previously she starred opposite Kirstie Alley in the much-talked-about Showtime series, “Fat Actress.” In the largely unscripted comedy, Harris played Alley’s makeup artist, hairstylist and cheering squad member, Kevyn.

Harris is no stranger to comedy or improv. She is perhaps best known for her correspondent gig on the critically acclaimed “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart.” In addition she has contributed to VH1’s “The Best Week Ever.” She has also been seen on USA’s “Monk,” “Reno 911,” NBC's “Frasier” and “The West Wing,” HBO's “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” VH1's “I Love The 80s Strikes Back” and ABC’s “According to Jim.”

Her film work includes “Kicking and Screaming” for Universal, opposite Will Ferrell, “Best in Show,” “The Haunted Mansion,” “A Mighty Wind,” “Starsky & Hutch” and “After the Sunset.” She also has an impressive background in theatre, where she has appeared in “The Importance of Being Earnest,” “The Speed of Darkness” and “Home Fires.”

Harris has also seen her share of success in the commercial world. Most recently she starred in a memorable T-Mobile commercial and a series of spots for Quaker Rice Snacks. She has also appeared in GEICO, AVIS, Expedia, Dinty Moore and Outback Restaurant commercials, and she brings to her work that je ne sais quoi that's hard to describe but inherently felt. If commercials had end credits, Rachael Harris would be at the top of the list.

A native of Ohio, after graduating from Otterbein College with a degree in Fine Arts, Harris moved to Los Angeles in the mid 1990s, where she joined the famed comedy troupe “The Groundlings.” She soon became a member of The Groundling Main Company, where she had a chance to focus on her skills and eventually teach class in The Groundling School of Improvisation.

Harris currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband, actor Adam Paul, whom she married in 2003.

PERSONAL INFORMATION

HOMETOWN Worthington, OH

BIRTHDATE January 12

-- 2006-07 --

BIOGRAPHY

MELANIE PAXSON

Julie on the ABC Television Network’s “Notes from the Underbelly”

Melanie Paxson was born and raised just outside of Champaign, Illinois, and left her hometown after high school to pursue a degree in Theater Performance at the University of Missouri-Columbia.

After appearing in many stage productions in school and training at the Second City Training Center, Paxson was fortunate enough to perform at the Steppenwolf Theatre Company in Chicago. Upon arriving in Los Angeles soon afterward, she appeared in numerous national commercials, most notably in Glad’s “Voice of Reason” campaign. One of her first big television roles was as Joyce DeWitt in the controversial TV movie, “Behind the Camera: The Unauthorized Story of ‘Three’s Company.’” Following guest appearances on several primetime television shows, she landed a starring role in the NBC sitcom “Happy Family,” before being cast as Julie in “Notes from the Underbelly.”

Paxson currently resides in Los Angeles with her husband of three years, Andy, their two dogs, Sophie and Owen, and their cat, Jesse. In her spare time she loves to travel, listen to music and spend time with her friends and family.

PERSONAL INFORMATION

HOMETOWN Champaign, IL

BIRTHDATE September 26

-- 2006-07 --

BIOGRAPHY

SUNKRISH BALA

Eric on the ABC Television Network’s “Notes from the Underbelly”

Sunkrish began acting as a child in community productions in and around the San Francisco Bay Area. While studying at the Bellarmine College Preparatory High School, he helped found A’shore Productions, an Indian-American theater company — the first of its kind on the West coast. After graduation, he began studying theater at UCLA’s School of Theater, Film and Television, where he was trained as an actor under Mel Shapiro’s program and received instruction from the likes of Anthony Hopkins and Annette Bening. Bala recently received his bachelor’s degree in theatre from UCLA in June 2006, at the end of his four years.

Bala began his professional career in Los Angeles while still training at UCLA. His theater credits include East West Players’ world premiere of “As Vishnu Dreams” and “Barriers,” a post-9/11 drama set in New York. His television credits include “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Will & Grace,” “My Name is Earl,” “CSI: NY” and “Vanished.” He also has a lead role in the upcoming “American Blend,” an independent feature starring Bollywood legend Anupam Kher.

In his spare time Bala writes, plays tennis and tries to travel as much as possible. Having grown up alternating between the United States, India and Singapore, he has quite literally lived around the world. He is proud to call Los Angeles his permanent home.

PERSONAL INFORMATION

HOMETOWN Born in Bombay, India/raised in San Jose, CA

BIRTHDATE May 21

-- 2006-07 --

April 9

April 9, 2007
Fast Facts for Sunday, April 8, 2007 (Based on Fast Affiliate Ratings)

Despite Starting off the Night with Repeat Programming, Opposite All-Original Lineups on CBS and NBC, ABC Leads Easter Sunday by 45% in Adults 18-49

ABC’s Repeat "America’s Funniest Home Videos" Tops Original Competition at 7pm

ABC’s "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" Leads at 8pm, Outdrawing Second-Place
CBS’ "Amazing Race" by 2.8 Million Viewers and by 45% Among Adults 18-49

The No. 1 TV Program on Sunday, ABC’s "Desperate Housewives" Dominates at 9pm

ABC’s "Brothers & Sisters" Tops Sunday’s 10 O’clock Hour Among Adults 18-49

Sunday Primetime (7:00-11:00 p.m.)
Although ABC aired repeat programming in the first hour of prime against all-original competition on CBS and NBC, ABC dominated Easter Sunday among Adults 18-49. During Sunday’s primetime, ABC (4.2/11) beat out second-place CBS by 45% (2.9/8), third-place NBC by 100% (2.1/6) and fourth-place Fox by 121% (1.9/5).

ABC’s "Desperate Housewives" stood as Sunday’s No. 1 TV show in Total Viewers and Adults 18-49. ABC aired the Top 3 TV programs of the evening in Adults 18-49, with "Housewives," "Home Edition" and "Brothers & Sisters."
. , with "Housewives," "Home Edition" and "Brothers & Sisters."

"America’s Funniest Home Videos" (7:00-8:00 p.m.)
ABC’s repeat airing of "America’s Funniest Home Videos" delivered a strong second place to CBS during the 7 o’clock, beating third-place NBC’s original "Dateline" by 2.4 million viewers (7.6 million vs. 5.2 million) and by 77% in Adults 18-49 (2.3/8 vs. 1.3/4). The replay "Videos" ranked No. 1 in the hour among Adults 18-34 (1.6/6-tie), Teens 12-17 (1.4/6) and Kids 2-11 (2.2/10).
delivered a strong second place to CBS during the 7 o’clock, (7.6 million vs. 5.2 million)(2.3/8 vs. 1.3/4). The replay "Videos" (1.6/6-tie), (1.4/6) (2.2/10).
"Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" (8:00-9:00 p.m.)
ABC’s "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" won the 8 o’clock hour, beating second-place CBS’ "Amazing Race All-Stars" by 2.8 million viewers (12.0 million vs. 9.2 million) and by 45% in Adults 18-49 (4.2/12 vs. 2.9/8). ABC’s broad skewing "Home Edition" qualified as No. 1 TV show on Sunday evening with Kids 2-11 (2.8/11).
(12.0 million vs. 9.2 million)(4.2/12 vs. 2.9/8). ABC’s broad skewing "Home Edition" qualified as (2.8/11).
"Desperate Housewives" (9:00-10:00 p.m.)
On its first original telecast since the beginning of March, ABC’s "Desperate Housewives" overshadowed its time period competition. The No. 1 TV program of the night, "Housewives" bested second-place CBS’ "Cold Case" in the 9 o’clock hour by 4.2 million viewers (15.7 million vs. 11.5 million) and by 114% in Adults 18-49 (6.0/15 vs. 2.8/7).
"Housewives" bested second-place CBS’ "Cold Case" in the 9 o’clock hour(15.7 million vs. 11.5 million) (6.0/15 vs. 2.8/7).
"Brothers & Sisters" (10:01-11:00 p.m.)
ABC’s "Brother’s Sisters" ranked a strong No. 1 during the 10 o’clock hour in Adults 18-49, topping second-place CBS’ "Without a Trace" by 14% (4.1/11 vs. 3.6/9). The ABC freshman drama also won

its time period among Adults 18-34 (3.0/9) and across each of the women demographics: W18-34 (4.2/11), W18-49 (5.7/14) and W25-54 (6.4/15).
(3.0/9): W18-34 (4.2/11), W18-49 (5.7/14) and W25-54 (6.4/15). During Sunday’s primetime, ABC (4.2/11) (2.9/8),(2.1/6) (1.9/5).delivered a strong second place to CBS during the 7 o’clock, (7.6 million vs. 5.2 million)(2.3/8 vs. 1.3/4). The replay "Videos" (1.6/6-tie), (1.4/6) (2.2/10). (12.0 million vs. 9.2 million)(4.2/12 vs. 2.9/8). ABC’s broad skewing "Home Edition" qualified as (2.8/11). "Housewives" bested second-place CBS’ "Cold Case" in the 9 o’clock hour(15.7 million vs. 11.5 million) (6.0/15 vs. 2.8/7). (4.1/11 vs. 3.6/9).The ABC freshman drama(3.0/9): W18-34 (4.2/11), W18-49 (5.7/14) and W25-54 (6.4/15).

Source: Nielsen Media Research (Fast Affiliate Ratings, Live+SD), 4/8/07

April 9, 2007

with the help of "extreme makeover: Home Edition," A Family in which
the father and son became paralyzed within a TWO-year span will get
a new home that will allow them more freedom to enjoy their lives

"Westbrook Family" -- Ty and the gang of "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" will create a home that is accessible for the entire Westbrook family of Lawton, OK, who have suffered much hardship and two separate accidents that left both father and son paralyzed. The episode airs SUNDAY, APRIL 22 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

Gene is a hero, wounded fighting for his country; now it’s up to "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" to make the Westbrook home safe and handicapped-accessible, and in turn give Gene and James the freedom that they so want back.

The design team for this episode of "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" will feature team leader Ty Pennington and designers Paul DiMeo, Ed Sanders, Preston Sharp and Tracy Hutson. The series is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. It’s executive-produced by Denise Cramsey. David Goldberg is the president of Endemol USA.

"Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" is broadcast with Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning. This program carries a TV-PG parental guideline.

April 9, 2007

A WISTERIA LANE RESIDENT IS SUSPECTED OF MURDER,
ON ABC’S "DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES"

"God, That’s Good" – Susan calls off a wedding, Gaby decides to move forward with a wedding, and a Wisteria Lane resident is suspected of murder, on "Desperate Housewives," SUNDAY, APRIL 22 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

"Desperate Housewives" stars Teri Hatcher as Susan Mayer, Felicity Huffman as Lynette Scavo, Marcia Cross as Bree Van De Kamp, Eva Longoria as Gabrielle Solis, Nicollette Sheridan as Edie Britt, Brenda Strong as Mary Alice Young, James Denton as Mike Delfino, Doug Savant as Tom Scavo, Ricardo Antonio Chavira as Carlos Solis, Kyle MacLachlan as Orson Hodge, Andrea Bowen as Julie Mayer, Shawn Pyfrom as Andrew Van De Kamp, Joy Lauren as Danielle Van De Kamp, Josh Henderson as Austin Britt, Rachel Fox as Kayla Huntington and Brent and Shane Kinsman as Porter and Preston Scavo.

"God, That’s Good" was directed by Larry Shaw and written by Josh Senter & Dahvi Waller.

"Desperate Housewives" is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

A TV parental guideline will be assigned closer to airdate.

April 9, 2007

KEVIN HAS A NEW LOVE INTEREST, ON ABC’S "BROTHERS & SISTERS"

Jason Lewis ("Sex and the City") Guest Stars as Chad Berry

"Sexual Politics" -- Kevin falls for a soap opera actor (guest starring Jason Lewis as Chad Berry) who is confused about his own sexuality. Meanwhile, Kitty and Nora dearly regret being sucked in by the sales pitch of an executive matchmaker, on "Brothers & Sisters," SUNDAY, APRIL 22 (10:01-11:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network. (Rebroadcast. OAD 1/14/07)

"Brothers & Sisters" stars Calista Flockhart as Kitty, Rachel Griffiths as Sarah, Sally Field as Nora Holden, Ron Rifkin as Saul Holden, Patricia Wettig as Holly, Balthazar Getty as Thomas, Dave Annable as Justin, Matthew Rhys as Kevin, John Pyper-Ferguson as Joe, Sarah Jane Morris as Julia and Kerris Lilla Dorsey as Paige.
"Brothers & Sisters" stars Calista Flockhart as Kitty, Rachel Griffiths as Sarah, Sally Field as Nora Holden, Ron Rifkin as Saul Holden, Patricia Wettig as Holly, Balthazar Getty as Thomas, Dave Annable as Justin, Matthew Rhys as Kevin, John Pyper-Ferguson as Joe, Sarah Jane Morris as Julia and Kerris Lilla Dorsey as Paige.

Guest starring are Rob Lowe as Senator McCallister, Caroline Aaron as Elise, Mark Harari as the instructor, Jason Lewis as Chad Berry, Rachel Montez Collins as L.A. babe, Paul Cassell as Gary Morris, Ryan Michelle Bathe as Noreen, Sophia Rachel Garcia as Nicole, Susan Santiago as Vanessa, Sulekah Naidu as the hostess, Jim Anzie as the waiter, Robert Michael Morris as Lawrence Magill, Christian Keyes as the bouncer, Chris Flanders as the reporter and Roxy Olin as Michelle.

"Sexual Politics" was written by Monica Owusu-Breen and Alison Schapker and directed by Sandy Smolan.

"Brothers & Sisters" is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning.

This program carries a TV-14,S parental guideline.
"Brothers & Sisters" stars Calista Flockhart as Kitty, Rachel Griffiths as Sarah, Sally Field as Nora Holden, Ron Rifkin as Saul Holden, Patricia Wettig as Holly, Balthazar Getty as Thomas, Dave Annable as Justin, Matthew Rhys as Kevin, John Pyper-Ferguson as Joe, Sarah Jane Morris as Julia and Kerris Lilla Dorsey as Paige.

April 9, 2007

GEORGE TAKES DESPERATE MEASURES TO PROVE THAT VIC’S FIANCÉE
IS BEING FAITHFUL, ON ABC’S "GEORGE LOPEZ"

Stacy Keibler ("Dancing with the Stars") Guest Stars

"George Thinks Vic’s Fiancée is Lion about Being a Cheetah" – George seeks help from a popular reality TV game show in order to expose Vic’s cheating, gold-digging fiancée (guest starring Stacy Keibler), on "George Lopez," TUESDAY, APRIL 24 (8:00-8:30 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network. (Rebroadcast. OAD 2/28/07)

"George Lopez" stars George Lopez as George, Constance Marie as Angie, Valente Rodriguez as Ernie, Luis Armand Garcia as Max, Belita Moreno as Benny, Emiliano Díez as Vic Palmero and Aimee Garcia as Veronica.

Guest starring are Stacy Keibler as Lindsay and Joel S. Greco as Joey Greco.

"George Thinks Vic’s Fiancée is Lion about Being a Cheetah" was written by Luisa Leschin and directed by Bob Koherr

"George Lopez" is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

This program carries a TV-PG,D parental guideline.

April 9, 2007

VIC CAJOLES GEORGE INTO A FATHER-SON GOLF GAME,
ON ABC’S "GEORGE LOPEZ"

Champion Boxer Oscar De La Hoya Guest Stars

"George’s Bogey-ous Relationship with Vic is Putt to the Test" – Vic feigns fatherly love so George will play in a father-son golf tournament against his long time rival and his son, Tony (guest starring Oscar De La Hoya), on "George Lopez," TUESDAY, APRIL 24 (8:30-9:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

Guest starring are Oscar De La Hoya as Tony and Eloy Casados as Dr. Anthony Tovar.

"George’s Bogey-ous Relationship with Vic is Putt to the Test"" was written by Rick Nyholm and directed by Joe Regalbuto.

"George Lopez" is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

This program carries a TV-PG parental guideline.

April 9, 2007

DENNY CRANE, ALAN SHORE AND THE AMBITIOUS VANESSA WALKER HEAD TO
NEW ORLEANS TO DEFEND A DOCTOR ACCUSED OF EUTHANIZING PATIENTS
DURING HURRICANE KATRINA, ON ABC’S "BOSTON LEGAL"

Guest Stars Include Nia Long as Vanessa Walker

"Angel of Death" – Denny Crane and Alan Shore, joined by ambitious new attorney Vanessa Walker (Nia Long), head to New Orleans to defend a doctor accused of euthanizing patients during Hurricane Katrina. Meanwhile Claire Simms’ new secretary, the cross-dressing Clarence, wants to file a lawsuit when he’s kicked out of an all-women’s gym, and Denise Bauer weighs the pros and cons of dating Jeffrey Coho, on "Boston Legal," TUESDAY, APRIL 24 (10:00-11:00 p.m., ET) on The ABC Television Network. (Rebroadcast. OAD 1/9/07)

"Boston Legal" stars James Spader as Alan Shore, Julie Bowen as Denise Bauer, Mark Valley as Brad Chase, Rene Auberjonois as Paul Lewiston, Craig Bierko as Jeffrey Coho and Constance Zimmer as Claire Simms and Gary Anthony Williams as Clarence/Clarice Bell, with Candice Bergen as Shirley Schmidt and William Shatner as Denny Crane.

"Angel of Death" was written by Craig Turk & Janet Leahy & David E. Kelley and directed by Tom Verica.

"Boston Legal" is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning.

This program carries a TV-14,D,S parental guideline.

April 9, 2007

JIM AND ANDY BATTLE IT OUT OVER A GRILL,
ON ABC’S "ACCORDING TO JIM"

"The Grill II" – Andy’s attempt to sell a grill that Jim gave him a few years ago results in a wildly destructive tug-of-war between the two, on "According to Jim" WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 (8:00-8:30 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

"According to Jim" stars Jim Belushi as Jim, Courtney Thorne-Smith as Cheryl, Kimberly Williams-Paisley as Dana, Larry Joe Campbell as Andy, Taylor Atelian as Ruby, Billi Bruno as Gracie and Conner Rayburn as Kyle.

Guest-starring is Siobhan Dunn as officer.

"The Grill II" is written by Christopher J. Nowak and directed by Dennis Capps.

"According to Jim" is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning.

A TV parental guideline will be posted closer to airdate.

April 9, 2007

PREGNANCY’S WELCOME AND UNWELCOME SURPRISES BEGIN
TO SURFACE, ON ABC’S "NOTES FROM THE UNDERBELLY"

"Oleander" -- Andrew and Lauren are quickly discovering the pros and cons of being pregnant, including the things that get in the way of intimacy. A definite plus for Andrew, though, are Lauren’s highly noticeable "pregnancy" breasts, which also prove to be the object of attention for the students she counsels. On the downside, Lauren’s sex drive has diminished and Andrew worries they won’t have time to be intimate once the baby arrives. Heartened by his concerns, Lauren makes several attempts to get "in the mood," only to be foiled by various things. Surprises are also in store for Danny and Cooper when they discover they have something in common, on ABC’s "Notes from the Underbelly," WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 (8:30-9:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

"Notes from the Underbelly" stars Jennifer Westfeldt as Lauren, Peter Cambor as Andrew, Michael Weaver as Danny, Rachael Harris as Cooper, Melanie Paxson as Julie and Sunkrish Bala as Eric.

"Oleander" was written by Steve Joe and Greg Schaffer and directed by Michael Patrick Jann.

"Notes from the Underbelly" is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning.

This program carries a TV-PG,D parental guideline.

April 9, 2007

CHARLIE QUESTIONS WHETHER DESMOND HAS HAD ANOTHER "FLASH"
FORESHADOWING HIS DEATH WHEN COAXED INTO JOINING A TREK
ACROSS THE JUNGLE, AND JEALOUSY MOTIVATES KATE TO TURN TO
AN UNSUSPECTING SAWYER, ON ABC’S "LOST"

"Catch-22" – Desmond coaxes Charlie, Hurley and Jin on a trek across the jungle after experiencing one of his future-prophesizing "flashes" -- but is he purposely placing Charlie’s life in harm’s way? Meanwhile, Kate turns to an unwitting Sawyer after seeing Jack alone with Juliet, on "Lost," WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 (9:00-10:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network. (Rebroadcast. OAD 4/18/07)

"Lost" stars Naveen Andrews as Sayid, Henry Ian Cusick as Desmond, Emilie de Ravin as Claire, Michael Emerson as Ben, Matthew Fox as Jack, Jorge Garcia as Hurley, Josh Holloway as Sawyer, Daniel Dae Kim as Jin, Yunjin Kim as Sun, Evangeline Lilly as Kate, Elizabeth Mitchell as Juliet, Dominic Monaghan as Charlie and Terry O’Quinn as Locke.

Guest starring are Sonia Walger as Penny Widmore, Jack Maxwell as Derek, Joanna Bool as Ruth, Andrew Connolly as Brother Campbell, Andrew Trask as older monk and Marsha Thomason as Naomi.

"Catch-22" was written by Jeff Pinkner & Brian K. Vaughan and directed by Stephen Williams.

"Lost" is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

A TV parental guideline will be assigned closer to airdate.

April 9, 2007

SUN DISCOVERS THE IDENTITY OF HER UNBORN CHILD’S FATHER AFTER
BEING EXAMINED BY JULIET, AND DESMOND ALLOWS AN UNLIKELY FOE TO HELP
SAVE THE LIFE OF A MYSTERIOUS NEW ISLAND INHABITANT, ON ABC’S "LOST"

"D.O.C. – After discovering that all of "The Others’" pregnant women died before giving birth on the island, an extremely reticent Sun allows Juliet to examine her -- and uncovers the identity of the unborn child’s father. Meanwhile, Desmond allows an unlikely nemesis to help save the life of a new, mysterious island inhabitant, on "Lost," WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 (10:00-11:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network.

"Lost" stars Naveen Andrews as Sayid, Henry Ian Cusick as Desmond, Emilie de Ravin as Claire, Michael Emerson as Ben, Matthew Fox as Jack, Jorge Garcia as Hurley, Josh Holloway as Sawyer, Daniel Dae Kim as Jin, Yunjin Kim as Sun, Evangeline Lilly as Kate, Elizabeth Mitchell as Juliet, Dominic Monaghan as Charlie and Terry O’Quinn as Locke.

Guest starring are Byron Chung as Mr. Paik, Andrew Divoff as Mikhail, Marsha Thomason as Naomi, John Shin as Mr. Kwon, Alexis Rhee as older woman, Esmond Chung as Paik’s associate and Jean Chung as Paik’s secretary.

"D.O.C." was written by Edward Kitsis & Adam Horowitz and directed by Fred Toye.

"Lost" is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

A TV parental guideline will be assigned closer to airdate.

April 9, 2007

LOVE’S ALL AROUND AT MODE, EXCEPT FOR BETTY, WHO TRIES TO
AVOID THE PEOPLE SHE CARES FOR MOST, ON ABC’S "UGLY BETTY"

"Petra-gate" – Betty, fed up with Daniel, Christina and Henry and how they’ve all disappointed her, does her best to avoid all three. Meanwhile, love’s all around at Mode, as Alexis gets asked out on her first date as a woman; Amanda begins a flirtation with a designer (guest star Mykel Shannon Jenkins) who she assumes is gay; Wilhelmina struggles to deal with the tireless advances of her latest conquest, and Hilda gets a surprise from Santos (guest star Kevin Alejandro). Meanwhile, Daniel goes it alone in dealing with the aftermath of his one-time hook-up with Petra, on "Ugly Betty," THURSDAY, APRIL 26 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network. Cristian de la Fuente ("The Class," Univision’s "Sonar No Cuesta Nada") guest stars as Rodrigo, Alexis’ admirer.

"Ugly Betty" stars America Ferrera as Betty Suarez, Eric Mabius as Daniel Meade, Alan Dale as Bradford Meade, Tony Plana as Ignacio, Ana Ortiz as Hilda, Ashley Jensen as Christina, Becki Newton as Amanda, Mark Indelicato as Justin, Michael Urie as Marc, Kevin Sussman as Walter, Rebecca Romijn as Alexis Meade and Vanessa Williams as Wilhelmina Slater.

Guest starring are Christopher Gorham as Henry, Kevin Alejandro as Santos, Jayma Mays as Charlie, Cristian de la Fuente as Rodrigo, Annalynne McCord as Petra, Ivana Milicevic as Lena and Mykel Shannon Jenkins as Dijan.

"Petra-gate," was written by Gabrielle Stanton & Harry Werksman and directed by Paul Lazarus.

"Ugly Betty" is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

A TV parental guideline will be posted closer to airdate.

April 9, 2007

THE ATTENDINGS ARE EXTRA ATTENTIVE TO A PATIENT (WHO HAPPENS TO BE
THE CHAIRMAN OF THE HOSPITAL BOARD), BURKE PLANS THE WEDDING
WITH LITTLE HELP FROM CRISTINA, AND THINGS HEAT UP BETWEEN
ADDISON AND ALEX, ON ABC’S "GREY’S ANATOMY"
Mitch Pileggi ("The X-Files") Guest Stars

Elizabeth Reaser ("Sweet Land") Returns as Jane Doe

"Desire" – As the interns of Seattle Grace cram for their upcoming exam, the attendings vie for the Chief’s position by tending to the chairman of the hospital board after he’s admitted as a patient. Meanwhile, Burke struggles to involve Cristina in the wedding planning, things heat up between Addison and Alex, and Derek questions his relationship with Meredith, on "Grey’s Anatomy," THURSDAY, APRIL 26 (9:00-10:01 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

"Grey’s Anatomy" stars Ellen Pompeo as Meredith Grey, Patrick Dempsey as Derek Shepherd, Sandra Oh as Cristina Yang, Isaiah Washington as Preston Burke, Katherine Heigl as Isobel "Izzie" Stevens, Justin Chambers as Alex Karev, T.R. Knight as George O’Malley, Chandra Wilson as Miranda Bailey, James Pickens, Jr. as Richard Webber, Kate Walsh as Addison Shepherd, Sara Ramirez as Callie Torres and Eric Dane as Mark Sloan.

"Desire" was written by Mark Wilding and directed by Tom Verica.

"Grey’s Anatomy" is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio via SAP.

A TV parental guideline will be posted closer to airdate.

April 9, 2007

SEASON FINALE

AUBREY WANTS NICK TO CHOOSE BETWEEN HER AND HANNAH, PHYSICAL PHIL ASKS OWEN’S HELP TO GET PIZZA GIRL BACK, RAY CONTINUES HIS MISSION TO DESTROY
THE GANG, A SURPRISE FOR EDDIE BRINGS ON AN UNPREDICTABLE RESPONSE, AND
NICK MEETS AN UNEXPECTED VISITOR AT HANNAH’S, ON ABC’S "OCTOBER ROAD"

"Best Friend Windows" – Aubrey suspects Nick still has feelings for Hannah and wants him to choose between the two of them, but then Nick meets an unexpected out of town visitor at Hannah and Sam’s. Meanwhile, Nick and the guys give Eddie what they thought would be a welcome surprise, but Eddie surprises them with an unpredictable response; Ray continues his mission to destroy the gang by telling Owen about Ikey and Alison’s secret; and Physical Phil makes a life-changing decision to get Pizza Girl (Lindy Booth) back and asks for Owen’s help, on the Season Finale of "October Road," THURSDAY, APRIL 26 (10:01-11:00 p.m. ET), on the ABC Television Network.

"October Road" stars Bryan Greenberg as Nick Garrett, Laura Prepon as Hannah Daniels, Tom Berenger as The Commander, Warren Christie as Ray "Big Cat" Cataldo, Brad William Henke as Owen Rowan, Evan Jones as Ikey, Jay Paulson as Physical Phil, Slade Pearce as Sam Daniels, Geoff Stults as Eddie Latekka and Odette Yustman as Aubrey.

Guest starring are Rebecca Field as Janet "The Planet" Meadows, Jonathan Murphy as Ronnie, Penny Johnson Jerald as Dean Leslie Etwood, Elizabeth Bogush as Alison Rowan, Lindy Booth as Pizza Girl, Bo Mitchell as Doodie, David Galbraith as pizza guy/dude, Charles Black as local businessman and Reed Diamond as Gavin Goddard.

"Best Friend Windows" was written by Josh Applebaum, Andre Nemec and Scott Rosenberg, and directed by Gary Fleder.

"October Road" is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC's selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning.

This program carries a TV-PG,D,L parental guideline.

April 9, 2007

A FLASHY DIVA MOM FROM VEGAS SWAPS LIVES WITH
A DOWN AND DIRTY MOM WHO OWNS A SCRAP YARD,
ON ABC’S "WIFE SWAP"

This week in "Browne/Robinson," a diva mom who raises her kids to be primped and perfect divas-in-training swaps lives with a laid-back mom whose family owns a scrap yard and can barely control her immature husband and pack of unruly boys, on "Wife Swap," FRIDAY, APRIL 27 (9:01-10:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

At the end of the swap, when the couples are reunited, will D’eva drop the diva attitude and let her kids be kids? Will Christie scrap their scrap yard and clean up her family’s act?

"Wife Swap" is an RDF USA production. It was created by Stephen Lambert and is executive-produced by Stef Wagstaffe and Stephen Lambert of RDF Media ("Faking It" and "Junkyard Wars") and Michael Davies of Embassy Row ("Who Wants to be a Millionaire"). Mitchell Rosenbaum, Stephanie Schwam Adams and Mike Gamson are the co-executive producers.

"Wife Swap" is broadcast with Spanish subtitles via secondary closed captioning. A TV parental guideline will be assigned closer to airdate.

April 9, 2007

"PEARL HARBOR," THE ACTION-PACKED ROMANTIC DRAMA
STARRING BEN AFFLECK, JOSH HARTNETT & KATE BECKINSALE,
AIRS SATURDAY, APRIL 28 ON THE ABC TELEVISION NETWORK

"Audiences will find themselves swept away . . ."
Mick LaSalle, San Francisco Chronicle

"Pearl Harbor," the blockbuster theatrical feature starring Ben Affleck, Josh Hartnett and Kate Beckinsale, will air as the "ABC Saturday Movie of the Week," APRIL 28 (8:00-11:00 p.m., ET), on the ABC Television Network. The Academy Award-winning epic, airing in HDTV format with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio, also stars Cuba Gooding Jr., Jon Voight, Alec Baldwin, Tom Sizemore and William Lee Scott. (Rebroadcast. OAD: 2/8/04)

In "Pearl Harbor," Ben Affleck ("Daredevil," "The Sum of All Fears," Academy Award-winner for "Good Will Hunting") and Josh Hartnett ("Sin City," "Hollywood Homicide") are boyhood friends who achieve their dream of becoming pilots. Affleck meets, pursues and falls in love with a military nurse (Kate Beckinsale, "The Aviator," "Van Helsing"), but he is anxious to see action and heads to England, where war is raging. He enlists in the Royal Air Force and is later reported killed in action. The efforts of his best friend and girlfriend to comfort each other’s grief lead to their own romance.

The feature won its Academy Award for Best Effects, Sound Effects and was nominated for three additional Oscars – Best Effects, Visual Effects; Best Music, Song; and Best Sound. Among the movie’s stunning effects is a bomb’s-eye view as the explosive crashes through three decks of the battleship Arizona, and gut-churning aerial sequences as Affleck and Hartnett battle Japanese Zeros in the skies above Pearl Harbor’s burning Battleship Row. Oscar winner Cuba Gooding Jr. ("End Game," "Radio," "Jerry Mcguire") portrays real-life Navy cook "Dorie" Miller, who won the Navy Cross for his action on December 7; Oscar winner Jon Voight (TV’s "Pope John Paul II," "The Five People You Meet in Heaven") portrays President Roosevelt, Alec Baldwin ("Brooklyn Rules," "The Aviator," "Along Came Polly") stars as daring aviator "Jimmy" Doolittle, Tom Sizemore (TV’s "Dr. Vegas," "Big Trouble") is Sgt. Earl Sistern, and William Lee Scott ("The Butterfly Effect") is Lt. Billy Thompson.

Starring in "Pearl Harbor" are Ben Affleck as Capt. Rafe McCawley, Josh Hartnett as Capt. Danny Walker, Kate Beckinsale as nurse Lt. Evelyn Johnson, Cuba Gooding Jr. as Petty Officer Doris "Dorie" Miller, Jon Voight as President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Alec Baldwin as Lt. Col. James "Jimmy" Doolittle, Tom Sizemore as Sgt. Earl Sistern, William Lee Scott as Lt. Billy Thompson, Jennifer Garner (ABC’s "Alias") as nurse Sandra, Sara Rue (ABC’s "Less than Perfect") as nurse Martha, Greg Zola as Lt. Anthony Fusco, Ewen Bremner as Lt. Red Winkle, Jaime King as nurse Betty Bayer and Catherine Kellner as nurse Barbara.

"Pearl Harbor," released in 2001, was directed by Michael Bay ("Bad Boys" series; "Armageddon") and written by Randall Wallace ("We Were Soldiers," "Braveheart"). The film is a production of Jerry Bruckheimer Films and Touchstone Pictures. (CLOSED-CAPTIONED)

"PEARL HARBOR" IN HDTV:
The ABC Television Network’s HDTV broadcast of "Pearl Harbor" will air in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC’s selected HDTV format, with 5.1-channel surround sound and Spanish audio.

This film carries a TV-14,L,S,V parental guideline. Due to some violence and issue content, viewer discretion is advised.

CORRECTION/UPDATE

As of MONDAY, APRIL 9 (all times ET unless noted)

MONDAY, APRIL 9

TIME CHANGE "DANCING WITH THE STARS: Episode 404" is now scheduled 8:00-9:31 p.m. Originally was 8:00-9:30 p.m.

TIME CHANGE "THE BACHELOR: OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN - Episode 1002" is now scheduled 9:31-11:00 p.m. Originally was 9:30-11:00 p.m.

TUESDAY, APRIL 10 (8:00-9:03 PM)

PROGRAM CHANGE Delete: "GEORGE LOPEZ: George Gets Caught in a Powers Play" (8:00-8:30) and "ACCORDING TO JIM: Cheryl Gone Wild" (8:30-9:00)

INSERT: "DANCING WITH THE STARS: PERFORMANCE RECAP SHOW #2" (TV-PG) (HD/5.1; Spanish audio via SAP) (CC)

TIME CHANGE "DANCING WITH THE STARS: Episode 404A" is now scheduled 9:03-10:01 p.m. Originally was 9:00-10:00 p.m.

TIME CHANGE "BOSTON LEGAL: "Brotherly Love" is now scheduled 10:01-11:00 p.m. Originally was 10:00-11:00 p.m.

SUNDAY, APRIL 15

TIME CHANGE "DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES: Liaisons" is now scheduled 9:00-10:02 p.m. Originally was 9:00-10:01 p.m.

TIME CHANGE "BROTHERS & SISTERS: Game Night" is now scheduled 10:02-11:00 p.m. Originally was 10:01-11:00 p.m.

SUNDAY, APRIL 22 (7:00 – 8:00 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is "AMERICA’S FUNNIEST HOME VIDEOS: 1721" -- Program information to come. (TV-PG) (CC; Spanish subtitles via secondary CC).

MONDAY, APRIL 23 (8:00 – 9:30 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is "DANCING WITH THE STARS: 406" -- Program information to come. (TV-PG) (HD/5.1; Spanish audio via SAP) (CC)

(9:30 – 11:00 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is "THE BACHELOR: OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN: 1004" -- Program information/TV parental guideline to come. (CC; Spanish subtitles via secondary CC).

TUESDAY, APRIL 24 (9:00 – 10:00 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is "DANCING WITH THE STARS THE RESULTS SHOW: 406A" -- Program information to come. (TV-PG) (HD/5.1; Spanish audio via SAP) (CC)

FRIDAY, APRIL 27 (8:00 – 9:01 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is "GREY’S ANATOMY: Desire" (OAD: 4/26/07) -- TV parental guideline to come. (HD/5.1; Spanish audio via SAP) (CC)

(10:00 – 11:00 PM)

SCHEDULED Tonight’s program is "20/20" – Information to come. (CC)

Posted by Bill at 12:21 PM | Permalink

April 08, 2007

What is Easter?

April 8

Easter got its name from Ostara, the Anglo-Saxon goddess of fertility and rebirth. European tribes celebrated the beginning of spring at the vernal equinox, when day and night are equal in length, by blessing seeds for growth and placing colored eggs on an altar. They believed that this ceremony would bring them fertility for the upcoming year.
Easter got its name from Ostara, the Anglo-Saxon goddess of fertility and rebirth. European tribes celebrated the beginning of spring at the vernal equinox, when day and night are equal in length, by blessing seeds for growth and placing colored eggs on an altar. They believed that this ceremony would bring them fertility for the upcoming year.

Christian missionaries noticed that this pagan celebration took place around the time of the resurrection of Christ, so they adopted Easter as a Christian holiday to increase conversions to Christianity.

Easter Hare

The Romans believed that all life proceeded from an egg, so the egg came to symbolize birth and rebirth. Christians regarded eggs as the seeds of life and attributed them with the symbol of Jesus' resurrection.

The rabbit was used in early Easter celebrations to symbolize fertility, perhaps because these animals give birth to multiple offspring at a time. Anglo-Saxon mythology says that Ostara changed her pet bird into a rabbit to entertain a group of children, and the rabbit laid brightly colored eggs for them.

Easter was once celebrated by giving colored eggs to children and later evolved to hiding them in the grass, where they had supposedly been laid by a hare. Children referred to this Easter mascot as the "Easter Hare," which later became known as the "Easter Bunny."

Easter Bonnet

When Christians adopted Easter, they paired this festival of springtime with a sermon. Following the tradition of dressing up for church, Easter Sunday became a special occasion to wear your very best clothes. In fact, many regarded Easter as the first time to wear a new dress and "Easter bonnet". In the early 1900's families would to stroll to church and home again on Easter to show off their "Sunday best."

Easter Basket

The Easter basket evolved from a Catholic tradition, where each family brought a basket of food to mass on Easter Sunday to have it blessed for the evening meal. Later, children would use Easter baskets to gather colored eggs and candy.

Visit the following sites to learn more about the origins of Easter traditions

The pagan origins of the Easter Bunny

Have you ever wondered where the celebration of the Christian holiday celebrating the resurrection of Christ acquired its unusual name and odd symbols of colored eggs and rabbits?

The answer lies in the ingenious way that the Christian church absorbed Pagan practices. After discovering that people were more reluctant to give up their holidays and festivals than their gods, they simply incorporated Pagan practices into Christian festivals. As recounted by the Venerable Bede, an early Christian writer, clever clerics copied Pagan practices and by doing so, made Christianity more palatable to pagan folk reluctant to give up their festivals for somber Christian practices.

In second century Europe, the predominate spring festival was a raucous Saxon fertility celebration in honor of the Saxon Goddess Eastre, whose sacred animal was a hare. The hare is often associated with moon goddesses; the egg and the haer together represent the god and the goddess, respectively.

Pagan fertility festivals at the time of the Spring equinox were common- it was believed that at this time, male and female energies were balanced.

The colored eggs are of another, even more ancient origin. The eggs associated with this and other Vernal festivals have been symbols of rebirth and fertility for so long the precise roots of the tradition are unknown, and may date to the beginning of human civilization. Ancient Romans and Greeks used eggs as symbols of fertility, rebirth, and abundance- eggs were solar symbols, and figured in the festivals of numerous resurrected gods.

Moving forward fifteen hundred years, we find ourselves in Germany, where children await the arrival of Oschter Haws, a rabbit who will lay colored eggs in nests to the delight of children. It was this German tradition that popularized the 'Easter bunny' in America, when introduced into the American cultural fabric by German settlers in Pennsylvania.

Many modern practitioners of Neo-pagan and earth-based religions have embraced these symbols as part of their religious practice, identifying with the life-affirming aspects of the spring holiday. (The Neopagan holiday of Ostara is descended from the Saxon festival.) Ironically, some Christian groups have used the presence of these symbols to denounce the celebration of the Easter holiday, and many churches have recently abandoned the Pagan moniker with more Christian oriented titles like 'Resurrection Sunday.'

Easter, the Sunday of the Resurrection, Pascha, or Resurrection Day, is the most important religious feast of the Christian liturgical year, observed at some point between late March and late April each year (early April to early May in Eastern Christianity). It celebrates the resurrection of Jesus, which his followers believe occurred on the third day (counting inclusively) after his death by crucifixion some time in the period AD 27 to 33 (see Good Friday). This year it will fall on April 8, 2007.
, the , , or , is the most important religious of the , observed at some point between late March and late April each year (early April to early May in ). It celebrates the , which his followers believe occurred on the third day (counting inclusively) after his death by some time in the period AD 27 to 33 (see ). This year it will fall on , .
Easter also refers to the season of the church year, called Eastertide or the Easter Season, lasting for fifty days, from Easter Sunday through Pentecost; and, in the Roman Catholic Church, to the eight-day feast beginning on Easter Day called the Octave of Easter.
also refers to the of the church year, called or the , lasting for fifty days, from Easter Sunday through ; and, in the , to the eight-day feast beginning on Easter Day called the .

In most languages of Christian societies, other than English, German and some Slavic languages, the holiday's name is derived from Pesach, the Hebrew name of Passover, a Jewish holiday to which the Christian Easter is intimately linked. Easter depends on Passover not only for much of its symbolic meaning but also for its position in the calendar; the Last Supper shared by Jesus and his disciples before his crucifixion is generally thought of as a Passover meal, based on the chronology in the Gospels.[1] Some, however, interpreting "Passover" in John 18:28 as a single meal and not a seven-day festival,[2] interpret the Gospel of John as differing from the Synoptic Gospels by placing Christ's death at the time of the slaughter of the Passover lambs, which would put the Last Supper slightly before Passover, on 14 Nisan of the Bible's Hebrew calendar[3]. According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, "In fact, the Jewish feast was taken over into the Christian Easter celebration."

The English and German names, "Easter" and "Ostern," are not etymologically derived from Pesach and according to the 8th century Christian monk and historian Bede are instead related to ancient name for the Anglo Saxon goddess, Eostre, who was celebrated during Eosturmonath, equivalent to April/Aprilis[4] Bede wrote in Latin:

"Eosturmonath, qui nunc paschalis mensis interpretatur, quondam a dea illorum quae Eostre vocabatur et cui in illo festa celebrabant nomen habuit."

Translated: "Eosturmonath, which is now interpreted as the paschal month, was formerly named after the goddess Eostre, and has given its name to the festival."

In most Slavic languages, the name for Easter either means Great Day or Great Night. For example Wielkanoc and Velikonoce mean Great Night or Great Nights in Polish and Czech, respectively. Великден (Vělikděn') and Вялікдзень (Vjalikdzěn') mean 'The Great Day' in Bulgarian and Ukrainian respectively.

Easter in the early Church

The observance of any non-Jewish special holiday throughout the Christian year is believed by some to be an innovation postdating the Early Church. The ecclesiastical historian Socrates Scholasticus (b. 380) attributes the observance of Easter by the church to the perpetuation of local custom, "just as many other customs have been established," stating that neither Jesus nor his Apostles enjoined the keeping of this or any other festival. However, when read in context, this is not a rejection or denigration of the celebration—which, given its currency in Scholasticus' time would be surprising—but is merely part of a defense of the diverse methods for computing its date. Indeed, although he describes the details of the Easter celebration as deriving from local custom, he insists the feast itself is universally observed.[5]

Perhaps the earliest extant primary source referencing Easter is a 2nd century Paschal homily by Melito of Sardis, which characterizes the celebration as a well-established one.[6]

A number of ecclesiastical historians, primarily Eusebius, bishop Polycarp of Smyrna, by tradition a disciple of John the Evangelist, disputed the computation of the date with bishop Anicetus of Rome in what is now known as the Quartodecimanism controversy. The term Quartodeciman is derived from Latin, meaning fourteen, and refers to the practice of fixing the celebration of Passover for Christians on the fourteenth day of Nisan in the Old Testament's Hebrew Calendar[7], in Latin quarta decima).[8] In any case, early within the Church it was admitted by both sides of the debate that the Lord's Supper was the practice of the disciples and the tradition passed down.

Shortly after Anicetus became bishop of the church of Rome in the mid second century (ca. AD 155), Polycarp visited Rome and among the topics discussed was when the pre-Easter fast should end. Those in Asia held strictly to the computation from the Old Testament's Hebrew calendar and ended the fast on the 14th day of Nisan, while the Roman custom was to continue the fast until the Sunday following. Neither Polycarp nor Anicetus was able to convert the other to his position—according to a rather confused account by Sozomen, both could claim Apostolic authority for their traditions—but neither did they consider the matter of sufficient importance to justify a schism, so they parted in peace leaving the question unsettled.[9]

However, a generation later bishop Victor of Rome excommunicated bishop Polycrates of Ephesus and the rest of the Asian bishops for their adherence to 14 Nisan. The excommunication was rescinded and the two sides reconciled upon the intervention of bishop Irenaeus of Lyons, who reminded Victor of the tolerant precedent that had been established earlier. In the end, a uniform method of computing the date of Easter was not formally settled until the First Council of Nicaea in 325 (see below), although by that time the Roman timing for the observance had spread to most churches.

A number of early bishops rejected the practice of celebrating Easter (Pascha) on the first Sunday after Nisan 14. This conflict between Easter and Passover is often referred to as the "Paschal Controversy."

April 06, 2007

NBC Universal News

May 7

Universal Studios and I-play Launch Hollywood Movie Minutes on Mobile
Universal Studios' Blockbuster Movie Clips - Live on a Mobile Near You

-- I-play, the mobile entertainment company, and Universal Studios today announced a groundbreaking streaming video service offering the most memorable scenes from Universal's catalog of blockbuster movies to North American fans. 'Movie Minutes' marks the first agreement in mobile history where blockbuster film clips are available on mobile.

Content from Universal Studios' extensive film archive includes scenes from King Kong, The 40 Year Old-Virgin, and The Fast and the Furious, as well as classic hits Animal House and The Breakfast Club. Re-live John Belushi's classic food fight scene from Animal House, Steve Carell's wax job in The 40 Year-Old Virgin, or the monumental battle between Kong and the T-Rex in King Kong. Every day new clips will be available for purchase from the vast Hollywood Movie Minutes library.

I-play has diversified into the broader mobile entertainment space in order to leverage its strong relationships with Hollywood studios and to utilize the full capabilities of its proprietary UNITY content delivery platform. To leverage these strengths, I-play created the 'I-player(TM)'. I-play's proprietary mobile video application that allows consumers to stream video clips and bookmark their favorites to build up a personalized library of videos. Offering usability unparalleled by other mobile video players, Hollywood Movie Minutes allows users to search for their favorite video clips by theme, genre or tag.

"This signals the launch of a ground-breaking service, which brings bite-sized nuggets of blockbuster entertainment to movie fans on mobile for the first time," said David Gosen, CEO of I-play. "Streaming video clips to mobile devices is a huge growth area for us and we are thrilled to be working with Universal Mobile Entertainment and proud to be in a position to offer the best of Universal's film library to North American customers."

Jeremy Laws, Senior Vice President, Universal Mobile Entertainment commented: "People love to talk about, reminisce over, and imitate their favorite moments from film and television. Now those same fans can have clips from Universal's rich film and TV library anywhere they go, anytime they want them. I-play's proven reach and advanced technical platform make them the perfect partner for this project in North America and we look at this as a very natural extension of our strong relationship with them in mobile gaming."

The service is live on Sprint (NYSE:S), Verizon (NYSE:VZ), Rogers (TSX: RCI; NYSE: RG) and Amp'd and is due to be rolled out on other major US carriers imminently.

About I-play

I-play brings the best in mobile entertainment to an audience of over one billion people via a network of over 120 carriers worldwide, including Sprint (NYSE:S), Verizon Wireless (NYSE:VZ), Cingular, Vodafone (LSE: VOD.L) and Telefonica Moviles (NYSE: TEM), amongst others and online portals including http://www.iplay.com/. I-play has been creating mobile games since 1998 and continues to spearhead the creation of mobile entertainment for the next generation. As one of the world's longest established and respected creators of mobile entertainment, the I-play brand stands for quality and the best in mobile development. A move into mobile video content via a license agreement with Universal Mobile Entertainment sees I-play offering the best clips from Universal Studios' most popular blockbuster movies.

I-play's investors are Apax Partners and Argo Global Capital. I-play is headquartered in London, with North American Regional HQ in San Mateo, California and European Regional HQ in Dunfermline, Scotland; development studios in Macclesfield, UK and Bucharest, Romania as well as sales offices in Paris, Hamburg, Madrid, New York and Singapore.

For more information, please call +44-(0)-20-7031-8160 or visit us at http://www.iplay.com/

I-play is a trademark and trading name of Digital Bridges Limited.

About Universal Mobile Entertainment

Universal Mobile Entertainment (UME) generates revenues and enhances brand awareness for NBC Universal's motion picture and television properties through licensing agreements with top-tier publishers. UME oversees the creation of high-quality mobile application services that include games, ringtones, wallpapers, MMS, SMS services and audiovisual services, and ensures ubiquitous distribution through mobile operators and portals worldwide. With offices in Los Angeles, London and Tokyo the team has been aggressive in the mobile content market since 2000 and currently has hundreds of mobile products that are available to consumers in every major territory of the world.

About NBC Universal Formed in May 2004 through the combining of NBC and Vivendi Universal Entertainment, NBC Universal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, and world-renowned theme parks. NBC Universal is 80% owned by General Electric and 20% owned by Vivendi.

Source: I-play

May 4

ROGUE PICTURES AND AMC THEATRES® ANNOUNCE WINNER OF FANS' POLL FOR TOP ACTION MOVIE OF ALL TIME, AS HIT ACTION COMEDY HOT FUZZ CONTINUES THEATRICAL RUN IN BOXOFFICE TOP 10
Published: May 4, 2007

NEW YORK, -- May 3, 2007 -- What is movie fans' favorite action flick of all time? After nineteen days of action-packed voting in Rogue Pictures and AMC Theatres' online poll, the winner was…

…Die Hard. The 1988 classic, directed by John McTiernan and starring Bruce Willis, tallied the most votes out of several thousand cast on a customized page at the theatre chain's official Web site; www.amctheatres.com/hotfuzz. The poll was timed to celebrate Rogue's April 20 U.S. release of Hot Fuzz, the action-packed new hit comedy from the Shaun of the Dead team. After its smash success in the U.K., the movie opened in the U.S. and became the best-reviewed comedy of the year; scored the highest per-screen average of any picture in the U.S. boxoffice Top 10 for two weeks in a row; and has grossed nearly $14 million domestically to date.

One of the most popular movie genres of all time now has its own best-of list, as the fans had the last word and voted for movies from five different decades. The top 25 movies, in order of votes cast, are Die Hard; The Terminator; Lethal Weapon; Se7en; Dirty Harry; The Blues Brothers; Training Day; Bad Boys II; The Untouchables; Man on Fire (2004); Beverly Hills Cop; Bad Boys; L.A. Confidential; Heat; The French Connection; Desperado; Witness; 48 HRS.; The Bone Collector; Serpico; Bullitt; Lethal Weapon 2; Tango and Cash; Hard-Boiled; and The Last Boy Scout. The actors with the most movies in the top 25 were Denzel Washington and Danny Glover, who starred in 3 pictures apiece; the directors with the most movies cited were Michael Bay, Richard Donner, and Tony Scott, with 2 apiece.

Jack Foley, president of theatrical distribution for Focus Features and sibling company Rogue Pictures, commented, "Our partnership with AMC on the promotion for Hot Fuzz was a resounding success. It's clear that Hot Fuzz fans share the moviemakers' enthusiasm for, and appreciation of, the action genre."

Visitors to the AMC Theatres site saw an exclusive online clip from Hot Fuzz, specially introduced by director/co-screenwriter Edgar Wright, co-screenwriter/star Simon Pegg, and star Nick Frost. The trio visited several U.S. cities to promote Hot Fuzz, as they had done prior to the successful 2004 release of Shaun of the Dead (which Hot Fuzz has now outgrossed).

Hot Fuzz's stellar supporting cast includes Academy Award winner Jim Broadbent, Paddy Considine (In America), Timothy Dalton (The Living Daylights), Martin Freeman (The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy), Paul Freeman (Raiders of the Lost Ark), Bill Nighy (Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest), Lucy Punch (The Class), Anne Reid (The Mother), Billie Whitelaw (The Omen), Stuart Wilson (The Mask of Zorro), Edward Woodward (The Equalizer), and plenty of surprises!

A Rogue Pictures presentation in association with StudioCanal of a Working Title production in association with Big Talk Productions, Hot Fuzz is produced by Nira Park, Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner.

Rogue Pictures (www.roguepictures.com) is devoted to producing and distributing high-quality suspense, action, thriller, comedy, and urban entertainment with mainstream appeal and franchise potential.

In addition to Hot Fuzz, current and upcoming Rogue Pictures releases include Bryan Bertino's The Strangers, starring Liv Tyler and Scott Speedman; Robert Ben Garant and Thomas Lennon's Balls of Fury, starring Dan Fogler, Christopher Walken, George Lopez, and Maggie Q; and Neil Marshall's DOOMSDAY, starring Rhona Mitra, Bob Hoskins, and Malcolm McDowell.

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

AMC Entertainment Inc. is a worldwide leader in the theatrical exhibition industry. With a history of industry leadership and innovation dating back to the early 1900s, the company today serves more than 240 million guests annually through interests in 382 theatres and 5,340 screens in 10 countries including the United States. The company is headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri. Additional information is available online at www.amctheatres.com.

###

April 30

Must-Own Collection Features Over 45 Minutes of All-New Bonus Features, Plus the Lightning-Paced Thrillers 'The Bourne Identity' & 'The Bourne Supremacy'
Uncover the Mysterious Past of Jason Bourne on DVD July 24, 2007

Get ready to be blown away with thrilling, heart-pounding excitement when "The Bourne Files: 3-Disc Collection" debuts on DVD July 24, 2007 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. Packed with amazing fight sequences, phenomenal car chases and spectacular worldwide locations, this new collection features "The Bourne Identity," "The Bourne Supremacy" and over 45 minutes of all-new, exclusive bonus material including an exciting, action-packed sneak peek of "The Bourne Ultimatum." Highly collectible packaging completes this must-own collection arriving in stores just in time for the summer's most anticipated action-thriller, "The Bourne Ultimatum," in theaters August 3rd. Starring Matt Damon as Jason Bourne, the highly successful Bourne films feature an incendiary array of actors, including Oscar(R) winner Chris Cooper ("Breach"), Oscar(R) nominees Joan Allen ("The Contender") and Clive Owen ("Children of Men"), Julia Stiles ("The Omen"), Franka Potente ("Run, Lola, Run") and Brian Cox ("Zodiac").

The films' thrill-a-minute scripts by Tony Gilroy are based on the powerhouse franchise created by bestselling author Robert Ludlum. As he seeks to uncover the truth behind his mysterious past, Jason Bourne hurtles through breathtaking locations including snow-covered Moscow streets and sunny Goan beaches in the action-packed "The Bourne Supremacy," helmed by Oscar(R) nominee Paul Greengrass ("United 93"), who also directs the upcoming, highly anticipated "The Bourne Ultimatum." In "The Bourne Identity," director Doug Liman ("Mr. and Mrs. Smith") creates some of the most exhilarating martial arts sequences and car chases ever filmed. Pre-order close is June 19, 2007. The triple-disc set is priced at $22.98 SRP.

GET INSIDE THE MIND OF JASON BOURNE

WITH AN IN-DEPTH COLLECTION OF BONUS FEATURES

Over 45 minutes of all-new, exclusive bonus features illuminate Bourne's shadowy past and allow fans to delve deep into the mysteries surrounding Jason Bourne, including:

* Sneak Peek of "The Bourne Ultimatum"

* The Ludlum Identity: Robert Ludlum was one of the best selling authors

in history. This mini-documentary uses archival interviews with

Ludlum, colleagues and family members for an extraordinary portrait of

the mastermind behind the Bourne franchise.

* The Ludlum Supremacy: An intriguing feature that reveals new

information about the puzzling history of Jason Bourne.

* The Ludlum Ultimatum: Explore the enigmatic character who has

fascinated audiences for more than 25 years, in this exclusive look at

the enduring power and appeal of Jason Bourne.

The following bonus features associated with "The Bourne Identity" are also included in "The Bourne Files":

* The Bookend Scenes -- Alternate Opening and Alternate Ending: An

alternate opening sequence and complete alternate ending add a new

layer of intrigue. This feature includes an introduction by producer

Frank Marshall and screenwriter Tony Gilroy.

* From Identity to Supremacy -- Jason & Marie: This feature includes

exclusive interviews with Matt Damon and Franka Potente which explore

the making of "The Bourne Identity" -- and build a bridge to the

spectacular sequel, "The Bourne Supremacy."

* The Bourne Mastermind: Robert Ludlum: A fascinating new look at the

late Robert Ludlum, the bestselling novelist who created the "Bourne"

trilogy.

* Access Granted: An exclusive interview with screenwriter Tony Gilroy on

the challenges of adapting Ludlum's 500-page book for the screen.

* Cloak and Dagger: In this feature, CIA liaison officer Chase Brandon

delivers a detailed, real-world analysis of the making of a super-spy.

* The Bourne Diagnosis: Insights into the causes and effects of Jason

Bourne's struggle with amnesia from a UCLA psychologist.

* The Speed of Sound: Join the sound designers from "The Bourne

Identity" and learn what it took to create the audio portion of the

film's heart-stopping car-chase sequence. Then try your hand at sound

mixing with this unique interactive feature.

* Inside a Fight Sequence: Join Matt Damon on the set as he and the

film's Stunt Choreographer map out the explosive action-packed U.S.

Embassy fight sequence.

* Declassified Information: Deleted scenes

* Moby "Extreme Ways" music video

* Feature Commentary with director Doug Liman

The following bonus features from "The Bourne Supremacy" are also featured in this comprehensive collection:

* Explosive Deleted Scenes: Featuring over 10 minutes of additional

action not seen in theaters.

* Crash Cam: Racing through the streets of Moscow: Experience how stunt

coordinators meticulously plan and execute the movie's stunning,

high-speed chase sequence.

* Bourne to Be Wild: Fight Training: Matt Damon didn't become a lethal

weapon overnight. Watch as Matt Damon and the movie's fight trainer

choreograph the film's action-packed, hand-to-hand combat scenes!

* Blowing Things Up: Digital isn't always better. See how some of the

film's most awesome pyrotechnical sequences were created -- without

computerized effects.

* The Go-Mobile Revs up the Action: Feel the rush of being in the

driver's seat with this revolutionary new vehicle used to captured Matt

Damon's high-speed exploits in the movie's jaw-dropping car chase

sequences.

* Anatomy of a Scene: The Explosive Bridge Chase Scene: Step onto the

set and experience the tension and intense preparation as the

filmmaking team plans and shoots one of the movie's most demanding,

dangerous and thrilling action scenes.

* Matching Identities: Casting: See what it took to land a part in this

major action hit.

* Keeping It Real: A look at the edgy and unique style the filmmakers

brought to "The Bourne Supremacy."

* On the move with Jason Bourne: Travel the globe to visit the film's

exotic locations from India to Berlin to Moscow.

* Scoring with John Powell: A special look at creating the pulse-pound

score for the movie.

* Feature Commentary with Director Paul Greengrass

FILM SYNOPSES

"The Bourne Identity"

After being pulled from the sea with two bullets in his back, Jason Bourne (Matt Damon) awakens on a fishing boat with no memory of his involvement in a top-secret, black ops arm of the CIA called Treadstone. The only clue to his identity is the number of a Swiss bank account where he discovers an array of passports and weapons as well as a fortune in cash. As he struggles to regain his memory, his former employers dub him a rogue agent and target him for termination. When an equally deadly assassin codenamed 'Professor' (Clive Owen) is sent to dispose of him, Bourne rediscovers his extraordinary survival skills, including hand-to-hand combat, martial arts and multiple languages, and begins to understand who he really is. As he struggles to unlock the secret of his own identity, Bourne has to deal with his past in order to ensure his own future.

"The Bourne Supremacy"

When his lover is murdered and he is framed for the assassination of a fellow agent, Jason Bourne finds himself on the run again. But as he closes in on his girlfriend's killers, he realizes his former handlers are back on his trail. After his fingerprints are found at the scene of a murder in Berlin, an ambitious CIA operative (Joan Allen) becomes determined to stop him once and for all. Haunted by debilitating fragmented memories as he navigates the labyrinth of international espionage, Bourne (Matt Damon) must outwit, outmaneuver and outmuscle some of the most powerful forces in the world just to survive.

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

DVD

Street Date: July 24, 2007

Pre-Order Close: June 19, 2007

Price: $ 22.98 SRP

Selection Number: 61100843

Aspect Ratio for both movies: Anamorphic Widescreen (2.35:1)

Running Time:

* "The Bourne Identity" -- 1 hour 59 minutes

* "The Bourne Supremacy" -- 1 hour 49 minutes

Rating for both movies: PG-13

Technical Info for both movies: English Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround,

French Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround, Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround,

English SDH, French and Spanish Subtitles

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

April 27

FLASH GORDON: SAVIOUR OF THE UNIVERSE EDITION
Published: April 27, 2007

TAKE A BREATHLESS RIDE TO ANOTHER UNIVERSE
IN THE CULT SCI-FI CLASSIC WITH ITS
LEGENDARY QUEEN SOUNDTRACK

All New Digitally Remastered Picture, 5.1 Surround Sound and
Exclusive Bonus Features and Key Art By Renowned Artist Alex Ross Available for the First Time on DVD
August 7, 2007 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. -- April 27, 2007 -- An All-American football player must foil an extraterrestrial plan to dominate the Earth in Flash Gordon: Saviour of the Universe Edition, rocketing into stores August 7, 2007 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. Available on DVD for the first time, this rollicking sci-fi classic stars Sam J. Jones, Melody Anderson, Timothy Dalton, and Academy Award® nominees Max von Sydow (Pelle the Conqueror) and Topol (Fiddler on the Roof) in the ultimate otherworldly adventure. An all-new digitally remastered picture and 5.1 Surround Sound brilliantly enhance the tongue-in-cheek dialogue, outrageous costumes and over the top sets, as well as the now legendary soundtrack by the celebrated rock group Queen. Directed by Mike Hodges (Croupier, Get Carter) and produced by Dino De Laurentiis (Barbarella, King Kong -1976), Flash Gordon: Saviour of the Universe Edition brings to the screen all the action, romance and fun of the original 1930's comic strip that inspired it. The special edition DVD includes exclusive bonus features, packaging art by renowned comic book artist, Alex Ross, and an "alternate" collectible postcard of the packaging art that make it a must-have addition to the collection of any sci-fi fan. The creation of cartoonist Alex Raymond, Flash Gordon is the original epic outer-space fantasy. The DVD is priced at $26.98 SRP. Pre-order close is July 3, 2007.

BONUS FEATURES BLAST OFF TO EXCITEMENT
The Special Edition DVD includes special bonus features that will take your enjoyment into another galaxy:
• ALEX ROSS, RENOWNED COMIC ARTIST, ON FLASH GORDON - World-renowned comic artist Alex Ross talks about his favorite movie of all time, Flash Gordon, and about how the film has inspired him in his life and work.
• WRITING A CLASSIC: SCREENWRITER LORENZO SEMPLE, JR. - Screenwriter Lorenzo Semple, Jr. speaks about the deliberately campy script for Flash Gordon.
• FLASH GORDON 1936 SERIAL EPISODE - Chapter One of Planet of Peril.

SYNOPSIS
In this wild and wacky update of the 1930's comic strip, maverick scientist Dr. Hans Zarkov (Topol) believes that energy waves emanating from a far-away galaxy are pulling the moon out of its orbit and threatening to destroy the Earth. Along with Flash Gordon (Sam J. Jones), quarterback for the New York Jets, and beautiful Dale Arden (Melody Anderson), Zarkov sets off on a rocket trip to the stars. They follow the energy waves to the distant planet Mongo, where they discover that evil despot Ming the Merciless (Max von Sydow in a deliciously sinister performance) is planning to obliterate life on Earth. Ming decides to add lovely Dale to his harem of concubines and attempts to imprison Flash, who escapes and takes refuge with the planet's rebel forces. He convinces rival Mongo princes Barin (Timothy Dalton) and Vultan (Brian Blessed) to unite their armies, and leads them in an all-out campaign to overthrow Ming and save humanity.

CAST & FILMMAKERS
Director: Mike Hodges
Written By: Michael Allin, Lorenzo Semple Jr., Alex Raymond
Produced By: Dino De Laurentiis
Director of Photography: Gil Taylor
Production Designer: Danilo Donati
Film Editors: Malcolm Cook
Costume Designer: Danilo Donati
Music By: Howard Blake
Cast: Sam J. Jones, Melody Anderson, Max von Sydow, Topol, Brian Blessed, Timothy Dalton

TECHNICAL INFORMATION
DVD
Street Date: August 7, 2007
Pre-Order Close: July 3, 2007
Copyright: 2007 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
Price: $26.98 SRP
Selection Number: 61032983
Running Time: 1 Hour 52 Minutes
Layers: Dual Layer
Aspect Ratio: Anamorphic Widescreen (2.35:1)
Rating: PG
Technical Info:
• English Dolby Digital 5.1
• Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish, French

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

From Universal Studios Home Entertainment: Take a Breathless Ride to Another Universe in the Cult Sci-Fi Classic With Its Legendary Queen Soundtrack, 'Flash Gordon: Saviour of the Universe Edition'

All New Digitally Remastered Picture, 5.1 Surround Sound and Exclusive Bonus Features and Key Art By Renowned Artist Alex Ross Available for the First Time on DVD August 7, 2007 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment

An All-American football player must foil an extraterrestrial plan to dominate the Earth in "Flash Gordon: Saviour of the Universe Edition," rocketing into stores August 7, 2007 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. Available on DVD for the first time, this rollicking sci-fi classic stars Sam J. Jones, Melody Anderson, Timothy Dalton, and Academy Award(R) nominees Max von Sydow ("Pelle the Conqueror") and Topol ("Fiddler on the Roof") in the ultimate otherworldly adventure. An all-new digitally remastered picture and 5.1 Surround Sound brilliantly enhance the tongue-in-cheek dialogue, outrageous costumes and over the top sets, as well as the now legendary soundtrack by the celebrated rock group Queen. Directed by Mike Hodges ("Croupier," "Get Carter") and produced by Dino De Laurentiis ("Barbarella," "King Kong-1976"), "Flash Gordon: Saviour of the Universe Edition" brings to the screen all the action, romance and fun of the original 1930's comic strip that inspired it. The special edition DVD includes exclusive bonus features, packaging art by renowned comic book artist, Alex Ross, and an "alternate" collectible postcard of the packaging art that make it a must-have addition to the collection of any sci-fi fan. The creation of cartoonist Alex Raymond, "Flash Gordon" is the original epic outer-space fantasy. The DVD is priced at $26.98 SRP. Pre-order close is July 3, 2007.

BONUS FEATURES BLAST OFF TO EXCITEMENT

The Special Edition DVD includes special bonus features that will take your enjoyment into another galaxy:

* ALEX ROSS, RENOWNED COMIC ARTIST, ON FLASH GORDON -- World-renowned

comic artist Alex Ross talks about his favorite movie of all time,

Flash Gordon, and about how the film has inspired him in his life and

work.

* WRITING A CLASSIC: SCREENWRITER LORENZO SEMPLE, JR. -- Screenwriter

Lorenzo Semple, Jr. speaks about the deliberately campy script for

Flash Gordon.

* FLASH GORDON 1936 SERIAL EPISODE -- Chapter One of Planet of Peril.

SYNOPSIS

In this wild and wacky update of the 1930's comic strip, maverick scientist Dr. Hans Zarkov (Topol) believes that energy waves emanating from a far-away galaxy are pulling the moon out of its orbit and threatening to destroy the Earth. Along with Flash Gordon (Sam J. Jones), quarterback for the New York Jets, and beautiful Dale Arden (Melody Anderson), Zarkov sets off on a rocket trip to the stars. They follow the energy waves to the distant planet Mongo, where they discover that evil despot Ming the Merciless (Max von Sydow in a deliciously sinister performance) is planning to obliterate life on Earth. Ming decides to add lovely Dale to his harem of concubines and attempts to imprison Flash, who escapes and takes refuge with the planet's rebel forces. He convinces rival Mongo princes Barin (Timothy Dalton) and Vultan (Brian Blessed) to unite their armies, and leads them in an all-out campaign to overthrow Ming and save humanity.

CAST & FILMMAKERS

Director: Mike Hodges

Written By: Michael Allin, Lorenzo Semple Jr., Alex Raymond

Produced By: Dino De Laurentiis

Director of Photography: Gil Taylor

Production Designer: Danilo Donati

Film Editors: Malcolm Cook

Costume Designer: Danilo Donati

Music By: Howard Blake

Cast: Sam J. Jones, Melody Anderson, Max von Sydow, Topol, Brian Blessed,

Timothy Dalton

TECHNICAL INFORMATION

DVD

Street Date: August 7, 2007

Pre-Order Close: July 3, 2007

Price: $26.98 SRP

Selection Number: 61032983

Running Time: 1 Hour 52 Minutes

Layers: Dual Layer

Aspect Ratio: Anamorphic Widescreen (2.35:1)

Rating: PG

Technical Info:

* English Dolby Digital 5.1

* Subtitles: English SDH, Spanish, French

April 23

David Tennant Returns to His Role as the Tenth Timelord, Joined by
New Companion Martha Jones, Played by Freema Agyeman

NEW YORK – April 23, 2007 – SCI FI Channel and BBC Worldwide Americas today announced a major acquisition deal for the U.S. premiere of the third season of Doctor Who. The series will debut on SCI FI in July 2007, kicking off with the Doctor Who Christmas Special: The Runaway Bride, guest-starring award-winning comedy actress Catherine Tate.

In season three, David Tennant returns to his role as the mysterious, time-traveling Doctor. American audiences will meet the Doctor's brand-new sidekick, Martha Jones (Freema Agyeman), in the first official episode of the season, "Smith and Jones."

Chris Regina, Vice President of Programming, SCI FI Channel, said 'Doctor Who' has become a favorite among SCI FI audiences. We are happy to bring the show back for its third season and look forward to following the Doctor's continuing adventures with his newest companion."

Executive Producer and Lead Writer Russell T Davies says, "We were delighted and honored by the second series' success, and we can promise new thrills, new laughs and some terrifying new aliens. The Doctor and Martha are destined to meet William Shakespeare, blood-sucking alien Plasmavores, The Judoon – a clan of galactic stormtroopers – and a sinister Dalek plot in 1930s New York."

The deal, brokered by Lisa Hofer, Vice President of Co-Production & Sales, BBC Worldwide Americas, with the SCI FI Channel grants SCI FI the exclusive first-run rights for Season Three. The second season of the new Doctor Who earned impressive ratings during its airing on SCI FI, delivering an average of over one million viewers each week.

Candace Carlisle, COO, BBC Sales Company, commented, "SCI FI Channel has been a fantastic platform for the Doctor Who Series in the US. We're excited for the Season Three launch and think American audiences will simply love the Doctor's hip new companion."

BBC Video will continue to work with SCI FI Channel on joint marketing promotions to support the Doctor Who brand in the US.

Burton Cromer, Senior Vice President, Consumer Products, BBC Worldwide Americas said: "Our promotional partnership with the SCI FI Channel, both on-air and online, was a significant factor in the fantastic success we've had with the new Doctor Who. It's also helped drive awareness and sales of our 40 plus line of classic Doctor Who titles."

Doctor Who is produced by Phil Collinson. Executive Producers are Head of Drama, BBC Wales, Julie Gardner and Lead Writer Russell T Davies.

Doctor Who is a BBC production in association with CBC in Canada. It has also been sold to over 30 territories internationally, including Japan (NHK), Thailand (Channel 7), South Korea (KBS2), Australia (ABC), New Zealand (Prime), France (France 4), Spain and Portugal (People & Arts), Denmark (Danmarks Radio), Sweden (SVT), Holland (NOS, Channel 3), Italy (Canal Jimmy), Finland (YLE) and Norway (NRK).

About BBC Worldwide Americas:
BBC Worldwide Limited is the main commercial arm and a wholly owned subsidiary of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). The company exists to maximise the value of the BBC's assets for the benefit of the licence payer and invest in public service programming in return for rights. The company has six core businesses: Global Channels, Global TV Sales, Magazines, Content & Production, Home Entertainment and Digital Media. In 2005/06 BBC Worldwide generated profits of 89 million pounds on sales of 784 million pounds.

About SCI FI:
SCI FI Channel is a television network where "what if" is what's on. SCI FI fuels the imagination of viewers with original series and events, blockbuster movies and classic science fiction and fantasy programming, as well as a dynamic Web site (www.scifi.com ) and magazine. Launched in 1992, and currently in 89 million homes, SCI FI Channel is a network of NBC Universal, one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies.

April 18

TRANSCRIPT: HARDBALL/NBC NEWS PRESIDENT STEVE CAPUS, April 18, 2007

Chris Matthews, host of MSNBC's "Hardball," with NBC News President Steve Capus.

CHRIS MATTHEWS, HOST: Stay with us right now. We have joining us on the telephone, NBC News President Steve Capus. Give us a sense, give us the report on how you learned about this package coming to 30 Rockefeller and how you dealt with it.

STEVE CAPUS, NBC NEWS PRESIDENT: The package, when it arrived at NBC headquarters was originally flagged by the letter carrier. Who pointed out to NBC security that it had a return address from Blacksburg, and so it was immediately brought to the attention of security, even before anybody opened it.

MATTHEWS: Did it have a return address? Did it have the name Cho on it in any way?

CAPUS: It had a different name on it. Not Cho.

MATTHEWS: Ishmael?

CAPUS: That's correct.

MATTHEWS: Is that from "Moby Dick," do you think?

CAPUS: Honestly, I don't know. But the key is when it came in here, NBC security opened it and handled it appropriately and everybody
who touched it wore gloves to keep everything intact. And we
immediately contacted authorities and that set forward the chain of events. And we worked with the authorities this afternoon to make sure that they knew everything that we did. And they requested that we not release some of the information until they had a chance to take a look at it. And we honored that request. And that was the right thing to do.

MATTHEWS: How long did you hold it?

CAPUS: For a matter of hours. I saw a copy around 12:00 noon. And I guess by the first word that went out was at the same time that the Virginia authorities had the news briefing this afternoon at 4:30.

MATTHEWS: What were the items in the package?

CAPUS: There were two things. One was a printout of a PDF type of document. Multi-paged, 23 pages, I believe, of a combination of text and photographs combined in the documents. With the photos embedded in the document. There would be a few lines of text. This kind of rambling manifesto type of statement. And then there would be a series
of photographs. And then the other thing that was in the package was a DVD, a video that was carved into snippets of videotape in quick time files.

MATTHEWS: And so that was the more recent production, apparently.

CAPUS: It is hard to tell, Chris. I don't really know what the timeline is on when those things were prepared or when they were done. Because the investigators are going to have to make a determination of what it, what each of these words means. And I know, you've been in touch with Virginia State Police. I know that they've looked at the
writings, the videotape we've sent some chunks of the video to them and I know that the FBI is in turn, getting them the full videotape.

MATTHEWS: How much more is there of the videotape than what you put on nightly tonight?

CAPUS: I would say there is roughly 10 minutes or so, in total. But that's the guess, Chris. I haven't added it all up.

MATTHEWS: Is it all consistent message of saddness and anger and all the other emotions that were in that short byte?

CAPUS: Very angry. Very, at certain points, agitated. The one thing that becomes clear, because some people were saying, who shot the videotape? As the picture that you're showing right now, it is typical. It is him talking to camera. And somebody might say, who shot
the videotape? On the videotape itself, you can see him lean forward and shut the camera off between the segments.

MATTHEWS: And also, a very steady camera. It looks like he placed on it a shelf or something.

CAPUS: And the still picks, Chris, that are within the PDF file all appear to be grabbed from the videotape.

MATTHEWS: When you look at the picture we're looking at, and I believe you can see the TV picture as well. You see the guy with the outfit he has on. Let me just ask you, when you look at that outfit with the ammo vest and the ammo belt and the fingers exposed with the gloves, the black shirt, the black head ban, all that getup. It does
suggest some planning went into this horror.

CAPUS: I'll tell you, Chris, it gives you chills to look at these photographs. There is a photograph where he has a gun pointed at his
own head. He has a knife at his own neck. He has photographs of hollow tipped bullets lined up on a table or something like that. It is horrifying and chilling.

MATTHEWS: What is impressive to us here after interviewing his suite mate who said that he never spoke a word, really, in the months since August when they were all put together in the same suite. They even thought he couldn't speak English very well. And then to hear his very articulate voice in this horrible tape, to hear him use a rich
language. Clearly, he knew how the speak with great fluency. For him to not speak at all in those months before, and now to give this legacy to NBC. It is a stark departure.

CAPUS: You know, I think this is inside the mind of a murderer. And I don't know, that's the way I would characterize it. The authorities need to look at this and really dissect it and pick it apart. You look at the some of the writings and these are just long, ramblings. That honestly, are very hard to follow, Chris.

And there is an extreme amount of anger. It is laced with profanity all the way through it. And I, it is very hard to follow. It really is.

MATTHEWS: His suite-mates said his roommate, a fellow name Joseph said when they would look at his room, at his screen and watch him work, perhaps, they would see him relentlessly, not playing video games but
writing text. English text. Legnthy narratives of some kind. And maybe they were watching him maybe begin to develop this self-biography, this autobiography. This horror here. Did you wait, reporting facts here. Did you await the authorities before opening the package?

CAPUS: No. The package was opened by NBC security. And as I say, they handled it in the appropriate manner. And all the people who work at NBC security are former law enforcement. And we took frankly, their guidance on how this should be handled and we were in touch with law
enforcement immediately.

MATTHEWS: It was a box. It wasn't an envelope. Is that right?

CAPUS: It was a large oversized envelope. I have not seen the original of the documents and thing like that. Everything I've seen is copies that were made. So they didn't, it is not as though they were pushing around the originals around here. We saw some, the documents. And I asked for the originals to be turned over to the authorities as quickly as we could.

MATTHEWS: We're talking now with the President of NBC News, Steve Capus who received this frightening package today. Was there any
concern by the security people at NBC that it might be a dangerous package?

CAPUS: I don't know, Chris. They didn't tell me that. And I know ever since the anthrax incident, everything of a larger size gets checked when it comes into the building. And as I said, the letter carrier who brought it into the building, flaged us to the retrun address. And so they were already on heightened alert because of the
return address.

MATTHEWS: Last question, in terms of the context, the fact that the
killer here, we can call him that, referenced Eric and Dillian, the
killers of Columbine. Does that lead us in the direction this story
will take? That this is, if not a copycat case, certainly a related
case to the horror that happened in Oklahoma?

CAPUS: I'm not in any position to make that determination. He does
in this note, make reference to Eric and Dillan but I don't know beyond that how to interpret this. I'll leave it to the investigators and I have to say, the Virginia State Police, which is taking the lead on this, has done an outstanding job with us today. And we very much appreciate their efforts. And we wanted to work with them every step of the way.

MATTHEWS: And no understanding yet, except perhaps, its prominence, why he would choose NBC.

CAPUS: No indication in the letter, Chris, of why NBC.

MATTHEWS: Thank you very much. Steve Capus, President of the News Division here at NBC News. He is the President of NBC News. Coming up, much more on Cho's manifesto. That's what we're calling it. It is in the package sent to NBC. We got it today in New York.

April 12

ERIC JOHNSON BRINGS SOME 'FLASH' TO SCI FI'S SIZZLING NEW SERIES

'Flash Gordon' Slated to Premiere in August 2007

Eric Johnson has been cast in the title role of SCI FI Channel's newest original action-adventure series, Flash Gordon. Produced by Reunion Pictures, this modern day retelling of the classic comic strip franchise will begin production in May with an eye toward an August 2007 premiere. RHI Entertainment will be distributing the series internationally.

Placing a 21st century spin on a science fiction classic, SCI FI's contemporized version of Flash Gordon follows the all-new adventures of Flash (Johnson) and his companions, Dale Arden and Dr. Hans Zarkov. Ordinary people thrust into extraordinary circumstances, they find themselves as Earth's last line of defense against the forces of the merciless dictator Ming.

The first two episodes of Flash Gordon are being written by Peter Hume (Charmed, Cruel Intentions II) and directed by Rick Rosenthal. Additional casting is currently underway.

Under an agreement with property owner King Features Syndicate, the new series is being produced by Matthew O'Connor and Tom Rowe. RHI's Robert Halmi, Sr. and Robert Halmi, Jr. (Tin Man, Mitch Albom's The Five People You Meet in Heaven, The Ten Commandments), who previously produced SCI FI's popular miniseries event Legend of Earthsea, will serve as Executive Producers on the series.

Canadian actor Eric Johnson is most recognized for his role as Whitney Fordman on Smallville, a character he portrayed for three years (2001–2004). His career began over a decade ago, when he landed the role of "teen Tristan," the younger counterpart to Brad Pitt in the film Legends of the Fall. Prior to and following Smallville, he worked in a number of films, including Texas Rangers, Question of Privilege, Stealing Sinatra and Bang Bang You're Dead. Most recently, Johnson made guest starring appearances in several television series, including Criminal Minds, The Dead Zone, Ghost Whisperer and The Unit.

RHI Entertainment, LLC is the global leader in the production and distribution of groundbreaking miniseries and movies for television. Since the company's inception, under the guidance of Robert Halmi, Sr. and Robert Halmi, Jr., RHI has produced and distributed over 4,000 hours of quality television programming, received 104 Emmy Awards and outperformed the competition annually in viewer ratings. Currently, RHI provides 40-60 new television movies and miniseries a year to networks worldwide.

Reunion Pictures Inc. is a development, financing and production company based in Vancouver, Canada. Its principals, Lisa Richardson, Matthew O'Connor and Tom Rowe each have 30 years of experience in all aspects of the film and television business.

King Features Syndicate is a member of Hearst Entertainment and Syndication Group, which combines The Hearst Corporation's cable network partnerships, television programming activities, and newspaper syndication and merchandise licensing operations. King Features is the world's premier distributor of comics, columns, editorial cartoons, puzzles and games, distributing some 150 features to nearly 5,000 newspapers around the globe. It is one of the largest and most experienced organizations in merchandising licensing. Among its most beloved and successful classic characters are "Popeye," "Betty Boop," "Blondie" and "Dennis the Menace." In recent years, the company has diversified and now represents properties such as the trendy apparel and accessory brands, David & Goliath, the publicly displayed, life-size art sculptures GuitarMania and The Trail of Painted Ponies; the conscientious-living brand, "Mutts," and SeeMore's Playhouse, the new children's series for public television.

SCI FI Channel is a television network where "what if" is what's on. SCI FI fuels the imagination of viewers with original series and events, blockbuster movies and classic science fiction and fantasy programming, as well as a dynamic Web site (www.scifi.com ) and magazine. Launched in 1992, and currently in 89 million homes, SCI FI Channel is a network of NBC Universal, one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies.

FLASH GORDON © 2007 King Features Syndicate. TM Hearst Holdings, Inc

April 9

QUOTABLES: 'THE CHRIS MATTHEWS SHOW'

Predictions -- Sunday, April 8, 2007

DAN RATHER, HD NET:
"Fred Thompson gets in on the Republican side. Only thing that possibly keeps him out is he's making a lot of money on the outside. He has a chance to succeed Paul Harvey, which is big money. But I think he's in. And Al Gore is thinking seriously about doing it. He's beginning to lose weight."

CYNTHIA TUCKER, ATLANTA JOURNAL-CONSTITUTION:
"If crime continues to rise, it could be the sleeper issue in the next presidential campaign. It's not just a ghetto issue anymore. The middle class has moved back into major cities, made major investments, and because of the example set by President Clinton, who supported local law enforcement, they will expect the presidential candidates to have an answer for that problem."

MICHAEL DUFFY, TIME MAGAZINE:
"In politics, there's the longest running political buddy movie: the friendship between Bill Clinton and George Herbert Walker Bush is about to come to an end. They're giving a commencement speech next month in New Hampshire, but they've decided the friendship should not be continued in public during the 2008 campaign. Some things are good for the dynasties in the off season, not during a campaign."

NORAH O'DONNELL, MSNBC:
"Some are raising questions about how Senator Hillary Clinton could walk into this presidential race with a database of 250,000 donors and only get contributions from 50,000 donors, whereas Barack Obama got contributions from 100,000 donors. Did she not tap the entire database yet? What does that mean about the future of her candidacy?"

April 6

NBC'S 'LAST CALL WITH CARSON DALY' BEGINS ITS FIRST OUTDOOR CONCERT SERIES APRIL 6

PERFORMANCES INCLUDE BLOC PARTY, AKON, JET AND YOUNG BUCK

On April 6, critically praised alternative rock band Bloc Party will kick off the first season of NBC's "Last Call with Carson Daly'" outdoor concert series. Other outdoor concerts will include performances by chart-topping hip-hop artist Akon, Australian rockers Jet and rapper Young Buck. Additional performers will be announced throughout the coming months.

Last Call previously held two outdoor concert events featuring acclaimed singer-songwriter Ben Harper and G. Love who helped kick off the week-long celebration of "Last Call with Carson Daly's" five-year anniversary (February 19-23, 2007).

Additional exclusive behind the scenes footage and full performances from the artists will be available to view though nbc.com and mobile content providers, marking the popular late night show's first foray into multi-platform programming.

Debuting in January of 2002, "Last Call with Carson Daly" boasts diverse bookings in the worlds of entertainment, politics and sports, and has a solid reputation for breaking new bands as well as showcasing the latest acts from the music industry. In addition to guest interviews and musical performances, the show features nightly monologues by Daly, as well as comedy bits and sketches.
"Last Call with Carson Daly" is produced by NBC Universal Television Studio and is taped before a live audience at NBC Studios in Burbank, California. David Friedman and Guy Oseary are executive producers.

Posted by Bill at 08:39 AM | Permalink

April 05, 2007

Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games Coverage

May 3

Weston Bakeries Marks 125th Anniversary by Announcing that it is an Official Supplier to the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games

May 3, 2007

The Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) and Weston Foods (Canada) Inc. announced today that Weston Bakeries Limited has been named the Official Supplier of Bread and Baked Goods for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Details of the new partnership were shared at the Weston Family Innovation Centre in the Ontario Science Centre as part of Weston Bakeries Limited 125th anniversary celebrations.

"2007 marks an important milestone in the history of Weston’s and as we celebrate 125 years, we are excited to also celebrate the very best of Canadian athletes,” said Ralph Robinson, President, Weston Foods (Canada) Inc. to an audience including Olympic Gold Medallists Beckie Scott (cross-country skiing) and Brad Gushue (curling) and Olympic women’s snowboard cross Bronze Medallist, Dominique Maltais.

“Weston’s commitment to excellence in Canadian sport is echoed in our support of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games and we are delighted to work hand-in-hand with VANOC to inspire all Canadians to celebrate the possible,” he added.

Building on Weston’s proud Olympic history as a sponsor of the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games and 1988 Calgary Olympic Games, this partnership provides Weston Bakeries Limited with Official Supplier sponsorship rights in the Bread and Baked goods category. In addition to the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, Weston Bakeries Limited will also serve as the Official Supplier for the Canadian Olympic teams competing in Beijing in 2008 and London in 2012.

“We are pleased to have Weston Bakeries Limited join the team helping to feed the spirit of Olympic and Paralympic dreams,” said John Furlong, VANOC CEO. “Building on their proud legacy which started at the Olympic Games in Montreal and Calgary, Weston is once again demonstrating a strong commitment to excellence and a desire to inspire Canadians of all ages to engage in sport and play.”

W. Galen Weston, Chairman and President, George Weston Limited who helped mark the celebration added: “these are exciting times for Weston Bakeries. I can't think of a better way to celebrate the 125th anniversary of my grandfather’s greatest achievement - the founding of this great bakery - than to be lending our support to Canadian athletes and the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.”

With a passion to providing sport and fitness opportunities for Canada’s children and youth, George Weston Limited., parent company of Weston Bakeries Limited, also announced a donation of $300,000.00 to YMCA organizations across Canada. An exciting new initiative, the Wonder Play, Dream, Grow Community Spirit program will fund community-based programs that help kids stay fit through play. The program will also include funding the building of several playgrounds and training facilities in communities across Canada.

About VANOC
VANOC is responsible for the planning, organizing, financing and staging of the XXI Olympic Winter Games and the X Paralympic Winter Games in 2010. The 2010 Olympic Winter Games will be staged in Vancouver and Whistler from February 12 to 28, 2010. Vancouver and Whistler will host the Paralympic Winter Games from March 12 to 21, 2010.

VANOC's marketing program is focused on securing mutually rewarding partnerships with shared values to generate sufficient revenue to host successful Winter Games in 2010 and to leave a financial legacy for sport. VANOC’s Worldwide TOP partners include Coca-Cola, Atos Origin, GE, McDonald’s, Omega, Samsung and Visa. VANOC's National Partners are Bell Canada, Hbc, RBC Financial Group, GM Canada, Petro-Canada, and RONA.

VANOC’s Official Supporters include Air Canada, the British Columbia Lottery Corporation, Canadian Pacific, the Royal Canadian Mint, Ricoh Canada Inc., ICBC and Teck Cominco Limited. VANOC’s Official Suppliers are Dow Canada, EPCOR, Haworth Canada, Nortel, Vincor Canada, Workopolis, and Weston Bakeries.

About Weston Foods (Canada) Inc.
Weston Foods (Canada) Inc. is a subsidiary of George Weston Limited, a Canadian public company and is one of North America's leading food processing and distribution companies. Weston Bakeries Limited is one of Canada's leading bakeries with a number of well-known bakery brands including Wonder®, Country Harvest®, D'Italiano®, Thomas'® and Weston®.

® Weston Bakeries Limited, Licensee of the trademarks.

Nortel Named Official Converged Network Equipment Supplier for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games: Nortel Infrastructure to Enable Converged Voice, Data, Video over IP Network

May 1, 2007

Nortel* [NYSE/TSX: NT] and the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) announced today that Nortel will be the Official Converged Network Equipment Supplier for the 2010 Winter Games. As part of the sponsorship agreement, Nortel will supply the network communications equipment required for what will be the first all-IP converged Games network.

Nortel will be providing the converged local area network (LAN) equipment to VANOC at 15 Games venues in both Vancouver and Whistler, as well as at the Vancouver 2010 headquarters and numerous supporting venues.

In addition, Bell Canada earlier selected Nortel to supply the wide area network (WAN) equipment it will use to build a core network to enable secure and reliable communications among all event locations. Bell Canada, the exclusive Telecommunications Services Provider and Premier National Partner for the 2010 Winter Games, will use Nortel VoIP, Metro Ethernet and IP solutions to create and deploy a dedicated carrier-class IP network for VANOC that securely converges all voice, video, and data communications.

With Nortel’s selection by VANOC for the Games’ LAN network and by Bell Canada to supply equipment for the Games’ WAN network, Nortel equipment will be used end-to-end for the 2010 Winter Games.

“VANOC and Bell Canada chose Nortel to supply the network infrastructure for one of the most important, most visible, and most watched sporting events in the world,” said Mike Zafirovski, president and CEO, Nortel. "It takes world-class networking expertise to support an event of this magnitude. With the eyes of the world upon them, VANOC can depend on the strength of Nortel to ensure the success of the Games."

“At Vancouver 2010, we are pleased to build on Canada’s proud history of advancing the way people communicate,” said John Furlong, VANOC CEO. “With Nortel joining our team, we will provide a positive human experience through reliable, secure and mobile communications. We are delighted to welcome Nortel’s employees to our team and invite them to help us celebrate the true spirit and potential of our country.”
Nortel’s six-year Official Supplier partnership with VANOC provides sponsorship rights for the 2010 Winter Games and the Canadian Olympic Teams participating at the Beijing 2008, Vancouver 2010 and London 2012 Olympic Games.

Designed and delivered by Bell Canada and using Nortel equipment, the 2010 Winter Games will be the first ever to converge all of its voice, video and data traffic over a single IP-based network backbone. This will also be the first Olympic and Paralympic Games to use voice over IP (VoIP) for all event locations, allowing athletes and support staff to have true user portability through a phone number that roams with them wherever they go.
“With all our athletes and event staff relying on this network, absolute network reliability and security are of paramount importance,” said Ward Chapin, chief information officer, VANOC. “Nortel’s rich history of designing and deploying some of the world’s most reliable and robust communications infrastructure is why we asked Nortel to design and build our converged LAN. In addition, Nortel’s support to Bell Canada in building the Games WAN will also increase the seamless power of the network while lowering costs to build and operate the network.”

"Given our experience with and trust in Nortel in supporting the delivery of our commercial networks, it was only natural that Bell Canada select Nortel to help us build the wide area network for the 2010 Games,” said Justin Webb, vice president, Olympic Services, Bell Canada. “We are working together closely to create a network for VANOC that delivers uncompromised performance, security, and simplicity, from the core infrastructure down to the individual user.”

Bell Canada will use the Nortel Ethernet Routing Switch 8600 and Optical Multiservice Edge 6500 to create a resilient, high-bandwidth transport network that connects all venues and supporting sites, with the Ethernet Routing Switch 5000 Series converging communications at all location sites. Bell Canada will also be providing network-based VoIP within all VANOC sites and competition venues utilizing Nortel’s market leading Communication Server 2000-Compact and IP Phone 1100 Series sets.

Nortel will directly supply LAN, WiFi, management and network security solutions to VANOC for all venues and supporting sites. Nortel Global Services will also be provided to support the design and deployment of the network.

VANOC's marketing program is focused on securing mutually rewarding partnerships with shared values to generate sufficient revenue to host successful Winter Games in 2010 and to leave a financial legacy for sport. VANOC’s Worldwide TOP Partners include Coca-Cola, Atos Origin, GE, McDonald’s, Omega, Samsung and Visa. VANOC's National Partners are Bell Canada, Hbc, RBC Financial Group, GM Canada, Petro-Canada, and RONA.

VANOC’s Official Supporters include Air Canada, the British Columbia Lottery Corporation, Canadian Pacific, the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia, Jet Set Sports, Ricoh Canada Inc., the Royal Canadian Mint, and Teck Cominco Limited. VANOC’s Official Suppliers are Birks, Dow Canada, EPCOR, Haworth Canada, Vincor Canada and Workopolis.

About Nortel
Nortel is a recognized leader in delivering communications capabilities that make the promise of Business Made Simple a reality for our customers. Our next-generation technologies, for both service provider and enterprise networks, support multimedia and business-critical applications. Nortel’s technologies are designed to help eliminate today's barriers to efficiency, speed and performance by simplifying networks and connecting people to the information they need, when they need it. Nortel does business in more than 150 countries around the world. For more information, visit Nortel on the Web at www.nortel.com. For the latest Nortel news, visit www.nortel.com/news.

Contact

VANOC Communication
mediarelations@vancouver2010.com

Certain statements in this press release may contain words such as “could”, “expects”, “may”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “intends”, “estimates”, ”targets”, “envisions”, “seeks” and other similar language and are considered forward-looking statements or information under applicable securities legislation. These statements are based on Nortel’s current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about the operating environment, economies and markets in which Nortel operates. These statements are subject to important assumptions, risks and uncertainties, which are difficult to predict and the actual outcome may be materially different from those contemplated in forward-looking statements. For additional information with respect to certain of these and other factors, see Nortel’s Annual Report on Form10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other securities filings with the SEC. Unless otherwise required by applicable securities laws, Nortel disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

*Nortel, the Nortel logo and the Globemark are trademarks of Nortel Networks.

Propelling Canadian athletes toward unparalleled podium success

April 26, 2007

With a medal in her sights, Canada’s Emily Brydon competes in the women’s World Cup Downhill in Tarvisio, Italy. (Photo courtesy of Reuters)While Canada has previously hosted two successful Olympic Games, it has the distinction of being the only country in the history of the Games not to have won a gold medal in the two Games it has hosted. It happened in Montreal in 1976 and again in Calgary in 1988. But we’re expecting things will be very different in 2010, with Canadian athletes winning big and delivering tangible results through an initiative called Own the Podium 2010, also known as OTP.

Taking things to a new level
Almost immediately upon being awarded the right to host the 2010 Winter Games, the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games (VANOC), through its major corporate sponsors and the Province of British Columbia, collaborated with the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC), the Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) and the Government of Canada to develop a comprehensive and ambitious plan. This plan would not only help propel our Winter Games athletes to unprecedented performance levels, but also give them every edge at winning gold. Today, Own the Podium 2010 is working. With typical Canadian reserve – and overwhelming public approval – it’s changing the face, and psyche, of Canadian sport.

Visually-impaired skier Kathleen Forestell follows her guide down the Super G course en route to a gold medal at the Disabled Skiing Cup in Winter Park, Colorado A year after OTP 2010 was implemented, Canadian winter athletes posted their best Winter Games finish ever, placing third overall in Torino in 2006 – and earning an amazing 13 fourth-place finishes. In the recently concluded 2006-07 World Cup and World Championship season, Canadian high performance winter athletes took it to another level, finishing second, after Germany, with 132 medals.

Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) CEO Chris Rudge called the results “an unequivocal success for Canadian winter sport.” Rudge continued, “Together with VANOC, Own the Podium 2010, Sport Canada, our National Sport Federations and sport partners, the Canadian Olympic Committee will continue to help provide Canada’s athletes with as much support as possible in order to achieve our ambitious goal of finishing first overall at the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.”

Canada’s Francois-Louis Tremblay skates during the men’s 500 metre World Short Track Speed Skating Championships. (Photo courtesy of Reuters)Earlier this year, VANOC CEO John Furlong, one of OTP’s strongest and earliest proponents, proudly and justifiably proclaimed: “There has been no better time in the last 50 years to be a Canadian winter athlete. Sponsors are hiring athletes in jobs tailored to them, and corporations are sponsoring them. Many can finally do what top athletes around the world have been allowed to do – train full-time without having to worry about losing a job.”

Own the Podium legacies
The reins of the five-year, $110 million program (half-funded by the Government of Canada and half-funded by VANOC through its major corporate sponsors and the Province of British Columbia, with Bell Canada as OTP’s founding corporate sponsor) are in the experienced hands of Dr. Roger Jackson. Jackson won the only gold medal for Canada at the Tokyo 1964 Olympic Summer Games in rowing with George Hungerford. Together they were awarded the Lou March Trophy as Canada’s top male athletes that year. Jackson is a former director of Sport Canada, a three-time president of the COC, a former dean of the Faculty of Kinesiology at the University of Calgary (from 1978-88) and founder and director of the University of Calgary Sport Medicine Centre. In 1984, he was made an Officer of the Order of Canada. He is also an inductee into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame.

Tangible benefits for Canadian sport
Jackson can easily recite a checklist of legacies that OTP will help forge in Canadian sport.

“There will be multiple improvements from the Own the Podium 2010 initiative. One, the winter sports should win more medals than ever, a feature that very much enhances the presentation of the Games held in Canada. Two, the national sports organizations will be considerably strengthened by the funding and the experience of trying to significantly improve their programs over the five years. Three, there are many programs that are currently building the base of developing athletes who will excel in 2014. Four, there are good experiences with winter sport for the VANOC corporate sponsors, and it is our intention to encourage them to continue their involvement beyond 2010. Five, the OTP initiative is adding new programs or strengthening programs to support [Canada’s] sport system. Six, OTP itself has been created as a single focus to lead Canada’s high-performance initiative, which allows a new coordinated approach to funding, program implementation and policy development.

“All of these have already been achieved or are being achieved,” concluded Jackson.

Creating winning conditions
High-performance initiatives have been launched before but never one that has been athlete- and excellence-driven.

Jennifer Heil celebrates her silver medal finish in the ladies’ moguls finals at the Freestyle World Champsionships. (Photo courtesy of Reuters)Jackson explained that the podium results begin on the ground. “The coaches have better defined and more appropriate working and employment conditions; the number of athletes they are training is more limited to allow the coaches to focus more attention on fewer athletes; there are more coaches and high-performance directors helping winter sports than a year ago; and there is now an emphasis on the professional development of these coaches to bring them to international standards where necessary.

“The top athletes have access to a much better and more comprehensive sport science and medicine servicing, from better-prepared professionals who, themselves, are learning how to work with world-class athletes.” “We have a rare opportunity, “ Jackson continued, “to utilize the Olympic and Paralympic facilities as they are built. Our athletes will therefore be very familiar with the Canadian environment and these specific facilities.

“Both the COC and CPC are stepping up their efforts to create ‘winning conditions’ for their teams for the 2010 Games, which means making sure every attention is paid to the smallest details so the athletes are prepared for the 2010 environment when they compete at home.”

If Canada does in fact top the medal standings in 2010, Canadians can be sure it will be a team effort. Who those medal-winning athletes are remains to be seen, but Jackson is quick to heap praise on the support staff that is already behind them every step of the way.

Canada’s Alexandre Bilodeau is airborne en route to a first place finish at a freestyle ski moguls World Cup competition. (Photo courtesy of Reuters)“The attitude and support of the VANOC sports managers, their leaders – Tim Gayda [VANOC’s vice president, sport] and Cathy Priestner Allinger [VANOC’s executive vice president, sport, Paralympic Games and venue management], John Furlong and the senior marketing and communications teams – is outstanding and very, very valuable to OTP,” said Jackson. “We are helped so often by them. I have never seen such support for the athletes and National Sport Organizations (NSOs) of the host country in all my years with many Organizing Committees. OTP is extremely fortunate to have this support.”

From outside our borders, and excluding hockey, Canadian sport has only on the rarest of occasions been viewed as a threat to top the podium. When the Games begin in 2010, Canadian athletes will be viewed as nothing but. Let the Games begin

Insurance Corporation of British Columbia joins drive towards 2010 -- 2010 Winter Games Licence Plates Unveiled

April 11, 2007

Premier Gordon Campbell, the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC), and the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) announced today a new Official Supporter partnership that will offer BC residents the opportunity to directly support the Games with one-of-a-kind 2010 Winter Games Licence Plates available for BC motorists to purchase starting next week.

”British Columbians are excited and proud to be hosting the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games and these licence plates are one more way for all of us to show that pride,” Campbell said. “I want to thank ICBC and VANOC for providing this innovative opportunity for British Columbians to get involved in supporting the 2010 Winter Games as we countdown the 1,038 days until the Opening Ceremony.”

The six-year partnership designates ICBC as an Official Supporter in the “motor vehicle insurance” category of the 2010 Winter Games, including sponsorship rights for the Canadian teams participating at the Beijing 2008, Vancouver 2010 and London 2012 Olympic Games. In addition to the introduction of the 2010 Winter Games licence plates, ICBC will also be the official supplier of motor vehicle insurance for VANOC’s fleet of approximately 4,500 General Motors passenger vehicles.

“ICBC is extremely pleased to support the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games and help make these the most successful Winter Games ever,” said ICBC President and CEO, Paul Taylor. “ICBC’s sponsorship provides British Columbians with a number of opportunities to directly support the 2010 Winter Games and promote BC.”

The licence plates allow motorists to showcase both the 2010 Winter Games and their province as they travel inside and outside British Columbia. They will be available for an initial fee of $35 starting the week of Monday, April 16 through Autoplan Insurance brokers across the province with the net proceeds going towards the successful staging of the 2010 Winter Games and as a result, the future success of Canadian athletes.

“With the addition of ICBC to our family, we’re driving the Games onto every highway and into every driveway with a top BC company synonymous with safety and community building,” said John Furlong, VANOC Chief Executive Officer. “Our goal is for all BC residents and Canadians to feel ownership of the Games and ICBC’s reach to all British Columbians will offer everyone the chance to demonstrate their pride and excitement. Following the leadership of ICBC, we’ll now look to develop additional licence plate programs in provinces and territories across Canada.”

ICBC’s contribution to VANOC will include net proceeds from the sale of 2010 Winter Games licence plates and the provision of auto insurance services. Costs for the insurance services will be funded by ICBC’s Optional Insurance business, which competes with other auto insurers in the BC marketplace. ICBC is the largest provider of Optional auto insurance in BC with $ 1.4 billion in net premiums written and 2.2 million customers.

The 2010 Winter Games joins five recent Winter Games that have introduced licence plate programs, including Montreal 1976 and Calgary 1988. The BC licence plates will feature the 2010 Winter Games emblem, and the province’s slogan, “The Best Place on Earth.” The mountain-scene on the 2010 Winter Games plate is that of Mount Garibaldi in Garibaldi Park, located 13 km north of Squamish, 97 km north of Vancouver along Hwy 99 on the road to Whistler. The chosen plate design captures the spirit of the Games while showcasing one of the most scenic and breathtaking areas between Vancouver and Whistler. The image was also used in the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Bid proposal.

VANOC is responsible for the planning, organizing, financing and staging of the XXI Olympic Winter Games and the X Paralympic Winter Games in 2010. The 2010 Olympic Winter Games will be staged in Vancouver and Whistler from February 12 to 28, 2010. Vancouver and Whistler will host the Paralympic Winter Games from March 12 to 21, 2010.

VANOC's marketing program is focused on securing mutually rewarding partnerships with shared values to generate sufficient revenue to host successful Winter Games in 2010 and to leave a financial legacy for sport. VANOC’s Worldwide TOP Partners include Coca-Cola, Atos Origin, GE, McDonald’s, Omega and Visa. VANOC's National Partners are Bell Canada, Hbc, RBC Financial Group, GM Canada, Petro-Canada, and RONA.

VANOC’s Official Supporters include Air Canada, the British Columbia Lottery Corporation, Canadian Pacific, the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia, Jet Set Sports, the Royal Canadian Mint, Ricoh Canada Inc. and Teck Cominco Limited. VANOC’s Official Suppliers are Birks, Dow Canada, EPCOR, Haworth Canada, Vincor Canada and Workopolis.

Contact

VANOC Communications
mediarelations@vancouver2010.com

April 30

Legacies of Lake Placid Games still delivering after 27 years

April 30, 2007

Volume One of Legacies of North American Winter Games report released today

The first volume of a report commissioned by the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) shows the legacies of the 1980 Lake Placid Olympic Winter Games are still a powerful contributor to the community 27 years after the Closing Ceremony.

The Lake Placid report, which was released today at vancouver2010.com, is the first of three volumes of the Legacies of North American Olympic Winter Games report commissioned by VANOC. The remaining two volumes of the report will be released over the next month continuing with the Calgary report on May 7, and the Salt Lake report on May 14.

, which was released today at vancouver2010.com, is the first of three volumes of the Legacies of North American Olympic Winter Games report commissioned by VANOC. The remaining two volumes of the report will be released over the next month continuing with the Calgary report on May 7, and the Salt Lake report on May 14.

The Lake Placid report is based on research obtained from many documents including newspaper and magazine articles, official reports, studies, books, and original interviews to outline the legacies to the host community of the 1980 Games. Key among the findings are a number of impressive economic and sport legacies including the following:

is based on research obtained from many documents including newspaper and magazine articles, official reports, studies, books, and original interviews to outline the legacies to the host community of the 1980 Games. Key among the findings are a number of impressive economic and sport legacies including the following:

In the 2004–05 fiscal year, 25 years after the Lake Placid 1980 Olympic Winter Games, the overall economic impact of the Olympic Regional Development Authority’s (ORDA) operations to the village and surrounding counties was $323.7 million USD.

In 2004, an estimated 333,535 non-resident visitors used ORDA facilities. The direct impact of visitor spending on the local economy that year was more than $310 million USD, resulting in 1,056.6 jobs.

Almost 90 per cent of the U.S. Olympic Team members at the Torino 2006 Olympic Winter Games had gone through training in Lake Placid at some time during their sports careers.

Lake Placid hosts an average of five World Cups every year, in addition to numerous other competitions.

33 of the 34 medals awarded to the U.S. Olympic Team at the Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Winter Games were won by athletes who trained in Lake Placid.

“As a community that has twice hosted the Olympic Winter Games, Lake Placid continues to enjoy human and economic benefits and lasting legacies,” said VANOC CEO John Furlong. “We are encouraged by the findings of this report and excited about the opportunities the Games present for future generations. Clearly, the Games have the potential of producing so much more than two months of stellar sport performance,” he concluded.

“The State of New York was honoured to host the world at the 1980 Olympic Winter Games, and we continue to welcome visitors from around the world to the Lake Placid region today,” said Sandy Caligiore, Communications Director for the State’s Olympic Regional Development Authority. “The positive economic and social impact of the Games is very real and very alive to this day,” he added.

VANOC commissioned the Legacies of North American Winter Games report believing the most appropriate model for understanding the potential legacies of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games is the experiences of other Winter Games held within the North American context since 1980. The independently-written reports offer detailed look back on the experiences of previous North American Olympic Winter Games hosts.

The Legacies reports, separately and combined, show how the host communities of Olympic Winter Games in North America continue to:

increase tourism in their regions

remind the world of their attractions at subsequent international competition

build sports participation

be national hubs for recreational and competitive sport

help the country’s top athletes achieve their full potential

attract major sports companies to locate there

encourage local children to excel in sport and other areas of life

“The report shows that, on a continent where enthusiasm for and participation in winter sports is widespread, hosting a successful Winter Games can have numerous, multi-faceted benefits, many of which last for generations to come,” said Furlong.

“VANOC is determined to continue this trend, delivering an outstanding Games experience in 2010 and legacies that will continue to benefit the community for many generations to come,” he concluded.

About VANOC

About the Lasting Legacies Report and Author

VANOC commissioned the research and writing of The Legacies of North American Olympic Winter Games report in July 2006. The researcher and author, Kate Zimmerman, has been a journalist in Canada for 27 years, writing for numerous newspapers and magazines. She lives in North Vancouver, BC.

Contact

VANOC Communications

April 27

Vancouver 2010 delivers solid report on Games progress to IOC Executive Board (Beijing)

April 26, 2007

With 1,023 days to go before the Opening Ceremony of the 2010 Winter Games, John Furlong, Chief Executive Officer of the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC), today presented a comprehensive Games update to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board.

The update was presented during the 2007 Sport Accord International Sports Convention. The presentation included a summary of the 4th Coordination Commission, hosted in Vancouver from March 6-8, 2007 and highlighted the significant progress on the venue construction program which moves into its most intensive stage this year. The IOC also expressed its desire for an Executive Board meeting to be held in Vancouver in late 2009 and VANOC warmly welcomed the idea.

Furlong delivered a review of the Organizing Committee's key accomplishments to date, in addition to highlighting VANOC’s 2007 priorities.

Among the topics Furlong addressed:

venue construction program progress

the release of the VANOC Business Plan and Games operating budget, which has been approved by the VANOC Board of Directors, with a public release date scheduled for May 8

a sponsorship and licensing update confirming that 80 per cent of the overall 2007 domestic sponsorship revenue target has been met

accommodation targets and the media accommodation program

development of the 2010 Winter Games ticketing program

modifications to the 2010 sport program, including the addition of ski cross and format changes for speed skating team pursuit and skeleton

finalization of the test event program

"Every single day we are focused on moving the project forward in all key areas," said Furlong as part of his address to the IOC. "A solid partnership is the key to successful Games in 2010 and throughout the past several months our partnership with the IOC and particularly the Coordination Commission members has grown immensely. Your guidance and advice is making our planning better and we thank you for your ongoing support."

Furlong’s update included the presentation of a new Vancouver 2010 video, an eight-minute production featuring progress on the 2010 venues and the people involved in the construction program. Following the video presentation, Furlong spoke to the venue construction program and recognized the tireless efforts of those involved in all aspects of Games preparation.

“We are proud to be introducing this inspiring video to an international audience today,” said Furlong immediately following the presentation. “As we literally start to see our venues coming out of the ground, we are able to share with the world the story of our project while showcasing the many dedicated people behind the scenes who are bringing our project to life.”

In addition to his presentation to the IOC, Furlong addressed a group of International Sport Accord delegates during a panel discussion titled “Working with Your Host City.” Hosted by Susie Simcock of the World Squash Federation, the session focused on models of successful cooperation for host cities of international sporting events.

Contact

New report details lasting legacies of Olympic Winter Games in North America

April 26, 2007

Olympic Winter Games in North America are generally highly successful and leave a multitude of lasting legacies in their host communities, according to a new report commissioned by the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC). The report, which includes a chapter on each of the three previous North American Olympic Winter Games, will be released over the next month as part of a host of activities to mark the 1,000 day countdown on May 19 to the Opening Ceremony of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

The Legacies of North American Olympic Winter Games report, prepared by an independent researcher, documents and illustrates the possible social and economic trends that result from hosting Olympic Winter Games in North America and the lasting impacts of hosting the Olympic Winter Games on a specific community and region.

The report examines the legacies of the three Olympic Winter Games held in North America since 1980: in Lake Placid, Calgary and Salt Lake City. Research sources include previous official Games reports, Games senior leaders, studies, books, newspaper and magazine analyses, and original interviews with individuals who have witnessed firsthand the effects of hosting the Games in their communities. “Social and economic trends are often left unidentified until the facts are pulled together and analyzed in one place, through a common lens,” said VANOC’s Chief Executive Officer John Furlong. “This report, summarizing the legacies of previous North American Olympic Winter Games, outlines trends that should be encouraging to all British Columbians, all Canadians and other North American cities considering bidding for the Olympic Winter Games,” he said.

All three of the previous North American Olympic Winter Games examined in the report were deemed a success in their time. The report shows how these host communities continue to:

increase tourism in their regions

remind the world of their attractions at subsequent international competition hosted there

build sports participation

be national hubs for recreational and competitive sport

help the country’s top high performance athletes achieve their full potential

attract major sports companies to locate there

encourage local children to excel in sport and other areas of life

“The best model for understanding the potential legacies of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games is analysis of other Winter Games held within the North American continent,” said Furlong. “This report offers a frank look back on the experiences of previous North American Olympic Winter Games hosts. While each Games was unique with its own story, the findings clearly indicate a pattern of positive opportunity.”

Due to the significant volume of each report, they will be released at vancouver2010.com on a staggered timeline: Lake Placid on April 30, Calgary on May 7 and Salt Lake on May 14.

The legacy of Winter Games can perhaps be easiest seen through high performance sport. Lake Placid has hosted the Olympic Winter Games twice (1932 and 1980), and has produced 125 local medal-winners since the Olympic Winter Games’ inception in 1924. After Salt Lake staged the 2002 Olympic Winter Games, 69 of the 211 athletes on the U.S. team in Torino in 2006 had trained at the Olympic Games facilities in Salt Lake. At the 2006 Olympic Winter Games in Torino, more than 25 per cent of the 196-member Canadian team was from the Calgary area and trained on legacy facilities from the 1988 Olympic Winter Games.

Calgary, the only Canadian city that has hosted an Olympic Winter Games, has a strong post-Games legacy. The Calgary Olympic Development Association (CODA) is responsible for a financial legacy that makes it the largest private funder of Olympic winter sport in Canada. Canada Olympic Park (COP) is a multi-venue sports complex that is the second-largest tourist draw in Alberta, attracting one million visitors a year – nearly 20 years after Calgary hosted the Olympic Winter Games. Plans are well underway to further develop COP.

The report shows a similar success story regarding New York State’s Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA). In the 2004-2005 fiscal year, a quarter century after the 1980 Lake Placid Olympic Winter Games, the overall economic impact of ORDA’s operations to the village and the counties surrounding it was an estimated $323.7 million USD.

The Salt Lake Organizing Committee (SLOC) decided after the 2002 Games to use its $100 million USD profit to turn Salt Lake City and Utah into “an elite sports capital of the world.” Since 2002, the Utah Sports Commission (USC) has hosted almost 200 major sports events. In 2006 alone, the economic impact of the events the USC helped organize was between $500-600 million USD. The state has also enticed more than 10 major sports equipment companies to call it home.

“The Legacies report shows that on a continent where enthusiasm for recreational and high performance winter sport is widespread, hosting a successful Winter Games can have numerous, multi-faceted benefits, many of which last for generations,” said Furlong.

“VANOC is determined to continue this impressive trend, delivering an outstanding Games experience in 2010 and legacies that continue to benefit the community for many years into the future,” he concluded.

About VANOC

About the Lasting Legacies Report and Author

Contact

April 23

News Release on behalf of Samsung - Samsung Concludes Contract with the International Olympic Committee to Sponsor Olympic Games Through 2016

April 23, 2007

Samsung, an official TOP Partner of the Olympic Games in wireless telecommunications equipment, concluded a sponsorship contract with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on April 23, 2007 at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing, China. Samsung first became a full sponsor of the Olympic Games during the Nagano Olympic Winter Games in 1998. According to the new contract, Samsung will officially sponsor the Olympic Games and the Olympic Movement for the next eight years, through the Vancouver Olympic Winter Games in 2010, the London Olympic Games in 2012, the 2014 Olympic Winter Games, and the 2016 Olympic Games.

The Samsung-IOC Olympic Games sponsorship contract signing ceremony was attended by Samsung Chairman, Kun-Hee Lee, who arrived in Beijing after a three-week business trip to Europe, and more than 200 officials in sports from around the world, including International Olympic Committee President Jacques Rogge, Chief Executive Officer of the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) John Furlong, and London Organizing Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) Chairman Sebastian Coe.

According to guidelines set forth by Samsung Chairman, Kun-Hee Lee in 1996 – “Devise strategies that can raise brand value, which is a leading intangible asset and the source of corporate competitiveness, to the global level” – Samsung decided to sponsor the Olympic Movement to strengthen its global corporate image and brand value and has been carrying out a global marketing campaign with the Olympic Games and the Olympic Movement as the single theme.

Accordingly, Samsung concluded a TOP (The Olympic Partner) sponsorship contract with the IOC in 1997. Since then, the company has been an official sponsor in the wireless telecommunications equipment category, including the Nagano 1998 Olympic Winter Games, the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, the Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Winter Games, the Athens 2004 Olympic Games, the Torino 2006 Olympic Winter Games, and the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games. By sponsoring the Olympic Games and the Olympic Movement for the last ten years, Samsung has made great strides towards becoming a “cutting-edge global brand” that leads the mobile phone industry. The Beijing Olympic Games in 2008 are expected to be the climax of the company’s efforts for the last ten years.

In fact, Samsung’s brand value grew more than five-fold from a mere 3.1 billion dollars in 1999 to 16.2 billion dollars in 2006, according to the annual company brand value ratings by Interbrand, the world’s largest brand consulting company. According to Strategy Analytics, a market research organization, Samsung’s global mobile phone market share went up from 5.0% in 1999 to 11.6% last year, and its sales volume increased seven times from 16.65 million units to 114 million units.

The Partnership between Samsung and the Olympic Movement is mutually beneficial. Samsung is demonstrating its cutting-edge wireless technology at the Olympic Games, and is fully living up to its corporate philosophy – “contribute to society” – through the Olympic Movement. Wireless Olympic Works (WOW), first released by Samsung for the Athens 2004 Olympic Games, is a service that enables the real-time transmission of Olympic Games information to mobile phones.

Samsung seeks to boost the value of the Olympic Games and prepare for the Olympic Ceremonies as a worldwide partner in the wireless telecommunications equipment category, making a shift from a voice-based, “mobile phone-centered” sponsorship to delivering all forms of information via the mobile phone.

By sponsoring the Olympic Games for the next eight years, including the TOP VII (Vancouver 2010 –London 2012) and TOP VIII (host countries not yet determined), in addition to the TOP IV (Nagano 1998 –Sydney 2000), TOP V (Salt Lake City 2002 –Athens 2004) and TOP VI (Torino 2006 –Beijing 2008), Samsung will create a strong association between the Olympic Movement and Samsung, and will further enhance the status of the Samsung brand. By concluding a long-term Olympic sponsorship contract, Samsung is proving that investing in the Olympic Games is key to growth of a “brand” and “mobile phones”, and is showing the world that investing in the Olympic Games means unlimited growth potential.

Vice Chairman and CEO, Jong-Yong Yun of Samsung Electronics and International Olympic Committee Marketing Commission Chairman, Gerhard Heiberg held a signing ceremony on Samsung’s eight-year sponsorship at a specially produced signing table at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse on the evening of April 23. Samsung Chairman, Kun-Hee Lee demonstrated great interest by personally welcoming officials in the sports field from across the globe, including the IOC President, Jacques Rogge.

During the signing ceremony on April 23, Daniel Newham from England and Xuchunni from China were joint MCs, and Canadian Ana Yang gave a bubble performance that symbolizes the “Dreams of the Olympic Games and Samsung.” The ceremony was made all the more meaningful with the participation of a performer from England, who plays the main character of the musical “The Little Prince,” officials from countries who will host the Olympic Games, and Sumi Jo, a Korean soprano.

About Samsung Electronics
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2006 parent company sales of US$63.4 billion and net income of US$8.5 billion. Employing approximately 138,000 people in over 124 offices in 56 countries, the company consists of five main business units: Digital Media Business, LCD Business, Semiconductor Business, Telecommunication Network Business and Digital Appliance Business. Recognized as one of the fastest growing global brands, Samsung Electronics is a leading producer of digital TVs, memory chips, mobile phones and TFT-LCDs. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com

April 12

Anti-doping movement aims for clean Games in 2010 and beyond

April 11, 2007

In 1998, a doping scandal of unprecedented scale nearly took the wheels out from underneath the Tour de France (the world’s premier cycling event).

When viewed through the lens of time, this scandal may ultimately be recognized as one of sport’s biggest wake-up calls. With the International Olympic Committee (IOC) leading the charge, the fallout from the controversy resulted in the creation, in 1999, of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). The battle against doping was no longer to be fought sport-by-sport, but globally.

Fast-forward to February 1, 2007, when UNESCO (the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization, a specialized UN agency) ratified the International Convention against Doping in Sport. The Convention set a record as the fastest to travel from draft form to ratification in UNESCO’s 62-year history. More significantly, the fight against doping was inscribed for the first time into international law, synchronizing the efforts of sport and civil authority. In paying tribute to the swift passage of the Convention, WADA Chairman Dick Pound attached hyperbole, “it is actually a miracle”, to fact, “an extraordinary commitment by governments.”

Canada has suffered the lows of a doping scandal (Ben Johnson, Seoul 1988 Summer Games) and the highs of dope-free success and championing (Beckie Scott, Salt Lake City 2002 Winter Games) and has emerged as one of the leaders in the international fight against doping. The Dubin Enquiry (commissioned by the Canadian government in 1989 after Johnson tested positive for steroid use following his gold-medal win in the 100-metre final at the Seoul 1988 Summer Games) opened eyes around the world to the scope of the issue and leading to the establishment of the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES). WADA elected Pound as its first chairman in 1999 and, in 2001, selected Montreal for its headquarters.

The Vancouver 2010 Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) tapped into that wealth of leadership when, in November 2006, it entered into a partnership to implement the anti-doping program (for both the International Olympic and Paralympic Committees) for the 2010 Games. Under this partnership, then-CCES General Manager Jeremy Luke was named as VANOC’s director, anti-doping. The Ontario native arrived in Vancouver to take up his position in early March 2007.

There’s no denying the significance of the task Luke and his team face. Earlier this year, IOC President Jacques Rogge called for even greater unity against doping in sport because “science has created more powerful performance-enhancing drugs that are more dangerous to the health of athletes than ever before.”

In that regard, Luke points to the World Anti-Doping Code, the UNESCO Convention, better testing and preventive programs in more countries and the growing number of criminal investigations to search out the miscreants – not only the athletes but, more particularly, the manufacturers, procurers and distributors of illicit drugs – as tools used to fight the anti-doping battle.

Anti-doping mission
VANOC’s approach to anti-doping offers hope that the will to cheat will be absent for any athletes who will compete in the 2010 Games – both because of the fear of being caught and due to increased awareness.

“[VANOC’s] mission in anti-doping is two-fold. One is to make sure we’ve got a cutting-edge doping control program consistent with the IOC and IPC anti-doping rules which incorporates all the latest analytical techniques to maximize the deterrent [with the companion lab facility] so we can send a very strong message to athletes that if you choose to deliberately dope and you come to Vancouver we’ve got a system in place to catch you.”

“But of equal importance," emphasized Luke, is that "[VANOC] wants to do everything it can to inform athletes of the IOC and IPC anti-doping rules, and provide them with the resources in order to be able to make the right decision when it comes to doping.”

In this regard, VANOC has drawn up a five-point information and awareness program which will leverage already-existing anti-doping programs, ”so we won’t be recreating the wheel,” said Luke. He noted that VANOC’s initial plans entailed implementing part of the program with relevant sport partners during the run-up to the 2010 Winter Games, in which a large majority of Olympic- and Paralympic-level athletes are expected to compete.

State-of-the-art testing program
Beyond that, VANOC intends to leave an outreach legacy of its own. “We think in Canada we’ve got a pretty effective way to educate our athletes before major Games. What we want to do is take that program and provide it to National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and National Paralympic Committees (NPCs). We will provide them with various anti-doping resources and do everything we can to get them to use these resources and engage their athletes in the process,” said Luke, adding that this initiative will begin in early 2008.

Luke was quick to point out that VANOC will tap into all the resources the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport has to offer in order to deliver a state-of-the-art testing program. “The CCES is a world leader and has doping control officers across Canada that can be relied on as experts in their field.” Additionally, VANOC “will be bringing other staff from [the CCES], adapting their protocols, their procedures and other aspects of their program and relying on their expertise.”

Values-based sports system
What about education as a longer term tool in the fight against doping in sport? “One of the more effective ways to deal with it,” noted Luke. “is target our youth and create a values-based sports system. This way, if youth are exposed to doping, it’s such an unacceptable thing to do that they would never engage in it to begin with.”

“And from a Canadian point of view, I’d say that at the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport, [education] is a large area of focus. I think what it comes back to is recognizing that doping isn’t the only issue and we shouldn’t deal with doping in an isolated way. It’s about attitudes, values and beliefs. Individuals for some reason when they’re exposed to those things, sometimes make the wrong decisions. We’ve got to focus on how we can create a sports system that is really values-based and would make doping so unacceptable, in the same way that drinking and driving or smoking are now perceived. At that point in time we will really be able to deal with it.”

Just when that point in time may come remains to be seen, but all signs suggest the battle is now being actively fought on behalf of the overwhelming majority of clean athletes. For the few who still haven’t grasped the full impact, Pound, speaking recently on TSN’s Bell Spirit of the Game series, put it bluntly: “It’s just not worth it. It’s not worth what you do to yourself. It’s not worth what you do to your body. It’s not worth what you do to the public who hope and expect you will be following the rules.”

April 5

Fuelling Canada’s podium dreams – Vancouver 2010 Coin Sport Collector Cards available at a corner station near you

April 5, 2007

You may have noticed a shiny curling coin jingling around in your change this winter, the first of 17 Olympic- and Paralympic-themed circulation coins launched by the Royal Canadian Mint (RCM) to celebrate Canada’s Games in 2010. To help make those Games even more spectacular, Petro-Canada and the RCM are offering Canadians an easy way to support Canada’s promising athletes and coaches – all in the time it takes to fill the tank.

The Vancouver 2010 Coin Sport Collector Card program will launch 12 illustrated cards that will include collectable versions of the popular Olympic- or Paralympic-themed 25-cent circulation coins issued by the RCM. The coins are adorned with distinctive red painting to enhance the Maple Leaf in the background.

The cards make a great collectable from the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games and are an excellent way to help Canada excel on the field of play in 2010 and beyond. Part of the proceeds from each $7.95 Coin Sport Collector Card sold will help fund Olympic and Paralympic athletes and coaches through Petro-Canada’s Fuelling the Dream Fund. It’s a program that makes contributions to an innovative program called Fuelling Athletic and Coaching Excellence (FACE) and Own the Podium 2010 (OTP).

Supporting Canada’s aspiring athletes: FACE and OTP

The FACE program
FACE supports up-and-coming athletes and their coaches, who must often struggle with the financial aspect of maintaining their competitive edge. The FACE program aims to close this gap by helping fund summer and winter athletes who are one step removed from being “carded” (qualified to receive funding from the Sport Canada Athlete Assistance Program).

While funding programs have a long tradition of supporting individual athletes, a unique aspect of Petro-Canada’s program is that the coaches of those athletes selected to receive FACE funding automatically receive consideration for a matching FACE grant.

Laurie Wachs coached Jessica Shelby Guenther to a bronze medal in synchronized swimming at the Whitehorse 2007 Canada Winter Games. She said the FACE program has had an enormous impact on helping both her and Jessica reach their goals.

“We are somewhat isolated here in Saskatchewan and these funds will help Jess and I continue to prosper in our sport,” Wachs said. “Jessica just came with the first-ever medal in synchronized swimming at the Winter Games for our province. I know this money is going to help us both so much.”

Own the Podium 2010
Own the Podium 2010 is a sport technical initiative designed to help Canada become the number one nation in terms of medals won at the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, and to place in the top three countries overall at the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games.

The focus of the initiative is to provide additional resources and high-performance programming to Canadian athletes, coaches and support personnel to help the country’s athletes achieve podium success in 2010.

A long tradition of support

Petro-Canada has a long tradition of supporting Canada’s Olympic aspirations, beginning with its sponsorship of the Olympic Torch Relay in 1988. Since then, Petro-Canada has awarded over $6 million in scholarships to more than 2,000 non-carded athletes and coaches. Today, Petro-Canada is a National Partner for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

"Petro-Canada has been supporting Canadian athletes and coaches for 18 years," says Steven Keith, director, Olympic and community partnerships. "We are pleased to commit $13 million in future support through our Fuelling the Dream Fund, with contributions to Own the Podium 2010 and our new Fuelling Athlete and Coaching Excellence program."

Each card will launch at the same time as the corresponding RCM circulation coin. This includes the April 3, 2007 release of an ice hockey coin/card, followed by wheelchair curling (July), biathlon (September) and alpine skiing (October ).

Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games Coverage

Posted by Bill at 06:04 PM | Permalink

Sema News

April 26

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WARREN JOHNSON INDUCTED INTO INTERNATIONAL MOTORSPORTS HALL OF FAME AND OTHER NHRA NEWSMAKERS

MOVERS AND SHAKERS: MICHAEL MINIALOFF, BART FLETCHER, COURTNEY HANSEN, MARILYNN YOUNGS AND STUART ZALUD

SCC FOCUS PANEL TO UNCOVER WHERE THE YOUTH MARKET IS HEADED AND OTHER SEMA COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE NEWS

Shows & Events

PHOTO GALLERY—CADILLAC ATTACK: OVER 20 ESCALADES AND SEDANS FROM THE 2006 SEMA SHOW

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Hot Links to Cool Sites

The links below represent some of the companies that comprise the SEMA Scholarship Committee. The committee oversees various activities to provide academic scholarships to students at various institutions of higher learning, enabling them to pursue a college education in the automotive aftermarket industry. For information on the committee and the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund, visit www.sema.org/scholarship.

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SEMA eNews is published each Wednesday evening by SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association, and is distributed to SEMA members and industry professionals in the specialty-equipment market. Copyright 2007. All rights reserved.

Questions, comments or suggestions about the publication: Contact Jason Catullo.

Terms under which this service is provided to you: sema.org/disclaimer

SEMA's mailing address: 1575 S. Valley Vista Dr., Diamond Bar, CA 91765

April 18

Vol. 10, No. 16

SEMA eNEWS

April 18, 2007

To access all of this week's eNews headlines, visit
http://www.sema.org/main/semaorghome.aspx?id=57135

What Has SEMA Done For You Lately?

INDUSTRY GATHERS TO DELIVER A FANTASTIC INAUGURAL SEMA NATIONAL EDUCATION CONFERENCE
Attendees Experience Valuable Networking, Education and Opportunities

Breaking News

TOYOTA ADVANCES PARTNERSHIP WITH SPECIALTY-EQUIPMENT MARKET
Automaker Named Vehicle Manufacturer of the 2007 SEMA Show

SEMA PRESIDENT TO SPEAK AT MICKEY THOMPSON/ALHAMBRA SCHOOL DISTRICT AUTOMOTIVE AWARDS BANQUET
SEMA Seeks Members to Be Mentors for the Evening

GM SURPRISES ENTHUSIASTS BY SUSPENDING NEW IMPALA PRODUCTION

COUNCIL GOLF TOURNAMENT CONTINUES TO RAISE MONEY FOR CHARITY
SEMA Councils Tee Up to Help Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp's Charity Efforts

SUBCOMPACT SALES OUTSHINE LARGER COUNTERPARTS

2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER MEASURING SESSION NEXT WEEK—REGISTER NOW

Market Snapshot

ROUSH'S PROPANE-POWERED PICKUP

MORE POWER NOW AVAILABLE FOR 2008 JEEP SUV

TOP-SELLING PICKUPS, SUVS AND CROSSOVERS

DETAILS ON NEW INFINITI G37 COUPE

SPORTY NEW SUZUKI SX4 SEDAN COMING SOON

2008 HUMMER H2 GETS MORE MUSCLE AND REFINED INTERIOR

DETAILS ON 2008 SUBARU WRX SPORT COMPACT

ARE GAS PRICES REALLY CAUSING SHIFTS IN THE VEHICLES CONSUMERS BUY?

GLOBAL DIESEL MARKET SHARE PREDICTED

HOW ONE COMPANY USES GOLD TO REDUCE DIESEL EMISSIONS

Business Tools

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT—SIMPLE ADD-ON SAFETY SALES

SEMA SHOW MARKETING OPPORTUNITY FOR MAGAZINES

THE HOTTEST HUMMER H2 AND H3 PARTS

UPCOMING SEMA WEBCASTS COVER MINIMUM ADVERTISED PRICING AND SEMA FREIGHT SAVINGS

A GUIDE TO BEING AN OEM SUPPLIER OF SPECIALTY PRODUCTS

New Products & Technology

SPY PHOTOS—AUDI RS6: 520-HP TURBO READY TO BATTLE WITH BENZ-AMG AND M5

Law and Order

FLORIDA STREET-ROD AND CUSTOM-VEHICLE BILL FACES FINAL HURDLE

Global Update

WADE KAWASAKI TO CHAIR SEMA INTERNATIONAL ADVISORY PANEL

CANADIAN SUV MARKET ON THE RISE

People, Places & Racing News

JEREMY MCGRATH MAKES SWITCH TO STOCK CARS AND OTHER RACING NEWS

FORCE QUALIFYING STREAK ENDS AT 395 AND OTHER NHRA NEWSMAKERS

MOVERS AND SHAKERS: KEITH SCHNEIDER, SANDY NORRIS, ROCKFORD TYSON, BOWDON HUNT AND ANDREW RICHTER

ARMO NEW PRODUCT SHOWCASE THIS WEEKEND AND OTHER SEMA COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE NEWS

Shows & Events

PHOTO GALLERY—TOYOTA FJS, TACOMAS AND TUNDRAS FROM THE SEMA SHOW

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Hot Links to Cool Sites

The following links are some of the companies that comprise the SEMA Board of Directors. Members of the SEMA board are elected by the SEMA membership. Nominations for the SEMA Board of Directors election are currently being accepted. For complete information, contact Christine Papavero at chrisp@sema.org.

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Questions, comments or suggestions about the publication: Contact Jason Catullo.

Terms under which this service is provided to you: sema.org/disclaimer

SEMA's mailing address: 1575 S. Valley Vista Dr., Diamond Bar, CA 91765

April 12

To access all of this week's eNews headlines, visit
http://www.sema.org/main/semaorghome.aspx?id=57100

What Has SEMA Done For You Lately?

NEW LAWS LEGISLATORS ARE PROPOSING FOR YOUR STATE

Breaking News

SEMA BOARD CANDIDATES ANNOUNCED

2008 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER MEASURING SESSION: REGISTER NOW

LAST CHANCE TO ACCESS INDUSTRY LEADERS AND BETTER BUSINESS STRATEGIES

MORE SEMA COUNCILS PREPARE TO TEE OFF FOR CHARITY

WEBCAST TO CLEAR UP CONFUSION OVER MAP PRICING

AHEAD OF NEW M3 ARRIVAL, BMW ACCESSORIES HOTTER THAN EVER

HOW YOU CAN BE A PART OF SEMA'S CHARITY FUNCTIONS
Donate One-of-a-Kind Items for Industry Gala Silent Auction

Market Snapshot

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE NEW YORK AUTO SHOW

HOT ROD, TUNER AND URBAN CHEVY SUBCOMPACT CAR CONCEPTS REVEALED

MOST POWERFUL MUSTANG EVER UNVEILED
Funkmaster Flex Expedition and Foose F-150 Round-Out Trio of Custom Vehicles Showcased

TWO CONCEPTS TO DEBUT AT 2007 SHANGHAI AUTO SHOW

FORD FLEX BOWS IN NEW YORK

HOT-ROD SHOWS ARE MARKETING OPPORTUNITIES

PRICING ANNOUNCED FOR THREE 2008 VEHICLES

LED LIGHTING USED TO CUSTOMIZE INTERIORS

NISSAN INTRODUCES VALVE-CONTROL TECHNOLOGY

COMPRESSED AIR—THE NEXT ALTERNATIVE FUEL?

Business Tools

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT—MULTI-VENUE MOTORSPORT EVENT PROMOTION

JOIN INDUSTRY PROS FOR A GLOBAL LOOK AT SPECIALTY-EQUIPMENT TRENDS

New Products & Technology

SPY SHOTS: 2008 BMW M3 COUPE—LATEST SUCCESSOR TOPS OUT AT 175 MPH

Law and Order

FEDS MANDATE INSTALLATION OF ELECTRONIC STABILITY-CONTROL SYSTEMS ON ALL CARS

UNITED STATES CONFRONTS CHINA ON PIRATED PRODUCTS
Carrot and Stick Approach Targets Copyright Infringement

POST OFFICE DELIVERS ANOTHER RATE HIKE

SEMA KEEPS YOU UP-TO-DATE ON LEGISLATION IN YOUR STATE

Global Update

SALES OPPORTUNITY IN GREECE

LISTS OF TOP-SELLING CARS AND LIGHT TRUCKS FOR 24 COUNTRIES AVAILABLE ONLINE

EFFORTS UNDERWAY TO SIMPLIFY PATENT PROTECTION IN EUROPE

People, Places & Racing News

DARLINGTON UNDERGOES RENOVATION AND OTHER RACING NEWS

MORGAN LUCAS RACING NAMES RAHN TOBLER AS CREW CHIEF AND OTHER NHRA NEWSMAKERS

MOVERS AND SHAKERS: LINDA MADDOX, CASEY COKER, SAM SARMIENTO, RORY CAMANGIAN, TISH SHEETS AND MORE

YEN AND SBN ANNOUNCE INDUSTRY MIXER AND OTHER SEMA COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE NEWS

Shows & Events

PHOTO GALLERY—DODGE CHARGERS AND CHRYSLER 300S FROM THE SEMA SHOW

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Hot Links to Cool Sites

The links listed below represent the some of the companies participating in the SEMA National Education Conference (NEC). For more information on the NEC, visit http://www.sema.org/nec.

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April 5

Vol. 10, No. 14

SEMA eNEWS

April 4, 2007

To access all of this week's eNews headlines, visit
http://www.sema.org/main/semaorghome.aspx?id=57064

What Has SEMA Done For You Lately?

LEXUS OFFERS PROJECT VEHICLES FOR THE 2007 SEMA SHOW
Another Opportunity for Members to Take Advantage of SEMA's OEM Network

Breaking News

SEMA SHOW REGISTRATION EASIER THAN EVER

JOBBERS/RETAILERS: LEARN HOW TO DELIVER WORLD-CLASS SERVICE IN ONE HOUR
Still Time to Sign Up for This Webcast Set for Today (April 5) at 10 p.m.

INDUSTRY'S TOP GOLFERS—SHOW YOUR GAME FOR A GOOD CAUSE

RESPOND TO SURVEY, WIN $100

CORVETTE ACCESSORIES: A $2 MILLION MARKET IN MARCH

Market Snapshot

HOTTEST-SELLING LARGE AND LUXURY CARS
Click Here to See Which Top Sellers Were Displayed at the 2006 SEMA Show

DIESELS AND HYBRIDS TO REACH 9% OF U.S. AUTO SALES

WHEELS OR PERFORMANCE: WHAT CONSUMERS PLAN TO PURCHASE
See How Consumers Surveyed in March Plan to Upgrade Their Cars and Trucks

GM'S MOST POWERFUL V6 ENGINE EVER BUILT

SATELLITE TELEVISION TO DRAW IN MINIVAN SALES?

FIRST EVER ETHANOL-POWERED HOT ROD

TOP-SELLING CHRYSLER CONVERTIBLE GETS A HARDTOP

A GUIDE TO WRITING MORE EFFECTIVE E-MAILS

HOW ONE COMPANY IS PREPARING FOR DIESEL-UREA INFRASTRUCTURE

VEHICLE-TO-VEHICLE COMMUNICATION ON THE HORIZON

Business Tools

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT—BOLT-ON EXTERIOR TRUCK ACCESSORIES

SEMA MEMBERS: PARTNER WITH THE SUBARU WORLD RALLY TEAM

11 TIPS TO ENSURE YOUR WEBSITE IS NOT BLACKLISTED

New Products & Technology

SPY SHOTS: NEXT-GENERATION MITSUBISHI EVOLUTION—ALL–NEW LOOK AND ALL–WHEEL STEERING

WILL NEW DIESEL POWERTRAINS LURE CONSUMERS TO DIESEL?

Law and Order

SEMA TO TAKE PRO-INDUSTRY MESSAGE TO LAWMAKERS IN SACRAMENTO
Don't Be Left Out—Register Now!

ANTI-HOBBYIST HISTORIC VEHICLES BILL WITHDRAWN IN ARKANSAS

EPA ON HOT SEAT WITH GLOBAL WARMING
Court Ruling Increases Chances for Tailpipe Standards

BRINGING TIRES INTO THE ELECTRONIC AGE
SEMA Urges Feds to Allow Online Registration

EPA ISSUES GUIDE ON AVOIDING ASBESTOS WHEN MAKING BRAKE REPAIRS

Global Update

FREE TRADE AGREEMENT WITH KOREA—MOST COMPREHENSIVE AGREEMENT SINCE THE 1995 NAFTA WITH MEXICO AND CANADA

People, Places and Racing News

FUTURE EXPANSION PROJECTS FOR MARTINSVILLE ON THE HORIZON AND OTHER RACING NEWS

ANGELLE SAMPEY EXTENDS TWO WINNING STREAKS AND OTHER NHRA NEWSMAKERS

MOVERS AND SHAKERS: ED FRUTIG, JOHN DARLINGTON, KEVIN AND KAREN ALSTOTT, ROGER BURMAN AND MORE

LTAA AND PRO HONOR EXCELLENCE AT SEMA SPRING EXPO AND OTHER SEMA COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE NEWS

Shows & Events

PHOTO GALLERY—CORVETTES FROM THE SEMA SHOW
Some of the Craftiest 'Vettes Around

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Hot Links to Cool Sites

The links listed below represent some of the companies that comprise SEMA's Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) select committee. ARMO's mission is to ensure the longevity and prosperity of the automotive restoration industry and to represent a unified voice on behalf of its members. For more information on ARMO, a complete list of ARMO-member companies, or to join, visit http://www.sema.org/armo.

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Posted by Bill at 12:46 PM | Permalink

Fox-TV News

April 22

SUNDAY, APRIL 22

**SEASON FINALE**—“THE WAR AT HOME”—(7:00-7:30 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

HILLARY MAY NOT GRADUATE HIGH SCHOOL
AND VICKY AND DAVE TRY TO SPICE UP THEIR RELATIONSHIP
ON THE SEASON FINALE OF “THE WAR AT HOME”
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, ON FOX

With Hillary’s graduation only three weeks away, David and Vicky plan her graduation party, only to find out she may not even graduate because she’s failing her gym class. Luckily, Dave is able to convince the principal to give her another chance, and volunteers to become Hillary’s personal fitness trainer so she can pass. Meanwhile, Vicky is fed up with the lack of spontaneity in her and Dave’s relationship, and she suggests that he get a vasectomy. Not wanting to go through the procedure alone, Dave suggests that Vicky get her tubes tied as well. However, both are in for a surprise when they try to outsmart one another. Meanwhile, with Mike’s help, Larry and Kenny plan a school prank to get revenge on the seniors who have been harassing them in “The Graduate” episode of THE WAR AT HOME Sunday, April 22 (7:00-7:30 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (WAR-222) (TV-14 S)

Cast: Michael Rapaport as Dave, Anita Barone as Vicky, Kaylee DeFer as Hillary, Kyle Sullivan as Larry, and Dean Collins as Mike.

Guest Cast: Rami Malek as Kenny, Dreux Frederic as Taye, Zoe DiStefano as Brenda, Martin Mull as Principal Fink, Diane Delano as PE Teacher, and William Ragsdale as Doctor.

**TIME PERIOD PREMIERE**—“KING OF THE HILL”—(7:30-8:00 PM ET/PT) CC

PEGGY SIZES UP ARLEN’S LARGEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY
ON “KING OF THE HILL”
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, ON FOX

Chris Elliot Makes Guest Voice Appearance

When Peggy takes Connie on as her protégé, Connie’s journalistic attitude pushes Peggy to change her writing style. Needless to say, she loses her job at The Arlen Bystander, but quickly rebounds with a job in real estate under the infamous Chris Sizemore (Chris Elliot), the brains behind Arlen’s largest real estate office. Her new job is at first exciting, but when she challenges the big boss and gets fired, Peggy decides to strike out on their own in the ”Glen Peggy Glen Ross” episode of KING OF THE HILL Sunday, April 22 (7:30-8:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (KH-1106) (TV-PG)

Voice Cast: Mike Judge as Hank Hill & Boomhauer; Kathy Najimy as Peggy Hill; Pamela S. Adlon as Bobby Hill & Dee; Johnny Hardwick as Dale; Stephen Root as Bill & Wang; Toby Huss as Cotton & Kahn; and Lauren Tom as Connie, Janet & Minh; Ashley Gardner as Nancy & Candi.

Guest Voice Cast: Henry Gibson as Bob Jenkins & Travis; Chris Elliot as Chris Sizemore; Scott Klace as Duckworth & Walker Lee; Phil Hendrie as Jeff, Roddy Rae & Roger.

--“THE SIMPSONS”—(8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT) CC

MARGE GETS HOOKED ON THE INTERNET
AND HOMER REFEREES LISA’S SOCCER GAME
ON “THE SIMPSONS”
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, ON FOX

Marge becomes a spectacle during a PTA meeting for not having an e-mail address, and she decides to take a chance on using the Internet. Amazed and delighted by all the Internet has to offer, Marge joins a popular role-playing fantasy game called “Earthland Realms.” To Marge’s dismay, the game has her interacting with practically the whole town of Springfield including Bart, who happens to be the game’s most feared and destructive player. Meanwhile, Homer saves Lisa’s soccer game from cancellation after he volunteers to take the place of a referee who recently quit. However, Homer’s refereeing skills only exasperate Lisa, and her competitive streak gets the best of her in the “Marge Gamer” episode of THE SIMPSONS Sunday, April 22 (8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (SI-1810) (TV–PG V)

Voice Cast: Dan Castellaneta as Homer Simpson, Groundskeeper Willie, Grampa, and Krusty; Julie Kavner as Marge Simpson; Nancy Cartwright as Bart Simpson and Ralph Wiggum; Yeardley Smith as Lisa Simpson; Tress Macneille as East Indian Girl; Harry Shearer as Principal Skinner, Rev. Lovejoy, and Ned Flanders; Pamela Hayden as Wench Milhouse; Hank Azaria as Apu, Cletus, Moe, and Carl; Marcia Wallace as Enchantress Krabappel

--THE SIMPSONS”—(8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT) CC

MARGE LEARNS SHE’S GOT THE SKILL TO WORK THE DRILLS
ON “THE SIMPSONS”
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, ON FOX

Hoping to see a new side to Homer, Marge convinces him to buy a refined collection of carpentry books. To Marge’s dismay, the books only gather dust until she accidentally breaks a nightstand – and uses the books to fix it herself. Soon Marge is hammering together everything from birdfeeders to doghouses and it isn’t long before she decides to transform her new skills into a full-fledged business. Unfortunately, the residents of Springfield don’t trust a handywoman to make repairs, so Marge hires Homer to pose as a “front” while she does the real work. Meanwhile, Bart finds out that peanuts are no longer allowed at Springfield Elementary because someone suffers from an allergy. But this loss becomes his treasure when he finds out that the allergy belongs to his nemesis, the one and only Principal Skinner. Before long, both Bart and Homer are in over their heads and it’s up to Marge to nail things back together in the “Please Homer Don’t Hammer ‘Em” episode of THE SIMPSONS, Sunday, April 22 (8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (SI-1720) (TV-PG)

Voice Cast: Dan Castellaneta as Homer Simpson, Julie Kavner as Marge Simpson; Nancy Cartwright as Bart Simpson; Yeardley Smith as Lisa Simpson; Pamela Hayden as Milhouse; Hank Azaria as Moe; Tress MacNeille as Mrs. Skinner and Russi Taylor as Sherri.

--“FAMILY GUY”—(9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) CC

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

STEWIE AND BRIAN HIT THE ROAD IN SEARCH OF RUPERT
ON “FAMILY GUY”
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, ON FOX

Rob Lowe and Greg Wendt Make Guest Voice Appearances

When the family has a garage sale, Brian accidentally sells Stewie’s beloved teddy bear, Rupert. Stewie is so distraught that Brian takes him on a cross-country road trip to Aspen, CO. When they find the culprit, Stanford (Rob Lowe), Stewie challenges him to a ski-off to get Rupert back. Meanwhile, Peter loses his license, so Meg has to drive him around in the “Road to Rupert” episode of FAMILY GUY Sunday, April 22 (9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (FG-504) (TV-14 D, L)

Voice Cast: Seth MacFarlane as Peter Griffin, Stewie Griffin, Brian Griffin, and Quagmire; Alex Borstein as Lois Griffin; Seth Green as Chris Griffin; Mila Kunis as Meg Griffin; Mike Henry as Cleveland.

Guest Voice Cast: Rob Lowe as Stanford and Greg Wendt as Norm

--“FAMILY GUY”—(9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

PETER TELLS ALL
ON “FAMILY GUY”
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, ON FOX

When the Griffins get robbed, the family runs into Peter’s panic room to escape the trespassers. Now isolated and trapped, Peter insists the family know about their ancestry and narrates a chain of events in world history that explain the Griffin name. Meanwhile, after Meg is chosen to go back into the house, she scares off the robbers in an unexpected way in the “Untitled Griffin Family History” episode of FAMILY GUY Sunday, April 22 (9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (FG-430) (TV-14 D, L)

Voice Cast: Seth MacFarlane as Peter Griffin, Stewie Griffin, Brian Griffin, Quagmire, Black-Eye Griffin, God, Moses Griffin, Nate Griffin, Peter Hitler, Quagdingo and Southern Carter; Alex Borstein as Lois Griffin and Eva; Seth Green as Chris Griffin; Mila Kunis as Meg Griffin; Mike Henry as Cleveland and Cleveland, Jr.

Guest Voice Cast: Lori Alan as African Diane; Patrick Warburton as Joe; Chris Sheridan as Chugs; John Viener as Hitler; Phil Lamarr as Ollie Williams.

MONDAY, APRIL 23

--“DRIVE”—(8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

ALEX AND CORINNA ARE OFFERED A JUMP START ON THE OTHER TEAMS;
SUSAN AND LEIGH ARE DETERMINED TO STAY IN THE RACE;
ROB RECEIVES DEVASTATING NEWS;
WENDY FEARS FOR HER BABY’S SAFETY;
AND A RACER IS PERMANENTLY TAKEN OUT OF THE RACE
ON “DRIVE,” MONDAY, APRIL 23, ON FOX

At the pit stop, Alex and Corinna are offered a “jump start” to move ahead of the other racers, but Corinna fears it will prove deadly; Susan and Leigh are determined to stay in the race after Ivy’s betrayal; Rob receives devastating news; Wendy fears for her baby’s safety; And one racer is permanently taken out of the race in the DRIVE episode “No Turning Back” airing Monday, April 23 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (DRV-104) (TV-14 L, V)

Cast: Nathan Fillion as Alex Tully; Kristin Lehman as Corinna Wiles; Kevin Alejandro as Winston Salazar; Dylan Baker as John Trimble; Michael Hyatt as Susan Chamblee; Melanie Lynskey as Wendy Patrakas; Taryn Manning as Ivy Chitty; Charles Martin Smith as Mr. Bright; JD Pardo as Sean Salazar; Riley Smith as Rob Laird; Emma Stone as Violet Trimble

Guest Cast: Brian Bloom as Allan James; Amy Acker as Kathryn Tully; Cindy Williams as House Mother; Rick Overton as Bank Manager; Franklin Dennis Jones as Major Lowell Hyatt; Kevin Symons as Driver; Jason Matthew Smith as Rent-a-cop.

--“24”—(9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

PULSE-POUNDING CIRCUMSTANCES ESCALATE
ON “24” MONDAY, APRIL 23, ON FOX

Developments involving Jack Bauer and Agent Mike Doyle have CTU operatives and analysts scrambling to gain control of an intense situation. Vice President Daniels prepares to address the country while presidential advisor Tom Lennox participates in a personnel decision that will shake things up in the “Day 6: 12:00 Midnight.-1:00 A.M.” episode of 24 Monday, April 23 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (TWF-619) (TV-14 V)

Cast: Kiefer Sutherland as Jack Bauer, Mary Lynn Rajskub as Chloe O’Brian, James Morrison as Bill Buchanan, DB Woodside as President Wayne Palmer, Jayne Atkinson as Karen Hayes, Carlo Rota as Morris O’Brian, Peter MacNicol as Thomas Lennox, Regina King as Sandra Palmer, Eric Balfour as Milo Pressman and Marisol Nichols as Nadia Yassir.

Guest Cast: Powers Boothe as Vice President Noah Daniels, Chad Lowe as Reed Pollock, Adoni Maropis as Abu Fayed, Ricky Schroder as Mike Doyle, Kari Matchett as Lisa Miller.

TUESDAY, APRIL 24

--“AMERICAN IDOL”—6 Finalists Compete/Idol Gives Back, Part 1—(8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT CC-HDTV 720p-In Stereo

“AMERICAN IDOL” TOP 6 PERFORM ON
“IDOL GIVES BACK” SPECIAL, PART 1
TUESDAY, APRIL 24, ON FOX

Tonight AMERICAN IDOL partners with Charity Projects Entertainment Fund to raise awareness and money for young people living in extreme poverty in America and Africa. The Top 6 finalists will perform for the nation, singing songs related to compassion and hope during a “Life Anthems”-themed episode. On this special night, viewers can help change the lives of the truly needy as AMERICAN IDOL sponsors Coca-Cola and AT&T, along with additional partners, will donate money for every vote cast. Tune in for this very special IDOL GIVES BACK performance show, “6 Finalists Compete/Idol Gives Back, Part 1,” Tuesday, April 24 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (ID-629) (TV-PG)

Host: Ryan Seacrest

Judges: Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson

--“HOUSE”—(9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

FOREMAN’S DIAGNOSIS OF A YOUNG, UNDERPRIVILEGED WOMAN
FORCES HIM TO EXAMINE HIS OWN LIFE,
WHILE HOUSE ATTEMPTS TO INVESTIGATE WILSON’S LOVE LIFE
ON “HOUSE” TUESDAY, APRIL 24, ON FOX

Charles S. Dutton, Beverly Todd, Jane Adams Guest-Star

The team takes on the case of Lupe, a young female scam artist who passes out while working a card-playing scheme on the streets. Lupe suffers from a lack of blood to the brain which had temporarily paralyzed her ability to make decisions or exercise free will. Measuring from her background, Foreman immediately suspects Lupe’s condition stems from drug abuse, while Chase looks for other possibilities, such as toxins, in Lupe’s apartment. Lupe senses Foreman’s disdain for the decisions she’s made in her life, and Foreman grapples with his own humble past when his parents come to visit him. When Lupe’s symptoms worsen and her organs begin to shut down, Foreman and the team suspect cancer to be the culprit. Meanwhile, Cuddy and Wilson go out on a date to see an art exhibit together, and House probes Wilson’s ex-wife about Wilson and his dating habits. When the team learns some devastating news about Lupe’s condition, they realize that their own decisions, rather that Lupe’s, may cost Lupe her life in the “House Training” episode of HOUSE airing Tuesday, April 24 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (HOU-320) (TV-14 L)

Cast: Hugh Laurie as Dr. Gregory House; Lisa Edelstein as Dr. Lisa Cuddy; Omar Epps as Dr. Eric Foreman; Robert Sean Leonard as Dr. James Wilson; Jennifer Morrison as Dr. Allison Cameron; Jesse Spencer as Dr. Robert Chase.

Guest Cast: Monique Gabriela Curnen as Lupe; Charles S. Dutton as Rodney Foreman; Beverly Todd as Alicia Foreman; Jane Adams as Bonnie

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25

**SPECIAL EDITION**—“AMERICAN IDOL”—1 of 6 Voted Off/Idol Gives Back, Part 2—(8:00-10:00 ET live/PT tape-delayed PT) CC-HDTV 720p-In Stereo

5 FINALISTS REMAIN AND AMERICA MAKES A DIFFERENCE
ON “IDOL GIVES BACK,”
A SPECIAL EDITION OF THE “AMERICAN IDOL” RESULTS SHOW,
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25, ON FOX

Last night, AMERICAN IDOL and the Charity Projects Entertainment Fund made history when the Top 6 finalists sang their hearts out and viewers helped change the lives of the less fortunate here and in Africa when each of their millions of votes netted a charitable donation. Find out tonight LIVE, during this star-studded evening, who will sing again next week and who will go home. World-renowned artists and celebrities scheduled to appear include Kelly Clarkson, Hugh Grant, Keira Knightley, Forest Whitaker, Gwen Stefani, Josh Groban, Michael Bublé, Annie Lennox and Sacha Baron Cohen (Borat), among many others. In addition, America will have an opportunity to make their own donations during the second half of the AMERICAN IDOL Results Show special edition, “1 of 6 Voted Off/Idol Gives Back,” airing Wednesday, April 25 (8:00-10:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) on FOX. (ID2-629A) (TV-PG)

Host: Ryan Seacrest

Judges: Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson

THURSDAY, APRIL 26

--“ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 5TH GRADER?”—(8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) CC

WILL CONTESTANTS GRADUATE
ON “ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 5TH GRADER?”
THURSDAY, APRIL 26, ON FOX

Unlike the typical game show that measures intelligence, ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 5th GRADER? tests adults’ lack of knowledge – as revealed by how much they’ve forgotten since elementary school. New grownup contestants will again find themselves in a classroom setting, revisiting their youth, as they tackle subjects they’ve already been taught, ranging from art to geography and math to social studies. However, the players are not alone. There is a way for contestants to “cheat” in this classroom. The adults will have the opportunity to get some help from real grade-schoolers, who will offer what they think is the correct a-n-s-w-e-r on tonight’s episode of ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 5TH GRADER? Thursday, April 26 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (AYS-110) (TV-PG)

Host: Jeff Foxworthy

--“TRADING SPOUSES: MEET YOUR NEW MOMMY”—Naudin/Allen, Part 1 of 2—(9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC

TWO MOMS MIX IT UP ON
“TRADING SPOUSES: MEET YOUR NEW MOMMY”
THURSDAY, APRIL 26, ON FOX

Cheri Naudin, a successful, competitive mom from Orange County, CA, trades places with Laurie Allen, a belly-dancing massage therapist from Santa Rosa, CA, in Part 1 of an all-new two-part episode of TRADING SPOUSES: MEET YOUR NEW MOMMY airing Thursday, April 26 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (TSP-311) (TV-PG L)

FRIDAY, APRIL 27

--“HOUSE”—(8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

PA: Parental discretion is advised.

HOUSE IS FACED WITH A PROBLEM HE MAY NOT BE ABLE TO SOLVE
ON "HOUSE"
FRIDAY, APRIL 27, ON FOX

Sela Ward Guest-Stars

House insists he can handle things when Stacy (guest-star Sela Ward), the woman he once loved, asks him to diagnose Mark, the man she married. When Mark’s tests come back normal yet symptoms show that his brain is dying, the puzzle may be one that even House can’t solve. While Wilson worries about House’s emotional well-being, the team is blown away by his over-the-top demands. As House struggles to put his emotions aside and solve the case, Cuddy adds to his dilemma and offers Stacy a reason to stay in "The Honeymoon” episode of HOUSE Friday, April 27 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (HOU-122) (TV-14 D, L, S, V)

Cast: Hugh Laurie as Dr. Gregory House; Lisa Edelstein as Dr. Lisa Cuddy; Omar Epps as Dr. Eric Foreman; Robert Sean Leonard as Dr. James Wilson; Jennifer Morrison as Dr. Allison Cameron; Jesse Spencer as Dr. Robert Chase.

Guest Cast: Sela Ward as Stacy Warner; Currie Graham as Mark Waring; Mark Holmes as Ambulance Driver.

--“BONES”—(9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

A CAR BOMB KILLING INNOCENT PEOPLE
LEADS BRENNAN AND BOOTH ON THE TRAIL OF A TERRORIST
WITH POSSIBLE U.S. GOVERNMENT TIES
ON “BONES” FRIDAY, APRIL 27, ON FOX

A car bomb explodes in front of a busy café, killing the driver and a number of the café’s patrons, and injuring others. Since the car was registered to a prominent Middle Eastern man with U.S. government ties, Agent Booth calls Dr. Brennan onto the case to help with the identification of the driver. Once the driver’s identity is revealed, Brennan and Booth uncover clues that lead them in an unexpected direction, on the trail of a terrorist before another murder is committed. Meanwhile, Brennan and her team discover that Booth is seeing a woman, which inspires Angela to look further into Booth’s personal life in hopes of convincing Brennan that she has a chance for romance with Booth in “The Man in the SUV” episode of BONES Friday, April 27 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (BON-103) (TV-14 D, L, V)

Cast: Emily Deschanel as Dr. Temperance Brennan, David Boreanaz as FBI Special Agent Seeley Booth, TJ Thyne as Dr. Jack Hodgins, Michaela Conlin as Angela Montenegro, Eric Millegan as Zack Addy, Jonathan Adams as Dr. Daniel Goodman.

Guest Cast: Jose Zuniga as Mickey Santana; Dave Roberson as Bennett Gibson; Nicholas Massouh as Farid Masruk; Bahar Soomekh as Sahar Masruk; Ane Dudek as Tessa Jankow; Federico Dordei as Ali Ladjavardi; Tracy Howe as Officer; Said Faraj as Hamid Masruk.

SATURDAY, APRIL 28

--“COPS: POLICE PULLOVERS SPECIAL EDITION #1”—(8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT) CC

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

POT SUSPECT EATS WEED AND “HIGH”LIGHTS
“COPS: POLICE PULLOVERS SPECIAL EDITION #1
SATURDAY, APRIL 28, ON FOX

When Deputy Brandon Gish of the Brevard County, FL, Sheriff’s Office pulls over a vehicle whose driver matching the description of a battery suspect, the desperate driver panics and attempts to eat a pinch of pot. And Officer Brian Binks of the Fontana, CA, Police Department is shocked when a suspect explains why he led officers on a high-speed chase on the all-new COPS: POLICE PULLOVERS SPECIAL EDITION #1 airing Saturday, April 28 (8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (CP-1910) (TV-PG)

--“COPS: POLICE PULLOVERS SPECIAL EDITION #2”—(8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT) CC

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

OFFICERS ENCOUNTER MORE THAN ROUTINE TRAFFIC STOPS
ON “COPS: POLICE PULLOVERS SPECIAL EDITION #2”
SATURDAY, APRIL 28, ON FOX

As Officers Michael Harper and Mark Longworth of the Cincinnati, OH, Police Department inspect a suspicious vehicle, a dangerous situation surfaces when the passenger reaches for a gun. Also featured is Officer Ryan Cook of the Las Vegas, NV, Metropolitan Police Department, pulling over a woman who happens to be in a bikini and has a busted taillight on the all-new COPS: POLICE PULLOVERS SPECIAL EDITION #2 airing Saturday, April 28 (8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (CP-1920) (TV-PG L)

--“AMERICA’S MOST WANTED: AMERICA FIGHTS BACK”—(9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC

AMW TACKLES ONLINE PREDATORS
WITH HELP FROM MISS AMERICA
SATURDAY, APRIL 28, ON FOX

This week on AMW, John Walsh and a special police unit go after online sex predators, with the help of a special guest: Miss America, Lauren Nelson. The Sexual Predators Special Edition of AMERICA’S MOST WANTED: AMERICA FIGHTS BACK airs Saturday, April 28 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (MW-2027) (TV-PG V)

Host: John Walsh

--“MADtv”—(11:00 PM-Midnight ET/PT) CC

MICHAEL RAPAPORT STARS IN “GONE WITH THE WIND”
AND LEAH RIMINI WONDERS WHERE HAVE ALL THE FLOWERS GONE
ON “MADtv” SATURDAY, APRIL 28, ON FOX

The late-night laughs continue as Michael Rapaport and Leah Remini guest-star in the hilarious sketches and pop-culture parodies. Rapaport portrays “Clark Gable” in “Gone With the Wind” as he provides alternate endings to this American film classic. Plus, Remini’s conversation with the flower delivery man gets out of hand on MADtv airing Saturday, April 28 (11:00 PM-Midnight ET/PT) on FOX. (MD-1220) (TV-14 D, L, V)

Cast: Ike Barinholtz, Frank Caeti, Frank Caliendo, Crista Flanagan, Daniele Gaither, Keegan-Michael Key, Bobby Lee, Michael McDonald, Arden Myrin, Nicole Parker, Jordan Peele, Nicole Randall Johnson and Stephnie Weir.

Guest Cast: Michael Rapaport; Leah Rimini

Contact: Ahley Sasaki 310-369-0979

--“TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN”—(Midnight-12:30 AM ET/PT) CC

MICHAEL RAPAPORT MAKES THE LATE-NIGHT LAUGHS LOUDER
ON “TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN”
SATURDAY, APRIL 28, ON FOX

Michael Rapaport of FOX’s THE WAR AT HOME stays up late to deliver primetime laughs on late-night television. Spike provides a peek at his home life as well as what his wife thinks of the show, and a featured sketch presents “Strobe Monkeys” on TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN Saturday, April 28 (Midnight-12:30 AM ET/PT) on FOX. (SPK-110) (TV-14 D, L)

Host: Spike Feresten

SUNDAY, APRIL 29

**1-HOUR EPISODE**—“KING OF THE HILL”—(7:00-8:00 PM ET/PT) CC

BILL FINDS RELIGION AND A GIRLFRIEND
WHILE HANK GAMES FOR PROPANE
ON A SPECIAL ONE-HOUR EPISODE OF
“KING OF THE HILL”
SUNDAY, APRIL 29, ON FOX

When Bill survives the roof caving in over his bed, he takes it as a sign from God and immerses himself in church activities. Hank soon discovers that Bill’s religious zeal may be due to a secret affair with Reverend Stroup. But when Reverend Stroup quits the church and moves in with Bill, an overwhelmed Bill tries to break up with her. Meanwhile, Hank becomes addicted to a video game about propane and Bobby trains for the Presidential Fitness Test in ”The Passion of the Dauterive”/”Grand Theft Arlen” episode of KING OF THE HILL Sunday, April 29 (7:00-8:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (KH-1107/1108) (TV-PG D, L/TV-PG L, V)

Voice Cast: Mike Judge as Hank Hill, Boomhauer & Dooley; Kathy Najimy as Peggy Hill; Pamela S. Adlon as Bobby Hill, Sue & Woman #2; Johnny Hardwick as Dale & Video Game Pedestrians; Stephen Root as Bill, Male Deacon #2, Computer Voice & Strickland; Ashley Gardner as Reverend Stroup & Woman #1 and Toby Huss as Coach Kleehammer, Joe Jack & Kahn.

Guest Voice Cast: Scott Klace as Male Deacon #1 & Man; Randal Reeder as Customer; Justin Long as Gabriel; Breckin Meyer as Joseph & Sam; Dennis Burkley as Principal Moss; and Phil Lamarr as Roger.

--“THE SIMPSONS”—(8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT) CC

BART LIVES DOWN A BASEBALL BLOOPER
AND HOMER DISCOVERS THE MAGIC OF A GOOD MATTRESS
ON “THE SIMPSONS”
SUNDAY, APRIL 29, ON FOX

Bart becomes a hometown hero when he makes the game-winning catch at his Little League game, sending the Springfield Isotots to the Little League championship for the first time ever. However, Springfield turns on him when he drops an easy pop fly in the bottom of the ninth, losing the game for his team. As the citizens of Springfield continue to mock and terrorize Bart, his guilt and shame threaten to send him over the edge. In an effort to cheer him up, Lisa introduces Bart to Bill Buckner. Meanwhile, after falling asleep in a department store display bed, Homer is saved from disaster when a customer mistakes Homer’s crafty excuses for a sales pitch, leading the store owner to hire Homer as a salesperson. When the Lovejoys return a mattress they had purchased in hopes of spicing up their sex life, they find success on Homer’s personal mattress and convince him to trade, a transaction Homer and Marge immediately regret and seek to remedy in “The Boys of Bummer” episode of THE SIMPSONS Sunday, April 29 (8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (SI-1811) (TV-PG D, S)

Voice Cast: Dan Castellaneta as Homer Simpson, Grampa, Umpire, Mayor Quimby, Groundskeeper Willie, Rich Texan, Krusty, Bill, Shelbyville Manager, and Ghost Homer; Julie Kavner as Marge Simpson, Patty, and Ghost Marge; Nancy Cartwright as Bart Simpson, Nelson, Rod Flanders, Kearney, and Old Bart: Yeardley Smith as Lisa Simpson; Tress Macneille as Saleswoman; Harry Shearer as Mr. Burns, Smithers, Ned Flanders, Lenny, Dr. HIbbert, Baseball Announcer, Rev. Lovejoy, Marty, Otto; Pamela Hayden as Milhouse, Jimbo, and Old Milhouse; Hank Azaria as Old Jewish Man, Chief Wiggum, Mr. Costington, Moe, Apu, Joe Laboot, and Homeless Man;

--“THE SIMPSONS”—(8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT) CC

BART FINDS THE RHYTHM AND LISA FEELS THE BLUES
ON “THE SIMPSONS”
SUNDAY, APRIL 29, ON FOX

Jack And Meg White Of Rock Band The White Stripes
Make Guest-Voice Appearances

When Bart turns a quiet funeral into a chaotic mess, his parents are faced with a mob of angry Springfieldians who’ve had enough. A desperate Homer and Marge look to a child psychiatrist for help, who suggests that Bart take up drumming to channel his energy. Before long, Bart is laying down fills like a pro, getting into “drum-offs” with The White Stripes (guest voices Jack and Meg White), and jamming in a band with Lisa’s favorite jazz musicians. It doesn’t take long before Lisa’s encouragement turns to deep-seated jealousy, forcing the Simpson siblings to learn how to march to the beat of the same drummer in the “Jazzy and the Pussycats” episode of THE SIMPSONS Sunday, April 29 (8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (SI-1718) (TV-PG L)

Voice Cast: Dan Castellaneta as Homer Simpson, Julie Kavner as Marge Simpson; Nancy Cartwright as Bart Simpson; Yeardley Smith as Lisa Simpson; Pamela Hayden as Milhouse; Hank Azaria as Moe; Tress MacNeille as Mrs. Skinner and Russi Taylor as Sherri.

Guest Voice Cast: The White Stripes as Themselves.

--“FAMILY GUY”—(9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) CC

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

EVERYTHING’S BIGGER IN TEXAS, EVEN PETER GRIFFIN
ON “FAMILY GUY”
SUNDAY, APRIL 29, ON FOX

The family heads to church when Lois gets a gig as the organist, but after Stewie gets sick the congregation is convinced he’s possessed by the devil. So, the family goes on the run and ends up in Texas. Peter fits right in with the cowboys, Stewie enters the “Little Miss Texas” pageant and Chris and Meg sneak into George W. Bush’s house in the “Boys Do Cry” episode of FAMILY GUY Sunday, April 29 (9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (FG-510) (TV-14 D)

Voice Cast: Seth MacFarlane as Peter Griffin, Stewie Griffin, Brian Griffin, and Quagmire; Alex Borstein as Lois Griffin; Seth Green as Chris Griffin; Mila Kunis as Meg Griffin; Mike Henry as Cleveland.

Guest Voice Cast: Kirker Butler as George W. Bush, Adam West as Mayor West, Drew Barrymore as Jillian and Gilbert Gottfried as the horse.

--“AMERICAN DAD”—(9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

STAN TAKES ON THE LIFE OF A BACHELOR
ON “AMERICAN DAD”
SUNDAY, APRIL 29, ON FOX

When Stan discovers that Francine has a secret sex garden, he feels like their marriage might be on shaky ground. Hoping to rekindle the romance, Francine insists on a divorce so that Stan can experience life as a bachelor again, and both learn a valuable lesson in love. Meanwhile, Steve becomes addicted to an energy drink and finds himself panhandling in the streets to support his habit in the “When a Stan Loves a Woman” episode of AMERICAN DAD Sunday, April 29 (9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (DAD-223) (TV-14 D, L, S, V)

Voice Cast: Seth MacFarlane as Stan Smith and Roger the Alien; Wendy Schaal as Francine Smith; Rachael MacFarlane as Hayley; Scott Grimes as Steve; and Dee Bradley Baker as Klaus.

April 15

SUNDAY, APRIL 15

--“THE SIMPSONS”—(7:00-7:30 PM ET/PT) CC

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

THE SIMPSONS GET A BLAST FROM THE PAST
ON “THE SIMPSONS”
SUNDAY, APRIL 15, ON FOX

Eric Idle Makes Guest Voice Appearance

Eccentric documentary filmmaker Declan Desmond (guest voice Eric Idle) offers an inside look at his work chronicling the growth and development of some of Springfield’s “finest” for his documentary, “Growing up Springfield.” We see Marge put her photojournalism dreams on hold in order to support Homer as he tries out odd jobs in search of success that continually evades him until a strange invention turns it all around for the couple. However, a suspicious Desmond challenges the Simpsons, who have a lot of questions to answer about their overnight success in the “Springfield Up” episode of THE SIMPSONS Sunday, April 15 (7:00-7:30 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (SI-1807) (TV-PG V)

Voice Cast: Dan Castellaneta as Homer Simpson, Julie Kavner as Marge Simpson; Nancy Cartwright as Bart Simpson; Yeardley Smith as Lisa Simpson; Hank Azaria as Moe, Wiggum, and Frink; Tress Macneille as Eleanor; and Harry Shearer as Mr. Burns and Smithers

Guest Voice Cast: Eric Idle as Declan Desmond.

Contact: Jill Hudson 310-369-2953

--“THE SIMPSONS”—(7:30-8:00 PM ET/PT) CC

LISA SAVES THE HILLBILLY KIDS
ON “THE SIMPSONS”
SUNDAY, APRIL 15, ON FOX

James Patterson Guest-Stars

When the ever-righteous Lisa protests denying education to Cletus’ “hillbilly” kids, Principal Skinner offers her a chance to tutor the kids herself. However, Lisa’s plans to help are diverted when Krusty spots the kids during their field trip and decides to use them as a musical act for his show. Meanwhile, in a scheme to steal his lunch for the day, Bart tries to scare his peers out of the cafeteria by claiming it’s haunted by the ghost of an old school chef who uses students as ingredients in his recipes. When the school erupts with fear and chaos, Bart is punished and sent to receive psychiatric treatment, and he develops a unique relationship with his therapist in the “Yokel Chords” episode of THE SIMPSONS Sunday, April 15 (7:30-8:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (SI-1809) (TV-PG)

Voice Cast: Dan Castellaneta as Homer Simpson and Groundskeeper Willie, Julie Kavner as Marge Simpson; Nancy Cartwright as Bart Simpson and Nelson, Ralph and Kearney; Yeardley Smith as Lisa Simpson; Tress Macneille as Dr. Swanson; Harry Shearer as Principal Skinner and Pamela Hayden as Milhouse.

Guest Voice Cast: Meg Ryan as Dr. Swanson; Peter Bogdanovich as Psychologist; James Patterson as himself; Andy Dick as himself; Stephen Sondheim as himself.

Contact: Jill Hudson 310-369-2953

**2-HOUR SERIES PREMIERE/PREVIEW”—“DRIVE”—(8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

THE RIDE OF THEIR LIVES BEGINS
WITH THE TWO-HOUR SERIES PREMIERE OF “DRIVE”
SUNDAY, APRIL 15, ON FOX

Special 2-Night, 3-Hour Premiere Continues with the Fast-Paced Series’
Time Period Premiere Monday, April 16, at 8:00 PM

A select group of people from around the country are coerced or invited to compete in a highly-secretive, cross-county road race with a rumored prize of $32 million. Those competing include: Alex Tully, whose wife has been kidnapped and who has become convinced that competing in The Race will lead to her whereabouts; Wendy Patrakas, a new mother fleeing from her husband, Richard; Rob Laird, a soldier just back from fighting in Iraq, and his wife Ellie; Winston Salazar, a convict who has been mysteriously let out of jail, and his newly discovered half-brother Sean; Hurricane Katrina survivors Ivy, Leigh and Susan; father and daughter team John and Violet; and mysterious stowaway Corinna Wiles. The Race Liaison, Mr. Bright, meets the participants in the Florida Keys and gives them instructions on the first leg of their trip in the series’ two-hour opener “The Starting Line”/“Partners” airing Sunday, April 15 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (DRV-101/102) (TV-14 L, V)

Cast: Nathan Fillion as Alex Tully; Kristin Lehman as Corinna Wiles; Kevin Alejandro as Winston Salazar; Dylan Baker as John Trimble; Michael Hyatt as Susan Chamblee; Melanie Lynskey as Wendy Patrakas; Taryn Manning as Ivy Chitty; Charles Martin Smith as Mr. Bright; JD Pardo as Sean Salazar; Riley Smith as Rob Laird; Emma Stone as Violet Trimble

Guest Cast (“The Starting Line”): Brian Bloom as Allan James; Wayne Grace as Jimmy Cousins; K. Callen as Ceal Cousins; Patrick Fischler as Brad; Richard Brooks as Det. Helms; Page Leong as Female Doctor.

Guest Cast (“Partners”): Brian Bloom as Allan James; Amy Acker as Kathryn Tully; Beth Grant as Preston’s waitress; Paul Ben-Victor as truck driver.

Contact: Todd Adair 310-369-3945

[EDITOR’S NOTE: THE WAR AT HOME, KING OF THE HILL, FAMILY GUY and AMERICAN DAD are preempted this night.]

MONDAY, APRIL 16

**TIME PERIOD PREMIERE**—“DRIVE”—(8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

THE RIDE OF THEIR LIVES KICKS INTO HIGH SPEED
ON “DRIVE” MONDAY, APRIL 16, ON FOX

As the racers speed toward their next destination, Alex gets arrested and is separated from Corinna, but is reunited with an old friend in the process. Winston catches the eye of a dangerous beauty. John and Violet continue to lie to loved ones. Rob learns some disturbing news and Wendy tries to get accustomed to her new race partner in the “Let the Games Begin” episode of DRIVE, making its time period premiere Monday, April 16 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (DRV-103) (TV-14 D, L, V)

Cast: Nathan Fillion as Alex Tully; Kristin Lehman as Corinna Wiles; Kevin Alejandro as Winston Salazar; Dylan Baker as John Trimble; Michael Hyatt as Susan Chamblee; Melanie Lynskey as Wendy Patrakas; Taryn Manning as Ivy Chitty; Charles Martin Smith as Mr. Bright; JD Pardo as Sean Salazar; Riley Smith as Rob Laird; Emma Stone as Violet Trimble.

Guest Cast: Katie Finneran as Becca Freeman; Richard Brooks as Detective Ehrle; Sasha Barrese as Dupree; Yancy Arias as Estaban Masferrer; Scott Donovan as Desk Sergeant; Dariush Kashani as Doctor Roth.

Contact: Todd Adair 310-369-3945

--“24”—(9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

JACK COPES WITH SHOCKING DEVELOPMENTS
AND AN INTENSIFYING TERROR THREAT
ON “24” MONDAY, APRIL 16, ON FOX

After Jack Bauer and Agent Doyle team up in an attempt to prevent the advancement of the terror threat facing the country, Jack is jarred from an unforeseen development. Meanwhile, CTU shifts its focus as President Wayne Palmer rattles the Administration and the terror threat escalates in the “Day 6: 11:00 P.M.-12:00 A.M.” episode of 24 Monday, April 16 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (TWF-618) (TV-14 V)

Cast: Kiefer Sutherland as Jack Bauer, Mary Lynn Rajskub as Chloe O’Brian, James Morrison as Bill Buchanan, DB Woodside as President Wayne Palmer, Jayne Atkinson as Karen Hayes, Carlo Rota as Morris O’Brian, Peter MacNicol as Thomas Lennox, Regina King as Sandra Palmer, Eric Balfour as Milo Pressman and Marisol Nichols as Nadia Yassir.

Guest Cast: Powers Boothe as Vice President Noah Daniels, Chad Lowe as Reed Pollock, Adoni Maropis as Abu Fayed, Ricky Schroder as Mike Doyle and Rade Sherbedgia as Dmitri Gredenko.

Contact: Josh Governale 310-369-7455

TUESDAY, APRIL 17

--“AMERICAN IDOL”—7 Finalists Compete—(8:00-9:00 PM ET Live/PT Tape-Delayed) CC-HDTV 720p-In Stereo

TOP 7 PERFORM ON “AMERICAN IDOL”
WITH ADVICE FROM COUNTRY STAR MARTINA McBRIDE
TUESDAY, APRIL 17, ON FOX

Tonight the Top 7 finalists will perform LIVE for the nation, vying for the American Idol crown. Top female country artist Martina McBride mentors the contestants before they perform on stage in hopes of winning America’s vote and surviving another week. Tune in to see who impresses the judges and who buckles under the pressure when “7 Finalists Compete” on the AMERICAN IDOL performance show Tuesday, April 17 (8:00-9:00 PM live ET/tape-delayed PT) on FOX. (ID-628) (TV-PG)

Host: Ryan Seacrest

Judges: Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson

Contact: Alexandra Gillespie 212-556-2519

--“HOUSE”—(9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

HOUSE’S LATEST PATIENT IS A YOUNG GIRL
WITH AILMENTS WELL BEYOND HER YEARS
ON “HOUSE” TUESDAY, APRIL 17, ON FOX

The team takes on the case of 6-year-old Lucy, who collapsed at daycare. They discover that the tissues surrounding Lucy’s heart have hardened and are strangling her heart, a condition usually found in much older patients. As the team searches for an explanation, Lucy’s condition worsens and she suffers a stroke. There’s a palpable tension between Cameron and Chase, and House intentionally assigns them tasks to do together, including a trip to Lucy’s house to check for any possible environmental explanations for her condition. While there, they discover surprising evidence indicating that Lucy may have been abused. Lucy’s 8-year-old brother develops a not-so-innocent crush on Cameron, and as he becomes increasingly aggressive, House suspects that whatever is killing Lucy has begun to affect her brothe, too. As they try to narrow down what is causing Lucy’s condition before it’s too late, House and Cameron clash over how to treat her. Meanwhile, when Wilson takes Cuddy out to see a play, House puts ideas in Wilson’s head regarding Cuddy’s motivation for going with him in the “Act Your Age” episode of HOUSE airing Tuesday, April 17 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (HOU-319) (TV-14 L)

Cast: Hugh Laurie as Dr. Gregory House; Lisa Edelstein as Dr. Lisa Cuddy; Omar Epps as Dr. Eric Foreman; Robert Sean Leonard as Dr. James Wilson; Jennifer Morrison as Dr. Allison Cameron; Jesse Spencer as Dr. Robert Chase.

Guest Cast: Erich Anderson as Deran; Bailee Madison as Lucy; Slade Pearce as Jasper; Carla Gallo as Janie; Joel David Moore as Eddie

Contact: Kim Kurland 310-369-2415, kim.kurland@fox.com

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18

--“BONES”—(8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) CC HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

BRENNAN AND BOOTH INVESTIGATE THE UNTIMELY DEATH
OF A RISING COLLEGE BASKETBALL STAR
ON “BONES” WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19, ON FOX

Brennan and Booth visit a college campus where human remains are found under the bleachers of a basketball court. Although the body had been crushed beyond recognition underneath the bleachers, a gold “#11” necklace identifies the victim as RJ Manning, the star point guard of the school’s nationally ranked basketball team. After reconstructing RJ’s skull, the team determines that he was dead before the bleachers crushed him. Brennan and Booth navigate the world of big-time collegiate basketball and interview multiple leads to find out who could possibly have benefited from RJ’s demise. After investigating those with the closest ties to RJ, including his faithful girlfriend, his future basketball agent and his replacement on the school’s team, Brennan and Booth uncover several different plausible motives for RJ’s murder. Later the team discovers that RJ may have been caught up in a rather risqué situation at the time of his death, and they wonder if more than one person could have been involved in his murder. Meanwhile, Hodgins attempts to take his relationship with Angela to the next level, but his courting methods prove to be far less tactful than his scientific ones in the “Player Under Pressure” episode of BONES airing Wednesday, April 19 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (BON 219) (TV-14 D, L, V)

Cast: Emily Deschanel as Dr. Temperance Brennan; David Boreanaz as FBI Special Agent Seeley Booth; TJ Thyne as Dr. Jack Hodgins; Michaela Conlin as Angela Montenegro; Eric Millegan as Zack Addy; Tamara Taylor as Dr. Camille “Cam” Saroyan.

Guest Cast: James Black as Chief Cutler; Mekia Cox as Celeste Cutler; Michael McGrady as Coach Morse; Jamil Walker Smith as Colby Page; Daniel Roebuck as George Francis; Erik Von Detten as Ed Dekker; Whitney Anderson as Dallas Verona; Taylor Kinney as Jimmy Fields; Michelle Page as Justine Berry; Stephanie Charles as Kamaria Manning; Nathan Dean as Agent Charlie; David Greenman as FBI Tech.

Contact: Kim Kurland 310-369-2415, kim.kurland@fox.com

--“AMERICAN IDOL RESULTS SHOW”—1 of 7 Voted Off—(9:00-10:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) CC-HDTV 720p-In Stereo

ONE MUST GO HOME TONIGHT!
6 FINALISTS REMAIN WHEN THE VOTING RESULTS ARE REVEALED
AND MARTINA McBRIDE PERFORMS LIVE ON “AMERICAN IDOL”
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, ON FOX

Last night, after being mentored by award-winning country artist Martina McBride, the Top 7 finalists sang their hearts out in hopes of winning America over. Find out tonight who will sing again next week and who will go home, and enjoy a live performance by McBride on this special one-hour AMERICAN IDOL Results Show, “1 of 7 Voted Off,” Wednesday, April 18 (9:00-10:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) on FOX. (ID2-628A) (TV-PG)

Host: Ryan Seacrest

Judges: Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson

Contact: Alexandra Gillespie 212-556-2519

THURSDAY, APRIL 19

--“ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 5TH GRADER?”—(8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) CC

CONTESTANTS COLLABORATE WITH THE CLASS
ON “ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 5TH GRADER?”
THURSDAY, APRIL19, ON FOX

Unlike the typical game show that measures intelligence, ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 5th GRADER? tests adults’ lack of knowledge – as revealed by how much they’ve forgotten since elementary school. New grownup contestants will again find themselves in a classroom setting, revisiting their youth, as they tackle subjects they’ve already been taught, ranging from art to geography and math to social studies. However, the players are not alone. There is a way for contestants to “cheat” in this classroom. The adults will have the opportunity to get some help from real grade-schoolers, who will offer what they think is the correct a-n-s-w-e-r on tonight’s episode of ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 5TH GRADER? Thursday, April 19 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (AYS-109) (TV-PG)

Host: Jeff Foxworthy

Contact: Josh Governale 310.369.7455

--“FAMILY GUY”—(9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) CC

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

PETER ACTS LIKE A BABY
ON “FAMILY GUY”
THURSDAY, APRIL 19, ON FOX

Phyllis Diller and Gore Vidal Make Guest Voice Appearances

When Peter’s mother announces that she is getting a divorce, Peter feels abandoned until he finds a father figure in his mom’s new boyfriend, Quahog’s resident anchorman, Tom Tucker. Peter takes such an interest in Tom that he reverts to being a child again, but things aren’t all fun and games for long. Meanwhile, Brian gets his own NPR-style radio show, but when Stewie hears the news, he can’t help but stir things up in the “Mother Tucker” episode of FAMILY GUY Thursday, April 19 (9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (FG-431) (TV-14 D, S)

Voice Cast: Seth MacFarlane as Peter Griffin, Stewie Griffin, Brian Griffin, Quagmire, Tom Tucker; Alex Borstein as Lois Griffin; Seth Green as Chris Griffin; Mila Kunis as Meg Griffin; Mike Henry as Cleveland and Cleveland, Jr.

Guest Voice Cast: Phyllis Diller as Thelma and Gore Vidal as himself.

Contact: Tracey Raftery 310.369.3945

--“FAMILY GUY”—(9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

HERE COME THE GROOMS
ON “FAMILY GUY”
THURSDAY, APRIL 19, ON FOX

While visiting the Griffins, Brian’s gay cousin Jasper announces he’s engaged to his partner and wants to be married in their home. But when Mayor West bans gay marriage in Quahog to cover up an unrelated scandal, Brian becomes a crazed activist and resorts to hostile ways to change the mayor’s decision. Meanwhile, Lois questions her view toward gay marriage and Chris joins the extremist “Young Republicans” group to win a girl’s heart in the “You May Now Kiss the…Uh…Guy Who Receives” episode of FAMILY GUY Thursday, April 19 (9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (FG-428) (TV-14 D, L)

Voice Cast: Seth MacFarlane as Peter Griffin, Stewie Griffin, Brian Griffin, Quagmire, Bill Clinton, Carter, David Banner, Incredible Hulk, Jason Biggs, Jasper, Matthew McConaughey, Noah, Phinneas, Superman and Tom Tucker; Alex Borstein as Lois Griffin, Babs and Ma Kent; Seth Green as Chris Griffin, Aide and Seann William Scott; Mila Kunis as Meg Griffin; Mike Henry as Cleveland, Cleveland, Jr and Herbert.

Guest Voice Cast: Chad Morgan as Alyssa; Wanda Sykes as Bernice; Lori Alan as Diane; John Viener as Han Solo; Chris Sheridan as James Bottomtooth; Patrick Warburton as Joe; Adam West as Mayor West and Danny Smith as Moby Dick.

Contact: Tracey Raftery 310.369.3945

FRIDAY, APRIL 20

--“HOUSE”—(8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

HOUSE AND HIS TEAM TACKLE THE CASE OF A YOUNG MAN
WITH A PENCHANT FOR ODD BEHAVIOR,
AND HOUSE PREPARES FOR HIS DATE WITH CAMERON
ON "HOUSE" FRIDAY, APRIL 20, ON FOX

While Princeton-Plainsboro Hospital is rife with rumor and speculation about House’s imminent date with Cameron, House apparently scares a meek clinic patient into having a stroke. The team must navigate their way through the patient’s odd proclivities, overbearing “friend” and reluctant parents in order to stop the strokes and try to save the guy’s life. All the while, Wilson, Cuddy and the team offer House dating advice and lay odds on the outcome in the "Love Hurts” episode of HOUSE Friday, April 20 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (HOU-120) (TV-14 D, L, S, V)

Cast: Hugh Laurie as Dr. Gregory House; Lisa Edelstein as Dr. Lisa Cuddy; Omar Epps as Dr. Eric Foreman; Robert Sean Leonard as Dr. James Wilson; Jennifer Morrison as Dr. Allison Cameron; Jesse Spencer as Dr. Robert Chase.

Guest Cast: John Cho as Harvey Park; Christina Cox as Annette; June Squibb as Ramona; Peter Graves as Myron; Keone Young as Clyde Park; Elizabeth Sung as Marilyn Park; Matt Malloy as Aubrey Shifren; Mark Brown as Dr. May; Kristoffer Winters as New Guy; Stephanie Venditto as Brenda the Nurse; Marco Pelaez as Pharmacist

Contact: Kim Fitzgerald 310-369-2415

[EDITOR’S NOTE: STANDOFF will return in the summer, beginning Friday, June 8.]

--“THE WEDDING BELLS”—(9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

MA BELL MAKES A SURPRISE VISIT TO THE WEDDING PALACE
AND THE SISTERS TRY TO SOLVE A PROBLEM NAMED MARIA
ON “THE WEDDING BELLS”
FRIDAY, APRIL 20, ON FOX

Andrea Martin and Autumn Reeser Guest-Star

The Wedding Palace is turned upside-down when Kate Bell (Andrea Martin), Annie, Jane and Sammy’s demanding mother, shows up for a visit with big news. Ralph is touched when Amanda calls in a favor and gets him an audition with a noted music producer. Russell upsets the sisters when he recommends they fire Ralph, per the advice of consultant Johnny Kad. Meanwhile, the marital friction between Russell and Jane grows. Annie discourages bride Maria Connelly (Autumn Reeser), who's planning a "Sound of Music" theme wedding and wants to dress accordingly, in “The Mother” episode of THE WEDDING BELLS airing Friday, April 20 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (WED-107) (TV-14 D, L)

Cast: KaDee Strickland as Annie, Teri Polo as Jane, Sarah Jones as Sammy, Michael Landes as David Conlon, Benjamin King as Russell Hawkins, Chris Williams as Ralph Snow and Missi Pyle as Amanda Pontell.

Guest Cast: Cleavant Derricks as Cedric, Autumn Reeser as Maria Connelly, Christopher Rich as Johnny Kad, Andrea Martin as Kate Bell, Keisuke Hoashi as Studio Technician, Angelo Tiffe as Martin Adelman, David Doty as Minister aka Reverend Nelson Cody and Frank Whaley as Hank Hutton.

Contact: Michael Roach (310) 369-7055

[EDITOR’S NOTE: The previously announced movie WHITE CHICKS has been rescheduled to April 13.]

SATURDAY, APRIL 21

**FOX SPORTS SPECIAL**—NASCAR ’07: PHOENIX 500—(8:00 PM-CC Live ET/5:00 PM-CC Live PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

FOX SPORTS PRESENTS THE PHOENIX 500,
A NASCAR NEXTEL CUP RACE, LIVE IN PRIMETIME
SATURDAY, APRIL 21, ON FOX

FOX Sports presents a special primetime NASCAR Nextel Cup race, live under the lights of Phoenix International Raceway. Play-by-play broadcaster Mike Joy, analyst Larry McReynolds and analyst Darrell Waltrip call the action at NASCAR ON FOX’s PHOENIX 500 Saturday, April 21 (8:00 PM-CC ET live/5:00 PM-CC PT live) on FOX. (SP-0740) (TV-N/A)

FOX Sports Contacts: Eddie Motl at (212) 556-2486 or Tim Buckman at (212) 556-2486

[EDITOR’S NOTE 1: Local programming airs in prime time on the West Coast.]
[EDITOR’S NOTE 2: COPS and AMERICA’S MOST WANTED are preempted this night.]

--“MADtv”—(1:00-2:00 AM ET/11:00 PM-Midnight PT) CC

CARMEN ELECTRA VISITS THAILAND
ON “MADtv” SATURDAY, APRIL 21, ON FOX

The late-night laughs continue as Carmen Electra guests on a Thailand gossip show with hosts “Johnny” (Bobby Lee) and “Pongo.” Carmen holds a cooking lesson and in return, the hosts show her around the town on MADtv airing Saturday, April 21 (1:00-2:00 AM ET/11:00 PM-Midnight PT) on FOX. (MD-1211) (TV-14 D, L)

Cast: Ike Barinholtz, Frank Caeti, Frank Caliendo, Crista Flanagan, Daniele Gaither, Keegan-Michael Key, Bobby Lee, Michael McDonald, Arden Myrin, Nicole Parker, Jordan Peele, Nicole Randall Johnson and Stephnie Weir.

Guest Cast: Carmen Electra

Contact: Ashley Sasaki 310-369-0979

[EDITOR’S NOTE: Due to the preceding live NASCAR event, MADtv airs at a special time on the East Coast.]

--“TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN”—(2:00-2:30 AM ET/Midnight-12:30 AM PT) CC

“THE O.C.”’s MELINDA CLARKE HEATS UP LATE-NIGHT
WHEN SHE APPEARS ON
“TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN”
SATURDAY, APRIL 21, ON FOX

THE O.C’.s hot mama, Melinda Clarke, sizzles in this late-night guest appearance; Spike Feresten sifts through “Dr. Phil”’s fan mail; and a sketch titled “Celebrity Space Shuttle” is featured on TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN Saturday, April 21 (2:00-2:30 AM ET/Midnight-12:30 AM PT) on FOX. (SPK-115) (TV-14 D, L)

Host: Spike Feresten

Contact: Josh Governale 310-369-7455 (Josh.Governale@fox.com)

[EDITOR’S NOTE: Due to the preceding live NASCAR event, TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN airs at a special time on the East Coast.]

SUNDAY, APRIL 22

**SEASON FINALE**—“THE WAR AT HOME”—(7:00-7:30 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

HILLARY MAY NOT GRADUATE HIGH SCHOOL
AND VICKY AND DAVE TRY TO SPICE UP THEIR RELATIONSHIP
ON THE SEASON FINALE OF “THE WAR AT HOME”
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, ON FOX

With Hillary’s graduation only three weeks away, David and Vicky plan her graduation party, only to find out she may not even graduate because she’s failing her gym class. Luckily, Dave is able to convince the principal to give her another chance, and volunteers to become Hillary’s personal fitness trainer so she can pass. Meanwhile, Vicky is fed up with the lack of spontaneity in her and Dave’s relationship, and she suggests that he get a vasectomy. Not wanting to go through the procedure alone, Dave suggests that Vicky get her tubes tied as well. However, both are in for a surprise when they try to outsmart one another. Meanwhile, with Mike’s help, Larry and Kenny plan a school prank to get revenge on the seniors who have been harassing them in “The Graduate” episode of THE WAR AT HOME Sunday, April 22 (7:00-7:30 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (WAR-222) (TV-14 S)

Cast: Michael Rapaport as Dave, Anita Barone as Vicky, Kaylee DeFer as Hillary, Kyle Sullivan as Larry, and Dean Collins as Mike.

Guest Cast: Rami Malek as Kenny, Dreux Frederic as Taye, Zoe DiStefano as Brenda, Martin Mull as Principal Fink, Diane Delano as PE Teacher, and William Ragsdale as Doctor.

Contact: Michael Roach 310-369-7055

[EDITOR’S NOTE: WAR-207, previously announced for 7:00 PM, will not air this night.]

**TIME PERIOD PREMIERE**—“KING OF THE HILL”—(7:30-8:00 PM ET/PT) CC

PEGGY SIZES UP ARLEN’S LARGEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY
ON “KING OF THE HILL”
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, ON FOX

Chris Elliot Makes Guest Voice Appearance

When Peggy takes Connie on as her protégé, Connie’s journalistic attitude pushes Peggy to change her writing style. Needless to say, she loses her job at The Arlen Bystander, but quickly rebounds with a job in real estate under the infamous Chris Sizemore (Chris Elliot), the brains behind Arlen’s largest real estate office. Her new job is at first exciting, but when she challenges the big boss and gets fired, Peggy decides to strike out on their own in the ”Glen Peggy Glen Ross” episode of KING OF THE HILL Sunday, April 22 (7:30-8:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (KH-1106) (TV-PG)

Voice Cast: Mike Judge as Hank Hill & Boomhauer; Kathy Najimy as Peggy Hill; Pamela S. Adlon as Bobby Hill & Dee; Johnny Hardwick as Dale; Stephen Root as Bill & Wang; Toby Huss as Cotton & Kahn; and Lauren Tom as Connie, Janet & Minh; Ashley Gardner as Nancy & Candi.

Guest Voice Cast: Henry Gibson as Bob Jenkins & Travis; Chris Elliot as Chris Sizemore; Scott Klace as Duckworth & Walker Lee; Phil Hendrie as Jeff, Roddy Rae & Roger.

Contact: Ashley Sasaki 310.369.0979

--“THE SIMPSONS”—(8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT) CC

MARGE GETS HOOKED ON THE INTERNET
AND HOMER REFEREES LISA’S SOCCER GAME
ON “THE SIMPSONS”
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, ON FOX

Marge becomes a spectacle during a PTA meeting for not having an e-mail address, and she decides to take a chance on using the Internet. Amazed and delighted by all the Internet has to offer, Marge joins a popular role-playing fantasy game called “Earthland Realms.” To Marge’s dismay, the game has her interacting with practically the whole town of Springfield including Bart, who happens to be the game’s most feared and destructive player. Meanwhile, Homer saves Lisa’s soccer game from cancellation after he volunteers to take the place of a referee who recently quit. However, Homer’s refereeing skills only exasperate Lisa, and her competitive streak gets the best of her in the “Marge Gamer” episode of THE SIMPSONS Sunday, April 22 (8:00-8:30 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (SI-1810) (TV–PG V)

Voice Cast: Dan Castellaneta as Homer Simpson, Groundskeeper Willie, Grampa, and Krusty; Julie Kavner as Marge Simpson; Nancy Cartwright as Bart Simpson and Ralph Wiggum; Yeardley Smith as Lisa Simpson; Tress Macneille as East Indian Girl; Harry Shearer as Principal Skinner, Rev. Lovejoy, and Ned Flanders; Pamela Hayden as Wench Milhouse; Hank Azaria as Apu, Cletus, Moe, and Carl; Marcia Wallace as Enchantress Krabappel

Contact: Jill Hudson 310-369-2953

--THE SIMPSONS”—(8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT) CC

MARGE LEARNS SHE’S GOT THE SKILL TO WORK THE DRILLS
ON “THE SIMPSONS”
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, ON FOX

Hoping to see a new side to Homer, Marge convinces him to buy a refined collection of carpentry books. To Marge’s dismay, the books only gather dust until she accidentally breaks a nightstand – and uses the books to fix it herself. Soon Marge is hammering together everything from birdfeeders to doghouses and it isn’t long before she decides to transform her new skills into a full-fledged business. Unfortunately, the residents of Springfield don’t trust a handywoman to make repairs, so Marge hires Homer to pose as a “front” while she does the real work. Meanwhile, Bart finds out that peanuts are no longer allowed at Springfield Elementary because someone suffers from an allergy. But this loss becomes his treasure when he finds out that the allergy belongs to his nemesis, the one and only Principal Skinner. Before long, both Bart and Homer are in over their heads and it’s up to Marge to nail things back together in the “Please Homer Don’t Hammer ‘Em” episode of THE SIMPSONS, Sunday, April 22 (8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (SI-1720) (TV-PG)

Voice Cast: Dan Castellaneta as Homer Simpson, Julie Kavner as Marge Simpson; Nancy Cartwright as Bart Simpson; Yeardley Smith as Lisa Simpson; Pamela Hayden as Milhouse; Hank Azaria as Moe; Tress MacNeille as Mrs. Skinner and Russi Taylor as Sherri.

Contact: Jill Hudson 310-369-2953

--“FAMILY GUY”—(9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) CC

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

STEWIE AND BRIAN HIT THE ROAD IN SEARCH OF RUPERT
ON “FAMILY GUY”
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, ON FOX

Rob Lowe and Greg Wendt Make Guest Voice Appearances

When the family has a garage sale, Brian accidentally sells Stewie’s beloved teddy bear, Rupert. Stewie is so distraught that Brian takes him on a cross-country road trip to Aspen, CO. When they find the culprit, Stanford (Rob Lowe), Stewie challenges him to a ski-off to get Rupert back. Meanwhile, Peter loses his license, so Meg has to drive him around in the “Road to Rupert” episode of FAMILY GUY Sunday, April 22 (9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (FG-504) (TV-14 D, L)

Voice Cast: Seth MacFarlane as Peter Griffin, Stewie Griffin, Brian Griffin, and Quagmire; Alex Borstein as Lois Griffin; Seth Green as Chris Griffin; Mila Kunis as Meg Griffin; Mike Henry as Cleveland.

Guest Voice Cast: Rob Lowe as Stanford and Greg Wendt as Norm

Contact: Tracey Raftery 310.369.1425

--“AMERICAN DAD”—(9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

STAN GETS MAD COW DISEASE
ON “AMERICAN DAD”
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, ON FOX

When Stan is prosecuted for sending contaminated cattle to the slaughterhouse, he recounts his story of how the ordeal started out as a quest to make Steve “a man”. Meanwhile, Rodger starts a cat fight between Francine and Haley after he unintentionally gives one a little more attention in the "Magnificent Steven” episode of AMERICAN DAD Sunday, April 22 (9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (DAD-221) (TV-14 L, V)

Voice Cast: Seth MacFarlane as Stan Smith and Roger the Alien; Wendy Schaal as Francine Smith; Rachael MacFarlane as Hayley; Scott Grimes as Steve; and Dee Bradley Baker as Klaus.

Guest Voice Cast: Eddie Kaye Thomas as Barry; Curtis Armstrong as Snot; Daisuke Suzuki as Toshi; Carnie Wilson as Cashier and Woman.

April 6

“AMERICA’S MOST WANTED: AMERICA FIGHTS BACK” – FACT SHEET

ON AIR	Saturdays, 9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT
ORIGINATION	Washington, DC
CONCEPT:	Crime-fighting series committed to thwarting injustice by capturing fugitives, protecting victims and recovering missing children.
SEASON PREMIERE:	Sept. 9, 2006
SERIES PREMIERE:	April 10, 1988
HOSTED BY:	John Walsh
PRODUCD BY:	STF Productions, Inc.
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER	Lance Heflin
SUPERVISING PRODUCER:	Steve Katz
MANAGING EDITOR:	Keith Ackers
CREATIVE PRODUCER:	Greg Klein
CORRESPONDENTS:	Tom Morris Jr. Rick Segall John Turchin Michelle Sigona Angeline Hartmann Jon Leiberman Ed Miller

April 5

SUNDAY, APRIL 15

--“THE SIMPSONS”—(7:00-7:30 PM ET/PT) CC

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

THE SIMPSONS GET A BLAST FROM THE PAST
ON “THE SIMPSONS”
SUNDAY, APRIL 15, ON FOX

Eric Idle Makes Guest Voice Appearance

LISA SAVES THE HILLBILLY KIDS
ON “THE SIMPSONS”
SUNDAY, APRIL 15, ON FOX

James Patterson Guest-Stars

When the ever-righteous Lisa protests denying education to Cletus’ “hillbilly” kids, Principal Skinner offers her a chance to tutor the kids herself. However, Lisa’s plans to help are diverted when Krusty spots the kids during their field trip and decides to use them as a musical act for his show. Meanwhile, in a scheme to steal his lunch for the day, Bart tries to scare his peers out of the cafeteria by claiming it’s haunted by the ghost of an old school chef who uses students as ingredients in his recipes. When the school erupts with fear and chaos, Bart is punished and sent to receive psychiatric treatment, and he develops a unique relationship with his therapist in the “Yokel Chords” episode of THE SIMPSONS Sunday, April 15 (7:30-8:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (SI-1809) (TV-PG)

Voice Cast: Dan Castellaneta as Homer Simpson and Groundskeeper Willie, Julie Kavner as Marge Simpson; Nancy Cartwright as Bart Simpson and Nelson, Ralph and Kearney; Yeardley Smith as Lisa Simpson; Tress Macneille as Dr. Swanson; Harry Shearer as Principal Skinner and Pamela Hayden as Milhouse.

Guest Voice Cast: Meg Ryan as Dr. Swanson; Peter Bogdanovich as Psychologist; James Patterson as himself; Andy Dick as himself; Stephen Sondheim as himself.

**2-HOUR SERIES PREMIERE/PREVIEW”—“DRIVE”—(8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

A select group of people from around the country are coerced or invited to compete in a highly-secretive, cross-county road race with a rumored prize of $32 million. Those competing include: Alex Tully, whose wife has been kidnapped and who has become convinced that competing in The Race will lead to her whereabouts; Wendy Patrakas, a new mother fleeing from her husband, Richard; Rob Laird, a soldier just back from fighting in Iraq, and his wife Ellie; Winston Salazar, a convict who has been mysteriously let out of jail, and his newly discovered half-brother Sean; Hurricane Katrina survivors Ivy, Leigh and Susan; father and daughter team John and Violet; and mysterious stowaway Corinna Wiles. The Race Liaison, Mr. Bright, meets the participants in the Florida Keys and gives them instructions on the first leg of their trip in the series’ two-hour opener “The Starting Line”/“Partners” airing Sunday, April 15 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (DRV-101/102) (TV-14 L, V)

Cast: Nathan Fillion as Alex Tully; Kristin Lehman as Corinna Wiles; Kevin Alejandro as Winston Salazar; Dylan Baker as John Trimble; Michael Hyatt as Susan Chamblee; Melanie Lynskey as Wendy Patrakas; Taryn Manning as Ivy Chitty; Charles Martin Smith as Mr. Bright; JD Pardo as Sean Salazar; Riley Smith as Rob Laird; Emma Stone as Violet Trimble

Guest Cast (“The Starting Line”): Brian Bloom as Allan James; Wayne Grace as Jimmy Cousins; K. Callen as Ceal Cousins; Patrick Fischler as Brad; Richard Brooks as Det. Helms; Page Leong as Female Doctor.

Guest Cast (“Partners”): Brian Bloom as Allan James; Amy Acker as Kathryn Tully; Beth Grant as Preston’s waitress; Paul Ben-Victor as truck driver.

THE WAR AT HOME, KING OF THE HILL, FAMILY GUY and AMERICAN DAD are preempted this night.]

MONDAY, APRIL 16

**TIME PERIOD PREMIERE**—“DRIVE”—(8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

THE RIDE OF THEIR LIVES KICKS INTO HIGH SPEED
ON “DRIVE” MONDAY, APRIL 16, ON FOX

As the racers speed toward their next destination, Alex gets arrested and is separated from Corinna, but is reunited with an old friend in the process. Winston catches the eye of a dangerous beauty. John and Violet continue to lie to loved ones. Rob learns some disturbing news and Wendy tries to get accustomed to her new race partner in the “Let the Games Begin” episode of DRIVE, making its time period premiere Monday, April 16 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (DRV-103) (TV-14 D, L, V)

Cast: Nathan Fillion as Alex Tully; Kristin Lehman as Corinna Wiles; Kevin Alejandro as Winston Salazar; Dylan Baker as John Trimble; Michael Hyatt as Susan Chamblee; Melanie Lynskey as Wendy Patrakas; Taryn Manning as Ivy Chitty; Charles Martin Smith as Mr. Bright; JD Pardo as Sean Salazar; Riley Smith as Rob Laird; Emma Stone as Violet Trimble.

Guest Cast: Katie Finneran as Becca Freeman; Richard Brooks as Detective Ehrle; Sasha Barrese as Dupree; Yancy Arias as Estaban Masferrer; Scott Donovan as Desk Sergeant; Dariush Kashani as Doctor Roth.

--“24”—(9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

JACK COPES WITH SHOCKING DEVELOPMENTS
AND AN INTENSIFYING TERROR THREAT
ON “24” MONDAY, APRIL 16, ON FOX

After Jack Bauer and Agent Doyle team up in an attempt to prevent the advancement of the terror threat facing the country, Jack is jarred from an unforeseen development. Meanwhile, CTU shifts its focus as President Wayne Palmer rattles the Administration and the terror threat escalates in the “Day 6: 11:00 P.M.-12:00 A.M.” episode of 24 Monday, April 16 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (TWF-618) (TV-14 V)

Cast: Kiefer Sutherland as Jack Bauer, Mary Lynn Rajskub as Chloe O’Brian, James Morrison as Bill Buchanan, DB Woodside as President Wayne Palmer, Jayne Atkinson as Karen Hayes, Carlo Rota as Morris O’Brian, Peter MacNicol as Thomas Lennox, Regina King as Sandra Palmer, Eric Balfour as Milo Pressman and Marisol Nichols as Nadia Yassir.

Guest Cast: Powers Boothe as Vice President Noah Daniels, Chad Lowe as Reed Pollock, Adoni Maropis as Abu Fayed, Ricky Schroder as Mike Doyle and Rade Sherbedgia as Dmitri Gredenko.

TUESDAY, APRIL 17

--“AMERICAN IDOL”—7 Finalists Compete—(8:00-9:00 PM ET Live/PT Tape-Delayed) CC-HDTV 720p-In Stereo

TOP 7 PERFORM ON “AMERICAN IDOL”
WITH ADVICE FROM COUNTRY STAR MARTINA McBRIDE
TUESDAY, APRIL 17, ON FOX

Tonight the Top 7 finalists will perform LIVE for the nation, vying for the American Idol crown. Top female country artist Martina McBride mentors the contestants before they perform on stage in hopes of winning America’s vote and surviving another week. Tune in to see who impresses the judges and who buckles under the pressure when “7 Finalists Compete” on the AMERICAN IDOL performance show Tuesday, April 17 (8:00-9:00 PM live ET/tape-delayed PT) on FOX. (ID-628) (TV-PG)

Host: Ryan Seacrest

Judges: Paula Abdul, Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson

--“HOUSE”—(9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

HOUSE’S LATEST PATIENT IS A YOUNG GIRL
WITH AILMENTS WELL BEYOND HER YEARS
ON “HOUSE” TUESDAY, APRIL 17, ON FOX

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18

--“BONES”—(8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) CC HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

BRENNAN AND BOOTH INVESTIGATE THE UNTIMELY DEATH
OF A RISING COLLEGE BASKETBALL STAR
ON “BONES” WEDNESDAY, APRIL 19, ON FOX

Brennan and Booth visit a college campus where human remains are found under the bleachers of a basketball court. Although the body had been crushed beyond recognition underneath the bleachers, a gold “#11” necklace identifies the victim as RJ Manning, the star point guard of the school’s nationally ranked basketball team. After reconstructing RJ’s skull, the team determines that he was dead before the bleachers crushed him. Brennan and Booth navigate the world of big-time collegiate basketball and interview multiple leads to find out who could possibly have benefited from RJ’s demise. After investigating those with the closest ties to RJ, including his faithful girlfriend, his future basketball agent and his replacement on the school’s team, Brennan and Booth uncover several different plausible motives for RJ’s murder. Later the team discovers that RJ may have been caught up in a rather risqué situation at the time of his death, and they wonder if more than one person could have been involved in his murder. Meanwhile, Hodgins attempts to take his relationship with Angela to the next level, but his courting methods prove to be far less tactful than his scientific ones in the “Player Under Pressure” episode of BONES airing Wednesday, April 19 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (BON 219) (TV-14 D, L, V)

Cast: Emily Deschanel as Dr. Temperance Brennan; David Boreanaz as FBI Special Agent Seeley Booth; TJ Thyne as Dr. Jack Hodgins; Michaela Conlin as Angela Montenegro; Eric Millegan as Zack Addy; Tamara Taylor as Dr. Camille “Cam” Saroyan.

Guest Cast: James Black as Chief Cutler; Mekia Cox as Celeste Cutler; Michael McGrady as Coach Morse; Jamil Walker Smith as Colby Page; Daniel Roebuck as George Francis; Erik Von Detten as Ed Dekker; Whitney Anderson as Dallas Verona; Taylor Kinney as Jimmy Fields; Michelle Page as Justine Berry; Stephanie Charles as Kamaria Manning; Nathan Dean as Agent Charlie; David Greenman as FBI Tech.

--“AMERICAN IDOL RESULTS SHOW”—1 of 7 Voted Off—(9:00-10:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) CC-HDTV 720p-In Stereo

ONE MUST GO HOME TONIGHT!
6 FINALISTS REMAIN WHEN THE VOTING RESULTS ARE REVEALED
AND MARTINA McBRIDE PERFORMS LIVE ON “AMERICAN IDOL”
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18, ON FOX

THURSDAY, APRIL 19

--“ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 5TH GRADER?”—(8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) CC

CONTESTANTS COLLABORATE WITH THE CLASS
ON “ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 5TH GRADER?”
THURSDAY, APRIL19, ON FOX

Unlike the typical game show that measures intelligence, ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 5th GRADER? tests adults’ lack of knowledge – as revealed by how much they’ve forgotten since elementary school. New grownup contestants will again find themselves in a classroom setting, revisiting their youth, as they tackle subjects they’ve already been taught, ranging from art to geography and math to social studies. However, the players are not alone. There is a way for contestants to “cheat” in this classroom. The adults will have the opportunity to get some help from real grade-schoolers, who will offer what they think is the correct a-n-s-w-e-r on tonight’s episode of ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A 5TH GRADER? Thursday, April 19 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (AYS-109) (TV-PG)

Host: Jeff Foxworthy

--“FAMILY GUY”—(9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) CC

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

PETER ACTS LIKE A BABY
ON “FAMILY GUY”
THURSDAY, APRIL 19, ON FOX

Phyllis Diller and Gore Vidal Make Guest Voice Appearances

When Peter’s mother announces that she is getting a divorce, Peter feels abandoned until he finds a father figure in his mom’s new boyfriend, Quahog’s resident anchorman, Tom Tucker. Peter takes such an interest in Tom that he reverts to being a child again, but things aren’t all fun and games for long. Meanwhile, Brian gets his own NPR-style radio show, but when Stewie hears the news, he can’t help but stir things up in the “Mother Tucker” episode of FAMILY GUY Thursday, April 19 (9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (FG-431) (TV-14 D, S)

Voice Cast: Seth MacFarlane as Peter Griffin, Stewie Griffin, Brian Griffin, Quagmire, Tom Tucker; Alex Borstein as Lois Griffin; Seth Green as Chris Griffin; Mila Kunis as Meg Griffin; Mike Henry as Cleveland and Cleveland, Jr.

Guest Voice Cast: Phyllis Diller as Thelma and Gore Vidal as himself.

--“FAMILY GUY”—(9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

HERE COME THE GROOMS
ON “FAMILY GUY”
THURSDAY, APRIL 19, ON FOX

FRIDAY, APRIL 20

--“HOUSE”—(8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

HOUSE AND HIS TEAM TACKLE THE CASE OF A YOUNG MAN
WITH A PENCHANT FOR ODD BEHAVIOR,
AND HOUSE PREPARES FOR HIS DATE WITH CAMERON
ON "HOUSE" FRIDAY, APRIL 20, ON FOX

While Princeton-Plainsboro Hospital is rife with rumor and speculation about House’s imminent date with Cameron, House apparently scares a meek clinic patient into having a stroke. The team must navigate their way through the patient’s odd proclivities, overbearing “friend” and reluctant parents in order to stop the strokes and try to save the guy’s life. All the while, Wilson, Cuddy and the team offer House dating advice and lay odds on the outcome in the "Love Hurts” episode of HOUSE Friday, April 20 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (HOU-120) (TV-14 D, L, S, V)

Cast: Hugh Laurie as Dr. Gregory House; Lisa Edelstein as Dr. Lisa Cuddy; Omar Epps as Dr. Eric Foreman; Robert Sean Leonard as Dr. James Wilson; Jennifer Morrison as Dr. Allison Cameron; Jesse Spencer as Dr. Robert Chase.

Guest Cast: John Cho as Harvey Park; Christina Cox as Annette; June Squibb as Ramona; Peter Graves as Myron; Keone Young as Clyde Park; Elizabeth Sung as Marilyn Park; Matt Malloy as Aubrey Shifren; Mark Brown as Dr. May; Kristoffer Winters as New Guy; Stephanie Venditto as Brenda the Nurse; Marco Pelaez as Pharmacist

STANDOFF will return in the summer, beginning Friday, June 8.]

--“THE WEDDING BELLS”—(9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

MA BELL MAKES A SURPRISE VISIT TO THE WEDDING PALACE
AND THE SISTERS TRY TO SOLVE A PROBLEM NAMED MARIA
ON “THE WEDDING BELLS”
FRIDAY, APRIL 20, ON FOX

Andrea Martin and Autumn Reeser Guest-Star

The Wedding Palace is turned upside-down when Kate Bell (Andrea Martin), Annie, Jane and Sammy’s demanding mother, shows up for a visit with big news. Ralph is touched when Amanda calls in a favor and gets him an audition with a noted music producer. Russell upsets the sisters when he recommends they fire Ralph, per the advice of consultant Johnny Kad. Meanwhile, the marital friction between Russell and Jane grows. Annie discourages bride Maria Connelly (Autumn Reeser), who's planning a "Sound of Music" theme wedding and wants to dress accordingly, in “The Mother” episode of THE WEDDING BELLS airing Friday, April 20 (9:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (WED-107) (TV-14 D, L)

Cast: KaDee Strickland as Annie, Teri Polo as Jane, Sarah Jones as Sammy, Michael Landes as David Conlon, Benjamin King as Russell Hawkins, Chris Williams as Ralph Snow and Missi Pyle as Amanda Pontell.

Guest Cast: Cleavant Derricks as Cedric, Autumn Reeser as Maria Connelly, Christopher Rich as Johnny Kad, Andrea Martin as Kate Bell, Keisuke Hoashi as Studio Technician, Angelo Tiffe as Martin Adelman, David Doty as Minister aka Reverend Nelson Cody and Frank Whaley as Hank Hutton.

The previously announced movie WHITE CHICKS has been rescheduled to April 13.]

SATURDAY, APRIL 21

**FOX SPORTS SPECIAL**—NASCAR ’07: PHOENIX 500—(8:00 PM-CC Live ET/5:00 PM-CC Live PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

FOX SPORTS PRESENTS THE PHOENIX 500,
A NASCAR NEXTEL CUP RACE, LIVE IN PRIMETIME
SATURDAY, APRIL 21, ON FOX

FOX Sports presents a special primetime NASCAR Nextel Cup race, live under the lights of Phoenix International Raceway. Play-by-play broadcaster Mike Joy, analyst Larry McReynolds and analyst Darrell Waltrip call the action at NASCAR ON FOX’s PHOENIX 500 Saturday, April 21 (8:00 PM-CC ET live/5:00 PM-CC PT live) on FOX. (SP-0740) (TV-N/A)

1: Local programming airs in prime time on the West Coast.]
2: COPS and AMERICA’S MOST WANTED are preempted this night.]

--“MADtv”—(1:00-2:00 AM ET/11:00 PM-Midnight PT) CC

CARMEN ELECTRA VISITS THAILAND
ON “MADtv” SATURDAY, APRIL 21, ON FOX

The late-night laughs continue as Carmen Electra guests on a Thailand gossip show with hosts “Johnny” (Bobby Lee) and “Pongo.” Carmen holds a cooking lesson and in return, the hosts show her around the town on MADtv airing Saturday, April 21 (1:00-2:00 AM ET/11:00 PM-Midnight PT) on FOX. (MD-1211) (TV-14 D, L)

Cast: Ike Barinholtz, Frank Caeti, Frank Caliendo, Crista Flanagan, Daniele Gaither, Keegan-Michael Key, Bobby Lee, Michael McDonald, Arden Myrin, Nicole Parker, Jordan Peele, Nicole Randall Johnson and Stephnie Weir.

Guest Cast: Carmen Electra

Due to the preceding live NASCAR event, MADtv airs at a special time on the East Coast.]

--“TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN”—(2:00-2:30 AM ET/Midnight-12:30 AM PT) CC

“THE O.C.”’s MELINDA CLARKE HEATS UP LATE-NIGHT
WHEN SHE APPEARS ON
“TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN”
SATURDAY, APRIL 21, ON FOX

THE O.C’.s hot mama, Melinda Clarke, sizzles in this late-night guest appearance; Spike Feresten sifts through “Dr. Phil”’s fan mail; and a sketch titled “Celebrity Space Shuttle” is featured on TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN Saturday, April 21 (2:00-2:30 AM ET/Midnight-12:30 AM PT) on FOX. (SPK-115) (TV-14 D, L)

Host: Spike Feresten

Due to the preceding live NASCAR event, TALKSHOW WITH SPIKE FERESTEN airs at a special time on the East Coast.]

SUNDAY, APRIL 22

**SEASON FINALE**—“THE WAR AT HOME”—(7:00-7:30 PM ET/PT) CC-HDTV 720p-Dolby Digital 5.1

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

HILLARY MAY NOT GRADUATE HIGH SCHOOL
AND VICKY AND DAVE TRY TO SPICE UP THEIR RELATIONSHIP
ON THE SEASON FINALE OF “THE WAR AT HOME”
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, ON FOX

With Hillary’s graduation only three weeks away, David and Vicky plan her graduation party, only to find out she may not even graduate because she’s failing her gym class. Luckily, Dave is able to convince the principal to give her another chance, and volunteers to become Hillary’s personal fitness trainer so she can pass. Meanwhile, Vicky is fed up with the lack of spontaneity in her and Dave’s relationship, and she suggests that he get a vasectomy. Not wanting to go through the procedure alone, Dave suggests that Vicky get her tubes tied as well. However, both are in for a surprise when they try to outsmart one another. Meanwhile, with Mike’s help, Larry and Kenny plan a school prank to get revenge on the seniors who have been harassing them in “The Graduate” episode of THE WAR AT HOME Sunday, April 22 (7:00-7:30 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (WAR-222) (TV-14 S)

Cast: Michael Rapaport as Dave, Anita Barone as Vicky, Kaylee DeFer as Hillary, Kyle Sullivan as Larry, and Dean Collins as Mike.

Guest Cast: Rami Malek as Kenny, Dreux Frederic as Taye, Zoe DiStefano as Brenda, Martin Mull as Principal Fink, Diane Delano as PE Teacher, and William Ragsdale as Doctor.

WAR-207, previously announced for 7:00 PM, will not air this night.]

**TIME PERIOD PREMIERE**—“KING OF THE HILL”—(7:30-8:00 PM ET/PT) CC

PEGGY SIZES UP ARLEN’S LARGEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY
ON “KING OF THE HILL”
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, ON FOX

Chris Elliot Makes Guest Voice Appearance

MARGE GETS HOOKED ON THE INTERNET
AND HOMER REFEREES LISA’S SOCCER GAME
ON “THE SIMPSONS”
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, ON FOX

MARGE LEARNS SHE’S GOT THE SKILL TO WORK THE DRILLS
ON “THE SIMPSONS”
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, ON FOX

Hoping to see a new side to Homer, Marge convinces him to buy a refined collection of carpentry books. To Marge’s dismay, the books only gather dust until she accidentally breaks a nightstand – and uses the books to fix it herself. Soon Marge is hammering together everything from birdfeeders to doghouses and it isn’t long before she decides to transform her new skills into a full-fledged business. Unfortunately, the residents of Springfield don’t trust a handywoman to make repairs, so Marge hires Homer to pose as a “front” while she does the real work. Meanwhile, Bart finds out that peanuts are no longer allowed at Springfield Elementary because someone suffers from an allergy. But this loss becomes his treasure when he finds out that the allergy belongs to his nemesis, the one and only Principal Skinner. Before long, both Bart and Homer are in over their heads and it’s up to Marge to nail things back together in the “Please Homer Don’t Hammer ‘Em” episode of THE SIMPSONS, Sunday, April 22 (8:30-9:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (SI-1720) (TV-PG)

Voice Cast: Dan Castellaneta as Homer Simpson, Julie Kavner as Marge Simpson; Nancy Cartwright as Bart Simpson; Yeardley Smith as Lisa Simpson; Pamela Hayden as Milhouse; Hank Azaria as Moe; Tress MacNeille as Mrs. Skinner and Russi Taylor as Sherri.

--“FAMILY GUY”—(9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) CC

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

STEWIE AND BRIAN HIT THE ROAD IN SEARCH OF RUPERT
ON “FAMILY GUY”
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, ON FOX

Rob Lowe and Greg Wendt Make Guest Voice Appearances

When the family has a garage sale, Brian accidentally sells Stewie’s beloved teddy bear, Rupert. Stewie is so distraught that Brian takes him on a cross-country road trip to Aspen, CO. When they find the culprit, Stanford (Rob Lowe), Stewie challenges him to a ski-off to get Rupert back. Meanwhile, Peter loses his license, so Meg has to drive him around in the “Road to Rupert” episode of FAMILY GUY Sunday, April 22 (9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) on FOX. (FG-504) (TV-14 D, L)

Voice Cast: Seth MacFarlane as Peter Griffin, Stewie Griffin, Brian Griffin, and Quagmire; Alex Borstein as Lois Griffin; Seth Green as Chris Griffin; Mila Kunis as Meg Griffin; Mike Henry as Cleveland.

Guest Voice Cast: Rob Lowe as Stanford and Greg Wendt as Norm

--“AMERICAN DAD”—(9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT) CC

PA: Viewer discretion is advised.

STAN GETS MAD COW DISEASE
ON “AMERICAN DAD”
SUNDAY, APRIL 22, ON FOX

- FOX -

Posted by Bill at 10:37 AM | Permalink

April 03, 2007

CMA CLOSE-UP

May 22

NEW ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: Kellie Pickler
By Kristen Sherer

Kellie Pickler may not have been the winner on "American Idol," but from the opening notes of Small Town Girl, her debut album, it's crystal clear that she has no intention of giving up on her dream. Raised by her grandparents since 2 in Albemarle, N.C., Pickler was surrounded by the music of Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Martina McBride and Dolly Parton. She started singing at an early age and hasn't stopped since.

After graduating from North Stanly High School in New London, N.C., Pickler's life began to change after she sang her first solo at her graduation in 2004. Having caught the performing bug, she began competing in local Miss America pageants, winning the "Miss Stanly County" contest at 17 and vying for Miss North Carolina 2004.

The 19-year-old Pickler auditioned for "American Idol" in the Fall of 2005 in Greensboro, N.C. After surviving the first few rounds, it was off to Hollywood, where she became one of "Idol" judge Simon Cowell's favorites. She made it to Top 6 before being eliminated. In the show's finale, she showed off her formidable comedic skills in a segment entitled "Puck 'n' Pickler" with chef Wolfgang Puck.

Following her "American Idol" experience, she returned to her hometown where she was feted with a parade and presented with a key to the city. The mayor proclaimed May 6, 2006 as "Kellie Pickler Day." For the young singer, the whirlwind was just beginning as she hit the talk show circuit, appearing on "Today," "The View," "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," "Live with Regis and Kelly" and the "Ellen DeGeneres Show."

Small Town Girl was produced by Blake Chancey and released Oct. 31 on 19 Recordings/BNA Records. Pickler is a writer on five of the album's songs, including the lead single "Red High Heels," which she co-wrote with Chris Lindsey, Aimee Mayo and Karyn Rochelle.

IN HER OWN WORDS:
Who is your musical hero? "Dolly Parton, of course."

What actor would portray you in a biopic about your life?
"Reese Witherspoon."

What moment in your life would you relive if you could?
"Every moment I shared with my grandma Pickler."

What song do you wish you had written?
"'I Will Always Love You' by Dolly Parton."

When they look back on your life in 50 years, what do you hope people say about you? "That they have enjoyed my music and that Ialways had great shoes!"

On the Web: www.kelliepickler.com

Johnny Gray's Radio Days
By Deborah Evans Price

Johnny Gray didn't grow up dreaming of life as a broadcaster, but like any true calling he found it just the same. What began as a college job evolved into one of the most successful careers in Country radio. Along the way, he helped build the careers of numerous artists from Alabama to Kenny Chesney to Sugarland. Now retired from Atlanta's WKHX and WYAY, Gray is virtually on a permanent weekend.

"Five days before my actual final day, we woke up and [my wife] Susan said, 'Just think Johnny, five days from now everyday is going to be Saturday,'" Gray said.

He has earned the right to relax. For more than 40 years, he's worked at radio stations in the South, interspersing air shifts with occasional record company promotion gigs during the times away from radio.

"Johnny is a guy who sees it from both sides of the fence, and I think that's the reason he's been so successful and stable in a radio business which is notoriously transient," said Wade Jessen, Country Editor/Director of Country Charts for Billboard and R&R. "He's such a good guy and he's somebody that everybody likes, but that's the easy part. The tough part is to be so consistent in his work and to really know what it means to be one of the tastemakers in radio, and he's definitely that. He has a background in record promotion and in radio and he sees the business from a pretty unique perspective."

Gray admitted he sort of stumbled into a radio career. After high school, he prepared to enter the University of Alabama, but had no idea what his major was going to be.

"I was looking through a manual and I didn't really know what I wanted to do," he recalled. "They had a program in there for radio and television and I thought that would be interesting."

He began working at the campus television station and later landed a job as an announcer for Alabama Public Television. A friend was working the 7 PM to midnight shift at the local Top 40 station and invited him to visit.

"So one evening I went there and it just blew my mind that he was playing all these cool records and great sounding chicks were calling him," Gray remembered with a laugh. "So I thought 'Man I'm going to leave television and get into radio.'"

He left college after his second year and took a job at an FM station in Huntsville, Ala.

"This was 1963, so there was nobody in the world listening to FM. They all listened to AM Top 40," Gray said. "But I took the job anyway because it paid money. I think it was $60 a week, and the only people who listened to the FM station were building the Saturn rocket at the Huntsville Space Center. The only radio they could get out there was FM and they listened to us."

Gray joined the National Guard and when he was sent to Birmingham after basic training, he began working at WYDE. After four months, the station was bought out and the new owners let everyone go except him.

When the new manager called him into his office, he thought he was being fired.

"He sat me down and said, 'I want you to listen to something and tell me what you think,'" Gray recalled. "I'll never forget it. He put a Marty Robbins record on. I can't really remember the song, but it wasn't traditional Country, it was what we called 'Countrypolitan.' He said 'What do you think of that?' I said, 'It's certainly not as bad as I thought; it's actually pretty good.' He said, 'That's what you are going to be playing starting at 4:45 Monday morning.' So, that was in 1967 and that was when the station changed from an AOR rock station to Country. We called it called it 'Countrypolitan WYDE.'"

Thus began Gray's love affair with Country Music. It was also at that station that Larry Paul Smith became "Johnny Gray."

"When they hired me, they had some old tapes and they were so stretched for cash they said, 'Well this guy used to be here four years ago, but you are going to become Johnny Gray and here's the jingle package.'

That's how I got to be Johnny Gray," he said, noting that his father was the only person who always called him by his given name, Larry Paul. Gray stayed at WYDE for 14 years before he made a change.

"I decided there had to be more to life than radio in Birmingham, Ala.," he said. "I had some friends in the record business in Nashville that had always told me, 'You ought to become a promotions guy for a record label. You'd be great because you get it. You understand that music is important and you have a lot of friends in the business.'"

So he went to work for Mercury Records, moving to Nashville in early 1979. At the time, he also had to promote R&B, Top 40 and other records as well as Country. He wasn't really happy working multiple formats, so when label executive Joe Galante recruited him to work a new RCA imprint, Free Flight, he jumped at the chance and relocated to Atlanta to work for the fledgling label. The label didn't last, but Gray developed roots in Atlanta, and he found himself working for WPLO from 1980-84 as a DJ and Program and Music Director.

Next came another short stint in promotion when he spent a year working for Warner Bros., but he couldn't escape his love for radio. After a tenure again at WPLO, he became Music Director for WKHX where he remained until his retirement on Sept. 22, 2006. Over the years, he also took on MD responsibilities for WYAY, eventually becoming Assistant Program Director as well, for both stations, which are owned by ABC Radio.

When Citadel announced plans to buy the ABC Radio stations, Gray decided it was time to retire. He admitted he's seen a lot of changes during his career, and said the most unsettling has been consolidation.

"They stretch people so thin that they're not able to do one job real well," Gray said of the way some companies handle their stations. "They do a lot of jobs not so well and I think that's very unfortunate."

He said he was lucky to be able to be an off-air Music Director, which allowed him to focus on the music instead of an air shift. At many stations MDs do double or triple duty.

"The music director probably does an air shift and then he does remotes, so there's really no time for him to really concentrate on what I think is the real heart of the radio station and that's the music," Gray said. "I just would like to see radio take more of a deep interest in what their product is and their product is music."

Gray and his wife plan to divide their time between homes in Georgia and Florida. Still he doesn't rule out radio in his future. "I learned a long time ago, never say never."

What did he enjoy most about working in radio? "I liked the ability to reach people through music," he said. "Music has such an impact on people. It's an amazing thing."

May 15

John Anderson Gets Rich with Easy Money
By Bob Doerschuk

The funny thing about John Anderson's voice is that even back in the late '70s and early '80s, when he came out of nowhere with his first smash hits, something about it seemed familiar.

It took a while to realize that Anderson sings with the voice that America hears in its imagination. It's rough and untamed. It can sound like it's ready for a fight or aching for some love. It can raise hell in a honky tonk or rise toward heaven on a sunny Sunday morning.

It's also been quiet over these past four years, since Somehow, Someway, Someday, his only album from his fifth major label deal. But that should change when Easy Money hits the streets on May 15. Anderson's debut for Big & Rich's Warner Bros.-distributed Raybaw Records label is what you would expect, in its wide emotional range, with plenty of heartbreak, humor and rugged warmth.

It is traditional Country Music - a sound that Anderson can claim a fair amount of credit for bringing back. Before Randy Travis had washed his first dish in the Nashville Palace kitchen, Anderson was breaking into the Top 10 with "Chicken Truck" and "1959," climbing higher into the Top 5 with "I'm Just an Old Chunk of Coal," and hitting the No. 1 spot for the first time, in 1982, with "Wild and Blue."

These hits, and the performances he packed around them on seven albums during a five-year run with Warner Bros., invigorated Country Music with a volatile, moonshine mix of outlaw, mainstream and roots elements. In the process, he established himself as one of the most distinctive personalities in the business - the successor, some were saying, to George Jones as a performer and Merle Haggard as a truth-telling writer.

Then, like a number of other legends or legends-to-be, Anderson parted company with his label and began wandering from one imprint to the next, never losing the respect of his peers or the affection of his fans yet forced to scramble as changes furrowed the Country landscape. Anderson emerged with at least one bit of hard-won wisdom. Leaning forward, winking playfully, pointing his finger for emphasis, he put it simply: "I didn't want a crappy little record deal."

He came to this realization slowly, during his two-year swing through the boardrooms along Music Row. "I went to all the labels in town, period," he said. "Somewhat to my dismay, nobody showed any interest, not even close friends and old buddies who could have jumped right up and signed us right away."

Opportunity came not from old-school pals but from a young superstar who, at the peak of his own success, never forgot how it felt to look up at Anderson from the audience.

"John Anderson is officially my honky tonk hero," stated John Rich of Big & Rich, who produced Easy Money. "I don't think that even John can comprehend what an influence he is. There's a hole in Country Music where he used to be, and I'm hell-bent on filling it back up."

The two met about 10 years ago, when Rich, then singing lead with Lonestar, knocked on the door of Anderson's tour bus. They stayed in touch and, years later, hooked up for a co-writing date which led to an invitation to come onboard for a week during a Big & Rich tour. For Anderson, the experience was at once a flashback and a premonition.

"It was like old times," he said, smiling. "John, Kenny, James Otto, Shiny [Shannon] Lawson, we were all on the bus, passing the guitar, singing and writing songs. Then John asked me what I wanted. I told him I'd take a decent record deal but if we could just write some good songs together, that would be like icing on the cake, because I was thinking," he said with a sly wink and a laugh, "'Man, I'm going to get me some Big & Rich cuts!'"

He got more than that: an offer to sign with Raybaw. By the time they hit the studio, Anderson and Rich were armed with a bunch of songs, about half of which they had written together, the rest a combination of things they hatched on their own or brought in from other writers, with highlights including a tear-it-up drinking song ("Brown Liquor"); a romantic ballad ("You Already Know My Love"); a slapstick rocker with a punch-line hook ("If Her Lovin' Don't Kill Me"); the heartfelt ("Bonnie Blue"); and fist-pumping ("Funky Country") tributes to Dixie, the de rigueur dig at the business side of Country ("Easy Money"); and a musically ambitious, Celtic influenced tour de force ("Weeds").

"A lot of making these songs work together came into play with the production, more so than on most of my other records - and that was all John Rich," Anderson said. "Yeah, a few songs were pretty spontaneous, but for the most part John came to each one with an arrangement in his head. He directed us, the players and me, and we all believed in him. Nobody had a sour face as they were being told what to do, and in Nashville, with players this good, that's walking on eggshells, brother. And for a guy like me to watch that, hell yeah, I was taking notes."

By his own admission, Anderson can be ornery when he's cutting tracks. "Norro Wilson, bless his heart, directed me a little bit on my first record and rightfully so. After the second album, though, I became a producer and I didn't let nobody tell me a damn thing. But within an hour after John and I started our first session, I stood at the studio window watching him work and decided that I wasn't going to co-produce this one. I'd just keep my opinions and ideas out of it and let him go. He kept saying, 'Trust me, Uncle John, I'm not going to screw up your record.'"

Rich insisted that it was never his intention to seize the sole production credit for Easy Money.

"I just wanted to get in there and do anything that would let me hear some new John Anderson music," he explained. "But I work real fast, so I think he saw me get in my groove and just let me do it. After we'd done a song or two, I realized I hadn't even taken the time to see how John thought about it. But he told me, 'If I hear something I don't like, I'll stop you.' And he never did."

They were kindred spirits, each drawing from the energy of the other in music, whether playing it or in laying out exactly what it needed from a broader perspective.

"The folks who run this business now think they can contrive their stars," Anderson said. "Anybody with any attitude barely makes it to the executive screen. Well, nobody had more of an attitude about their music than Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard or Waylon Jennings. Trust me, I knew them. You didn't tell Johnny Cash how to sing. You didn't tell Waylon what to sing. And you don't tell Merle Haggard a damn thing, if you got any sense. So I'd say to every artist, do your thing. Knock a hole in that screen; and tell 'em old John sent you."
Young John, grinning from the sidelines, said "Amen."

On the Web: www.johnanderson.com

NEW ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: Heartland
By Kristen Scherer

With the out-of-the-box success of their debut single, "I Loved Her First," Heartland seems to be one of those overnight success stories. But it's not that simple. In reality the band worked for years to develop the song and stagecraft that brought them to the attention of veteran Music Row executive Mike Borchetta, who signed Heartland to his Lofton Creek Records label. And with that leadoff song already established as a bona-fide wedding standard, these guys are off to a great start.

The members of Heartland - guitarists Craig Anderson and Mike Myerson, bassist Keith West, lead singer Jason Albert, fiddler Chuck Crawford and drummer Todd Anderson - are Alabama-based in more ways than one, having been strongly influenced from day one by a certain superstar Country band from their home state. Back in1997 the band got their first shot at stardom performing at the June Jam, Alabama's annual concert event in Fort Payne, Ala. For Heartland, playing the June Jam was a defining moment.

Lately, Heartland has been busy on the road in support of their debut album, I Loved Her First, which was produced by "I Loved Her First" co-writer Walt Aldridge and released in October.

IN THEIR OWN W ORDS:
Who is your musical hero?
ALBERT: "Sam Cooke."
WEST: "Elvis."

What CD is on your stereo?
ALBERT: "Los Lonely Boys."
MYERSON: "Conway Twitty."
WEST: "Merle Haggard."

What song do you wish you had written?
ANDERSON: "'What Becomes of the Broken Hearted.'"

Do you prefer planes, trains or automobiles?
WEST: "Fast cars."

Which song would you like to cover?
Band: "'Rock and Roll Ain't Noise Pollution' by AC/DC."

What song do you sing in the shower?
ANDERSON: "'Dirt,' by Motley Crue."
MYERSON: "'Fruit Salad,' by The Wiggles."

On the Web: www.heartlandcountry.cc

Heartland will perform at CMA Music Festival in Downtown Nashville on Friday, June 8 at the Greased Lightning® Daytimes Stages. Single-day tickets for the Greased Lightning Daytime Stages will be sold the day of each show at the gate for $14 each. Children 6 and younger are admitted free of charge. Four-day and tickets to the individual Nightly Concerts at LP Field are also still available to purchase at (615) 255-9600; 1-800-CMA-FEST (262-3378); CMAfest.com or Ticketmaster.com.

May 9

Borderline Crazy For Canadian Country Artists
By Lorie Hollabaugh

Canada and the United States have more than a border in common - the two also share an abundance of Country Music fans. Canada has long been an exporter of talented Country artists who found success in the United States, including George Canyon, Terri Clark, Emerson Drive, Carolyn Dawn Johnson, Shania Twain and Michelle Wright. And American artists have long recognized Country's popularity in Canada, with most major stars touring the country periodically. Brooks & Dunn, George Strait and dozens of other artists make Canada an integral part of their itineraries when they launch a major North American tour.

International touring can occasionally bring adventure and most artists have at least one border crossing story to share. Emerson Drive road manager Mark Oglesby has made more than 100 border crossings during the last four years working with the Canadian band. His political science classes have come in handy while representing the group, especially during sensitive situations like crossing over checkpoints.

"I'm responsible for 10 guys, so it's my job to go in there first and try to smooth everything out," Oglesby said. "I have to get out my contracts and show them where we're playing, and they want to talk to all the guys. It's almost like playing poker. You don't want to say too much, or give them a reason to question. We're not hiding anything; you just don't want the inconvenience of the questions."

Having paperwork in order ahead of time expedites the process, according to Wayne O'Connor, a Canadian road manager who has spent 16 years crossing with artists Nick Carter, the Crash Test Dummies, and most recently George Canyon, who late last year, wrapped up a cross-Canadian tour. "It's getting almost impossible to cross into the U.S.," O'Connor said. "If I got a call today for a gig within the next three months, I would not be able to get the artist in through normal channels. Applying for the form takes at least three months. The process is slow."

Even with the proper forms submitted, there are no guarantees. O'Connor recalled a trip from Vancouver to Las Vegas with 15 people. He had everything in order, got everyone through customs and was then denied entry himself for no apparent reason. "I filed through 15 people and everything was great," O'Connor said.

"I was the 16th person, and the guy said to me, 'You're not coming in the country.' I thought he was kidding. These guys are judge and jury - the supervisor will not overturn a decision that an agent makes, right or wrong. They have a heavy job to do, let's face it. When I'm taking a new artist across I tell them, 'You answer the questions that are asked, you don't joke with these people, you don't say anything, you just play their game.'"

Consequences can be severe for artists who don't comply or even act surly, but it's easy to see how tempers can flare during a 2 AM bus search with an overeager agent. "Crossing at Niagara Falls we pulled up at 3 AM and got the wrong guy," Oglesby recalled. "He pulled everyone out of bed, took all our suitcases out, brought dogs and searched our socks, our bathroom kits, everything. And it took four hours."

Emerson Drive lead singer Brad Mates has definitely spent his share of time out in the cold during the 11 years the band has toured both countries. "I remember years ago, going home for Christmas," Mates said. "It was minus 30 degrees outside and they made us take every piece of equipment out of our trailer and checked the serial numbers on all of them."

There is always room for confusion during checkpoint searches as well. Mates recalled coming from Saskatchewan into North Dakota when they were stopped by friendly agents for a check and lost one of their members. "We had been through this border a number of times and they know the band and usually it's a quick breeze through," Mates said. "We got off, they did a quick search and Dale went to the washroom. When they were done, we hopped back on the bus and started driving and realized we had left him. So we turned around and went back, and there he was out talking with the officers, who had given him a border patrol hat. They all just thought it was hilarious."

According to Mates, it doesn't seem to matter which side you're crossing on. An artist can encounter an overzealous agent on either side. "A lot of times we have more trouble getting into Canada than we do coming into the U.S.," Mates said. "There are some people who will let you through, and some who will keep you there for hours. And there will always be new agents who need to dig a little deeper than they should."

Canyon, who enjoys special privileges because of his work visa, agreed. "I don't envy the job the border patrol has to do," Canyon said. "Being in law enforcement before, I had a taste of what that feels like, so when I go across it's whatever they need. But there are people in positions of power who sometimes should not be in them - it goes to their head and they don't know how to deal with it. I notch that up to inexperience on the agent's part. But they're all doing the best they can."

No matter the agent's personality, one thing is for sure. Honesty is the best policy when crossing the borders now that worldwide security concerns are at an all-time high. "The big thing is to be honest," Canyon agreed.

"Don't try to hide things and don't lie, because if you get caught you're going to go down hard and probably not cross the border again. The big thing is just be on the up and up. You can't go wrong if you do that."

On the Web: www.emersondrive.com; www.georgecanyon.com

George Canyon won second place on "Nashville Star" and signed a record deal with Universal Records South in 2004. His debut album, One Good Friend, featured four Top 5 singles in Canada and was produced by Tim DuBois and Tony Brown. Canyon's new album, Somebody Wrote Love, was released on July 4, 2006 on Universal Music Canada.

Emerson Drive is Patrick Bourque, bass guitar; Danick Dupelle, guitar; Brad Mates, lead vocals; Mike Melancon, drums; David Pichette, fiddle and Dale Wallace, keyboards. Their third album, Countrified, was released on Sept. 19, 2006 on Midas Records Nashville and produced by Brad Allen, Keith Follese, Josh Leo and Country Music Hall of Fame Alabama band member Teddy Gentry.

Clay Hunnicutt: Clear Channel's Country Connoisseur
By Crystal Caviness

One can only imagine what size business card Clear Channel's Clay Hunnicutt carries. In 2006, Hunnicutt's cluster of job titles sounded like he's a one-man operation: VP of Country Programming; Director of Programming for Nashville's five-station group (WSIX, WRVW, WNRQ, WUBT and WLAC); Brand Manager; and Regional VP of Programming for a 28-station region in the Southeast.

As VP of Country Programming for Clear Channel's 200+ Country radio stations, Hunnicutt's job is to know Country Music. But his other hats require that he knows what's going on at rock, Top 40, urban and talk radio, all of which makes Hunnicutt better at his Country gig, he said.

"I love what I do because it affords me the flexibility to not only focus on the Country format but also to be able to look at and understand all formats," Hunnicutt said about his multiple roles at the nation's largest operator of radio stations.

"I think we do a disservice to Country radio when we circle the wagons and say 'this is the only way we do it.' When you see what classic rock does, they have historical artists, just like Country does," he said. "I think a lot of Country radio stations make the mistake of thinking we're primarily a female format. It's foolish for us not to acknowledge the male aspect of our format. Classic rock is a very male 25-54 driven format and [males] do go back and forth [between Country and classic rock stations]. . Charlie Daniels, Hank Jr. and Toby Keith drive the male listeners and a lot of new (Country) artists - Jake Owen, Kenny Chesney, Brad Paisley - are still bringing a lot of males to the format."

Make no mistake, Hunnicutt knows radio. The 18-year veteran of the industry began his career at WUSY-FM in Chattanooga, Tenn., while attending the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. He climbed the corporate rungs at WUSY from unpaid intern in the production department to Program Director for the nine-time CMA Radio Station of the Year. Before joining Clear Channel, Hunnicutt spent a year and a half as Program Director at WGAR-FM in Cleveland, Ohio.

"Clay has an extensive knowledge and love of Country Music," said Butch Waugh, Executive VP, Sony BMG Nashville. "He not only reaches out to support established artists, but is always eager to hear music from, and know more about, new acts. Clay is very creative and looks for innovative ways to introduce new artists to the Country audience."

A number of those innovations involve new technologies, including Internet and high definition (HD) strategies.

"Ten years ago, the Internet was a minor player for us," Hunnicutt said. "Now it is such an integral part of what our radio stations do in building the brand."

Live concerts online, acoustic-based performances titled "Stripped," and a program called "New," introducing up-and-coming acts is how Clear Channel is working to grow its demographic, Hunnicutt said.

"You go to a Keith Urban or Rascal Flatts concert, and there's a lot of the 12-24 [age group] in the crowd too," he said. "And that's who is going online. Eventually people grow out of your target demos and we need to keep building our future audiences."

Building the audiences means listening to the existing ones, an area of his job Hunnicutt takes seriously. "I think everything we do is listener based," he said. "We ask listeners what they want to hear. We still do research projects to directly touch the listeners."

Today's listeners want choices beyond terrestrial radio, Hunnicutt said, which is why Clear Channel is aggressively implementing online and alternative initiatives.

"There will always be radios and a market for free radio stations," he said. "But we do have to react to giving listeners more choices. That why you see our stations streaming. We're also on XM Radio. The streaming, HD, XM and terrestrial - that's not building a radio station, that's building a brand. Coke doesn't promote Coke. Coke promotes lifestyle, youngness, vitality. We have to get better about that. Our brands have to become more important than an FM frequency.

"It's about growing it and making it have value to the listeners," he added. "If terrestrial's only stronghold is that it's free, we're done. It's not about free. That makes it cheap. It's not cheap. It has great value. It adds value to our society and communities. It must maintain a sense of companionship."

Clear Channel's content can be heard on AM/FM stations, HD digital radio channels, on the Internet, via iPods, through Motorola's iRadio cell phone service and via mobile-navigation devices from Cobra, Garmin, Kenwood and others.

The passion Hunnicutt maintains for radio spills over into the loyalty he has for his company.

"This may be a big group of radio stations - Clear Channel owns more than 1,000 radio stations worldwide - but it is still an individual programming a radio station, impacting their local community everyday," Hunnicutt said. "We're the ones out here doing this on a day-to-day basis. Every programming director makes their decisions about their programming on a daily basis. There aren't national playlists. There aren't national edicts about what they play and how often they play it. Those are fallacies. No one wants to believe that you can be a very large company but still make an impact on a local market."

Though he wears many hats including CMA Board member, Hunnicutt's primary focus remains clear.

"I'm trying to be the conduit and communicator of the company through our successes and failures," he said. "What I'm trying to do with all the Country programmers at Clear Channel is to share as much information as is out there, whether it's research or trends in the format. I learn as much from my Country programmers as I hope they learn from me."

On Dec. 21, 2006 Clear Channel announced that Clay Hunnicutt had been named Atlanta OM of the company's six-station group there, including Country WUBL-FM, News/Talk WGST-AM, Regional Mexican WBZY-FM, Rock WKLS-FM and Spanish CHR WWVA-FM & WVWA-FM.

On the Web: www.clearchannel.com

May 4

Terri Clark Kicks Off 2007 CMA Music Festival on the Greased Lightning Daytime Stages

Craig Morgan, John Anderson, Jamie O'Neal and Chris Young Join Clark To Jump-Start Four Full Days of Non-Stop Music in Downtown Nashville

GAC To Tape Performances for Upcoming Concert Series

Tickets for Riverfront Shows Available at the Gate for $14 a Day

How do you kick off the biggest Country Music festival in the world? With one of the most fan-friendly, crowd- pleasing entertainers in the format -- Terri Clark. The leave'em rocking singer/songwriter kicks off the 2007 CMA Music Festival on the Greased Lightning(R) Daytime Stages Thursday, June 7 (10:00 AM/CT) with her distinctive brand of power Country. The four-day event takes place in Downtown Nashville and runs through Sunday, June 10.

"Terri Clark is one of the most energetic performers in Country Music today," said Tammy Genovese, CMA Chief Operating Officer. "She is a fan- favorite; her high-energy performance and engaging personality will set the tone for four days of fun, great music and great times."

Clark, a quadruple CMA Award nominee, has sold more than 4 million albums and scored nearly a dozen Top 10 hits, including "Better Things To Do," "I Wanna Do It All" and "Girls Lie, Too." The first Canadian woman inducted into the historic Grand Ole Opry, she is a prolific entertainer, musician, producer and songwriter. Recently signed to BNA Records, her debut single "Dirty Girl" is fast climbing the singles and download charts and her new album My Next Life will hit stores in August.

Joining Clark in the opening morning show June 7 are Craig Morgan, John Anderson, Jamie O'Neal and Chris Young. Genovese added, "What I love about all of these performers is the diversity of styles and talent they bring to the occasion. This group is a microcosm of the best this Festival has to offer -- a place where you can find your favorite stars and discover the stars of tomorrow."

Since it began in 1972, CMA Music Festival has been about the fans and every year CMA attempts to put together concert performances that will bring them to their feet. And this year is no exception.

Other artists added to the line up of stars at Riverfront include Lynn Anderson, T. Graham Brown, Jason Michael Carroll, John Conlee, 2007 "Nashville Star" winner Angela Hacker, Steve Holy, Hal Ketchum, Country Music Hall of Fame member Charlie Louvin, Rockie Lynne, Lorrie Morgan, Connie Smith and many more.

Single-day tickets for the Greased Lightning Daytime Stages will be sold the day of each show at the gate for $14 each. Children 6 and younger are admitted free of charge, making the Riverfront concerts a popular destination for families who want to enjoy great musical performances while relaxing on the sloping bank of the Cumberland River. The concerts are fun in the sun within easy walking distance of all the Festival event sites, with food vendors, activities and more.

The opening festivities are just the start of more than 30 hours of performances covering the entire range of Country Music from today's rising stars, to legends, bluegrass, and more at the Greased Lightning Daytime Stages. Over the four-day event, more than 100 artists are scheduled to perform during the Daytime Concerts.

Thursday, June 7:

John Anderson, Catherine Britt, Sarah Buxton, Eric Church, Terri Clark, Bucky Covington, Ty Herndon, Carolyn Dawn Johnson, Blaine Larsen, Little Texas, Neal McCoy, Craig Morgan, Jamie O'Neal, Jake Owen, Danielle Peck, PovertyNeck Hillbillies, Julie Roberts, Kevin Sharp, Trent Tomlinson, Gene Watson, Whiskey Falls, Darryl Worley, and Chris Young.

Friday, June 8:

Luke Bryan, Carolina Rain, Jason Michael Carroll, Cole Deggs & the Lonesome Brad Cotter, Dusty Drake, Katrina Elam, Jace Everett, Flynnville Train, Josh Gracin, Andy Griggs, Angela Hacker, Jennifer Hanson, Heartland, Steve Holy, Jypsi, Hal Ketchum, The Lost Trailers, Ashley Monroe, Lorrie Morgan, Megan Mullins, The Oak Ridge Boys, Ray Scott, Jeffrey Steele, and Mark Wills.

Saturday, June 9:

Alvarado Road Show, Jeff Bates, Blue County, Bomshel, Lane Brody, T. Graham Brown, Laura Bryna, Sonny Burgess, Donovan Chapman, Cowboy Crush, Crossin Dixon, Linda Davis, Emerson Drive, Morgan Evans, Adam Harvey, Lady Antebellum, Rockie Lynne, Lila McCann, Memarie, Jerrod Niemann, Michael Peterson, Carmen Rasmusen, The Road Hammers, Connie Smith, Rick Trevino, Trick Pony, and Bryan White.

Sunday, June 10:

Deborah Allen, Lynn Anderson, John Berry, Lee Brice, Carter's Chord, Elizabeth Cook, John Conlee, Earl Thomas Conley, Amy Dalley, Janie Fricke, Todd Fristch, Billy Gilman, The Grascals, LoCash Cowboys, Charlie Louvin, Pirates of the Mississippi, Rio Grand, John Stone, Pam Tillis, Aaron Tippin, Jett Williams, and Trent Willmon.

And bringing the excitement to the fans at home is Great American Country. GAC will capture numerous performances at Riverfront Park for a 13-part concert series to air this fall. In addition, "GAC Nights," the network's nightly primetime program, will be on hand each day as host Suzanne Alexander speaks with artists and fans. And once again, GAC will produce two "CMA Celebrity Close Up" programs, hosted by popular media personality Lorianne Crook. The GAC autograph booth inside the Fan Fair(R) Exhibit Hall at the Nashville Convention Center will be buzzing with artists who will sign autographs and pose for photos throughout the event. Check in with http://www.gactv.com/ for the latest information on GAC's involvement and coverage of CMA Music Festival.

The National Anthem will be sung by Minnie Murphy on June 7; Rissi Palmer on June 8; Keni Thomas on June 9; and Rhonda Towns on Sunday, June 10. Each day's concert schedule is broken down into hosted segments. Among the hosts scheduled to appear during the Daytime Concerts are GAC personality Suzanne Alexander; XM Satellite Radio personality Jon Anthony; GAC personality Bill Cody; GAC personality Lorianne Crook; WSIX Radio (Nashville) personality Slam Duncan; WGSQ Radio (Cookeville, Tenn.) personality Philip Gibbons; GAC personality Kylie Harris; owner Country Air Check and host of the weekly "CMT Country Countdown USA" Lon Helton; The Tennessean celebrity columnist Beverly Keel; radio personality and "The Unofficial Mayor of Music Row" Charlie Monk; WKRN-TV (Nashville ABC affiliate) entertainment reporter Brad Schmitt; WZTV-TV (Nashville FOX affiliate) personality Kelly Sutton; MuzikMafia member Two Foot Fred; GAC personality Storme Warren; and WGKX Radio (Memphis) personalities Young & Elder. Special appearances will also be made by some of the ABC Daytime actors on Saturday, June 9.

Greased Lightning has been a title sponsor of the Daytime Stages since 2002.

"We are honored to be a sponsor for CMA and particularly this event. It's not only a sampling opportunity for us, but we actually get our retailers involved and we get to interact with consumers," said Greased Lightning Brand Manager Tracy Hudson. "Country Music has the greatest and most loyal fans and every year we look forward to participating in the CMA Music Festival."

This year, selected show segments on the Greased Lightning Daytime Stages will be sponsored by partners including Dr. Pepper, New Holland and Wrangler.

"The Wrangler brand has proudly partnered with the CMA Music Festival for six years now and we wouldn't miss the chance to be involved again this year," said Edyie Brooks-Bryant, Marketing Manager, Wrangler Special Events. "We're especially excited to be a part of the Riverfront concerts and activities and to have the rare opportunity to interact with some of our most-beloved consumers -- Country Music fans!"

All of the artists participating in CMA Music Festival donate their time. They are not compensated for performing. In appreciation of their continued support, CMA launched "Keep the Music Playing," a program, which donates half the net proceeds from the event to the Nashville Alliance for Public Education, to support music education in Metro Nashville's 134 public schools. In March, CMA donated $368,000 from the 2006 CMA Music Festival for music education brining to date a total of $1.1 million that CMA has donated to charity on behalf of the artists who participate in the Festival.

For up-to-the-minute information about tickets, travel information, schedules, artist appearances and more, visit http://www.cmafest.com/ and sign up for e-news.

CMA Music Festival is organized and produced by the Country Music Association. CMA Board member Tony Conway is the Executive Producer of CMA Music Festival. Premiere Radio Networks is the official radio broadcaster. Chevy: The Official Ride of Country Music. Borders(R) Books & Music: The Official Music & Book retailer of the CMA Music Festival. Additional promotional partners include American Airlines, Coca-Cola(R), Country Weekly, CMT(R), Crisco(R), Dr Pepper(R), GAC, Great American Country, Greased Lightning Cleaning Products(R), Gibson Guitar(R), Hard Rock Café Nashville, Music Festivals(R), New Holland Agriculture Equipment S.p.A., On the Run(R) at Exxon, Sam's Town Hotel & Gambling Hall, The Sportsman Channel(R), Wrangler(R), and Yamaha Motor Corp., USA. Fan Fair(R) is a registered trademark of CMA.

Source: Country Music Association

May 1

Ken Nelson's Positive Prescription
By Tom Roland

When Ken Nelson needs cheering up, he sings a 60-year-old song to himself: "You've got to accentuate the positive / Eliminate the negative / Latch on to the affirmative / Don't mess with Mr. In-Between."

It's an appropriate choice for three reasons: One, it lifts his spirits; two, it connects Nelson, who turned 96 in January, to the years when he was a young man; and three, "Ac-Cent-Tchu-Ate The Positive" lyricist Johnny Mercer was one of three co-founders of Capitol Records, the place where Nelson built the legacy that got him enshrined in the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2001.

"The funny thing is I never met Johnny," Nelson mused at his airy home near a golf course in California's Ventura County.

Their time at Capitol certainly overlapped - Mercer founded the label in Los Angeles in 1942, and Nelson joined the firm in 1946, one year before Mercer ceded the presidency to Glenn Wallichs.

Nelson's day-to-day influence lasted much longer; he stayed with the company into the mid-1970s, signing and/or producing such acts as Roy Clark, Merle Haggard, Freddie Hart, Buck Owens, Hank Thompson and Sonny James.

"The only time I ever raised my voice to an artist was when I was recording Sonny James," Nelson chuckled. "We had made three takes of 'Young Love,' and Sonny was insisting that he wanted to do another take. I said, 'That's it! Period!' That's the only time I ever raised my voice to an artist. Of course, the record only sold a couple million."

James recalled that day in the studio a little differently.

"He didn't really raise his voice; he just said, 'No Sonny, that's the last one we're going to do,'" James said. "The longer I worked with Ken, the more liberty he would give me. He gave you that liberty to show what individuality that you had. That's one of the things that I think was the greatest thing to happen to me, because I did work with someone like Ken. You see, I love to play the guitar and it became a part of my sound. And without that, it wouldn't have been me. By him giving me the liberty to bring out my guitar, it's a style. Without that, there wouldn't have been a Sonny James sound that people are familiar with."

Nelson earned a reputation as an artist-friendly producer. His 1956 recording of Ferlin Husky's "Gone" is often cited as the beginning of the smooth, pop-flavored Nashville Sound, which helped Country weather the early years of rock 'n' roll. But it's telling that his best-selling artists, Haggard and Owens, were California-based singer-songwriters whose cutting brand of honky tonk provided an antecedent to the period's biggest trend.

"An artist has to be himself," Nelson said. "If he doesn't have the artistry and the ability to convey to people what he's feeling, he's no good. You can't tell an artist what to do."

Nelson operated in a much simpler time. James' first contract with the label was just one page. Most sessions yielded four recordings in a scant three hours. And labels sometimes signed artists sight unseen, a practice that would never be allowed today.

Nelson recalled specifically leaving Shreveport, La., radio station KWKH, where he'd conducted a session, and heard an unnamed singer on Webb Pierce's radio show. On a hunch, he headed back to town and booked a hotel, then showed up at the station the next day to ask questions about the mystery performer, who turned out to be Faron Young.

"I went to [booking agent] Hubert Long," Nelson recalled, "and said, 'Hubert, this kid Faron Young, he's pretty great, and I would like to sign him, but I can't stay, because I've got a couple of sessions back in Nashville. If he's not signed to a record label, would you sign him for Capitol and let me know?' So I went back to Nashville, and Hubert got Faron to sign with Capitol and also became his manager."

The association led to more than 25 Top 10 hits throughout the next decade, including "Hello Walls" and "If You Ain't Lovin' (You Ain't Livin')." Young would also find a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2000.

Nelson remains fairly practical about it all. He knows his story cuts across multiple periods in entertainment history, so he wrote his autobiography, My First 90 Years Plus Three, released in February 2007 by Dorrance Publishing. Nelson spent $40,000 of his own funds to make sure it made it into print "before I kick the bucket."

"My book is practically a history of the music business," he said. "I saw radio come in, I saw TV."

And he saw the changes wrought by the rock era. In fact, his own glory years as a producer came during the 1960s, at the same time that Capitol hit paydirt with The Beatles and The Beach Boys. As it turned out, Nelson had a minor, but influential, role in the surfer group's emergence. A struggling songwriter, Murry Wilson, had phoned him about the band, and Nelson promised that pop A&R director Nik Venet would respond. Nelson ended up prodding Venet several times - the last one an expletive-laden tirade - before Venet finally returned the call.

The Beach Boys were, of course, signed, and A&R VP Voyle Gilmore ended up chiding his department for not being more responsive.

"At the next A&R meeting," Nelson laughed, "Voyle said, 'Let this be a lesson to you. We could've lost The Beach Boys. The next time you get a tip like Ken gave, you follow it through.' Of course, I didn't know what the group sounded like, but I just felt like the man should at least be listened to by somebody."

Whether they knew it or not, millions have listened to works that were produced by Nelson, who is still remarkable. Even in his late 90s, he still exercises 45 minutes, five times a week, and allows himself one beer around 5 PM. He still reads the newspaper with a magnifying glass, and a scrapbook contains letters to the editor he's had published in recent years.

A founding Director and former two-term President of CMA Board of Directors, he admitted that his diminished capacity frustrates him at times, but that's when Nelson starts singing the old Mercer song and accentuates the many positives he's experienced.

"It's difficult to not keep thinking about my aging," he conceded. "I hate it, but there's nothin' you can do about it. So you just eliminate the negative."

NEW ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: Tresa Jordan
By Kristen Scherer

For Tresa Jordan, music came naturally and has been a dominate part of her life. She is an artist who sings from the heart about the joys and heartaches of real life. Jordan's journey began in the small Florida town of Melrose.

"I was on stage with my Dad and his band at the age of 10, but forced everyone in my family to sit through hours of living room performances, school plays and talent shows ever since the age of 3," Jordan said.

Determined to make her dream of singing a reality, she auditioned and was accepted to the Florida School of the Performing Arts where her creative juices started flowing and she began writing songs. Jordan's heart was yearning to pursue a career in Country Music so she packed her bags and headed to Nashville.

Jordan found out quickly how hard it is to break into the music industry and was soon waiting tables to pay the bills. Seven years and three kids later, she emerged from a failed marriage determined to rekindle her passion for music.

The songs she wrote reflected both the good and bad times she had experienced. Eight of those songs she co-wrote are featured on her self-titled debut album, which was released last year on South River Road Records.

Produced by Jim Cooper, the album is built around acoustic instruments, which, according to Jordan, makes the music "organic, raw and natural; the instruments match the lyrics." The lead single, "I Turn to Country," Jordan co-wrote with Robin Scoffield.

Jordan's songs reflect her wide-ranging influences, which include Vince Gill, Alison Krauss, Barbara Mandrell, Dolly Parton and Steve Wariner. From the contemporary groove of "Underneath the Wheel" to the bluegrass feel of "Ain't No Grave," Jordan's auspicious debut spotlights the struggles and triumphs she has experienced on her journey to become a Country star.

IN HER OWN WORDS:
What book is in your nightstand?
"The Long Home by William Gay."
" by William Gay."
What moment in your life would you relive if you could?
"Dancing on my Daddy's feet - that's why I wrote the song."
"Dancing on my Daddy's feet - that's why I wrote the song."
What song do you wish you had written?
"'One More Day.'"
"'One More Day.'"
Which mode of transportation do you prefer - planes, trains or automobiles?
"None. I am waiting for someone to invent a little traveling space machine that will instantly take me to my destination."
"None. I am waiting for someone to invent a little traveling space machine that will instantly take me to my destination."
Who is your dream duet partner?
"That would be a tie between Keith Urban and Vince Gill."
"That would be a tie between Keith Urban and Vince Gill."

On The Web: www.tresajordan.com

April 24

NEW ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: Sunny Sweeney
By Kristen Scherer

Sunny Sweeney has one of those unmistakable East Texas accents when she speaks, and when she opens her mouth to sing, that accent just gets thicker. That's one of the reasons listeners never have to guess where this singer is coming from. Sweeney delivers every song on her debut album, Heartbreakers Hall of Fame, with a sweet southern drawl.

Growing up in the small town of Longview, Sweeney's first taste of Country came in the pop-leaning 1980s. It was only later, when she stumbled upon more traditional singers including Merle Haggard and Loretta Lynn that she knew the kind of Country she was born to sing.

Initially she pursued a different kind of creative career, in theater and comedy. After spending a few years in New York City, Sweeney returned to her home state, joining an improvisational comedy troupe in Austin. Basking in that city's thriving live music scene and heeding the advice of her fellow comedians, she soon found her true calling in the local clubs and began making her way toward her debut album.

Initially released on her own independent label, Heartbreakers Hall of Fame found a passionate believer in Music Row executive Scott Borchetta, who licensed the album for a March 6 release on his Big Machine Records label. The album, co-produced by Sweeney and Tommy Detamore (guitar, pedal and lap steel, Dobro) and Tom Lewis (drums) and featuring three songs written or co-written by Sweeney, promises to deliver a slice of pure honky tonk music to the Country landscape.

IN HER OWN W ORDS:
Who is your musical hero?
"I have two: Merle Haggard and Loretta Lynn."

Which song would you like to cover?
"[Merle Haggard's] 'Misery and Gin.'"

What actor would portray you in a biopic about your life?
"I don't really care, just as long as she is kind of hot!"

What song do you wish you had written?
"'Angel from Montgomery.'"

Who is your dream duet partner?
"Merle or Dwight Yoakam, assuming that if I got that chance, I wouldn't pass out on the stage."

When they look back on your life in 50 years, what do you hope people say about you?
"I hope they say, 'Dang, that girl sure had fun and she always sang that real Country Music.'"

On the Web: www.sunnysweeney.com

Brenda Lee is Still "Dynamite" After All These Years
By Stephen L. Betts

With boundless energy and an incendiary vocal style, Brenda Lee was being billed as "Little Miss Dynamite" in the late 1950s, selling millions of albums and becoming an international superstar - all before she entered her teens. Five decades later, the pint-sized powder keg is still running on full power and influencing a whole new generation of artists in both rock and Country. She may have slowed down her busy touring schedule in favor of family (she's the mother of two and grandmother of three), but the woman John Lennon once said "has the greatest rock 'n' roll voice of them all," is now a respected role model for women in the ever-evolving music business, and a tireless champion of several charitable causes.

In September 2006 at the new Musician's Hall of Fame, the Nashville-based organization SOURCE, a networking foundation that mentors women working in the music industry, bestowed upon the 61-yearold singer the Jo Walker-Meador Lifetime Achievement Award, named after the first woman CMA Executive Director, who, along with surprise guest Garth Brooks, presented her with the award.

"Brenda has certainly been a long and faithful contributor to the music industry in general and especially to Country Music, because, of course, that's where she started her career," Walker-Meador said. "When CMA was established, it was some of the Board members' idea that it could be supported by the artists doing benefit shows, and Brenda did CMA's second benefit show in 1960 in Fort Wayne, Ind. She's such a trouper. She appealed to people, not just because of her talent but because she was Brenda."

"I was stunned to accept the award in the Musician's Hall of Fame, which honors the guys and girls that helped me make my music and helped get me to this point in my life," Lee said. "And then to have the award presented to me by Mrs. Walker-Meador and Garth Brooks, I was shocked. He flew in especially to do it, and flew right out because he had to take his kids to school on Friday morning. All I could think of to say when he walked on stage was, 'I love your wife!' And he said, 'I do too!'"

Although Brooks' wife, singer Trisha Yearwood (who, like Lee, is a Georgia native) was on the road in Pennsylvania and couldn't attend the event, she called Brooks earlier that day to remind him to convey her congratulations.

A member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (elected in 2002) and the Country Music Hall of Fame (inducted in 1997), Brenda Mae Tarpley's career began at age 5 when she won a talent contest, representing Conyers (Ga.) Grade School. Soon after, she appeared for a year on an Atlanta radio show, and was later seen on local television. In May 1953, when Lee was 9, her father was killed in a construction accident. Two years later, her mother remarried, and the family moved to Cincinnati. In February 1956, the 11-year-old who by this time was being billed as Brenda Lee, returned to Georgia and was living in Augusta where her big break came during a meeting with another future Country Music Hall of Fame member, Red Foley, then host of the popular "Ozark Jubilee" TV program.

She also met Dub Allbritten, Foley's manager and the man who would guide her career as her manager until his death in 1971. The meeting with Foley led to a Decca Records contract, and in early 1957 Lee's first chart success came with "One Step at a Time," which climbed to No. 43 on the pop charts and No. 15 on the Country charts. Although it would be another 12 years before Lee returned to the Country charts, a string of pop hits began in 1960 with the No. 4 hit, "Sweet Nothin's" and the No. 1 smash, "I'm Sorry."

The streak continued for the next seven years, accompanied by such heady experiences as meeting her idols Judy Garland and Elvis Presley, sharing a concert bill with The Beatles, becoming (at age 12) the youngest headlining performer in Las Vegas history and appearing before Queen Elizabeth II in a Royal Command performance.

An internationally-recognized superstar before she turned 21, Lee had nonetheless only been allowed to double-date, until her first "solo car date" with the young man she would marry in 1963, Ronnie Shacklett. Lee took time off to be at home with the couple's two daughters when they were born, Julie in 1964, and Jolie in 1969, but returned to a full-time music career in 1973 with "Nobody Wins," the first of six consecutive Top 10 Country singles.

Julie is now an author working on her third book. She shares co-writer credit on Brenda's 2002 autobiography, Little Miss Dynamite, with her mother and journalist Robert K. Oermann. Younger daughter Jolie works within the criminal justice system in Tennessee.

Preferring to spend less time touring these days, and more time with her three grandchildren, Lee does about 25 singing engagements per year instead of the 100-plus she has in years past. The doting grandmother says that 18-year-old Taylor is, "fluent in French and brilliant in math," while 10-year-old Jordan is "a very good artist." Grandson Charlie, is "a 4-year-old and he's just precious. He has music in him."

Speaking volumes for her influence and for the esteem in which she's held by her peers, Lee released on April 10 her first gospel album, Gospel Duets with Treasured Friends, a spare, acoustic collection of duets with some notable partners: fellow Country Music Hall of Fame members George Jones ("Have a Little Talk with Jesus") and Dolly Parton ("This Old House"), along with Kix Brooks of Brooks & Dunn ("Swing Low, Sweet Chariot"), Charlie Daniels ("This Little Light of Mine"), Ronnie Dunn of Brooks & Dunn ("Where Could I Go But to the Lord"), Vince Gill ("I Saw the Light"), Emmylou Harris ("Jesus Loves Me"), Alison Krauss ("In The Garden"), Martina McBride ("Uncloudy Day"), Delbert McClinton, Pam Tillis ("Precious Memories"), Trisha Yearwood and rocker Huey Lewis ("Oh! Happy Day").

Lee, whose first gospel performance was with Georgia's Master Worker's Quartet when she was 5, said, "When you're a poor daughter of the South, church is where you go for your social activities because it's free. So every time the doors were open, we were there. As I child, it was just ingrained in me."

Taking almost two years to complete because of all the schedules that needed to be coordinated, Lee calls the resultant project, "an upbeat, happy thing." Other happy things in Lee's busy life include her involvement as a board member for organizations including Habitat for Humanity and the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS). She also gives four scholarships per year to two Nashville universities, and is quick to pass on a bit of the wisdom she learned from the man who was one of the most important keys to her success, producer Owen Bradley.

"[He] always told me two things: Don't ever try to compete with anybody else; and, you don't have to be the conductor, you just want to be on the train. I've been on the train for a long, long time and I really appreciate it. I see strong women every day in our world of entertainment, more so in the last decade than I've ever seen. And I'm always glad to see the girls do well, because no matter what they say, the girls have a harder time breaking that glass ceiling than the guys do in this town. Once the door is opened by people before us, it's a little bit easier to get through the cracks. I hope that the young group that's coming - and I was in that young group, too - I hope they have a passion and a love for whatever it is they do. The entertainment world is hard enough when you love what you do. In any business, without that passion, it must be truly hard."

On the Web: www.brendalee.com

April 17

Ron Sakamoto's Solid Gold Touch
By Lorie Hollabaugh

The 2006 CMA International Talent Buyer / Promoter of the Year is a fixture not only on the Canadian music scene, but on the global stage as well. As one of the primary promoters in Canada for the last 30 years, Ron Sakamoto, or "Sak," as he is affectionately known, has presented shows from KISS to George Strait and been a constant champion of Canada's entertainment scene, helping build it into the thriving business it is today.

His story reads like a typical rags-to-riches, small-town-boy-makes-good tale - but with a few unlikely twists. Growing up on a farm in Southern Alberta, Canada, Sakamoto was blessed with a beautiful singing voice and has sung in choirs but turned his attention to baseball and hockey. It was on a hockey team trip that he would get the inspiration to open his first club.

"I was playing hockey in different cities, and at that time Dick Clark's 'Bandstand' was popular," Sakamoto said. "I was watching 'Bandstand' and I thought, 'Hmm, that looks kind of neat.' Then I got hurt and knew I was never going to make the pros, so I decided to open a teen club. We opened on Friday and Saturday nights, with no booze - I sold pop, chocolate bars and chips - and it did very well."

Realizing he would need to work with business people to book his club, Sakamoto decided to become a Fuller Brush Man.

"The hardest thing for me to do was talk to people, Sakamoto said. "My friend managed a Fuller Brush business, and I felt that going door to door was the hardest thing. If I could do that and be successful, then I could do anything."

Sakamoto's philosophy worked. He opened a club in Lethbridge and started his company, Gold & Gold Productions. Some were surprised to encounter a Japanese Canadian at their first meeting, but Sakamoto won them over with his contagious enthusiasm and tireless work ethic - the same traits that have helped him become one of Canada's biggest promoters.

The first promoter to bring KISS to Canada, Sakamoto has seen plenty of changes during his three decades in the business, and he's watched the careers of countless rock and Country artists blossom and grow. Perhaps the biggest change has been the size of the arenas and the magnitude of the shows presented.

"At the time I started there were mainly hockey arenas," he said. "Most smaller towns had arenas because of hockey. They didn't have all-purpose buildings at that time, so we had to use movie theaters with stages. Today, entertainers travel in huge buses with tons of equipment, and the show has gotten a lot more complex and sophisticated."

Although Canada has only one tenth of the population of the U.S., Sakamoto noted that it still supports music in a big way. He should know. During his career he's worked with nearly every name in the business, including Bryan Adams, the Bee Gees, the Doobie Brothers, Tom Jones, Ricky Nelson, Roy Orbison, Santana, Van Halen and Country artists including Alan Jackson, Brooks & Dunn, Faith Hill and Tim McGraw, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Charley Pride, Shania Twain and Keith Urban.

Recognition of outstanding industry contributions is part of the mission of CMA - including those accomplishments outside of our domestic borders. Last September, CMA presented promoter Ron Sakamoto with the CMA International Talent Buyer / Promoter of the Year Award.

"Part of the CMA mission statement is to bring the poetry and emotion of Country Music to the world," said CMA Chief Operating Officer Tammy Genovese. "Throughout many years, Ron has helped build a market for our artists to tour in Canada, and we are proud to recognize him with this Award."

The Award is given to an international talent buyer / promoter who has promoted at least two concerts of Nashville-signed artists outside the United States in the past 12 months. Genovese and CMA Board Member and Chairman of CMA Global Markets Committee Jeff Walker, President of AristoMedia / Marco Promotions, presented the Award to Sakamoto during the Industry Awards Brunch on Sept. 9, as part of the Canadian Country Music Association's Country Music Week in Saint John, New Brunswick. Sakomoto also received the Award in 2001.

"I find myself not only honored, but humbled to be recognized on such a level," Sakamoto said. "I am so fortunate to be able to work with such fine people, right from the talented and amazing artists; their bands and crew members; management and agents and their assistants; to the road crew; sound and light people - everyone involved from start to finish in promoting and producing a first class event. To be rewarded by CMA for doing something I love and feel so passionate about is beyond my largest dreams."

"We are delighted that Ron Sakamoto is the 2006 recipient of the CMA International Talent Buyer / Promoter of the Year Award," said CMA International Director Bobbi Boyce. "He works tirelessly to promote Country Music in Canada and is responsible for introducing some of the biggest names in our industry to the Canadian market place."

A multiple award winner for services to Country Music, Sakamoto, through his agency Gold & Gold Productions, has introduced some of the top names in Country Music to the Canadian marketplace. He co-founded CSA, a full service booking and brokering agency that puts Canadian artists together with major tours, including Charlie Major with Randy Travis, Aaron Prichett with Brooks & Dunn and Johnny Reid with Brad Paisley and Terri Clark. He has been named the Canadian Country Music Association's Talent Buyer / Promoter of the Year for 14 consecutive years.

Sakamoto's ventures include partnerships in casinos, racetracks and a golf course, and ownership of several racehorses, one of which represented Canada at the MNBA Challenge Race in Texas. Retirement hasn't crossed his mind, although Sakamoto conceded that balance is one of the keys to a successful life.

CMA Presents Six International Awards to Industry and Media Professionals in Australia and the UK
By Scott Stem

Recognition of outstanding industry contributions is part of the mission of CMA - including those accomplishments outside of U.S. borders. In early February 2007, six industry and media professionals in Australia and the United Kingdom were honored by CMA with international awards.

"CMA is thrilled to honor the efforts of these six individuals who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to support and promote Country Music in Australia, the United Kingdom and around the world," said CMA Chief Operating Officer Tammy Genovese.

AUSTRALIA
Rob Potts, CEO of Entertainment Edge and a CMA Board Member, surprised two Australian professionals with awards recognizing their continued support of Country Music on Jan. 30 at The Basement in Sydney, Australia.

Tim Daley, Country Music Channel (CMC) Program Manager, was the recipient of CMA's Wesley Rose International Media Achievement Award which recognizes outstanding achievements in the media which contribute to the development of Country Music outside the United States. Radio, TV and print journalists, authors, editors, television writers, producers and organizations based outside the United States are eligible to win this award.

"To have my name mentioned in the same sentence as Wesley Rose is truly an honor," Daley said. "It is fantastic to be acknowledged by the CMA for simply doing something that I love to do."

Ian Holland received the CMA International Country Broadcaster Award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to Country Music by a radio broadcaster based outside the United States. CMA may present up to three of these awards per year.

"Winning the award came out of the blue," Holland said. "It was a complete shock for me. I've been a huge supporter of Country for a long time and I'm keen to help with the development of Country Music in Australia. I believe when it really takes off in Australia it will be as big, if not bigger here per capita than it is in the United States. My dream is to see my prediction proved correct in the not-too-distant future."

In addition, it was announced that Michael Chugg, Executive Chairman of Chugg Entertainment, was the winner of the CMA International Talent Buyer / Promoter of the Year Award, which honors an individual who has contributed significantly to the advancement of Country Music by creative artist tour packaging, new artist development and producing new and creative Country Music promotions. Chugg was out of the country and unable to attend the presentation, but will receive his award soon.

"It is with great pride that I accept this award on behalf of all my hardworking staff who give blood for Chugg Entertainment," Chugg said. "I congratulate CMA for the magnificent job they have done particularly in the last decade in breaking not just American music but international Country Music worldwide. I would also like to thank my clients the Dixie Chicks and Keith Urban for believing in us when touring down under. I would also like to mention Simon Renshaw and Rob Potts for getting me interested in Country Music many years ago."

UNITED KINGDOM
Alan McBlane, Owner of mcb3, received CMA's Jo Walker-Meador International Achievement Award on Feb. 1, by Country Music artists Jace Everett and Julie Roberts. The presentation took place backstage at CMA's Third Annual New from Nashville event at Carling Academy, Islington in London, England. The award recognizes outstanding achievement by an individual or company in advocating and supporting Country Music's market development in territories outside North America.

"I'd like to thank CMA for honoring me with this award, and the recognition that they feel I've supported Country Music's marketing development here in the UK," McBlane said. "In particular, I'd like to thank Richard Story at Sony BMG, Nick Stewart at Warner Music and Debbie Linn at Sony BMG in Nashville for their encouragement and support, and all associated with the CMA International Advisory Group. Most of all however, thanks go to Joe Galante and the extended RLG / Sony BMG family in Nashville who have put up with me for the past six years!"

On Feb. 3, Everett and Roberts presented Moray Firth Radio host Helen MacPherson with the second CMA International Country Broadcaster Award while backstage at a New from Nashville performance during the Celtic Connections Festival at Classic Grand in Glasgow, Scotland.

"It's a great reward for all the work you put into it, although I don't think of it as work," MacPherson said. "It is a really great thank you."

Rick Murray, CMA VP of Strategic Marketing and Bobbi Boyce, CMA International Director, presented the third CMA International Country Broadcaster Award to Tim Rogers at a luncheon in London on Feb. 5.

"You program Country Music but never really know if you are doing it right," said Rogers. "Then someone from Nashville recognizes you and says 'Yes, you ARE doing it right.' It says it all. It's amazing! I really appreciate it."

INTERNATIONAL AWARDS RECIPIENTS BIOGRAPHIES
Michael Chugg is considered one of the pioneers of the Australian music industry, having promoted artist concerts for more than four decades. Since forming Chugg Entertainment in 2000, he's promoted more than 150 Australian and international artists, earning his reputation as one of the most prominent and respected promoters in the world. His company organized Wave Aid in January 2005, a charity concert that raised more than $2.3 million for the victims of the Boxing Day tsunami. Among the most recent Country tours of Australia promoted by Chugg Entertainment are: the Dixie Chicks (2003, 2006); Steve Earle (2005); and Keith Urban (2003, 2005).

United States-native Tim Daley began his career working at KQIL-AM in Grand Junction, Colo., with Country Music Disc Jockey Hall of Fame member Don Rhea. After marrying an Australian native, he moved to Sydney in 1992 and worked at Triple M radio. He joined TV operator Foxtel in 1997 before starting XYZnetworks (a Foxtel and Austar joint venture) in 1999, where he produced music-oriented TV shows for Channel [V], including the live pop request show "By Demand." In 2000, Daley launched the adult music channel, Max; and in 2002, he launched CMC for regional pay TV operator Austar. The 24-hour channel is available in more than 2 million homes in Australia and has become the most influential medium for Country Music in the nation. Daly has secured the Australian broadcast rights for Country Music's Biggest NightT, the annual CMA Awards, while also filming and airing specials on Dierks Bentley, Joe Nichols and Australia's Golden Guitar Awards. He works closely with the record labels on both local and international album releases and serves on the CMA Global Task Force Australian Advisory Group.

During his more than 30-year radio broadcasting career, Ian Holland has been a strong supporter of Country Music. He introduced Australians to the music of Ed Bruce, Ronnie Milsap, Michael Martin Murphy, Ray Price and many other Country artists in the 1970s on 2UE where he later became the MD. For three years, he was heard on more than 50 stations hosting "Australian Top 40." After becoming the PD of 2CH, he helped the station become Sydney's No. 1 radio station for the first time in its history. In the '80s, Holland worked with 2BG on the development of its highly successful News Talk format before moving to 2SM in 1992 where he served as host of "Sydney's Hottest Country." Holland was also the host of the Australian edition of the successful "American Country Countdown" syndicated radio program. In 1997, Holland opened his own business operating charter flights throughout Australia while giving traffic reports from the air for three stations. In 1995, he returned to broadcasting fulltime at 2CH where he continues to serve as both PD and night announcer. In his quest to re-establish 2CH's dominance in the marketplace, Holland is using Country Music to play a strong role in the station's development.

When Moray Firth Radio went on air in Scotland in February 1982, Helen MacPherson loaned them her considerable Country Music album collection with the understanding that she would determine their playlist. After attending the Wembley Country Festival that year and obtaining a sizeable number of artist interviews, MacPherson received her own Country program on Sundays and later added a mid-week show. Twenty-five years later, McPherson is still hosting two shows on Moray Firth Radio: "Classic Country" on Mondays and "A Kind of Country" on Wednesdays.

Alan McBlane is the Owner of mcb3, an independent UK marketing company that manages all aspects of UK releases for Sony BMG Nashville, as well as a variety of independent projects for labels including Flying Sparks, Hungry Dog and Persevere. McBlane consults for Gibson Guitars Europe and lectures in music at Buckinghamshire and Chilterns University College. McBlane has also worked in music retailing, artist management and with several UK music companies including Polydor, Island Records and The Grapevine Label.

Tim Rogers is in his fourth decade of presenting Country Music radio shows in the UK. Through the years, fans have listened to his weekly programs on Trent FM, Gem AM, the national "Classic Gold" show and currently on Saga 106.6 FM, where he interviews top stars, legends, rising artists and more. Rogers frequently visited Nashville to obtain artist interviews and bring the best of Country Music to his listeners. A colleague once remarked that Rogers "has been a benchmark that other local Country presenters aspire to since the 1970s."

April 11

CMA Broadcast Awards Submissions Accepted Online Now
By Brandi Sanford

© 2007 CMA Close Up News Service / Country Music Association, Inc.

The Country Music Association is accepting online submissions for the 2007 CMA Broadcast Awards for Broadcast Personality, Radio Station and National Broadcast Personality of the Year at www.Broadcast.CMAawards.com.

Categories for submission include Broadcast Personality and Radio Station of the Year in four market sizes (major, large, medium and small), as well as CMA National Broadcast Personality of the Year.

"The online system continues to be a huge success since we first launched it in 2004," said Tammy Genovese, CMA Chief Operating Officer. "It simplifies the process for our CMA member radio stations, personalities and judges."

To submit an entry, CMA member radio stations and broadcast personalities should logon to www.Broadcast.CMAawards.com, where entry requirements, guidelines and instructions for submitting entries are posted. CMA's panel of judges, who are radio professionals, will view and evaluate the entries online.
After judges' scores are recorded, the accounting firm of Deloitte & Touche LLP will tabulate.

The deadline for submitting entries online is 5:00 PM/CT, Thursday, June 28. Winners will be notified in early October and recognized at "The 41st Annual CMA Awards," which will be held in November and broadcast live on the ABC Television Network. For more information about CMA Broadcast Awards entries contact Catherine Thompson, CMA Marketing Coordinator, at CThompson@CMAworld.com.

To view winning entries from last year's 2006 CMA Broadcast Awards, visit www.CMAawards.com. CMA Broadcast Awards winners are not eligible to enter in consecutive years in the same category. Only CMA Awards members may enter the CMA Broadcast Awards. CMA member radio stations and personalities in the United States and Canada are eligible. Want to enjoy the benefits of being a CMA member? Visit CMAworld.com/membership, e-mail Membership@CMAworld.com or call CMA Membership Services at 1-800-788-3045 for more information and to apply for CMA membership.

CMA Awards is a production of the Country Music Association, Inc. Premiere Radio Networks is the official radio packager of the CMA Awards.

On the Web: www.Broadcast.CMAawards.com

Country Music DJ and Radio Halls of Fame Welcome Five
By Peter Cronin

Country Radio Broadcasters welcomed Joe Ladd and John Trimble into its Country Music DJ Hall of Fame, and Les Acree, Larry Daniels and Bob Moody into the Country Music Radio Hall of Fame in ceremonies held at the Nashville Convention Center on Feb. 27. Hosted by Dale Carter, Program Director, KFKF-FM/Kansas City, Mo., the induction ceremony served as the opening event of CRB's 38th Annual Country Radio Seminar. CMA was a proud sponsor.

During the ceremonies, CRB also presented Charlie Monk with the President's Award and Kenny Rogers with the Career Achievement Award. Rogers joins past Career Achievement Award winners Alabama, Sonny James, Reba McEntire, Ronnie Milsap and Dolly Parton.

Accepting his President's Award, the usually loquacious CHARLIE MONK, the "Mayor of Music Row," was caught off guard when his granddaughter McKenna walked on stage to deliver his acceptance speech for him. The precocious 11-year-old proved to be a gifted public speaker and kept the crowd in stitches with stories of her grandfather's long and distinguished career.

LARRY DANIELS, who is celebrating his 50th anniversary in the radio industry, began his illustrious career in high school in 1957 at KGEN/Tulare, Calif., and soon moved to Bakersfield, where he began a long and successful association with Buck Owens. He spent much of his career at Owens-owned stations in Bakersfield and Phoenix. Daniels reminisced about his boyhood days in Tulare, where he "picked cotton and learned to drive a tractor at the age of 8." He went on to describe his career as "a rewarding experience. How many people get to realize their dream and have it turn into a lifetime career?"

With a career that has taken him from his native Arkansas to stations in San Antonio; Denver; Detroit; Windsor, Ontario; Louisville; Shreveport; and Baltimore, BOB MOODY went right back home in his acceptance speech, thanking his grandmother for making him "curious about the world outside of my small town horizons." He went on to defend Country radio against various critics. "We're in the entertainment business," Moody said. "Bookstores sell people books they want to read, and theaters sell people tickets to films they want to see. We broadcast - most of us free of charge - music that people want to hear. And we should never apologize for that."

LES ACREE was introduced and inducted via a letter from Kenny Chesney thanking the broadcasting veteran for helping him with his career. In his remarks, Acree described his early conversion from Top 40 to Country. "I was sitting there one day playing 'Paint it Black' by the Rolling Stones, and I said, 'What the hell are they talking about?'" Acree said. "So that night, I went to a bar and I played the jukebox, just punched the first thing I saw. This song that came on was 'This is It' by Jim Reeves. I said, 'You know what? This is it.'" Acree began his radio career at KDKD/Clinton, Mo., in 1961 and has since worked at radio stations in Ohio, Mississippi, North Carolina and Tennessee.

Inductee JOE LADD has long been one of Houston's most visible and venerable radio personalities. Credited with breaking stars Mickey Gilley, Johnny Lee and Gene Watson, Ladd remembered his fellow Country Music DJ Hall of Fame member, the late Pete Hunter for giving him invaluable advice. "He said, 'Ladd, if you have nothing intelligent to say, shut your mouth and play the music.'" These days, Ladd serves as manager for Mark Chesnutt.

JOHN TRIMBLE brought his trademark booming voice and personality to his acceptance speech, reminiscing about his 50-plus year career and regaling the crowd with stories of his long-running "Trucking Radio Show." "I feel like Ernest Tubb when he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame back in 1965," Trimble remarked. "Ernest said, 'I don't know if I deserve this award, but I'm certainly glad that somebody thought I did.' And that's the same way I feel. This is a tremendous honor." Trimble has worked at stations in Arkansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Indiana, Virginia and Washington.

To celebrate KENNY ROGERS amazing career - including 20 Platinum albums, 22 No. 1 hits and more than 100 million albums sold - Billy Currington, Vince Gill and Don Schlitz performed some of his classic hits. Schlitz sang his composition, "The Gambler," Rogers' biggest hit, thanking Rogers by asking the question, "How many careers has this man given to people like me? How many other guys have been lucky enough to have the freedom to write anything we wanted for the rest of our lives because of him?"

In accepting his Career Achievement Award, Rogers expressed similar sentiments to the radio executives in the audience.

"You've given me the gift of competing, because all I ever asked for was a chance to compete," Rogers said. "Radio has always said to me in so many words, 'Do a great song and we'll play it; if it's an average song, you're going to stand in line like everybody else.' And I can live that. Most importantly, while you guys are awarding me, it is you who have made this possible for me."

On the Web: www.crb.org

April 3

Crisco Presents the "Road to CMA Music Festival" Tour
By Ryan Noreikas

As a precursor to CMA Music Festival, the "crown jewel of Country Music Festivals" according to USA Today, for the third consecutive year, Crisco continues to partner with the Country Music industry as title sponsor for the Crisco Presents the "Road to CMA Festival" tour. CMA, with the support of Crisco and additional partners Anderson Merchandisers, Chevy: The Official Ride of Country Music, Gibson Guitar, Greased Lightning, Southwest Airlines and Wal-Mart, will once again bring Country Music fans a taste of the music and excitement of CMA Music Festival, offering fun activities and free product samples at free-to-the-public outdoor concert events, which will take place in Wal-Mart parking lots throughout the Southeast. (Note the Lansing, Mich., event takes place at Meijer). After the shows, autograph signings will allow fans to meet and be photographed with artists, an experience that has always been a cornerstone of the Festival.

Artists scheduled to participate in this year's "Road to CMA Festival" tour include Jeff Bates, Blue County, Eric Church, Emerson Drive, Buddy Jewell, Craig Morgan, Danielle Peck, Ray Scott, Trent Willmon and Chris Young.

"This tour is a wonderful way to sample what CMA Music Festival is all about: Country artists performing and interacting with fans," said Tammy Genovese, CMA Chief Operating Officer. "Thousands of fans travel to Nashville each summer for CMA Music Festival from all 50 states and more than 20 different countries. The 'Road to CMA Music Festival' brings a piece of the experience directly to the fans' hometowns."

The tour dates are: April 3, Raleigh, N.C.; April 4, Charlotte, N.C.; April 5, Atlanta; April 10, Fayetteville, Ark.; April 11, Memphis, Tenn.; April 12, Birmingham, Ala.; April 17, Charleston, S.C.; April 18, Jacksonville, Fla.; April 19, Orlando; and April 24, Lansing, Mich.

"We are thrilled that Crisco has once again stepped up as title sponsor of this year's 'Road to CMA Music Festival' tour, said Rick Murray, CMA VP of Strategic Marketing. "Country Music is truly the fabric of America and what better way to bring our music to the people than a tour that allows us to share such great talent and a taste of the CMA Music Festival directly with the fans. We appreciate our partners for helping to make this possible."

Crisco presents the "Road to CMA Music Festival" tour dates and store locations are as follows. Pre-event activities begin at 5 PM and concerts begin at 7 PM at all locations. Autograph sessions with the artists and fans take place in each store, following the concert. Please note that artists are subject to change without notice.

TOUR INFO
4/3/07 - Raleigh
Wal-Mart
2114 South Main Street
Wake Forest, NC 27587
Featuring: Buddy Jewell, Danielle Peck

4/4/07 - Charlotte
Wal-Mart
2420 Supercenter Drive NE
Kannapolis, NC 28083
Featuring: Buddy Jewell, Danielle Peck

4/5/07 - Atlanta
Wal-Mart
2510 Redmond Circle
Rome, GA 30165
Featuring: Jeff Bates, Danielle Peck

4/10/07 - Fayetteville
Wal-Mart
4208 Pleasant Crossing
Rogers, AR 72758
Featuring: Craig Morgan, Ray Scott

4/11/07 - Memphis
Wal-Mart
7950 Craft Goodman Road
Olive Branch, MS 38654
Featuring: Eric Church, Craig Morgan

4/12/07 - Birmingham
Wal-Mart
5335 Highway 280 South
Hoover, AL 35242
Featuring: Blue County, Eric Church

4/17/07 - Charleston
Wal-Mart
4920 Centre Pointe Drive
North Charleston, SC 29418
Featuring: Emerson Drive, Chris Young

4/18/07 - Jacksonville
Wal-Mart
1505 County Road 220
Orange Park, FL 32003
Featuring: Emerson Drive, Chris Young

4/19/07 - Orlando
Wal-Mart
2501 North Citrus Blvd.
Leesburg, FL 34748
Featuring: Eric Church, Chris Young

Family-friendly entertainment is also the foundation of CMA Music Festival, which takes place in Downtown Nashville, Thursday-Sunday, June 7-10, 2007. The event features more than 70 hours of live musical performances; more than 30 hours of autograph signings; family activities; celebrity sports competitions; and much more, earning its reputation as the dream destination for fans of America's music.

To learn more about CMA Music Festival, visit www.CMAfest.com. A schedule of activities, artist appearances, concert lineups, ticket and travel information and more are available at the click of a mouse. Plus, sign up for CMA Exclusive, a periodic e-mail featuring artist interviews and the latest news on CMA events.

CMA Music Festival is organized and produced by the Country Music Association. CMA Board member Tony Conway is the Executive Producer of CMA Music Festival. Premiere Radio Networks is the official radio broadcaster. Chevy: The Official Ride of Country Music. Borders® Books & Music: The Official Music & Book retailer of the CMA Music Festival. Additional promotional partners include Crisco®, Greased Lightning Cleaning Products®, Music Festivals®, New Holland Agriculture Equipment S.p.A., On the Run® at Exxon, Sam's Town Hotel & Gambling Hall, The Sportsman Channel®, Wrangler® and Yamaha Motor Corp., USA. Fan Fair® is a registered trademark of CMA.

NEW ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: Tom Wurth
By Kristen Scherer

Tom Wurth may have come from a small town, but his voice and ambition are anything but small. Growing up in rural Marcus, Iowa, Wurth's parents were vital musical influences. "My dad gave me two choices; to learn to play piano or guitar," Wurth said, who's mom was a music teacher at a Catholic school and who's dad taught special education, made mandolins and played guitar.

He made his first public appearance at the Iowa State Fair at 10, but Wurth didn't get serious about music until high school when he wrote his first song and joined the choir. After graduation, he moved to Nashville and entered Belmont University to pursue his music business dreams, but fate had other plans. Not even through his first day at Belmont, Wurth suffered severe injuries from a car crash that nearly left him paralyzed. Lying in the hospital bed for more than two months, the singer found inspiration in his faith and in the music of Vince Gill and Steve Wariner.

Things started looking up for Wurth when he landed a job at J. Aaron Brown Publishing and recorded lead vocals, Love Songs and Lullabyes for Daddy's Little Dreamer. The children's album earned a GRAMMY nomination and led Wurth to his first publishing deal with Belden Enterprises, and later signed to BMG Music.

Wurth landed a cut with Ty Herndon ("If the Road Runs Out") and a single on a NASCAR compilation. He formed a duo, Mitchell and Wurth, and opened shows for Lonestar, Rascal Flatts and Marty Stuart. When the duo parted ways, Wurth became more determined to make it as a solo artist.

Wurth co-wrote four of the tracks on his self-titled debut, produced by John Ford Coley and Bart Butler, and released last October on Aspirion/Navarre. His debut single, "Bread on the Table," was penned by Sonny Lemaire, Shane Minor and JP Pennington. "If you want to know who I am, just listen to the record," Wurth said. "Every song has reflections of my life."

IN HIS OWN WORDS:

Who is your musical hero?
"Vince Gill and Steve Wariner."

What CD is on your stereo?
"A Keith Whitley CD."

Do you have a lucky charm?
"My guitar strap. I've had it forever."

What song do you wish you had written?
"'I'm So Lonesome I Could Cry,' because it's just a good Country song."

When they look back on your life in 50 years, what do you hope people say about you? "I'd like to be remembered as an honest, solid, reliable guy. And I want people to remember my music."

On The Web: www.tomwurth.com

MORE THAN 1.2 MILLION VOTES DETERMINE WINNER OF CMT’S FIRST ONLINE TALENT SEARCH “MUSIC CITY MADNESS”

MORE THAN 1.2 MILLION VOTES DETERMINE WINNER OF CMT’S FIRST ONLINE TALENT SEARCH “MUSIC CITY MADNESS”

Nashville’s Stephanie Beck Williams Wows Fans With Original Song and Video “D.R.U.N.K.”

NASHVILLE – April 3, 2007 – CMT announced today the winner of MUSIC CITY MADNESS, the network’s first online talent search inviting fans to create and produce original music videos at CMT.com for a chance at national notoriety. More than 1.2 million votes later, Nashville’s own Stephanie Beck Williams was crowned the winner by fans for her original song and video “D.R.U.N.K.” As the winning entrant, Williams will visit CMT’s Nashville studio to record an episode of STUDIO 330 SESSIONS, CMT Loaded’s online performance series. She will also walk the red carpet and attend the 2007 CMT MUSIC AWARDS on April 16.

More than 600 entries were received, and 64 finalists were posted at madness.CMT.com, where fans voted over six weeks in a head-to-head video competition. Entries representing all ages and styles of country music were received — with musical inspirations ranging from war to Wal-Mart, dirt roads to honky-tonks, and love to love gone bad. The nationwide talent search offered unsigned or independent artists a chance to reveal original, unpublished music to fans across the country.

Williams is currently in production on a CD titled Not Your Normal Country Girl, in which she wrote and co-wrote seven of the songs. “D.R.U.N.K.” is the first single and video from the album, and chronicles the desperate cry from a woman in her quest to be perfect. Williams is originally from Biloxi, Miss., and is a graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi, where she performed in a traveling all-girl trio, “Southern Dolls.” Her influences range from Elvis, to Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn and Karen Carpenter.

Martin Clayton, vice president of digital media for CMT and Lewis Bogach, vice president, programming and development for CMT, oversee the development of original music and entertainment programming for CMT LOADED. Mark Hall is executive producer for CMT Loaded.

For more information on the MUSIC CITY MADNESS Video Contest or to view the winning submission, visit madness.CMT.com.

Visit CMT's press-only web site www.cmtpress.com for more information and downloadable photos on all of CMT's programming.

CMT, America’s No. 1 country music network, carries original programming, specials, and live concerts and events, as well as a mix of videos by established country music artists and new cutting-edge acts, including world premiere exclusive videos. Founded March 6, 1983, CMT, owned and operated by MTV Networks, reaches more than 84 million households in the United States. Go to country music’s biggest web site at www.cmt.com

CMA CLOSE-UP ADDED

Posted by Bill at 12:10 PM | Permalink

Recent Posts

April 3

News & News In Spanish

Boeing News

Disney News

Entertainment,Arts,Fashion & Technology

Recent Posts

Posted by Bill at 12:06 PM | Permalink

Ca Boom 4

April 3

CA Boom 4: 20^th Century 21^st Century Modern

CA Boom 4, the annual not-to-be-missed West Coast Independent Design Show hosted design aficionados and trade professionals in Santa Monica this past weekend. Enter the CA Boom, 20^th century 21^st century modern in the 21^st century with a material difference.

A full roster of DJ’s music permeated Santa Monica ’s Barker hangar creating a party atmosphere. Design panels and architectural home tours round out the modern design showcase.

One of CA Boom’s founding principles “Good design isn’t just for the elite, but for well informed” gives attendees the insight of contemporary design.

Prefab entered the zone of reality with over a dozen prescreened prefab manufacturers. More than just concept, each have built at least one prefab home, have their manufacturing and delivery process in place and are able to write orders. Created with modules being more than just a box, I somehow felt I’d I could create a home of adult customizable architectural Legos®. Hive Modular Homes, www.hivemodular.com, clearly illustrated the advantages of prefab, a 16 week process, and $200 per square foot turn-key. H-Haus, www.h-haus.com, introduced architecturally modern eco-friendly energy efficient designs with a European twist. Sander Architects, www.sander-architects.com, promoted a hybrid house part prefab all custom™ for infinite possibilities.

Debuting at CA Boom 4, Alberto Frias’ Transport crosses the line between architecture, art and furniture and reminiscing a walk onto the Jetsons show or Disney’s Tomorrowland. Enter the Transport pod. Sinking in floating on a cloud, you’re surrounded in a cocoon world of LED changing colored lights and music. www.albertofrias.com

Whyr’hymer Furniture, a customized wood favorite is made to order by woodworking artist Brandon Morrison. Furniture created personally for you, it welcomes you home, like a treasured pet, perhaps even a Weinmariner. Designed with warmth and a finish so smooth and inviting, you’ll have guests feeling your furniture. Whether real wood veneer lighting, cabinet, seating, table, or bedding, you’ll enjoy the artistic craftsmanship and knowing that sustainable woods are utilized. Wood by nature has warmth, Whyr’hymer Furniture has soul. As Morrison shares, “What comes from my hands…comes from my heart.” www.whyrhymer.com

PIE, a previous CA Boom favorite, is one of mine too with the West Coast debut of PIE Spoon lounge. Seating and lighting that’s curvaceous functional art in contemporary shapes and just plain fun. Art created of 100% hand-crafted ecologically friendly water hyacinth, liana, bamboo and rattan, this natural solution. Bannavis Andrew Sribyatta, an architect turned furniture designer, discovered a way to create while involving his family in Thailand . www.projectimportexport.com

Motoart, brings aviation history to functional art. You’ll see familiar and not so familiar shapes with a high shine and an immediate appreciation of aviation design. Propellers, wings, engines amongst parts integrated in sculptures, tables, desks and chairs. A perfect match blending modern. www.motoart.com

Hatch brings bean bags to a new level of fun and design with the French lounger. This is not the shape of the typical predictable bean bags. www.hatch-bbag.com

Boon with innovations for modern parents is a favorite for parents of young kids. It captures modern design and functionality with a twist of fun for kids as well as parents. The Frog Pod cleans up the bath. Animal Bags rounds up the stuffed animals and put them to work. Flo’s bubble bath dispenser creates a gentle waterfall with a protective faucet cover to prevent injury. www.booninc.com

The Ultimate Spread elevates your entertaining experience with a bold shot of color and modern shapes in Presentationware. Illuminate with color in Aluminate™ perforated colored votive hurricanes. Presentation is everything. www.theultimatespread.com

Contemplating today’s modern design to the days of Pierre Koenig’s case study house or Ayn Rand’s The Fountainhead, and it’s the modern materials that make the difference. If life were that simple.

CA Boom 4: 20^th Century 21^st Century Modern

A full roster of DJ’s music permeated Santa Monica ’s Barker hangar creating a party atmosphere. Design panels and architectural home tours round out the modern design showcase.

One of CA Boom’s founding principles “Good design isn’t just for the elite, but for well informed” gives attendees the insight of contemporary design.

Hatch brings bean bags to a new level of fun and design with the French lounger. This is not the shape of the typical predictable bean bags. www.hatch-bbag.com

CA Boom 4: 20^th Century 21^st Century Modern

A full roster of DJ’s music permeated Santa Monica ’s Barker hangar creating a party atmosphere. Design panels and architectural home tours round out the modern design showcase.

One of CA Boom’s founding principles “Good design isn’t just for the elite, but for well informed” gives attendees the insight of contemporary design.

Hatch brings bean bags to a new level of fun and design with the French lounger. This is not the shape of the typical predictable bean bags. www.hatch-bbag.com

Ca Boom 4

Posted by Bill at 12:03 PM | Permalink

Sports & Auto News

April 22

BONHOMME TRIUMPHS IN FRONT OF A MILLION CHEERING SPECTATORS IN RIO

Red Bull Air Race becomes the biggest sport event in Brazilian history

British pilot Paul Bonhomme (01:32.45 minutes) won a decisive victory
against Spaniard Alejandro Maclean (01:36.53) in the the second leg of
the
Red Bull Air Race World Series, held Saturday over Botafogo Bay in Rio
de
Janeiro.

"Awsome and unforgettable," said a beaming Bonhomme. "That was by far
the
best racing event of my career. From training and qualifying to the
elimination and in the end the finale. I dominated in Rio."

The biggest surprise of the competition was the strong performance by
Austrian rookie Hannes Arch, who came in a respectable fourth behind
2005
World Series champion Mike Mangold (USA). Peter Besenyei (HUN), who
won the
first race of the season, was disqualified, while current world
champion
Kirby Chambliss (USA) disappointed after he struck a gate and was
knocked
out of the quarter final as a result. "It's a dream come true for me,"
said
Arch about his strong performance. "It's a Brazilian fairytale. I just
barely missed the final."

The Red Bull Air Race in Rio de Janeiro's Botafogo Bay marked a new
dimension in spectator attractions for Brazil. One million people
turned out
for the race, crowding the coastline and transforming it into the
biggest
sport event in Brazilian history.

Sergey Rakhmanin (RUS), Frank Versteegh (NED), Nicolas Ivanoff (FRA)
und
Klaus Schrodt (GER) were the four slowest pilots in the elimination,
failing
to make it through to the quarter finals. "When you're flying to the
limit,
mistakes happen. The strong competition forced me to go all out," said
Versteegh explaining why he was knocked out of the race early.

Bonhomme also scored the fastest round of the day after finishing the
elimination session in just 01:30.98 minutes.

April 19

Santa Fe Rocket Racing Team Announces Appointments of Race Pilot and Crew Chief

Santa Fe Rocket Racing Team of Albuquerque, New Mexico, announces the addition of two new team members. Dave Morss of Redwood City, Calif. has signed on as the team's Chief Pilot, and Paul Novacek of Albuquerque, N.M. has signed on as Vice-President and Crew Chief.

Dave Morss is well known in the aviation industry for his accomplishments as a race and experimental Test Pilot. He has competed in more races (170) than anyone in the history of Reno Air Racing. He has set course records in Reno and been awarded two Pulitzer Aviation Trophies from the National Aeronautics Association. In total, Dave broke thirteen world speed records, eight of which still stand. Dave also conducts flight testing on aircraft of all types, piloting the first flights on 35 different prototype aircraft.

Dave will be responsible for the testing and racing of the Mark-I racer expected to be delivered soon to the Santa Fe racing team. Dave commented, "I'm always looking to be on the cutting edge of aviation technology, and I see the Rocket Racing League and Team Santa Fe as the next step in the evolution of air racing."

Paul Novacek has signed on as team Vice-President and Crew Chief. Paul holds a B.S. in Avionics and M.S. in Aviation Human Factors from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in addition to holding multiple Flight Instructor ratings. He is an active maintenance and avionics technician with over 25 years experience in corporate aircraft and air racing. Paul's extensive aviation career includes Principle Investigator positions at NASA and as a Human Factors Engineer with Raytheon

As Crew Chief, Paul will manage the maintenance, operations and pit crew of the Mark-I and future Mark-II Rocket Racers. Paul commented, "I foresee Rocket Racing and Team Santa Fe as the bleeding edge of technology and one of the most exciting spectator sports to arrive on the scene in quite a long time."

Team owner, Marc R. Cumbow states, "Dave's extensive flying background and his unmatched experience as an air racing pilot are going prove to be one of our team's greatest assets ... The other teams will now have a run for their money! This, together with Paul's engineering background and management experience has put Santa Fe Rocket Racing on track to be a leading force in the Rocket Racing League."

About the Rocket Racing League

The Rocket Racing League (RRL) is an aerospace entertainment organization, which combines the competition of racing with the excitement of rocketry. RRL is dedicated to providing safe and thrilling experiences for families through live events, television broadcasts and interactive technologies. The league's mission is to serve as a technology accelerator in the areas of airframe, propulsion and spacecraft design, and reach for the future to inspire the next generation of spaceflight enthusiasts. (www.RocketRacingLeague.com.)

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

NBA All-Star Dwyane Wade Goes 'ALL IN' to Defend NBA Title With Debut of Limited Edition Converse WADE 2.0

-- When the Miami HEAT begin the 2007 NBA Playoffs on April 21, Dwyane Wade will reveal the limited edition black/yellow version of the Converse WADE 2.0. The last time Wade revealed a special Playoff edition of his WADE signature shoe, he began one of the most memorable Playoff performances in NBA history and led the Miami HEAT to its first NBA title.

To commemorate Wade's comeback to the team and Playoff run, Converse will re-launch its "ALL IN" ad campaign that celebrates the passion of playing basketball and being "all in" for your team. Converse's "ALL IN" TV, print and online ad campaign originally launched on March 3, 2007 as the WADE 2.0 signature shoe first hit stores.

"I'm excited to be returning to the team in time for our Playoff run. Like the Converse ad says, I'm 'all in' as we begin to defend our title," said Wade. "I had great success wearing the first Playoff version of my signature shoe, so I'm hoping that run continues with the WADE 2.0."

The WADE 2.0 signature shoe reflects the duality of Wade's game with a "Rose and Thorn" design inspiration -- his fierceness on the court meets the beauty of his game. Design elements relating to Wade include a perforated pattern on the medial side of the shoe that has an embossed "Z" for his son, Zaire. The upper and outsole both have a repeating "W" pattern inspired by Wade and the Thorn. Finally, there is a leather patch behind the tongue featuring Dwyane Wade's signature.

Two colorways of the Converse WADE 2.0 are already available for MSRP $100 at Footlocker, Finish Line, Footaction, Champs, select independent retailers and online at http://www.converse.com/ . The special playoff edition will hit stores on April 25.

Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as "America's Original Sports Company"(TM) and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor(R) All Star(R) shoe, the Jack Purcell(R) shoe and the One Star(R) shoe. Converse was the first basketball shoe to ever make contact with the court in 1917. Soon after, Converse gained iconic status with the creation of the Chuck Taylor All Star shoe, which went unmatched through five decades of professional basketball. For more information, visit us on the web at http://www.converse.com/ .

Source: Converse

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

Fenway Park Opens to Red Sox Hispanic Fans
KeySpan and Hispanic News Press Raffle Tickets to the First Red Sox vs Yankees Game

-- Twenty lucky readers of Hispanic News Press' El Planeta newspaper will get a chance to check out David "El Papi" Ortiz, Dice-K, at the first Red Sox vs Yankees game on April 20th. KeySpan, the largest distributor of natural gas in the Northeast, is providing Hispanic News Press with 20 tickets to the game as part of a partnership with the media group.

KeySpan's mission is to help the Hispanic community conserve energy and learn more about the many advantages of upgrading to clean, efficient natural gas. Working together, HNP and KeySpan have created a comprehensive way to get readers to participate.

"We are delighted to partner with Hispanic News Press to understand how we can better serve the Hispanic community," said Nick Stavropoulos, President, KeySpan Energy Delivery. "Natural gas is reliable and the most environmentally friendly fossil fuel. "

El Planeta Newspaper, created surveys where respondents answer an array of questions regarding their current use of energy and have them enter to win Red Sox tickets. HNP is also employing its radio show to promote this contest.

"We have received an overwhelming response to this great promotion", stated Lisette Garcia, Events Director at HNP.

"KeySpan is always present in many aspects of our life. This way of interacting with the community makes companies like KeySpan be well recognized," said Javier Marin, CEO of Hispanic News Press.

Hispanic News Press publishes the newspaper El Planeta, the magazines Sus Deportes, EntreAmigos and also has a daily radio program, an online presence through elplaneta.com and elplanetastore.com as well as promoter of special events. Hispanic News Press is the largest media group in New England assisting the Spanish speaking community.

Source: Hispanic News Press

http://www.elplaneta.com/
http://www.elplanetastore.com/

Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. Signs Agreement For The Acquisition Of Jumpstart Automotive Media
Jumpstart Automotive Advertising Network to Assume Responsibility For Online Ad Sales for CarandDriver.com, RoadandTrack.com and CycleWorld.com
The Network Will Reach 5 Million In-Market Car Buyers Monthly

Note: Today, Lagardere issued the following press release (see below) in Paris announcing that Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S (www.hfmus.com), a Lagardere subsidiary and owners of the Car and Driver, Road & Track and Cycle World brands, reached an agreement to acquire Jumpstart Automotive Media (www.JumpstartAutomotiveMedia.com), the San Francisco-based vertical advertising network focused exclusively on the automotive industry. Jumpstart will operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hachette retaining the Jumpstart brand and all of its employees.

Jumpstart will immediately assume responsibility for the online advertising sales of CarandDriver.com, RoadandTrack.com and CycleWorld.com, significantly expanding its advertising inventory. These sites will be aggregated with Jumpstart's network to bring the total number of unique visitors to 5 million per month (Source: ComScore March 2007), making Hachette and Jumpstart among the leading players in the online automotive industry.

Statement from Jack Kliger, President and CEO, Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S.:

"The acquisition of Jumpstart gives us scale and expertise in the online automotive marketplace, the largest and most important ad category on the Web. By combining the strong digital platform of Jumpstart with our well-established brands Car and Driver, Road & Track and Cycle World, Jumpstart and Hachette will be well-positioned to capitalize on future growth opportunities in the automotive category and to create more powerful offerings for our advertising partners in the future.

"Mitch Lowe and his team of over 75 experienced online automotive experts have been smart and built a business that has carved out a unique position in online sales. We are delighted that Mitch and his group will continue to operate this business. We plan to contribute assets and investments to support Jumpstart's continued growth. Jumpstart is highly respected in the automotive industry and has an innovative and successful business model. Jumpstart already represents a group of premier in-market automotive brands, and we think that our brands will complement this list and will strengthen the network for advertisers. We look forward to working with Jumpstart's network of publishers to develop synergies.

"With the acquisition of Jumpstart, Hachette can now serve the full purchase cycle for the consumer. In my opinion, the key to future success in the automotive marketplace is to be able to effectively serve the consumer's buying process from the beginning to the end. The prospective buyer usually takes twelve weeks to make a decision, and Car and Driver and Road & Track have been important resources to a consumer who is researching which make and model to buy. The Web increasingly plays an important role in the final stages of purchasing, and Jumpstart's strength is its connection to the in-market buyer."

Statement from Mitch Lowe, Founder and CEO, Jumpstart Automotive Media:

"Since 2000, Jumpstart has been dedicated to delivering exceptional results online for advertisers and publishers in the U.S. automotive market, and this market is the biggest in the world and the largest media category in this country. One out of eight media dollars comes from automotive advertisers which represents $34.5 billion. With digital advertising, there is a growing demand for inventory. We believe that the recognized brands, strong editorial content, and deep advertising relationships of Hachette will enhance our selling capabilities and open exciting new business opportunities as we embark on the next stage of our development."

LAGARDERE SCA PRESS RELEASE

Lagardere subsidiary enters into definitive agreement to acquire Jumpstart Automotive Media

Lagardere SCA has announced today, April 19, 2007, that its subsidiary, Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S., Inc. (HFMUS), a member of LAGARDERE ACTIVE, will acquire 100% of Jumpstart Automotive Media ("Jumpstart").

Jumpstart is a leading online advertising network serving the US automotive sector and providing a full line of advertising products and services to auto makers and dealers. Jumpstart's main activities are:

-- Selling advertising space on five of the top automotive sites in

the USA (NADAguides.com, Vehix, JD Power & Associates Autos, How

Stuff Works/Consumer Guide Autos, Shopping.com Auto, an eBay

company);

-- Generating some of its revenues from behavioral targeting, which

serves ads based on internet user behaviors;

-- Offering consultancy services aimed at optimizing the efficiency of

search engine marketing;

-- Offering lead generation services, selling lists of potential

customers obtained from partner sites to auto wholesalers and

dealerships.

Jumpstart's advertiser client base includes all auto manufacturers and over one thousand auto dealerships and dealer groups.

Jumpstart reported 2006 revenues(1) of $17.1 million (95.5% higher than in 2005). Earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) reached breakeven in 2006. The company was cash-positive at end 2006.

In 2007, Jumpstart is expected to see strong growth in both revenues and EBIT.

An initial cash payment of $84 million is payable under the terms of the agreement. Additional consideration of up to a maximum amount of $26 million will be paid in 2008 and 2010 contingent on the attainment of certain specified earnings targets.

The transaction is expected to give HFMUS and LAGARDERE ACTIVE globally, the opportunity to develop the following synergies:

-- Combining the three HFMUS web sites with the Jumpstart portfolio

will raise total unique visitors represented to 5 million

(ComScore figure), and adding HFMUS's three popular high-end

brands (CarandDriver.com, RoadandTrack.com and Cycleworld.com)

will enhance the attractiveness of the product offering to

advertisers.

-- Jumpstart's expertise in search and display advertising for

dealerships and dealer groups (a total category estimated at $16

billion) will boost the HFMUS sites.

-- The experience of Jumpstart's specialist digital teams (over 75

professionals) will help HFMUS accelerate the transition to

digital in the automotive sector in the United States, as well as

LAGARDERE ACTIVE in Europe and Asia.

-- The deal significantly reinforces HFMUS's cross-media strategy of

combining print media and digital.

-- The expertise built by HFMUS in automotive content (including

video) can be rolled out across Jumpstart's partner sites, and

offered to Jumpstart's dealership client base.

Closing of the transaction is expected to occur prior to the end of May 2007 and is subject to customary closing conditions, including anti- trust approval.

Paris, April 19, 2007

(1) 2006 revenues are unaudited and proforma as restated for IFRS as applied by the group Lagardere

The Lagardere Group is a market leader in the media sector (books, distribution of cultural products, press, audiovisual, and sports content). The Group also has interests in the high technology sector via a 14.98% stake in EADS.

Lagardere shares are listed in Paris on Eurolist by Euronext - Compartment A

About Jumpstart Automotive Media

Jumpstart Automotive Media (www.JumpstartAutomotiveMedia.com) partners with leading web publishers to create the Internet's largest and highest quality community of car shoppers. Jumpstart's targeted reach and innovative marketing programs help automotive manufacturers and dealers improve their advertising results and help web publishers achieve a maximum return on their audience. Jumpstart counts every automotive manufacturer and more than one thousand automotive dealers as customers. Key Jumpstart Network partners include NADAguides, Vehix, Consumer Guide Automotive, JD Power Autos and Shopping.com. Jumpstart has partnered with leading web sites and ad networks for a Behavioral Auto Channel which uses behavioral targeting to track and serve ads to in-market car buyers across one of the web's largest aggregated distribution bases.

Jumpstart has aggregated the largest in-market audience online through four core products:

Contextual Display Network

-- 5 million unique car shoppers/month - the Jumpstart Auto Channel

Behavioral Targeting Display Network

-- 6 million unique car shoppers/month - auto buying intent behavior

-- 140 million unique internet users - aggregated distribution

network

New Car Leads

-- 75,000+ qualified consumer leads delivered to U.S. auto dealers

per month

Traffic Builder Search Marketing

-- Product portfolio spans all stages of consumer car research

-- Customer base spans all facets of automotive marketing

Including OEMs, regional dealer associations, local auto dealers,

allied industries

Ever since its launch in 2000, Jumpstart has been profitable and expects to double its revenue basis in 2007. The company is privately held and is headquartered in San Francisco, CA with additional offices in Los Angeles and Detroit.

About Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S.

Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. (www.hfmus.com) enthusiast brands reach over 50 million consumers through magazines and millions more through online and mobile content. The company's prestigious brands include American Photo, Boating, Car and Driver, Cycle World, ELLE, ELLE Decor, ELLEgirl, Flying, Home, Metropolitan Home, Popular Photography & Imaging, Premiere, Road & Track, Shock, Sound & Vision, Woman's Day and Woman's Day Special Interest Publications. The company plans to launch is first digital brand PointClickHome in second quarter 2007. Each brand has a web site; and a growing number of Hachette brands, including Car and Driver, ELLE, ELLEgirl, and Woman's Day, have brand extensions in television, radio, mobile services and consumer branded events. Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S., Inc. also includes book and custom publishing, integrated marketing, database and market research, as well as licensing, and is part of the Lagardere Active division of Lagardere SCA (www.lagardere.com) which is headquartered in France.

Car and Driver (www.CarandDriver.com) With a circulation of 1,300,000 in the U.S., Car and Driver is the world's largest, most comprehensive automotive enthusiast publication with six international editions which combine unsurpassed editorial and technical expertise with the ability to place readers in a virtual driver's seat. Car and Driver is a vibrant brand which currently offers interaction with its audience through a website, radio, mobile, podcasting and events. Over 10.5 million people read the magazine each month and more than 1 million go online for CD content. CarandDriver.com has experienced 133% growth over the past year. Car and Driver is available on Sirius and XM satellite radio and on Podcastgo.

Road & Track (www.RoadandTrack.com) Road & Track is America's original car enthusiast publication, with a 60-year track record of providing its audience with the finest road tests of new cars, comparisons for car shopping, over-the-horizon looks at future cars and trends, in-depth technical updates on everything from future fuels to tire technology, and racing features that transport the reader into the pits and paddocks of racing teams around the world. Road & Track's reputation for integrity and excellence extends from the magazine and into a robust website with interactive features, as well as a live radio program, events and licensed products. RoadandTrack.com has seen 93% growth over the past year.

Cycle World (www.CycleWorld.com) With its premiere issue in 1962, Cycle World marked the beginning of modern motor-journalism. Enthusiasts finally had a publication written to serve their interests, rather than those of motorcycle retailers. Forty years later the result is obvious: Cycle World is the leading motorcycle magazine in the world. The publication is respected by enthusiasts for insightful and honest reporting on all aspects of motorcycling.

(1) 2006 revenues are unaudited and proforma as restated for IFRS as applied by the group Lagardere

Source: Hachette Filipacchi Media

CONTACT: US Media contacts: Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S., Anne
Janas, SVP, Corporate Communications, +1-212-767-5810, ajanas@hfmus.com;
George Simpson of Jumpstart Automotive Media, +1-203-521-0352,
george@georgesimpson.com

Web site: http://www.hfmus.com/
http://www.jumpstartautomotivemedia.com/
http://www.lagardere.com/
http://www.caranddriver.com/
http://www.roadandtrack.com/
http://www.cycleworld.com/

NOTE TO EDITORS: High resolution JPEGS of logos of The Lagardere Group, Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S., Inc. and Jumpstart Automotive Media and photos of Jack Kliger and Mitch Lowe are available on request from US press contacts.

Toyota Motor Sales, USA Announces Top Management Changes

TORRANCE, Calif., April 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS) USA, Inc. announced top management changes for its Toyota and Lexus divisions.

The following executive assignments are effective immediately:

Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager of the Lexus Division, is appointed group vice president and general manager of the Toyota Division, filling the position held by Jim Lentz before his promotion to executive vice president of TMS in June 2006. Carter will be responsible for all sales, marketing and customer satisfaction activities for the Toyota Division and Scion. He continues to report to Don Esmond, senior vice president, automotive operations.

Since joining TMS in 1981, Carter has held numerous key positions, including general manager of Toyota's Denver region and general manager of Lexus' Eastern area. He also held the position of general manager and part owner of Hyannis Toyota in Hyannis, Mass.

Jim Farley, group vice president, marketing, is appointed group vice president and general manager, Lexus Division, replacing Carter. Farley will assume responsibility for all sales, marketing and customer satisfaction activities for the Lexus Division. Farley, whose replacement will be named in the near future, will also report to Esmond.

Farley joined TMS in 1990 in the strategic-planning department. Since then he has held numerous key management positions within product planning, marketing, and advertising, including an assignment as general manager of product management for Toyota Europe. Farley served as general manager of Lexus' Central area before joining Scion in July 2002.

At Scion, where he was responsible for the brand's launch, Farley served as corporate manager before being promoted to vice president. Prior to his promotion to group vice president of marketing for the Toyota Division, Farley was vice president of marketing for the Toyota Division.

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), USA, Inc. is the marketing, sales, distribution and customer service arm of Toyota, Lexus and Scion vehicle brands in the United States, celebrating its 50th anniversary in America this year. Established in 1957, TMS markets products and services through a network of 1,445 Toyota, Lexus and Scion dealers. Toyota directly employs over 33,000 people in the U.S. and sold more than 2.5 million vehicles in 2006. For more information about our company, please visit http://www.toyota.com/, http://www.lexus.com/ and http://www.scion.com/.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030501/TOYLOGO)

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030501/TOYLOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: Toyota Motor Sales (TMS) USA, Inc.

CONTACT: Xavier Dominicis, +1-310-468-5084, Xavier_Dominicis@toyota.com,
or Mike Michels, +1-310-468-7730, Mike_Michels@toyota.com, both of Toyota
Motor Sales (TMS) USA, Inc.

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

NOTE TO EDITORS: Additional corporate information and executive biographies for members of the news media are available at http://pressroom.toyota.com.

Avis Budget Group Launches First-Ever, Exclusive Group Car Rental Booking Engine
Private-Label Booking Engine Launched in Conjunction With Groople Sets Standard for Group Travel

PARSIPPANY, N.J., April 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Avis Budget Group, Inc. today announced the launch of a new private-label car rental booking engine tailored for Groople, the leading online group travel booking resource. This booking engine, the first of its kind developed, hosted and maintained by a car rental company for a group travel agency, provides a side-by-side comparison of Avis and Budget car rental offerings to customers traveling in groups. Through a collaborative effort with Groople, Avis Budget Group provides the perfect travel tool for groups such as families and friends attending a wedding, reunion or other getaway, students traveling on school trips, sports teams traveling to games or competitions and business travelers attending meetings and conferences.

Groople customers can now complement their group air and hotel reservations on http://www.groople.com/ with customized car rentals from Avis, a leading premium brand that provides the finest in service and amenities, and Budget, a brand that delivers great service at low prices for cost-conscious travelers.

Serving groups of five or more, Groople will now offer customers access to great group rates on multiple car rentals and the ease of booking all their travel plans in one simple click. For example, customers can view options specific to their arrival location, time and vehicle preferences and can reserve cars for their special event. Groups can even mix and match vehicle types and brands to meet the individual needs of each renter in the group.

"Our dual-brand approach provides the best of both worlds in car rental to Groople customers," said Becky Alseth, senior vice president of marketing for Avis Budget Group. "Between the technology innovations and 'We Try Harder' service Avis is famous for, and the great value of Budget, the complex needs of group travelers can now be met with ease and convenience."

Breaking new ground, this service allows customers to book group rates online for the first time. Groups are able to move through their bookings quickly and easily, allowing customers to book more than one car per reservation. When customers book five cars or more their group rate is automatically uploaded and the savings are built in. Best of all, each individual driver can select the car and payment option online.

"Groople and Avis Budget Group continue to lead innovation in the industry with the launch of our group rental car product. The rapid growth in booking travel online and the size of the group travel segment is driving demand for group based travel tools," said Mike Stacy, chief executive officer of Groople. "We have demonstrated our leadership in group hotels, and we are proud to offer our customers another ground-breaking tool for cars, which will make their travel planning and booking much easier."

About Groople

Groople is the leader in online group travel, offering one-stop group booking on hotel, cruise, air, bus, and rail, and is backed by partnerships with the largest travel suppliers worldwide. Groople is group travel made easy, with more than 60,000 hotel choices worldwide and six top cruise lines brought together in an online group booking website. Groople offers discounted rates, individual payment options and creates a single point of contact for the group travel consumer. Groople's customer sales center provides personal attention and offers group travel experts to advise leisure group travelers on weddings, family reunions, religious groups, sports teams, and more. Created by 20 travel industry veterans, Groople pioneered the online group travel space and continues to lead the group travel industry in technology, inventory and convenience.

About Avis Budget Group, Inc.

Avis Budget Group (NYSE:CAR) is a leading provider of vehicle rental services, with operations in more than 70 countries. Through its Avis and Budget brands, the Company is the largest general-use vehicle rental operator in each of North America, Australia, New Zealand and certain other regions. Avis Budget Group is headquartered in Parsippany, N.J. and has more than 30,000 employees. For more information on Avis Budget Group, visit http://www.avisbudgetgroup.com/.

Source: Avis Budget Group, Inc.

CONTACT: Alice Pereira of Avis Budget Group, Inc., +1-973-496-6113,
alice.pereira@avisbudget.com; or Andrea Collins for Avis Budget Group, Inc.,
+1-212-715-2222, andrea@vollmerpr.com

Web site: http://www.avisbudgetgroup.com/
http://www.groople.com/

Harley-Davidson Reports First Quarter Results
Three Week Strike Affects Company Performance

MILWAUKEE, April 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Harley-Davidson, Inc. (NYSE:HOG) today announced its results for the first quarter ended April 1, 2007. During the quarter, a 3-week strike occurred at the Company's York, Pennsylvania manufacturing plant. The impact of the strike is included in the following results.

Revenue for the quarter was $1.18 billion compared to $1.29 billion in the year-ago quarter, an 8.3 percent decrease. Net income for the quarter was $192.3 million compared to $234.6 million, a decrease of 18.0 percent compared to the first quarter of 2006. First quarter diluted earnings per share (EPS) were $0.74, a 14.0 percent decrease compared to last year's $0.86.

"We anticipated that first quarter results would be lower than last year due to the strike," said Jim Ziemer, Chief Executive Officer of Harley- Davidson, Inc. "Nobody wants a strike and no one wins in a strike. Not our employees, dealers, customers, suppliers, or our shareholders. Now that the strike is behind us, our employees are focused on moving ahead, and with the new contract, we are better positioned for the future," he said.

"In 2007 Harley-Davidson expects EPS growth in the range of 4 - 6 percent compared to 2006 based on moderate revenue growth, lower operating margin, and the benefits of our strong free cash flow. Looking ahead to 2008 and 2009, we expect solid revenue growth, operating margin improvement and the continued benefits of our strong free cash flow to drive EPS growth in the range of 11 - 17 percent," said Ziemer.

The Company expects to ship between 94,000 and 97,000 Harley-Davidson(R) motorcycles in the second quarter of 2007.

Motorcycles and Related Products Segment - First Quarter Results

Revenue from Harley-Davidson motorcycles was $891.5 million, a decrease of $117.0 million or 11.6 percent versus the same period last year. Shipments of Harley-Davidson motorcycles totaled 67,761 units, a decrease of 11,745 units or 14.8 percent compared to last year's first quarter.

Revenue from Parts and Accessories (P&A), which consists of Genuine Motor Parts and Genuine Motor Accessories, totaled $188.2 million, an increase of $5.3 million or 2.9 percent over the year-ago quarter. Revenue from General Merchandise, which consists of MotorClothes(R) apparel and collectibles, totaled $76.1 million, an increase of $7.6 million or 11.0 percent over the year-ago quarter.

Gross margin for the first quarter of 2007 was 35.9 percent of revenue compared to 38.4 percent for the first quarter last year. First quarter operating margin decreased to 20.0 percent from 24.3 percent in the first quarter of 2006. The changes in both gross margin and operating margin are primarily due to the strike.

Motorcycle Retail Sales Data

During the first quarter, worldwide retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles decreased 1.3 percent compared to the prior year quarter. In the U.S., retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles decreased 5.9 percent for the quarter while the heavyweight motorcycle industry in the U.S. decreased 0.7 percent. "We never like to see a retail sales decline," said Ziemer, "but first quarter sales are not necessarily indicative of sales for the full year. We continue to expect positive worldwide retail sales growth for 2007."

Retail sales of Harley-Davidson motorcycles grew 16.5 percent in international markets during the first quarter of 2007 compared to the first quarter of 2006. First quarter retail sales increased 25.7 percent in Europe; Canada was up 14.0 percent, and Japan was down 7.7 percent. All other international markets combined were up 16.7 percent.

Data is listed in the accompanying tables.

Financial Services Segment

Harley-Davidson Financial Services (HDFS) reported first quarter operating income of $58.9 million, an increase of $7.3 million or 14.2 percent compared to the year-ago quarter. The increase is primarily due to higher wholesale and retail net interest income and higher fee income.

Income Tax Rate

The Company's first quarter effective income tax rate was 35.5 percent compared to 36.0 percent in the same quarter last year. This decrease primarily reflects the reinstatement of the federal research and development tax credit.

Cash Flow

Cash and marketable securities totaled $929 million as of April 1, 2007. Cash flow from operations was $520 million and capital expenditures were $41 million during the first quarter of 2007. For the full year of 2007, capital expenditures are expected to be between $300 million and $325 million.

Stock Repurchase

The Company repurchased 870,000 shares of its common stock at a cost of $61.2 million during the first quarter of 2007. On April 1, 2007, the Company had 257,470,381 shares of common stock outstanding.

As of April 1, 2007, there are 21.9 million shares remaining on two board- approved share repurchase authorizations. An additional board-approved share repurchase authorization is in place to offset option exercises.

Company Background

Harley-Davidson, Inc. is the parent company for the group of companies doing business as Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Buell Motorcycle Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Harley-Davidson Motor Company, the only major U.S.-based motorcycle manufacturer, produces heavyweight motorcycles and offers a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories, apparel, and general merchandise. Buell Motorcycle Company produces sport motorcycles. Harley- Davidson Financial Services provides wholesale and retail financing and insurance programs to Harley-Davidson dealers and their retail customers.

Forward-Looking Statements

The Company intends that certain matters discussed in this release are "forward-looking statements" intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can generally be identified as such because the context of the statement will include words such as the Company "believes," "anticipates," "expects," "plans," or "estimates" or words of similar meaning. Similarly, statements that describe future plans, objectives, outlooks, targets, guidance or goals are also forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated as of the date of this release. Certain of such risks and uncertainties are described below. Shareholders, potential investors, and other readers are urged to consider these factors in evaluating the forward- looking statements and cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward- looking statements. The forward-looking statements included in this release are only made as of the date of this release, and the Company disclaims any obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

The Company's ability to meet the targets and expectations noted depends upon, among other factors, the Company's ability to (i) continue to realize production efficiencies at its production facilities and manage operating costs including materials, labor and overhead, (ii) manage production capacity and production changes, (iii) manage supply chain issues, (iv) provide products, services and experiences that are successful in the marketplace, (v) develop and implement sales and marketing plans that retain existing retail customers and attract new retail customers in an increasingly competitive marketplace, (vi) sell all of its motorcycles and related products and services to its independent dealers and distributors, (vii) continue to develop the capacity of its distributor and dealer network, (viii) manage changes and prepare for requirements in legislative and regulatory environments for its products, services and operations, (ix) adjust to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices, (x) manage regional and worldwide demographic trends and economic and political conditions, including healthcare inflation, pension reform and tax changes, (xi) manage the credit quality and recovery rates of HDFS's loan portfolio, (xii) retain and attract talented employees and (xiii) detect any defects in our motorcycles to minimize delays in new model launches, recall campaigns, increased warranty costs or litigation. In addition, the Company could experience delays or disruptions in its operations as a result of work stoppages, strikes, natural causes, terrorism or other factors. Other factors are described in risk factors that the Company has disclosed in documents previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The Company's ability to sell all of its motorcycles and related products and services also depends on the ability of the Company's independent dealer network to sell them to retail customers. The Company depends on the capability of its independent dealers and distributors to develop and implement effective retail sales plans to create demand for the motorcycles and related products and services they purchase from the Company.

In addition, the Company's independent dealers and distributors may experience difficulties in selling Harley-Davidson motorcycles and related products and services as a result of weather, economic conditions or other factors.

TABLES FOLLOW

Harley-Davidson, Inc.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

(Unaudited) (Unaudited)

Three months ended

April 1, March 26,

2007 2006

Net revenue $1,178,875 $1,285,090

Gross profit 423,046 493,214

Operating expenses 187,632 180,902

Operating income from motorcycles &

Hi everyone. Before introducing the latest AutoMatters column, I'd like to tell you that I've very been busy covering several great events and am about to cover even more. As a result, in the coming weeks you'll be reading about -- and seeing:
- The Long Beach Grand Prix:
- Including American LeMans Series racing, drifting, Champ Cars, Atlantic race cars, SPEED World Challenge cars and the ever-popular Toyota Celebrity Challenge.
- The RediAuto Challenge:
- An exciting autocross at Irwindale Speedway featuring disabled drivers in specially equipped cars with state-of-the-art hand controls and able-bodied drivers in their own autocross cars. RediAuto Sport is known as "America's only supplier of sports cars and adaptive equipment for the disabled."
- Bridgestone and Firestone's "Drive & Learn":
- An educational 'Ride & Drive' -- with a fun team challenge twist, that proved beyond any possible doubt that choosing the right tires for your car is far more important than shopping by price alone -- all tires are NOT the same.
- The Goodguys Rod & Custom Association's "Del Mar Nationals" at the Del Mar Fairgrounds.
- Ford Motor Company's "Fabulous Fords Forever!" at Knott's Berry Farm.
Oh yes, and I just submitted my registration to cover this year's SEMA SHOW. Now for an introduction to this week's column:
AutoMatters #230 is now online in the www.AutoMatters.net 2007 Column Archives. Its direct link is:
http://www.automatters.net/2007%20Columns/0230.htm
Entitled "Classic Autos, Barns & Parks," it is about my discovery of some fantastic cars from yesteryear -- and where I discovered them. That included a once-in-a-lifetime ride in a real (not a replica) 1895 Benz. Oh, and for those of you who belong to the Motor Press Guild (listen up Lou, Pete, Albert and others), if you follow the link to the AutoMatters.net website and look carefully you just might see a candid photo or two of yourself in this AutoMatters column. Read and enjoy...
Jan

April 6

BESENYEI WINS BATTLE IN THE DESERT

Crowd of 250,000 at Red Bull Air Race season opener in Abu Dhabi

Blazing desert temperatures of 38 degrees Celsius, a new knock-out
system, a
worthy winner rewarded for his four flawless runs and an enthusiastic
crowd
of 250,000. The 2007 season opener of the Red Bull Air Race World
Series had
all the right ingredients and was topped off by a heart-stopping final
--
Hungary’s Peter Besenyei edged American Mike Mangold by a narrow
1.03-second
advantage. Britain’s Paul Bonhomme took third.

The scorching desert heat made the race just above the Abu Dhabi
harbour
even more challenging for the 12 pilots who survived the cut for
Friday’s
elimination rounds after Thursday’s qualifying session. Peter Besenyei,
a
national hero in his native Hungary, rose to the challenges of the
searing
heat and new playoff round format, winning the final over the difficult
15-gate course in a time of 1:26.24 minutes. “I’m delighted. It was
extremely difficult and I was fortunate to have the better finish in
the
final. To be honest, this is exactly what I said I was aiming for
before the
season began."

American Mike Mangold, who had been plagued all week by a stubborn neck
injury, was able to put the painful pinched nerve out of his mind each
time
he climbed into his cockpit and delivered one stellar performance after
another through the elimination rounds to secure second place. “It took
me
pretty much to the limit to fly four runs including the final in this
heat
with my injury. Considering it was the first race of the season, I’m
just
happy that I was able to prove I’m competitive," said Mangold, who
finished
just 1.03 seconds behind.

Britain’s Paul Bonhomme grabbed third place by flying the fastest run
of the
day (1:25.62) in the consolation final against American Kirby
Chambliss, the
defending champion who was visibly disappointed about landing in fourth
place. “It’s crap to finish fourth, but that’s the way it is. If it
weren’t
for time penalty (for flying too high on one gate), I could have made
it to
the final. But I’m optimistic for the next race."

For Austrian Hannes Arch the race weekend was over before it even
started.
The rookie was eliminated in the qualifying round on Thursday and
condemned
to watch Friday’s race as a spectator. Four others were eliminated in
Friday’s first round, failing to win coveted spots in the top eight for
the
quarter-finals: Klaus Schrodt (GER), Sergey Rakhmanin (RUS), Nigel Lamb
(GBR) and Nicolas Ivanof (FRA).

April 4
Denaro Athletes Newsletter - April 5, 2007

Denaro Athlete, "The Young Assassin" Melvin Guillard will be showcasing UFC "Fight Night" live from the new Pearl Theater at the Palms Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, NV. Guillard will take on undefeated Stevenson in the nights Main Event live on Spike TV. This is one event you will not want to miss!

For more information log onto www.ufc.com.

Melvin Guillard vs Joe Stevenson

Melvin "The Young Assassin" Guillard will look to keep his undefeated streak in the lightweight division going against Joe "Daddy" Stevenson. Both competitors are at the top of their games and the winner will move one step closer to title contention. Melvin is very excited about this fight, as he has been eyeing Stevenson for quite some time. This fight will headline the UFC "Fight Night" live from "the Pearl" at the Palms in Las Vegas, NV on April 5th.

For more information log onto www.ufc.com

Melvin Guillard is proudly endorsed by

Melvin Guillard Official Afterparty

Come celebrate Melvin Guillard's UFC victory at the Moon Night Club at the Palms Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas on Thursday, April 5th. The new Moon is the exclusive penthouse nightclub loaded with high end finishes and VIP accommodations. Do not miss one of hottest after fight parties of the year!

Click here for more Information!

Chris Leben Guest Appearance

Chris "The Crippler" Leben will be doing a guest appearance Xtreme Fight Championships MMA promotion on Friday April 6th in Beaumont, TX. He will be on hand signing autographs and doing a meet and greet with fans. Do not miss this special opportunity to meet "The Crippler" in person.

For more information log onto www.xfcfights.com

Denaro Fighters in Recent Action

John Alessio
WEC 26, March 24, 2007 at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, in Las Vegas, NV.

John "The Natural" Alessio suffered a disappointing loss in his WEC welterweight title attempt. It was a tough fought technical battle but in the end Carlos Condit would walk away with the belt! After a very competitive first round the contest would end with only one second to go in the 2nd round by way of rear naked choke! This was a great technical fight as both competitors showed great heart and determination!

For more information log onto www.wec.tv

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

Brian Stann
WEC 26, March 24, 2007 at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, in Las Vegas, NV.

Brian Stann came prepared for war and delivered at World Extreme Cagefighting at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas on March 24. He stepped in to the octagon against previously undefeated Steve Cantwell. Both fighters came out aggressive and looking to establish their striking, when Stann landed a punishing blow that crumbled Cantwell to his knees. Stann immediately pounced and with Cantwell unable to defend himself, the referee quickly jumped in to stop the fight in just 41 seconds in to the first round. Look for this fight later this year to be televised on the Versus Network.

For more information log onto www.wec.tv

Check Out Denaro Athletes On The Web

Chris Leben

www.crippler.tv

Melvin Guillard

www.youngassassin.com

Ed Herman

www.edherman.tv

Evan Tanner

Josh Haynes

www.btpmma.com

Nathan Quarry

www.nathanquarry.com

Pet Sell

www.petedragosell.com

John Alessio

www.johnalessio.tv

David Terrell

www.davidterrell.tv

Alex Karalexis

www.alexkaralexis.com

Dan Christison

John Gunderson

coming soon

Brian Stann

coming soon

Dennis Davis

© Copyright 2007 Denaro Sports Marketing | Contact Us

April 3
Nissan North America Announces March Sales
-- Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today reported sales of 111,119 units in March, up 3.9 percent from the prior year. Nissan Division sales increased by 2.8 percent over last year. Infiniti Division posted a sales increase of 12.6 percent versus the prior year. For the fiscal year, NNA sales total 1,035,003, a 4.0 percent decrease versus 2006.
NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS
-- March sales for Nissan-brand vehicles of 97,242 units increased by 2.8
percent on a daily sales rate basis compared with last year's 91,209
units sold.
-- The Altima continued to build momentum with sales of 27,521 units, up
11.6 percent over last March.
-- Sales of the new Versa subcompact reached 6,573 units last month.
-- For the fiscal year, Nissan division sales total 910,499, a 3.6
percent decrease over last year.
INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS
-- Sales for Infiniti were up 12.6 percent, with 13,877 units sold, as
compared with last March's 11,886 units.
-- The all-new G Sedan contributed sales of 6,656 units, up 59.6 percent
over last March.
-- For the fiscal year, Infiniti sales total 124,504, down 7.0 percent
from the previous year.
NNA INFORMATION
-- For the month of March, Nissan and Infiniti sales totaled 111,119, a
3.9 percent increase over March 2006 when compared with last year's
sales of 103,095 units.
-- Combined fiscal year sales for NNA totaled 1,035,003 down 4.0 percent
over last year's sales of 1,075,097 units.
In North America, NNA's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. More information on NNA and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at http://www.nissannews.com/.
NISSAN DIVISION SALES
March March Monthly DSR CYTD CYTD CYTD DSR
2007 2006 % Change 2007 2006 % Change
Nissan Division Total 97,242 91,209 2.8 246,436 234,040 2.6
Versa 6,573 N/A N/A 16,195 N/A N/A
Sentra 9,654 11,035 -15.6 25,823 30,787 -18.3
Altima 27,521 23,790 11.6 74,029 60,628 18.9
Maxima 5,180 6,376 -21.7 13,597 16,590 -20.2
350Z 2,561 3,014 -18.1 5,258 7,033 -27.2
Total Car 51,489 44,215 12.3 134,902 115,038 14.2
Frontier 7,254 8,433 -17.1 17,210 19,824 -15.4
Xterra 5,705 6,968 -21.0 15,609 18,616 -18.3
Pathfinder 6,323 8,489 -28.2 16,151 21,248 -26.0
Murano 11,822 8,787 29.7 26,418 23,196 10.9
Quest 3,404 2,812 16.7 8,458 6,453 27.7
Armada 3,682 3,177 11.8 8,842 8,388 2.7
Titan 7,563 8,328 -12.4 18,847 21,277 -13.7
Total Truck 45,753 46,994 -6.1 111,534 119,002 -8.7
North American
Produced 82,859 79,409 0.6 214,761 203,808 2.6
Car 48,928 41,201 14.5 129,644 108,005 16.9
Truck 33,931 38,208 -14.4 85,117 95,803 -13.5
Import 14,383 11,800 17.5 31,675 30,232 2.1
Car 2,561 3,014 -18.1 5,258 7,033 -27.2
Truck 11,822 8,786 29.7 26,417 23,199 10.9

INFINITI DIVISION SALES
March March Monthly DSR CYTD CYTD CYTD DSR
2007 2006 % Change 2007 2006 % Change
Infiniti Division
Total 13,877 11,886 12.6 32,545 29,187 8.6
I35 0 0 N/A N/A 0 -98.9
G Sedan 6,656 4,022 59.6 15,323 9,338 59.8
G Coupe 1,336 1,807 -28.7 2,991 4,968 -41.4
M 2,768 2,629 1.5 6,264 6,521 -6.4
Q45 2 80 -97.6 14 184 -92.4
QX56 936 1,191 -24.2 2,499 3,077 -20.9
FX 2,179 2,157 -2.6 5,453 5,096 4.2
Total Car 10,762 8,538 21.5 24,592 21,012 14.0
Total Truck 3,115 3,348 -10.3 7,952 8,175 -5.3

COMBINED NISSAN AND
INFINITI SALES
March March Monthly DSR CYTD CYTD CYTD DSR
2007 2006 % Change 2007 2006 % Change
TOTAL VEHICLE 111,119 103,095 3.9 278,981 263,227 3.2
Total Car 62,251 52,753 13.8 159,494 136,050 14.2
Total Truck 48,868 50,342 -6.4 119,486 127,177 -8.5
Selling Days 28 27 77 75

* All numbers include Hawaii.
* Infiniti division: 2 QX4s were sold in CY06.
Source: Nissan North America, Inc.

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

Toyota Reports March Sales
Boosted by record hybrid sales, Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported all-time best-ever monthly sales of 242,675 vehicles, an increase of 7.7 percent over March 2006.
"This month marks a milestone eight years in the making," said Jim Lentz, TMS executive vice president. "Record U.S. sales of Toyota and Lexus hybrids have now topped the half-million mark." The Toyota Division posted best-ever March sales of 213,820, up 8.7 percent. The Lexus Division reported best-ever March sales of 28,855 units.
Toyota Division
Toyota Division passenger cars recorded best-ever March sales of 121,881, up 13.6 percent over the same period last year. Passenger car sales were led by Camry, which posted March sales of 42,254, up 4.5 percent over the same period last year. Camry Hybrid reported sales of 5,144 units in March. The Prius hybrid gas-electric mid-size sedan posted all-time best-ever monthly sales for the second consecutive month with 19,156 units sold, an increase of 133.2 percent. Corolla reported best-ever March sales of 34,355, an increase of 2.5 percent. The Yaris subcompact posted sales totaling 7,614 units for the month.
Toyota Division light truck sales were up 2.9 percent, an all-time best-ever month of 91,939 units. Light truck sales were led by the RAV4 compact sport utility vehicle (SUV), which reported all-time best-ever sales of 17,837, up 27.5 percent over the year-ago month. The all-new Tundra full-size pickup reported sales of 13,196 units, up 7.8 percent over Tundra sales last March. The Highlander and Highlander Hybrid posted combined March sales of 11,693. The Highlander Hybrid gas-electric mid-size SUV reported sales of 2,501 units for the month. FJ Cruiser reported March sales of 6,057 units.
Scion posted March sales of 10,978 units. The tC sports coupe led the way with March sales of 6,314 units. Scion xB posted sales of 2,799 units for the month.
Lexus Division
Lexus passenger cars reported best-ever March sales of 18,128 units, an increase of 26.7 percent over March 2006. Passenger car sales were led by the ES 350 luxury sedan with March sales of 7,444 units, up 69.7 percent. The all-new LS 460 reported sales of 3,134, an increase of 125.4 percent.
Lexus Division light trucks reported March sales totaling 10,727 units with the RX 350 and RX 400h reporting combined March sales of 8,603 units. The RX 400h hybrid luxury utility vehicle reported sales of 1,471 units for the month.
TMS calendar-year-to-date hybrid sales totaled 61,635 units, an increase of 68 percent over the same period last year, while cumulative hybrid sales to-date surpassed the 500,000 sales mark. In March, TMS posted sales of 28,453 hybrid vehicles, up 105 percent. Toyota Division posted sales of 26,801 hybrids, up 137 percent over the same period last year, while the Lexus Division posted sales of 1,652 hybrids.
There were 28 selling days this month, as compared to 27 selling days last March.
Public Web sites: http://www.toyota.com/
http://www.lexus.com/
http://www.scion.com/
http://www.toyota50th.com/

TOYOTA RETAIL SALES
(INCLUDES FLEET & HAWAII)
March, 2007
-- CURRENT MONTH -- -- CALENDAR YEAR TO DATE --
DSR% DSR%
2007 2006 CHG 2007 2006 CHG
YARIS 7,614 1,339 448.3 19,186 1,339 1295.6
COROLLA 34,355 32,312 2.5 88,195 82,287 4.4
CAMRY 42,254 38,981 4.5 105,863 93,775 10.0
AVALON 7,523 8,697 -16.6 19,635 22,543 -15.2
PRIUS 19,156 7,922 133.2 39,682 22,123 74.7
SCION xA 1,865 2,820 -36.2 5,345 7,163 -27.3
SCION xB 2,799 5,060 -46.7 8,500 12,970 -36.2
SCION tC 6,314 6,368 -4.4 15,093 16,223 -9.4
TOTAL TOYOTA DIV. PASS.
CAR 121,881 103,501 13.6 301,501 258,443 13.6
ES 350 7,444 4,231 69.7 18,050 10,787 63.0
LS 460 3,134 1,341 125.4 8,563 3,546 135.2
SC 430 370 533 -33.1 954 1,384 -32.9
GS 300 1,908 2,205 -16.6 4,664 5,675 -19.9
GS 430/450h 195 278 -32.4 553 835 -35.5
IS 250/350 5,077 5,210 -6.0 12,409 13,165 -8.2
TOTAL LEXUS PASS. CAR 18,128 13,798 26.7 45,193 35,392 24.4
TOTAL TOYOTA PASS. CAR 140,009 117,299 15.1 346,694 293,835 14.9
SIENNA 13,071 16,287 -22.6 34,959 40,390 -15.7
RAV4 17,837 13,494 27.5 41,405 33,944 18.8
FJ CRUISER 6,057 2,784 109.8 16,045 2,784 461.4
4RUNNER 9,052 10,800 -19.2 23,937 27,925 -16.5
HIGHLANDER 11,693 11,622 -3.0 31,383 29,403 4.0
LAND CRUISER 222 298 -28.2 682 885 -24.9
SEQUOIA 2,568 3,446 -28.1 6,938 9,068 -25.5
TOTAL SUV 47,429 42,444 7.8 120,390 104,009 12.7
4X2 TACOMA 10,851 9,185 13.9 27,027 24,699 6.6
4X4 TACOMA 7,392 6,477 10.1 19,301 17,108 9.9
TOTAL TACOMA 18,243 15,662 12.3 46,328 41,807 7.9
TUNDRA 13,196 11,800 7.8 29,186 31,825 -10.7
TOTAL PICKUP 31,439 27,462 10.4 75,514 73,632 -0.1
TOTAL TOYOTA DIV. LT
TRUCK 91,939 86,193 2.9 230,863 218,031 3.1
LX 470 270 489 -46.8 826 1,485 -45.8
GX 470 1,854 2,334 -23.4 5,239 6,093 -16.2
RX 350/400h 8,603 10,971 -24.4 22,233 25,407 -14.8
TOTAL LEXUS LIGHT TRUCK 10,727 13,794 -25.0 28,298 32,985 -16.4
TOTAL TOYOTA LIGHT
TRUCK 102,666 99,987 -1.0 259,161 251,016 0.6
TOTAL TOYOTA DIV. 213,820 189,694 8.7 532,364 476,474 8.8
TOTAL LEXUS 28,855 27,592 0.8 73,491 68,377 4.7
TOTAL TOYOTA 242,675 217,286 7.7 605,855 544,851 8.3
MEMO:
DOM. COROLLA 29,965 28,257 2.3 78,276 74,050 3.0
DOM. CAMRY 32,420 33,042 -5.4 80,254 83,177 -6.0
DOM. PICKUP 31,439 27,462 10.4 75,514 73,632 -0.1
DOM. RX 350 6,608 6,889 -7.5 15,229 15,308 -3.1
SELLING DAYS 28 27 77 75

TOYOTA DIV. IMPORT CAR 51,973 33,505 49.6 123,336 78,673 52.7
LEXUS IMPORT CAR 18,128 13,798 26.7 45,193 35,392 24.4
TOYOTA DIV NA BUILT
CARS 69,908 69,996 -3.7 178,165 179,770 -3.5
TOTAL TOYOTA CARS 140,009 117,299 15.1 346,694 293,835 14.9
TOYOTA DIV. IMPORT LT
TRUCK 44,861 38,998 10.9 113,452 94,941 16.4
LEXUS IMPORT LT TRUCK 4,119 6,905 -42.5 13,069 17,677 -28.0
TOYOTA DIV NA BUILT LT
TRUCK 47,078 47,195 -3.8 117,411 123,090 -7.1
LEXUS NA BUILT LT TRUCK 6,608 6,889 -7.5 15,229 15,308 -3.1
TOTAL TOYOTA LT TRUCK 102,666 99,987 -1.0 259,161 251,016 0.6
SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES 52,099 53,454 -6.0 132,643 134,210 -3.7
Memo: Lexus Sport
Utility 10,727 13,794 -25.0 28,298 32,985 -16.4
SMALL VANS 13,071 16,287 -22.6 34,959 40,390 -15.7
PICKUPS 31,439 27,462 10.4 75,514 73,632 -0.1
* NORTH AMERICAN BUILT
VEHICLES
COROLLA 29,965 28,257 2.3 78,276 74,050 3.0
CAMRY 32,420 33,042 -5.4 80,254 83,177 -6.0
AVALON 7,523 8,697 -16.6 19,635 22,543 -15.2
SIENNA 13,071 16,287 -22.6 34,959 40,390 -15.7
PICKUP 31,439 27,462 10.4 75,514 73,632 -0.1
SEQUOIA 2,568 3,446 -28.1 6,938 9,068 -25.5
RX 350 6,608 6,889 -7.5 15,229 15,308 -3.1
TOTAL 123,594 124,080 -3.9 310,805 318,168 -4.9
N.A. VEHICLES % OF
TOTAL 50.9% 57.1% 51.3% 58.4%
SELLING DAYS 28 27 77 75
DSR = DAILY SELLING RATE
Source: Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc.
Web site: http://www.toyota.com/
http://www.lexus.com/
http://www.scion.com/

Ford's new mid-size cars (Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln MKZ) and its new crossovers (Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX) set monthly sales records in March.
- Fusion sales up 48 percent compared with a year ago, Milan sales up 45 percent, and Lincoln MKZ sales up 13 percent.
- Edge sales were 10,915, up 37 percent compared with February and Lincoln MKX sales were 3,054, up 32 percent.
- Ford, Lincoln and Mercury crossover sales totaled 37,915 in March, up 42 percent compared with a year ago; year-to-date crossover sales up 29 percent.
- Ford F-Series sales were 71,481 - the highest monthly sales since August 2006.
- Ford's overall sales totaled 264,975, down 9 percent compared with March 2006 (which was the highest monthly sales in 2006).
-- Ford's new mid-size cars (Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln MKZ) and its new crossovers (Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX) set monthly sales records in March.
"We remain committed to offering more of the products that our customers really want, and the popularity of our new cars and crossovers is proof we're delivering," said Mark Fields, Ford's President of The Americas.
"Ford is moving quickly to operate profitably at lower volumes and a changed mix, and we are encouraged our retail market share appears to be stabilizing over the past several months," Fields adds. "Our newest products also are achieving the sales targets we have set for ourselves, another sign that we're making good progress."
Combined sales for Ford's new mid-size sedans were 24,094, up 40 percent compared with March 2006. Fusion sales were 15,790 (any-month record), up 48 percent compared with a year ago, and eclipsed the previous record of 15,468 set August 2006. Milan sales were 4,678 (any-month record), up 45 percent, and bettered the previous record of 4,156 set August 2006. Lincoln MKZ sales were 3,626, up 13 percent, a March record and second highest any-month.
The Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX crossovers were introduced in December 2006 and already are achieving sales levels comparable to long-established products in the crossover utility category. Edge sales were 10,915, up 37 percent compared with February and Lincoln MKX sales were 3,054, up 32 percent compared with February. In March, Ford, Mercury and Lincoln crossover sales totaled 37,915, up 42 percent compared with a year ago. In the first quarter of 2007, crossover sales totaled 89,081, up 29 percent compared with first quarter 2006.
An all-new full-size crossover will debut at the New York Auto show on Wednesday.
Ford's F-Series pickup truck posted March sales of 71,481 -- the highest monthly sales since August 2006. Compared with March 2006, which was F-Series' highest sales month of 2006, sales were down 15 percent. The company expects F-Series' comparisons to improve as availability of the all-new 2008 model Super Duty increases.
Overall, the company's March sales totaled 264,975, down 9 percent compared with a year ago, which was the company's highest sales month in 2006.
FORD MOTOR COMPANY MARCH 2007 U.S. SALES

March Month % March CYTD %
2007 2006 Change 2007 2006 Change
Sales By Brand
Ford 216,788 241,642 -10.3 522,588 615,900 -15.2
Mercury 17,426 18,915 -7.9 43,873 47,646 -7.9
Lincoln 14,770 13,446 9.8 35,127 32,504 8.1
Jaguar 1,667 1,866 -10.7 4,248 5,124 -17.1
Volvo 10,661 11,124 -4.2 26,922 28,365 -5.1
Land Rover 3,663 4,153 -11.8 10,202 11,299 -9.7
Total Ford Motor
Company 264,975 291,146 -9.0 642,960 740,838 -13.2
Memo: Cars and Trucks
Cars 89,484 104,775 -14.6 216,277 278,423 -22.3
Trucks 175,491 186,371 -5.8 426,683 462,415 -7.7
Total Ford Motor
Company 264,975 291,146 -9.0 642,960 740,838 -13.2

FORD BRAND MARCH 2007 U.S. SALES

March Month % March CYTD %
2007 2006 Change 2007 2006 Change
Crown Victoria 6,553 5,358 22.3 16,533 16,545 -0.1
Five Hundred 6,607 7,726 -14.5 16,734 22,962 -27.1
Taurus 0 20,262 -100.0 0 51,833 -100.0
Fusion 15,790 10,703 47.5 39,678 29,845 32.9
Focus 17,065 16,171 5.5 39,837 42,251 -5.7
Mustang 14,737 16,117 -8.6 34,573 40,692 -15.0
Thunderbird 0 0 NA 0 469 -100.0
GT 0 204 -100.0 231 555 -58.4
Total Ford Cars 60,752 76,541 -20.6 147,586 205,152 -28.1
Escape 16,521 15,675 5.4 39,317 42,268 -7.0
Edge 10,915 0 NA 24,478 0 NA
Freestyle 4,313 6,078 -29.0 9,793 16,842 -41.9
Explorer 12,876 17,157 -25.0 34,723 46,716 -25.7
Expedition 10,505 8,220 27.8 24,149 20,828 15.9
Excursion 0 250 -100.0 0 965 -100.0
Freestar 452 4,187 -89.2 2,026 15,532 -87.0
Econoline/Club Wagon 19,445 17,886 8.7 46,506 41,156 13.0
Ranger 7,989 9,809 -18.6 18,491 22,378 -17.4
F-Series 71,481 84,168 -15.1 171,651 199,801 -14.1
Low Cab Forward 248 357 -30.5 663 875 -24.2
Heavy Trucks 1,291 1,314 -1.8 3,205 3,387 -5.4
Total Ford Trucks 156,036 165,101 -5.5 375,002 410,748 -8.7
Total Ford Brand 216,788 241,642 -10.3 522,588 615,900 -15.2

LINCOLN AND MERCURY BRAND MARCH 2007 U.S. SALES

March Month % March CYTD %
2007 2006 Change 2007 2006 Change
Grand Marquis 5,976 5,787 3.3 14,442 16,489 -12.4
Montego 1,620 2,225 -27.2 4,290 6,107 -29.8
Milan 4,678 3,236 44.6 10,236 7,630 34.2
Total Mercury Cars 12,274 11,248 9.1 28,968 30,226 -4.2
Town Car 4,827 4,344 11.1 11,645 10,209 14.1
LS 0 1,418 -100.0 0 3,365 -100.0
MKZ 3,626 3,218 12.7 8,098 7,784 4.0
Total Lincoln Cars 8,453 8,980 -5.9 19,743 21,358 -7.6
Total Mercury
and Lincoln Cars 20,727 20,228 2.5 48,711 51,584 -5.6
Mariner 3,112 4,964 -37.3 8,430 9,997 -15.7
Mountaineer 1,882 2,373 -20.7 5,998 6,339 -5.4
Monterey 158 330 -52.1 477 1,084 -56.0
Total Mercury Trucks 5,152 7,667 -32.8 14,905 17,420 -14.4
MKX 3,054 0 NA 7,063 0 NA
Navigator 2,458 2,405 2.2 6,093 5,994 1.7
Aviator 0 518 -100.0 0 1,554 -100.0
Mark LT 805 1,543 -47.8 2,228 3,598 -38.1
Total Lincoln Trucks 6,317 4,466 41.4 15,384 11,146 38.0
Total Mercury
and Lincoln Trucks 11,469 12,133 -5.5 30,289 28,566 6.0
Total Mercury
and Lincoln Vehicles 32,196 32,361 -0.5 79,000 80,150 -1.4
Total Lincoln Brand 14,770 13,446 9.8 35,127 32,504 8.1
Total Mercury Brand 17,426 18,915 -7.9 43,873 47,646 -7.9

JAGUAR BRAND MARCH 2007 U.S. SALES
March Month % March CYTD %
2007 2006 Change 2007 2006 Change
XJ 397 486 -18.3 1,132 1,380 -18.0
S-TYPE 479 660 -27.4 1,065 1,849 -42.4
X-TYPE 285 514 -44.6 800 1,429 -44.0
XK 506 206 145.6 1,251 466 168.5
Total Jaguar 1,667 1,866 -10.7 4,248 5,124 -17.1

VOLVO BRAND MARCH 2007 U.S. SALES
March Month % March CYTD %
2007 2006 Change 2007 2006 Change
S40 2,201 2,356 -6.6 5,673 6,129 -7.4
V50 304 372 -18.3 722 1,072 -32.6
S60 1,702 2,339 -27.2 4,377 6,269 -30.2
V70 371 464 -20.0 849 1,296 -34.5
XC70 1,127 1,331 -15.3 3,077 3,247 -5.2
C70 368 11 3,245.5 1,008 85 1085.9
S80 1,392 598 132.8 3,103 1,712 81.3
XC90 3,196 3,653 -12.5 8,113 8,555 -5.2
Total Volvo 10,661 11,124 -4.2 26,922 28,365 -5.1

LAND ROVER BRAND MARCH 2007 U.S. SALES
March Month % March CYTD %
2007 2006 Change 2007 2006 Change
Range Rover 1,159 991 17.0 2,909 2,762 5.3
Range Rover Sport 1,356 1,667 -18.7 3,801 4,329 -12.2
LR3 1,148 1,489 -22.9 3,491 4,189 -16.7
Discovery 0 1 NA 0 1 NA
Freelander 0 5 -100.0 1 18 -94.4
Total Land Rover 3,663 4,153 -11.8 10,202 11,299 -9.7
Source: Ford Motor Company

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

Mitsubishi Reports 22 Percent Sales Increase in March
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) today reported March sales of 12,536 units, up 22.3% from last March's total of 10,250.*
Year-to-date, Mitsubishi sales are up 23.2%, compared to the January-March period in 2006.
"Customers are responding to the distinctive styling of our products and the great value that they provide," said MMNA CEO Hiroshi Harunari. "We are building on the momentum provided by the launch of our all-new Outlander crossover SUV. And in March, we started to see the effects of the roll-out of our all-new fuel-efficient Lancer sedan. We are looking forward to a tremendous full month of sales for this vehicle in April."
Lancer sales for the month were 1,895, up 40.2% compared to last March.
Other March sales highlights:
- Outlander closed at 2,364 units up 20.9% from last month's volume and
up 146.3% from last year's volume. It was the best month for Outlander
in more than three years.
- Eclipse was the volume leader at 2,613, up 5.1% from last year's
volume.
- Eclipse Spyder sales were 1,302, an increase of 283% compared to
March 2006.
- Endeavor sales were 1,384, up 7.3% from March 2006.

* -- the DSR increase for March was 17.9%, with 28 selling days in 2007,
and 27 selling days in 2006.
Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all manufacturing, finance, sales, marketing, research and development operations of the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation in the United States. Mitsubishi Motors sells coupes, convertibles, sedans, sport utility vehicles, and light trucks through a network of approximately 520 dealers. For more information, contact the Mitsubishi Motors News Bureau at (888) 560-6672 or visit media.mitsubishicars.com.
Source: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.

Mazda North American Operations (MNAO), including the U.S., Canada and Mexico, today reported best-ever March sales of 47,206 vehicles, beating its previous March record of 45,892 set back in 1994. The U.S. celebrated its best March since 1994 with sales of 37,742 while Mazda Canada, Inc. reported its best-ever March with sales of 8,108 units. Not to be outdone by Mazda Motor de Mexico, which reported its best- ever month with sales of 1,356 units.
"The automotive business is a marathon not a sprint and right now we're hitting our stride as we head into the crucial spring selling season," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, MNAO. "Our record-breaking sales month for North America proves that we're offering the right vehicles at the right price, driving customers into our showrooms in the U.S., Canada and Mexico."
Mazda's U.S. sales were led in volume by its popular MAZDA3, which reported best-ever sales of 15,606, while the sporty MAZDA6 also celebrated its best-ever month with sales of 9,624 units. The all-new CX-9 seven passenger crossover SUV reported its best month since launch with 2,443 units. The MX-5 Miata posted its best month since March 1997 with sales of 2,281 units.
Overall calendar-year-to-date sales for the U.S. are up 17.5 percent versus last year, with 79,074 vehicles sold.
"We're thrilled to finish our fiscal year on such a high note, leading to our best March in the U.S. in 13 years," added O'Sullivan. "We can attribute these outstanding results to a few key points: first, the CX-7 and CX-9 crossover SUVs are bringing new customers into our dealerships; second, the MAZDA3 continues as our hottest seller, despite minimal incentives and tight inventory; and third, our dealer network is stronger than ever with 673 total dealers of which 52 percent are exclusive."
Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario, Canada, and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.
Mazda North American Operations - March 2007
Month-To-Date Year-To-Date
March March % March March %
2007 2006 Change 2007 2006 Change
Mazda3 15,606 8,087 93.0% 31,926 21,732 46.9%
Mazda5 1,657 1,703 (2.7)% 4,550 5,061 (10.1)%
Mazda6 9,624 7,215 33.4% 20,172 19,215 5.0%
MX-5 Miata 2,281 2,000 14.1% 4,373 4,362 0.3%
RX-8 735 1,582 (53.5)% 1,732 2,917 (40.6)%
Protege -- -- N/A -- 1 N/A
CX-7 4,221 -- N/A 9,940 -- N/A
CX-9 2,443 -- N/A 3,693 -- N/A
Tribute 941 2,911 (67.7)% 1,702 8,478 (79.9)%
B-Series Truck 233 490 (52.4)% 866 1,282 (32.4)%
MPV 1 1,526 (99.9)% 120 4,223 (97.2)%
Total Vehicles
CARS 29,903 20,587 45.3% 62,753 53,288 17.8%
TRUCKS 7,839 4,927 59.1% 16,321 13,983 16.7%
TOTAL 37,742 25,514 47.9% 79,074 67,271 17.5%
MEMO:
IMPORT CAR 20,279 13,372 51.7% 42,581 34,073 25.0%
IMPORT TRUCK 6,665 1,526 336.8% 13,753 4,223 225.7%
IMPORT TOTAL 26,944 14,898 80.9% 56,334 38,296 47.1%
DOMESTIC CAR 9,624 7,215 33.4% 20,172 19,215 5.0%
DOMESTIC TRUCK 1,174 3,401 (65.5)% 2,568 9,760 (73.7)%
DOMESTIC TOTALS 10,798 10,616 1.7% 22,740 28,975 (21.5)%

Note: MPV & Protege is a discontinued vehicles.
Source: Mazda North American Operations

DaimlerChrysler AG Reports a 4 Percent Decrease in U.S. Sales for Passenger Vehicles for March 2007
-- Chrysler Group Reports Sales of 206,435 Vehicles, a 5 Percent Decrease for March 2007
-- Mercedes-Benz USA Reports Sales of 21,612 Vehicles, a 1 Percent Increase for March 2007
DaimlerChrysler AG (NYSE:DCX) , the third largest U.S. auto maker, today reported total group sales of 228,047 passenger vehicles in the U.S. for March 2007, a 4 percent decrease compared to March 2006. All sales figures in this release are on an unadjusted basis unless otherwise noted.
Chrysler Group, consisting of the Chrysler, Jeep(R) and Dodge brands, posted sales of 206,435 vehicles in the U.S., a decrease of 5 percent. Two Chrysler Group vehicles posted best-month-ever sales records in March. The five-passenger mid-size SUV Dodge Nitro set a record with sales of 7,532 units and the legendary Jeep(R) Wrangler delivered 13,397 units for the month. Following its most aggressive product launch in company history of 10 all-new vehicles in 2006, Chrysler Group continues its product offensive with the launch of eight all-new vehicles in 2007.
MBUSA recorded its highest March on record with sales of 21,612 units, an increase of 1 percent over the 21,417 vehicles sold in March 2006. The monthly figures bring Mercedes year-to-date sales to 55,985, a 9 percent increase over first quarter sales for 2006 which was a record year for Mercedes-Benz in the U.S. and its 13th year of consecutive sales gains.
Detailed vehicle sales information for MBUSA and Chrysler Group will be announced later today in separate press releases issued by the groups. March 2007 had 28 selling days and March 2006 had 27 selling days.
DaimlerChrysler AG U.S. Sales Summary Through March 2007
Month Sales % Sales CYTD %
Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Curr Yr Pr Yr Change
CHRYSLER GROUP 206,435 216,412 -5% 537,249 562,244 -4%
MERCEDES-BENZ USA 21,612 21,417 1% 55,985 51,242 9%
DAIMLERCHRYSLER 228,047 237,829 -4% 593,234 613,486 -3%
Selling Days 28 27 77 75
Source: DaimlerChrysler AG
Source: DaimlerChrysler AG
Web site: http://www.daimlerchrysler.com/

Audi Sets March Sales Record
-- Audi of America, Inc. today announced a company sales record for the month of March, totaling 8,020, a 14.7% increase over the previous year. So far in 2007 Audi has sold 21,028 vehicles, a 17.6% increase over year ago figures.
"Our strong first quarter results are a continuation of what we saw in the final quarter of 2006." said Johan de Nysschen, Executive Vice President of Audi of America, Inc. "Consumers clearly see that the Audi Q7 is the freshest, most refined SUV available today, and the A4 model line's overall increase in sales was helped by the A4 2.0T's segment leading fuel economy."
Regionally, the most significant sales increases occurred in the Chicago area with a 45.9% improvement. Washington D.C. (44.0%), Miami (39.9%), and New York (32.6%) were other key markets with large sales increases.
Sales of Certified Pre-owned (CPO) Audi vehicles increased by 25.3%. Total sales of 2,426 set a new record for March and nearly eclipsed the overall record. The A8 model line has shown the largest increase at 96.2% in 2007.
Audi's history in America dates to 1969, when the brand was first introduced to the U.S. market. Today, a network of over 260 Audi dealers currently offers a line of premium vehicles that include the Audi A3 compact; the sporty A4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the high performance S4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the high-revving RS 4 sports sedan; the design-leading A6 sedan and Avant; the all-new Audi Q7 performance SUV; and the all-aluminum Audi A8; and the new V10-powered S6 and S8 performance sedans.
AUDI OF AMERICA, INC
MARCH 2007 SALES
AUDI US SNAPSHOT -----YEAR TO DATE-----
Mar-07 Mar-06
Mar-07 Mar-06 Yr/Yr% YTD YTD Yr/Yr%
Actual Actual change actual actual change
A3 675 864 -21.9% 1,488 2,347 -36.6%
TT 87 76 14.5% 296 213 39.0%
A4/S4/RS 4 2,756 3,161 -12.8% 8,082 7,820 3.4%
A4/S4 Cabriolet 1,027 724 41.9% 1,940 1,640 18.3%
A6/S6 1,038 1,699 -38.9% 2,832 4,487 -36.9%
A8/S8 362 470 -23.0% 932 1,377 -32.3%
Q7 2,075 - - 5,458 - -
Total 8,020 6,994 14.7% 21,028 17,884 17.6%
Source: Audi of America, Inc.

Volvo Cars Sales Report for March
IRVINE, Calif., April 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Volvo Cars of North America, LLC (VCNA) reports sales of 10,666 units for the month in the United States. The results are down 4.4 percent compared to the same period last year.
Volvo Cars recorded sales throughout North America of 12,002 units, which represents a decrease of 4.8 percent. Sales in Canada were 18.4 percent down with 1,029 units sold, while in Mexico, Volvo sales increased 60.7 percent selling 307 units.
Volvo Cars of North America, LLC (VCNA), based in Irvine, Calif., is a subsidiary of Volvo Car Corporation of Goteborg, Sweden. VCNA provides marketing, sales, parts, service, technology and training support to Volvo automobile retailers in the United States, and oversees Volvo operations in Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico.
Volvo has been building cars with safety in mind for 80 years. The current 2007 model lineup of Volvo cars includes: the award-winning new S40 and its wagon counterpart the V50; the award-winning XC90; the sporty S60 sedan -- including the award-winning performance sedan -- S60 R and the performance wagon version -- V70 R; the versatile V70 wagon and rugged XC70 (Cross Country); the new Volvo C70 -- the convertible with the innovative retractable hardtop, and the all-new Volvo S80.
* U.S. sales include Puerto Rico

VOLVO CARS OF NORTH AMERICA, LLC
Retail Sales by Model 03-Apr-07
UNITED STATES
March * Year-to-Date *
2007 2006 % 2007 2006 %
Volvo Model
S40 2,204 2,372 -7.1% 5,693 6,181 -7.9%
V50 304 374 -18.7% 722 1,078 -33.0%
S60 1,702 2,341 -27.3% 4,378 6,278 -30.3%
V70 371 464 -20.0% 849 1,296 -34.5%
XC70 1,128 1,333 -15.4% 3,078 3,250 -5.3%
C70 368 11 3245.5% 1,011 85 1089.4%
S80 1,392 599 132.4% 3,103 1,715 80.9%
XC90 3,197 3,659 -12.6% 8,119 8,568 -5.2%
USA TOTAL 10,666 11,153 -4.4% 26,953 28,451 -5.3%

CANADA
March Year-to-Date
2007 2006 % 2007 2006 %
Volvo Model
C30 103 n/a n/a 128 n/a n/a
S40 74 148 -50.0% 184 326 -43.6%
V50 43 100 -57.0% 126 202 -37.6%
S60 309 300 3.0% 481 560 -14.1%
V70 27 116 -76.7% 91 214 -57.5%
XC70 110 212 -48.1% 304 442 -31.2%
C70 77 0 n/a 98 0 n/a
S80 57 63 -9.5% 139 103 35.0%
XC90 229 322 -28.9% 551 711 -22.5%
CANADA TOTAL 1,029 1,261 -18.4% 2,102 2,558 -17.8%

MEXICO
March Year-to-Date
2007 2006 % 2007 2006 %
Volvo Model
C30 13 n/a n/a 20 n/a n/a
S40 142 89 59.6% 352 300 17.3%
V50 1 1 0.0% 7 5 40.0%
S60 22 30 -26.7% 73 80 -8.8%
V70 0 0 n/a 0 0 n/a
XC70 0 1 -100.0% 2 4 -50.0%
C70 19 0 n/a 25 0 n/a
S80 21 5 320.0% 60 10 500.0%
XC90 89 65 36.9% 214 210 1.9%
MEXICO TOTAL 307 191 60.7% 753 609 23.6%

NAFTA TOTAL 12,002 12,605 -4.8% 29,808 31,618 -5.7%
* U.S. totals include Puerto Rico
Source: Volvo Cars of North America, LLC

SPORTS & AUTO NEWS

Source: DaimlerChrysler AG
Source: DaimlerChrysler AG Source: DaimlerChrysler AG
Source: DaimlerChrysler AG Source: DaimlerChrysler AG

Source: DaimlerChrysler AG

Posted by Bill at 10:28 AM | Permalink

Monte Bubblisms

April 3

Thanks to Senator Craig we now know why you can never find a police officer when you need them, they are protecting our nations public bathrooms.

I wonder if those people that are so outraged about Michael Vick are among the millions that abandon animals each year or that beat their pets or starve them?

To often today businesses are purchased simply to be shut down.

The history of the world is full of what if, if only and might have been.

In this country the dead vote in election and registered voters vote more then once, but I doubt that even in Chicago could you register tens of millions of of non-citizens to vote without someone noticing it.

The problems with politicians is that they do not understand what they view on a Television or movie screen is not for real, but then when you think about it some, if they knew the difference they wouldn't be politicians in the first place.

If you only seek an answer to a question you already knew the answer to then why ask the question?

What happened at Va. Tech is now history. Let the historians decide what and why and move on.

It is a sad thing in life but bad things happen to good people

It is amazing that those very same people that accused Mr. Imus of racism and had attacked the Duke players won't even do what Mr. Imus did, apologize for what they did.

Which is worst, naughty words or a public lynching?

Since our constitution gives all the right to make fools of themselves when they open their mouth, then why is it alright for a Labrador Retriever to say something naughty about a soft coated Wheaten but not alright for a Wheaten to say something naughty about a Labrador?

Neville Chamberlain was a man born before his time. Today his policy of appeasement at all costs would make him a great American leader

Today too many find the price of freedom to high to pay including those in congress that are sworn to protect that freedom.

It is supposed to be innocent till proven guilty. In reality today it is simply guilty.

MONTE BUBBLISMS

Posted by Bill at 10:14 AM | Permalink

April 02, 2007

United Nations News

May 7

UN RIGHTS EXPERT VOICES CONCERN ABOUT PRESS FREEDOM IN AZERBAIJAN New York, May 7 2007 12:00AM An independent United Nations human rights expert has voiced concern about press freedom in Azerbaijan while reporting that his recent meetings there offered hope that court decisions which have caused a prevailing sense of fear among journalists will be reviewed. "While the Government and State institutions have expressed a willingness to conduct a more open dialogue with media representatives and international organizations, the media environment is marked by various deficiencies," said Ambeyi Ligabo, the Special Rapporteur on the freedom of opinion and expression, in a statement released in Geneva. He noted that his information indicated the defamation legislation "in not in line with the increasing trend towards decriminalization of related offences, and courts tend to be particularly severe in judging media professionals." During his visit to Azerbaijan in late April, Mr. Ligabo met with President Ilham Aliyev, senior State and government officials, as well as representatives of the media, trade unions and members of the civil society. He also held an exchange of views with members of the diplomatic corps and senior officials of international organizations. He noted that journalists and other media professionals have sometimes been victims of repression, including violence and persecution by some law enforcement officials, and spotlighted the need for measures to create favorable economic conditions "in which the rights to freedom of expression and information can be fully enjoyed." At the same time, Mr. Ligabo said he was encouraged by his official meetings and voiced hope that measures will be taken to review national policies and several courts decisions "which have created a widespread sense of fear and censorship among journalists thus diminishing their editorial freedom." The expert, who acts in an independent personal capacity, will report his findings to the UN Human Rights Council. 2007-05-06 00:00:00.000

AMID GROWING CONCERN ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE, BAN KI-MOON URGES PREVENTIVE ACTION New York, May 7 2007 11:00AM Amid growing global concern about climate change, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today urged experts meeting in Geneva to address the need for warning systems to mitigate the damage from extreme weather. “At no other time in history have there been so many expectations from the sciences of meteorology and hydrology,” Mr. Ban said in message to the 15th World Meteorological Congress meeting in Geneva. “I urge you to continue your efforts to promote enhanced applications of science and technology, including the use of climate and weather information, and to improve predictions and early warnings on impending weather and climate hazards,” he said. Mr. Ban said the session, which “takes place at a time of unprecedented public awareness of the importance of weather, climate and water and their relation to sustainable development.” He praised the World Meteorological Organization for its work in promoting sustainable development and for its “important role in promoting scientific understanding of the global climate at a time when climate change is rising on the international agenda.” The WMO is a UN specialized agency dealing with the state and behaviour of the Earth's atmosphere, its interaction with the oceans, the climate it produces and the resulting distribution of water resources. 2007-05-07 00:00:00.000

May 4

UN AGENCY LAUNCHES REPATRIATION FOR CONGOLESE REFUGEES RETURNING FROM ZAMBIA New York, May 4 2007 12:00PM As some areas in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) recover from devastating civil war, the United Nations refugee agency has started to assist the return of Congolese who fled to Zambia, with the first group of 400 starting the long trek yesterday, the agency announced today. “Yesterday, Thursday, we launched a three-year voluntary repatriation programme to help Congolese refugees in Zambia return home to the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” Jennifer Pagonis, spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), said at a press briefing in Geneva. Ms. Pagonis said that there were approximately 61,000 Congolese in Zambia, and UNHCR, with the assistance of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Governments concerned, hoped to help 20,000 of those return in 2007. The initial convoy, carrying 414 refugees, drove 400 kilometres from Mwange Refugee Camp in the north of Zambia to the Zambian port of Mpulungu where they spent the night, Ms. Pagonis said. This evening, the refugees are scheduled to board the a chartered ferry and sail some 380 kilometres along Lake Tanganyika to dock at Kalemie in the Congo's Katanga province on Saturday morning. At today’s briefing, Ms. Pagonis made it clear that refugees will only be transported to areas that meet the conditions set by UNHCR. They must be accessible by road, landmines must be cleared and basic services – schools, health clinics and potable water – must be available. In areas of DRC not yet suitable for repatriation, UNHCR is working with the government and other partners to prepare them for returns, she said. Returnees will spend the first days back in the DRC in a reception centre where they will get mine awareness training, HIV/AIDS information and any necessary medical assistance. Before leaving for their home areas, refugees are given food rations, blankets, soap, kitchen items, buckets and a construction kit to assist in rebuilding homes. Later in the year, they will get seeds and farming tools to help them become self-sufficient. With support from the UN peacekeeping mission in the DRC (MONUC), the country last year held landmark presidential and parliamentary elections, the first in more than four decades. Since 2004, some 103,000 Congolese refugees have returned home, but nearly 340,000 remain in neighbouring countries. 2007-05-04 00:00:00.000

BAN KI-MOON HAILS NEW UN-BACKED URBAN TRAINING CENTRE IN CHINA New York, May 4 2007 11:00AM As the damage from climate change grows increasingly apparent, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has praised a new centre in China working to address the environmental impact of large cities. “With this new Centre, Gangwon Province and UN-HABITAT (UN Human Settlements Programme) are joining forces in the cause of sustainable urban development,” Mr. Ban said in a video message for the International Urban Training Centre in Gangwon Province. Pointing to the “increasingly visible” impacts of climate change, he said, “Your mission has never been more important.” Mr. Ban pointed out that while cities are engines of economic growth and cultural innovation, “they also contribute significantly to environmental degradation, through their enormous needs for energy, water and land.” He stressed that in this light, cities must foster better transport systems, better building technologies, better energy use and better urban planning. “The United Nations family is fully committed to this cause -- especially through the work of UN-HABITAT and the United Nations Environment Programme,” he said. “This Centre has a key role to play, by training policymakers, municipal workers, the private sector and civil society.” 2007-05-04 00:00:00.000

BAN KI-MOON SAYS GOOD WORDS ON IRAQ MUST TRANSLATE INTO GOOD DEEDS New York, May 4 2007 11:00AM Expressions of regional and international support for Iraq must be translated into sustained and concrete actions or the violence-wracked country may never know any peace, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told foreign ministers taking part in the international meeting on Iraq this week. “It is precisely because of the difficulty and the daily onslaught of violence that committed collaboration is required,” Mr. Ban said in his address to the foreign ministers, who have gathered in Sharm-el-Sheikh, Egypt, for a series of talks and discussions and to help launch the International Compact for Iraq, a five-year plan for peace and development. “I urge you all to do your part in denouncing sectarian violence, strengthening bilateral exchange in the region, and encouraging national dialogue within Iraq.” He called on the ministers – from Iraq’s neighbours, the Security Council’s permanent members and other stakeholder countries – to make sure that the commitments and decisions made and relationships developed this week are backed “by proper follow-up mechanisms.” Yesterday in Sharm-el-Sheikh, world leaders pledged about $30 billion in specific financial commitments to help the Iraqi Government try to implement the Compact. “Now the implementation of the Compact and its component parts will commence in earnest, including the political and security elements,” Mr. Ban said. “This offers an important arena to promote visible, tangible progress.” The Secretary-General warned that the situation across the Middle East, and not just Iraq, was “complex and precarious,” with deep mistrust and political stalemate constraining peace in several countries. “More than ever, our words need to be translated into sustained, concrete progress. Regional and international cooperation in support of Iraq must be one of our top priorities. Without it, the reach of the violence may know no boundaries, and the people of Iraq may know no peace.” Last month in Geneva, the UN held an international conference to mobilize financial aid and other forms of support to help with the immediate needs of the rapidly swelling population of Iraqi refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs). In the last year alone, an estimated 750,000 people have fled their homes, taking the number of refugees and IDPs to almost 4 million. Today Mr. Ban reiterated his pledge to have the UN do more for the country, especially in areas “where the Organization has a comparative advantage, such as political facilitation and humanitarian assistance.” He also stressed that stability and security in Iraq will not be obtained through only military means. “Instead, it requires genuine and concerted efforts to promote national reconciliation, reduce sectarian tension, and strengthen national unity from the mountains of Kurdistan to Baghdad and the lands of the two great rivers [Tigris and Euphrates] down to Basra and the marshes in the south.”

May 3

BAN KI-MOON VOICES CONCERN OVER IMPASSE IN ETHIOPIA-ERITREA PEACE PROCESS New York, May 2 2007 6:00PM In a new report made public today, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed his concern for the stalemate in the dialogue between Ethiopia and Eritrea, calling for a comprehensive implementation of the Algiers Agreements in 2000 which ended the bloody war between the two East African countries. “This impasse continues to be serious source of instability for the two countries, as well as for the wider region,” Mr. Ban said in the report, which covers the period between 21 December 2006 and 31 March 2007. “The situation between the two parties remains unpredictable.” He also said that he is disturbed by the growing tension between the two countries, and urged both sides to cease making inflammatory public statements and also to withdraw their troops from both within and around the Temporary Security Zone (TSZ) along the border between the two countries. “Any efforts to improve relations between the parties can be successful only if they demonstrate the political will necessary to overcome the present stalemate,” he said. Additionally, both sides’ “involvement in other complex regional crises” is fuelling tensions, he stated. “The United Nations, and I personally, stand ready to assist the parties in their efforts to achieve the full implementation of the Algiers Agreements,” Mr. Ban said. He announced his intention to continue efforts to persuade both sides to resume negotiations, as well as to consult with other regional and international partners to push the process further along. He is also considering appointing a new Special Representative to head the UN peacekeeping mission in Ethiopia and Eritrea, known as UNMEE. Ethiopia has not accepted the binding border delineated in 2002 by the Boundary Commission which awarded Badme, the town that triggered the fierce fighting, to Eritrea, but in his report, the Secretary-General said he was encouraged by the Ethiopian Prime Minister’s recent statements that his Government has accepted the decisions. “However, Ethiopia’s position regarding cooperation with the Boundary Commission in the implementation of the Decision remains a major factor of the current impasse,” he said. Meanwhile, Eritrea is in serious violation of pacts such as the Algiers Agreements and Security Council resolutions due to the ongoing and restrictions the Government has imposed upon UNMEE, he said. “These restrictions have further reduced the monitoring capability of the Mission inside the Temporary Security Zone and have impacted very negatively on its capacity to perform its mandated tasks,” Mr. Ban wrote, pointing out that UNMEE was originally deployed at the invitation of both parties. He added that despite the scaling-back of UNMEE’s military component and the restrictions that it has faced since 2005, the mission “continues to play an important role in encouraging restraint between the parties, and sustaining international commitment to the Algiers Agreements and the Eritrea-Ethiopia Boundary Commission Delimitation Decision.” Mr. Ban urged both countries to fully cooperate with UNMEE and the Boundary Commission. 2007-05-02 00:00:00.000

KOSOVO’S COMMUNITIES REMAIN FAR APART, SAYS HEAD OF UN FACT-FINDING GROUP New York, May 2 2007 6:00PM Kosovo’s ethnic Albanian and Serbian communities continue to lead largely separate existences and have very different outlooks on the future, which means creating an integrated, multi-ethnic society in the province will require “substantial effort,” the head of a Security Council fact-finding mission said today. Briefing the Council on the mission’s six-day trip to Pristina, Belgrade, Brussels and Vienna, Ambassador Johan Verbeke of Belgium said the positions of the two communities on the settlement proposal for Kosovo also remained far apart. The leadership of the Kosovo Albanian community backed the report issued in March by the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the future status process Martti Ahtisaari, who said the only viable option for the Serbian province – which the United Nations has administered since 1999 after Yugoslav troops were driven out amid fierce fighting – was a phased process of independence. But the leaders of the Kosovo Serb community, as well as the mission’s interlocutors in Belgrade, remained opposed to independence and wanted further negotiations on the long-term future of Kosovo. Mr. Verbeke said this division was reflected in the communities’ outlook, with Kosovo Albanians optimistic about what it holds and Kosovo Serbs concerned that their rights will not be sufficiently protected. Although the fact-finding mission was impressed with the expressed commitment of Kosovo’s political figures towards creating a more genuinely multi-ethnic society, he said the divisions between communities meant it would still require “substantial effort.” Mr. Verbeke stressed that the mission had been very useful in providing participants with a first-hand perspective of the situation inside Kosovo, where ethnic Albanians outnumber Serbs and other groups by about nine to one. 2007-05-02 00:00:00.000

LIBERIA: UN HANDS OVER CONTROL OF DIAMOND CERTIFICATION OFFICE TO GOVERNMENT New York, May 2 2007 6:00PM Less than a week after the Security Council lifted its sanctions on the export of “blood diamonds” from Liberia, the United Nations peacekeeping mission to the West African country today handed over a regional diamond certification office to the Government. At a ceremony in Tubmanburg, about 50 kilometres west of the capital Monrovia, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative and the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) chief Alan Doss transferred control of the regional office to President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. In Monrovia, the Government Diamond Office at the Ministry of Lands, Mines and Energy was also dedicated today. “These events mark another major milestone in Liberia’s turn away from violence and conflict and its return to the community of law-abiding States,” Mr. Doss said, adding that he hoped the handover in Tubmanburg would help to revitalize the country’s legal diamond industry. On Friday the Council lifted its six-year-old embargo on the export of diamonds from Liberia that was introduced to stop proceeds from the sale of these so-called “blood diamonds” from fuelling wars across West Africa. Council members agreed that Liberia has made enough progress towards establishing the necessary internal controls to satisfy the minimum requirements of the Kimberley Process to justify ending the embargo. But the 15-member body also agreed to review its decision to lift the embargo within 90 days. 2007-05-02 00:00:00.000

UN COMMITTEE ON INFORMATION SUPPORTS USE OF DIVERSE MEDIA FOR OUTREACH New York, May 2 2007 7:00PM Representatives of United Nations Member States today urged the world body to keep using a wide array of media and languages to deliver its message of peace, development and rights to the peoples of the world, as the UN Committee on Information continued its 2007 debate at UN Headquarters in New York. "We would like to record our appreciation for the diversity of these activities that have developmental, cultural, and socio-economic impacts," Egypt's representative Amr Kamal Eldin Elsherbini told the session, which opened on Monday with remarks from Committee Chairman Rudolf Christen of Switzerland urging the Organization to use its new technologies to broadcast a clear and coherent message under the new leadership of Under-Secretary-General Kiyotaka Akasaka. Ambassador Ajai Malhotra of India stressed that the "widest possible spectrum" of technologies be utilized for that purpose, from webcasts and podcasts to more traditional forms such as radio and print. "Many countries simultaneously straddle several centuries in technological terms, and it is vital that the product presented by DPI is disseminated through a wide menu of media channels," he said. Israel's deputy permanent representative, Daniel Carmon, marvelled at the fact that meetings held at UN Headquarters can be viewed as they occur anywhere in the world through simultaneous webcasts. Established by the General Assembly in 1978, the Committee examines the UN's public information policies and activities in light of international relations concerns. Consisting of 110 members, it is also tasked with the promotion of a more equitable world communications order to strengthen peace and international understanding. 2007-05-02 00:00:00.000

SOMALIA: UN AGENCY STEPS UP AID TO FIRST WAVE OF PEOPLE WHO FLED MOGADISHU New York, May 3 2007 9:00AM The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) today said it was stepping up a drive to deliver food to almost 100,000 of the 365,000 people driven from their homes in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, which in recent weeks as seen the worst fighting experienced by the country in 16 years. With the worst clashes having died down, the agency said hopes to soon feed up to 150,000 of the displaced given the urgency of the situation. "We have to help these people now," said WFP Executive Director Josette Sheeran. "Women, children and the elderly are sheltering from the rain under trees and cholera is spreading." The agency, which last week reached 32,000 people west of Mogadishu, is expanding its operations further west and south. "Many people left the capital with virtually nothing but the clothes on their backs -- they are now trickling back only to find their homes in ruins," Ms. Sheeran said. "The majority of those who fled the fighting are still suffering in terrible conditions outside the city." On behalf of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), WFP on Wednesday airlifted 14 tons of urgently-needed supply items to Baidoa thanks to a donation from the Italian Government. The blankets, plastic sheeting, water tanks and water purification equipment are now being trucked from Baidoa to Afgoye for distribution to the internally displaced. "With heavy fighting having died down over the past few days and with the cooperation of the Transitional Federal Government, we can now accelerate food distributions and expand into new areas previously cut off," Ms. Sheeran said. The agency is also urgently exploring ways to assist people inside Mogadishu itself. UNHCR estimates 365,000 people have fled Mogadishu -- over a third of the city's population -- since 1 February. Somalia has been wracked by fighting in recent months. The country's Transitional Federal Government (TFG), backed by Ethiopian forc dislodged the Union of Islamic Courts (UIC) from Mogadishu and much of the country last December. Since then, there has been an upsurge in violence, including with the involvement of clan-based militias, especially in the capital.

May 2

TOP UN HUMAN RIGHTS OFFICIAL TO WRAP UP CENTRAL ASIAN TOUR IN TURKMENISTAN New York, May 2 2007 11:00AM On the final leg of her four-country Central Asian tour, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour will arrive in Turkmenistan tomorrow to meetings with Government authorities and representatives from various groups. “The visit will provide and opportunity to exchange views on human rights related issues with the Government of Turkmenistan and to engage in discussions about future cooperation and continued dialogue on issues of mutual concern in the region and the country,” according to a press release issued by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in Ashgabat, the country’s capital. During her visit from 3 to 5 May, Ms. Arbour will meet with President Gurbanguly Berdimuhammedov and other officials, representatives of regional and international organizations and diplomats. The 11-day tour marks the High Commissioner’s first visit to the region, and prior to stopping in Turkmenistan, she visited Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Kazakhstan. 2007-05-02 00:00:00.000

UN HEALTH AGENCY LAUNCHES NINE SOLUTIONS TO SAVE PATIENTS’ LIVES New York, May 2 2007 11:00AM Since mistakes made in health care affect one out of every 10 patients in the world, the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) today launched a new programme called “Nine patient safety solutions” to reduce the harm done to people during medical treatments. “Implementing these solutions is a way to improve patient safety,” said WHO Director-General Margaret Chan of the nine effective methods, determined by the agency’s World Alliance for Patient Safety and the Collaborating Centre, to curtail errors made in health care. The solutions are based on interventions and other actions taken in some countries that have reduced harm done to patients, and are aimed at redesigning the processes undertaken to care for patients and improve their safety. The nine solutions are: look-alike, sound-alike medication names; patient identification; communication during patient hand-overs; performance of correct procedure at correct body site; control of concentrated electrolyte solutions; assuring medication accuracy at transitions in care; avoiding catheter and tubing mis-connection; single use of injection devices; and improved hand hygiene to prevent health care-associated infections. “Patient safety is now recognized as a priority by health systems around the world,” said Liam Donaldson, who chairs the Alliance and is England’s Chief Medical Officer. “Clear and succinct actions contained in the nine solutions have proved to be useful in reducing the unacceptably high numbers of medical injuries around the world.” Over the past year, WHO has brought together over 50 recognized leaders and experts in patient safety from around the world to identify and adapt the nine solutions to meet different needs. The solutions were tested in the field in order to gather feedback from leading patient safety organizations, Governments’ health ministries, international professional health organizations and other bodies. 2007-05-02 00:00:00.000

NEPAL: UN ENVOY SAYS ELECTION DELAY SHOULD FURNISH TIME TO ADDRESS CONCERNS New York, May 1 2007 2:00PM The senior United Nations envoy to Nepal today said an announced postponement in Constituent Assembly elections planned for June should offer time to address critical concerns in the country, where a decade-long armed conflict that killed some 13,000 people came to a formal end when the parties signed a peace accord last November. “In my opinion, postponement should not be viewed as a disaster; but neither is it a guarantee of success at a later date,” Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s Special Representative, Ian Martin, said in a press statement released in Kathmandu. “I hope that a new date will soon be decided upon by the Interim Government, in consultation with the Election Commission, and that the time available will then be used to address the several critical issues that pose risks to the peace process,” he added. He cautioned that the postponement may prolong the period during which Maoist army personnel remain in cantonment sites. “This makes it urgent to improve conditions which have repeatedly proved to be unsatisfactory for current weather conditions, and certainly cannot withstand the fast-approaching monsoon,” he said, pledging to support this process. Mr. Martin also heads the UN Mission in Nepal which is mandated to support the country’s peace process by monitoring the arms and armed personnel of the former adversaries – the Maoists and the Nepal Army – and by assisting the election. The UN has for weeks been ready to begin the second stage of registration and verification of personnel in the Maoist cantonment sites – a step Mr. Martin said is needed to identify minors who under the agreement must be discharged, and to determine whether personnel were recruited after 25 May 2006 in breach of the ceasefire code of conduct. While the UN has agreed in principle on the form interviews will take, the Maoist leadership “has not agreed to the process commencing until other issues have been addressed,” particularly the improvement of conditions in the cantonments, government remuneration for those registered there, and the formation of the committee envisaged by the Interim Constitution to take responsibility for the future of the Maoist army, he said. At the same time, the envoy emphasized that the obligation of the Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (CPN-M) to allow verification to proceed is unconditional. “I have made clear to the Maoist leadership that UNMIN cannot accept its linkage to any pre-conditions,” he said. Mr. Martin also pointed out that UNMIN is mandated to assist in monitoring the ceasefire arrangements, together with the monitoring done by Office for the High Commissioner for Human Rights. Noting regular media reports on breaches of agreements, he said this situation “cries out for monitoring which is independent of the political actors themselves,” and voiced hope that UNMIN’s civil affairs officers “will soon be able to work with an independent national monitoring body, as well as with the local peace committees to be established as part of the Common Minimum Programme.” That initiative, agreed by the eight parties, and supported by civil society, aims to help foster confidence in the peace process. He also emphasized the importance of public security. “Building confidence in the peace process at the local level through multi-party dialogue with the support of civil society should provide a context in which the Nepal police can enforce the law impartially and with full respect for human rights,” he said, calling on all parties to respect the rights of citizens to participate in public life and political activity freely and without fear. On Friday, Mr. Martin will brief the Security Council in New York on the peace process in Nepal and UNMIN’s activities. The Council also has before it the Secretary-General’s first report on the mission, which was established three months ago. 2007-05-01 00:00:00.000

May 1

A DOZEN UN EXPERTS JOINTLY EXPRESS DEEP CONCERN OVER CASUALTIES IN SOMALI CAPITAL

New York, May 1 2007 5:00PM Twelve United Nations experts united to voice their deep concern today about the recent violence in the Somali capital Mogadishu, where hundreds of people have been killed in the latest clashes and hundreds of thousands forced to flee in recent months. “This is the second major escalation in fighting in Mogadishu in the past month alone and we are very concerned that civilian fatalities and casualties will increase in the coming days,” the experts said in a statement calling on warring sides to immediately halt the fighting. Since the Transitional Federal Government (TFG), backed by Ethiopian forces, dislodged the Union of Islamic Courts (UIC) from the capital and much of the country last December, there has been an upsurge in violence. Clan-based militias have also been involved in the clashes. The break in fighting between warring sides agreed to early this month crumbled when the fighting resumed on 11 April in Mogadishu. Fierce fighting resumed between Ethiopian and Somali forces and insurgents during the past week in Mogadishu, with almost 400 reported to have been killed and 700 more injured, according to the experts. Nearly two-thirds of those killed and wounded are the elderly, women and children. Thousands are trapped in Mogadishu while hundreds of thousands of people have fled the capital since February, adding to the more than 400,000 already displaced within Somalia. “We are also deeply troubled about reports of indiscriminate artillery fire, shelling and car bombs in civilian areas,” the experts said, adding that non-military targets such as hospitals and schools have been bombed. They also noted that the wounded in Mogadishu are being blocked from fleeing or from receiving much-needed humanitarian assistance and protection. “All parties to the conflict must respect applicable international humanitarian law and international human rights law,” they asserted. “We wish to remind all that humanitarian access and safe passage for those civilians fleeing the conflict must be granted.” The experts issuing today’s statement are: the Independent Expert on the situation of human rights in Somalia, Ghanim Alnajjar; the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, Philip Alston; the Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, Leandro Despouy; the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967, John Dugard; the Special Rapporteur on violence against women, its causes and consequences, Yakin Ertürk; the Special Representative of the Secretary General for human rights in Cambodia, Yash Ghai; the Special Rapporteur on the adverse effects of the illicit movement and dumping of toxic and dangerous products and wastes, Okechukwu Ibeanu; the Special Rapporteur on the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, Paul Hunt; the Representative of the Secretary General on the human rights of internally displaced persons, Walter Kälin; the Special Rapporteur on a! dequate housing, Miloon Kothari; the Special Rapporteur on the right to education, Vernor Muñoz Villalobos, and the Special Rapporteur on the right to food, Jean Ziegler. Yesterday, the Security Council issued a presidential statement in which the 15-member body deplored the civilian casualties from the intensified fighting in Somalia and called on the Government to reach out to all segments of the war-torn country’s society to start a dialogue. The Council also demanded that all sides allow relief aid to reach those in need. 2007-05-01 00:00:00.000

CÔTE D’IVOIRE: UN PARTICIPATES IN CEREMONY INTEGRATING FORMER REBELS INTO NATIONAL ARMY New York, May 1 2007 5:00PM Welcoming the willingness of former rival parties to fully implement the peace deal in Côte d’Ivoire, the United Nations peacekeeping mission in the West African country participated in a ceremony marking the official integration of former rebels into two brigades. By attending the ceremony yesterday, the mission, known as UNOCI, hoped to shows its eagerness to support the Ouagadougou Peace Accord between President Laurent Gbagbo and Forces Nouvelles Secretary-General Guillaume Soro which commits both sides to abide by free, fair and transparent elections. The deal also calls for the dismantling of the Zone of Confidence, which separates the Government-controlled south from the rebel-held north. The Minister of Defence, Michel Amani N’Guessan, who led the ceremony, thanked UNOCI for its assistance in maintaining the peace, calling on the mission to continue to work with Ivorians to consolidate stability. At the event held in Bangolo, in western Côte d’Ivoire, Mr. Amana also said that mixed brigades are essential and “should not constitute a platform for revenge between former enemy brothers.” Problems “will be progressively resolved, and so will the security situation,” he noted at the ceremony, which was attended by both General Philippe Mangou of the national army, the Defence and Security Forces (FDS) of Côte d’Ivoire, and General Soumaila Bakayoko, of Forces Nouvelles, in a show of solidarity. Participants also visited the locations where the mixed brigades, comprising four UN police officers and 10 people each from FDS and Forces Nouvelles. Mr. Amana also called on both sides to wipe the slate clean of any past grievances and to show tolerance and forgiveness to make the Accord, reached on 4 March, a success. “This agreement came from Ivorians and its failure would not be understood,” he said. UNOCI’s Deputy Force Commander General Elhadji Mouahamadou Kandji and the UN Police Commissioner General Cristian Gerardo Chaumont represented the world body in the ceremony, where the UN flag was replaced by the Ivorian one. The dismantling of the Zone of Confidence kicked off with a ceremony on 16 April, during which a mixed brigade in N’Gattadolikro, in the centre of the country, was installed in the presence of President Gbagbo. UNOCI has nearly 9,000 total uniformed personnel in the country, including 7,850 troops and almost 1,000 police with a mandate to monitor the cessation of hostilities and movements of armed groups, help in disarmament and dismantling of militias and contribute to the security of the operation of identifying the population and registering voters. 2007-05-01 00:00:00.000

April 30

PREPARED REMARKS OF AHMED SAEED DEPUTY ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR AFRICA AND THE MIDDLE EAST ON THE SIGNING OF THE INTERNATIONAL COMPACT WITH IRAQ

Nine months ago – on July 27, 2006 – the Government of Iraq and the United Nations announced the launch of the International Compact with Iraq. Under this initiative, the Government of Iraq reached out to key partners in the international community to establish a collaborative process for developing policy commitments to put its economy on a path to self-sufficiency and sustainable growth, while also creating safeguards to protect the most vulnerable groups in its society. The Government of Iraq and the UN established a preparatory group to help develop the Compact, based on best practices and lessons derived from the experiences of other transition economies. Between July and December, Iraq consulted regularly with members of this group, including the World Bank, the IMF, and the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development, as well as knowledgeable government officials from the Gulf, Europe, and Asia. The U.S. Government also played a strong supporting role. The UAE and Kuwait each hosted preparatory group meetings, and the UN briefed its members on progress under the Compact on September 18, November 13, and March 16. The World Bank and IMF also hosted a Compact briefing during their annual meetings in Singapore in September 2006. The final Compact document was presented at a meeting attended by over seventy countries and institutions and hosted by Secretary General Ban Ki Moon in New York on March 16. It is significant in many respects: The Compact is comprehensive in scope, ranging from commitments to strengthen public expenditure management, to policies designed to improve health, education, and the environment. It is also underpinned by clear, measurable benchmarks. The Compact commits to a number of significant unifying principles, including the adoption of policies to ensure that all Iraqis benefit from the country's vast hydrocarbons resource base, important anti-corruption practices, and the accelerated development of Iraq's private sector. The Compact document was unanimously endorsed by the Cabinet of Ministers last December, establishing a clear consensus on the direction and strategy for realizing Iraq's economic potential. The Compact has been a critical vehicle for Iraq's engagement with its neighbors – preparatory group meetings were hosted in the UAE and Kuwait, and the final signing is in Egypt. The Compact has provided the Iraqi government an opportunity to draw attention to its own very significant economic accomplishments: a sound macroeconomic framework and management of inflation, adherence to the strict criteria of an IMF Stand-By Arrangement and reduction of fuel subsidies, bank restructuring, pension reform, passage of an investment law, and forward movement on hyrdrocarbons legislation and a revenue management law. The next step is for Iraq and the international community to formally endorse this Compact at a Ministerial-level meeting in Sharm el Sheikh on May 3. At this event, participants have been invited to offer their support for the Compact. To be clear, this is not a gap-filling exercise: the international community has not been asked to meet a specific fundraising target. However, they have been asked to provide other forms of support. Chief among them is debt relief. With Iraq's focus on financial sustainability, ridding the balance sheet of Saddam era debts is one of the most important, and prudent steps it can take. It is expected that Saudi Arabia will announce at Sharm el Sheikh a commitment to provide debt relief and that others, including, the UAE, will follow suit. Other countries are expected to offer support in the form of loans, grants, and technical assistance. The United States will also offer a generous bilateral pledge. Secretary Rice will attend the signing, supported by Treasury Deputy Secretary Kimmitt, who is also the President's Special Envoy on the Compact. The UN and Iraq expect the meeting to be attended by over 35 countries and organizations. Ministers will be attending from the UK, Germany, Italy, Denmark, Bulgaria, Poland, China, Korea, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Egypt, Turkey, and Greece, among others. Other countries, including Russia and Japan, are expected to be represented at senior levels. UNSYG Ban Ki Moon will co-chair the event with Prime Minister Maliki.

HAITI: UN ENVOY HAILS SUCCESSFUL ELECTIONS New York, Apr 30 2007 2:00PM The senior United Nations envoy to Haiti has congratulated the country’s people on the successful conclusion of a number of local, municipal and legislative elections which culminated a three-round process as part of broader efforts to consolidate democracy in the Caribbean country. “After all the reports I have received and what I have witnessed myself today in the field, I wish to congratulate everybody on the excellent collaboration between MINUSTAH and the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP),” Edmond Mulet, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s Special Representative and head of the UN Stabilization Mission in Haiti said on Sunday. “I also want to point out the very successful cooperation of the MINUSTAH Security Forces and the Haitian National Police and I want to thank them for their professional performance.” More than 300,000 voters in 25 communities exercised their democratic right in 69 voting centres and 770 polling stations to choose their representatives. With logistical and security support provided by MINUSTAH to the CEP and the Haitian National Police, all polling stations opened on time, allowing voters access to the polling booths, the mission said in a news release. Ambassador Mulet visited voting centres in Gressier and Merger, south of the capital, Port-au-Prince, to get a first-hand impression of the situation. There he heard from CEP members and members of the Haitian National Police, UN Police (UNPOL) and the military that the polls were conducted peacefully. “We commend the Haitian people for their demonstrated wish to utilize their democratic voice,” Mr. Mulet said. 2007-04-30 00:00:00.000

New York, Apr 30 2007 2:00PM The senior United Nations envoy to Haiti has congratulated the country’s people on the successful conclusion of a number of local, municipal and legislative elections which culminated a three-round process as part of broader efforts to consolidate democracy in the Caribbean country. “After all the reports I have received and what I have witnessed myself today in the field, I wish to congratulate everybody on the excellent collaboration between MINUSTAH and the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP),” Edmond Mulet, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s Special Representative and head of the UN Stabilization Mission in Haiti said on Sunday. “I also want to point out the very successful cooperation of the MINUSTAH Security Forces and the Haitian National Police and I want to thank them for their professional performance.” More than 300,000 voters in 25 communities exercised their democratic right in 69 voting centres and 770 polling stations to choose their representatives. With logistical and security support provided by MINUSTAH to the CEP and the Haitian National Police, all polling stations opened on time, allowing voters access to the polling booths, the mission said in a news release. Ambassador Mulet visited voting centres in Gressier and Merger, south of the capital, Port-au-Prince, to get a first-hand impression of the situation. There he heard from CEP members and members of the Haitian National Police, UN Police (UNPOL) and the military that the polls were conducted peacefully. “We commend the Haitian people for their demonstrated wish to utilize their democratic voice,” Mr. Mulet said. 2007-04-30 00:00:00.000

LIBERIA: UN ENVOY WELCOMES SECURITY COUNCIL LIFTING OF DIAMOND EMBARGO New York, Apr 30 2007 2:00PM The senior United Nations envoy to Liberia today welcomed the Security Council’s decision to lift its six-year-old ban on the export of diamonds from the country that was introduced to stop proceeds from the sale of these so-called “blood diamonds” from fuelling wars across West Africa. Alan Doss, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Liberia, issued a statement in which he congratulated the country’s President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and her Government for “working hard to meet the conditions required for the termination of the diamond sanctions and for compliance with the Kimberley Process.” Begun in 2000 by Southern African diamond-producing countries, the Kimberley Process led to the adoption in November 2002 of an international certification scheme for rough diamonds, based primarily on national schemes and on internationally-agreed minimum standards. Trafficking in blood diamonds is considered one of the root causes of the civil wars that have plagued Africa, especially in Liberia and neighbouring Sierra Leone. In his statement Mr. Doss called on the Liberian Government “to further intensify its collaborative work with international partners and national stakeholders to ensure that the diamond certification scheme operates effectively for the benefit of all Liberians, including those communities involved in diamond mining.” On Friday the Council voted unanimously to lift the sanctions, observing that Liberia has made enough progress towards establishing the necessary internal controls to satisfy the minimum requirements of the Kimberley Process. But it also agreed to review, if necessary, its decision to lift the embargo within 90 days. 2007-04-30 00:00:00.000

TOP UN HUMAN RIGHTS OFFICIAL ARRIVES IN KAZAKHSTAN FOR TALKS WITH OFFICIALS New York, Apr 30 2007 12:00PM Continuing an official tour of Central Asia, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour arrived today in Kazakhstan for talks with top officials. On her three-day visit to the country, she will meet with Prime Minister Karim Massimov and other high-level Government officials, as well as with representatives of regional and international organizations, civil society groups and diplomats. “The visit will provide and opportunity to exchange views on human rights related issues with the Government of Kazakhstan and to engage in discussions about future cooperation and continued dialogue on issues of mutual concern in the region and the country in the area of human rights,” according to a press release by her Office. The High Commissioner kicked off her trip – her first to the region – in Kyrgyzstan and then traveled to Tajikistan. She will conclude her tour in Turkmenistan. On her first stop in Kyrgyzstan, she observed the positive direction in which civil society in the country is developing, but voiced concern over issues pertaining to women and reports of ill-treatment of detainees and torture. At the end of her visit in Tajikistan, she noted that while reforms of the justice system – in particular, the areas of law enforcement, criminal procedures and the independence of the judiciary – are ongoing, access to justice remains a major challenge. 2007-04-30 00:00:00.000

INDOOR AIR POLLUTION TAKES HEAVY TOLL ON HEALTH, UN AGENCY SAYS New York, Apr 30 2007 12:00PM Indoor air pollution from solid fuels used for cooking and heating are to blame for almost 5 per cent of deaths and disease, affecting mostly women and children, in 21 of the most heavily impacted countries, the United Nations World Health Organization announced today. Worldwide, reliance on solid fuels – including coal and biomass, or wood, dung and crop residues – is one of the 10 biggest threats to public health. Over 3 billion people around the world depend on these fuels, and exposure to indoor air pollution from them has been linked to many diseases, particularly pneumonia among children and chronic respiratory diseases among adults. In the first-ever country-by-country estimates of the heavy toll solid fuel use takes on health, 21 countries – most of which are in Africa – were found to be the most affected. “Solutions are available, and it is our international responsibility to promote the health and well-being of those affected, who are mostly women and children,” said Susanne Weber-Mosdorf, WHO’s Assistant Director-General for Sustainable Development and Healthy Environments. “The prevention potential is enormous.” Approximately 1.2 billion deaths a year in 11 countries – Afghanistan, Angola, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, China, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Ethiopia, India, Nigeria, Pakistan and Tanzania – due to indoor air pollution. Replacing solid fuels with cleaner and more efficient ones, such as biogas, liquefied petroleum gas and kerosene, could largely eliminate the health risk and prevent 1.5 billions deaths yearly around the world. In the short term, promoting more fuel-efficient and cleaner technologies, such as improved cooking stoves, could cut indoor pollution back considerably. In issuing the findings, WHO said governments should be able to use the estimates to set priorities in creating preventive measures and to assess their impact over time. 2007-04-30 00:00:00.000

NEW UN COMMUNICATIONS CHIEF OUTLINES PRIORITIES FOR 2007 New York, Apr 30 2007 4:00PM Delivering his first major policy address since assuming the top United Nations communications post earlier this year, Under-Secretary-General Kiyotaka Akasaka today described efforts to reorient the Department for Public Information (DPI) both structurally and programmatically, and said priority attention would be paid to peace and security, climate change, development and human rights. Mr. Akasaka told the UN Committee on Information, meeting in New York, that DPI aims to reform in a stable manner. “We must build on the gains made in the past, while remaining attentive to the demands of the media, to changes in the Organization’s priorities, and to new and revised mandates given to us by Member States,” he said. “DPI’s future course, like that of the Organization itself, will therefore be guided by a policy of ‘reform with continuity,’” he added, echoing the directive put in place by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon when he took office in January. The Under-Secretary-General said DPI has made “steady progress in meeting its mission,” explaining that its activities are now more strategic. Citing the example of the General Assembly’s 2006 High-level Dialogue on Migration, he said an analysis of the media coverage of that event showed that the key messages on the UN’s role on migration framed by DPI were picked up by journalists more than 90 per cent of the time. He also pointed to the wide reach of the UN’s website, which receives over 50 million unique visits annually. In addition, over 300 million people now have access to UN Radio programmes, many of which are now available on the Internet. Mr. Akasaka also described several new outreach programmes, including one on the Holocaust. “The observance in the General Assembly Hall this year included representatives of various communities who were targeted during the Holocaust, as well as students who will carry their message of tolerance and hope to future generations.” The Department is now focusing on four priority themes: peace and security; climate change; development and the Millennium Development Goals a set of global antipoverty targets; and human rights, he said. Drawing attention to the work of the UN Information Centres operating in various countries, he said: “They give our global messages a local accent – and as a result they bring the UN closer to the people it serves.” Reflecting on his own career path, which included work at several international organizations and led to his appointment in March as Under-Secretary-General for Communications and Public Information, Mr. Akasaka said he had long been familiar with the UN’s work through his travels. “At each place, I discovered amazing stories of people striving to make lives better. Behind those stories often lay the light footprint of the United Nations and its staff. I always admired the commitment and dedication of those people – the unsung heroes – who stood guard between enemy combatants, built tents for refugees, vaccinated children against deadly diseases, and brought food and water to the needy,” he said. “Now I have the opportunity to tell the story of the United Nations to the whole world. It is an amazing opportunity and a remarkable challenge.” 2007-04-30 00:00:00.000

April 27

UN REFUGEE AGENCY-BACKED WORKSHOP TACKLES ISSUE OF STATELESSNESS IN CENTRAL ASIA New York, Apr 26 2007 1:00PM The United Nations refugee agency has completed a two-day workshop on curbing statelessness in Central Asia, where the disbanding of the Soviet Union and civil wars have resulted in thousands of people not having a fixed nationality. “This is an important event for the countries of the former Soviet Union and the region,” said Tajikistan Government minister Gulchehra Sharipova of the event – mostly funded by the European Union (EU) and attended by 33 Government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) – held in the Tajik capital, Dushanbe. “We have survived a period of transition and faced many new challenges, including statelessness,” he added. “Tajikistan has seen its full impact; many people had to leave during the war [in the 1990s] and are still facing problems today.” Under international law, a stateless person is defined as someone not considered as a national by any State under its laws. There are at least 20,000 stateless people in Central Asia according to official figures, with more than 10,000 each residing in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, almost 200 in Tajikistan and an unknown number in Turkmenistan. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees however, believes that these numbers do not accurately reflect the situation on the ground. “These numbers are based on the number of people who have been issued stateless certificates by the authorities and do not represent the real scale of the problem,” the agency’s expert on the issue of statelessness, Philippe Leclerc, said. Both Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan said they have taken steps to prevent statelessness by naturalizing refugees living within their borders. But Mr. Leclerc remarked that identifying the stateless is extremely difficult. “Many people live in the rural areas with old Soviet passports issued in 1974,” he said. “They have not all replaced these old passports with documents issued by the newly independent States and only come to know of their problem when they try to travel, seek employment or enroll their children in school.” None of the Central Asian nations are party to the two international agreements on stateless peoples: the 1954 Convention relating to the Status of Stateless Persons and the 1961 Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness. “UNHCR’s job is to continually remind States of the huge scale of statelessness and to appeal to them to identify these people,” Mr. Leclerc said. A key to preventing statelessness is registering all children and identifying gaps in national laws, such as the inability of women to pass on their citizenship to their children, renouncing one’s nationality without having procured another and the automatic loss of citizenship after long residence abroad. Most participants at the workshop showed interest in launching campaigns in areas heavily populated by the stateless to inform them both of their rights and on how to address their problem. Government representatives also said that their respective countries offer the same rights and benefits – including the right to travel with Government-issued documents but excluding the right to vote and the obligation to perform compulsory military service – to the stateless who have been granted permanent residence as they do to those with citizenship. “The stability of a country depends o the stability of its population,” Mursalnabi Tuyakbayev of Kazakhstan’s Foreign Affairs Ministry. “I’m happy we could come and learn from each other’s experiences, and I hope we can continue this dialogue regularly.” Zumrat Solieva, who heads Tajikistan’s Citizenship Unit which is part of the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said, “We are planning a new nationality law and will make sure what we discussed here is taken into consideration.” This workshop is the first in a series of regional activities on bolstering asylum systems in Central Asia set to end this December, and 80 per cent of the project is funded by the EU while UNHCR provides the remaining 20 per cent. 2007-04-26 00:00:00.000

UN MOURNS LOSS OF DEPUTY SECRETARY-GENERAL OF ITS TRADE AND DEVELOPMENT ARM New York, Apr 26 2007 4:00PM The United Nations today mourned the death of Dirk Jan Bruinsma, the Deputy Secretary-General of the world body’s Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), who passed away at age 56 in The Hague, Netherlands, on 22 April following a brief illness. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon “was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Mr. Bruisnsma,” his spokesperson Michele Montas said in New York today. “He extends his condolences to Mr. Bruinsma’s family, friends and colleagues.” In a press release, UNCTAD said that “Mr. Bruinsma was instrumental in strengthening the organization, and particularly its work on science and technology, technical cooperation and communications.” The agency also said that Mr. Bruinsma was represented the organization in several international meetings, and was also actively involved in efforts to reform the UN. Before joining UNCTAD last January, he served as the Director-General of Foreign Economic Relations in the Ministry of Economic Affairs of the Netherlands. He had a strong interest in development cooperation and led his country’s delegation to the economic policy committees of the European Union (EU) and Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Prior to entering the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Mr. Bruinsma held positions in the Dutch Ministry of Finance and also worked in the private sector, managing his own consulting firm. Based in Geneva, UNCTAD promotes the integration of developing countries into the world economy, aiming to help shape current policy debates, with a particular focus on ensuring that domestic policies and international action are mutually supportive in bringing about sustainable development. 2007-04-26 00:00:00.000

BLUE HELMETS IN HAITI RETURN SCHOOL ONCE USED BY DRUG GANGS TO LOCAL AUTHORITIES New York, Apr 26 2007 5:00PM Brazilian peacekeepers working with the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti have handed back to local authorities in a notorious district of the capital a school that was seized from drug gangs earlier this year. The Ecole Nationale de Cité Soleil, from the slum district of the same name, will be rehabilitated with funds from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), UN spokesperson Michele Montas said today. The hand-over took place during a short ceremony yesterday involving Col. Barrosso Magno, commander of the Mission’s Brazilian contingent, which had been using the site its temporary headquarters. The return of the school “is a sign of change for Cité,” Col. Magno said, referring to the district of the capital, Port-au-Prince, where crime and gang activity has been most rampant in recent decades. MINUSTAH has been working actively with UN Police (UNPOL) and Haitian National Police (PNH) to locate and arrest key gang leaders and to disrupt and reduce their criminal activities. Elected officials in Cité Soleil yesterday also returned to work at the bullet-scarred town hall, which has become functional again, thanks to a joint effort by the Haitian Government, the PNH and the Brazilian contingent in MINUSTAH. 2007-04-26 00:00:00.000

April 25

RENEWED VIOLENCE UNDERCUTTING MIDDLE EAST DIPLOMATIC EFFORTS – UN OFFICIAL New York, Apr 25 2007 6:00PM Diplomatic initiatives to rejuvenate the Middle East peace process are making some progress, but they are being undermined by the deteriorating security situation on the ground, the United Nations political chief told the Security Council today, urging Israeli and Palestinian leaders to do their utmost to prevent the violence from escalating further. Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs B. Lynn Pascoe told an open Council meeting on the issue that the situation in the region is fragile, capable of either moving forward based on fresh negotiations or becoming caught in a spiral of tit-for-tat violence. “Actions and inactions on the ground remain real obstacles to progress, and have the potential to lead to paralysis or even a rapid deterioration,” Mr. Pascoe said in his statement to the Council debate, which saw the participation of over a dozen speakers. “The renewed violence of the past few days shows how precarious the situation is.” Between 14 March and 17 April, at least 43 Palestinians have been killed, 22 as a result of intra-community fighting and 21 by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF). More than 200 other Palestinians and 13 Israelis have also been injured, while 54 rockets and mortars were fired from the Gaza Strip into Israel. Mr. Pascoe called on the Palestinian Authority to take steps to counter the rocket fire and the smuggling of weapons, as well as to implement the internal security plan to restore law and order within Gaza. He added that the UN remains deeply concerned about the fate of the kidnapped British journalist Alan Johnston and reiterated Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s recent call for his immediate release. Mr. Johnston, who works for the BBC, was abducted on 12 March near his office as he was returning from the Erez crossing between Gaza and Israel. Releasing Corporal Gilad Shalit of Israel, who was kidnapped by Palestinian militants last June and taken into Gaza, “is also crucial to forward movement” in the peace process. Mr. Pascoe urged Israel to play its part to calm the situation, especially with its settler community in the West Bank. He noted widespread recent reports that groups of settlers had attacked Palestinian children and a mentally disabled man. Israel continues to construct new housing units in some 75 of its 121 settlements in the occupied Palestinian territory, he added, despite the Road Map plan calling for a freeze on settlements. All security measures must be proportionate, the Under-Secretary-General stressed, warning that Israeli operations in Palestinian population centres result almost inevitably in civilian casualties and are “a matter of great concern.” Israeli authorities are also subjecting UN staff members and other humanitarian workers crossing from Gaza into Israel to “increasingly arbitrary treatment” and searching their vehicles and property, including laptop computers, out of sight of UN staff. “This practice violates UN security standards, as well as UN privileges and immunities. We continue to work closely with all relevant Israeli authorities to correct the situation, but with little progress so far.” But Mr. Pascoe said there were some hopeful signs of progress on the political and diplomatic efforts, particularly the face-to-face meeting in Jerusalem on 15 April between Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. The two men discussed immediate humanitarian and security issues and reportedly also exchanged views on aspects of a future Palestinian State and how and when it could be achieved, Mr. Pascoe said, encouraging the leaders to build on those discussions. He was also heartened by “the greater public awareness of the potential of the Arab Peace Initiative,” adding that Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon was supporting all regional or international initiatives towards peace in the Middle East. Turning to Lebanon, Mr. Pascoe observed that despite intensive efforts to ease the country’s political stalemate, there has been no breakthrough regarding a national unity government or the formation of a special tribunal to try the suspected killers of former prime minister Rafik Hariri. While Lebanon has said it is committed to moving ahead on political and socio-economic reform as agreed, only a small percentage of pledges from international donors have been disbursed so far. Israeli air violations of the Blue Line have continued, as have claims that arms are being transferred into Lebanon in direct breach of the Security Council-imposed embargo. But the total strength of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon has reached 13,000 peacekeepers, and there has been “near total calm” in the area in the past two months. 2007-04-25 00:00:00.000

CASUALTY FIGURES CONTINUE TO CLIMB IN IRAQ, UN REPORT ON RIGHTS VIOLATIONS SAYS New York, Apr 25 2007 6:00PM Large-scale indiscriminate killings and targeted assassinations continue to impede efforts to bring lasting stability and security to Iraq, according to the latest United Nations human rights report released today on the strife-torn country, where causalities continue to climb despite recent efforts to stem in the bloodshed. Although Government officials declared a drop in the number of killings in late February after the Baghdad Security Plan was launched, the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq says the number of reported casualties rose again in March. UNAMI also voiced concern regarding the handling of suspects arrested as part of the Plan. The new procedures “contained no explicit measures guaranteeing minimum due process rights.” Rather, the report argues, “they authorized arrests without warrants and the interrogation of suspects without placing a time limit on how long they could be held in pre-trial detention.” While UNAMI recognizes the tremendous obstacles the country face in restoring law and order, Iraq “remains bound by both its international treaty obligation and its domestic legislation in taking measures to curb the violence,” the report, covering the period from 1 January to 31 March, says. Making no distinction between civilians and combatants, armed groups directly attack civilians through suicide bombings, abductions and extrajudicial executions. “Such systematic or widespread attacks against a civilian population are tantamount to crimes against humanity and violate the laws of war,” UNAMI says. Building on previous studies, this most recent report says the Government must also address the issue of maintaining long-term stability and security. “In this context, the intimidation of a large segment of the Iraqi population, among them professional groups and law enforcement personnel, and political interference in the affairs of the judiciary, were rife and in need of urgent attention,” it states. While the previous nine human rights reports issued contained statistics on killings, UNAMI regrets that authorities did not allow UNAMI access to the Ministry of Health’s mortality figures for this period. “UNAMI emphasizes again the utmost need for the Iraqi Government to operate in a transparent manner,” the report notes. In New York, a spokesperson for the world body said the UN will still seek official data on fatalities. “The Mission will continue to speak with the Iraqi authorities and urge them to provide the necessary information,” Michele Montas said. Even without the mortality figures at its disposal, UNAMI asserts that there was still a high level of violence during the reporting period, with large-scale killings and assassinations carried out by insurgency groups and militias, among others. February and March saw sectarian violence claim the lives of many civilians, including women and children, in both Shia and Sunni neighbourhoods. On 3 February, around 135 people were killed and 339 injured when a truck loaded with explosives detonated in a busy market in a mostly Shia district of Baghdad. The Mission also expresses concern at the use of terrorism and other forms of inhuman treatment in detention centres, and stresses the need to establish an effective tracking method to account for the location and treatment of those after arrest. Further, UNAMI says that there is a worrying increase in intolerance towards minorities as well as in attempts to muzzle the press. “Across the country, attacks against journalists and media outlets continued, resulting in a high number of casualties among media workers,” it notes. According to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), more than 730,000 Iraqis have been forced to flee their homes since the al-Askari shrine in Samarra was bombed last February, adding to the approximately 1.2 million others displaced prior to that. Baghdad neighbourhoods have increasingly become split along Shia and Sunni lines, and this trend must be reversed to allow civilians to return to their homes, the Mission says. During the period covered by this new report, UNAMI expanded the areas it monitors to the three northern governorates under the authority of the Kurdistan Regional Government. Although the area’s security situation is stable, there have been reports of impingements of the freedom of expression. Also, the report notes the lack of due process for detainees held on suspicion of involvement in terrorism in the region. “Hundreds have been held for prolonged periods without referral to an investigative judge or charges brought against them,” it says. 2007-04-25 00:00:00.000

AFTER MEETING TOP OFFICIALS IN DR CONGO, MIGIRO HEADS TO BRAZZAVILLE New York, Apr 25 2007 6:00PM United Nations Deputy-Secretary General Asha-Rose Migiro has wrapped up her visit to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where she met with top leaders and conveyed a message about the world body’s support for the country as it moves to consolidate peace. Ms. Migiro is now in Brazzaville, capital of the neighbouring Republic of Congo, to attend a meeting of UN Development Programme country directors for Africa. During her stay in the DRC, the Deputy-Secretary-General met with President Joseph Kabila and various political leaders, including members of the opposition. “Her message to all her interlocutors was that the United Nations is prepared to continue working with the Congolese authorities and Congolese people to promote reconciliation and reconstruction,” UN spokesperson Michele Montas told journalists in New York. In another development, the head of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization today called for greater protection of endangered animals in the DRC. Koïchiro Matsuura, in a letter to President Kabila and UN Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Affairs Jean-Marie Guéhenno, requested that the mandate of the UN mission in the DRC, known as MONUC, be expanded to include the protection of the country’s five World Heritage Sites and several other areas. These sites “are of exceptional importance to the preservation of biodiversity as they are home to some of the world's rarest and most remarkable species, including the bonobo, the closest living relative of the human species, mountain gorillas and okapi, a rare forest giraffe,” the agency said. The presence of armed groups on these sites has made rangers unable to stop the reported killing of hundreds of animals in recent months, according to UNESCO. With MONUC’s support, the DRC held landmark presidential and parliamentary elections, the first such polls in more than four decades, as it recovers from years of brutal civil war and misrule. 2007-04-25 00:00:00.000

BRAVING COLD, TEAM RACING TO RAISE MONEY FOR UN REFUGEE AGENCY IN THE LEAD New York, Apr 25 2007 10:00AM Facing bitter cold and encountering polar bears, a British duo seeking to raise almost $500,000 for the United Nations refugee agency leads the Polar Race 2007, as the grueling 640-kilometre endurance race to the North Pole has reached its halfway point. Team Refuge, comprising Jake Morland and James Turner, is leading its nearest rival by almost seven hours after setting out from Canada’s Cornwallis Island earlier this month. “We’ve taken a bit of a battering over the last few days,” said Mr. Morland, who has worked with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees over the past seven years in places such as Iraq, Timor-Leste, Sri Lanka and Sudan. Mr. Morland hopes the money his team raises will be earmarked for a special trust fund to cover urgent medical evacuations for refugee children. “Rather than polar bears, the cold has been our biggest concern,” he added. “The thermometer may only read minus 20 but with wind chill that’s closer to minus 65! Just staying warm is a battle!” The team must pull heavy sleds carrying food and other survival items over the frozen arctic, and is learning how to use the sun to navigate and also how to differentiate snow which is safe to melt and drink from snow which is salty from the seawater. The duo is now busy repairing their equipment and resting at a re-supply station on Osborne Island, as they gear up for the second half of their journey. To deal with the demanding challenges of the race, Mr. Turner, teacher and long-time friend of Mr. Morland’s, said that he is dreaming of his arrival back in Ottawa, Canada, after the end of the race next month. “A pint of beer and food that isn’t boil-in-the-bag takes my mind off bruised feet and aching bones,” he said. “It also allows me to open my eyes and enjoy the surroundings.” However, the highlight of the race so far for Team Refuge has been its coming across three polar bears and two Arctic wolves. Recalling a close encounter with a polar bear, Mr. Turner said, “My first thought was surprise, then I yelled, ‘Bear! Bear! Bear!’ The bear and I looked at each other, he sniffed the air, turned and disappeared in to the ice rubble.” He added, “It was close.” Team Refuge, one of six teams competing in the race, is being sponsored by Arch Insurance, a European company, which has given the two men $80,000 to cover the costs of the race, allowing all funds raised by the pair to be donated directly to UNHCR. The public will be able to continue donating to Team Refuge for the rest of this year. The winning team of the Polar Race 2007 will be awarded the Wedgwood Blue Ice Trophy. 2007-04-25 00:00:00.000

April 24

2008 BEIJING SUMMER OLYMPICS CAN BOOST DEVELOPMENT AND PEACE, UN ENVOY SAYS New York, Apr 24 2007 1:00PM Next summer’s Beijing Olympics provides a unique opportunity for the United Nations to promote development and peace-building activities, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s Special Adviser on Sport for Development and Peace said today. Adolf Ogi is scheduled to meet on Thursday with Liu Qi, President of the Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad to discuss its collaboration with the UN. “The Beijing 2008 Summer Olympics promises to be an historic event for the world of sports and for people worldwide,” Mr. Ogi said. “The United Nations is increasingly cooperating with the International Olympic Committee on development and peace-building activities, and the Beijing Olympics is a tremendous opportunity as well as a great responsibility.” He met with the Secretary-General last week in Geneva to discuss UN activities in which sport is used to improve education and health, expand economic opportunities and bolster peace. While visiting the Chinese capital, Mr. Ogi will also address the General Association of International Sports Federations and speak at the Beijing Sport University. China is also hosting this year’s Special Olympics World Summer Games in Shanghai and the 2008 Paralympic Games in Beijing. UN agencies are already involved in schemes for next year’s Olympic Games. The UN Environment Programme signed an agreement with Beijing Organizing Committee for a “Green Olympics” that promotes curtailing air, water and noise pollution; environmentally friendly transportation; and the responsible disposal of solid waste. UN Volunteers is coordinating with the Beijing Committee to mobilize 70,000 volunteers for the 2008 Olympic Games and 30,000 for the Paralympics. The UN Children’s Fund is organizing, with the Beijing Committee, a “Youth Camps” project to bring together 800 youth between the ages of 16 and 18 who represent all International Olympic Committee member countries and regions, including 50 living with disabilities. Last November, the General Assembly unanimously approved a three-year plan on sport for development and peace, which invites the UN family, Member States and other partners to utilize sport-based programmes to hasten the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals eight targets for tackling poverty, hunger and other social ills by 2015. 2007-04-24 00:00:00.000

UN RUSHES AID TO DR CONGO AS VIOLENT CLASHES DISPLACE TENS OF THOUSANDS

New York, Apr 24 2007 11:00AM The United Nations World Food Programme and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees are rushing aid to mitigate the suffering of tens of thousands of people forced to flee their homes after an outbreak of fighting in north-eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). In North Kivu province alone, close to 65,000 people have been displaced in recent weeks due to intensified fighting between militias and government forces. Some of the internally displaced people are living in makeshift camps approximately 100 kilometres from the city of Goma in the country’s north-east, while thousands of others are living in the bush – hiding during the day and going to their fields at night. “The latest fighting underlines the need for a strong humanitarian presence in eastern Congo,” said Charles Vincent, WFP’s DRC Country Director, adding that humanitarian agencies play a key role in “assisting those caught up in fighting as well as providing for others who are able to settle down when peace prevails.” To date, WFP has provided over 1,000 metric tonnes of food to 68,000 IDPs in North Kivu. To identify human rights concerns and the needs of IDPs, UNHCR’s rapid monitoring teams have conducted 25 assessments at several hotspots in areas affected by renewed fighting. The agency is discussing reports it has received from victims regarding serious human rights abuses at the hands of armed groups with the DRC’s military and local authorities. As violence rages in the north-eastern portion of the country, which is trying to rebuild after decades of civil war and misrule, nearly 100,000 refugees, including some who fled eight years ago, have been able to return home thanks to stability in other regions. UNHCR is assisting the voluntary return of Congolese refugees from five neighbouring countries, including Tanzania and Burundi. Since the start of the year, a lower-than-expected 8,000 people have returned to their home country, as many refugees are concerned about the difficult living conditions in the DRC. Meanwhile, more than 1.1 million Congolese have been displaced within the DRC by conflict and persecution, and rely on the UN and its partner agencies for aid and protection. “Despite all the country’s troubles, the DRC is at the heart of solutions for long-standing refugee problems throughout Africa’s Great Lakes region,” said Eusebe Hounsokou, UNHCR Representative in the country’s capital, Kinshasa, adding that refugees from Sudan, Angola and Burundi have taken refuge in the DRC. The agency provides returning refugees with help in building mud-brick houses and assists in rebuilding health centres, while WFP distributes a three-month supply of food. 2007-04-24 00:00:00.000

ALMOST 20 DIE AT HANDS OF SMUGGLERS IN FAILED EFFORT TO REACH YEMEN –

UN New York, Apr 24 2007 10:00AM The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) today said that at least 18 people died – either by being thrown overboard on the high seas by smugglers or by asphyxiation and dehydration – as they attempted to make the perilous journey across the Gulf of Aden from Somalia to Yemen. Accounts from eyewitnesses and survivors told UNHCR of this latest incident, which occurred on 20 April, the agency’s spokesperson Jennifer Pagonis said in a press briefing in Geneva. The deaths occurred during a voyage of two boats, a smuggling boat and a transport vessel used to transport fish and cattle, carrying 150 people – 80 Ethiopians and 70 Somalis. One boat arrived at the Yemeni port of Buroom, while the other reached Mukalka city, 25 kilometres away. Survivors reported paying the smugglers $100 to cross the Gulf of Aden to Yemen, where authorities have taken 35 Ethiopians into custody. The Somalis, who the Yemeni Government has recognized as refugees, were given food and water before being transferred to UNHCR’s reception centre in Mayfa. In 2006, approximately 26,000 people crossed the Gulf of Aden to Yemen, and 330 died. Another 300 were reported missing as they attempted the perilous journey and are presumed dead. Since the start of this year, over 5,600 people have reached Yemen while at least 200 have died and many are still missing. 2007-04-24 00:00:00.000

April 23

UN HUMAN RIGHTS CHIEF EMBARKS ON FOUR-COUNTRY TOUR OF CENTRAL ASIA New York, Apr 23 2007 3:00PM The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCR) on Tuesday will kick off an 11-day tour of Central Asia with stops in four countries in the region. On the first leg of her trip, Louise Arbour will visit Kyrgyzstan, where she will meet with President Kurmanbek Bakiev and other senior Government officials, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs. She will also hold discussions with representatives from both regional and international organizations, civil society groups and diplomats. The High Commissioner’s stop at the country “aims at increasing her Office’s engagement in the region,” according to a press release issued today of the visit which will give her the opportunity to discuss future cooperation with the Government and other key figures in Kyrgyzstan. “She hopes that the visit will enhance dialogue and technical cooperation between her Office and the Government and people of Kyrgyzstan,” it added. On her tour, Ms. Arbour will also visit Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. 2007-04-23 00:00:00.000

ON FIRST AFRICA VISIT, NEW UN AGENCY CHIEF PLEDGES TO OPTIMIZE FOOD PURCHASES New York, Apr 23 2007 3:00PM Making her first trip to Africa since becoming the head of the United Nations World Food Programme earlier this month, Josette Sheeran today called for joint actions to ensure that food aid purchases can help poor farmers to access markets and assist in solving chronic food insecurity. “I am convinced that strategically directed local purchase can benefit not only the hungry, but also poor farmers producing food,” said Ms. Sheeran, speaking to a wide variety of economists, traders and market experts at two round-table discussions in Addis Ababa. “Food security requires access to food and sustainable production of food,” she added. Starting her three-country trip to the Horn of Africa with a visit to the Ethiopian capital’s central grain market, Ms. Sheeran talked with many kinds of business people, from farmers selling a few sacks of wheat carried on the backs of their donkeys to traders dealing in tens of thousands of metric tons. She noted that WFP has a “huge market presence” with its cash-based purchases in Africa. The agency today buys 20 times more in Ethiopia than it did in 1990, last year purchasing $37 million worth of grain from the country. “We’re hoping to take a more strategic look at our purchases to see that we are doing all we can to have the maximum positive impact on development,” the WFP chief said. Ms. Sheeran, who told the grain market experts that her intent in coming to Ethiopia was to “listen and learn,” said WFP is determined to create a “virtuous circle of food security” – from the small-scale farmers to the ultimate beneficiaries of food assistance. She met today with Deputy Prime Minister Addisu Legesse and is scheduled to meet tomorrow with Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi. On Wednesday, Ms. Sheeran travels to Sudan, where WFP has its largest operation. 2007-04-23 00:00:00.000

COUNTRIES IGNORANT ABOUT THREATS POSED BY TRANSNATIONAL CRIME – UN AGENCY CHIEF New York, Apr 23 2007 5:00PM Law enforcement authorities around the world “operate in an information fog” about transnational organized crime, ignorant of the scope of the threats faced and unable to gauge global trends, the head of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime warned today, calling on UN Member States to develop a coherent blueprint to deal with the problem. Executive Director Antonio Maria Costa told the opening of the annual session of the Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, meeting in Vienna, that globalization meant activities ranging from money laundering and corruption to cyber-crime, identity theft and deliberate environmental destruction are “not threats that any State can fight alone.” Mr. Costa urged Member States to track organized crime more effectively and provide more detailed information so that policy-makers have the necessary data to develop the most comprehensive response possible. “While the building blocks of a global crime control regime are taking shape, the overall architecture needs to be made more explicit, coherent and results-oriented,” he said. Instruments such as the Convention against Transnational Organized Crime had not reached their full potential, despite the fact there are now 132 parties to the pact. “Its teeth are only starting to nibble on extradition, mutual legal assistance and cross-border judicial cooperation,” and no agreement has been reached yet on monitoring mechanisms or reporting obligations, he said. More generally, although there is widespread anecdotal evidence about anti-crime measures, such as the indictment of corrupt public officials and the breaking up of human trafficking rings, there have been few attempts to systematize the information on a global scale. “At times we cannot even define the enemy we face or assess its strength. We just see the tips of icebergs, or, if you allow me another metaphor, the shadow of dangerous entities. But the actual objects – whether submerged in murky waters or casting dark shadows – remain unfathomable.” But he said he was encouraged by recent initiatives relating to the UN Convention against Corruption, with many promising ideas sponsored by governments as well as multilateral banks and financial institutions. The Commission’s session runs until Friday and will consider a broad range of issues, including criminal justice responses to urban crime, combating the sexual exploitation of children, and strengthening international cooperation against illegal trafficking in timber. 2007-04-23 00:00:00.000

WANTED GANG LEADER ARRESTED IN HAITI – UN New York, Apr 23 2007 5:00PM Haitian National Police officers this weekend apprehended a gang leader who had been on the run since late February when law enforcement officials and United Nations peacekeepers seized control of his headquarters in Cité Soleil, the notorious slum area in the capital, Port-au-Prince. The arrest of Belony Pierre, who led a gang in the Bois-Neuf area of Cité Soleil, “marks another significant step forward in the fight against Haiti’s armed gangs,” the Secretary-General’s spokesperson Michele Montas told reporters today in New York. Haitian police arrested the suspect in St. Michel de l’Attalaye, 100 kilometres north of Port-au-Prince, and he was transferred immediately to the capital where he faces charges of murder and kidnapping. The UN mission, known as MINUSTAH, assisted in his transfer and subsequent detention at police headquarters in Port-au-Prince by providing additional security. In recent months, MINUSTAH has stepped up efforts to crack down on criminal gangs in violence-ridden Haiti; since the start of the year, more than 400 gang members have been arrested. 2007-04-23 00:00:00.000

RELIGIOUS LEADERS CAN TAKE LEAD ON INTERCULTURAL DIALOGUE, SAYS BAN KI-MOON New York, Apr 23 2007 5:00PM Religious and community leaders can play a leading role in promoting constructive intercultural dialogue that can help to bridge the widening gulf between peoples and nations, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told a conference on the issue today. In a message to the conference on “The Religious Dimension of Intercultural Dialogue,” held in San Marino, the Secretary-General urged the leaders to use their “tremendous influence… to teach your followers to actively learn about other cultures, societies and religions.” Warning that participants were gathering “at a time of rising intolerance and growing cross-cultural tensions,” exacerbated by events from acts of terrorism to offending statements or publications, Mr. Ban said the divide between communities and countries has the potential to undermine global peace and stability. “Today there is an urgent need to rebuild bridges and to engage in a sustained and constructive intercultural dialogue, one that stresses common values and shared aspirations. People of faith can play a leading role in such an exchange. They can stress the core beliefs and ideals found in all the great faith traditions: compassion, solidarity, respect for life, and kindness towards others.” The message was delivered on Mr. Ban’s behalf by Staffan de Mistura, Director of the UN System Staff College. Mr. Ban’s message added that the San Marino conference would also help the UN’s Alliance of Civilizations, an initiative launched in 2005 with the support of Turkey and Spain to promote understanding between different religious, ethnic and national communities. The Alliance’s High-Level group issued a report late last year calling for a series of measures in education, media, youth and migration to build bridges between different communities and promote a culture of respect. Last week Mr. Ban said he would soon appoint a High Representative to assist him on the issue and to defuse crises that emerge at the intersection of politics and culture. 2007-04-23 00:00:00.000

April 20

INTENSIFIED FIGHTING IN SOMALI CAPITAL IMPEDES ACCESS TO THOSE IN NEED

– UN New York, Apr 20 2007 11:00AM Despite their eagerness to help those who have been affected and displaced by violence in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu, United Nations agencies today said their efforts are thwarted by the worsening security situation. “We have heard the appeal of Somali civil society to the humanitarian community for more help and we continue to respond, as far as we are able, with supplies and technical support,” said, Christian Balslev-Olesen, Somalia Representative for the UN Children’s Fund “But our access is limited,” he added. “And so we reiterate our call to all parties involved in the conflict to do everything within their power to allow us to reach those who need our assistance the most.” Since the end of last year, violence in the capital has increased since the Transitional Federal Government (TFG), backed by Ethiopian forces, dislodged the Union of Islamic Courts (UIC) from Mogadishu and much of the rest of the country. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) estimates that 213,000 people have fled fighting in the capital thus far, while UNICEF reports that hospitals are overflowing with casualties and health clinics are facing a rising number of cases of acute water diarrhoea. “UNICEF warehouses in the capital containing relief supplies cannot be reached due to conflict in the area and the use of Mogadishu airport to bring in further supplies carries its own security risks,” Mr. Balslev-Olesen said. UNHCR today said that it is rushing aid to thousands who have fled Somalia’s capital Mogadishu amid the recent outbreak of fighting. The agency began distributing supplies yesterday to 40,000 displaced people who have fled Mogadishu since February and are currently residing in the small town of Afgooye, 30 kilometres west of the capital, UNHCR spokesperson Ron Redmond told reporters in Geneva. There was also an explosion yesterday on the main road linking Afgooye – which shelters one fifth of the 213,000 Somalis who are believed to have fled the capital – and Mogadishu, isolating the small town. “There are concerns that with this vital road now cut off, aid agencies will have an even harder time trying to bring supplies from warehouses in Mogadishu for distribution to thousands of displaced people in Afgooye and surrounding areas,” Mr. Redmond said. On its first day of distribution in Afgooye, UNHCR and its Somali non-governmental organization (NGO) partners reached 1,500 families or roughly 9,000 people, all of whom were living outdoors, either under trees or out in the open. By this morning, many had erected makeshift shelters with the plastic sheeting they received yesterday. The agency hopes to reach an additional 500 families or 3,000 people living outdoors. The coming rainy season makes providing shelter for families currently living under trees – who are exposed to the scorching sun, heavy rains and chilly nights – all the more critical. UNHCR is also delivering sleeping mats and mosquito nets to the displaced. This weekend, distribution will continue from stocks that have been flown in from emergency stockpiles in Dubai, including blankets, more plastic sheeting, jerry cans and kitchen sets for almost 20,000 people. “UNHCR plans to airlift more relief supplies from Dubai next week, and to distribute them in Afgooye,” Mr. Redmond said, adding that these additional supplies will cover 15,000 people. On Wednesday, UNHCR sent two truckloads of much-needed relief and medical supplies for Dobley, a small town on the 18 kilometres from Somalia’s border with Kenya. The town is struggling to cope with the recent arrival of 4,000 displaced people as well as with an outbreak of diarrhoea which has killed six children. By yesterday afternoon, supplies had been distributed at an isolation camp the community had set up on the town’s outskirts to curb the spread of the disease, and NGOs report that 50 people have been hospitalized in the makeshift hospital. “Because of security concerns, the UN is unable to work in these parts of Somalia and is providing assistance through Somali NGOs,” Mr. Redmond noted. 2007-04-20 00:00:00.000

BAN KI-MOON DISPATCHES POST-COUP FACT-FINDING MISSION TO FIJI

New York, Apr 20 2007 1:00PM Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is sending a fact-finding mission comprising political, electoral, human rights and development experts to Fiji next week to assess the situation in the Pacific island nation in the wake of last December’s coup d’état. Mr. Ban is dispatching the mission in response to the Security Council’s call for the restoration of democracy and a peaceful resolution of political tensions, his spokesperson said in a statement issued today at UN Headquarters in New York. The aim of the mission, which is scheduled to arrive in Fiji on Sunday, “is to gain a first-hand assessment of the situation in Fiji through broad consultations with the interim authorities, representatives of all political parties and civil society,” the statement added. The team is also slated to hold talks with the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat and the resident diplomatic community in the capital, Suva. Led by Jehangir Khan of the UN Department of Political Affairs, the mission will include electoral and political experts, as well as representatives from the UN Development Programme and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights The mission comes after the Secretary-General, the Security Council and other UN officials condemned the military coup on 5 December last year and urged that a peaceful restoration of the democratically elected government take place as soon as possible. Fiji has had four coups since 1987. 2007-04-20 00:00:00.000

April 19

UGANDA: CONCERNED BY MOUNTING VIOLENCE AGAINST CIVILIANS, UN OFFICIAL URGES PROTECTION

New York, Apr 19 2007 10:00AM In a report released today, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Louise Arbour urged the Government of Uganda to curb violence and human rights abuses voiced concern over escalating violence against civilians in Karamoja in the north-east of the country, where almost 70 people have been killed since last November. Between 16 November 2006 and 31 March 2007, “the indiscriminate and excessive use of force” by Government forces, known as UPDF, has lead to the deaths of at least 69 civilians, including women and children, as well as 10 cases of torture, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment, the High Commissioner's office (OHCHR) said in a statement released in Geneva. Additionally, 400 cattle and many traditional homesteads, or manyattas, have been destroyed in Karamoja. The High Commissioner also expressed serious concern over a “climate of fear and insecurity” in the area where armed Karimojong have reportedly killed seven UPDF soldiers, eight civilians and almost 300 cattle. Ms. Arbour, who issued a report last November calling on Uganda to end a forced disarmament exercise, deplored the failure of the Government to implement her previous recommendations. Allegations of human rights violations and criminal acts have persisted since the strategy was launched last May. “I call on the Government of Uganda to respect its obligations to protect the human rights of all individuals under its jurisdiction at all times,” Ms. Arbour said, appealing for an end to the indiscriminate and excessive use of force against men, women and children. The High Commissioner added that the country must also “take all necessary measures, including reviewing the ongoing disarmament process, to prevent any further human rights violations in Karamoja,” as well as implementing sustainable development initiatives to bring stability to the region. She also stressed that instead of pursuing a solely military response, the Government should create civilian mechanisms for the legal arrest, detention, prosecution and punishment of armed Karimojong who commit crimes. 2007-04-19 00:00:00.000

RISING FEARS ABOUT CONSERVATION OF MACHU PICCHU SITE PROMPT UN MISSION

New York, Apr 19 2007 1:00PM The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is sending a mission next week to the Incan archaeological ruin of Machu Picchu in Peru amid mounting concern about the conservation of the World Heritage Site as tourist numbers increase and urban development encroaches. Starting Monday, the mission will spend eight days visiting Machu Picchu and holding talks with Peruvian Government officials, local community representatives and others to discuss the implementation of the master plan for the site. Mission members will hold workshops with representatives of civil society and local, regional and national institutions to promote the greater participation of local communities in the management of Machu Picchu, which was inscribed as a mixed natural and cultural site on the World Heritage List in 1983. They will also focus on “the uncontrolled urban development” of Aguas Calientes, a town at the foot of Machu Picchu, the impact of a new bridge to the site and plans to develop tourist infrastructure within the protected area, UNESCO said in a press release issued today from its headquarters in Paris. Machu Picchu has become prone to mudslides and fires in recent years, and UNESCO said the mission would monitor the effect on flora and fauna and assess the site’s risk preparedness plan. 2007-04-19 00:00:00.000

April 18

BAN KI-MOON VOICES ‘DEEP CONCERN’ AT REPORTS OF ARMS FLIGHTS INTO DARFUR

New York, Apr 18 2007 5:00PM Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed deep concern today at evidence presented to Security Council members of the flying of arms and heavy weapons into the war-torn region of Darfur, a direct violation of a United Nations embargo. Mr. Ban “is especially troubled by reports that private or national aircraft have been illegally provided with UN markings and used for military purposes,” according to a statement released by his spokesperson at UN Headquarters in New York. “If further substantiated, such actions would be in clear violation of international law and in contravention of the UN’s international status.” A senior UN official told journalists today that there had been three sightings recently of planes with illegal UN markings – one over Darfur, one over a Government-controlled area in neighbouring Chad and one over the Central African Republic (CAR). In the statement, Mr. Ban pledged to work closely with the Security Council on the issue, and expected full cooperation from the Sudanese Government and other States “to provide prompt clarification” about the aircraft. Since 2003 more than 200,000 people have been killed and at least 2 million others forced to leave their homes to escape fighting between Government forces, allied Janjaweed militias and rebel groups. Entire villages have been burned down during the clashes. Concern has mounted recently that the conflict may spill into Chad and the CAR, and earlier this year Mr. Ban described Darfur as the scene of the world’s worst humanitarian crisis. On Monday, Mr. Ban and the Council both welcomed Sudan’s announcement confirming that it accepts the entire “heavy support package” of troops, police officers, civilian staff and helicopters which the UN will provide to the existing and overstretched African Union (AU) peacekeeping mission in Darfur. The heavy support package is the second phase of a three-step plan that is supposed to culminate in a hybrid UN-AU peacekeeping force of approximately 17,000 troops and 3,000 police officers. This force is to be staffed mainly by Africans. Under the support package, which is expected to cost $300 million over its first six months, the UN will supply more than 2,200 troops, 350 police and 1,100 civilian staff to the AU mission, known as AMIS. Helicopters will also be deployed. The UN is already providing a $21 million “light support package” which includes police advisers, civilian staff, technical support and other resources. 2007-04-18 00:00:00.000

MIGIRO URGES ACTION BY ALL DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS TO REACH ANTI-POVERTY GOALS

New York, Apr 18 2007 5:00PM Stressing the need to address the disparities in today’s world by striving to reach the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), Deputy Secretary-General Asha-Rose Migiro urged action by all partners to achieve the time-bound anti-poverty targets that were set by world leaders meeting at the United Nations in 2000. ”Midway to the MDG target date of 2015, the world has registered mixed progress towards these targets,” she said in an address at Boston University yesterday, hailing advances in many parts of the world, including a number of Asian countries. While there has also been progress in a number of African States, there is growing poverty in the continent overall, she said. “The reality is that Africa’s current growth, while commendable, is still insufficient when set against the tremendous distance the continent needs to cover.” African governments must continue with institutional reforms that promote good governance and accountability, said Ms. Migiro, a former foreign minister of Tanzania. “They should especially improve transparency in the use of domestic and external development resources.” She praised the efforts of development partners while calling for further action. “Donor nations and development partners should demonstrate leadership by bringing the quality and quantity of their development assistance in line with their stated commitments,” she declared. The Deputy Secretary-General called for a series of measures, including lowering existing trade barriers, agricultural subsidies, and restrictive rules on investment. “Ultimately, progress towards the Millennium Development Goals requires leadership from all sides,” she said, pledging the UN’s full support in this process. Also on Tuesday, Ms. Migiro accepted the Boston University Award, saying she was “humbled and inspired.” She praised the institution’s long-standing ties to Africa. “This university houses one of the oldest African studies programmes in this nation. Its reputation as a centre of teaching and research on Africa is second to none,” she said. 2007-04-18 00:00:00.000

OFFICIALS VISIT HAITI AS PART OF UN EFFORTS TO BOOST ECONOMY, STATUS OF WOMEN

New York, Apr 18 2007 5:00PM Officials from the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and Division for the Advancement of Women have arrived in Haiti as part of the world body’s efforts to help the country as it works to consolidate democracy. A delegation from the Ad Hoc Advisory Group of ECOSOC is on a four-day mission to assess Haiti’s economic and social development strategies, according to a news release from the UN Mission in the country (MINUSTAH), which was established in October 2004 after an insurgency forced then President Jean-Bertrand Aristide to go into exile. Led by Canadian Ambassador John McNee, the team is working to evaluate the current situation in Haiti and assess the post-conflict reconstruction challenges faced by the country. Among other tasks, the Group will examine the work of the UN country team and international assistance by all players on the ground, including follow up to recommendations made after it conducted a visit to Haiti in 2005. In another development, a high-level delegation from the Division on the Advancement of Women met today in Port-au-Prince with the senior UN envoy to the country, Mr. Edmond Mulet. This delegation, which arrived on Monday, is in Haiti to work in close collaboration with the Government to implement the 1979 Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination against Women. Haiti, which joined the pact in 1981, is scheduled to report to the committee which monitors it next year. 2007-04-18 00:00:00.000

RWANDA ASKS UN COURT TO OVERTURN FRENCH ARREST WARRANTS OVER GENOCIDE

New York, Apr 18 2007 5:00PM Rwanda applied today to the International Court of Justice to quash arrest warrants issued by a French judge last year against senior Rwandan Government and military officials and a request to the United Nations that President Paul Kagame stand trial at the UN war crimes tribunal dealing with the 1994 genocide. The application relates to the downing in Kigali on 6 April 1994 of an aircraft carrying the then presidents of Rwanda and Burundi, Juvénal Habyarimana and Cyprien Ntaryamira, an incident that sparked the subsequent genocide in Rwanda. Last November a French judge issued arrest warrants against a series of Rwandan officials, including the Chief of General Staff of its Defence Forces, the Chief of Protocol to the Presidency and the Rwandan Ambassador to India. By issuing those warrants, France is violating international law concerned with international and diplomatic immunities, as well as Rwanda’s sovereignty, and the warrants should be annulled immediately, Rwanda stated in its application. The African nation said the judge’s report was also sent to the UN Secretary-General with the request that Mr. Kagame be brought for trial before the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda Such an action means France “has acted in breach of the obligation of each and every State to refrain from intervention in the affairs of other States,” Rwanda argued. The ICJ said in a press release that the application has been sent to the French Government and, in accordance with its rules, no action will be taken by the court unless France consents to ICJ jurisdiction in the case. Estimates vary but some 800,000 people, mostly Tutsis and moderate Hutus, are thought to have been killed by Hutu militias and others over a 100-day period in Rwanda in 1994. 2007-04-18 00:00:00.000

April 17

UN FOOD AGENCY APPEALS FOR HELP TO AVERT DEEPENING CRISIS IN CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

New York, Apr 17 2007 11:00AM The United Nations World Food Programme today appealed for increased international donor support to avert a deepening humanitarian crisis in the Central African Republic (CAR), where hundreds of thousands of people displaced by war and civil conflict are in urgent need of food assistance. “The humanitarian situation in CAR is serious, and getting worse as a result of the violence and conflict spilling over from Darfur,” said WFP Executive Director Josette Sheeran. “We need to increase our operations to cover the food needs of 230,000 people in this growing emergency.” The appeal comes ahead of Ms. Sheeran’s visit to Ethiopia, Sudan and Chad next week, where she will assess the impact of the spill-over of the Darfur conflict in neighbouring Sudan for WFP operations in the region. Her visit will follow on the visit to Sudan and the Central African region in early April by Under Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs John Holmes, who also focussed on the worsening situation in the often-overlooked emergency in CAR. WFP is more than doubling its budget and scaling up its aid operations nearly six-fold to reach 230,000 people within CAR whose lives have been savaged by the ongoing violence. Another 20,000 Central Africans who have fled west into Cameroon are targeted through a new WFP operation, while close to 50,000 refugees are already receiving WFP assistance in camps in southern Chad. Total cost for this humanitarian effort is likely to exceed $50 million. In CAR alone, the newly expanded operation is budgeted at $44 million, but donor contributions to date amount to $14 million. 2007-04-17 00:00:00.000

UN MEETING OPENS WITH CALLS FOR GLOBAL SUPPORT TO HELP MILLIONS OF UPROOTED IRAQIS New York, Apr 17 2007 11:00AM Hundreds of concerned participants from governments, aid organizations and United Nations bodies gathered in Geneva today at a conference organized by the UN refugee agency in a bid to find ways to address the humanitarian crisis facing millions of people uprooted by the conflict in Iraq, hearing calls for a sustained, comprehensive and coordinated international response to their plight. “The humanitarian dimension of the problem can no longer be overlooked,” UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) António Guterrestold representatives from more than 60 nations at the opening of a two-day UNHCR conference on the humanitarian needs of nearly 4 million refugees and displaced people in Iraq and surrounding countries. He said their “needs are as obvious as the moral imperative to help.” Urging results from the more than 450 participants from governments and international and non-governmental organizations attending, he said: “All of us – representatives of governments, international organizations and civil society – are now compelled to act.” Mr. Guterres noted that while Iraq probably had the highest media profile of any conflict in the world today, “too little attention has been devoted to the humanitarian tragedy looming in the shadows.” According to UNHCR, the conflict in Iraq has caused the most significant displacement in the Middle East since 1948, with one in eight Iraqis driven from their homes. Some 1.9 million Iraqis are currently displaced inside the country and up to 2 million others have fled abroad. “It is the largest urban caseload UNHCR has ever dealt with,” Mr. Guterres said in a reference to Syria, Jordan and other nearby countries. “But those host communities are straining under this extraordinary burden, while the suffering of the displaced grows by the day.” He added that: “The generosity of host countries must be matched by that of the entire international community.” Many Iraqis were displaced prior to the fall of the previous regime in 2003. Between 2003 and 2005, more than 300,000 Iraqis had returned home to begin rebuilding their lives, he said. But the trend has now dramatically reversed, particularly since the Samarra bombing in February 2006. About 750,000 people are estimated to have fled their homes since that incident, with up to 50,000 more displaced each month. The High Commissioner stressed the humanitarian focus of the meeting, but also noted that humanitarian problems are “symptoms of a disease whose cure can only be political.” 2007-04-17 00:00:00.000

UN GRIEVES FOR SLAIN COLLEAGUES AND CHILDREN IN AFGHANISTAN AFTER DEADLY ATTACKS New York, Apr 17 2007 12:00PM The United Nations mission in Afghanistan today expressed grief over the killing of five of its workers in a roadside bomb blast and also for the deaths of four children and the wounding of four others in a separate explosion at a school. “Intentional attacks on civilians are a clear violation of international humanitarian law and the UN will be pursuing full accountability for those who are behind this,” said UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan spokesman Adrian Edwards. “We grieve for our lost colleagues and for the murdered and wounded children and offer our deep sympathies to their families and loved ones.” A remote-controlled explosive device was detonated this morning in the southern city of Kandahar as a UN road convoy was passing, killing an Afghan driver and four Nepalese contractors working with the world body’s Office for Project Services. Separately another explosion occurred at a school in Herat, in the west of the country, killing four children and wounding four others. 2007-04-17 00:00:00.000

April 16

UN EXPANDS FIGHT AGAINST POTENTIALLY FATAL CHAGAS DISEASE THAT AFFECTS MILLIONS

New York, Apr 13 2007 8:00PM The United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) is joining forces with Bayer HealthCare to expand global efforts aimed at eliminating Chagas, a parasitic disease that affects an estimated 9 million people, mostly children, and which causes the slow swelling of victims’ internal organs and is fatal to around a third of those infected. The United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) is joining forces with Bayer HealthCare to expand global efforts aimed at eliminating Chagas, a parasitic disease that affects an estimated 9 million people, mostly children, and which causes the slow swelling of victims’ internal organs and is fatal to around a third of those infected. The expanded WHO programme will be supported by funds and free tablets from Bayer HealthCare, which manufactures nifurtimox, a drug used to treat the disease, and these will allow the treatment of an estimated 30,000 patients over a period of five years, the agency said in a press release. “This disease still poses a threat to so many people in Latin America and now that threat has spread to other countries via blood banks lacking adequate screening of infected donors. This provision is indeed an important step towards elimination efforts of Chagas worldwide,” said Dr. Mirta Roses Periago, WHO/PAHO (Pan American Health Organization) Regional Director for the Americas Region. For decades, Chagas disease largely affected people in rural areas of Latin America but blood donations and poor safety in blood banks have led to infections in other countries as some people who may be unaware they carry the infection have donated their blood to the national blood supply. As a result, the disease has now appeared in Europe and various parts of the United States. The disease is caused by the protozoan parasite, which enters the human body though broken skin, and can be passed on either by the bloodfeeding ‘assassin bugs’ that emerge at night to bite and suck blood, through transfusion with infected blood or congenitally from infected mother to foetus. Usually a small sore develops at the bite where the parasite enters the body. Within a few days, fever and swollen lymph nodes may develop. This initial acute phase may cause illness and death, especially in young children. However more commonly, patients enter a symptom-less phase lasting several months or years, during which time parasites are invading most organs of the body, often causing heart, intestinal and oesophageal damage and progressive weakness. In 32 per cent of those infected, fatal damage to the heart and digestive tract occurs during this chronic phase. For therapy, two drugs can be used for the early chronic phase. 2007-04-13 00:00:00.000

EXTENDING UN MISSION IN GEORGIA FOR SIX MONTHS, SECURITY COUNCIL URGES DIALOGUE

New York, Apr 13 2007 7:00PM Stressing the need for dialogue between the Government and Abkhaz sides in Georgia, where fighting 14 years ago drove nearly 300,000 people from their homes, the Security Council today extended the United Nations mission in the country for another 6 months until 15 October. In a resolution adopted unanimously, the 15-member body also condemned the attack on villages in the upper Kodori valley on 11-12 March and urged all sides to fully support the ongoing investigation conducted by the Joint Fact Finding Group, which is led by the UN Observer Mission in Georgia “The Security Council… decides to extend the mandate of UNOMIG for a new period terminating on 15 October 2007... [It] stresses that the situation on the ground in the areas of security, return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and rehabilitation and development must be improved and calls on both sides to resume dialogue,” the resolution states. The Council “urges the sides to address seriously each other’s legitimate security concerns, to refrain from any actions which might impede the peace process, and to extend the necessary cooperation to UNOMIG and the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) peacekeeping force.” In his latest report on the work of the UN in Georgia, which was released last week, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said last month’s rocket attacks in the upper Kodori valley were “a major setback”, but added there have been recent signs of progress between the Georgian and Abkhaz sides. Mr. Ban cited the continued joint patrols of the valley by UNOMIG and the CIS peacekeeping force as one example of the progress being made, adding that the patrols had observed no heavy weapons and a reduction in the number of armed personnel since a similar patrol in October last year. UNOMIG was set up in 1993 and expanded in 1994 to verify compliance with a cessation of hostilities and separation of forces accord, with patrols of the Kodori valley a specific part of its mandate. But it stopped patrolling the upper part of the valley in 2003 when four mission members were held hostage. Patrols were resumed after a break of three years last December. 2007-04-13 00:00:00.000

BAN KI-MOON SENDS UN LEGAL CHIEF TO LEBANON TO HELP BREAK IMPASSE OVER TRIBUNAL

New York, Apr 13 2007 7:00PM Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today he is dispatching the United Nations legal chief to Lebanon on Monday to help the Government and the country’s other political leaders to end their political impasse and set up a special tribunal as soon as possible to try the suspected killers of former prime minister Rafik Hariri. Nicholas Michel, the Under-Secretary-General for Legal Affairs, will “offer his legal assistance… to help their constitutional procedures,” Mr. Ban told reporters at UN Headquarters in New York, referring to the parliamentary ratification necessary for the tribunal to enter into force. Mr. Ban said he hoped that Mr. Michel’s trip would help to “clarify all concerns or apprehensions” that might exist about the tribunal. In February, on behalf of the UN, Mr. Michel signed the agreement with Lebanon to set up the tribunal, but the country’s parliamentary forces have been deadlocked and there has been no vote so far on the tribunal agreement. The planned special tribunal in Lebanon will be of “an international character” to deal with the assassination of Mr. Hariri, who was killed along with 22 others in a massive car bombing in downtown Beirut in February 2005. Once it is formally established, it will be up to the tribunal to determine whether other political killings in Lebanon since October 2004 were connected to Mr. Hariri’s assassination and could therefore be dealt with by the tribunal. Mr. Michel told journalists today that his aim during the visit would be to “help the Lebanese parties to talk to each other and to find common ground so that the institutional process can be promoted towards ratification of the agreement.” He stressed that the UN had never tried to impose such a tribunal on the Lebanese, but had responded to an initial request from the country’s authorities for such a court. “So I work in that spirit, in the spirit of an assistance to be brought to the Lebanese authorities, in the spirit of a national dialogue, reconciliation, mutual understanding towards the establishment of the tribunal.” In April 2004 the Security Council set up the International Independent Investigation Commission (IIIC) after an earlier UN mission found that Lebanon’s own inquiry into the Hariri assassination was seriously flawed and that Syria was primarily responsible for the political tensions that preceded the attack. Its mandate runs out next year. Serge Brammertz, the current head of the IIIC, told the Council last September that evidence obtained so far suggests that a young, male suicide bomber, probably non-Lebanese, detonated up to 1,800 kilograms of explosives inside a van to assassinate Mr. Hariri. 2007-04-13 00:00:00.000

April 12

TOP UN ENVOY IN IRAQ STRONGLY CONDEMNS ATTACKS IN BAGHDAD

New York, Apr 12 2007 10:00AM The senior United Nations envoy to today strongly condemned today’s attacks in Baghdad on the Al-Sarrafiya Bridge and at the Iraqi Parliament, calling on the country’s authorities to apprehend those behind the acts and bring them to justice. The bombings “constituted attacks on the symbols of Iraq’s proud history and hope for its future,” the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Iraq Ashraf Qazi said in a statement. Calling today’s acts “criminal,” he said that they “demonstrated the horrors of wanton violence and the need for enhanced dialogue and national reconciliation.” Mr. Qazi expressed his deep condolences for the families of those killed, and said that he hopes for the speedy recovery of those wounded. 2007-04-12 00:00:00.000

April 11

RACE TO NORTH POLE BEGINS WITH BRITISH PAIR AIMING TO RAISE FUNDS FOR UN REFUGEE AGENCY

New York, Apr 11 2007 10:00AM A 640 kilometre race to the North Pole kicked off this week from the last inhabited outpost in northern Canada, with a pair of British adventurers seeking to raise almost $500,000 for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Jack Morland, 31, and James Turner, 30, comprise Team Refuge, which is racing to raise money for UNHCR and has so far has raised $50,000. “We would like to earmark this money for a special trust fund to cover urgent medical evacuations for refugee children,” said Mr. Morland, who has worked for UNHCR over the past seven years in places such as Iraq, Timor-Leste, Sri Lanka and Sudan. He hopes this fund will act as a “quick access fund for field officers to bypass too much paperwork.” “This is also an opportunity for James and I to use the Polar Race as an excuse to talk to people about the refugee issue,” he added. “We will return to the [United Kingdom] in May to begin a series of talks on the race and refugees at schools, community centres and universities around the country.” Team Refuge, one of six competing in the race, took the early lead on the first day of the endurance race which entails dragging heavy sleds across icy terrain, enduring minus 40-degree Celsius temperatures and constantly looking out for dangerous polar bears. What scares Mr. Morland most is not the polar bears, but instead the bitter temperatures. “The cold is terrifying,” he said. “No sooner have you left the tent than your eyelids freeze together and your bones begin to ache.” However, Mr. Morland and Mr. Turner, a long-time friend and schoolmaster, have trained extensively for the event in the gym and also went on a two-week trip to the Swedish Arctic. The team must carry the essentials for survival – including food, medical supplies, communications equipment and urine flasks so they do not have to leave their tents at night to answer a call of nature – in heavy sleds. Arch Insurance, a European company, has given Team Refuge $80,000 to cover the costs of the race, allowing all funds raised by the pair to be donated directly to UNHCR. The public will be able to continue donating to Team Refuge for the rest of this year. The race is expected to take at least four weeks, and the winning team will be awarded the Wedgwood Blue Ice Trophy. 2007-04-11 00:00:00.000

April 10

WORLD HERITAGE LIST SITES AT SERIOUS RISK FROM CLIMATE CHANGE, WARNS UN REPORT

New York, Apr 10 2007 6:00PM Some of the world¡Çs most renowned natural and cultural sites, from the Great Barrier Reef to Kilimanjaro National Park to the city of Venice, are at serious threat from climate change, to a report released today by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Rising sea levels, melting glaciers, increased risks of flooding and reduced marine and land biodiversity could all have potentially disastrous effects on the 830 sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the report said. UNESCO Director-General Ko«Áchiro Matsuura called for ¡Èan integrated approach to issues of environmental preservation and sustainable development,¡É warning that climate change will constitute an enormous challenge over the next century. The report, which featured 26 case studies, focused on five areas: glaciers, marine biodiversity, terrestrial biodiversity, archaeological sites, and historic cities and settlements. One of the at-risk sites is the Great Barrier Reef, off the north-eastern coast of Australia. The report found that rising sea temperatures and increasing oceanic acidification mean that corals are more and more likely to bleach and turn white, jeopardizing the numerous fish species which rely on the reef. The Italian city of Venice and its surrounding lagoon face the threat of more frequent flooding because of rising sea levels, the report noted, while rising water levels could endanger the historic areas of many other famous cities, including London and Prague. The decorative surfaces of many of the buildings in these cities are considered to be at particular risk. In Tanzania, the rapidly diminishing glaciers on Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa¡Çs highest peak, could lead to the complete disappearance of its ice fields within the next 15 years. 2007-04-10 00:00:00.000

UN HEALTH AGENCY HAILS MOVE TO CUT PRICE OF KEY HIV/AIDS DRUG

New York, Apr 10 2007 6:00PM The United Nations World Health Organization today welcomed the decision of Abbott Laboratories to reduce the price of a drug which has proved particularly effective as a “second-line” antiretroviral therapy (ART) for people living with HIV/AIDS. The price of lopinavir/ritonavir (LPV/r, marketed as Kaletra/Aluvia) has been lowered by Abbott in some low and middle-income countries, where many HIV/AIDS drugs are unaffordable and demand for this medicine is growing. Worldwide the number of people being treated with ART keeps growing in low and middle-income countries. This has caused a rise in the number of people in those nations who have developed resistance to so-called “first-line” treatments, thus boosting demand for second-line ART. In a statement released today, the WHO welcomed Abbott’s decision and said it would continue to work with countries, people living with HIV/AIDS, organizations and the pharmaceutical industry “to find mechanisms that address the immediate need to rapidly increase access and affordability of life-saving drugs, while maintaining the long-term need to foster research and development in innovative medicines.” WHO has pledged to work towards universal access to HIV prevention services and to treatment and care for people living with HIV/AIDS, all by 2010. 2007-04-10 00:00:00.000

UN AGENCY TEAMS UP WITH GLOBAL FOOTBALL BODY AHEAD OF SOUTH AFRICA WORLD CUP

New York, Apr 10 2007 6:00PM Ahead of the soccer World Cup in South Africa in 2010, the United Nations tourism agency is teaming up with FIFA (Federation Internationale de Football Association) to help promote development, including eliminating poverty and supporting sustainable tourism, across the African continent by using the sport as the driving force. “The World Cup constitutes an opportunity that the countries of the region can seize in order to obtain the maximum socio-economic, promotional and cultural benefits. It should also contribute to strengthening the image of Africa”, said UN World Tourism Organization Secretary-General Francesco Frangialli. Aware of the fact that Africa can benefit from this major event, the heads of FIFA, the UNWTO and the UNWTO ST-EP Foundation (Sustainable Tourism – Eliminating Poverty) are preparing a partnership to assist African countries within the framework of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, UNWTO said in a press release. Particularly through its ST-EP programme, UNWTO is working for poverty alleviation, linking its longstanding pursuit of sustainable tourism with the UN Millennium Development Goals MDGs) and its own Global Code of Ethics. The MDGs are a set of globally-agreed time-bound targets aimed at eliminating a host of social ills. The World Cup, through the assistance provided by UNWTO and with travel and tourism as its main thrust, represents an opportunity to promote the whole of Africa to international markets, to reinforce the image of the continent as a safe and significant tourism destination and to help people develop closer relations, the agency said. Earlier this year, the African Union (AU), South Africa and Ethiopia nominated 2007 as the International Year of African Football, an initiative that was welcomed by the UN as part of its global drive linking sport with development. 2007-04-10 00:00:00.000

UN MISSION TO SUPPORT HOLDING OF HAITIAN LOCAL ELECTIONS LATER THIS MONTH

New York, Apr 10 2007 6:00PM The United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti has announced plans to provide security and logistical support to the Caribbean country’s Provisional Electoral Commission when it holds local mayoral and municipal elections later this month. About 300,000 voters are expected to cast their ballots on 29 April, voting for 73 delegate seats across 10 districts, MINUSTAH spokesperson Sophie Boutaud de la Combe told journalists on Thursday at the weekly press briefing in Port-au-Prince, the Haitian capital. Ms. Boutaud de la Combe urged all eligible Haitians to vote in the polls, which follow successfully staged legislative and local elections last year. MINUSTAH has already provided training, coordinated with the Haitian Government, to thousands of candidates and civilians to help the municipal administrations better manage their affairs, especially in budgetary matters. The mission has been supporting the polling process in Haiti since 7 February 2006, when the presidential and initial round of parliamentary elections were held – the first nationwide voting since an insurgency forced former President Jean- Bertrand Aristide into exile two years before. MINUSTAH peacekeepers are also continuing law-and-order operations, most recently working with the Haitian National Police (HNP) in Port-au-Prince to detain 51 presumed gang members during the past week. The arrests are part of joint efforts to cut crime and improve security in the capital’s most crime-ridden neighbourhoods, where armed gangs have operated for many years. 2007-04-10 00:00:00.000

April 9

UN CONDEMNS BLOODY WEEKEND IN AFGHANISTAN; AGENCIES HELP FLOOD VICTIMS

New York, Apr 9 2007 5:00PM The United Nations today condemned separate bloody weekend attacks in Afghanistan, resulting in the killing of seven civilian de-miners and the deaths of six Canadian soldiers belonging to the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), which is helping to bring stability to the war-torn country. On Saturday a convoy of civilian de-mining and security personnel travelling on the Kandahar to Herat road in the south was attacked, leaving seven killed and two wounded and also killing two mine detection dogs. “The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) strongly condemns this attack on individuals who are actively working to improve the lives and safety of the Afghan community,” spokesman Farhan Haq told reporters at UN Headquarters in New York. Separately, a UNAMA spokesperson in the Afghan capital Kabul expressed the world body’s sadness and condolences over the deaths and injuries to the Canadian soldiers, which also occurred in the south of the country. “The commitment and sacrifice of the men and women of the Canadian armed forces, together with all those serving together under NATO-led ISAF command is an inspiration to us all as they continue to play a crucial role in efforts to restore peace in Kandahar, Helmand and all of Afghanistan,” said Aleem Siddique. This latest bloodshed comes after the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Afghanistan Tom Koenigs spoke out on Sunday against the killing of Afghan journalist Ajmal Naqshbandi, who had been abducted by Taliban extremists early last month, and called for action to apprehend the perpetrators. Also in Afghanistan, UN agencies are continuing to help those affected by flooding in the impoverished country. The UN Children’s Fund the World Food Programme and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees are providing emergency assistance, including the pre-positioning by WFP of 350,000 tons of food in five locations around Afghanistan for rapid deployment. In a related development, the World Bank’s Country Director for Afghanistan Alastair McKechnie told reporters in Kabul that while the country faces many challenges, not least of which is poverty and insecurity, progress has been made over the past few years, including much greater access to basic health care and more children in schools. 2007-04-09 00:00:00.000

UN DEMOCRACY FUND’S ADVISORY BOARD TO MEET TOMORROW TO REVIEW FIRST-YEAR PROGRESS

New York, Apr 9 2007 5:00PM The Advisory Board of the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF), established to promote and consolidate new and restored democracies with financial and technical help, will meet tomorrow to review the Fund’s progress after its first year of activities and decide on future priorities and policies. UNDEF began its first day of practical work on 6 March last year, although it was established by the Secretary-General in July 2005 and welcomed at that year’s World Summit, which reaffirmed democracy as “a universal value based on the freely expressed will of people to determine their own political, economic, social and cultural system.” The 2005 World Summit also affirmed that “there is no single model of democracy, and that it does not belong to any country or region”. The Fund complements current UN efforts to promote free and fair elections, human rights, support to civil society, pluralistic media and the rule of law. So far, it has received a total of $61.2 million from 28 countries, with an additional contribution of $4 million firmly pledged by donors. The largest financial contributor is the United States with $18 million, followed by Japan and India. The Secretary-General’s Advisory Board is composed of 17 members, including representatives from the largest Member State contributors to the Fund, those from Member States selected by the Secretary-General to reflect diverse geographical representation, and also representatives from civil society and personal representatives of the Secretary-General. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is scheduled to address the Board early on Tuesday morning in New York. 2007-04-09 00:00:00.000

UN SENDS DISASTER ASSESSMENT TEAM TO MADAGASCAR IN WAKE OF ANOTHER CYCLONE

New York, Apr 9 2007 5:00PM The United Nations humanitarian arm has dispatched a five-member disaster assessment and coordination team to Madagascar, where relief operations are under way after the sixth cyclone of the season struck the island nation last week. The team from the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs will support the UN country team already in Madagascar and the African country’s authorities as they determine what emergency supplies and facilities are needed to avert further deaths and diseases. Madagascar has been battered by six cyclone or tropical storms since December, with tropical storm Jaya striking last week, causing flooding and forcing many inhabitants to seek shelter at higher ground. The city of Maroantsetra in the northeast was isolated by rising waters, and its airport was forced to close temporarily. But OCHA officials said they expect the flood waters to recede relatively quickly now Jaya has passed. The UN Children’s Fund has obtained more than $1.6 million in emergency supplies, although its distribution operations have been hampered by the lack of access to some of the affected areas in the country’s north. The World Food Programme is also helping in efforts to bring aid to areas where it can be reached by cyclone survivors. OCHA said last week that it is most concerned about a possible rise in child and maternal mortality in the wake of the storms because of malnutrition, lack of sanitation and poor access to basic health-care services. Tens of thousands of hectares of rice, the basic food source for the Malagasy, have been destroyed by the floods. The Office described the planned national immunization and preventative health programme for the week beginning 23 April as critical and urged that it be carried out in all areas. The programme includes giving vitamin A to children and pregnant women, as well as offering de-worming treatment and measles vaccinations. 2007-04-09 00:00:00.000

SOMALIA: UN AGENCY WELCOMES RELEASE OF HIJACKED SHIP USED TO CARRY FOOD AID

New York, Apr 9 2007 11:00AM Calling on authorities to take action to curb piracy in Somali waters, the United Nations World Food Programme hailed the release of a hijacked ship used for carrying food aid which had been hijacked in February off the coast of the semi-autonomous region of Puntland in the northeast of the African country. The MV Rozen and its 12-member crew, comprising six Kenyans and six Sri Lankans, had completed its contract with WFP on 22 February when it dropped off 1,800 metric tons of food from Mombasa in Kenya to Bossaso in Somalia when it was hijacked on 25 February. “WFP welcomes the release after 40 days of the MV Rozen,” said the agency’s Somalia Country Director Peter Goossens, thanking elders in Puntland for their mediation efforts in securing the ship’s release last week. “The treat of piracy however is still very much alive in Somali waters,” Mr. Goossens added, and he urged the Transitional Federal Government of Somalia and authorities in Puntland to curtail piracy. News of the ship’s release was delayed due to security concerns. This incident has caused reluctance among shippers to carry cargoes to Somalia, creating delays in delivering much-needed food aid to the country. In 2005, the MV Semlow, the MV Rozen’s sister vessel, was hijacked while carrying WFP food supplies and held for more than 100 days. Another ship contracted by WFP, the MV Miltzow, was hijacked as it was unloading food aid at the Somali port of Merca and held for 33 hours. 2007-04-09 00:00:00.000

April 5

AFGHANISTAN: UN FOOD AGENCY RUSHES SUPPLIES TO FEED 60,000 IN WAKE OF FLOODS

New York, Apr 5 2007 10:00AM The United Nations World Food Programme today stepped up assistance to victims of devastating spring floods in Afghanistan, sending 1,000 tonnes of emergency rations to feed 60,000 people for 30 days, but the agency is concerned about those affected who are beyond the reach of immediate help. “We don’t have a lot of time to waste,” said the WFP Afghanistan Country Director Rick Corsino. “It can take quite a while in this country to get food and other assistance to affected people and there are many in desperate need of food, shelter, blankets and medicine.” WFP is worried about flood victims who are stranded in remote – sometimes war-torn – mountainous regions made inaccessible by road destruction, landslides and avalanches. The agency voiced particular concern about the difficulties in sending aid to the heavily impacted southern province of Helmand, where security is a major concern given the frequent clashes between insurgents and Government and international forces. Trucks carrying WFP food have frequently been attacked by anti-Government elements, complicating aid distribution. Although the full death and destruction toll is unknown, the heavy rains which began last month have killed dozens of people and many more domestic livestock, damaged or destroyed thousands of homes and washed away tens of thousands of hectares of cultivated land. The relentless precipitation, coupled with quickly melting winter snow, has also impeded access on the highways linking the capital Kabul to the north and south of the country. The Vice President of Afghanistan has declared 13 of the country’s 34 provinces as disaster areas, and WFP is coordinating with the Government, other UN agencies, non-governmental organizations and international military forces to distribute aid. “We have been working very well together to quickly assess the real needs and deliver as much help as we can, and as fast as we can, to those who need it most,” Mr. Corsino. 2007-04-05 00:00:00.000

April 4

INTERNATIONAL FORCE IN CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC POSSIBLE – UN HUMANITARIAN CHIEF

New York, Apr 4 2007 6:00PM A multi-dimensional international force could be deployed to the troubled northeast of the Central African Republic (CAR) without the approval of neighbouring Chad, which is beset by its own civil strife, the United Nations’ top humanitarian official said today. But John Holmes, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, told the Security Council that some sort of international presence is also vital in eastern Chad, where hundreds of thousands of refugees from the CAR and Sudan’s war-torn Darfur region, as well as internally displaced persons (IDPs), are living. The CAR has said it supports the arrival of an international force to try to stabilize its northeast, where almost 300,000 villagers have become displaced in the past year because of clashes between rebels and Government forces and the torching of numerous towns and villages by rebels. Many Central Africans have been forced to live in the bush out of concerns for their safety if they stay in villages or camps. Mr. Holmes – who is also the UN Emergency Relief Coordinator – later told reporters that Chadian officials have said that while they are willing to have international gendarmes or police in the east of the country, they are not so enthusiastic about a foreign military presence. “The position of the UN, as you know, is that you can’t have one without the other – that military protection is needed,” Mr. Holmes said. He added that there was widespread support within the Security Council for an international force to be deployed in eastern Chad and the CAR, and said he hoped that discussions between Council members and the Chadian Government on this issue advance quickly. The Under-Secretary-General was briefing the Council today on his observations from his recent two-week trip to Sudan, Chad and the CAR, where three separate conflicts are threatening to spill into each other. “The humanitarian situation in all three countries is truly alarming,” Mr. Holmes said, adding that conditions were deteriorating despite the persistent efforts of UN humanitarian agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Relief operations have become extremely fragile, especially in Darfur, because of increasing direct attacks on aid workers, mainly by rebels. Mr. Holmes stressed to the Council that “in each country the fundamental and crying need is above all for political solutions brought about through dialogue and mediation.” He said there was a clear regional aspect to the conflicts, especially in the spill over from the Darfur crisis to eastern Chad, where hundreds of thousands of Darfur refugees are living in camps. But “there is a clearly internal aspect to each conflict too, tempting though it is for the governments concerned to shift all the blame on to Darfur. In other words, there have to be national solutions in additional to the regional approach.” The worsening situation across the entire north of the CAR has also alarmed the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), which yesterday called for more than $5 million in urgent funds to prevent a “humanitarian disaster” from emerging. Four out of every 10 Central African children are malnourished, the abuse of women and children is widespread, and the recruitment of child soldiers is also on the rise, UNICEF warned. In January the Fund launched an appeal for $12 million, but so far it has received just 22 per cent of that amount from donors. 2007-04-04 00:00:00.000

CALLING UN’S INTERNAL JUSTICE SYSTEM ‘INEFFECTIVE,’ GENERAL ASSEMBLY APPROVES OVERHAUL

New York, Apr 4 2007 6:00PM The General Assembly today responded to what it termed the “slow, cumbersome, ineffective and lacking in professionalism” United Nations system of internal justice, with its “flawed” administrative review, by mandating the first overhaul since its creation six decades ago with a pledge to redress these problems. “We have taken a significant step forward in improving the effectiveness and efficiency of this Organization by approving the first serious overhaul of the United Nations’ system of administration of justice in 60 years,” declared General Assembly President Sheikha Haya Rashed Al Khalifa. She said the Assembly’s members asked for all elements of the new system to be fully functional by January 2009. The President said the UN should model the standards it advocates. “Around the world, the Organization promotes justice and equality and represents the rule of law to its members. The Organization therefore requires a system of justice which is independent, transparent, professional and adequately resourced.” The existing system of internal justice, in place since the late 1940s, was designed for a different era when the Organization had only a few thousand staff in a handful of locations, she said. “Over time, the backlogs and delays have become significant and the independence and credibility of the system seriously compromised.” “The existing system serves no-one well - not the staff, not the managers and ultimately, not the Organization or the Member States,” she said. Describing the changes, she said they will include a stronger informal system aimed at resolving a large number of disputes between staff and managers before they go to “litigation,” a stronger capacity for providing legal assistance and guidance to staff, and a series of measures to improve the accountability of managers and correct faulty decisions. “While understanding that today is only an initial step to this very important reform, it is indeed a crucial step,” she said. The General Assembly’s resolution recognizes that “the current United Nations system of administration of justice is slow, cumbersome, ineffective and lacking in professionalism, and that the current system of administrative review is flawed.” It notes that the “overwhelming majority of individuals serving in the system of administration of justice lack legal training or qualifications.” The Assembly expresses its decision to establish “a new, independent, transparent, professionalized, adequately resourced and decentralized system of administration of justice consistent with the relevant rules of international law and the principles of the rule of law and due process to ensure respect for the rights and obligations of staff members and the accountability of managers and staff members alike.” Among other measures, it formally establishes a Mediation Division within the Office of the United Nations Ombudsman to provide formal mediation services for the UN system, and an Office of the Administration of Justice, headed by a senior management-level official, which will have overall responsibility for the coordination of the United Nations system of administration of justice. The Secretary-General is asked to ensure that the Joint Appeals Boards, the Joint Disciplinary Committees, the United Nations Administrative Tribunal and other bodies, as appropriate, continue to function until the new system is operational with a view to clearing all cases that are before them. The resolution requires the Secretary-General to prepare a series of reports to move forward on the issue which should be presented to the Assembly during the main part of its upcoming session later this year, as well as a report on cost estimates. The resolution draws on the recommendations of a group of experts called the “Redesign Panel” set up to examine the issue. In its July, 2006 report, the Panel concluded that the administration of justice in the UN “fails to meet many basic standards of due process established in international human rights instruments.” This must be corrected, the experts argued, “to avoid the double standard – which currently exists – where the standards of justice that are now generally recognized internationally and that the Organization pursues in its programmatic activities are not met within the Secretariat or the funds and programmes themselves.” 2007-04-04 00:00:00.000

UN PROJECT IN HAITI BOOSTS, DIVERSIFIES LOCAL AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, OFFICIALS SAY

New York, Apr 4 2007 4:00PM A United Nations-backed project is helping local communities in north-eastern Haiti to increase and diversify their agricultural production and reducing poverty in the process, officials involved in the initiative have said. “This local governance experience showed that micro projects can have a real impact on the living conditions of vulnerable communities,” said Joël Boutroue, a UNDP official working in Haiti. Jointly carried out by the UN Capital Development Fund and the UN Development Programme the main goal of the scheme is to help some 200,000 Haitians as part of overall efforts to reach the Millennium Development Goals a set of anti-poverty targets established at a 2000 UN Summit. The beneficiaries of the project include residents who now have access to essential basic services that they were long lacking, such as drinkable water, health-care centres, and a better flow of local commodities thanks to rehabilitated roads, according to a UNDP press release. Schools and agricultural facilities were also provided. Commercial benefits included improved pineapple and sugar cane production as well as the introduction of new varieties of mangoes and citrus fruits, the agency said. Mr. Boutroue said the $5.5 million project, which was launched in 2000 and will run through 2010, demonstrated the importance of involving local communities in identifying priority concerns. He called this “a clear indication of their capacity to take charge of themselves” in development activities. Chantal Santelli of the Capital Development Fund said the main challenge is “to be able to mobilize the necessary resources to the set up of the systems of local infrastructures” while ensuring that scarce funds are optimized. 2007-04-04 00:00:00.000

ON INTERNATIONAL MINE ACTION DAY, BAN KI-MOON CALLS FOR ELIMINATION OF LETHAL DEVICES

New York, Apr 4 2007 9:00AM Hailing the positive steps made towards curbing landmines, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today called on Member States to continue efforts to eliminate the weapons and provide assistance to victims on the occasion of the International Day dedicated to combating the scourge. The International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action "is a reminder that millions of people in nearly 80 countries still live in fear of landmines and explosive remnants of war," Mr. Ban said. But thanks to the work of Member States, the UN, non-Governmental organizations (NGOs) and countries affected by mines, "we have made real gains in our mine actions," he said. Mr. Ban urged States which have not yet done so to accede to treaties -- the anti-personnel mine-ban treaty known as the Ottawa Convention, a Protocol to the Certain Conventional Weapons Convention and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities -- that promote the elimination of landmines, address the humanitarian hazards posed by explosive remnants of war and ensure the human rights of all persons, regardless of their disabilities. He also called on the international community to act immediately to address the horrendous humanitarian effects of cluster bombs, which scatter hundreds of smaller bombs, intended to detonate on impact, but of which a significant portion do not. "These indiscriminately kill and maim civilians, just as easily and frequently as landmines do," Mr. Ban noted, lauding the drive by a group of countries to create an international agreement to ban these weapons. Iraq has one of the greatest concentrations of landmines and other explosive remnants of war in the world, due to decades of war and conflict. This poses a "huge threat to the daily lives of the people of Iraq as well as a major hindrance to the implementation of much needed humanitarian relief and development efforts," said Jean-Marie the Secretary-General's Deputy Special Representative for Iraq. Nearly 1.9 million Iraqis are internally displaced, and the risk of injury due to these weapons is even higher now, he said. "We are particularly concerned about children, as well as farmers, desperate to make a living, using contaminated land," he added. The UN is supporting Iraq's national institutions, including the National Mine Authority Action Authority, to establish and implement a sustainable mine clearing programme. The UN Mine Action team for Iraq -- comprising the UN Development Programme (UNDP), the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF), the UN World Health Organization (WHO) and the UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS) -- is active across the country in surveying contaminated areas, educating the population about mine risk, destroying stockpiles and aiding victims. Currently, 14 UN agencies, programmes, departments and funds are active in mine action services -- including finding and destroying landmines and explosive remnants of war; assisting victims; teaching people methods to remain safe in mine-affected areas; and destroying stockpiles; and encouraging universal participation in international agreements -- in dozens of countries. Events will be held throughout the world to commemorate the International Day. Exhibitions will be held in places such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Eritrea and Switzerland, while a festival in which children will participate will be held in Chechnya. At UN Headquarters, a special photo exhibition on the issue will be unveiled and a mock minefield will be installed to show how the de-mining process works. UNICEF will conduct mine-risk education workshops to the public. 2007-04-04 00:00:00.000

April 3

WORLD CEREAL PRODUCTION ON TRACK FOR RECORD CROP IN 2007, UN AGENCY REPORTS

New York, Apr 3 2007 11:00AM World cereal production this year is forecast to increase 4.3 per cent to a record 2.082 billion tonnes, but despite improved food supplies in many needy countries, 33 nations are in a critical situation, mostly due to conflict and adverse weather, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAOreported today. The bulk of the increase is expected in maize, with a bumper crop already being gathered in South America, and a sharp increase in plantings expected in the United States, according to the April issue of FAO’s Crop Prospects and Food Situation report. A significant rise in wheat output is also foreseen, with a recovery in some major exporting countries after weather problems last year. FAO forecasts coarse grains production to rise 5.6 per cent to 1.033 billion tonnes, and wheat to increase 4.8 per cent to about 626 million tonnes. Global rice production could rise marginally to 423 million tonnes in milled terms, about 3 million tonnes more than in 2006. Although the forecast is still highly tentative, cereal production for 82 low-income food-deficit countries could remain around the above-average level of 2006, with cereal imports in the 2006/07 marketing year expected to decline in most regions. In southern Africa, preliminary forecasts put total maize production at 14.8 million tonnes, about the same as last year’s below-average crop. Prospects vary considerably from country to country with significant crop losses due to floods in some areas and reduced yields due to long dry weather spells in others. Maize prices have escalated in South Africa, the region’s main exporting country, where inadequate precipitation will reduce yields. This will affect Swaziland, Lesotho and other dependent markets in the region. Meanwhile, food prices have also risen steeply in Madagascar, due to crop damage from excess rainfall. In eastern Africa, following above-average to bumper first season crops in many countries, record cereal output is confirmed for 2006/07, improving the overall food supply situation. But millions of people there still depend on food aid due to a combination of factors including conflict and adverse weather conditions. Moreover, Rift Valley Fever, which broke out in Kenya in late December, has since emerged in southern Somalia and northern Tanzania, killing hundreds of people and much livestock. This is a further blow to the region’s pastoralists, whose herds had been greatly reduced by a severe multi-year drought. Record maize crops are being gathered in South America, where planted area increased in response to strong demand, largely for ethanol production in the United States. Yields also benefited from favourable weather. A good wheat crop is being harvested in Mexico, the main producing country in Central America and the Caribbean. But in Bolivia, contrary to the favourable regional harvest and food outlook, severe weather, ranging from torrential rains in some parts to drought in others, has caused extensive losses to agriculture, livestock, and other assets, threatening the food security of rural communities. 2007-04-03 00:00:00.000

WITH SIXTH CYCLONE ON WAY, UN READIES AID FOR HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS IN MADAGASCAR

New York, Apr 3 2007 11:00AM With some 450,000 people in Madagascar already in urgently need of shelter, food, drinking water, medication and school supplies due to five cyclones this season, and a sixth one on the way, United Nations agencies have set up three operational bases to avert further deaths and disease in the world’s fourth largest island. “The main problem is the affected population’s access to healthcare, potable water and sanitation facilities,” UN Children’s Fund country representative Bruno Maes said. “Given the immediate needs of the population, UNICEF is contributing to risk prevention for diseases such as diarrhoea, respiratory infections, measles and malaria. Diseases such as these, can lead to a very high number of casualties given the current situation. An increase in malnutrition is also an exacerbating factor, especially for those who are more vulnerable such as women and young children,” he added. To be in a better position to provide immediate aid, UNICEF and the UN World Food Programme with the support of the Government and their partners, have set up two bases in the northern part of the Indian Ocean country, and a third in the south, which has been struck by floods and also recurrent droughts. “Natural disasters continue hitting Madagascar, affecting hundreds of thousands of people with another cyclone, Jaya, on the way,” Mr. Maes said. Tens of thousands of hectares of rice, the basic food source for the Malagasy, have also been destroyed by floods. The affect of this has been difficult to measure, but with the increased food insecurity and shortage, there is the risk of increased malnutrition. Communication infrastructure, roads, schools and health centres have been badly damaged. UNICEF’s response has been focused on three key areas: health and nutrition; water, hygiene and sanitation; and education. WFP and UNICEF are together conducting regular needs assessments. Logistical operations are also being carried out simultaneously, which allows for effective transportation of food and non-food items to the affected villages that are often in inaccessible areas. These goods include tents, soap, water treatment products, buckets, school supplies, high-protein biscuits, rice, dry vegetables and oil. “UNICEF and its partners have the responsibility to bring back hope to the lives of those families who have lost everything, and help them to return to a normal life, without further delay, including access to basic social services,” Mr. Maes said. According to the UN Development Programme Human Development Report, over 70 per cent of Madagascar’s 18 million people live below the poverty line. 2007-04-03 00:00:00.000

GEORGIA: UN PROBE SEEKS FURTHER INFORMATION ON ATTACK ON GOVERNMENT POST

New York, Apr 3 2007 11:00AM A United Nations-led fact-finding team is seeking more information on last month’s attack on a Government position in north-west Georgia where fighting between Government and Abkhaz separatist forces 14 years ago drove nearly 300,000 people from their homes. In an update on its investigation into the 11 March attacks in the upper Kodori valley, the UN Observer Mission in Georgia said all parties had presented useful information and arguments regarding the events, and consensus had been reached on a number of aspects of the incident. The Joint Fact-Finding Group (JFFG), headed by UNOMIG and including representatives from the Georgian Government, the Abkhaz de facto authorities and the Peacekeeping Forces of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) agreed that “further progress requires additional information, which it expects to be provided in the near future,” the mission said. “The Mission hopes that further cooperation by all sides will enable the JFFG to make a substantial contribution to understanding the 11 March incident,” it added. The JFFG conducted two patrols to the upper Kodori valley, travelling extensively. It was afforded full access to security personnel, posts and installations. The patrols examined evidence from ordnance involved in the attack to determine what type of weaponry was involved. In an effort to determine the direction and distance from which the attacks were conducted, the JFFG conducted ‘crater analysis’ of 17 different ground impact sites and inspected the damaged Chkhalta administration building. UNOMIG was set up in 1993 and expanded in 1994 to verify compliance with a cessation of hostilities and separation of forces accord, with patrols of the Kodori valley a specific part of its mandate. But it stopped patrolling the upper part of the valley in 2003 when four mission members were held hostage for a few days by unknown armed elements. In January the Security Council cited the resumption of patrols as a positive development but expressed unease at the continuing tension between the two sides. In a report to the 15-member body that month, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon warned that recent violence could escalate and he called on all sides to engage in dialogue. 2007-04-03 00:00:00.000

UN CALLS FOR RELEASE OF BBC JOURNALIST KIDNAPPED THREE WEEKS AGO IN GAZA

New York, Apr 3 2007 10:00AM The head of the United Nations body mandated to protect press freedom today called for the release of a BBC journalist abducted in the Palestinian Gaza Strip three weeks ago, deploring the proliferation of hostage-taking involving media professionals. “When a journalist is abducted, the whole of society is taken hostage,” UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Director-General Koïchiro Matsuura a statement on the 12 March kidnapping of Alan Johnston, who has been living and working in Gaza for several years. “In view of this increasingly disturbing situation, I call on the authorities to do their utmost to obtain his release as quickly as possible. I wish to commend the determination and courage of journalists who continue to do their work despite the growing frequency of such abductions,” he added. “We must all mobilize to put an end to these heinous practices that constitute a serious threat to media professionals and also to freedom of expression. All too many abductions have taken place recently, in Iraq and Afghanistan as well as in Gaza. Not all these kidnappings have ended in bloodshed, but they remain intolerable and must not go unpunished.” According to Reporters Without Borders, 14 foreign journalists have been kidnapped in the Gaza Strip since August 2005, with none of the abductors caught or prosecuted. In Afghanistan, the journalist Adjmal Nasqhbandi is still held hostage whereas the Italian journalist he was accompanying, Daniele Mastrogiacomo, was released by their captors on 18 March, UNESCO said. As to Iraq, there is no news on seven journalists and four assistants who were recently kidnapped there. Over 50 journalists and media employees have been abducted in Iraq since 2003, according to Reporters Without Borders. Mr. Matsuura has repeatedly denounced the murder and harassment of media workers around the world. 2007-04-03 00:00:00.000

April 2

MIGIRO SAYS CREATING JOBS CRUCIAL TO ACHIEVING KEY DEVELOPMENT GOALS BY 2015

New York, Apr 2 2007 6:00PM Job creation will be vital in efforts to reach the ambitious Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) – a set of targets to slash a host of social ills, such as extreme poverty, by 2015, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Asha-Rose Migiro said today. Increasing employment is the “critical link” between economic growth and poverty reduction, she told a meeting of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) at UN Headquarters in New York. “Higher economic growth, while important, must not be viewed as an end in itself,” Ms. Migiro said. “For instance, last year’s robust worldwide expansion did not lead to a corresponding reduction in unemployment or poverty. Instead, the number of people living on less than $2 a day actually grew last year to reach 1.37 billion.” Ms. Migiro also noted that unemployment disproportionately affects youth, with that age group representing a quarter of the global working population but nearly half of the unemployed. “Globalization has lifted standards of living for some, but it has left many more on the margins, unable to enjoy its benefits,” she said. “Addressing these disparities is a central tenet of the Millennium Development Goals,” the Deputy Secretary-General added, pointing out that as the target date of 2015 approaches, “the world as a whole still lags in the race to achieve all of these Goals.” ECOSOC, comprised of 54 members elected by the General Assembly, is a body which meets yearly to further economic and social cooperation and development. Its mandate was enhanced in 2005 during the UN World Summit to improve the effectiveness of aid and monitor the implementation of targets, such as the MDGs, agreed upon by Member States. Today’s ECOSOC meeting was a preparatory one for an annual ministerial review, set to take place later this year, which will assess the progress, or lack thereof, that the body has made in reaching objectives such as the MDGs. Ms. Migiro called on the body to remember the ties between agriculture, hunger and poverty, as three out of every four of the world’s poor reside in rural communities. “If we all join hands, we can still meet the 2015 MDG deadline, we can advance against poverty and hunger, and we can build a true partnership for development.” 2007-04-02 00:00:00.000

ZIMBABWE: UN EXPERT CALLS FOR HALT TO USE OF LETHAL FORCE AGAINST UNARMED ACTIVISTS

New York, Apr 2 2007 6:00PM An independent United Nations human rights expert today urged the Zimbabwean Government to immediately halt its use of lethal force against unarmed political activists. Philip Alston, the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, made his call in a statement which emphasized that the deadly force was a clear violation of international human rights law. “The Government is, in effect, instructing its forces to shoot innocent people, in complete disregard for the right to life,” he said, adding that this “reflects no attempt to balance the rights to political participation and to freedom of expression and association with any legitimate notion of the need to maintain public order.” The Special Rapporteur said particularly troubling fatalities included the killing of Gift Tandare, the shooting of Nickson Magondo and Naison Mashambanhaka at point blank range and the deaths of eight to 10 persons at Harare hospitals from injuries consistent with being beaten by State security agents with blunt instruments. “Full, independent investigations must be undertaken as soon as possible,” he declared. According to international legal standards, military and police officers may use lethal force only when doing so is strictly necessary for self-defence or the defence of another’s life, he said, while governments that order their forces to shoot are violating international human rights law. “Under international law, widespread or systematic attacks against the civilian population are crimes against humanity,” Mr. Alston added. “Members of the police and military who comply with orders to gun down demonstrators will eventually be held to account.” 2007-04-02 00:00:00.000

MYANMAR SHOULD ADDRESS DISCRIMINATION AGAINST MUSLIM MINORITIES – UN EXPERTS

New York, Apr 2 2007 6:00PM A group of United Nations human rights experts today called on the Government of Myanmar to address discrimination against members of the Muslim minority in North Rakhine state. The 1982 Citizenship Law denies Myanmar citizenship to the members of the Muslim minority in North Rakhine State, generally known as the Rohingyas, according to a joint statement released by six independent human rights experts. This “has seriously curtailed the full exercise of their civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights and led to various discriminatory practices,” the statement said, citing severe restrictions on freedom of movement; various forms of extortion and arbitrary taxation; land confiscation and forced evictions; restricted access to medical care, food and adequate housing; forced labour; and restrictions on marriages. “As a consequence, thousands have fled to neighbouring countries, in turn creating complex humanitarian situations in the region,” said the experts, calling on Myanmar to take urgent measures to eliminate discriminatory practices against the Muslim minority in North Rakhine state, and to ensure that no further discrimination is carried out against members of the community. “We remind the Government of its obligation to protect all individuals within its territory and subject to its jurisdiction from any form of discrimination,” they said. The Government was urged to repeal or amend the 1982 Citizenship Law to ensure compliance of its legislation with the country’s international human rights obligations. The statement was issued jointly by the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, Paulo Sergio Pinheiro; the Independent Expert on minority issues, Gay McDougall; the Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, Doudou Diène; the Special Rapporteur on adequate housing, Miloon Kothari; the Special Rapporteur on the right to food, Jean Ziegler; and the Special Rapporteur on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, Paul Hunt. 2007-04-02 00:00:00.000

UNITED NATIONS NEWS

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Sept 6

NOAA Reports La Nina Is Developing

Scientists with NOAA's Climate Prediction Center, in today's release of its monthly El Nino/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) Diagnostic Discussion, say that La Nina is on its way.

"While we can't officially call it a La Nina yet, we expect that this pattern will continue to develop during the next three months, meeting the NOAA definition for a La Nina event later this year," said Mike Halpert, acting deputy director of the Climate Prediction Center in Camp Springs, Md.

La Nina refers to the periodic cooling of ocean surface temperatures in the central and east-central equatorial Pacific that occur every three to five years. La Nina originally referred to a cooling of ocean waters off the coasts of Peru and Ecuador. NOAA declares the onset of a La Nina event when the three-month average sea-surface temperature departure exceeds -0.5 degrees C (-0.9 degrees F) in the east-central equatorial Pacific, between 5 degrees North and 5 degrees South latitude and 170 degrees and 120 degrees West longitude.

The development of La Nina conditions is supported by increasing below-normal sea surface temperatures across the central and eastern equatorial Pacific and stronger than average easterly winds across the west-central equatorial Pacific. "Nearly all operational dynamical models, including the National Centers for Environmental Prediction's climate forecast system and many of the statistical models also favor a La Nina event," said Halpert.

With La Nina developing, seasonal forecasters expect wetter than normal conditions in the Pacific Northwest and drier than normal conditions in the already drought stricken southwestern U.S. this fall.

"These conditions also reinforce NOAA's August forecast for an above normal Atlantic hurricane season," said Gerry Bell, Ph.D., NOAA's lead seasonal hurricane forecaster.

The Climate Prediction Center will publish the next official ENSO diagnostic discussion on October 11. The El Nino/Southern Oscillation diagnostic discussion is a product of the Climate Prediction Center in association with its funded institutions.

NOAA is dedicated to enhancing economic security and national safety through the prediction and research of weather and climate-related events and information service delivery for transportation, and by providing environmental stewardship of our nation's coastal and marine resources. Through the emerging Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS), NOAA is working with its federal partners, more than 70 countries and the European Commission to develop a global monitoring network that is as integrated as the planet it observes, predicts and protects.

Source: National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration

Sept. 4

Safeway Raises Record $7 Million for Muscular Dystrophy Association

Month-Long Fundraising Campaign Culminates in Employee Appearances on National and Regional MDA Labor DayTelethons

Safeway Inc. announced today that it raised a record $7 million for the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) during a month-long campaign at the company’s more than 1,600 U.S. stores.

The annual Safeway fundraising drive for “Jerry’s Kids” is part of a companywide initiative to assist people with neuromuscular disease. The money raised goes to MDA-funded, leading-edge research and treatment programs. Over the years Safeway has raised more than $32 million for MDA through customer donations at checkout and a broad range of store fundraising events, including its participation in the long-standing Aisles of Smiles program. Over the Labor Day weekend, Safeway employees volunteered time and participated in various regional Jerry Lewis MDA telethons presenting checks and staffing phone banks.

“Raising funds for MDA has become an important late-summer tradition at Safeway and a core part of how our company gives back to the community,” said Larree Renda, Safeway Executive Vice President and Chair of The Safeway Foundation. “We are grateful to our customers for their generosity and extremely proud of our employees for their hard work. Our commitment is paying off with research and treatments that are making a difference in the lives of more than one million Americans living with neuromuscular disease.”

Ms. Renda, along with top fundraising store managers and district managers, presented checks totaling $7 million to MDA national Chairman Jerry Lewis on the MDA Labor Day Telethon in Las Vegas. Safeway representatives in 25 other cities participated in regional MDA telethons and presented checks for funds raised locally. In addition, Safeway employees volunteered hundreds of hours in more than a dozen cities staffing phone banks and taking pledges at multiple telethon sites such as Houston, Los Angeles, Baltimore and San Diego. In Chicago, more than 100 employees from Safeway’s Chicago-area Dominick’s stores – clad in red “Dominick’s” shirts – worked on the phone banks at the telethon broadcast from the Chicago Hyatt Regency Hotel from Sunday night through the early hours of Monday morning.

Twice each year Safeway stores nationally mobilize to raise funds and awareness for people with various physical and developmental disabilities. Along with the annual MDA campaign, Safeway also raises funds for Easter Seals to help people with autism, developmental disabilities, physical disabilities and other special needs. Through these efforts the company has helped raise more than $110 million for people with disabilities. Safeway has a long-standing record of hiring and supporting people with disabilities. In early 2007 Safeway received a prestigious award from the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation for its commitment to employing people with disabilities. Safeway currently employs nearly 10,000 people with disabilities in its stores and support facilities.

Safeway supports a range of important causes with funds, informational outreach and volunteer hours. In 2006 Safeway and The Safeway Foundation donated nearly $154 million in food and financial support to education, hunger relief, medical research and other important causes and is on a record pace to set new fundraising records in 2007.

ABOUT SAFEWAY www.safeway.com

Safeway Inc. is a Fortune 100 company and one of the largest food and drug retailers in North America, based on sales. The company operates 1,740 stores in the United States and western Canada and had annual sales of $40.2 billion in 2006. Safeway supports a broad range of charitable and community programs and last year donated more than $154 million to important causes, such as cancer research, education, food banks and programs focused on assisting people with disabilities. The company's common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol SWY.

August 10

Gore Supporters Form California Draft Gore Committee
Organizers Plan to Qualify Al Gore for California Presidential Primary Ballot

- Organizers of a new statewide campaign to put Al Gore's name on the California presidential primary ballot announced today the formation of California Draft Gore, a grassroots political action committee made up of hundreds of Gore volunteers who live throughout the state of California.

The California Election Code requires that in order for a candidate's name to be placed on the presidential primary ballot, a minimum of 500 signatures of registered Democrats must be obtained from each of the state's fifty-three congressional districts. California Draft Gore has been created to take on this ambitious project. In order to succeed, California Draft Gore has begun putting in place a field organization of district volunteer leaders and regional and sub-regional coordinators. Each of the district leaders in turn is recruiting and training as many volunteers as possible to begin collecting signatures on October 8. The signature gathering must be completed by December 4, 2007.

"The people are empowered to make a change in democracy," said Roy Gayhart, the state's campaign organizer. "A draft effort has not been seen since the 1950s and 1960s with Eisenhower and Goldwater. We believe that if we can successfully organize district-by-district, county-by-county, state-by-state, Al Gore will answer the call and become a candidate for president."

Although former vice president Al Gore has yet to declare his candidacy in the upcoming presidential election, a recent poll indicates broad national support for him amongst Democrats. The recent national Gallup poll shows Gore in a virtual tie with Barack Obama with 18% support from Democrats. In California, a recent field poll shows him in second place with 25% of likely primary voters supporting Gore, compared to Hillary Clinton at 38%, Obama at 19.8% and John Edwards at 15%. In the San Francisco Bay Area Gore was the number one choice.

For more information on the campaign or to contribute to Gore's campaign, visit www.california4gore.org.

About California Draft Gore:

California Draft Gore is a grassroots organization. The organization and its website is not affiliated with or authorized by Al Gore, any candidate or candidate's committee.

is a grassroots organization. The organization and its website is not affiliated with or authorized by Al Gore, any candidate or candidate's committee.

Kellogg Strengthens Marketing Practices to Children, Announces Front-of-Pack Nutrition Labeling

-- Kellogg Company today announced that it is undertaking two major initiatives that further strengthen its commitment to meeting consumers' health and nutrition needs by adjusting what and how the company markets to children and through new front- of-pack nutrition labeling.

"The initiatives we're announcing today set a new standard of responsibility and are consistent with our 100-plus year heritage, further strengthening our commitment to helping consumers make informed food choices," said David Mackay, president and chief executive officer, Kellogg Company. "Around the world, Kellogg continues to play an active role in helping consumers successfully manage both sides of the calories in/calories out equation through product choices, in nutrition education, community programs and partnerships promoting the importance of a balanced diet and physical activity."

Shifting the Mix of Products Marketed to Children Under 12

Kellogg will change what and how it markets to children under 12 using nutrition criteria. The company will use its new internal standard, the Kellogg Global Nutrient Criteria (Nutrient Criteria), to determine which products will be marketed to children on TV, print, radio and Internet as well as how those products are marketed, including use of licensed properties, Web site activities directed to children, promotions/premiums, product placement and in-school marketing. Kellogg will continue its practice of not advertising to children under 6.

The Nutrient Criteria set an upper threshold per serving of less than or equal to 200 calories, less than or equal to 2 grams of saturated fat, labeled 0 grams of trans fat, less than or equal to 230 milligrams of sodium and labeled 12 grams of sugar.

"The nutrient criteria Kellogg has adopted are based on a broad review of scientific reports and experts," said James Hill, Ph.D., Professor of Pediatrics and Medicine at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center and former member of the National Institutes of Health Taskforce on the Prevention and Treatment of Obesity. "I applaud the transparency Kellogg has demonstrated in their approach and believe the changes they are making represent meaningful progress and are a good first step."

Kellogg will apply the Nutrient Criteria to all of its products marketed to children under age 12 around the world. Those products that don't meet the Criteria (almost 50 percent of Kellogg products currently marketed to children worldwide) will either be reformulated to meet the Nutrient Criteria or they will no longer be marketed to children under 12 by the end of 2008. The Nutrient Criteria will also guide targeted future innovation and product development. Over time, the company will work toward providing consumers even more product choices with enhanced nutritional value.

"Today, only 27 percent of Kellogg advertising spending in the U.S. is directed to children under 12 and we've always approached that communication responsibly," said Mackay. "We're taking these steps to address increasing concerns about marketing to children and further strengthen our commitment to responsible marketing. In addition, we plan to increasingly emphasize products with enhanced nutritional value as well as continuing to find ways to emphasize nutrition and healthy lifestyles in our marketing to children."

Wherever possible, implementation of Kellogg commitments will begin immediately. For example, certain brands will feature better-for-you options in their advertisements. We will be making content enhancements to our child- directed Web sites, including adding automatic screen time limits and healthy lifestyle and nutrition messaging, plus limiting depictions of foods that don't meet our Nutrient Criteria in interactive activities like games, downloads and wallpaper. Subject to existing contracts, we also will not be using licensed characters as food forms, on front of pack or in advertisements unless that food meets the Nutrient Criteria. Full implementation of all commitments will be completed by the end of 2008.

Front-of-Pack Nutrition Labeling

Additionally beginning later this year, consumers will see Guideline Daily Amounts (GDAs) on the front of ready-to-eat cereal packages in the United States, Canada and Mexico. In the U.S., new packaging will feature an easy-to- use labeling system on the top, right-hand corner of cereal boxes, identifying percentages of calories, total fat, sodium and grams of sugar per serving. As a company, Kellogg is responsive to meeting the nutrient needs in the countries where it operates. As such, the front-of-pack labels will also identify the nutrients American consumers need to consume more of including fiber, calcium, potassium, magnesium, vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E. The percentages are based on a typical 2,000 calorie daily diet.

The front-of-pack summary gives a quick snapshot of how a food fits into a consumer's daily diet and complements the nutrition label found on the side panel. Kellogg first pioneered the use of GDAs in Europe and Australia, where the labeling approach has been well-received and adopted by the industry. Kellogg is also encouraging other food and beverage companies to join the initiative in the U.S., and is in ongoing dialogue with industry on uniformity in labeling.

Kellogg actively funds and partners with organizations, health agencies and governments around the world to communicate the importance of a balanced diet and physical activity. Over the past year, the company has invested nearly $10 million worldwide in health and nutrition initiatives and is committed to continuing these efforts.

With 2006 sales of almost $11 billion, Kellogg Company (NYSE:K) is the world's leading producer of cereal and a leading producer of convenience foods, including cookies, crackers, toaster pastries, cereal bars, fruit snacks, frozen waffles, and veggie foods. The company's brands include Kellogg's, Keebler, Pop-Tarts, Eggo, Cheez-It, Nutri-Grain, Special K, Rice Krispies, Murray, Austin, Morningstar Farms, Famous Amos, Carr's, Plantation, Ready Crust and Kashi. Kellogg products are manufactured in 17 countries and marketed in more than 180 countries around the world. For more information, visit the company's Web site at http://www.kelloggcompany.com/.

Editor's note: Visit the Kellogg Company Media Room (http://kelloggs.mediaroom.com/) for more information including fact sheets, frequently asked questions and a link to the announcement webcast.

Source: Kellogg Company

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

Fred Thompson Solidly in Second Place in Republican Preference for President Rudy Giuliani's Once Commanding Lead Beginning to Shrink

-- While Rudy Giuliani is still in first place in the race for the Republican preference for President, he has dropped by eight points from last month and former Senator and television star Fred Thompson is catching up. Three in ten adults who say they will vote in a Republican primary or caucus say they would vote for the former mayor while 22 percent say they would vote for Fred Thompson. Not all of Giuliani's losses are Thompson's gains. Mitt Romney also sees a small rise this month - up from eight percent last month to 11 percent this month. Even with all the discussion of his "2.0 version" of his campaign, Senator John McCain's showing has not changed from last month and is still at 18 percent.

The only other individual to be above five percent is a non-candidate, as eight percent say they would vote for former Speaker Newt Gingrich. The other eight candidates or potential candidates are all at three percent or below.

These are just some of the results of the latest Harris Poll of 3,304 U.S. adults, including 843 adults who expect to vote in a Republican primary or caucus, conducted online by Harris Interactive(R) between June 1 and 10, 2007. Like all polls conducted well before an election, it should not be read as a prediction. Rather, it is a snap shot of the presidential "horse race", at a very early stage in the race. A future column will assess the standing of the leading Democrats.

Who Would "Consider Voting" for Different Republicans?

Early in the survey, all adults were shown a list that included candidates in both major political parties as well as other Republican and Democratic leaders, and asked for whom they would consider voting. Among Republicans, Rudy Giuliani (55%) leads Colin Powell (45%), John McCain (38%), Fred Thompson (38%), Condoleezza Rice (33%), Mitt Romney (32%) and Newt Gingrich (27%). While none of the Republicans have any real support among Democrats, just over one-quarter of Independents would consider Rudy Giuliani (28%) and Colin Powell (27%).

The Next Few Weeks

As the second fundraising quarter of the year draws to a close on June 30th, we may also see some of the smaller campaigns deciding to "re-evaluate" their position. As we head into the summer, it will be interesting to see if our candidate list changes.

TABLE 1

REPUBLICAN LEADERS ADULTS "WOULD CONSIDER VOTING FOR" FOR PRESIDENT

"Although the U.S. presidential election is not until November, 2008, there are a number of people who may run for president. If you were to vote and had

to select from the following candidates, for which of the following people

would you consider voting?"

Base: All adults

Feb Mar Apr May June Republican Democrat Independent

% % % % % % % %

Rudy Giuliani 29 35 32 30 30 55 12 28

Colin Powell 32 30 29 29 28 45 17 27

John McCain 26 26 24 23 21 38 8 21

Fred Thompson N/A N/A 15 17 19 38 6 17

Condoleezza

Rice 19 18 17 16 15 33 3 12

Mitt Romney 7 9 14 12 14 32 3 10

Newt Gingrich 11 11 12 10 11 27 1 6

Mike Huckabee 3 4 3 3 5 12 1 3

Tommy Thompson 4 N/A 4 5 4 10 * 4

Tom Tancredo 3 3 3 3 4 9 * 3

Ron Paul N/A N/A 2 2 4 4 1 6

Duncan Hunter 2 2 2 3 3 7 * 2

Sam Brownback 2 2 2 2 3 8 * 1

Chuck Hagel 3 3 3 2 2 4 1 3

Jim Gilmore N/A N/A 1 1 2 4 * 1

Note: Multiple-response question

*Less than 0.5%

N/A not applicable

TABLE 2

REPUBLICAN VOTERS FIRST CHOICE FOR PRESIDENT

"There are many different people who are, or who may become, candidates for

president in the Republican primaries starting in January, 2008. Based all that you know or have heard up to now about the people listed below, for which

one person would you be most likely to vote?

Base: Those who would vote in Republican primary or caucus

April May June

% % %

Rudy Giuliani 39 38 30

Fred Thompson 13 18 22

John McCain 18 18 18

Mitt Romney 14 8 11

Newt Gingrich 9 9 8

Tom Tancredo 1 2 3

Sam Brownback 2 1 2

Ron Paul 1 1 2

Mike Huckabee 1 1 2

Duncan Hunter 1 1 1

Jim Gilmore * 1 1

Tommy Thompson 1 2 1

Chuck Hagel * 1 1

*Less than 0.5%

Methodology

This Harris Poll(R) was conducted online within the United States between June 1 and 12, 2007 among 3,304 adults (aged 18 and over). Figures for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, region and household income were weighted where necessary to bring them into line with their actual proportions in the population. Propensity score weighting was also used to adjust for respondents' propensity to be online.

All sample surveys and polls, whether or not they use probability sampling, are subject to multiple sources of error which are most often not possible to quantify or estimate, including sampling error, coverage error, error associated with nonresponse, error associated with question wording and response options, and post-survey weighting and adjustments. Therefore, Harris Interactive avoids the words "margin of error" as they are misleading. All that can be calculated are different possible sampling errors with different probabilities for pure, unweighted, random samples with 100% response rates. These are only theoretical because no published polls come close to this ideal.

Respondents for this survey were selected from among those who have agreed to participate in Harris Interactive surveys. The data have been weighted to reflect the composition of the adult population. Because the sample is based on those who agreed to participate in the Harris Interactive panel, no estimates of theoretical sampling error can be calculated.

These statements conform to the principles of disclosure of the National Council on Public Polls.

J30279A (June)

Q 492, 2036

About Harris Interactive

Harris Interactive is the 12th largest and fastest-growing market research firm in the world. The company provides innovative research, insights and strategic advice to help its clients make more confident decisions which lead to measurable and enduring improvements in performance. Harris Interactive is widely known for The Harris Poll, one of the longest running, independent opinion polls and for pioneering online market research methods. The company has built what it believes to be the world's largest panel of survey respondents, the Harris Poll Online. Harris Interactive serves clients worldwide through its United States, Europe and Asia offices, its wholly-owned subsidiaries Novatris in France and MediaTransfer AG in Germany, and through a global network of independent market research firms. More information about Harris Interactive may be obtained at www.harrisinteractive.com.

To become a member of the Harris Poll Online and be invited to participate in online surveys, register at www.harrispollonline.com

Web site: http://www.harrisinteractive.com/
http://www.harrispollonline.com/

June 5

Sí TV pionera en TV de alta definición (HD) para los latinos jóvenes: la cadena anuncia el lanzamiento de Sí TV-HD en 2008, el primer y único canal de alta definición para la audiencia latina en Estados Unidos
Verizon FiOS TV transmite Sí TV-HD

Sí TV, siendo consecuente con su liderazgo de prestar servicios a la audiencia de latinos jóvenes de Estados Unidos, anunció hoy que lanzará Sí TV-HD en 2008, la primera cadena en ofrecer a la audiencia latina extensa y creciente de esta nación un canal de transmisión 24/7 de contenido cautivador de alta definición diseñado para sus gustos y estilos de vida. El canal estará lleno de programas energéticos grabados en formato original de alta definición, cubriendo música, realidad, comedia y otros géneros. Sí TV se está preparando para este momento desde los inicios de la cadena en 2004, cuando comenzó a producir por primera vez programación de alta definición, creando hasta la fecha más de 200 horas de programación original de alta definición. Verizon FiOS TV, el nuevo servicio de televisión de fibra óptica de Verizon, que actualmente opera en 10 estados y ya transmite Sí TV es su variedad de servicios de la más amplia distribución, espera lanzar Sí TV-HD en 2008.

La audiencia objetivo de Sí TV, los latinos de 18 a 34 años bilingües y que hablan predominantemente inglés, es el principal motor que impulsa el crecimiento explosivo de la población latina de EE.UU., el grupo étnico más numeroso y de más rápido crecimiento en la nación actualmente. La audiencia latina asimilada, por su parte, controla la mayoría de los casi US$900 mil millones en poder adquisitivo actual de los hispanos en EUA, que se proyecta que sobrepase los US$1.2 billones para 2010. La investigación también confirma el concepto intuitivo de que este grupo de consumidores invierte la gran mayoría de sus horas de televisión viendo programas en inglés, que es la base del formato de programación en inglés de Sí TV. Un factor ampliamente ignorado hasta hoy, sin embargo, es que los jóvenes latinos asimilados compran altos volúmenes de sets de HDTV: más de uno de cada tres (35%) de los televidentes latinos de 18 a 34 años que hablan predominantemente inglés tiene HDTV, según el estudio Adult Full Year Study del otoño de 2006 de Simmons NCS/NSC.

"Los jóvenes latinos son una enorme fuerza económica y política en Norteamérica hoy y merecen, al igual que todos los consumidores, la facilidad de disfrutar de los beneficios de la televisión de alta definición creados por ellos y para ellos", dijo Michael Schwimmer, CEO de Sí TV. "La audiencia de Sí TV es una influencia vibrante en nuestro país, y no debería tener que esperar más para tener acceso a HDTV ahora que ésta se ha convertido en algo al alcance de todos. Sí TV fue la primera en servir a la audiencia latina asimilada con una cadena especializada y seremos los primeros en ofrecer a los latinos lo mejor en entretenimiento digital de alta definición".

Sí TV actualmente está en producción de dos nuevas series de alta definición para 2008 que aprovecharán al máximo los beneficios del formato de alta definición. Past Port, en el que los jóvenes latinos de Estados Unidos regresan a los países de origen de sus padres o abuelos, que presenta vídeos escénicos de una variedad de bellísimos lugares de América Latina. Total Combat, una serie de realidad llena de coraje acerca de una pareja de jóvenes latinos que maneja una Liga de Lucha de Artes Marciales Mixtas, llevará la sangre, el sudor y el nivel crudo de intensidad de las artes marciales mixtas a la vida vivamente en alta definición. Otras series nuevas de Sí TV para 2007-2008, tales como Flow & Tell y Home Page, también se presentarán en alta definición en Sí TV-HD.

El contenido auténtico y energético de Sí TV producido por la cadena específicamente para su audiencia de jóvenes latinos asimilados de 18 a 34 años de edad es muy apropiado para el formato de alta definición. La cadena ya presenta más de 200 horas de programación original grabada en alta definición, incluyendo: The Drop, Unacceptable Behavior, The Rub, Dating Factory y Latino Laugh Festival: The Show.

Acerca de Sí TV

Sí TV es la primera empresa mediática de Estados Unidos en llegar a los millones de latinos de 18 a 34 años que prefieren su contenido en inglés y lo buscan a través de todas las plataformas incluyendo, televisión, en línea, vídeo a pedido y dispositivos inalámbricos. Sí TV ofrece contenido auténtico y relevante y una grilla de programación 60% original que varía de exorbitante comedia a música, cine independiente, estilos de vida y opiniones. La cadena está disponible en Dish Network, y en más de 200 ciudades y comunidades a lo largo de Estados Unidos, incluyendo Nueva York, Los Ángeles, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Detroit, Denver, San Antonio y Las Vegas. Las filiales de telecomunicaciones y cable de Sí TV comprenden AT&T, Cox, Comcast, Insight, Qwest, Time Warner Cable y Verizon, entre otras. Para más información acerca de Sí TV, sírvase visitar, http://www.sitv.com/.

Source: Sí TV

May 26

U.S. Green Building Council and International Code Council Formally Commit to Joint Educational, Business, and Policy Initiatives to Further Green Building Practices

May 25, 2007 -- (Washington, D.C.) – The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and the International Code Council (ICC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that forges a stronger relationship between the two organizations in order to further green building practices.

“This agreement with the International Code Council and USGBC opens the door to a better quality of life for us all,” said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair, U.S. Green Building Council. “Human health and well-being is a cornerstone of green building practices and of ICC’s work. Joining together in a formal agreement ensures that we will share ideas, education, and opportunities."

ICC’s vision is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of people by creating better buildings and safer communities. This vision is congruent with USGBC’s core purpose: to create an environmentally responsible, healthy, and prosperous environment that improves the quality of life. The MOU recognizes the leadership roles of both of the organizations, while laying out areas of mutual interest, such as advocacy and education initiatives, in which USGBC and the Code Council can work cooperatively to advance their missions. The MOU also addresses exploring and implementing joint business opportunities.

“Signing this agreement with the U.S. Green Building Council reinforces the Code Council’s commitment to the environment and assures that our members play an important role in matters related to green building,” said ICC CEO Rick Weiland. “Green building is going to play an important role in our collective future—not just in the United States but around the world.”

The initial activities pursuant to the MOU will focus on education for code officials. Both organizations will develop a green building education manual on the subject of building codes and sustainability.

Added Fedrizzi, “The foundation for USGBC’s relationship with ICC was helped along by David Eisenberg, former USGBC Board member and chair of USGBC’s Greening the Codes Committee. David is with the Development Center for Appropriate Technology and has been a long time advocate of a greening building code.”

ICC plays a key role in the area of safety for the built environment to create better buildings and safer communities. USGBC is transforming the built environment to high-performance green building practices. USGBC and ICC will work together to advance buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work.

###

About USGBC
The U.S. Green Building Council is the nation's leading coalition of corporations, builders, universities, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations working together to transform the way buildings are designed, built and operated. Green buildings are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. Since its founding in 1993, the Council has grown to more than 9,000 member companies and organizations, a 90-person professional staff, a broad portfolio of LEED® green building products and services, the industry's popular Greenbuild International Conference and Expo (www.greenbuildexpo.org) and a network of over 70 local chapters, affiliates and organizing groups.

About ICC
The International Code Council, a membership association dedicated to building safety and fire prevention, develops the codes used to construct residential and commercial buildings, including homes and schools. Most U.S. cities, counties and states that adopt codes choose the International Codes developed by the International Code Council.

May 18

President Bush and British Prime Minister Tony Blair praised each other's courage and stressed the continuing importance of the U.S.-British partnership

at the White House today in what may be their last joint news conference. Blair will step down June 27 after more than 10 years on the job. "I believe that the relationship between the United States of America and Britain is a relationship that is in the interests of our two countries and in the interests of the peace and stability of the wider world," Blair said. "Sometimes it's a controversial relationship, at least over in my country. But I've never doubted its importance. I've never doubted that it's based on principle, on shared values, and on a shared purpose, which is to make our world a better, more free, more just place in which people of all nations and all faiths can live." Bush echoed Blair's sentiment later in the news conference. "I'm here to make it clear to the people of our respective countries that this relationship is one that is vital to accomplish big objectives," the president said. "It has been vital in the past; it has ... enabled the free world to do hard things. And it's a relationship that I believe is necessary to do the hard things in the 21st century." Bush called Blair "courageous" for his stand against terrorism and support of the United States in the fight against extreme fundamentalism around the world. Bush noted that before the news conference, the two leaders conducted a videoconference with British and American leaders in Iraq. "I remind our people that the best decisions are made when you listen to the commanders, and our commanders have got good, specific advice as to how to achieve our objectives, which I believe we'll achieve -- objectives that I know are necessary for ... peace in the Middle East, peace in the United States and (in) the United Kingdom," Bush said. The two leaders also discussed progress in the NATO mission in Afghanistan. "We strongly support our NATO mission in Afghanistan," Bush said, and he noted that NATO Secretary-General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer will visit Bush's ranch in Crawford, Texas, this weekend. Actions in Sudan's Darfur region, defense cooperation, global warming and the need to be involved in searching for peace between the Palestinians and Israelis were other topics Bush and Blair discussed today. Blair thanked Bush for his strong leadership. "You've been unyielding, unflinching and determined in the fight that we face together," the prime minister said. Opinion polls in the United Kingdom show that many in the country disagree with Blair's stance on Iraq. But British forces have been key allies since the run-up to Operation Iraqi Freedom in March 2003. More than 7,000 British troops serve in Iraq, mostly as part of Multinational Division Southeast. Blair said he has never doubted his decision to stand with the United States in the aftermath of the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. "I'm proud of the relationship between our two countries," he said. "And I think that sometimes in politics there are all sorts of issues where you've got to negotiate and compromise. But when it comes to the fundamental questions that affect our security and the future of the world, you should do what is right. I have tried to do that, and I believe that is what (President Bush) has done as well."

FDA Approves Astrazeneca's Once-Daily Seroquel XR(TM) Extended-Release Tablets for the Treatment of Schizophrenia

-- AstraZeneca (NYSE:AZN) today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved SEROQUEL XR(TM) (quetiapine fumarate) Extended-Release Tablets, a once-daily medicine for the treatment of schizophrenia in adult patients. The SEROQUEL XR development program was based on the needs of patients and physicians for a wider choice of medicines that offer convenient once-daily dosing. With SEROQUEL XR patients can achieve a dose within the recommended range as early as the second day of treatment.

The FDA approval was based on clinical trial data showing effectiveness of SEROQUEL XR at doses of 400, 600, and 800 mg/day. The clinical trial was a placebo-controlled study of inpatients and outpatients (n=573) experiencing an acute exacerbation of symptoms of schizophrenia with efficacy assessed using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS)* ratings scale. After six weeks of treatment (on day 42), patients recorded a significant improvement in PANSS total scores from baseline for SEROQUEL XR doses of 400, 600, and 800 mg/day, compared with placebo-treated patients. SEROQUEL XR was generally well-tolerated. The most commonly observed adverse reactions associated with the use of SEROQUEL XR (incidence of 5% or greater) and observed at a rate on SEROQUEL XR at least twice that of placebo were dry mouth (12%), somnolence (12%), dizziness (10%), and dyspepsia (5%). (2)

"The once-daily dosing of SEROQUEL XR may help patients by providing simpler and more convenient treatment plans, which can be an important component of overall disease management," said Lisa Schoenberg, Vice President, Specialty Care (Neuroscience, Oncology), AstraZeneca.

"Clinical trial data demonstrate that SEROQUEL XR is a safe and effective treatment option for schizophrenia," said Dr. Charles Schulz, MD, Professor and Head, Department of Psychiatry, University of Minnesota Medical School. "For many patients with schizophrenia, SEROQUEL XR may offer a viable once- daily treatment while decreasing the number of tablets needed to be taken each day."

* Schizophrenic symptomatology is measured on 30-item Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) scale. Each symptom was rated on a severity scale from 1-7. PANSS positive (7 items), negative (7 items), and general psychopathology (16 items) subscale scores were summarized to give the PANSS total score. (3)

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

SEROQUEL XR is indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia. Patients should be periodically reassessed to determine the need for treatment beyond the acute response.

Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with atypical antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk (1.6 to 1.7 times) of death compared to placebo (4.5% vs 2.6%, respectively). SEROQUEL XR is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis. (See Boxed Warning.)

Hyperglycemia, in some cases extreme and associated with ketoacidosis, hyperosmolar coma, or death, has been reported in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics, including quetiapine. The relationship of atypical use and glucose abnormalities is complicated by the possibility of increased risk of diabetes in the schizophrenic population and the increasing incidence of diabetes in the general population. However, epidemiological studies suggest an increased risk of treatment-emergent, hyperglycemia-related adverse events in patients treated with atypical antipsychotics. Patients starting treatment with atypical antipsychotics who have or are at risk for diabetes should undergo fasting blood glucose testing at the beginning of and during treatment. Patients who develop symptoms of hyperglycemia should also undergo fasting blood glucose testing.

A potentially fatal symptom complex sometimes referred to as Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) has been reported in association with administration of antipsychotic drugs, including quetiapine. Rare cases of NMS have been reported with quetiapine. Clinical manifestations of NMS are hyperpyrexia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, and evidence of autonomic instability (irregular pulse or blood pressure, tachycardia, diaphoresis, and cardiac dysrhythmia). Additional signs may include elevated creatine phosphokinase, myoglobinuria (rhabdomyolysis), and acute renal failure. The management of NMS should include immediate discontinuation of antipsychotic drugs.

Tardive dyskinesia (TD), a potentially irreversible syndrome of involuntary dyskinetic movements, may develop in patients treated with antipsychotic drugs. The risk of developing TD and likelihood that it will become irreversible are believed to increase as the duration of treatment and total cumulative dose of antipsychotic drugs administered to the patient increase. TD may remit, partially or completely, if antipsychotic treatment is withdrawn. Quetiapine should be prescribed in a manner that is most likely to minimize the occurrence of TD.

Warnings and Precautions also include the risk of orthostatic hypotension, cataracts, seizures, hyperlipidemia, and possibility of suicide attempt. Examination of the lens by methods adequate to detect cataract formation, such as slit lamp exam or other appropriately sensitive methods, is recommended at initiation of treatment or shortly thereafter, and at 6-month intervals during chronic treatment. The possibility of a suicide attempt is inherent in schizophrenia, and close supervision of high-risk patients should accompany drug therapy.

The most commonly observed adverse events associated with the use of SEROQUEL XR versus placebo in clinical trials for schizophrenia were dry mouth (12% vs 1%), constipation (6% vs 5%), dyspepsia (5% vs 2%), sedation (13% vs 7%), somnolence (12% vs 4%), dizziness (10% vs 4%), and orthostatic hypotension (7% vs 5%).

Please see the full Prescribing Information including Boxed Warning for SEROQUEL XR available at http://www.astrazeneca-us.com/ or by calling 1-800- 236-9933.

About Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a serious brain disorder with symptoms including distorted perceptions of reality, hallucinations and delusions, illogical thinking, and flat or blunted emotions. (1) Schizophrenia affects men and women with equal frequency, but the first signs of schizophrenia typically emerge earlier in men (in late teens or early twenties) compared to women (in twenties or early thirties). (4) Over 2 million American adults -- about 1 percent of the population age 18 and older -- suffer from schizophrenia. Medications are important in the management of symptoms. While there is no cure for schizophrenia, it is a highly treatable and manageable illness. Medications are classified into two categories -- "conventional" and "atypical" antipsychotics. (5)

About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a major international healthcare business engaged in the research, development, manufacture and marketing of prescription pharmaceuticals and the supply of healthcare services. It is one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies with healthcare sales of $26.47 billion and leading positions in sales of gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, neuroscience, respiratory, oncology and infection products. AstraZeneca is listed in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (Global) as well as the FTSE4Good Index.

In the United States, AstraZeneca is a $12.44 billion healthcare business with more than 12,000 employees. For nearly three decades, AstraZeneca has offered drug assistance programs side by side with its medicines, and over the past five years, has provided over $3 billion in savings to more than 1 million patients throughout the US and Puerto Rico. AstraZeneca has been named one of the "100 Best Companies for Working Mothers" by Working Mother magazine and is the only large pharmaceutical company named to FORTUNE magazine's 2007 list of "100 Best Companies to Work For." In 2006, for the fifth consecutive year, Science magazine named AstraZeneca a "Top Employer" on its ranking of the world's most respected biopharmaceutical employers.

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

The statements herein include forward-looking statements. By their nature, forward-looking statements and forecasts involve risk and uncertainty. For a discussion of those risks and uncertainties please see the company's Annual Report/Form 20-F for 2006.

References:

(1) American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR). Fourth Edition. Arlington, VA, 2000. 299.

(2) SEROQUEL XR(TM) Prescribing Information.

(3) Kay et al. Schizophrenia Bulletin. 1987;13:261-276.

(4) National Institutes of Mental Health. The Numbers Count: Mental Disorders in America. NIH Publication No. 06-4584. December 2006. http://www.nimh.nih.gov/publicat/numbers.cfm.

(5) National Alliance for the Mentally Ill: About Mental Illness/Schizophrenia fact sheet. Reviewed by Kenneth Duckworth, MD: February 2007.

Source: AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca

Web site: http://www.astrazeneca-us.com/

May 17

Agreement reached on immigration reform

Key senators in both parties and the White House announced agreement Thursday on an immigration overhaul that would grant quick legal status to millions of illegal immigrants already in the U.S. and fortify the border.

The plan would create a temporary worker program to bring new arrivals to the U.S. A separate program would cover agricultural workers. New high-tech enforcement measures also would be instituted to verify that workers are here legally.

The compromise came after weeks of painstaking closed-door negotiations that brought the most liberal Democrats and the most conservative Republicans together with President Bush's Cabinet officers to produce a highly complex measure that carries heavy political consequences.

Bush hailed completion of the deal as a "historic moment," and said he looked forward to signing it into law, according to Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff, who said he called the president to inform him of it.

"Politics is the art of the possible, and the agreement that we just reached is the best possible chance we will have in years to secure our borders and bring millions of people out of the shadows and into the sunshine of America," Kennedy said.

Anticipating criticism from conservatives, Sen. Arlen Specter (news, bio, voting record), R-Pa., said, "It is not amnesty. This will restore the rule of law."

The accord sets the stage for what promises to be a bruising battle next week in the Senate on one of Bush's top non-war priorities. The president has said he wants to sign an immigration bill by summer's end.

The key breakthrough came when negotiators struck a bargain on a so-called "point system" that would for the first time prioritize immigrants' education and skill level over family connections in deciding how to award green cards.

The draft bill "gives a path out of the shadows and toward legal status for those who are currently here" illegally, said Sen. Dianne Feinstein (news, bio, voting record), D-Calif.

The immigration issue also divides both parties in the House, which isn't expected to act unless the Senate passes a bill first.

The proposed agreement would allow illegal immigrants to come forward and obtain a "Z visa" and — after paying fees and a $5,000 fine — ultimately get on track for permanent residency, which could take between eight and 13 years. Heads of household would have to return to their home countries first.

They could come forward right away to claim a probationary card that would let them live and work legally in the U.S., but could not begin the path to permanent residency or citizenship until border security improvements and the high-tech worker identification program were completed.

A new temporary guest worker program would also have to wait until those so-called "triggers" had been activated.

Those workers would have to return home after work stints of two years, with little opportunity to gain permanent legal status or ever become U.S. citizens. They could renew their guest worker visas twice, but would be required to leave for a year in between each time.

Democrats had pressed instead for guest workers to be permitted to stay and work indefinitely in the U.S.

In perhaps the most hotly debated change, the proposed plan would shift from an immigration system primarily weighted toward family ties toward one with preferences for people with advanced degrees and sophisticated skills. Republicans have long sought such revisions, which they say are needed to end "chain migration" that harms the economy, while some Democrats and liberal groups say it's an unfair system that rips families apart.

Family connections alone would no longer be enough to qualify for a green card — except for spouses and minor children of U.S. citizens.

New limits would apply to U.S. citizens seeking to bring foreign-born parents into the country.

May 7

Guest List for the State Dinner in Honor of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh

Commander Heber Ackland, RN, Equerry in Waiting to The Queen, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

The Countess Of Airlie, DCVO, DCVO, Lady in Waiting, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

The Honorable Leonore Annenberg, Former United States Chief of Protocol, Reagan Administration, FAPE Board Member
The Honorable David Dreier, United States Representative (R/California) (Guest)

The Honorable Anne Armstrong, Former American Ambassador to Great Britain
James L Armstrong (Son)

Mr. Lee M. Bass, Lee M. Bass, Inc.
Mrs. Ramona Bass

Mr. Sid R. Bass, President, Sid R. Bass Inc.
Mrs. Mercedes Bass

Right Honorable Margaret Beckett, MP, Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Mr. Leo Beckett

The Honorable John A. Boehner, Minority Leader, United States Representative (R/Ohio)
Mrs. Deborah Boehner

The Honorable Joshua Bolten, Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff
Mrs. Analouise C. Bolten (Mother)

Mr. Calvin Borel, Jockey, 133rd Kentucky Derby Winner (2007)
Ms. Lisa Funk (Guest)

Mrs. Katherine E. Boyd, Katherine E. Boyd Interior Design
Mrs. Eva Elkins, Sister-in-law to Mrs. Katherine Boyd (Guest)

Miss Barbara Bush
Mr. Jay Blount (Guest)

The Honorable John Ellis 'Jeb' Bush, Former Governor of Florida
Mrs. Columba Bush

Ms. Elizabeth L. Cheney

The Honorable Philip J. Perry, Partner, Latham & Watkins

The Honorable Richard Cheney, Vice President of the United States
The Honorable Lynne V. Cheney

Mr. James Click, President, Jim Click Ford, Inc.
Ms. Carrie Click (Daughter)

The Honorable John Danilovich, Chief Executive Officer, Millennium Challenge Corporation
Mrs. Irene Danilovich

Mr. Rohan De Silva, Pianists

Mrs. Marta Domingo, Wife of Maestro Placido Domingo

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh

The Honorable Donald L. Evans, Chief Executive Office, Financial Services Forum
Mrs. Susan Evans

The Honorable William S. Farish, Former American Ambassador to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Mrs. Sarah Farish

The Honorable Fred Fielding, Counsel to the President, White House Counsel
Mrs. Maria Fielding

Mr. Brad Freeman, General Partner, Freeman Spogli & Co.

The Honorable Robert M. Gates, Secretary of Defense
Mrs. Becky Gates

Mr. Christopher Geidt, OBE, Deputy Private Secretary to The Queen, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Sir Martin Gilbert, Author of Churchill and the Americans
Lady Esther Gilbert, London, England

Mr. David Gregory, NBC
Ms. Beth Wilkinson (Spouse)

The Honorable Stephen J. Hadley, Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs
Mrs. Robert Hadley (Mother)

Mrs. Elisabeth Hasselbeck, Host, The View
Mr. Timothy Hasselbeck, Professional Football Player

Mr. Peter Hayes, Principal Private Secretary to the Secretary of State, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Mr. Steven Holland, White House Correspondent, Reuters
Mrs. Lucie Holland

Mr. Ray L. Hunt, Chairman of the Board, President and CEO, Hunt Consolidated, Inc.
Mr. Hunter L. Hunt, President, Hunt Power, L.P. (Son)

Brigadier Sir Miles Hunt-Davis, KCVO CBE, Private Secretary to The Duke Of Edinburgh, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

The Right Honorable Sir Robin Janvrin, KCVO, CB, Private Secretary to The Queen, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

The Honorable Michael O. Johanns, Secretary of Agriculture
Mrs. Stephanie Johanns

The Honorable Clay Johnson III, Deputy Director for Management, Office of Management and Budget
Mrs. Anne S. Johnson, Director, Arts in Embassies Program, Department of State

The Honorable Dirk Kempthorne, Secretary of the Interior
Mrs. Patricia Kempthorne

Mr. Richard D. Kinder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Kinder Morgan, Inc
Mrs. Nancy Kinder, President, Kinder Foundation

The Honorable Henry A. Kissinger, Trustee, Gerald R. Ford Foundation and, Chairman, Kissinger Associates, Inc.
Mrs. Nancy Kissinger

Mr. Herbert V. Kohler, Jr., Chairman and President, Kohler Company
Mrs. Natalie B. Kohler

The Honorable Trent Lott, United States Senator (R/Mississippi)
Mrs. Tricia Lott

His Excellency Sir David Manning, KCMG, British Ambassador to the United States
Lady Catherine M. Manning

Mr. Peyton Manning, Quarterback, Indianapolis Colts
Mrs. Ashley Manning

Mr. John Marion, Honorary Chairman, Sotheby's North America
Mrs. Anne Marion

The Honorable Mitch McConnell, United States Senator (R/Kentucky)
The Honorable Elaine Chao, Secretary of Labor

Mr. Charles B. Moncrief
Mrs. Kit Moncrief

Mr. James W. Nantz III, CBS Sportscaster, CBS
Mrs. Ann-Lorraine Nantz

Mr. Joseph J. O'Donnell, Chief Executive Officer, Boston Culinary Group
Mrs. Katherine O'Donnell

General Peter Pace, USMC, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
Mrs. Lynne Pace

Mr. Arnold D. Palmer, Professional Golfer
Ms. Kathleen Palmer

The Honorable Henry M. Paulson, Jr., Secretary of the Treasury
Mrs. Wendy Paulson

The Honorable Nancy Pelosi, United States Representative (D/California)
Mr. Paul Pelosi

Mr. A. Jerrold Perenchio, Chairman and CEO, Chartwell Partners
Mrs. Margie Perenchio

Mr. Itzhak Perlman, World Renowned Violinist

Mrs. Toby Lynn Perlman

Mr. Boone Pickens, BP Capital, LLC
Mrs. Madeleine Pickens

The Honorable Colin L. Powell, Former Secretary of State
Mrs. Alma Powell

The Honorable Earl A. Powell III, Director, National Gallery of Art
Mrs. Nancy Powell

Mrs. Nancy Reagan

The Honorable Condoleezza Rice, Secretary of State

Mr. Gene A. Washington, Director of Football Operations, National Football League (Guest)

The Honorable John G. Roberts, Jr., The Chief Justice of the United States
Mrs. Jane Sullivan Roberts

Ms. Robin Roberts, ABC

Miss Penny Russell-Smith, LVO, Press Secretary to The Queen, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Mr. Michael Sacco, President, Seafarers International Union (SIU)
Mrs. Sophie Sacco

Mr. Gerry Shaheen, Group President, Caterpillar
Mrs. Pam Shaheen

The Honorable George P. Shultz, Thomas W. and Susan B. Ford Distinguished Fellow, Hoover Institution, Stanford University
Mrs. Charlotte Shultz, Chief of Protocol, California State

Mr. Harold C. Simmons, Chairman, Valhi Inc.
Mrs. Annette Simmons

The Honorable Tony Snow, Assistant to the President and Press Secretary
Mrs. Jill Ellen Snow

The Honorable Margaret Spellings, Secretary of Education
Mr. Robert Spellings

Surgeon Captain David Swain, CVO RN, Medical Officer to The Queen, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

The Honorable Robert Tuttle, American Ambassador to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Mrs. Maria Tuttle, Spouse of the American Ambassador to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Mr. Mark Vincent, Brother to Mrs. Cheney
Mrs. Linda Vincent, Sister-in-law to Mrs. Cheney

Mr. Richard Wolffe, Newsweek
Ms. Paula Cuello (Spouse)

President Bush Welcomes Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II to the White House
South Lawn

11:07 A.M. EDT

PRESIDENT BUSH: Good morning. Laura and I are honored to welcome back to the White House Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and His Royal Highness Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh. (Applause.)

The United Kingdom has written many of the greatest chapters in the history of human freedom. Nearly 800 years ago, the Magna Carta placed the authority of the government under the rule of law. Eighty years later, the first representative assembly of the English people met to debate public policies. Over the centuries, parliaments in Britain established principles that guide all modern democracies. And thinkers from Britain, like Locke and Smith and Burke showed the world that freedom was the natural right of every man, woman and child on Earth.

As liberty expanded in the British Isles, British explorers helped spread liberty to many lands, including our own. In May of 1607, a group of pioneers arrived on the shores of the James River, and founded the first permanent English settlement in North America. The settlers at Jamestown planted the seeds of freedom and democracy on American soil. And from those seeds sprung a nation that will always be proud to trace its roots back to our friends across the Atlantic.

Our two nations hold fundamental values in common. We honor our traditions and our shared history. We recognize that the strongest societies respect the rights and dignity of the individual. We understand and accept the burdens of global leadership. And we have built our special relationship on the surest foundations -- our deep and abiding love of liberty.

Today our two nations are defending liberty against tyranny and terror. We're resisting those who murder the innocent to advance a hateful ideology, whether they kill in New York or London, or Kabul or Baghdad.

American and British forces are staying on the offense against the extremists and terrorists. We're supporting young democracies. Our work has been hard. The fruits of our work have been difficult for many to see. Yet our work remains the surest path to peace, and it reflects the values cherished by Americans and by Britons, and by the vast majority of people across the broader Middle East.

Your Majesty, I appreciate your leadership during these times of danger and decision. You've spoken out against extremism and terror. You've encouraged religious tolerance and reconciliation. You've honored those returning from battle, and comforted the families of the fallen.

The American people are proud to welcome Your Majesty back to the United States, a nation you've come to know very well. After all, you've dined with ten U.S. Presidents. You helped our nation celebrate its bicentennial in 17 -- in 1976. (Laughter.) She gave me a look that only a mother could give a child. (Laughter.)

You have helped commemorate both the 350th and 400th anniversaries of the Jamestown settlement.

Your Majesty, the United States receives with honor the sovereign of the United Kingdom. We welcome back to the White House a good person, a strong leader for a great ally. (Applause.)

HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II: Mr. President, thank you for your warm words. This is my fifth visit to the United States. And I believe it is important to remind ourselves of the purpose of these occasions, which gives meaning to the ceremonial symbolism and the circumstance.

A state visit provides us with a brief opportunity to step back from our current preoccupations to reflect on the very essence of our relationship. It gives us the chance to look back at how the stories of our two countries have been inextricably woven together. It is the moment to take stock of our present friendship, rightly taking pleasure from its strengths, while never taking these for granted. And it is the time to look forward, jointly renewing our commitment to a more prosperous, safer and freer world.

Last week, I had the pleasure of sharing with you an extraordinary anniversary in our common history. It was a privilege to join the commemoration of the Jamestown landing by that small group of British citizens all those years ago. My two days in Virginia gave me a new insight into those events, which helped to shape this country's development and to lay the foundations of this great nation based on shared principles of equality, democracy and the rule of law.

And now in Washington, we have a further opportunity to acknowledge the present strengths of our relationship. I shall enjoy not only renewing old acquaintances and making new ones, but also recognizing the breadth and depth of the friendship we have shared for so long. We can celebrate the close and enduring associations which thrive between the United States and the United Kingdom at every level, be it government or corporate, institutional or personal.

This visit also gives us a window on the future, both the future of the United States and the future cooperation between our countries. I particularly look forward in the next two days to seeing at firsthand something of how the cutting edge of science and technology can take us to the next phases of discovery and exploration in human endeavor.

Mr. President, thank you for inviting Prince Philip and me to visit your country, to share in the commemoration of the Jamestown anniversary, and to have this opportunity to underline the extent of our friendship -- past, present and future. It is indeed a pleasure for us to be here in Washington again, and to be welcomed back to the White House. (Applause.)

END 11:15 A.M. EDT

Press Briefing by Tony Snow
12:45 P.M. EDT
12:45 P.M. EDT

MR. SNOW: Good afternoon. We have one addition to what I read out this morning. The President had a secure video teleconference this morning with Prime Minister Maliki, 25 minutes with staff in, the remainder -- and I don't know how long that lasted -- was a one-on-one. I can tell you that at least during the conversations in front of staff the President congratulated the Prime Minister on the conferences in Sharm el Sheikh. The Prime Minister, in turn, thanked the President for his support.

Then they proceeded to talk about matters of mutual interest, both regional relations, and also outreach within Iraq. The Prime Minister is working with the presidency council to advance the political process in Iraq, including a lot of the legislation that we've been discussing over the last few months, but issues of communications and reconciliation were at the fore. And also outreach to groups within -- you may recall the Prime Minister went to Ramadi and there he met with Sunni leaders, and the Prime Minister reiterated his determination not only to continue the process, but to work for reconciliation within Iraq. So that was sort of the focal point of those conversations.

Questions.

Q Tony, do you have any readout of what the Queen said to the President?

MR. SNOW: No. No, those are private conversations; we don't read them out.

Q Even on the podium, after the ad lib?

MR. SNOW: That was a good ad lib. (Laughter.)

Q Quality stuff. (Laughter.)

Q Does the President think his drop in the polls, to 28 percent, has anything to do with our occupation and escalation in Iraq?

MR. SNOW: Actually, one of the interesting things is here's a poll where 51 percent of those who responded were either Democrats or -- self-identified Democrats or lean Democratic, as opposed to 34 percent Republican, lean Republican. So you've got a pretty good skew here. And the Newsweek polls do tend to be outliers in that sense.

Q Is that Newsweek?

MR. SNOW: Yes, that's the Newsweek poll. Look, the President certainly understands that Americans don't like war. He doesn't like war, either, but he also does not like the alternative.

Q Does he think it has anything to do with his policies, a drop like that?

MR. SNOW: Well, again, I would counsel against this one, it was a pretty skewed set of response.

Q Tony, I know you said you can't give us the content of their actual conversations, but with Great Britain being our primary ally in Iraq, is it safe to say that might come up, that they might discuss it at some point during her visit?

MR. SNOW: Again, the Queen -- the Queen put it in a wonderful way: This is a time to step back and to take a look at the historic relationship between the United States and Great Britain. She talked about going to Jamestown last week. And she talked about the things that bind us, the principles and aspirations. And my sense is that there will be a lot of pleasant conversation. But, again, I'm not going to try and read out whether they get involved in geopolitics. I'll leave that to the Queen and the President to discuss. And, as usually happens -- especially in events of this sort, where the Queen does not play a political role in Great Britain -- we're certainly not going to draw her into such things. We're going to allow them to go ahead and have very pleasant conversations that reflect the long ties, the deep warmth between the two countries. It's a pretty cool day, you know? I think that the pageantry -- and there you saw the President joking with the Queen -- I don't know that a lot of people joke with the Queen, but the President did. It worked out just fine.

Q You have to say something once he implies she's over 200 years old. (Laughter.)

Q The governor of Kansas, in the wake of the tornadoes, has talked about the fact that she can't get equipment into the areas that have been ravaged because the equipment is now over in Iraq. What type of help is the federal government going to provide?

MR. SNOW: Well, first, take a look at whether such help has been requested. But what I would do is I would ask you to go ahead to DOD for really the specific answers about that. But there's been an enormous amount of help on the scene already, frankly, when it comes to what's been going on with the tornado. FEMA has certainly been actively engaged, and the administration is doing whatever it can. And if there's a need for equipment, it's going to be arrived -- it will arrive.

As you know, there are prepositioning points throughout the country for National Guard and other equipment in the case of emergency. So some of those plans, again, if called upon, are going to be put into motion. But I just can't tell you precisely how it goes. And in order to get -- the best way to get an accurate response is to call DOD on that one.

Jim. Did you have one? Victoria.

Q Given that, as you said, the Queen doesn't play a political role in Great Britain, was there a particular reason why the President gave such a political speech?

MR. SNOW: The President -- was it a political speech, or was it one, in fact, reflecting the closeness and the importance of principle?

Q It was a political speech. (Laughter.)

MR. SNOW: To you it was.

Q I think it was a political speech. It spoke a great deal about the war, the war on terror, the war in Iraq. The Queen's speech reflected something that was not political. When you compare the two, and the tone of the two, one was political and one was not.

MR. SNOW: As a matter of fact, if you take a look -- one, two, three, four, five, six, seven -- eight paragraphs, there are nine paragraphs -- I believe one referred to it, and there was nothing directly mentioning Iraq, although there was talk about democracy, liberty, defending liberty against tyranny and terror. It mentions killing the innocent to advance a hateful ideology, whether it's in New York, London, Kabul or Baghdad.

You may call that political, but that is, in fact, a reflection of what's going on the world. And we have seen evidence of that. And we've also seen evidence of terrorists to continue to do that sort of thing. You saw the Zawahiri tape over the weekend. Well, what did he talk about? He was celebrating in his own view -- what he said was celebrating terrorism. At one point he said, "Fie on moderation, I thank Allah for the bounty of extremism, militancy and terrorism and everything else we are labeled with." And he talked about that in some considerable detail.

What he tried to do is manipulate American political sentiments, a big, long section on Malcolm X that was designed to try to foment hatred within the United States. And he called for a rebellion by minority groups in this country. And at the same time, what he tried to do was to misconstrue democratic debate in this country -- small "d" -- in such a way as to try to take political advantage of statements that Senator Reid has made.

So what you have is you have a determined enemy that, in fact, wants to kill Americans. One of the things he expressed some unhappiness about is that he wants to kill 200,000 to 300,000 Americans. Now, again, if you think it is political to make reference to the fact that that is extremism and it is a live force in our lives and is a real consideration, then you so may label it. But on the other hand, there was nothing in here that tried to draw the Queen into any direct political conflicts in this country other than to remind and thank her for the support of the very principles that are the bedrock of the Anglo American system, which have to do with individual liberties, the rule of law and a long chain of events and innovations that stretch back from the Magna Carta to the present.

Q You would say it's not political.

MR. SNOW: No. No. I would say it is not political.

Sara.

Q Thank you. Is the President happy with the election in France?

MR. SNOW: The President is happy with any democratic election. And he has congratulated President-elect Sarkozy and looks forward to meeting him at the G8 next month.

Q A follow-up on that. Tony Blair is scheduled to step down as head of the Labour Party later this week. Can you talk a little bit about the notion of -- the possibility of the French President-elect becoming the replacement for Tony Blair as the President's best friend in Europe?

MR. SNOW: I believe they represent different countries. (Laughter.)

Q -- best friend?

MR. SNOW: Again, this is -- this kind of trivializes a process that's going on. And I'm not -- we will have comments --

Q But the friendship between Bush and Blair was pretty important.

MR. SNOW: It was extraordinary. And it's very important to try to develop and deepen friendships. And whoever may follow Tony Blair as Prime Minister of Great Britain, we hope to have just as close a relationship. You may recall that there was some question early on, because Prime Minister Blair had such a close relationship with President Clinton, about whether he'd have one with President Bush. Well, he did. And why is that? Because of deep shared interests and values, precisely the sort of the thing that the President and the Queen both made mention of today.

What we're hoping for at all times is closer relations with all our allies.

Q Does it suggest -- given what Sarkozy has said about being there, being at the side when the U.S. needs help -- does that suggest that France might be more willing to do something in Iraq --

MR. SNOW: Again, I think it's very premature to judge these things. What it does mean is that in a hotly contested election with very high turnout, Mr. Sarkozy was elected President.

Q Can I follow up?

MR. SNOW: First, let me get up here and we'll --

Q If that's a follow-up, you can take --

MR. SNOW: Is it a follow-up, Connie?

Q Yes. I just -- on Sarkozy, did the President talk to him --

MR. SNOW: Yes, he did.

Q Okay. Did they speak about this climate change statement?

MR. SNOW: No, they -- it was just a very short two-minute congratulations, and congratulations on a successful free and fair election, and he'll look forward to seeing him in Germany next month.

Q Have they ever met?

MR. SNOW: I don't believe they have, but I'll check.*

Q Tony, back to the President's poll numbers. I know the President says again and again he doesn't govern by polls, and he doesn't really think about them. And yet the polls keep continuing to go down or stay level, they don't seem to rise at all. And he has made a determined effort to try to convince people, he's given many speeches about the Iraq war policy, global war on terrorism, nothing changes. Is he concerned about that, and do you look at ways to try to bring back the will of the American people?

MR. SNOW: I think, as Americans -- you know, what's interesting is that, for instance, you take a look at some of the debate over the weekend, and you've got -- there seems to be a mind-set sometimes among critics that they are not going to acknowledge changes on the ground. They quite often say, stay the course. Well, we do not have a stay the course policy. Or one in which they say, civil war, when the signals -- or the metrics for a civil war fortunately have been going down, but you do have al Qaeda activity.

The question is, why do we not simply give the Baghdad security plan a chance to work? There have been some encouraging early signs that we certainly don't want to oversell, but on the other hand, we don't want to ignore. And General Petraeus is certainly going to be talking about these.

If you take a look at reporting on your network and others, people talk about tangible changes, not only in places like Anbar province, but also in some places in Baghdad, some of the counterinsurgency efforts in Diyala. You do see that there is greater capability and, furthermore, encouragement, at least in the sense of the conversation today with the Prime Minister indicating that there is will and determination to make political progress.

When people start to see that happening, I think they're going to say, okay. Another thing that's going to be interesting is, there may be more opportunities to get -- I know that there's more embedding going on, so people are going to be able to get a better sense, once again, of what's going on, on the ground -- you've had an opportunity to do it in recent weeks -- to gather a fuller picture, because for instance, the headlines this week, eight Americans died, that is true; but on the other hand, you also had the fact that there have been very successful operations against bad guys, and you have had some pretty significant seizures, whether it be in weapons caches, or insurgents, or killers that they've gotten.

All of that sort of stuff also helps balance out the picture. In many cases, Americans don't get that other side of the picture. They're starting to get it in some of the briefings -- I know that the Pentagon is going to start posting some stuff on "YouTube." It's important to make sure that people are able to draw full judgments. And I think when they see that the thing that they most want, which is a competent military pursuing a noble mission, enjoying some success, doing it at personal hazard, and doing it in a way that is consistent with American principles, they're going to say, okay, this is what we want.

Q You don't think they've seen that in the past? I mean, this war has ebbed and flowed, and there certainly has been some good news over the years, and yet, the President's poll numbers are not improving.

MR. SNOW: I understand that, but the President also --

Q And you've tried to make a case over and over. He's tried to make the case over and over.

MR. SNOW: Yes. Well, you know what? Ultimately, again, if -- for instance, I would go back to the Zawahiri tape. What Zawahiri was recommending, for instance, at one point, he started laying out what his ambitions were. And his ambition was, what the President has talked about for some time now, which is a new caliphate, and a caliphate that would extend across much of the world, and it was going to be trying to place much of the world under the kind of oppression -- under the religious oppression that most Americans -- it's not even religious; it is the terrorist oppression that tends to misidentify itself as a religious movement, and to do it in such a way as to terrorize people into surrendering their freedoms.

Then Americans say, ah-ha, you mean Zawahiri really does mean that, that al Qaeda really does mean that. And it's important to realize that the threat is real and ongoing. The President cannot look away from that, and he does not look away from that. It is his obligation as Commander-in-Chief to do whatever is necessary to defend the security of this country.

And that means at times, when it is -- it means at times when people wish the threat were not there, when some political figures say, I'm not going to listen to it, they're telling me something I don't want to hear, I'm not going to listen to it -- and we've heard some of that in the debate. The President says, I have to, because his obligation is to do the right thing. And, sometimes, yes, it will be unpopular, but on the other hand, over time, as people begin to get a stronger sense of what's going on, and they do get a feeling for progress, you can assume that public opinion will follow.

And what's interesting is those who live by the polls better be careful, because if they try to get all their guidance simply from the poll questions, then all of a sudden it turns out that a lot of the things that have been stoutly opposed by some in the political class turn out to be things that have actually provided a basis for hope and success in Iraq -- they'll have to answer for that, too. Polling is not static, and neither are the issues.

Q Are you saying we want this war, the American people want this war?

MR. SNOW: No, the American people don't want this war, but they --

Q Well, you say the will -- they had the will?

MR. SNOW: Helen, the American people also do not want the Middle East in flames. They do not want millions of people dying. They do not want the economic dislocation, the geopolitical danger that would be ignited should, in fact, Zawahiri and others get their way. Americans still remember September 11th; they remember the fear it inspired --

Q But the Iraqis had nothing to do with it.

MR. SNOW: I understand that. But on the other hand, al Qaeda now has decided to make Iraq the central front. And it's pretty clear --

Q We decided that.

MR. SNOW: No, I don't think so. But --

Q Historically.

MR. SNOW: We've gone through this many times.

Q Tony, two quick questions. One, elegant ceremony for the Queen I have witnessed in a long time. My question is that as far as Prime Minister Tony Blair step down as Prime Minister of England, do you think when Her Majesty was carrying any kind of special message from the British --

MR. SNOW: Again, I'm not going to comment or speculate about conversations. But keep -- the President talks to Tony Blair all the time. I don't think he needs to have anybody channeling. And as far as trying to do retrospectives on the Prime Ministership of Tony Blair, let's just wait until he's made his announcements. We're not going to get involved beforehand.

Q Second, on Afghanistan. The Afghans are saying really now that the message for the President, that they are saying that they hope, after their freedom from the United States (inaudible), that the President or the United States has not forgotten them because of the attention elsewhere, and they are asking President's help because they feel that NATO so far has failed in many areas of Afghanistan as far as tapping down al Qaeda and Taliban.

MR. SNOW: Well, I'm not going to get -- number one, that's too vague a charge when you label something to "the Afghans." Number two, the government of Afghanistan certainly understands our commitment. Part of the debate on the supplemental, keep in mind, was not merely about Iraq, but also ongoing operations in Afghanistan, including boosting presence there and boosting capability.

Q Tony, what are we to read into the Pentagon opting for "YouTube" as part of its communication?

MR. SNOW: I don't know. You'll just have to ask -- that was something they announced last week. I don't know.

Q We're you part of that --

MR. SNOW: No, but I think it's a good idea.

Q Why?

MR. SNOW: Because it's important sometimes to be able to get -- it's important to get images out that are going to portray a fuller picture of what's going on, on the battlefield.

Q What kind of images would you like to see on "YouTube"?

MR. SNOW: I'd like to see a little bit of everything, wouldn't you?

Q Is the White House going to use it, too, or are you satisfied with your own web --

MR. SNOW: I don't know. I don't -- we have no immediate plans for using "YouTube."

Q On Friday I asked Dana why the President opposes broadening the hate crimes law to cover gays and lesbians. She pointed me to the statement of administration policy saying: We would oppose it solely on the grounds it would federalize law enforcement of crimes already being addressed in the states.

Why is that okay in the case of race and religion, and not in the case of sexual orientation?

MR. SNOW: Well, no, I don't think -- I think you're asking a question that's not relevant. The President of course believes in prosecuting crimes of discrimination against anybody. In fact, that is a proper responsibility of states, and many states have already enacted such statutes. And we have a Civil Rights Division to take a look into charges of discrimination on any basis. The fact is that you try to prosecute the laws so that in a society like ours, the law is equally applied to everybody.

On the other hand, if you try to -- what this law would do is create maybe an unparalleled increase in federal police power, and that is something that we do not welcome, especially because the states already have the authority to do this, and furthermore, we feel confident that the rights of all Americans are going to be protected. We have a -- our government is based upon equal protection under the law. If you suddenly start getting into sort of a situation where you start trying to tick off each and every class that may think it's aggrieved, what you're going to do is create an endless cycle where somebody else wants inclusion. But the fact is, the law already covers everybody.

So this should not be construed as an attempt to say that we do not care about acts of violence against individuals. We care about acts of violence against all individuals, and we think they ought to be prosecuted fully and completely.

Q Tony, I have a definitional question.

MR. SNOW: Oh, good.

Q Is it possible that some of what the colonists did might be construed by some as terrorism and insurgency?

MR. SNOW: I don't know, you'll have to ask them. (Laughter.)

Q Do you have their email? (Laughter.)

Q Funny man.

Q You were saying that Prime Minister Maliki is committed to making political progress, that he and the President discussed that. Can you outline, in any general sense, what the President conveyed to the Prime Minister about his expectations for what political progress is by this fall?

MR. SNOW: No, I'm going to -- no. Again, I'm going to allow the two of them to have -- they have private conversations for a reason, and many of those remain confidential.

Let me just tell you again what Prime Minister Maliki was talking about, which is to assemble the council of presidents, which do include members of all the major groups, and to sit down in a very practical way and say, let's get this stuff fixed. That was what he laid out. We'll also leave it to him to be a little more specific, because he is the Prime Minister, and it is certainly his prerogative to announce whatever initiatives he may be wishing to put together.

But, again, what you got was a very clear sense from the Prime Minister that it was important to be making progress. And I think he felt a little -- he felt somewhat encouraged by Sharm el Sheikh, because it does create even a better sense of confidence and standing, and it allows him to continue to move forward in a way that says, because a result of this -- as a result of the meeting in Sharm el Sheikh, we're going to be on sounder economic footing, we've got people who have made commitment, and we have people who are committed to the success of this country. And we now have to work together even more closely on things like oil law and constitutional reform and so on. So he mentioned a lot of that, but I don't want to get too specific beyond that.

Q Can I follow up? By the time that General Petraeus comes back to the President at the end of the summer/early fall, and says, here's where we are, can you say that the President feels confident after talking to the Prime Minister that there will be achievement to point to on the political side by that time?

MR. SNOW: Again, as The Washington Post pointed out this weekend, the Democratic Congress can't even meet its benchmarks. So what you have is a situation where I don't want to be prejudging what's going to happen, but it is very clear that the Prime Minister, and I think others in the Iraqi political system, realize that they want to get things accomplished. And it's not simply because of impatience in Washington, although that's clearly -- clearly exists, but because of their own national necessity. In order to succeed as a country, they have got to find a way to build that sense of shared economic obligation and cooperation through an oil law. They've got to deal with the constitutional issues to build greater confidence between groups. And the Prime Minister has made it clear that as the Prime Minister of all Iraqis, he is committed to defending the civil rights of all, and building on that. So I think that that's -- that was the tenor that was struck in the meeting.

Q I understand all that. I just am asking you --

MR. SNOW: I know, but I'm not going to tell you.

Q You cannot say today that the President feels confident that those things are achievable by the fall? I just want to clarify.

MR. SNOW: Again, no, because you're asking me a crystal ball question that I just think -- I'm not going to bite.

Q Who initiated the conversation?

Q Is Maliki confident?

MR. SNOW: Again, Maliki is determined. What you have is a situation where he is reaching out to the other major political leaders. They're going to sit down, they're going to talk it through. What he's doing is what leaders do, which is to try practically to work with everybody who is involved so that you can come to accommodation, and we'll just have to see.

Q Thank you, Tony. Two questions. Congressman Tom Davis and 17 other Republican House members have called on Attorney General Gonzales, Department of Justice, to administer the polygraph test that Sandy Berger agreed to in paragraph 11 of his plea agreement. And my question, could you give us a substantial answer to these Republicans' request of the Bush administration?

MR. SNOW: No. But I will study it.

Q At a press conference, Senate Majority Leader Reid, when asked about the Vice President's announcement that he changed his position on Iraq three times in five months, responded, "I am not going to get into a name-calling match with someone who has a 9 percent approval rating." And my question, what is the President's reaction to this, and does he believe that the Vice President's rating is really lower than the now Democrat-controlled Congress?

MR. SNOW: Again, I don't think the President -- President doesn't have a comment on either of those formulations.

Q Mr. Snow, (inaudible) democracy include the (inaudible) under threat by the military, in the light of the (inaudible)?

MR. SNOW: Run that last part by me again -- the democracy threat by military in what way?

Q It's under threat by the military.

MR. SNOW: I think that's probably an argumentative question and I don't want to get involved, as there's a debate about the presidency in Turkey -- that it is a democracy, continues to function as a democracy. And we will let the democratic process work itself out.

Q One question on the supplemental. Do you guys have any reaction -- the House leadership apparently is preparing some kind of bill that would give you guys half the money right up front, and wait for the other half for the President reporting on benchmarks and so forth.

MR. SNOW: Again, we've said that that sort of general approach provides a kind of uncertainty that really is not helpful to commanders. But on the other hand, I'm not going to respond in detail to every trial balloon, because we tend to get a lot. What we're doing is we're working with both Houses to try to come up with an acceptable way to provide a flow of funding that is going to enable the troops to have funding and flexibility, the phrase we've used many times. And at this juncture, you got to ask yourself what guarantee you have that, again, something is going to meet that deadline.

So I think the most important thing to do is to pass a supplemental that gets us through this year.

Q Did Josh go up to the Hill today to talk to Obey?

MR. SNOW: No, I don't think so. No.

Q Tomorrow?

MR. SNOW: Don't know. We'll let you know.

END 1:10 P.M. EDT

*The President dropped by a meeting between National Security Advisor Stephen Hadley and Mr. Sarkozy at the White House Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2006

May 2

USGBC’s LEED® Green Building Rating System Awards “Innovation in Design” Credit for Applying Cradle to CradleSM Product Certification

Aim to foster innovation, educate about product life cycle impact,
and complement the LCA into LEED process

May 1, 2007 (Washington, DC) – The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has announced that projects seeking certification under the LEED® Green Building Rating System ™ can now earn "Innovation in Design" points by using the Cradle to CradleSM program for certified building products, as well as products certified by other established systems. Cradle to Cradle (C2C) assesses products on a number of criteria, such as the use of safe and healthy materials; design for material reuse and recycling; efficient use of energy and water throughout production; and instituting strategies for social responsibility. The Cradle to Cradle design paradigm was developed by William McDonough and Dr. Michael Braungart, and the certification program is administered by their firm, McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry (MBDC).

“Awarding LEED innovation points for Cradle to Cradle LCA education is the latest example of USGBC's dedication to continuous improvement,” said Tom Hicks, Vice President of LEED, USGBC. “C2C is in harmony with our guiding principle of reconciling human activities with nature, and cuts a trail for exciting new directions in LEED to address the impacts of materials in the building industry in a much more sophisticated scientific manner.”

"We are delighted and honored the USGBC now recognizes MBDC's Cradle to CradleSM Certification program for LEED innovation credits. This helps expand LEED's environmental focus to what's being used, reused or recycled and not just on the amount of recycled content," commented William McDonough, managing principle of MBDC.

Innovation in Design points are awarded to LEED projects that develop new solutions, employ new technologies, educate, or realize exemplary performance in another area. USGBC pioneered the achievement of innovation points for using the criteria of the cradle to cradle program during the certification of its own new LEED Platinum headquarters in Washington, DC. While reviewing USGBC's submission, the Materials & Resources Technical Advisory Group noted that future projects could also pursue points for using other existing, established product certification programs.

The publication of the “Credit Interpretation Review” of the Cradle to Cradle Innovation in Design award, USGBC is publishing all Innovation in Design Credits that have been awarded to LEED certified projects on the organizations website, www.usgbc.org.

"The goal of the innovation in design category is to inspire new ideas and solutions," noted Scot Horst, chair of the LEED Steering Committee. "By sharing this information, we'll drive further innovations and help to advance the practice of green building."

Recognizing C2C in an Innovation and Design Credit complements the recent recommendations by USGBC’s Life Cycle Assessment Group for incorporating life cycle assessment (LCA) into LEED. LCA is a scientific methodology that evaluates the environmental impact of a product throughout its life cycle, from the extraction of raw materials through processing, manufacture, installation, use, and ultimate disposal or recycling. In addition to examining a material’s effect on the environment, C2C addresses human health and other impacts not directly addressed by LCA.

For information on LEED and USGBC: www.usgbc.org

To view the USGBC’s Guiding Principles: http://communicate.usgbc.org/usgbc/2006/08.15.06_guiding_principles/guidingPrinciples/index.html

About USGBC
The U.S. Green Building Council is the nation's leading coalition of corporations, builders, universities, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations working together to transform the way buildings are designed, built and operated. Green buildings are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. Since its founding in 1993, the Council has grown to more than 8,500 member companies and organizations, an 85-person professional staff, a broad portfolio of LEED® green building products and services, the industry's popular Greenbuild International Conference and Expo and a network of over 70 local chapters, affiliates and organizing groups.

April 24

Championing Environmental Legacies

Athletes, there’s a new winner on the podium.

Jacques Rogge, president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) was recently declared a “Champion of the Earth.”

At a ceremony in Singapore on April 19, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) honoured Rogge as a “ Champion of the Earth 2007”, a nod to the IOC’s remarkable success in implementing rigorous environmental standards for Olympic bid and host cities. Rogge was one of seven award recipients, a group that also included Al Gore, former US Vice President, Senator and presidential candidate.

Linking sport and environment
According to IOC Sport and Environment Commission chairman Pál Schmitt, the IOC’s earth-friendly mandate can have immense trickle-down influence. Indeed, the state of the environment in a Games host city affects athletes, volunteers, the worldwide audience of spectators and citizens alike.

As quoted by Schmitt in the IOC Guide on Sport, Environment and Sustainable Development, “Sport and sustainable development are deeply interlinked and increasingly need to be addressed jointly.”

“The Olympic Movement and the [IOC] in particular therefore have a role to play in the field of environmental protection and sustainable development to ensure that present and future generations will be able to enjoy sports activities in a preserved socio-economic, healthy and natural environment,” said Schmitt.

Sport and Culture are the two traditional pillars of the Games. Interest and concern for the environment was addressed by the Olympic Movement during the 1994 Centennial Olympic Congress, Congress of Unity meetings (regular consultative meetings convened by the IOC and attended by Olympic Movement parties’ representatives) in Paris when, for the first time, the International Olympic Committee formally acknowledged environmental and sustainable development as part of its overall mandate.

These discussions evolved and resulted in the creation of the IOC Sport and Environment Commission in 1995. By 1999, the IOC had adopted its own version of the UN’s Agenda 21 for Sustainable Development. It called for a program of action aimed at using sport to advance sustainable development and established a formal collaboration between the IOC and the UN Environment Program (UNEP) upon its implementation. One of the objectives of adopting sustainable development into the Olympic Movement includes improving Games-based practices on environmental conservation and impact on natural resources.

Minimizing the environmental footprint
Vancouver’s bid to host the 2010 Winter Games integrated environmental, social and economic sustainability as part of its Games planning. On the environmental platform, the Vancouver 2010 Bid Corporation committed, if successful in its bid, to building and operating Games facilities that would ensure a minimal environmental footprint.

“In the Bid Phase, in recognition of the regional environment, and with the focus on green buildings, both in Vancouver and the Sea-to-Sky corridor, we wanted to live up to the expectations of what was going on around us,” said Tina Symko, a sustainability coordinator with the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC). “We wanted to play a role in leading the way in green building design and standards.”
Leading the way
VANOC is on track and working hard on its environmental goals and objectives, but the organizing committee can’t do it alone. In efforts to achieve

From the atrium (top), to the workstations (middle), to kitchen and eating areas (bottom), Campus 2010 is VANOC’s first completed LEED project. (photo courtesy Ed White Photographics)these objectives, VANOC has had early coordination with its government partners which include Canada, British Columbia, Vancouver and Whistler. There is great commitment from all partners to ensure venue siting, construction and operation, selection of equipment and transportation, consumption of energy and water, pollution and waste management, species and habitat conservation are all considered in the planning, design and construction of its venues. Because of this partnership, the Games is able to minimize much of its environmental footprint by utilizing Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building design principles for new and existing venues.

LEED incorporates design, construction and operational practices that combine healthy, high-quality and high-performance advantages with reduced environmental impacts. The LEED green building rating and certification program provides an opportunity for third party validation of green building design and operational practices. Improved building performance is certified with ratings (certified, silver, gold or platinum) based on the total number of points earned by a given project.

Aiming for silver, striking gold
VANOC committed to certify its new sport venues to a minimum LEED Silver level standard of certification. This past March, however, the Vancouver 2010 headquarters achieved gold-level LEED Commercial Interiors (CI) certification.

Much effort was made from many parties to achieve this certification. The City of Vancouver showed great support for this initiative and contributed to the Gold rating by improving the water efficiency with upgrades to the washroom, improving the thermal monitoring in the replacement of building controls and optimizing energy performance with the installation of daylight-responsive controls in areas close to the windows.

VANOC sponsors also played a very important role. Energy performance was further optimized with the selection of Top Sponsor GE Energy Star-rated equipment and appliances in the kitchenettes on each floor. Official Supplier Haworth provided some systems furniture and office seating that was Green guard indoor air-quality certified.

Other office renovations included: increased natural light, reducing the demand for lighting fixtures by 40 to 50 per cent; installation of energy-saving fixtures; use of recycled materials; and a carpet “tile” system that allows for the replacement of only certain tiles as needed, rather than re-carpeting entire rooms.

Elaine Lester, Vancouver 2010’s director, administration and facilities, holds VANOC’s recently awarded gold-level LEED-CI certificate.Finally, in addition to the renovations and furnishings, there are recycling and compost streaming systems on every floor, where VANOC staff have contributed to this gold level through their waste management efforts and cleaning systems. From partners to sponsors to staff and volunteers, everyone involved is very proud of the success of their efforts in achieving LEED-CI Gold.

The Vancouver 2010 offices are VANOC’s first completed LEED project to date, but the eco-initiatives don’t stop there.

Many of the Vancouver 2010 competition and non-competition venues are being constructed and upgraded to minimize environmental impacts. The Whistler Olympic and Paralympic Village will be strategically situated adjacent to a former municipal landfill to allow for the capture and re-use of methane gas. Heat produced by the nearby municipal wastewater treatment system will also be captured for re-use. At the City of Vancouver’s Hillcrest/Nat Bailey Stadium Park curling venue, waste heat from the refrigeration plant will be used to heat other building spaces and the nearby aquatic centre. Also, at the Richmond Oval, rainwater will be re-used for irrigation, ice-making and toilet flushing. There are also plans for the construction of an onsite wetland for storm water treatment at the site.

Going Green in Beijing
Beijing, host of the 2008 Olympic Summer Games, is also striving for eco-innovation. As with any event of this magnitude, hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games could be seen as a strain on Beijing’s infrastructure and resources. According to the Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games of the XXIX Olympiad (BOCOG), however, hosting the Games is a prime opportunity, and yet another good reason, for the city of Beijing to change its environmental practices for the better.

Beijing is a rapidly developing city and home to approximately 15 million people. Despite obvious challenges, the Beijing Organizing Committee has successfully expanded its environmental initiatives and the City of Beijing has joined in efforts to improve the city with better transportation, more green space and moving some industry out of the city core.

Admittedly the biggest test for BOCOG is to help the city of Beijing reduce air pollution produced by the city’s high proportion of coal consumption and rising popularity of automobile use. In efforts to minimize additional air pollutants, the Beijing municipal government, with assistance from BOCOG, has enacted phase-by-phase measures including improved dust control at construction sites and public awareness campaigns about the benefits of tree planting. Slated for completion by late 2007, Beijing has a campaign to plant 12,000 hectares of trees in an effort to increase the green coverage of the urban area to 43 per cent.

BOCOG’s Construction and Environment Department has also adopted significant innovative technologies during Games preparations. At the Olympic Village, for example, builders installed 6,000 square metres of solar heat collectors on building roofs; they’ll supply hot water to all apartment bathrooms and support facilities at Games time. The Olympic Village will also use recycled water from the Qinghe River Wastewater Treatment Plant to meet the needs of air conditioning systems for all Olympic Village apartments. And when it comes to recycling, construction of the roadbed within Beijing’s Olympic Village used 8,000 tonnes of waste steel scraps.

Greening the Future
Beyond creating healthy legacies for the people of Beijing, the Beijing Organizing Committee hopes to live up to its slogan of ‘One World One Dream’ by setting an example for the world to follow.

For future host cities, living up to their environmental aspirations from bid to Games ensures healthy environmental legacies long after the Torch is passed. Ideally, values such as the Games spirit will spread throughout the world’s nations, instilling a respect for the environment that binds us all together as strongly as the passion for sport

April 23

House Speaker and Majority Leader Announce Plans to Green the U.S. Capitol
USGBC Commends the House Complex move to reduce its Carbon Footprint

(Washington, DC) – Earlier this week House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer announced they will begin a project to green our Nation’s Capitol. The United States Capitol is a symbol to all American’s and greening the operations of the Capitol building complex sends a strong message about the importance of green building. As the Nation's most recognizable government building and an important emblem of democracy, the Capitol complex will inspire current and future generations to join in the commitment to environmental protection.

“Buildings in the U.S. account for 39% of CO2 emissions, and are a major contributor to global climate change,” said Rick Fedrizzi, President, CEO & Founding Chair, USGBC. “The good news is that green building reduces emissions by 30-50%. The U.S. Green Building Council applauds the Greening of the Capitol project as a showcase for sustainable practices that will inspire other projects around the country and the world to make an immediate and measurable impact on climate change by building green."

The preliminary Greening of the Capitol Report outlines a series of six recommendations in an effort to help the Capitol complex reduce its carbon footprint. Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory estimated the operations of the House as being responsible for 91,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions in fiscal year 2006 – equivalent to the annual carbon dioxide emissions of 17,200 cars.

The recommendations include:
- Operating the House in a carbon neutral manner
- Shifting to 100 percent renewable electric power
- Aggressively improving energy efficiency
- Adopting sustainable business practices
- Continued leadership on sustainability issues
- Offsets to ensure carbon neutral operations

“Reducing energy consumption and energy dependence must be priorities,” said Sandy Wiggins, Chairman of the Board, USGBC. “Changing the way we think about the design, construction and operations of our buildings is key to achieving those goals, and the Greening of the Capitol project is an important step in the right direction."

The recommendations are a first step in creating a green Capitol and more sustainable House operations. A final report will be issued on June 30 to provide a framework for guiding future decisions.

About USGBC
The U.S. Green Building Council is the nation's leading coalition of corporations, builders, universities, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations working together to transform the way buildings are designed, built and operated. Green buildings are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. Since its founding in 1993, the Council has grown to more than 7,700 member companies and organizations, an 85-person professional staff, a broad portfolio of LEED® green building products and services, the industry's popular Greenbuild International Conference and Expo and a network of over 70 local chapters, affiliates and organizing groups. For more information: http://www.usgbc.org.

April 18

TRANSCRIPT: NBC NIGHTLY NEWS/PRESIDENT BUSH AND FIRST LADY LAURA BUSH

"NBC Nightly News" anchor Brian Williams continues reporting tonight from Virginia Tech University in Blacksburg, Va. In a special one-hour edition tonight, Williams talks to President Bush and First Lady Laura Bush. Transcript is below. If used, please courtesy "NBC Nightly News." Thank you.

BRIAN WILLIAMS INTRO:

We are back on this sad Tuesday night, here at Virginia Tech, you saw the President visited here earlier today and just before he departed capus -- we were able to spend some time with President Bush and First Lady Laura Bush -- and we talked about what happened here, also about dealing with this kind of loss.

WILLIAMS/PRESIDENT BUSH/FIRST LADY LAURA BUSH:

BRIAN WILLIAMS: You have all too much experience in dealing with grieving families going back to 9/11 and the nation's two wars. How is this different?

PRESIDENT BUSH: I think what makes this different-- is that a parent or a loved one thought their child was, learning, to-- to enrich their lives, and the next thing is they're dead. And it's just the shock and suddenness and the location that makes this a very traumatic experience. Virginia Tech is a viable, strong community. And-- it's going to require this viable, strong community to help-- help people recover.

BRIAN WILLIAMS: You have two daughters who are now out of college. I have a daughter who's a freshman now. With-- with that as context, how do-- what do we do about these guns?

PRESIDENT BUSH: My attitude is-- you know, there's going to be plenty of time for debate and a political discussion and a policy discussion. And I-- now is not the time. I'm-- I'm-- I'm more interested in helping people heal right now. And that's why we're here.

BRIAN WILLIAMS: Mrs. Bush-- Columbine had an incalculable effect on children the age of our--

MRS. BUSH: This--

BRIAN WILLIAMS:--our daughters.

MRS. BUSH: This will have an-- huge effect too, and on little children. We really need to listen to their concerns and-- and try to let them know that they're loved, and that many people are working to make sure they're protected.

April 17

Universities React to Virginia Tech Disaster by Implementing Emergency Notification

Latest Communication Technology Immediately Notifies Employees, Students, Parents and First Responders During Crises on Multiple Types of Communication Devices

-- Many universities and schools throughout the country are pursuing immediate measures today in reaction to yesterday's Virginia Tech tragedy. In addition to grief counseling and safety briefings, administrators are researching and implementing high-speed emergency notification systems to address the need for immediate information during natural and manmade disasters.

Margi Schmidt, a spokesperson from MIR3, a San Diego-based business that provides emergency notification technology, commented: "We're receiving many phone calls from educational institutions that want to modernize their communication infrastructures to better handle emergency situations, including weather-related and other disasters. We are working with these organizations to implement emergency notification systems within 24 hours."

The MIR3 communications platform was designed for ease of use and to cut overall response time so that in the heat of an emergency the system is set to go with minimum effort. Schmidt said, "In real time, you can see who has received and responded to your critical message. In the event of natural and/or manmade disasters, all students, parents, and campus/local police can be contacted in a matter of minutes with information and instructions either by landline or cell phone, email, PDA, TTY, fax, pager, SMS, or other communication device."

The MIR3™ Intelligent Notification™ system is already in use at hundreds of corporations, government agencies and educational organizations.

April 9

Northern Forests May Increase Temperatures by 10 Degrees by 2100, New Study Says; Deforestation Could Cool the Planet

-- Forests on certain parts

of the planet may actually warm the Earth, according to researchers from

the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in a study released today.

According to the study, forests in mid- to high-latitude locations --

such as boreal forests of Canada, Scandinavia and Siberia -- may actually

create a net warming. The study concludes that by the year 2100, these mid-

and high- latitude forests may make some places up to 10 degrees Fahrenheit

warmer than would have occurred if the forests did not exist.

The research, led by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory atmospheric

scientist Govindasamy Bala, appears in the April 9-13 online edition of the

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Forests affect climate in three different ways: they absorb the

greenhouse gas carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and help keep the planet

cool; they evaporate water to the atmosphere and increase cloudiness, which

also helps keep the planet cool; and they are dark and absorb sunlight (the

albedo effect), warming the Earth. Previous climate change mitigation

strategies that promote planting trees have taken only the first effect

into account. "Our study shows that only tropical rainforests are strongly

beneficial in helping slow down global warming," Bala said. "It is a

win-win situation in the tropics because trees in the tropics, in addition

to absorbing carbon dioxide, promote convective clouds that help to cool

the planet. In other locations, the warming from the albedo effect either

cancels or exceeds the net cooling from the other two effects."

"If we really want to do something about global warming," said

JunkScience.com's Steve Milloy, "providing chainsaws to Canadians, Swedes

and Russians would seem a better investment than greenhouse gas emissions

reductions."

For more information on the study and global warming, visit

JunkScience.com.

More Than Just a Story About Sales Growth

Stringent Federal, State and Industry Standards Help Ensure Safety, Quality

and Good Taste

-- The International

Bottled Water Association (IBWA), in conjunction with Beverage Marketing

Corporation (BMC), today released bottled water statistics for the year

2006, compiled by BMC. These numbers show that U.S. bottled water sales and

consumption continue to rise, as consumers increasingly choose bottled

water over other beverages.

The latest upward trend was reflected in 2006 when total bottled water

volume exceeded 8.25 billion gallons, a 9.5 percent increase over 2005, and

the 2006 bottled water per capita consumption level of 27.6 gallons

increased by over two gallons, from 25.4 gallons per capita the previous

year. Additionally, the wholesale dollar sales for bottled water exceeded

$10.8 billion in 2006, an 8.5 percent increase over the $10 billion in

2005. These statistics demonstrate continued consumer demand and

appreciation for the convenience and good taste of bottled water brands

consumed on-the-go, during exercise, at restaurants or meetings, and at

home or the office. However, consumers should also know that bottled water

safety and quality result from multiple layers of regulation and standards

at the federal, state and industry levels.

Bottled water is comprehensively regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug

Administration (FDA) as a packaged food product, and has issued stringent

standards for safety, quality, production, labeling, and identity. Along

with the FDA's Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), which are required of

all foods, bottled water must comply with several other applicable

regulations, including Standards of Identity, Standards of Quality and

additional, specific bottled water GMPs. Being a packaged food product,

bottled water is also bound by the Nutrition Labeling Education Act (NLEA)

and the full range of FDA protective measures designed to enforce product

safety and protect consumers. States also regulate bottled water

inspections, sampling, analyzing and approving bottled water sources.

Testing laboratory certification is another area where states may regulate

bottled water. As part of the IBWA Bottled Water Code of Practice, IBWA

members voluntarily utilize the principles of Hazard Analysis and Critical

Control Point (HACCP) for a science-based approach to bottled water

production and safety. FDA recognizes HACCP as a key component of food

safety and consumer protection.

"While all beverages have their role in a marketplace with an abundance

of drink choices," says Stephen R. Kay, IBWA Vice President of

Communications, "consumers are choosing bottled water as a refreshing,

hydrating beverage and as an alternative to others that may contain

calories, caffeine, sugar, artificial colors, alcohol or other ingredients,

which they wish to moderate or avoid. For instance, during 2006, individual

servings of bottled water in sizes of 1.5 liters and smaller accounted for

57.1% of the volume of bottled water sold, indicating that consumers are

choosing bottled water in lieu of other bottled drinks."

For an overview of bottled water regulations and standards and other

bottled water information, visit the IBWA web site at

http://www.bottledwater.org.

The International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) is the authoritative

source of information about all types of bottled waters. Founded in 1958,

IBWA's membership includes U.S. and international bottlers, distributors

and suppliers. IBWA is committed to working with the U.S. Food and Drug

Administration (FDA), which regulates bottled water as a packaged food

product, and state governments to set stringent standards for safe, high

quality bottled water products. Additionally, IBWA requires member bottlers

to adhere to the IBWA Bottled Water Code of Practice, which mandates

additional standards and practices, that in some cases, are more stringent

than federal and state regulations. A key feature of the IBWA Model Code is

an annual unannounced plant inspection by an independent, third party

organization. .

SOURCE International Bottled Water Association

Reid Welcomes Bush Engagement on Immigration, Cautions on Need to Clarify Details

-- Senate Majority Leader

Harry Reid released the following statement on President Bush's speech on

immigration today.

"Senate Democrats agree with President Bush that we must pass a

comprehensive immigration reform bill this year. The overwhelming majority

of Americans want to reform our broken immigration system so that we can

improve our border security and bring millions of undocumented workers out

of the shadows of our society.

"While preliminary discussions with the White House have revealed many

areas of bipartisan agreement, Democrats do have concerns about the

workability of several elements of the administration's recent draft

proposals to members of Congress. To win the support of Senate Democrats, a

comprehensive immigration bill must be tough, fair, and practical.

"We look forward to working closely with the President on this issue of

mutual concern when the Senate takes up legislation the last two weeks of

May."

SOURCE Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid

MGM e Atriz/Produtora/Diretora nomeada para o Oscar Salma Hayek criam o novo nome Ventanazul
Empreendimento conjunto irá produzir projetos com influências latinas para o público universal

A Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM) entrou em uma parceria com a produtora/diretora e atriz nomeada para o Oscar Salma Hayek e seu parceiro Jose Tamez para o desenvolvimento, produção e compra de entretenimento filmado que tenha tema ou talento latino, na frente e por trás das câmeras, e que atraia o mercado em massa em todo o mundo.

Ventanazul e esta parceria totalmente igual entre a Sra. Hayek e a MGM, segue o modelo do estúdio de dar para o talento comprovado o controle criativo do conteúdo, e ao mesmo tempo se concentrar na experiência de distribuição e marketing do estúdio. A Ventanazul ficará localizada dentro da MGM, e pretende obter financiamento para as produções da companhia da MGM e de outras fontes de financiamento estruturadas externas. Esta declaração foi feita em conjunto pelo COO da MGM Rick Sands e pela Sra. Hayek.

A Sra. Hayek será a Presidente e CEO da Ventanazul, e o Sr. Tamez ocupará o cargo de Presidente da Produção. A companhia pretende lançar de dois a quatro projetos de filmes no mercado por ano, sendo a MGM responsável pelo marketing e distribuição mundial. A Ventanazul irá aproveitar uma grande fonte de talentos latinos e não latinos, incluindo artistas, cineastas e escritores de vários tipos definidos e reconhecidos: drama, comédia, suspense, horror, filmes para jovens, filmes para a família e filmes de prestígio. Em muitos casos, os projetos serão buscados na vasta e diversa herança latina, mas realizados de forma moderna e acessível, para um público principal doméstico e internacional.

"Minhas conversas com Rick Sands e com a equipe da MGM têm sido extremamente estimulantes", disse a Sra. Hayek. "Há meses estamos desenvolvendo um plano para a criação de uma identidade para a companhia que seja especializada no mercado latino sem isolar o resto do público. Tenho certeza de que, com a ajuda e apoio da MGM, a Ventanazul tem uma visão específica que a diferenciará de alguns dos trabalhos estereotipados do passado.

O importante para nós é a integração, e não a separação. Este acordo proporciona uma tremenda oportunidade para o aproveitamento das várias formas com as quais o mundo latino pode contribuir para o setor de filmes. Cada projeto tem um elemento diferente: do apoio ao nosso incrível talento por trás das câmeras, a maneira de contar histórias latinas únicas como a de Frida Kahlo, até a criação de personagens inesquecíveis - que acontecem de ser latinas - como Betty a Feia. Queremos que estes filmes atraiam a todos e que dêem orgulho para o público latino".

"Após trabalhar com Salma em vários filmes durante anos, ficou rapidamente muito claro para mim que ela é a pessoa certa para a criação deste empreendimento marcante que irá identificar, desenvolver e produzir filmes que se enquadrem na missão da Ventanazul", disse Sands. "Além de ser uma excelente atriz, como produtora e diretora Salma contribui uma profunda e acessível compreensão do mundo multicultural em que vivemos hoje em dia. Estamos muito contentes desta parceria com ela e com a sua equipe".

A parceria da MGM com a Sra. Hayek dá continuidade à estratégia do Chairman e CEO da MGM Harry Sloan de criar oportunidades com comprovados talentos de produção e criação, como as recentes parcerias com Tom Cruise e Paula Wagner no renascimento da United Artists.

O acordo entre a Sra. Hayek e a MGM foi negociado por Jonathan Bader, EVP de Business Affairs da MGM, e Bill Sobel, CAA e Management 360.

Sobre a Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc.

A Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc., através de suas subsidiárias operacionais participa ativamente na produção e distribuição mundial de filmes, programas de televisão, home vídeo, mídia interativa, música e merchandise licenciada. A companhia é proprietária da maior biblioteca do mundo de filmes modernos, com cerca de 4.000 títulos. Suas unidades operacionais são: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc., Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., United Artists Films Inc., MGM Television Entertainment Inc., MGM Networks Inc., MGM Distribution Co., MGM International Television Distribution Inc., Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Home Entertainment LLC, MGM ON STAGE, MGM Music, MGM Worldwide Digital Media, MGM Consumer Products e MGM Interactive. Além disso, a MGM tem participação de proprietária em canais de TV internacionais, atingindo quase 110 países. Os percentuais de participação da MGM são os seguintes: Providence Equity Partners (29%), TPG (21%), Sony Corporation of America (20%), Comcast (20%), DLJ Merchant Banking Partners (7%) e Quadrangle Group (3%). Para mais informações, acesse http://www.mgm.com/.

April 5

Americans Doubt Safety of Nation's Food Supply in Wake of Pet-Food Contamination

JWT survey reveals people feel food supply is vulnerable to attack

Nearly 7 in 10 Americans (68 percent) agree that the recent contamination of pet food with rat poison shows how vulnerable the U.S. is to an attack on its food supply, while only 12 percent disagree, according to a survey released today from JWT.

The random and representative survey of 1,172 Americans 18 or older was conducted the week ending March 31 to gauge Americans' perception of the safety of the nation's food supply in the wake of the recent pet-food contamination. The research builds on JWT's legacy of tracking anxiety in the post-9/11 environment. (Sixty-three percent of the respondents have children, 75 percent own pets, and 3 percent said the recent pet-food contamination affected their pets.)

According to the survey, 60 percent of Americans agree strongly or somewhat with the statement "I'm starting to believe that the food supply in the U.S. isn't as safe as it used to be." Nearly half (47 percent) do not believe that the U.S. government is adequately prepared to respond quickly to an attack on our nation's food and/or water supply (only 24 percent do). Forty-four percent do not believe that the U.S. government has adequate measures in place to prevent deliberate attacks on our nation's food and/or water supply, compared to a quarter who do. And 74 percent and 71 percent of respondents agree that safety measures at food/beverage manufacturers and farms, respectively, need to be heightened to prevent a deliberate attack on our food supply.

"The American public clearly sees vulnerabilities in our nation's food supply. The recent pet-food scare compounds an already flagging Consumer Confidence Index, which fell last month as a result of rising gas prices, falling home values and a volatile stock market," says Bob Jeffrey, chairman and CEO at JWT, the largest advertising agency in the U.S. and the fourth largest in the world. "The U.S. government and food and beverage manufacturers need to reassure their public that preventative steps are being taken to safeguard them, their families and their pets. That kind of informative outreach will go a long way toward increasing consumer confidence."

Indeed, consumers are willing to listen, the survey found. If a food product that they bought consistently was to have an issue with contamination, only 20 percent of respondents say that they "would never buy it again." A significant 63 percent say that they would "consider buying it again if the brand presented strong evidence that it had removed the contaminants from its supply and put measures in place to prevent future contaminations," and 17 percent simply say that they "would buy it again; it could happen to any brand."

Despite all the concerns about vulnerabilities in the U.S. food supply, only 14 percent believe agriterrorism (when terrorists contaminate food, water, or anything that may be a danger to agricultural resources) would be the most likely form of terrorism if a terrorist attack were to occur again on U.S. soil. The highest percentage (36 percent) believe bioterrorism (or terrorism by intentional release or dissemination of biological agents) would be the most likely; 19 percent believe suicide attacks to be the most likely; 13 percent, bombings; 11 percent, cyber-terrorism; and 8 percent, nuclear terrorism.

  Among the survey's other findings:   -- 45 percent agree that "food bought at the grocery store is safer than      food bought at a fast-food restaurant."   -- 60 percent agree that "while organic foods might be healthier for me,      I'm not sure they're safer from contaminants."   -- 50 percent agree that "recent food contaminations are isolated      incidents" (24 percent disagree).   -- 67 percent "believe the USDA can still protect the U.S. food supply"      (19 percent agree strongly, while 48 percent agree somewhat)   -- 58 percent agree that "fruits and vegetables grown in the U.S. are      safer from contamination than those grown in other countries."   -- 61 percent agree that "I'm finding it more and more difficult to know      which foods are safest for my family.   -- 47 percent believe that children are terrorist targets (21 percent do      not); 15 percent believe that people's pets are terrorist targets (      percent do not).    About JWT

JWT ranks as the largest advertising agency brand in the United States and as the fourth-largest full-service network in the world. Its parent company is WPP (NASDAQ:WPPGY) . JWT's heritage of brand-building excellence extends back to 1864, making us the world's oldest advertising agency brand. In 1939, JWT pioneered the first national consumer research panel. In 1988, we created the first research study of consumer lifestyles, "Life Stages." We believe in being anthropologists first, advertising people second.

Source: JWT

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

April 4

Hispanic Yellow Pages Network lanza segunda edición de Directorio en Español - Phoenix

-- El jueves 5 de abril de 2007, Directorio en Español de HYP Network lanzará la segunda edición para la zona metropolitana de Phoenix en el Restaurante Tradiciones. La portada del directorio tiene una reproducción de la obra ganadora del segundo "Concurso Arte de América Hispana" que se realizó desde el 1 de septiembre de 2006 hasta el 12 de enero de 2007. Esta competencia artística promueve y rinde homenaje a la riqueza y a la diversidad del Legado Hispano por toda la zona de Phoenix. Artistas locales y estudiantes de arte mayores de 18 años compiten por el gran premio que consiste en US$3,000, enviando una obra original que es la interpretación del artista del Legado Hispano en la ciudad.

Un destacado panel de jueces compuesto por dignatarios del área, directores de galerías de arte locales, clientes del directorio y representantes de la TV eligieron el cartel ganador.

"El proceso de decisión fue tarea difícil para todos los jueces que tuvieron que evaluar las bellas obras presentadas este año", dijo Marianne Avila, Gerenta General de Ventas en Phoenix.

El especial evento presentado por HYP Network tendrá el apoyo de los patrocinadores de título de Arte de América Hispana: Law Offices of Michael Cordova, The Art Institute of Phoenix, La Campesina, Azteca América, State Farm, la ciudad de Phoenix, la Cámara de Comercio Hispana de Arizona, La Voz, y TV y Más. Durante el evento, los principales 3 artistas serán premiados y recibirán premios en efectivo cuando se dé a conocer la nueva edición de Directorio en Español Phoenix con la obra de arte ganadora en su portada.

Acerca de HYP Network (http://www.hypnetwork.com/)

HYP Network es la principal editorial independiente de directorios de páginas amarillas en español en los Estados Unidos. En la actualidad, la compañía publica directorios en Atlanta y North Georgia, Georgia; Tampa, Orlando, Miami/Ft. Lauderdale y Sarasota/Ft. Myers, Florida; Chicago, Illinois; ciudad de Nueva York/Westchester, Nueva York; Dallas y Houston, Texas; Phoenix, Arizona; Washington D.C., Maryland y Virginia. La compañía es propiedad mayoritaria de ABRY Partners of Boston, Massachusetts.

Acerca de ABRY Partners

ABRY Partners, radicado en Boston, Massachusetts, es uno de los mayores y más antiguos fondos de capital privado en América del Norte, con inversiones exclusivamente en compañías de medios, entretenimiento y comunicaciones. ABRY tiene US$3,000 millones de capital en cartera, y desde el año 1989 ha completado más de US$16,000 millones de adquisiciones de apalancamiento financiero y otras transacciones de capital privado en el sector de los medios.

Source: HYP Network

Luminary Micro y Keil anuncian los ganadores del concurso de diseño DesignStellaris2006

- "Handheld Multifunction Scope" de Jingxi Zhang ganó el concurso de diseño utilizando microcontroladores ARM(R) Cortex(TM)-M3 con herramientas ARM RealView

Luminary Micro (http://www.luminarymicro.com ), una legendaria compañía de semiconductores que diseña, comercializa y vende microcontroladores basados en el procesador ARM(R) Cortex(TM)-M3, junto con Keil (una compañía ARM) y la revista Circuit Cellar, nombra a Jingxi Zhang el ganador del concurso de diseño de 10.000 dólares DesignStellaris2006 para la familia de microcontroladores Stellaris(R) - la primera aplicación de silicio del mundo del procesador ARM Cortex-M3.

El primer premio de 3.000 dólares fue para el proyecto "Handheld Multifunction Scope" de Zhang basado en la placa de evaluación Stellaris EKK-LM3S811. El "Handheld Multifunction Scope" puede operar en modo autónomo con tres pilas AAA. También puede ser cargado a través de un PC USB, y en este modo, la pantalla del PC es usada para mostrar el osciloscopio y los valores de medida. La herramienta flexible de Zhang funciona como un osciloscopio de rastro de canal dual; un AC/DC voltímetro, ohmiómetro, medidor de capacitancia e inductancia; contador de frecuencia; una sonda lógica; y un generador de pulso.

"He disfrutado empleando el maravilloso chip Stellaris de Luminary Micro para la competición Circuit Cellar DesignStellaris2006," dijo Jingxi Zhang, arquitecto de sistema de Jupiter Systems. "Los periféricos ricos en chip y llenos de pins GPIO de LM3S811 hacen posible construir esta herramienta multifuncional con pocos componentes externos."

En segundo lugar estaba "RF NimbleSig" de Thomas M. Alldread, un generador de señal RF y medidor de potencia, que es módulo de un generador sintetizador digital directo compacto (DDS) / medidor de potencia RF que proporciona una ágil frecuencia RF de fuente de señal de salida y un bajo nivel de medida de potencia RF. Jake Gunderson se hizo con el tercer premio por su "Squawk Box," un instrumento de usuario de Voz sobre protocolo de Internet (VoIP) que conecta el ampliamente aceptado interruptor de teléfono de fuente abierta Asterisk.

Los premios de menciones honorables fueron para: Ilya Mamontov (Stroboscopic Pocket Tuner), Alexandre Guimaraes (Not Just Another SMD Reflow Controller), James Koehler (Audio Noise Figure Meter), Lindsay Meek (Uninterruptible Solar Power Supply), Naubert Aparicio (ArmExe: an RTOS for Luminary Micro Stellaris Cortex-M3 microcontrollers), Jeffrey Berezin (Bicycle Simulator), Fabian de la Fuente (Timecode generator), Henry Pfister (Multitone Music Keyboard), Peter Baston (AIS Decoder), Alex Wolfing (PGKey), Benjamin Wolpoff (Shock-N-Awe), Andrew Sterian (Coil Gun Controller), Hoa Phan (Automatic Antenna Positioner), Fernando Jordan (Swissjazz), Robert Papp (StellarisGfx), y Sylvain Davaine (Large LCD Screen Driver).

Miles de ingenieros compitieron por el premio

Para ganar el primer premio, Zhang compitió frente a los principales ingenieros del mundo por más de 10.000 dólares en efectivo en premios utilizando la familia Stellaris de Luminary Micro de controladores basados en el procesador ARM Cortex-M3 con ARM RealView(R) Microcontroller Development Kit. Para permitir a los diseñadores desarrollar aplicaciones para el concurso de forma más rápida, Luminary Micro y Keil desarrollaron específicamente el Stellaris LM3S811 Evaluation Kit con el software de evaluación RealView Microcontroller Development Kit (número de pedido EKK-LM3S811). Miles de ingenieros de todo el mundo respondieron al llamamiento y obtuvieron los kits de evaluación para el concurso.

"Estamos muy impresionados con los diseños tan diversos y creativos que salieron de todo el mundo," dijo Jean Anne Booth, responsable de marketing de Luminary Micro. "Con la arquitectura ARM y el apoyo al desarrollo, la familia Stellaris proporciona la entrada al ecosistema más fuerte de la industria, con un código de compatibilidad que va desde 1,00 dólar a 1 GHz. Esas inventivas aplicaciones demuestran que Stellaris es de verdad el desarrollo de producto para las aplicaciones serias de microcontroladores."

"La respuesta al concurso de diseño DesignStellaris2006 fue fenomenal," dijo Steve Ciarcia, director editorial y fundador de Circuit Cellar. "Muchos ingenieros de diseño de todo el mundo estuvieron entusiasmados por trabajar con los MCUs de Luminary Micro y las herramientas de Keil que yo sabía que serían un éxito en este concurso."

"ARM ha estado muy impresionado con el número y calidad de los participantes en la competición DesignStellaris2006," dijo Alistair Greenhill, director de herramientas de mercado de masa de ARM. "Creemos que esto ilustra el fuerte momento del mercado para pasar a la próxima generación de microcontroladores ARM 32-bit basados en el procesador ARM Cortex-M3, con dispositivos que entregan un funcionamiento y facilidad de uso excepcionales a precios competitivos."

Desarrollado específicamente para las aplicaciones de microcontrolador, la implementación de Luminary Micro del procesador Cortex-M3 en la familia Stellaris MCU incluye las siguientes características:

-- Siempre acceso flash de ciclo único para rendimiento máximo

-- Procesamiento determinista, de rápida interrupción - nunca más de 12

ciclos, solo 6 ciclos con encadenamiento de cola

-- Toda la base de código de software es escrita en C/C++ -- no se

necesita lenguaje ensamblador, incluso en el código de comerciantes de

servicio de arranque e interrupción, haciendo los dispositivos fáciles

de programar

-- Ocupa tan solo la mitad del tamaño de los código flash de la familia

ARM7(TM) - basada en aplicaciones MCU

-- MCU GPIOs real integrado-todo puede generar interrupciones, todo puede

tener fuerza de unidad programable y control de tasa de giro

-- No pin multiplexing funcional - los pins están dedicados a un

periférico, respaldado por GPIO, y el uso simultáneo de un chip

periférico no está limitado por compartir pin, por eso los ingenieros

no están forzados a elegir entre periféricos en chip

El Stellaris LM3S811 Evaluation Kit usado para DesignStellaris2006 es tanto una plataforma de evaluación para Stellaris LM3S811 como una interfaz de ajuste sucesivo en circuito en serial para cualquier placa basada en el microcontrolador Stellaris, extendiendo el espectro del diseño desde la evaluación al prototipo a la aplicación específica del diseño. El kit también incluye una copia de evaluación de las herramientas de software RealView Microcontroller Development Kit en un CD empaquetado con hojas de datos, esquemas, notas de aplicaciones y ejemplos de programación. La placa es cargada mediante USB (cable incluido), y también contiene pin de encabezamiento protegidos por seda que pueden ser poblados por el usuario con pin de encabezamiento de poste para uso en el prototipo de hardware.

Información de pedido

El RealView Microcontroller Development Kit está disponible a través del canal de ventas global de Keil detallado en http://www.keil.com/distis/ . El desarrollo del microcontrolador de Stellaris y los kits de evaluación, incluyendo el EKK-LM3S811 Evaluation Kit, están disponibles a través del canal de ventas global de Luminary Micro detallado en http://www.luminarymicro.com/sales .

Acerca de Luminary Micro y Stellaris

Luminary Micro, Inc. diseña, comercializa y vende microcontroladores basados en procesadores ARM Cortex-M3 (MCU). Luminary Micro, con sede en Austin (Texas), es el principal socio para el procesador Cortex-M3, que brinda la primera aplicación de silicio del mundo del procesador Cortex-M3. La introducción de Luminary Micro de la familia de productos Stellaris(R) ofrece un rendimiento de 32 bits por el mismo precio que los actuales diseños de microcontroladores de 8 y 16 bits. Con precios de entrada de 1,00 dólar estadounidense para un MCU basado en tecnología ARM, la línea de productos Stellaris de Luminary Micro permite la estandarización que elimina futuras actualizaciones de arquitectura o cambios de las herramientas de software. Contacte con la compañía en el teléfono +1-512-279-8800 o a través del email press@luminarymicro.com si desea más información.

Acerca de ARM

ARM diseña la tecnología que se encuentra en el corazón de los productos digitales avanzados, desde inalámbricos, redes y soluciones de entretenimiento de consumo a dispositivos de imágenes, automóviles, seguridad y almacenamiento. La amplia gama de oferta de productos de ARM incluye microprocesadores 16/32-bit RISC, motores de datos, procesadores gráficos, bibliotecas digitales, memorias incrustadas, periféricos, software y herramientas de desarrollo, así como funciones analógicas y productos de conectividad de alta velocidad. Combinado con la amplia comunidad de socios de la compañía, proporcionan una solución de sistema total que ofrece un camino rápido y fiable para vender para compañías de electrónica líderes. Más información sobre ARM disponible en http://www.arm.com .

Stellaris es una marca registrada y el logo de Luminary Micro es una marca comercial de Luminary Micro, Inc. o sus filiales en Estados Unidos y otros países. ARM y RealView son marcas registradas de ARM Limited. Cortex, CoreSight, NEON y Embedded Trace Macrocell son marcas registradas de ARM Limited. Las demás marcas o productos pertenecen a sus respectivos propietarios.

"ARM" suele representar a ARM Holdings plc; su compañía operativa ARM Limited; y las filiales regionales ARM INC.; ARM KK; ARM Korea Ltd.; ARM Taiwan; ARM France SAS; ARM Consulting (Shanghai) Co. Ltd.; ARM Belgium N.V.; AXYS Design Automation Inc.; AXYS GmbH; ARM Embedded Solutions Pvt. Ltd.; ARM Physical IP, Inc.; y ARM Norway AS.

April 3

Pending Home Sales Show Effects of Weather, Possible Subprime Impact

-- A forward-looking index based on pending home sales indicates that bad weather, and possibly the loss of some subprime lending, will dampen sales closed in March and April, according to the National Association of Realtors(R).

The Pending Home Sales Index,* based on contracts signed in February, stood at 109.3 -- down 8.5 percent from February 2006 when it reached 119.4, but is 0.7 percent higher than a downwardly revised reading of 108.5 in January. Earlier, mild weather caused the index to spike at 113.3 in December.

David Lereah, NAR's chief economist, said there has been a steady narrowing from year-ago readings since last July. "If it wasn't for the unusually bad weather in February, we'd be seeing a better performance in pending home sales," he said. "We also may be seeing some fallout from a decline in subprime lending, but a slight improvement in the more volatile month-to-month index is encouraging -- the data suggests an underlying stabilization is taking place in the housing market, but it will take another month or two to clarify."

"Problems in the subprime mortgage market will become more apparent over time, and they will modestly depress the overall level of improvement in existing-home sales we expect as the year progresses," Lereah said.

The index is a leading indicator for the housing sector, based on pending sales of existing homes. A sale is listed as pending when the contract has been signed but the transaction has not closed, though the sale usually is finalized within one or two months of signing.

An index of 100 is equal to the average level of contract activity during 2001, the first year to be examined and the first of five consecutive record years for existing-home sales. There is a closer relationship between annual changes in the index and actual market performance than with month-to-month comparisons. As the relatively new index matures and seasonal adjustment factors are refined, the month-to-month comparisons will become more meaningful over time.

The PHSI in the South rose 4.5 percent in February to 121.9 but was 8.0 percent below a year ago. The index in the Midwest increased 2.9 percent from January to 103.0 but was 9.7 percent lower than February 2006. The index in the Northeast slipped 1.3 percent in February to 99.1 and was 8.2 percent below a year earlier. In the West, the index fell 6.0 percent from January to 104.1 and was 8.2 percent lower than February 2006.

The National Association of Realtors(R), "The Voice for Real Estate," is America's largest trade association, representing more than 1.3 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.

* The Pending Home Sales Index is based on a large national sample, typically representing about 20 percent of transactions for existing-home sales. In developing the model for the index, it was demonstrated that the level of monthly sales-contract activity from 2001 through 2004 parallels the level of closed existing-home sales in the following two months. There is a closer parallel between annual index changes (from the same month a year earlier) and year-ago changes in sales performance than there is with month-to-month comparisons.

The forecast will be revised April 11, and existing-home sales for March will be released April 24. The next Pending Home Sales Index will be on May 1.

Information about NAR is available at http://www.realtor.org/. This and other news releases are posted in the News Media section. Statistical data, charts and surveys also may be found by clicking on Research.

NOTE: REALTOR(R) is a registered collective membership mark which may be used only by real estate professionals who are members of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS(R) and subscribe to its strict Code of Ethics. Not all real estate agents are REALTORS(R). All REALTORS(R) are members of NAR.

Source: National Association of Realtors

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

April 2

FDA Approves Accelerated Dosing Schedule for GlaxoSmithKline's Twinrix(R)

New Vaccine Schedule Offers Protection Against Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B

GlaxoSmithKline (NYSE: GSK) announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Twinrix® [Hepatitis A Vaccine (Inactivated) and Hepatitis B (Recombinant) Vaccine], for an accelerated dosing schedule that consists of three doses given within three weeks followed by a booster dose at 12 months. The approval means Twinrix, the only hepatitis A and hepatitis B combination vaccine available in the United States, is now available on a dosing schedule at 0, 7, 21-30 days, followed by a booster dose at 12 months. The vaccine was first approved for adults over age 18 years by the FDA in May 2001 on a 0, 1, 6-month dosing schedule.

"Hepatitis A and hepatitis B are serious liver diseases which can be prevented through vaccination," stated travel medicine specialist Bradley A. Connor, M.D., Past President, International Society of Travel Medicine and a principal study investigator. "Twinrix's new accelerated dosing schedule offers an option that could benefit individuals such as those preparing to travel internationally to high-risk areas. It may also benefit emergency first care responders, especially those deploying to disaster areas overseas, as well as others at risk for hepatitis, such as people with sexually transmitted diseases and those who are HIV positive."

Many regions throughout the world are endemic for hepatitis A and hepatitis B, such as Africa, Asia, South America and parts of the Caribbean. Worldwide, approximately 1.5 million cases of hepatitis A are reported annually. In addition, hepatitis B has infected 2 billion people -- one-third of the world's population. Millions of Americans travel each year to countries where hepatitis A and hepatitis B are endemic. An overwhelming majority of these international travelers are not vaccinated before the trip. Therefore, international travelers may be at risk for contracting both hepatitis A and hepatitis B. They should consult their health care provider prior to traveling abroad.

The FDA approved the new dosing schedule after reviewing the safety and immune response of Twinrix given to 250 healthy adults (aged 18 years or older) at 0-, 7-, and 21- to 30-day schedule, followed by a booster dose at 12 months, compared to separate vaccinations with monovalent hepatitis A vaccine (HAVRIX at 0 and 12 months) and hepatitis B vaccine (ENGERIX-B at 0, 1, 2, and 12 months) given to 246 healthy adults as a control group. The study demonstrated that the individuals who completed the series of Twinrix on the accelerated dosing schedule had an immune response comparable to those individuals who received complete vaccination with separately administered hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccines.

About Vaccine-Preventable Hepatitis (VPH)

Vaccine-Preventable Hepatitis includes hepatitis A and hepatitis B. Hepatitis C is not vaccine preventable. Hepatitis A is a serious liver disease caused by the hepatitis A virus. This virus is found in the stool of persons with hepatitis A and is spread by close personal contact and by eating food or drinking water contaminated with the hepatitis A virus. Hepatitis A can be easily passed between people within the same household. About one in five people with the disease has to be hospitalized. Hepatitis A can be fatal. Symptoms of the disease can include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal discomfort, jaundice (yellow skin and eyes) and dark urine.

Hepatitis B is a serious liver disease caused by the hepatitis B virus. The virus is passed through infected blood or body fluids. Approximately 50 percent of people with hepatitis B do not notice signs or symptoms. Those who do may experience diarrhea and vomiting, nausea, fatigue, loss of appetite, muscle and joint pain, and jaundice. Hepatitis B can cause lifelong infection, cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver, liver cancer, liver failure, and death. An estimated 1.25 million Americans are chronically infected with Hepatitis B. Estimates show that tens of thousands of people (mostly young adults) are infected each year.

About Twinrix®

As with all prescription medications, please talk with your healthcare provider to see if Twinrix is right for you.

In clinical trials with Twinrix, the most common side effects included pain and redness at the injection site, headache, and tiredness. These effects were mild and did not last more than 48 hours. (See Adverse Reactions section of the Prescribing Information for Twinrix for other potential side effects.) As with any vaccine, there is a small risk of allergic reactions. If you notice any problems following vaccination, or if you are allergic to any component of the vaccine such as neomycin, yeast, or latex, please inform your healthcare provider.

For more information on Twinrix visit www.gskvaccines.com.

GlaxoSmithKline - A Leader in Vaccines

GlaxoSmithKline -- one of the world's leading research-based pharmaceutical and healthcare companies -- is committed to improving the quality of human life by enabling people to do more, feel better and live longer. For company information, visit GlaxoSmithKline at www.gsk.com.

GlaxoSmithKline Forward-Looking Statements

Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements under the safe harbor provisions of the US Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: the company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements or projections made by the company, including those made in this Announcement, are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Factors that may affect the Group's operations are described under 'Risk Factors' in the Operating and Financial Review and Prospects in the company's Annual Report 2005.

NEWS & NEWS IN SPANISH

Posted by Bill at 09:30 PM | Permalink

Boeing News

July 10

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today announced that it has received an $18 million U.S. Navy contract to design, develop and produce the Undergraduate Military Flight Officer (UMFO) ground-based training system for Training Wing 6 at Naval Air Station Pensacola, Fla.

"Future readiness begins with training, and the U.S. Navy's UMFO program is the foundation for the naval flight officers of tomorrow," said Tony Jones, vice president, Boeing Training Systems and Services. "We recognize the importance of providing a state-of-the-art training capability for new weapon systems and look forward to the opportunity to provide that capability to the U.S. Navy."

The new system will provide introductory training for naval flight officers, weapon system officers and international military flight officers destined for highly sophisticated weapon systems such as the F/A-18F Super Hornet, the EA-6B Prowler, the EA-18G Growler, the E-2C Hawkeye and the F-15E Strike Eagle.

As the prime contractor and lead systems integrator, Boeing will lead the instructional system development and deliver the courseware, electronic classrooms and T-45 aircrew training devices.

In conjunction with existing T-6 aircraft and its aircrew training devices, and the T-45C aircraft currently being augmented by Boeing with a virtual radar capability, the new system will replace aging T-2 and T-39 aircraft, courseware and training devices.

Fourteen airlines signed to use Boeing's [NYSE: BA] Maintenance Performance Toolbox in the first half of this year. Toolbox, which is rapidly becoming a must-have software package for efficiency-conscious carriers, represents the industry's first set of productivity tools designed to unify an airline's maintenance and engineering operations from start to finish.

Since Japan Airlines became the launch customer for Toolbox in October 2005, a total of 38 carriers have signed to use the tool. Boeing was awarded a special "Breakthrough Technology Award" by Aviation Week magazine when Toolbox was introduced.

Through the first six months of 2007, these airlines have selected Toolbox: Aeroflot, Air China Southwest Branch, Air India, Air India Express, Emirates, Hainan Airlines, Royal Air Maroc, S7 Airlines (formerly Siberia Airlines), Southwest Airlines, transavia.com and Turkish Airlines. Three airlines are not identified.

"This positive reaction to the introduction of Maintenance Performance Toolbox is a sign that the airline industry will enthusiastically embrace a comprehensive software tool that's going to help improve efficiency and productivity, increasing value to passengers," said Dan da Silva, vice president of Sales and Marketing for Boeing Commercial Aviation Services. "Toolbox brings Boeing into a partnership with its customers that helps improve operations and, ultimately, profitability."

In all, Toolbox today comprises five different tools in one easy-to-use suite that can help airlines streamline a wide range of maintenance and repair activities from managing technical publications to troubleshooting problems to performing core maintenance and engineering tasks. Airlines are free to pick and choose from among the capabilities to supplement their operations as needed.

A new module, Training, will be introduced later this year. This form of just-in-time Training will help airline mechanics and technicians train for specific tasks when and if necessary.

Toolbox is a key element in Boeing's efforts to help airlines gather and use precise, practical and timely information through the application of multiple digital solutions. The products, which include Airplane Health Management and the Class 3 Electronic Flight Bag, are designed to integrate seamlessly to offer an effective response to airlines' maintenance needs.

Available via an Internet browser as a secured, hosted service, Toolbox provides reliable access to all of its tools through MyBoeingFleet.com, Boeing's Internet

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today announced that Spirit AeroSystems has joined its P-8A Poseidon industry team, which is developing the U.S. Navy's next-generation, long-range anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft.

Spirit will build the 737 aircraft's fuselage and airframe tail sections and struts in Wichita, Kan. After completion, Spirit will ship the components to Boeing facilities in Renton, Wash., for final assembly and introduction of mission-specific systems.

"We are pleased to welcome Spirit to the P-8A industry team," said Bob Feldmann, Boeing vice president and P-8A program manager. "Spirit does great work on our company's commercial aircraft, and they will be a key contributor as we build and deliver this transformational aircraft to the warfighter."

"Spirit is proud to be part of the P-8A team and is committed to the program's success," said Buck Buchanan, Spirit AeroSystems vice president/general manager, Fuselage Structures and Systems. "The structures we will deliver all have customer-unique features installed in the standard commercial line. This allows the lowest possible cost and shortest flow to the customer since our standard processes are used rather than relying on traditional techniques of modifying military planes after delivery."

The U.S. Navy plans to purchase 108 P-8As to replace its fleet of P-3C aircraft. Boeing will deliver the first aircraft for flight test in 2009, with initial operational capability slated for 2013.

The P-8A is capable of broad-area, maritime and littoral operations. A derivative of the Next-Generation 737-800, the P-8A combines superior performance and reliability with an advanced mission system that ensures maximum interoperability in the future battlespace.

The Boeing-led P-8A team also includes CFM International, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon and Smiths Aerospace.

Based in Wichita, Kan., Spirit AeroSystems is the world's largest independent supplier of large component parts and assemblies for commercial aircraft. Spirit designs and builds the all-composite forward fuselage for the Boeing 787 in addition to pylon and wing structures for the new airplane. Spirit produces the fuselage, engine pylons and nacelles, vertical fin and horizontal stabilizer, inboard and outboard flaps for Boeing's Next-Generation 737 family of airplanes. It also builds nose sections, nacelles and pylons for the 747, 767 and 777 aircraft, as well as slats and floor beams for the 777 and wing and fuselage components for the 747.

TEAM TSAT, led by The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA], has demonstrated that its Transformational Satellite Communications System Space Segment (TSAT) hardware and software can function in simulated operational environments, achieving Technology Readiness Level-6 (TRL-6) for payload, antenna, information assurance and gateway technologies.

"Reaching TRL-6 is the culmination of TEAM TSAT's three-year effort and validates Boeing's extensive risk reduction efforts," said Howard Chambers, vice president and general manager of Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems. "This broad technology maturity, combined with our customer's block development approach, means TSAT is optimally positioned to move into production."

Working with the U.S. Air Force and independent agencies, including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Lincoln Laboratory, TEAM TSAT reached another key milestone on the path to flight with the successful demonstrations necessary for TRL-6.

Critical components reaching the TRL-6 level or greater include the TSAT laser communications system's telescope, optical bench and communications electronics; the Next-Generation Processor Router technologies for packet processing, based on Boeing-built systems already on-orbit; the antenna hardware, which includes the critical Communications-on-the-Move antenna that enables warfighter mobility; and the bandwidth allocation and protected waveform technologies. TEAM TSAT also reduced information assurance risks for Internet protocol and transmission security, achieving the TRL-6+ level. Key enabling technologies found in the ground gateway and Data Processing Center, developed on internal research and development investments by Boeing, Harris and SAIC, also have attained TRL-6.

Boeing's TEAM TSAT consists of Cisco Systems, Hughes, IBM, Harris Corp., Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp., LGS Innovations, Raytheon, General Dynamics C4S, L-3 Communications, BBN Technologies, EMS Technologies and SAIC. Under Boeing's leadership, the team submitted its proposal July 30, and the contract award is anticipated by the end of 2007.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and Cathay Pacific Airways today announced that the Hong Kong-based carrier has ordered five additional Boeing 777-300ER (Extended Range) jetliners, increasing the airline's commitment to a total of 23 of the advanced twin-engine, twin-aisle airplanes.

Cathay Pacific announced in 2005 that the airline was purchasing 12 777-300ERs from Boeing, with four additional operating leases through International Lease Finance Corp. The first of those airplanes will be delivered in September. Last year the airline exercised additional rights to order two more 777-300ERs.

The five new airplanes have an estimated value of $1.4 billion at Boeing list prices. All of Cathay Pacific's 777-300ERs will be powered by General Electric GE90-115BL engines.

Cathay Pacific's 777-300ER fleet will significantly increase the airline's capacity and will be used primarily on long-haul and ultra-long-haul routes to Europe and North America. The airplanes will enable full payload, nonstop service connecting Hong Kong and New York.

"This fleet expansion is in line with our plan to expand our network and connectivity, in the process further strengthening Cathay Pacific's position as Hong Kong's home carrier and cementing the city's status as a leading international aviation hub," said Cathay Pacific Chief Executive Tony Tyler. "These aircraft represent a very substantial investment and underline our long-term commitment to continued profitable growth of the airline and to providing the best travel experience for our passengers."

With its twin-engine efficiency, the 777-300ER reduces fuel consumption by more than 20 percent per seat compared to its closest competitor, therefore reducing CO2 emissions by more than 20 percent.

"This additional commitment from a world-class operator is a testament to the benefits the 777-300ER brings to the airline and its passengers," said Rob Laird, vice president, Sales - Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Cathay Pacific is a long-time Boeing customer and we are proud that the 777 family plays such an important role in their fleet."

The airline currently operates 777-200s and -300s for regional operations and the airline has selected the 777 family as the standard of its ultra-long-haul luxury service for the future.

Cathay Pacific currently operates 24 Boeing 747-400s and 17 Boeing 777-200/300s in passenger service, as well as six 747-400 Freighters, seven 747-200 Freighters and six 747-400BCFs (Boeing Converted Freighters), with two more 747-400BCFs and six 747-400ER Freighters on order.

Additionally, Dragonair, a Cathay Pacific subsidiary, operates another six 747 Freighters - a 747-200F, three 747-300SFs and two 747-400BCFs, with three 747-400BCFs on order.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] today confirmed that Canadian low-fare carrier WestJet ordered 20 Next-Generation 737s to add to the airline's all-737 fleet. The order is for 737-700s with conversion rights to 737-800s if desired.

WestJet, based in Calgary, Alberta, was one of the most profitable airlines in North America in 2006. It has consistently recorded over 15 percent annual growth as it expanded its routes across North America and the Caribbean. Founded in 1996, the airline currently operates 67 Next-Generation 737s. With today's order, WestJet's fleet will grow to 108 leased or purchased Next-Generation 737s. Forty-one remain to be delivered.

AeroSvit-Ukrainian Airlines is ordering up to 14 Boeing [NYSE: BA] 737-800 airplanes. The Kiev-based carrier signed an order for seven 737s valued at $523 million at list prices, and secured purchase rights for another seven. The order was recently included on the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Orders and Deliveries Web site, attributed to an unidentified customer.

AeroSvit will equip the airplanes with fuel-saving Blended Winglets. This order marks AeroSvit's first direct purchase from Boeing since the carrier was founded in 1994. All-Boeing operator AeroSvit will gradually replace its fleet of 13 737 Classic airplanes with the Next-Generation 737s, today's most technologically advanced single-aisle commercial jetliner.

"This order is significant for Ukrainian aviation. It demonstrates dedicated execution of our replacement strategy and is an indicator of Ukraine's current economic development and progress as an important player in international business and tourism," said Aron Mayberg, director general of AeroSvit. "Boeing demonstrated in-depth knowledge of our business and, with the Next-Generation 737, presented a compelling solution to our future needs. We look forward to continuing our excellent cooperation."

AeroSvit operates three Boeing 767s on its long-haul services to destinations including Delhi, Bangkok, Shanghai, Beijing, Toronto and New York.

"Travel to and from Ukraine is prospering, along with the rest of Eastern Europe. AeroSvit is showing a keen sense of business by preparing now for future growth," said Craig Jones, vice president of Sales, Russia/CIS, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. " The Next-Generation 737's improved capabilities and economics will allow AeroSvit to offer passengers greater comfort and affordability and more reliable on-time service."

The 737 is the most successful commercial airplane family in history, with more than 7,000 orders. Boeing has more than 1,500 unfilled orders for the Next Generation 737 worth over $100 billion.

Two advanced Boeing [NYSE: BA] technologies will combine to help Emirates drive efficiency and maintain performance in its rapidly growing fleet of Boeing 777s and new 747-8s. By the end of this year, the Dubai-based airline will be operating 51 777s. In 2005, the airline ordered 42 777s, and when all of those are in service, the airline is expected to have a fleet of 93 777s.

Emirates will use an in-flight decision-support system, Airplane Health Management (AHM), as well as a software maintenance-support system, Maintenance Performance Toolbox, to help operate and maintain the airplanes during this period of rapid expansion.

"Emirates is dedicated to providing its passengers a superior flying experience, and the combination of these two Boeing products helps maximize that effort," said Iain Lachlan, Emirates' divisional senior vice president - Aircraft Maintenance. "These cutting-edge tools indicate clearly that we are committed to reviewing the latest technologies, and investing and adopting the best, most up-to-date technology to help ensure a safe, reliable and comfortable flight."

Toolbox and AHM are core elements of Boeing's strategy to provide an integrated suite of products to e-Enable the air transport system. Central to the effort is the idea that data, information and knowledge are collected and shared across an entire enterprise and its supply chain, so that airlines operate at the highest levels of operational and environmental efficiency. Emirates is the latest airline to adopt multiple e-Enabled products, which interact seamlessly and enhance the value that each would provide an airline individually.

"With this decision, Emirates is sending an industrywide message about how to drive efficiency and performance," said Dan da Silva, vice president of Sales and Marketing for Boeing Commercial Aviation Services. "We couldn't ask for a better validation of our products than an endorsement like this from one of the world's premier airlines." Airplane Health Management supports long-term fleet-reliability programs by helping airlines identify and respond to faults proactively. The goal is to help airlines operate at the highest levels of reliability and efficiency.

In addition to monitoring Emirates' expanding 777 fleet, AHM will also monitor the airline's fleet of 747s. Emirates ordered 10 747-8 Freighters last year and is AHM's launch customer for the 747-8. Airplane Health Management now provides real-time monitoring and decision support for 42 percent of the world's 777s and 31 percent of its 747-400s.

Toolbox, which is rapidly becoming a must-have software package for efficiency-conscious carriers, represents the industry's first set of productivity tools designed to unify an airline's maintenance and engineering operations from start to finish. In all, 39 air carriers have signed up for Toolbox since it was introduced 20 months ago. Toolbox today comprises six different tools that can help airlines streamline a wide range of maintenance and repair activities. Airlines can pick only the tools that they want to meet their specific needs.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has been awarded a three and one half-year, $18 million U.S. Marine Corps contract to provide additional ScanEagle® intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance support services to the Marine Expeditionary Forces (MEF). Boeing, in partnership with Insitu, Inc., developers of ScanEagle, make up Team ScanEagle.

ScanEagle, a long-endurance, fully autonomous unmanned aircraft, has been used by the Marines since July 2004, the U.S. Navy since September 2005 and the Australian Defense Forces since November 2006. During that time, ScanEagles have flown more than 4,600 sorties and 50,000 flight hours, including 34,000 hours with the MEF.

The contract, awarded by the Marine Corps Systems Command in Quantico, Va., includes options for additional support that could increase the contract value to $381.5 million.

The initial agreement calls for several system upgrades, including the new ScanEagle Block D air vehicle, Rover III forward display system compatibility, an enhanced infrared payload and a mode C transponder.

"These enhancements to the ScanEagle system will broaden its base of operations and allow it to run 24 hours a day, seven days a week," said Jim Havard, Boeing MEF program manager.

"We are pleased to have the opportunity to further serve the Marine Corps in force protection and associated missions, and with this long-term commitment, we can continue to enhance capability while expanding our Marine Corps operations in Operation Iraqi Freedom and the global war on terror," said Don Haas, Insitu director of Operations Support.

A ScanEagle air vehicle carries inertially stabilized electro-optical and infrared cameras. The gimbaled cameras allow the operator to easily track both stationary and moving targets. Capable of flying above 16,000 feet, the platform provides persistent low-altitude reconnaissance.

ScanEagle is launched autonomously via a pneumatic SuperWedge™ catapult launcher and flies pre-programmed or operator-initiated missions. An Insitu-patented SkyHook™ system is used for retrieval, with the aircraft catching a rope suspended from a 50-foot-high tower. The patented system makes the ScanEagle system runway-independent with a small footprint similar to that needed for vertical takeoff and landing vehicles.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and its TEAM TSAT industry partners today submitted a proposal to the U.S. Air Force for the Development and Production phase of the Transformational Satellite Communications System Space Segment (TSAT) program.

"TEAM TSAT offers unique capability and experience to the U.S. Air Force," said Howard Chambers, vice president and general manager of Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems. "That value is based on our 25-year heritage providing military satellite communications and our best-of-industry team, which has successfully delivered the most capable terrestrial and satellite communications network systems in service today."

Delivery of the proposal caps more than three years of work on the TSAT Space Segment Risk Reduction System Definition contract. During that time, Boeing has demonstrated TSAT's advanced capabilities and technology maturity through successful laser communications and Next Generation Processor Router demonstrations. Additional demonstrations across all key elements of the TSAT network culminated with the comprehensive, integrated, end-to-end demo at the Space Segment Design Review in April. These risk reduction efforts have confirmed compliance with standards, interoperability and mission-level performance.

"Our partners and suppliers make our proposal stand out," said Chambers. "This is a case where the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Our team has the people, processes, tools and capabilities that precisely match the Air Force's needs."

Boeing and its partners look forward to continued collaboration with the Air Force and stand ready to begin work immediately upon contract award, which is anticipated in November. Boeing will build TSAT at its satellite factory in El Segundo, Calif.

July 27

The innovative Boeing [NYSE: BA] Blended Wing Body (BWB) research aircraft -- designated the X-48B -- flew for the first time last week at NASA's Dryden Flight Research Center at Edwards Air Force Base in California.

The 21-foot wingspan, 500-pound unmanned test vehicle took off for the first time at 8:42 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time on July 20 and climbed to an altitude of 7,500 feet before landing 31 minutes later.

"We've successfully passed another milestone in our work to explore and validate the structural, aerodynamic and operational efficiencies of the BWB concept," said Bob Liebeck, BWB program manager for Boeing Phantom Works, the company's advanced R&D unit. "We already have begun to compare actual flight-test data with the data generated earlier by our computer models and in the wind tunnel."

The X-48B flight test vehicle was developed by Boeing Phantom Works in cooperation with NASA and the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory to gather detailed information about the stability and flight-control characteristics of the BWB design, especially during takeoffs and landings. Up to 25 flights are planned to gather data in these low-speed flight regimes. Following completion of low-speed flight testing, the X-48B likely will be used to test the BWB's low-noise characteristics, as well as BWB handling characteristics at transonic speeds.

Two X-48B research vehicles have been built. The vehicle that flew on July 20 is Ship 2, which also was used for ground and taxi testing. Ship 1, a duplicate of Ship 2, completed extensive wind tunnel testing in 2006 at the Old Dominion University NASA Langley Full-Scale Tunnel in Virginia. Ship 1 will be available for use as a backup during the flight test program.

Three turbojet engines enable the composite-skinned research vehicle to fly up to 10,000 feet and 120 knots in its low-speed configuration. Modifications would need to be made to the vehicle to enable it to fly at higher speeds. The unmanned aircraft is remotely piloted from a ground control station in which the pilot uses conventional aircraft controls and instrumentation while looking at a monitor fed by a forward-looking camera on the aircraft.

The Boeing BWB design resembles a flying wing, but differs in that the wing blends smoothly into a wide, flat, tailless fuselage. This fuselage blending helps to get additional lift with less drag compared to a circular fuselage. This translates to reduced fuel use at cruise conditions. And because the engines mount high on the back of the aircraft, there is less noise inside and on the ground when it is in flight.

"While Boeing constantly explores and applies innovative technologies to enhance its current and next-generation products, the X-48B is a good example of how Boeing also looks much farther into the future at revolutionary concepts that promise even greater breakthroughs in flight," said Bob Krieger, Boeing chief technology officer and president of Phantom Works.

While a commercial passenger application for the BWB concept is not in Boeing's current 20-year market outlook, the Advanced Systems organization of Boeing Integrated Defense Systems' (IDS) is closely monitoring the research based on the BWB's potential as a flexible, long-range, high-capacity military aircraft.

"The BWB concept holds tremendous promise for the future of military aviation as a multi-purpose military platform in 15 to 20 years," said Darryl Davis, Boeing IDS Advanced Systems vice president and general manager of Advanced Precision Engagement and Mobility Systems. "Its unique design attributes will result in less fuel burn and a greatly reduced noise footprint, which are important capabilities to offer our Air Force and mobility customers."

NASA's participation in the project is focused on fundamental, edge-of-the-envelope flight dynamics and structural concepts of the BWB. Along with hosting the X-48B flight test and research activities, NASA Dryden provided engineering and technical support -- expertise garnered from years of operating cutting-edge unmanned air vehicles.

The two X-48B research vehicles were built by Cranfield Aerospace Ltd., in the United Kingdom, in accordance with Boeing requirements.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has developed and delivered 23 Apache Longbow Crew Trainers -- deployable, full-mission, high-fidelity flight simulators -- to the U.S. Army and Dutch Air Force and is under contract for an additional five trainers for both U.S. and international customers.

Apache Longbow Crew Trainers are successfully deployed throughout the U.S. and in four foreign countries, including Iraq. In 2007, the availability rate consistently remained greater than 95 percent, ensuring readiness levels for individuals, crews and maintenance test pilots.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and Mumbai, India-based Air India today celebrated the delivery of the airline's first 777-200LR (Longer Range) Worldliner airplane. This is the first 777 from Air India's order of 68 Boeing jetliners. The airline will receive an additional three 777-200LR Worldliner and three 777-300ER (Extended Range) airplanes this year.

Air India's order for 68 Boeing jetliners, placed in December 2005, was the largest commercial airplane order in India's civil aviation history in terms of price. The order consisted of 23 777s, including eight 777-200LR Worldliners and 15 777-300ERs, and 27 787-8 Dreamliners. Additionally, Air India Express, a wholly owned subsidiary of Air India, ordered 18 Next-Generation 737-800s.

Air India will use the 777-200LR to become the first India-based operator to offer direct, nonstop flights between the United States and India. It begins service to New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport from Mumbai, India, on Aug. 1.

"Air India is connecting India to the world and is doing so in a manner that combines real economic advantages for the airline and a positive experience for our passengers," said V. Thulasidas, chairman and managing director of Air India. "Boeing's 777-200LR is the most technologically advanced passenger aircraft in its class and will enable Air India to fly passengers around the world with direct, nonstop routes."

The 777 family of airplanes is popular with passengers and airlines because of its fuel-efficient twin-engine design, high reliability, low operating costs and comfortable and spacious interior. It is the market leader in the 300- to 400-seat segment, capturing more than 65 percent of that market.

"The 777 delivers proven economic leadership and a very high level of passenger comfort," said Dinesh Keskar, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president, Sales. "Air India and Boeing embarked on a strategic fleet renewal and expansion plan in 2005. Today, we are seeing the results of that vision, plan and partnership coming together."

Air India's 777-200LR will have a three-class configuration, including eight first-class cabins, 35 executive class and 195 economy seats. All executive class seats will turn into flat beds and economy seats will be larger, at 18.5 inches in width. Passengers also will have access to an in-flight entertainment system provided by Thales on video screens that measure 23 inches in first class, 15.4 inches in executive class and 10.6 inches in economy. Additionally, the airplane will be able to carry up to 15 tons of cargo.

With the 787 Dreamliner and 777, Boeing offers a complete family of airplanes to cover the 200- to 400-seat market segment. With complementary range, speed, efficiency and operational commonality, yet differing seating and cargo capacities, airlines can use both models in their fleets to tailor capacity to meet seasonal demand.

Air India, India's national flag carrier, operates approximately 170 flights a week, carrying more than 5 million passengers a year to 59 cities worldwide from various points in India. Its subsidiary, Air India Express, operates 116 services a week to 10 destinations in the Gulf and South East Asia.

Air India, which is celebrating its 75th year of operation this year, operates 24 weekly flights to the U.S., including a daily service to New York via London and a daily service to Newark, N.J., via Paris.

The two X-48B research vehicles were built by Cranfield Aerospace Ltd., in the United Kingdom, in accordance with Boeing requirements.

The first of four Boeing [NYSE: BA] C-17 Globemaster IIIs for the Canadian Defense Forces took flight for the first time Monday, a major milestone leading to the aircraft's delivery on Aug. 8. With a takeoff weight of 460,000 pounds, (208,650 kg), the advanced airlifter lifted off from Long Beach, Calif., at 3:36 p.m. Pacific time, and flew for three hours and 45 minutes.

Led by Boeing production pilot Joel Brown, the seven-person crew put the C-17 through a series of functional checks, flying west over the Pacific Ocean, before returning to the facility where Boeing assembles and tests C-17s prior to delivery.

"For a first flight, we thought it performed exceptionally well," said Brown. "But our expectations are always high that the C-17 will perform well."

"We're looking forward to providing this world-class capability to our new customer, on time and on budget," said Dave Bowman, vice president and C-17 program manager. "The C-17 program continues to deliver on its commitment to execute flawlessly and deliver C-17s on time with the quality and reliability that has made the C-17 the best airlifter the world has ever seen."

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has been awarded a U.S. Army contract valued at approximately $7 million to begin developing the initial phase for a truck-mounted laser weapon system that destroys rockets, artillery shells and mortar rounds.

Under the High Energy Laser Technology Demonstrator (HEL TD) Phase I contract, awarded Friday, Boeing will develop and complete a preliminary design of a rugged beam control system (BCS) on a Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck.

The contract contains options that, if exercised, will call for Boeing to build and test a significant component of the HEL TD system, comprised of the BCS integrated on a vehicle platform, and refine requirements for the entire HEL TD system. The options would increase the total program contract cost to approximately $50 million.

The objective of the HEL TD program is to demonstrate that a mobile, solid-state laser weapon system can effectively counter rocket, artillery and mortar projectiles. The program will support the transition to a full-fledged Army acquisition program.

"We consider this program an important win for Boeing because it supports a cornerstone of the Army's high-energy laser program," said Pat Shanahan, vice president and general manager of Boeing Missile Defense Systems. "We believe this is the next step for developing a weapon system that can change the face of the battlefield."

Boeing leads the way in developing high-energy laser systems for a variety of warfighter applications. These systems include the Airborne Laser, the Advanced Tactical Laser and the Tactical Relay Mirror System.

A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses specializing in innovative and capabilities-driven customer solutions. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $32.4 billion business with 72,000 employees worldwide.

July 19

Boeing Australia Limited today was certified by the Commonwealth as an Authorised Maintenance Organisation (AMO) for the Royal Australian Army fleet of Bell 206B-1 Kiowa and S-70-A Black Hawk training helicopters.

The certification includes on- and off-aircraft deeper maintenance and provides Boeing Australia Limited with the full maintenance authority required to complete its maintenance and modification contracts.

Lt. Col. Robert Crowe, Army Aviation Systems Program Office chief engineer, presented the AMO documentation today on behalf of the Commonwealth to Tony Trew, vice president and general manager of Boeing Australia Limited's Aerospace Support division, in a ceremony at the Army Aviation Training Centre in Oakey.

"AMO certification carries a high degree of credibility within the Australian Defence Industry," said Trew. "It is a demonstration of the high level of confidence that the Australian Defence Force Director General of Technical Airworthiness has in the team here at Oakey."

"Boeing Australia Limited's operation at Oakey has developed significantly in recent months, and I believe this performance further solidifies our position as one of the leading aerospace support facilities in the region and confirms the company's significant rotary wing capabilities," he continued.

The AMO certification is in support of the Commonwealth of Australia's Army Aviation Training and Training Support (AATTS) contract. The AATTS contract consolidates a number of current contracts that support the Army Aviation Training Centre at Oakey air base, Queensland. Boeing Australia Limited is responsible for providing flight and maintenance helicopter training for Army pilots and ground technical staff. This training will use existing aircraft training systems, including the Bell 206B-1 Kiowa and S-70-A Black Hawk helicopters.

Boeing Australia Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary that reports to Boeing Support Systems, is a high-technology aerospace company specialising in installation and support of systems for defence and commercial customers. It is one of the leading aerospace companies in Australia, employing 2,400 people across 14 sites.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and partner Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC), Lead Systems Integrator for the U.S. Army's Future Combat Systems (FCS) program, today announced that the Army has authorized planning for FCS low-rate initial production, including long-lead items for the first FCS capability Spin Out and Manned Ground Vehicle (MGV) early production units. The latter is focused on the Non-Line-of-Sight Cannon (NLOS-C) initial production platform, which will be fielded in 2010 according to a Congressional mandate.

"The Army's notification to proceed with early production planning for Spin Outs and Manned Ground Vehicles is evidence that FCS technologies are maturing according to plan and represents a crucial step toward meeting program production objectives," said Dennis Muilenburg, vice president-general manager, Boeing Combat Systems, and FCS program manager. "It underscores the significant accomplishments of the entire FCS One Team which continues to perform and is well-positioned to deliver these early life-saving capabilities to our soldiers as quickly as possible."

Three FCS Spin Outs to the current force will be initiated in two-year increments starting in 2008 when the FCS team delivers the first infusion of capability to the Army Evaluation Task Force (AETF) in Fort Bliss, Texas, for testing. The first, referred to as "Spin Out 1", consists of equipment and technologies that will provide enhanced situational awareness and communication capabilities for the Current Force through technology insertions to Abrams battle tanks, Bradley Fighting Vehicles and HMMWV vehicles. Spin Out 1 elements include network integration "B" kits consisting of an Integrated Computer System, System-of-Systems Common Operating Environment, Battle Command and Network Management software and communications system including the Joint Tactical Radio System Ground Mobile Radio. Also included are Tactical and Urban Unattended Ground Sensors to provide real-time threat information in complex terrain, and the Non-Line-of-Sight Launch System for remotely controlled precision fires.

A recent Critical Design Review of Spin Out 1 technologies confirmed that they meet design requirements and are ready for integration into current force vehicles and the AETF. Low-rate initial production for Spin Out 1 will support the procurement of 17 Brigade Combat Team sets to be fielded incrementally over a period of seven years, beginning in fiscal year 2008.

FCS MGVs, developed in partnership with BAE Systems and General Dynamics, will provide the Army with a new family of networked vehicles with enhanced armor and protection technology, and next-generation survivability and sustainability features that are required for successful and decisive future battlefield operations. Based on a common chassis, FCS MGVs will be more than 70 percent common, reducing spare parts and logistics costs. The NLOS-C will be the first of the eight MGV variants to be developed and fielded as part of the FCS program. It is designed to provide a networked, extended range precision attack capability against point and area targets in support of FCS Brigade Combat Teams.

Plans call for 18 NLOS-C initial production platforms to be delivered between fiscal years 2010 and 2012 at a rate of six per year, in advance of the Milestone C and low-rate initial production decisions in 2013.

The LSI, in partnership with BAE Systems and General Dynamics, plans to employ various sites for component subassembly, and final vehicle integration, assembly and test activities will be conducted, including Elgin, Okla.; Lima, Ohio; and York, Pa. Once integration and assembly are complete, the NLOS-C vehicles will undergo cannon verification testing at Fort Sill, Okla., then be transferred to Fort Bliss, Texas, and White Sands Missile Range, N.M., for system-of-systems verification testing conducted by the AETF.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA], along with industry teammates and its government customer, the U.S. Missile Defense Agency, successfully completed a key Airborne Laser (ABL) flight test Friday, demonstrating the weapon system's ability to actively track an airborne target, compensate for atmospheric turbulence and fire a surrogate for its missile-killing high-energy laser.

During the test, the modified Boeing 747-400F took off from Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., and used its infrared sensors and its track illuminator laser (TILL) to find and track an instrumented target board located on the U.S. Air Force's NC-135E Big Crow test aircraft. The Big Crow then fired its beacon laser at the ABL aircraft to allow ABL to measure and compensate for laser beam distortion caused by the atmosphere. Finally, ABL fired the surrogate high-energy laser (SHEL) at the Big Crow target board to simulate a missile shootdown. With the exception of ABL's beacon illuminator laser (BILL), this flight test demonstrated the entire engagement sequence from target acquisition to pointing and firing the SHEL.

"This successful test shows that ABL can find and track a target, use its beam control/fire control system to compensate for atmospheric turbulence, and fire a surrogate high-energy laser to simulate a missile intercept," said Pat Shanahan, vice president and general manager of Boeing Missile Defense Systems. "We have now demonstrated most of the steps needed for the Airborne Laser to engage a threat missile and deliver precise and lethal effects against it."

As announced earlier, ABL fired the TILL at the Big Crow target board for the first time March 15. This latest test demonstrated ABL's ability to transition from passive tracking of a simulated missile plume to active tracking, by "walking" the TILL beam to the nose of the missile and using the TILL light returning from the edge of missile for precision tracking and determination of where to point the SHEL on the target. In addition, atmospheric turbulence compensation was performed concurrent with active tracking and SHEL firing.

In upcoming flight tests, ABL will again demonstrate the engagement sequence, but this time use the return from its BILL instead of the Big Crow's beacon laser to measure atmospheric distortion. After these flight tests, the program will install the actual Northrop Grumman-built high-energy laser in the aircraft to prepare for the first intercept test against an in-flight ballistic missile in 2009. The high-power chemical laser has completed rigorous ground testing at Edwards Air Force Base and is being prepared for installation.

Boeing is the prime contractor for ABL, which will provide a speed-of-light capability to destroy all classes of ballistic missiles in their boost phase of flight. Boeing provides the modified aircraft and the battle management system and is the overall systems integrator. ABL partners are Northrop Grumman [NYSE: NOC], which supplies the high-energy laser and the beacon illuminator laser, and Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT], which provides the nose-mounted turret and the beam control/fire control system.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has received U.S. Army authorization for full-rate production and fielding of the new CH-47F Chinook helicopter.

The CH-47F successfully completed U.S. Army operational testing at Fort Campbell, Ky., in April, and now will move forward with First Unit Fielding in July.

"This authorization enables us to support the needs of the warfighter today and well into the future," said Jack Dougherty, director of Boeing H-47 programs.

"The Army put the CH-47F to the test with over 60 hours of rigorous flight test in numerous simulated mission scenarios, including air assault, combat resupply and transport operations," said Ken Eland, Boeing CH-47F program manager. "The successful test and evaluation of the aircraft is a validation of the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the H-47 program and proves again that the Chinook is ready to meet the diverse requirements of the warfighter."

Operational testing of the CH-47F was conducted by Bravo Company (Varsity), 7th Battalion, 101st Aviation Regiment, 159th Combat Aviation Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault).

The CH-47F helicopter features a newly designed, modernized airframe, a Rockwell Collins Common Avionics Architecture System cockpit and a BAE Digital Advanced Flight Control System. The advanced avionics provide improved situational awareness for flight crews with an advanced digital map display and a data transfer system that allows storing of preflight and mission data. Improved survivability features include Common Missile Warning and Improved Countermeasure Dispenser Systems.

Powered by two 4,868-horsepower Honeywell engines, the new CH-47F can reach speeds greater than 175 mph and transport payloads weighing more than 21,000 lbs. The CH-47F, with the Robertson Aviation Extended Range Fuel System, has a mission radius greater than 400 miles.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] is preparing a response to a U.S. Air Force Request for Proposals for the development and production of an enhanced constellation of Global Positioning System satellites known as GPS III.

The proposal is due Aug. 27, and the potential $1.8 billion contract award for the first eight Block A GPS III satellites along with an option for four more, is anticipated by the end of 2007 to meet a projected 2013 launch.

"GPS III will further evolve navigation and positioning capabilities," said Howard Chambers, vice president and general manager of Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems. "Boeing's GPS III solution delivers accelerated warfighter capability on time with a low-risk, high-confidence program. Our solution, which combines signal and power improvements, is the best value for the nation and will provide a more capable GPS service for both civilian and military users."

Boeing is building on its successful experience of producing 43 GPS satellites to date for Block I, II, IIA and the current IIF series. That heritage ensures GPS III will be compatible with existing civil and military user equipment. Boeing's mature, flexible and scalable GPS III design allows for future capability upgrades while minimizing life cycle costs.

GPS III is set to take navigation timing and accuracy to the next level. Its more powerful broadcast signals will incorporate a new civil signal making it interoperable with Europe's upcoming Galileo system, advanced anti-jamming capabilities and the military signal known as the M-code, which provides more secure operations for the warfighter.

Boeing's current production of 12 GPS Block IIF satellites will begin launching in 2008, and the Architecture Evolution Plan for the GPS ground station will be fully operational in September

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] this week sent 85 public school teachers from around the world to the 16th Annual Boeing Educators to SPACE CAMP® program at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Ala.

The Boeing Educators to SPACE CAMP® program uses space exploration initiatives to enhance teachers' skills in presenting math, science and technology lessons that will inspire students and help ensure a skilled workforce for a globally competitive technology market. Since 1992, more than 600 teachers have participated in the annual Boeing program, reaching an estimated 30,000 students around the world.

The teachers, from grades 4-12, will spend their days completing workshops designed by grade level. Activities include simulated space missions, astronaut training and lectures by rocketry and space exploration experts. The teachers also will receive resources to implement in the classroom to help their students meet national standards for science, math and technology.

"SPACE CAMP® provides a learning environment where science, math and technology are explored and practiced through the mysteries and wonders of space," said Julie Ferriss, director of Education at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center and graduate of the Space Academy for Educators. "For educators, SPACE CAMP® provides a place to become a learner again and to join with other educators who share the same passions for teaching and learning."

Boeing worked with U.S. and international school districts to select applicants for the program. This year, educators from Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Washington, D.C., Georgia, Kansas, Maryland, Missouri, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah and Virginia will learn what it takes to become an astronaut and how to inspire future engineers and scientists. Additionally, teachers ventured from Australia, India, Japan and Singapore to participate in the learning experience.

After graduating from SPACE CAMP® on July 15, each teacher will return home with a workbook to create lesson plans and additional program materials to use in the classroom. The graduates also will have access to an educator training facility and a Web site offering science experiments and other curriculum information.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has delivered the second of three C-40C transport aircraft to the U.S. Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC), providing a critical airlift asset to government leaders on official business.

Gen. Duncan McNabb, chief of the Air Force's Air Mobility Command (AMC), accepted the aircraft July 5 at Boeing facilities in Seattle and flew it to Scott Air Force Base (AFB), Ill., where it will begin service with the AFRC.

The 932^nd and 375^th Airlift Wings, units of the AFRC and AMC respectively, will use the Next-Generation 737-700 Boeing Business Jet derivative to provide congressional delegations and senior government personnel safe, secure and reliable transportation -- often to remote locations around the world -- while supporting their need to conduct in-flight business.

"With the kind of next-generation, multi-mission capability this beautiful airplane gives us, we not only can take great care of our distinguished visitors but also perform air evacuation, transport cargo or provide team travel if we need to," said McNabb. "It allows us the range and versatility we've always hoped for, and now the Boeing team has delivered those requirements in the size of platform we need."

Maureen Carlson, Boeing C-40C program manager, added, "In working together with our Commercial Airplanes unit and Mission Integration Center, we incorporated lessons learned on the first aircraft to deliver this second one in three months' less time. This will enable Gen. McNabb and our Air Mobility and Air Force Reserve customers to assure availability of a critical asset to our nation's leaders."

The modifications made to the aircraft include military avionics that augment the 737's commercial flight deck; satellite communications equipment for passenger use; a reconfigurable interior that comprises 40 business-class seats, two work areas with conference table or divan and accommodations for 11 crew members; and auxiliary fuel tanks that extend the aircraft's range to approximately 4,400 nautical miles.

The airplane joins a family of 17 C-40s already in service with the U.S. government: three C-40Cs with the Air National Guard at Andrews AFB, Md., as well as the one already delivered to AFRC at Scott AFB; four Air Force C-40Bs supporting the U.S. Combatant Commands at Andrews, Ramstein AFB, Germany, and Hickam AFB, Hawaii; and the U.S. Navy Reserve's nine C-40As stationed at Naval Air Stations North Island, Calif., Fort Worth, Texas, and Jacksonville, Fla.

Engineers at The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] have recently completed 50 percent of the design for the new 777 Freighter. The completion of this work means that half of the detailed design of the 777 Freighter is defined and has been released to Boeing factories and its suppliers to begin building parts, assemblies and tools for the new cargo airplane.

"The 777 Freighter team has done a tremendous job working with our customers and program partners to define what will be the world's most capable twin-engine freighter," said Kim Pastega, deputy program manager and engineering leader, 777 Freighter Program, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We are seeing strong market acceptance for the 777 Freighter, along with a growing cargo market around the world. We have a broad set of customers for the new airplane that includes traditional cargo operators, airlines and leasing companies."

Boeing is on schedule to complete the detailed design work and is on track to meet its commitments for the 777 Freighter's performance capabilities, Pastega said.

The 777 Freighter will provide more capacity than any other twin-engine freighter and the lowest trip cost of any large freighter. The 777 Freighter has a revenue payload capability of 229,000 lbs (104 metric tonnes) and a range of 4,885 nautical miles (9,045 kilometers) with a full payload and general cargo market densities, making it the longest-range twin-engine freighter.

Boeing launched the 777 Freighter in May 2005 with an order from Air France for five freighters. Boeing continues to work closely with Air France and other customers to complete the new cargo airplane's design.

"We have been pleased with the strong partnership we have had with Boeing throughout the development of the 777 Freighter," said Pierre Vellay, vice president of New Aircraft and Corporate Fleet Planning, Air France. "We look forward to introducing this new airplane into our cargo fleet that will increase our business performance with its fuel efficiency."

The first 777 Freighter will be delivered to Air France in the fourth quarter of 2008. To date, Boeing has 71 orders for the 777 Freighter from 11 customers, including Air France, Avion Group, Emirates, FedEx Express, Qatar Airways, Guggenheim Aviation Partners, Korean Air, GE Commercial Aviation Services, Oak Hill Capital Partners and two unidentified customers.

The 777 Freighter is designed to complement 747 cargo operations with the ability to transfer shipments directly between the two airplanes. The main cargo door of the 777 Freighter will be sized to accommodate 10-foot-high (three-meter) pallets for easy interlining with 747 freighters. The 747 freighter fleet comprises about half of the world's freighter capacity.

The 777 Freighter, the sixth and newest model of the 777 family, is based on the 777-200LR Worldliner (Longer Range) passenger airplane. It will share the 777 family's advanced features such as: state-of-the-art flight deck, fly-by-wire design and an advanced wing design that includes raked wingtips. The airplane will be powered by the GE90-110B1L engine, a de-rated version of the world's most powerful commercial jet engine the GE90-115B

With training from Boeing [NYSE: BA] engineers and help from two robotic arms, Space Shuttle Atlantis astronauts today will install a Boeing-built truss element that will provide an extra boost of power to the International Space Station (ISS).

Part of the space station's backbone, the Starboard 3 (S3) and 4 (S4) truss element's batteries and solar arrays will ensure continuous electrical power to the outpost, even when the station is eclipsed by the Earth's shadow.

"The S3 and S4 Boeing hardware will provide a much-needed boost in power as well as balance out the spacecraft when it gets attached to the starboard side of ISS," said Mike Raftery, Boeing Space Exploration ISS deputy program manager.

During the seven-hour installation, astronauts will carefully remove the hardware from Atlantis' payload bay and transfer it to the space station using the shuttle's robotic arm. Once captured by the station's arm, the astronauts will maneuver and attach S3 and S4 to the starboard, or right side, of the station. The crew will activate the truss element during an additional scheduled spacewalk.

The truss element is equipped with two solar arrays for collecting electrical power from the sun, a solar rotary joint to keep the arrays permanently pointed toward the sun and 12 batteries to power the station when it cannot receive sunlight for 35 minutes during its 92-minute circuit around the planet.

"At 35,678 pounds, the S3/S4 truss assembly is the largest space station cargo that the U.S. has flown to date. Each battery is as big as a large suitcase, and the solar arrays will provide a total operating power capability of about 20 kilowatts, equivalent to the power used by 16 typical U.S. homes at any given moment," said Raftery.

After this mission, the total ISS power output will be around 50-60 kilowatts, depending on attitude and the angle of the sun. The new arrays will contribute about half that power.

As NASA's prime contractor for the orbiting outpost, Boeing is responsible for the design, development, integration, testing and delivery of the U.S.-built elements of the ISS. The S3 and S4 truss element is the second starboard addition to the 11-segment integrated truss structure that eventually will span more than 300 feet to carry power, data and temperature control for the station's electronics.

"This mission is another step closer to completing the assembly of the International Space Station, and Boeing continues to play an important role in one of the most challenging engineering feats ever attempted in space," said Brewster Shaw, vice president and general manager for Boeing Space Exploration.

Besides carrying two additional Unpressurized Cargo Carrier Attach Systems, the S3 and S4 truss element is identical to the Boeing-built Port 3 and 4 truss element delivered to the space station last summer.

Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled to return to Kennedy Space Center, Fla., at 2:44 p.m. eastern on June 19, following its 11-day mission to the ISS.

After this mission, the total ISS power output will be around 50-60 kilowatts, depending on attitude and the angle of the sun. The new arrays will contribute about half that power.

Space Shuttle Atlantis is scheduled to return to Kennedy Space Center, Fla., at 2:44 p.m. eastern on June 19, following its 11-day mission to the ISS.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has been awarded a $19 million U.S. Air Force contract to provide Mission Training Center (MTC) services for F-16 pilots at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C.; Misawa Air Base in Japan; and Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany.

The contract provides continued F-16 MTC services for up to five years and will contribute directly to the readiness of F-16 units.

"Boeing is pleased to have the opportunity to provide the U.S. Air Force with continued service for the F-16 MTCs," said Tony Jones, vice president of Boeing Training Systems and Services (TSS). "We bring years of experience in providing the warfighter a Distributed Mission Operations capability for the F-15C MTCs and anticipate similar success with F-16 MTC operations."

Each F-16 MTC provides four high fidelity F-16 simulators with a 360-degree visual system, robust synthetic environment, instructor/operator stations and brief/debrief stations. The simulators can be operated individually or linked together to provide four-ship training, both within the MTC and linked to the Distributed Mission Operation Network. Boeing supports this training capability with several key TSS products, including the Visual Integrated Display System and Big Tac Combat Environment Server.

Lockheed Martin Simulation, Training and Support, a major subcontractor to Boeing, will provide the instructor/operator stations, crewstation hardware and simulation software, image generation systems and databases, and contractor logistics support. BGI, LLC will provide F-16 subject matter expertise.

"With the F-15E MTCs beginning service this year, Boeing will be responsible for providing local and distributed training capability for three of the Air Forces' primary operational fighter aircraft," said Jones. "We welcome the challenge to continue to support customer readiness and shape Distributed Mission Operation capabilities for years to come."

Boeing is the prime contractor for the F-15C MTC contract and has delivered and continues to operate MTCs at Eglin, Langley, Elmendorf and Kadena Air Force Bases and Royal Air Force (RAF) Lakenheath. As the F-15E MTC prime contractor, Boeing is responsible for the design, development, construction and integration of MTCs at Mountain Home and Seymour Johnson Air Force Bases and RAF Lakenheath, with the first F-15E MTC at Mountain Home starting service later this year.

The contract provides continued F-16 MTC services for up to five years and will contribute directly to the readiness of F-16 units.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and ANA today announced that the airline will install Boeing's Class 3 Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) in three new 777-300ERs to be delivered beginning this year. The airline's decision is significant because ANA is the first Japanese airline to use Boeing's EFB on a commercial flight and because it represents the first Boeing EFB purchase by ANA, one of the world's leading 777 operators. Boeing delivered ANA's first 777-300ER with the Electronic Flight Bag in April. ANA has taken delivery of 39 777s and has eight more on order.

The Boeing Class 3 EFB is a pilot-dedicated flight-deck computer integrated into an airplane's avionics that has become a must-have device for airlines looking to improve both the safety and efficiency of their 777 fleets.

"In today's competitive environment, airlines must be able to show the flying public and the financial community that they are embracing the latest available technology to make flights as efficient, comfortable and reliable as possible," said Mitsuo Morimoto, ANA Executive vice president, Flight Operations. "Our selection of Boeing's Electronic Flight Bag sends exactly the right message to our customers and other stakeholders."

Boeing's EFB has recorded more than 1,000 total orders since it was introduced for sale in 2002. It has been ordered for Next-Generation 737s, 747s, 757s, 767s, 777s and 787s (the Class 3 EFB comes as standard equipment on the 787 Dreamliner).

"ANA is a respected airline that other airlines watch," said Dan da Silva, vice president of Sales and Marketing for Boeing Commercial Aviation Services. "When an airline of that stature orders Boeing's Class 3 EFB, it sends a powerful message to all the world's airlines that the Class 3 EFB is reaching a tipping point."

Boeing's Class 3 EFB can serve as a critical communications gateway between the airplane in the sky and an airline's operations center and maintenance department on the ground. The EFB, designed to be integrated with other Boeing e-Enabled solutions such as Airplane Health Management and Maintenance Performance Toolbox, is a core technology in Boeing's vision of an e-Enabled air-transport system in which data, information and knowledge can be shared and used across an aviation enterprise.

Boeing's EFB also has the capability to run advanced communications systems that improve aviation safety both in the air and on the ground. Applications currently being tested include some that improve the "situational awareness" of pilots by allowing them to follow airplane movements on the ground and in the air on a video screen. Some carriers have successfully tested Boeing's EFB to help reduce fuel consumption and reduce the impact of airplane noise pollution around airports.

Using software developed by Boeing and its subsidiary, Jeppesen, the Boeing EFB provides an open-architecture platform that allows the airline to add its own documents or third-party applications.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today delivered the Royal Australian Air Force's (RAAF) second C-17 Globemaster III during a ceremony at the company's Long Beach, Calif., C-17 manufacturing facility.

Senior RAAF officials, led by Air Commodore Jack Plenty, commander, Air Lift Group, joined Boeing leaders and selected employees for the event.

"The acceptance of the second RAAF C-17 was eagerly anticipated by the Australian Defence Force," said Plenty. "Our C-17 squadron already has conducted several inter-continental, time-critical tasks over the past five months since the arrival of the first aircraft in December 2006. These tasks could never have been achieved if we did not have such a responsive global airlift capability."

The latest advanced airlifter joins the RAAF's first C-17 at the No. 36 Squadron, a combat airlift unit based in RAAF Base Amberley, west of Brisbane. The remaining two RAAF C-17s under contract to Boeing will arrive in Australia in 2008.

"Once again, our Boeing team has made good on its commitment to deliver our customer a world-class airlift capability, on time and on budget," said Dave Bowman, Boeing vice president and C-17 program manager.

Australia's C-17s are part of a worldwide fleet that also includes 164 U.S. Air Force C-17s and four United Kingdom Royal Air Force (RAF) aircraft. The RAF will receive its fifth C-17 in early 2008. Boeing will deliver the first of four C-17s to the Canadian Forces in August. Boeing is on contract to design, build, deliver and support 190 U.S. Air Force C-17s. The last scheduled delivery is in mid-2009.

The C-17 is the world's only tactical airlift aircraft with strategic capabilities. Capable of flying between continents and landing on short, austere runways, the C-17 is used globally for both military and humanitarian missions.

Three large composite fuselage sections arrived in Everett today for the all-new Boeing (NYSE: BA) 787 Dreamliner.

The all-composite forward section -- known as section 41 and shown here wrapped in white -- is manufactured by Spirit AeroSystems at its facility in Wichita, Kan. The complex structure is 21 feet in diameter and 42 feet long. Its landing gear is installed.

Sections 47 and 48, wrapped in black, are the two aft composite sections of fuselage for the Dreamliner. They were manufactured and joined by Vought Aircraft Industries at its facility in Charleston, S.C. Section 47 is 23 feet long and 19 feet in diameter while section 48 measures 15 feet long and 14 feet in diameter.

The sections were delivered to Boeing early this morning via the Dreamlifter, a specially modified 747-400 used to transport 787 major assemblies. The aircraft arrived at 6:39 a.m. local time. The major assemblies were immediately unloaded and delivered to the 787 final assembly factory.

"Today's delivery represents more than 40 percent of the 787's fuselage structure," said Scott Strode, 787 vice president of Airplane Definition and Production. "We now have all the major structure for the rear of the airplane, and its distinctive nose. The Dreamliner is beginning to take shape."

These are the second and third pieces of major structure delivered by the Dreamlifter in recent weeks. The horizontal stabilizer arrived on April 25.

The 787 Dreamliner is the fastest-selling airplane in aviation history, with firm orders for 567 airplanes from 44 airlines.

The first Boeing [NYSE: BA] F/A-18F Super Hornet retrofitted with an aft cockpit Joint Helmet-Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) has arrived at Strike Fighter Squadron 213 (VFA-213), the first U.S. Navy fleet squadron to fly the aircraft with the dual-cockpit system.

The "Blacklions" of VFA-213, based at Naval Air Station Oceana, Va., will use the cueing system to significantly enhance in-flight crew coordination.

The JHMCS gives flight crew members the ability to rapidly acquire and designate a target simply by looking at it. The two-seat version of the system places a JHMCS helmet on both crew members, giving each the capability to aim weapons and sensors as well as a visual indication of where each crew member is looking.

"The Navy received its first JHMCS production systems five years ago and continues to be a strong supporter of this capability," said Phil King, Boeing JHMCS program manager. "Warfighters praise JHMCS for its enhanced situational awareness and mission effectiveness."

The Navy awarded Boeing a $4.4 million contract in November 2005 to provide aft cockpit helmets in F/A-18F and EA-18G aircraft scheduled for delivery beginning this October. Thirty-four U.S. Air Force and Navy squadrons worldwide currently use the JHMCS.

Warfighters used JHMCS operationally for the first time during Operation Iraqi Freedom. By placing an aiming cross, projected on the helmet visor, over the desired target and pressing a button, pilots can quickly and easily aim weapons and sensors to designate and attack airborne or ground targets. JHMCS also displays aircraft altitude, airspeed, attitude and tactical information on the visor to increase situational awareness.

As prime contractor and integrator for JHMCS, Boeing has contracted for more than 2,000 systems over the past six years. Vision Systems International, based in San Jose, Calif., is the major subcontractor.

June 2

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today delivered the first of 13 C-17 Globemaster IIIs to Dover (Del.) Air Force Base (AFB) officials during a ceremony at the company's Long Beach, Calif., C-17 manufacturing facility.

The newest C-17 is named the "Spirit of the Constitution" in honor of Delaware being the first of the original 13 U.S. colonies to ratify the U.S. Constitution on Dec. 7, 1787. This is the 165^th C-17 that Boeing has delivered to the U.S. Air Force.

"The Air Force chose to name Dover's first C-17 the 'Spirit of the Constitution' to honor the heritage of our host state of Delaware," said Col. Steven B. Harrison, 436^th Airlift Wing commander.

The Delaware base will officially welcome the new C-17 on June 4, when the Commander of the U.S. Air Force Air Mobility Command, Gen. Duncan J. McNabb, flies the Globemaster III into Dover for a planned ceremony.

Delaware's 436^th Airlift Wing, which has been preparing for its C-17s since early 2006, will receive another six aircraft by the end of 2007. Boeing will deliver the remaining six aircraft in 2008. Earlier this year, the wing activated its 736^th Aircraft Maintenance and 3^rd Airlift Squadrons during a joint change of command ceremony.

The new C-17s will give Dover AFB valuable tools in the fight against terrorism, while allowing it to support humanitarian missions when needed, Harrison said.

"The C-17 is able to land on short, minimally-prepared airfields, does the work of multiple airlifters and is the most reliable, flexible and technologically advanced airlift aircraft ever built," said Dave Bowman, Boeing vice president and C-17 program manager.

The U.S. Air Force's existing C-17 fleet has amassed more than 1.2 million flying hours -- and in the global war on terrorism, has flown combat missions with record-setting reliability rates. With a payload of 160,000 pounds, the C-17 can take off from a 7,600-foot airfield, fly 2,400 nautical miles and land on 3,000-foot dirt runways. The C-17 also is a key component for providing quick and efficient humanitarian aid to the victims of natural disasters such as tsunamis, hurricanes and earthquakes.

With the new C-17 at Dover, C-17s are now based at Charleston Air Force Base, S.C.; McChord Air Force Base, Wash.; the Air National Guard Base at Jackson, Miss.; McGuire Air Force Base, N.J.; March Air Reserve Base, Calif.; Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii; Travis Air Force Base, Calif.; and Altus Air Force Base, Okla.

Boeing is on a multi-year production contract to design, build and deliver 190 C-17s to the U.S. Air Force through mid-2009. The worldwide fleet also includes two Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) C-17s and four United Kingdom Royal Air Force (RAF) C-17s. Boeing will deliver two more aircraft to the RAAF and one more aircraft to the RAF, all in 2008. Later this year, Boeing will deliver the first of four C-17s to Canada.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] has been awarded a $4.2 million U.S. Air Force contract for the next phase of the Dual Role Air Dominance Missile -- Technology (DRADM-T) program, one of several efforts to develop technologies for the Joint Dual Role Air Dominance Missile (JDRADM).

JDRADM is the first next-generation advanced missile intended to conduct both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions in a single weapon.

DRADM-T focuses on the missile's propulsion and control systems. Boeing was selected following a competitive six-month Phase 1 study effort. Phase 2 will refine the technologies and configuration, leading to laboratory and ground testing. Boeing's Advanced Weapons and Missile Systems unit, part of Boeing Advanced Systems, will perform the work in St. Charles, Mo. The contract runs for 32 months.

Keith Smith, Boeing program manager for JDRADM, said, "The selection of Boeing for Phase 2 of the DRADM-T program demonstrates our customer's confidence in Boeing to develop the key technologies that will make the future JDRADM weapon a reality."

In 2006, Boeing competed for and won the warhead technology thrust program -- Multi-Role Responsive Ordnance Kill Mechanism -- of the JDRADM weapon. Boeing is currently executing the program's Phase 2 design and development efforts.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has been awarded a $3 million Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency contract to test an innovative main rotor system that promises quieter operation, reduced vibration and potentially improved performance for military helicopters like the AH-64D Apache Longbow.

Boeing will test the "Smart Rotor" over the next year at NASA Ames Research Center's 40 by 80-foot wind tunnel in California to study the system's forward flight characteristics and gather data to validate state-of-the-art aero-acoustic analysis codes. These codes are used to predict a variety of data that help identify the cause of rotor noise, allowing engineers to study and compare alternate designs.

Boeing previously validated the robustness and authority of the modified commercial MD 900® rotor system on its whirl tower in Mesa, Ariz.

"If the technology shows the predicted benefits of this advanced system, we may consider adding it to the Apache helicopter to significantly enhance its performance," said Friedrich Straub, Smart Rotor project engineer.

The system, which incorporates several new technologies that make it more capable and quieter than existing rotors, includes trailing edge blade flaps controlled by on-blade piezo electric actuators and control electronics that optimize flap motions. The system, Straub added, ultimately could be applied to other military and civil aircraft as well.

The MD 900 rotor system, designed by Boeing engineers before the company sold the MD 900 production line to MD Helicopters, Inc., in 1999, provided an ideal test platform to study enhancements to the system.

Boeing [NYSE:BA] has become one of the newest members of the Billion Dollar Roundtable, an organization that brings together major corporations that make meaningful and measurable contributions to the economic growth of woman-owned and minority-owned companies. Don McKneely and Sharon Patterson, roundtable co-founders, formally introduced Boeing as one of the newest member companies at a reception last night in New York.

"As a co-founder and host of the Billion Dollar Roundtable, I applaud Boeing for its commitment to support diverse firms and the communities where they operate," said McKneely, chairman of the organization.

The roundtable was created in 2001 to recognize and bring together corporations that achieved spending of at least $1 billion annually with minority- and woman-owned suppliers. The organization promotes and shares best practices in supply chain diversity excellence, and encourages dialogue on common issues, opportunities and strategies related to diverse business.

Boeing, which spent more than $2 billion with minority- and woman-owned businesses in 2006, was welcomed as part of the roundtable's biannual induction of new member companies. The company was selected following a rigorous application and review process, including an independent third-party audit to verify its eligibility for the roundtable.

Joan Robinson-Berry, Boeing director of Supplier Diversity for its Integrated Defense Systems business, will represent the aerospace company on the roundtable's board of directors.

"Boeing has a long-standing commitment to small and diverse businesses," Robinson-Berry said. "We strive to find opportunities to utilize the skills and technology of these companies, and for more than 50 years we have maintained a formal supplier diversity program.

"I am thrilled to have the chance to share through the roundtable the creative ways Boeing has sought and found opportunities for small and diverse businesses over the years," Robinson-Berry continued. "I also look forward to the chance to learn from other roundtable members, because working with a vibrant small and diverse supplier community is good for our customers, good for the economy and good for Boeing."

Boeing joins on the roundtable outstanding corporations in the telecommunications, automotive, aerospace, consumer goods, and retail industries. The combined Billion Dollar Roundtable membership celebrated collective purchases of more than $24 billion in products and services from minority- and woman-owned suppliers in 2006.

"Boeing recognizes that diversity brings strength, innovation and flexibility to our supply base," said John Tracy, Boeing senior vice president of Engineering, Operations and Technology, whose responsibilities include companywide oversight of the Supplier Management function. "Tapping the skills and technologies of small, minority- and woman-owned businesses has played a vital role in helping us maintain our position as a global leader in aerospace--and will continue to do so."

May 17

Boeing Reaches Tentative Agreement with Machinists Union in St. Louis

ST. LOUIS, May 16, 2007 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today announced that it has reached a tentative agreement for a new three-year contract with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 837. Once ratified by the union membership, the contract will provide approximately $24,000 in additional compensation over the term of the agreement.
-- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today announced that it has reached a tentative agreement for a new three-year contract with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 837. Once ratified by the union membership, the contract will provide approximately $24,000 in additional compensation over the term of the agreement.

The company's pay and benefits package provides an average of 9.5 percent in wage increases, significant improvements in retirement benefits, and a comprehensive and affordable health care program.

"This contract recognizes the contributions employees have made to the company's success and addresses today's business realities so that Boeing St. Louis can remain competitive in the years ahead," said Steve Jacques, IDS vice president of manufacturing and St. Louis lead for the negotiations. "We look forward to getting this contract approved so we can continue to meet the needs of our customers and deliver the amazing products and services they have come to expect from our team."

Key features of the contract offer to approximately 2,500 represented employees include:

Lump-sum payments: $2,500 in 2007; $2,500 in 2008. Each payment represents an average of 3.5 percent in pay.

General Wage Increases: 4 percent in 2007; 3 percent in 2009.

Increased Retirement Benefits: A 17 percent increase in pension benefit to $70 per month for each year of service for employees who retire on or after July 1, 2007.

The contract offers a comprehensive range of health care options. Further details of the contract proposal are available online at http://www.boeing.com/ids/2007negotiations/stl

Boeing [NYSE: BA] today announced orders for 11 787-8 Dreamliners and 50 Next-Generation 737s with TUI Group, Europe's largest integrated-tourism company. The orders were previously recorded on Boeing's Orders and Deliveries Web site as unidentified. The value of the orders is approximately $4.7 billion at list prices. Two of the airplanes have since been delivered and identified.

New-technology benefits such as lightweight composites and innovative engine technology will allow TUI Group airlines to implement ongoing efficiency improvements.

"The 787's unprecedented environmental performance will make it an incredibly valuable asset as we look to reduce our carbon output," said Dr. Michael Frenzel, chairman of the TUI AG board. "The 787 will offer a 20 percent reduction in emissions and has a 60 percent smaller noise footprint for our airport communities. It is the green airplane we need for greener operations."

TUI Group has not announced an engine supplier for its 787s.

TUI Group plans to put the airplanes into service with Arkefly in The Netherlands, Belgium-based Jetairfly, Thomsonfly of the United Kingdom, Germany-based TUIfly and the Scandinavian operator TUIfly Nordic. All TUI Group airlines will leverage the 787's breakthrough economics, passenger appeal and environmental efficiency to continue and expand services within Europe and to Asia and North America.

The Next-Generation 737s will be operated on short- and medium-haul routes by all TUI airlines.

All of the 737s will be fitted with advanced Blended Winglets, which reduce aerodynamic drag, thereby increasing fuel efficiency and range while reducing carbon emissions and takeoff noise.

"Boeing is extremely proud of the partnership that exists with the TUI Group," said Marlin Dailey, vice president of Sales for Europe, Russia and Central Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "As a company that operates throughout Europe, TUI will capture significant benefits by operating a common fleet of Next-Generation 737s and 787s across the group. The ability to move aircraft from one fleet to another to satisfy changing demands will allow TUI to be extremely nimble and flexible - a must in today's highly competitive environment. TUI can also reap the benefits of a mixed fleet flying both the 737 and the 787."

To assist TUI, Boeing is working to create a training program that will allow pilots to transition easily from one airplane type to another, so that cross-training costs are minimized and fleet efficiency is maximized.

The selection of the Next-Generation 737 reflects the airplane's great success with TUI Group airlines.

"TUI's order is a reaffirmation of the value that airlines derive from the 737's exceptional economics, technology, reliability and environmental performance," Dailey said.

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner provides passengers with a better flying experience and operators with more efficient commercial jetliners. Using 20 percent less fuel per passenger than similarly sized airplanes, the 787 is designed for the environment with lower emissions and quieter takeoffs and landings. Inside the airplane, passengers will find cleaner air, bigger windows, more stowage space and improved lighting.

Forty-four customers worldwide have placed 567 orders for the 787 since its launch in April 2004, making the Dreamliner the world's fastest-selling commercial airplane. The 787 enters service in 2008.

The digitally designed Next-Generation 737 is the most technologically advanced airplane in the single-aisle market. With a bigger wing and more powerful engines, the 737 can fly higher, faster and farther than previous models and its competitor.

As of April 30, Boeing had received orders for more than 3,800 Next-Generation 737s, and has unfilled orders exceeding 1,500 airplanes, worth over $100 billion at current list prices.

Final Major Structure for Boeing 787 Dreamliner Delivered to Everett

EVERETT, Wash., May 16, 2007 -- The final major assembly for the Boeing [NYSE: BA] 787 Dreamliner was delivered to Everett early today.
-- The final major assembly for the Boeing [NYSE: BA] was delivered to Everett early today.

The integrated midbody fuselage consists of section 43, a forward fuselage section made by Kawasaki Heavy Industries; section 11/45, the center wheel well and center wing tank, made by KHI and Fuji Heavy Industries and joined at FHI; and sections 44 and 46, center fuselage sections made by Alenia Aeronautica. It was joined at Global Aeronautica in Charleston, South Carolina. The fuselage measures 84 feet long and 19 feet in diameter.

It was flown to Everett in the Dreamlifter, a specially modified 747-400 used to transport major 787 assemblies. The Dreamlifter touched down at 1:58 a.m. Wrapped in black, the fuselage filled the cargo bay of the Dreamlifter. Barely six inches of clearance surrounded the structure.

"What an accomplishment for our entire 787 team," said Scott Strode, 787 vice president of Airplane Definition and Production. "This fuselage section represents the hard work of hundreds of people around the globe. The Dreamliner is no dream anymore - it's real, and it's here."

The fuselage was taken immediately into the 787 final assembly factory. Final assembly of the first 787 has not yet begun, but today's delivery takes the team one step closer to that goal.

Wings for Boeing 787 Dreamliner Delivered to Everett

EVERETT, Wash., May 15, 2007 -- The gigantic composite wings for the all-new Boeing [NYSE: BA] 787 Dreamliner were delivered to Everett at 4:10 a.m. PDT today.
-- The gigantic composite wings for the all-new Boeing [NYSE: BA] 787 Dreamliner were delivered to Everett at 4:10 a.m. PDT today.

Manufactured by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries at its facility in Nagoya, Japan, each wing is 98 feet long. Standing on edge in custom-made tooling, the wings were delivered together to Boeing via the Dreamlifter, a specially modified 747-400 used to transport 787 major assemblies. The 787 is the first commercial aircraft to use composite materials as its primary structure. It is also the first Boeing aircraft featuring an all-composite wing.

"A composite wing of this size has never been built before," said Scott Strode, 787 vice president of Airplane Definition and Production. "This is a tribute to our fantastic team. We believe the Dreamliner sets a new standard for how commercial airplanes will be made in the future."

The wings were immediately delivered to the 787 final assembly factory. Additional work -- including attaching the wingtip and movable surfaces -- will be completed by Boeing. The total wingspan of a 787 is 197 feet.

The 787 Dreamliner is the fastest-selling airplane in aviation history, with firm orders for 567 airplanes from 44 airlines.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] announced today that its 777 jetliner fleet has completed its 1 millionth flight under regulations for extended operations (ETOPS). Based on reported and projected 777 fleet data, Boeing estimated the 1 millionth 777 ETOPS flight occurred on May 11.

"The 1 millionth 777 ETOPS flight is a result of our point-to-point product strategy to develop airplanes that fly people directly where they want to go," said Larry Loftis, vice president-general manager, 777 Program, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Early in its development we set out on a deliberate path to make the 777 the first airplane to enter service ready to fly ETOPS routes."

Under ETOPS regulations, airplanes are allowed to fly long-distance routes that take far them from the nearest airport. The 777 was designed specifically to have the reliability and redundancy to safely traverse those long-distance routes governed by extended operations rules. The 777 was also the first twin-engine airplane to fly routes over the new North Polar Routes between the U.S. and Asia that began in 2000.

"Following the success of 767 ETOPS flights, the 777 has further proven the safety and reliability of twin-engine airplanes for long-haul flights," said Loftis. "Today, Boeing twin-engine airplanes serve the majority of routes that cross the Atlantic and they are beginning to dominate routes across the Pacific as well."

The introduction of the 777 has helped lead to an increase in trans-Pacific routes that connect city pairs with nonstop service. Since 1995, city pairs served with direct trans-Pacific routes have increased by about 50 percent.

For passengers, ETOPS provides them the direct, nonstop flights they prefer, in addition to more flight options and greater choice in travel times, Loftis added.

The journey to reach 1 million ETOPS flights for the 777 began with its entry into service on June 7, 1995. The first revenue-generating flight for the 777 was a trans-Atlantic ETOPS flight by United Airlines. To date, the 777 fleet has accumulated a total of more than 14 million flight hours, the majority on ETOPS flights. The 767 is the only other twin-engine airplane to surpass 1 million ETOPS flights, reaching that milestone in April 1998.

In February 2007, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) enacted ETOPS regulations that update and codify existing rules and best practices and extend ETOPS standards to three- and four-engine airplanes. The new regulations also shift the basis of ETOPS approvals to the designed and certified capabilities of the airplane itself, setting the stage for properly configured and approved twinjets to fly optimal routings between virtually any two cities on earth. Boeing has stated its objective is to certify some versions of the 777 and 787 to 330-minute ETOPS.

The 777 family of airplanes is popular with passengers and airlines because of its fuel-efficient twin-engine design, high reliability, low operating costs and spacious cabin interior. The 777 is the market leader in the 300 to 400-seat segment, consistently capturing more than 65 percent of that market since its launch. Boeing continues to enhance the 777 family with the recent introduction of two new longer-range models and a freighter version currently in development. To date, 52 customers around the world have ordered 952 777 jetliners.

A map indicating 777 ETOPS routes around the world is available here

May 4

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Copa Airlines executives today said the Panamanian airline placed an order for four Boeing 737-800 airplanes in a deal valued at approximately $282 million at list prices.

The order brings to 34 the number of Next-Generation 737s Copa has ordered. The four 737s announced today were previously posted to an "unidentified customer" on the Boeing Commercial Airplanes orders and deliveries website.

"Copa Airlines continues to validate the technology and economics of the Next-Generation 737 by providing passengers with innovative route options and increased flight frequencies using the 737," said Boeing Commercial Airplanes Vice President, Sales, for Latin America and the Caribbean, John Wojick. "Flying out of Panama with the Next-Generation 737s, Copa is able to provide passengers with flights where they want to go, nonstop."

Copa now operates 24 Next-Generation 737s, with 10 - including those announced today -- remaining to be delivered.

"This new order reinforces our commitment to our passengers by allowing us to continue expanding through additional frequencies and destinations, offering our passengers the most comfortable and convenient options for travel between the most important Latin American cities" said Pedro Heilbron, CEO of Copa Airlines.

Copa was the first carrier in the Americas to incorporate blended-winglets on the 737-700. All of its Next-Generation 737s use the distinctive curved wing ends, which improve fuel efficiency and lift while reducing engine wear and carbon dioxide emissions. Copa also was the first in the region to order Next-Generation 737s with the Vertical Situation Display (VSD) system, which provides pilots with an easy-to-understand flight-path view.

Copa operates from Tocumen International Airport, a time-saving hub on long routes between the United States, South and Central America, and the Caribbean. It flies four of the world's longest 737 routes from there -- to Buenos Aires, Santiago, Sao Paulo and Los Angeles -- thanks to the 737's exceptional range.

The Next-Generation 737 is the newest and most technologically advanced single-aisle airplane. It flies higher, faster and farther than previous models and competitors. In addition, its flight deck features the latest liquid-crystal flat-panel displays and is designed to accommodate new communications and flight-management capabilities.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and Jet Airways, India's largest private airline, on Monday celebrated the delivery of the airline's first of 10 777-300ER (Extended Range) airplanes. The airplane was delivered in Jet Airways' new paint scheme, that features a new design, colors and typeface. The airplane will enter service on May 5, commemorating the airline's 14th anniversary of operations.

"Jet Airways' new design is reflective of our new efforts to take our superior passenger service to international destinations in Europe and the United States," said Jet Airways Chairman Naresh Goyal. "The combination of the 777-300ER's positive economics and passenger comfort will help ensure the success and profitability of our growing route structure."

Jet Airways, which originally placed the order for 10 777-300ERs in September 2005, currently operates 49 Classic and Next-Generation Boeing 737-400/-700/-800/-900 airplanes within its fleet. In December 2006, the airline also placed an order for 10 787 Dreamliners.

"The 777-300ER delivers real advantages and has proven its economic leadership and high level of passenger comfort," said Dinesh Keskar, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president of Sales. "We are honored that Jet Airways has selected Boeing's 777s and 787s to support its international growth strategy."

The 777 family of airplanes is popular with passengers and airlines because of its fuel-efficient twin-engine design, high reliability, low operating costs, and comfortable and spacious interior. The 777-300ER typically carries 365 passengers up to 7,930 nautical miles (14,685 kilometers).

With the 787 and 777, Boeing offers a complete family of airplanes to cover the 200- to 400-seat market segment. With complementary range, speed, efficiency and operational commonality, yet differing seating and cargo capacities, airlines can use both models in their fleets to tailor capacity to meet seasonal demand.

Jet Airways operates more than 330 daily flights to 49 destinations that span the length and breadth of India and beyond including London, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Colombo and Kathmandu.

The 777 family of airplanes is the market leader in the 300 to 400-seat segment, capturing more than 65 percent of that market. Boeing continues to enhance the 777 family with the recent introduction of two new longer-range models and a freighter version currently in development.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and the U.S. Air Force marked the 18th anniversary of the activation of the first Global Positioning System Block II satellite on April 14. The GPS Block II/IIA constellation went on to achieve 100 percent mission success, with 28 flawless launches aboard Delta II launch vehicles.

"This milestone really said a lot about our GPS team," said U.S. Air Force Col. Wesley Ballenger, GPS program manager at the Space and Missile Systems Wing at Los Angeles Air Force Base. "It highlighted how hard the Air Force and our Boeing teammates worked on the advances that made GPS II and IIA icons of quality and reliability."

The GPS Block II constellation has shown remarkable on-orbit durability. Each satellite launched between 1989 and 1997 had a six-year mean mission duration. Half of them remain functional today, exceeding their life expectancy by an average of more than 12 years. The U.S. Air Force and Boeing have produced 40 Block I, II and IIA GPS satellites after more than 30 years of teamwork.

"This record is a testament to the Boeing team's dedication to quality and customer service," said Boeing GPS Program Director John Duddy. "The GPS team takes great pride in providing this crucial, 24-hour worldwide service and really knows what it takes to satisfy customers."

Building on this success, Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems is building 12 next-generation GPS Block IIF satellites under contract from the Navstar GPS Wing at the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center in Los Angeles. The Block IIF satellites are expected to carry new capabilities such as full expanded military code, a new civil signal known as L-5, crosslink enhancements, signal power increases and greater design life. Through its work on GPS IIF and its preliminary design work for the upcoming GPS III competition, Boeing is working closely with the U.S. Air Force to deliver new, advanced GPS capabilities to the military, civil government and the general public as early as possible.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] today submitted its final cost volume bid to NASA for production of the Ares I crew launch vehicle upper stage.

The Boeing-led team provided a tailored proposal designed to meet or exceed NASA requirements by leveraging best-of-industry suppliers, including several with advanced technology development contracts on critical Ares I systems.

"We offer unique capability to NASA's Ares I team, bringing value based on our experience in commercial, defense and space programs, along with innovation and new advocacy and outreach efforts," said Jim Chilton, Boeing vice president of Exploration Launch Systems. "We are completely committed to delivering NASA a safe, affordable and producible upper stage."

Boeing's team of suppliers include Hamilton Sundstrand, a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. [NYSE: UTX], Moog Inc. [NYSE: MOG.A and MOG.B], Northrop Grumman Corporation [NYSE: NOC], Orion Propulsion Inc., SUMMA Technology Inc., United Space Alliance and the United Launch Alliance.

"We recognize our suppliers are critical to our proposal, and we have worked closely with them to ensure they know our processes, approaches, people and tools and that their capabilities precisely match NASA's needs," said Chilton. "Boeing and its suppliers are fully prepared to continue our collaboration with NASA and are positioned to begin work immediately upon contract award."

Boeing submitted two earlier volumes: one on past performance on March 16 and another on mission suitability and plans on April 2. Delivery of this final Ares I upper stage production proposal volume culminates more than a year-long effort to bring Boeing's best lean manufacturing practices to NASA's Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans, La., where the upper stage will be built. NASA is expected to award the Ares I upper stage production contract in late August or early September.

Ares I, which will transport the Orion crew exploration vehicle to low Earth orbit, is an essential element of the nation's space exploration program that will return astronauts to the moon no later than 2020.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today honored the small businesses that support its NASA Checkout, Assembly and Payload Processing Services (CAPPS) contract during a recognition event in Cape Canaveral, Fla.

Small businesses recognized by Boeing Space Exploration leaders for their support of the CAPPS contract include CNI/All Points Logistics, Inc., Creative Management Technology, Inc., Indyne and Yang Enterprises, Inc.

"Boeing thanks this community for their exceptional small business performance. Our success and future competitiveness depend on them to execute the intricate work we do for the nation's space program," said John Elbon, Boeing Space Exploration vice president and Constellation program manager and Florida site executive.

NASA, in support of federal government contract agreements, requires prime contractors to place a specified percentage of their contracted effort with small businesses.

"Our small business teammates at Kennedy Space Center have enabled us to perform in an excellent manner, manage our costs and exceed our NASA customer requirement of 19 percent small business participation for the past five years," said Mark Jager, Boeing program manager for NASA's Checkout, Assembly and Payload Processing Services contract.

Boeing is employing similar strategies with other space-based efforts, including the competition for the Ares I upper stage production and instrument unit avionics contracts. For example, NASA's proposal requirement for the Ares I crew launch vehicle, the first human-rated launch vehicle since the space shuttle, stipulates that 17.3 percent of the contract work go to small businesses.

"Partnerships with small business form a key part of the strong supply chain we are offering for the Ares 1 upper stage production. We exceed 17.3 percent not because it's a requirement, but because it makes good business sense. Boeing has already proven we can exceed this level based on our CAPPS contract performance," said Jim Chilton, vice president of Boeing Exploration Launch Systems, who is leading the Ares I team.

Boeing is committed to identifying opportunities for small businesses and works with the local chambers of commerce and economic development commissions to locate additional resources.

"The Economic Development Commission of Florida's Space Coast enjoys a strong partnership with Boeing in supporting the many small business endeavors in our community," said Lynda Weatherman, president and CEO, Economic Development Commission of Florida's Space Coast.

May 1

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Continental Airlines today announced that the airline will be the first U.S. carrier to use the Boeing Class 3 Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) on its 777s. Boeing has delivered the second of two 777-200ER airplanes equipped with the Class 3 Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) to Continental Airlines. The airline accepted delivery of their first EFB-equipped 777-200ER in March. Continental also selected the Boeing EFB to retrofit on its previously purchased 777s.

Certified for all phases of operation on the ground and in the air, Boeing's Class 3 EFB is integrated into an airplane's avionics. The Boeing EFB digitally delivers charts and manuals that pilots need to fly an airplane, giving them immediate access to critical information.

"We are very pleased to see the EFB take flight with Continental, as it is highly consistent with our companywide initiative to be paperless wherever possible," said Mark Moran, Continental's executive vice president-operations. "Having this technology on the flight deck makes this advanced aircraft even more capable."

EFB is a core technology in Boeing's vision of an e-Enabled air-transport system in which data, information and knowledge can be shared easily across an enterprise. The Class 3 device has the ability to serve as a critical communications gateway between the airplane in the sky and an airline's operations center and maintenance department on the ground.

"Continental is helping to pave the way for other airlines by implementing the best technology available to upgrade flight decks to the highest levels of safety and efficiency," said Dan da Silva, vice president of Sales and Marketing for Boeing Commercial Aviation Services.

Using software developed by Boeing and its subsidiary, Jeppesen, the Boeing EFB provides a scalable, open-architecture platform that allows the airline to add its own documents or third-party applications. The fact that the Class 3 EFB is integrated into an airplane's avionics allows the tool to be certified for all phases of operation on the ground and in the air.

A Boeing [NYSE: BA] employee guides the second C-130 Avionics Modernization Program (AMP) aircraft in preparation for a recent flight test. The aircraft, H2.5, successfully completed its maiden flight from Lackland Air Force Base (AFB) in San Antonio, Texas, March 25. Boeing is scheduled to deliver H2.5 to the U.S. Air Force Flight Test Center at Edwards AFB, Calif., later this month.

The U.S. Air Force initiated the modernization program to consolidate multiple C-130 avionics configurations in its fleet. The C-130 AMP provides enhanced digital avionics that significantly increase situational awareness for the warfighter. Upgrade commonality brought by the AMP offers additional flexibility in assigning aircrews regardless of the model design type.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines took delivery of its 15th Boeing 777-200ER (Extended Range) last Friday from Paine Field in Everett, Wash., north of Seattle. KLM is leasing the airplane from International Lease Finance Corp. (ILFC). KLM, part of the Air France KLM Group, operates the 777-200ER on long-haul international routes from its Amsterdam base to cities such as Cape Town, Los Angeles and Tokyo.

To complement its existing fleet, the airline has ordered the 777-300ER and currently has a total of 19 777s in operation and on order through direct purchase and lease agreements. "Our aim is to have a young and technologically advanced fleet of wide-body airplanes to get the best performance and value available on the market today. And, equally important to us and the communities we serve, the 777 is quiet and CO2 efficient," said Peter Hartman, president and chief executive officer of KLM. The airplane arrived at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport on April 28.

Turkish Technic, a wholly owned subsidiary of Turkish Airlines, has adopted Boeing's [NYSE: BA] Web-based maintenance solution, Maintenance Performance Toolbox, to help improve the maintenance of its fleet of 14 Classic 737s and 41 Next-Generation 737s.

Turkish Technic will use available Toolbox modules including Library, Tasks, Structures, Authoring and Systems. These modules will help the airline streamline an array of maintenance and repair activities including managing technical publications and training, customizing online maintenance manuals, updating and tracking maintenance task cards, and performing core maintenance and engineering tasks.

"In a competitive market such as ours, we must remain committed to operating as efficiently as possible and using our most expensive assets, our airplanes, to their fullest," said Ismail Demir, general manager of Turkish Technic. "Boeing's Maintenance Performance Toolbox will help us achieve faster turnarounds so that we can keep our airplanes in the air. This is where our customers, and our investors, want us to be."

Boeing's innovative suite of aircraft maintenance software tools is the industry's first set of productivity tools designed to unify an airline's maintenance and engineering operations from start to finish.

"Maintenance Performance Toolbox has become a must-have solution for airlines committed to maximizing their efficiency," said Dan da Silva, vice president of Sales and Marketing for Boeing Commercial Aviation Services. "Precisely because Turkish Airlines is so respected as an efficient 737 operator, this endorsement is a great validation for us."

Accessible via an Internet browser as a secured, hosted service, Toolbox is a key component within Boeing's evolving portfolio of performance-enhancing products for aircraft maintenance. Boeing will provide reliable access to the Toolbox tools for Turkish Technic through its secure Internet portal, MyBoeingFleet.com. Only an Internet connection, password and computer -- a laptop, desktop or pen tablet -- are necessary to access the system.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has been awarded a $7.1 million U.S. Navy contract to provide a ship-wide communications network for three guided missile destroyers (DDG).

Under the agreement, Boeing will support the installation and checkout of the Fiber Optic Data Multiplex System (FODMS) for DDG 110 and complete the design of the Gigabit Ethernet Data Multiplex System (GEDMS) for DDGs 111 and 112.

"As the Navy's design agent for FODMS and GEDMS hardware and software, Boeing provides a system that best meets the requirements for modernizing the fleet of DDG 51 Class destroyers and LHD 1-7 amphibious assault ships. This ensures crew safety and fleet survivability," said Jay Nieto, Boeing DMS/FODMS/GEDMS program manager.

The FODMS/GEDMS network is a complete information transfer system that enhances reliability, maintainability and survivability by managing data from the ship's navigation, steering control, damage control, machinery control, combat and internal communications systems.

Currently, DMS/FODMS is installed on 45 percent of naval surface combatants and 34 percent of all surface ships. With the addition of GEDMS, shipboard networking will be available on 65 percent of naval surface combatants and 42 percent of all surface ships. FODMS provides 100 Megabits of bandwidth, compared to 24 Megabits for DMS. GEDMS will provide 1 Gigabit of bandwidth.

The contract, awarded by the Naval Sea Systems Command in Washington, D.C., will be managed by Boeing C3 Networks' Data Multiplex Systems (DMS) and FODMS/GEDMS program. Work will be conducted in Anaheim, Calif., and Arlington, Va., and is expected to be completed by November 2011.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and launch- customer Lion Air today celebrated the delivery of the first Next-Generation 737-900ER (Extended Range) airplane. The airplane was delivered in a special dual paint scheme that combines the Lion Air lion on the vertical stabilizer and the Boeing livery colors on the fuselage. Boeing launched the 737-900ER program in July 2005 when Jakarta-based Lion Air announced the initial order for 30 of the newest 737 model. To date, Lion Air has ordered 60 737-900ERs.

"This is a proud day for me and the Lion Air family as we take delivery of the world's first 737-900ER," said Rusdi Kirana, president director of Lion Air. "The unprecedented economic advantages, passenger comfort and superior reliability of this airplane are key to our growth as we expand our routes and add new destinations."

The 737-900ER, the newest member of the Next-Generation 737 airplane family, increases the capability of the 737 by carrying more passengers and flying farther.

"We thank Lion Air for having the confidence and vision to become the launch customer of the 737-900ER," said Dinesh Keskar, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president of Sales. "With more range and the lowest operating cost of any single-aisle jet in its class, the 737-900ER will deliver superior economics and premier service to support Lion Air's strategic expansion plans."

The twin-engine jet incorporates a new pair of exit doors and a flat rear-pressure bulkhead that allow a maximum capacity of 220 passengers in a single-class layout.

Aerodynamic and structural design changes, including strengthened wings, a two-position tailskid, enhancements to the leading and trailing-edge flap systems, optional Blended Winglets and auxiliary fuel tanks, will allow the 737-900ER to accommodate higher takeoff weights and increase its range to 3,200 nautical miles (5,900 km).

The 737-900ER will have substantial economic advantages over competing models, including 9 percent lower operating costs per trip and 7 percent lower operating costs per seat, and 565 nautical miles more range than the A321, which is more than 10,000 pounds (4,536 kg) heavier. The 737-900ER joins the 737-600, -700, -700ER and -800 airplanes and will share the same industry-leading reliability of the other Next-Generation 737 series models.

As of March 31, 2007, eight customers have placed orders for 104 Next-Generation 737-900ERs, and more than 6,800 orders have been placed for 737s.

Lion Air operates an all-Boeing fleet and is the largest low-cost airline in Asia with traffic approaching one million passengers per month since the airline's inception in June 2000.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has begun flight testing the AC-130U Gunship with new 30 mm cannons at Hurlburt Field, Fla.

Boeing is modifying four gunships for the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command by installing and testing the cannons so existing airplanes have increased combat effectiveness. The AC-130U features increased weapon stand-off range, improved first-shot accuracy, and a suite of electronic and infrared countermeasures that greatly enhance its survivability. Boeing will deliver the gunships later this year.

The Bushmaster 30 mm cannons protrude from the gun ports of AC-130U gunships as shown during tests in January at Hurlburt Field. The 30 mm cannon eventually will replace both the 40 mm cannon and 25 mm gun on U-model gunships.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Arik Air today announced an order for three 787-9s, two 777-200 LRs (Longer Range) and two 777-300ERs (Extended Range) at the delivery ceremony for two new 737-700s that will soon begin operations from the airline's home base in Lagos, Nigeria. The list-price value of the new order is approximately $1.5 billion. The airplanes were previously listed as unidentified on Boeing's Orders & Deliveries website.

Lee Monson, Boeing Commercial Airplanes vice president of Sales for the Middle East and Africa, formally announced Arik Air's order for the twin-aisle jets while hosting the airline's chairman, Sir J.A.I. Johnson; the managing director, Mike McTighe; and Dr. Harold Olusegun Demuren, director general of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, as well as a large visiting delegation from Nigeria.

"This is a big day for Boeing and for the advancement of Nigeria's aviation sector," Monson said. "We know from our many strong relationships with African carriers that viable airlines play an instrumental role in countries' economic development. We're proud that acquiring new Boeing jets is integral to Arik Air's plans for modernization as they grow and prosper."

Arik Air is the fourth airline on the African continent to order Boeing's fast-selling 787 Dreamliner, as well as the fourth to order the market-leading 777. Boeing is currently working with Arik Air as the airline moves toward achieving Category 1 status with the FAA so that it may fly direct routes to and from the U.S.

"Arik Air has demonstrated its commitment to providing reliable, world-class air travel to and from Nigeria with an aggressive acquisition plan for the world's most modern and advanced commercial jets," said Arik's McTighe. "This will allow for a staged and strategic expansion plan both regionally and internationally that provides the utmost in passenger comfort and safety."

Launched in 2006, Arik Air is growing its fleet to 16 airplanes by June, and they will serve up to 11 domestic routes. In addition to bringing new airplanes into operation, the airline is also taking a leading role in contributing to the improvement of Nigeria's aviation infrastructure as a whole.

"Nigeria's aviation sector has truly turned a corner and is headed in the right direction," said Dr. Demuren, who was selected last year to lead Nigeria's Civil Aviation Authority. "It's very rewarding to be here today witnessing firsthand the unveiling of Arik Air's new Boeing Next-Generation 737s and to know Boeing is committed to work with Nigeria as we implement vast and far-reaching commercial aviation improvements throughout the country."

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, scheduled for entry into service in 2008, provides passengers with a better flying experience, and operators with a more efficient commercial jetliner. With the Dreamliner, Boeing continues its leadership and innovation with a mostly composite airplane that uses 20 percent less fuel per passenger than similarly sized airplanes. The 787 is designed for the environment with lower carbon emissions and quieter takeoffs and landings. Inside the airplane, passengers will find cleaner air, bigger windows, more stowage space and improved lighting.

Since the 787 launch in April 2004, 44 customers worldwide have logged 567 orders worth more than $75 billion at current list prices, making the Dreamliner the most successful commercial airplane launch in history.

The 777 family of airplanes is the market leader in the 300 to 400-seat segment, consistently capturing more than 65 percent of that market since its launch. To date, 52 customers worldwide have placed 952 orders for the efficient, reliable and passenger-pleasing 777 jetliner. Boeing continues to enhance the 777 family with the recent introduction of two new longer-range models and a freighter version currently in development.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] today confirmed that Russia's S7 Group has ordered 10 Next-Generation 737-800s and secured purchase rights for an additional 10 of the world's most popular jetliner. The aircraft have been carried as "unidentified" on the Boeing order Web site since last November. At list prices, the order is valued at $705 million.

Moscow-based S7 Group will operate the aircraft through S7 Charter, a newly-established charter airline that will use its 737-800s on routes connecting Moscow to numerous popular resort destinations outside of Russia.

"We thoroughly analyzed all aircraft currently available in the market before making our final decision," said Vladislav Filev, chief executive officer of S7 Airlines. "As a result, we chose the Next Generation Boeing 737-800, which we believe is the best aircraft of its class, is known for its reliability and fuel-efficiency, and which perfectly fits the S7 routes."

"This is another strong endorsement of the 737," said Craig Jones, Boeing vice president of Sales for Russia. Speaking at the announcement ceremony in Moscow, Jones added, "S7 Charter will use these new 737-800s to give its customers the best service available in terms of reliability and comfort."

The Boeing 737-800 is the best-selling version of the highly successful Next-Generation 737 family, the most technologically advanced airplanes in the single-aisle market. The Next-Generation 737's market success has been confirmed by investors who consistently rank it as the most preferred single-aisle airplane due to its wide market base, superior performance efficiency and lowest operating costs in its class.

Since its introduction in 1997, more than 100 customers have ordered more than 3,700 Next-Generation 737s. Boeing has an unfilled order book of more than 1,500 Next-Generation 737 airplanes worth more than $100 billion.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] played a key role in today's eighth successful intercept of a ballistic missile target by the Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) and the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) Weapon System.

The test, Flight Test Maritime-11 Event 4 (FTM-11), further validated efforts by the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA) and the U.S. Navy to provide a sea-based defense against short- to intermediate-range ballistic missile threats. FTM-11 Event 4 was the second test of the Block IA version of the SM-3 and the first test of the Block IA with a full-capability solid divert and attitude control system (SDACS). The SDACS maneuvers the kinetic warhead (KW) to the target using multiple pulses of gas generated by the SDACS propellant. Boeing builds several components of the KW, including the guidance electronics, which it integrates with the Raytheon infrared seeker.

"This test successfully demonstrated the modified SM-3 Kinetic Warhead's performance for the first time in an exo-atmospheric intercept. The test showed that modifications made over the last two years have been effective and the SM-3 and its Kinetic Warhead provide the system performance needed by the warfighter to defeat ballistic missile attacks," said Debra Rub-Zenko, vice president of Boeing Integrated Missile Defense. "Boeing is proud to be a member of the industry team committed to providing this extraordinarily effective operational capability to MDA and the Navy."

The SM-3 Block IA, fired from the guided missile cruiser USS Lake Erie, destroyed the short-range ballistic missile target launched from the Navy's Pacific Missile Range Facility on Kauai, Hawaii. Once the Aegis BMD system guided the SM-3 to the right point in space, the SM-3 kinetic warhead successfully acquired the target and computed an accurate guidance and control intercept trajectory for the hit-to-kill intercept.

Boeing has partnered with Raytheon on SM-3 development since 1996 and is under subcontract to integrate and test the KW avionics, guidance and control hardware and software, as well as the ejection subsystem. In addition to SM-3 round integration, Raytheon provides the KW infrared seeker, the signal and image processor and the integrated KW software.

In addition to its work on the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense program, Boeing holds key roles in several other elements of the U.S. Ballistic Missile Defense System architecture. Boeing is prime contractor for the Ground-based Midcourse Defense system and the Airborne Laser. It also develops and produces the seeker for the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) Missile.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and Oak Hill Capital Partners, a leading private equity firm, today announced an order for six Boeing 777 Freighters. The order is valued at about $1.4 billion, at list prices.

The six-airplane order brings Boeing's total for the twin-engine freighter to 71 airplanes from 10 customers since its launch in May 2005. Oak Hill will be purchasing these planes through a new aircraft leasing platform that it is establishing in connection with the purchase.

"This is a great opportunity for us to work with the excellent team at Oak Hill Capital Partners as our newest 777 customer," said Ray Conner, vice president, Sales - Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Oak Hill is well positioned to help in expanding the customer base for the 777 Freighter by allowing operators to experience the superior economics and reliability for which the 777 family is known."

Rowan Taylor, a partner with Oak Hill Capital Partners, added, "This is an important component of Oak Hill's overall aerospace investment strategy. We look forward to continuing to work with the Boeing team to expand our aircraft portfolio."

The 777 Freighter is based on the 777-200LR Worldliner (Longer Range) passenger airplane. The twin-engine cargo airplane provides revenue payload capability of 229,000 pounds (104 tonnes) with a range of 4,885 nautical miles (9,047 km), and the lowest trip cost of any large freighter.

The 777 Freighter will have unmatched capacity for a twin-engine freighter and is designed to facilitate easy cargo transition with the Boeing 747 Freighter, the world's most popular cargo airplane. Both models are capable of 10-foot-high (3.1-meter) loads and load densities up to about 10 pounds per cubic foot (160 kg per cubic meter).

The 777 Freighter will be powered exclusively by the world's most powerful commercial jet engine, General Electric's GE90-110B1L, and will meet QC2 noise standards for maximum accessibility to noise-sensitive airports.

Boeing is the undisputed air cargo market leader, providing more than 90 percent of the total worldwide dedicated freighter capacity. Boeing projects that global air cargo will grow by an average 6.1 percent annually during the next 20 years.

Oak Hill Capital Partners is a private equity firm with more than $4.6 billion of committed capital from leading entrepreneurs, endowments, foundations, corporations, pension funds and global financial institutions. Robert M. Bass is a lead investor. During a period of nearly 20 years, the professionals at Oak Hill Capital Partners have invested in more than 50 significant private equity transactions. Oak Hill Capital Partners is one of several separate Oak Hill partnerships, each of which has a dedicated and independent management team. These Oak Hill partnerships comprise more than $20 billion of investment capital across multiple asset classes, including private equity, special situations, high yield and bank debt, venture capital, real assets, public equity and hedge funds.

Today, the Oak Hill partnerships' aerospace investments include (i) Primus International, Inc., a leading global Tier 2 supplier of structural components, kits and assemblies, (ii) Cargo 360, Inc., a leading global air cargo service provider and (iii) a portfolio of aircraft on lease to airlines around the world.

The newest member of the Boeing Next-Generation 737 family, the 737-900ER (Extended Range), earned type certification from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration on April 20.

The 737 derivative incorporates an extra pair of exit doors to increase the maximum passenger capacity, a flat aft-pressure bulkhead to increase interior volume, a two-position tailskid for improved takeoff and landing capability, wing strengthening changes to accommodate the 13,500 pound maximum takeoff weight increase, enhancements to the leading and trailing edge flap systems for improved takeoff and landing capability, and optional Blended Winglets and auxiliary fuel tanks that increase the range of the 737-900ER to 3,200 nautical miles (5,925 km).

The airplane is certified to carry up to 220 passengers in a single-class configuration.

On July 18, 2005, Indonesia's Lion Air launched the higher capacity, longer range Next-Generation 737-900ER with an order for 30 airplanes. Airlines have ordered more than 100 Next-Generation 737-900ERs to date.

The airplane is shown here during flight testing.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] and New Delhi-based SpiceJet today announced that the airline has ordered 10 Next-Generation 737-800s. The order, valued at more than $700 million at list prices, follows previous orders in February 2005 and August 2006 for a total of 30 737s.

"The 737's reliability, low operating cost and passenger comfort provide unmatched value for both SpiceJet and its customers," said SpiceJet board director Bhulo Kansagra. "These aircraft are enabling us to add capacity on new and existing routes, and will continue to support SpiceJet's mission of being India's preferred low-cost airline."

The 10 737s will be fitted with Blended Winglets, which will improve fuel efficiency, increase range, and reduce CO2 emissions and takeoff noise.

"The 737 continues to play an integral role in meeting the needs of India's rapidly growing aviation market, and SpiceJet's commitment to the Next-Generation 737 is a key example of the success of this airplane," said Dinesh Keskar, vice president of Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The 737-800, with its combination of 189 seat count, range, fuel efficiency, low maintenance, and overall economics, is the most efficient airplane in the market, serving a broad range of business models worldwide."

SpiceJet, one of India's newest start-up private carriers, uses a single-class seating configuration on its short- and medium-haul flights within India. SpiceJet began service in May 2005 with three leased Boeing 737-800s, and today operates a fleet of 11 737-800s.

The digitally designed Next-Generation 737 is the most technologically advanced airplane family in the single-aisle market. With a bigger wing and more powerful engines, the 737 can fly higher, faster and farther than its competitor. The 737-800, which can seat from 162 to 189 passengers, is 1,500 pounds lighter, can fly 260 nautical miles farther and 1,100 feet higher while carrying 12 more passengers than the competing model.

As of March 31, 2007, the Next-Generation 737 has logged 104 customers who have placed orders for more than 3,700 Next-Generation 737s, and has more than 1,500 unfilled orders with a value of more than $100 billion at current list prices.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] this month successfully completed a critical Global Positioning System (GPS) Space Segment III System Design Review, supporting the U.S. Air Force's requirement for a low-risk, high-confidence acquisition solution.

During the review, Boeing demonstrated the technical readiness of its GPS III payload design that will allow the Air Force to field and upgrade GPS satellites quickly and cost effectively. This solution, combined with signal power improvements, provides a more capable GPS service for civilian and military users.

"We clearly showed the technical maturity and backward compatibility of our flexible and scalable design for the Air Force," said Charles Toups, vice president, Boeing Navigation and Communication Systems, a unit of Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems. "We designed the GPS III system to be scalable so the design of the first spacecraft can gracefully grow to accommodate future capability upgrades without requiring an entirely new spacecraft design. This approach greatly reduces costly and time intensive re-qualification and shortens the development time to deploy new capabilities."

The Air Force is expected to award the multi-billion dollar GPS III contract soon in order to meet a projected launch need in 2013. Boeing's "back-to-the-basics" space system acquisition plan positions Boeing and the Air Force to move forward with detailed design development and, eventually, GPS III production.

GPS III will provide improved navigation and timing accuracy and broadcast more powerful signals that are less vulnerable to jamming. It also will incorporate a new civil signal that is interoperable with Europe's upcoming Galileo system. Boeing's adaptable GPS III design allows the government to provide enhanced position, navigation and timing information while effectively managing lifecycle costs.

Boeing is working closely with the U.S. Air Force to deliver new, advanced GPS capabilities to the military, civil government and general public as early as possible. This includes Boeing's current production of 12 GPS Block IIF satellites under a contract from the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Systems Center in Los Angeles. Boeing will deliver the first GPS IIF satellite in 2008.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] today confirmed an order by Air Canada, announced Tuesday by the airline, for 23 Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The order brings to 37 the number of 787s ordered by the airline. Air Canada has ordered more Dreamliners than any other carrier in the Western Hemisphere.

The 23 787s are worth approximately $3.5 billion at list prices. The order brings the total number of announced firm 787 orders to 567 from 44 customers. As part of today's deal, Boeing and Air Canada agreed to cancel two 777 freighter orders.

"Air Canada will be among those airlines prepared to provide passengers with the most modern flying experience possible using the 787 -- higher cabin humidity, large windows, a lower cabin altitude and more cabin space," said Ray Conner, vice president, Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

Air Canada was the 25th airline to select the 787 Dreamliner when, in 2005, it ordered 14 ultra-efficient 787s.

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is being designed with airlines, passengers, investors and the environment in mind. The technologically advanced airplane will use 20 percent less fuel than today's airplanes of comparable size, provide customers with up to 45 percent more cargo revenue capacity, and present passengers with innovations including a new interior environment with higher humidity, wider seats and aisles, larger windows, and other conveniences.

Final assembly for the all-new Boeing [NYSE: BA] 787 Dreamliner is one step closer with the April 24 arrival in Everett of the horizontal stabilizer.

Manufactured by Alenia Aeronautica at its facility in Foggia, Italy, the horizontal stabilizer is transported in five pieces - the left and right stabilizer, two elevators and a center. The shipment configuration measures nine feet wide, 13 feet high and is 42 feet long. It was delivered to Boeing late yesterday via the Dreamlifter, a specially modified 747-400 used to transport 787 major assemblies. The horizontal stabilizer was loaded into position in the 787 final assembly bay earlier today. The completed assembly has a wing span of approximately 62 feet and measures 32 feet fore/aft.

"In the coming weeks we will receive other major assemblies for the first Dreamliner," said Scott Strode, 787 vice president of Airplane Definition and Production. "This is a very exciting time for the program."

The 787 Dreamliner is the fastest-selling airplane in aviation history, with firm orders for 544 airplanes from 44 airlines.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Virgin Atlantic today announced an environmental partnership, which includes an order for 15 787-9 Dreamliners, marking the largest 787 order to date for Europe.

The order, worth approximately $2.8 billion at list prices, was previously listed on Boeing's Orders and Deliveries Web site and attributed to an unidentified customer. The order also includes options for an additional eight 787-9s and purchase rights for an additional 20 787s.

"Virgin Atlantic is pleased to introduce the Boeing 787 Dreamliner as our aircraft of the future," said Steve Ridgway, chief executive officer, Virgin Atlantic. "This revolutionary aircraft will bring a step change to the industry, substantially reducing environmental impact and incorporating innovative design and advanced technology, while providing an enhanced flying experience for our passengers."

The environmental partnership includes a joint biofuel demonstration aimed at developing sustainable fuel sources suitable for commercial jet engines and the aviation industry. The demonstration, scheduled for 2008 using a Virgin Atlantic Boeing 747-400, is being worked jointly with GE Aviation and Virgin Fuels. Further details will be announced later this year.

In addition, Boeing and Virgin Atlantic are working together on reducing fuel burn and cutting aircraft emissions on the ground by exploring alternatives to traditional aircraft operations at airports. For example, Boeing and Virgin Atlantic are partnering on trials of towing airplanes to "starting grids," areas close to the active runway to start engines preflight, with a goal of reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions by up to 50 percent, as well as limiting community noise. Trials conducted thus far at London's Heathrow and Gatwick Airports and San Francisco International Airport have produced positive results, and work continues to develop alternative operational procedures at the world's busiest airports.

"Virgin Atlantic has demonstrated extraordinary leadership within our industry on addressing environmental impact, and Boeing is proud that the 787 Dreamliner is such an important ingredient of the airline's plan for the future," said Scott Carson, president and chief executive officer, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Working together in partnership, Boeing and Virgin Atlantic will develop innovative, environmentally progressive solutions to provide greater fuel efficiency and lower aircraft emissions."

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, scheduled for entry into service in 2008, provides passengers with a better flying experience, and operators with a more efficient commercial jetliner.

With the 787 Dreamliner, Boeing continues its leadership and innovation with a mostly composite airplane that uses 20 percent less fuel per passenger than similarly sized airplanes. The 787 is designed for the environment with lower carbon emissions and quieter takeoffs and landings. Inside the airplane, passengers will find cleaner air, bigger windows, more stowage space and improved lighting.

Since the 787 launch in April 2004, 44 customers worldwide have logged 544 orders worth more than $75 billion at current list prices, making the Dreamliner the most successful commercial airplane launch in history.

April 24

Boeing [NYSE: BA] named Randy Tinseth vice president, Marketing, for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. Tinseth will be responsible for marketing Commercial Airplanes' entire family of products and services through a wide range of activities, such as understanding market requirements, contributing to Commercial Airplane's planning and product development, supporting market positioning and sales activities, as well as hosting the Commercial Airplanes blog, "Randy's Journal." The position reports to Mike Cave, vice president, Business Strategy and Marketing.

Tinseth, 47, succeeds Randy Baseler, who is retiring April 30.

"Randy Tinseth brings to this role a superb understanding of the market and our airline customers," said Cave. "This is a seamless transition as he continues the exceptional work done in recent years by Randy Baseler in sharing our product strategy story. And, of course, there's the added plus that we won't be forced to change the name of the very popular 'Randy's Journal' blog."

In his previous role on the 747-8 Program, Tinseth was responsible for developing marketing and in-service support strategies for the new 747-8 program, executing sales, and working with the customer base. Named to the position in March 2006, he helped prepare the market for the introduction of the 747-8, refining the focus on the unique service offerings for this airplane family.

Tinseth previously served as director of Product and Service Marketing, where he was responsible for marketing Boeing's commercial airplanes and services to airlines, financial institutions and other constituencies around the world. During this period, the Marketing team launched innovations such as the new 787 livery, the "Name Your Plane" effort that led to the selection of the Dreamliner name, and the "newairplane.com" Website.

From 1997 to 2001, Tinseth was a Boeing sales director in North America, leading Commercial Airplanes sales efforts at United Airlines, Northwest Airlines, United Parcel Services, and Spirit Airlines.

He started in Marketing in 1989 with a management position in the Airplane Economics Group, and worked as part of the team that implemented new versions of Boeing's aircraft maintenance and operating cost models.

Tinseth joined Boeing in June 1981 as a flight test engineer and engineering lead on the certification of the Boeing 757 and 767.

Born in Kalispell, Montana, Tinseth holds a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from Cornell University, and in 1986 received a master's in business administration from Seattle University.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Aviation Capital Group (ACG) today announced that the leasing company has placed an order for 15 Next-Generation 737s and five 787 Dreamliners.

The order, worth approximately $1.6 billion at list prices, was previously attributed to an unidentified customer on the Boeing Orders and Deliveries Web site.

"We are delighted to add the Boeing 787 Dreamliner to our portfolio. This aircraft represents a significant step forward for mid-size widebody aircraft," said R. Stephen Hannahs, group managing director and chief executive officer of ACG. "Of course, the Next-Generation 737 continues to be an outstanding performer for airlines and is an excellent leasing asset."

ACG's current fleet contains 138 Boeing aircraft, which includes Next-Generation 737s, 737 Classics, 757s and 767s.

With today's announcement, ACG has a backlog of 52 Boeing airplanes on order. In December 2006, ACG announced that it had acquired delivery positions for 15 Next-Generation 737s from Delta Air Lines. In July 2006, ACG placed an order for 14 Next-Generation 737s and announced that it had agreed to acquire six additional Next-Generation 737s from Aeromexico, with a simultaneous agreement to lease the aircraft back to the airline.

"Boeing is proud of its partnership with ACG and the important role the Next-Generation 737 has played in its growing fleet size and market presence," said John Feren, vice president of Sales â€“ Leasing and Asset Management, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "With today's endorsement of the 787 Dreamliner, ACG is significantly expanding its widebody fleet, bringing its airline customers breakthrough technology, best-in-class fuel efficiency and lower operating costs."

The Next-Generation 737 family is the most technologically advanced airplane family in the single-aisle market. The Next-Generation 737's market success is confirmed by air finance investors, who consistently rank it as the most preferred airplane due to its wide market base, superior performance efficiency and lowest operating costs in its class. As of March 31, 104 customers have placed orders for 3,734 Next-Generation 737s. Unfilled orders for the model exceed 1,500 airplanes, worth over $100 billion at current list prices.

The technologically-advanced 787 Dreamliner will use 20 percent less fuel than today's airplanes of comparable size, provide airlines with up to 45 percent more cargo revenue capacity, and present passengers with innovations including a new interior environment with higher humidity, wider seats and aisles, larger windows, and other conveniences. Since its launch in April 2004, 44 customers have announced 544 orders for the 787.

One of the top five aircraft leasing enterprises in the world, Aviation Capital Group is owner/lessor and portfolio manager of a diversified fleet of commercial jet aircraft leased to the world's leading airlines. Its portfolio includes more than 200 aircraft leased to 95 airlines in 43 countries. ACG's Capital Markets Group also provides asset management and remarketing services to aircraft investors and institutional clients. ACG was founded in 1989 and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Pacific LifeCorp.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and iRobot Corp. [NASDAQ: IRBT] today announced they have signed a teaming agreement to design and develop a next-generation, small unmanned ground vehicle (SUGV) called the SUGV Early. The vehicle will provide military, civil and commercial users with unprecedented reconnaissance and secure, real-time intelligence capabilities.

The SUGV Early will be a smaller, lighter version of the iRobot PackBot, which is used daily in Iraq and Afghanistan to safely disarm Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and search buildings, caves and tunnels for hostile forces. To date, iRobot has delivered more than 900 PackBot robots to a broad range of military and civilian customers worldwide. The robots have performed tens of thousands of missions in Iraq and Afghanistan and are credited with saving soldiers’ lives.

The remotely operated and highly maneuverable SUGV Early will feature a video camera and commercial electro-optics, infrared sensors mounted on an articulated manipulator arm and a track-driven chassis that will allow it to negotiate rough terrain and stairs. The 30-pound backpackable unit is designed for use in a wide range of hazardous situations, such as bomb disposal and disaster relief operations. The system, which utilizes commercial off-the-shelf technology and employs the basic design of future networked robotic systems currently under development for the U.S. Army, will be ready for delivery in 2008.

"This partnership allows Boeing and iRobot to combine our expertise, capabilities and resources to provide customers with a small robotic vehicle that can perform a variety of surveillance missions and assist soldiers, law enforcement officials and rescue workers performing high-risk operations," said Dennis Muilenburg, vice president and general manager, Boeing Combat Systems. "The SUGV Early builds on lessons learned from users of the combat-proven iRobot PackBot, as well as experimentation using next-generation prototypes, to provide a solution that meets immediate warfighter, civilian and commercial needs."

"The SUGV Early will have a large, diverse customer base," said Vice Adm. Joe Dyer (U.S. Navy, Ret.), president of iRobot Government and Industrial Robots. "By teaming with Boeing, we can leverage their system-of-system capabilities and global marketing strength to quickly get these life-saving robots into the hands of our troops, first responders and allies worldwide."

Under the agreement, Boeing will provide expertise in systems integration, large volume production and global marketing, while iRobot will design, develop and manufacture the robots. Boeing and iRobot will jointly offer these commercial robots to all U.S. Department of Defense, civil and international markets.

iRobot is a provider of robots that perform dull, dirty or dangerous missions in a better way. The company’s proprietary technology, iRobot AWARE Robot Intelligence Systems, incorporates advanced concepts in navigation, mobility, manipulation and artificial intelligence. This proprietary system enables iRobot to build behavior-based robots, including its family of consumer and military robots. For additional information about iRobot, please visit www.irobot.com.

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has delivered the first full-rate production Combat Survivor Evader Locator (CSEL) radios, 5,053 units, to the U.S. Department of Defense, bringing the total number of CSEL radios delivered to the warfighter to 11,436.

CSEL is the U.S. Department of Defense's program of record for Combat Search and Rescue communications. To date, the Joint Services have ordered 16,272 CSEL radios and support equipment, including a second $36 million full rate production order. Boeing's CSEL communications system has been authorized for use in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom since December 2005.

"Demand for CSEL remains high because it's an end-to-end system that provides secure, worldwide coverage on a continuous basis, which means a lot to the warfighter, said Michael Bates, Boeing CSEL program manager.

Designed for easy use, the multifunction CSEL system is a cost-effective technological breakthrough that gives U.S. forces a tactical advantage. Unique communication and message encryption techniques prevent signals from being intercepted or decoded. Using communications satellites and global positioning technology, CSEL radios will save lives by providing real-time encrypted information about the precise location of isolated personnel such as downed pilots.

In addition to precise geopositioning information, the hand-held survival radios provide recovery forces and over-the-horizon joint search and rescue centers with two-way secure data communications capability. CSEL enables rescue forces to authenticate and communicate with isolated personnel in near real-time, anywhere in the world.

The Boeing Company [NYSE:BA] honored 11 companies tonight with its premier supplier award, presented to the company's top suppliers for their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.

The 2006 Supplier of the Year winners were selected from a field of more than 27,000 Boeing suppliers in nearly 100 countries as part of a rigorous and thorough review process. Boeing saluted the winners at its annual awards ceremony in Bellevue, Wash.

"We are pleased to recognize the achievements of these 11 suppliers for reaching extraordinary levels of performance and quality, and becoming the best in the Boeing supply chain," said master of ceremonies Steve Schaffer, functional leader of Supplier Management for Boeing, and vice president and general manager of Global Partners, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Boeing's ongoing commitment to working together with our partners helps us meet the high standards for quality, productivity and efficiency that our customers deserve and our competitive business environment demands."

Awards were presented in the following categories: Avionics, Electronics/Hydraulics/Mechanical, Major Structures, Purchased Outside Production, Common Aerospace Commodities, Aerospace Support, Non-Production/Shared Services Group, Technology, Diversity/Small Woman Business Enterprise, Diversity/Small Minority Business Enterprise, Diversity/Boeing Protégé.

The winning suppliers were chosen based on statistical measurements of quality, on-time delivery, post-delivery support and cost over a 12-month period through September 2006. They also were evaluated on their ability to anticipate and respond to changing customer requirements.

Five of the 11 winning suppliers are small businesses, as defined by the U.S. government, and two are based outside the United States.

April 19

Boeing [NYSE:BA] and CIT Aerospace, a business unit of CIT Group Inc., a leading global provider of commercial and consumer finance solutions, today announced an order for five Boeing Next-Generation 737-700s, valued at approximately $295 million at list prices.

To date, CIT has taken delivery of 31 Next-Generation 737s and has a backlog of five 787 Dreamliners and 10 Next-Generation 737s on order with Boeing.

"The Boeing Next-Generation 737 family has proven to be reliable and continues to be popular among our clients," said C. Jeffrey Knittel, President of CIT Aerospace. "Adding these five additional airplanes to our fleet helps us meet demand and further enhances our product offering to customers."

"With this follow-on order, CIT Aerospace clearly recognizes the excellent performance of the Boeing Next-Generation 737 as an investment," said John Feren, vice president of Sales - Leasing & Asset Management, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "Demand for the efficient and reliable 737 family remains very strong from lessors and operators around the world."

The Boeing 737-700 is one of the best-selling versions of the highly successful Next-Generation 737 family, the most technologically advanced airplane family in the single-aisle market. The Next-Generation 737's market success is confirmed by air finance investors, who consistently rank it as the most preferred airplane due to its wide market base, superior performance efficiency and lowest operating costs in its class. As of March 31, 104 customers have placed orders for 3,734 Next-Generation 737s. Unfilled orders for the model exceed 1,500 airplanes, worth over $100 billion at current list prices.

CIT Aerospace provides financing solutions to a broad spectrum of the global aerospace value chain ranging from operators of commercial and business aircraft to manufacturers and suppliers in the aerospace, defense and homeland security industries. CIT Aerospace manages a fleet of more than 300 commercial, regional and business aircraft leased and financed to over 100 airlines around the world.

Boeing Pico-Satellite Mission to Advance Miniature Satellite Technology

ST. LOUIS, April 19, 2007 -- A pico-satellite developed by Boeing [NYSE: BA] to evaluate miniature spacecraft technologies was successfully launched to orbit on April 17 by an ISC Kosmotras Dnepr rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.
-- A pico-satellite developed by Boeing [NYSE: BA] to evaluate miniature spacecraft technologies was successfully launched to orbit on April 17 by an ISC Kosmotras Dnepr rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.

Initial system checks indicate that the CubeSat TestBed 1 (CSTB1) spacecraft is operational and ready for a series of on-orbit demonstrations that will help Boeing further develop nano-satellites weighing less than 22 pounds.

"Our pico- and nano-satellite activities are part of a broader Boeing effort to enable a more operationally responsive space," said Alex Lopez, vice president of Boeing Advanced Network and Space Systems.

During the CSTB1 demonstrations, Boeing will test several new technologies, software designs and on-orbit operations for nano-satellite functions.

"Our team is excited that CSTB1 is in orbit, and we're ready to proceed with our demonstrations," said Scott MacGillivray, manager of Boeing Nano-Satellite Programs. "These satellites can quickly and inexpensively test miniature, low-power components and subsystems to help reduce the power requirements and weight of larger satellites."

Boeing developed the CSTB1 spacecraft at its new Engineering Development Center in Huntington Beach, Calif., where engineers are exploring new ways to reduce the size, weight and power needs for key satellite components. The new facility includes a Mission Operations Center where on-orbit operations for CSTB1 will be conducted.

"On-orbit tests of CubeSats like CSTB1 can be conducted years earlier than larger satellites and at considerably less cost than Earth-based testing. Nano-satellites also are less costly to develop and deploy than larger satellites and can piggy back on rockets launching larger payloads," added MacGillivray.

Weighing a little more than two pounds, CSTB1 consists of four microcontrollers as the brains, redundant communication systems with two independent radios, two high-capacity lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, a deployable antenna, a sophisticated control system that determines the attitude of the spacecraft using sun and magnetic field sensors, a simple attitude control system using magnetic torque coils and multi-functional boards containing sensors and electronics.

Future missions may test better control accuracy, additional electrical power, more communications bandwidth and higher computational performance.

The Boeing [NYSE: BA] KC-767A Tanker reached another significant test milestone April 12 when its aircrew successfully extended and retracted the left and right Wing Aerial Refueling Pod (WARP) hoses for the first time.

The flight marks the beginning of a series of in-flight tests --at various speeds and altitudes --that will demonstrate the hose's stability and result in using the WARP hoses to offload fuel to various aircraft.

"Extending both WARP hoses is a significant step forward not just for our air force, but for other nations that use hose and drogue refueling," said Lt. Col. Roberto Poni, Italian Air Force on-site liaison. "The Italian KC-767 will provide an unmatched multi-point air refueling capability for many years to come."

When using the WARPs, the tanker aircraft trails from either wing a hose with a drogue (basket) attached to the end. The receiver aircraft uses a probe to connect to the basket and take on valuable fuel, allowing its aircrew to complete their mission. When fully functional, each WARP can simultaneously refuel multiple aircraft and offload 400 gallons of fuel per minute.

"Now that we transferred fuel through our fifth-generation boom, extended and retracted our Hose Drum Unit and demonstrated our WARP capability, it's quite clear that we can deliver a proven, lowest-risk solution for the U.S. Air Force's next-generation tanker," said Ron Marcotte, vice president and general manager of Boeing Global Mobility Systems. "These highly advanced refueling systems, created by Smiths Aerospace, are flying today and will be key components on the KC-767 Advanced Tanker."

Boeing has produced nearly 2,000 tankers in its history and currently is building four KC-767 tankers each for Italy and Japan.

Commercial Aviation Services has signed Air Pacific for Boeing's Next-Generation 737 landing gear overhaul and exchange program. This is the first customer for the program and this agreement will cover the entire fleet of Air Pacific's Next-Generation 737 fleet.

By utilizing the Boeing Service Center Repair Network, customers will receive support anywhere around the world. Boeing will be allocating a number of shipsets (nose gear, lefthand and righthand main gear) to support future customers.

"We are excited to welcome Air Pacific to the Boeing exchange and overhaul program," said Mark Owen, vice president of Commercial Aviation Services Material Management. "We believe we can be a huge asset to their growing fleet and provide top-notch service on a 24x7 basis."

Boeing Commercial Aviation Services, a unit of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, is a customer-focused organization. It provides products, services and integrated solutions to improve fleet utilization, reduce costs, leverage leading-edge information management, and ensure passenger well-being. The Boeing Company is the world's leading aerospace company providing products and services to customers in 145 countries.

Air Pacific had as been in operation since 1951 and now serves 19 cities in 11 countries with an all-Boeing fleet. Fiji based Air Pacific in 1998 was the first scheduled operator for the Next-Generation 737 in the Southern Hemisphere. The carrier provides service to the South Pacific region; Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane in Australia; Auckland and Christchurch in New Zealand; Honolulu and Los Angeles in the United States; Vancouver, Canada; and Tokyo, Japan.

Boeing's [NYSE:BA] Commercial Aviation Services organization has signed Spirit AeroSystems [NYSE: SPR] to provide component repair and overhaul services on Boeing airplane components.

Wichita, Kan.-based Spirit will repair and overhaul engine nacelles for Boeing 777 and Next-Generation 737 airplanes as part of the Boeing Component Repair and Leasing Services Network Service Center (NSC) program, which offers component repair support for Boeing customers at sites in North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

"We welcome Spirit AeroSystems to our growing component repair and overhaul services program," said Mark Owen, vice president of Commercial Aviation Services Material Management. "Spirit AeroSystems provides a wealth of experience and an inventory of thousands of spare parts and components that will support our customers' airplane component needs around the world."

The Boeing repair network service center program is part of a continuing strategy to reduce maintenance costs and provide faster repair and overhaul solutions of key rotable components for Boeing customers around the world.

The Boeing Company is the world's leading aerospace company, providing products and services to customers in 145 countries. Boeing Commercial Aviation Services, a unit of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, provides products, services and integrated solutions to improve fleet utilization, reduce costs, leverage leading-edge information management and ensure passenger well-being.

Boeing [NYSE: BA] and Southwest Airlines said the pioneering low-cost carrier will use Maintenance Performance Toolbox to streamline maintenance on its entire fleet of Classic 737s and Next-Generation 737s. Toolbox, which is rapidly becoming a must-have software package for efficiency-conscious carriers, represents the industry's first set of productivity tools designed to unify an airline's maintenance and engineering operations from start to finish.

Southwest will use Toolbox for the airline's entire fleet of 219 Classic 737s and 264 Next-Generation 737s.

"Southwest is one of the world's premier airlines, and an order of this magnitude encourages the entire industry to sit up and take notice," said Dan da Silva, vice president of Sales and Marketing for Boeing Commercial Aviation Services. "The most important benefit, however, is the fact that an airline as successful as Southwest has decided Maintenance Performance Toolbox will help drive its efficiency to a new level."

The airline will use three modules of Toolbox: Library, Authoring and Tasks. Library will help ensure that the airline has immediate access to timely, updated source maintenance data. Authoring allows Southwest to efficiently customize its maintenance information based on its own systems. And Tasks offers a way to develop, approve and manage task cards.

In all, Toolbox today comprises six different tools in one easy-to-use suite of software products that airlines can employ to tailor an efficient solution to their specific needs. Toolbox is a key element in Boeing's efforts to help airlines gather and use precise, practical and timely information through the use of multiple digital solutions. The products, which include Airplane Health Management and the Class 3 Electronic Flight Bag, are designed to integrate seamlessly to offer an effective response to airlines' maintenance needs.

Available via an Internet browser as a secured, hosted service, Toolbox provides reliable access to all of its tools through MyBoeingFleet.com, Boeing's Internet portal.

Boeing announced its first customer for Toolbox late in 2005. Today, less than 18 months later, the program has 30 customers, including four announced so far in 2007.

Boeing-Led Team Developing Surface Navigation Concept for DARPA

ST. LOUIS, April 18, 2007 -- How would U.S. ground troops navigate precisely and effectively if signals from the Global Positioning System (GPS) were not available? Boeing [NYSE: BA] and an industry team are getting the chance to tackle that problem under a concept development contract awarded recently by the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA).
-- How would U.S. ground troops navigate precisely and effectively if signals from the Global Positioning System (GPS) were not available? Boeing [NYSE: BA] and an industry team are getting the chance to tackle that problem under a concept development contract awarded recently by the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA).

The objective of the Robust Surface Navigation (RSN) program is to develop technologies that can exploit various "signals of opportunity" -- electronic waves emanating from satellites, cell phone towers and even television transmission towers -- to provide precise location and navigation information to ground troops when GPS signals are being electronically jammed or blocked by natural or man-made obstacles, such as foliage or buildings.

"The challenge is to develop an integrated system that can use all available signals -- not just GPS -- to provide accurate navigation information through one small receiver, thereby eliminating the need for an expensive, fixed infrastructure," said Bart Ferrell, Boeing Phantom Works program manager for Precision Navigation Programs.

The Boeing-led Robust Surface Navigation team is beginning its 15-month Phase 1 concept development contract.

The team includes ROSUM of Mountain View, Calif.; NAVSYS of Colorado Springs, Colo.; and Shared Spectrum, of Vienna, Va. "Leveraging the technical expertise and capabilities of this exceptionally strong team will help ensure the development of a very robust integrated system for surface navigation," Ferrell said.

ROSUM is the only company that has used broadcast television signals to locate mobile assets. It's also the first company to combine television and GPS signals for truly robust situational awareness in all environments. ROSUM's leadership comes from GPS, cellular and television industries.

NAVSYS provides high-quality technical products and services in GPS hardware design, systems engineering, systems analysis, and software design. Founded in 1986 by Dr. Allison Brown, NAVSYS is dedicated to promoting the use of GPS in a wide variety of commercial and military applications. It offers services in three primary areas: GPS, Inertial Navigation Systems, and Communications Systems.

Shared Spectrum has developed innovative cognitive radio technologies for government and commercial customers with challenging radio communications and networking needs. The company's expertise includes defense communications in extremely challenging RF conditions and commercial communications involving novel approaches to sharing and managing spectrum access.

Boeing-Led Team Developing Surface Navigation Concept for DARPA

The Boeing-led Robust Surface Navigation team is beginning its 15-month Phase 1 concept development contract.

Boeing Orbital Express Conducts First Autonomous Spacecraft-to-Spacecraft Fluid and Component Transfer

ST. LOUIS, April 17, 2007 -- In its first on-orbit demonstration 300 miles above the Earth, Boeing's [NYSE: BA] Orbital Express system autonomously transferred propellant fuel and a battery from one spacecraft to another, marking industry firsts for the revolutionary system.
-- In its first on-orbit demonstration 300 miles above the Earth, Boeing's [NYSE: BA] Orbital Express system autonomously transferred propellant fuel and a battery from one spacecraft to another, marking industry firsts for the revolutionary system.

During the fuel transfer demonstration, the Boeing Autonomous Space Transport Robotic Operations (ASTRO) servicing spacecraft successfully transferred hydrazine propellant with Ball Aerospace's NextSat, a prototypical modular next-generation serviceable client spacecraft.

The ASTRO vehicle also used a robotic arm to transfer a battery to NextSat. It marked the first time that a spacecraft autonomously transferred hardware to another spacecraft using a robotic arm.

The landmark tests are the first in a series of planned demonstrations during a three-month mission to validate the system's functionality.

"The Orbital Express team is accomplishing things that have never been done before in space," said George Muellner, president of Boeing Advanced Systems. "These achievements are the first steps toward developing a system that will extend the life and operation of various types of spacecraft."

Orbital Express, launched to orbit on a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket on March 8, is a Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency-led effort consisting of the Boeing ASTRO servicing spacecraft and the NextSat serviceable client spacecraft.

"Boeing believes autonomous on-orbit servicing and rendezvous proximity operations can be a vital element to enable a more operationally responsive space," said Alex Lopez, vice president of Boeing Advanced Network and Space Systems.

Through pre-demonstration system checks, the team verified the spacecraft's ability to stay connected and hold a firm seal during transfer operations.

ASTRO's fluid transfer system supports typical client spacecraft configurations using either a pressure-fed (ullage recompression) or transfer pump system.

In the ullage recompression demonstration, ASTRO transferred approximately 31.97 lbm (pounds mass) of hydrazine to NextSat, satisfying the objective of 32 lbm. In the transfer pump demonstration, ASTRO transferred 2.2 lbm more than the 17 lbm target. The team then conducted a pump fluid transfer from NextSat back to ASTRO.

The team also performed an autonomous transfer of hardware between the two spacecraft. Using its robotic manipulator arm, ASTRO placed a battery on NextSat. The battery was successfully integrated into NextSat's power system following the transfer.

The demonstrations occurred at the lowest levels of spacecraft autonomy, which required several ground-based "approval to proceed" (ATP) confirmations. The team initiated ATPs to closely monitor and evaluate the operations. Future demonstrations will require fewer ATPs, allowing Orbital Express to conduct flight activities with increased autonomy. At the highest autonomy levels, no ATPs are required.

Orbital Express team members include NASA, Ball Aerospace, Northrop Grumman Space Technology, MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd., the Charles Stark Draper Laboratory Inc., and Starsys Research.

April 12

Boeing Begins Mission System Flight Testing of Upgraded AWACS Aircraft

ST. LOUIS, April 12, 2007 -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has conducted a successful first mission system test flight of an Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft upgraded under the Block 40/45 program, the largest enhancement in the history of the U.S. Air Force E-3 AWACS fleet.

During the seven-hour flight on April 5 from Boeing Field in Seattle, the crew -- composed of Boeing, U.S. Air Force and subcontractor personnel -- conducted functional tests of the aircraft's enhanced navigation, communications, radar and mission computing subsystems.

"The flight was a significant milestone because it confirms that development of the mission system suite is on track to support our flight testing plans," said Stu Oliason, Boeing U.S. AWACS Integration and Checkout manager.

In future flights, Boeing will further calibrate the upgrades and measure their performance. The mission system flight test program is scheduled for 62 flights over the next several months.

Under the Block 40/45 program, Boeing outfitted the Test System 3 (TS-3) AWACS aircraft with new mission computing hardware and software, upgraded radar equipment, and navigation and communications systems.

These enhancements are designed to increase the aircraft's capability through improved automation, human computer interface and reliability as well as lowered lifecycle costs. These upgrades make AWACS a prime catalyst for network-enabled battle management and command-and-control capability and an extraordinary force multiplier across the entire operational theater.

Based on a Boeing 707-320B airframe, the E-3 AWACS provides wide-area surveillance, command-and-control and communications functions for all airborne assets in any theater of operation. In service with the U.S. Air Force since 1977, it is also used by NATO, United Kingdom, France and Saudi Arabia. Japan's E-767 AWACS utilizes the same basic mission computing system as the current U.S. Air Force E-3 AWACS.

April 9

Boeing Awarded Contract for 18 U.S. Army AH-64D Apache Longbow Helicopters

-- Boeing [NYSE: BA] and the U.S. Army have signed a $276.4 million contact for 18 new AH-64D Apache Longbow multi-role combat helicopters.

The contract raises to 45 the number of new-build Apache Longbows on order with the U.S. Army. The U.S. Army also recently contracted for the remanufacture of 96 AH-64A Apaches into AH-64Ds. Boeing will begin delivery of these new-build helicopters in mid-2009 at its manufacturing facility in Mesa, Ariz., where Apaches have been built since the program's inception.

"The combat-proven Apache Longbow continues to support our warfighters and the battlefield commander's requirements across the full spectrum of operations," said David Almond, Boeing Block II Apache program manager. "We remain committed to producing the most superior attack helicopter in the world -- a helicopter that our soldiers can count on each and every time."

The U.S. Army uses the Apache Longbow to fulfill attack helicopter and reconnaissance requirements. Featuring fully integrated avionics and weapons, plus state-of-the-art digital communications capabilities, the Apache Longbow can rapidly detect, classify, prioritize and engage stationary and moving opposition targets at standoff ranges in nearly all weather environments.

The new U.S. Army Apache Longbow aircraft, to be built in the Block II configuration, are in addition to the 501 remanufactured AH-64D Apache Longbows built between 1997 and 2006 under two five-year, multi-year contracts

April 2

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] announced today at Can Tho University that the aerospace company is providing 13 four-year full-tuition scholarships to students at the university in the departments of Information Technology and Computer Science.

The scholarships are part of Boeing's continuing initiative to support educational improvements in Vietnam, particularly in the areas of information technology and computer sciences. The awards are in recognition of the recent 40th anniversary of the November 2006 founding of Can Tho University.

The value of the scholarships is not being made available.

The scholarships will address the need for young people to acquire skills that can attract high-technology business as well as promote economic growth and improvement in opportunities and quality of life in the economically disadvantaged Mekong Delta area of Vietnam.

The scholarships are being provided to one student from each of the 13 provinces of the Mekong Delta, and Can Tho University will select the recipients based on academic achievement and financial need. The students will receive their annual scholarship awards at the beginning of each of the four academic years, with first awards in the third quarter of 2007.

Developing skills and capabilities in the burgeoning information technology industry will provide great opportunities to the students and, in turn, their careers in IT will help create economic growth and prosperity in the Delta region, consistent with Boeing's overarching philosophy to promote education in Vietnam.

Can Tho University, the only state university in the region, is located in the heart of the Mekong Delta. CTU has become an important center for research and technology and is well known for outreach programs serving communities throughout the delta. CTU has developed a broad network of international cooperation, establishing links with many major international organizations, including training and research institutes worldwide. The university has more than 18,000 students with an additional 14,500 studying at satellite training centers in the area provinces.

Boeing is very involved with the educational system in Vietnam, conducting Information Technology and accreditation seminars in multiple locations over the past year, and has been a significant contributor to primary-school building and improvement projects in smaller villages in the country.

BOEING NEWS

Posted by Bill at 09:17 PM | Permalink

Disney News

June 8

Disneyland Adds Magical '8th Day' to the Week
Dreams Come True for Eager Fans Waiting to Ride The New Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage

In the spirit of Walt Disney's renowned ability to create magic, the Disneyland Resort is sprinkling some pixie dust on the calendar and virtually creating an "8th Day" in its operating week in anticipation of high demand for the new Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage attraction, which resurfaces June 11 in the Tomorrowland Lagoon. The subs return as part of the ongoing Year of a Million Dreams celebration at the Disneyland Resort.

Starting June 11, the day the subs resurface, guests will be allowed to join the queue until official park closing and the subs will continue their voyages to find Nemo for up to 2 1/2 hours after park closing.

"We're very excited to bring back the classic subs attraction, which we know will appeal to guests of all ages," said Ed Grier, President, Disneyland Resort. "In order to meet what we believe will be very high demand, we're virtually adding an '8th day' to the week."

The magic continues with a focus on Disney-style service. While guests are anticipating their underwater adventure, they'll be invited to "Find Nemo" while voyaging through the queue. Armed with a special Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage activity guide, they will search out "Hidden Nemos" along the way and play other Nemo-related games.

And when the hunger for the adventure becomes too much, fun Nemo-themed food creations, such as a snack pack with cheddar fish crackers mixed with an "East Australian Crunch," popcorn buckets, cupcakes, frozen apple juice and more, will be available for purchase in ports along the way and throughout Tomorrowland.

Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage takes its inspiration from two over-the-top entertainment experiences -- the worldwide smash hit Disney*Pixar motion picture Finding Nemo and the Resort's fondly remembered classic Submarine Voyage attraction that opened in 1959 and retired in 1998.

During the summer months, on average, Disneyland Park operates 16 hours per day. With 2 1/2 additional hours of potential operation each night (17 1/2 hours total per week) for the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage, Disneyland is offering guests more than an extra day each week to enjoy the attraction.

Highlighted this summer by the Grand Opening of the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage, the Year of a Million Dreams celebration at Disneyland Resort features a full lineup of immersive character encounters and other "Dream-Come-True" experiences. There are opportunities for guests to meet and play with Disney Princesses at Disney Princess Fantasy Faire, join a band of pirates at Pirate's Lair on Tom Sawyer Island, duel with Darth Vader at Jedi Training Academy, or show some school spirit in the High School Musical Pep Rally.

For more information about new attractions, the Year of a Million Dreams and vacations at Disneyland Resort visit www.disneyland.com, call (866) 60-DISNEY or visit your local travel agent.

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

May 9

Disney Expands Mix Brand with Online Music Store & More Content for Kids

Disney Mix Brand Poised for Long-Term Growth with Mix Central Media Store & More Movie Releases for Disney Mix Media Players

The Disney Mix brand is expanding online with the launch of the all new "Disney Mix Central," an online media store where parents can help their kids access favorite Disney entertainment. Designed to compliment Disney's popular line of media players, Disney Mix Stick (MP3) and Disney Mix Max (Video/MP3), http://www.DisneyMixCentral.com offers popular songs and music videos from Walt Disney Records and Hollywood Records as well as podcasts from Disney Channel. Mix Central features hits from numerous Disney stars including Miley Cyrus as Hannah Montana, The Cheetah Girls, Vanessa Hudgens, Aly & AJ, Corbin Bleu, plus soundtracks such as High School Musical and Jump In! and compilations including Disneymania 5. All Disney Mix Stick and Disney Mix Max players sold to date will support Mix Central. Additionally beginning this May, Disney will introduce seven new Disney Max video clips containing full length movies from Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment including Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl.

"The Disney Mix line has established itself as the top media player for kids because it is easy to use and designed specifically with kids in mind. Designing an online media store where parents can easily find and download the music their kids want was the natural next step," said Chris Heatherly, vice president of global electronics for Disney Consumer Products. "With Mix Central and the announcement of new movies on our plug-and-play Max Clips, we are providing kids more ways than ever to get their favorite Disney movies and music."

Disney Mix Central offers parents peace of mind with a library of youth-appropriate content on a parent-controlled site that only adults can transact on. The site provides a vibrant interactive experience, simple navigation and the latest hit Disney entertainment. Searching for media is easy and fun; guests can navigate the site by type of media including "music," "video," "podcasts" and "my stuff" - which allows guests to see their recent purchases. Additionally, a "browse by" feature is available to search for media by demographic such as "boys," "girls," "kids and teens" or by type of music such as "Disney Mania," "Radio Disney Jams," and "TV & Movie Music." Compatible with devices that support Windows DRM 10, the site also spotlights new arrivals and the latest hits and even offers free downloads every week. Songs are available for purchase individually for $0.99 or by album starting at $9.99; music videos are also available for $1.99. New music and music videos will be added on a regular basis at the same time that it is released on CD and for other digital stores.

The concept for Disney Mix Central evolved as an extension of Disney's successful line of Disney Mix digital media players especially designed for kids. Introduced in fall 2005, the Disney Mix Stick MP3 player caught the electronics industry by surprise selling out at retail and garnering accolades such as being named "the quintessential sell-out item of the holiday season" by The Washington Post. The Disney Mix Max Video/MP3 player was later introduced to high acclaim in fall 2006, leading the Disney Mix brand to become the number four best-selling brand of flash memory players in the U.S. for the Holiday 2006 period(a), according to The NPD Group's retail tracking service.

In addition to the launch of Mix Central, the Disney Mix brand continues to grow adding seven new movies to its line of Disney Max video clips - postage stamp size memory cards containing full-length movies that can be viewed on the Disney Mix Max player. From Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment, the new Disney Max Clip titles are: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, Herbie Fully Loaded, Sky High, The Cheetah Girls 2, Freaky Friday, The Princess Diaries and The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement. With 13 video max clips in total to choose from and content from Disney Mix Central, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

About Disney Consumer Products

Disney Consumer Products (DCP) is the business segment of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) that extends the Disney brand to merchandise ranging from apparel, toys, home decor and books to interactive games, food and beverages, stationery, electronics and animation art. This is accomplished through the work of DCP's various lines of business: Disney Toys, Disney Apparel, Disney Food, Health & Beauty, Disney Home, Disney Stationery, Disney Publishing, Disney Interactive Studios, Baby Einstein, and http://www.disneyshopping.com. The Disney Store, which debuted in 1987, also falls under DCP, through stores currently owned and operated by unaffiliated third parties under licensing agreements in North America and Japan, and wholly-owned stores in Europe. For more information, please visit http://www.disneyconsumerproducts.com.

About The Walt Disney Internet Group

The Walt Disney Internet Group (WDIG) offers a compelling mix of interactive entertainment and information content and services for Internet and mobile devices for audiences around the world. WDIG is both a developer of unique new media experiences specifically designed for Internet and mobile media and a developer of new platforms for distributing content selected from broad, existing entertainment divisions and libraries of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS). Its paramount mission is to provide a safe, secure environment for consumers to experience the Disney brand anytime and anywhere as they inform and entertain themselves, look to join communities with other Disney fans, or shop for products and services. WDIG integrates the unmatched breadth of content with a best-practices approach to Internet and mobile technology and drives multiple revenue streams from premium content offerings, advertising and ecommerce. WDIG, which is headquartered in North Hollywood, Calif., has operations in Asia-Pacific, Europe and the Americas.

(a) Sales based on units in the U.S. mass channel November through December 2006; data compiled by The NPD Group's retail tracking service.

April 2

Disney's 'Meet The Robinsons' Has Largest Digital 3-D Opening in History; 3-D Engagements Attract $7.1 Million on Just 581 Screens in Opening Frame

-- Moviegoers across the country showed their enthusiastic support for the future of digital 3-D exhibition over the weekend (3/31-4/2) as Walt Disney Pictures' new animated adventure, "Meet The Robinsons," grossed a sensational $7.1 million on just 581 3-D screens to become the largest digital 3-D opening in history, it was announced today by Chuck Viane, president of Disney's Buena Vista Pictures Domestic Distribution. Engagements of the film in Disney Digital 3-D(TM) represented 28% of the film's overall three-day gross of $25.1 million on just 13% of the screens. Adding to the achievement, the film's 3-D engagements grossed 2.6 times more than traditional or non 3-D engagements. This is even more impressive considering that the size of the average 3-D theatre is 243 seats. "Meet the Robinsons" represented the widest opening ever for a digital 3-D release, and played in six times the number of theaters as Disney's "Chicken Little" in 2005. It is anticipated that there will be 1200 screens available to play digital 3-D by the end of this year.

Commenting on the announcement, Viane said, "The fantastic success of 'Meet the Robinsons' this weekend and especially in its 3-D engagements is a clear signal that 3-D is bigger and better than ever. This weekend's historic achievement represents a great collaboration with the exhibition community. It's also been a pleasure working with the 3-D experts at Real D during this time of growth and innovation. Disney has been a pioneer in digital 3-D projection starting with 'Chicken Little' and Tim Burton's 'Nightmare Before Christmas.' We're thrilled to see audiences captivated by this exciting new technology, and turning out in record numbers for digital 3-D engagements. The industry continues to make history with each new digital 3-D release, and Disney plans to remain a leader in this exciting and satisfying new frontier."

Mark Zoradi, president of the Walt Disney Motion Pictures Group, added, "In theatres across the country, audiences have been clapping at the conclusion of 'Meet the Robinsons,' and gave it high marks on CinemaScore. This is a testament to the film's funny and emotional story, its engaging characters, and the excitement of seeing it in all of its 3-D splendor. Exit polls show that digital 3-D clearly adds another dimension of enjoyment to the experience, and lets moviegoers feel more connected than ever. We're proud of this latest artistic and technical achievement, and feel that it represents another milestone for Disney's incredible Animation Studio. We also are excited about many other ambitious projects that will take full advantage of advancing the digital 3-D technology."

Greg Dunn, president & COO of Regal Entertainment Group, said, "The strong 3-D showing for 'Meet the Robinsons' this past weekend only reinforced Regal Entertainment Group's view that 3-D, once and for all, is here to stay and will only continue to gain in popularity with our customers."

Tom Stephenson, president and CEO of Rave Motion Pictures, added, "The opening weekend results for 'Meet the Robinsons' in 3-D was nothing short of fantastic. We're looking forward to expanding the 3-D technology in our chain."

In February, 2007, Disney announced a partnership with filmmaker Robert Zemeckis and his partners, to create a whole new generation of performance capture 3-D animated films at the Studio.

"Meet the Robinsons" follows the amazing adventures of Lewis, a boy-genius with a love of gizmos and gadgets and an undying hope of finding the family he never knew. But Lewis' journey is about to take him to a place even he couldn't have imagined, a place where the impossible no longer exists: the future. When Lewis encounters a mysterious stranger named Wilbur Robinson, he's in for the time-travel of his life and will be whisked off to meet a family unlike any other -- the sublimely fun and futuristic Robinsons -- who will help him to discover a series of amazing and heartfelt secrets about his own limitless potential. But his incredible trip will also bring him into conflict with a villain who gives evil a bad name: the bungling Bowler Hat Guy, who steals Lewis' only way home. Filled with unforgettable characters, clever contraptions, classic villains and all kinds of eye-popping exuberance, MEET THE ROBINSONS continues in the beloved Disney legacy of looking ahead to a dazzling world of tomorrow -- as it unfolds a story about believing in family, yourself and the wide open future.

Source: Walt Disney Studios

Disney News

Posted by Bill at 07:56 PM | Permalink

Entertainment,Arts,Fashion & Technology

April 9

Avril Lavigne to Release 'The Best Damn Thing' on RCA Records April 17
Multi-Platinum Pop-Punk Icon Unveils New Rock Sound On Eagerly Anticipated Third Full-Length Album
Red-Hot First Single "Girlfriend" Currently No. 2 on Hot Digital Songs Chart

-- Multi-platinum singer/songwriter Avril Lavigne will release "The Best Damn Thing" - her eagerly awaited third full- length studio album -- on Tuesday, April 17th, on RCA Records.

"The Best Damn Thing" -- the Canadian pop-punk dynamo's first album since 2004's eight-million selling "Under My Skin" -- includes the defiantly rocking single "Girlfriend," which was co-written by Lavigne. Thanks to digital sales, "Girlfriend" debuted on Billboard's Hot 100 chart at Number Five (Lavigne's highest debut ever), and is now not only Number Two on the Top Digital Songs chart, but has also achieved gold status, selling more than half a million downloads. "Girlfriend" is also rocketing up radio's Top 40 chart and is Number One phones everywhere. The song's playful video, which features Lavigne playing several roles, has charted every single day on MTV's TRL since its debut, and has been viewed nearly 10 million times on video-sharing site YouTube.

The album also features Lavigne's current smash hit power ballad "Keep Holding On," which she co-wrote at the request of 20th Century Fox for the soundtrack to the studio's fantasy-adventure film Eragon. The single went Top 20 on Billboard's Hot 100 and climbed to Number 3 on the Hot Adult Top 40 chart.

Brimming with confidence, "The Best Damn Thing," with its spirited melodies, gutsy guitar riffs, and sing-along choruses, celebrates rebellious rock'n'roll attitude, empowerment, and sheer lust for life. With Lavigne calling it "hands down, the best I've ever made," the album finds its power and pulse in up-tempo pop-punk anthems like "I Can Do Better," "The Best Damn Thing," and "Girlfriend." It also showcases the 22-year-old's growth as a songwriter as she reaches intense emotional peaks on three new ballads: "When You're Gone," "Innocence," and "Keep Holding On." The album features the production skills of Dr. Luke, Butch Walker, Rob Cavallo, and her husband, Deryck Whibley from Sum 41.

To promote the album, Lavigne will make a series of national television appearances around its release date, including "Saturday Night Live" on April 14th, "Good Morning America" and "The Late Show with David Letterman" on April 17th, "Live with Regis and Kelly" on April 18th, and "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" on April 20th. She will also star in her own upcoming manga comic: "Avril Lavigne's Make 5 Wishes," which tells the story of an introverted teenager who, with help from her hero Lavigne, finds the courage to conquer her own personal demons. The comic, published by Del Rey Manga, goes on sale April 10th.

A seven-time Juno Award-winner, Lavigne has sold a combined 24 million albums worldwide since first coming to fame with her 2002 debut album "Let Go," which earned eight Grammy Award nominations, struck RIAA platinum six times, and sold more than 16 million copies internationally, driven, in part, by its string of anthemic youth-culture-defining hit singles: "Complicated," "Sk8ter Boi," and "I'm With You." Her moody, introspective follow-up, "Under My Skin," entered the U.S., Canadian, and UK charts at Number One in 2004 and achieved triple-platinum status in the States thanks to its smash singles "Don't Tell Me," "My Happy Ending," and "Nobody's Home."

Source: RCA Records

Web site: http://www.rcarecords.com/
http://www.avrillavigne.com/

LA Opera Presents the Gershwins®
Porgy and Bess
By George Gershwin, DuBose and Dorothy Heyward
and Ira Gershwin
and

American Operatic Masterpiece Directed by Francesca Zambello Features LA Opera Debuts by Kevin Short, Morenike Fadayomi, Alfred Walker and Indira Mahajan

Friday, May 4 - Sunday, May 20, 2007

Los Angeles, CA (April 9, 2007) - Plácido Domingo, the Eli and Edythe Broad General Director, announced that LA Opera will stage Porgy and Bess, one of the greatest American operas of all time, by George Gershwin, DuBose and Dorothy Heyward and Ira Gershwin at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion this May. Internationally award-winning director Francesca Zambello helms this powerful production from the Washington National Opera, which depicts the African-American experience through a story of love found and lost, set in early 20th-century, South Carolina. Porgy and Bess is conducted by John DeMain, well-known for conducting Houston Grand Opera's 1976 production of Porgy and Bess, which subsequently won a Grammy for opera recording and has since become a benchmark for the work. Sets and lighting of Catfish Row, South Carolina are designed by Peter J. Davison and Mark McCullough, respectively; costumes are by Paul Tazewell and the original choreography is by Denni Sayers which was recreated in Los Angeles by Jennie Ford. Porgy and Bess opens on Friday, May 4 at 7:30pm and runs for 11 additional performances through Sunday, May 20 at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 North Grand Avenue, Los Angeles.

Porgy and Bess features a double cast for its run, most of whom are making their LA Opera debuts. On May 4, 8, 11, 15, 17 and 19, Kevin Short and Morenike Fadayomi debut on LA Opera's stage in the title roles with Lester Lynch as Crown, Jermaine Smith as Sportin' Life, Laquita Mitchell as Clara and Angela Simpson as Serena. For performances on May 5, 10, 13, 16, 18 and 20, Alfred Walker and Indira Mahajan make their LA Opera debut in the title roles with Terry Cook as Crown, Victor Ryan Robertson as Sportin' Life, Alyson Cambridge as Clara and Monique McDonald as Serena. For all performances, Eric Greene plays Jake, while Marietta Simpson is Maria.
features a double cast for its run, most of whom are making their LA Opera debuts. On May 4, 8, 11, 15, 17 and 19, and debut on LA Opera's stage in the title roles with as Crown, as Sportin' Life, as Clara and as Serena. For performances on May 5, 10, 13, 16, 18 and 20, and make their LA Opera debut in the title roles with as Crown, as Sportin' Life, as Clara and as Serena. For all performances,plays Jake, while is Maria.

As the men of Catfish Row take up a game of craps, the women of the neighborhood gather to gossip about Crown's woman Bess. When Crown loses the game, he starts a fight, kills a man, and runs for his life, leaving Bess on her own. The crippled Porgy is the only person to help Bess, and the two fall in love, but not without trouble. Sportin' Life, the resident drug dealer on Catfish Row, repeatedly asks Bess to flee with him to New York City, and Crown continues to haunt Bess, turning up in the most unexpected places.

George Gershwin first read DuBose Heyward's novel Porgy in 1926, but it took seven years for the two to finish adapting the operatic version which premiered in Boston in October 1935. Gershwin composed the opera that features DuBose Heyward's libretto with additional lyrics by Ira Gershwin. Including some of George Gershwin's best known tunes -"Summertime," "Ain't Necessarily So" and "Bess, You Is My Woman Now" - Porgy and Bess has since been adapted for the Broadway stage in a play written by Dorothy Heyward, for Hollywood film and even television. Sidney Poitier, Dorothy Dandridge and Sammy Davis Jr. starred in the controversial 1959 film, which was released at a tenuous historical moment when the American Civil Rights Movement was gaining momentum, that galvanized American audiences. Houston Grand Opera's 1976 production of Porgy and Bess helped bring the work back into favor, and Porgy and Bess has since been staged in many theaters throughout the U.S. and Europe.

Porgy and Bess will open on Friday, May 4, 2007, at 7:30pm. Subsequent Evening Performances are May 5, 8, 10, 11, 15, 17, 18 at 7:30pm and May 19 at 8:00pm. Matinee Performances are May 13 at 2:00pm and May 20 at 1:00pm as well as a special Wednesday matinee, May 16 at 2:00pm.
will open on Friday, May 4, 2007, at 7:30pm. Subsequent Evening Performances are May 5, 8, 10, 11, 15, 17, 18 at 7:30pm and May 19 at 8:00pm. Matinee Performances are May 13 at 2:00pm and May 20 at 1:00pm as well as a special Wednesday matinee, May 16 at 2:00pm.

Alan Chapman speaks on the production at the pre-performance lectures, which begin one hour prior to every performance. Mr. Chapman is a member of the music faculty at Occidental College and a music radio host for Classical KUSC FM 91.5 and United Airlines' in-flight classical station.

Tickets to Porgy and Bess range from $35 to $220. Single tickets are now on sale at the Los Angeles Opera Box Office, online at www.LAOpera.com, or by phone at (213) 972-8001. All performances take place at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Music Center, 135 North Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012.

Production made possible by a generous gift from Ceil and Michael E. Pulitzer

Artist headshots
http://www.laopera.com/press/2006-07/porgy/index.htm
Production photos can also be found on the above web address following the opening performance.
Synopsis
http://www.laopera.com/productions/synopsis/porgy.htm
Feature Article
http://www.losangelesopera.com/bts/porgy.06.article01.htm

Porgy and Bess will be performed in English with English supertitles.
This is a Washington National Opera production.
All programs, artists and dates are subject to change.
will be performed in English with English supertitles.This is a Washington National Opera production.All programs, artists and dates are subject to change.

Select Artists Biographies

Francesca Zambello
Director
An internationally recognized director of opera and theater, Francesca Zambello's American debut took place at the Houston Grand Opera with a production of Fidelio in 1984. She has since staged new productions at major theaters and opera houses in Europe and the United States and currently is the artistic advisor for San Francisco Opera. Collaborating with outstanding artists and designers and promoting emerging talent, she takes a special interest in new music theater works, innovative productions and in producing theater and opera for wider audiences. This coming year she will direct The Little Mermaid for Disney on Broadway. She is also developing several new musicals - The Little House on the Prairie, Death Takes a Holiday and The First Wives Club.
An internationally recognized director of opera and theater, Francesca Zambello's American debut took place at the Houston Grand Opera with a production of in 1984. She has since staged new productions at major theaters and opera houses in Europe and the United States and currently is the artistic advisor for San Francisco Opera. Collaborating with outstanding artists and designers and promoting emerging talent, she takes a special interest in new music theater works, innovative productions and in producing theater and opera for wider audiences. This coming year she will direct for Disney on Broadway. She is also developing several new musicals - and . John DeMain
Conductor
Maestro DeMain is Artistic Director of Opera Pacific and Madison Opera and Music Director of the Madison Symphony. He has been a guest conductor of orchestras and opera companies around the world.Recent engagements include appearances at State Opera of South Australia for Dead Man Walking and the Festival Euro Mediterraneo in Rome for Candide. In 2007-08, he will conduct A View from the Bridge at Washington National Opera in addition to productions for Opera Pacific, Madison Opera and concerts with the Madison Symphony. During his previous 17-year tenure with Houston Grand Opera, Maestro DeMain led a history-making production of Porgy and Bess, which won a Grammy Award, Tony Award and France's Grand Prix du Disque. He also conducted the New York City Opera's 2002 production of Porgy and Bess, which was televised as part of the "Live from Lincoln Center" series and garnered an Emmy nomination for "Outstanding Classical Music-Dance Program."
Maestro DeMain is Artistic Director of Opera Pacific and Madison Opera and Music Director of the Madison Symphony. He has been a guest conductor of orchestras and opera companies around the world.Recent engagements include appearances at State Opera of South Australia for and the Festival Euro Mediterraneo in Rome for . In 2007-08, he will conduct at Washington National Opera in addition to productions for Opera Pacific, Madison Opera and concerts with the Madison Symphony. During his previous 17-year tenure with Houston Grand Opera, Maestro DeMain led a history-making production of which won a Grammy Award, Tony Award and France's Grand Prix du Disque. He also conducted the New York City Opera's 2002 production of which was televised as part of the "Live from Lincoln Center" series and garnered an Emmy nomination for "Outstanding Classical Music-Dance Program."Kevin Short
Porgy
Versatile baritone Kevin Short, who makes his LA Opera debut as Porgy, is the quintessential singing actor. A native of Washington, D.C., Kevin has thrilled audiences worldwide in a variety of repertoire ranging from Monteverdi and Mozart to Verdi and Stravinsky. His past operatic appearances have included roles at the Metropolitan Opera, New York City Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Opera Theatre of St. Louis, Theatre Bern, Houston Grand Opera, Edmonton Opera, Seattle Opera, among other venues in the United States and around the world. Mr. Short's concert performances include appearances with the Philadelphia Orchestra, Cleveland Orchestra, San Francisco Symphony, Boston Symphony Orchestra, St. Louis Symphony, Detroit Symphony, and the Nagano Winter Olympics Orchestra at the 1998 opening ceremonies.
Versatile baritone Kevin Short, who makes his LA Opera debut as Porgy, is the quintessential singing actor. A native of Washington, D.C., Kevin has thrilled audiences worldwide in a variety of repertoire ranging from Monteverdi and Mozart to Verdi and Stravinsky. His past operatic appearances have included roles at the Metropolitan Opera, New York City Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Opera Theatre of St. Louis, Theatre Bern, Houston Grand Opera, Edmonton Opera, Seattle Opera, among other venues in the United States and around the world. Mr. Short's concert performances include appearances with the Philadelphia Orchestra, Cleveland Orchestra, San Francisco Symphony, Boston Symphony Orchestra, St. Louis Symphony, Detroit Symphony, and the Nagano Winter Olympics Orchestra at the 1998 opening ceremonies.
Alfred Walker
Porgy
A world renowned bass-baritone, Alfred Walker makes his LA Opera debut as Porgy. Recent highlights include his La Scala debut in Elektra, Les Contes d'Hoffmann with Tulsa Opera, Die Zauberflöte with Minnesota Opera and Das Rheingold with New Orleans Opera. He is a frequent presence on the Metropolitan Opera stage, having appeared in numerous performances since his 1997 debut as Gregorio in Roméo et Juliette. He is an equally versatile concert artist. He has appeared with the American Symphony Orchestra, the New York Philharmonic Orchestra and the Boston Symphony in Carnegie Hall. His video credits include Metropolitan Opera productions of Samson et Dalila and Fidelio featured on PBS' Live from Lincoln Center. He can also be heard on Deutsche Grammophon's upcoming release of Strauss' Elektra and the complete Verdi Tenor Arias CD with Plácido Domingo.
A world renowned bass-baritone, Alfred Walker makes his LA Opera debut as Porgy. Recent highlights include his La Scala debut in , with Tulsa Opera, with Minnesota Opera and with New Orleans Opera. He is a frequent presence on the Metropolitan Opera stage, having appeared in numerous performances since his 1997 debut as Gregorio in . He is an equally versatile concert artist. He has appeared with the American Symphony Orchestra, the New York Philharmonic Orchestra and the Boston Symphony in Carnegie Hall. His video credits include Metropolitan Opera productions of and featured on PBS' Live from Lincoln Center. He can also be heard on Deutsche Grammophon's upcoming release of Strauss' and the complete Verdi Tenor Arias CD with Plácido Domingo. Morenike Fadayomi
Bess
Soprano Morenike Fadayomi, who makes her LA Opera debut as Bess, studied in Vienna. She has performed with the Gärtnerplatztheater in Munich, Cairo Opera House, Frankfurt Opera, Musiktheater Amsterdam, Festival Aix-en-Provence, Vienna Volksoper, Stadttheater Basel and Bregenz Festival and has has been a member of the Deutsche Oper am Rhein in Düsseldorf since the 1997-98 season. Her repertoire includes such roles as Micaela in Carmen, Mimi in La Bohème, Donna Elvira in Don Giovanni, and the title roles in Aida, Katia Kabanova, Salome and Tosca. Last season she had a great success in the title role of the opera La Wally by Catalani, and was nominated as best singer of the year for that performance by the magazine Das Opernwelt. She has also performed in several operettas, including The Merry Widow, Die Fledermaus, Giuditta, Der Zigeunerbaron and Das Csardasfürstin, among others.
Soprano Morenike Fadayomi, who makes her LA Opera debut as Bess studied in Vienna. She has performed with the Gärtnerplatztheater in Munich, Cairo Opera House, Frankfurt Opera, Musiktheater Amsterdam, Festival Aix-en-Provence, Vienna Volksoper, Stadttheater Basel and Bregenz Festival and has has been a member of the Deutsche Oper am Rhein in Düsseldorf since the 1997-98 season. Her repertoire includes such roles as Micaela in Mimi in Donna Elvira in and the title roles in , andLast season she had a great success in the title role of the opera by Catalani, and was nominated as best singer of the year for that performance by the magazine She has also performed in several operettas, including and among others.
Indira Mahajan
Bess
The recipient of the Maria Callas Debut Award as outstanding debut artist, Indira Mahajan has added many legendary soprano-signature roles to her repertoire including Violetta in La Traviata, the title role of Lucia di Lammermoor, Donna Elvira in Don Giovanni and Musetta in La Bohème. Convincing in a wide range of repertoire, Ms. Mahajan's operatic successes have included operas by Handel, Mozart, Donizetti as well as Puccini.In contemporary repertoire, she portrayed Clara in Porgy and Bess as her debut engagement with the New York Philharmonic in concert performances conducted by Bobby McFerrin, and in fully-staged performances on New York Harlem Theater's European Tour and in the Sherwin Goldman Production in Tokyo. She made her Washington National Opera debut as Bess in fall 2005 with this production, which was also simulcast to an audience on the National Mall. In concert, Ms. Mahajan has appeared as soloist with the Alabama Symphony, the New York Gay Men's Chorus, the New York Philharmonic, the San Diego Symphony and the Colorado Symphony.
The recipient of the Maria Callas Debut Award as outstanding debut artist, Indira Mahajan has added many legendary soprano-signature roles to her repertoire including Violetta in , the title role of , Donna Elvira in and Musetta in . Convincing in a wide range of repertoire, Ms. Mahajan's operatic successes have included operas by Handel, Mozart, Donizetti as well as contemporary repertoire, she portrayed Clara in as her debut engagement with the New York Philharmonic in concert performances conducted by Bobby McFerrin, and in fully-staged performances on New York Harlem Theater's European Tour and in the Sherwin Goldman Production in Tokyo. She made her Washington National Opera debut as Bess in fall 2005 with this production, which was also simulcast to an audience on the National Mall. In concert, Ms. Mahajan has appeared as soloist with the Alabama Symphony, the New York Gay Men's Chorus, the New York Philharmonic, the San Diego Symphony and the Colorado Symphony.

MGM and Academy Award(R) Nominated Actress/Producer/Director Salma Hayek Create New Ventanazul Label
Jointly-Owned Entity to Produce Projects With Latin Influences for Universal Audiences

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM) has entered into a partnership with producer/director and Academy Award(R) nominated actress Salma Hayek and her partner Jose Tamez to develop, produce and acquire filmed entertainment that either draws on Latin themes or features Latin talent, both in front and behind the camera, while having worldwide, mass market appeal.

Ventanazul and this fully equal partnership between Ms. Hayek and MGM follows the studio's model of empowering proven talent with creative control over their content, while focusing on the studio's distribution and marketing expertise. Ventanazul will be housed at MGM, and plans call for the financing of the company's productions to come from MGM as well as from outside structured financing. The announcement was made jointly by MGM Chief Operating Officer Rick Sands and Ms. Hayek.

Ms. Hayek will serve as President and CEO of Ventanazul, and Mr. Tamez will hold the position of President of Production. The company plans to bring two to four film projects to the marketplace per year, with MGM handling worldwide marketing and distribution. Ventanazul will tap a large talent pool, including Latin and non-Latin performers, filmmakers and writers, for a broadly defined slate of recognizable genres: dramas, comedies, thrillers, horror films, youth market movies, family movies and prestige films. In many instances, projects will be sourced from the rich and diverse Latino heritage, but realized in a modern and accessible way, for a mainstream domestic and international audience.

"My conversations with Rick Sands and the MGM team have been tremendously exciting," says Ms. Hayek. "We have been developing for months a plan to create an identity for the company that specializes in the Latino market without isolating the rest of the audience. I'm confident to say that with the help and support of MGM, Ventanazul has a specific vision that sets it apart from some of the stereotypical efforts made in the past.

What's important to us is integrating, not separating. This deal represents an amazing opportunity to draw upon the entire range of ways the Latin world can contribute to the film industry. Each project has a different element: from supporting our incredible talent behind the camera, to telling uniquely Latin stories like that of Frida Kahlo, to creating unforgettable characters -- who just happen to be Latin -- like Ugly Betty. We want these movies to appeal to everyone, but we also hope to make Latino audiences proud."

"After working with Salma on several pictures over the years, it quickly became apparent to me that she is the right person to form this groundbreaking venture which will identify, develop and produce films that fall under Ventanazul's mission," said Sands. "Not only is Salma a great actress, but as a producer and director she brings a deep and accessible understanding of the multi-cultural world we live in today. We are pleased have this historic partnership with her and her team."

MGM's partnership with Ms. Hayek continues MGM Chairman and CEO Harry Sloan's strategy to forge opportunities with proven producing and creative talent, as evidenced by the recent partnership with Tom Cruise and Paula Wagner in the re-birth of United Artists.

The agreement between Ms. Hayek and MGM was negotiated by Jonathan Bader, MGM's EVP of Business Affairs and Bill Sobel, CAA and Management 360.

About Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc.

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc., through its operating subsidiaries is actively engaged in the worldwide production and distribution of motion pictures, television programming, home video, interactive media, music and licensed merchandise. The company owns the world's largest library of modern films, comprising around 4,000 titles. Operating units include Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc., Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., United Artists Films Inc., MGM Television Entertainment Inc., MGM Networks Inc., MGM Distribution Co., MGM International Television Distribution Inc., Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Home Entertainment LLC, MGM ON STAGE, MGM Music, MGM Worldwide Digital Media, MGM Consumer Products and MGM Interactive. In addition, MGM has ownership interests in international TV channels reaching nearly 110 countries. MGM ownership is as follows: Providence Equity Partners (29%), TPG (21%), Sony Corporation of America (20%), Comcast (20%), DLJ Merchant Banking Partners (7%) and Quadrangle Group (3%). For more information, visit www.mgm.com.

Source: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc.

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

Nickelodeon and stride rite Form New Partnership Around SpongeBob SquarePants Network Event
SuperBall Footwear Line by stride rite to Serve as Co-Sponsor of the All New SpongeBob SquarePants Friend or Foe Episode Airing Friday, April 13, 8 p.m. ET/PT
Nickelodeon Will be Exclusive Marketing Platform for SuperBall Footwear Line

Nickelodeon, the number-one entertainment brand for kids, and stride rite, the leading brand of children's footwear, have entered into a new partnership surrounding the number-one property on television for kids, SpongeBob SquarePants. stride rite has signed on to become a co-sponsor of the highly anticipated SpongeBob SquarePants Friend or Foe? network event on Nickelodeon on Friday April 13, 8 p.m. ET/PT. stride rite will utilized Nickelodeon as the exclusive marketing platform for its SuperBall(R) footwear line.

As a co-sponsor, stride rite has launched a substantial advertising campaign of their SuperBall Shoe by stride rite on multiple Nickelodeon platforms in support of the SpongeBob event. The partnership will include stride rite messaging on-air, online on Nick.com and in the April issue of Nickelodeon Magazine. The on-air campaign interstitials and billboards that will feature stride rite will begin April 9. Also starting April 9, stride rite will be giving an official SuperBall as a giveaway (while supplies last) with a purchase of a pair of SuperBall shoes in celebration of SpongeBob SquarePants Friend or Foe?. In addition, stride rite will distribute an in- store flyer driving consumers to the Friend or Foe? event on Nickelodeon.

"As we continue to build relationships with advertisers in new categories, we are thrilled to bring stride rite on board as a new sponsor," said Jim Perry, Executive Vice President, 360 Brand Sales for Nickelodeon and MTVN Kids and Family Group. "Our partnership with stride rite is the melding of two leading entertainment brand for kids. It's great to kick off this new relationship and associate stride rite with the number-one show on kids' television, SpongeBob SquarePants."

"stride rite has been committed to kids for many years, which makes this pairing with Nickelodeon, the top entertainment brand for kids, a natural fit," said Phil Risinger, Vice President of Marketing for stride rite. "SpongeBob SquarePants Friend or Foe? not only gives the stride rite brand exposure during the highest-rated kids' television show, but creates awareness for SuperBall with kids during our peak spring season."

The SuperBall(R) footwear line is the first ever to incorporate authentic SuperBall Zectron(TM) technology with SuperBall in the heel of the outsole. These shoes also feature highly responsive, multidirectional traction lugs on the sole to keep kids "on their feet" no matter how fast those feet are going. And speaking of speed, these shoes are built with a unique midsole that dramatically reduces weight and maximizes cushioning from heel to toe with each step (or leap!). The upper is constructed using "high-frequency" welding for lightweight durability. With three different styles: Lace, Hook & Loop and Z Strap so there is a fit for every foot. For boys and girls; Sizes 4 (baby) to 7 (youth).

The two biggest business adversaries in Bikini Bottom have a secret hidden past, and viewers will finally learn how one-time best buddies, Plankton and Mr. Krabs, became lifelong enemies in SpongeBob SquarePants Friend or Foe? on Friday, April 13 at 5:00-10:00 p.m. ET/PT. SpongeBob Friend or Foe? will include a five-hour interactive marathon, an interactive live-action convergent contest and an all-new SpongeBob episode, Friend or Foe?, hosted by Patchy the Pirate (airing 8:00-8:30 p.m. ET/PT).

Launched in July 1999, SpongeBob SquarePants has since emerged as a pop culture phenomenon and one of the most popular series in kids' television history. The Saturday morning play of the series currently ranks as the number-one rated program among Kids 2-11. Nearly 67.2 million viewers tune into the show each month, including 24 million Kids 2-11, 14.5 million Tweens 9-14 and 32.9 million Adults 18+. (Source: Nielsen Cume Data -- November 2006). Adult viewers also continue to tune in and have increased by 78% since the premiere of the show.

The most widely distributed property in MTV Networks history, SpongeBob SquarePants is syndicated in 171 markets in 25 languages and consistently rates in the top 3 series among kids in every major market it currently airs in across Europe, Asia, Australia, Latin America and the United States.

About the stride rite children's group, inc.

stride rite children's group, inc., a division of The Stride Rite Corporation, markets the leading brand of premium children's footwear in the United States. For over 85 years, the company has designed and engineered footwear specifically to support the needs of growing children. stride rite's mission is dedicated to the craft and science of creating shoes for the unique way kids grow and play. stride rite provides confidence by supporting parents and encouraging children to embrace life's possibilities and adventures. The brand motto is "Life's Waiting. Let's Go." http://www.striderite.com/

About Nickelodeon

Nickelodeon, in its 28th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books, magazines and feature films. Nickelodeon's U.S. television network is seen in almost 92 million households and has been the number-one- rated basic cable network for almost 12 consecutive years. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE: VIA.B) .

Web site: http://www.nick.com/
http://www.striderite.com/

100 Million iPods Sold

Apple(R) today announced that the 100 millionth iPod(R) has been sold, making the iPod the fastest selling music player in history. The first iPod was sold five and a half years ago, in November 2001, and since then Apple has introduced more than 10 new iPod models, including five generations of iPod, two generations of iPod mini, two generations of iPod nano and two generations of iPod shuffle. Along with iTunes(R) and the iTunes online music store, the iPod has transformed how tens of millions of music lovers acquire, manage and listen to their music.

"At this historic milestone, we want to thank music lovers everywhere for making iPod such an incredible success," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO. "iPod has helped millions of people around the world rekindle their passion for music, and we're thrilled to be a part of that."

"It's hard to remember what I did before the iPod," said Mary J. Blige, GRAMMY Award-winning singer. "iPod is more than just a music player, it's an extension of your personality and a great way to take your favorite music with you everywhere you go."

"Without the iPod, the digital music age would have been defined by files and folders instead of songs and albums," said John Mayer, GRAMMY Award- winning singer-songwriter and guitarist. "Though the medium of music has changed, the iPod experience has kept the spirit of what it means to be a music lover alive."

The iPod has also sparked an unprecedented ecosystem of over 4,000 accessories made specifically for the iPod that range from fashionable cases to speaker systems, and more than 70 percent of 2007-model US automobiles currently offer iPod connectivity.

"I take my running shoes and my iPod with me everywhere," said Lance Armstrong, seven-time Tour de France champion. "I listen to music when I run. Having my music with me is really motivating."

Every iPod features seamless integration with iTunes 7. The iTunes Store (www.itunes.com) features the world's largest catalog with over five million songs, 350 television shows and over 400 movies. The iTunes Store has sold over 2.5 billion songs, 50 million TV shows and over 1.3 million movies, making it the world's most popular online music, TV and movie store.

Apple ignited the personal computer revolution in the 1970s with the Apple II and reinvented the personal computer in the 1980s with the Macintosh. Today, Apple continues to lead the industry in innovation with its award- winning computers, OS X operating system and iLife and professional applications. Apple is also spearheading the digital media revolution with its iPod portable music and video players and iTunes online store, and will enter the mobile phone market this year with its revolutionary iPhone.

(C) 2007 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. Apple, the Apple logo, Mac, Mac OS, Macintosh, iPod and iTunes are trademarks of Apple. Other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

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

Tickets Now On Sale for 'Icons of Music' Auction Benefiting Music Rising

Saturday April 21st, 2007 New York

Music Rising has announced that tickets are now on sale for the Icons of Music Auction to benefit Music Rising on Saturday April 21, 2007 at Hard Rock Cafe New York in Times Square at 5pm. Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com) for the auction event, which will offer one of the most significant collections of music memorabilia from many of music's greatest legends with proceeds benefiting Music Rising (www.musicrising.org), a campaign co-founded by U2's The Edge, producer Bob Ezrin and Gibson Guitar Chairman and CEO Henry Juszkiewicz in 2005 to aid musicians of the Gulf Coast Region in regaining their livelihood after the devastation of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

The live and online auction, hosted by Julien's Auctions (www.juliensauctions.com), will be offering approximately 200 pieces of music memorabilia, much of which has been specifically donated for this cause. In addition to the live auction event, performances by New Orlean's own Preservation Jazz Hall Band and legendary musician Allan Touissant will take place.

A limited number of tickets are available to the general public for the Music Rising auction event at Hard Rock Cafe New York. Benefit tickets are $1,000 each and include food and beverage, a VIP guest bag, entry into the private exclusive event, a chance to mingle amidst celebrities from around the world, viewing of some of the world's most iconic pieces of music memorabilia and the live performances. Further information regarding ticket sales and auction details can be found on various websites, including Musicrising.org, U2.com, Gibsonfoundation.org, Gibson.com, Juliensauctions.com and Hardrock.com.

The auction will feature several items donated by the band members of U2, including The Edge's 1975 Cream Gibson Les Paul (est. $60,000-80,000), an instrument highly significant to his career and U2. Other auction items include John Lennon worn sunglasses (est. $4,000-6,000); Jimi Hendrix guitar (est. $60,000-80,000); Paul McCartney hand-painted Epiphone Texan Guitar (est. $6,000-8,000); President Bill Clinton signed saxophone personalized to winning bidder (est. $2,000-4000); a Rolling Stones' signed Gibson Les Paul Music Rising Guitar (est. $20,000-30,000); and more.

About Music Rising:

Music Rising, a campaign launched in 2005 to replace musical instruments lost or destroyed by hurricanes in the Gulf Region. The initiative continues to aid those in need through its consistent efforts to aid professional musicians, churches and schools. Music Rising was formed in late 2005 by U2's The Edge, legendary producer Bob Ezrin, Gibson Guitar Chairman and CEO Henry Juszkiewicz. Partners of the campaign represent the most diverse partnership in the entertainment industry and include MusiCares, Guitar Center, Musician's Friend, Live Nation, Kennedy/Marshall, Ticketmaster, Hard Rock International, VH-1, MTV, Real Networks, ABC News Now, The NFL, Rolling Stone, Mr. Hollands Opus, ACT and the Bush-Clinton Katrina Fund. Former President Bill Clinton has even participated in press coverage for the campaign when he presented a Music Rising Gibson Les Paul guitar to a recipient in Baton Rouge, LA in 2006. Music Rising is the recipient of the prestigious 2005 HALO Award for Cause Marketing and the 2006 Billboard Humanitarian Award and has been recognized around the world by various media organizations. Music Rising is administered by The Gibson Foundation.

Source: Gibson Guitar

Web site: http://www.ticketmaster.com/
http://www.musicrising.org/
http://www.juliensauctions.com/
http://www.hardrock.com/
http://www.gibson.com/AboutUs/Foundation

Time Warner Cable Expands Its Video on Demand With the Addition of Virtual Video Store
Up to 250 classic and new classic films now available, many for as low as .99 cents

Continuing to deliver on its promise of providing more entertainment and information options for customers, Time Warner Cable today announced the addition of hundreds of classic movies available on-demand 24-hours a day.

Time Warner Cable's "on-demand video store" includes up to 250 movies, with hundreds more hours than previously available. Movies are priced from .99 cents to $1.95, and can be viewed repeatedly for 24 hours.

"Time Warner Cable is bringing more value to North Texas," said Rob Moel, Time Warner Cable North Texas Division President. "From enhancing our high definition fiber-optic network, to increasing services and products and boosting reliability, Time Warner Cable is committed to improving its overall value to North Texas customers."

Expanding video on demand is part of an extensive enhancement effort undertaken by Time Warner Cable after coming to North Texas. Recently, Time Warner Cable began rolling out Digital Home Phone service to parts of North Texas bringing phone choice to the North Texas area for the first time.

To access the hundreds of movies available through Time Warner Cable, customers can select the On Demand button on their remote control, choose "All Movies" then "$1.95 or Less", then pick a hit movie from one of these four categories: Classic, Kids & Teens, Action or Comedy.

New On-Demand video channels include:

* Classic Selections

Modern classics such as: Dirty Dancing, Apollo 13, Field of Dreams,

Scarface, 28 Days Later, Aliens, Fast and the Furious, Rocky, The

Mummy and many more.

* Kids & Teens Selection

Family friendly choices like: The Nutty Professor, Home Alone, The

Jetsons, Rugrats, Barbie, Disney movies and more.

* Action Selection

Includes: Top Gun, Shaft, The Island, Robocop I-III, Mission

Impossible I & II, Smokey & the Bandit, X-Men, Die Hard, and more.

* Comedy

Funny favorites including: Dodgeball, A Dirty Shame, Bachelor Party,

Back to School, Phat Beach and more.

About Time Warner Cable North Texas

Through continued investment to improve and enhance its high definition, fiber optic network, Time Warner Cable brings the best in technology, innovation and entertainment to the North Texas community. With Digital Home Phone, Internet and television, Time Warner Cable North Texas now offers more digital and bundling options for its customers. Plus, Time Warner Cable delivers full-time, local customer service and technical support available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For more information, visit http://www.timewarnercable.com/dallas or call 972-PICK TWC.

About Time Warner Cable

Time Warner Cable owns and manages cable systems passing approximately 26 million homes in 33 states. The Company has 14.6 million customers for its various products, including video, high-speed data and residential telephone. This includes approximately 13.4 million basic video subscribers and more than 6 million customers who purchase more than one product as of December 31, 2006. Time Warner Cable includes some of the most technologically advanced and best-clustered cable systems in the country, with approximately 85 percent of the Company's homes passed located in five geographic regions: New York state, the Carolinas, Ohio, southern California and Texas. It is the largest cable provider in the nation's two largest cities, Los Angeles and New York. Leveraging its leadership in innovation and quality customer care, Time Warner Cable delivers advanced products and services such as video-on-demand, high- definition television, digital video recorders, high-speed data and Digital Phone.

Source: Time Warner Cable

Web site: http://www.timewarnercable.com/dallas

Universal Studios Hollywood's Enhanced 'VIP Experience,' Combines Private Guided Theme Park Adventure With Unprecedented Behind-the-Scenes Access to 'The Entertainment Capital of L.A.'

-- Universal Studios Hollywood has raised the bar for its star-treatment "VIP Experience," granting limited parties of guests expanded behind-the-scenes access to previously "off-limits" areas of the famed Hollywood dream factory, pampering them with an elegant continental breakfast at a VIP Lounge, offering unlimited food service at favorite theme park locations and ushering them to the front of the line at such world famous attractions as "Revenge of the Mummy -- The Ride" and "Jurassic Park -- The Ride."

The additional access to key Studio production areas now allows "VIP Experience" guests the opportunity to see the machinery of the filmmaking process in its entirety, including sound stages and standing sets, post-production bays and craft support facilities, as well an up-close view of an authentic Academy Awards(R) Oscar(R) statuette.

Guests are steered through the famed studio's movie lot in groups of no more than 15 persons and travel aboard comfortable trolleys designed to provide them with an optimal view of every facet of the studio. VIP Guides, armed with an encyclopedic knowledge of the studio's history as well its current production schedule, provide a personalized commentary.

Created by the Studio as a perk for its stars and business associates, the "VIP Experience" has been a favorite of celebrities ranging from European sovereigns to Hollywood royalty. Only in recent years, in response to growing demand for a "luxury" studio experience, has the program been offered to the public and never before with these new enhancements.

The new additions to the program -- which extend the all-day "VIP Experience" by nearly two hours -- include a private tour of the production facility where movie set and scenic design as well as lighting techniques are created. Guests now have a chance to observe film and television sets in the early phases of construction and also get an illuminating glimpse at the complexities of set lighting design.

A tour of the world's only fully functioning "Production House" located on a remote part of the backlot will involve guests in another facet of the movie making process by showcasing the use of a practical house, constructed for the sole purpose of accommodating entire film cast and crews in a real house environment.

The immersive experience also includes a visit to Universal's famed Property Warehouse, situated in the heart of the studio's backlot. Built in 1915, the "Prop House" is the largest of its kind in the world. A 100,000 square-foot, three-story facility, the "Prop House" contains an eclectic assemblage of more than 400,000 items representing virtually every set dressing and handheld article required for any movie across time the world over. Miles of aisles inside the Property Warehouse reveal a limitless collection of furniture, draperies, kitchen supplies, statues, musical instruments, jewelry, weapons and more.

The "VIP Experience" also introduces guests to the intricacies of film and television sound post-production with a behind-the-scenes tour of the Studio's Sound Department where they will observe various techniques applied in dubbing, sound mixing, ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement) and Foley sound effects.

"VIP Experience" guests also disembark from the trolley to stroll along an array of movie sets made famous in such hits as Steven Spielberg's "War of the Worlds," "Bruce Almighty," "Evan Almighty," "Back to the Future," "Spartacus," "Psycho," and "Dr. Seuss' The Grinch Who Stole Christmas," as well as sites for such horror favorites as "Frankenstein," "Dracula," and "The Wolf Man."

A highlight of the "VIP Experience" features escorted, hassle-free front-of-the-line privileges at many of Universal Studios most popular attractions, and complimentary breakfast and lunch with the inclusion of the theme park's "All You Can You Eat" program to help round out a complete VIP day.

"VIP Experience" costs $199.00 per person. Reservations are available online at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com or by calling 818-622-5120. "VIP Experience" gift certificates are also available.

Universal Studios Hollywood, The Entertainment Capital of L.A., includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour, the CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex, the Universal Cinemas and the Gibson Amphitheatre concert and special event venue. The theme park features such groundbreaking attractions as "Revenge of the Mummy -- The Ride," "Shrek 4-D," "Jurassic Park -- The Ride" and the world-renowned Studio Tour, which takes guests behind-the-scenes of such landmark TV and movie locations and sets as Steven Spielberg's "War of the Worlds." CityWalk features 65 entertainment-themed restaurants, nightclubs, shops and dynamic entertainment options. The Universal Cinemas, which includes California's largest IMAX venue, features the best movie-going experience in Los Angeles.

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

Source: Universal Studios Hollywood

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

Hilary Duff to Contribute Latest Single to Nexon America's New Dance Game
Audition, the Newest Virtual Clubbing Hotspot, Opens Its Doors in North America

Nexon America Inc., the U.S. division of Asia's leading online games company Nexon Group, announced today the release of its massively multiplayer online dance title, Audition, now available for download at www.nexon.net. Additionally, Nexon revealed that Hilary Duff will lend her latest single "With Love" to the virtual dance floor, bolstering the library of hit songs already featured in the game.

Further strengthening the company's online games portfolio for the North American market, Nexon's Audition is a virtual community where players can chat with their friends and battle in intense dance-off competitions. Featuring songs from top artists and dynamic music composed exclusively for the game, Audition is free-to-play and subscription-free.

"One of the biggest ways I connect with my fans is online," says Hilary Duff. "And now with Audition, I have a cool new venue where I can share my music. Not to mention, I can't wait to see all the crazy and original dance competitions featuring 'With Love.'"

Pop music sensation Hilary Duff is one of the first artists to announce her involvement with Nexon's Audition. Duff's new single "With Love," off her album "Dignity," will be featured in both the game and the Audition TV commercial, now airing across a portfolio of MTVN television and online brands, including MTV, MTV2, mtvU, Comedy Central, VH1, Spike and Nickelodeon. Duff, who shot to fame with the television show Lizzie McGuire, already has three hit albums under her belt with "Metamorphosis," "Hilary Duff," and "Most Wanted," having sold over 13 million records worldwide.

"Gamers are turning to the online world not just to battle enemies and car-jack pedestrians, but to 'hang-out' and interact with their peers," says John H. Chi, president and chief executive officer of Nexon America. "Audition provides teens a trendy virtual scene where they can socialize with their friends and participate in dance-offs to their favorite songs. It also offers people another way to find and listen to new music."

Nexon America games are free-to-download at www.nexon.net and utilize an innovative cash shop system (microtransactions), which offers players the option to use real currency to pay for game enhancements. In Audition, players can purchase in-game apparel and accessories, such as designer clothes, hip haircuts, and over 180 faces that come with their own numerous and unique expressions, that enable them to create one-of-a-kind identities. These features are purely optional, and players can try out items prior to purchase in virtual dressing rooms.

With simple directional and space bar keystrokes, Audition players perform hip-hop style dance steps and choreographed routines -- precision timing being crucial. Players compete in various dance modes, each with distinctive special features and moves. Audition's in-game reward system, gives winning dancers "Beats" or currency used to purchase a variety of items from the cash shop.

Nexon America is helping drive the MMOG market in North America to meet the social and entertainment demands of younger, more mainstream consumers. Nexon's first MMO game, MapleStory, has already exceeded 3 million registered users in North America since its launch in 2006. As the pioneer of the microtransaction, or Item Selling business model, Nexon has sold millions of virtual items worldwide through MapleStory and other hit titles such as KartRider and BnB: Crazy Arcade. In 2005, Nexon Corporation reported $230 million in revenue, driven primarily from millions of microtransactions.

About Nexon America

Nexon America Inc. is the North American publishing arm of Nexon Group, a pioneer of interactive entertainment software and the world's leader in massively multiplayer online games. Based in Los Angeles, Nexon America was founded in 2005 to bring the best of online entertainment to the North American audience. The company's growing library of titles includes the world famous, smash-hit franchise, MapleStory, and the new motion-captured dance battle game, Audition. The foundation of all Nexon America titles is the Item Selling business model, in which users access the full game for free and can later opt to pay for game enhancements.

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

Vivica A. Fox Gets 'Whatever She Wants' From Her Sexy Co-Star Boris Kodjoe

-- I'm Ready Productions and Foxy Brown Productions, Inc. in association with L. Richardson Entertainment present "Whatever She Wants." Recently honored with the 2007 Trailblazer award by the NAACP Theatre Awards, Gary Guidry and Je'Caryous Johnson, founders of I'm Ready Productions, break ground once again with the stage play "Whatever She Wants," starring Vivica A. Fox and Boris Kodjoe.

The play's star, Vivica A. Fox, boasts a long list of big and small screen credits. She co-starred in Quentin Tarantino's Kill Bill Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 (Miramax), along with Uma Thurman, Darryl Hannah, Lucy Lui and David Caradine. On television, Fox is currently recurring on HBO's Curb Your Enthusiasm.

Her co-star, Boris Kodjoe, enjoyed a successful modeling career before Hollywood took notice of him. Boris got his first chance to play the lead in a major feature film in Brown Sugar, alongside Taye Diggs and Sanaa Lathan, for which he was nominated for an NAACP Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture. Boris' real breakout role was playing 'Damon Carter' on Soul Food: The Series.

"Whatever She Wants" also stars Tamala Jones and special guest star Richard Roundtree.

Whatever She Wants is produced by I'm Ready Productions, Inc. ("I'm Ready"), the Houston-based minority owned theater production company founded by producers Je'Caryous Johnson and Gary Guidry who were recently honored for their vision and impact on the urban entertainment industry by The NAACP with the 2007 Trailblazer award.

Tickets available through ticketmaster www.ticketmaster.com or for more information and tour updates please visit, www.imreadyproductions.com.

LOCATION VENUE DATE

Macon, GA Macon Centreplex April 20th

Birmingham, AL Boutwell Auditorium Apr 21st

Mobile, AL Saenger Theater April 22nd

Knoxville, TN Knoxville Civic Auditorium April 24th

Atlanta, GA Atlanta Civic Center April 25 - 28th

Greensboro, NC War Memorial Auditorium April 29th

Houston, TX Verizon Wireless Theater May 1 - 6th

Grand Rapids, MI DeVos Hall May 8th

Toledo, OH Stranahan Theater May 9th

Detroit, MI Music Hall May 10 - 13th

Source: LSPR

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

April 8

	1	Blades of Glory	Paramount Pictures	$23,000,000	$68,383,000	2	3410
2	2	Meet the Robinsons	Buena Vista Pictures Distribution	$17,004,000	$52,235,000	2	3435
3	-	Are We Done Yet?	Sony Pictures Releasing	$15,000,000	$19,063,000	1	2877
4	-	Grindhouse	Dimension Films	$11,591,000	$11,591,000	1	2624
5	-	The Reaping	Warner Bros. Pictures Distribution	$10,080,000	$12,010,000	1	2603
6	3	300	Warner Bros. Pictures Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures International	$8,825,000	$193,880,000	5	2674
7	5	Wild Hogs	Buena Vista Pictures Distribution	$6,838,000	$145,453,000	6	2825
8	6	Shooter	Paramount Pictures	$5,800,000	$36,656,000	3	2353
9	4	TMNT	Warner Bros. Pictures Distribution	$4,935,000	$46,722,000	3	2811
10	-	Firehouse Dog	20th Century Fox Distribution	$4,000,000	$5,257,000	1	2860
11	7	Premonition	Sony Pictures Releasing	$3,200,000	$44,600,000	4	1752
12	9	Reign Over Me	Sony Pictures Releasing	$2,500,000	$17,406,000	3	1747

We're looking for young people (male and female--anywhere in the US
and any background/religion) who are about to enter into an arranged
marriage, have just entered into one, or are arranged and starting to
plan nuptials, basically anyone CURRENTLY in some EARLY stage of an
arranged marriage--this documentary is for an upcoming episode of
MTV's award winning, TRUE LIFE which plans to document what this
experience is like. True Life experiences this process unfold
according to how the person that is being filmed experiences it.

If you could pass the word along to anyone you know who may be
interested and have them email the address listed below, it would be
greatly appreciated. I can be reached at (212) 654-7203 if there are
any questions. Our casting call is pasted below. Looking to talk to
people who are interested IMMEDIATELY.

Thanks so much!

Evelien Kong
MTV News & Documentaries

*************************
MTV's TRUE LIFE
Are you about to get married to a person you don't really know? Has
your spouse been chosen for you by your parents or community? How do
you feel about entering a life partnership with this person? Do you
trust that your elders have chosen a wise match for you?

If you are about to partake in or have just entered into an arranged
marriage, we'd like to hear from you. If you appear to be between the
ages of 18 and 28 and would like to share your story please email
arrangedmarriage@mtvstaff.com and tell us what's been happening.

Please include your name, location, CONTACT NUMBER, and photo if
possible.

*******Looking to talk with people IMMEDIATELY********

True Life is MTV's award-winning series that covers diverse topics
that are important to our audience, ranging from pop culture trends to
breaking news issues. Topics in the past have included hard hitting
topics such as drug addiction (crystal meth, oxycontin, etc), parents
divorcing, to much lighter subjects such as being a Justin Timberlake
fan. True Life crews are able to blend into the background to capture
life unscripted and untouched. This enables us to tell stories from
the voices and points-of-view of our characters ? putting the series
in a unique position of reflecting the state of youth culture at any
given moment. And, since the series premiere in 1998, MTV's audience
has kept wanting more ? constantly tuning in, making True Life the
most popular documentary series in our channel's history.

"Legit documentary-style programs about real-life families ? such as
MTV's "True Life" ? will get you right back in front of the old TV
where you belong," says Linda Stasi of the New York Post

April 5

"The Good, The Bad & The Queen" has become the first EMI album to be made available for download DRM-free and with superior sounding audio

As EMI Music launches its full catalogue DRM-free and in superior sound quality, The Good, The Bad & The Queen has become the first EMI album available in the new format.

Green Fields, the latest single and the full album are now available to download as MP3s direct from the www.thegoodthebadandthequeen.com, allowing fans instant access to the band's material, while the DRM-free format gives fans the option of choosing to play the music across a range of devices and platforms, including digital music players, mobile phones and home music systems.

The announcement of EMI Music's new premium download offering at EMI's London headquarters on Monday, April 2nd was preceded by a special performance by Damon Albarn, Paul Simonon, Tony Allen and Simon Tong. They played two songs from their album The Good, The Bad & the Queen: "Herculean" and "Nature Springs."

Eric Nicoli, CEO of EMI Group, comments, "We're delighted that this amazing band's songs can now be purchased directly from their website in a format that can be enjoyed on all music players."

Apple's iTunes will be the first online music store to receive EMI's DRM-free premium downloads. iTunes will sell the albums and tracks as 256kbps AAC downloads, in audio quality virtually indistinguishable from the original recording.

Apple's iTunes is running a worldwide feature Live from Soho EP, 5 live tracks from The Good, The Bad & The Queen recorded in New York last month exclusively for iTunes.

Contact:
Capitol Music Group - Angelica Cob-Baehler, 323.871.5552
EMI New York - Adam Grossberg, 212.786.8855

EMI UK - Cathy Cremer, +44 020 7605 5308
Frances McCahon, +44 020 8749 7999

About EMI Music

EMI Music is the recorded music division of EMI Group, the world's largest independent music company. Its EMI Music division represents artists spanning all musical tastes and genres. Its record labels include Angel, Astralwerks, Blue Note, Capitol, Capitol Nashville, EMI Classics, EMI CMG, EMI Records, EMI Televisa Music, Manhattan , Mute, Parlophone and Virgin. Artists on EMI labels include Lily Allen, The Beatles, Coldplay, Corinne Bailey Rae, The Good The Bad & The Queen, Gorillaz, Norah Jones, The Kooks, Korn, Kylie Minogue, Pink Floyd, Rolling Stones, Joss Stone, 30 Seconds To Mars, KT Tunstall, Keith Urban and Robbie Williams, as well as international artists such as Amaral (Spain), Diam's (France), Utada Hikaru (Japan), LaFee (Germany), Radja (Indonesia), RBD (Mexico) and Vasco Rossi (Italy).

EMI has been at the cutting edge of the rapidly growing digital music marketplace since it released David Bowie's 'Hours' as the world's first ever album to be offered as a digital download in 1999. EMI has signed agreements with hundreds of digital partners to distribute its music across the globe. It continues to facilitate the development of a growing range of new digital business models to enable fans to experience and purchase its artists' output through a number of different platforms including advertising-supported online music streaming in China through Baidu, legal peer-to-peer agreements with QTrax, Mashboxx and GNAB, and a deal to offer advertising-supported videos on mobile phones in the US through Rhythm NewMedia.

First I'd like to thank everybody for all of your support so far. I want to inform you we have an amazing new item added to the catalog. A beautiful custom-made dress made by Tamara Pogosian. The dress was worn by Leven Rambin, an Emmy Nominated Actress "All My Children" at the Spring 07 Fashion Show with Olympus Fashion Week.

Tamara has been nominated for the FGI Rising Star Award two years in a row. Her collections have been showcased in several exclusive shows and proudly supported many nonprofit organizations.

The entire catalog includes: trips, a 2007 Bentley Convertible, sports & celebrity memorabilia. Don't worry we started all the bidding ridiculously low. Please support and pass it on to friends you might know interested in any of the items. The charity is HADFM.org "Have A Dance For Me". Started by Robin Pelka, who previous to finding out she had brain cancer was a heavy hitter in the music industry. After a tough struggle she made it through ok! So she decided to spread the word of cancer awareness in young adults through music. We had an event at the Winter Music Conference in Miami Sunday, which was a huge success! You can check out the auction at www.BlueTreeMarketing.com or clicking the View Auction Catalog link below. If you are interested in hosting a HADFM.org event at your venue please contact me! (Lizajanepr@mac.com ) With much love and peace and a million thanks.

View Auction Catalog

Patti Smith Celebrating the Release of her New Album, 'Twelve,' with Three Special Shows at New York's Bowery Ballroom on Tuesday, April 24
Free Tickets for Patti's Exclusive 'Bowery Session' Performances Available with Purchase of 'Twelve' at Select New York Area Outlets
2007 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Patti Smith will celebrate the release of her new covers album, "Twelve," with her New York area fans at three exclusive performances at New York's Bowery Ballroom on Tuesday, April 24.
"Twelve" is Patti Smith's first album of new studio recordings since "trampin'," her Columbia Records debut, was released in 2004, and is the artist's first-ever full-length collection of songs originally created by other performers. The album will be in stores on Tuesday, April 24.
Fans purchasing "Twelve" at select New York outlets will receive a free ticket to one of Patti's three intimate "Bowery Sessions" shows. The three 30-minute concerts will include acoustic music, spoken word performances, and in-concert surprises. The doors open for each "Bowery Sessions" show at 6pm, 8:30pm, and 10:30pm.
For a limited time, in advance of "Twelve"'s April 24 release date, tickets for each of Patti's "Bowery Sessions" shows are available at: www.boweryballroom.com. An exclusive pass to all three "Bowery Sessions" is available only at the Bowery Ballroom site for $51.00 and includes a special 7" vinyl EP. Each ticket purchased at www.boweryballroom.com will include a copy of "Twelve" which may be picked up at the show.
Purchase "Twelve" at the following stores for a limited time and receive a free ticket to one of Patti Smith's "Bowery Sessions" concerts:
Borders
461 Park Ave.
New York, NY 10022
Borders
576 Second Ave.
New York, NY 10016
Borders
100 Broadway
New York, NY 10009
Borders
The Shops at Columbus Circle
10 Columbus Circle
New York, NY 10019
Borders
2 Penn Plaza
New York, NY 10121
Virgin Megastore
52 E 14th
New York, NY 10003
FYE
1290 Avenue of the Americas
New York NY 10104
J&R
23 Park Row
New York, NY 1003
TICKETS TO EACH SHOW ARE LIMITED.
Quantities Limited to 4 tickets per person
18 and Over only
Please visit myspace.com/pattismith or pattismith.net for more details
Source: Columbia Records
Web site: http://www.columbiarecords.com/
http://pattismith.net/
http://myspace.com/pattismith
http://www.boweryballroom.com/

Spike TV to Salute Everything Guys Love in First Annual 'Guys Choice'
Two-Hour Event Premieres Wednesday, June 13th at 10 PM, ET/PT
Voting Starts May 1st Only On www.spiketv.com
-- Spike TV is giving the biggest shout- outs in television history to the things guys love most with the first annual GUYS CHOICE. In what is sure to be the signature event for the channel, Spike TV is relying on its millions of viewers to pick who to bow down to from the worlds of sports, music, film, TV, and the internet.
Honors like BEST A**-KICKER, BALLSIEST BAND, HOTTEST GIRL ON THE PLANET, FUNNIEST M.F., LUCKIEST BASTARD, MOST VIRAL VIDEO, MOST DANGEROUS MAN and THE BRASS BALLS (legendary action hero) AWARD will make this non-traditional awards show a one-of-a-kind cacophony of manly pursuits.
This star-studded event will feature everything guys want, including a bevy of unbelievably foxy trophy girls. Also, for the first time in awards show history, Spike TV will narrow the field for all awards to only two nominees, so it can be settled like men: 'mano a mano.' The two-hour event is scheduled to tape on June 9 at the Barker Hangar in Los Angeles. Spike TV's GUYS CHOICE will premiere on Wednesday, June 13 at 10:00 PM, ET/PT.
In addition to honoring the sexiest women and coolest guys from the past year, GUYS CHOICE will also feature unforgettable tributes to legendary entertainers, rockers, and babes, as well as edgy stand-up comedy and truly house-shaking musical performances.
Voting for this year's nominees on http://www.spiketv.com/ starts Tuesday, May 1 and runs through Friday, June 1. Also online, fans can log on to view exclusive red carpet and backstage coverage of the event.
The official sponsors of Spike TV's GUYS CHOICE are American Express, Cingular, now the new AT&T, Corona, Jeep(R) Patriot, Pizza Hut, SNICKERS(R)Brand, Southern Comfort(R) and U.S. Army.
Spike TV has brought in Emmy Award winning producer Joel Gallen of Tenth Planet Productions to executive produce GUYS CHOICE. "After 12 consecutive years of producing the groundbreaking MTV Movie Awards, we are very excited to have Joel bring his unique and irreverent vision to the first ever Spike TV's GUYS CHOICE," said Doug Herzog, President of Spike TV. Casey Patterson, Senior Vice President, Spike TV Event Production & Talent Development will share Executive Producing duties while Alicia Portugal is the Executive in Charge of Production for Spike TV.
Spike TV is available in 91.6 million homes and is a division of MTV Networks. A unit of VIACOM (NYSE: VIA; VIA.B), MTV Networks is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms.
Source: Spike TV/MTV Networks
Web site: http://www.spiketv.com/

Country Music Sensation Martina McBride Lends Her Voice and New Single 'Anyway' to Lifetime's Movie 'A Life Interrupted' and Emmy-Winning Campaign to End Violence Against Women
Co-written by McBride, 'Anyway' Debuts on New Album 'Waking Up Laughing'
Special 'Anyway' Music Video Premieres with Film and in Online Viral Effort to Encourage Millions to Take Action to End Violence
'Sometimes life ain't good. And when I pray, it doesn't always turn out like it should. But I do it anyway, I do it anyway.' -- lyrics from 'Anyway,' by Martina McBride
Grammy(R) Award-winning artist Martina McBride lends her voice and her support to the upcoming Lifetime Movie, "A Life Interrupted" with her poignant and stirring new song "Anyway." "A Life Interrupted," starring Lea Thompson ("Caroline in the City," "Back to the Future") is a powerful drama inspired by the story of a shy Virginia housewife, Debbie Smith (Thompson), who after a brutal sexual assault in her own backyard, finds the inner strength to become the voice, face and name behind one of most effective pieces of anti-rape legislation in American history. The legislation, known as "The Debbie Smith Act," helped to eliminate the nationwide backlog of untested DNA kits. Most importantly, this groundbreaking legislation is expected to put approximately 70,000 rapists behind bars and give peace of mind to families nationwide. The movie premieres Monday, April 23, 2007, at 9PM (ET/PT), on Lifetime Television. "Anyway" debuts on McBride's new album, "Waking Up Laughing."
"Martina McBride has done so much to help end violence and we are proud to partner with her on this new movie," said Marianne Goode, Vice President of Music, Lifetime Television. "Like Debbie Smith, Martina has helped countless women and families nationwide by speaking out against violence and sexual assault. The message in this song and the hope it conveys are a perfect match for the tone and spirit of our movie."
McBride is a long-time supporter of Lifetime's anti-violence campaign and has been a champion of the National Domestic Violence Hotline. The song will anchor a moving original video trailer featuring scenes from her "Anyway" video, faces of sexual assault survivors by photographer Nobuko Oyabu and scenes from the movie. The video trailer will air at the end of the film and will be highlighted in an online viral e-card to pass along to friends and family to encourage them to follow Debbie's lead and get involved in the movement to end violence against women.
"I feel like its important to use this gift God gave me, my life and my career to do something to make the world a better place," said McBride. "The real heroes, like Debbie Smith, are the ones out there working tirelessly everyday to better their lives for themselves and their children. If this song can inspire just one woman to reach out, get help and get involved -- then it's worth it -- nothing thrills me more than to lend my voice to this empowering Lifetime movie."
As part of a commitment to inform and support its viewers in the more than 90 million homes the Network reaches, seven years ago Lifetime Television launched a campaign, "End Violence Against Women," to help end all forms of violence against women, including domestic abuse, sexual assault, stalking and human trafficking. Multi-Grammy(R) winner Christina Aguilera and Oscar(R)- winner Nicole Kidman have also joined this year's campaign. The initiative, which was honored with a Governor's Emmy(R) Award, includes extensive original on-air programming and public service announcements, online content and community outreach, with a hopeful message that everyone -- women and men -- can make a difference. In April 2007, Lifetime will again bring the campaign to the nation's capitol with its fifth annual "End Violence Week in Washington," which will include a premiere screening of "A Life Interrupted," with a special appearance by Debbie and Rob Smith, Lea Thompson, Members of Congress, Department of Justice officials and leading advocates. In addition, Lifetime is teaming up with local rape crisis centers, nonprofit organizations and the Network's College Corps to host discussions and screenings of "A Life Interrupted."
Martina McBride has been a steady presence in the country music industry since 1993. Her fiery, passionate vocals have created such memorable hits as "Independence Day," "Wild Angels," "A Broken Wing," "Blessed" and "This One's for the Girls." She has placed 22 singles in the top-10, has sold 16 million records and has been named CMA's Female Vocalist of the Year in 1999, 2002, 2003 and 2004. Her signature hits have not only become memorable musical statements but also resounding social commentaries. On April 3, McBride will release her ninth album, "Waking Up Laughing," which she solo-produced. "Anyway," the debut single, is her fastest-rising single ever and marks her first songwriting credit. She co-wrote two additional songs on the new album as well. Named "Best Live Act" of 2006 by the Chicago Sun Times and the only solo female to be in Billboard's Top 10 country music touring acts, McBride will open her 2007 tour in Kansas City on April 12. Joining her for the tour will be 2006 breakout artists Little Big Town and Rodney Atkins.
Lifetime is the leader in women's television and one of the top-rated basic cable television networks. A diverse, multi-media company, Lifetime is committed to offering the highest quality entertainment and information programming, and advocating a wide range of issues affecting women and their families. Lifetime Television, LMN, Lifetime Real Women, Lifetime Home Entertainment and Lifetime Online (www.lifetimetv.com) are part of Lifetime Entertainment Services, a 50/50 joint venture of The Hearst Corporation and The Walt Disney Company.
To check out the special video trailer, go to http://www.lifetimetv.com/.
Source: Lifetime Television

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

NAB2007 Panel Features Radiance Technologies and Attracts All-Star Lineup of Top Executives From Worlds of Broadcasting and Technology
Leaders from Turner Broadcasting, Discovery Communications, TelAmerica Media, Ascent Media Systems, and The FeedRoom Discuss Latest Trends in High Definition, Advertising, and Digital Asset Delivery
today announced it will host an executive panel at NAB2007 that will explore how technology firms and broadcasters can unite to prepare for the oncoming explosion of digital content.
Leaders from broadcasting and technology will discuss how the growing requirement to create, exchange, and distribute massive digital content is challenging the industry to innovate. The network infrastructures of today are ill-equipped to handle these "digital assets," but revolutionary changes in broadcasting are acting as catalysts for major evolutionary changes in networking technologies.
The Info-Session panel, titled "How the Broadcast Industry Is Forcing the Tech Industry to Innovate," will be moderated by Bart Feder, president and CEO of The Feedroom, and takes place Tuesday, April 17, 2007, at 2:00-4:00pm PDT in Room N250, North Hall, Las Vegas Convention Center.
The panel will include:
-- Andy Brown, CTO, TelAmerica Media
-- Tom Engdahl, President and CEO, Radiance Technologies
-- Stavros Hilaris, Senior Vice President of Technology, Ascent Media
Systems
-- John Honeycutt, Executive Vice President, Television Operations Group,
Discovery Communications
-- Clyde Smith, Senior Vice President of Global Broadcast & Standards,
Turner Broadcasting
-- Bart Feder, CEO, The FeedRoom (Moderator)

"Technology has enabled broadcasters, content creators, and advertisers to produce ever larger digital assets, but many are finding the current delivery infrastructure to be inadequate," said Tom Engdahl, president and CEO, Radiance Technologies. "The coming onslaught of high-definition video is one such area where today's file delivery methods -- both physical and digital -- are ill-equipped to effectively and efficiently move revenue-generating digital assets. Technology players need, once again, to innovate in order to ensure that customers seeking to produce and monetize these more powerful digital assets are able to do so through file-based digital- asset workflow, management, and purpose-built asset-delivery systems such as Radiance TrueDelivery."
All attendees will be registered to win one of two Apple 80GB iPods, which will be given away at the session.
About Radiance Technologies
Radiance Technologies is the leading provider of asset delivery systems (ADS) for moving and managing digital assets through any network with speed, security, control and reliability. The company develops and markets managed ADS solutions to organizations that need to deliver high-value, collaborative digital assets on-time. Radiance TrueDelivery is empowering knowledge workers by simplifying and managing digital asset delivery. Radiance was founded in 2000, and its investors include Levensohn Venture Partners, Vanguard Ventures and Sutter Hill Ventures.
(TM) Radiance and TrueDelivery are trademarks of Radiance Technologies, Inc.
Source: Radiance Technologies

Web site: http://www.radiance.com/
OWC ANNOUNCES AVAILABILITY OF APPLE-QUALIFIED MEMORY UPGRADES FOR NEW MAC PRO 8-WAY XEON
New Lower Pricing on Apple-Qualified Memory Upgrades
Install up to 16.0GB of Memory into Apple Mac Pro for as Low as $118.75 Per GB

April 5, 2007, Woodstock, IL, -- Other World Computing (OWC) http://www.macsales.com, a leading Mac and PC technology company and a leading after-market supplier of memory upgrades for the Mac Pro, today announced availability of OWC Apple-Qualified Memory Upgrade Modules for the new Mac Pro 8-Way Xeon (new Mac Pro model announced yesterday), as well as lower pricing for memory for the existing Mac Pro Quad Xeon models. Priced as low as $118.75 per GB, OWC is offering upgrades at a savings of well over 50% as compared to factory-installed and other competitors. The OWC (FB-DIMM) 667MHz DDR2 72-Bit ECC fully-buffered Memory Upgrade Modules are available in matched sets of 512MB, 1.0GB, and 2.0GB modules for up to 16.0GB of total memory (see full pricing info below).
OWC has been providing memory to upgrade Apple computers for nearly 20 years. Last August, OWC was the first to provide true Apple-Qualified memory for the new Apple Mac Pro Quad Xeon computers at independent prices and now without delay, has certified memory available for the new Apple Mac Pro 8-Way Xeon models as well. OWC Memory Upgrade Kits provide premium quality, fully-tested modules that completely meet and/or exceed all Apple specifications. Utilizing superior components, including true Apple-Qualified heat spreaders, the modules provide a lifetime of high-performance, reliable operation backed by OWC’s Lifetime Advance Replacement Warranty.

Cash Back Trade-In Rebate

A cash-back rebate of up to $145 per set is also available from OWC for the trade-in of Apple factory memory. Available immediately, the OWC Memory Upgrade Kits consist of matched pairs of FB-DIMM modules manufactured to Apple’s stringent Mac Pro specifications, far exceeding JEDEC (the leading developer of solid-state industry standards) specifications. For additional information on OWC’s Mac Pro 8-Way Quad Xeon Memory Modules, See: http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/memory/Mac-Pro-Memory or call toll free (800) 275-4576.

OWC Memory Module New Pricing:
(up to 16GB of memory is supported by the Apple Mac Pro Quad Xeon)

1GB Matched Sets (512MB Module x 2) for as low as $159.75/GB
2GB Matched Sets (1.0GB Module x 2) for as low as $118.75/GB
4GB Matched Sets (2.0GB Module x 2) for as low as $128.06/GB

OWC also offers a full line of memory for upgrading nearly every Apple model made from the last twenty years, including MacBook, MacBook Pro, iMac, PowerMac, and PowerBook computers. The full OWC Memory line, as well as a compatibility guide which directs customers to the correct upgrades for each specific Apple model, can be found online here: http://eshop.macsales.com/shop/apple/memory/

About Other World Computing

Other World Computing (OWC) has been providing quality hardware products and support to the computer industry since 1988. The Illinois based company is a strategic partner with Axiotron and worldwide and exclusive US distributor of the award winning Axiotron Modbook^TM. OWC operates the popular www.MacSales.com e-commerce portal which features one of the largest online catalogs of computer and iPod enhancement products, including Mercury, Neptune, and NewerTech acceleration, storage, and FireWire product lines.
OWC is a Premiere Level Apple Developer Connection member and provides extensive technical support for Macintosh users around the world. The company’s management umbrella includes leading Internet Service Providers www.fastermac.net and www.owc.net and is a leading technology employer as ranked by McHenry County Business Journal. For more information, see www.otherworldcomputing.com or www.macsales.com

April 4
‘THE DEVIL KNOWS MY NAME’
IN STORES NOW – APRIL 3^RD
FEATURING JOE SATRIANI, JIM ROOT & ERIC JOHNSON
Out of the dark passages of John 5’s mind comes this mind-blowing, sinister guitar instrumental. ‘The Devil Knows My Name’ is John 5’s third solo album, due out on April 3^rd, 2007, which features guest guitar solo’s from two legendary guitarists – Joe Satriani and Eric Johnson with newer legend in-the-make Jim Root (Slipknot). Keeping time are Zombie band-mates Tommy Clufetos (drums) and Piggy D. (bass). The album was recorded in the middle of night where John 5 would lay down his leads – This is the only album that all leads were doubled - An instrumental feat that is rarely taken on by the best of the guitar players.
‘The Devil Knows My Name’ melds around clues, quotes and references of serial killers, wielding an eerie tone for those who dare to enter the world of John 5’s mind. “I wanted a different tone to the instrumental with twisted imagery of sounds,” explains John 5. “Utilizing serial killers came to light for this project while looking at their crimes and how distorted their minds work.”
Not all is sinister on ‘The Devil Knows My Name’ but there are tunnels to the past greats. John 5 shreds-out his version of Guns N’ Roses ‘Welcome To The Jungle’ and Chet Atkins “Young Thing”. “I chose Welcome To The Jungle for the one reason – when I was becoming successful it was easy to stay in the nest back home, then I saw the video and that made me get up and go to Hollywood.” ‘Welcome To The Jungle’ will be the first release off the album and is hitting the airwaves soon.
John 5 has created a worldwide following as a widely respected guitarist with such platinum artists as Marilyn Manson, David Lee Roth, Rob Halford and now an integral member of Rob Zombie. John 5’s eclectic influences combine for a truly unique guitar oriented record that once again sets new standards in the genre.
has created a worldwide following as a widely respected guitarist with such platinum artists as Marilyn Manson, David Lee Roth, Rob Halford and now an integral member of eclectic influences combine for a truly unique guitar oriented record that once again sets new standards in the genre.
www.john-5.com

Boris FX Introduces Boris Blue 2.0
Boris Blue version 2.0 adds Avid plug-in support, additional features
for composing effects in 3D, and adds innovative new deformers and
filters

Marlborough MA - Boris FX, the leading developer of integrated effects
technology for video and film, has announced Boris Blue version 2.0.
Boris Blue is a realtime motion graphics application. With the release
of version 2.0, Boris Blue now offers an AVX 2 plug-in option,
enabling Avid editors to create sophisticated titles, transitions, and
other 3D elements right in the Avid timeline. The interactive design
experience is fueled by high performance NVIDIA hardware for realtime
effects creation.

Attendees to the NAB 2007 Exhibition can see Boris Blue 2.0 on stand
SL 10520.

"We are very excited about bringing an OpenGL hardware rendering
solution to Avid editors via Avid's AVX RT plug-in interface. For the
first time, Avid editors will be able to edit extruded text and
imported 3D models right inside the Avid timeline without needing to
render in another application. The RT architecture of AVX 2.0 has
proven to be an excellent platform for Boris Blue real time
performance,â€ comments Boris Yamnitsky, founder and president, Boris
FX.

Boris Blue 2.0 Highlights
Avid Plug-in Integration for Windows XP Avid systems; With Blue,
Avid users now have access to unique features such as a sophisticated
realtime particle engine and the ability to create effects using 3D
models in the Avid timeline. AVX plug-in integration eliminates
export/import of projects - simplifying online/offline workflow.
Additionally, Blue effects can now be saved into Avid bins for re-use.

Improved 3D Interactors for Objects, Cameras, Lights and Split
Views; Simultaneously display and work with multiple perspectives of the 3D
Scene in the Composite Window. This new enhancement makes it faster
and easier to create sophisticated 3D scenes and animations.

3D Camera Improvements; The new functionality gives the ability to
have a camera automatically stay focused on a particular object or
point in the scene while animating through 3D space; and the ability
to animate a camera along a bezier spline based motion path. This
gives users sophisticated results achieved faster and more easily.

New 3D Deformers and Image Processors; The expanded effects pallete
includes Curl and Shatter, as well as Glow and Film Process.
Accelerated filters Lens Flare, Glint and much more expand the range
of looks and effects that can be created with Boris Blue 2.0.

Pricing and Availability
Boris Blue 2.0 will be available mid-April through the Boris FX
worldwide reseller channel and direct through Boris FX web site at
www.borisfx.com for an MSRP of $995.00. Boris Red owners can add Boris
Blue 2.0 for 295.00. Existing Boris Blue owners can download the
update for free from the Boris FX web site www.borisfx.com.

For more information, please visit Boris FX at NAB 2007 on stand SL
10520 or their web site at www.borisfx.com. Please contact Janice
Dolan at janice@zazilmediagroup.com for Boris Blue imagery.

About Boris FX
Founded in 1995 in Boston MA, Boris FX is the leading developer of
integrated graphics and effects technology, delivering 3D compositing
and vector graphic products for the broadcast, post production, film
and multi-media industries. Since the company's inception, Boris
products have grown to serve over 125,000 artists worldwide. A great
part of its success lies in the ability to tightly integrate and
leverage technologies through strong partnerships with
industry-leading manufacturers including AdobeÂ®, AppleÂ®, AutodeskÂ®,
AvidÂ®, CanopusÂ®, DiscreetÂ®, EyeonÂ®, in-syncÂ®, InciteÂ®, LeitchÂ®,
MatroxÂ®, Media 100Â®, Sony Pictures DigitalÂ®, and UleadÂ®. For more
information, visit www.borisfx.com.

Pepsi Turns Over Its Can Design to ... You
Promotion Winner to Join the All-American Rejects, Big & Rich and Pharrell Williams as Pepsi Can Designers
Enter at DesignOurPepsiCan.com
Pepsi, one of the world's most recognizable brands, will allow a consumer to design the look of one of its cans for the first time in history in the "Design Our Pepsi Can" promotion. The person who comes up with the winning design will have their artwork featured on 500 million Pepsi cans across the country and take home a $10,000 prize.
DESIGN OUR PEPSI CAN CONTEST
Beginning this week, consumers may enter the Design Our Pepsi Can promotion by going to http://www.designourpepsican.com/. Once registered, participants will have the option of using their own design programs or the tools available on the site to bring their ideas to life. The top designs, as determined by a panel at Pepsi, will be posted on designourpepsican.com where consumers will vote for the winner.
CELEBRITY PEPSI CAN ARTISTS
Some of the world's top musicians are also showcasing their artistic talent on the Pepsi can. The All-American Rejects, Big & Rich and Pharrell Williams have each created unique designs for the Pepsi can that will be in market in the upcoming months. The three special cans will feature a Web site address that will take fans to exclusive footage of the artists and will offer information on their new projects.
"Pepsi called and said they wanted us to design our own can, pretty sweet," said The All-American Rejects. "We finally saw it the other day and it looks AMAZING! We can't even believe that our design is gonna be on over 500 million of 'em!"
"Our very own Pepsi can will be seen around the country and turned up high by millions in the coming months," said Big & Rich. "When Pepsi presented this opportunity to us, we thought it would be a great way to share our love of music with everyone while they're enjoying a Pepsi."
"I was intrigued by this opportunity because it allowed me to be creative and innovative, which is something that I try to infuse in all of my endeavors," added Pharrell Williams.
These designs are a part of Pepsi's global brand restyle. The iconic Pepsi globe logo and name lettering remain the same -- just like Pepsi's great taste -- but the background graphics change every few weeks. In its 109-year existence, Pepsi-Cola's look has changed just 10 times, but this year alone, it will change more than 35 times.
About Pepsi-Cola North America
Purchase, N.Y.-based Pepsi-Cola North America (http://www.pepsi.com/) is the refreshment beverage unit of PepsiCo, Inc., in the United States and Canada. Its U.S. brands include Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Jazz, Pepsi ONE, Wild Cherry Pepsi, Diet Pepsi Vanilla, Mountain Dew, Diet Mountain Dew, Mountain Dew Code Red, Mountain Dew LiveWire, Sierra Mist, Sierra Mist Free, Mug, Tropicana Twister Soda, Aquafina, Aquafina FlavorSplash, Aquafina Sparkling, Aquafina Alive, Quaker Milk Chillers, Ben & Jerry's MilkShakes, Dole and Ocean Spray single-serve juices, Tropicana Juice Drinks, IZZE and SoBe. The company also makes and markets North America's best-selling ready-to-drink iced teas and coffees, respectively, via joint ventures with Lipton and Starbucks.
FCMN Contact:
Source: Pepsi-Cola Company
CONTACT: Nicole Bradley of Pepsi-Cola North America, +1-914-253-2964,
nicole.bradley@pepsi.com
Web site: http://www.pepsi.com/
http://www.designourpepsican.com/

CMT Dukesfest Returns to Nashville
Entire Cast Scheduled to Attend Plus a Special Waylon Tribute
NASHVILLE, Tenn., April 4 /PRNewswire/ -- CMT DukesFest 2007 returns to Nashville's Music City Motorplex on Saturday, June 2 and Sunday, June 3 for what event promoters say is "the biggest gathering of Hazzard Nation ever."
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070404/DCW058 )
Last year the event drew more than 70,000 folks during two days," says Ben "Cooter" Jones. "And it looks like we might top that this time."
Once again the entire cast of "The Dukes of Hazzard" will be on hand for the festivities. CMT DukesFest presents two days of personal appearances, country music concerts, car action, and children's activities.
Jones, whose character "Cooter" was the sidekick to "Bo and Luke Duke," produces the get-together along with his wife Alma Viator.
"We are especially excited that this year's profits will go to the Vanderbilt Children's Hospital," says Viator. "Kids love 'The Dukes of Hazzard,' and the cast of the 'Dukes' loves kids. This way everyone can have a great time for a great cause!"
According to Jones, "Last year's event was the largest gathering of fans for any TV show ever. And, we were told it was the biggest single fan event ever in Nashville. I think that reflects the respect and loyalty we've gained with America's families since 1979. Did I just say 1979? That proves that time flies when you are having fun."
In addition to Jones, there will be appearances by John Schneider (Bo Duke), Tom Wopat (Luke Duke), Catherine Bach (Daisy Duke), James Best (Rosco P. Coltrane), Sonny Shroyer (Deputy Enos) and Rick Hurst (Deputy Cletus).
There will also be appearances and a stunt show featuring The Original Dukes Stunt Team. "We always end the weekend with a General Lee Jump on Sunday afternoon," says Jones. "Last year the General cleared 200 feet!"
Also attending will be approximately 150 "General Lees," the 1969 orange Dodge Charger, which has been voted "the most popular car in the history of television and film."
A special tribute is planned for the show's narrator, the late country legend Waylon Jennings. Performing will be members of the Waylors, the Waymore Blues Band, and Tommy Jennings. "Waylon's Army," his unofficial fan club, will be in attendance as well.
"CMT DukesFest 2007 is a family event honoring America's favorite family show," says "Cooter." "It is affordable fun. Last year we drew folks from every state in the union and from more than twenty foreign countries. And, we are delighted to be bringing this great shindig back to Music City."
CMT DukesFest is Saturday, June 2, and Sunday, June 3. The gates open at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday and 9:30 a.m. on Sunday. Advance sale tickets for the two-day event are $35, and one-day passes are $25. Children 10 and under are free, and military service men and women are free with proper ID. Weekend passes are $40 at the gate and $30 for the day.
Advance tickets are on sale now at all Ticketmaster outlets in the Nashville area. Customers can charge by phone by calling Ticketmaster at (615) 255-9600. Tickets are also available on line at http://www.cootersplace.com/, at Cooter's Place stores in Nashville and Gatlinburg, at The Music City Motorplex or by calling Cooter's Place at (615) 872-8358.
ABOUT DUKESFEST
DukesFest was established by Ben "Cooter" Jones in 2001. Originally held in Sperryville, VA, unprecedented success forced the event to move to Bristol Motor Speedway and Dragway in Bristol, TN in 2004. Since its inception, DukesFest has played host to more than 150,000 enthusiasts and has become the annual gathering for "Dukes of Hazzard" lovers.
ABOUT CMT
CMT, America's No. 1 country music network, carries original programming, specials, and live concerts, as well as a mix of videos by established country music artists and new cutting-edge acts, including world premiere exclusive videos. Founded March 6, 1983, CMT, owned and operated by MTV networks, reaches more than 84 million households in the United States. Go to country music's biggest web site at http://www.cmt.com/.
Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070404/DCW058
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: DukesFest
CONTACT: Amy Burge of AB BAM Media, +1-615-855-0775, abbammedia@aol.com,
for DukesFest
Web site: http://www.cootersplace.com/
http://www.cmt.com/

Women in Film & Video Honors Industry Leaders With Women of Vision Awards
WASHINGTON, April 4 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Women in Film & Video DC hosts the 14th Annual Women of Vision Awards Gala honoring nationally- recognized women who have made their mark in the media world. The Gala will take place April 13 at the Capital Hilton in Washington DC.
The 2007 honorees are:
-- Susie Coelho, founder and CEO of Susie Coelho Enterprises Inc. and
host of HGTV's Outer Spaces;
-- Patricia Finneran, Festival Director for SILVERDOCS: AFI/Discovery
Channel Documentary Festival;
-- Barbara Kopple, President of Cabin Creek Films, Co-Producer/Director of
Shut Up and Sing and the only women director to receive two
Academy Awards(R);
-- Deborah Redmond, President of The SOHO Group and a noted media literacy
educator; and
-- Andrea Sims, President of Lion's Share Communications and considered
"one of the world's top party planners."
Andrea Pennington, MD an entrepreneur and television host is the evening's Emcee. The Honorable Daniel Glickman, Chairman/CEO of the Motion Picture Association of America is a special guest.
Sponsors for the Women of Vision Awards Gala include: Women In Film's National Presenting Sponsor General Motors Corporation, Discovery, Inc., Interface Media Group, MVI Post, Media Central, C Grace Productions, Video/Action, Double R Productions, Black Opal Productions, Henninger Media Services, and Eastman Kodak Company.
Women in Film & Video of Washington, DC, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization is dedicated to advancing the professional development and achievement for women working in all areas of film, television, video, multimedia and related disciplines. WIFV supports women in the industry by promoting equal opportunities, encouraging professional development, serving as an information network, and educating the public about women's creative and technical achievements.
About the Women In Film/General Motors Alliance:
The Women In Film/General Motors Alliance was created to support women in the entertainment industry and to expand Women In Film chapter programs across the country. The initiative was announced in Los Angeles in January 2005 and is supporting programs as diverse as the Film Finishing Fund, Women's Film Preservation Fund, Legacy Series, PSAs, scholarships, mentorships and local WIF chapter award events across the nation. For more information about the WIF/GM Alliance and its programs, visit http://www.women-in-film.com/.
Founded in 1973 in Los Angeles, Women In Film ( http://www.wif.org/ ) is the leading non-profit organization dedicated to women in the global entertainment industry. Its purpose is to empower, promote, nurture and mentor women in the industry through a network of valuable contacts, events, programs, workshops, finishing funds and scholarships. In the U.S., there are chapters in Arizona, California (3), Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas (2), Washington and Washington, D.C. The international network, Women In Film and Television International ( http://www.wifti.org/ ), of which WIF-Los Angeles is a founding member, boasts 35 chapters on six continents. Member chapters range from developing nations to countries with established industries, including the U.S., Australia, Canada, France, India, Ireland, Jamaica, Mexico, New Zealand, South Africa and the United Kingdom, to name a few.
General Motors Corp. (NYSE:GM) , the world's largest automaker, has been the global industry sales leader for 76 years. Founded in 1908, GM today employs about 284,000 people around the world. With global headquarters in Detroit, GM manufactures its cars and trucks in 33 countries. In 2006, 9.1 million GM cars and trucks were sold globally under the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, HUMMER, Opel, Pontiac, Saab, Saturn and Vauxhall. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. More information on GM can be found at http://www.gm.com/.

Website: http://www.women-in-film.com
http://www.wifti.org
FCMN Contact:
Source: Women in Film & Video, Inc.

Foo Fighters Re-Sign With RCA Records
Multi-Platinum, Grammy-Award Winning Band Returned to the Studio in March
Confirmed to Play Dodger Stadium with The Police, The 'Live Earth' International Concert Event Led By Al Gore, And Headline the UK's V Festival - Already Sold Out in Record Time
RCA Records announces today the re-signing of Foo Fighters to a new long-term recording agreement. Initially signed to RCA in 1999 the Foos, led by Dave Grohl with Taylor Hawkins, Nate Mendel and Chris Shiflett, have sold over 20 million albums worldwide to date. Debuting in 1995 with the self-titled Foo Fighters, the band has since earned four Grammy Awards including Best Rock Album for There Is Nothing Left To Lose (2000) and One By One (2003).
"There are good bands and there are very good bands and then there are the special outstanding hall of famers. The Foo Fighters are true rock and roll hall of famers. It's been tremendously gratifying for us to be a part of their legacy and I'm thrilled that our special relationship will continue," states Clive Davis.
Founding Foo Fighter Dave Grohl comments, "With all the crazy sh*t that's gone down in the record business over the last 10 years, it's been a huge comfort to know that the people at RCA have always had our backs. The support and freedom they've given us has been invaluable and I'm glad to have them continuing with us into this band's second decade."
Foo Fighters are coming off their first live album, Skin and Bones, which documented the band's summer 2006 tour. This series of intimate theater shows featured acoustic-flavored songs from the landmark double disc set, In Your Honor, along with fresh new interpretations of favorites from the band's entire career. In Your Honor received tremendous critical praise -- The New York Times hailed it as "an unexpected magnum opus."
This month the band returns to the recording studio to begin work on their sixth album with world-class producer Gil Norton, whose credits include Foo Fighters' double platinum & Grammy-nominated The Colour and the Shape (1997) and classic albums by the Pixies, Echo & the Bunnymen and Patti Smith.
Heralded by The Hollywood Reporter as "one of America's premier rock n roll bands," Foo Fighters are confirmed to appear with The Police on June 23rd at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. On July 7th, the band will perform as part of "Live Earth" -- a 24-hour live concert event spanning seven continents and organized by former U.S. Vice President Al Gore and the S.O.S. (Save Our Selves) campaign to highlight the dangers of global warming. The concerts will take place in Sydney, Australia; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Shanghai, China; London, England; Kyoto, Japan; Johannesburg, South Africa; and a U.S. city to be announced. In addition, Foo Fighters are headlining the UK's V Festival in August 2007, which has already broken records for being the fastest sell out in the history of the event.
Source: RCA Records
Web site: http://www.rcarecords.com/

Grab the Kids and the Popcorn: TCM to Feature Timeless Tales During Funday Night at the Movies Hosted by SpongeBob SquarePants' Tom Kenny
The Wizard of Oz, The Adventures of Robin Hood, Treasure Island, Little Women Among Films Set for Summer Movie Showcase
In its ongoing commitment to cultivating the next generation of classic movie fans, Turner Classic Movies (TCM) will take parents back to treasured memories of their childhood and instill first- time viewers with new ones this summer during Funday Night at the Movies, a weekly movie event set to air on Sundays in June-August at 8 p.m. ET/PT. Hosted by Tom Kenny, the voice of SpongeBob SquarePants from the hit animated series by the same name, the seasonal franchise is specially geared toward parents who wish to pass on to their kids their love for unforgettable and enduring films.

Movies that will be featured in Funday Night at the Movies include:
Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948)
Bringing Up Baby (1938)
Little Women (1949)
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939)
Oliver! (1968)
Pride of the Yankees (1942)
Shane (1953)
Singin' in the Rain (1952)
Sounder (1972)
The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938)
The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Treasure Island (1934)
20,000 Leagues under the Sea (1954)
No stranger to family programming, Kenny also supplies the voice for Heffer the Cow on Nickelodeon's Rocko's Modern Life and Hanna Barbera's Top Cat. In addition, he voices performances on Cartoon Network's Camp Lazlo and Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends as well the current feature, Meet the Robinsons. A self-proclaimed classic-movie buff, he spends time watching vintage films with his two children and his wife, actress Jill Talley.
Turner Classic Movies, currently seen in more than 75 million homes, is a 24-hour cable network from Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner company. TCM presents the greatest motion pictures of all time from the largest film library in the world, the combined Time Warner and Turner film libraries, from the '20s through the '90s, commercial-free and without interruption. The network also offers critically acclaimed original documentaries and specials, including the recent Emmy-winning Stardust: The Bette Davis Story and Steve McQueen: The Essence of Cool. On the slate for 2007 are such original productions as Private Screenings: Jane Fonda, Brando and Spielberg on Spielberg, among others. For more information, visit www.tcm.com.
Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner company, is a major producer of news and entertainment product around the world and the leading provider of programming for the basic cable industry.
Source: Turner Classic Movies
Web site: http://www.tcm.com/

66th Annual Peabody Awards Winners Announced
Bob Costas to host Awards Ceremony on June 4 at New York City's Waldorf=Astoria Hotel
Entertainment Series Including 'Ugly Betty,' 'Friday Night Lights,' 'Brotherhood,' 'The Office' and 'Scrubs' Cited
Thirty-five recipients of the 66th Annual Peabody Awards were announced today by the University of Georgia's Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication. The winners, chosen by the Peabody Board as the best in electronic media for 2006, were named in a ceremony in the Peabody Gallery on the University of Georgia Campus. The latest Peabody recipients reflect the ever- broadening definition of electronic media and the international scope of the competition.
The awards will be presented June 4 at a luncheon at the Waldorf=Astoria Hotel in New York City. The celebrated sportscaster Bob Costas, host of HBO's "Costas Now," will be the master of ceremonies.
"This year the Peabody Board reviewed a bounty of outstanding material," said Horace Newcomb, Director of the Peabody Awards. "The result is that our work becomes more difficult - and more rewarding - as creators and producers of electronic media develop more and more powerful, important, and engaging work."
An array of worthy documentaries was diverse and impressive. In PBS' "Andy Warhol: A Documentary Film," presented by "American Masters," Ric Burns demonstrated how Warhol's art, life and notoriety influenced the culture of his times. With amazing cinematography and a fittingly grand musical score, the BBC-National Geographic nature film "Galapagos: Born of Fire" revealed new wonders on and around the islands that inspired Darwin. "Why We Fight," broadcast by CBC, one of a dozen international partners in the production, examined 60 years of American involvements abroad in the context of President Dwight Eisenhower's famous warning about the "military-industrial complex." "The Education of Ms. Grove," a special segment of "Dateline NBC," shadowed an idealistic, first-year young middle-school teacher in Atlanta as she learned some crucial lessons herself. No documentary was more original than "Braindamadj'd ... Take II," Canadian television producer Paul Nadler's boldly stylized account of his own remarkable recovery from a serious brain injury.
Entertainment series selected included NBC's "Friday Night Lights," a richly textured serial in which a football-obsessed, Texas town becomes a microcosm of America, and "Brotherhood," Showtime's riveting drama about two Irish-American brothers in Providence, R.I., and their morally comprised pursuits of the American dream. Peabodys also went to ABC's "Ugly Betty," a telenovela makeover that explores clashing concepts of beauty, class, race and footwear with intelligence, warmth and wit; NBC's "The Office," a British comedy of workplace manners that has been transferred with pitch-perfect brilliance to Scranton, Pennsylvania, USA; and "Scrubs," a unstintingly creative, sixth-season NBC comedy that never loses its respect for humanity despite a narrative style akin to Looney Tunes.
"Return of the King," an especially provocative installment of the prickly animated series "Boondocks," was the first program televised by Cartoon Network to win a Peabody. The episode imagined a reawakened Martin Luther King's reaction to contemporary phenomena from gangsta rap to the war on terror. Three other basic cable channels televised Peabody-winning programs for the first time. Awards went to "Good Eats," a deliriously inventive series for Food Network in which Alton Brown educates viewers about food, science, history and culture. "Beyond Borders: Personal Stories from a Small Planet" is a series of short films was presented on the Independent Film Channel. These films demonstrate that young people around the world had stories to tell and that, given equipment and a little training, could tell them powerfully. "For My Country? Latinos in the Military," an even-handed exploration of how Latinos have come to be disproportionately represented in the armed services, is the first Peabody to be presented to mun2, a Telemundo subsidiary aimed at younger viewers.
Also cited for excellence was the BBC, BBC America, Talkback production "Gideon's Daughter," a complex, delicately knitted study of a father-daughter relationship, grief, and the cult of celebrity, all against the backdrop of Princess Diana's death.
Cable network HBO received Peabody Awards for a varied range of productions. Spike Lee's elegiac documentary about New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, "When The Levees Broke: A Requiem in Four Acts," was recognized by the Peabody board. So, too, was HBO Family's "The Music In Me," an irresistible showcase for superb young performers playing everything from classical cello to zydeco accordion. HBO Sports' "Billy Jean King: Portrait of a Pioneer" explored the tennis great's impact on politics and culture as well as women's athletics. The cable channel also was recognized for "Elizabeth I," a richly detailed biographical movie in which Helen Mirren's performance was a royal splendor in itself; and "Baghdad ER," a powerful documentary testifying to the extraordinary dedication of medical personnel confronting the overwhelming carnage of war.
ABC News devoted an hour of prime time to "Out of Control: AIDS in Black America," a devastating report about how African-Americans, who make up 13 percent of the nation's population, now account for more than 50 percent of new cases of HIV infection. ABC News also was cited for "Brian Ross Investigates: Conduct Unbecoming," broadcast reports and blog postings by Ross that broke the story of Rep. Mark Foley's sexually explicit emails to young Congressional pages and speeded Foley's resignation. CBS' "60 Minutes" won for "The Duke Rape Case," an Ed Bradley-led investigation of rape allegations against Duke University lacrosse players that stood widespread assumptions - and the prosecution's case - on their heads.
Local TV stations captured four 2006 Peabodys. WTNH-TV in New Haven, Conn., was cited for "Defective Parts on Blackhawk Helicopters." This investigation of quality-control problems at a nearby Sikorsky Aircraft plant resulted in corrective action and a corporate shakeup. Another military- equipment issue, inadequate protective padding in U.S. Marine helmets, was the subject of an ambitious, Peabody-worthy investigation, "Command Mistake," by Indianapolis' WISH-TV. A second Indianapolis station, WTHR-TV, was cited for two pieces, "Prescription Privacy" and "Cause for Alarm," that demonstrated the importance and different possibilities of local TV news investigations. KMOV-TV in St. Louis garnered a Peabody for "Left Behind: The Failure of East St. Louis Schools," a series of 21 reports that found the school system had violated national and federal special-education requirements and uncovered widespread political and nepotistic hiring by the school board.
A rare Institutional Award went to StoryCorps, a deceptively simple, invaluable project that encourages people to step into StoryCorps recording booths to tape oral histories, from personal matters to their experience of public events. Edited versions are regularly broadcast on National Public Radio, while the full recordings, thousands of hours' worth, are archived at in the Library of Congress.
NPR also was recognized for "Mental Anguish and the Military," a hard look at post-traumatic stress disorder, notable for its candid, sometimes shocking interviews with Iraq War veterans at Ft. Carson, Colo. Public Radio International was cited for "Crossing East: Our History, Our Stories, Our America," an eight-part series about Asian-American history that drew on more than 500 hours of interviews conducted for the project. "Crossing Borders," broadcast by Arizona Public Radio, gave listeners a multi-textured account of illegal immigration that included vivid, you-are-there audio from the Mexican desert. "Habeas Schmabeas," an installment of WBEZ Chicago Public Radio's "This American Life," won for a look the endangerment of a fundamental American legal right. It included Kafka-esque stories of two former terrorism suspects who were imprisoned at Guantanamo Bay.
A Peabody went to "The Three Amigos HIV/AIDS Prevention Programme," a series of cautionary spots starring a trio of animated condoms. This whimsical public-service campaign with deadly serious intentions is available for telecast in 41 different languages.
Peabody Awards also went to two impressive websites. "Being a Black Man," featured on washingtonpost.com, allows visitors to see, hear and respond to a huge range of history and personal experiences that defied stereotypes and statistics. FourDocs (www.channel4.com/fourdocs), a site created and curated by Magic Lantern Productions and Great Britain's Channel 4, offers visitors the history and how-to of nonfiction filmmaking while providing a showcase for an array of original documentaries under four minutes in length.
"With all these awards," Newcomb said, "the aim of the Peabody Awards is to demonstrate the excellence possible in these media. We hold up our selections as examples of what can and should be done in the worlds of journalism, entertainment, documentary, education, and public service."
The Peabody Board is a 16-member group, comprised of television critics, broadcast and cable industry executives and experts in culture and the arts, that judges the entries. Selection is made by the board following review by special screening committees of UGA faculty, students and staff.
The Peabody Awards, the oldest honor in electronic media, do not recognize categories nor is there a set number of awards given each year. Today the Peabody recognizes distinguished achievement and meritorious public service by stations, networks, producing organizations and individuals.
All entries become a permanent part of the Peabody Archive in the University of Georgia Libraries. The collection is one of the nation's oldest, largest and most respected moving-image archives. For more information about the Peabody Archive or the Peabody Awards, visit www.peabody.uga.edu.
Graphics Available
Peabody Images: www.peabody.uga.edu/news/PressImages.html
Horace Newcomb: www.peabody.uga.edu/news/PressImages.html
Complete List of 2006 Peabody Award Winners
Mental Anguish and the Military National Public Radio
Using candid, sometimes startling interviews, NPR investigates how Iraq War veterans coping with post-traumatic stress disorder are treated, socially as well as medically, at one U.S. military base. National Public Radio
Crossing East: Our History, Our Stories, Our America Public Radio
International
In the first radio series to explore Asian-American history in depth, eight, 54-minute installments drew on sources that included more than 500 hours of oral history interviews conducted for the project. MediaRites Productions
Crossing Borders Arizona Public Radio and some 230 public-radio
stations
The nighttime desert seems to have a voice of its own in this vivid audio chronicle of illegal immigrants from Mexico, what dangers their journeys can entail, and why they still take the risk. HearingVoices.com
This American Life: Habeas Schmabeas WBEZ, Chicago, and some 500
public-radio stations
This report, about the denial of habeas corpus to terrorism suspects, focuses on the stories of two former Guantanamo Bay prisoners and explains why the right is so fundamental in American law. WBEZ Chicago Public Radio
StoryCorps National Public Radio
This ambitious, nationwide project gathers oral histories that will ultimately be archived at the Library of Congress. It also provides NPR's "Morning Edition" with a stream of moving first-person accounts by Americans ranging from Civil Rights veterans to Hurricane Katrina survivors to Alzheimer's victims. StoryCorps
Defective Parts on Blackhawk Helicopters WTNH-TV, New Haven, CT
WTNH reporters' investigation of quality-control issues at an important local employer, Sikorsky Aircraft, prompted corrective action and a corporate shakeup. WTNH-TV
Left Behind: The Failure of East St. Louis Schools KMOV-TV, St.
Louis, MO
In 21 reports broadcast over a seven month period, KMOV exposed the school district's violation of state and federal rules regarding special education and uncovered the school board's awarding of more than 100 political or nepotistic jobs. KMOV-TV
The Education of Ms. Groves NBC
Inspiring but not schmaltzy, this program tracks the learning curve of a wide-eyed, first-year middle-school teacher in Atlanta who discovers her job demands skills and resources as well as idealism. Dateline NBC
60 Minutes: The Duke Rape Case CBS
A "60 Minutes" team led by correspondent Ed Bradley delved into the allegations of rape against Duke University lacrosse players and stopped a prosecutorial rush to judgment in its tracks. CBS News
Prescription Privacy/Cause for Alarm WTHR-TV, Indianapolis, IN
A pair of reports - one on inadequate tornado-warning sirens, the other on drug stores' willy-nilly disposal of clients' personal data were enterprising investigations, calls for action - and great local television. WTHR-TV
ABC News Brian Ross Investigates: Conduct Unbecoming ABC
Brian Ross' broadcasts and web postings about Rep. Mark Foley's sexually explicit emails to young Congressional pages triggered new revelations, speeded Foley's resignation and may have affected the outcome of the November elections. ABC World News Tonight, ABC News Nightline, ABC News.com "The Blotter"
Command Mistake WISH-TV, Indianapolis, IN
In a local-station investigation that spread to three continents, WISH demonstrated that U.S. Marines are sustaining head injuries that can kill or cost millions to rehab - merely for lack of helmet padding that costs $30. WISH-TV
Galapagos: Born of Fire BBC Two
The Galapagos Islands, a fascinating microcosm of Earth, inspired this melding of cinematography and musical score cited by Peabody board members as "stunning," "amazing" and "astonishing." BBC, co-produced by National Geographic, BBC Worldwide
American Masters: Andy Warhol: A Documentary Film PBS
Ric Burns's documentary places Warhol at the center of the late 20th century art world and shows how his work, notoriety and life embodied and influenced the culture of his time. Steeplechase Films Inc., High Line Productions, Daniel Wolf Inc., Thirteen/WNET
For My Country? Latinos in the Military mun2
This probing but even-handed documentary examines the social, cultural and economic realities that lead a demographically disproportionate number of young Latinos to enlist in the military and questions whether they are being targeted by recruiters. mun2
Baghdad ER HBO
Filmed at the 86th Combat Support Hospital and presented without commentary or narration, this documentary is a horrifying and humbling testament to the dedication of medical personnel confronting the overwhelming brutality of war. HBO, Downtown Community Television
Braindamadj'd ... Take II CBC
A television producer who suffered a brain injury confounds a dire prognosis. He not only makes a significant recovery but creates a wildly inventive film about his experience. Apartment 11 Productions, CBC Newsworld, Canadian Television Fund, RDI, Knowledge Network
When The Levees Broke: A Requiem in Four Acts HBO
Spike Lee's examination of Hurricane Katrina's devastation and the government's neglect of New Orleans in the storm's aftermath is an epic chronicle of destruction and broken promises, a heartrending document and a profound work of art. HBO Documentary Films in association with 40 Acres & A Mule Filmworks
Out of Control: AIDS in Black America ABC
In a prime-time news hour, ABC explored the reasons for and consequences of a shockingly underreported fact - that blacks, who make up 13 percent of the U.S. population, now account for more than 50 percent of new cases of HIV infection. PJ Productions, ABC News
Why We Fight CBC
Masterful simply as filmmaking, disturbing as connect-the-dot reportage, this documentary links President Eisenhower's famous warning about the "military-industrial complex" to six ensuing decades of American interventions abroad, to terrorism and to the war in Iraq. Charlotte Street Films LTD, CBC TV (Canada), BBC TV (United Kingdom), ARTE GEIE TV (France/Germany), TV2 TV (Denmark), YLE TV2 TV (Finland), WDR TV (Germany), VRT TV (Belgium), SVT TV (Sweden), VPRO TV (Netherlands), NRK TV (Norway), ETV TV (Estonia), European Union Media Plus Program, TVE (Spain)
Brotherhood Showtime
Uniformly splendid acting and a strong sense of place characterize this serial drama about two Providence, R.I. brothers, a rising politician and a smalltime gangster, and their morally compromised pursuits of the American dream. Showtime, Mandalay Television
Billie Jean King: Portrait of a Pioneer HBO
Unusually substantial for a sports biography, the film persuasively confirms the tennis champion's heroic status in women's history as well as athletics. HBO Sports
Elizabeth I HBO
Helen Mirren's artistry as an actress mesmerizes throughout this beautifully produced movie that focuses on the latter half of Queen Elizabeth I's reign -- a splendid rendering of historic events and intimate details. Company Pictures and Channel 4 in association with HBO Films
Boondocks: Return of the King Cartoon Network
An especially daring episode of the animated series based on Aaron McGruder's syndicated comic strip imagines Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. reviving from a 32-year "coma" and outraging Americans of all colors and creeds by confronting them with truths that he, at least, still holds to be self- evident. Rebel Base, Sony Pictures Television
Scrubs NBC
A sweet-and-pungent "Wizard of Oz" parody was just one testimonial to the continuing creative vigor, six seasons into its run, of Bill Lawrence's hellzapoppin' comedy about the staff of a Los Angeles hospital. Touchstone Television
Ugly Betty ABC
Inspired by an internationally popular telenovela, this Americanized version defies category. It's part comedy, part drama, part soap opera, part fashion-industry satire - but is unmistakably graced with wry intelligence and heart. Touchstone Television
Gideon's Daughter BBC America
This delicate character drama uses a complex father-daughter relationship to explore grief and the cult of celebrity against the backdrop of a nation mourning Princess Diana's death. BBC, BBC America, Talkback
The Office NBC
This American adaptation of the Peabody-winning British hit of the same title -- a comedy of workplace manners and politics presented in faux documentary form -- has firmly established its own precise voice and studied brilliance. Reveille Studios in association with NBC Universal Television Studios
Friday Night Lights NBC
No dramatic series, broadcast or cable, is more grounded in contemporary American reality than this clear eyed serial about the hopes, dreams, livelihoods and egos intertwined with the fate of high-school football in a Texas town. NBC Universal Television Studio in association with Imagine Entertainment and Film 44
Good Eats Food Network
Rarely has science been taught on TV in such an entertaining - and appetizing - manner as it is in Alton Brown's goofy, tirelessly inventive series. Be Square Productions Inc.
The Music In Me HBO
What better way to inspire the study of music than with this irresistible collection of artfully photographed vignettes of young musicians, ages seven to 11, playing everything from classical cello to zydeco accordion. HBO Family
Beyond Borders: Personal Stories from a Small Planet Independent
Film Channel (Independents Shorts Showcases I & II) and IFCTV.org
Written, shot and edited by young filmmakers, ages 13-19, the nine short films in this series introduce budding artists who convey unique visions of what it's like to grow up in different lands, under different social and economic conditions. Listen Up! Youth Media Network (New York, NY) with Polimorfo (Bogota Colombia), iEarn Sierra Leone (Freetown, Sierra Leone), Evanston Township High School (Evanston, IL), La Camioneta (Guatemala City, Guatemala), Sawtona (Amman, Jordan), Frame By Frame Fierce (New York, NY), Light House (Charlottesville, VA), Spy Hop Productions (Salt Lake City, UT), Our Voice (Kiev, Ukraine)
The Three Amigos HIV/AIDS Prevention Programme SABC (South Africa),
OMNI (Canada), SBS 6 (Holland), TVM (Mozambique) & many others
A trio of anthropomorphic, cartoon condoms star in this hilariously memorable HIV/AIDS-prevention campaign that has been made available in 41 different languages. Chocolate Moose Media Inc., Quintet Productions
Being A Black Man http://www.washingtonpost.com/
This revelatory website created by Washington Post staff defied stereotypes and went far beyond dire statistics and inspiring testimonials, allowing visitors to see, hear and respond to a huge range of history and personal experience. washingtonpost.com, The Washington Post
FourDocs http://www.channel4.com/fourdocs
This curated, ever-changing trove of independent documentaries under four minutes in length also teaches the history and how-to of nonfiction filmmaking and creates a community site for filmmaker-citizens. Magic Lantern Productions, Channel 4

Source: George Foster Peabody Awards
CONTACT: Noel Holston of Peabody Awards, +1-706-542-8983,
Web site: http://www.peabody.uga.edu/

Award Winning Custom Car Builder Spade Kreation's 'Phantom Donk' Featured on BET Television
Spade Kreations, an award winning custom car builder based in Cincinnati, will have their latest project, "The Phantom Donk" featured on BET's hit show "The Spring Bling". The car has also been recently featured on the February cover of Rides Magazine, a leading publication in the custom car and lifestyle market and on the high profile "Powerblock" weekend program on Spike TV.
"Reaction to the "Donk" has been phenomenal" explains Rick Spade, founder of the company, "our vehicle is rumored to be the only non-celebrity car to be featured on the cover of Rides Magazine this year and with exposure on Spike TV, BET and our full show schedule this year, Spade Kreations and the "Donk" will be seen by millions of people nationally. It's a big honor."
The custom car builder has also been featured in past issues of industry leading DUB Magazine and has been a winner of the prestigious Designer's Award from Daimler Chrysler.
Spade recently built a state of the art 40,000 sqft facility to handle their growing fabrication business which has also included boats, motorcycles and other specialized vehicles. Together with their full retail product lines including TIS Wheels, Kicker and Truck EFX, the new site allows Spade to build and manage multiple, high profile projects and meet the demands of their often celebrity clients.
Spade Kreations has also begun building sponsored vehicles for local and regional companies eager to tap into the urban demographic coveted by advertisers. "Our core audience is the very influential, urban male demographic that influences many products including music, electronics and other personal services. Associating a product with a highly visible custom car project can bring a whole new market to our partners." adds Spade.
The "Phantom Donk" will air on BET's "The Spring Bling" beginning April 6th at 8 PM. Information on Spade Kreations can be found at www.spadekreations.com.
About Spade Kreations
Spade Kreations is a leading auto accessory retailer and custom car fabricator located in Cincinnati, Ohio. Founded in 1999, Spade Kreations and their staff of designers, artists and technicians build custom vehicles in their state of the art 40,000 sqft facility for both individuals and corporate sponsors.
Source: Spade Kreations
Web site: www.spadekreations.com

'Pimp My Ride' Drives Into Virtual Territory with Debut of MTV Networks' 'Virtual Pimp My Ride'
"Pimp My Ride" fans can now sport some of the coolest virtual vehicles with the debut of Virtual Pimp My Ride (available for free download at http://www.virtualpimpmyride.mtv.com/). The first virtual world inspired by the Southern California car culture of Van Nuys, California, Virtual Pimp My Ride debuts tomorrow along with the season premiere of MTV's "Pimp My Ride" at 9PM ET/PT. With the help of rap superstar and host Xzibit, and car customization specialist Mad Mike and his crazy car makeover team at Galpin Auto Sports, MTV also announced the kick-off of the "Virtual Pimp My Ride Car Show-Off Contest." The winner will walk away with not only the most tricked out virtual vehicle, but a real, brand new, tricked out car.
The first car "show-off" will be held on April 19th, at 9:30pm EDT at the virtual Galpin Auto Sports show-off lot and will continue every other week until the May 24th finale -- where the winner will be crowned. Every other week members from the "Pimp My Ride" cast will come in-world to meet fans and judge the various "show-offs" to find the hottest pimp'd out virtual ride.
Fans will be able to purchase starter vehicles using MTV dollars, head to the Galpin Auto Sports virtual garages and begin customizing everything from their paint job and hoods, to tricked out tires and rims. Brand new racing tracks and customized car challenges will be unveiled throughout the season. Virtual Pimp Ride will extend car culture further into MTV's current virtual world, Virtual Laguna Beach/Virtual Hills, with additional annex Galpin Auto Sports garages, so fans are never too far away.
Virtual Pimp My Ride debuts on Thursday, April 5th, the same night as the on-air premiere of the new season of "Pimp My Ride" at 9PM ET/PT. An in-world premiere party will take place at 9:30 PM ET complete with special cast appearances.
Virtual Pimp My Ride represents the evolution of MTV Networks' virtual worlds and will extend car culture further into MTVN's current virtual worlds. Virtual Pimp My Ride is the third virtual world experience from MTV Networks to be hosted on Makena Technologies' "there.com" platform.
MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 100 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 95 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.
Source: MTV Networks
Web site: http://www.mtv.com/
http://www.virtualpimpmyride.mtv.com/

April 3
A Larger-Than-Life Cross-Country Trek -- Night At The Museum's ''T-Rex Trek'' Celebrates DVD Release
Film's "Rexy" on 7-Day Road Trip From NYC To LA - April 17-24
Apr. 3, 2007 Night At The Museum's hysterical historical figures send-off the playful T-Rex REXY on a seven-day cross-country game of fetch from New York to Los Angeles, just in time to celebrate Fox Home Entertainment's April 24th DVD and Blu-ray Disc release. All the fun-filled after-hours antics will be available to take home and with the fun-loving fossil coming to towns across America, the nightly ritual becomes a party that's not to be missed!
REXY's pals from Night At The Museum including Attila the Hun, Enuits, Jebediah, Octavius, the Neanderthals, and others will bid REXY farewell with a huge celebration in New York on the evening of April 17th. Journeying down New York's great Broadway, through the nation's Capitol, then blowing through the Windy City and across the Mighty Mississippi, through the Gateway to the West and over the Rocky Mountains, to the Golden Gate Bridge and hitting the Vegas Strip, the two-ton, 13 foot tall and 21 foot long REXY will travel over 3,000 miles on his trek across the country. During his journey, REXY will be seen from all angles traveling America's highways on a huge flatbed truck chasing his beloved bone carried by a yellow HUMMER H2. REXY will be visiting several local history museums in various cities along the way, finally arriving at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County on April 24th.
After departing New York, REXY will make scheduled stops in Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Detroit, Chicago, St. Louis, Kansas City, Denver, Las Vegas and San Francisco before landing in Los Angeles. Fans can follow REXY's trek via Yahoo! Maps and will be featured on Yahoo! Movies with event footage from the daily stops and exclusives from the upcoming DVD, allowing Night At The Museum fans around the world a glimpse into life on the road with REXY.
A LARGER THAN LIFE TOUR:
The Night At The Museum Rexy Tour will make stops at the following locations, creating a Rexy frenzy in celebration of the upcoming DVD launch.
-- New York, NY - American Museum of Natural History / Broadway - April 17th
-- Philadelphia, PA - Academy of Natural Sciences - April 18th
-- Washington D.C. - Robert Brent Elementary Museum Magnet School - April 18th
-- Detroit, MI - The Henry Ford Museum - April 19th
-- Chicago, IL - The Field Museum - April 19th
-- St. Louis, MO - Missouri History Museum - April 20th
-- Kansas City, KS - Science City at Union Station - April 20
-- Denver, CO - Starfest Sci-Fi Convention - April 21st
-- Las Vegas, NV - Las Vegas Natural History Museum / Las Vegas Strip - April 22nd
-- San Francisco, CA - April 23rd
-- Los Angeles, CA - Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County - April 24th
Night At The Museum arrives on DVD in a two-disc Special Edition full of bonus features including deleted and extended scenes with optional commentary by director Shawn Levy (Cheaper By The Dozen, The Pink Panther) and Ben Stiller, an alternate opening, a hilarious gag-reel, behind the scenes featurettes, and a DVD-ROM Explorer Game, as well as on Blu-ray and single disc widescreen and pan-and-scan versions, which also include commentary by Shawn Levy and Ben Stiller as well as film writer's Robert Ben Garant and Thomas Lennon. The Night At The Museum Special Edition DVD will retail for $34.98 U.S./$46.48 Canada, the single disc versions will be available for $29.98 U.S./$43.48 Canada and the BD will be priced at $39.98 U.S.
Night At The Museum Synopsis:
Ben Stiller leads an all-star cast, including Robin Williams, in this hilarious blockbuster hit. When Larry Daley (Stiller) is hired as Museum night watchman, he soon discovers that all the exhibits come to life after the sun sets. Suddenly, Larry finds himself face to face with frisky T-Rex skeleton, tiny armies of Romans and Cowboys and a mischievous monkey who taunts him to the breaking point. But Larry may just figure out a way to control the chaos and become a hero in his son's eyes. Boasting jaw-dropping special effects and big laughs, Night at the Museum is your ticket to non-stop fun!
A recognized global industry leader, Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment LLC (TCFHE) is the worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox film and television programming on VHS, DVD and Blu-ray Disc (BD) as well as acquisitions and original productions. The company also releases all products around the globe for MGM Home Entertainment. Each year TCFHE introduces hundreds of new and newly enhanced products, which it services to retail outlets from mass merchants and warehouse clubs to specialty stores and e-commerce throughout the world. Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment LLC is a subsidiary of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, a News Corporation company.
About Yahoo!
Yahoo! Inc. is a leading global Internet brand and one of the most trafficked Internet destinations worldwide. Yahoo!'s mission is to connect people to their passions, their communities and the world's knowledge. Yahoo! is headquartered in Sunnyvale, California.

QUALCOMM Files Additional GSM Patent Infringement Suits Against Nokia
QUALCOMM Incorporated (NASDAQ:QCOM) yesterday filed suit against Nokia in the Eastern District of Texas, Marshall Division for infringement of two patents and in the Western District of Wisconsin for infringement of three patents. These cases are directed exclusively to Nokia GSM/GPRS/EDGE cellular phones. The suit in Texas includes United States Patents Nos. 7,113,776 ("the '776 Patent"), 7,065,388 ("the '388 Patent") and 7,139,559 ("the '559 Patent") which all generally relate to the downloading of applications and other digital content over a GPRS/EDGE wireless data network. The suit in Wisconsin includes United States Patents Nos. 7,184,954 ("the '954 Patent") and 6,205,130 ("the '130 Patent") which both generally relate to speech encoders (also called "vocoders") used in certain models of GSM cellular phones. The federal courts in the Eastern District of Texas, Marshall Division, and in the Western District of Wisconsin, are noted for their extensive experience with patent litigation and their speedy adjudication of such cases. QUALCOMM seeks injunctive relief against future sales and damages related to phones already sold.
QUALCOMM's litigation is part of a worldwide effort to prevent Nokia from using the Company's valuable patented innovations without paying royalties. QUALCOMM has previously filed two other patent infringement lawsuits against Nokia's GSM/GPRS/EDGE cellular phones in the United States. There are similar cases pending in the U.K., France, Germany, Italy and China.
QUALCOMM's extensive patent portfolio includes more than 5,700 United States patents and patent applications and more than 35,000 patents and applications around the globe. QUALCOMM has entered into more than 140 royalty-bearing license agreements with the world's leading telecommunications equipment makers and consumer electronics manufacturers. The Company's extensive licensing program has fostered the widespread adoption of leading- edge technologies and promoted vibrant competition throughout the wireless industry, encouraging innovation and technological advancement. QUALCOMM is prepared to offer licenses under its essential GSM/GPRS/EDGE patents on fair and reasonable terms free from unfair discrimination to any company that requests one.
QUALCOMM Incorporated (www.qualcomm.com) is a leader in developing and delivering innovative digital wireless communications products and services based on CDMA and other advanced technologies. Headquartered in San Diego, Calif., QUALCOMM is included in the S&P 500 Index and is a 2006 FORTUNE 500(R) company traded on The Nasdaq Stock Market(R) under the ticker symbol QCOM.
QUALCOMM is a registered trademark of QUALCOMM Incorporated. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Source: QUALCOMM Incorporated

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

Christina Aguilera, Nicole Kidman and Martina McBride Join Lifetime Television for 7th Annual Emmy Award-Winning, Multi-Platform 'End Violence Against Women' Campaign
-- 'A Life Interrupted,' Inspired by the True Story of Rape Survivor-Turned- Advocate, Debbie Smith, Recounts Grassroots and Legislative Victory Expected to Put Approximately 70,000 Rapists Behind Bars, Premieres on April 23rd --
-- New PSA and Extensive Digital Content Features UNIFEM Goodwill Ambassador Kidman and Footage from Her Recent Trip to Kosovo, as Part of Global Effort to End Gender Violence --
-- Multi-Grammy Winner Aguilera Takes Campaign on 'Back to Basics' Concert Tour by Running Lifetime Spots on Jumbotrons, Distributing Materials, Designing Special Scarf and Tie and Honoring Survivors and Advocates --
-- Network Seeks to Encourage Millions to Commit to Help End Violence Against Women in Their Communities --
"One in three women worldwide will experience abuse or sexual violence in her life." --Johns Hopkins University School of Public Health
-- Lifetime Television is expanding its Emmy-winning campaign to "End Violence Against Women" with powerful original programming, celebrity PSAs and content on all multi-media platforms; a new focus on helping women around the world through a partnership with UNIFEM, the United Nations Development Fund for Women, and its Goodwill Ambassador, Oscar winner Nicole Kidman; a viral effort to spawn awareness and action headlined by Grammy winner Martina McBride; and a grassroots initiative in communities across the country with screenings and events on college campuses and by teaming up with multi-Grammy winner Christina Aguilera on her "Back to Basics" tour.
Throughout April, National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, campaign elements will include:
Premiering "A Life Interrupted" about Rape Survivor and Advocate Debbie
Smith:
The campaign's programming centerpiece is "A Life Interrupted," starring Lea Thompson, which is inspired by the true story of Virginia housewife Debbie Smith, who, working with Lifetime, its viewers, advocacy partners, and bipartisan Members of Congress, helped pass what has been hailed as the most effective piece of anti-rape legislation in U.S. history. A PSA with Debbie Smith and Rep. Carolyn Maloney, the original author of "The Debbie Smith Act," will air at the end of the film. Premieres on Monday, April 23rd, at 9PM (ET/PT).
Launching a Global Effort with UNIFEM, the United Nations Development Fund for Women, and Goodwill Ambassador Nicole Kidman:
To highlight the epidemic of violence against women internationally, Lifetime is partnering with UNIFEM and its Goodwill Ambassador, Oscar-winning actress Kidman, on an original PSA and online content. On http://www.lifetimetv.com/, visitors will find interviews with Kidman sharing why she became a UNIFEM Goodwill Ambassador, reflecting on her recent trip to Kosovo where she visited sexual assault survivors and urging support for UNIFEM's efforts to this. LifetimeTV.com will also offer resources providing ways to get involved, and features highlighting how -- through the UN Trust Fund to End Violence Against Women -- women are working in big and small ways to combat violence across the globe.
Taking the Campaign Message on Tour -- at Christina Aguilera's "Back to Basics" Concerts:
Three years ago, Lifetime took Christina Aguilera's mother, a domestic violence survivor, to Washington to testify before Congress. Now her multi- Grammy-winning daughter -- whose powerful song "Oh Mother" is a tribute to her mother and all those who have experienced abuse and who have supported shelters in her hometown of Pittsburgh and Los Angeles -- is starring in an original PSA that will air on Lifetime and throughout April. In addition, multi-Grammy winner Aguilera is bringing the campaign messages of hope, courage and activism on her "Back to Basics" tour by showing her Lifetime PSA on jumbotrons; recognizing survivors and advocates who Lifetime, Aguilera and the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) specially invite to her concerts; and distributing Lifetime's new educational brochures with information on ways to get involved.
"Wearing Support" for Ending Violence with Scarves and Ties Designed by Christina Aguilera:
This year, women and men can show their solidarity with the cause of ending gender violence by wearing their support. Christina Aguilera has designed a scarf and tie, which will be distributed to Members of Congress, White House officials, media, advocates, survivors and select concert attendees and http://www.lifetimetv.com/ visitors.
Creating a Viral Effort with Specially Dedicated Song by Martina McBride:
Grammy winner Martina McBride, a long-time supporter of Lifetime's anti- violence campaign and a champion of the National Domestic Violence Hotline, is dedicating her new single, "Anyway," as a tribute to Debbie Smith and survivors of violence everywhere. The song will anchor a moving original video trailer -- featuring McBride, scenes from "A Life Interrupted," and powerful images of sexual assault survivors by photographer Nobuko Oyabu -- which will air at the end of the film and will be featured in a viral e-card promoting the anti-violence message.
Extending the Campaign Message Across Multi-Platforms:
-- Video on Demand -- A VOD will be available on Comcast that takes
viewers "behind the scenes" on how the "The Debbie Smith Act" was
created with exclusive interviews with Debbie and her husband, Rob
Smith, as well as several pivotal, bipartisan Members of Congress and
advocates who supported the legislation and ultimately helped to make
it law.
-- Lifetimetv.com -- a new mini-site will include extensive digital
content, including the PSAs with Aguilera and Kidman, the VOD special,
the global effort informed by UNIFEM, a petition urging Congress to
fund critical support and prevention programs, a downloadable viewer's
guide to "A Life Interrupted," features, statistics, and resources.
-- XM Satellite Radio - partner XM will air Lifetime's PSAs and interview
celebrities, advocates and survivors tied to the cause.
-- Fundraising for the Cause through partnerships with iTunes, Amazon.com
and Sprint: Lifetime is joining with iTunes to offer "A Life
Interrupted" with all Lifetime proceeds going to the Network's
designated charities during the month of April. In addition, the
Network will fundraise for the cause via referred sales on Amazon.com
and Lifetime's downloadable application on Sprint (or any other
carrier where available).
Bringing the Campaign to Nation's Capital and Beyond for 5th Annual "End Violence Week":
From April 16-20, Lifetime joins with its nonprofit partners and bipartisan lawmakers for a week of events to send the message that violence against women is a national priority. Lifetime will co-host with the National Center for Victims of Crime the premiere screening of "A Life Interrupted," on April 17th, with Debbie and Rob Smith, Lea Thompson, Members of Congress, Department of Justice officials, and leading advocates. In addition, Lifetime is teaming up with local rape crisis centers, nonprofit organizations and the Network's College Corps to host discussions and screenings of "A Life Interrupted."
"Lifetime remains dedicated to working with dozens of our nonprofit partners to tackle the issues of domestic abuse and sexual assault that women repeatedly tell us are their #1 concerns and their #1 election issues. We are so proud to add such powerful voices to the cause this year, that will not only spotlight violence as a global epidemic and a pervasive problem in our own backyards, but that will encourage millions more women and men to say 'I can and I will make a difference,'" said Meredith Wagner, Executive Vice President, Public Affairs, Lifetime Entertainment Services.
Partners: Lifetime has built a coalition of more than 70 nonprofit organizations who inform and support the campaign, including, but not limited to: Equality Now, Men Can Stop Rape, the National Alliance to End Sexual Violence, the National Center for Victims of Crime, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, the National Domestic Violence Hotline, the National Network to End Domestic Violence, the National Violence Sexual Violence Resource Center, RAINN and UNIFEM. The Network also teams up with brother network ESPN.
LIFETIME is the leader in women's television and one of the top-rated basic cable television networks. A diverse, multi-media company, LIFETIME is committed to offering the highest quality entertainment and information programming, and advocating a wide range of issues affecting women and their families. LIFETIME Television, LMN, Lifetime Real Women, Lifetime Home Entertainment, and Lifetime Online (http://www.lifetimetv.com/) are part of LIFETIME Entertainment Services, a 50/50 joint venture of The Hearst Corporation and The Walt Disney Company.
Source: Lifetime Television
Web site: http://www.lifetimetv.com/

DreamWorks Animation Acquires 'Master Mind,' to Be Developed and Produced With Ben Stiller's Red Hour Films
DreamWorks Animation (NYSE:DWA) today announced the acquisition of writers Alan Schoolcraft & Brent Simons' superhero send-up "Master Mind," which was brought to the company by Lara Breay at Red Hour Films, the production entity of producing partners Ben Stiller and Stuart Cornfeld. Red Hour will collaborate with DreamWorks Animation in developing and producing the project.
DreamWorks Animation veterans Cameron Hood and Kyle Jefferson are attached to make their feature film directorial debut with "Master Mind." Their 2006 animated short film "First Flight" charmed audiences and critics groups alike. "Master Mind" will mark the first time Stiller collaborates with DreamWorks Animation in a production capacity, having previously voiced Alex the lion in the global hit "Madagascar" and in the upcoming "Madagascar: The Crate Escape." Schoolcraft & Simons will write the film, with DreamWorks Animation's Chris Kuser and Red Hour's Lara Breay overseeing development.
"Master Mind" is a satirical send-up of the superhero genre, built around the story of a super villain who loses his joie de vivre after accidentally killing his archrival, Uberman, in the opening scene of the movie.
Red Hour's Ben Stiller commented, "Stuart and Lara and I are really excited to be working with DreamWorks Animation on this project. We all think the script is really smart and really funny. They have put the film on the fast track, which in animation terms means it will be coming out in the next 15 to 20 years."
DreamWorks Animation C.E.O. Jeffrey Katzenberg added, "We are looking forward to collaborating again with Ben, this time on the production side of things. His creativity and signature sense of humor will lend itself perfectly to this project. As for Cameron Hood and Kyle Jefferson, they are two valued members of our DreamWorks Animation family. Their short 'First Flight' was such a beautiful, original piece, and we believe the promise it showed will be on full display in 'Master Mind.'"
Writers Schoolcraft and Simons are represented by Dan Rabinow at ICM. Red Hour is repped by UTA's Sharon Sheinwold, and directors Hood and Jefferson by the William Morris Agency and Management 360.
Cameron Hood and Kyle Jefferson made their animation directing debut with "First Flight." Both natives of Toronto and graduates of Sheridan College in Ontario, they began their professional careers together at DreamWorks working on the epic film, "The Prince of Egypt." Hood and Jefferson continued at the studio, contributing to a variety of animated films such as: "The Road to El Dorado," "Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron," "Shrek," "Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas" and "Shark Tale." Prior to working on "Sinbad" and "Shark Tale," they each took a brief hiatus from DreamWorks to pursue other passions. Jefferson worked closely with director Michael Bay building action scene pre-visualizations for "Pearl Harbor." Hood worked as an animator on Sony Imageworks' "Stuart Little 2," while also teaching at the Gnomon School of Visual Effects where he currently hosts their best-selling character animation lecture series.
About Red Hour Films
Red Hour Films is a unique production company dedicated to discovering new writers and filmmakers and developing projects with a mainstream sensibility. In 2001, the company launched its first effort, "Zoolander," the hit film based on a male model character Stiller co-created for the VH-1 Fashion Awards. Since then the company has had a string of successes most notably with the box office smash "Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story" directed by newcomer Rawson Marshall Thurber and starring Stiller and Vince Vaughn, and "Starsky and Hutch," directed by Todd Phillips starring Stiller and Owen Wilson, the Jack Black and Kyle Glass vehicle, "Tenacious D in the Pick of Destiny" and "Blades of Glory," starring Will Ferrell and Jon Heder.
About DreamWorks Animation SKG
DreamWorks Animation SKG (NYSE:DWA) is devoted to producing high-quality family entertainment through the use of computer-generated (CG) animation. Utilizing world-class creative talent and state-of-the-art technological capabilities, the company is committed to making two computer-animated feature films a year that appeal to a broad movie-going audience.
Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
This document includes certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company's plans, prospects, strategies, proposals and our beliefs and expectations concerning performance of our current and future releases and anticipated talent, directors and storyline for our upcoming films and other projects, constitute forward-looking statements. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about the industry in which we operate and management's beliefs and assumptions. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions which are difficult to predict. Actual results may vary materially from those expressed or implied by the statements herein due to changes in economic, business, competitive, technological and/or regulatory factors, and other risks and uncertainties affecting the operation of the business of DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc. These risks and uncertainties include: audience acceptance of our films, our dependence on the success of a limited number of releases each year, the increasing cost of producing and marketing feature films, piracy of motion pictures, the effect of rapid technological change or alternative forms of entertainment and our need to protect our proprietary technology and enhance or develop new technology. In addition, due to the uncertainties and risks involved in the development and production of animated feature projects, the release dates for the projects described in this document may be delayed. For a further list and description of such risks and uncertainties, see the reports filed by us with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our most recent annual report on Form 10-K and our most recent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. DreamWorks Animation is under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions or otherwise.
Source: DreamWorks Animation SKG

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

AARP Presents Latino Music Celebrities at First Ever National Hispanic Event
Luis Fonsi, Jose Feliciano, Arturo Sandoval, Gloria Estefan and Los Rayos Gamma Among the Many Celebrities Confirmed to Participate
-- AARP, one of the world's largest member organizations, today announced some of the biggest names in the Latino music industry will be performing at the first ever national Hispanic event, Feria de la Segunda Juventud (Festival of the Second Youth), on May 5- 6, 2007, at the Puerto Rico Convention Center in San Juan.
The concert schedule is:
Saturday, May 5, 6-8 PM Luis Fonsi and Los Rayos Gamma
Luis Fonsi, a popular recording artist with five gold Spanish-language
albums and two Latin Grammy Award nominations, and Los Rayos Gamma, Puerto
Rico's most beloved political satire troupe, will provide a night of
heart-touching ballads and big laughs.
Sunday, May 6, 6-9 PM Jose Feliciano, Arturo Sandoval
and Ballet Hispanico
Performances by legendary artists, Jose Feliciano, acclaimed by critics
worldwide as "the greatest living guitarist" and Arturo Sandoval, a
renowned classical artist, are sure to make this an unforgettable evening.
In addition, the audience will get to enjoy Ballet Hispanico, which is
recognized around the world as the foremost dance interpreter of Hispanic
culture in the United States.
"We are thrilled to present such amazing talent to our membership, of which 1.2 million are Hispanic, and the entire Puerto Rican community," said AARP President Erik Olsen. "These exciting performances combined with the informative and inspirational content of the sessions will make this event a great success."
A "can't miss" panel discussion on important issues facing Latinas will take place on May 6, 2007, from 9-11 AM, and will feature Gloria Estefan and Miss Universe winners, Zuleyka Rivera, Denise Quinones, and Deborah Carthy Deu.
Feria de la Segunda Juventud is packed full of celebrity speakers, others include Don Francisco, Dr. Nancy Alvarez, Chi Chi Rodriguez, Don Miguel Ruiz, Giovanna Huyke, Awilda Carbia, Alba Nydia Diaz and Angela Meyer. Sessions will address issues of concern to the Hispanic community including healthcare, fitness and more. To view a complete schedule of events and pre-register as a consumer or a member of the media, please visit http://www.aarp.org/events.
About AARP
AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization that helps people 50+ have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial and affordable to them and society as a whole. AARP produces AARP The Magazine, published bimonthly; AARP Bulletin, its monthly newspaper; AARP Segunda Juventud, its bimonthly magazine in Spanish and English; NRTA Live & Learn, its quarterly newsletter for 50+ educators; and the website, http://www.aarp.org/. AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. We have staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Source: AARP
Web site: http://www.aarp.org/

Poison Announces New Studio Album, POISON'D!, to Be Released June 5 by EMI America Records/Capitol
13-Track Album Features Hot New Recordings of Poison's Favorite Rock Classics, Including Hits Originally Recorded by David Bowie, The Rolling Stones, The Cars, Sweet, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers and More!
Poison's North American Summer Tour Begins June 12
-- Poison, one of rock's most iconic and enduring bands, has recorded a new album of cover songs, featuring many of their favorite rock classics. POISON'D, the band's first new studio album since 2002, will be released June 5 on CD and digitally by EMI America Records/Capitol.
Featuring Poison's original members, Bret Michaels (vocals), C.C. DeVille (guitar), Rikki Rockett (drums) and Bobby Dall (bass), POISON'D presents the band's first new studio recordings since 2002's Hollyweird. Produced by Don Was at Hensen Recording Studios in Hollywood, POISON'D packs 13 explosive tracks, including new recordings of David Bowie's "Suffragette City," The Cars' "You're Just What I Needed," The Romantics' "What I Like About You," Sweet's "Little Willy," The Marshall Tucker Band's "Can't You See" and The Rolling Stones' "Dead Flowers." Some of Poison's best previously recorded covers are also featured on POISON'D, including KISS' "Rock and Roll All Nite," Grand Funk Railroad's "We're An American Band" and Loggins and Messina's "Your Mama Don't Dance."
"Poison is one of the greatest rock 'n roll bands in the world and, after 20 years, they can slam better than ever," says POISON'D producer Don Was. "They're powerful musicians and very cool guys. We had a lot of fun making this album and I think you can hear it in the grooves -- it's got the jive and is truly alive! I urge everyone to listen to it!"
Following the release of POISON'D, Poison will hit the road again on June 12 for a major North American summer concert tour. Tour dates and details will be announced and posted to the band's official website as they are confirmed. Visit www.poisonweb.com and www.myspace.com/poison for the latest Poison news and links to other Poison-related websites.
In July, VH1 will premiere a new reality show, "Rock of Love with Bret Michaels." VH1's description of the show has "the hard-rockin' Poison front man looking for a woman who can truly keep up with his rock-n-roll lifestyle and not become jealous of his one true passion -- performing, which has been the reason for and destruction of most of his relationships."
In 1986, Poison released their debut album, Look What the Cat Dragged In. After years of hard work, touring and controversy, radio and MTV finally took notice of the band and their music, propelling Poison into superstardom. Look What the Cat Dragged In peaked at #3 on the Billboard album charts, charted three singles and sold more than four million copies.
The band's 1988 follow-up, Open Up and Say ... Ahh! went Platinum two weeks after its release. The single "Every Rose Has Its Thorn" hit #1 on Billboard's Singles chart and the album sold more than seven million units. 1990's Flesh & Blood featured a second Gold single, "Unskinny Bop," and the album went multi-Platinum.
In 1991, amidst inner fighting, alcohol, drug abuse and road stories that would make a porn star blush, guitarist C.C. Deville and singer Bret Michaels collided in an all out fist-fight seconds after leaving the stage of the MTV Music Video Awards (right between Cindy Crawford's high heels and Eddie Van Halen's sneakers). C.C. Deville left the band.
Poison continued to tour arenas and amphitheatres and recorded the Platinum Native Tongue and Crack A Smile. After five years of not speaking, Michaels and Deville met up in 1999 and, with their chemistry and friendship quickly rekindled, the band went into the studio to record Power To The People. One of the most successful reunion tours of all time followed the album's release.
Last April, Poison rocketed into the Billboard Top 20 with the #17 debut of the band's 20th anniversary hits collection, The Best Of Poison: 20 Years Of Rock (Capitol/EMI). The 18-track hits collection was soon certified gold, and Poison tore through the summer of 2006 on their highly successful "20 Years of Rock" North American concert tour.
To date, Poison has sold more than 25 million records and DVDs worldwide.
POISON'D (CD and Digital Album)
(NOT FINAL SEQUENCE)
1. Little Willy (originally performed by Sweet)
2. Suffragette City (originally performed by David Bowie)
3. I Never Cry (originally performed by Alice Cooper)
4. I Need to Know (originally performed by Tom Petty &
The Heartbreakers)
5. Can't You See (originally performed by The Marshall
Tucker Band)
6. What I Like About You (originally performed by The
Romantics)
7. Dead Flowers (originally performed by The Rolling
Stones)
8. Just What I Needed (originally performed by The Cars)
9. Rock and Roll All Nite (originally performed by Kiss)
10. Squeeze Box (originally performed by The Who)
11. Your Mama Don't Dance (originally performed by Loggins &
Messina)
12. You Don't Mess Around With Jim (originally performed by Jim Croce)
13. We're An American Band (originally performed by Grand Funk
Railroad)
TRACKS 1-8: produced by Don Was - 2007 (new recordings)
TRACK 9: produced by Rick Rubin, Less Than Zero soundtrack - 1987
TRACK 10: produced by Thom Panunzio, Hollyweird - 2002
TRACK 11: produced by Tom Werman, Open Up and Say ... Ahh! - 1988
TRACK 12: produced by Ric Browdie - 1987; bonus track on Look What The Cat
Dragged In reissue (2006)
TRACK 13: produced by Don Was, The Best Of Poison: 20 Years Of Rock - 2006

Source: EMI America Records/Capitol

Reggaeton Superstar Daddy Yankee Sets Release of His First Studio Album in Three Years, The Cartel: The Big Boss, for June 5
Album Guests Include Fergie, Akon, Will.i.am From Black Eyed Peas and Nicole From The Pussycat Dolls
-- Daddy Yankee's first studio album since 2004's groundbreaking Barrio Fino promises to pour more gasolina on the fire that is reggaeton. The Cartel: The Big Boss (El Cartel/Interscope), released June 5, 2007, continues to expand reggaeton's power and reach by featuring such diverse guest artists as Fergie, Jim Jones, Nicole Scherzinger from The Pussycat Dolls, Akon, and Will.i.am from Black Eyed Peas. Both Akon and Will.i.am also produce, as do Mr. ColliPark and Scott Storch (the latter producing the first single, "Impacto") along with Reggaeton producers Eli "El Musicologo", Tiny Tunes, Diesel and Menace.
For Daddy Yankee, The Cartel: The Big Boss marks the next step in a phenomenal career that has taken him from the barrios outside San Juan, Puerto Rico, to being named one of the 100 Most Influential People in the world by Time magazine.
"Reggaeton needs a change and I'm changing too," says Daddy Yankee. "You can't rest on the past. This album is very different. My roots are still there but now there's more, a side of me people haven't seen, including hip-hop. And I know the power music has too. I'm a leader in Latin culture. The album talks about the role we're playing in society. For people that don't know what's happening, we need to let them know what's going on."
In 2006, the live CD/DVD set Barrio Fino en Directo was the biggest selling Latin album of the year according to Billboard, was named Reggaeton Album of the Year at the Billboard Latin Music Awards. Daddy Yankee was also named Artist of the Year at the Latin Billboard Awards and MTV Video Music Awards Latinoamerica, Latin Songwriter of the Year by ASCAP and Urban Artist of the Year at Univision's Premios Lo Nuestro Awards. Along with the Time magazine honor, People en Espanol ranked him among the upcoming year's 100 Most Influential People.
With his rapid-fire freestyle flow and clever lyrics, Daddy Yankee helped pioneer the sound of reggaeton. In 2004, "Gasolina" from the studio Barrio Fino became the urban music anthem that put reggaeton on the music map and made DY its first platinum-certified star.
Daddy Yankee's influence within the genre is matched by his entrepreneurial vision. Besides being founder and CEO of his own record label and management company, he is one of Pepsi's Hispanic spokespersons and for sportswear powerhouse Reebok has created "Daddy Yankee by Rbk," a footwear, clothing and accessory line available in stores nationwide. Talento de Barrio, his first film, as actor and executive producer, is slated for a U.S. release later this year. The reggaeton star recently celebrated his first anniversary as the host of the Daddy Yankee On Fuego Radio Show, a nationally syndicated radio show on ABC Radio Networks which airs on 29 affiliates.
Daddy Yankee has not forgotten where he has come from either. For his native Puerto Rico, he was the first reggaeton artist to offer free concerts for the children of the projects. Most recently, he partnered with the Puerto Rico Department of Education to lead a school cleaning and beautification program. He also continues to be a spokesperson for the American Red Cross in the U.S. Hispanic community and a member of the Red Cross Celebrity Cabinet that reaches out to a new generation of volunteers and encourages people of all races, ages and ethnicities to support the Red Cross in their community. In 2007, Daddy Yankee will launch his own charitable organization, Fundacion Corazon Guerrero.
Source: Interscope Records

Jay-Z Inspired Hip-Hop Musical, 'CONFESSIONS OF A THUG,' Hits the Streets! - Featured on Cover of Billboard
The new award-winning, highly anticipated hip-hop musical "Confessions Of A Thug," starring Daron Fordham and featured on the cover of the current (March 31st through April 6th) edition of Billboard Magazine, has been released on DVD in the U.S. domestically by Polychrome Pictures, a subsidiary of Warner Home Video.
"Confessions Of A Thug" is a groundbreaking, hip-hop musical chronicling the life of a college-educated street hustler, who explores the path his life has taken. In addition to directing, Daron Fordham (Black Spring Break I & II) starred in and also wrote the picture. In an interview, Fordham said that he was "inspired by the entrepreneurial example of hip-hop mogul Jay-Z to make the picture." The movie is a cutting-edge urban crime drama, with an outstanding soundtrack of original music, presented with a fresh, new approach to the genre. The movie also includes performances by multi-platinum rap artists J. T. Money and The Lady of Rage.
"This film is a morality tale. You reap what you sow. We wanted to portray that in a non-traditional way and raise the bar artistically on what an urban film can be and look like," says Fordham. By merging hard-hitting rap performances with dramatic filmmaking and edgy photography, Fordham gives his audiences the best of both worlds. "'Confessions' is a movie for the young urban crowd and the art crowd," says Fordham. Among other honors, the movie gained the award for Best Director at this year's 2007 San Diego Black Film Festival.
Raymond Forchion, producer of "Confessions," couldn't agree more: "We've created a product that transcends the borders often set for this type of movie. The musical numbers alone elevate this picture and give it a whole new level of excitement. The soundtrack album includes eleven original hot tracks from the movie that have created a buzz on the underground and club circuits."
The March 31st edition of Billboard is on newsstands now. In addition to the cover spot there is also an article about the picture.
Starting with Birmingham, Alabama, Director/Star Daron Fordham, Producer Raymond Forchion and other stars from the picture will be touring several U.S. cities and visiting various retail outlets in the coming weeks to promote the PolychromePictures/Warner Brothers release.
For more information about the film and to view trailers, visit http://www.confessionsofathug.com/ and http://www.polychromepictures.com/ .
Source: Exposure PR

Web Site: http://www.confessionsofathug.com/
http://www.polychromepictures.com/

Spike TV Greenlights New Late-Night Comedic Series
'MANswers'
Spike TV answers all of the burning questions men have been dying to ask, but never found socially acceptable in a new nine-episode comedic late-night series, "MANswers." The fast-paced series works to satisfy the curiosity of Spike viewers by asking the tough questions only guys would appreciate and taking the viewers on a wild ride to find out the answers.
In each episode, "MANswers" races through re-enactments, expert one-on- ones and man-on-the-street interviews to educate Spike viewers on the taboo topics in terms only guys can relate to. The truth is never what you would expect and will inevitably end up being talked about around the water cooler the next day. This half-hour original series premieres on Spike TV in the Fall.
"We've set out to answer the questions guys really want to know, such as, how long can you survive in space without a spacesuit?," said Sharon Levy, Senior Vice President of Alternative Programming, Spike TV. "At the end of a hard day, why think about real life issues when you can find out how to blow up an implant?"
Some sample questions that will be posed this season include: Can you beat a breathalyzer?; What's the best human organ to eat if you are a cannibal?; How long can you survive on beer alone?; Can you beat a drug test?; and How tough are silicone implants?
"MANswers" is produced by Super Delicious LLP and Fujisankei Communications International. Adam Cohen, Cara Tapper and Joanna Vernetti of Super Delicious LLP, Michael J. Miller, and Akifumi Takuma of Fujisankei Communications International serve as Executive Producers. Levy, Tim Duffy, Vice President of Alternative Programming, and Wayne Sampson, Director of Original Programming, will serve as Executives in Charge of Production for Spike TV.
Spike TV is available in 91 million homes and is a division of MTV Networks. MTV Networks, a division of Viacom International Inc.
Source: Spike TV
Web site: http://www.spiketv.com/

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April 2
LA Opera Presents Beloved Operetta by Franz Lehár
The Merry Widow
Starring Mezzo-Soprano Susan Graham and Baritone Rod Gilfry
April 28 – May 26, 2007
(LOS ANGELES, CA) April 2007 – Plácido Domingo has announced that LA Opera will present Franz Lehár’s fin-de-siècle masterpiece, The Merry Widow, starring mezzo-soprano Susan Graham and baritone Rod Gilfry. The opulent production will be conducted by Sebastian Lang-Lessing and directed by Lotfi Mansouri. The dazzling costumes reflecting turn of the 20th century Paris are designed by Thierry Bosquet; Art Nouveau inspired sets are by Michael Yeargan; the lighting is designed by M.L. Geiger; and finally the choreography that includes the operetta’s magnificent waltzes is by Peggy Hickey. The Merry Widow opens Saturday, April 28 and runs for nine performances through May 26, 2007, at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 North Grand Avenue, Los Angeles.

Following a mesmerizing LA Opera stage debut in L’incoronazione di Poppea, Grammy Award-winning mezzo-soprano Susan Graham returns to star as Anna Glawari opposite Grammy Award nominated baritone and Los Angeles favorite Rod Gilfry as Count Danilo. The cast also includes soprano Elizabeth Norberg-Schulz as Valencienne, tenor Eric Cutler as Camille de Rosillon, tenor Greg Fedderly as Raoul de St. Brioche, tenor Jason Graae as Njegus and baritone Jake Gardner as Baron Mirko Zeta.

This ravishing Viennese operetta entertains audiences with a classic love story still relevant a century after its debut: a wealthy widow frets to find true love with a man invested in more than her fortune. The production opens at a soiree for Parisian high society hosted by Baron Mirko Zeta, the Pontevedrian Ambadassor. Anxious Parisian suitors await the arrival of the wealthy and eligible Pontevedrian widow Anna Glawari. The Baron hopes to keep her heart and her wealth entwined with his own country’s most eligible bachelor, Count Danilo. Anna runs into Danilo at the party, and the two reminisce about their former romance. With ulterior motives in mind, friends of both Anna and Danilo attempt to persuade them to marry. Anna, adamant on finding true love, tests Danilo’s heart. In a joyful reunion, the couple waltzes to a very happy ending.

While The Merry Widow is firmly established in the world’s operatic repertoire, it also has been adapted for the stage and for Hollywood film. The production debuted as operetta in 1905 at the Theater an der Wien, on the stage as a musical in 1907 at the New Amsterdam Theatre in New York and finally as a Hollywood silent film in 1925, produced by MGM and starring Mae Murray and John Gilbert. It was remade for film in 1952 starring Lana Turner and Fernando Llamas, and the work was even nominated for Oscars for Set Design and Costume.

A San Francisco Opera production, The Merry Widow will open on Saturday, April 28, 2007, at 7:30pm. Subsequent Evening Performances are May 3, 9, 12, 23 and 26 at 7:30 PM and May 20 at 8:00pm. Matinee Performances are May 6 at 2:00pm and May 19 at 1:00pm.

Kimberlea Daggy speaks on the production at the pre-performance lectures, which begin one hour prior to each performance. Ms. Daggy has been a radio host for classical music stations since 2001; She can be heard on weekday mornings on KUSC 91.5 FM.

Tickets to The Merry Widow range from $35 to $220. Single tickets are now on sale at the Los Angeles Opera Box Office, online at www.LAOpera.com, or by phone at (213) 972-8001. All performances take place at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Music Center, 135 North Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012.

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