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SUNDAYS ARE NOW PICTURE DAY
International news from Asia and Latin news in English and Spanish here now along with NASA and Vatican news
More exciting changes coming each day
Cell Phones The Savior Or Not!
Lynyrd Skynyrd and Big & Rich Team With KICKS 101.5 and EAGLE 106.7 to Help Raise Funds for 173rd Airborne Brigade National Memorial
Show at HiFi Buys Amphitheatre, in Atlanta, Georgia, Saturday, Oct. 7, 2006 With John Anderson, Cowboy Troy, The Lost Trailers and Others; Pre-Sale Wednesday, August 23 on Sale August 25 Through Ticketmaster.com; Goal Is to Raise $500,000 in One Day "They Have Waited Long Enough"
Pixar Animation Studios, Oliver Stone, William Goldman, Neil Labute and WGA/w President Patric Verrone Headline SCREENWRITING EXPO 5 World's Largest Annual Screenwriting Conference Adds an Extra 'Career Day;' Moves to LAX Hotels for October 19-22 Event
They Did Not Hear: Author Shares Battle to Receive Disability Benefits After Injury
Rock Band Drowning Pool to Perform in Germany and the Persian Gulf on USO/AFE Tour
Retail Entertainment Design (RED) and GoTV Networks Take Mobile Video Technology to the Next Level With Three-Month-Long Promotion of 'The Panic Channel's' Debut Album Feature Videos, Live Performances and Behind-the-Scenes Interviews With 'The Panic Channel' Will Update Every Two Weeks, Reaching Over 5 Million Sprint and Boost Mobile Video-Enabled Customers
Triangle Multi-Media Limited, Inc. and Q Television Network, Inc. Make Two Major Announcements
“Great To Be Nominated” Concludes with “Network”
JADOO POWER AWARDED GENERAL ATOMICS CONTRACT FOR
ADVANCED FUEL CANISTER DESIGN
New Fuel System Can Deliver 10X the Energy Density of Batteries
Jet Announces Fall Tour Dates; Ten-City Trek Sees the Aussie Rock Superstars Celebrating Eagerly Awaited Second Album; "SHINE ON" in Stores on October 3rd
AOL Music Adds Lupe Fiasco to Lineup of This Summer's Breaker Artists
Anheuser-Busch Launches In-House Film and TV Production Company
New Census Data Details Major Changes in Language Landscape(THIS WAS SOMETHING WE BROKE MONTHS AGO)
Intersound Records to Release a World Music Album to Benefit Refugees
'The Panic Channel' Debuts With Free Three-Month Mobile Video Promotion for Sprint and Boost Mobile Customers Retail Entertainment Design (RED) Helps 'The Panic Channel' Reach Over 5 Million Consumers With Fresh Content Every Two Weeks, Including Music Videos, Live Performances, and Behind-the-Scenes Interviews
Today's Youth Look to Advertising as Much as Their Friends When Making Purchase Decisions
Newer Advertising Tactics Not Appealing - Only Five Percent Like Advertising on Cell Phones
Tower Records to Sell Company Under Chapter 11 Sale Process
Enters into $85 million in Debtor in Possession Financing; Negotiates Delivery Terms with Key Vendor Partners; Stores Remain Open ... Business as Usual
MGM Television Programming Available on the iTunes Music Store
New Media Division Expands Reach for Studio's Library of Classic & Popular TV Hits
Opera Great Jessye Norman Teams With Rachael Worby and The Pasadena POPS Orchestra for Concert of Hope for 1,500 Students at Pasadena's Blair High Sept. 22
Back to School Technology for Today’s Youth is More than Disney Mobile, iPods, and Nintendos
BLACK ENTERPRISE To Debut TV Series Hosted By Emmy Award-Winning Journalist Ed Gordon
Our World With Black Enterprise Premieres Nationwide This Fall
Celebrity Tattoo Artist Mario Barth's Starlight Tattoo to Partner with AOL Music Style Studio During the Week of MTV's 2006 Video Music Awards
Los Angeles Lakers All-Star Kobe Bryant Scores the Cover of NBA '07 for PlayStation(R)2 and PSP(R) (PlayStation(R) Portable)
Three-Time NBA Champ to Endorse Basketball Franchise Featuring Acclaimed Behind-the-Scenes Mode 'The Life: Vol. 2'
Byron Allen to Host and Executive Produce New Syndicated Series 'Comics Unleashed'
Entertainment Studios Sets Record Deals With Television Broadcast Stations for Comedy Series to Premiere on September 25 in HD
Celebrity Divorce Attorneys Release Revised Edition of Prenuptial Agreement Book
New Version Includes Domestic Partnership Information and Fascinating Prenuptial Clauses of the Rich, Famous and Eccentric
U.S. Postal Service and Highlights for Children, Inc. to Celebrate Milestones
H3's Makin' Moves in Vegas
Company Headquarters Heading to Paradise, H3Players.com's WorldSeries Reset for Sunday, December 3, 2006
Interact-TV Unveils MediaSafe - Complete Digital Media Protection Against Hard Drive Failure in the Home
Westinghouse Digital Offers Students Ultimate Back to School Tech Package With New Laptop and 19" HD-Ready LCD TV
Back to School Tech Bundle Available Exclusively at Wal-Mart; Gives Students the Tools They Need to Make the Grade
Lifetime Television Launches Its First-Ever VOD Service Featuring Full Length Episodes of the Network's Popular Programming Along With Special Featurettes
-- Programming Available to Approximately 10 Million Comcast Customers with ON DEMAND Beginning Tuesday, August 22 --
'Maddenoliday' Declared In Madden, Miss. (Pop. 74), to Celebrate Launch of Madden NFL 07 on Xbox 360
To Commemorate 'Maddenoliday,' NFL Greats Jerry Rice, Marshall Faulk and Warren Moon Deliver Free Xbox 360s to All Madden Residents in Small-Town Celebration of Top-Selling EA SPORTS Title
Virgin Mobile USA Woos Users with the Sultry Sounds of Cassie
Customers Get 'First Dibs' on Exclusive Ringtones and Chance to Win Phone Call From Cassie Herself
Country Cruise Getaway Starring Tim McGraw Set for January 28-31, 2007 Aboard Carnival Liberty
Tickets on Sale Monday, August 28th for 3-Day Bahamas Cruise Featuring Multiple Artists, Q&A Sessions, Texas Hold 'Em Poker Tournament on Carnival's Newest 'Fun Ship'
Premiere Issue of Hallmark Magazine Hits Newsstands Today
Newest Periodical for Women Offers Fresh Approach to Women's Lifestyle Magazine Publishing
Hallmark Magazine Combines Service With Emotionally Resonant Storytelling
Become a Crime Scene Investigator With SBG/b EQUAL's New CSI: SENSES Board Game Based on Hit TV Series
CSI Creator Anthony E. Zuiker Develops a New CSI Board Game Replicating the #1 CBS TV Series
Archer Launches First TV Channel for People of Indian Origin (PIO) Over IPTV
According to the latest study by Shop.org and Forrester Research, says Webtrends, the US eCommerce industry has experienced a compound annual growth rate of 33%.
Pictures from the Red Carpet Carpet Wiliam Shatner Roast on the Comedy Channel to play Sunday 10pm Pacific and 9pm central
21st Annual Imagen Awards Honors Film and Television Actors Plus Five Special Awards Highlight Gala Event
TiVo Statement on Order Granting Injunction Against EchoStar and Damages of Over $89.6 Million
Platinum Soul Star Lyfe Jennings to Celebrate New Album, The Phoenix, at Circuit City, Marlow Heights, MD
Atlanta Film Producer Returns Home, Empowering and Challenging Riverwood High School Students With Curriculum-Based Music/Video/Film Production for International Distribution, Choreographed by Laurie-Ann Gibson
intimately BECKHAM...for Him. for Her.
Nominees Announced for the Fourth Annual Relly Awards Regis Philbin and Kelly Ripa Return to Host 2006 Awards Ceremony on 'Live With Regis and Kelly,' Airing Friday, September 22, 2006
Lance Bass Enlists Socialite & Celebrity Eric Schiffer to Relaunch His Mission into Space, and Other Exciting Things in Hollywood
KRON TV Personality Jan Wahl to Introduce My Man Godfrey at Sterling Silver Screen Series
12th Annual Charlotte Fine Craft Show Debuts November 3-5 Featuring New Artists and a Live Craft Demonstration
28 Foot Lizards Loom Large on Rain Bird's 2007 Float Entry as Annual 'Parade Before The Parade' Gives Locals an Up Close and Personal Sneak Peek at Some of the 2007 Tournament Of Roses Parade Floats
Crayola Draws Attention to Young Artists with Exhibition at Minnesota State Fair
Former Mission: Impossible Star Launches Health Company
eBay Dominates Online Clothing and Accessories
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Lynyrd Skynyrd and Big & Rich Team With KICKS 101.5 and EAGLE 106.7 to Help Raise Funds for 173rd Airborne Brigade National Memorial
Show at HiFi Buys Amphitheatre, in Atlanta, Georgia, Saturday, Oct. 7, 2006 With John Anderson, Cowboy Troy, The Lost Trailers and Others; Pre-Sale Wednesday, August 23 on Sale August 25 Through Ticketmaster.com; Goal Is to Raise $500,000 in One Day "They Have Waited Long Enough"
Recent Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees Lynyrd Skynyrd and hot country duo Big & Rich will team up with KICKS 101.5 and the EAGLE 106.7 at the HiFi Buys Amphitheatre in Atlanta, Georgia on Saturday, October 7, 2006 at 6:00PM (doors at 4:00PM), for a fundraising concert that will include performances by John Anderson, Cowboy Troy, The Lost Trailers and others. All profits from the show will go to the building fund for the 173rd Airborne Brigade National Memorial. The memorial is to be built at the new National Infantry Museum campus in Ft. Benning, Georgia. The goal is to raise $500,000 in one day. Tickets are available through www.Ticketmaster.com for pre-sale, Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at 10:00AM -- Thursday, August 24, 2006 at 10:00PM ET and to the general public, Friday, August 25, 2006 at 4:00PM ET. Prices range from $15 lawn tickets to $1000 VIP packages that include premium seating, an autographed guitar and a private event with the artists (tickets available for $15, $30, $45, $60, $150 & $1000).
"They have waited long enough," stated John Rich of Big & Rich. "We're just glad we are in a position to help these guys out," chimed in his partner Big Kenny. "These guys have put their lives on the line and over 1700 members of the 173rd have lost their lives serving this country. When we heard that they expected it to take 3 - 5 years of a capital fundraising campaign to build the memorial we decided we had to find a way to raise the money in one day. Then the guys in Skynyrd heard about it and we decided we'd jump in on their scheduled concert and now it's growing everyday. We look forward to an amazing show," continued Rich.
"Lynyrd Skynyrd is honored to be part of this event," said Johnny Van Zant of Lynyrd Skynyrd. "It's the least we can do to help build a memorial for the 173rd Airborne who have lost so many and helped protect this country. We look forward to sharing the stage with Big & Rich and playing for one of our favorite towns -- Atlanta, GA. It's been too long!"
Originally, October 7 was scheduled to be a Lynyrd Skynyrd show at the HiFi Buys Amphitheatre and Big & Rich were looking at October 8 for an event in Atlanta. When the legendary band heard about the proposed event they gave up their paid date to join forces with Big Kenny and Rich for what is turning into an amazing lineup.
"We thought raising funds for the memorial could take up to five years or more. Now, because we can make it happen in one night, many more Sky Soldiers will be able to see its dedication," said Terry Modglin, president of the 173rd Airborne Brigade National Memorial Foundation.
The memorial to the 173rd Airborne Brigade has been in discussion for the past two decades. Its design was recently approved and the location at the National Infantry Museum at Ft. Benning was chosen. It will feature a central circle with all the names of those from the brigade and allied forces who have lost their lives or are missing in action inscribed along with key brigade achievements. The centerpiece will include a column that rises above the memorial as a beacon topped by a steel sculpture of the wing and sword, central elements of the Brigade shoulder patch. Construction of the project is expected to take 12 to 18 months after funds are raised. With an estimated budget of $650,000 everyone involved was making plans for a long-term fundraising effort when Big Kenny and Rich stepped in.
"We knew we wanted to do something to help," said Marc Oswald, Big & Rich's manager. "So I picked up the phone and called Victor Sansone, who runs KICKS and the EAGLE down in Atlanta, and is a Vietnam veteran himself. He had already expressed to the guys and me that he felt like '8th of November' was an important song. So I knew he was the right guy to talk to and in the right place to do a show. It was a short conversation. I barely got the idea out before he said 'I'm in. Just tell me what we need to do.'"
"Marc had me at hello," said Sansone, president and general manager, WKHX and WYAY Atlanta. "This was honestly an easy decision for our staff and a natural extension to the commitment that Big & Rich have made in bringing closure to Niles Harris. The timely tribute that we are able to give to the 173rd in its entirety, is flawed only by the five-year timetable they originally anticipated. It's heartwarming that everyone in this loop from HiFi Buys to radio to Lynyrd Skynyrd, John Anderson and The Lost Trailers...simply everyone's immediate reaction is 'Let's get it done...NOW.' And we will."
Ranked as one of the best-selling artists of all time by the Recording Industry Association of America and recent Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductees, Lynyrd Skynyrd is still going strong with almost 65 albums recorded, 26 million sold to date, and over 80 performances annually. The band is currently writing the follow-up to "Vicious Cycle," the band's May 2003 release on Sanctuary Records that spawned the single "Red White and Blue," which was the band's strongest in over 25 years. To date, the Southern anthem "Sweet Home Alabama" has passed the 1,000,000 mark in downloaded master ringtones, proving that Lynyrd Skynyrd is a major industry icon that appeals to all generations.
Big & Rich spent the second half of this year touring coast to coast on the "Prilosec OTC Coming To Your City Tour" and promoting the third single from "Comin' To Your City," "The 8th of November." The song tells the story of Purple Heart veteran and member of the 173rd Airborne Brigade, Niles Harris, who, as a 19-year-old army private, was shot in a jungle fire fight during the Vietnam War on November 8, 1965. In 2002, Big Kenny and Rich befriended Harris when they visited his hometown of Deadwood, South Dakota. The friendship has continued and Big Kenny and Rich wrote "The 8th of November" to honor his legacy. Last year the duo accompanied Harris on a trip to Vietnam to try to make sense of the battle that took his comrades' lives on that fall day in 1965. A documentary of the experience began airing in July. Prilosec OTC is distributing over a million copies of the documentary through a special on-pack offer available to consumers at select retailers.
Also joining the bill will be Cowboy Troy, recent co-host of the 4th season of "Nashville Star" and member of the MuzikMafia, country music icon John Anderson who has just released his first single in over six years to radio from his new album, "Easy Money" (in stores November 7 and produced by John Rich) and The Lost Trailers.
The 173rd Airborne Brigade was created on Okinawa in 1963 as the quick-response "fire brigade" for the Asian-Pacific area. It was the first regular combat unit in Vietnam, arriving May 5, 1965. Its six years of continuous combat service in Vietnam is a record unequalled since the American Revolution. The brigade's historic combat jump in Operation Junction City was the only combat parachute assault of that war. Its 13 Medal of Honor recipients, 42 Distinguished Service Cross awardees, and scores and scores of Silver Star, Bronze Star, and Unit Citations mark a proud combat record in Vietnam. The brigade was disbanded in 1972 and reactivated in 2000 in Vincenza, Italy to serve as the "fire brigade" for Southern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. The reactivated brigade made the only combat jump of Operation Iraqi Freedom and has served a year in Iraq and a year in Afghanistan with distinction.
"Sky Soldiers everywhere are deeply grateful. This is a great night for a great cause. This concert benefits the 173rd Memorial but it honors everyone who has ever answered our nation's call," said Modglin.
In addition to the concert, other daytime activities are planned that will be announced soon.
Information on the show can also be found at:
www.kicks1015.com
www.eagle1067fm.com
Cell Phones The Savior Or Not!
I have attended event after event where cell phones eventually come up in the discussion as the savior of that industry .
Television production companies, record producers, motion picture companies they all see cell phones as their saviors.
It is a market that each feels can be cultivated to their advantage.
Everyone down to newborns have cell phones today. With each day the capabilities of a cell phone increase.
The picture quality of the internal cameras is better, the storage capabilities of the phones has been increased.
Major companies are setting up their own pod casting networks to download their material to cell phones.
Everyone is climbing on the cell phone band wagon.
It can be used for advertising, putting up material that people would not pay to see to begin with, ridding their inventories.
In other words the answer to every media company financial problems, “The GOLDEN FLEECE.”
Unfortunately as I have also heard ,the same people that when they were very young first made a mess of the feature film industry then later, television, radio, magazines, records, Cds, Newspapers and now DVD’s are those plotting the future of cell phones.
They have not taken in to account that there are already to many IPODS on the market that already do what they are working with cell phones to do. That X-BOXES and PLAY STATIONS are being made to do these same things.
That the economy is not providing the disposable income needed to provide the extra money needed to pay for all these downloads. Already the average person is over burdened by their current cell phone bills.
They are not taking into account that it can take forever to download anything of size.
That why would anyone pay extra money to see something on a postage stamp screen.
That there is more storage capacity on IPODS then currently available on cell phones so why spend the money on a new and more expensive cell phones.
That people hate advertising so why would they want to have it sent to them on their cell phones even if they get a show for little or a reduced price?
That much of what will be available is already free or no one would pay to see or hear to begin with.
Cell phones the savior of every media company in the world and business’s trying to get their messages out cheaply, I THINK NOT.
(William Hoehne)
Pixar Animation Studios, Oliver Stone, William Goldman, Neil Labute and WGA/w President Patric Verrone Headline SCREENWRITING EXPO 5
World's Largest Annual Screenwriting Conference Adds an Extra 'Career Day;' Moves to LAX Hotels for October 19-22 Event
Some of the biggest and most respected names in filmmaking will share their wisdom with the largest gathering of screenwriters in the world, when SCREENWRITING EXPO 5 takes place for four full days, Thursday, October 19 - Sunday, October 22. To accommodate its ever-growing attendance (nearly 4,000 registrants last year from all over the world), for 2006 the Expo adds another full day of programming, and moves to a new home at the Los Angeles Airport Marriott and Renaissance Montura hotels adjacent to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
This year's Expo has perhaps its most star-laden lineup yet, including a full day of programs by Pixar Animation Studios' key creative personnel. Pixar has so famously and successfully re-defined the art of cinematic storytelling, and the Expo is honored to host writer/directors Andrew Stanton (A Bug's Life, Toy Story, Finding Nemo) and Brad Bird (The Incredibles, 2007's Ratatouille) as featured speakers, along with key creative personnel Mark Andrews, Kiel Murray and Michael Arndt conducting consecutive programs all day long, Saturday, October 21.
Michael Arndt is coming off this summer's much buzzed about Little Miss Sunshine, and will also appear Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 20 & 21, presenting his own separate program, "Endings: The Good, The Bad & The Insanely Great."
Also headlining this year's Expo will be one of the most provocative filmmakers of our time, three-time Academy Award(R) winner Oliver Stone (Platoon, Born on the 4th of July, JFK). Stone's Expo appearance on Friday, October 20 will center on both his past work and his just released, World Trade Center, starring Nicolas Cage. Also on Friday, October 20, provocative auteur Neil LaBute (In the Company of Men, this fall's The Wicker Man) makes his first-ever Expo appearance.
Returning to this year's conference is Expo favorite and two-time Academy Award(R) winner William Goldman (Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, All the President's Men), source of perhaps the most quoted line about Hollywood: "Nobody knows anything." Goldman is inarguably the most candid person in the business, and always entertains and enlightens with his acute and painfully funny observations on Hollywood and writing for the screen. The legendary screenwriter and novelist will make two appearances this year, on Sunday, October 22 at 10 am and 2 pm.
This year, given the seismic sea change occurring in today's entertainment landscape, and how content is received, the Expo has added a special day of programs entitled, "Taking Back Your Career," to deal with those changes, and how they affect Hollywood's artists -- be they directors, actors or producers, as well as screenwriters. Patric Verrone, president of the Writers Guild of America/west is the day's Guest of Honor keynote speaker on Thursday, October 19. Other featured speakers include: WGA/w assistant executive director Chuck Slocum, who will analyze where today's industry dollars are spent, renowned entertainment attorney Peter Dekom, who will discuss new technologies and what they mean to the industry, screenwriter Shane Salerno (Armageddon) will discuss structuring your career, screenwriter Simon Kinberg (Mr. & Mrs. Smith) will discuss pitching, Nielsen Media Research's Ray Yinger will discuss how today's television ratings can affect tomorrow's network decisions, Harrison Group Vice Chairman Dr. Jim Taylor, one of the country's most respected marketing consultants will discuss how writers and filmmakers can anticipate, pinpoint and exploit various social trends. Also appearing are Sally Hogshead, the preeminent expert on building and maintaining a career, and author of "Radical Careering," producer, renowned "Pitch King" Bob Kosberg (12 Monkeys), and many others.
Supplementing the headlining Guests of Honor are dozens of the most highly acclaimed screenwriters, directors, producers, consultants, and teachers in all of filmmaking, including Lee Aronsohn (Two and a Half Men), David Ayer (Training Day), Tony Gilroy (The Bourne Identity), Coleman Hough (Bubble), Ronald D. Moore (Star Trek: Generations), Jeffrey Arch (Sleepless in Seattle), John Badham (Saturday Night Fever, War Games), Jim Kouf (Rush Hour), Nicholas Meyer (Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan), Billy Ray (Shattered Glass), Ron Shusett (Total Recall), Ed Solomon (Men in Black), Stephen Susco (The Grudge), Leigh Whannel (Saw), Richard Walter (Chmn., UCLA Screenwriting Dept.), Tim Minear (Angel) and many others. Panels will cover everything from the horror genre, comedy, television, directing, producing, and crafting the masterpiece.
Returning again this year is the annual Screenwriting Expo Screenwriting Competition, and the very popular Creative Screenwriting Open, an on-site writing tournament whose winning scene is selected by the audience at the Expo's closing ceremonies after a live performance of the finalist's scripts. Over $150,000 in cash, prizes and production deals will be awarded for both competitions at the Expo.
Also returning is Expo Pitch Meetings, where attendees pitch their scripts, stories and concepts to executives from over 60 prominent production companies, studios, agencies and management firms. In the past several options have been made to writers pitching, including one outright purchase made on the spot.
Admission for all four days is $74.95, inflation-proofed from last year. Updated speakers, information, registration forms or purchases can be confirmed at www.screenwritingexpo.com, or by calling 1-800-727-6978. Checks and credit cards are accepted.
Source: Promise Technologies, Inc.
They Did Not Hear: Author Shares Battle to Receive Disability Benefits After Injury
Author Freddie Lee Williams shares a personal account of the arduous journey he endured to receive disability benefits owed to him in his book, They Did Not Hear (now available through AuthorHouse).
Williams' ordeal began in 1978. After relocating to Blytheville, Ark., with his wife and children, Williams walked through a picket line of employees on strike to take a job in a factory. This would prove to be a life-changing decision, as it kicked off a 20-year legal battle. While working in his strenuous job, Williams began to complain of wrist pain to his supervisor. Despite his intense pain and swelling, the supervisor insisted that he continue to work. When the pain became too much to bear, he was referred to a company doctor and treated. He was then sent back to work in the same strenuous position, though his wrist was not fully healed.
Shortly after, Williams slipped on the wet floor in the factory while working and endured a severe back injury. After seeing the company doctor, he was sent back to work immediately. Unable to handle the severe pain, Williams was forced to leave his job and seek medical assistance. Though the doctor discovered a serious injury, the company refused to cover Williams' medical treatment.
They Did Not Hear is a full account of the battle that followed. Unable to work, Williams, his wife and six children were living in poverty. They were often homeless when family members were unable to take them in. Despite his injury and the precarious financial position of his family, Williams was repeatedly denied workers' compensation, disability benefits and welfare. He had no choice but to continue his battle, as his injury had rendered him incapable of strenuous labor.
Through several attorneys, hunger, homelessness and many obstacles, Williams persevered. This is the story of one man's fight to be heard by an establishment that cares little for the blue-collar worker. "When people are mistreated by those in higher authority, if they are denied, all is denied, for if they find a way to forget me, they will find a way to forget others like me," he says.
Williams and his wife currently live in San Francisco. Employed as a property manager, Williams is finally able to live the life he always hoped for throughout his nightmare. Their six children have since grown. They Did Not Hear is his first book.
AuthorHouse is the premier publishing house for emerging authors and new voices in literature. Web site: http://www.authorhouse.com/
Rock Band Drowning Pool to Perform in Germany and the Persian Gulf on USO/AFE Tour
The USO, in partnership with Armed Forces Entertainment (AFE), will soon send rock/metal band Drowning Pool to perform shows for service members stationed in the Persian Gulf and Germany. It will be the second USO tour for the group, which performed for troops in Kuwait in October 2005. The band also will meet and greet troops, sign autographs and pose for pictures. The performance in Germany, co-sponsored by Installation Management Agency-Europe and Morale, Welfare and Recreation, is part of a "Welcome Home" celebration for units from the 28th Transportation Battalion. The troops are returning from their second tour of duty in Iraq after spending 18 months in the area.
Drowning Pool's most recent album, "Desensitized," was released in April 2004. Standout tracks such as "Step Up" and "Love and War" helped launch the album into the Top 20 on Billboard's albums' chart.
"Sinner," the band's powerful debut album, was certified platinum within six weeks of its release in June 2001. The first single, "Bodies," peaked at number six on Billboard's Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. A recent poll conducted by Rolling Stone listed the single as the No. 1 song among service men serving in the Persian Gulf region. The group consists of drummer Mike Luce, guitarist C.J. Pierce, bassist Stevie Benton and lead singer Ryan McCombs.
This tour continues the USO tradition of bringing entertainment to service members serving far from home. Celebrities who have recently made trips for the USO include Gary Sinise, Master P, Lil' Romeo, Shinedown, La Mafia, Toby Keith and Pryde.
USO tours are sponsored by AT&T, Inc., the official telecommunications sponsor of USO entertainment tours.
About the USO: For more than 65 years, the USO (United Service Organizations) has been providing morale, welfare and recreational services to U.S. military personnel and their families. The USO is a nonprofit, charitable organization, relying on the generosity of the American people to support its programs and services. The USO is supported by Worldwide Strategic Partners AT&T Inc., BAE SYSTEMS North America, Clear Channel Communications, The Coca-Cola Company, Military Channel, S & K Sales Co. and TriWest Healthcare Alliance. Other corporate donors, including the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC-0600), have joined thousands of individual donors to support the USO. For more information on the USO, please visit our Web site at http://www.uso.org/.
Retail Entertainment Design (RED) and GoTV Networks Take Mobile Video Technology to the Next Level With Three-Month-Long Promotion of 'The Panic Channel's' Debut Album
Feature Videos, Live Performances and Behind-the-Scenes Interviews With 'The Panic Channel' Will Update Every Two Weeks, Reaching Over 5 Million Sprint and Boost Mobile Video-Enabled Customers
In what marks the first mobile video-phone promotion of its kind in the music industry, Retail Entertainment Design (RED) announced today that it has partnered with GoTV Networks to promote the release of The Panic Channel's debut album (ONe).
Starting this week and continuing for the next 90 days, over 5 million Sprint and Boost Mobile customers with video-enabled mobile phones will be able to view exclusive video features including behind-the-scenes footage, interviews with the band, music videos, candid photos and live performances. New video features will be released every two weeks throughout the promotion, all provided free of charge to Sprint and Boost Mobile customers with video-enabled mobile phones.
"Mobile video is a dynamic new platform on the brink of exploding into mainstream," said Brian Hirsh, President of RED. "Through our partnership with GoTV we are now directly in this new and fast-growing field, and creating a unique way for our customers to elevate their brand image and reach millions of entertainment consumers."
RED is the leader in in-store video entertainment, providing original content and music video programming to large-scale retail clients such as Virgin MegaStores and Hollywood Video. Today's announcement marks an expansion of the company's offering into wireless and mobile video promotion.
"This is an exciting time for RED and our customers," said Lynda Stenge, Director of Strategic Marketing and Partnerships for RED. "We are truly breaking ground on a new way to connect to today's plugged-in consumers on-the-go, and we expect to see a lot more mobile video promotions like this start to happen. As they do, our retail customers will benefit from great opportunities with big-name artists like The Panic Channel."
The Panic Channel promotion is available exclusively to Sprint and Boost Mobile customers. RED expects future mobile promotions to expand and reach Verizon and Cingular customers as well.
About Retail Entertainment Design (RED)
With studios in Seattle, Washington and New York City, Retail Entertainment Design (RED) specializes in high-level creative visual content, promotions, ad placement and marketing solutions for retail, hospitality, entertainment, music and film industries. The company's founders and principals bring extensive and complementary experience in marketing & entertainment, with a common purpose: to explore the infinite and exciting future of audio/visual entertainment as a dynamic branding and sales tool; creating fresh, unique content; connecting with an otherwise hard-to-reach audience; and forging lasting links between mutually beneficial industries. www.r-e-d.com
About GoTV Networks
GoTV Networks is the first made-for-mobile television studio and network group. The company produces the mobile television industry's widest range of original programming for on-demand delivery direct to mobile phones via a family of subscription-based premium channels. GoTV Networks provides news, sports, music, entertainment, and other essential content customized specifically for mobile users. GoTV Networks' team of Emmy Award-winning producers, experienced studio executives, and mobile production experts create constantly updated programming optimized for both low-bandwidth and 3G handsets. In addition to producing original programming, GoTV Networks collaborates with traditional media companies including ABC News, ABC Entertainment, Univision, ESPN, and iFilm to create mobile versions of their content. GoTV Networks programming is available on the Cingular, Sprint Nextel, and Boost Mobile wireless networks.
Web site: http://www.r-e-d.com/
Triangle Multi-Media Limited, Inc. and Q Television Network, Inc. Make Two Major Announcements
-- Triangle Multi-Media Limited, Inc. ("TMM") (PINKSHEETS: QBID)
1) Triangle Multi-Media Limited, Inc. and Q Television Network, Inc.
CEO, Chairman and majority shareholder Lloyd Fan appoints Anthony
(Tony) J. Gouveia as a consultant to develop and execute a business
plan that addresses the concerns of shareholders, creditors and
employees.
2) Triangle Multi-Media Limited, Inc. and Q Television Network, Inc.
announces sale of Triangle Multi-Media Limited, Inc. and plans for
Q Television Network, Inc.
In May of 2006, Q Television Network, Inc. ("QTN"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Triangle Multi-Media Limited, Inc. ("TMM") (PINKSHEETS: QBID), ceased operations due to the inability to secure additional financing to cover the financial obligations of QTN. Chairman and CEO Lloyd Fan has worked diligently since March 7, 2006, the date of his appointment as Chairman and CEO, to develop and implement a business plan to save the network. "When I took over control of the network, the company was roughly $7 million behind in payments to vendors; numerous lawsuits had been filed against the company and over $600,000 was owed to former employees. The financial challenges that the network faced proved too difficult and I was simply unable to turn around the network. I am deeply disappointed as many talented people devoted themselves to saving it.
"I would like to again thank the cable affiliates, our uplink provider, all the vendors and the staff that supported my takeover. I had hoped to make good on all the debts incurred and owed by the former management team and truly thought that with the new team and proper funding, QTN could have succeeded. My sincere apologies to all the individuals and businesses who have suffered because of their affiliation with QTN.
"Even though we ceased operation as a network, I wanted to find a way to help shareholders, creditors and employees recover some of their investment in QTN. I have never experienced a business failure in my career and I want to do everything possible to help everyone that believed in QTN, and who invested their time, energies and resources as shareholders, creditors and employees. For this reason, I appointed Anthony (Tony) J. Gouveia as a consultant in July 2006 to help me restructure TMM/QTN. Mr. Gouveia's financial expertise, experience, impressive communication skills and understanding of the tools necessary to manage complex transactions will be invaluable. His extensive accounting background, his experience as a dynamic senior financial executive and his unquestionable character and integrity as a CPA for 20 years make him the ideal person to manage this process. Mr.Gouveia has held various positions in public and privately held companies as CFO, Vice President of Finance and Corporate Controller. He spent several years as an auditor for large international accounting firms. Tony has my full support. I will remain involved in all business decisions with Tony's assistance. I want to thank Tony for taking on this difficult task."
Mr.Gouveia responded, "I'm very impressed with Mr. Fan's commitment as CEO and Chairman. He took over at a difficult time when things were totally hopeless. He has committed a significant amount of his time and resources to try to save this network. I admire and respect what he tried to do, and I know there are many others who feel the same way.
"I have been assisting Mr. Fan with his Taiwan-based company, QTN Asia, in which I own an interest. This is a new marketing and distribution company of high end consumer products. This company will provide an innovative sales and distribution channel for consumer products to the United States. We will offer the highest quality products at a significant discount directly to the consumer. This is a complete overhaul of the current business model every retailer, wholesaler and importer is using today. We are currently working on obtaining the necessary financing to launch this company. Mr. Fan is a very creative and innovative businessman who believes strongly in always conducting himself with integrity and that convinced me to work with Mr. Fan on this mission."
Mr. Fan added, "My dream is to consolidate the GLBT community strength and buying power, to use part of the proceeds to support local community events and to communicate an agenda to educate others to spread peace, love and equal rights.
"The unfair treatment to the vendors, shareholders and QTN employees was painful for me to bear, and thanks to the thousands of supporters and community leaders whom have rallied behind me, I'm able to find the strength to move forward and to find the best solution for all of us."
Mr. Gouveia added, "I have had no previous involvement with TMM, QTN or any other company associated with TMM or QTN. At no time was I a shareholder, creditor, employee or consultant prior to July 2006. Furthermore, I have had no personal relationships with anyone associated with TMM, QTN or any other company connected with TMM or QTN, except Lloyd Fan. I was introduced to Mr. Fan in May 2006 as a consultant who might be able to assist him in this process.
"It is very disturbing to hear some of the circumstances surrounding what happened at TMM and QTN prior to Lloyd's appointment as CEO and Chairman. We will consider all possible actions going forward to determine what went wrong, which could include a forensic accounting of all the various transactions that we believe require further investigation."
Triangle Multi-Media Limited, Inc. and Q Television Network, Inc. announces sale of Triangle Multi-Media Limited, Inc. and plans for Q Television Network, Inc.
Mr. Gouveia stated, "We are very pleased to announce the proposed sale of TMM to Cinemax Pictures and Production Company International, Inc. (Canada) ('Cinemax Pictures'), pending completion of due diligence and shareholder approval. Cinemax Pictures is not affiliated with Time Warner Entertainment. The sale of TMM will be an all-stock deal. TMM shareholders will receive 20% of Cinemax Pictures on a 'Pro-Rata' basis.
"Cinemax Pictures is a production company that has three distinct lines of business. First, Cinemax Pictures owns a reality television show that will be shown to 18 television networks. Cinemax Pictures expects to get this syndicated and to start generating revenue. The reality show is called 'Three Patriots and a Wagon.' It is a comedy drama that explores the relationship between a Native Indian and a 'Pale-Face' who has an intricate knowledge of law. Second, Cinemax Pictures owns six movies that are in different stages of production. Cinemax Pictures considers these movies to be blockbusters, not only because of the actors and actresses that have signed on, but because of the scripts that have been reviewed. The movies range from comedies to action-thrillers. Finally, due to Cinemax Pictures relationships and contacts throughout the industry, Cinemax Pictures has the opportunity to provide bridge-financing (or 'gap-funding' as it is referred to in the industry) to movies that go over their production budget. Cinemax Pictures will take a large percentage of the rights to the movies and will receive a return-on-investment once the movie has completed production and is sold to a distributor.
"Cinemax Pictures is committed to its new shareholders and it is interviewing a number of investor relation firms to keep the shareholders abreast of all the new developments. Cinemax Pictures' website is presently under construction, but it is expected to be revamped within the next month.
"Mr. Fan and I are both committed to supporting Cinemax Pictures. After the sale is completed, I will be a Director."
Mr. Gouveia added, "Mr. Fan and I are currently reviewing what will be the disposition of QTN. We will communicate our intentions when this process is finalized. The possible solutions under consideration are to sell QTN or to reacquire assets that may legally belong to QTN in order to pay off creditors and employees. We will consult with our attorneys on the proper method of accomplishing the above.
"We have negotiated a deal with the Obion Group. They are in the process of purchasing a shell company to reverse merge with. This will be a publicly traded holding company. This company will focus on a number of different fast food restaurant chains with products ranging from: Chicago Style Hot Dogs, Fish & Chips, Pizza, BBQ, Hamburgers, Spuds, Gyros, Hot Wings, Oriental, Tex-Mex, Vegetarian, Salads, and Diabetic eateries. The first of these fast food restaurant chains is Chicago Style Hot Dogs (a Nevada Corporation) which is being test marketed in Texas with two operating establishments. Furthermore, the Obion Group owns an interest in a virtual reality technology company and will explore opportunities in the resorts/destination industry. The Obion Group will set aside 25 billion of its authorized shares for the TMM shareholders. There will be a distribution of these shares on a 'Pro-Rata' basis at no cost to the TMM shareholders once the Obion Group is approved for public trading.
"The purpose of the distribution to TMM shareholders is to assist shareholders in recouping some of their losses. There is no requirement to invest in the Obion Group.
"Mr. Fan and I will be Directors and we will have an ownership interest in the Obion Group and all related businesses.
"Mr. Fan and I have formed a recovery team for two reasons: (1) to determine if there are assets that can be reacquired that rightfully belong to QTN, which may include a forensic accounting of all pertinent records associated with these assets; and (2) provide shareholders other opportunities to recover their investment. The cash value of all assets that may be acquired, less administrative costs and fees, will be used to pay-off creditors and employees. We will set up a website that will periodically be updated to provide all concerned with the status on our progress. This website will also be a vehicle for communicating information to us that might be used to assist us in this process."
Mr. Fan stated, "I'm very excited about what Tony has been able to accomplish. Tony did an outstanding job and exceeded my expectations. Everyone involved with these transactions was impressed with his significant skills and experience. He worked 24/7 to make this happen as quickly as possible. I fully support and approve of everything that he was able to accomplish."
Forward-Looking Statements:
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In particular, when used in the preceding discussion, the words "believes," "expects," "intends," "anticipated," or "may," and similar conditional expressions, are intended to identify forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Act and are subject to the safe harbor created by the Act. Except for historical information, all of the statements, expectations and assumptions contained in the foregoing are forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. It is possible that the assumptions made by management are not necessarily the most likely and may not materialize. In addition, other important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include the following: business conditions and the amount of growth in the company's industry and general economy; competitive factors; ability to attract and retain personnel; and the price of the company's stock. Triangle Multi-Media, Q Television Network, Cinemax Pictures and the Obion Group take no obligation to update or correct forward-looking statements and also take no obligation to update or correct information prepared by third parties that is not paid for by the companies.
“Great To Be Nominated” Concludes with “Network”
Beverly Hills, CA – The 1976 Best Picture nominee “Network” will be screened as the final feature in part three of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ “Great To Be Nominated” series. The scathing satire of network television will be shown on Monday, August 28, at 7:30 p.m. in the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater. Producer Howard Gottfried, cinematographer Owen Roizman, editor Alan Heim, production designer Philip Rosenberg, and cameramen Tom Priestley Jr. and Fred Schuler will participate in a panel discussion following the screening.
Oscar®-winner Peter Finch stars in “Network” as Howard Beale, an aging news anchor who threatens to commit suicide on-air after being fired by his network for poor ratings. His rant generates huge ratings, making him an asset to the network and altering his fate and the fate of his co-workers. The film won four Oscars, for Actor in a Leading Role (Finch, in his final performance), Actress in a Leading Role (Faye Dunaway as Diana Christensen), Actress in a Supporting Role (Beatrice Straight as Louise Schumacher) and Writing – Screenplay written directly for the screen based on factual material or on story material not previously published or produced (Paddy Chayefsky). The film also received nominations for Best Picture (Gottfried, producer), Actor in a Leading Role (William Holden as Max Schumacher), Actor in a Supporting Role (Ned Beatty as Arthur Jensen), Cinematography (Roizman), Directing (Sidney Lumet) and Film Editing (Heim).
The Oscar-nominated live action short “Number One” (live action) will be screened prior to the feature, and its director, Dyan Cannon, will be present.
Tickets for “Network” may be purchased at a cost of $5 for the general public and $3 for Academy members and students with a valid ID. 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 the feature is 7:30 p.m., and pre-show elements will begin at 6:45 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.®
JADOO POWER AWARDED GENERAL ATOMICS CONTRACT FOR
ADVANCED FUEL CANISTER DESIGN
New Fuel System Can Deliver 10X the Energy Density of Batteries
Jadoo Power Systems Inc. (Jadoo) www.jadoopower.com, the leading supplier of portable fuel cell power systems, announced today that General Atomics, Space Power Division has awarded Jadoo a contract to develop an advanced fuel canister for use with hydrogen fuel cells.
Using Jadoo’s N-Stor intelligent digital fuel interface, the new fuel canister utilizes an advanced chemical hydride derived from ammonia borane. Compared to re-chargeable metal hydrides, one-time use chemical hydrides provide higher energy densities at a dramatically reduced weight. The fuel canister will allow consumers to choose which fuel option they prefer, knowing that the interface ensures compatibility with the Jadoo N-Gen fuel cell power unit. The proprietary Jadoo N-Stor interface adds following capabilities to the new fuel canister:
Easy-to-use digital “state-of-fill” indicator
Automatic information transfer between fuel canister and fuel cell for power, data and fluids
Industry standard, tamper-proof safety valve design
100% compatibility with all N-Stor enabled fuel cell power units
“The N-Stor interface is certainly an important and necessary innovation for the advancement of fuel cell power,” said Dr. Tom Lechtenberg, General Atomics Vice President. “With an installed base of fuel cell systems in the market, the time to commercialization of an ammonia borane fuel solution will be cut in half thanks to the N-Stor interface.”
“Our N-Stor interface is quickly becoming a standard for the industry,” said Larry Bawden, President & CEO, Jadoo Power. “We are excited to be working with General Atomics to bring yet another advanced fuel option to market for our customers.”
About Jadoo Power Systems
www.jadoopower.com
Jadoo Power Systems, Inc. is a market-focused company that develops and sells next-generation, portable energy storage and power generation products. Jadoo is financed by Mohr Davidow Ventures, Venrock Associates and Sinclair Ventures, a wholly owned subsidiary of Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.
About General Atomics
www.ga.com
General Atomics, founded in 1955 with corporate headquarters in San Diego, CA, specializes in diversified research, development, and manufacturing in defense, energy and other advanced technology arenas.
Jet Announces Fall Tour Dates; Ten-City Trek Sees the Aussie Rock Superstars Celebrating Eagerly Awaited Second Album; "SHINE ON" in Stores on October 3rd
Atlantic recording group Jet has announced a series of North American concert dates heralding the upcoming release of their second album, "SHINE ON." The Aussie rock sensations' much-anticipated follow-up to 2003's RIAA platinum-plus debut, "GET BORN," is set to land in stores on October 3rd.
Jet will kick off the whirlwind ten-city tour at Austin, Texas' La Zona Rosa on September 20th, then travel across the continent through an October 7th show at Las Vegas' The Joint (see attached itinerary). The band made their long-awaited return to the live stage last week with a pair of very special shows in their native Australia -- their first in nearly two years. Next, Jet will rock the U.K.'s annual Carling Weekend: Reading & Leeds Festivals on August 26th and 27th. Further tour dates, both in North America and around the world, will be announced in coming weeks.
"Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is," the first single from "SHINE ON," is looking like another cross-the-board rock smash for Jet. Having only just impacted at multiple rock radio formats, the track immediately entered airplay charts at Alternative, Active Rock, and Heritage Rock outlets nationwide, while also receiving this week's "Most Increased Plays" at Alternative. The song is currently the #1 most added track at Modern Rock radio two weeks running.
Produced by Dave Sardy -- who helmed "GET BORN," as well as recent efforts by such bands as Oasis, Wolfmother, and Dirty Pretty Things -- "SHINE ON" sees Jet again putting their own contemporary stamp on timeless guitar-fueled rock 'n' roll. The band spent much of 2005 and 2006 working on "SHINE ON," including writing sessions at facilities in Barbados, Massachusetts, and their home country of Australia. The sessions wound up this spring with a marathon burst of creativity at Sardy's Hillside Manor Studios in Los Angeles.
From the poignant title track to the Captain Beefheart-esque "Holiday" to the massive rocker, "Stand Up," "SHINE ON" lights on a wider gamut of emotions than before, with more varied musical colors and deeper lyrical texture. The result is a full-scale rock 'n' roll sensation like only Jet could create.
Jet came together in 2001, united by a mutual passion for straight-up rock 'n' roll in all its many guises, from blues and garage to punk and psychedelia. Their goal from the get-go was to give new life to their inspirations, invigorating classic sounds with fresh fervor and dollops of contemporary energy. Raw, direct, and instantly irresistible, Jet's vibrant sonic style and heartfelt devotion to exuberant songcraft caused a frenzy in their native Australia and soon caught fire around the world.
Released in 2003, "GET BORN" proved an international blockbuster, with worldwide sales exceeding three and a half million units. Driven by a fistful of massively successful hit singles -- including the #1 smashes "Are You Gonna Be My Girl" and "Cold Hard Bitch," as well as "Rollover DJ" and "Look What You've Done" -- the album instantly established Jet as one of the most potent and popular rock outfits on the planet. In the U.S., both "Are You Gonna Be My Girl" and "Look What You've Done" earned RIAA platinum digital single certifications.
The band also earned a rep as an electrifying live outfit, blowing up stages everywhere they played -- as headliners, festival showstoppers, and special guests of such like-minded superstars as Oasis.
Jet has received a long list of international awards, highlighted by a MTV Video Music Award for 2004's "Best Rock Video," for the "Are You Gonna Be My Girl" clip. Also included on the band's honor roll are an American Music Awards nomination as "Favorite Artist - Alternative Music," and a triumphant six-trophy sweep of 2004's ARIA Music Awards in their home country.
Jet is: Nic Cester -- guitar, vocals; Chris Cester -- drums, vocals; Cam Muncey -- guitar, vocals; Mark Wilson -- bass.
For more information, please visit www.jettheband.com.
JET
NORTH AMERICAN TOUR -- FALL 2006
SEPTEMBER
20 Austin, TX La Zona Rosa On sale 8/26
21 Dallas, TX Gypsy Ballroom On sale 8/26
22 Houston, TX Warehouse On sale 8/26
25 Chicago, IL The Vic On sale 8/26
27 New York, NY Irving Plaza On sale 8/30
29 Philadelphia, PA Theatre of Living Arts On sale 8/25
OCTOBER
1 Toronto, ON Guvernment On sale 8/31
4 Anaheim, CA House of Blues On sale 9/2
5 Los Angeles, CA The Fonda On sale 8/26
7 Las Vegas, NV The Joint On sale 8/26
AOL Music Adds Lupe Fiasco to Lineup of This Summer's Breaker Artists
This week AOL Music (http://www.aolmusic.com) added hip-hop phenom Lupe Fiasco to this season's list of Breaker artists. Though skateboarding, comic books and Japanese cartoons are not the preferred pastimes of most hip-hop artists, Lupe Fiasco is different. The 24 year-old Chicago legend has already worked with Kanye West (on 'Touch the Sky'), gotten support from Jay-Z and co-founded his own imprint called 1st & 15th.
With his debut album, Lupe Fiasco's Food & Liquor, hitting stores on September 19, Lupe Fiasco is ready to take the music industry by storm. Laced with 14-tracks of complex, thought-provoking and playful lyricism coupled with sure-fire beats, Lupe Fiasco's Food & Liquor showcases his diverse background and artistry.
Throughout the season, Lupe Fiasco and other AOL Music Breaker artists are showcased on AOLMusic.com and across the AOL(R) Music and Radio Networks. Elements of the artist campaign includes an appearance on AOL(R) Sessions, the intimate, in-studio performance series, AIM(R) Music Interviews, song and music video debuts, and heavy rotation on AOL Radio (http://www.aolradio.com). Fans can visit AOL Music (http://www.aolmusic.com) to learn more about Lupe Fiasco, watch his video for "Kick Push" and listen to "I Gotcha."
As previously announced, this season's AOL Music Breakers include British chanteuse Corinne Bailey Rae, pop-punks Cartel, country band The Lost Trailers, hard-rocking Aussie trio Wolfmother, rhythmic singer-songwriter Mat Kearney and 15-year-old hip-hop phenomenon Young Leek.
Recent Breakers success stories also include 2006 Best New Artist Grammy winner John Legend and platinum artists Fall Out Boy and Sugarland, as well as newcomers Panic! at the Disco and Teddy Geiger. Other artists to be featured as Breakers at the onset of their careers include Avril Lavigne, Josh Groban, 50 Cent, Michelle Branch, The Game, Jet and Keyshia Cole.
AOL Music (http://www.aolmusic.com) is a leading online destination for music, reaching millions of music fans a month through a rich array of programming, products and services that make it easy to discover, experience, listen to and buy music online.
AOL and its subsidiaries operate a leading network of Web brands and the largest Internet access subscription service in the United States. Web brands include the AOL.com(R) website, AIM(R), MapQuest(R) and Netscape(R). AOL offers a range of digital services in the areas of education, safety and security, communications and music. The company also has operations in Europe and Canada. AOL LLC is a majority-owned subsidiary of Time Warner Inc. and is based in Dulles, Virginia.
Anheuser-Busch Launches In-House Film and TV Production Company
Anheuser-Busch's top creative executive, Jim Schumacher, has been moved out of the advertising department and into the new entertainment production group. | ALSO: Comment on this article in the 'Your Opinion' box below.
The country's largest brewer is launching its own in-house film and TV production company that will make humorous shorts and sitcom-type programs to be broadcast over the internet and to cellphones, according to four people familiar with the matter, and could branch into full-length films.
While A-B has dabbled in content before -- particularly in sports TV, where its Bud Productions division recently produced National Football League preseason games for the St. Louis Rams -- this initiative is believed to be the brewer's most ambitious by far. Funding will likely be drawn from its $1.56 billion marketing budget.
Earlier this summer, A-B pulled VP-Creative Development Jim Schumacher -- its top in-house creative -- out of the advertising department and into the new production group. "The fact that Schu is leading this means they're serious about it," said one person familiar with his new assignment. "They wouldn't be wasting his time otherwise."
A-B has also assigned Michael Gianino, senior director-branded entertainment, to a unit devoted to producing online content. Mr. Gianino previously worked on A-B's product-placement deal for New Line Cinema's "Wedding Crashers," starring Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson, which was the brewer's first Hollywood venture in 14 years. Since then, it's been increasingly star-struck, sponsoring Mr. Vaughn's comedy tour and tapping Hollywood heartthrob George Clooney for voice-overs on Budweiser Select spots.
At press time, it was unclear whether Messrs. Schumacher and Gianino are working together or on separate content-creation units.
Asked about the division and the assignments, an A-B spokesman said: "We're always looking for new ways to reach beer drinkers through innovative means of communications, but it's our practice to not comment on rumors and speculation."
By investing heavily in producing its own content, $15.5 billion A-B is following closely in the footsteps of other megamarketers. Last winter, PepsiCo produced the snowboarding documentary "First Descent" through its Mountain Dew Films unit. And Starbucks Corp., which last year partnered with Lions Gate Films to market "Akeelah and the Bee," intends to co-produce more features with Hollywood studios.
Marketers' march into content creation has not gone unnoticed by the $5 billion-plus production industry. "Too many marketers view production as a commodity, when the expertise to do it well isn't easily learned," said Matt Miller, president-CEO of the Association of Independent Commercial Producers. "Agencies and marketers have always run into limitation when it comes to the creative product. The expertise and talent suffers."
A-B to date has dabbled with one-offs, such as "Bud TV," an online production it promoted with a commercial during February's Super Bowl. Now it appears to be gearing up to produce a steady stream of original content.
"They've made it clear that they think the future is online, and I think we're going to see a lot of short films and sitcom-type stuff," said California-based A-B distributor Mike Fox. "A lot of us wholesalers have been pushing for them to do more entertainment stuff for awhile."
Mr. Fox said distributors have also been pushing A-B to use its theme parks, including Sea World and Busch Gardens, to host and produce concert events that could be powerful marketing tools.
A-B rivals, however, said they saw the potential for the entertainment business to wind up distracting A-B from selling beer, or so they hoped.
"Making movies is always a great idea for an alcohol company," said Don Faust Jr., a Miller and Coors distributor based in Houston. "Just look how great it was for the Bronfmans."
New Census Data Details Major Changes in Language Landscape
More Than 40% of Californians Speak a Tongue Other Than English at Home
If you want to communicate with California, you may need to try a language other than English or even Spanish. A full 42% of
Californians speak a language other than English at home, with two-thirds of that group (28%) speaking Spanish and the rest speaking some other tongue. Not coincidentally, 27% of Californians are foreign-born, the highest in the nation.
On the flip side, West Virginia has the lowest percentage of foreign-born residents (1%) and highest share of English speakers (99%). Some 95% of West Virginia residents are white and non-Hispanic (vs. 43% in California). But West Virginia has the lowest share of college graduates: Just 17% of residents have a degree, vs. 30% in California.
These are among the findings from the first major release of the American Community Survey, a Census Bureau program that each year will provide a demographic portrait of the nation based on a survey of 3 million households. The survey replaces the old "long form" version of the every-10-year census.
The Census Bureau last week released survey data on demographics, with results on economics, housing and other details to follow in coming months. Among the new data:
Ancestry: 17% of Americans say their roots are German, the largest ancestral group; 12% say their background is Irish; English (10%) ranks third. The fourth-largest group: 7% of the population says its ancestral background is "American."
Immigrants: One in eight residents (12.4%) are immigrants (legal or illegal), up from 11% in 2000. Latin America accounts for more than half (53%) of the immigrant population; 27% came from Asia/Pacific. Nearly one-third (31%) of immigrants are from Mexico; there are an estimated 11 million Mexican-born residents in the U.S., greater than the population of all but seven states.
Age and household: Utah has the nation's youngest median age (28.5), highest percentage of households with children (44%) and largest families (average 3.1 people). The oldest state? Maine (median age 41.2). In Florida, 29% of households have residents age 65-plus, the highest in the nation, but the Sunshine State ranks sixth in median age (39.5). Nation's median age: 36.4.
Education: 27% of U.S. adults (age 25+) have a bachelor's degree; 10% have an advanced degree. Massachusetts scores first among states in percentage of residents with a bachelor's (37%) or advanced degree (16%). Among large cities, San Francisco is by far the most educated: 50% of residents are college graduates.
They love New York: 21% of the state's residents are foreign-born, second highest after California. But native New Yorkers stay home (or come home); 82% of New York's U.S.-born residents were born in the state, the highest percentage in the nation.
Intersound Records to Release a World Music Album to Benefit Refugees
Intersound Records, in conjunction with Crazy Baby Records, has announced the August 22, 2006 release of the world music album "VOYCES UNITED FOR UNHCR," a compilation which will provide funds and additional public support for The United States Association for UNHCR (USA FOR UNHCR).
The album, four years in planning and development, was compiled by Crazy Baby Records and its President/Artist Joalby. Already released in Eastern Europe as a 2 CD set, Intersound has selected what it feels are the strongest 14 tracks for the album release in North America.
USA FOR UNHCR raises awareness and support for the UN Refugee Agency's Nobel Peace Prize-winning work through fundraising, education, and public advocacy.
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, protects over 19 million people worldwide in 116 countries whom have been forced to flee their homes due to war or persecution. UNHCR provides refugees in such countries as Sudan, Afghanistan, and Bulgaria with shelter, medical care, and where needed, asylum or resettlement.
All of the participating Artists on the album are donating their sales royalties to USA FOR UNHCR, as is the Licensor of the tracks, Crazy Baby Records. Intersound will also donate a portion of their sales revenues to the Association.
Participating Artists include Universal Music Poland's Alicia Janosz, winner of Polish Idol and a mainstay on many international charts; South Africa's chart-topping Matt Allison; Bulgarian Dyana Dafova, whose current album "Charisma" is in release in 25 countries; Universal Music Canada's Mary Jane Lamond, best known for her hit "Sleepy Maggie"; Natasha Atlas, a major star in both France and England; the United Kingdom's Xanda Howe; American Idol semi-finalist Candice Coleman; and the British group White Town, whose 1997 single "Your Woman" achieved Gold status in 9 countries.
Also check out: www.myspace.com/usaforunhcr for continuous updates and A Taste of Triple A (August Edition) for the track "Inside of Me" from Matt Allison.
(STREET DATE 8/22/06)
About Intersound Records & Sheridan Square Entertainment:
Sheridan Square Entertainment Inc. is a full service independent music company based in New York. Its label group includes V2 Records, Artemis Records, Musicrama, Artemis Classics, Vanguard Classics, Triloka Records, Tone-Cool Records, Light Records, Spitfire Records and Intersound Records.
'The Panic Channel' Debuts With Free Three-Month Mobile Video Promotion for Sprint and Boost Mobile Customers
Retail Entertainment Design (RED) Helps 'The Panic Channel' Reach Over 5 Million Consumers With Fresh Content Every Two Weeks, Including Music Videos, Live Performances, and Behind-the-Scenes Interviews
Capitol Records, together with Retail Entertainment Design (RED) announced this week they will promote The Panic Channel's debut album (ONe) via video-enabled mobile phones. The promotion greatly expands on the way this technology has been used previously, taking mobile-video promotion in the music industry to a whole new level.
RED has partnered with GoTV Networks to provide all Sprint and Boost Mobile video-enabled mobile phone customers with exclusive features delivered directly to their phones. Starting this week and continuing for the next 90 days, users can watch behind-the-scenes footage of The Panic Channel, interviews with band members (Dave Navarro - Guitar, Stephen Perkins - Drums, Chris Chaney - Bass, Steve Isaacs - Vocals, Guitar) music videos, candid photos and live performances. New video features will be released every two weeks throughout the promotion, and will reach an estimated 5 million customers with video-enabled mobile phones.
"This is an exciting time for RED and our customers," said Lynda Stenge, Director of Strategic Marketing and Partnerships for RED. "We are truly breaking ground on a new way to connect to today's plugged-in consumers on- the-go, and we expect to see a lot more mobile video promotions like this start to happen. As they do, our retail customers will benefit from great opportunities with big-name artists like The Panic Channel."
The Panic Channel mobile video promotion is also designed to drive traffic to the Sprint web site so fans can purchase "Why Cry" and "Teahouse of the Spirits" ring tones. Sprint and Boost Mobile customers will be invited to visit the band's microsite, www.thepanicchannel.tv, where they can enter to win prizes. The promotion will end with thirty (30) winners chosen on November 16th, winning concert tickets, meet & greets with the band, The Panic Channel tee-shirts, autographed CDs and posters, and more.
RED is the leader in in-store video entertainment, providing original content and music video programming to large-scale retail clients such as Virgin MegaStores and Hollywood Video. Today's announcement marks an expansion of the company's offering into wireless and mobile video promotion.
"We approached The Panic Channel with this idea because they are absolutely the right artists to take advantage of a mobile video promotion, and because it is the right time for RED to dive in to the burgeoning world of mobile video," said Lynda Stenge of RED. "The Panic Channel's audience -- kids and adults alike -- spend a lot of time online, and speak the "text-it- to-me" language. Mobile video is a perfect way to introduce this band to the consumers who are waiting to hear them."
About Retail Entertainment Design (RED)
With studios in Seattle, Washington and New York City, Retail Entertainment Design (RED) specializes in high-level creative visual content, promotions, ad placement and marketing solutions for retail, hospitality, entertainment, music and film industries. The company's founders and principals bring extensive and complementary experience in marketing & entertainment, with a common purpose: to explore the infinite and exciting future of audio/visual entertainment as a dynamic branding and sales tool; creating fresh, unique content; connecting with an otherwise hard-to-reach audience; and forging lasting links between mutually beneficial industries. www.r-e-d.com
Contact: Laura Lowery of Retail Entertainment Design, +1-206-799-5604.
Web site: http://www.thepanicchannel.tv/
Web site: http://www.r-e-d.com/
According to the latest study by Shop.org and Forrester Research, says Webtrends, the US eCommerce industry has experienced a compound annual growth rate of 33%.
Forrester predicts that revenue in 2006 will continue to grow another 20% to top $200 billion. And, 41% of the retailers WebTrends surveyed said that the holiday season accounts for more than 20% of their annual revenue.
The Webtrends recent Online Retail Holiday Readiness Survey with over 300 retail professionals, found that overall, retailers surveyed ranked email marketing as the most important demand-generation activity for holiday success. In addition, 50% of the respondents said that visitor segmentation is important to the success of their online holiday season. Making sure that campaigns are targeted and relevant to customers is vital, says the report.
Email marketing to stimulate demand is the winner with ecommerce businesses, with Search Engine Marketing (SEM) and Search Engine Optimization (SEO) ranking second and third. Print advertising was ranked second and in-store promotions third to Internet and Store retailers, while traditional forms of demand generation such as broadcast advertising and coupons didn't make the cut. Online banner ads were also a lower priority for all retailers.
More than 23% of retailers will provide no special offers during the holidays. Last year, free shipping was a clear winner, with value-added promotions such as "free gift with purchase" running a close second. This year, twice as many retailers are opting to see what happens without any promotions at all.
28% of respondents will use a "special repeat buyer discount" to fuel repeat purchases from existing customers, down from33% from last year's survey. The inclination to refrain from providing special offers applies to current as well as new customers.
The most popular site features in 2006 are:
- 49% of retailers surveyed indicating they intend to use suggested items to generate revenue from loyal customers.
- 40% are planning a gift idea center
- 37% planning a featured item sales page
The biggest increases in spending, according to the report will be:
- eMail marketing (52%),
- SEM (46%)
- SEO (38%)
The biggest decreases in spending will be:
- online banner ads (17%)
- print advertising (16%)
- broadcast advertising (14%)
Some other key findings reported in the study include:
- 63% of retailers are relying on response and activity-based metrics like clickthroughs, page and product views to measure demand generation
- 27% aren't consistently measuring their demand generation activities at all
- 10% of retailers surveyed are using visitor-centric metrics like unique visitors and deferred conversions to measure these activities
Today's Youth Look to Advertising as Much as Their Friends When Making Purchase Decisions
Newer Advertising Tactics Not Appealing - Only Five Percent Like Advertising on Cell Phones
Today's youth have an income of $233 billion(1) and influence many household purchases -- and not only youth products. Today's "wired" kids are receiving many advertisers' messages directly and some are particularly attuned to advertising to guide their purchase decision-making. Youth, particularly tweens, agree that they often pay close attention to advertisements to make sure they buy the right products (36% of tweens ages 8-12 and 22% of teens ages 13-18). The influence of advertising is similar to the influence of friends on young people's purchase decisions, with 36 percent of tweens and 23 percent of teens saying that they often look to see what their friends use and buy when making purchase decisions.
These are the results of a nationwide survey of 1,306 U.S. children and teenagers (ages 8 to 18) surveyed online by Harris Interactive(R) between May 18 to 23, 2006. Harris Interactive collaborated with the University of Delaware's Lerner College of Business and Economics on development of the questionnaire for this study.
Advertising likes and dislikes
When it comes to advertising tactics employed by companies, the top three liked by both tweens and teens relate to celebrity and notoriety, including having a famous person use a product (tweens 39% and teens 21%), having a person in a movie use a product (tweens 33% and teens 20%), and getting the company name included in the name of a sporting event or stadium (tweens 33% and teens 22%). Newer advertising tactics are viewed more negatively by young people. For example, only five percent of youth like it when companies advertise their product on cell phones (compared to 50% who dislike it), and four percent like it when companies get someone to mention a product in online chat sessions (with 41% disliking this tactic).
Truth in advertising
Youth seem to consider themselves to be discerning when it comes to advertising, and they can even be skeptical about what companies tell them. Fewer than one in ten (6%) 8-18 year olds agree with the statement "advertisements tell the truth," and more than half (57%) say they often notice tricks companies use to get them to buy something. About three-quarters (73%) agree that companies try to get people to buy things they do not really need. And, regarding mention of a product in an online chatroom, very few (only 1% of teens and 6% of tweens) feel that they can trust the discussion.
TABLE 1
PURCHASE DECISION-MAKING
"How much do you agree with the following?"
Base: All youth ages 8-18 years
Summary of Strongly / Somewhat Agree
Tweens Teens Total
age 8-12 age 13-18 age 8-18
% % %
I like to buy things my
friends have. 62 32 44
To make sure that I buy the
right products, I often look
to see what my friends use and
buy. 36 23 29
To make sure I buy the right
products I often pay close
attention to advertisements. 36 22 29
If I do not have much experience
with a product, I often ask my
friends to tell me what to buy. 29 33 31
If I do not have much experience
with a product, I often ask
someone who works in a store to
tell me what to buy. 22 28 26
I try to buy products that I've
seen before on television or in
the movies 53 29 40
I often use the Internet to get
information about products
before I buy them 30 51 40
TABLE 2
ATTITUDES ON ADVERTISING TACTICS
"How much do you like it when companies do the following?"
Base: All youth ages 8-18 years
Summary of Like / Summary of Dislike /
Strongly Like Strongly Dislike
Tweens Teens Total Tweens Teens Total
age 8-12 age 13-18 age 8-18 age 8-12 age 13-18 age 8-18
% % % % % %
Have a famous
person use their
product 39 21 29 12 22 18
Have a person in
a movie use
their product 33 20 26 12 19 17
Get their company
name included in
the name of a
sporting event
or stadium 33 22 26 13 18 17
Create cartoons or
TV shows that are
about their
product(s) 31 13 21 25 34 31
Have their product
appear in a video
game 27 13 19 22 25 24
Give their product
to popular kids
for free 24 12 18 43 44 44
Get someone to use
their product in
a public place
like a coffee shop 17 10 13 19 22 20
Get someone to
write a blog about
their product 14 10 11 24 32 29
Ask for personal
information like
your name and
email address 6 4 4 68 65 66
Advertise their
product on cell
phones 5 4 5 41 55 50
Get someone to
mention the product
in online chat
sessions 5 4 4 37 45 41
TABLE 3
TELLING THE TRUTH ABOUT PRODUCTS
"How much do you agree with the following?"
Base: All youth ages 8-18 years
Summary of Strongly /
Somewhat Agree
Tweens Teens Total
age 8-12 age 13-18 age 8-18
% % %
What famous people say about
a product is true 17 5 11
When companies say their
product is the best they
are always telling the truth 10 3 6
Companies can say anything
about their product, even if
it isn't true 54 42 47
When someone in an online
chatroom tells you about a
product, you can trust what
they say 6 1 3
Advertisements tell the truth 9 4 6
Products are used in movies
just to make the movies more
realistic 42 26 33
Companies want you to buy their
product only if it is the
best one for you 15 8 11
I often notice tricks that
companies use to get me to
buy something 51 61 57
Companies try to get people to
buy things that they don't
really need 76 71 73
Companies tell you only the
good things about their
products; they don't
tell you the bad things 77 70 72
Downloadable PDF files of previous issues, and the current issue of Trends and Tudes, containing this information and more, can be found at http://www.harrisinteractive.com/news/newsletters_k12.asp.
Methodology
This survey was designed in collaboration with the University of Delaware's Lerner College of Business and Economics and was conducted online by Harris Interactive among 1,306 children and teenagers (ages 8-12, n=564 and ages 13-18, n=742) within the United States between May 18 to 23, 2006. Figures for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, parental education, and region were weighted where necessary to bring them into line with their actual proportions in the population.
All surveys are subject to several sources of error. These include: sampling error (because only a sample of a population is interviewed); measurement error due to question wording and/or question order, deliberately or unintentionally inaccurate responses, nonresponse (including refusals), interviewer effects (when live interviewers are used) and weighting.
With one exception (sampling error) the magnitude of the errors that result cannot be estimated. There is, therefore, no way to calculate a finite "margin of error" for any survey and the use of these words should be avoided.
With pure probability samples, with 100 percent response rates, it is possible to calculate the probability that the sampling error (but not other sources of error) is not greater than some number. With a pure probability sample of 1,306 one could say with a ninety-five percent probability that the overall results have a sampling error of +/-3 percentage points. Sampling error for subsamples is higher and varies. However this does not take other sources of error into account. This online survey is not based on a probability sample and therefore no theoretical sampling error can be calculated.
These statements conform to the principles of disclosure of the National Council on Public Polls.
About the Harris Interactive Youth and Education Research Practice
The Youth and Education Research Practice conducts research among children, teens, parents, educators, administrators and policy makers that assists in understanding the lives of children, teens and college students. The team specializes in research related to marketing geared toward the young consumer, to public policy related to youth and education, to family and parenting issues, and satisfaction studies and research that measures the standards of K-12 and higher education in districts across the nation. The practice conducts custom and syndicated studies both for non-profit and for- profit organizations.
About Harris Interactive
Harris Interactive is the 12th largest and fastest-growing market research firm in the world. The company provides research-driven 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 could conceivably 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 subsidiary Novatris in France and through a global network of independent market research firms. The service bureau, HISB, provides its market research industry clients with mixed-mode data collection, panel development services as well as syndicated and tracking research consultation.
More information about Harris Interactive may be obtained at http://www.harrisinteractive.com/.
To become a member of the Harris Poll Online, visit http://www.harrispollonline.com/.
Tower Records to Sell Company Under Chapter 11 Sale Process
Enters into $85 million in Debtor in Possession Financing; Negotiates Delivery Terms with Key Vendor Partners; Stores Remain Open ... Business as Usual
MTS Incorporated and its subsidiaries (Tower Records), America's leading independent music and entertainment retailer which owns and operates 89 Tower Records stores in 20 states nationwide, tonight announced its intent to sell the Company through a process (Section 363) under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code. This process, which is subject to court approval, sets in motion a timeline of events that will ultimately insure a sale of the Company within approximately 60 days of the filing date.
According to Joseph D'Amico, Tower's recently named CEO, the filing is a necessary vehicle to execute his commitment to sell the Company. "Tower Records has conducted an extensive sale process and this step will allow buyers to complete a sale in time for the holiday season while maximizing the value for stakeholders." In March of 2006, the Company retained Houlihan Lokey Howard & Zukin as its marketing and sales agent. The Company is evaluating Letters of Intent from parties interested in acquiring the Company. Mr. D'Amico stated, "Potential parties seeking to acquire Tower Records recognize the strength of the brand and its unique position within the marketplace, making it a very attractive opportunity."
The Company also announced that it has entered into an $85 million Debtor in Possession financing with its current bank group led by CIT as agent. This financing will fund its operations and purchases of new product while the Company completes the sale. Tower has also been able to renegotiate delivery terms for product with the trade. D'Amico commented, "The trade has always supported Tower through difficult times and we recognize that their support is imperative to the consummation of a transaction."
Last week, Tower was voted 'Retailer of the Year' (Large Division) at the 48th annual National Association of Recording Merchandisers (NARM) convention for the third consecutive year. "Tower Records is a great brand that has a unique place in the market. I am confident that the brand will continue to endure for many years to come," added D'Amico.
Visit http://www.omnimgt.com/ to view filing documentation by clicking "Real Time Data" and Tower Records 2006.
About Tower Records
Since 1960, Tower Records has been recognized and respected throughout the world for its unique brand of retailing. Founded in Sacramento, California, with the singular vision to have a music store with unparalleled selection and fair prices, Tower forges ahead with the development of exciting shopping environments, espousing diverse product ranges, artist performances, and technological advances in merchandising. Tower maintains its commitment to providing the deepest selection of entertainment merchandise in stores that celebrate the unique interests and needs of the local community. For the third year in a row, the music industry has voted Tower Records "Retailer of the Year."
Tower owns and operates 89 stores in the U.S. with 144 additional stores run by licensees in nine different countries. The Company opened one of the first Internet music stores on America Online in June 1995 and followed a year later with the launch of Tower.com.
Source: Tower Records
MGM Television Programming Available on the iTunes Music Store
New Media Division Expands Reach for Studio's Library of Classic & Popular TV Hits
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM) today announced it has made current episodes of the hit science fiction/adventure series STARGATE SG1 and STARGATE ATLANTIS available for purchase and download from the iTunes Music Store (www.itunes.com).
Effective today the first five episodes of STARGATE SG1 season 10 and the first five episodes of STARGATE ATLANTIS season 3 will be available for download and subsequent episodes for both series will be available within 24 hours after airing on the SCI FI Channel.
"By making these popular series available through iTunes we're able to extend the reach of the MGM brand and the STARGATE franchise," said Doug Lee, MGM's executive vice president, New Media Division. "We're always delighted to enhance the consumer's experience of our popular content and see this as a win all the way around."
The deal marks the first step in MGM's strategy to expand its electronic distribution footprint globally with more announcements expected in the future. Since forming the New Media Division in April of this year and the recruitment of Lee to supervise it, MGM is now positioned to expand in the new media world, which will bring upside potential for the company's library.
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 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%), Texas Pacific Group (21%), Sony Corporation of America (20%), Comcast (20%), DLJ Merchant Banking Partners (7%) and Quadrangle Group (3%). For more information, visit www.mgm.com.
Opera Great Jessye Norman Teams With Rachael Worby and The Pasadena POPS Orchestra for Concert of Hope for 1,500 Students at Pasadena's Blair High Sept. 22
In an extraordinary one-time event, legendary opera star Jessye Norman, acclaimed as one of the world's greatest sopranos, will join maestra Rachael Worby and The Pasadena POPS Orchestra in a rare West Coast performance exclusively for 1,500 inner city students at Pasadena's Blair IB Magnet High School on Friday, September 22 (11:15 a.m.).
Recognized globally for her vocal successes and humanitarian acts, Norman agreed to the concert on the request of Worby, who crafted a pioneering education residency program at Blair High three years ago to instill an appreciation for music and a platform for self discipline and hard work among the students.
The 45-minute performance will be held in Blair High's gymnasium, a far cry from the world's great concert halls Norman has visited throughout her distinguished career. She will regale the students with her personal interpretations of opera, gospel and jazz, as well as readings from great black authors and leaders, with the accompaniment of the POPS Orchestra under Worby's direction.
"Jessye Norman can perform anywhere in the world, but once I described the opportunity to do a concert that introduces great music to economically disadvantaged, at-risk teenagers, there was no hesitation on her part," said Worby. "It was especially compelling for her since the school is participating in one of our outreach programs aimed specifically at inner city kids."
Norman, a 2006 Lifetime Achievement Awardee from The Recording Academy and a 1997 Kennedy Center Honoree among her 30 or more decorations and awards, is a tireless champion of philanthropic activities. She is spokesperson for the LUPUS Foundation and The Partnership for the Homeless and serves on the boards of The New York City Public Library, New York Botanical Garden, Meals-on-Wheels of New York, The Dance Theater of Harlem, National Music Foundation and the Elton John AIDS Foundation.
Worby introduced the concept of a concert at Blair High through a series of transatlantic telephone calls and emails over the last several months. The venue and audience were immediately appealing to the opera star.
"Ms. Norman is sure to make an electrifying effect in the school because of her tremendous artistry and humanity," said John Hancock, executive director of the Pasadena POPS. "These are the themes of our ongoing work with the students in this and other schools where we pursue a path of commonality and personal accomplishment through music."
Norman will accept no fee for the performance and all other costs have been covered by anonymous donations.
"The opportunity to conduct for Jessye Norman in this setting is one of the dreams of my life," said Worby. "Her powerful and lustrous voice and interpretations will be one of the enduring joys these young people will ever experience."
The Norman and Worby collaboration will continue from Blair High School to Beijing and Shanghai in October when Worby will conduct Norman's concerts in China.
Norman made her operatic debut in 1969, and soon thereafter conquered the world's greatest stages. Her distinguished association with the Metropolitan Opera Company of New York began with her debut on the opening night of the organization's centennial season in 1983.
BLACK ENTERPRISE To Debut TV Series Hosted By Emmy Award-Winning Journalist Ed Gordon
Our World With Black Enterprise Premieres Nationwide This Fall
Our World With Black Enterprise, a new, half-hour, nationally syndicated television series that spotlights the contemporary African American experience, will bring more diversity to weekly, talk TV when it debuts next month.
Premiering on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2006, Our World With Black Enterprise, hosted by acclaimed broadcast journalist Ed Gordon, will feature news, entertainment, roundtable discussions, and special interest stories about African Americans from all walks of life-from Hollywood to the corporate suite and everyone in between.
BLACK ENTERPRISE (BE) magazine, now in its 36th year, is the No. 1 business and investing resource for African Americans with a readership of 3.9 million. A multimedia company with print, radio, television, and Web properties, BE will partner with Central City Productions (CCP), a Chicago-based production, sales, and distribution firm, to produce the new lifestyle show.
"We are extremely excited to announce the launch of a weekly news and entertainment show dedicated to our core audience," says BE president and CEO Earl "Butch" Graves. "For more than three decades, BLACK ENTERPRISE has distinguished itself as a unique and independent voice for African Americans. Through Our World, BE will showcase the best of our society and offer viable solutions to the challenges we face."
Ed Gordon, host of Our World With Black Enterprise, says, "I am delighted to be part of a new program that will showcase the world of news, sports, and entertainment from a black perspective, and give voice to some of today's brightest minds and best talent. I look forward to bringing the rich conversation of the black community to the forefront, and presenting our culture, our people, and our perspective each week."
The Black Enterprise Report, BE's weekly, half-hour, televised business series, will continue to provide African American business professionals with content focusing exclusively on business and financial empowerment. The program, launched in 2003 with CCP, airs weekend mornings.
To catch the debut of Our World With Black Enterprise, viewers should check their local listings for time and station information, or visit http://ourworld.blackenterprise.com/ for details.
BLACK ENTERPRISE, your ultimate guide to financial empowerment, is the premier business, investing, and wealth-building resource for African Americans. Since 1970, be has provided essential business information and advice to professionals, corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and decision makers. Every month, BLACK ENTERPRISE magazine provides 3.9 million readers with information on entrepreneurship, careers, and financial management. A multimedia company, be also produces radio and television programming, business and lifestyle events, Web content, and digital media. BLACK ENTERPRISE is the definitive source of information for and about African American business markets and leaders, and the authority on black business news and trends.
For more than three decades, Central City Productions (CCP) has specialized in the production, syndication, distribution, and sale of ad space of black entertainment television programs such as The Stellar Gospel Music Awards, the Black Enterprise Report, Know Your Heritage high school quiz show, and the Bud Billiken Parade. CCP has produced more than 1,000 shows for broadcast television and is a recognized giant in the industry. The company launched the first-ever black Nielsen Household Ratings Survey from which the advertising industry measures all black TV shows today.
Back to School Technology for Today’s Youth is More than Disney Mobile, iPods, and Nintendos
Back to school shopping which previously meant school supplies and clothes now includes technology for many of today’s youth. Standard cell phones and Nintendo are the big winners with iPods relegated to backpacks.
Clarendon of Hidden Hills Elementary School in Northern California estimates that more than half of the students in her 4th grade class have cell phones. She remembers in previous years that more than half also had them when she was in 3rd grade (2005) and in 2nd grade (2004).
With all the discussions about first phones designed uniquely for kids such as Cingular’s Firefly, Verizon’s LG Migo, or Disney Mobile, with parent programmable buttons, I had expected for many of her fellow students in elementary school to have one of these phones. Surprisingly, many of them have the regular cell phones, with many of them sending text messages or talking in the bathroom and during breaks to friends and family.
Locally, at the Cingular Wireless store here in Southern California, managers confirm that the Pantech C300, seen in the Cingular back to school commercials, and the Motorola RAZR have been popular for the back to school youths.
iPods are not allowed in the classrooms of Hidden Hills Elementary School , however breaks are a different story. When I interviewed Clarendon, she had her iPod Nano for two days and had already learned how to use it from her friends. Plans are to use half of its memory of 500 songs with favorites such as the Pussycat Dolls and Shakira.
Gameboys and Nintendos are popular for gaming at Hidden Hills Elementary School , and are relegated to backpacks during class. After school day care in the Growing Room has eight computers, five Gameboys and fifteen Nintendos. Clarendon explained that “more people like Nintendos than Gameboys…because it’s a newer version of the Gameboy. You can play a Gameboy on it and Nintendos.”
Liz Prior, a mother of an 8 year old and 12 year old daughter, has not obtained cell phones for her daughters. She’s learned she’s not alone with these thoughts, despite their requests.
Cindy Quan, a Bay Area pediatrician, shared that while many of her younger patients had cell phones and iPods, there has been a growing concern for parents of theft. In the nightly news, I’ve seen parents suing other parents for the loss of iPods. Quan shares that the theft of cell phones and iPods is often by older students from younger students for money to buy drugs.
As technology penetrates to younger and younger youths for entertainment and safety, it strangely has become the reason for children to become targets. (Joyce Chow))
Celebrity Tattoo Artist Mario Barth's Starlight Tattoo to Partner with AOL Music Style Studio During the Week of MTV's 2006 Video Music Awards
Starlight Tattoo Is the First-Ever Tattoo Studio to Partner with AOL
at the 2006 Style Studio for Celebrity Guests
World-renowned tattoo artist Mario Barth and his premier tattoo organization Starlight Tattoo will partner with AOL Music Style Studio for a private *Invitation Only* retreat for celebrity guests from August 30th- August 31st. The 2006 AOL Music Style Studio will open its doors to the biggest names in the music and entertainment industries for VIP treatment as they arrive in NYC for VMA week.
There will be no hotter destination than the 2006 AOL Music Style Studio where Mario Barth will provide his exclusive services to the heavyweights of Rock and Hollywood royalty. Starlight Tattoo will be the first EVER tattoo studio to work within the AOL walls, providing tattoos and cool merchandise to celebrity guests.
Additionally, Barth will have a custom-made leather embroidered chair which will be signed by all celebrity attendees and auctioned for CureSearch, Childhood Cancer Foundation.
Barth is the foremost trendsetter and innovator in the tattoo industry. He is the inventor of the first-ever sterile single dose inks which are revered as the industry's new standards in safety. His celebrity clientele include Lenny Kravitz, Jason Kidd, members of the Wu-Tang Clan, members of My Chemical Romance, Nikki Sixx of Motley Crue and NFL Giants star David Diehl.
WHAT: The AOL Music Style Studio at the MTV Video Music Awards
WHO: Celebrity Tattoo Artist Mario Barth
WHEN: Wednesday, August 30 - Thursday, August 31st
Beginning at 9:00 AM EDT
WHERE: AOL
75 Rockefeller Plaza, 8th floor
New York City
Los Angeles Lakers All-Star Kobe Bryant Scores the Cover of NBA '07 for PlayStation(R)2 and PSP(R) (PlayStation(R) Portable)
Three-Time NBA Champ to Endorse Basketball Franchise Featuring Acclaimed Behind-the-Scenes Mode 'The Life: Vol. 2'
Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. announced today that Los Angeles Lakers guard and eight-time NBA All-Star Kobe Bryant will suit up as the cover athlete and spokesman for NBA '07, due to hit stores in Fall 2006, exclusively for the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system and PSP(R) (PlayStation(R) Portable) system. Having just completed his 10th season with the Lakers, Bryant led the league in scoring with 35.4 points per game and put up the second highest NBA single game point total in history by scoring 81 points against the Toronto Raptors on Jan. 22, 2006.
Drafted in 1996 out of Lower Merion High School in Philadelphia, Bryant made his official league debut at 18 years of age and has since solidified his standing as one of the most explosive and clutch players in the game. During his career Bryant has gained entry into the record books in numerous categories, including being the youngest player to start an NBA All-Star Game (1998), reach the 10,000 point mark (2003) and be named to the NBA's All Defensive Team (1999-2000). In addition to helping the Lakers win three consecutive NBA championships from 2000-2002, Bryant has been selected eight times as a starter for the Western Conference All-Star team and has earned All-NBA Honors in each of the last eight seasons.
"Kobe Bryant has distinguished himself as one of the truly elite players in the NBA and we are thrilled to have him represent NBA '07 as our newest cover athlete," said Sharon Shapiro, senior director, promotions and sports product marketing, Sony Computer Entertainment America. "With his explosive game and storied rise to the top of the NBA's ranks, Bryant is a great ambassador for NBA '07 and its unique gameplay-driven story mode 'The Life: Vol. 2.'"
NBA '07 builds upon the depth and authenticity introduced in last year's game by hitting the hardwood with new features, enhanced gameplay, and a return to the immersive inside experience of life in the league. In Volume 2 of the acclaimed Life Mode, players not only continue to experience the ups and downs of life in the NBA but will also delve further into team politics, press conferences, endorsement deals, and the contentious relationship between returning characters The Kid and Big W.
NBA '07's The Life Vol. 2 introduces the ability to play from the perspectives of both The Kid and Big W at various stages, further building the story of their rivalry and highlighting the glory and anguish of NBA stardom. Additionally, players can challenge Big W and others for league MVP honors based on overall skill progression and head-to-head match ups.
NBA '07 includes refined core gameplay elements including new mechanics for stealing, passing, and shot selection as well as more intuitive Artificial Intelligence (AI). Additionally, an all-new Open Shot Indicator provides a visual gauge of the impact defense has on shot opportunities, and a new Power Boarding System is now in place to offer a true 3D approach for players to position themselves for rebounds.
NBA '07 features more than a dozen mini-games including favorites such as 21, Own the Court, and 3-Point Shootout. "Showtime Gameplay" returns, providing players the opportunity to manage and balance a variety of game time elements including temperamental crowds, eager teammates, and individual basketball skills. With online access to compete in a variety of leagues and tournaments, EyeToy(R) functionality, and an all-new soundtrack, NBA '07 is prepared to deliver the most realistic professional basketball experience available -- on and off the courts.
The independent Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) rating for NBA '07 is "E" for Everyone. For more information about ESRB visit www.esrb.org .
About Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.
Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation(R) and PS one(TM) game console, the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, and the PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system, and the upcoming, much-anticipated PLAYSTATION(R)3 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 and the PSP system for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif., Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
Visit us on the Web at www.us.playstation.com .
NOTE: The NBA and individual NBA member team identifications reproduced on this product are trademarks and copyrighted designs, and/or other forms of intellectual property, that are the exclusive property of NBA Properties, Inc. and the respective NBA member teams and may not be used, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of NBA Properties, Inc.
Source: Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.
Byron Allen to Host and Executive Produce New Syndicated Series 'Comics Unleashed'
Entertainment Studios Sets Record Deals With Television Broadcast Stations for Comedy Series to Premiere on September 25 in HD
Actor-comedian Byron Allen is slated to host and executive produce "Comics Unleashed," a new nationally-syndicated comedy series by Entertainment Studios, premiering on September 25, it was announced today by Allen, Chairman and CEO of Entertainment Studios. The half-hour daily comedy strip is Allen's latest and most personal addition to the Entertainment Studios brand, setting station group deals with Sinclair Broadcast Group and one of the largest with Clear Channel.
"Stand-up comedy gave me my start in this business and I've always enjoyed the backstage comedy with other comedians before and after we took the stage," said Allen. "'Comics Unleashed' will bring those hilarious conversations to households worldwide and laughter to viewers each night."
Shot in HD, "Comics Unleashed" will mark the first time stand-up comedians sit together in front of a live audience to engage in uproarious panel conversations initiated by Allen. The first comics slated to appear include Dane Cook, Howie Mandel, George Wallace, Jon Lovitz, Carol Leifer, David Brenner, Pauly Shore and Brad Garrett. These comedians and others will appear nightly doing what they do best -- offering their own funny perspectives on relevant topics and everyday life.
With 85% U.S. clearance to date and several countries including Canada and Australia, "Comics Unleashed" will also be seen on all the military bases around the world. "Comics Unleashed" is positioned to reinvigorate the syndication landscape that is currently plagued with limited programming due to increased reality series and fewer available comedies entering the syndication marketplace.
"Our stations have a need for first-run comedy shows that are unique and cutting edge. And now we have the first one," said Bill Butler, Vice President of Group Programming and Promotions of Sinclair Broadcast Group.
Dan Stein, Vice President of Programming of Clear Channel Television added, "I'm looking forward to the premiere of 'Comics Unleashed' this fall and pleased to have the show in multiple markets. I think the time is right to have a television program with topical conversation with a comedic twist on broadcast television."
Allen got his start in show business at the tender age of 14, writing jokes with Jay Leno and David Letterman for Jimmy "J.J." Walker and performing his own stand-up routines in comedy clubs across the country. Just before graduating from high school at 18, Allen made his television debut on "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson," for which he holds the distinction of being the youngest comedian ever to have performed on the show with Johnny. Impressed by his network television debut, the producers of NBC's "Real People" convinced the young Allen to co-host what would become the first reality-based program ever broadcast on television, subsequently dominating the network's Wednesday nights for five years.
"Real People" introduced Allen to America as a television host. In 1993 Allen founded Entertainment Studios and launched the celebrity-driven television show "Entertainers with Byron Allen," a weekly, one hour program profiling the most current stars in film and television that, 13 years later, is still brought to television households worldwide. Allen continues to perform live stand-up comedy while executive producing and distributing 15 first-run syndicated television programs, four of which he hosts, making his company Entertainment Studios the largest independent producer/distributor of first-run, syndicated programming in the world.
About Entertainment Studios
Entertainment Studios produces, distributes and sells advertising time for fifteen television programs, making it the largest independent producer and distributor of first run, syndicated programming for broadcast television stations and video content for mobile devices and the World Wide Web. The company's commitment and mission is to provide excellent programming to television audiences, online users and fortune 500 advertising partners. Chairman and CEO Byron Allen founded the company in 1993, which is headquartered in Los Angeles with offices in New York City and Chicago.
Celebrity Divorce Attorneys Release Revised Edition of Prenuptial Agreement Book
New Version Includes Domestic Partnership Information and Fascinating Prenuptial Clauses of the Rich, Famous and Eccentric
Scott Weston and Robert Nachshin, celebrity divorce attorneys, best known for their precedent-setting win in the Barry Bonds prenuptial case, announced today that they have issued a second edition of "I Do, You Do ... But Just Sign Here: A Quick and Easy Guide to Cohabitation, Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements" (ExecuProv Press), according to Scott Weston, partner at Nachshin & Weston in West Los Angeles.
The book has served as a comprehensive, layperson's guide in helping those who live together, who are contemplating marriage or who have been married, understand the intricacies of marital agreements. The new version includes the most up-to-date information on domestic partnerships and what individuals entering into those arrangements should know. "Domestic partnerships are viewed similarly to marital partnerships." Weston explains, "However, many people entering into them don't realize the serious legal consequences if and when those partnerships dissolve. It's important that such couples protect their interests and assets."
In the new edition, without naming names, authors Nachshin & Weston also share some of the outlandish clauses many of the rich, famous and eccentric couples insist upon in their agreements. "Not all the stipulations we share with the reader in this new book chapter are from our clients exclusively," Weston says, "they have come to us from other sources as well." Weston says readers of the book's first edition, including media sources, had queried both Weston and Nachshin repeatedly, asking for such information.
Family Law Specialists and LA Superlawyers, Scott Weston and Robert Nachshin, represent celebrities and high net worth type individuals in sports, music, film and television. Their client roster includes rapper Snoop Dog (Calvin Brodeus), Walt Disney Corporation's CEO, Robert Iger, pop idol singer/actor David Cassidy, screenwriter and author Terry McMillan, light middleweight champ, Oscar de la Hoya, Alana Stewart and Sheree Smith, former wives of Rod Stewart and Will Smith, respectively; the late country legend Buck Owens, baseball greats Gary Sheffield and Bret Saberhagen, among others.
The book is now available at all major bookstore outlets including Barnes & Noble, Borders and Amazon.com.
For more information on Robert Nachshin and Scott Weston, visit www.nwdivorce.com.
Source: Nachshin and Weston
U.S. Postal Service and Highlights for Children, Inc. to Celebrate Milestones
WHAT: The U.S. Postal Service and Highlights for Children,
Inc., will celebrate the printing of 1 billion copies of
Highlights for Children magazine, which made its debut
in June 1946.
WHO: John E. Potter, Postmaster General and Chief Executive
Officer, U.S. Postal Service
Kent S. Johnson, CEO, Highlights for Children, Inc.
Christine French Clark, Editor, Highlights for Children
magazine
Allen Kane, Director, National Postal Museum
WHEN: Wed., Aug. 23, 2006
11 a.m.
The event is free and open to the public.
WHERE: National Postal Museum
2 Massachusetts Ave., NE
Washington, D.C. 20002
BACKGROUND: The U.S. Postal Service for six decades has helped
connect young readers in America by delivering
Highlights for Children magazine.
A staple of schools, libraries and professional offices
across America, the publication is an important advocate
of children's education -- and a warm reminder of
childhood for members of the Baby Boomer generation.
With more than 2 million subscribers, Highlights for
Children (
http://www.highlights.com/) provides a monthly
collection of fiction, nonfiction, crafts, puzzles and
activities. The publication also includes a mix of
letters, drawings, questions and poems submitted by its
readers. Each issue delivered by a Postal Service
letter carrier is a pathway to literacy.
The magazine is published by Highlights for Children,
Inc., with corporate offices in Columbus, OH. Its
editorial office is in Honesdale, PA. The publication is
printed by Quebecor World, Inc., in Clarksville, TN.
The National Postal Museum, a Smithsonian Institution
museum, was created by an agreement between the
Smithsonian Institution and the U.S. Postal Service in
1990 and opened to the public in 1993.
H3's Makin' Moves in Vegas
Company Headquarters Heading to Paradise, H3Players.com's WorldSeries Reset for Sunday, December 3, 2006
H3Enterprises, Inc. (OTC Pink Sheets: HTRE) today announced that it will be moving its company headquarters from New York City to Las Vegas. The company has just signed an agreement to begin operating out of the incomparable Turnberry Place on Paradise Road, in a brand new two-story penthouse overlooking the famed Las Vegas Strip. The luxuriously loaded facility features a mega-wide plasma screen CyberSportsTheater and has already been dubbed the "H3PlayersRetreat."
HTRE has also announced today that H3Players.com's inaugural WorldSeries of CyberSports has been rescheduled from October 22 to December 3, 2006. Every member of HTRE's new competitive CyberSports League, H3Players.com, will be eligible to compete on consoles for jackpots and cash prizes in four different CyberCategories: basketball, football, boxing, and a special novice tournament for players of all ages and skill levels.
H3Players.com has guaranteed a $500,000 payday for the finalists, boasting the largest prize money ever offered for a CyberSports Tournament anywhere in the world. Several athletes, announcers and celebrities that are all proud gamers and H3Players will be utilized to provide expert commentary during the competition. The event will still take place at the "Hardwood Suite(TM)" inside the Palms Resort Casino as previously reported.
"The change of date was necessary for HTRE to take full advantage of our synergies with celebrity events converging on Las Vegas at that time, including My Red Carpet, a concert tailored for 9,000 kids, and the Billboard Music Awards, taking place the following night at the MGM Grand," according to Adrian "Hollywood" Walton, H3's Chief Communications Officer. "We also expect to be signing a number of deals this week in Vegas regarding H3Players and the WorldSeries of CyberSports as well as a new HipHopSodaShop location."
About H3Enterprises, Inc.
H3Enterprises (OTC: "HTRE") is the first publicly traded company dedicated to the Hip Hop culture and lifestyle. H3 is committed to the positive growth of the entire community through business and educational opportunities. In just over a year, H3Enterprises has created a business focused on feeding the worldwide demand for everything Hip Hop and maximizing returns for its shareholders. H3Enterprises is the owner, creator, licensor, and franchiser of HipHopSodaShops, HipHopHeaven, H3Raps, H3WhiteTeaBeverages, H3Players.com, H3Merchandising, and H3's WorldSeries of CyberSports. Company websites include http://www.h3players.com/ , http://www.h3inc.com/ , and http://www.hiphopsodashop.com/ .
Safe Harbor: Certain statements contained herein are "forward-looking" statements (as such term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995). Because such statements include risks and uncertainties, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, such as statements relating to plans for future expansion and other business development activities. Such forward-looking information is subject to changes and variations that are not reasonably predictable and that could significantly affect future results and other factors discussed in filings made by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Interact-TV Unveils MediaSafe - Complete Digital Media Protection Against Hard Drive Failure in the Home
Interact-TV(TM) , a leading developer of Linux-based Home Entertainment Servers, today unveils MediaSafe(TM) which offers automatic hard disc drive redundancy for secure home media storage without manual backups.
MediaSafe uses state-of-the-art RAID technology to automatically protect consumer's precious and irreplaceable media including saved DVDs, recorded videos, music and photos. MediaSafe is available on both Telly MC1200 and TellyRAID products. MediaSafe offers the most cost-effective secure storage solution available to end consumers today.
Telly MC1200 with MediaSafe uses RAID 1, providing redundancy by mirroring data from one 400GB drive on a second 400GB drive automatically so if either drive fails, no data is lost. Telly constantly monitors and manages the RAID for the user. In the event of a drive failure, Telly MC1200 will keep working while the consumer waits for a replacement drive.
Through redundancy, TellyRAID provides protection for media and information stored on the array. The data can even withstand complete failure of one hard drive (or sometimes more) without any loss of data and without requiring restoration of any data from backup. As larger hard drives become available and media collections grow, consumers can add larger hard drives to expand capacity easily, without ever reformatting the volume. TellyRAID is based on ReadyNAS(TM) from Infrant Technologies. No other NAS lets consumers expand storage capacity so easily.
"With hard drive prices dropping and capacity increasing, providing secure media storage, monitoring and management is now available to the end consumer," said Ken Fuhrman, CTO of Interact-TV. "Interact-TV is focused on delivering solutions that let our customers maintain extensive media libraries and peace of mind. No one wants to worry about backing up media. Consumers just want to know their media is safe. "
About Interact-TV Inc.
Interact-TV Inc. designs innovative products that empower the digital entertainment experience, creating an easy way to access, organize, share and enjoy ever-expanding libraries of movies, music and photos. The complete Telly product line is available directly from the manufacturer's online store at http://www.buyatelly.com/ and from a growing network of dealers throughout North America.
Headquarters for Interact-TV are in Westminster, Colorado. Find more information at www.interact-tv.com.
Westinghouse Digital Offers Students Ultimate Back to School Tech Package With New Laptop and 19" HD-Ready LCD TV
Back to School Tech Bundle Available Exclusively at Wal-Mart; Gives Students the Tools They Need to Make the Grade
Westinghouse Digital Electronics, one of the top five LCD manufacturers in the U.S.*, gives students the ultimate back-to-school package this fall that will help them achieve those coveted "A+" grades and provide a great way to enjoy well-earned free time: A complete Computer/TV system, which includes a laptop computer and 19" HD-Ready LCD TV.
Available exclusively at Wal-Mart stores nationwide, the back to school bundle retails at $989 and features a 14.1" widescreen laptop computer, Westinghouse Digital's brilliant LTV-19w6 19" HD-Ready LCD TV, a USB keyboard and USB optical mouse.
The Westinghouse laptop utilizes a WXGA TFT-Active Matrix widescreen display with a 1280 x 800 resolution, and Intel(R) Celeron(R) 410 M Processor (1.46 GHz, 533 MHz FSB, 1MB Cache) and Genuine Microsoft(R) Windows(R) XP Home Edition. The notebook utilizes an ATI(R) Xpress 200M Graphics card, 60GB Hard Drive, 512MB DDR2 SDRAM, 8x CD/DVD+/-RW w/Double Layer Support and Internal 802.11b/g Wireless LAN. The computer also includes a 4-in-1 Memory Card Reader and Built-in Microphone.
The Westinghouse LTV-19w6 is a 19" HD-Ready 1440 x 900 Widescreen TV that includes two HD Inputs and Integrated speakers. The display can be used as a TV, a computer monitor and a display device for viewing DVDs and playing online and computer games. Having the two screens promotes increased productivity and allows for the multi-tasking environment the student of today demands.
"The Westinghouse bundle we created for the back-to-school market provides students with the tools necessary to compete and stay ahead in the technology-driven academic race of the 21st century," states Rey Roque, Vice President of Marketing at Westinghouse Digital Electronics. "The bundle provides a high-end, yet affordable solution that will enable students to maximize their academic pursuits and also utilize the system for entertainment purposes as well."
Perfect for students living on campus and in dorm rooms, the Westinghouse laptop is portable and lightweight, weighing in at just over five pounds. With its built-in wireless access and dual-layer DVD burner, the notebook is ideal for any student on the move. Moreover, with its sleek design, the 14.1" widescreen is not much larger than a traditional 12.1" laptop when opened, making it a stellar travel companion.
The Westinghouse bundle is ideal for today's savvy multitasking students, allowing for two screen, real-time productivity. A student can run Instant Messaging and e-mail on the laptop screen while running separate applications on the high resolution TV. This enables many tasks to be completed at the same time, an absolutely necessity for today's college or high school student.
The Westinghouse bundle also offers exceptional total value. Many of today's 19" LCD TVs retail for well over $500 alone. At just $989, the Westinghouse bundle provides students with a powerful laptop computer and a high-quality LCD TV at an affordable cost.
The Westinghouse bundle is the perfect gift for students living on a tight budget. Parents and grandparents can rest assured that their loved students are heading off to school with the necessary tech tools to help them succeed and, most importantly, make the grade.
About Westinghouse Digital Electronics
Westinghouse Digital Electronics, one of the top five LCD TV manufacturers in the U.S.*, provides consumers with a full line of innovative LCD displays and other consumer electronics products, delivering the latest digital content for the ultimate entertainment experience. The company has successfully executed its visionary go-to-market strategy of bringing technologically advanced products to mainstream consumers, including LCD TV/DVD combos featuring Pixel Direct(TM) technology, video monitors that deliver 1080p resolution, digital photo frames, and HD-Grade(TM) computer monitors in both standard aspect and widescreen formats. Westinghouse Digital is dedicated to providing consumers with stylish, feature-rich and high-quality entertainment devices to meet the needs of every household member. Westinghouse products are available nationwide in more than 10,000 consumer electronics retail stores and other resellers. For more information, please visit www.westinghousedigital.com.
* S&A June 2006 LCD-TV Tracking Study.
Source: Westinghouse Digital Electronics
Lifetime Television Launches Its First-Ever VOD Service Featuring Full Length Episodes of the Network's Popular Programming Along With Special Featurettes
-- Programming Available to Approximately 10 Million Comcast Customers with ON DEMAND Beginning Tuesday, August 22 --
Building upon a recent study* showing that 24% of women are watching more VOD than they did six months ago -- on the average of 28 hours per month -- Lifetime Television is launching its first- ever VOD service, featuring a programming mix of full length episodes and special featurettes, to approximately 10 million Comcast Cable subscribers beginning Tuesday, August 22, it was announced today by Louise Henry Bryson, President, Distribution and Affiliate Business Development, Lifetime Entertainment Services.
"We're delighted to partner with Comcast, who has been one of the industry leaders in providing a wide range of entertainment platforms for their customers. Our launch coincides with the rollout of many new Lifetime series and we've decided to make this next generation of Lifetime programming the centerpiece of our Lifetime On Demand service to give viewers another vehicle for discovering and enjoying our some of our new programming," said Bryson.
"Viewers enjoy Lifetime's compelling programming, and we're pleased that they'll be able to discover and watch some of the network's new and exciting shows on their schedule with Comcast ON DEMAND," said Page Thompson, Senior Vice President and General Manager Video Services for Comcast. "Video on demand is a great way for programmers to build awareness and promote linear content while adding more value for viewers."
Lifetime On Demand includes full-length episodes of new Lifetime series such as the comedy series "Lovespring International" and the reality show "Cheerleader Nation," along with other series from the network's large library, from "Intimate Portrait" and "What Should You Do?" to "Speaking of Women's Health." Lifetime also offers specially created short-form programming not shown on linear channels, relating to series such as "Angela's Eyes," "Cheerleader Nation" and "Lovespring International."
Dedicated to using the power of the media to make a positive difference in women's lives, Lifetime VOD includes timely special advocacy sections, such as providing viewers with "Intimate Portrait" episodes examining women's health issues during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.
*CTAM's Dimensioning the On Demand Market Study, fielded by The Artemis Group in 4Q '05.
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 are part of LIFETIME Entertainment Services, a 50/50 joint venture of The Hearst Corporation and The Walt Disney Company.
Source: Lifetime Television
'Maddenoliday' Declared In Madden, Miss. (Pop. 74), to Celebrate Launch of Madden NFL 07 on Xbox 360
To Commemorate 'Maddenoliday,' NFL Greats Jerry Rice, Marshall Faulk and Warren Moon Deliver Free Xbox 360s to All Madden Residents in Small-Town Celebration of Top-Selling EA SPORTS Title
WHAT: Microsoft and Electronic Arts will be joining forces to declare
"Maddenoliday" in Madden, Mississippi (pop. 74), on August 22 to
celebrate the launch of Madden NFL(TM) 07 on Xbox 360, the only
next generation console available at the beginning of the
2006/07 football season for fans to experience the enhanced and
exciting new features of the most popular sports game in the
country.
As part of the celebration, NFL greats Jerry Rice, Warren Moon
and Marshall Faulk, along with United States Representative
Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), will join the celebration in a small-
town ceremony, with more than 1,000 children and parents from
surrounding communities expected to be among the first in the
country to play Madden NFL 07 on Xbox 360 kiosks.
WHO: The Madden NFL franchise has fast become a cultural phenomenon
as the most popular selling sports game in the U.S. Millions of
football fans each year, including pro footballers, eagerly wait
for the latest version of the game to be released to gain their
first taste of the upcoming season and get the closest in-game
experience possible beyond actually playing in the NFL. The
sheer popularity of the game has come to represent its yearly
launch as the unofficial NFL season kick-off -- hence the event
in Madden.
- Jerry Rice, Warren Moon, Marshall Faulk and Bennie Thompson are
available for interviews on August 22, as well spokespersons
from Xbox 360, EA and the Leake County Chamber of Commerce.
- B-Roll footage and photography of the event also will be
available shortly after the festivities conclude.
WHEN: Event is on August 22, from 9:00 - 10 a.m. (Central Time).
WHERE: Madden, MS
Virgin Mobile USA Woos Users with the Sultry Sounds of Cassie
Customers Get 'First Dibs' on Exclusive Ringtones and Chance to Win Phone Call From Cassie Herself
Virgin Mobile USA, in partnership with Warner Music Group, today announced the latest artist in the company's popular First Dibs ringtone lineup -- Bad Boy's new R&B/pop sensation, Cassie. This First Dibs offer runs from August 17th - September 21st.
Virgin Mobile is the only wireless service in the U.S. offering its customers access to exclusive a cappella and instrumental ringtone versions of five of Cassie's hottest tracks off her self-titled debut album, "Cassie." This includes exclusive versions of "Me & U," the single burning up the R&B charts. Virgin Mobile's four million customers also have the unique opportunity to hear Cassie's perspective on her new-found fame first-hand, through downloadable original interview excerpts.
Beyond access to this exclusive mobile content, this First Dibs offer takes things a step further with one lucky Virgin Mobile winner receiving a phone call from the artist herself.
The young artist, who skyrocketed to the top almost overnight, is thrilled about this opportunity to bring her songs to a new channel. In a recent interview with Virgin Mobile, Cassie noted the huge role the Internet and mobile phones have played in her fast rise. Talking about the fans who've driven high demand for her single across all channels, she said, "I just want to thank them so much because I'm a huge believer that the fans do it for real-they do it for you ... Thanks for buying my ringtones!"
"Virgin Mobile is excited to partner again with Warner Music Group and bring our users the freshest music from the hottest new artists," said Dominick Tolli, vice president, Mobile Data Services for Virgin Mobile USA. "Cassie's Virgin Mobile fans have spoken loud and clear, propelling her first single "Me & U" to the top of our ringtone charts. So we're ready to give them even more of what they want."
About Virgin Mobile USA, LLC:
Launched nationally in July of 2002, Virgin Mobile USA, LLC is the nation's first wireless network created for and defined by youth. Virgin Mobile is a joint venture between Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Group and Sprint Nextel, which operates one of the largest 100-percent digital, nationwide PCS wireless networks in the United States. The country's first mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), Virgin Mobile's four million customers have access to a service portfolio that includes multiple voice pricing options, a full range of handsets and a broad array of messaging, music and mobile content offerings - without long-term contracts. In addition, J.D. Power and Associates has recognized Virgin Mobile for providing "An Outstanding Customer Service Experience" under its Certified Call Center Program.(SM)
Virgin Mobile phones are available at more than 25,000 stores, with Top-Up cards available at more than 100,000 locations nationwide. Virgin Mobile products can also be purchased online at www.virginmobileusa.com or by calling Virgin Mobile At Your Service (1-888-322-1122).
About Bad Boy Records
Bad Boy Records was formed in 1994 by Sean "P. Diddy" Combs. In just over ten years, under the guidance of Combs, Bad Boy has grown to become one of the most dominant urban labels in the music business, with acts that have had significant crossover success. Bad Boy Records has sold more than 75 million records worldwide and its Grammy Award-winning catalog and roster of multi- platinum artists include B5, Boyz N Da Hood, Mase, Carl Thomas, 8 Ball & MJG, Mario Winans and P. Diddy himself. Bad Boy has been home to popular rappers such as Notorious B.I.G., The Lox and Mase, as well as R&B stars Faith Evans and 112 and pop group Dream.
Source: Virgin Mobile USA
Country Cruise Getaway Starring Tim McGraw Set for January 28-31, 2007 Aboard Carnival Liberty
Tickets on Sale Monday, August 28th for 3-Day Bahamas Cruise Featuring Multiple Artists, Q&A Sessions, Texas Hold 'Em Poker Tournament on Carnival's Newest 'Fun Ship'
It was announced today that Tim McGraw will anchor the next Country Cruise Getaway scheduled for January 28- 31, 2007, headlining an intimate, exclusive concert onboard Carnival Cruise Lines' newest ship, Carnival Liberty, during a 3-Day Bahamas cruise. The Country Cruise Getaway starring Tim McGraw will set sail on January 28, 2007 aboard the 2,974-passenger SuperLiner, offering passengers a musical jaunt through paradise accompanied by some of country music's hottest new stars.
Embarking in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, the Country Cruise Getaway will kick things off right as passengers are welcomed aboard with a special bon voyage deck party featuring live entertainment and cocktails. The Carnival Liberty will then cruise to Nassau, Bahamas where passengers will have plenty of time to explore the island before returning to the ship for Tim's historic concert onboard.
While at sea, music fans will be treated to a variety of live concerts with some of country music's hottest young performers and songwriters, and have the opportunity to participate in "behind the music" Q&A sessions with all of the artists onboard, including Tim McGraw. Passengers will also have a shot at winning the $20,000 grand prize during the cruise's Texas Hold 'Em Poker Tournament.
In addition to popular shipboard activities such as relaxing by the pool, working out in the ship's state-of-the-art gym, indulging in a massage or facial, or dining in one of the ship's four restaurants, passengers will be invited to take line dancing lessons and to participate in a special art auction. The ship also offers a fun and entertaining Camp Carnival for kids from 2 to 17 years old, as well as a teen program, Club O2, for older kids.
Tickets go on sale on Monday, August 28th for this special musical cruise. Reservations and accommodations are on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information on this unique fan adventure, go to the official website at www.CountryCruiseGetaway.com
Source: Live Nation
Premiere Issue of Hallmark Magazine Hits Newsstands Today
Newest Periodical for Women Offers Fresh Approach to Women's Lifestyle Magazine Publishing
Hallmark Magazine Combines Service With Emotionally Resonant Storytelling
With its debut today, Hallmark Magazine brings a refreshing editorial voice to the women's lifestyle magazine category.
"People truly trust Hallmark to help them express themselves, celebrate life's seasons and events, and connect with the people who matter most," said Nancy Small, president, Hallmark Publishing. "Hallmark is an iconic American brand that ranks in the top 2% of all brands, and Hallmark Magazine is a natural extension of that brand."
This new venture from Kansas City-based Hallmark Cards, Inc. will help women connect with the things and the moments that matter most in their everyday lives. It's about the enjoyment that comes from being real rather than striving for perfection.
"We're proud that the magazine will exemplify the quality that people expect from Hallmark," said Lisa Benenson, Editor-in-Chief, Hallmark Magazine. "Once this magazine is in readers' hands, they'll notice the obvious difference between this and others in the category, and will realize they have never read or seen anything like it before."
With every issue, Hallmark Magazine will encourage readers to find the magic in everyday and to celebrate the road they are traveling through timeless inspirations, poignant, informative and fulfilling feature articles, and five focal points of everyday life:
* Inspire -- The things that make you feel, think, laugh
* Renew -- The take-care-of-yourself stuff
* Nest -- The place life happens
* Connect -- The people in our lives
* Nourish -- The taste of good times
The magazine offers insightful, warm and witty contributions from such acclaimed writers as Betsy Carter, Allegra Goodman, Peg Tyre, Amy Krouse Rosenthal, and Amy Wilentz, as well as evocative fiction from Alice McDermott.
Among the articles in the inaugural issue:
* Simple, gorgeous home and craft ideas for bringing Autumn inside.
* A story by Michelle Slatalla, columnist for The New York Times, who uses
a well-known Internet brand to collect memories from a hometown she
never knew.
* A banana cream pie recipe that contains ingredients proven to help
reduce stress (really!)
* An interview with baseball legend Yogi Berra, who offers timely and sage
advice to help parents be good sports on behalf of their child athletes
* Three irresistible tips for kicking off Fall -- the real New Year!
* A feature by award-winning author Pam Houston, who redefines "pretty" in
a way that will resonate with readers.
* The inspiring story of neighbors and friends who came together in New
Orleans to clean up neighborhoods wrecked by Hurricane Katrina.
Strong Circulation Opening
"Hallmark Magazine has already been enthusiastically received by readers and we're pleased by our strong start, with direct-to-publisher sold subscriptions exceeding our expectations," said Laura Beddini, Circulation Director, Hallmark Magazine. "We anticipated at launch a rate base of 400,000, but we've enjoyed even stronger results. We expect paid circulation numbers to grow to 550,000 effective with the January/February 2007 issue.
Hallmark Magazine is available through subscription as well as in booksellers, grocery stores, drug stores, mass merchants and Hallmark Gold Crown(R) stores across the country.
Advertisers Recognize the Value of the Hallmark Brand and What it Has to Offer
"No other publishing company has assets like Hallmark that can be leveraged for multi-dimensional marketing opportunities," said Carol Campbell-Boggs, publisher, Hallmark Magazine. "Only Hallmark can engineer this unique approach, offering advertisers a way to use their dollars more wisely."
Hallmark Magazine's integrated marketing programs allow access to:
* 4,200 Hallmark Gold Crown(R) retail locations
* 44,000 additional retail outlets that carry Hallmark products
* Hallmark.com, with approximately 150 million visitors annually
* Corporate database of 31 million consumers
* Hallmark Flowers & Gifts
* Hallmark Cards
Estee Lauder, Unilever, Epson, Milk, Kraft, WalMart, Nestle, and Campbell's are among the blue chip industry leaders advertising in the charter issue of Hallmark Magazine.
Hallmark Magazine is an editorially independent publication. It is a member of the MPA (Magazine Publishers Association), adheres to all ASME (American Society of Magazine Editors) guidelines and has applied for Audit Bureau of Circulations membership.
For additional information or to subscribe, visit http://www.hallmarkmagazine.com/.
About Hallmark Magazine
Hallmark Magazine is the first women's lifestyle magazine that talks to women about the true substance of their lives -- family, friends, homes and community. The magazine is available through subscription as well as in booksellers, grocery stores, drug stores, mass merchants and Hallmark Gold Crown(R) stores across the country. Hallmark Magazine is a subsidiary of Hallmark Cards, Inc.
Source: Hallmark Magazine
Become a Crime Scene Investigator With SBG/b EQUAL's New CSI: SENSES Board Game Based on Hit TV Series
CSI Creator Anthony E. Zuiker Develops a New CSI Board Game Replicating the #1 CBS TV Series
SBG/b EQUAL, an innovator in family games, announced today the latest exciting addition to its CSI: Crime Scene Investigation series of games, CSI: SENSES. Featuring multi-sensory player immersion components that tests players' vision, hearing, memory, communication and IQ skills, CSI: SENSES, the board game puts players in the shoes of real crime scene investigators and forces them to put their "senses" to work in order to gather evidence and solve the crime in question. CSI: SENSES can be found in all mass-market retailers and online at www.playsbg.com.
CSI: SENSES The Game is an original game concept by Anthony E. Zuiker, creator of the hit TV franchise CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, in which players gather evidence and formulate theories just as they do it on the #1 CBS TV show. In CSI: SENSES, players are challenged by moving their CSI: Crime Scene Investigation character-like pawns along the game board through five departments Preliminary Investigation, Crime Scene Sketch, Interrogation, Audio-Visual Lab and Grissom's Office. Dynamic leveling allows players to take a short or long track through each department, and ultimately be the first to Grissom's office to solve the crime. Purposely fashioned to have the same gritty feel of the original hit TV series based in Las Vegas, the game incorporates the settings and scenarios that fans have come to expect. Hands on game play using unique props for collecting evidence, including a mini-UV light, allow gamers to fully experience the thrill of solving a crime just like the professionals.
The concept for CSI: SENSES originated from Zuiker himself, who developed and wrote all six new storylines "CSI: Senses is great fun for the 'CSI' fan on any level. Whether you are the occasional viewer or hardcore fan, CSI: Senses will challenge you to think, act, and perform like a real CSI would. Now, watching the show on T.V. and playing the game is the same timeless experience." Stories developed by Zuiker for the game include crime scenes at an Elvis wedding chapel, hotel buffet and Lake Mead.
Ken Fong, Vice President of Marketing at SBG/b Equal, says, "It is exciting to bring such an engaging, thrilling, and unique board game to CSI fans across the globe. We are extremely excited to give players a chance to act as if they are the true crime scene investigator. This truly is a one-of-a-kind game and its capabilities will never be duplicated."
The game is intended for four players, and can be played in teams. The game is recommended for ages 14 and up and will sell at $29.00 MSRP.
About SBG/b EQUAL
SBG/b EQUAL is the newly formed merger between leading games companies Specialty Board Games (SBG) Inc. and The b EQUAL Company. SBG develops and publishes board games and DVD board games for the domestic and international markets. SBG identifies the hottest and up and coming licenses and incorporates innovative, reality game play to keep ages 10 and older entertained. Web site: http://www.playsbg.com/. b EQUAL is the leading innovator in family games. As the only company that features an exclusive, patent-pending technology called Dynamic Leveling, The b EQUAL Company ensures that everyone in the family will be equally engaged, entertained, and challenged. Created with world-class family brands, b EQUAL designs every game with families in mind. Website: http://www.bequal.com/.
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation is a fast-paced drama inspire that follows a Las Vegas team of forensic investigators who use both cutting-edge scientific methods and old-fashioned police work to solve crimes. The show is currently in its seventh season and airs on CBS Thursday nights at 9pm ET/PT.
About CBS Consumer Products
CBS Consumer Products, a unit of CBS Enterprises, manages the worldwide licensing, merchandising and video activities for a diverse slate of properties owned or controlled by the CBS Corporation. Additional information is available by visiting www.CBS.com.
Source: SBG/b EQUAL
Archer Launches First TV Channel for People of Indian Origin (PIO) Over IPTV
-- PIO TV, the first television channel for the Indian expatriate community, was launched by Archer Entertainment Media Communications Incorporated as the first of many channels to come from Archer Media (Pink Sheets: ACRM) on www.IndiaTVLive.com , a pioneering Indian Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) platform with many state of the art features to be supplied by Buzz Technologies, Inc. (Pink Sheets: BZTG) www.12buzz.com , inaugurated today by India's Union Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs, Vyalar Ravi, in New Delhi.
PIO TV will offer specialized programming to the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) around the world. The channel distributed via the Internet on www.IndiaTVLive.com will offer daily news bulletins, business news & features, talk shows, sports coverage, segments on lifestyle, fashion, cuisines, culture, tradition, religion and an exhaustive coverage of Bollywood and Indian entertainment. "PIO TV distinguishes itself in not just bringing news, updates and features from India with the perspective of how Indians overseas but also covering events and developments relating to PIOs worldwide living in different continents and countries," said Munish Gupta, Archer Chief Operating Officer. PIO TV has established its first presence in Europe through an affiliate studio and office in Brussels and will soon have studio offices in London, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Dubai, Southeast Asia, Australia and South Africa. PIO TV will connect India to PIOs and PIOs to PIOs. Gupta added that GOPIO, of which he is the Media Council Co-Chair, has endorsed PIO TV and www.IndiaTVLive.com and that GOPIO member chapters will be contributing to the content on PIO TV.
Abhesh Verma, founder and CEO of www.Smashits.com , the No. 1 Indian entertainment portal in the world, ranking 274 of all Internet portals world wide, said that his experience in putting together content, marketing and advertising sales in the Internet domain over the past seven (7) years provided him valuable insight about the PIO/NRI community. Verma said IBL was put together as an innovative venture that combines technology integration, cost competitiveness, marketing savvy and advertising sales edge and would definitely make IBL a 'long-term player' in the IPTV marketplace.
Contact: info@archeremc.com or info@prestigeasia.com
About Archer
Archer Entertainment Media Communications Incorporated is the parent company of a distinctive portfolio of online and offline assets engaged in the production, aggregation, delivery, distribution, exhibition and security of digital content and the development of real property related to the conversion or construction of digital cinemas. Through multiple platforms that include live IP video streaming, Internet Protocol Television (IPTV), Pay-per-View (PPV), Video-on-Demand (VOD) and digital cinema, Archer affords its subscribers and customers diverse and desired content through its digital network while safeguarding intellectual property rights through digital watermarking and DRM features, providing a unique and compelling value proposition to distributors, broadcasters, content aggregators and advertisers around the world. Archer has funded the development, technology integration and launch of www.indiatvlive.com , the forthcoming debut of People of Indian Origin (PIO) channel, and later this year, ChinaBroadcastLive (CBL).
IndiaBroadcastLive, LLC, is a vertically integrated global entertainment and media company engaged in the production, acquisition, delivery, distribution and exhibition of digital content through various platforms including the Internet, IPTV, Video-On-Demand (VOD), Pay-Per-View(PPV) and other electronic means and methods currently available and those in the future. IBL, LLC, has created a digital infrastructure leveraging existing Internet assets and resources providing a secure, complete, end-to-end digital solution positioned to capture the global audience. IBL, LLC members have extensive experience in content production, aggregation, acquisition, distribution and delivery of entertainment product in addition to talent management and studio administration. IndiaBroadcastLive intends to become the Voice of India to the world.
Safe Harbor:
The foregoing press release contains forward-looking statements based on the Company's beliefs as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company, including statements regarding the timing of the introduction of certain products. Archer Entertainment Media Communications Incorporated's acquisition of Creations Technology Development Company Limited's D-Cinema Unit is subject to continued due diligence and there can be no assurance that its acquisition of CTDC will be completed, or if completed, if it will be completed timely. These forward-looking statements are based largely on the Company's expectations and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties some of which are beyond the Company's control. Actual results could differ materially from these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors including, among others, issues related to the entertainment industries and prevailing economic conditions in general.
Source: Archer Entertainment Media Communications Incorporated; Buzz Technologies, Inc.
Pictures from the Red Carpet Carpet Wiliam Shatner Roast on the Comedy Channel to play Sunday 10pm Pacific and 9pm central
21st Annual Imagen Awards Honors Film and Television Actors Plus Five Special Awards Highlight Gala Event
A number of popular Latino actors were honored tonight at the 21st Annual Imagen Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills. Hosted by Lorenzo Lamas, sixteen awards were presented in categories including film and television, plus The Imagen Foundation presented five additional awards including Creative Achievement, Lifetime Achievement, President's Award, the Norman Lear Award, and the Foundation's first National Leadership Award.
The Imagen Awards were established in 1985 to encourage and recognize the positive portrayal of Latinos in all media and to increase Latino representation at all levels of the entertainment industry.
The winners were: FILM Best Picture
The Lost City: Executive producers, Tom Gores, Johnny O. Lopez. Producers Frank Mancuso Jr., Andy Garcia. Directed by Andy Garcia; Crescent Drive Picture presents a Cineson Production. Distributed by Magnolia Pictures. Distributed by Lionsgate Films International.
Best Actor
Antonio Banderas, Take the Lead: Executive producers, Toby Emmerich, Matt Moore, Mark Kaufman, Ray Liotta, Matthew Hart; Directed by Liz Friedlander and produced by New Line Cinema.
Best Actress
America Ferrera, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants: Executive Producers, Leslie Morgenstein, Alison Greenspan, Kira Davis; Directed by Ken Kwapis; and produced by Alcon Entertainment.
Best Director
Andy Garcia, The Lost City: Executive producers, Tom Gores, Johnny O. Lopez. Producers Frank Mancuso Jr., Andy Garcia. Directed by Andy Garcia Crescent Drive Picture presents a Cineson Production. Distributed by Magnolia Pictures. Distributed by Lionsgate Films International.
Best Theatrical Short or Student Film My Backyard was a Mountain: Written and Directed by Adam Schlachter. TELEVISION Best Primetime Series
The West Wing: John Wells Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television
Best Actor
Michael Pena, Walkout: Maya Pictures and Amicus Entertainment and Y.O.Y. Productions in association with HBO Films
Best Actress
Lisa Vidal, Odd Girl Out: Jaffe/Braunstein Films Ltd., Lifetime Television; Lifetime Television
Best Supporting Actor
Raymond Cruz, The Closer: The Shephard/Robin Company, in association with Warner Bros. Television
Best Supporting Actress
Cote de Pablo, NCIS: Belisarius Productions, Paramount Television, Thinkfilm
Best Documentary for Television or Film Viva Baseball: Shoot the Moon Productions; Spike TV Best Variety or Reality Show
El Reto Final Nissan: Animus Group and Zeal Television; Fox Sports en Espanol
Best Children's Programming
High School Musical: First Street Films, Salty Pictures Inc., Walt Disney Pictures; Disney Channel
Best National Informational Programming Alcanzando El Exito Escolar: Univision Television Group Best Local Informational Programming KCBS-TV News "Villaraigosa Interview": KCBS Best On-Air Advertising Hispanic Heritage Month: SiTV
Picking up Imagen's prestigious Norman Lear Award was John Wells Productions, in association with Warner Bros Television, in recognition of their exemplary commitment and leadership in making diversity an integral part of the industry.
U.S. Representative Luis Gutierrez of Illinois was recipient of Imagen's inaugural National Leadership Award that was presented for the first time at the awards ceremony. Imagen President Helen Hernandez said the Imagen Board of Directors elected to add this award as part of its Special Awards category to honor those individuals who continually confront and address issues of importance to all Americans, Latinos in particular, in all areas of life with courage and conviction.
Emmy winning director-choreographer Kenny Ortega received Imagen's Creative Achievement Award for his outstanding contributions to the industry.
The Imagen's President's Award was presented this year to Susan Whiting, CEO of Nielsen Media Research in recognition of their outstanding contributions to enhancing opportunities for Latinos in the Nielsen family.
Recipient of Imagen's Lifetime Achievement Award was director, producer, writer Gregory Nava of "El Norte" fame.
Sponsors of the 21st Annual Imagen Awards included: Diamond: Wells Fargo Platinum: Hennessy, Lear Family Foundation, Nielsen Media Research and Paradigm Gold: The Bold & The Beautiful, CBS, Crescent Drive Pictures, Fox Television Stations, Inc., FX Networks, NBC/Telemundo/Universal, The Walt Disney Company, Hollywood Reporter, Variety. Bronze: ABC7, Educational Adventures, LLC, Entravision Communications, Latino Public Broadcasting, Mohawk Productions, Paramount Pictures, SAG/AFTRA, Telemundo/Mun2, Warner Bros. Television.
TiVo Statement on Order Granting Injunction Against EchoStar and Damages of Over $89.6 Million
TiVo Inc. (NASDAQ:TIVO) , the creator of and a leader in television services for digital video recorders (DVR), today announced that U.S. District Court Judge David Folsom granted TiVo's motion for permanent injunction to prevent EchoStar Communications Corp. (Nasdaq: DISH; "ECC") from making, using, offering for sale or selling in the United States their DVR products at issue in the case (DP-501, DP-508, DP-510, DP-721, DP-921, DP-522, DP-625, DP-942, and all EchoStar DVRs that are not more than colorably different from any of these products). Judge Folsom also ordered ECC to pay TiVo approximately $73.992 million in damages as awarded by the jury, prejudgment interest at the prime rate through July 31, 2006 of approximately $5.638 million, and supplemental damages for infringement through July 31, 2006 in the amount of approximately $10.317 million. Judge Folsom denied EchoStar's request to stay the injunction pending appeal. The injunction extends to all of ECC's affiliates, employees, agents and representatives, and any persons in active concert or participation with them who have notice of the order. The Judge's ruling is final and is appealable.
TiVo sued EchoStar in Federal District Court on January 5, 2004, alleging that ECC and certain subsidiaries are violating U.S. Patent No. 6,233,389 issued to TiVo in May 2001, known as the "Time Warp" patent. The Time Warp patent discloses systems and methods for the simultaneous storage and playback of programs, supporting advanced capabilities such as pausing live television, fast-forwarding, rewinding, instant replays, and slow motion. On April 13, 2006, a Marshall, Texas jury concluded that EchoStar had willfully infringed TiVo's Time Warp patent.
The company said, "TiVo is pleased that Judge Folsom has granted a permanent injunction against EchoStar's DVR products along with supplemental damages and interest. This decision recognizes that our intellectual property is valuable and will ensure that moving forward EchoStar will be unable to use our patented technology without our authorization.
"TiVo is built on a strong foundation of innovative technology and intellectual property. Beyond the U.S. Time Warp patent, we now hold more than 86 patents in our worldwide patent portfolio and have more than 138 patent applications pending. TiVo has a long list of licensees in the consumer electronics, cable and satellite markets, and we will continue to license our technology under appropriate circumstances and arrangements. We will also continue to vigorously defend our intellectual property for the benefit of our licensees and shareholders."
About TiVo
Founded in 1997, TiVo pioneered a brand new category of products with the development of the first commercially available digital video recorder (DVR). Sold through leading consumer electronic retailers, TiVo has developed a brand which resonates boldly with consumers as providing a superior television experience. Through agreements with leading satellite and cable providers, TiVo also integrates its full set of DVR service features into the set-top boxes of mass distributors. TiVo's DVR functionality and ease of use, with such features as Season Pass(TM) recordings and WishList(R) searches, has elevated its popularity among consumers and has created a whole new way for viewers to watch television. With a continued investment in its patented technologies, TiVo is revolutionizing the way consumers watch and access home entertainment. Rapidly becoming the focal point of the digital living room, TiVo's DVR is at the center of experiencing new forms of content on the TV, such as broadband delivered video, music and photos. With innovative features such as, TiVoToGo(TM) and online scheduling, TiVo is expanding the notion of consumers experiencing "TiVo, TV your way." The TiVo(R) service is also at the forefront of providing innovative marketing solutions for the television industry, including a unique platform for advertisers and audience measurement research. The company is based in Alviso, Calif.
This release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements relate to, among other things, TiVo's business, services, financial statements, future product strategy, and the impact of the EchoStar litigation. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as, "believe," "expect," "may," "will," "intend," "estimate," "continue," or similar expressions or the negative of those terms or expressions. Such statements involve risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to vary materially from those expressed in or indicated by the forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially include delays in development, competitive service offerings and lack of market acceptance, as well as the other potential factors described under "Risk Factors" in the Company's public reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2006, as updated by subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K. The Company cautions you not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which reflect an analysis only and speak only as of the date hereof. TiVo disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements.
Source: TiVo Inc.
Platinum Soul Star Lyfe Jennings to Celebrate New Album, The Phoenix, at Circuit City, Marlow Heights, MD
--
Who: Platinum Recording Artist Lyfe Jennings
What: An in-store fan meet & greet celebrating the release of The Phoenix
Where: Circuit City, 3551 32nd Avenue, Marlow Heights, MD
When: Friday, August 18, Beginning at 6pm (MEDIA CALL: 5pm)
Platinum soul icon Lyfe Jennings will meet and greet his fans at a special in-store appearance celebrating the release of The Phoenix, the superstar's eagerly-awaited new album, on Friday, August 18th at Circuit City (3551 32nd Ave, Marlow Heights, MD), beginning at 6pm (MEDIA CALL: 5pm).
Lyfe's eagerly-awaited new album, The Phoenix, is slated for release on August 15th from Sony Urban Music/Columbia Records.
Lyfe's debut album, the critically-acclaimed "Lyfe 268-192," was certified RIAA platinum in January 2006.
It's been an amazing year for Lyfe, whose recent duet with Alicia Keys, a soul-shaking version of the Curtis Mayfield classic, "People Get Ready," may be heard in the Jerry Bruckheimer film, "Glory Road."
Lyfe closed out 2005 with his highly successful "Lyfe Experience" headline tour, which included guest artists Goapele and Vivian Green. Lyfe spent the larger part of summer 2005 on tour with his Grammy-winning Columbia Records labelmate John Legend.
A two-time #1 Billboard Heatseekers album (2/20/05 & 3/6/05), "Lyfe 268-192, was released on August 17, 2004 and immediately established the worldly and poetic Lyfe as an aesthetic force of nature with mainstream and underground support.
Lyfe's rise to stardom began on the stage of the legendary Apollo Theatre, winning the Amateur Show competition five straight times.
Source: Sony Urban Music/Columbia Records
Web site: http://www.columbiarecords.com/
Atlanta Film Producer Returns Home, Empowering and Challenging Riverwood High School Students With Curriculum-Based Music/Video/Film Production for International Distribution, Choreographed by Laurie-Ann Gibson
Available Light Productions proudly announces the filming of Emily Jackson's music video "Yeah" Saturday, August 26th and Sunday, August 27th at Atlanta's Riverwood High School -- motivating students to explore technological and artistic interests.
A major force in the industry, Jacob Marmer found himself producing for top musicians Beyonce, Jamie Foxx, Elton John, Nelly, Lil' John and Ludacris -- nowhere near his planned career when majoring at Emerson College to direct. "It's difficult to be creative and have no ability to implement it -- I'm a director trapped in a producer's body, responsible for hundreds of thousands of dollars, in constant jeopardy of anything that halts production. It's tough, but not living your dream is worse, so I stopped producing to declare myself the director I know I am." An Atlanta producer for over 10 years, Jacob sought out top industry crew and vendors to support his project that challenges world-renowned Laurie-Ann Gibson to choreograph the largest routine ever filmed in a video comprised of several hundred top Atlanta dancers.
Urban Melodic Entertainment, headed by CBS & BET network audio supervisor Charlie Jones, represents 19-year-old singer Emily Jackson of Montclair, New Jersey. He is currently responsible for mixing several network shows including "The Late Show with David Letterman", "Guiding Light", and "CBS Sports". His limited funds had no bearing on the magnitude of Jacob's vision of the video and the success it will be.
Making his own rules as always, the radical and unorthodox Marmer combines forces with Riverwood, allowing high school students for the first time to learn film production in an academically rigorous environment, preparing them for a successful future. "Every interest is represented here in some way -- accounting, physics of lighting and exposure, set building, fashion, computer technology, translation ... everything is needed on a film set eventually."
Inspired principal Eddie Echols commits sponsorship with the vast resources of Georgia's #1 ranked high school, proposing Jacob's yearly return with expectations of international expansion. Filmmaker Timothy Bembury of the Career and Technology Center serves as supervising producer.
Sponsors on any level are urged to join the team and contribute to this momentous educational campaign
intimately BECKHAM...for Him. for Her.
Surrounded by an aura of fame, fortune and fashion - living an aspirational lifestyle achieved by talent and hard work, David and Victoria Beckham are the ultimate iconic couple.
Partners in the public eye... partners in life... and now partners in fragrance. A brand new fragrance duo has been created to convey their world of sophistication, luxury and intimacy.
intimately Beckham for Him. for Her. Two fragrances that are as unique as David and Victoria fuse in an atmosphere that sparkles and sizzles with the attraction and electricity between them. Two fragrances that are separately superlative and yet together are beautifully complimentary, bringing out the best in each other.
intimately Beckham brings you closer.
intimately
BECKHAM
for Him
The confidence of masculinity, the celebration of talent, the intimacy of David Beckham
David Beckham brings together supreme talent, striking flair and a smooth blend of style and masculinity.
Magnetic, provocative, cool - yet never aloof, he is aspirational but within reach.
A portrait of modern masculinity, he is at home on the world stage, among friends with the famous, and above all, at one with his wife and children. David thrives on the intimacy of life away from the crowds and cameras; revels in the relaxation of home life and adores the special moments with his family.
intimately BECKHAM
for Him
The Sense of Intimacy
The fragrance projects the edgy, sexy side of David. A modern woody-spicy accord radiating warmth and sensuality.
It leads with the intense freshness and sparkle of bergamot, tangy grapefruit zest and zingy cardamom. Awakening the senses and the appetite for life.
The excitement rises with a brilliant contrast of sexy violet and a spicy, virile blend of nutmeg and star anise.
Warm, sensual undertones of sandalwood, patchouli and amber create an unforgettable, intimate essence.
A heady mix of energy, vibrancy, comfort and warmth.
intimately
BECKHAM
for Him
A statement of sophistication
intimately Beckham's stunning glass bottle, radiating the warmth of the amber fragrance, is the epitome of sophistication. Combined with the crystal-clear cap and signature diamond base, this statement-making flacon evokes a world of intimacy and luxury.
The intricately embossed carton, proudly bearing the David and Victoria Beckham crest, picks up the understated colour theme, which is carried over to the intimately BECKHAM for Him grooming and body care line.
intimately BECKHAM for Him
FACT SHEET
The line-up
Eau de Toilette
30 ml (GBP19.50), 50 ml (GBP26), 75 ml (GBP32.50)
Hair & Body Wash 200 ml (GBP10)
Deodorant Spray 150 ml (GBP7)
Deodorant Stick 75 g (GBP7)
The creative cast
Perfumer: IFF
Packaging: Lutz Herrmann
Advertising photographer: Mikael Jansson
Available: 1st September from Boots, Superdrug and selected supermarkets and chemists nationwide.
intimately
BECKHAM
for Her
Shimmering elegance, self assured style,
the intimacy of Victoria Beckham
Very much her own woman, multi-talented Victoria Beckham wears success both naturally and beautifully.
Today, her personal magnetism and chic sense of style keep her in the spotlight, as she pursues her role as wife, mother, style icon and businesswoman...
Victoria Beckham's easy going, down-to-earth personality radiates her distinctive appeal and accessibility wrapped in an aura of sensuality, sophistication and pure elegance. She brings together the assurance of femininity, the softness of motherhood and the enjoyment of friendship.
intimately
BECKHAM
for Her
The closeness of sensuality
The first feminine fragrance, bearing the Beckham monogram, conveys the essence of the Victoria known only to the people closest to her.
An opulent bouquet of white flowers opens with the pure fresh notes of bergamot and rose petals that linger on the skin. Announcing the arrival of something special, something different.
The exquisite heart of Casablanca lily, sublime tuberose and sensual orange blossom leads to a seductive base of voluptuous vanilla, rich sandalwood and elegant, sensual layer of musk.
All woman, all self assurance, multi faceted and all inspiring...
intimately
BECKHAM
for Her
The embodiment of luxury and style
The beautifully faceted bottle with its crystal-clear cap echoes its masculine partner but radiates sensual soft pink tones - a statement of underplayed sophistication and femininity. A world of intimacy and luxury.
Again the intricately embossed carton, proudly bearing the David and Victoria Beckham crest, picks up the colour theme, which is carried over to the intimately BECKHAM for Her body care line.
intimately BECKHAM for Her
FACT SHEET
The line-up
Eau de Toilette
15 ml (GBP19.50), 30 ml (GBP26.00), 50, ml, 75 ml (GBP32.50)
Body Silk Lotion 200 ml (GBP12.50)
Shower Cream 200 ml (GBP12.00)
Deodorant Spray 150 ml (GBP11.00)
The creative cast
Perfumer: Firmenich
Packaging: Lutz Herrmann
Advertising photographer: Mikael Jansson
Available: 1st September from Boots, Superdrug and selected supermarkets and chemists nationwide.
:
Nominees Announced for the Fourth Annual Relly Awards Regis Philbin and Kelly Ripa Return to Host 2006 Awards Ceremony on 'Live With Regis and Kelly,' Airing Friday, September 22, 2006
Will Philbin Finally Take Home 'Best Regis?'
Mariah Carey's Dog 'Jack' Earns Second Consecutive Nomination!
The full list of nominees has been announced for the Fourth Annual Relly Awards, "Live with Regis and Kelly's" gala awards show airing on September 22, 2006.
Repeat nominees from last year include "Live" hosts Regis Philbin and Kelly Ripa, actor Mark Consuelos, late night host Jimmy Kimmel, actor Ted McGinley, and, in the Best Non-Human Guest category, purple dinosaur Barney and Mariah Carey's dog, Jack. (Word is that Carey has been lobbying for a repeat nomination since her beloved Jack Russell terrier was passed over in 2005 by porcine princess Miss Piggy.)
The Rellys recognize the best on-air moments of the past year on "Live," with the winners decided by "Live's" at-home viewing audience, who cast their votes at RellyAwards.com the week of August 28-Sept. 1. The theme of this year's ceremony is "Long Live the Stool" -- referring to the coveted Golden Stool statuette that is the symbol of the excellence of the Rellys, and one of the entertainment industry's most coveted awards.
The always controversial "Best Regis" category -- awarded to the best Regis impersonator -- again is shaping up to be the most hotly-contested race of the 2006 Rellys. Having lost two years in a row, Philbin is hoping to rise to the top of this year's nominees and finally take home the Golden Stool that bears his name. His stellar competition -- all includes Tom Hanks, Jennifer Garner, Anderson Cooper, Neil Patrick Harris, Ted McGinley, Mark Consuelos and co-host Kelly Ripa.
New to the Rellys in 2006 is "Favorite Athlete," with a selection of today's top sports superstars in the running: champion tennis player Maria Sharapova, Jason Kidd of the New Jersey Nets, New York Yankee Johnny Damon, Indy racer Danica Patrick, boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard, Olympic snowboarder Shaun White and Super Bowl MVP Hines Ward.
Singers and musicians always have a big presence at the Rellys, and this year is no exception, from "Best Winning Reality Guest" nominee Taylor Hicks, to "Best Junior Achiever" Cheyenne Kimball, to "Favorite Music Guest" nominees Shakira & Wyclef Jean, Joss Stone, Ricky Martin, Gretchen Wilson, Alanis Morissette and Stevie Wonder.
After losing the "Best Guest Co-Host" trophy to Ryan Seacrest last year, late night host Jimmy Kimmel will have two chances at a Golden Stool, in "Best Wild and Wacky" and the newly-created "Best Guest Co-Host Moment." He faces stiff competition, especially in the latter category, going up against past nominees Joy Philbin and Mark Consuelos, MTV's Damien Fahey, Pat Sajak and the gorgeous Vanessa Minnillo.
Other new categories this year are Male and Female versions of "Favorite Real Person," and "Favorite Go-Go Dancer" (featured dancers from the daily "Trivia A Go-Go" segment). Returning for a third year to man the red carpet will be awards show maven Joan Rivers, fresh off of the Emmys and having recently conducted her 1,000th red carpet interview.
Source: Buena Vista Television
Web site: http://www.rellyawards.com/
Lance Bass Enlists Socialite & Celebrity Eric Schiffer to Relaunch His Mission into Space, and Other Exciting Things in Hollywood
At Saturday's "Adopt A School" exclusive event in the Hollywood Hills with Jaime Pressly, Socialite Eric Schiffer discussed the possibility of reentering negotiations with Russia in order to get Lance Bass back on track with his mission in Space. "Lance was excited about doing this and expressed needing help. I am open to meet with the leaders I have developed relationships with at the World Economic Forum in Davos to reignite the possibility," said Schiffer, who is an internationally known business thought leader and author of "Emotionally Charged Learning," which has sold over 300 thousand copies in 13 countries.
Earlier in the evening Schiffer was at the Los Angeles Emmys where he was spotted on the red carpet talking with Keith Olbermann, host of MSNBC's "Countdown with Keith Olbermann." Later, Schiffer attended the "Adopt A School" Hollywood event and was photographed flocked by several stunning Ford Models and later seen laughing with his friend, Shaun Toub, star of the Academy Award-winning film "Crash." Afterwards, Eric smiled for the cameras at the star-filled red carpet for the "Hot in Hollywood" event benefiting AIDS Awareness. Schiffer told reporters, "The key to dealing with the epidemic is a combination of parental education on personal responsibility, lower cost drugs and better global distribution -- so low income people worldwide can access them to save their lives."
On Tuesday, Schiffer attended the Congressional Awards at Venice Arts in Venice Beach, where Congresswoman Jane Harman gave out honors to eight local art students. Following that event, Mr. Schiffer walked the red carpet at the Christian Audigier Collection launch party at Ed Hardy on Melrose in Hollywood where he was photographed with Gene Simmons (KISS) to blinding paparazzi flashes. Eric's photo was also snapped laughing it up with star Ralf Moeller (Beerfest, The Scorpion King), T.K. Carter, Somaya Reece, Eric Benet, and Ed Hardy's own Christian Audigier.
KRON TV Personality Jan Wahl to Introduce My Man Godfrey at Sterling Silver Screen Series
Sterling Vineyards(R), the landmark Napa Valley winery, announced that Jan Wahl, entertainment reporter and movie critic for KRON 4 in San Francisco, will introduce the classic movie My Man Godfrey on Saturday, August 26 as part of their annual Silver Screen Series. All proceeds from tickets donations and a percentage of concession sales will benefit The Community Foundation of Napa Valley for the Stars & Vines Fund. More information is available online at www.sterlingvineyards.com, or by calling 877-737-3788.
Recognized as a woman of many hats, film critic Jan Wahl joined KRON 4 in October 1990. Sporting a different chapeau each week, she critiques recent movie releases, reviews new videos, conducts celebrity interviews, and offers interesting background on show business. In addition to her work at KRON 4, Wahl provides cultural and show business reports for KCBS Radio. "My Man Godfrey is one of my all-time favorite classic movies," says Wahl. "I am thrilled for the opportunity to share inside stories on the making of this film; it's implications on the movie industry, and my intense passion for film making with all the guests of this screening," she added.
My Man Godfrey is the latest movie feature at this summer's Sterling Silver Screen Series, an annual outdoor classic movie screening series. Considered by many film historians and critics to be the definitive screwball comedy, My Man Godfrey stars William Powell and Carole Lombard. The 1936 film follows the heiress of an eccentric and wealthy family, who hires a hobo to be the family butler and eventually falls in love with him. The movie was nominated for 6 Academy Awards.
Through the generosity of co-sponsor Universal Studios(R), the 2006 Sterling Silver Screen Series features classic titles in a variety of genres, from Universal's archives. The Series has already screened To Kill a Mockingbird and Double Indemnity, and will end with My Man Godfrey on August 26 and The Birds on September 9. Each screening offers wine tasting, a variety of concessions and festival seating on the Sterling Vineyard Meadow at Sterling Vineyards, 1111 Dunaweal Lane in Calistoga. The grounds open at 7 p.m. and guests are encouraged to arrive early, dress in warm layers and bring a picnic dinner and a blanket or low backed beach chairs. A pre-show of classic cartoons, followed by the feature presentation, begins at dusk. Ticket donations are $10 for adults and $5 for children (16 and under), with all proceeds going to charity.
Universal Studios(R) 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. For further information, please contact www.nbcuni.com .
Sterling Vineyards wines are produced by Diageo Chateau & Estate Wines, which is part of Diageo, the world's leading premium drink business. DC&E also produces and markets Beaulieu Vineyard, Sterling Vintner's Collection, the wines of the Chalone Wine Group, Solaris and Blossom Hill, as well as the French wines of Barton & Guestier. DC&E is also a leading importer of classified Bordeaux in the U.S. and F.E. Trimbach wines from Alsace. A collection of Burgundy estate-bottled wines and several other fine European wines complement the selection. Please enjoy our quality responsibly.
Source: Diageo Chateau & Estate Wines
12th Annual Charlotte Fine Craft Show Debuts November 3-5 Featuring New Artists and a Live Craft Demonstration
What: 12th Annual Charlotte Fine Craft Show
More than 200 American craft artists including 37 artists
from the Carolinas, all selected by a rigorous jury process,
will present fine contemporary craft featuring sculptural
and functional ceramics, glass, metal, jewelry, clothing,
wood, baskets, quilts, enamels, toys and puzzles, paper,
furniture and leather. An "Extreme Craft" demonstration will
be hosted in collaboration with the Mint Museum of
Craft + Design.
In time for the upcoming holiday season, shoppers and
collectors will find prices ranging from $20 to several
thousand dollars.
When: Friday, November 3, 2006, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday, November 4, 2006, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday, November 5, 2006, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Where: The Charlotte Convention Center, 501 South College Street,
in Charlotte.
On-street and paid-lot parking are available adjacent to the
convention center.
Who: The Charlotte Fine Craft Show is sponsored by the American
Craft Council. For more information about the Council and
its programs, visit www.craftcouncil.org/charlotte.
Directions: Follow I-77 to Exit 9B to the 277/John Belk Freeway. Take
Exit 1E to College Street. The convention center is the
first building on the right at the corner of College and
Stonewall Streets.
Cost: Admission is $10; American Craft Council members and those
who join at the show also are admitted free. Children 12 and
under are admitted free. A two-day pass is available for
$16. Group discounts are available by calling 800.836.3470.
Info Line: For ticket and show information, call 800.836.3470 or visit
our website, www.craftcouncil.org/charlotte
28 Foot Lizards Loom Large on Rain Bird's 2007 Float Entry as Annual 'Parade Before The Parade' Gives Locals an Up Close and Personal Sneak Peek at Some of the 2007 Tournament Of Roses Parade Floats
Saturday, August 19, 2006, 6:30 Am - 10:00 Am
Fiesta Parade Floats
1727 Buena Vista * Duarte, Ca * 91010
The All-Time Winningest Float Builder Officially Kicks Off Its 'Run For The
Roses' as It Takes Its 2007 Line up for a Spin Through the Sleepy Suburban
Streets of Duarte
WHAT??
- Get a first look at some of the floats participating in the 118th
Tournament of Roses(R) Parade prior to flowering, and be the first to
catch a glimpse of some of the 2007 floats that will adorn the streets
of Pasadena, Calif. in just 4 months.
- The 6-time winner of the Parade's top honor, Rain Bird(R) Corporation
kicks off its 2007 "Run for the Roses" and seeks to add a 7th
Sweepstakes Trophy to its award-filled cache.
- Sleepy Southland neighborhood becomes larger than life as the annual
ritual showcases many of the 2007 float entries, including Rain Bird's
2007 float entry, "Natural Beauties."
WHY BE THERE??
- SMILING KIDS, GIANT STEEL SCULPTURES, AND AN INSIDE LOOK AT THE ROSE
PARADE FLOATS FOR YOUR AUDIENCE
- Jump on a float and bring your viewers up-close and personal with some
of the largest floats designed and created by Fiesta Parade Floats, the
winningest float-building company in Tournament of Roses Parade
history.
- Speak with Tournament representatives, Float drivers and Float
designers about what to expect on January 1, 2007.
Contact: Stefan Pollack/Landon Cowan
The Pollack PR Marketing Group
Crayola Draws Attention to Young Artists with Exhibition at Minnesota State Fair
Visitors Can Make and Take Art on a Stick!
Crayola is drawing attention to the art of childhood and recognizing children from the North Star State who created it with a new children's art exhibition opening at the Minnesota State Fair. "The Crayola Art of Childhood Exhibition," featuring 112 pieces of specially selected artwork made by young artists from around the state, will be on display at the Family Fair in Baldwin Park, from August 24 - Sept. 4, for fairgoers to view.
"We created this exhibit to enthrall people with what a child can do when they put art tools to paper and to recognize children for their artistic achievements," said Ron DeLong, Crayola Manager of Art Education. A complete list of Minnesota winners is located at http://www.crayola.com/mediacenter.
Throughout the week, families visiting the exhibition are invited to create a make-and-take craft activity -- a colorful fan on a stick featuring fair mascots "Fairborne" and "Fairchild" -- to commemorate their trip to the fair. August 24 and September 4 are designated Children's Days, with special events for families, discounted admission and reduced prices at various concessions.
Crayola put out a call in March for children to submit their drawings and paintings for the chance to be featured at the Minnesota State Fair. From all the pieces entered, 112 were selected for the exhibit based on visual appeal, workmanship, originality and age appropriateness. From these works, first, second and third place winners were picked for each grade division -- kindergarten through 2nd grade, 3rd through 4th grade, and 5th through 6th grade. Each winner will receive a U.S. savings bond ranging from $50 to $100 and a Crayola product prize pack.
Source: Crayola
Former Mission: Impossible Star Launches Health Company
-- Peter Lupus, star of the original Mission: Impossible TV series as well as former Mr. Hercules and fitness advocate for the last 50 years, has launched a new e-commerce health portal: www.peterlupusenterprises.com.
Lupus, 74, best known for his portrayal of strongman secret agent, Willy Armitage, from the original Mission: Impossible television series -- at one time shown in 108 foreign countries -- is one of the most respected and well-known figures in the nutrition and fitness industry.
"I am going on 50 years of promoting a healthy lifestyle and now it's time to share my secrets with the public," said Lupus.
The company's flagship product is Peter Lupus' Alive -- an anti-aging, detoxifying formula that delivers advanced immune system therapy and increases the body's energy output. The company has developed a line of natural health products, including multivitamins, liquids and supplements, which all have been professionally tested by nutritionists and biochemists. The products provide health solutions for people looking to lose weight, slow the aging process, re-build and re-strengthen the immune system, as well as increase their energy level and enhance their fitness goals.
In addition to his Mr. Hercules title, Lupus has held several other bodybuilding titles including Mr. Indiana and Mr. International Health Physique, and also has set multiple records for strength and endurance. In 2002, at age 70, he broke his own world record by lifting a total of 76,280 pounds in 27 minutes. In 2007, at age 75, Lupus is planning to break both of his own world records.
In addition, he has previously served on the California Governor's Council of Physical Fitness & Sports while Arnold Schwarzenegger was chairman, has owned and operated multiple health clubs and has been a special consultant to the nation's leading health spas for more than 40 years. The co-author of the Peter Lupus Guide to Radiant Health and Beauty and the Peter Lupus Celebrity Body Book, Lupus has also written several magazine articles and has appeared on numerous radio and television programs around the world as an advocate for health, fitness and nutrition.
Source: Peter Lupus Enterprises
Web site: http://www.peterlupusenterprises.com/
eBay Dominates Online Clothing and Accessories
A deeper look into the sites, demographics, advertisers and ad methods and techniques for the Online apparel and beauty categories July, 2006
Top 10 Online Apparel and Beauty Destinations(Week ending July 23, 2006 US, Home and Work) |
| Unique Audience (000) | Active Reach (%) |
eBay Clothing Shoes & Accessories | 4,828 | 3.71 |
eBay Jewelry and Watches | 1,825 | 1.4 |
eBay Health & Beauty | 1,333 | 1.02 |
Old Navy | 1,318 | 1.01 |
zappos.com | 1,109 | 0.85 |
Lancome^ | 1,065 | 0.82 |
AVON | 1,048 | 0.81 |
victoriassecret.com | 1,001 | 0.77 |
llbean.com | 767 | 0.59 |
The Gap | 747 | 0.57 |
Source: Nielsen//NetRatings NetView |
Demographic Data for Apparel and Beauty Category (Month of June 2006 US, Home and Work) |
| Target | Unique Audience (000) | Audience Composition (%) |
Total | | 52,007 | 100 |
Male | | 20,193 | 38.83 |
Female | | 31,814 | 61.17 |
Age | 2 - 11 | 1,059 | 2.04 |
| 12 - 17 | 4,172 | 8.02 |
| 18 - 24 | 3,166 | 6.09 |
| 25 - 34 | 8,355 | 16.07 |
| 35 - 49 | 18,688 | 35.93 |
| 45+ | 22,813 | 43.87 |
| 55+ | 10,588 | 20.36 |
| 65+ | 3,438 | 6.61 |
HH Income | $ 0 - 24999 | 3,112 | 5.98 |
| $ 25000 - 49999 | 10,614 | 20.41 |
| $ 50000 - 74999 | 13,313 | 25.6 |
| $ 75000 - 99999 | 10,638 | 20.45 |
| $ 100000 - 149999 | 8,631 | 16.6 |
| $ 150000+ | 4,900 | 9.42 |
| No Response | 800 | 1.54 |
Source: Nielsen//NetRatings NetView |
Data on the Retail Goods and Services Industry, Apparel and Jewelry Segment (Week ending July 23, 2006 US, Home and Work)
Top 20 Advertisers |
| Impressions (000) | Share of all Impressions |
Onlineshoes.com | 33,674 | 19.5% |
Bag Borrow or Steal | 24,491 | 14.2% |
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. | 22,593 | 13.1% |
Nordstrom, Inc. | 15,106 | 8.8% |
The Finish Line Inc | 12,017 | 7.0% |
J.C. Penney Company, Inc. | 9,686 | 5.6% |
American Apparel | 6,612 | 3.8% |
Neiman Marcus Group, Inc. | 6,318 | 3.7% |
ThoseShirts.com | 5,980 | 3.5% |
Shoebuy.com | 3,819 | 2.2% |
Palmer Cash | 3,102 | 1.8% |
Sears, Roebuck and Co. | 2,479 | 1.4% |
Zappos.com, Inc. | 1,706 | 1.0% |
SmartBargains | 1,600 | 0.9% |
Gottschalks | 1,545 | 0.9% |
80sTees.com | 1,373 | 0.8% |
Kohl's Illinois Inc. | 1,237 | 0.7% |
Football Fanatics | 1,057 | 0.6% |
Peter & Co. Jewelers, Inc. | 1,035 | 0.6% |
Target Corporation | 955 | 0.6% |
Total | 172,430,000 | 100.0% |
Source: Nielsen//NetRatings AdRelevance |
Top Ad Sizes |
| Dimensions | Impressions (000) | Share of all Impressions |
Leaderboard | (728x90) | 48,873 | 28.3% |
Wide Skyscraper | (160x600) | 44,630 | 25.9% |
Medium Rectangle | (300x250) | 34,827 | 20.2% |
Skyscraper | (120x600) | 9,380 | 5.4% |
Button #2 | (120x60) | 8,919 | 5.2% |
Rectangle | (180x150) | 8,782 | 5.1% |
Vertical Banner | (120x240) | 6,261 | 3.6% |
Square Button | (125x125) | 4,898 | 2.8% |
Full Banner | (468x60) | 1,502 | 0.9% |
Non-Standard Dimension | | 1,522 | 0.9% |
Half Banner | (234x60) | 800 | 0.5% |
Micro Bar | (88x31) | 772 | 0.4% |
Button #1 | (120x90) | 722 | 0.4% |
Large Rectangle | (336x280) | 457 | 0.3% |
Square | (250x250) | 78 | 0.0% |
Vertical Rectangle | (240x400) | 10 | 0.0% |
Total | | 172,433,000 | 100.0% |
Source: Nielsen//NetRatings AdRelevance |
Ad Delivery Types |
| Impressions (000) | Share of all Impressions |
Inline | 171,317 | 99.4% |
Pop-Up | 913 | 0.5% |
Pop-Under | 177 | 0.1% |
Floating/Overlay | 13 | 0.0% |
Interstitial | 11 | 0.0% |
Source: Nielsen//NetRatings AdRelevance |
