Jan 18

PICTURES FROM PRESS CONFERENCES DAY ONE NAMM

January 18, 2007, Modena, Italy – IK Multimedia is proud to announce that its highly anticipated AmpliTube® 2 StompIO™ is expected to ship during the second quarter of 2007. The StompIO is a revolutionary new USB floor controller and audio interface for the award-winning AmpliTube 2, guitar and FX modeling software.

Combined with a Mac or PC, StompIO revolutionizes the modeling processor market with some of the best sounds available from a guitar effect unit, the staggering power of PC-based DSP modeling, 20,000 amp combinations, 32 effects on 2 rigs and all of these parameters controlled with exactly the same feeling as a traditional guitar floor processor.

AmpliTube 2 and StompIO together form one of the most powerful floor processing systems to date. No other hardware unit can benefit from the huge processing power of the modern CPU of today’s Mac and PC computer systems. This translates into better sounds and more powerful features. This advanced software/hardware system gives you direct access to thousands of instantly playable presets for a monstrous sound set-up while taking advantage of software updates and enhancements for an ever-growing system that has no equal in the guitar processing market.  

Easy to use, with 4,000 presets ready to go, and can be played live or fully integrated with your preferred sequencer. Multiple preset switching modes are offered to suit your needs and create settings to your taste with an unlimited number of preset sequences. The possibility to reconfigure extremely complex rigs with just one click allows you to dramatically change sound during performances like no other traditional rig. Plus, the StompIO can be perfectly integrated within your preferred sequencer in your studio allowing you to fully control AmpliTube while recording entire guitar tracks with full automation, on the fly. Interact like you would with a traditional hardware rig, but with the advantage of non-destructive recording and full editing.

High-end features for the most demanding guitar professional. StompIO has been developed to offer more professional features than any other software floor controller: 10 floor switches, 7 knobs, 2 large displays, up to 6 configurable external controllers, MIDI IN/OUT, hi-quality direct IN, USB, SPDIF, balanced/unbalanced stereo OUT and more, all in a rugged metal construction with a cable safety handle. StompIO also includes lightning fast drivers with latency, tailored for the most demanding live virtuoso performance.

Powered by AmpliTube 2, the highly acclaimed modeling and fx amp application. AmpliTube 2 is the award-winning guitar amp and fx modeling program that offers incredibly accurate recreations of popular hardware. It has more than 20,000 amp combinations and emulations of over 80 different pieces of guitar gear. You can control 2 complete rigs and insert up to 20 effects from over 32 different stomp and rack effects. Completely craft 2 individual amps with a selection of amp heads and separate preamps, EQs, and power amp models as well as cabinets and modeled microphones making it a complete setup for getting the best guitar sounds.


StompIO Features:

Controls:
·      4 digit large LED display
·      40x2 character large alphanumeric backlit display
·      Volume knob
·      3 LED levels
·      4 navigation buttons
·      Instant Tuner recall button
·      6 knobs with rotary encoders
·      10 floor switches
·      Ability to connect 6 external controllers, with pedal/switch connections

Connections:
·      Ultra-low latency USB
·      High Quality Direct Guitar IN
·      Direct OUT
·      Low-level STEREO OUT
·      Balanced STEREO OUT
·      Digital SPDIF OUT
·      Headphones OUT
·      MIDI IN/OUT
·      6 external controller, pedal/switch

Audio:
·      24 bit A/D- D/A with High end stages
·      44.1 or 48 kHz operation
·      >102 dB SNR
·      >100 dB dynamic range
·      Class A discrete input preamp
·      High performance analog circuitry
·      True +4dBu balanced outputs


Minimum System Requirements:
Macintosh®: 866MHz Power Macintosh® G4, with 512MB of RAM, Mac OS X 10.3.9 or later, 1024x768 screen thousands of colors, USB free port.
Windows®: Pentium® III 1GHz/Athlon™ XP 1.33GHz with 256MB of RAM, Windows® XP, 1024x768 screen thousands of colors, USB free port.

Price & Availability:
AmpliTube StompIO will be available during the second quarter 2007 from IK Multimedia and its distributor/dealer network worldwide. More detailed information on the pricing of StompIO will be made available online soon.

For more information please visit:

http://www.amplitube.com/prod_StompIO.php

 IK Multimedia to Distribute RiffWorks™ Standard Worldwide
Sonoma Wire Works’ innovative guitar recording software available through IK

January 2007, Modena, Italy - IK Multimedia is proud to announce the worldwide distribution of Sonoma Wire Works’ RiffWorks™ Standard, a guitar recording application that allows you to record efficiently, stay creative, produce high-quality songs, jam online, and podcast your tunes without ever putting down your guitar.
 
Guitar friendly recording software to create entire songs with an easy to use Riff-based workflow that encourages experimentation with song structure. With RiffWorks Standard, you can capture ideas at the moment of inspiration by setting a tempo and starting to record by simply strumming your guitar. Experiment with song structure using a Riff-based workflow that records bite-sized pieces. Because tracks are created automatically as you play, you can easily record multiple takes or layer parts without stopping the creative flow. There are no wave editors or sequencers in RiffWorks, instead the interface will inspire you to create songs using a familiar “real world” interface – it looks like gear! RiffWorks is easy and fun to use because the focus is on playing as opposed to complex engineering.

Add beats easily to your guitar and bass part with InstantDrummer. Pick a groove, count off a tempo, and InstantDrummer inspires you to play along with its continuously varying drum tracks using perfectly matched, full kit, studio drum recordings. Spin the INSTENSITY knob to set the mood from mellow to aggressive. Dial in some VARIATION to get a constantly evolving beat. AMBIENCE adds room sound and GAIN sets the level. There’s no tedious editing or disappointing sounds, just a great drummer, ready to jam. InstantDrummer is an integral part of RiffWorks. Eight free InstantDrummer sessions are included with RiffWorks Standard and more are available online.

Includes 7 studio quality effects plus AmpliTube LE. RiffWorks includes seven effects from Sonoma Wire Works and the ability to load  amp modeling plug-ins for further expandability. Right out of the box you can add great sounding, fully optimized effects like auto-wah, multiband compression, modulation, delay, reverb, and British style EQ to your tunes. Effect algorithms were passionately designed by Sonoma Wire Works for superb sound quality and are optimized for maximum performance. Plus the included AmpliTube LE, with 9 amp combinations and 4 effects, is able to produce tons of different great guitar tones.

Instantly podcast to an enthusiastic community of musicians. RiffCaster is a free service for all RiffWorks users and is breeze to use. Share songs with and get feedback from other RiffWorks users and the world. There is plenty of room for content and now it also includes instant podcasting! In addition, RiffLink (60-day trial version included) offers RiffWorks users built-in online collaboration. Share a song session over the Internet with up to four other musicians to play along with each other in what feels like real-time with no worries about latency. New tracks show up as soon as they are finished streaming and are always perfectly in sync. Each layer is instantly streamed to other current users and is also saved on the server for those who wish to contribute later.


RiffWorks Standard features:
·      Automatic Track Creation & Loop Recording
·      24 layers plus backing tracks with continuous volume control per layer
·      4 tempo-synchronized backups: InstantDrummer™ with adjustable intensity and variation,
·      REX Player, ReWire mixer, and Metronome
·      7 studio quality effects (Wah, Multi-band compression and distortion, Modulation, Delay, Reverb, Compression, and British Style EQ)
·      Guitar Amp and Effects (VST/Audio Unit) Plug-in support.
·      AmpliTube LE included
·      Mix down to WAV or OggVorbis
·      RiffCaster™ instant podcasting
·      RiffLink™ online collaboration (60-day trial)
·      Supports Win XP ASIO and Mac OS Core Audio Interfaces


System Requirements:
Macintosh®: G4 1.33 GHz processor, 512 MB of RAM, Mac OS X 10.4 or later (including Universal), 1 GB free disk space for installation, 5 GB free disk space for recording

Windows®: Pentium 1 GHz processor, 512 MB of RAM, Windows XP, 1 GB free disk space for installation, 5 GB free disk space for recording

RiffCaster and RiffLink require an Internet connection.



Price and Availability:
RiffWorks Standard will be available worldwide through  IK Multimedia in early 2007 at an MSRP price of $169/€139 (tax excluded).


For more information on RiffWorks Standard, please visit:

http://www.ikmultimedia.com/prod_RW.php

###

About IK Multimedia: IK Multimedia is a music software company directly operating in four countries, founded in 1996 for the purpose of developing software designed to enable people to listen, play and produce music using revolutionary new digital instruments, which are powerful and easy to use.  AmpliTube®, T-Racks®, GrooveMaker®, SampleTank®, Sonik Synth™, Miroslav Philharmonik™, Classik Studio Reverb™, SVX™, Total Studio Bundle™, Total Effects Bundle™, Total Workstation Bundle™, StealthPlug™ and StompIO™ are trademarks or registered trademarks property of IK Multimedia Production srl. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

About Sonoma Wire Works: Incorporated in 2003, Sonoma Wire Works develops high-quality, innovative products and services that help musicians enjoy playing, recording and sharing music. Headquartered in Los Altos, California, Sonoma Wire Works’ development group has more than 25 years of audio engineering experience. Sonoma Wire Works products have received multiple editorial awards for performance and innovation.  RiffWorks™, RiffCaster™, RiffLink™, InstantDrummer™, and Sonoma Wire Works™ are trademarks of Sonoma Wire Works. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners. http://www.sonomawireworks.com

Posted by Bill at 10:05 PM | Permalink

Jan 17

TREASURY INTERNATIONAL CAPITAL DATA FOR NOVEMBER

This Department of Treasury press release may be viewed at:
http://www.treas.gov/press/releases/hp225.htm

   Treasury International Capital (TIC) data for November are released
   today and posted on the U.S. Treasury web site (www.treas.gov/tic).
   The next release, which will report on data for December, is
scheduled
   for February 15, 2007.

   Net foreign purchases of long-term securities were $68.4 billion.

     * Net foreign purchases of long-term U.S. securities were $107.4
       billion. Of this, net purchases by foreign official institutions
       were $6.5 billion, and net purchases by private foreign
investors
       were $101.0 billion.

     * U.S. residents purchased a net $39.1 billion in long-term
foreign
       securities.

   Net foreign acquisition of long-term securities is estimated to have
   been $58.0 billion.

   Foreign holdings of dollar-denominated short-term U.S. securities,
   including Treasury bills, and other custody liabilities increased
   $15.6 billion. Foreign holdings of Treasury bills increased $9.5
   billion.

   Banks' own net dollar-denominated liabilities to foreign residents
   increased $1.3 billion.

   Monthly net TIC flows were $74.9 billion. Of this, net foreign
private
   flows were $65.8 billion and net foreign official flows were $9.1
   billion.

Posted by Bill at 05:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Chairman Inouye, Vice-Chairman Stevens, Chairman Lautenberg, and distinguished members of the Committee, on behalf of the Secretary of Transportation, I want to thank you for the invitation to appear today.

I would like to take a moment at the outset to commend the Committee for your leadership and support in passing the Pipeline Inspection, Protection, Enforcement and Safety Act of 2006, Public Law 109-468, which the President signed into law last month. The PIPES Act will save lives and foster economic growth by strengthening the pipeline safety program.

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is moving ahead to implement the new authority and fulfill the Act’s mandates. We will keep the Committee informed of our efforts and progress.

I appear before you today on another important subject: PHMSA’s activities and role in enhancing hazardous materials transportation security.

We understand the Committee is considering options to improve commercial surface transportation security, and we look forward to working with the Committee. Working in close coordination with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and with the Department of Transportation’s (DOT’s) Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), we are moving forward in that effort on several fronts.

When it comes to improving transportation security, we follow a systems risk-based approach, recognizing that safety and security are connected, and that significant safety and economic consequences will flow from our decisions. The success of our efforts over time lies in our ability to mitigate overall risk, while avoiding undue burdens on transportation systems, operators, and the public. Effective coordination within the federal government is essential to addressing security concerns in the way that the American public deserves.

Improvement should be developed in a transparent manner, with the benefit of stakeholder input, to produce practical approaches suited to the demands of an economy that depends on the efficient movement of hazardous materials. We must focus and prioritize our efforts, preventing incidents that pose the greatest overall risk to the public, property, and the environment, and mitigating the consequences of incidents that cannot be prevented.

Hazardous materials are essential to our citizens, and to our economy. These materials fuel automobiles, heat and cool our homes and offices, and are used in farming, medical applications, manufacturing, mining, and other industrial processes. More than 3 billion tons of regulated hazardous materials – including explosive, poisonous, corrosive, flammable, and radioactive materials – are transported each year.

We oversee the safe and secure shipment of over 1.2 million daily movements of hazardous materials moving through the air; on the railroads, seas and waterways; and over the highways. Many of these shipments require transfer between modes. Programs that increase the security of highway infrastructure and intermodal transfer points are required to maintain the security and safety of these movements. Additionally, large volumes of hazmat are moved by pipelines out of the view of most Americans.

These hazardous materials shipments frequently move through densely populated or sensitive areas where an incident could result in loss of life, serious injury, or significant environmental damage. Our communities, particularly the public and workers engaged in hazardous materials commerce, count on the safe and secure transport of these shipments.

With Congress’ active assistance and direction, much progress has been made since 9/11 to improve the security of our transportation systems. Congress confirmed PHMSA’s role in the Homeland Security Act of 2002, when it amended Federal law to clarify the agency’s responsibility for the “safety, including security,” of hazardous materials transportation.

In 2003, we amended the Hazardous Materials Regulations to require shippers and carriers of certain hazardous materials to develop and implement security plans. The regulations established a general baseline for the development and scope of plans, rather than a prescriptive list of specific security measures. Each security plan must include an individualized risk assessment and, at a minimum, address personnel security, unauthorized access, and en route security risks. Plans must be appropriate to the company’s individual circumstances, considering the types and amounts of hazardous materials shipped or transported and the modes used for transportation. The regulation establishes a meaningful performance standard for security planning, while providing shippers and carriers with the flexibility necessary to develop security measures addressing their individual circumstances and operational environments.

DOT regulated pipeline operators are subject to different security planning standards, also requiring the development of site-specific security plans. Most pipeline operators follow a set of consensus guidelines that were jointly developed by PHMSA, pipeline operators, and State pipeline safety agencies following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The security requirements governing operators of liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities predate 9/11 and are enforced, along with our other LNG safety standards, by PHMSA and our State partners.

As the Committee is aware, PHMSA also has been actively involved in government-wide security planning and coordination efforts led by DHS. In accordance Homeland Security Presidential Directives and Executive Orders, we regularly provide technical expertise and consultation on security initiatives with DOT partners in the areas of pipeline operations and hazardous materials transportation. We contributed to the recently-completed National Infrastructure Protection Plan and participate in the Government Coordinating Councils for the Rail, Highway, Chemical and Pipeline sectors.

Most recently, PHMSA and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) have established a joint working group to improve interagency coordination on transportation security and safety matters, and to develop and advance plans for improving transportation security. As you know, PHMSA and TSA signed an Annex to the Departmental Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) executed by DOT and DHS. The Annex recognizes TSA’s lead role in transportation security and reflects the agencies’ shared commitment to a systems risk-based approach and to the development of practical solutions, recognizing that each agency brings core competencies, legal authority, resources, and expertise to this shared mission.

In entering into the Annex, PHMSA and TSA pledge to build on and not duplicate the various security initiatives and efforts already underway. At the same time, we thought it was important to outline the key program elements and approaches necessary to effective Federal action and to use that framework to identify specific areas for improvement.

Enhancing security requires that we start with the data – understanding the problem and identifying any gaps in existing solutions, including gaps in understanding the risks and consequences of incidents. PHMSA’s technical staff has knowledge about hazardous materials and transportation systems that can and should be brought to bear in the Federal effort to enhance security.

The joint agency working group established under the PHMSA-TSA MOU Annex is looking at ways to leverage the information that each agency possesses and collects. We are doing this in order to enhance our understanding of all risks connected with hazardous materials transportation and to bring that information to bear on an ongoing basis in all elements of our safety and security programs.

Under Executive Order 13416 and as delineated in the Annex, PHMSA and TSA are looking for ways to improve standards, recognizing that solutions need to be tailored to risks and transportation needs, both of which will change over time. Enhancing transportation security does not necessarily mean that we must impose regulatory requirements. We must be open to the range of possible solutions, driven by information about systems risks and security gaps.

Where it is appropriate to impose new standards, close coordination and consultation between the agencies – and active outreach with stakeholders – will help to ensure effective results. Better communication and outreach with affected stakeholders are important elements of the approach to enhancing transportation security reflected in the MOU Annex.

Inspection and enforcement also present opportunities for improvement. PHMSA and TSA are looking for ways to maximize the use of Federal resources by cooperating in these efforts.

Research and development are important parts of a coordinated Federal strategy. Our joint agency working group will put in place measures to ensure that we are making the best use of Federal resources by sharing research results and collaborating in the development of future projects.

Working with our DOT colleagues and TSA, we continue to consider ways to enhance the transportation security of hazardous materials. Last month, PHMSA and FRA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM), proposing to revise current requirements applicable to the safe and secure transportation of hazardous materials by rail. Specifically, we are proposing to require rail carriers to compile annual data on specified shipments of hazardous materials, use the data to analyze safety and security risks along rail routes, assess alternative routing options, and make routing decisions based on those assessments.

The same notice proposes clarifications of the current security plan requirements to address enroute storage, delays in transit, delivery notification, and additional security inspection requirements for hazardous materials shipments. We have planned two meetings in early February, one here in Washington and one in Dallas, to solicit public input on the rail security proposals.

In consultation with the other DOT operating administrations and TSA, we also are taking a close look at the scope of our hazmat security plan requirements. In the three years since the requirements went into effect, we have gained experience evaluating security risks associated with specific hazardous materials and transportation environments and identifying appropriate measures to address those risks. In response to two industry petitions for rulemaking, PHMSA recently initiated a project to reconsider and refine the list of hazardous materials for which security plans are currently required. The industry petitioners asked PHMSA to amend the security plan regulations to create a distinction between hazardous materials that present a significant security risk while in transportation and the vast majority of hazardous materials that pose minimal security risks in transportation. To this end, we have initiated a rulemaking project, in cooperation with the DOT operating administrations and TSA; we published an ANPRM on September 21, 2006, and hosted a public meeting on November 30. We expect to issue a proposal by early summer of 2007.

As we refine our understanding of system risks, we’ve also taken a careful look at how we regulate access to PHMSA’s National Pipeline Mapping System (NPMS). The NPMS is a comprehensive database including geospatial and other information about all PHMSA-regulated liquid and natural gas pipelines and their relationship to populated and unusually sensitive environmental areas. In the immediate aftermath of 9/11, we pulled the NPMS from the agency’s website and restricted public access out of concern that information in the system could be used in planning or targeting a terrorist attack. In the meantime, we have taken a careful look at the nature and quality of publicly available information about pipeline facilities and the safety and security implications of providing public access. We have discussed the issues with DHS and all pipeline stakeholders, safety advocates, and security experts, and we have developed an approach that we believe will minimize risk, while satisfying legitimate public right-to-know concerns.

I would like to mention that in the coming months, PHMSA will be rolling out changes to its NPMS website that will permit members of the public to access certain maps and data on a county-by-county basis. The level of detail accessible to the public will make the site useful for emergency response and local planning efforts, helping communities manage risks of development and other human activities near existing pipelines.

Our decision to restore public access to NPMS data illustrates how a data-driven, systems risk-based approach improves risk mitigation. From a systems risk perspective, public access to information is desirable, because it facilitates environmental protection, emergency response, and safety-conscious land use planning. Further, this determination may pave the way for making NPMS data available in efforts to reduce other transportation risks. As we move ahead on the rail routing rulemaking, for instance, we will consider whether access to NPMS data concerning environmentally sensitive areas may be useful in making safety and security conscious rail routing decisions.

With Congress’ support, a systems risk-based approach will be carried forward through the Hazardous Materials Cooperative Research Program, now in its first year of program management by the Transportation Research Board of the National Academies. Four initial research projects recently cleared the selection process. They are: (1) Hazmat Commodity Flow Guidance to States and Localities; (2) Enhanced Incident Data Quality for Root Cause Analysis; (3) Assessing Hazmat Emergency Response Capabilities; and (4) Emerging Technologies Applicable to Hazmat Transportation Safety and Security. PHMSA is closely monitoring the progress of that research.

Finally, like Congress, we are focused on improving the ability of States and local governments to prepare for and respond to hazardous materials incidents, whatever their cause. PHMSA is proud of its partnerships with the National Association of State Fire Marshals, the International Association of Fire Chiefs, and the International Association of Fire Fighters. Each organization has assisted in capability building across the country.

At the end of this month, PHMSA and the National Association of State Fire Marshals will co-sponsor another meeting of emergency responders, hazardous materials industry representatives, and pipeline operators. This joint effort covers a variety of initiatives intended to strengthen response capabilities and preparedness, including a recent PHMSA Advisory Bulletin on the appropriate response to ethanol spills and plans for the 2008 edition of the Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG). PHMSA publishes and distributes the ERG free of charge to the nation’s first responder community. For years, the ERG has been an important resource for first responders, providing critical guidance during the initial phase of a hazardous materials incident. For the first time, the 2008 ERG will be expanded to include a response section applicable to pipeline incidents.

Like Secretary Peters, PHMSA takes very seriously our responsibility to ensure the safe and secure movement of hazardous materials across our transportation system. Although we recognize that there is always room for improvement, we believe that we have a strong regulatory framework in place for hazardous materials transportation security. Together with DHS, we seek to achieve the highest level of safety and security possible, while at the same time, minimizing the burden and associated cost.

We look forward to working with the Members of this Committee, the Congress and our stakeholders as we embark on a serious and open discussion with all interested parties to further enhance the safe and secure transportation of hazardous materials.

Mr. Chairman, I commend you and the members of this Committee for your leadership on this very important topic. Thank you again for this opportunity today. I am happy to take your questions.

Chairman Inouye, Vice-Chairman Stevens, and other members of the Committee, I am pleased to be here today to testify, on behalf of the Secretary of Transportation, about the security of our Nation's passenger and freight railroad network and the efforts that the Department of Transportation (DOT) is making to enhance rail safety and security. The Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) primary mission is to promote the safety of the U.S. railroad industry and to reduce the number and severity of accidents and incidents arising from railroad operations. Our railroad safety mission necessarily includes our involvement in railroad security issues. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and its Transportation Security Administration (TSA) have primary responsibility for transportation security, with FRA providing support in the railroad sector. FRA works closely with TSA and the railroad industry on a daily basis in addressing railroad security and safety issues, participates in the Government Coordinating Council for Rail, and contributed its expertise to the National Strategy for Transportation Security and the National Infrastructure Protection Plan.

My testimony today will provide some background on FRA’s railroad safety program, describe the role that FRA plays in railroad security, and discuss railroad safety and security initiatives. We stand ready to work with the Committee in furthering the safety and security of our Nation’s railroad network.

The U.S. railroad network is a vital link in the Nation’s transportation system and is critical to the economy, national defense, and public health. Passenger and freight railroads operate over 170,000 route miles of track and employ over 232,000 workers. The rail system is diverse and expansive. Security risks are inherent in its supporting infrastructure, as well as in the people and products moving through it. Most of the larger railroads have their own police force, and they are supplemented by State and local law enforcement.

Amtrak, the Alaska Railroad Corporation, and commuter railroads provide passenger rail service to more than 500 million passengers yearly. Passenger operators face many challenges in their efforts to provide a secure public transportation environment. By definition, the systems are open, providing numerous points of access and egress leading to high passenger turnover and making them difficult to monitor effectively. Amtrak, for example, operates as many as 300 trains per day serving over 500 stations in 46 States, and Amtrak trains use tracks owned by freight railroads except for operations in the Northeast Corridor and in Michigan.

Privately-owned freight railroads connect industries and businesses with each other across the country and with markets overseas, moving 42 percent of all intercity freight, measured in ton-miles, including 67 percent of the coal used by electric utilities to produce power, and chemicals used in manufacturing and water purification. Seven Class I railroads haul over 90 percent of the rail cargo in the U.S., with the remaining 10 percent being transported by 30 regional railroads and over 500 local railroads. Typically railroads move about 1.7 to 1.8 million carloads of hazardous materials (hazmat) yearly, with roughly 105,000 of these carloads being toxic inhalation hazard (TIH) materials, such as chlorine and anhydrous ammonia. Over 64 percent of TIH materials are currently transported by rail. The railroads have an outstanding record in moving all goods safely. The vast majority of hazardous materials shipped by rail every year arrive safely and without incident, and train accidents involving a release of hazardous materials that causes death are infrequent and rare, even while rail traffic volumes have increased steadily. As discussed below, DOT has an aggressive and comprehensive action plan to address the root causes of hazmat accidents, to examine and improve the integrity of rail tank cars used to transport hazmat, and to improve the railroads’ hazmat security plans. In addition, DOT’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) annually provides grant funds to States and Indian tribes to assist in the development, improvement, and implementation of hazmat emergency response plans, and to train emergency responders to respond to hazmat accidents and incidents; details on this program are contained in PHMSA’s Web site (hazmat.dot.gov).

FRA is the DOT agency charged with carrying out the Federal railroad safety laws. The laws provide FRA, as the Secretary’s delegate, with very broad authority over every area of railroad safety. In exercising that authority, the agency has issued and enforces a wide range of railroad safety regulations. Several of FRA’s rules have been developed with specific consideration of security concerns. For example, FRA’s January 2002 final rule barring most extraterritorial dispatching of U.S. railroad operations is based in part on the agency’s concerns about the security of foreign dispatching facilities. Similarly, FRA’s rule on passenger train emergency preparedness, discussed more fully below, requires carriers to prepare plans that deal with criminal as well as accidental events. While most of FRA’s rules are focused on the safety of railroad operations and not explicitly based on security concerns, they also necessarily have some bearing on security. For example, a railroad inspector performing an inspection required by an FRA safety regulation could potentially uncover a hazardous condition that was intentionally caused by terrorist activity. Similarly, Federal passenger and freight equipment standards are intended to ensure that the equipment can withstand forces of derailments and collisions, whether caused by accidents or deliberate acts, thereby helping to protect passengers, employees, and surrounding communities.

In addition, FRA enforces in the rail mode of transportation the Hazardous Materials Regulations, which are promulgated by PHMSA. These regulations include requirements that railroads and other transporters of hazmat, as well as shippers, have and adhere to security plans and also train their employees involved in offering, accepting, or transporting hazmat on both safety and security matters, as discussed more fully below.

To address the key safety issues facing the railroad industry, in May 2005, DOT and FRA launched an aggressive and ambitious National Rail Safety Action Plan with the following strategy:

· Target the most frequent, highest-risk causes of accidents;

· Focus FRA’s oversight and inspection resources more precisely; and

· Accelerate research efforts that have the potential to mitigate the largest risks.

FRA’s plan includes initiatives in several areas: reducing human factor-caused train accidents, the largest category of train accidents; acting to address the serious problem of fatigue among railroad operating employees; improving track safety; improving emergency preparedness and enhancing hazmat safety, including evaluating and improving the integrity of tank cars used to transport hazmat; and improving highway-rail grade crossing safety. One of the primary elements of the Action Plan is the implementation of a National Inspection Plan, which uses sophisticated trend analysis to ensure that FRA is properly allocating its inspectors so that they are directing their efforts on areas of greatest safety concern. A summary of the steps FRA has taken in implementing the Action Plan is attached to my statement.

Though the Action Plan is focused on rail safety, rail security will also be improved. In particular, enhancements to hazmat safety and emergency preparedness will result in enhancements to rail security.

FRA’s involvement in railroad security predates the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. From October 1995 (when a deliberate act of vandalism caused a fatal Amtrak derailment near Hyder, Arizona) through March 2006 (when the USA PATRIOT Improvement and Reauthorization Act of 2005 was enacted), FRA helped develop and worked with Congress to secure the enactment of Federal criminal legislation to deter and punish more effectively terrorist attacks against railroads and mass transportation systems. Additionally, in 1998 FRA issued a regulation requiring passenger railroads to prepare, and secure FRA approval of, plans to address emergencies, including security threats, to train employees on the plan, and to conduct emergency simulation drills, as noted above and discussed more fully below. FRA will be exploring leveraging the National Labor College, George Meany Training Campus, to assist in providing security awareness training for railroad employees who are not receiving security training under FRA’s emergency preparedness regulation or PHMSA’s security regulation.

Since the September 11^th terrorist atrocities, FRA has been actively engaged in the railroad industry’s response to the terrorist threat. The railroads have developed their own security plans, and FRA has worked with the railroads, rail labor, and law enforcement personnel to develop the Railway Alert Network, which permits timely distribution of information and intelligence on security issues. Working with DOT’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA), we have participated in security risk assessments on commuter railroads, and we have conducted security risk assessments of Amtrak as well. FRA’s security director works on a daily basis with government agencies and the railroad industry to facilitate communications on security issues, and also participates in security training, reviews security plans, and performs other activities to promote rail security. For example, FRA intends to conduct at least 15 security training sessions for rail labor organizations in 2007, as well as four sessions at the FBI Academy on railroad security and emergency response for law enforcement personnel.

In September 2004, DOT and DHS entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) concerning their respective roles on security issues. The MOU notes that DHS has primary responsibility for security in all modes of transportation but also recognizes that DOT has responsibilities in the area of transportation security. The MOU reflects the agencies’ shared commitment to a systems risk-based approach and to development of practical solutions, recognizing that each agency brings core competencies, legal authorities, resources, and expertise to the railroad mission. The MOU requires early coordination between the parties on the development of regulations affecting security. Separate annexes have been signed concerning the implementation of the Homeland Security Council’s recommendations concerning TIH materials, and concerning the coordination between FRA and TSA, FTA and TSA, and PHMSA and TSA on security matters.

The FRA-TSA annex provides for close cooperation between the two agencies on railroad security regulations, legislation, research and development, inspection activities, and response to threats to railroad security in order to maximize passenger and freight railroad security while minimizing disruptions to railroad operations to the extent practicable. The agreement provides that if an FRA inspector observes a significant security issue, the information will be provided to TSA and the railroad; similarly, if a TSA inspector observes a significant rail safety issue, the information will be provided to FRA and the railroad. FRA has one full-time employee addressing rail security matters, and all of our 71 hazmat inspectors and specialists, along with 17 State inspectors, devote a portion of their time to reviewing railroad and shipper security plans for compliance with PHMSA’s security regulations discussed below.

Railroads have voluntarily developed and adopted security plans based on comprehensive risk analyses, and the national intelligence community’s best practices, that address the security of not only hazmat but of freight in general. The Association of American Railroads (AAR) has established guidance for the major freight railroads in the form of a model strategic security plan. The railroad industry has also developed a detailed protocol (AAR Circular OT-55-I) on recommended railroad operating practices for transportation of high-risk hazardous materials (including TIH). FRA, PHMSA, and TSA have jointly worked with the railroad industry to build upon the railroads’ security efforts through vulnerability assessments, development of voluntary security action items, and rulemakings. Additionally, FRA has arranged a conference to permit railroads and chemical shippers to discuss routing options for the movement of TIH materials, as explained more fully below.

A special focus for FRA and DOT, collectively, is the security of hazmat transported by rail. A major initiative has been PHMSA’s March 2003 regulation requiring each shipper and carrier of significant quantities (placardable amounts) of hazmat to adopt and comply with a security plan. See 49 CFR § 172.800 et seq. Under the PHMSA regulation, security plans must include an assessment of security risks and appropriate countermeasures or mitigation strategies, or both, to address those risks. The plans must, at a minimum, address three specific areas: the security of company personnel; unauthorized access to company property; and the security of hazmat shipped or transported by the company from its origin to its destination. To assist railroads that transport hazmat and shippers that offer hazmat for transportation by rail to comply with this regulation, particularly small- and medium-sized companies, PHMSA developed a program on how to write and implement security plans for their companies.

FRA recognizes that railroad and shipper employees’ awareness and understanding of the PHMSA regulation and procedures governing the safe and secure transportation of hazmat shipments are critical. Therefore, PHMSA’s regulation provides for safety and security training for employees engaged in the transportation of hazmat. Specifically, each shipper and carrier of significant quantities of hazmat is also required to conduct two types of security training for its employees: security awareness training that provides an awareness of risks associated with hazmat transportation and methods designed to enhance hazmat transportation security, and in-depth security training concerning the company’s security plan and its implementation. These training requirements are also recurrent; employees must receive the required training at least every three years. To date, FRA personnel have reviewed more than 6,105 security plans (including plans for shippers by rail and the plans for all Class I freight railroad carriers) and conducted 4,054 inspections for compliance with the security training requirements. Moreover, FRA’s security director is currently working with the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association to provide hazmat security training and conduct security reviews at approximately 125 short line railroads in 2007.

In April 2004, DHS and DOT took specific actions to improve the security of rail shipments of TIH materials. As part of this initiative, DHS and DOT, in cooperation with the railroads, are assessing the vulnerabilities of High Threat Urban Areas (HTUAs) through which TIH materials move by rail in significant quantity. These assessments helped result in the railroads agreeing to voluntarily implement 27 Security Action Items designed to improve the security of rail movements of TIH materials. The Action Items address system security and access control (i.e., practices affecting the security of railroads and their property), as well as en-route security (the actual movement and handling of railcars containing TIH materials), particularly in HTUAs. Full implementation of the Action Items is expected to raise the security baseline for the transportation of TIH materials. Implementation of the first 24 Action Items had begun when they were announced in June 2006, and implementation of the remaining 3 Action Items dealing with HTUAs had also been initiated when they were announced on November 21, 2006.

In August 2004, DOT and TSA published a notice and request for comments in the Federal Register asking for input on aspects of TIH rail shipments, the DOT security program requirement, and the need for additional regulation. Following review and consideration of the comments received, PHMSA, in consultation with FRA and TSA, published a notice of proposed rulemaking on December 21, 2006, to revise current requirements for the safe and secure rail transportation of hazmat. See 71 FR 76833. Likewise, TSA concurrently proposed enhancements to rail security requirements. See 71 FR 76852. Specifically, PHMSA’s proposal would require railroads to—

· compile annual data on specified hazmat rail shipments;

· use the data annually to analyze safety and security risks along rail transportation routes where those materials are transported and one possible alternative to each route;

· utilize the analyses in selecting the safest and most secure commercially practicable routes the carrier is authorized to operate over in transporting these materials;

· address the security risks associated with shipments delayed in transit or temporarily stored in transit as part of their security plans;

· notify consignees if there is a significant unplanned delay affecting the delivery of certain types of hazardous material;

· work with shippers and consignees to minimize the time a rail car containing certain types of hazardous materials is placed on track awaiting pick-up or delivery or transfer from one carrier to another;

· notify storage facilities and consignees when rail cars containing certain types of hazardous materials are delivered to a storage or consignee facility; and

· conduct security visual inspections at ground level of rail cars containing hazardous materials to inspect for signs of tampering or the introduction of an improvised explosive device (IED).

PHMSA and FRA will hold two public meetings, one on February 1, 2007, in Washington, D.C., and the second on February 9, 2007, in Dallas, Texas, to obtain oral comments on the proposed requirements.

DHS has provided funding to the Railroad Research Foundation, a nonprofit organization devoted to sustaining a safe and productive railroad industry, to develop a Web-based tool to calculate rail route specific hazmat risks, and assist in route selection decisions. This tool would be available to rail carriers in performing route analysis, and to DOT, TSA, and government emergency planners.

In late 2005, FRA granted a request by the AAR and the American Chemistry Council to convene a section 333 conference to discuss ways to minimize security and safety risks flowing from the transportation by rail of TIH materials. Section 333 of title 49 of the United States Code authorizes the FRA Administrator, as delegate of the Secretary of Transportation, to convene conferences at the request of one or more railroads to address coordination of operations and facilities of rail carriers in order to achieve a more efficient, economical, and viable rail system. Persons attending a section 333 conference are immune from antitrust liability for any discussions at the conference, and can also receive immunity for any resulting agreements that receive FRA approval. The conference has been carefully structured to minimize antitrust concerns involving the chemical manufacturers and shippers. The conference provides the railroads and chemical manufacturers and shippers with the opportunity to meet and discuss approaches to reduce the amount of TIH materials moved by rail, and to enhance the safety and security of TIH materials that are moved. FRA, PHMSA, and representatives from the Department of Justice, the Federal Trade Commission, TSA, and the Surface Transportation Board (STB) are participating in these discussions. The initial efforts of the conference are focused on chlorine and anhydrous ammonia rail transport because they represent over 80 percent of all TIH rail shipments. FRA has met with the rail carriers to discuss modeling and routing options. Further meetings with the rail carriers, as well as separate meetings with the chlorine and anhydrous ammonia shippers, are planned for early this year. In some instances, the projects agreed to at the conference may need the approval of the STB in order to be implemented.

While we must remain ever vigilant to secure hazmat shipments on our Nation’s railroads, for the sake of railroad employees and the public whom we all serve, it bears emphasizing that the vast majority of hazmat shipments arrive at their destinations safely. Considering just chlorine, for example, since 1965 (the earliest data available) there have been at least 2.2 million tank car shipments of chlorine–only 788 of which were involved in accidents (0.036 percent of all the shipments). Of those accidents, there were 11 instances of a catastrophic loss (i.e., a loss of all, or nearly all) of the chlorine lading (0.0005 percent of all the shipments). Of the 11 catastrophic losses, four resulted in fatalities (0.00018 percent of all the shipments). For all hazardous materials, in the 12 years from 1994 through 2005, hazardous materials released in railroad accidents resulted in a total of 14 fatalities. While one death is obviously too many, the record of transporting these commodities is very good, and we believe the initiatives underway will further improve upon that record.

As discussed earlier, in the area of passenger railroad security, FRA requires each railroad that operates intercity or commuter passenger train service or that hosts the operation of such service to adopt and comply with a written emergency preparedness plan approved by FRA. See 49 CFR Part 239. The regulation makes clear that an “emergency” includes a security-related situation. Each plan must address employee training and qualification, and provide for both initial and recurrent training. Additionally, each railroad must establish and maintain a working relationship with emergency responders on its line by taking measures such as developing and making available a training program on the plan and inviting the emergency responders to participate in emergency simulations. The regulation requires railroads providing passenger service to periodically conduct full-scale passenger train emergency simulations (with actual equipment and simulated victims) and conduct a debriefing and critique session after actual or simulated passenger train emergency situations. FRA will continue monitoring passenger railroads for compliance with this regulation and attend each full-scale simulation and follow-up review session, such as one scheduled by the Long Island Rail Road for March with the New York City Fire Department.

In 2003, under the auspices of FRA’s Railroad Safety Advisory Committee (RSAC), FRA initiated a review of existing passenger train safety needs and programs for the purpose of developing any necessary recommendations on actions to advance the safety of passenger rail service. The RSAC is a forum for developing recommendations to FRA on rulemakings and other safety program issues, and it includes representatives from all of the rail industry’s major groups, State representatives, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and other stakeholders. As part of this effort, the Passenger Safety Working Group was established, as well as four smaller task forces, notably the Emergency Preparedness Task Force. The Emergency Preparedness Task Force is specifically devoted to consideration of passenger train emergency preparedness issues, and includes representatives from railroads, rail labor organizations, the NTSB, FTA, and TSA. Its efforts helped lead to the issuance of proposed enhancements and additions to FRA’s regulations for passenger train emergency systems (emergency systems NPRM). See 71 FR 50276; August 24, 2006.

Emergency communication is one of the main focuses of the emergency systems NPRM. Under the proposal, all existing passenger cars would be required to be equipped with a public address system by 2012 that provides a means for a crewmember to communicate to all train passengers in an emergency situation, and all new passenger cars would be required to be equipped with an intercom system that provides a means for passengers and crewmembers to communicate with each other in an emergency situation. An intercom system could be vital in enabling a passenger to quickly alert a crewmember of a security threat, and the crewmember in turn could contact the appropriate authorities to obtain emergency assistance and use the train’s public address system to provide any necessary direction to passengers. The proposed rulemaking would also promote passenger and employee safety in an emergency situation—whether resulting from an accidental or an intentional act—by enhancing requirements for emergency window exits in passenger cars and mandating that all passenger cars, including existing cars, have rescue windows for emergency responder access. FRA is in the process of preparing the final rule, which is expected to be issued by the middle of this year. Moreover, a separate regulatory proposal is also in development within the Emergency Preparedness Task Force, focusing on passenger car emergency signage, low-location exit path marking, and emergency lighting. The proposal will be based on American Public Transportation Association (APTA) standards for passenger safety, will augment current Federal requirements, and is expected to be published by the end of 2007.

Complementing FRA’s regulations, Amtrak and commuter railroads have instituted their own security plans and conduct security training. FRA assisted Amtrak in the development of its security plan. Specifically, in coordination with Amtrak’s Inspector General, FRA contracted with the RAND Corporation to conduct a systematic review and assessment of Amtrak’s security posture, corporate strategic security planning, and programs focusing on the adequacy of preparedness for combating terrorist threats. FRA’s security director is currently working with Amtrak to implement the recommendations of the RAND study. APTA is also leading commuter railroads in the development of voluntary industry standards for passenger rail safety and security.

FRA inspectors have conducted basic security reviews of Amtrak and commuter railroad security both after the 2004 train bombings in Madrid and after the 2005 transit bombings in London. In both cases, FRA inspectors were deployed immediately after the bombings to assess the security posture of passenger railroad facilities based on a checklist of major security criteria. In the aftermath of the London bombings, FRA worked closely on these security reviews with TSA’s new rail security inspectors. TSA focused primarily on urban rapid transit lines, while FRA inspectors concentrated on commuter and intercity passenger operations; in some situations, inspectors from the two agencies worked jointly. FRA will continue to support TSA in responding to rail security threats.

In partnership with FTA, FRA also participated in security risk assessments on the ten largest commuter railroads and contributed the funding for security risk assessments on three of these railroads. In addition, FRA participated in FTA’s “best practices tool kit” initiative, contributing our knowledge of commuter rail operations, infrastructure, and organization to ensure that the recommended security enhancement measures were sound and feasible in a railroad environment. FRA staff worked closely with many of the railroads that receive FTA grant funding, to plan and assist in the development and implementation of security simulations and drills. FRA also devoted staff with both railroad knowledge and facilitation skills to the 17 FTA-sponsored workshops across the country (called “Connecting Communities”) to bring together commuter railroads, emergency responders, and State and local government leaders so that they might better coordinate their security plans and emergency response efforts.

FRA conducts and supports research, development, and demonstration projects related to rail safety and rail security through its Office of Research and Development, in cooperation with DHS. Both theoretical and applied research on a wide range of issues has led to impressive results and tangible technology and process improvements.

A recent example of the application of FRA’s research efforts to both rail safety and security is the Passenger Rail Vehicle Emergency Evacuation Simulator, or “Rollover Rig.” This device, which began operation in 2006, can rotate a full-sized commuter rail car up to 180 degrees to simulate passenger train derailment scenarios. The Rollover Rig is already enhancing the ability of researchers to test strategies for evacuating passenger rail cars and to evaluate the performance of emergency systems in the cars, such as emergency lighting, doors, and windows. In addition, first responders nationwide now have a unique training tool to practice effective passenger rail rescue techniques safely when a rail car is on its side. FRA developed the Rollover Rig at a cost of $450,000. New Jersey Transit Rail Operations donated the commuter rail car used by the Rollover Rig, and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority agreed to house, operate, and maintain the simulator at its emergency response training facility located in Landover, Maryland.

We also continue to look for ways to improve tank car survivability, to reduce the likelihood that a tank car may be breached either by accident or by intentional act. PHMSA’s and FRA’s efforts to improve tank car survivability have a long and effective history. Working with the industry, all tank cars carrying hazardous materials now have top and bottom shelf couplers, and, as appropriate, tank cars are equipped with head shields, thermal protection, and skid protection for protruding bottom outlets. Tank cars carrying specific product groups, such as TIH and other particularly hazardous substances, are subject to additional requirements which became fully effective July 1, 2006, after a 10-year phase-in period.

Prior to the August 2005 enactment of Section 9005 of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), FRA had initiated tank car structural integrity research stemming from the circumstances of the 2002 derailment in Minot, North Dakota, involving the release of anhydrous ammonia from a tank car punctured during the derailment. Current research involves a three-step process to assess the effects of various types of train accidents (e.g., a derailment or collision) on a tank car. The first phase is development of a physics-based model to analyze the kinematics of rail cars in a derailment. The second phase is development of a valid dynamic structural analysis model; and the third phase is an assessment of the damage created by a puncture and entails the application of fracture mechanics testing and analysis methods. DOT’s Volpe National Transportation Systems Center is doing the modeling work now, and FRA will dovetail this ongoing research with the requirements of Section 9005. FRA, in conjunction with PHMSA, hopes to develop new hazardous material tank car safety standards in 2008, and we are currently consulting with railroads, shippers, and car manufacturers and have solicited pubic comments to assist us in this effort. In this connection, FRA just signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with Dow Chemical Company, Union Pacific Railroad, and the Union Tank Car Company to participate in their Next Generation Rail Tank Car Project and advance rail tank car safety.

Further, in September 2006, FRA awarded $200,000 to test sample tank car panels with various coatings to determine their ability to prevent penetration from small arms fire, as well as their ability to self-seal and, thereby, mitigate the severity of any incident. FRA developed the project in coordination with the AAR and DHS, which came up with the idea of applying to tank cars a protective coating like that used to enhance the armor protection of military vehicles in Iraq.

FRA has other research and development projects underway related to rail security which we would be happy to discuss with Committee staff.

FRA will continue to support TSA in carrying out its security responsibilities, and work with the rail industry to secure the Nation’s freight and passenger railroad network. Together, DOT, TSA, and the rail industry are helping to ensure that security initiatives and programs are directed at potential threats to the Nation’s railroad network and that rail employees and others responsible for its security are prepared to identify and address such threats.

Attachment

§ In response to various rail safety concerns, including some recent major train accidents, such as Graniteville, SC, and the lack of substantial improvement in the train accident rate in recent years, Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta launched the National Rail Safety Action Plan in May 2005. FRA has made real and substantial progress in bringing its aggressive and ambitious National Rail Safety Action Plan to fruition.

§ To reduce the number of train accidents caused by human factors (the largest category of train accidents), FRA—

* Issued a proposed Federal rule in October 2006 that would address top causes of human factor train accidents (such as failing to return a track switch to its proper position, which led to the Graniteville accident). The final rule is expected to be issued in mid-2007.

* Implemented an ongoing research program to identify human performance problems. Railroads, their employees, and FRA are entering into agreements that permit the employees to report unsafe events that do not result in a reportable accident but could have done so, without the fear of discipline.

* Made available to railroads and their employees a fatigue model that can assist them in developing crew scheduling practices based on the best current science.

* Approved the first positive train control system capable of automatically controlling train speed and movements to prevent train collisions and other accidents–the system will be installed on many BNSF Railway Company (BNSF) rail lines.

* Completed a pilot project, in partnership with BNSF, to develop a low-cost system that electronically monitors, detects, and reports a misaligned switch on mainline track located in non-signaled track territory. BNSF plans expansion of this and other similar systems on other non-signaled lines of their company.

§ To help prevent track-caused train accidents (the second-leading category), FRA—

* Developed an automated track inspection system that uses high-resolution video to detect cracks in joint bars and that can be deployed on a hi-rail vehicle to detect visible cracks in joint bars without having to stop the vehicle. Testing showed that the high-resolution video system detected visual cracks that were missed by the traditional visual inspections. The system was demonstrated to the railroads during summer and fall of 2006.

* Issued a final rule requiring track owners to develop and implement a procedure for the detailed inspection of rail joints in continuous welded rail track.

* Contracted for the construction of two automated track inspection vehicles, to be delivered in February and March, which will bring FRA’s fleet to five, allowing FRA to inspect nearly 100,000 track-miles each year, which triples the present capacity. This additional capability will permit FRA to inspect more miles of major hazardous material (hazmat) and passenger routes, while also having the ability to follow up more quickly on routes where safety performance is substandard.

§ To improve hazmat safety and emergency response capability, FRA improved emergency responders’ timely access to hazmat information. As discussed in FRA’s testimony today, FRA also accelerated its tank car structural research, hopes to issue new tank car performance standards in 2008, and has issued an NPRM on passenger train emergency systems.

§ To strengthen FRA’s rail safety inspection and enforcement program, FRA has made better use of data to direct FRA safety inspectors and other resources to where problems are likely to arise. FRA’s new National Inspection Plan was fully implemented for all FRA safety disciplines in March 2006, and further training will be provided to FRA safety personnel on how to best use the data during the scheduled national technical conferences this year.

§ To foster further improvements in highway-rail grade crossing safety, FRA—

* Built partnerships with State and local agencies by issuing, in May 2005, and extensively distributing a safety advisory describing the roles of the Federal and State governments and of the railroads in crossing safety. The advisory also reminds railroads of their responsibilities in relation to crossing accident reporting and investigation and offers assistance to local authorities in the investigation of crossing collisions where information or expertise within FRA control is required to complete the investigation.

* Aided the State of Louisiana in developing a crossing safety action plan. This State has consistently ranked among the top five with the highest number of crossing collisions and fatalities. The State approved the plan in April 2006.

* Launched an ongoing public safety inquiry into safety at private crossings.

§ We would be glad to provide the Committee with additional information on the current status of FRA’s implementation of the National Rail Safety Action Plan.

Chairman Inouye, Vice-Chairman Stevens, and Senators of the Committee, thank you for inviting me today to discuss the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) role in contributing to the security of truck and bus transportation on our highways. I am pleased to appear before you to describe FMCSA’s outreach, education, research, enforcement and compliance programs that help improve our homeland security.

Mr. Chairman, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration was created in 1999 with the mission of improving the safety of truck and buses operating on our Nation’s roads. Safety remains the primary mission of our Agency - the primary function of our regulations and our programs. FMCSA also plays a role in the security of the truck and bus industries due to our familiarity with, and oversight of these industries and the close and sometimes overlapping relationship between safety and security. The proposed legislation touches directly on one of the areas where security concerns directly impact our existing regulations – the routing of hazardous materials.

Following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, FMCSA recognized immediately the risk of terrorism associated with the transportation of hazardous materials. Within a month, the agency, with our State partners, began visiting all motor carriers that transport hazardous materials to ensure they were aware of their potential vulnerability and discuss basic security measures. We felt these measures critical as many of the companies in the trucking industry are small carriers with only a few trucks and lacking the resources to employ full-time security staff. In seven months, State and FMCSA staff conducted over 30,000 Security Sensitivity Visits on hazardous materials carriers.

FMCSA also began to take other steps to raise awareness about the security risks posed by the transportation of hazardous materials, and indeed the potential for terrorists to use the vehicles we regulate, trucks and buses, as pawns in their plans to inflict terror on our country. Despite the strictly safety mission given to the agency by the Congress, these measures were deemed justified and indeed critical, particularly before the creation of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and in the early days of that organization when they were rightly focused on aviation security.

Among the steps FMCSA took was an outreach campaign aimed at raising security awareness in the trucking industry and outreach to the law enforcement community to make them aware of the potential use of trucks, particularly those transporting hazardous materials, as weapons of terrorism. To complement these outreach efforts, we created a training course called “Trucks n’ Terrorism” to make law enforcement officials aware of indicators that should raise suspicions regarding the legitimacy of truck transportation. The agency also worked with the motorcoach industry to address security issues involving transportation of people including conducting a vulnerability assessment of the motorcoach industry and training to raise the security awareness of motor coach drivers and company officials.

Additionally, FMCSA began a significant effort to test technologies that had the potential to improve security, particularly in regard to the transportation of hazardous materials. Many of these technologies such as satellite tracking of vehicles and emergency communication devices were already in use as tools to improve safety or efficiency. FMCSA’s Hazardous Materials Field Operational Test demonstrated how these technologies could also be used to improve security and quantified the costs and benefits of these technologies. The Hazardous Materials Field Operational Test also piloted the concept of a public sector response system. FMCSA provided a copy of the report and its findings to the Department of Homeland Security in 2005. We are working with DHS on further development of this system.

FMCSA also worked with the Research and Special Programs Administration (RSPA), now the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) to develop regulations requiring hazardous materials carriers and shippers to develop security plans and train their employees about hazardous materials security. Following implementation of this regulation, FMCSA took steps to educate both the industry and our field staff and State partners. FMCSA worked with PHMSA, various industry associations, and the now established TSA to develop a booklet to assist hazardous materials motor carriers, particularly small businesses, in developing an effective security plan. Copies of this document were distributed to every hazardous materials carrier in the FMCSA database.

To promote enforcement of the new regulation, FMCSA developed a 16-hour training course to educate our field personnel and State partners, previously focused solely on safety issues, about basic security practices. The agency also developed procedures for checking compliance with hazardous materials security regulations in what we call a Security Contact Review. To date, FMCSA has conducted over 4,000 Security Contact Reviews and assessed over 400 civil penalties for failure to comply with the hazardous materials security regulations.

In 2004, FMCSA promulgated regulations to require carriers of certain hazardous materials to obtain a hazardous materials safety permit. This program applies to carriers that transport high explosives, high route controlled quantities of radioactive materials, materials that are toxic by inhalation hazard, and large quantities of liquefied natural gas. Currently over 1,100 motor carriers have a current hazardous materials safety permit. The program is an example of an area where security overlaps FMCSA’s safety mission. In promulgating this regulation, based primarily on safety concerns expressed in the legislation requiring this program, the agency did incorporate some basic security requirements. However, it should be made clear that while we developed a regulation that has some security requirements, it was not meant to be a comprehensive security regulation and the materials the agency chose to make applicable to this requirement were based on the legislative intent and safety considerations rather than an in-depth analysis of security risk.

Much of the security activity I have just described occurred before, or in the early days of the TSA. For the past few years, our Agency has been working with TSA to transfer the primary security responsibility for the truck and bus industries to TSA. This is not to say that we have abandoned any role in security. As recognized in Executive Order 13416, “Strengthening Surface Transportation Security” both Departments have responsibilities in the area of transportation security.

FMCSA’s primary security activities at this point involve the transportation of hazardous materials for which Congress gave the Department specific shared responsibility in the Homeland Security Act of 2002. FMCSA continues to ensure compliance with security training and security plan regulations through our Security Contact Reviews and take enforcement action for non-compliance as warranted. We have met with TSA to coordinate these visits to motor carriers with the Corporate Security Reviews conducted by TSA personnel to ensure there is not duplication of effort or unnecessary burden placed on the industry. We have also begun work to look at including security considerations in our long-standing regulations specifying procedures for States to follow when making hazardous materials routing distinctions.

Our Agency also remains involved in consulting with DHS and TSA on various issues ranging from our joint regulations for background checks for drivers holding Commercial Driver’s Licenses with hazardous materials endorsements, implementation of the REAL ID Act, to participation on panels to make decisions about security grants for motorcoach companies.

As I mentioned earlier, decisions regarding the routing of hazardous materials is one area FMCSA has identified as relating to security in addition to the safety issues that were the original impetus for the regulations. FMCSA has two sets of regulations governing the routing of hazardous materials. Standards for the routing of non-radioactive hazardous materials (NRHM) and requirements for routing of highway route-controlled quantities (HRCQ) of radioactive materials (RAM). Both parts contain sections setting out requirements States or Indian tribes must follow to establish, maintain, and enforce HM routing designations.

To establish routing designations or restrictions, a State or local government or Indian tribe must consider 13 factors such as population density, type of highway, type and quantities of HM, emergency response capabilities, exposure, terrain considerations, alternative routes, effects on commerce, delays in transportation, congestion, and accident history. FMCSA has developed guidelines for designating hazardous materials routes or preferred routes for highway route controlled radioactive materials. Currently security is not required to be a factor considered in making routing decisions and as such, security is not covered in the FMCSA guidance regarding making routing decisions. Last year, FMCSA began a study to: 1) modify existing guidance materials to State and Local governments and Indian tribes in designating routes to ensure the safe and secure transportation of HM; and 2) develop tool(s) that will assist the these entities in assessing the security vulnerabilities of current and proposed HM routes. We expect to complete the study by the fall of 2007.

Mr. Chairman, as the Nation moves to become more secure and protect our citizens from the threat posed by terrorism, it is important that we move deliberately and responsibly; to secure our transportation systems without paralyzing them. That is what FMCSA has attempted to do since the tragic events of September 11, 2001 and what we continue to endeavor to do as we support Agencies inside and outside the Department on transportation security initiatives. We look forward to working with your committee and the other agencies present at this hearing today to implement this important piece of legislation.

INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION STATUS REPORT: SS07-03 HOUSTON - New supplies arrived at the International Space Station Friday night as an unpiloted Russian cargo spacecraft docked to the Pirs Docking Compartment. With more than 2.5 tons of food, fuel and supplies for the station's Expedition 14 crew, the ISS Progress 24 automatically docked to Pirs at 8:59 p.m. CST on Friday as the station flew 220 miles above the South Atlantic off the southeast coast of Uruguay. The 24th Progress to visit the station launched Wednesday night from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. Unlike its predecessor, Progress 24 linked up to the station after its automated rendezvous antenna retracted as planned in the final 50 meters prior to docking. On Oct. 26 the automated navigation antenna on the Progress 23 failed to retract. Expedition 14 Commander Mike Lopez-Alegria and Flight Engineer Mikhail Tyurin will conduct a spacewalk in late February to manually retract and tie down the antenna before the older Progress undocks from the aft port of the Zvezda service module in early April. The crew will open the hatch to the new Progress overnight and deactivate the systems of the newly arrived craft before its cargo is unloaded over the next few weeks. Progress 24 holds 1,720 pounds of propellant for the Russian thrusters, 110 pounds of oxygen and almost 3,300 pounds of spare parts, experiment hardware and life support components. In addition to preparing for the cargo ship's arrival, the Expedition 14 crew worked this week on a variety of station maintenance tasks and science experiments. Lopez-Alegria and Flight Engineer Suni Williams reported what they ate and drank, and collected blood and urine samples as part of an experiment know as Nutrition. The experiment looks at how the human body processes nutrients in microgravity. Lopez-Alegria replaced limited life components in the Volatile Organic Analyzer (VOA), part of the Crew Health Care System. The VOA is a gas analysis system used to assess the levels of organic compounds in the station atmosphere, some of which could become harmful to the crew in high concentrations. The old components will be returned to Earth on the next shuttle mission. Williams focused on work with lentil seedlings as part of an experiment called Threshold Acceleration for Gravisensing, or "Gravi." The experiment uses a European Modular Cultivation System centrifuge to document the effects of varying levels of gravity on the development of plant roots with an eye toward growing edible plants for future, long-duration spaceflights. Tyruin worked with a number of Russian experiments, including an instrumented workout on a stationary bicycle to collect data on ways to limit bone and muscle density loss associated with long-duration spaceflights. All three crew members also spoke with experts on the ground planning the upcoming Expedition 14 spacewalks. Lopez-Alegria, Tyurin and Williams will begin on-board preparations for those spacewalks along with a fourth to remove the navigation antenna from Progress 23. The first three spacewalks by Lopez-Alegria and Williams are designed to continue outfitting the newly activated cooling systems for the station's truss and to continue preparations for the relocation of the P6 solar array truss structure. For more about the crew's activities and station sighting opportunities:

With flags around the nation still at half
staff in memory of the late President Gerald R. Ford, Vice President
Richard B. Cheney called today's naming of the Navy's newest aircraft
carrier in Ford's honor an even more fitting tribute because it looks to
the future.

Speaking today at the Pentagon naming ceremony for the ship, Cheney
joined Navy Secretary Donald C. Winter and other officials and
servicemembers in naming the first of the new CVN-21 class of aircraft carrier the
USS Gerald R. Ford.

The new class will replace the USS Enterprise and CVN-68 class
carriers.

When USS Gerald R. Ford enters the Navy fleet in seven or eight years,
it and its sister ships "will help ensure the sea power of the United
States for the next half century," the vice president said.

Winter described the capability the new carriers will bring to the
fleet. "This fleet of the most technologically advanced aircraft carriers
in the world will be the Navy's premier forward asset for crisis
response and principal platforms in providing early, decisive striking power
in a major combat operation," he told the audience.

The new carriers will be able to generate 25 percent more aircraft
sorties than current carriers, generate three times the electricity, and
include an improved, fully integrated warfare system and other new design
technologies, he said.

"CVN-21 is an investment in our future, and the Department of the Navy
is urgently moving forward to turn our plans into reality," Winter
said.

Cheney described the technical marvel the USS Ford will present when it
hits the high seas. "When completed, the USS Gerald R. Ford will be a
sight to behold: 100,000 tons of American ingenuity and power, riding 20
stories above water level, about as long as the Empire State Building,
and able to sail the oceans for 20 years without refueling," he said.

Winter said USS Ford and its sister carriers will send a message
wherever they sail. "A U.S. Navy aircraft carrier is a symbol recognized
around the world," he said. "It represents American power. It is a reminder
of America's global interests and global reach. It is, in the eyes of
freedom-loving people everywhere, a safeguard in a troubled and
dangerous world."

As an example, he noted the Jan. 11 announcement that President Bush
had ordered an additional carrier strike group, the USS Stennis group, to
the Middle East. "We do not expect this to be the last time the
commander in chief will be turning to Navy carriers to respond immediately to
a crisis far from our shores," Winter said.

Like Bush, Ford recognized the important capability carriers bring to
the Navy, Cheney said. "He understood that protecting the American
people required defending our interests in far-away places," he said. "He
understood that, for our forces to be credible, they must be able to
deploy wherever and whenever needed." This, he said, requires the power to
sail the world's oceans and control the water's surface, the ocean
depths and the skies overhead.

Winter called the naming of the first CVN-78 carrier after Ford a
fitting way to honor the former president's service and recognize his deep,
lifelong personal connection to aircraft carriers. "He served aboard a
carrier during (World War II)," Winter said of Ford. "As president, he
commanded carriers in the fleet. During his tenure as president, he
also commissioned USS Nimitz, the first in its class of nuclear-powered
carriers.

"No one would have appreciated more the honor of having a carrier named
after him than President Ford," Winter said.

Susan Ford Bales, the late president's daughter, thanked the U.S.
military for the tribute its members paid her father during his funeral
services and expressed the family's pride in having an aircraft carrier
named for him.

She recounted Ford's own words, when he knew Winter was considering
naming a carrier for him, as expressed in a personal letter. "It is a
source of indescribable pride and humility to know that an aircraft carrier
bearing my name may be permanently associated with the valor and
patriotism of the men and women of the United States Navy," Ford wrote
shortly before his Dec. 26 death.

Betty Ford, Ford's widow, was not at today's ceremony but watched it
from home on the Pentagon Channel, her daughter noted at the ceremony

Posted by Bill at 02:44 PM | Permalink

Jan 21

Vancouver 2010 response to the re-inflation of BC Place Stadium’s roof

Jan 19

Denaro Athletes Newsletter - Jan. 20, 2007 Denaro fighters will be in action this weekend in a couple of different organizations. In the IFL, John Gunderson will be making his first appearance for the Reno Lions. Also in action will be John Alessio, Alex Karlexis, and Brendan Seguin fighting for the WEC in Las Vegas, NV! John Gunderson vs. Josh Odom John "Quick Guns" Gunderson makes his IFL debut on Friday, January 19th at the Oakland Coliseum. Gunderson will be representing Ken Shamrock's Lions out of Reno, NV. Gunderson will square off in a lightweight match up against IFL veteran Josh Odom. Gunderson is in great shape and is excited about the opportunity to showcase his skills in MMA's premier league! Photo by www.ifl.tv. For more information log onto www.ifl.tv. John Alessio vs. Brian Gassaway "The Natural" John Alessio looks to get back on the winning track when he faces crafty veteran Brian Gassaway. Both fighters have a wealth of experience and have over 65 fights combined. This match up will take place in the newly re-vamped WEC promotion and the winner will move on to title contention in the welterweight division. John is very focused for this fight and feels he will be the man to beat in the 170 lb. class. For more information log onto www.wec.tv John Alessio is proudly endorsed by Alex Karalexis vs. Olaf Alfonso Alex "Assassin" Karalexis will be on the upcoming WEC card on January 20th. He will square off against heavy-handed Olaf Alfonso from Enseneda, Mexico. Alfonso is known as a dangerous slugger who is not afraid to trade with his opponents from the opening seconds. The fight will take place at The Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas, NV. For more information log onto www.wec.tv Alex Karalexis is proudly endorsed by Brendan Seguin vs. Fernando Gonzalez Brendan "The Caucasian Devastation" Seguin looks to make a statement in his WEC debut. He will be taking on dangerous and scrappy Fernando Gonzalez out of Temecula, CA. Brendan promises to not disappoint and has been training extremely hard for his upcoming bout. Both competitors are hungry and this bout could potentially be the fight of the night! For more information log onto www.wec.tv Brendan Seguin is proudly endorsed by Denaro Fighters in Recent Action Chris Leben UFC 66 "Ortiz vs Lidell II", December 30, 2006 at The MGM Grand Garden Arena, in Las Vegas, NV. Chris "The Crippler" Leben was submitted Saturday night at UFC 66 but showed himself to be a true gentleman in defeat! After controlling the first round with solid striking and great defense, Leben got caught in a tight guillotine choke at 4:03 of the second round. In his post fight interview Leben expressed himself in diplomatic fashion and made no excuse for his loss. Leben is already back at the gym training and does not plan to sit around the losing side of things for too long! Look for Leben to come back strong in his next fight! For more information log onto www.crippler.tv.   Check Out Denaro Athletes On The Web John Alessio www.johnalessio.tv Dennis Davis Edwin Deweese www.edwindewees.tv Melvin Guillard www.youngassassin.com Ed Herman www.edherman.tv Alex Karalexis www.alexkaralexis.com Chris Leben www.crippler.tv Nathan Quarry www.nathanquarry.com Joe Riggs www.joeriggs.tv Lodune Sincaid Evan Tanner David Terrell www.davidterrell.tv © Copyright 2006 Denaro Sports Marketing | Contact Us

Robert Roveta - Denaro Sports Marketing - Building the Complete Athlete www.denaroathletes.com | rroveta@denaroathletes.com | office: 702.451.5038

Jan 16

TORRANCE, Calif., Jan. 16American Honda Motor Co., Inc. will place three television advertisements during the broadcast of this year's Super Bowl on CBS, the company announced today. Two fifteen-second Element advertisements, along with a thirty-second spot highlighting Honda's position as the most fuel efficient car company in America are planned for the February 4th airing.

"The Super Bowl remains one of the best opportunities to reach a wide television audience in one shot," said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda. "Many Super Bowl viewers look forward to the commercials almost as much as the game, and Honda has taken this great opportunity to highlight a couple of its key brand values through fun and creative ads."

The three separate advertisements will run during the fourth quarter of the game. Two fifteen-second spots featuring the Honda Element as part of the popular "Crab" campaign will highlight Honda's fun image, and a thirty-second spot called "Slalom" will reinforce Honda's fuel-efficiency leadership.

Consumer information about the Honda products is available at www.honda.com.

Source: American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

Postcards from the Northern Tour: Kugluktuk

John and the team were greeted at the tiny airport by Nunavut Premier Paul Okalik and many community members. School children wore traditional dress and performed traditional drumming, dancing and singing.

After muskox burgers for lunch at the Jimmy Hikok Ilihakvik Elementary school, some kids were very excited to recognize VANOC’s Lara Mussell-Savage. The grade seven students met Lara when they travelled to the 2010 Information Centre in Whistler in October 2005 to build a traditional inukshuk as a gift for VANOC with rocks they brought all the way from Nunavut (read the story on the Aboriginal Youth Cultural Sharing Day for more details). At the assembly, VANOC was delighted to present the school with a donation of lacrosse equipment as a thank you for their journey to Whistler.

The rest of Thursday was filled with a tour of the town, a trip to the elders’ centre for some bannock and tea and a community square dance. The team was delighted by the elders who played the drums and sang – telling stories of their songs and answering all of John Furlong’s many questions. At the dance, the team was entertained by square dancers of all ages. The elders have no worry about this tradition carrying forward in this community – it’s tough to get the youth off the dance floor! The whole VANOC team participated in the square dancing and all enjoyed the lesson.

After a farewell pancake breakfast on Friday, there was an exchange of gifts. John presented the Premier with a Vancouver 2010 flag and, in exchange, John received a gorgeous carving of a polar bear from the Premier who spoke kind words about John being a true friend of the people in the Far North. 

Following the breakfast, talented young athletes (many of which were past Arctic Winter Games competitors) performed a demonstration of traditional sports, including the two foot high kick, the one foot high kick, the finger pull and the head pull. These sports require no special equipment, but much athletic ability. Two athletes from the group will be going to the 2007 Canada Winter Games in Whitehorse to compete in table tennis. 

The weather won out on the group’s quest to find inuksuit in the wild. However, the team received numerous small, hand-made versions from kids in the community which VANOC will cherish for years to come. 

 As our team heads home, many thanks are owed to everyone in the north who helped us make this tour a great success. Vancouver 2010 is excited to see and share so much enthusiasm for Canada’s Games!

Posted by Bill at 10:04 AM | Permalink

Jan 15

Complete list of winners at Monday's 64th annual Golden Globes presented by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association in Beverly Hills, Calif.:

MOTION PICTURES

_Picture, Drama: _"Babel"

_Actress, Drama: Helen Mirren, "The Queen"

_Actor, Drama: Forest Whitaker, "The Last King of Scotland"

_Picture, Musical or Comedy: "Dreamgirls"

_Actress, Musical or Comedy: Meryl Streep, "The Devil Wears Prada"

_Actor, Musical or Comedy: Sacha Baron Cohen, "Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan"

_Supporting Actress: Jennifer Hudson, "Dreamgirls"

_Supporting Actor: Eddie Murphy, "Dreamgirls"

_Director: Martin Scorsese, "The Departed"

_Movie Screenplay: Peter Morgan, "The Queen"

_Foreign Language: "Letters From Iwo Jima," USA/Japan

_Original Score: Alexandre Desplat, "The Painted Veil"

_Original Song: "The Song of the Heart" from "Happy Feet"

_Animated Film: "Cars"

TELEVISION

_Series, Drama: "Grey's Anatomy," ABC

_Actress, Drama: Kyra Sedgwick, "The Closer"

_Actor, Drama: Hugh Laurie, "House"

_Series, Musical or Comedy: "Ugly Betty," ABC

_Actress, Musical or Comedy: America Ferrera, "Ugly Betty"

_Actor, Musical or Comedy: Alec Baldwin, "30 Rock"

_Miniseries or movie: "Elizabeth I," HBO

_Actress, Miniseries or Movie: Helen Mirren, "Elizabeth I"

_Actor, Miniseries or Movie: Bill Nighy, "Gideon's Daughter"

_Supporting Actress, Series, Miniseries or Movie: Emily Blunt, "Gideon's Daughter"

_Supporting Actor, Series, Miniseries or Movie: Jeremy Irons, "Elizabeth I"

_Cecil B. DeMille Award: Warren Beatty

Cecil B. DeMille Award

Warren Beatty

Best Motion Picture - Drama

Babel
Anonymous Content Production/Una Producción De Zeta Film/Central Films Production; Paramount Pictures/Paramount Vantage

Bobby
Michel Litvak Productions/Bold Films; MGM/The Weinstein Company

The Departed
Warner Bros. Pictures

Little Children
New Line Cinema

The Queen
Granada; Miramax Films

Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture - Drama

Penélope Cruz – Volver

Judi Dench – Notes On A Scandal

Maggie Gyllenhaal – sherrybaby

Helen Mirren – The Queen

Kate Winslet – Little Children

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Drama

Leonardo DiCaprio – Blood Diamond

Leonardo DiCaprio – The Departed

Peter O'Toole – Venus

Will Smith – The Pursuit Of Happyness

Forest Whitaker – The Last King Of Scotland

Best Motion Picture - Musical Or Comedy

Borat: Cultural Learnings Of America For Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Kazakhstan
One America; Twentieth Century Fox

The Devil Wears Prada
Twentieth Century Fox

Dreamgirls
DreamWorks Pictures/Paramount Pictures

Little Miss Sunshine
Big Beach/Bona Fide Productions; Fox Searchlight Pictures

Thank You For Smoking
Room 9 Entertainment/David O. Sacks Production/Contentfilm; Fox Searchlight Pictures

Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy

Annette Bening – Running With Scissors

Toni Collette – Little Miss Sunshine

Beyoncé Knowles – Dreamgirls

Meryl Streep – The Devil Wears Prada

Renée Zellweger – Miss Potter

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Musical Or Comedy

Sacha Cohen – Borat: Cultural Learnings Of America For Make Benefit Glorious Nation Of Kazakhstan

Johnny Depp – Pirates Of The Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest

Aaron Eckhart – Thank You For Smoking

Chiwetel Ejiofor – Kinky Boots

Will Ferrell – Stranger Than Fiction

Best Performance by an Actress In A Supporting Role in a Motion Picture

Adriana Barraza – Babel

Cate Blanchett – Notes On A Scandal

Emily Blunt – The Devil Wears Prada

Jennifer Hudson – Dreamgirls

Rinko Kikuchi – Babel

Best Performance by an Actor In A Supporting Role in a Motion Picture

Ben Affleck – Hollywoodland

Eddie Murphy – Dreamgirls

Jack Nicholson – The Departed

Brad Pitt – Babel

Mark Wahlberg – The Departed

Best Animated Feature Film

Cars Walt Disney Pictures/Pixar Animation Studio; Buena Vista Pictures Distribution

Happy Feet
Kingdom Pictures, LLC; Warner Bros. Pictures/Village Roadshow Pictures

Monster House
Columbia Pictures; Sony Pictures Releasing

Best Foreign Languge Film

Apocalypto (United States)
Touchstone Pictures/Icon Productions; Buena Vista Pictures Distribution

Letters From Iwo Jima (Japan, United States)
Warner Bros. Pictures/DreamWorks Pictures; Warner Bros. Pictures

The Lives Of Others (Germany)
Wiedemann & Berg/Bayerischer Rundfunk/ARTE/Creado Film; Sony Pictures Classics

Pan's Labyrinth (Mexico)
Tequila Gang/Esperanto Filmoj/Estudios Picasso; Picturehouse

Volver (Spain)
El Deseo; Sony Pictures Classics

Best Director - Motion Picture

Clint Eastwood – Flags Of Our Fathers

Clint Eastwood – Letters From Iwo Jima

Stephen Frears – The Queen

Alejandro Iñárritu – Babel

Martin Scorsese – The Departed

Best Screenplay - Motion Picture

Babel
Written by Guillermo Arriaga

The Departed
Written by William Monahan

Little Children
Written by Todd Field, Tom Perrotta

Notes On A Scandal
Written by Patrick Marber

The Queen
Written by Peter Morgan

Best Original Score - Motion Picture

The Painted Veil (Desplat)
Composed by Alexandre Desplat

The Fountain (Mansell)
Composed by Clint Mansell

Babel (Santaolalla)
Composed by Gustavo Santaolalla

Nomad (Siliotto)
Composed by Carlo Siliotto

The Da Vinci Code (Zimmer)
Composed by Hans Zimmer

Best Original Song - Motion Picture

"A Father's Way" – The Pursuit Of Happyness
Music By: Seal and Christopher Bruce
Lyrics By: Seal

"Listen" – Dreamgirls
Music & Lyrics By: Anne Preven, Scott Cutler, Beyoncé Knowles and Henry Krieger

"Never Gonna Break My Faith" – Bobby
Music & Lyrics By: Andrea Remanda, Bryan Adams and Eliot Kennedy

"The Song Of The Heart" – Happy Feet
Music & Lyrics By: Prince Rogers Nelson

"Try Not To Remember" – Home Of The Brave
Music & Lyrics By: Sheryl Crow

Best Television Series - Drama

24 (FOX)
Real Time Productions/Imagine Television/Twentieth Century Fox Television; FOX

Big Love (HBO)
Anima Sola/Playtone Productions/HBO Entertainment; HBO

Grey's Anatomy (ABC)
Touchstone Television; ABC

Heroes (NBC)
NBC Universal Television Studio/Tailwind Productions; NBC

Lost (ABC)
Touchstone Television; ABC

Best Performance by an Actress In A Television Series - Drama

Patricia Arquette – Medium (NBC)

Edie Falco – The Sopranos (HBO)

Evangeline Lilly – Lost (ABC)

Ellen Pompeo – Grey's Anatomy (ABC)

Kyra Sedgwick – The Closer (TNT)

Best Performance by an Actor In A Television Series - Drama

Patrick Dempsey – Grey's Anatomy (ABC)

Michael C. Hall – Dexter (SHOWTIME)

Hugh Laurie – House (FOX)

Bill Paxton – Big Love (HBO)

Kiefer Sutherland – 24 (FOX)

Best Television Series - Musical Or Comedy

Desperate Housewives (ABC)
Touchstone Television; ABC

Entourage (HBO)
Leverage/Closest to the Hole/HBO Entertainment; HBO

The Office (NBC)
Deedle Dee Productions/Reveille/NBC Universal Television Studio; NBC

Ugly Betty (ABC)
Touchstone Television; ABC

Weeds (SHOWTIME)
Showtime/Lionsgate Television/Tilted Productions, Inc.; SHOWTIME

Best Performance by an Actress In A Television Series - Musical Or Comedy

Marcia Cross – Desperate Housewives (ABC)

America Ferrera – Ugly Betty (ABC)

Felicity Huffman – Desperate Housewives (ABC)

Julia Louis-Dreyfus – The New Adventures Of Old Christine (CBS)

Mary-Louise Parker – Weeds (SHOWTIME)

Best Performance by an Actor In A Television Series - Musical Or Comedy

Alec Baldwin – 30 Rock (NBC)

Zach Braff – Scrubs (NBC)

Steve Carell – The Office (NBC)

Jason Lee – My Name Is Earl (NBC)

Tony Shalhoub – Monk (USA)

Best Mini-Series Or Motion Picture Made for Television

Bleak House (PBS)
Masterpiece Theatre/BBC/WGBH Boston/Deep Indigo; PBS

Broken Trail (AMC)
Butchers Run Films/Once Upon a Time Films/Sony Pictures Television; AMC

Elizabeth I (HBO)
Company Pictures/channel 4/HBO Films; HBO

Mrs. Harris (HBO)
Killer Films/Number 9 Films/John Wells Productions/HBO Films; HBO

Prime Suspect: The Final Act (PBS)
Masterpiece Theatre/Granada/WGBH Boston; PBS

Best Performance by an Actress In A Mini-series or Motion Picture Made for Television

Gillian Anderson – Bleak House (PBS)

Annette Bening – Mrs. Harris (HBO)

Helen Mirren – Elizabeth I (HBO)

Helen Mirren – Prime Suspect: The Final Act (PBS)

Sophie Okonedo – Tsunami, The Aftermath (HBO)

Best Performance by an Actor in a Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television

André Braugher – Thief (FX)

Robert Duvall – Broken Trail (AMC)

Michael Ealy – Sleeper Cell: American Terror (SHOWTIME)

Chiwetel Ejiofor – Tsunami, The Aftermath (HBO)

Ben Kingsley – Mrs. Harris (HBO)

Bill Nighy – Gideon's Daughter (BBC)

Matthew Perry – The Ron Clark Story (TNT)

Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Series, Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television

Emily Blunt – Gideon's Daughter (BBC)

Toni Collette – Tsunami, The Aftermath (HBO)

Katherine Heigl – Grey's Anatomy (ABC)

Sarah Paulson – Studio 60 On The Sunset Strip (NBC)

Elizabeth Perkins – Weeds (SHOWTIME)

Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Series, Mini-Series or Motion Picture Made for Television

Thomas Haden Church – Broken Trail (AMC)

Jeremy Irons – Elizabeth I (HBO)

Justin Kirk – Weeds (SHOWTIME)

Masi Oka – Heroes (NBC)

Jeremy Piven – Entourage (HBO)

 

Posted by Bill at 12:11 PM | Permalink

Jan 14

(C) MBN 2007 William Hoehne & Joyce Chow

Posted by Bill at 09:52 AM | Permalink

Posted by Bill at 09:07 AM | Permalink

Jan 13

 (C) MBN 2007 William Hoehne

Jan 12 

C) MBN 2007 William Hoehne

Posted by Bill at 10:17 PM | Permalink

Jan 19

ACTOR® NOMINEE KEVIN NEALON (WEEDS) TO OPEN THE RED CARPET
FOR THE 13TH ANNUAL SCREEN ACTORS GUILD AWARDS® JAN. 28 WITH A CHAMPAGNE TAITTINGER TOAST

79th Academy Awards® Nominations to Be Announced Tuesday

Beverly Hills, CA – Nominations for the 79th Academy Awards will be announced tomorrow (Tuesday, January 23) by Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences President Sid Ganis and Academy member and past Oscar® nominee Salma Hayek.

Ganis and Hayek will unveil the nominations in 10 of the 24 award categories at a live 5:30 a.m. news conference at the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Beverly Hills. More than 400 media representatives from around the world are expected to attend the announcement. Nominations in all categories will be distributed simultaneously to press in attendance and via the Internet on oscar.com, the official Web site of the 79th Academy Awards.

Academy Awards for outstanding film achievements of 2006 will be presented on Sunday, February 25, 2007, at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center®.

The Oscars® will be televised live by the ABC Television Network at 5 p.m. PST (8 p.m. EST), beginning with a half-hour red carpet arrivals segment, “The Road to the Oscars.”

# # #

©A.M.P.A.S.®

Jan 18

HOUSTON and AUSTIN, Texas, Jan. 18 MySpace Inc., and its parent company, News Corp., (NYSE:NWS) have been sued in California state court by four families who allege that their minor daughters were solicited online and then sexually abused by adult MySpace users, according to the law firms representing the families.

Families from New York, Texas, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina filed separate suits Wednesday in Los Angeles Superior Court, alleging negligence, recklessness, fraud, and negligent misrepresentation by the companies. The families are represented by the law firms of Barry & Loewy LLP, of Austin, Tex., and Arnold & Itkin LLP, of Houston.

The plaintiffs include:

-- A 15-year-old Pennsylvania girl, "Julie Doe II," who was lured to a

meeting by an adult MySpace user, kidnapped, and sexually assaulted in

2006. The adult MySpace user is awaiting trial on 12 charges of

unlawful sexual conduct with a minor. (The cause number is SC092421.)

-- A 15-year-old Texas girl, "Julie Doe III," who was lured to a meeting,

drugged and assaulted in 2006 by an adult MySpace user. Houston police

officers and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents located the

girl. The adult MySpace user later pled guilty to sexual assault and is

serving a 10-year sentence in a Texas penitentiary. (The cause number

is SC092423.)

-- A 14-year-old New York girl, "Julie Doe IV," was lured to a meeting by

an adult MySpace user, severely intoxicated with alcohol and illicit

drugs forced upon her, and then sexually assaulted by the adult MySpace

user and his adult friend. The men later were charged with felony

sexual assault and/or felony rape by New York authorities. The friend

of the adult MySpace user pled guilty and is now in a New York

penitentiary. The adult MySpace user is awaiting trial. (The cause

number is SC092424.)

-- Two South Carolina sisters, 14-year-old "Julie Doe V" and 15-year-old

"Julie Doe VI," who were lured to a meeting, severely intoxicated by

alcohol and illicit drugs, and sexually assaulted and raped by two

adult MySpace users. Both men were arrested by South Carolina

authorities and are awaiting criminal prosecution. (The cause number is

SC092422.)

Attorney Jason A. Itkin, of Arnold & Itkin LLP, stated, "Like state attorneys general throughout the nation, we believe that more must be done to ensure that social networking sites are made safer. In our view, MySpace waited entirely too long to attempt to institute meaningful security measures that effectively increase the safety of their underage users."

Attorney Adam J. Loewy, of Barry & Loewy LLP, stated, "Families are the first line of defense for children, but these cases show the practical realities of social networking sites. Blaming the families of abuse victims who were solicited online, as some have done, is a cynical excuse that ignores the fact that social networking sites can lead to heinous abuse by Internet predators. It is now clear that MySpace recognizes that serious security problems exist."

 ANNE HATHAWAY AND DICK VAN DYKE TO PRESENT SAG’S 43RD LIFE ACHIEVEMENT AWARD TO JULIE ANDREWS AT THE 13th ANNUAL SCREEN ACTORS GUILD AWARDS®
2007 SAG Awards will be Simulcast Live on TNT and TBS Sunday, Jan. 28

NYC Oscar® Party to Be Held at the Legendary St. Regis Hotel

NEW YORK, NY — On Oscar Night®, Sunday, February 25, New York-area members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will celebrate the 79th Academy Awards® at the St. Regis Hotel in New York City.

This marks the second year that the annual party, organized by the Academy’s New York Events Committee, will be held at the St. Regis. The event is open to all East Coast-based members of the Academy.

“Last year’s party was a tremendous success. Our guests enjoyed a delicious meal while watching the Academy Awards telecast,” said Arlene Dahl, chair of the Academy’s Oscar Night party. “The ambience of the hotel is one of sheer elegance.”

Following a cocktail reception in the St. Regis’ Louis XVI Suite, the invited guests will adjourn to the Versailles Room for dinner and viewing of the Awards telecast on the ABC Television Network. The menu will be created by Executive Chef Richard Brown.

“Not only do the festivities and the historic setting of the St. Regis recall the original Academy Awards banquet at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, but the hotel itself has a very strong connection to New York filmmaking, which makes the night even more special for our guests,” added Bud Rosenthal, chair of the Academy’s New York Events Committee.

A 1904 Beaux Arts landmark in the heart of midtown Manhattan, the St. Regis Hotel has been used as a shooting location for many films, including “The Godfather,” “Taxi Driver,” “Miss Congeniality,” “The First Wives Club,” “Hannah and Her Sisters,” “Radio Days,” “Live and Let Die,” and “The Devil Wears Prada.”

The St. Regis Hotel is located at 2 East 55th Street in Manhattan.

Academy Awards for outstanding film achievements of 2006 will be presented on Sunday, February 25, 2007, at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and televised live by the ABC Television Network at 5 p.m. PST (8 p.m. EST), beginning with a half-hour arrivals segment, “The Road to the Oscars®.”

# # #

©A.M.P.A.S.®

Annette Bening, Steve Carell, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Teri Hatcher, Ashton Kutcher, Sandra Oh, SAG President Alan Rosenberg, Kyra Sedgwick and Forest Whitaker Will Be Presenters at the 13th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards®
13th Annual SAG Awards Ceremonies to be Simulcast Sunday, Jan. 28, on TNT and TBS at 8 pm ET/PT

Meet the Oscars®, Los Angeles

Beverly Hills, CA — Fifty Oscars, four statuettes that belonged to a Hollywood legend, two Testimonial Awards and one statuette for the public to hold will be on display at “Meet the Oscars, Los Angeles,” located on the third level of the Hollywood & Highland Center® beginning on Friday, February 9, at 10 a.m. The exhibition will remain open through Saturday, February 24.

“Meet the Oscars, Los Angeles” will provide visitors the opportunity to walk among the displays and be photographed holding an Oscar®, and see the statuettes that were awarded to Katharine Hepburn for her performances in “Morning Glory” (1932/33), “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” (1967), “The Lion in Winter” (1968) and “On Golden Pond” (1981). The Honorary Academy Award® that will be presented to composer-conductor Ennio Morricone and the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award to be presented to former Paramount Pictures chairman Sherry Lansing will also be on display.

The remaining 50 Oscar statuettes featured in the exhibition will be presented to winners at the 79th Academy Awards® ceremony on February 25.

The exhibition will also feature interactive “Oscar trivia” kiosks, where visitors can test their knowledge of Oscar winners, movie quotes and Academy Awards factoids.

Each Oscar weighs in at 8½ pounds and stands 13½ inches tall. Handmade annually by R.S. Owens & Company in Chicago, the statuettes are made of britannia, a metal alloy, and are plated in copper, nickel, silver and 24-karat gold.

“Meet the Oscars, Los Angeles” will be open Sunday to Thursday from noon to 8 p.m., and Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. On Saturday, February 24, the exhibition will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Academy Awards for outstanding film achievements of 2006 will be presented on Sunday, February 25, 2007, at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center, and televised live by the ABC Television Network at 5 p.m. PST (8 p.m. EST), beginning with a half-hour arrivals segment, “The Road to the Oscars.”

# # #

©A.M.P.A.S.®

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- American Film Institute (AFI) today announced the 10th annual installment of its Emmy Award-winning AFI's 100 Years... series. AFI's 100 Years...100 Movies -- 10th Anniversary Edition will count down the 100 greatest movies of all time in a three-hour television event on CBS in June. The program will consider classic favorites and newly eligible films released from 1996 to 2006. AFI will undertake this program every 10 years to mark changing cultural perspectives.

"AFI has created the most comprehensive and credible examination of excellence in American film with the AFI's 100 Years... series," said AFI President and CEO Jean Picker Firstenberg. "And, whether you agree with these lists or not, they have sparked a 10-year conversation on what makes a great movie and why. We are excited to ignite this conversation once again, this year and every 10 to come. Let the debate begin!"

Today's announcement also marks the beginning of a national "conversation" with the public, conducted on the institute's website, www.AFI.com. Movie fans who register online and download the official ballot of 400 films will be eligible to win a chance to attend the AFI Life Achievement Award tribute to Al Pacino, as well as posters and other AFI memorabilia.

Film enthusiasts will also be able to add their own voices to the online conversation by naming their favorite movie of all time, and sharing the reasons for their choices. A video gallery of stars' favorite movies, as well as other interactive features, will also be added during the coming months leading up to the June broadcast.

Since its inception, the AFI program has garnered considerable attention and included AFI's 100 Years...100 Movies (1998), 100 Stars (1999), 100 Laughs (2000), 100 Thrills (2001), 100 Passions (2002), 100 Heroes & Villains (2003), 100 Songs (2004), 100 Movie Quotes (2005) and 100 Cheers (2006).

For the 10th consecutive year, the primetime special will be executive produced and directed by Gary Smith; executive produced for AFI by former AFI Board Chair Emeritus Frederick S. Pierce; and produced by Dann Netter and Bob Gazzale. SFM Entertainment LLC is the distributor of the program. Past sponsors of the series have included AT&T, General Motors, Pepsi, Johnson & Johnson, Best Buy, Anheuser-Busch, Colgate-Palmolive, Sony and all major motion picture companies.

About the Jury Process

Today, AFI distributed a ballot with 400 nominated movies to a jury of over 1,500 leaders from the creative community, including film artists (directors, screenwriters, actors, editors, cinematographers), critics and historians.

AFI asks jurors to consider the following criteria in their selection process:

FEATURE-LENGTH FICTION FILM

Narrative format, typically over 60 minutes in length.

AMERICAN FILM

Motion picture with significant creative and/or production elements from

the United States.

CRITICAL RECOGNITION

Formal commendation in print, television and digital media.

MAJOR AWARD WINNER

Recognition from competitive events including awards from peer groups,

critics, guilds and major film festivals.

POPULARITY OVER TIME

Including success at the box office, television and cable airings, and

DVD/VHS sales and rentals.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

A film's mark on the history of the moving image through visionary

narrative devices, technical innovation or other groundbreaking

achievements.

CULTURAL IMPACT

A film's mark on American society in matters of style and substance.

AFI allows five write-in votes per ballot.

Interesting Facts About the Ballot

* All of the 100 honored films from the original AFI's 100 Years...100

Movies list appear on the ballot.

* Henry Fonda is the most represented male actor with 10 films. James

Stewart and Cary Grant each have nine, while Robert De Niro and Jack

Nicholson have eight.

* Katharine Hepburn is the most represented female actor with seven

films. Lillian Gish and Bette Davis each have five.

* 1939 and 1942 are the most represented years with 11 films each.

* Alfred Hitchcock and William Wyler are the most represented directors

with 10 films each. Steven Spielberg and Howard Hawks are represented

with eight films each, and Billy Wilder and George Stevens have seven.

* Ernst Lehman is the most represented screenwriter with six films.

* The ballot includes entries that span from Cecil B De Mille's THE CHEAT

from 1915, to CRASH, BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN, GOOD NIGHT, AND GOOD LUCK and

HOTEL RWANDA, all from 2005.

* About 11 percent of the ballot (44 films) comes from the last 10 years,

newly eligible since the original AFI's 100 Years...100 Movies. These

films include, in chronological order: LA CONFIDENTIAL, GOOD WILL

HUNTING, TITANIC, AS GOOD AS IT GETS, AUSTIN POWERS: INTERNATIONAL MAN

OF MYSTERY, BOOGIE NIGHTS, SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE, SAVING PRIVATE RYAN,

RUSHMORE, THE MATRIX, FIGHT CLUB, THREE KINGS, THE SIXTH SENSE, THE

INSIDER, THERE'S SOMETHING ABOUT MARY, AMERICAN BEAUTY, BEING JOHN

MALKOVICH, REQUIEM FOR A DREAM, GLADIATOR, TRAFFIC, ERIN BROCKOVICH,

SHREK, MOULIN ROUGE!, MEMENTO, THE LORD OF THE RINGS: THE FELLOWSHIP OF

THE RING, A BEAUTIFUL MIND, THE LORD OF THE RINGS: THE TWO TOWERS,

CHICAGO, THE HOURS, FINDING NEMO, MYSTIC RIVER, PIRATES OF THE

CARIBBEAN: THE CURSE OF THE BLACK PEARL, THE LORD OF THE RINGS: THE

RETURN OF THE KING, LOST IN TRANSLATION, SIDEWAYS, HARRY POTTER AND THE

PRISONER OF AZKABAN, MILLION DOLLAR BABY, THE AVIATOR, ETERNAL SUNSHINE

OF THE SPOTLESS MIND, SPIDER-MAN 2, BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN, GOOD NIGHT, AND

GOOD LUCK, CRASH and HOTEL RWANDA.

About the American Film Institute

AFI celebrates its 40th Anniversary in 2007.

AFI is a national institute providing leadership in screen education and the recognition and celebration of excellence in the art of film, television and digital media. AFI trains the next generation of filmmakers at its world-renowned Conservatory, maintains America's film heritage through the AFI Catalog of Feature Films and explores new digital technologies in entertainment and education through the AFI Digital Content Lab and K-12 Screen Education Center. As the largest nonprofit exhibitor in the US, AFI ON SCREEN encompasses the annual AFI FEST presented by Audi: AFI Los Angeles International Film Festival -- as well as year-round programming at ArcLight Hollywood and the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center in Silver Spring, Maryland, including SILVERDOCS: AFI/Discovery Channel Documentary Festival. AFI AWARDS, the annual almanac for the 21st century, honors the most outstanding motion pictures and television programs of the year, while AFI's 100 Years . . . series has ignited extraordinary public interest in classic American movies. And, during the past 34 years, AFI's Life Achievement Award has become the highest honor for a career in film. Additional information about AFI is available at AFI.com.

Jan 17

Jon Stewart and Cheryl Hines Visit Jack's Rockin' Clubhouse on Two New Episodes of NOGGIN's Hit Music Series Jack's Big Music Show in February

NOGGIN and Nick Jr. to Simulcast 'Groundhog Day' with Stewart on Friday, February 2

Jack's to Feature Never-Before-Seen Kids' Music Videos By The Laurie Berkner Band, Lisa Loeb, The Flaming Lips' Steven Drozd and Blue's Clues' Steve Burns

NEW YORK, Jan. 17 It's a star-studded lineup at Jack's clubhouse, as Jon Stewart and Cheryl Hines visit musical puppets Jack, Mary and Mel this February on NOGGIN's original hit series Jack's Big Music Show. Stewart will play Groundhog News Network reporter Brunk Stinegrouber in "Groundhog Day," which will premiere as a simulcast on NOGGIN* and Nick Jr. on Friday, February 2 (on Groundhog Day) at 12:00 p.m. (ET/PT). On Saturday, February 10 at 12:00 p.m. (ET/PT), NOGGIN, the commercial-free educational network from Nickelodeon, will debut Hines' guest-starring role as professional dog stylist Sudsy Bubblestein in "Mel's Bath Day." Jack's Big Music Show airs regularly Monday through Friday from 1:00 - 1:30 p.m. (ET) and on weekends from 12:00 p.m. - 12:30 p.m. (ET) on NOGGIN.

The "Groundhog Day" episode will also feature an original music video collaboration by The Flaming Lips' Steven Drozd and indie rocker and former Blue's Clues star Steve Burns, entitled "I Hog The Ground (Groundhog Song)." On Sunday, February 3, the "Jack's Super Swell Sing-Along" episode will feature a new music video by recording artist Lisa Loeb entitled "Jenny Jenkins."

Jack's Big Music Show is a half-hour live-action series hosted by preschooler puppet Jack and his melodious cast of friends who play everyday at his clubhouse. A platform for kids' music, the series features videos and in- studio performances by popular children's musicians every week, including series regular The Laurie Berkner Band, AudraRox, Nuttin' But Stringz, Angelique Kidjo, Justin Roberts, Music for Aardvarks and Other Mammals, Anne Harris, Rebekah Jordan, The Quiet Two, Dirty Sock Funtime Band, Comic Book Heroes, Leon Thomas, The Trachtenburg Family Slideshow Players, J. Walter Hawkes, The Mighty Weaklings and Andrew Bird.

In "Groundhog Day," Jack is excited for his favorite holiday, Groundhog Day, and he can't wait to find out if Gertrude the Groundhog will see her shadow or not. But the scared groundhog runs into the clubhouse because she's too shy to face all of the people and cameras outside. Jack and the gang learn this is Gertrude's first Groundhog Day as the groundhog that everyone gathers around to see. Brunk Stinegrouber (JON STEWART) from the Groundhog News Network reports on whether Gertrude the Groundhog will face her fears and finally step out of the clubhouse. This episode features new music videos by The Laurie Berkner Band and Steven Drozd and Steve Burns.

In "Mel's Bath Day," Mel becomes really dirty while digging up trombones he buried in the backyard. Jack and Mary try to get Mel into the bathtub but he refuses. Just then, Sudsy Bubblestein (CHERYL HINES) Professional Dog Washer and Stylist, enters the clubhouse after being alerted there is a dirty dog in the area and she is ready to do some serious scrubbing. This episode features new music videos by The Laurie Berkner Band and AudraRox.

The mission of Jack's Big Music Show is to expose and foster an appreciation of music in young children. Music and musical instruments help children expand their universe and develop memory, language, literacy and reasoning skills as well as the cognitive, social and motor skills needed to excel in school. In Jack's clubhouse, music is pure joy -- no expectations and no right or wrong way.

Jack's Big Music Show is produced by Spiffy Pictures and was created and executive produced by David Rudman, Todd Hannert and Adam Rudman.

NOGGIN, the commercial-free, educational preschool network from Nickelodeon, currently reaches 54 million households via cable, digital cable and satellite TV. NOGGIN, which airs from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (ET), is like preschool on tv, with educational programming both on-air and online at www.noggin.com. NOGGIN and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom International Inc.

* All times for Noggin are (ET).

ACTOR® STATUETTES CAST FOR 13th ANNUAL SCREEN ACTORS GUILD AWARDS®
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2007 SAG Awards™ to be Simulcast Sunday, Jan. 28, on TNT and TBS at 8 p.m. ET/PT, 7 p.m. CT, 6 p.m. MT

- 30

 

 

Kanye West, John Legend, Fergie, Don Omar, Ivy Queen & Aventura to Perform at Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Concert Series

Tickets Now Available; VH1 and Telemundo to Air Specials

NEW YORK, Jan. 17 The musical and award-winning talents of KANYE WEST, JOHN LEGEND, FERGIE, DON OMAR, IVY QUEEN and AVENTURA will be showcased in the NFL PEPSI SMASH SUPER BOWL CONCERT SERIES slated for Thursday, Feb. 1 and Friday, Feb. 2 in South Florida. Current and former NFL players also will be on hand.

The series, which includes two concerts, will take place at the Pepsi Smash Concert Arena located next to Dolphin Stadium in the NFL Experience Built By The Home Depot. The concerts are open to the public with doors opening at 7 p.m. Tickets are now on sale.

West, Legend and Fergie will open the series 8 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 1. Tony-award winning actor and star of ABC's "Daybreak" TAYE DIGGS will host the VH1 Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Bash show. The show will be taped for airing on VH1 on Saturday, Feb. 3 at 10 p.m.

The series continues 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 2 with the Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Fiesta featuring three of the most popular Latino artists in the country -- Don Omar, Ivy Queen and Aventura. The concert, which will be hosted by Jessi Losada and Leti Coo, will be taped for airing on TELEMUNDO on Saturday, Feb. 3 at 4 p.m.

Tickets for both concerts are on sale now at www.Ticketmaster.com or by calling (866) TIX-4NFL (849-4635). Concert tickets are priced at $50 for bleacher seating and $35 for general admission (standing). The price of the concert ticket also includes admission to The NFL Experience, the league's pro football interactive theme park. The NFL Experience Built By The Home Depot is open from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 1 and Friday, Feb. 2.

Source: NFL

 

American Idol Champ Taylor Hicks' Self Titled Debut Album is Certified Platinum by the RIAA!

The first single, 'Just To Feel That Way,' goes to radio this week

Hicks begins his first headlining U.S. tour on February 21st.

NEW YORK, Jan. 17  American Idol's current reigning champion Taylor Hicks is now a platinum recording artist. His self-titled debut album TAYLOR HICKS (Arista Records/19 Recordings) was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America selling over one million copies since its release on December 12, 2006.

Hicks has reached this coveted platinum milestone prior to the release of an official single. The first single, "Just To Feel That Way," goes to radio this week.

To ring in the New Year Hicks will also kick off his first headlining tour on Wednesday, February 21st, in Jacksonville, Florida at the Florida Theater with dates currently scheduled to run through April 27th in Kansas City, MO. This is the first time fans will be able to see him perform songs from the new album in a live venue.

After a lifetime steeped in blues, soul, pop and R&B, Taylor's artistry was reaffirmed and validated in no uncertain terms this past year, when he won the fifth season of FOX's American Idol on May 24, 2006.

Source: Arista Records

 

Oprah is America's Top Favorite TV Personality for Fifth Year in a Row

Two Drama Stars Break Onto List for First Time, According to a New Harris Poll

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Jan. 17 Once again, The Harris Poll(R) has asked U.S. adults "Who is your favorite TV personality?" and for the fifth year in a row, Oprah Winfrey lands in the number one position as America's favorite television personality. Jon Stewart is in second place for the second year, while Bill O'Reilly moves up one notch to third place. Next is a newcomer to the list -- Hugh Laurie (star of the television show, "House"), who debuts in fourth place, while veteran late night host David Letterman drops from number three to fifth place. Letterman's rival, Jay Leno, is number six on the list (dropping from 2005 when he was tied for fourth place).

These are the results of a nationwide Harris Poll of 1,162 U.S. adults surveyed online between December 12 and 18, 2006 by Harris Interactive(R).

Besides Hugh Laurie, there are two other new TV personalities who make it into the top 10 list, one for the first time and one from previous years. Ray Romano returns at number seven while "24's" Kiefer Sutherland, who plays "Jack Bauer" on that show, makes his debut on the list, tied for eighth place. Rounding out the top 10 are two repeats -- Ellen DeGeneres and Conan O'Brien, who are also tied for eighth place on this list. DeGeneres dropped from number six while O'Brien dropped from number seven.

Three people dropped off the list: Jerry Seinfeld (previously ranked eighth), George Lopez (previously ninth) and Tim Allen (previously tenth). Interestingly, the list lost three sitcom stars and gained two drama stars and one sitcom star. This might be an indication of what types of television shows viewers are watching.

Not surprisingly, there are differences in favorite television personality when it comes to some demographic breaks. Women cite Oprah as their top television personality, but men choose a different talk show host -- Bill O'Reilly. There are also interesting age breaks: Echo Boomers (ages 18 to 29) say Conan O'Brien is number one, while Gen Xers (ages 30 to 41) turn away from talk and say Hugh Laurie is their favorite television personality. Baby Boomers (ages 42 to 60) say Oprah is their favorite while Matures (ages 61 and over) say it is Bill O'Reilly. Finally, even with television stars, political boundaries are drawn. Conservatives say Bill O'Reilly is number one while Liberals say Jon Stewart is their favorite.

                                 TABLE 1                          FAVORITE TV PERSONALITY                   "Who is your favorite TV personality?"    Base: All adults             '93 '94  '95  '96 '97  '98 '99  '00 '01  '02* '03  '04 '05  '06   Oprah    Winfrey   2   2    3    3   3    1   2    1   3     1   1    1   1    1    Jon    Stewart   *   *    *    *   *    *   *    *   *     *  =6   =2   2    2    Bill    O'Reilly  *   *    *    *   *    *   *    *   7     5   3    8  =4    3    Hugh    Laurie    *   *    *    *   *    *   *    *   *     *   *    *   *    4    David      6   6    4    5   7    *   *    6   4     3   2   =2   3    5    Letterman    Jay Leno   *   8   10  =10   8   =6   *   =7   6     9   5    5  =4    6    Ray    Romano    *   *    *    *   *    *   *   =7   5     2   4    4   *    7    Kiefer   Sutherland *   *    *    *   *    *   *    *   *     *   *    *   *    =8    Ellen   DeGeneres  *   *    *    *   *    *   *    *   *     * =10    7   6    =8    Conan    O'Brien   *   *    *    *   *    *   *    *   *     *   *    *   7   =8     * The 2002 survey was conducted in January 2003.   "=" means there was a tie for that position                           DROPPED OFF OF LIST IN 2006          Jerry Seinfeld (was No. 8), George Lopez (was No. 9) and                           Tim Allen (was No. 10)                                   TABLE 2               FAVORITE TV PERSONALITY AMONG DIFFERENT GROUPS     AMONG:                                                 2006   Men                                               Bill O'Reilly   Women                                             Oprah Winfrey    Echo Boomers (18-29)                              Conan O'Brien   Gen X (30-41)                                      Hugh Laurie   Baby Boomers (42-60)                              Oprah Winfrey   Matures (61+)                                     Bill O'Reilly    Conservatives                                     Bill O'Reilly   Liberals                                           Jon Stewart   Moderates                                         Oprah Winfrey     Methodology 

This Harris Poll(R) was conducted online within the United States between December 12 and 18, 2006, among 1,162 adults (aged 18 and over). Figures for age, sex, race, education, region and household income were weighted where necessary to bring them into line with their actual proportions in the population. Propensity score weighting was also used to adjust for respondents' propensity to be online.

All 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 1,162 adults one could say with a ninety-five percent probability that the overall results have a sampling error of +/- three percentage points. However that 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.

  J28941   Q975    The Harris Poll(R) #5, January 17, 2007   By Regina Corso, Director, The Harris Poll, Harris Interactive    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 it believes to be the world's largest panel of survey respondents, the Harris Poll Online. Harris Interactive serves clients worldwide through its United States, Europe and Asia offices, its wholly-owned 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 and be invited to participate in online surveys, register at http://go.hpolsurveys.com/HarrisPoll.

 

 

The Year In Country Music: Country Music Remained Steady In 2006
By CMA Communications

 

© 2007 CMA Close Up News Service / Country Music Association, Inc.

Country Music remained steady in 2006 with a modest 0.5 percent drop in album sales from 2005, according to figures released Jan. 4, 2007, by Nielsen SoundScan. Total all-genre album sales (CD, CS, LP, digital albums) for the entire music industry were down 4.9 percent from 2005, while overall music sales (albums, singles, music video and digital tracks) were up 19.4 percent.  

"Last year really showcased the depth of Country Music's diversity across all areas of our business, from record sales to tours, movies to books and outstanding media coverage," said Tammy Genovese, CMA COO.  Overall, the number of Country albums sold in 2006 was 74.9 million down slightly from 75.3 million in 2005.

ALBUM SALES
THE TOP 10 COUNTRY ALBUMS OF 2006  
      
  1.  Me and My Gang - Rascal Flatts - 3,479,994  
  2.  Some Hearts - Carrie Underwood - 3,015,950  
  3.  Taking the Long Way - Dixie Chicks - 1,856,284  
  4.  Greatest Hits Vol. 2 - Tim McGraw - 1,595,688  
  5.  Your Man - Josh Turner - 1,547,081  
  6.  The Legend of Johnny Cash - Johnny Cash - 1,430,885  
  7.  White Trash with Money - Toby Keith - 1,205,296  
  8.  Precious Memories - Alan Jackson - 1,185,860  
  9.  Feels Like Today - Rascal Flatts - 1,105,432
10.  Be Here - Keith Urban - 1,054,016    
*Source: The Top 10 Country albums of 2006, according to Nielsen SoundScan (Dec. 28, 2006 YTD):

RIAA 
The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) certified 30 Gold, 20 Platinum and 21 multi-Platinum Country albums in 2006. Gold indicates sales of 500,000 units; Platinum, 1 million units; multi-Platinum for each successive million units sold; and Diamond indicates sales of 10 million albums. The RIAA continues to award these rankings throughout the life of the album; an album does not have to be released in the same year it achieves one or more of these rankings. 

Even in retirement, Garth Brooks continues to rack up strong album sales in 2006.  His 1998 album, Double Live, surpassed 20 million; Sevens (released in 1997) passed 9 million; and Scarecrow (released in 2001) surpassed 5 million. His latest album, The Lost Sessions (released in November 2005) was certified Gold, Platinum and Multi-Platinum (2 million) in early 2006.  Newly inducted Country Music Hall of Fame member George Strait earned his 31st and 32nd Platinum certified albums for It Just Comes Natural and George Strait Fresh Cut Christmas. In 2006, Strait's Greatest Hits compilation reached quadruple-Platinum status and his album, 50 No.1s, released in 2004, was certified six times Platinum.

Three artists received their first multi-Platinum album certifications in 2006: Trace Adkins (Songs About Me) at 2 million albums sold; Sugarland (Twice the Speed of Life) at 2 million albums sold; and Carrie Underwood (Some Hearts) at 4 million albums sold. Country Music Hall of Fame member Ray Price (For the Good Times) received his first Platinum album certification in 2006. Keith Anderson (Three Chord Country and American Rock & Roll); Rodney Atkins (If You're Going Through Hell); Billy Currington (Doin' Somethin' Right); Little Big Town (The Road to Here); Van Zant (Get Right with the Man); and The Wreckers (Stand Still, Look Pretty) received their first Gold album certifications in 2006. RIAA Digital Gold Sales Awards were given to 34 Country singles. Single tracks are awarded Gold (100,000 downloads), Platinum (200,000) and multi-Platinum (400,000+) certifications.

In addition, the RIAA certified five Gold (50,000 units sold) and two Platinum (100,000 units sold) Country longform videos. The Platinum Country longform videos were Johnny Cash (Live at Montreux, 1994) and Gretchen Wilson (Undressed).

On June 15, 2006, the RIAA announced ringtones would be awarded for sales of Gold and Platinum. Only ringtones with the artist's actual vocals would be recognized, known as mastertones. Gold ringtones signify 500,000 downloads and Platinum marks 1 million downloads. Four Country artists were given the Gold RIAA Mastertone award in 2006: Big & Rich ("Save a Horse (Ride a Cowboy)"); Waylon Jennings ("Good Ol' Boys"); Carrie Underwood ("Jesus Take the Wheel"); and Gretchen Wilson ("Redneck Woman").

TOURING EVENTS
Listed below are the Top 10 all genre tours based on total gross dollars; the Top 10 Country tours based on total attendance; and the Top 10 Country tours based on total gross dollars, according to Billboard for shows played between Nov. 16, 2005 and Nov. 14, 2006. *

ALL GENRE TOP 10 TOURS (Total Gross)  
  1. The Rolling Stones - $425,072,371
  2. Madonna - $194,754,447
  3. Bon Jovi - $131,388,461
  4. U2 - $95,880,340
  5. Tim McGraw & Faith Hill - $88,808,729
  6. Cirque Du Soleil's Delirium - $78,529,777
  7. Barbara Streisand - $76,112,426
  8. Kenny Chesney - $65,975,442
  9. Dave Matthews Band - $58,042,933
10. Aerosmith - $57,941,203

COUNTRY TOP 10 TOURS (Total Gross)
  1.  Tim McGraw & Faith Hill - $88,808,729
  2.  Kenny Chesney - $65,975,442
  3.  Rascal Flatts - $46,214,743
  4.  Toby Keith - $37,738,077 *
  5.  Brad Paisley - $27,742,368
  6.  Dixie Chicks - $23,024,881
  7.  George Strait - $17,132,602
  8.  Brooks & Dunn - $16,934,805
  9.  Keith Urban - $10,244,031
10.  Martina McBride - $9,210,228

ALL GENRE TOP 10 (Total Attendance)
  1. The Rolling Stones - 3,499,405
  2. Bon Jovi - 1,823,834
  3. Dave Matthews Band - 1,217,951
  4. Madonna - 1,209,618
  5. U2 - 1,201,669
  6. Kenny Chesney - 1,131,231
  7. Tim McGraw & Faith Hill - 1,095,653
  8. Rascal Flatts - 1,000,036
  9. Cirque Du Soliel's Delirium - 892,174
10. Nickelback - 767,547

COUNTRY TOP 10 TOURS (Total Attendance)     
  1.  Kenny Chesney - 1,131,231
  2.  Tim McGraw & Faith Hill - 1,095,653
  3.  Rascal Flatts - 1,000,036
  4.  Toby Keith - 741,872 *
  5.  Brad Paisley - 698,820
  6.  Brooks & Dunn - 455,798
  7.  Dixie Chicks - 339,565
  8.  George Strait - 291,751
  9.  Keith Urban - 264,116
10.  Martina McBride - 209,363 

* The Toby Keith total attendance amounts are amended with amounts that were reported after Billboard's Year-End rankings were published. This new information moved Keith from No.10 to No.4 on both charts. 

Some of Country Music's biggest stars teamed up on the road to give fans every penny's worth of entertainment value.  Kenny Chesney invited Dierks Bentley, Little Big Town, Sugarland and Carrie Underwood to open his "The Road and the Radio Tour." Sugarland also joined the second half of Brooks & Dunn's "The Long Haul Tour" in 2006 along with Jack Ingram.  Underwood finished out the year on Brad Paisley's "Time Well Wasted Tour" after Sara Evans joined him on the first leg. It was an all-guys event when Gary Allan and Eric Church joined Rascal Flatts on the "Me and My Gang Tour" until The Wreckers joined the tour in the summer. Toby Keith's "Hookin' Up and Hangin' Out Tour" featured newcomers Lindsey Haun and Rushlow Harris. "CMT on Tour" tapped Trace Adkins, Jason Aldean and Billy Currington for its series of shows.  Adkins also joined Gretchen Wilson to co-headline the "Redneck Revolution Tour."  Reba McEntire continued her Las Vegas concert run at the Hilton Hotel in 2006. The unstoppable husband/wife team Tim McGraw and Faith Hill entertained millions in 2006. Their tour, "Soul2Soul ll Tour," was the fifth highest grossing tour in all genres and the top grossing tour for Country Music in 2006, bringing in $88.8 million gross dollars, according to Billboard.
 
CMA MUSIC FESTIVAL
The award-winning CMA Music Festival is steeped in more than three decades of Fan Fair® tradition. Since Fan Fair was established in 1972, Country Music fans have visited Nashville each June, traveling from every state and around the globe to see hundreds of their favorite artists perform, get that coveted autograph, to share the excitement and passion of Country Music and to create lifelong memories. In 2006, a record-breaking 161,000 aggregate attendance celebrated America's music at CMA Music Festival, June 8-11 in Downtown Nashville.  Things got off to a rowdy start at the kick off parade and block party featuring performances by Big & Rich, Cowboy Troy, Emerson Drive, The Grascals and more. Though the final night of concerts at LP Field was cut short due to inclement weather, the spirits of the fans weren't dampened.   CMA Music Festival won the International Entertainment Buyers Association "2006 iebaLIVE!" Award for Festival, Fair or Non-Tour Special Event of the Year. CMA Music Festival also won this award in 2004. The LIVE! Award is presented each year by IEBA to a Festival, Fair or Non-Special Event that utilizes artists as a major element of the event while attracting a large and diverse audience, and having displayed professional organization, management and production. Thirty-three acts appeared in the Nightly Concerts at LP Field, including Trace Adkins, Jason Aldean, Dierks Bentley, Brooks & Dunn with Keith Urban, Kenny Chesney, Terri Clark, Billy Ray Cyrus, Sara Evans, Little Big Town, Los Lonely Boys with Ronnie Milsap, Martina McBride, Montgomery Gentry, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Brad Paisley, Blake Shelton, Sugarland, Josh Turner, Carrie Underwood, Hank Williams Jr., Wynonna, Trisha Yearwood and more.  

The legendary Charlie Daniels Band kicked off the Festival at the Greased Lightning® Daytime Stages in front of thousands of dancing and cheering fans.  The dual stages bustled with a rich array of 86 acts performing more than 32 hours of concerts. Artists included Rhett Akins, Rodney Atkins, Steve Azar, Sarah Buxton, Tracy Byrd, Eric Church, John Corbett, Neal McCoy, The Oak Ridge Boys, Jake Owen, Aaron Tippin, Tanya Tucker, Darryl Worley, Chris Young and more.  

A total of 326 artists and celebrities appeared in the Wrangler® Fan Fair (Exhibit Hall) at the Nashville Convention Center for the popular autograph and photo sessions. One of the highlights was a wedding in the MuzikMafia booth. In 2005, Jo Ann Dresch and Brad Moyer of Pennsylvania got engaged while waiting in line at the booth and this year they returned to tie the knot with Big & Rich in attendance.  

Nearly 700 journalists were credentialed for CMA Music Festival representing more than 200 domestic and international media outlets.

The official CMA Music Festival broadcaster, Premiere Radio Networks, brought 19 of Country radio's top-rated stations (including Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Cleveland, Denver, Indianapolis, Seattle, Tampa and Washington) and the nationally syndicated "After MidNite with Blair Garner" to Nashville for three days of remote broadcasts from the Nashville Convention Center. A wide variety of 75 artists, celebrities and athletes participated in the remotes reaching nearly 9 million listeners.

The Chevy Sports Zone moved to a new central location in 2006, but still featured games and friendly competitions with "The Fifth Annual Andy Griggs Celebrity Archery Tournament," "The Steve Azar Celebrity Sports Challenge," "The Craig Morgan FLW Outdoors Fishing Tournament" and "The Michael Peterson / New Holland Celebrity Tractor Race" among others. The Chevy "All Access Music Tour" Stage was set up on the plaza of the Gaylord Entertainment Center for even more musical entertainment.  The Family Zone featured more fun - and food - than ever with the Crisco® Country Favorites Corner.  Fans made pit stops at the Fun Zone for giveaways, product samples and to sing a little karaoke. 

CMA Celebrity Close Up hosted by Lorianne Crook featured John Corbett, Cowboy Troy, members of Diamond Rio, Josh Gracin, Jamie O'Neal, Phil Vassar and members of Lonestar. The Q&A sessions were taped by GAC and aired later in the year.  The NBC Daytime Stars visited CMA Music Festival for the sixth time, making appearances at various events and hosting their popular After Hours party at the Wildhorse Saloon.  

ABC's "Good Morning America" sent correspondent Mike Barz to CMA Music Festival to broadcast live from Downtown Nashville. CMA Music Festival is organized and produced by CMA. Board member Tony Conway is the Executive Producer of CMA Music Festival. 

CMA Music Festival promotional partners included ABC-TV, Advil, American Airlines, AmSouth, Auto Zone, Bridgestone Firestone, Camping World, Carl Black Chevrolet, Chevrolet: An American Revolution, Chick-Fil-A, CMT, Coca-Cola, Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Country Weekly, Crisco, Dave & Busters, FLW Outdoors, GEICO, Gillette Venus Vibrance, Grand Ole Opry, Great American Country, Greased Lightning, HCA, Major League Baseball, Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority, Monroe Carell Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt, Mr. Coffee, Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, Nashville Convention and Visitors Bureau, Nashville Zoo, New Holland, Office Depot, On The Run and Exxon, Papa John's Pizza, Premiere Radio Networks, Prilosec OTC, Purity® Dairies, RealTree, Southwest Airlines, Sharpie, Super 8, Tennessee Education Lottery Corp., T.G.I. Fridays, The Tennessean, Ultra Pet/Zen Puppy, U.S. Navy, WellPatch Pain Relieving Pads, Wrangler and Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A.  

As Country Music fans were busily making plans to head to Nashville for the CMA Music Festival, CMA brought a taste of the Festival to lucky fans in nine cities across the South and Southwest. For "Crisco Presents the Road to CMA Music Festival," Wal-Mart parking lots in Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, Fayetteville, Ark., Jacksonville, Raleigh, San Antonio, Tampa and Tulsa were transformed into mini versions of CMA Music Festival, complete with live performances from some of today's hottest Country acts. Radio stations including KAJA, KKIX, KTYS, KWEN, WKHX, WQDR, WQYK, WROO, WSOC and WYAY helped promote the tour. Also sponsoring the tour were Greased Lightning Cleaning Products and Southwest Airlines.  Performers included Jason Aldean, Steve Azar, Jeff Bates, Blue County, John Corbett, Emerson Drive, Jace Everett, Jamey Johnson, Little Big Town, Lila McCann, Jamie O'Neal, Danielle Peck, Julie Roberts, Ray Scott and Mark Wills. Following their performances, and in keeping with a CMA Music Festival tradition, artists greeted fans and signed autographs after every show. Event sponsors were on hand to offer free samples of their products. 

The 2007 CMA Music Festival will take place Thursday through Sunday, June 7-10, in Downtown Nashville. To order tickets, call 1-800-CMA-FEST (262-3378); visit CMAfest.com to download an order form to fax or mail; visit  ticketmaster.com to buy online or charge-by-phone at (615) 255-9600. Ticket prices do not include applicable handling fees and are subject to change without notice. All sales are final and non-refundable.

CMA Music Festival was filmed for a two-hour television special that aired on the ABC Television Network in July. The concerts and the interactions were captured in the special with heart-pounding performances interspersed with heart-warming encounters between the artists and their avid admirers. Taped exclusively for the special, cameras followed the stories of several Festival attendees, who had their dreams come true when they were granted a once-in-a-lifetime meeting and personal encounter with their favorite Country stars. Robert Deaton was the Executive Producer and Gary Halvorson was the Director. 

Artists donate their time at CMA Music Festival for the good of the industry and part of the receipts in the past were donated to charities through CMA's "Cause For Celebration!" campaign. In 2006, CMA launched a new charity initiative, "Keep the Music Playing," where half of the net proceeds from CMA Music Festival will be given to the Nashville Alliance for Public Education to provide equipment and services to Nashville's public school music education programs. The donation is expected to top $300,000 and CMA will reveal some exciting news about the distribution of these funds soon.

CMA AWARDS
COUNTRY MUSIC'S BIGGEST NIGHTT
The annual CMA Awards - "Country Music's Biggest NightT," represents the pinnacle of achievement for Country Music artists, producers, publishers, songwriters, video directors and industry executives. The CMA Awards is a cornerstone of the fall television sweeps ratings season, and marks the launch of the holiday album-selling season. "The 40th Annual CMA Awards" broadcast live from the Gaylord Entertainment Center in Downtown Nashville.  The Nov. 6 broadcast, which was hosted by Brooks & Dunn, aired on the ABC Television Network for the first time.  

"Country Music's Biggest NightTM" was a big hit on ABC, winning Monday evening in total viewers (16.0 million) and adults 18-49 (5.4/13), producing ABC's most competitive finish on the night this season in both measures.  With its three-hour broadcast of the music awards show, ABC also took the top spot across each of the key women demographics (W18-34 - 5.2/14, W18-49 - 7.0/16 and W25-54 - 7.9/17), as well as teens 12-17 (2.6/8) and kids 2-11 (2.0/8).  An estimated 32.3 million viewers watched all or some of the "The 40th Annual CMA Awards," which was ranked the No. 14 show of the week in total viewers, and tied with "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" as the No. 12 show of the week in adults 18-49. 

Brooks & Dunn were the big winners at the 2006 CMA Awards.  The duo picked up Music Video and Single of the Year for "Believe," and their 13th Vocal Duo of the Year Award. With an additional trophy for producing the Single of the Year, Brooks & Dunn increased their overall tally to 19 Awards, surpassing Vince Gill as the top winners of all time.  Half of Brooks & Dunn, Ronnie Dunn, won Song of the Year honors with co-writer Craig Wiseman for "Believe." Carrie Underwood captured the Female Vocalist of the Year and Horizon Award. Brad Paisley took home Album of the Year for Time Well Wasted and Vocal Event of the Year with Dolly Parton for "When I get Where I'm Going." Though absent from the ceremony, Keith Urban picked up his third consecutive Male Vocalist of the Year Award. Kenny Chesney won his second Entertainer of the Year trophy.

The Country Music Hall of Fame welcomed three new members into its hallowed hall.  Harold Bradley, Sonny James and George Strait were officially inducted into the Hall of Fame on the Awards broadcast.

CMA Broadcast Awards winners were presented CMA Awards during pre-telecast ceremonies and recognized throughout the Awards broadcast.  

The broadcast of the CMA Awards increased public awareness of Country Music and gave album sales an all-important upward surge heading into the holiday buying season. Brad Paisley's Time Well Wasted, which was named Album of the Year, saw a 101 percent sales increase, while his Christmas album, Brad Paisley Christmas, saw an 86 percent bump. Hosts Brooks & Dunn saw an increase of 222 percent in consumers who took home their Hillbilly Deluxe album. Sugarland, who released their sophomore album, Enjoy the Ride, the week of the CMA Awards, posted impressive first-week sales of 210,867. The exposure and attention focused on the CMA Awards fueled consumer interest and in all, Country Music sales took a 22 percent increase in sales in the full week following the Awards broadcast.

Disney-ABC Television Group went all out for the CMA Awards on ABC.com with customized online video content offering site visitors a unique glimpse into the inner workings of the Awards, from daily updates leading up to the big night to exclusive interviews on the Red Carpet and backstage during the Awards. 

The CMA Awards' return to Nashville attracted unprecedented media interest. More than 300 journalists, photographers and television reporters were credentialed, representing in excess of 100 domestic and international media outlets. ABC's "Good Morning America" broadcast live outside of the Gaylord Entertainment Center with a concert by Sugarland and a special appearance by Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora of Bon Jovi.  

For the 15th year, Premiere Radio Networks, the official radio broadcaster of the Awards, partnered with CMA to provide exclusive radio programming and packaging for the Awards. The package provided coverage of the nominees news conference; a two-hour special highlighting the hottest stars in Country; a four-hour pre-CMA Awards show hosted by Keith Urban, featuring behind-the-scenes information and interviews with nominees; a live radio simulcast of the Awards; a one-hour wrap up show; Red Carpet coverage hosted by Jack Ingram; and vignettes inspired by 40 years of the Awards. 

Exclusive CMA Awards artwork was created for the second straight year by renowned 3-D pop artist Charles Fazzino. The two new works of art served as the official artwork of "The 40th Annual CMA Awards" and are featured on fine art posters, limited edition 3-D giclee fine art prints and on the cover of the official CMA Awards Program Book. All of these items as well as artwork and program books from last year are available to purchase at CMAawards.com. 

A week of events, dubbed "Nashville Celebrates Country," led up to CMA Awards day with special concerts, receptions, a fashion show and more including a CMA Global Showcase, "Broadway Meets Country" benefit concert and a CMA Awards 40th Anniversary Reunion.

CMA Celebrity Close Up hosted by Lorianne Crook featured Keith Anderson, Lorrie Morgan, Julie Roberts, Trent Tomlinson, Van Zant and Lee Ann Womack. The Q&A sessions were taped by GAC and will air in February and March.  

"The 40th Annual CMA Awards" is a production of the Country Music Association.  Walter C. Miller is the Executive Producer; Robert Deaton is the Consulting Producer; Paul Miller is the Director; and David Wild scripted the ceremonies. Premiere Radio Network is the official radio packager of the CMA Awards, including a stereo-radio simulcast of the gala event. American Airlines is the official airline of the 2006 CMA Awards. Chevy, an American Revolution, is the official ride of the 2006 CMA Awards. Additional promotional partners include aolmusic.com, Camping World, Carl Black Chevrolet, Coca-Cola, CMT/Country Music Television, Inc., Crisco, Gibson Guitar, Greased Lightning Cleaning Products, Hallmark Cards, Miller Brewing Company, Prilosec OTC, Purity Dairies, T.G.I. Friday's, The Biography Channel and Yankee Candle. Charles Fazzino is the official artist of the 2005 and 2006 CMA Awards.
 
COUNTRY RADIO
Country radio continues to stay on top as the most dominant radio genre in 2006 with 2,046 stations across the U.S., up from 2,042 stations in 2005, according to Inside Radio/M Street.

In Spring 2006, Country radio had the largest share of national listeners since 1999 with a 9.5 share, according to Arbitron's American Radio Listening Trends Format Report.
 
Billboard's and Radio & Records' Top 5 Country Songs   
  1. Rodney Atkins   "If You're Going Through Hell (Before the Devil  Even Knows)" 
  2. Brad Paisley   "The World" 
  3. Kenny Chesney    "Summertime" 
  4. Rascal Flatts   "What Hurts the Most" 
  5. Carrie Underwood  "Jesus, Take the Wheel" 

Country Aircheck's Top 5 Country Songs 
  1. Rascal Flatts   "What Hurts the Most" 
  2. Josh Turner   "Your Man" 
  3. Rodney Atkins   "If You're Going Through Hell (Before the Devil Even Knows)" 
  4. Carrie Underwood  "Jesus, Take the Wheel" 
  5. Bon Jovi w/ Jennifer Nettles "Who Says You Can't Go Home" 

SOUNDTRACKS
Steve Azar contributed music to independent film soundtrack, Americanizing Shelley. "Broken Bridges" stars Toby Keith, Willie Nelson and Lindsey Haun appeared on the film's soundtrack.  Brad Paisley and Rascal Flatts appeared on the soundtrack to the Pixar animated film "Cars."  Another animated flick, the baseball-inspired "Everyone's Hero," featured Jessi Alexander, Brooks & Dunn, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Lonestar and Jon Randall on its soundtrack.  Billy Ray and Miley Cyrus had a duet on the soundtrack for the TV show "Hannah Montana." Billy Ray Cyrus also had a song on Music Inspired by the Motion Picture Charlotte's Web. Patsy Cline's "Sweet Dreams" was included on the soundtrack for the Martin Scorsese film "The Departed." Tim McGraw, The Warren Brothers and Holly Williams appear on the Flicka soundtrack, released on McGraw's new imprint StyleSonic. The soundtrack for the Vince Vaughn / Jennifer Anniston comedy "The Break-Up," featured a song by Dwight Yoakam, who also had a song as well as Merle Haggard and Hank Williams Jr. on The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada soundtrack. Brenda Lee's classic "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree" was on the soundtrack for the holiday movie "Deck the Halls." Montgomery Gentry and James Otto contributed tracks to the Larry the Cable Guy: Health Inspector soundtrack. Josh Gracin, Little Big Town, Reba McEntire and Trisha Yearwood had cuts on the soundtrack for the straight to DVD movie "The Fox and the Hound 2." The Thank You for Smoking soundtrack featured Patsy Cline, Ramblin' Jack Elliott, Jerry Reed and Tex Williams.
 
MOTION PICTURES
Tim McGraw continued his love affair with acting, starring in the remake of "Flicka."  Toby Keith made his acting debut in "Broken Bridges," starring alongside Willie Nelson, Kelly Preston, Burt Reynolds and newcomer and Show Dog Records labelmate Lindsey Haun. The film was directed by two-time CMA Video of the Year director Steven Goldmann. Dwight Yoakam appeared in Lions Gate's fast action thriller "Crank," "The Three Burials of Melquiades Estrada" and "Banditas," which played exclusively in Cinema Latino theaters.  Reba McEntire was the voice of a wise-cracking cow in the big screen remake of "Charlotte's Web." The Dixie Chicks starred in the documentary "Shut Up & Sing." Kris Kristofferson appeared in "Fast Food Nation," alongside an all-star cast that included Ethan Hawke, Greg Kinnear and Bruce Willis.
 
MUSICALS AND PLAYS
Joanna Cotten, Josh Gracin, The Grascals, Raul Malo, Barbara Mandrell, Lorrie Morgan, Joe Nichols, Clay Walker, Lee Ann Womack, Trisha Yearwood and Chris Young joined Broadway performers Laura Bell Bundy, Michael Cerveris, Felicia Fields, Felicia Finley, Peter Gallagher, Renée Elise Goldsberry, Brian d'Arcy James, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Julie Murney and Ben Vereen for the second "Broadway Meets Country" benefit concert at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center in Downtown Nashville as a part of "Nashville Celebrates Country," a week of events leading up to the CMA Awards. Lari White starred in the Broadway musical "Ring of Fire," about the life of Johnny Cash.
 
TELEVISION
Country artists made their presence known on television specials and concerts. Dolly Parton appeared on the Academy Awards to perform her Oscar-nominated song "Travelin' Thru" from the film "Transamerica." Parton was feted by Alison Krauss, Reba McEntire, Kenny Rogers, Shania Twain and Carrie Underwood among others on the CBS broadcast of "The Kennedy Center Honors." Tim McGraw's special, "Tim McGraw: Reflected," aired on NBC, with a performance from Faith Hill and Hank Williams Jr. McGraw and Hill performed on the Conde Naste "Fashion Rocks" television special on CBS at New York City's Radio City Music Hall. A&E aired "Hairdos and Heartache: The Women of Country Music," that featured Loretta Lynn, Reba McEntire, Tanya Tucker and Trisha Yearwood. Jo Dee Messina appeared on the PBS special "A Capitol Fourth," a live broadcast from the U.S. Capitol. Trace Adkins, Little Big Town with John Mellencamp, Messina and Sugarland each performed at the Major League Baseball World Series on FOX. Lonestar taped a performance of their new single, "Mountains," for "An American Celebration at Ford's Theatre: The July 4th Special," on ABC. Kenny Chesney, Sara Evans and Martina McBride appeared on CBS on the "JC Penney Jam: The Concert for America's Kids" hosted by Dr. Phil and Robin McGraw. McBride also performed on "Christmas at Rockefeller Center" on NBC. Professional ice skaters leaped and twirled while Gretchen Wilson performed on "Gretchen Wilson's Country on Ice," which aired on NBC.  Wilson also performed on TNT's "Christmas in Washington." Rascal Flatts appeared on NBC's "The 80th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade" and "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve" on ABC. John Conlee, Josh Gracin, Heartland, Sammy Kershaw, Messina, Aaron Tippin, Van Zant and Williams appeared on "A Nashville New Year with Sean Hannity" on FOX News Channel.   Reality shows got a dose of Country in 2006. Sara Evans danced her way into American homes and hearts on ABC's "Dancing with the Stars." Martina McBride performed on an episode of "Dancing with the Stars." Cowboy Troy, Crystal Gayle, Alan Jackson, McBride, The Oak Ridge Boys and Hank Williams Jr. each appeared on ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition."  Trace Adkins, Jason Aldean, Big & Rich, Sara Evans, Naomi Judd, Kenny Rogers, Hank Williams Jr. and Gretchen Wilson made appearances on season four of USA Network's "Nashville Star" (hosted by Cowboy Troy and Wynonna, and featuring Phil Vassar as a judge), where Chris Young was named the winner. Trick Pony's Heidi Newfield was on the home decorating show "Picture This," on the Discovery Home Channel. Big Kenny of Big & Rich was on an episode of NBC's "Celebrity Cooking Showdown." Kenny Rogers and "Idol" alum Carrie Underwood performed on FOX's "American Idol." Clint Black, Randy Travis, Lee Ann Womack and Wynonna appeared on "Celebrity Duets," on FOX. 

"The Oprah Winfrey Show" saw numerous Country stars appear, including Garth Brooks with Trisha Yearwood, Tim McGraw with Faith Hill and the Dixie Chicks and Carrie Underwood in separate episodes.

Hank Williams Jr. returned to perform "Are You Ready for Some Football?" in the opening for "Monday Night Football" on its new ESPN home with an all-star band, including Charlie Daniels, Little Richard and Joe Perry from Aerosmith. Sitcoms and dramas showcased Country artists in 2006. Reba McEntire's sitcom "Reba" returned for a sixth season on the new CW network. LeAnn Rimes appeared in the CBS series "Love Monkey." Naomi Judd hosted a program on the Hallmark Channel entitled, "Naomi's New Morning." Billy Ray Cyrus starred alongside his daughter Miley in the Disney Channel series "Hannah Montana," where Dolly Parton made a cameo.  Sugarland appeared in the season finale for NBC's "Las Vegas." Lee Ann Womack and Darryl Worley appeared on the same episode of "48 Hours Mystery" on CBS. Josh Gracin made his acting debut on an episode of CBS's "The Young and the Restless."  Rascal Flatts appeared as themselves in an episode of  "Yes, Dear" on CBS.

"CMT Crossroads" featured some memorable pairings in 2006, including Little Big Town with Fleetwood Mac's Lindsey Buckingham; Steve Earle and Rosanne Cash; Los Lonely Boys and Ronnie Milsap; and Lucinda Williams and Elvis Costello. CMT debuted a new special, "CMT Giants," honoring Reba McEntire with Country and pop artists and Hollywood celebrities paying tribute to the guest of honor.

GAC aired "CMA Celebrity Close Up with Lorianne Crook," an in-depth, question-and-answer show with some of Country's hottest stars that was taped during CMA Music Festival and the CMA Awards.  GAC also aired a series of specials called "CMA Riverfront Concert Series," hosted by Craig Morgan and taped at the Daytime Stages during CMA Music Festival.
 
BOOKS, MAGAZINES AND GAMES
Willie Nelson and Turk Pipkin wrote The Tao of Willie: A Guide to the Happiness in Your Heart. Johnny Cash's longtime bass player and manager, Marshall Grant, penned I Was There When It Happened: My Life with Johnny Cash. Royal Wade Kimes released his first book Eminent Domain and Old Man Smith, the tale of an elderly World War II veteran who is fighting to save his farm. Sara Evans wrote the intro for a gift book based on her hit "You'll Always Be My Baby," written by Evans, Tony Martin and Tom Shapiro. Gretchen Wilson released her memoir, Redneck Woman: Stories from My Life, co-written with Allen Rucker. Bill Anderson wrote Award Winning Whispers from the Kitchen cookbook. Barbara Mandrell provided the foreward for her chef son Matthew Dudney's The Mandrell Family Cookbook.

Attorney Rob Monath wrote a national copyright law guide called By the Book: A Simple Copyright Compliance Method for Musicians and Music Professionals. Country: A Regional Exploration by Ivan Tribe provides a detailed history of Country subgenres. Music journalist and songwriter Michael Kosser examines Nashville's rise to epicenter of Country Music in How Nashville Became Music City USA - 50 Years of Music Row. Joe Wilson's A Guide to the Crooked Road: Virginia's Heritage Music Trail was written to shepherd musical pilgrims to seven historical sites in southwestern Virginia. Country Music Hall of Fame member Ken Nelson wrote My First Ninety Years Plus Three. A Shot in the Dark: Making Records in Nashville, 1945-1955, by Martin Hawkins discusses records, artists and entrepreneurs including Bill Beasley, Owen Bradley and Jim Bulleit. Music historian Michael Streissguth tells the story of the Man in Black in Johnny Cash: The Biography. A deep history of Country is explored in Will the Circle Be Unbroken: Country Music in America, edited by Paul Kingsbury and Alanna Nash.  Richard Carlin examines the roots and complexities of the genre in the aptly titled Country Music. Tony Bywater released The Definitive Encyclopedia of Country Music. Clint Black, Tim McGraw, Dolly Parton and more contributed recipes and anecdotes to A Country Music Christmas by Edie Hand and Buddy Killen. Randy Rudder released his annual collection of essays and news articles, The Country Music Reader, with a foreward by Rosanne Cash. Songwriter Liz Hengber authored The Do's and Dont's of Music Row, an instruction guide for up-and-coming songwriters. Novelist and songwriter Alice Randall penned My Country Roots: The Ultimate MP3 Guide to America's Original Outsider Music, a listing of must-download Country songs.

Several artists appeared on the covers of magazines. Carrie Underwood could be seen on newsstands and in mailboxes across the country, appearing on the covers of Cosmo Girl! Prom, Parade, SELF and Reader's Digest. Faith Hill and Tim McGraw appeared on the cover of People, which featured an in-depth interview about life on the road and their sold-out "Soul2Soul II Tour." Hill was also featured on the covers of Ladies Home Journal and SELF. Alan Jackson was on the cover of American Profile. Brooks & Dunn were featured in an at-home cover story in Cowboys & Indians. Wynonna was on a cover of Ladies Home Journal. Brad Paisley graced the cover of Vintage Guitar.

Ladies Home Journal, People and Vanity Fair each featured Country Music prominently in special issues leading up to the CMA Awards. People featured an all-Country issue on newsstands with Kenny Chesney on the cover; Vanity Fair had an entire section dedicated to Country artists in original photos; and Ladies Home Journal profiled women in Country Music. 

CMT started a new publication called CMT Life Set to Music, a monthly newspaper editorial insert distributed in 25 top markets. CMT also put out its first release in the video game market, "Karaoke Revolution: Country," for the Sony Playstation 2.  The game lets players create characters to perform their choice of 35 popular Country songs in front of virtual crowds for points.
 
COMMERCIALS, ADVERTISEMENTS AND BUSINESS VENTURES
Charlie Daniels was named spokesperson for Gravely Tractor's 90th Anniversary. Daniels also appeared in a commercial for Bojangles restaurants with NFL quarterback Jake Delhomme.  Carrie Underwood appeared in her second Skechers footwear campaign and posed with a milk mustache for a "Got Milk?" ad.  Bomshel was coined the "Wicked Women of Tequila Rose" in a national promotion with McCormick Distilling and featured in Cruel Jeans ads. Sara Evans was named national spokeswoman for the National Eating Disorders Association. Evans also recorded two new songs for a special Mother's Day album, Always There, distributed in Hallmark Gold Crown stores.  Hallmark also released an exclusive George Strait Christmas CD, Fresh Cut Christmas, which went Platinum in a matter of weeks. Cracker Barrel released an exclusive CD, Songs of the Year, featuring Dierks Bentley, Jo Dee Messina, Trisha Yearwood and more, sold only in Cracker Barrel stores. Trace Adkins became the spokesman for IdleAire Technologies, which produces parts that make idling easier for long haul truck drivers. Adkins also teamed up with Major League Baseball to debut his single "Swing" on MLB.com.  George Jones joined Ronnie Gilley Properties, a real estate development firm, as its national spokesman. Alan Jackson is an official endorser of the La Borgata residential develpement in Panama City Beach, Fla., developed by Ronnie Gilley Properties. Taylor Swift appeared with NASCAR driver Darrell Waltrip in a "NASCAR AutoCare" commercial. The PovertyNeck Hillbillies were named "The Official Band of the 2006 NFL World Champion Pittsburgh Steelers." Country Music couple Bruce Robison and Kelly Willis appeared and performed in a Claritin commercial.  Brooks & Dunn appeared on 2.9 million packages of Coca-Cola as part of the "Tailgate at Game Time at Wal-Mart with Brooks & Dunn" promotion. Garth Brooks appeared in commercials for Oklahoma State University. George Dickel Tennessee Whisky sponsored Darryl Worley's tour.  Prilosec OTC sponsored Big & Rich's headlining tour and the duo also appeared in national commercials for the heartburn reliever. Toyota Motor Sales was title sponsor of Brooks & Dunn's tour, a partnership that extends into 2008. Dierks Bentley scored Bud Light as a sponsor for his first headlining tour. Gary Nichols partnered with Dippin' Dots ice cream to sponsor his tour.

Willie Nelson broke ground on a new biodiesel refinery, Pacific BioDiesel Texas, in Carl's Corner, Texas. Hank Williams Jr. has his own BBQ sauce, Hank Williams Jr.'s Family Tradition BBQ Sauce, which is available in grocery stores nationwide. Dwight Yoakam threw his hat into the frozen foods ring with Dwight Yoakam's Bakersfield Biscuit Brand Chicken Lickin's. Tim McGraw joined with producer Byron Gallimore to start his own label, StyleSonic Records. Aaron Tippin jumped into the record label biz, opening Nippit Records.  Tracy Lawrence launched Rocky Comfort Records with his manager and brother Laney Lawrence.

TROOP VISITS AND ARMED FORCES SHOWS
The Grand Ole Opry honored members of the military in 2006 with an "Opry Summer Salute," Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends.  The summer-long event featured patriotic-themed performances and discounts and specials for military personnel.

Country artists participating in USO shows and tours in 2006 included: Bill Engvall, Jeff Foxworthy, Josh Gracin, Toby Keith, Jo Dee Messina, Montgomery Gentry, Craig Morgan, Keni Thomas, Carrie Underwood, Mark Wills, Lee Ann Womack, Darryl Worley and Chely Wright.

Dierks Bentley, Cowboy Crush, Charlie Daniels, Diamond Rio, Aaron Tippin, Lee Ann Womack and Chely Wright performed for troops as part of the Stars for Stripes organization, which provides entertainment to U.S. military service men and women.

"The Spirit of America Tour" featured concerts by Asleep at the Wheel, Confederate Railroad, Cowboy Crush, Cross Canadian Ragweed, Billy Ray Cyrus, Charlie Daniels, Joe Diffie, Buddy Jewell, Neal McCoy, Jo Dee Messina and Lorrie Morgan at military bases across the United States.

The annual "American Freedom Festival," an event to honor U.S. veterans, featured Rodney Atkins, Henry Cho, Mark Wills, Darryl Worley and more.

Lee Greenwood and Restless Heart entertained U.S. troops in Europe, Southwest Asia and the Pacific.  
 
TRIBUTES AND ACCOLADES
Trace Adkins, Garth Brooks and Dwight Yoakam were among the more than 2,000 friends, family members and devoted fans that paid tribute to the late Buck Owens at a memorial service in Bakersfield, Calif. Rodney Crowell, Patty Griffin, Steve Earle and Dave Matthews performed in a musical tribute to Emmylou Harris at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center in Nashville. A slew of stars, including Kenny Chesney, Terri Clark, Sara Evans, Reba McEntire, Willie Nelson, Brad Paisley, LeAnn Rimes, Gretchen Wilson and more, recorded songs for the album She Was Country When Country Wasn't Cool: A Tribute to Barbara Mandrell. Glen Campbell, Raul Malo, Ricky Skaggs and more performed at a concert tribute to Roy Orbison at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Nelson, Randy Scruggs, Wilson and more paid tribute to a living legend on The Pilgrim: A Celebration of Kris Kristofferson. Rascal Flatts paid tribute to legendary crooner Tony Bennett at his 80th birthday bash at the Kodak Theater in Los Angeles. The Dixie Chicks and Tim McGraw each performed a duet with Bennett on his Duets: An American Classic album. In 1985, Waylon Jennings recorded songs for a Hank Williams tribute album, Waylon Sings Hank Williams, which was released in 2006. Asleep at the Wheel, Lyle Lovett, Nelson, Reckless Kelly, Bruce Robison, Kelly Willis and Dwight Yoakam contributed to Why the Hell Not ... The Songs of Kinky Friedman.

Two of Country Music's luminaries received honors from President George W. Bush in 2006. Ralph Stanley was presented the National Medal of the Arts, the highest honor in artistic excellence, in the Oval Office of the White House. Dolly Parton was one of five recipients of the Kennedy Center Honors, one of the highest awards for achievement in the arts.

Darryl Worley was presented the Silver Medal award by the Order of Saint Michael for his outstanding support of Army Aviation and service to America by way of his many trips overseas and across the country performing for America's armed forces. Craig Morgan received the USO Merit Award from the USO of Metropolitan Washington.

The Year in Country Music is a partial listing and was compiled by Peter Cronin, Amanda Eckard, Ryan Noreikas, Athena Patterson, Wendy Pearl, Brandi Sanford and Scott Stem. Special thanks to all the Communications Dept. interns for gathering information throughout the year. All photos and logos used by permission. 

 

 

 

IP Video Systems Academy to Host Security Architecture Seminar

L-3 Communications, BroadWare™, Intergraph, and Hewlett Packard® Join Forces

to Showcase Best Practices and Practical Learning in Inaugural Seminar

SYColeman, a division of L-3 Communications (NYSE: LLL), is pleased to announce a breakfast seminar hosted by the IP Video Systems Academy (IPVSA) in Reston , VA on January 18th.  This event, which will feature presentations from industry leaders L-3 Communications, BroadWare™, Intergraph, and Hewlett Packard®, is designed to help systems architects learn how to create open, scalable security systems.  The seminar, which will be both a practical leaning workshop and best-practices session, will run from 8:30am to 11:30am. 

 “Designing a security architecture is a Herculean task,” said Lt. General Jared Bates, U.S. Army (Retired), President, SYColeman, “Managers need to consider an overwhelming number of choices in hardware and software while keeping the scalability and the upgradeability of their security system in tact.  We co-created the IP Video Systems Academy to educate security professionals about these difficult decisions by exposing them to best-in-breed-technologies.”

As concerns over safety and security rise, readiness requires greater domain awareness, information management and operational control capabilities.  Scalable IT networks are a necessity in both the private and public sectors, in order to leverage existing investment in security technologies, and allow systems to evolve over time to include new technologies.

“The need to closely monitor large spaces is an unfortunate reality in today’s world,” added General Bates, “Having the right IP Video System significantly enhances the ability to see the total picture and respond preemptively to contain perceived threats.”

The IPVSA team consists of four industry leaders: L-3 Communications, BroadWare™, Intergraph, and Hewlett Packard®.  These companies have come together under the leadership of SYColeman to help IT and Security managers develop comprehensive IP video solutions that are open to changes in scope, need and technology.  Each of the four partners brings a wealth of expertise and industry experience in their particular market sector, and they are all well versed in the application of their technologies to IP video system design and development. 

Additional IPVSA events in 2007 will explore other fundamental issues involved in the IP video space.   For more information, please contact Jeff Heubusch, Senior Marketing and Communications Manager for SYColeman at 703-623-3590 or visit this IPVSA website at www.ipvsacademy.org.

# # #

About the IPVSA Partners:

BroadWare is an enterprise-class network video platform that collects, records, routes and manages live and archived video.  This system, which has an entirely browser-based GUI, is highly configurable to manage complex video applications, easily integrates with other systems, optimizes the use of bandwidth, and is retrofit friendly.  For more information about Broadware, please contact John Convey at 703-917-0045 or jconvey@broadware.com.

L-3 Communications/SYColeman-Praetorian, the next generation intelligent surveillance solution developed by SYColeman, is the only system capable of integrating multiple data feeds into a real-time, single screen three-dimensional user interface.  The system stitches 3D images with CCTV video feeds, sensor data, maps and other information, alerting operators to unusual activity or other variables it is asked to monitor. For more information about L-3 Communications-Praetorian, please contact Andrea Michels at 703-769-1415 or andrea.michels@L-3com.com.

Intergraph Corporation is a leading global provider of spatial information management (SIM) software.  Their open architecture solutions that ensure interoperability and data access leverage the use of GPS, RFID, and other location awareness technologies for mobile resource management, situational awareness and a common operating picture.  For more information about Intergraph, please contact Dan Proctor at 540-424-7780 or dan.proctor@intergraph.com.

HP strives to build best-in-breed computers, workstations, and printers.  From small businesses to international conglomerates, HP works with clients to design IT systems that fit their needs using industry standard technology, business critical servers and other storage solutions.  They also offer multi-vendor information technology services, providing clients with technology services, consulting and integration, and managed services. 

 UNITED TALENT AGENCY AND VEOH NETWORKS FORM BREAKTHROUGH CHANNEL TO
DISCOVER NEW TALENT ONLINE

BEVERLY HILLS (January 17, 2007) ---- UTA Online, the broadband
division of leading talent and literary agency United Talent Agency,
has
partnered with Veoh Networks, Inc. (www.veoh.com) the leading innovator
in Internet television, to create a branded UTAO channel on Veoh
dedicated to identifying new talent and showcasing content produced by
current UTAO clients. This is the first distribution partnership
between
a talent agency and an online network. The deal was brokered by Michael
Eisner, Veoh board member and Jeremy Zimmer, UTA board member.

Slated to launch in February, the new channel will provide UTAO a
single site to aggregate the high volume of talent and filmmaker
submissions it has received since opening its doors October 2006.  UTAO
has openly encouraged aspiring digital artists to submit their work for
representation consideration, bucking the common agency practice of
prohibiting unsolicited submissions.   The channel will be open and
available to all Veoh users to submit, view and share content.

UTAO executives and the UTAO web portal, in development, will direct
potential clients to the Veoh channel as the exclusive mechanism for
submitting unsolicited video materials to UTAO.  Additionally, the UTAO
channel, which will be supported by both banner and integrated
advertisements, will also feature content produced by already-existing
UTAO clients. 

"We have received thousands of submissions since UTAO was
announced," commented Brent Weinstein, the Head of Digital Media at
United Talent Agency, who oversees the UTAO division.  "This
partnership with Veoh enables us to create a structured, standardized
and legally sound mechanism for aggregating and reviewing unsolicited
submissions, in a peer-to-peer video environment that can support the
high resolution, television-quality content that many aspiring artists
produce."

"With UTAO's expertise in spotting and nurturing entertainment
talent and Veoh's mission to encourage, empower and enable the best
independent, creative content producers online, this channel will
become
the new gateway for talent discovery in Hollywood." said Dmitry
Shapiro, CEO of Veoh Networks, Inc. "By partnering with UTAO and
making this process available to the public, we are bringing the newest
and brightest creative minds to the new, more flexible medium of
Internet TV."

The UTAO channel will offer all of the features of the Veoh network.
Publishers will be able to easily publish and distribute TV-quality,
full-screen videos to hundreds of millions of viewers around the world
using the Veoh software.  As Veoh is more niche than cable, viewers can
subscribe to content offerings of specific interest for viewing either
online or off, whenever and wherever they wish. They can also create
customized profiles, share and comment on videos, and publish videos to
their own web page or blog very simply. 

United Talent Agency is one of the entertainment industry's premiere
talent and literary agencies, representing many of world's most
widely-known figures in every current and emerging area of
entertainment, including motion pictures, television, digital media,
publishing, music, mobile and live entertainment. Collectively, UTA
agents represent a significant cross-section of today's most acclaimed
and inspiring artists and entertainers, including nominees and winners
of Academy, Emmy, Grammy, Screen Actors Guild, Directors Guild, Writers
Guild, Producers Guild, Golden Globe and People's Choice awards. The
agency is also globally recognized in the areas of corporate
consulting,
branding, licensing, endorsements and the representation of production
talent.

Veoh Networks is a new, innovative Internet television broadcasting
system that delivers broadcast-quality entertainment and informational
content via the Internet, using unique distribution technologies to
allow for unlimited capacity for both long- and short-form programming.
Veoh allows content producers from major entertainment studios and
television networks to independent video producers and enthusiasts to
deliver high-quality, full-screen video directly to consumers without
financial, geographical or capacity restrictions found in traditional
broadcasting systems.  This democratization of video distribution
fundamentally changes the dynamics of television, creating
unprecedented
choice for consumers and a compelling marketplace for content providers
and advertisers. Headquartered in San Diego, California with additional
offices in Los Angeles, Veoh Networks is privately held company that is
backed by leading technology and media investors, including Spark
Capital, Michael Eisner's Tornante Company, Time Warner Inc. and
Shelter Capital Partners. 

 

Jan 16

 

Kanye West, Fergie and John Legend Touchdown in Miami to Perform at 'The Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Bash' Premiering on Saturday, February 3 at 10PM*

Taye Diggs To Host

Exclusive Performances To Air on VSPOT, VH1's Broadband Channel

NEW YORK, Jan. 16  VH1, Pepsi and the NFL have joined forces once again to bring the worlds of football and music together with "The Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Bash." Taking place in the host city of Miami, Florida, the one-hour concert will pay tribute to the All-American sport of football and its 41st Super Bowl with performances by Kanye West, Fergie and John Legend among other special guest appearances.

Hosted by Taye Diggs (ABC's "Daybreak"), "The Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Bash" will also feature appearances by numerous NFL superstar players.

"The Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Bash" will be taped at the NFL Experience (adjacent to Dolphin Stadium) in Miami on Thursday, February 1st and will air on VH1 on Saturday, February 3, at 10PM.* In addition to performances from the on-air show, exclusive performances from all three acts will be available on demand on VSPOT, VH1's broadband channel, at http://vspot.vh1.com/ beginning Saturday, February 3. The Saturday broadcast will also be streamed live on http://www.superbowl.com/.

"The Pepsi Smash Super Bowl Bash" will be executive produced by Lee Rolontz for VH1. Patty Dimaria is the producer. Dave Diomedi is the director.

   * all times ET/PT  

VH1 connects viewers to the music, artists and pop culture that matter to them most with series, specials, live events, exclusive online content and public affairs initiatives. VH1 is available in 90 million households in the U.S. VH1 also has an array of digital services including VH1 Classic, VH1 Soul and VSPOT, VH1's broadband channel. Connect with VH1 at www.VH1.com.

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

*** For up-to-the-minute and archival press information including releases and photographs, visit VH1's press-only Web site at www.vh1.com/press

Source: VH1

 

 

UNIVERSAL PICTURES AND WORKING TITLE PRESENT THE WORLD PREMIERE OF 'SMOKIN' ACES' AT GRAUMAN'S CHINESE HOLLYWOOD, CA THURSDAY, JANUARY 18 AT 7:30 P.M.

  WHAT:   The world premiere of the dark action comedy "SMOKIN' ACES"    WHO:    "SMOKIN' ACES" writer/director Joe Carnahan; cast members Ben           Affleck, Jason Bateman, Peter Berg, Nestor Carbonell, Common,           Kevin Durand, Tommy Flanagan, Andy Garcia, Taraji Henson, Alicia           Keys, Ray Liotta, Chris Pine, Ryan Reynolds, Joseph Ruskin and           Maury Sterling; producers Tim Bevan and Eric Fellner; executive           producers Robert Graf and Liza Chasin.            Plus celebrity guests including Amanda Anka, Elizabeth Banks, A.J.           Buckley, Jennifer Garner, Maggie Grace, Lauren Holly, Tracee Ellis           Ross and many more.    WHERE:  Grauman's Chinese           6925 Hollywood Boulevard           Hollywood, CA    WHEN:   Thursday, January 18, 2007           5:30 PM  Press Call Time           6:30 PM  Celebrity Arrivals           7:30 PM  Screening Begins   "SMOKIN' ACES" opens in theaters nationwide on Friday, January 26, 2007

 

'American Idol' Attraction at Mme. Tussauds Lets Public Perform Like #1 TV Show

New Konami Karaoke Video Game Judges, Rates Individual Acts; Idol's New Season Premieres Tonight on FOX

LAS VEGAS,  American Idol hopefuls who couldn't make an audition or didn't make the cut now have another chance.

Continuing its trend of recognizing the world's leading pop culture entertainers, Madame Tussauds Las Vegas today introduced a new interactive American Idol attraction in its ON STAGE area that allows the public to perform in front of wax figures of Simon Cowell and Ryan Seacrest just like contestants on the LIVE show, which premieres its new season tonight on FOX.

The experience is enhanced by Konami's new "Karaoke Revolution Presents: American Idol," an innovative Karaoke video game that was launched nationally on January 2 for the PlayStation 2(R) computer entertainment system. Three judges in the video game, including Cowell and Randy Jackson, judge players' performances with specific feedback.

"Karaoke Revolution Presents: American Idol" allows participants to sing and perform using a USB headset/microphone as they compete through a fully recreated virtual segment of America's #1 TV show. Madame Tussauds contestants audition, earn an invitation to Hollywood and can ultimately perform on center stage at the finale. Performers may enter alone or compete against friends because the game supports up to eight players. Cowell and Jackson provide in-depth, specific verbal critiques of performances.

"We have created the ultimate American Idol experience and the Konami video game brings it alive," said Adrian Jones, general manager of Madame Tussauds Las Vegas.

"We are receiving tons of accolades from fans and the press about Karaoke Revolution Presents: American Idol. Now to be included in a Madame Tussauds exhibit demonstrates the true popularity of the game and the brand," said Matt Knoles, product manager for Konami Digital Entertainment, Inc. "Consumers are going to have a blast living out their Idol dreams singing in our video game in front of famous Madame Tussauds wax figures of Simon Cowell and Ryan Seacrest."

Madame Tussauds is an international wax attraction that offers the public the unique opportunity to "interact" with famous people. Madame Tussauds operates museums in London, Amsterdam, Hong Kong, Shanghai, New York and at The Venetian Resort - Hotel - Casino on "The Strip" in Las Vegas, NV.

Source: Madame Tussauds Las Vegas

 

SplitFish Provided Golden Globe Nominees and Presenters With a Little Video Game Entertainment as Part of the Access Hollywood's '64th GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS' Weekend Activities

EDMONTON, Alberta, Jan. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Today SplitFish GameWare Inc. announced the official launching of its MotionFX and EdgeFX Sony PlayStation 2 products as part of the Access Hollywood "Stuff You Must ... " lounge activities, this past weekend.

SplitFish provided its two newest products the EdgeFX and the MotionFX as entertainment and gifts for Golden Globe presenters, nominees and fellow cast members in L.A. Among the many participants Hayden Panettiere, Vanessa Williams, Jennifer Hudson, Mary J. Blige, Blair Underwood, Patricia Arquette, cast members of Dream Girls, Babel, Ugly Betty, CSI, Grey's Anatomy, Kinky Boots and many more stopped by to have some fun with the SplitFish video game products.

As seen on the internationally broadcast television entertainment show "Access Hollywood" and the "Access Hollywood website" the stars had a great time testing their video game abilities and unwinding with the SplitFish products. The EdgeFX and MotionFX are now both available at GameStop locations across North America and other fine retailers.

For further details email us at info@splitfish.com or visit our web site at www.splitfish.com .

About SplitFish:

SplitFish is a developer of original patented video game hardware technologies that include the theme park quality eyeFX 3D Adapter, the edgeFX Competition Controller, the motionFX Tilt-sensing Adapter, the glideFX Trackball Controller, and the dualFX Laser Gun.

Source: SplitFish GameWare Inc.

 

USA Network Teams With JuiceCaster for First Ever Contestant Mobisodes for Fifth Season of NASHVILLE STAR Presented by Sonic

NEW YORK, Jan. 16  In a first ever for a cable network reality show production, USA Network will team with JuiceCaster, the first unified mobile and web social media network, to provide NASHVILLE STAR's fifth season's top ten finalists with the ability to create their own "Contestant Mobisodes," enabling maximum exposure to fans worldwide. With JuiceCaster, photos and video content recorded by contestants with multimedia cell phones provided by Cricket Mobile can be automatically posted to the NASHVILLE STAR Mobisode MediaBox in real-time. The MediaBox, accessible via the official NASHVILLE STAR site (nashvillestar.usanetwork.com) and on each contestant's personal MySpace profile pages (www.myspace.com/nashvillestar), will give visitors an exclusive view into the everyday lives of the NASHVILLE STAR contestants as they compete for the chance to win a major music recording contract.

Visitors to the Nashville Star Mobisode MediaBoxes can subscribe to a contestant's MediaBox 'channel' on their own MediaBox, available for free at www.juicecaster.com. Fans who subscribe to a NASHVILLE STAR's contestant's channel can choose to be notified when a NASHVILLE STAR contestant posts a new photo or video, via text-message. Fans can then view that contestant's content on their cell phone screens, or by visiting their own MediaBoxes online. Individuals can easily post their MediaBox to any web site, placing links to NASHVILLE STAR contestants' content anywhere on the Web.

"This technology is a testament to how usanetwork.com and NASHVILLE STAR are working to stay on the cutting edge of entertainment and delivering another great web component to the series," said Chris McCumber, senior vice president, marketing and brand strategy for USA Network.

JuiceCaster will enable handset-to-handset, handset-to-PC, and PC-to-handset content distribution for Nashville Star contestants. The finalists will be able to upload an unlimited number of their favorite behind-the-scenes moments to the Nashville Star web site in real-time with their Motorola KRZR handsets provided by Cricket. Pictures and videos created by Nashville Star finalists can be viewed and shared via the JuiceCaster application on any data-capable Cricket handset.

"With JuiceCaster, NASHVILLE STAR contestants can upload pictures and videos directly from their mobile phones for immediate and massive broadcast exposure to fans," said Nick Desai, founder and chairman of Juice Wireless. "We're giving each musician's content ultimate portability by delivering it freely to anyone, anytime, through MediaBox channels -- instead of waiting for the fans to seek out the newest, hottest content. With JuiceCaster, they'll be able to automatically post content taken with their device to the web, creating and sharing files while connecting with fans anywhere, at any time."

NASHVILLE STAR, the original grassroots talent search to find America's next great country music star and the nation's top-rated country music program, will begin its fifth season with Grammy(R)-nominated host Jewel and co-hosted by RAYBAW/Warner Bros. Record's Cowboy Troy on its new night of Thursday, January 11, 2007 at 10pm/9 CT on USA Network. This season, country music icon Randy Owen and country star Blake Shelton join movie and music industry executive Anastasia Brown at the judges' table. NASHVILLE STAR will also feature a special musical guest each week.

Juice Wireless, Inc. is based in Los Angeles and New York. Privately-held, the company is a creator of innovative, consumer-friendly and highly useful applications accessible by consumers on virtually all digital devices, from the computer to the mobile phone to the iPod(TM) and more. Juice Wireless' flagship product is JuiceCaster (http://www.juicecaster.com/), the world's first Personal Broadcast Network. In November 2006, JuiceCaster won the 3G CDMA Industry Achievement Award for Most Innovative Social Networking Application. Juice Wireless has executed highly successful mobile phone based marketing programs for customers including AOL, Conde Nast, Teen Vogue Magazine, Glamour Magazine, Allure Magazine, The Gillette Company, Sony Connect and Transworld Entertainment (FYE.com).

USA Network is cable television's leading provider of original series and feature movies, sports and entertainment events, off-net television shows, and blockbuster theatrical films. The #1 basic cable network across the board for 2006, USA Network is seen in 90 million U.S. homes. The USA Network Web site is located at www.usanetwork.com. Characters Welcome.

USA Network is a program service of NBC Universal Cable a division 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.

Source: USA Network

 

Celebrities Leave Golden Globe Rehearsals Looking & Feeling More Beautiful Thanks to t'Zerah - A Couture Line of Natural Skin Care Treatments

SAN ANSELMO, Calif., Jan. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Celebrities visiting the Backstage Creations Retreat during rehearsals at the 2007 Golden Globe(R) Awards left glowing and more relaxed after receiving a complete t'Zerah skin regimen, including Or' l'Or de Nuit Illuminating Lifting Serum, made with pure white powder gold and inspired by the Golden Globes themselves!

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070116/SFTU166 )

Courteney Cox Arquette, Jessica Biel, Bai Ling (Lost) and Jenna Fischer (The Office) were among the high-profile guests who visited the retreat and went home with an exclusive collection of t'Zerah products presented in a custom made ivory silk box filled with flower petals and wrapped in hand made Japanese rice paper.

Overheard at the Retreat

Before they left, many of the stars raved about this luxurious product. Melina Karakaredes from CSI: NY called the products "lovely," Jenna Fischer exclaimed, "The products smell great! I could really use this (Or l'Or de Nuit) on Monday." And Hayden Panetierre of Heroes said, "I love this scent!"

But it wasn't just women who were impressed, after trying the face cream, Terrence Howard said, "Mmmm. That feels good! Can you hook me up with two of those boxes?"

T'Zerah, a luxurious couture-quality line of skin care inspired by the ancient knowledge of the restorative power of plants, was selected as the exclusive skin care line at the Backstage Creations Retreat during the Golden Globe rehearsals on Saturday and Sunday. Nearly 60 celebrity presenters were invited to visit the retreat over the weekend.

T'Zerah is made with only the freshest, purest essences of flowers, fruits, plants and precious minerals carefully selected for their ability to harmonize with the skin, rejuvenating and restoring its vitality and radiance. You can truly feel the difference -- the products have a freshness and vitality that has become the t'Zerah signature.

Backstage Creations is the leading company providing corporate clients an exclusive opportunity to personally introduce their products and services to celebrities. Invited celebrities visit custom designed "Retreats" to relax and choose products selected by event organizers as "thank-you" gifts. Backstage Creations has created celebrity retreats at various industry events including the Golden Globes Awards, People's Choice Awards and Billboard Music Awards.

 

Denzel Washington: America's Favorite Movie Star

After two years as #1, Tom Hanks drops to #2, according to a new Harris Poll

ROCHESTER, N.Y., Jan. 16  Hollywood movie star Denzel Washington returns to the list of America's favorite movie stars in dramatic fashion, taking the number one position after dropping off the top ten list in 2005. Dropping from number one to number two is Tom Hanks, while movie legend John Wayne remains in third place. Tough guy Clint Eastwood jumps up two spots to fourth place.

These are the results of a nationwide Harris Poll of 1,147 U.S. adults surveyed online by Harris Interactive(R) between December 12 and 18, 2006.

Will Smith also joins the list this year, perhaps due to the recent success of his film, The Pursuit of Happyness. Smith not only joins the top ten for the first time, but does so tied for fifth place. While all the other stars are the same, they have changed places within the top ten. Some of these changes include:

  - Harrison Ford is the biggest mover as he drops seven places from tied     

for #3 to #10. This excludes him from the top five for the first time     

since 1997;    - Julia Roberts is tied for #5, a spot held alone in 2005. 

She is still     alone in one regard - this Pretty Woman is the only female 

to appear in     the top ten;    - Johnny Depp drops five spots on the list.  

In 2005, he was #2 and this     time out he is tied for #7.  Also tied for #7 is 

Mel Gibson, who     previously held the spot alone;    - 

George Clooney drops one spot, from #8 to #9.  

Gender and age appear to play a role in deciding a favorite. Clint Eastwood is number one among men, while women choose Julia Roberts. Despite dropping overall, Johnny Depp is the favorite among Echo Boomers (ages 18 to 29). Gen Xers (ages 30 to 41) cite Tom Hanks as their favorite, while Baby Boomers (ages 42 to 60) go for someone who is no longer with us - John Wayne. Matures (ages 61 and over) choose Julia Roberts as their favorite.

Political ideology also appears to be a factor in choosing a favorite movie star. Conservatives pick Tom Hanks and John Wayne as their favorites, while liberals and moderates both choose Denzel Washington. Additionally, region is another factor in picking a favorite. Easterners pick Clint Eastwood as their favorite, while those in the West choose Will Smith. Southerners go with the number one choice overall and cite Denzel Washington as their favorite actor, while Mid-Westerners think outside the box and choose Brad Pitt, who comes in at #14 overall.

                                 TABLE 1                            FAVORITE MOVIE STAR                     

"Who is your favorite movie star?"                            Unprompted responses   

Base: All adults              1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 

2003 2004 2005 2006   Denzel    Washington  *    4    8   10   10    *   =7    

8    7    9    6    *    1   Tom Hanks    5    6    7    *    *   =5    6    2    1    4    

1    1    2   John Wayne   2    1    2    4    2    2    2    6    6    7    7   =3    3   

Clint    Eastwood    1    2    4    1   =4    4    5    7    8    8    8    6    4   

Will Smith   *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *   =5   

Julia    Roberts     *    *    *    *    *    8    4    1    3    2    3    5   =5   J

ohnny Depp  *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *   10    4    2   =7   

Mel Gibson   3    3    1    2    3    3    3    4    2    1    2    7   =7   

George    Clooney     *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *    *   10    8    9   

Harrison    Ford        4    *    *    5    1    1    1    3    4   =5    5   =3   10    

* Not in top 10.   "=" prior to a number indicates a tie                        

DROPPED OUT OF TOP 10 IN 2006         Sean Connery (#9 in 2005) 

and Sandra Bullock (#10 in 2005)                                    

TABLE 2               WHICH MOVIE STAR IS #1 AMONG DIFFERENT GROUPS?    

Bases/Groups as listed below:               Favorite Movie Star    Men                                            

Clint Eastwood   Women                                          Julia Roberts    

Conservatives                            Tom Hanks/John Wayne (tie)   Liberals

                                     Denzel Washington   Moderates                                    

Denzel Washington    Echo Boomers (18-29)                            

Johnny Depp   Gen X (30-41)                                    

Tom Hanks   Baby Boomers (42-60)                             

John Wayne   Matures (61+)                                  

Julia Roberts    East                                           

Clint Eastwood   Midwest                                          

Brad Pitt   South                                        

Denzel Washington   West                                             

Will Smith    Methodology 

This Harris Poll(R) was conducted online within the United States between December 12 and 18, 2006, among 1,147 adults (aged 18 and over). Figures for age, sex, race, education, region and household income were weighted where necessary to bring them into line with their actual proportions in the population. Propensity score weighting was also used to adjust for respondents' propensity to be online.

All 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 1,147, one could say with a ninety-five percent probability that the overall results have a sampling error of +/-3 percentage points. However that 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.

  The Harris Poll(R) #4, January 16, 2007   By Regina Corso, Director, The Harris Poll    J28941   Q960    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 it believes to be the world's largest panel of survey respondents, the Harris Poll Online. Harris Interactive serves clients worldwide through its United States, Europe and Asia offices, its wholly-owned 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 atwww.harrisinteractive.com.

To become a member of the Harris Poll Online and be invited to participate in online surveys, register at http://go.hpolsurveys.com/HarrisPoll.

 

'Diddy' Searches for New Generation of 'Bad Boys,' Scouting Nationwide for the Next Superstar Group to Be Featured on MTV's 'Making the Band 4'

On January 13th Candidates Can Post Their Videos On-line

Viewers Can Also Visit Makingtheband.mtv.com To Vote For their Favorites & Help Select The Finalists

Auditions To Be Held in Los Angeles, Houston, Orlando, Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit and New York City Beginning January 17th

NEW YORK, Jan. 16  MTV: Music Television and Sean "Diddy" Combs today announced open call auditions for MTV's hit returning series "Making the Band 4" to kick off on January 17th in Los Angeles. And for the first time ever candidates who are unable to make the open calls can post their audition videos on-line via makingtheband.MTV.com allowing viewers the opportunity to vote for their favorite "Making The Band 4" candidates. The series is scheduled to premiere in Q2 '07 and will chronicle Diddy as he sets out to form an all new boy band.

In the last season of "Making the Band 3," Diddy created the successful all girl band "Danity Kane" whose album debuted at number one. The show documented the journey of Aubrey, D. Woods, Aundrea, Dawn and Shannon as they recorded their first album together under the guidance and expertise of Diddy. "Danity Kane" is scheduled to go on tour with Christina Aguilera. Now Diddy is about to do it all again with "Making The Band 4!"

Starting January 13th aspiring superstars can log onto http://makingtheband.mtv.com/ and upload their singing audition for the world to see. Viewers will have until January 27th to vote for their favorites. 25 candidates will be selected to move on to Round Two, where they'll upload a dance audition. Round Two voting concludes on February 6th. Producers will reward 3 finalists with the opportunity to audition in person for Diddy.

  Open call audition dates and locations include:

    LOS ANGELES:   DATE:  Wednesday 1/17 - Open Call   

TIME:  Line forms at 6 am, Open call begins promptly at 8 am   

LOCATION: KNITTING FACTORY             7021 Hollywood Blvd             

Hollywood, CA 90028    HOUSTON   DATE:  Saturday 1/20   TIME:  

Line forms at 7 am, Open call begins promptly at 10 am   LOCATION: 

MERIDIAN             1503 Chartres St.             Houston, TX 77003    

ORLANDO   DATE: Tuesday 1/23   TIME: Line forms at 7 am, 

Open call begins promptly at 10 am   LOCATION: CLUB PARIS             

122 W. Church St.             Orlando, FL 32801    ATLANTA   DATE: 

Saturday 1/27   TIME: Line forms at 7 am, Open call begins 

promptly at 10 am   LOCATION: VERVE LOUNGE             

511 Peachtree St. NE             Atlanta, GA 30308    CHICAGO   

DATE: Tuesday 1/30   TIME: Line forms at 7 am, Open call 

begins promptly at 10 am   LOCATION: CLUB 720             

720 North Wells St.             Chicago, IL 60622    DETROIT   

DATE: Saturday 2/3   TIME: Line forms at 7 am, Open call 

begins promptly at 10 am   LOCATION: PLAN B             

205 W. Congress             Detroit, MI 48226    NEW YORK   DATE: 

Tuesday 2/6   TIME: Line forms at 7 am, Open call begins promptly 

at 10 am   LOCATION: BLVD             199 Bowery (at Spring St)             

New York, NY 10002  

The first installment of "Making the Band," a real-life drama and breakthrough concept in music and television, chronicled the private and public moments of O-Town's five band members (Ashley Parker Angel, Erik- Michael Estrada, Dan Miller, Trevor Penick and Jacob Underwood) as they ascended into pop stardom. In the second installment of the series "Making the Band 2" Diddy was successful when he developed the hip-hop group 'Da Band' whose album "Too Hot For TV" went gold.

The last season of "Making The Band 3" ranked #1 in its time period among P12-34 versus cable competition and reached over 63 million total viewers in premieres and repeats.

Sean "Diddy" Combs, Ted Iredell and Perry Dance will serve as executive producers. Jacquelyn French is the executive in charge of production for MTV and Francesca Spero is Producer for Bad Boy Entertainment.

SEAN COMBS, the CEO and founder of Bad Boy Worldwide Entertainment Group is a multifaceted entertainment powerhouse. Sean "Diddy" Combs was recently declared "One of the Most Influential Businessmen in the World" by Time Magazine and CNN. Combs, 36 oversees one of the world's preeminent urban entertainment companies, encompassing a broad range of businesses including recording, music publishing, artist management, television and film production, recording facility, apparel and restaurants.

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

Source: MTV

 

Lionsgate's Action Thriller CRANK Debuts at Number One on DVD Charts

Title Debuts as #1 New Release in DVD Sales and Rentals With 2 Million Units Sold in the United States and Canada; 1.4 Million Units Sold First Day

Lionsgate to Follow With DVD Releases of Jessica Simpson/Dane Cook Comedy EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH and Horror Hit SAW III Over Next Two Weeks

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Jan. 16 CRANK, the non-stop, action-packed theatrical film released on DVD by Lionsgate (NYSE:LGF) , the leading independent filmed entertainment studio, reigned supreme among this week's new DVD releases, opening at #1 on both the DVD sales and rental charts. Earning almost $30 million in domestic box office, the thriller, starring Jason Statham and Amy Smart sold 2 million units in its first week, with 1.4 millions sold on its first day of release. After its first week, CRANK appears positioned to significantly overindex its theatrical box office performance on DVD, reflecting another example of Lionsgate's typically high theatrical box office to DVD conversation rate. The CRANK DVD, breaking new ground for the home viewing experience, moved beyond the traditional special features with the creation of "Crank'd Out Mode," providing more information (including in-depth interviews, behind-the-scenes- footage, outtakes and more) than has ever been available at one time, all without ever leaving the film. The movie was also released day and date on 50 GB Blu-ray disc in the U.S.

The studio will follow the success of CRANK with the DVD debut of EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH next week and the third installment of the extremely successful SAW horror franchise, SAW III, on January 23. Starring Jessica Simpson and Dane Cook, EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH earned almost $30 million domestically at the box office. The title will be released on DVD and Blu-ray day and date. Having earned over $80 million domestically and $140 million worldwide, SAW III was the number one horror theatrical release of 2006. Overall, the SAW franchise has surpassed $400 million in worldwide box office receipts and the first two movies debuted in the top spot on the DVD charts. SAW III will also be released on DVD and Blu-ray disc day and date, and 2005's smash hit, SAW II will be making its debut on Blu-ray disc the same day.

"CRANK was an exhilarating way to start the year for Lionsgate. It features a high-powered cast and is the type of action thriller that we expect will have a strong following in the home entertainment marketplace," said Lionsgate General Manager and Executive Vice President Ron Schwartz. "Our expectations were extremely high for this release and we put a lot of effort into ensuring that the DVD stood out at retail, including eye-catching packaging that really pops off the shelves. We are looking forward to continuing this success over the next two weeks with the DVD releases of EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH and SAW III."

Called "startlingly entertaining and original ... a hardcore action classic!" by the Philadelphia Inquirer and "an action-packed, adrenaline-fueled thrill ride!" by Access Hollywood, CRANK tells the of a hit man (Statham) who, while trying to escape the business to start a new life with his girlfriend (Smart), wakes up to learn that he has been poisoned by his rival with the "Beijing cocktail," and he must keep moving -- literally -- to stay alive. The only way to prevent the poison from stopping his heart is to keep his adrenaline flowing. As the clock ticks, he negotiates the streets of Los Angeles, wreaking havoc on those who dare stand in his way. He must rescue his girlfriend from danger, stay two steps ahead of his nemeses as they try to eliminate him, and search for an antidote to save his own life.

About Lionsgate

Lionsgate is the leading independent filmed entertainment studio, winning this year's Best Picture Academy Award(R) for CRASH, generating two consecutive years of $300 million-plus domestic theatrical box office, operating a $500 million-plus home entertainment business and producing a broad slate of prime time television series for fiscal 2007. It is a premier producer and distributor of motion pictures, television programming, home entertainment, family entertainment, and video-on-demand content. Its prestigious and prolific library of more than 10,000 titles is a valuable source of stable, recurring revenue and a foundation for the growth of the Company's core businesses. The Lionsgate brand is synonymous with original, daring, quality entertainment in markets around the world.

                *         *         *         *         *                             www.lionsgate.com 

 

Netflix Offers Subscribers the Option of Instantly Watching Movies on Their PCs

New Feature Will Be Included in Subscribers' Monthly Membership at No Extra Charge and Will Have a Phased Roll-Out Over Next Six Months

LOS GATOS, Calif., Jan. 16 -- Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:NFLX) , the world's largest online movie rental service, today introduced a new feature that allows people to immediately watch movies and television series on their personal computers and said it will make the new feature available to its subscribers in a phased roll-out over the next six months.

The introduction marks an important enhancement to the Netflix service. Subscribers will continue to receive DVDs by mail from the company's market- leading catalog of over 70,000 titles and will have the additional option of instantly watching about 1,000 movies and TV series on their PCs. The new feature will be included in subscribers' monthly membership plans at no additional cost, and the company said its phased roll-out is meant to ensure that subscribers have a great initial experience with the feature.

"We named our company Netflix in 1998 because we believed Internet-based movie rental represented the future, first as a means of improving service and selection, and then as a means of movie delivery," said Reed Hastings, the company's chief executive officer. "While mainstream consumer adoption of online movie watching will take a number of years due to content and technology hurdles, the time is right for Netflix to take the first step.

"Over the coming years we'll expand our selection of films, and we'll work to get to every Internet-connected screen, from cell phones to PCs to plasma screens. The PC screen is the best Internet-connected screen today, so we are starting there."

Netflix said the introduction of immediate viewing is part of its plan to lead movie rental in total by adding electronic delivery to its existing DVD delivery platform. Netflix is specifically focusing on the rental segment of electronic delivery, distinct from the download-to-own market and advertising- supported electronic delivery.

The new immediate viewing feature differs from current services in that it does not require the often lengthy downloading of a large video file. The Netflix feature uses real-time playback technology that allows video to be viewed at virtually the same time it is being delivered to a user's computer. Following a one-time, under-60-second installation of a simple browser applet, most subscribers' movie selections will begin playing in their Web browser in as little as 10 to 15 seconds. Movies can be paused and a position bar gives viewers the ability to immediately jump to any point in the movie. In all, the instant watching feature requires only Internet connectivity with a minimum of one megabit per second of bandwidth. The more bandwidth a consumer has, the higher quality the video displayed, ranging from the quality of current Netflix previews to DVD quality with a three-megabit-per-second connection.

Initially, the new feature will offer about 1,000 titles and its selection will expand over time as licensing for electronically delivered movie rentals widens. The number of titles available at introduction roughly mirrors the number of DVD titles Netflix carried when its subscription service was launched in 1999. In seven years, that DVD catalog has grown to over 70,000. Most of the major and many independent studios are supporting the introduction of the new feature, including NBC Universal, Sony Pictures, Metro-Goldwyn- Mayer Studios, 20th Century Fox, Paramount Pictures, Warner Bros., New Line Cinema and Lionsgate.

In addition, content is being provided by A&E Television Networks, Anime Network, Allumination FilmWorks, BBC Worldwide, Cinema Libre Studios, Egami Media, Film Movement, Hart Sharp Video, The Independent Film Channel, Magnolia Pictures, New Video Group, New Yorker Films, Palm Pictures, Seventh Art , Silvernitrate Entertainment, Starz Digital, ThinkFilm, Video Action Sports, WMG Productions and Wolfe Video, among others.

The new feature will feel familiar to Netflix subscribers. Once it is made available to them as part of the phased roll-out, members will access instant movie watching by clicking on a "Watch Now" tab on their home page. As with the Netflix DVD catalog, subscribers can browse movies available for immediate viewing by title, genre or star rating. Personalized recommendations, based on an individual's historical preferences, will also appear at the top of the member's "Watch Now" page.

Netflix said it expects to make the new feature available to all Netflix subscribers by the end of June. The hours available for instant watching will vary based on subscribers' monthly plans. For example, subscribers on the entry-level $5.99 plan will have six hours of online movie watching per month and subscribers on Netflix's most popular plan, $17.99 for unlimited DVD rental and three discs out at a time, will have 18 hours of online movie watching per month.

About Netflix

Netflix, Inc. is the world's largest online movie rental service, providing more than five million subscribers access to over 70,000 DVD titles. The company offers a variety of subscription plans, starting at $5.99 a month. There are no due dates, no late fees and no shipping fees. DVDs are delivered for free by the USPS from regional shipping centers located throughout the United States. Netflix can reach more than 90 percent of its subscribers with generally one business-day delivery. Netflix offers personalized movie recommendations to its members and has more than one billion movie ratings. Netflix also allows members to share and recommend movies to one another through its Friends(SM) feature. For more information, visit www.netflix.com.

 

Wolfgang Puck to Create Academy’s Governors Ball Menu

Beverly Hills, CA — Master chef Wolfgang Puck, for the 13th consecutive year, has been selected by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to create the menu for the Governors Ball, the post-telecast celebration following the 79th Academy Awards® on Sunday, February 25, 2007.

“The Governors Ball has always been a very special event for me, and I take great pride in creating the menu. This year’s menu will reflect the celebration of the evening along with my passion for locally grown, sustainable and organic ingredients,” Puck said. “I want to create a menu that is elegant and exciting, where the main ingredient is the star of the evening and the chef the co-star.”

Puck and his team will be serving the Academy’s 1,650 guests, which will include Oscar® winners, nominees, presenters and telecast participants.

The menu will feature Ball favorites, including nearly 3,200 miniature Kobe beef cheeseburgers and 4,600 gold-dusted chocolate Oscars®.

“Wolf’s culinary interpretation of the evening’s celebration is always something we aim to match with impeccable service,” said Carl Schuster, CEO of Wolfgang Puck Catering. “We hand-select our staff and begin training months prior to the big event to ensure a flawless outcome.”

Working in a state-of-the-art kitchen adjacent to the Grand Ballroom at the Hollywood & Highland Center®, Puck will lead a team of chefs, pastry chefs and culinary artists who will be responsible for the cooking, presentation and execution of the evening’s menu.

Wolfgang Puck Catering was created in 1998 out of Spago Beverly Hills when Puck and Schuster recognized a national need for high-end restaurant-style catering. Puck’s restaurant concepts have been on the creative edge of fine dining for more than two decades.

Academy Awards for outstanding film achievements of 2006 will be presented on Sunday, February 25, 2007, at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center, and televised live by the ABC Television Network at 5 p.m. PST (8 p.m. EST), beginning with a half-hour arrivals segment, “The Road to the Oscars.”

# # #

©A.M.P.A.S.®

 

Jan 15

 

 

AIM: Congressional Liberals Bare Plan to Muzzle Conservative Speech

Less than two weeks after Democrats took control of both houses of Congress, Accuracy in Media has exposed a plan by congressional liberals to use the federal government to silence conservative voices in the media.

Reporting from a so-called National Conference on Media Reform, organized by "progressive" activists, AIM editor Cliff Kincaid has revealed, in an exclusive report now available on the AIM web site (http://www.aim.org/), that liberals in the House and Senate intend to push legislation giving the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) the authority to monitor and restrict what conservatives in the media say and how they say it. Kincaid quotes Democratic Rep. Maurice Hinchey (D-N.Y.) as saying that he wants to put an end to the influence of conservative media personalities he finds to be "neo-fascist" and "neo-con." Their legislative vehicle is revival of a "fairness doctrine" giving FCC bureaucrats the ability to grant liberal activists "equal access" to conservative programs on radio and television. Senator Bernie Sanders, an avowed socialist, told the conference he would push such a measure in the Senate.

Kincaid calls the approach "authoritarian" and a threat to freedom of speech in the U.S.

In his Special Report on the conference, which featured Bill Moyers and Jesse Jackson and Hollywood celebrities such as Jane Fonda, Kincaid said that the event "turned out to be an effort to push the Democratic Party further to the left and get more 'progressive' voices in the media, while proposing to use the power of the federal government to silence conservatives."

At the same time, Kincaid noted that one conference speaker, freshman Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN), pledged to protect or even increase taxpayer funding for public broadcasting that he admits is on the "left hand side of the dial."

Kincaid documents funding for the organizers of the conference from George Soros, who has made billions of dollars from secretive financial transactions, and notes evidence that participants were so far to the left that Senator Hillary Clinton was considered by them to be "too conservative." Kincaid also documents the active involvement in the conference by members of the Revolutionary Communist Party.

Accuracy in Media (AIM), founded in 1969, is America's oldest media watchdog organization. For more information, please visit http://www.aim.org/.

 

La Femme Renamed MGM Grand's Crazy Horse Paris

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 15  MGM Grand's acclaimed cabaret production La Femme changes its name to MGM Grand's Crazy Horse Paris.

The original Crazy Horse in Paris has been an illustrious night spot for the past 55 years and has drawn international and U.S. celebrities over and over again, including Madonna, Warren Beatty, Elvis Presley, Elizabeth Taylor, President John F. Kennedy, Christina Aguilera, Prince, Jean Paul Gauthier, Dita Von Teese and Pink.

Crazy Horse Paris is famous for celebrating women in an inimitable, sophisticated and glamorous way. The Crazy Horse show consists of a series of highly aesthetic and visual "tableau vivant" in which exceptionally beautiful and talented dancers perfectly integrate the sensuous choreography of their performances and their spectacular bodies. Each dancer is bathed in richly colored and textured lighting designs. The colors and images from the stunning lighting effects are so overwhelming that it is hard to determine where skin ends and the color reflections begin ... The result is a unique show that engages the mind as much as the eye!

The show at MGM Grand is an exact replica of the acclaimed Crazy Horse in Paris.

The founder of the Crazy Horse, Alain Bernardin, was both inspired by the great American show girls such as Lili St Cyr, Clara Bow and Betty Grable and by the highly creative and productive French art scene of the 70s and 80s. The Crazy Horse combines the best of burlesque and cabaret with the best of Parisian fashion, art and women in an elegant, surprising and totally innovative manner.

"The Crazy Horse legacy is rich in tradition and is recognized worldwide," said MGM Grand Vice President of Entertainment Todd Dougall. "We are proud to be a part of the Crazy Horse history, not only in performance but also in name."

Philippe Lhomme, Chairman and CEO of Crazy Horse Paris explain, "It is our desire to carry on the tradition of the original creator of Crazy Horse, Alain Bernardin. It is essential all of our venues including Las Vegas carry on the name to reflect our image of a highly creative and innovative company."

MGM Grand's Crazy Horse Paris performs nightly at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m., dark Tuesdays. Guests must be at least 18 years of age to attend the show. Tickets are priced at $59 inclusive and can be purchased at MGM Grand ticketing outlets, by phone at (702) 891-7777 or online at www.mgmgrand.com.

Source: MGM Grand

 

Microsoft Broadens Hollywood Ties With New Reveille Series, 'The Big Debate'

Premieres on MSN on Jan. 15.

REDMOND, Wash., Jan. 15 MSN today announced the availability of new entertainment content including a new MSN(R) Originals series, "The Big Debate," produced by Reveille LLC. This content is resulting from the relationship MSN has with Reveille, a leading independent Hollywood production studio and distribution company that has produced groundbreaking critical and ratings hits including NBC's "The Office" and "The Biggest Loser," ABC's "Ugly Betty," FX Network's "30 Days," and MTV's "Parental Control."

The debut of a new MSN Originals series, 

"The Big Debate," premiering at http://originals.msn.com/thebigdebate , 

is a comedic and interactive daily original program in which two pop

 culture experts debate the right and wrong of today's hottest topics

 and vie for viewers' votes on why their respective arguments are correct. 

The audience explores the debate through innovative video design and 

interactivity, posting their own comments and in turn creating new debates.

 The first series episode, premiering today, will launch with a debate

 surrounding the Golden Globe Awards nominees.

"We're committed to growing original content online like 'The Big Debate,' because we believe the ability to capture an immediacy and build a community dialogue is a part of the future of entertainment," said Ben Silverman, founder and CEO at Reveille. "We're able to realize a fresh content idea with 'The Big Debate' by first taking the rich information MSN has about consumers' news interests, and then pairing that with the possibilities for viewers to interact using the MSN platform."

"The Big Debate" is the result of the relationship between Reveille and Microsoft announced May 3, 2006, to develop the next generation of entertainment programming online.

"Hollywood is increasingly taking advantage of the audience and interactive experiences MSN offers," said Joanne Bradford, corporate vice president of Microsoft Corp. and chief media officer of MSN. "For MSN to align with production companies as esteemed as Reveille is a mark of our commitment to expand our entertainment practice and continue to generate elevated content for our 465 million worldwide viewers."

Today, MSN is also featuring exclusive Golden Globes content at http://tv.msn.com/tv/globes2007/ .

About MSN Originals: Storytelling for the Digital Age

MSN Originals combines video, interactive community features and rich editorial content to deliver unique entertainment experiences that will be deeply integrated throughout the MSN network, including MSN Lifestyle and MSN Video, as well as Windows Live(TM) Spaces. The first MSN Originals series, "Fan Club: Reality Baseball" ( http://fanclub.msn.com/ ), debuted in July 2006. The next original series, "Be Jane" ( http://bejane.msn.com/ ), debuted in August 2006, and "A Big Life with Sissy Biggers" ( http://originals.msn.com/abiglife ) debuted in November 2006.

MSN Originals is focused on partnering with the best and brightest creative minds in the media industry to bring the new generation of storytelling online. Exclusive MSN Originals content is supported by advertising and made available free to MSN users. Advertising opportunities include display and streaming video, as well as sponsorship packages incorporating MSN media and in-content integration.

  Information about MSN Originals can be found at http://originals.msn.com/ .    About MSN Video 

MSN Video is one of the largest free programmed video services on the Web, watched by more than 11 million unique users per month. In addition to streaming news, entertainment and sports video clips from more than 45 content partners including "The Today Show," FOX Sports, MSNBC, Reveille, Control Room, JibJab Media Inc. and Fox Entertainment Group, MSN Video presents a broad array of live events to online audiences worldwide. More than 50 top advertisers support MSN Video, which is available to consumers at no charge. MSN Video is available on the Web at http://msnvideo.com/ to consumers in the U.S. MSN Video is also live in Australia, Canada, France, Japan and the U.K., and in Spanish in the U.S.

Overall, MSN attracts more than 465 million unique users worldwide per month. With localized versions available globally in 42 markets and 21 languages, MSN is a world leader in delivering Web services to consumers and online advertising opportunities to businesses worldwide.

About Reveille

Reveille is a leading independent production and distribution company focused on exploiting worldwide intellectual property rights through scripted and alternative television formats. Launched in 2002 by Ben Silverman, the company produces innovative entertainment programming across all television genres such as the Emmy Award-winning "The Office" (NBC), which has also received two Television Critics Association Awards; "The Biggest Loser" (NBC); "Ugly Betty" (ABC); "Identity" (NBC); "House of Boateng" (Sundance Channel); "30 Days" (FX); "Blow Out" (Bravo); "Bound For Glory" (ESPN); "Nashville Star" (USA); "Date My Mom" (MTV); and "The Restaurant" (NBC). Reveille is also the world leader in creating integrated marketing opportunities for leading advertisers while developing alternative financing paradigms. In addition, Reveille's growing library of programming is distributed to more than 150 countries worldwide through Reveille International. The company also creates, acquires and develops a broad slate of diverse films through its feature film division, Reveille Motion Pictures. Reveille maintains offices in Los Angeles and New York.

About Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

NOTE: Microsoft, MSN and Windows Live are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries.

The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

 

Clothes Off Our Back Foundation(R) Launches Golden Globe Online Charity Auction Tonight

Bidding Begins Tonight for Items from Kyra Sedgwick, Katherine Heigl, Jeremy

           Piven, Mario Lopez, the cast of 'Heroes' and more at                        www.clothesoffourback.org!!  

The entertainment and fashion industries come together starting tonight at the Golden Globes to participate in the Clothes Off Our Back Foundation's third annual spring award show auction that will include celebrity clothing and accessories from award shows and events between now and March.

Red carpet items up for auction starting tonight include (in alphabetical order):

  *  Kevin Bacon - Shirt and Tie   *  Geena Davis - Sunglasses   *  Greg Grunberg ("Heroes") - Hugo Boss Tuxedo   *  Katherine Heigl ("Grey's Anatomy") - Gown   *  Rex Lee ("Entourage") - John Varvatos Sunglasses   *  Mario Lopez ("Dancing with the Stars") - Isaac Mizrahi Tie   *  Jeremy Piven ("Entourage") - Hamilton Watch   *  Kyra Sedgwick ("The Closer") - Piaget Ring   *  John Stamos ("ER") - Oliver Peoples Sunglasses    Additional auctions lots include:   *  "Desperate Housewives" costumes   *  "Heroes" - two bicycles signed by cast   *  "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip" - hats signed by Matthew Perry, Bradley      Whitford and Timothy Busfield   *  "24" - Mary Lynn Rajskub signed Motorola phone   *  Evangeline Lilly - two dresses from talk show appearances    *  Gift bag and celebrity signed iPods from the Platinum Guild Golden      Globe suite:     *  Tawny Cypress ("Heroes")     *  "Entourage" cast - Rex Lee and Perry Reeves     *  Kathy & Rick Hilton     *  Felicity Huffman ("Desperate Housewives")     *  Gregory Itzin ("24")     *  Sharon Leal (Dreamgirls)     *  Mario Lopez     *  Monique Mazur     *  "The Office" cast - Leslie David Barker, Brian Baumgartner, Kate        Flannery, Angela Kinsey and Phyllis Smith    *  "My Starbucks" Customized Beverage T-Shirts designed by Mychael Knight      ("Project Runway") signed by the following celebrities at the Backstage      Creations Celebrity Gift Retreat during the 2007 Golden Globes:     *  "24" cast - Roger Cross, Gregory Itzin     *  David Arquette ("In Case of Emergency")     *  Patricia Arquette ("Medium")     *  Jessica Biel     *  Clifton Collins Jr. (Babel)     *  Giuliana DePandi ("E! News")     *  Kevin Dillon ("Entourage")     *  Dreamgirls cast - Jennifer Hudson, Keith Robinson     *  Tina Fey ("30 Rock")     *  Jenna Fischer ("The Office")     *  Seth Green     *  Tim Gunn ("Project Runway")     *  "Heroes" cast - Greg Grunberg, Masi Oka, Hayden Panettiere, Adrian        Pasdar, Milo Ventimiglia     *  Terrence Howard     *  Jeremy Irons     *  Melina Kanakaredes ("CSI:NY")     *  "Lost" cast - Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Henry Ian Cusack, Jorge        Garcia, Daniel Dae Kim, Yunjin Kim     *  Nancy O'Dell ("Access Hollywood")     *  Evan Ross (ATL)     *  Trisha Simmons ("Desperate Housewives")     *  John Stamos  

Proceeds from the auction benefit the emergency relief efforts in Darfur (Friends of the World Food Program, Save the Children and the U.S. Fund for UNICEF), Children's Defense Fund, Cure Autism Now and the Pediatric Epilepsy Project.

Stay tuned for addition items from the Golden Globes, SAG Awards, Grammy Awards, Academy Awards and other events including gift bags and celebrity signed items. The auction will run through March 15 and can be found at www.clothesoffourback.org.

 

Source: Clothes Off Our Back Foundation

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

Uncover the Cover-up When Roswell Celebrates the 60th Anniversary of the 1947 UFO Incident

The Amazing Roswell UFO Festival Scheduled for July 5-8, 2007

ROSWELL, N.M., Jan. 15  Uncover the mystery and help discover the truth at The Amazing Roswell UFO Festival and 60th Anniversary of the Roswell Incident. The City of Roswell invites UFO enthusiasts and skeptics alike to join in the celebration of one of the most debated incidents in history this July 5-8, 2007. The four-day event will feature guest speakers, authors, live entertainment, family-friendly activities and possibly an alien abduction.

This year, the City of Roswell will be coordinating the annual festival. Roswell Mayor Sam LaGrone and the 2007 UFO Festival Committee are working to organize an event everyone can participate in: "This year, we want the festival to be all-inclusive. We invite everyone with an interest in UFOs, aliens and outer space to be a part of the festival as a presenter, a guest, or both," Mayor LaGrone said.

The City is expecting more than 50,000 visitors during the festival and guests are encouraged to make travel arrangements early.

In early July, 1947, a mysterious object crashed on a ranch 30 miles north of Roswell. The Roswell Army Air Field (RAAF) issued a statement claiming to have recovered a crashed "flying disk." An article ran on the front page of the Roswell Daily Record and the next day, RAAF changed its statement to say that the object was a weather balloon, not a flying disk as they previously reported. This revised statement sparked immediate controversy and has continued to be a topic of debate 60 years later.

During The Amazing Roswell UFO Festival, guests can visit alien attractions, attend lectures, book signings and help uncover the truth about one of the most infamous cover-ups in history. Those interested in participating in the festival as an official sponsor, presenter or vendor, please contact Renee Roach at 1-888-ROS-FEST. For more information about the festival, visit www.roswellufofestival.com.

Source: City of Roswell New Mexico

 

MusicPlusTV.com's CEO Marc Cubas Extends Open Invitation to Artists and Their PR Firms, Agents, Managers and Fans

MusicPlusTV.com Extending Guest List to Musicians, Bands, Actors, Actresses, Artists, Designers, Writers, Journalists, Models, Comedians, Entertainers, and Everyone in Between

 January 15, 2007 -- MusicPlusTV.com's CEO and Co-Founder Marc Cubas invites any and all artists, publicists, representatives, agents and fans to the experience MusicPlusTV.com live and direct. Headquartered in Los Angeles, MusicPlusTV.com has been nurturing a growing community of artists and the fans that love them. Since going live on June 15, 2005, MusicPlusTV.com has broadcasted over 4,000 music videos and 2,000 in-studio guests from across the creative spectrum. Cubas invites all to witness the epicenter of this synergy firsthand.

Marc Cubas and Dennis Tzeng founded MusicPlusTV.com in 2003, frustrated by the monotony of MTV, radio playlists and Britney Spears. From this context, MusicPlusTV.com was born with a mission to level the playing field for the sake of quality music and entertainment.

"One of the most rewarding parts of my job is to see artists, staff VJs and contributors develop," explains Marc Cubas. "We've been blessed to witness countless success stories -- individuals that come in hungry and come out on the other side well-fed with opportunities.

"There is always something going on at MusicPlusTV.com's headquarters. We're broadcasting live from our production studio 12 hours a day, and our doors are literally open to anyone to come and visit. 'Behind the scenes' doesn't exist at MusicPlusTV.com. Guests are always a welcome, important participant in the MusicPlusTV.com scene, whether you're a multi-platinum superstar or a fan that lives down the street."

Rather than take his words for it, Marc Cubas invites you to experience MusicPlusTV.com for yourself. To schedule a tour of the headquarters and studios, please contact Bryan Kim, Director of Public Relations, pr @ musicplustv.com.

Please visit www.MusicPlusTV.com for information on submitting CDs, music videos, or any other type of artwork for review.

New Era, New Opportunities

Rather than lament the supposed death of the music industry, MusicPlusTV.com is building the foundation for a new era. A recent survey of digital music consumers by Digital Media Association hints at new growth:

* 60% are listening to more music since they started using an online service

* 60% have discovered new artists

* 50% spend $200 per year on digital downloads, and nearly 30 percent spend more than $300

The once bottlenecked channels of music distribution (via the major labels) are breaking open, and the demand for new music is exploding. The savvy artist or publicist will thrive in this new music landscape, full of emerging opportunities for multiple revenue streams. MusicPlusTV.com is an obvious example of that prime opportunity. Director of Production and Co-Founder Dennis Tzeng relates:

"The old industry could only afford to push a select few artists. Conversely, MySpace hosts countless artists, but with no real means to distinguish from the pile. MusicPlusTV.com strikes that needed balance. We can broadcast talent in a compelling television program, embedded in an interactive, on-demand medium.

"Artists simply cannot afford to ignore this opportunity. And if you're talented, MusicPlusTV.com cannot afford to ignore you."

In-studio guests have included PitBull, Jurassic 5, Jason Biggs, Cypress Hill, The Shys, The Vacation, M1 of Dead Prez, Pigeon John, Rocco Deluca, Evidence of Dilated Peoples, Fishbone, Jamie Kennedy, Ima Robot, The Gray Kid, My Chemical Romance, Aloe Blacc, Aceyalone, Living Legends, Planet Asia and many more.

Artist testimonial -- Killola:

MusicPlusTV.com hopes to grow along with the artists it broadcasts. The story of Los Angeles-based Rock band Killola (www.killola.com) is a prime example of parallel evolution. Fronted by lead singer Lisa R., Killola started in 2004 as a group of friends playing in a living room. Killola's high-energy performances and relentless do-it-yourself ethic sparked a verifiable buzz in the hyper-competitive Los Angeles scene.

Enter MusicPlusTV.com: "Music Plus TV has helped our music reach people all over the world," explains Lisa R. "Thousands of fans never had the chance to see a LIVE Killola performance. However, via MusicPlusTV.com, our fans around the world were able to watch us perform an entire live set on the Friday Effect. That was an amazing night. After that show, we came home to dozens of emails and messages from all over the world telling us they thought the show was great."

Several appearances on MusicPlusTV.com later, Killola landed over 150 gigs, including sold-out shows at Safari Sams, the Viper Room, Spaceland, Silverlake Lounge, The Knitting Factory, and a residency at the Cat Club. That kind of accessibility lead to the band quickly selling out 1,000 of their independently pressed debut CD, "Louder, LOUDER!"

About MusicPlusTV.com

MusicPlusTV.com capitalizes on the power of the internet to deliver original, entertaining television content while intimately connecting artists and entertainers to a global audience. MusicPlusTV's web portal features a live video stream broadcasting 24 hours a day, a complete on-demand library of video content, and an interactive, community-based interface that appeals to viewers and artists alike. Catering to a growing generation of consumers who demand fresh programming, MusicPlusTV.com has an innovative business model which includes revenues from advertising, content licensing, brand integration, event sponsorships and digital distribution. Visit www.musicplustv.com for more information.

 

Did Our Universe Evolve?

Science & Spirit Explores the Origin of the Cosmos

 Is our universe the product of random encounters and mutations in a cosmos bursting with chemicals? Modern science, says George V. Coyne, S.J., director emeritus of the Vatican Observatory, has "revealed a cosmos that is shaped by the interaction of chance, necessity, and opportunity." To understand this universe, science and religion must both play a role, he believes -- challenging one another while staying within the boundaries of their given discipline: How life originated is a scientific question, he says, while theology accounts for why there is something rather than nothing.

But what about where life originated? "For many physicists," writes William Orem, "it's hard to talk about the laws of nature without acknowledging the fact that they are precisely what is needed to make the universe capable of producing life in the first place." Orem, who writes for NPR's "A Moment of Science," traces the strengths and shortcomings of the "anthropic principle," which postulates that the universe is fine-tuned for life, and "string theory," which posits parallel universes and extra dimensions. While string theory "has yet to be experimentally tested or falsified," Orem explains, "there are a great many who believe it has features of mathematical interest, which may be key to someday solving some of the deepest mysteries of the universe."

 

Orem also interviews Max Tegmark, an associate professor of physics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and scientific director of FQXi, the Foundational Questions Institute. Tegmark, famous for cutting-edge research probing the origin of the cosmos, hopes FQXi will help to legitimize frontier science that otherwise might not get funded. "Maybe," he says, "we humans can actually talk sensibly about the universe as a whole and how things might have begun 14 billion years ago."

The current issue of Science & Spirit also features:

--  A look at how baby boomers are reinventing retirement -- 

 The costs -- physical, emotional , and financial -- of America's sleep 

deprivation epidemic -- 

 Recent research 

that suggests early humans and chimpanzees interbred,    

 and the potential of future hybrids --  A roundup of books on 

ethical eating and  the moral quandaries behind     our food choices     

Science & Spirit is published six times a year by Heldref Publications. It is sold on newsstands and by subscription, and can be viewed online at www.science-spirit.org.

 

Jan 14

 

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Media By Numbers LLC. Final figures will be released Tuesday.

1. "Stomp the Yard," $22 million.

2. "Night at the Museum," $17.1 million.

3. "The Pursuit of Happyness," $9.1 million.

4. "Dreamgirls," $8.1 million.

5. "Freedom Writers," $7.1 million.

6. "Children of Men," $6.4 million.

7. "Alpha Dog," $6.1 million.

8. "Primeval," $6 million.

9. "Arthur and the Invisibles," $4.3 million.

10. "The Good Shepherd," $3.9 million.

 

"CMT Loaded": Taking Aim at Artists and Labels Seeking An Alternate Music Venue
By Crystal Caviness

 

© 2007 CMA Close Up News Service / Country Music Association, Inc.

Lewis Bogach wants to create water cooler moments.

As the Vice President of Programming and Production at CMT and the chief of its recently-launched broadband channel video initiative, CMT Loaded, Bogach observed that linear channels (a.k.a. cable or network television) offer finite programming opportunities, a boundary Bogach and others working with online content don't have.

"It's an infinite medium," Bogach said of the Internet, particularly as he views it in regard to what he and his team can offer CMT fans. "To me, it's the Wild West, it's open, it's freedom," Bogach said. "You're finding stuff there that you can't get anywhere else and it sparks people to go seek it out. Linear channels really don't do that anymore. The water cooler moments are all now happening online. Things that don't quite fit on the linear channels are things that fit on the Internet."

For CMT viewers, that means a plethora of behind-the-scenes footage, outtakes and programming that may have ended up on the proverbial editing room floor.

When Jeff Foxworthy's new series premiered on CMT in September, producers had hours of rehearsal footage, which typically would have found its way into a tape vault. Now, Bogach said, the rehearsals can be found at Loaded, so viewers who love "Foxworthy" can see what happened before the finished show.

The same has happened for an episode of "Greatest Moments" featuring Dolly Parton. Producers shot hours of the icon, but were restricted to less than an hour of the actual interview for its on air episode.

"We shot this awesome interview with Dolly Parton. She's a great storyteller; she's riveting," Bogach said. "Now when you go to Loaded every week, it's just Dolly Parton telling stories."

At its debut, Loaded's primary focus, CMT executives said, is to work in cooperation with its linear channel counterpart.

"It's a companion to CMT and also something separate," said Paul Burch, CMT Producer. "The production for (CMT programming) is really high. We can't fit all that we want into a show. The linear channel demands you have a beginning, middle and end and have to make room for commercials. On Loaded, we may have some deleted scenes that we didn't have room for on the linear channel and now we have a place to put it. It's also a way to reach out to an audience that isn't watching TV."

But that's just the beginning.

"In order for Loaded to be successful, it's got to bust out on its own," Bogach said.

That's where Burch comes in. The veteran musician and producer is charged with programming the "Wide Open Country" portion of Loaded, a section of the Web site devoted to music just off the beaten path of commercialism.

"My job is to make a place for videos that may not make it on the linear channel but also give a place for acts that are critically acclaimed and have a fan base but may not sell tons of records," Burch said. "In a sense, these are musicians' musicians. These are the artists who never intend to quit. They make videos and make films of recording sessions. It's probably what MTV would have attempted to do 20 years ago, but the technology didn't really exist."

Alt Country artists, including Bruce Robison and Holly Williams are frequently featured on "Wide Open Country," but viewers also can find legends Bob Dylan, Kris Kristofferson and others programmed on the site.

"This is a new avenue and it's very open," Burch said. "There's this great wealth of material and it's never had an outlet before. I love to put up something that's a conventional video and really well done but also something that's really homemade. They all seem to fit equally on the screen. I'm trying to mix new artists with the well established."

The original programming is beginning to find its way to Burch and others, as artists and labels, particularly independents, send digital clips in for consideration.

The desire, CMT executives said, is to receive programming from as many folks in the music business as possible.

Bogach has issued an invitation - or perhaps a challenge - to artists, record labels and managers to make and send in whatever original programming they want. The artists have the footage, he said.

"I know Sugarland . they have a camera on the bus," Bogach said. "They all have someone in their camp playing around in this medium. But right now, it's staying on their cameras and staying on their lap top. You have a forum for that now on your terms. Unless it's completely raunchy or totally negative, why wouldn't we put it on? Get out there and show us who you are.

"Can we feature them all on Loaded, every single one? Yes, we can," Bogach said. "There's absolutely a seat on the bus."

On the Web: www.CMT.com/loaded

 

Arnold Schwarzenegger to Announce Best Picture (Drama) Joining More Than 50 Stars Set as Presenters at Golden Globes

"The 64th Annual Golden Globe Awards" Will Be Telecast Live on NBC Monday, January 15

14, 2007 -- California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger will announce the nominations and present the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture (Drama) at "The 64th Annual Golden Globe Awards" to be telecast live on NBC Monday, January 15 (8 - 11:00 p.m. EST) at The Beverly Hilton.

He joins more than 50 superstar presenters including Tim Allen, David Arquette, Drew Barrymore, Jessica Biel, Steve Carell, George Clooney, Sean Combs, Dane Cook, Courteney Cox, Geena Davis, Cameron Diaz, Tina Fey, Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Garner, Hugh Grant, Adrian Grenier, Jake Gyllenhaal, Tom Hanks, Salma Hayek, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Dustin Hoffman, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Djimon Hounsou, Terrence Howard, Felicity Huffman, Jeremy Irons, Eva Longoria, Jennifer Lopez, Sienna Miller, Sarah Jessica Parker, Joaquin Phoenix, Charlie Sheen, David Spade, Steven Spielberg, John Stamos, Ben Stiller, Sharon Stone, Hilary Swank, Justin Timberlake, Naomi Watts, Rachel Weisz, Vanessa Williams, Reese Witherspoon, James Woods, Renee Zellweger and the cast of "Heroes" (Ali Larter, Masi Oka, Greg Grunberg, Adrian Pasdar, Hayden Panettiere, Sendhil Ramamurthy and Milo Ventimiglia).

Tom Hanks will present Warren Beatty with this year's Cecil B. DeMille Award from the Hollywood Foreign Press Association for his "outstanding contribution to the entertainment field."

"The 64th Annual Golden Globe Awards" will be seen in more than 150 countries worldwide and is one of the few awards ceremonies to span both television and motion picture achievements.

"The 64th Annual Golden Globe Awards" will be produced by dick clark productions in association with the Hollywood Foreign Press Association. Philip Berk is President of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association. Allen Shapiro and Barry Adelman are executive producers. Chris Donovan is director. Al Schwartz is consulting producer. Ken Shapiro is producer. Ron Weed is consulting producer.

 

LINGO Goes Into Production for Its Sixth Season, Marking a First for GSN, the Network for Games

Legendary Game Show Host Chuck Woolery Returns With Co-Host Shandi Finnessey at His Side

Winners From GSN's Online Interactive Game Will Face Off Against Champions From Previous Seasons in Four Special Episodes

LINGO will go into production on its sixth season next month, making it the first original series ever to be picked up for a sixth season at GSN, the network for games. Legendary host Chuck Woolery returns with co-host Shandi Finnessey by his side. The sixth season will premiere Monday, April 2 and will air Monday through Friday 7:30-8:00 PM, ET.

Host Woolery is known by audiences worldwide for such popular classics as "Love Connection" and "Greed," both of which air on GSN, in addition to "Scrabble" and the first seven years of "Wheel of Fortune." Co-host Finnessey (Miss USA 2004) is a published children's book author of "The Furrtails," which was developed to promote the inclusion of individuals with mental challenges. Originally from Florissant, Missouri, Finnessey is an honors graduate of Lindenwood University where she received a degree in psychology. In her spare time, Finnessey works with many charities across the country.

During the first two rounds of LINGO, two teams of two contestants compete to see who can guess the most mystery five-letter words. When a team guesses a word correctly, they earn points toward the right to blindly select two numbered balls out of the 24 balls whose numbers match those on the team's bingo-style Lingo board.

When the team succeeds in getting five numbers in a row (horizontally, vertically or diagonally), they achieve "Lingo" and win additional points. The goal of the game during the first two rounds is to earn points -- the higher-scoring team moves onto the final round where they attempt to correctly identify as many words as they can in two minutes. They earn $100 and the right to pick one Lingo ball for each word they guess correctly. If the team achieves Lingo, they win $5,000. If they achieve Lingo with their first ball pulled, they win $10,000 and the progressive jackpot, if applicable. The progressive LINGO jackpot is won every time a winning team gets "Lingo" on the first ball. The jackpot starts at $10,000 and grows by $1,000 each time it's not won.

The new season will also feature a series of episodes in which the champions of GSN's online LINGO game face off against the best players from previous television episodes.

LINGO is produced by Laurelwood Entertainment. Phil Gurin ("The Weakest Link") and Marc Jansen serve as executive producers.

GSN is the entertainment industry leader in multi-platform interactive game programs. As the premier television network for games, GSN features challenging word games, high intensity casino programs, live participation shows, reality series and documentaries. GSN's programming includes original series such as "Chain Reaction," "Lingo" and "High Stakes Poker," as well as classics "Jeopardy" and "Pyramid." The network also boasts America's first live participation TV program "PlayMania," which airs in late-night six times a week. Complementing the network, GSN.com features all types of game play: innovative Flash games for fun, skill cash game tournaments and downloadable games. The website also features GSN's two-screen interactive play-along for prime time shows. Now reaching more than 62 million Nielsen homes, GSN is distributed in the U.S. through all major cable systems and satellite providers. The network is jointly owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment and Liberty Media Corporation. For further media information, visit GSN's press website at corp.gsn.com.

Laurelwood Entertainment is a full service production company with credits including reality, game, variety, holiday specials, magazine shows and documentaries. Owner Phil Gurin recently produced his second year of New Years Eve on FOX, with Cat Deeley hosting. He is producing the upcoming variety game on ABC, "Wanna Bet?" and is in his fifth year as executive producer of the high-profile "Miss Universe," "Miss USA" and "Miss Teen USA" pageants for Donald Trump and NBC. Gurin also produced the TV Guide Channel red carpet shows with Joan and Melissa Rivers for the Grammys, Golden Globes, SAG and Academy Awards. Additionally, he served as executive producer on NBC's "Weakest Link," "Twenty One" and the "United States Olympic Hall of Fame 2006" special. Gurin's credits also include "Test the Nation" reality specials, a new version of the classic reality show "Queen for a Day" and Lifetime's 5th Anniversary Special.

-GSN '07-

Source: GSN

 

GSN Orders Renewal of 'CHAIN REACTION'

The Second Season of the Popular Word Game Produced by Michael Davies Premieres on March 13

 The leading network in interactive game shows, GSN, announced today that it has ordered a new season of CHAIN REACTION, executive produced by Michael Davies ("Who Wants to be a Millionaire?") for Sony Pictures Television.

CHAIN REACTION's second season will premiere on Tuesday, March 13 at 10 PM ET. The half-hour word game will be seen Tuesday through Saturday nights at 10 PM ET on GSN. Dylan Lane, who also hosts the National Vocabulary Championship for GSN, returns as the host.

In making the announcement, Rich Cronin, GSN's President and CEO said, "At this time when networks are rediscovering the power of game shows in prime time, GSN is pleased to renew CHAIN REACTION for a second season. We think that viewers will continue to enjoy the challenges of this fast-paced word game under the guidance of Michael Davies."

"We love producing this addictive game show," said Michael Davies, executive producer of CHAIN REACTION and CEO of Embassy Row. "GSN has really gotten behind us and the show has performed superbly. Our job is to make it even better in season 2."

Taped in New York City, CHAIN REACTION is a revival of the 1980 game show which aired on NBC. In the show, teams compete against one another to complete chains of words after the first and last words of the chain are revealed. Each word in the chain is related in some way to the word directly above and/or below it.

Davies remains executive producer of prime time network hit "Wife Swap" and "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?," now in its fifth year of first run syndication. Davies' New York-based company, Embassy Row, continues to grow and has significantly increased its production of entertainment shows, comedy, factual, documentary films, sports and web content for partners ABC, CBS, Sony, GSN, VH1, ESPN, Comedy Central, A&E, Food Network and Yahoo!.

GSN is the entertainment industry leader in multi-platform interactive game programs. As the premier television network for games, GSN features challenging word games, high intensity casino programs, live participation shows, reality series and documentaries. Complementing the network, GSN.com features all types of game play: innovative Flash games for fun, skill cash game tournaments and downloadable games. The website also features GSN's two-screen interactive play-along for prime time shows. Now reaching more than 62 million Nielsen homes, GSN is distributed in the U.S. through all major cable systems and satellite providers. The network is jointly owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment and Liberty Media Corporation.

 

AOL Names Napster as Exclusive Music Subscription Provider Integrated Into AOL Music

-- AOL (NYSE:TWX) and Napster(TM) (NASDAQ:NAPS) , announced today that Napster will become the exclusive music subscription provider integrated into AOL Music, replacing AOL Music Now(R). The two companies will work together to migrate approximately 350,000 paid subscribers of the Music Now service to Napster's award-winning digital music subscription service. Additionally, AOL will promote Napster with links to the Napster service throughout AOL's free music site, AOL Music (http://www.aolmusic.com/), one of the top music destinations on the Web.

Music Now customers are being notified that their music accounts will be migrated to Napster unless they opt out. In order to enjoy uninterrupted service, Music Now customers will be able to use their current member ID and password to access the Napster subscription service, and their billing information will be securely transferred directly to Napster. In addition, Napster will re-create migrating customers' existing personal Music Now music libraries, including any original playlists they have created and saved. Napster also will retain Music Now's current pricing tiers for migrating subscribers and transfer any pre-paid track credits they have in their accounts.

"We are pleased to provide our subscribers the opportunity to seamlessly transition to Napster, which will become the only music subscription service integrated into AOL Music," said Mike Rich, Vice President, AOL Entertainment. "Music Now subscribers can look forward to enjoying a world-class music experience from Napster."

"Napster's new relationship with AOL provides us with an excellent opportunity to aggressively grow subscribers through deep integration with one of the most visited music destinations on the Web," said Chris Gorog, Napster's chairman and CEO. "This transaction firmly positions Napster to be the unequivocal global leader in the premium music subscription sector and the number two overall in digital music revenue. We greatly look forward to serving all of the current AOL Music Now subscribers by providing them with the best possible unlimited music experience from Napster."

AOL and Napster expect to complete the service migration within the next 60 days.

About Napster

Napster, the pioneer of digital music, offers the ultimate interactive music experience. With an expanding roster of offerings including free, Web-based music listening and sharing, subscription and portable subscription services, and an advanced mobile music platform, Napster creates better ways to discover, share, acquire and enjoy music -- anytime, anywhere. Napster is headquartered in Los Angeles, with offices in Frankfurt, London, New York, San Diego, San Jose and Tokyo.

About AOL

AOL is a global Web services company that operates some of the most popular Web destinations, offers a comprehensive suite of free software and services, runs the country's largest Internet access business, and provides a full set of advertising solutions. A majority-owned subsidiary of Time Warner Inc. (NYSE:TWX) , AOL LLC is based in Dulles, Virginia. AOL and its subsidiaries also have operations in Europe, Canada and Asia. Learn more at AOL.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

Except for historical information, the matters discussed in this press release, in particular matters related to Napster's relationship with AOL, the migration of the AOL Music Now subscribers to Napster, and Napster's leadership in the premium music subscription service and position in digital music revenue contain forward-looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties including the failure to maintain strategic relationships, subscriber churn, and intense competition that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Additional information on these and other factors are contained in Napster's reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q as filed with the SEC on November 8, 2006, copies of which are available at the website maintained by the SEC at http://www.sec.gov/. Napster assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements included in this press release.

Copyright (C) 2007 Napster, LLC. All rights reserved. Napster is a registered trademark of Napster, Inc. or its subsidiaries in the United States and/or other countries. All other trademarks are owned by their respective owners.

 

 

Jan 13

 

 

More Than 50 Stars Set as Presenters at Golden Globe Awards

"The 64th Annual Golden Globe Awards" Will Be Telecast Live on NBC Monday, January 15

HOLLYWOOD, CA -- More than 50 Hollywood stars have been set as presenters at "The 64th Annual Golden Globe Awards" to be telecast live on NBC Monday, January 15 (8 - 11:00 p.m. EST) at The Beverly Hilton.

Presenters include Tim Allen, David Arquette, Drew Barrymore, Jessica Biel, Steve Carell, George Clooney, Sean Combs, Dane Cook, Courteney Cox, Geena Davis, Cameron Diaz, Tina Fey, Jamie Foxx, Jennifer Garner, Hugh Grant, Adrian Grenier, Jake Gyllenhaal, Tom Hanks, Salma Hayek, Jennifer Love Hewitt, Dustin Hoffman, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Djimon Hounsou, Terrence Howard, Felicity Huffman, Jeremy Irons, Eva Longoria, Jennifer Lopez, Sienna Miller, Sarah Jessica Parker, Joaquin Phoenix, Charlie Sheen, David Spade, Steven Spielberg, John Stamos, Ben Stiller, Sharon Stone, Hilary Swank, Justin Timberlake, Naomi Watts, Rachel Weisz, Vanessa Williams, Reese Witherspoon, James Woods, Renee Zellweger and the cast of "Heroes" (Ali Larter, Masi Oka, Greg Grunberg, Adrian Pasdar, Hayden Panettiere, Sendhil Ramamurthy and Milo Ventimiglia).

Tom Hanks will present Warren Beatty with this year's Cecil B. DeMille Award from the Hollywood Foreign Press Association for his "outstanding contribution to the entertainment field."

"The 64th Annual Golden Globe Awards" will be seen in more than 150 countries worldwide and is one of the few awards ceremonies to span both television and motion picture achievements.

"The 64th Annual Golden Globe Awards" will be produced by dick clark productions in association with the Hollywood Foreign Press Association. Philip Berk is President of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association. Allen Shapiro and Barry Adelman are executive producers. Chris Donovan is director. Al Schwartz is consulting producer. Ken Shapiro is producer. Ron Weed is consulting producer

 

Jan 12

 

Apple iPhone Will Impact On Mobile Content Trade

 Apple's new iPhone with handheld computer capability will create a huge impact on trade in games, music, images and videos, says voeveo.com, a global online marketplace for mobile content.

Voeveo says the convergence of phone and computer functions on one mobile device will help tear down many of the barriers currently preventing content producers and consumers from direct dealings.

"The iPhone advent cuts through existing constraints on mobile phone users unable to access and use content designed for computer-based applications," says voeveo.com solutions architect, Jeff Mitchell.

"This restriction has been one of the biggest impediments to growth in mobile content, unlike the computer-driven success of internet sites such as YouTube and MySpace.

"There is no doubt that cellphone and wireless device users do want improved online access to quality mobile content and the iPhone will facilitate this process enormously in the short term."

Content creators trading on sites such as voeveo.com will enjoy a significantly larger market as mobile users adopt the converging technology, Jeff says.

"As other manufacturers follow the iPhone precedent, we expect a flood of interest from consumers waking up to the fact that anything will be possible to see and do on their mobile phones.

"Most importantly, they will be able to deal directly with content originators to get exactly what they want, rather than content that is dictated by one big supplier.

"Buyers will also benefit from competitive pricing as the content market opens up across different platforms and applications."

  For more information:      Website: http://www.voeveo.com/aboutus 

 

 

Monty Python's SPAMALOT Opens at Wynn Las Vegas Starring John O'Hurley as King Arthur!

Preview Performances Begin March 8th

Opening Night Is March 31st

TICKETS ON SALE TUESDAY, JANUARY 16

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 12 1969 is remembered as the year that man walked on the moon; Elvis Presley took up residency in Las Vegas; and Monty Python's Flying Circus first aired on BBC television.

2007 will go down in the history books as the year that the inspired lunacy of Monty Python came to The Grail Theater at Wynn Las Vegas with the smash hit show Monty Python's SPAMALOT.

With SPAMALOT, Eric Idle has created a deliriously funny live spectacle which tells the legendary tale of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, and their quest for the Holy Grail. The show features lusty maidens, dancing divas, a killer rabbit and the only legless knight appearing on the Las Vegas Strip.

Monty Python's SPAMALOT will star John O'Hurley, best known as J. Peterman on Seinfeld. O'Hurley was the ultimate champion on season one of Dancing with the Stars and is the new face of Family Feud. O'Hurley, who has worked on stage throughout his career, starred on Broadway in Chicago, as Billy Flynn.

Monty Python's SPAMALOT is written by Eric Idle and is lovingly ripped off from the motion picture Monty Python and the Holy Grail by Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones and Michael Palin. SPAMALOT features lyrics and a Grammy Award-winning score by Eric Idle and long-time Python collaborator John Du Prez. The show is directed by Oscar and Tony Award-winning legend Mike Nichols.

Mike Nichols has been acclaimed as one of the great American directors in film, theater and television. His best known movies include Closer, Primary Colors, The Birdcage, Working Girl, Silkwood, Carnal Knowledge and The Graduate.

On the announcement that SPAMALOT was opening at Wynn, Eric Idle commented, "I love Las Vegas. It will be wonderful when it's finished." Steve Wynn added that he was pleased to announce "that the search for The Holy Grail has finally ended at Wynn Las Vegas. This achievement is in no small part due to the relentless energies and psychotic obsession of Eric Idle and Mike Nichols. The world owes these two a great debt of gratitude and prompt payment of their Medicare checks!"

Aside from his work with Monty Python in films and on TV, Eric Idle has written a West End play, Pass the Butler; three novels, including The Road to Mars, The Rutles - A Mockumentary; and many songs too rude to mention. He has sung opera, acted in movies, appeared on television and crossed America performing comedy on The Greedy Bastard Tour. His diary of his 15,000 mile journey by bus was published by Harper Collins. There's no saying what he might do next...

John Du Prez has composed over 20 feature film scores including A Fish Called Wanda, A Private Function, The Meaning of Life, Personal Services, UHF, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles I, II & III. He has worked with Eric Idle since 1978.

With choreography by Casey Nicholaw, Monty Python's SPAMALOT features sets and costumes by Tony Award-winner Tim Hatley, lighting design is by Hugh Vanstone and sound design is by ACME Sound Partners. Others on the creative and production teams include David Brian Brown (Hair & Wig Design), Gregory Meeh (Special Effects Design), Elaine McCarthy (Projection Design), Joseph A. Campayno (Make-Up Design), Larry Hochman (Orchestrations), Glen Kelly (Music Arrangements), Todd Ellison (Music Supervision and Vocal Arrangements), Peter Lawrence (Associate Director), Tara Rubin (Casting), and Gene O'Donovan (Production Manager).

Monty Python's SPAMALOT has been honored with dozens of awards, including the Grammy Award for Best Original Cast Recording and three Tony Awards, including Best Musical. The production has been proclaimed the World's Funniest Show by audiences and critics around the world...

The Sunday Times (London) says SPAMALOT "raises silliness to an art form -- glorious, irresistible silliness."

Joel Siegel of WABC-TV and Good Morning America said "I LOVED EVERY MINUTE! They're going to have to reupholster the seats at the theatre once a week, that's how hard you'll be laughing."

The Independent (London) worried that "I felt I might actually die of laughter."

The original cast recording of Monty Python's SPAMALOT is available on Decca Broadway.

In case you've been living under a giant foot for the past 40 years, Monty Python isn't a person, but a group of British actors and writers (and one American) that performed their famous comedy show Monty Python's Flying Circus on BBC television from 1969 to 1974, with subsequent fame and success. Changing comedy forever, a series of hugely popular motion pictures and live tours made Monty Python and their members into international superstars.

Tickets for Monty Python's SPAMALOT will go on sale on Tuesday, January 16. A priority booking period for groups of 10 or more begins January 8.

  TICKET PRICES:   *$99, $89, $69, $49 

All preview performances (March 8 - 30) will be discounted 25 percent. All ticket prices include local entertainment tax.

  PREVIEW PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE:    Thurs    03/08/07    8pm   Fri      03/09/07    9pm   Sat      03/10/07    7pm   Sun      03/11/07    8pm    Mon      03/12/07    8pm   Tues     03/13/07    7pm & 10pm   Wed      03/14/07    8pm   Thurs    03/15/07    DARK   Fri      03/16/07    7pm & 10pm   Sat      03/17/07    7pm   Sun      03/18/07    8pm    Mon      03/19/07    8pm   Tues     03/20/07    7pm & 10pm   Wed      03/21/07    8pm   Thurs    03/22/07    DARK   Fri      03/23/07    7pm & 10pm   Sat      03/24/07    7pm   Sun      03/25/07    8pm    Mon      03/26/07    DARK   Tues     03/27/07    7pm & 10pm   Wed      03/28/07    8pm   Thurs    03/29/07    8pm   Fri      03/30/07    8pm   Sat      03/31/07    8pm  OPENING NIGHT    REGULAR PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE BEGINS APRIL 1, 2007:    Sunday               8pm   Monday               8pm   Tuesday              7pm & 10pm   Wednesday            8pm   Thursday             DARK   Friday               7pm & 10pm   Saturday             7pm & 10pm    TO RESERVE TICKETS:   By phone:        888 320 7110 or 702 770 WYNN   Online:          www.montypythonsspamalot.com or www.wynnlasvegas.com   In person:       At Wynn Las Vegas 

Groups of 10 or more persons may contact 702 770 3720 or showsales@wynnlasvegas.com.

 

Source: Wynn Las Vegas

 

Web site: www.wynnlasvegas.com

 

Sony Teams With the American Idol Underground Web Site to Launch a Series of Music Contests

Extreme Music Creation Contest Winner to be Flown to Los Angeles for a FREE Live Showcase This Spring With Other Selected Performers

Sony Media Software, which brought American Idol Extreme Music Creator and Jam Trax into the homes and hands of families across the US in September 2006, just announced that they are sponsoring two music contests with American Idol Underground, an online community powered by Fluid Audio Networks, Inc., where emerging artists get their music heard and fans discover new music. For the Extreme Music Creator contest, artists submit songs to the American Idol Underground Web site. The songs are then guaranteed airplay on one of American Idol Underground's genre-specific online branded music players, music fans listen and rate the songs, the higher rated songs progressively get more airplay and the best songs from each genre win a chance at exposure and other awards. The first Extreme Music Creator contest launched at the end of October 2006 and ran through December 31, 2006. The second contest just launched on January 10, 2007 and ends on March 31, 2007.

Contestants can enter by visiting the American Idol Underground web site, where a special Sony page has been created at www.idolunderground.com/sony. Entry is free, but you must first submit your song to American Idol Underground which costs $25 and includes a minimum of 200 online radio spins on the American Idol Underground online branded music player. For a limited time, artists who purchase Extreme Music Creator will find a $25 coupon in the box for a free song entry on American Idol Underground. Both contests are open to all popular genres of music. The "top-rated" winner will be selected using Fluid Audio Networks' proprietary ratings system. Musicians that want to get their music heard will now get an opportunity to compete for prizes including free music creation software from Sony Media Software. Participants in the second contest starting in January of 2007 will also get the opportunity to compete for a trip to Los Angeles to perform with other selected performers in a free live showcase for press and industry executives at a popular music venue in Hollywood.

"With more and more people recording music on their home computers, and the release of our American Idol Extreme Music Creator and American Idol Jam Trax products, we felt the Extreme Music Creation contest was a perfect match for our mission in creating American Idol Extreme Music Creator and American Idol Jam Trax software," says Dave Chaimson, VP Marketing for Sony Media Software. "By participating in this contest, we are supporting efforts to help aspiring musicians get their music heard. We donated our best products, including ACID, Sound Forge, Vegas+DVD Production Suite, Sound Series and other software, to this contest to give aspiring musicians access to tools for music creation."

"We are excited to have Sony Media Software involved in sponsoring these contests," says Justin Beckett, CEO of Fluid Audio Networks, producers of the American Idol Underground web site. "Sony has a well-respected line of music creation products from ACID to the American Idol Extreme Music Creator, and we are proud to be featuring them as prizes for our top artists."

"As the music landscape continues to change, we are always looking for creative ways to leverage partnerships to get more exposure for artists," says Bob Buch, COO of Fluid Audio Networks. "This showcase sponsorship by Sony Media Software is a tremendous opportunity for artists and bands to get exposure and a great way for Sony to get the word out about its new products."

The American Idol Underground contest is a completely separate entity from the American Idol television show, and contest winners at AmericanIdolUnderground.com do not get to perform on the American Idol television show.

About Sony Media Software

Sony Media Software inspires creative expression with its award-winning line of products for digital video, music, DVD, and audio production. Sound Forge(R), ACID(R), and Vegas(R) software have defined digital content creation for a generation of creative professionals, amateurs, and enthusiasts. These signature product lines continue to advance the art of providing powerful, accessible tools to unleash the imagination. Today, there is a Sony Media Software application for every level of expertise, including a full line of consumer software based on the company's professional applications. In addition, Sony Media Software produces the extensive Sony(R) Sound Series collection of royalty-free loops and production music, Sony Pictures Sound Effects Series exclusive sound effects, Vision Series video creation assets, as well as ACIDplanet.com(R), the internet's premier site for independent music and video artists. As a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America, the company also develops applications that enhance the experience for users of Sony hardware devices including the PSP(TM) (PlayStation(R)Portable) and Sony Ericsson mobile phones. Sony Media Software customers span the globe and include seasoned professionals in the film, television, video game, and recording industries, students and educators, hobbyists and enthusiasts, and young children exploring music creation.

About American Idol Underground

American Idol Underground is an online community where emerging artists get their music heard and fans discover new music. As a new artist, you will be featured in one of American Idol Underground's genre-specific music areas, which are also places to connect with your fans, and you get the chance to win cash, equipment and other awards. As a fan, you get to hear the next big thing before it becomes the next big thing. More importantly, you get a real say in what music gets heard. And if that's not enough, the most active and accurate music reviewers can also win prizes and awards.

American Idol Underground is a service of Fluid Audio Networks, licensed by FremantleMedia Licensing Worldwide, Americas, the US licensing division of FremantleMedia. The American Idol Underground Web site is powered by Fluid Audio's proprietary self-publishing software.

About Fluid Audio Networks

Fluid Audio Networks (www.fluidaudio.com) is a Los Angeles-based interactive entertainment company whose applications feature emerging artists. Fluid Audio will build the largest network of emerging artists and fans by partnering with some of the world's most recognized entertainment brands including American Idol (www.idolunderground.com).

About FremantleMedia Licensing Worldwide, Americas:

FremantleMedia Licensing Worldwide, Americas (FLW, Americas) is the licensing arm of FremantleMedia for North and South America. FremantleMedia is one of the largest international creators and producers of program brands in the world, with leading prime time drama, serial drama, entertainment and factual entertainment programming in over 40 territories. FLW, Americas exploits FremantleMedia's many strong brands, including the award winning, American Idol, the world's longest running gameshow The Price Is Right, the ever-popular Family Feud, and other classic gameshows, across multiple off-screen platforms including merchandising campaigns, live events, sponsorship, interactive and wireless support, home entertainment and music publishing. FLW, Americas is also responsible for additional business diversification initiatives including Atomic Wedgie, a pioneering wireless channel delivering original made-for-mobile video content on demand.

FLW, Americas is part of FremantleMedia North America (FMNA). FMNA is on the leading edge of global broadcast production, developing some of televisions most innovative and watched new programming. Based in Santa Monica and with offices in New York, FMNA has produced such genre-bending shows as the musical/reality phenomenon American Idol. In 2005, FremantleMedia programs garnered 16 Emmy nominations, including six for American Idol. Other credits include The Price Is Right (CBS), the longest-running gameshow in television history, the daily syndicated gameshow Family Feud, Distraction (Comedy Central), American Inventor (ABC), The Gameshow Marathon (CBS), America's Got Talent (NBC) and Monarch Cove (Lifetime).

FremantleMedia is the production arm of the RTL Group, Europe's largest television and radio broadcast company. With interests in 34 television channels and 30 radio stations in 10 countries, RTL Group is a division of leading integrated media and entertainment company Bertelsmann AG. For further information, visit www.fremantlemedia.com.

Source: Sony Media Software

 

 

McFarlane Toys Announces '24' Action Figures; Two Jack Bauer Boxed Sets to Be Released Mid-2007

 20th Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising and McFarlane Toys announce a licensing agreement to produce action figures based on Fox's multiple Emmy(R)- and Golden Globe award-winning program -- 24. In an affirming nod to how much the actors and series resonates with its peers, 24 has received multiple Screen Actor Awards(R) nominations and has won two awards for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series - Kiefer Sutherland.

Two figures of the show's hero, Jack Bauer (played by Emmy(R) Award and Golden Globe winner, Kiefer Sutherland) are currently in production. Both are packaged as boxed sets and taken directly from scenes from the action-packed drama on Fox.

"Without question, 24 is one of TV's biggest cliffhanger programs," says McFarlane Toys' CEO Todd McFarlane. "Kiefer Sutherland does an amazing job as Jack Bauer, the biggest reason people tune in each season. I know a lot of our fans will be excited to hear about us making figures of one of TV's top action stars."

"All of us here at Fox are genuinely excited about the upcoming 24 product release from McFarlane Toys -- Todd and his team have built their reputation on bringing innovation, creativity and magnificent attention to detail across all their intellectual property offerings. The passionate fans of 24 will not be disappointed and are eagerly awaiting this product launch," stated Michael Peikoff, Vice-President Domestic Licensing for 20th Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising.

One of the most innovative, thrilling and acclaimed television dramas, 24 follows twenty-four consecutive hours in the intense life of Jack Bauer (Kiefer Sutherland), a maverick anti-terrorist agent from the state-of-the-art Counter Terrorist Unit (CTU). Each episode covers one hour of real time and each season's unique storyline unfolds in one heart-stopping day.

McFarlane Toys' 24 action figures are expected to hit store shelves in August and December 2007. Check back on Spawn.com for more information.

McFarlane Toys

Grammy- and Emmy-winning producer/director Todd McFarlane, best known as the creator of Spawn and the founder of SPAWN.COM, is the creative force behind McFarlane Toys. The international award-winning company is one of America's top action figure manufacturers with successful movie licensing tie-ins, including figures from the Oscar-winning animated feature film Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were-rabbit (DreamWorks), Tim Burton's Corpse Bride (Warner Bros.), and the popular cult flick Napoleon Dynamite (Fox). Additionally, the company has acquired the action figure licenses for the Hanna-Barbera library and ABC's hit series Lost. McFarlane Toys added a new dimension to its already expanding product line with the launch of McFarlane's Pop Culture Masterworks which re-create iconic 3-D movie wall hangings using both traditional sculpting and the art of forced perspective. Releases include Jaws, Friday the 13th, Alien and The Rocky Horror Picture Show. McFarlane Toys also makes official league-licensed figures for baseball, football, basketball and hockey within its Sports Picks(TM) line, as well as the Legends line in all four sports. McFarlane Toys has replicated some of rock music's greatest icons including Elvis Presley, Jimi Hendrix and Motley Crue. Check out www.spawn.com for more information.

About Twentieth Century Fox Licensing & Merchandising

A recognized industry leader, Twentieth Century Fox Licensing and Merchandising licenses and markets properties worldwide on behalf of Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation, Twentieth Television and Fox Broadcasting Company, as well as third party lines. The division is aligned with Twentieth Century Fox Television, one of the top suppliers of primetime entertainment programming to the broadcast networks.

Source: McFarlane Toys

 

GSN Announces an Aggressive 2007 Production and Development Slate

Slate Includes Projects From Producers Michael Davies, Phil Gurin, 12 Yard Productions, Lion Television USA and Others

Network to Produce International Emmy Award-Winning WITHOUT PREJUDICE? in a New Original American Version

PASADENA, Calif., Jan. 12 GSN's production and development slate for 2007 features new series, reality formats and specials that include live elements, provocative subjects and the best game show contestants, it was announced today by Jamie Roberts, Senior Vice President of Programming, GSN, at the network's TCA presentation.

"With game programs performing well for the broadcast networks, it became imperative for GSN to produce series that would garner attention in an already competitive marketplace. We are confident that the slate presented today is by far, the company's most diverse. The slate features a breadth of topics ranging from vocabulary contests to cat competitions, knowledge quizzers to live reality challenges, dating situations to provocative discussions. We're adding fresh elements that push games and competitions in the U.S. into new territories," said Roberts.

Going into its most prolific production schedule to date, GSN is proud to announce the renewal of three of its originals. LINGO, hosted by Chuck Woolery, begins production in February for its sixth season and premieres April 2. CHAIN REACTION, executive produced by Michael Davies and hosted by Dylan Lane, debuts its second season March 13 and the fourth edition of WORLD SERIES OF BLACKJACK tapes at the end of this month for a June premiere.

Series and specials currently in production include:

Based on the UK Channel 4 series created by 12 Yard Productions (the team behind "The Weakest Link" and "Dog Eat Dog"), the International Emmy Award-winning WITHOUT PREJUDICE? is being produced for the North American audience by GSN. One of the most provocative shows to hit the air anywhere, WITHOUT PREJUDICE? features a panel of ordinary people who are given the chance to improve the course of someone's life by awarding one of five contestants a large sum of money. Contestants vie for the money by opening up their lives for examination by the panel. Executive producer: David Young.

CAT-MINSTER: CFA INTERNATIONAL CAT CHAMPIONSHIP is a two-hour special airing Tuesday, March 27 (8:00-10:00 PM, ET), that covers the largest pedigreed cat show in the Western Hemisphere, the 19th Annual Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) International Cat Show. Hosted by the husband and wife team of Bob Goen ("Entertainment Tonight") and Marianne Curan ("Landscapers' Challenge"), the special delves into the exhibitors' and cats' lives before the big event, showing a rarely seen glimpse of preparation going into the competition. The show highlights the entire process of the prestigious cat show, providing coverage of the feline agility course and other key judging criteria. Painless Entertainment is producing the special for GSN with Jim Casey and Joe Carolei serving as executive producers.

NATIONAL VOCABULARY CHAMPIONSHIP is a one-hour original special capturing the performances of the nation's top 50 high school vocabulary students as they compete in GSN's inaugural competition. The special, airing Sunday, April 15 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET), will re-count the steps taken by the winner as he or she prepared for the competition that awarded over $40,000 for higher education as the grand prize. The first-ever National Vocabulary Championship is hosted by Dylan Lane (CHAIN REACTION) and is taking place Monday, March 5 at the New York Public Library. Andy Scheer of Humba Productions is executive producing the special for GSN.

Series in development include:

From Lion Television USA, THE BOX is a live, nightly reality game show event where contestants have to live and compete in a glass box in the middle of a large American city. Every day, one pair of contestants build up a pot of money, and when night falls comes a battle of wits played live on GSN and the winner keeps the money collected. The contestants have virtually no privacy and will compete in real-time for cash prizes with the entire country watching their every move. The loser will exit with no money and the winner stays to take on the next contender and spend another day in "the box." After three weeks of live prime time excitement, one winner will emerge from "the box." Executive producers: Tracy Green from Lion Television USA along with Nick Catliff from Lion Television U.K. The series is based on the Irish format.

CARRY YOUR WEIGHT is a game show centering on the three attributes that are widely believed to give people an edge in life -- beauty, brains and brawn. Conceived by Corbin Bernsen ("L.A. Law"), CARRY YOUR WEIGHT involves three teams of three people and each team has one person representing the three categories: beauty, brains and brawn. Executive producers: Burt Dubrow and Jean Wiegman ("I've Got A Secret," "The New Tom Green Show") for Burt Dubrow Productions and Bernsen of Public Media Works.

From Executive Producer Michael Davies and Sony Pictures Television, GRAND SLAM is a rapid-fire question and answer game show that pits 16 of the greatest American game show contestants against each other in head-to-head competitions. The competition is a single elimination tournament that will match up million dollar "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?" winners with "Jeopardy" champions, among others. The best of the best will go at it each week, answering questions in timed rounds against the clock involving general and contemporary knowledge, numbers, words and letters. The loser of each show goes home and the winner continues on to the finals and the chance to be crowned the Grand Slam Champion. GRAND SLAM is produced by Michael Davies' production company Embassy Row and Monkey Kingdom Ltd. in association with Sony Pictures Television.

From Laurelwood Entertainment, INDECISION is an exciting, new variety game show that combines the surprises and drama of a talk show with the thrill of a game. INDECISION features one contestant making nine decisions that could change his/her life forever -- everything about this show rests on the decisions made by the contestant. Decisions can be based on anything, include receiving gifts, giving charity donations, surprising friends, or even potentially humiliating your boss. Someone will walk away with a small fortune in every episode of INDECISION, but an added twist is that the winner might not always be the contestant. It could be a friend, an enemy, a husband or even a perfect stranger, such as a member of the studio audience. Executive producer: Phil Gurin (LINGO, Miss USA, Weakest Link) of Laurelwood Entertainment.

KERRY'S GETTING MARRIED will follow one woman's search for the perfect man. Played out in real-time, the bride-to-be will reside in a posh apartment and live with one man at a time to see if they meet her dreams and expectations. Once she decides that her current suitor does not meet her standards, she requests that he leaves and immediately a new prospect knocks at her door. This fully-interactive live reality series allows viewers to nominate her next beau and influence her decisions. The focus of this series is to create a couple that will live happily ever after. The man she finally chooses will marry her in grand fashion on live TV and as an added bonus will keep the dream apartment as their first home together. The series is based on the smash-hit Scandinavian format, KERRY'S GETTING MARRIED, created by Strix Television.

From Buena Vista Productions, CAMOUFLAGE is a fast-paced addictive game show of hidden word puzzles with trivia clues ranging from general knowledge to pop culture. Contestants are shown letter puzzles and they must find the hidden words from among the puzzle's decoy letters. Decoy letters are dropped from the puzzle with each letter dropped decreasing the value of the puzzle. A sample of game play includes the puzzle word: BRAINCHUORIC. The clue is -- Newsperson. Reading left to right "anchor" is revealed. Executive producers: Terrence McDonnell and Jonathan Barry.

WAR OF THE WORDS is a vocabulary quizzer which plays on the fact that words have more than one meaning. Players will be given definitions to figure out a word. If the contestant is unable to guess the word after the first definition then the next one is presented. An example of this is exemplified through the word "Monkey." Here are the definitions that will be given one by one -- "A kind of business," "To fool around," "A type of wrench" and "You can find a howler in the zoo." Contestants will answer questions in four compelling rounds which also include choosing the correct definitions of words. The series will determine who has the best vocabulary combined with nerves of steel. WAR OF THE WORDS was created by Mast Media. Executive producers: Andrew Golder, Steve Havers and Mark Baker.

GSN is the entertainment industry leader in multi-platform interactive game programs. As the premier television network for games, GSN features challenging word games, high intensity casino programs, live participation shows, reality series and documentaries. GSN's programming includes original series such as "Chain Reaction," "Lingo" and "High Stakes Poker," as well as the classics "Jeopardy" and "Pyramid," among others. The network also boasts America's first live participation TV program "PlayMania," which airs in late-night six times a week. Complementing the network, GSN.com features all types of game play: innovative Flash games for fun, skill cash game tournaments and downloadable games. The website also features GSN's two-screen interactive play-along for prime time shows. Now reaching more than 62 million Nielsen homes, GSN is distributed in the U.S. through all major cable systems and satellite providers. The network is jointly owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment and Liberty Media Corporation. For further media information, visit GSN's press website at corp.gsn.com.

-GSN '07-

Source: GSN

 

GSN Announces the Airdates of Several Upcoming Documentary Specials

Documentaries Will Highlight Women of Game Shows, Great Game Show Moments and 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?'

PASADENA, Calif., Jan. 12 GSN, the network for games continues its devotion to the world of game shows with a series of special documentaries airing in the upcoming weeks. The schedule is as follows:

Sunday, January 14 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET) -- GREATEST GAME SHOW MOMENTS, hosted by Chuck Woolery

This special will highlight some of the greatest moments in television history. From hilarious host bloopers to outrageous occurrences such as Rip Taylor taking off his toupee in protest of a wrong answer on "Super Password," to amazing winning moments such as Dr. Joyce Brothers winning "$64,000 Question," GREATEST GAME SHOW MOMENTS will remind audiences that game shows have been a staple of American television since the advent of the medium. Interviewees in this special include Ken Jennings, Thom McKee, John Carpenter and Kevin Olmstead.

Sunday, January 21 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET) -- GAME SHOW HALL OF FAME: WHO WANTS TO BE A MILLIONAIRE? narrated by Dana Mills

This special tells the story of one of the most successful game shows of all time, "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?" From its American premiere to the present, the special highlights John Carpenter, the first million dollar winner, as well as several of the behind-the-scenes players who helped make the show a hit. Interviewees include Regis Philbin, Meredith Vieira, Michael Davies and numerous other producers, Carpenter and other former contestants.

Sunday, January 28 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET) -- THE WOMEN WHO CHANGED GAME SHOWS, narrated by Vicki Lawrence

This documentary features a number of women who, in different ways, would make their mark on the game show landscape. Highlights include: Betty White has appeared on game shows across six decades; Arlene Francis becoming the first female game show host; Dr. Joyce Brothers rising to fame after winning on "The $64,000 Question;" Anne Robinson adding a new dimension to being a game show host on "The Weakest Link and Meredith Vieira assuming the host position on "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?" and, of course, Vanna White marking her place in game show history as a game show model with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Interviewees in this special include Betty White, Meredith Vieira, Dr. Joyce Brothers and Arlene Francis' son, Peter Gabel.

Sunday, February 11 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET) -- CELEBRITIES AND GAME SHOWS, hosted by Chuck Woolery

Celebrities and game shows have gone hand in hand since the beginning of the genre. The celebrities brought viewers to the game show and the game shows provided the celebrities with exposure on national television. This special will feature some wonderful celebrity moments as well as highlight several famous actors who got their start by appearing on a game show, including Pee Wee Herman, Kirstie Alley, Paul Newman, Sally Fields, Tom Selleck, Robert Wuhl, Bob Saget, Burt Reynolds and Steve Martin.

Sunday, February 18 (8:00-9:00 PM, ET) -- INSIDER'S GUIDE TO WINNING GAME SHOW MILLIONS, hosted by Chuck Woolery

Winning big money on a game show is a fantasy shared by millions of people. The amount of people actually pulling it off has never been greater than it is today. This special will reveal tips from big winners and game show insiders to teach viewers the "golden rules" one needs to become a game show champ. Interviewees include "Jeopardy!" winner Ken Jennings, "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?" winner John Carpenter, Wink Martindale and producers Phil Gurin ("Lingo") and Scott St. John ("Deal or No Deal").

Most of the specials are produced by Asylum Entertainment, with Frank Sinton serving as executive producer; with the exception of the GAME SHOW HALL OF FAME, which is produced by Atlas Media Corporation. Bruce David Klein serves as executive producer.

GSN is the entertainment industry leader in multi-platform interactive game programs. As the premier television network for games, GSN features challenging word games, high intensity casino programs, live participation shows, reality series and documentaries. GSN's programming includes original series such as "Chain Reaction," "Lingo" and "High Stakes Poker," as well as the classics "Jeopardy" and "Pyramid." The network also boasts America's first live participation TV program "PlayMania," which airs in late-night six times a week. Complementing the network, GSN.com features all types of game play: innovative Flash games for fun, skill cash game tournaments and downloadable games. The website also features GSN's two-screen interactive play-along for prime time shows. Now reaching more than 62 million Nielsen homes, GSN is distributed in the U.S. through all major cable systems and satellite providers. The network is jointly owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment and Liberty Media Corporation. For further media information, visit GSN's press website at corp.gsn.com.

-GSN '07-

Source: GSN

 

 

 APPLE I-PHONE INFO

 

Cisco sued Apple on January 10, claiming that in launching the iPhone at the Macworld conference, Apple is infringing on Cisco's trademark.

Although Apple's predicted move into cell phones has unofficially been called iPhone for years -- given that many of Apple's products begin with a lowercase "i," including iMac, iPod, and iLife -- Cisco obtained the trademark in 2000 after the acquisition of InfoGear, which had been granted the original trademark in 1996.

In its response to Cisco's lawsuit, Apple is now claiming that it is the first company to use the term iPhone to apply to a cell phone.

Trademark Spat

The wrangle over the trademark is likely to be a contentious battle, with "strong arguments on both sides," noted David Radack, chair of the intellectual property department of Pittsburgh-based law firm Eckert Seamans.

"Cisco has a good position, since it can demonstrate long-term use, along with the claim that it has plans to expand that use," said Radack.

Apple, on the other hand, can point to its line of "i" products to demonstrate what is called a family of trademarks, Radack explained. That argument might be less effective, however, given that other companies also put "i" in front of various products, such as Griffin Technology with its iTrip and iVault products.

Generic Issues

Perhaps the most difficult legal tactic in the mix is Apple's claim that "iPhone" is a generic term, Radack said, and therefore cannot be used as a trademark.

"Apple could find this argument to be a double-edged sword," said Radack. "It would allow them to use the term 'iPhone,' but it would let everyone else use it, too. Motorola could come out with an iPhone and there's nothing they could do to stop it."

What the lawsuit will probably revolve around is what is called a "likelihood of confusion," he added. The court would look at whether someone who sees the term "iPhone" would confuse Cisco's offering with Apple's.

Also at play could be "reverse confusion," which means that if Cisco expanded its iPhone line, consumers could think the company was copying Apple, even though Cisco owns the trademark.

"Basically, these are two 800-pound gorillas going to battle," said Radack. "It should definitely be an interesting case."

 

Apple Inc.'s feverishly anticipated iPhone combines the music and video features of an iPod with the communications functions of a smartphone. The question is how many consumers will be willing to pay the hefty price for the combo.

The iPhone has a sleek design and is only 11.6 millimeters thick. A 3.5-inch screen, bigger than on most iPods, extends for almost the entire length of the nearly button-free device. Instead of the iPod's iconic scroll wheel, users will navigate through their song collections, make phone calls and perform other tasks by tapping their fingers on the iPhone's touch-sensitive screen. Users of the iPhone will make calls or type emails on a virtual keyboard that pops up onscreen as needed.

Apple, of Cupertino, Calif., has an exclusive agreement with AT&T Inc.'s Cingular, the nation's largest cellular carrier by subscriber, to sell the iPhone in the U.S. for $499 and $599 -- well above mass-market cellphones -- with a commitment to a two-year wireless plan. Although it has been on a hot streak, Apple doesn't always hit it big when it enters new markets. The company collaborated with Motorola Corp. on a phone called ROKR that plays songs from users' iTunes music collections, but it was seen by many as a disappointment because of limited storage capacity.

Price Cut?

It's unclear if and when the prices for the iPhone might come down, as prices for electronics gear such as flat-screen television sets and video camcorders tend to do. While prices for the iPod have generally stayed in the same range over the years, consumers have been getting more features on new generations of iPods, essentially getting more for their money each time. With cellphones, the historical model has been for prices of such devices to come down quickly, with wireless carriers sometimes taking a loss on the products in order to get consumer subscription revenue.

In defense of the price of the iPhone, Apple Chief Executive Steve Jobs said in a speech at the start of the Macworld conference in San Francisco that consumers normally have to pay $199 for a comparable iPod nano and $299 for a smartphone, which would lack many of the whiz bang features of the iPhone at roughly the same price.

With Cingular, Apple developed a feature the companies described as a major innovation, calling it "visual voice mail." Instead of having to wade through voice mail messages in the order in which they were left, iPhone users will see a list with the names and phone numbers of people who left them voice messages and tap to listen the messages in whichever order they like.

There are also sophisticated sensors within the product that, for instance, adjust the brightness level of the screen to make it more legible based on ambient lighting conditions. Another sensor automatically shifts the screen-orientation of the iPhone to landscape from portrait mode when a user holds the device between two hands, which will allow users to view movies and television shows in wide-screen mode.

Initially, users will load music, video and other content onto the iPhone from their computers, not wirelessly over the Cingular network. Executives in the music industry say Apple will need to negotiate new licensing agreements with music labels to obtain rights to sell songs wirelessly on the iPhone.

With any hot, new product, a backlash is inevitable. With Apple's iPhone, which has months to go before arrival on store shelves, the name-calling and cattiness has only just begun. And while many are asking questions about the iPhone's mysteries, the latest speculation has been about its design: Did Apple come up with the touchscreen-and-no-keypad idea all by itself?

Hardly. The touchscreen phone dates back to at least 2003, when a little company called MyOrigo rolled out a surprisingly similar phone. Though it would be considered thick and bulky by today's standards, the MyOrigo mydevice (pictured) featured many of the iPhone's ideas. Naturally, the entire face was a touchscreen without buttons. Punch the appropriate part of the screen and you could make phone calls. Or turn the mydevice on its side and you'd have an instant widescreen display: Like the iPhone, the mydevice had an accelerometer embedded inside it that could recognize which end was "up." The user interface was completely new and customized for the device, which could browse the web, send email, take photos, and play MP3s. Battery life was about nine hours of talk time.

But the mydevice was ahead of its time, and it never found a carrier in the United States. The company went out of existence shortly after sending review units to members of the press... and I have no idea what ultimately became of its staff or its impressive technology.

Late last year, signs of life in the all-touchscreen phone began to flicker again, with BenQ showing off a concept phone that looks startlingly like the iPhone. Yesterday, Engadget noted that an upcoming phone from LG, the KE850, bears even more of the same design features as the iPhone, as well. Unlike the BenQ phone, the KE850 appears likely to be headed to market.

It's interesting to note that various message board comments note that the phones are cool to look at but are hard to use, especially for detail-oriented tasks like sending text messages. I wonder if Apple will avoid these criticisms as iPhone inches closer to reality or if its technology is clever enough to correct these mistakes.

But back to the point: Did Apple steal its design from one or all of these devices? I don't really buy it. For starters, touchscreens aren't new at all, dating back to the original Palm Pilot, which looks surprisingly like the iPhone, if you think about it. Getting rid of the keypad and keyboard is certainly a bold and risky move, but considering no company has had success on the market with a keypad-free phone to date, it would be rather silly for Apple to attempt to copy a design that hadn't proven successful. Apple has also been rumored to be working on various touchscreen products for years.

There's also a time issue: The LG was just announced a month ago, and Apple's probably been working on the iPhone for two years. And when you think about it, how many ways are there to design a cell phone that has no buttons? A large rectangle is about the only thing that comes to mind...which is probably why every single one of these phones looks pretty much the same. (Also, Apple's laptops have basically the same design as every other laptop...and no one's complaining about that.)

Ease up, naysayers. If you can whip up a design of a touchscreen phone that doesn't look like anything else ever conceived, let's talk.

The OS - The iPhone runs a version of OS X, Apple's standard desktop computer operating system. At first that sounds like cool beyond words...but does it really take a PC OS to make some phone calls? How long will it take the phone to boot up? And how will having such an advanced OS on the phone impact its battery life? These answers are still unclear and won't be hammered out until reviewers have more face time with the device, but my hunch is that the phone's high-power abilities will ultimately outweigh any complexity it has.

- The iPhone runs a version of OS X, Apple's standard desktop computer operating system. At first that sounds like cool beyond words...but does it really take a PC OS to make some phone calls? How long will it take the phone to boot up? And how will having such an advanced OS on the phone impact its battery life? These answers are still unclear and won't be hammered out until reviewers have more face time with the device, but my hunch is that the phone's high-power abilities will ultimately outweigh any complexity it has.

Gesture-Based Computing - Remember it's not just a question of the OS, it's how you use it. The iPhone has no buttons, no keyboard, no real external controls: Everything is performed by making taps and zipping your finger along the touchscreen. Called multi-touch, this process will be a revolution in how you interact with the device, which opens up many possibilities...but closes some, too. The big problem? You won't be able to do much with the phone with only one hand, which could be a real pain when you just want to make a quick call.

- Remember it's not just a question of the OS, it's how you use it. The iPhone has no buttons, no keyboard, no real external controls: Everything is performed by making taps and zipping your finger along the touchscreen. Called multi-touch, this process will be a revolution in how you interact with the device, which opens up many possibilities...but closes some, too. The big problem? You won't be able to do much with the phone with only one hand, which could be a real pain when you just want to make a quick call.

Wireless - 802.11g Wi-Fi is a good thing, but the lack of 3G service is a terrible oversight. The EDGE data network is simply too slow for regular email usage, not to mention the iPhone's next-generation Internet services like real-time mapping. My spidey sense tells me that iPhone 2 will have 3G front and center in its feature set. It's also worth noting that the iPhone is a GSM phone and only available on the Cingular network. Sprint and Verizon users hoping for a CDMA version shouldn't hold their breath. I highly doubt this will ever happen.

- 802.11g Wi-Fi is a good thing, but the lack of 3G service is a terrible oversight. The EDGE data network is simply too slow for regular email usage, not to mention the iPhone's next-generation Internet services like real-time mapping. My spidey sense tells me that iPhone 2 will have 3G front and center in its feature set. It's also worth noting that the iPhone is a GSM phone and only available on the Cingular network. Sprint and Verizon users hoping for a CDMA version shouldn't hold their breath. I highly doubt this will happen.

Music - Are people really ready to replace two devices (phone and MP3 player) with one? Signs definitely point to yes on that front, but anyone with an iPod with more than 8GB of storage in it today has got to be disappointed that Apple decided not to create an iPhone with a hard drive in it. On the other hand, the decision to run with flash instead of a hard drive makes perfect sense: Phones get tossed around a lot more than MP3 players, and a hard drive may very well be too fragile for such active use. It would also make the iPhone much heavier. While I doubt 100GB hard drive-based iPhones will appear in the near future, the door's open for 16GB and 32GB models, as flash memory in that density already exists (though at extreme prices). I'd expect these upgrades by the end of the year or mid-2008.

- Are people really ready to replace two devices (phone and MP3 player) with one? Signs definitely point to yes on that front, but anyone with an iPod with more than 8GB of storage in it today has got to be disappointed that Apple decided not to create an iPhone with a hard drive in it. On the other hand, the decision to run with flash instead of a hard drive makes perfect sense: Phones get tossed around a lot more than MP3 players, and a hard drive may very well be too fragile for such active use. It would also make the iPhone much heavier. While I doubt 100GB hard drive-based iPhones will appear in the near future, the door's open for 16GB and 32GB models, as flash memory in that density already exists (though at extreme prices). I'd expect these upgrades by the end of the year or mid-2008.

The Cash - Gulp. Then there's the not-so-small issue of price. At $599 for the 8GB phone, the iPhone is out of reach for the vast majority of users who pay $150 or less for their handset. Don't expect prices to fall soon after release, either. That simply isn't Apple's ballgame, and the iPhone will always be a premium product. (Don't expect discounts from Cingular, either. I anticipate that, much like the Nintendo Wii, it will be difficult to find an iPhone on release even at full price.) On the other hand, I've seen $600 (or more) cell phones in the past, and they were hardly anything to write home about.

- Gulp. Then there's the not-so-small issue of price. At $599 for the 8GB phone, the iPhone is out of reach for the vast majority of users who pay $150 or less for their handset. Don't expect prices to fall soon after release, either. That simply isn't Apple's ballgame, and the iPhone will always be a premium product. (Don't expect discounts from Cingular, either. I anticipate that, much like the Nintendo Wii, it will be difficult to find an iPhone on release even at full price.) On the other hand, I've seen $600 (or more) cell phones in the past, and they were hardly anything to write home about.

Bottom line: The iPhone may have flaws, but it is still undeniably cool and will change the cell phone market the same way the iPod changed digital music. There's a reason it was the most talked-about gadget at CES, a show where it wasn't even introduced. I already want one.

 

Cheryl Cecchetto to Produce
Academy’s 2007 Governors Ball

 

Beverly Hills, CA — For the 18th consecutive year, the Aademy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has chosen special events producer Cheryl Cecchetto to produce its annual Governors Ball, the post-telecast celebration for the 79th Academy Awards® on Sunday, February 25, 2007.

Cecchetto, along with her Sequoia Productions team, will work with Governors Ball Chair Cheryl Boone Isaacs to manage every detail pertaining to the event, including décor, entertainment, food and personnel.

“Throughout its grand history, the Governors Ball has broken new ground in décor, design, lighting and other production elements. Our challenge this year is to make sure that legacy continues,” said Cecchetto.

In the upcoming year Sequoia Productions will produce such events as the Penfolds Icon Black Tie Gala, the Westfield National Conference, and the 59th Annual Emmy® Awards Governors Ball.

The Academy’s 2007 Governors Ball will be held in the Grand Ballroom on the top level of the Hollywood & Highland Center® immediately following the 79th Academy Awards presentation.

Academy Awards for outstanding film achievements of 2006 will be presented on Sunday, February 25, 2007, at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center, and televised live by the ABC Television Network at 5 p.m. PST (8 p.m. EST), beginning with a half-hour arrivals segment, “The Road to the Oscars.”

# # #

©A.M.P.A.S.®

 

Nominations Ballots Due on January 13 for 2006 Oscars®

Beverly Hills, CA — The 5,830 voting members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences must return their completed Oscar nominations ballots to PricewaterhouseCoopers no later than 5 p.m. on Saturday, January 13.

Ballots received after that deadline will not be counted.

PricewaterhouseCoopers will tabulate the ballots using the preferential voting system.

Nominations for the 79th Academy Awards® will be announced on Tuesday, January 23, 2007, at 5:30 a.m. PST in the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater.

Academy Awards for outstanding film achievements of 2006 will be presented on Sunday, February 25, 2007, at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and televised live by the ABC Television Network at 5 p.m. PST (8 p.m. EST), beginning with a half-hour arrivals segment, “The Road to the Oscars®.”

# # #

©A.M.P.A.S.®

 

 ANIME EXPO® 2007 ANNOUNCES A RENAISSANCE FOR HOTEL AVAILABILITY

Room Blocks For Nation¹s Largest Anime/Manga Convention Available Now


Anaheim, California (January 11, 2007) ‹ Anime Expo® 2007 and the
Renaissance Long BeachHotel are openning room blocks for the biggest
and
most anticipated anime/manga convention of the summer.  Anime Expo®
2007
will be held from June 29, 2007-July 2, 2007 at the Long Beach
Convention
Center in Long Beach, CA. Ticket information can be found on the
website
www.anime-expo.org <http://www.anime-expo.org> .

The Renaissance Long Beach (www.renaissancelongbeach.com) is located on
111 East Ocean Boulevard in Long Beach and is a ³hip, cool, edgy
playground²
incorporating a redesigned restaurant/bar and a Starbucks.  Special
discounted rates are available ONLY to Anime Expo® 2007 attendees and
are as
follows:

·     Single/Double: Special AX Rate of $133.00/night vs.
$229.00/night
·     Triple: Special AX Rate of  $148.00/night vs. $244/night
·     Quads: Special AX Rate of $163.00/night vs. $259.00/night
normally

To make reservations, attendees are to call 1-800-hotels1 and ask for
the
³ANIME² Expo rate.

Attendees interested in booking flights and hotels for Anime Expo®
2007 can
do so via the AX Travel Store located at www.AXTravelStore.com
<http://www.AXTravelStore.com> .

About Anime Expo®
Located in Long Beach, California - Anime Expo®, the nation¹s largest
anime/manga convention, serves to foster trade, commerce and the
interests
of the general public and animation/ comics industry. This event serves
as a
key meeting place for the general public to express their interest and
explore various aspects of anime/manga, as well as for members of the
industry to conduct business. AX 2007 will be held June 29 ­ July 2,
2007 at
the Long Beach Convention Center in Southern California. More
information
can be found at its website (www.anime-expo.org).

About Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation
The Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation (SPJA) is a
non-profit
organization with a mission to popularize and educate the American
public
about anime and manga, as well as provide a forum to facilitate
communication between professionals and fans. This organization is more
popularly known by its entertainment property ­ Anime Expo®.   More
information can be found at its website (www.spja.org).

The statements made in this press release that are not historical facts
are
"forward-looking statements." These forward-looking statements are
based on
current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and
uncertainties. The Company cautions readers of this press release that
a
number of important factors could cause Anime Expo®/SPJA¹s actual
future
results to differ materially from those expressed in any such
forward-looking statements. Such factors include, without limitation,
product delays, industry competition, rapid changes in technology and
industry standards, protection of proprietary rights, maintenance of
relationships with key personnel, vendors and third-party developers,
international economic and political conditions. The Company may change
its
intention, belief or expectation, at any time and without notice, based
upon
any changes in such factors, in the Company's assumptions or otherwise.
The
Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to
any
forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the
date
hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

 

PEOPLES CHOICE AWARDS
 

The list of favorites:

MOVIES

• Female star: Jennifer Aniston

• Male star: Johnny Depp

• Leading lady: Cameron Diaz

• Leading man: Vince Vaughn

• Female action star: Halle Berry

• Male action star: Johnny Depp

• On-screen matchup: Johnny Depp & Keira Knightley

• Movie: "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest"

• Movie drama: "Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest"

• Movie comedy: "Click"

• Family movie: "Cars"

MUSIC

• Female singer: Carrie Underwood

• Male singer: Kenny Chesney

• Group: Nickelback

• R&B song: "SexyBack" by Justin Timberlake

• Hip-hop song: "Shake That" by Eminem

• Pop song: "Hips Don't Lie" by Shakira

• Country song: "Before He Cheats" by Carrie Underwood

• Rock song: "Who Says You Can't Go Home" by Bon Jovi

• Song from a movie: "Life is a Highway" by Rascal Flatts from "Cars"

• Remake: "Life is a Highway" by Rascal Flatts

TELEVISION

• Comedy: "Two and a Half Men"

• Animated comedy: "The Simpsons"

• Drama: "Grey's Anatomy"

• Competition/Reality show: "American Idol"

• New Comedy: "The Class"

• New Drama: "Heroes"

• Female star: Eva Longoria

• Male star: Patrick Dempsey

• Talk show host: Ellen DeGeneres

OTHER

• Funny female star: Ellen DeGeneres

• Funny male star: Robin Williams

 

Help us provide you with the email you want. Click here to tell us what you prefer to see from Sony Pictures.

Posted by Bill at 10:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)

 Jan 13

Jan 12, 2007 12:30

The Singing Machine Company Launches New Line of Consumer Electronic Products Based on BRATZ(TM) License Agreement

New Products Featuring One of the World's Leading Toy Franchises Debut at CES in Las Vegas

COCONUT CREEK, Fla. --(The Singing Machine Company (AMEX:SMD) announced today that it has signed a three-year licensing agreement with MGA Entertainment to produce and distribute a new line of electronic products based on MGA's BRATZ(TM) franchise, one of the world's leading toy lines and girls' lifestyle brands. These new products, which include DVD players, combination TV/DVDs, boom boxes, mini radios and sunglass radios jointly developed by The Singing Machine and MGA, were introduced at this week's Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

"BRATZ(TM) is one of the biggest-selling toy franchises in the world, and we are delighted to add these new consumer electronic products to our BRATZ(TM) product line-up," said Danny Zheng, Interim CEO of The Singing Machine. Zheng noted that these new products are in addition to the line of BRATZ(TM) musical instruments and karaoke products the Company successfully introduced in June 2006.

"As the leader in karaoke, The Singing Machine is the right partner to expand the audience for our BRATZ(TM) franchise into a dynamic new market," said MGA founder and CEO Isaac Larian.

About MGA Entertainment, Inc.

MGA Entertainment, a consumer entertainment products company headquartered in Van Nuys, California, manufactures innovative lines of proprietary and licensed products including toys and games, dolls, consumer electronics, home decor, stationery and sporting goods. The MGA family includes such brands as the award-winning Bratz(TM), Bratz Babyz(TM), Bratz Kidz(TM), Lil' Bratz(TM), Yummi-land(TM), Storytime Collection(TM), Rescue Pets(TM), Miuchiz(TM), Zapf Creation(TM) and the newly acquired Little Tikes(TM) brand. For more information please visit: http://www.mgae.com, http://www.bratz.com and http://www.littletikes.com

About The Singing Machine

Incorporated in 1982, The Singing Machine Company develops and distributes a full line of consumer-oriented karaoke machines and music as well as other electronic products under The Singing Machine(TM), Motown(TM), MTV(TM), Nickelodeon(TM), Hi-5(TM), Bratz(TM) and other brand names. The first to provide karaoke systems for home entertainment in the United States, The Singing Machine sells its products in North America, Europe and Asia.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about the Company's business based, in part, on assumptions made by management and include, but are not limited to statements about our financial statements for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2006. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in such forward-looking statements due to numerous factors, including the risks that our vendors in China may not ship our products on the scheduled basis and that we will have sufficient cash flow to finance our working capital needs in the second and third quarter of this fiscal year. In addition, you should review our risk factors in our SEC filings which are incorporated herein by reference. Such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and the company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this release.

AMD Awarded a Technical and Engineering Emmy for Graphics Excellence

SUNNYVALE, Calif. The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences has awarded a Technical and Engineering Emmy(R) Award to AMD (NYSE:AMD) for its industry-leading ATI Radeon(TM) 9700 technology. This award for Pioneering Work in Near and Real-Time fully programmable Shading via Modern Graphics Processors will be formally announced during an award ceremony at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) on January 8, 2007, in Las Vegas.

"This is a truly dynamic time for television industry, and we are recognizing the significant contributions made by technology and engineering professionals in enhancing and redefining the consumers' experiences with the media," said Peter Price, President/CEO, National Television Academy. "This year, we are particularly pleased to commend those who are contributing to the technical development of television anytime, anywhere through the advancement of broadband and portable delivery platforms."

The Technology & Engineering Emmy Awards honor accomplishments in two areas: Science, Engineering & Technology for Broadcast Television and Science, Engineering and Technology for Broadband and Personal Television. Prospective awardees and technologies are recommended and selected by a blue ribbon panel of industry experts and professionals.

"The advent of programmable shading was a watershed moment in computer graphics," said Bob Drebin, Chief Technical Officer, Graphics Products Group, AMD. "For the first time artists could experiment with lighting and shading schemes in real time, thanks in part to the programmability and performance of the Radeon 9700. We deeply appreciate the recognition from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, and look forward to continuing to drive the evolution of the hardware to help artists and programmers amaze and delight, both within the field of entertainment and beyond."

For more information on the ATI GPU or any AMD products please visit http://ati.amd.com.

About AMD

Advanced Micro Devices (NYSE:AMD) is a leading global provider of innovative microprocessor solutions for computing, graphics and consumer electronics markets. AMD is dedicated to delivering superior computing solutions based on customer needs that empower users worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.amd.com.

AMD, the AMD Arrow logo and combinations thereof, are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. Other names are for informational purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective owners.

2007 Consumer Electronics Show Update: CES A Resounding Success For EGIL As Impressive Highlights Continue To Stack Up

LAS VEGAS & BOCA RATON, Fla. -- Edgetech International, Inc. (OTC:EGIL) is pleased to report that traffic to our 1,000 square foot booth (#12840), located in the Las Vegas Convention Center in between Samsung and Sony, continued to be overwhelming through day 3 and right up to the close yesterday. The response from the crowds participating in live demonstrations to The Edge, a unique, handheld, stand alone wireless unit with a built-in modem and full-screen display functioning at DSL-type speed, has been extremely positive.

The Edge remained victorious for all 4 days in a SpeedChallenge offered to anyone with a wireless, handheld PDA or Pocket PC to test the speed of their unit against ours. According to Keith Jones, Edgetech's Vice President and Executive Associate to the CEO, "If anyone visiting our booth could beat the speed of The Edge for performing Internet functions and accessing Web pages with their PDA, we would give them a free Edge unit. I'm very pleased to confirm, we did not give away a single Edge unit for the entire CES as it simply could not be beaten."

Management has been inundated with requests for media interviews and is taking full advantage of this priceless exposure. Live, on-the-spot interviews have taken place with the CBS New York affiliate, WCBS-TV (Channel 2), for their 11-o'clock news segment featuring hot new technology products of the 2007 CES, BBC America, rawVEGAS.tv, and by Robert Scoble, owner of one of the premier Techno Blogs on the Web, PodTech.net.

Talented recording artist, Jesse Hart, performed live at the Edgetech booth, giving us the distinction as the only exhibitor to feature a live musical performance from a recording artist affiliated with a major record label. EGIL has solidified a partnership with legendary music manager Lou Pearlman and his multi-Billion dollar Trans Continental conglomerate for the purpose of co-branding The Edge with all existing and future acts with Trans Continental Records to capitalize on their long term bankable track record.

As a result of connections made at the CES, Edgetech is currently in preliminary talks on 4 potential distribution contracts for The Edge. Progress is being made daily and contracts are being worked on at this time specifying a minimum threshold of 5,000 Edge units for each of the 4 possible distribution deals. EGIL is also in preliminary discussion on 2 possible corporate co-branding contracts. These contracts would involve Edge units with customized features to facilitate increased productivity for field sales reps. EGIL has begun negotiations with a major consumer electronics retail chain in order to carry The Edge as part of their regular product line. We are both excited and encouraged by all of our potential expansion and look forward to providing updates on these negotiations as they become available.

About the Company:

We are an authorized distributor of 'The Edge.' 'The Edge' is a robust, handheld wireless internet access device which delivers the internet at DSL like speed, displaying full content HTML, web pages, graphics and java script. 'The Edge' offers a full desktop web experience, together with a larger functional keyboard than competitive products. Our distribution rights to such product are subject to a long-term marketing, sales and distribution agreement between a Company subsidiary and the licensor of such product, pursuant to which we have been granted such rights in several exclusive vertical markets, virtually worldwide, including: (i) fantasy sports and sports book; (ii) online poker; (iii) music, movies and television; and (iv) financial services markets. Ongoing exclusivity for such markets is, generally, subject to the payment to the licensor of certain fees, including delineated monthly service fees per subscriber, and, meeting delineated minimal annual subscriber thresholds.

The Company's executive office facility is located at 233 S. Federal Hwy., Suite 106, Boca Raton, Florida 33432. Its telephone number is 866-439-EDGE (3343) and its website address is http://www.edgetechpc.com. The Company also maintains a West Coast operations office facility at 9701 Wilshire Boulevard, 10th floor, Beverly Hills, California 90212. Its telephone number is 310-860-6150.

Except for historical information, the matters discussed in this press release are "forward looking statements" within the meaning of and which are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to be materially different from historical results or from any results expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. Any forward looking statements speak only as of the date on which such statement is made, are not guarantees of future performance, and involve certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecast in such forward looking statements, whether as result of new information, future events or otherwise. Factors that could cause such results to differ materially from the results discussed in such forward looking statements include, without limitation: uncertain continued ability to meet our operational needs in view of ongoing working capital constraints; need for substantial additional capital to fully implement our plan of operations; no assurances of and uncertainty of profitability; no assurances of the Company's ability to effect sufficient product sales so as to maintain exclusivity in certain vertical markets, the result of which could materially adversely effect the Company's results of operations; need for additional management, sales and marketing personnel, which is contingent upon our receipt of additional capital; competition from companies having substantially great financial, marketing and other resources than the Company, including name and brand recognition; the impact of competitive services and pricing; changing consumer tastes and trends; and the legal, auditing and administrative cost of compliance associated with the Sarbanes Oxley Act. Many of such risk factors are beyond the Company's control. New factors emerge from time to time and it is not possible for management to predict all of such factors, nor can it assess the impact of each such factor on the business of the Company or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward looking statements. In light of these risks and uncertainties, there can be no assurance that the results anticipated in these forward looking statements will in fact occur. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any such forward looking statements.

2007 International CES Defined by New Convergence of Broadband, Content and Consumer Electronics

World's Largest Technology Tradeshow Attracts Record International Attendance and Garners Ground-Breaking Partnerships Between the CE and Content Industries

LAS VEGAS  With 1.8 million net square feet of exhibit space - the largest show floor in its history - and over 140,000 attendees from across the globe experiencing the latest consumer technology products from 2,700 exhibitors, the 2007 International CES reinforced its status as the world's largest consumer technology tradeshow. Produced by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA(R)) and celebrating its 40th anniversary, the 2007 International CES ran January 8-11 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

"The 2007 International CES succeeded beyond our expectations," said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of CEA. "It had buzz and optimism and attracted the world leaders of the content, technology and services, communications and automobile industries."

The CES show floor buzzed with more than 20,000 exciting product launches and major partnership announcements, spanning across industries and connecting consumers with more features, services and control of the content incorporated into electronic devices. A new convergence of CE devices emerged on the show floor, combining existing product categories with new digital content and services to create unique, multi-functional products.

"We had a record-breaking show with 2,700 exhibitors filling more than 1.8 million net square feet of show space," said Karen Chupka, senior vice president of events and conferences at CEA. "The shift of our high-performance audio and home theater exhibitors to the Venetian, the 23 Tech Zones and the focus on qualified trade attendees combined to produce what many called the best ever International CES. We also set a record with international attendance of over 26,000."

With high-definition television (HDTV) taking the industry by storm, a surge of display technologies debuted on the show floor, with record-breaking sizes and even greater resolution. Other technologies exploding on the show floor included the hottest products in digital imaging, robotics, in-vehicle entertainment, content-shifting devices and gaming. Additionally, the latest advancements in high-performance audio and home theater were on display at CES' newest venue for 2007, the Sands Expo and Convention Center/The Venetian.

In addition to the world's largest display of consumer electronics, the 2007 International CES also featured a distinguished lineup of industry speakers. Featured CES keynoters included Microsoft's Bill Gates, Motorola's Ed Zander, Disney's Robert Iger, Dell's Michael Dell and CBS' Leslie Moonves. The CES Industry Insider Series, with a new home at the Las Vegas Hilton Theater, featured industry heavy-weights including Nokia's Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo and Cisco's John Chambers, as well as leading executives from major broadband, cable, satellite and telecommunications companies, and FCC Chairman Kevin Martin.

The International CES independently audits attendance and a final attendance number should be available by April. For more information on the 2007 International CES, including keynote transcripts, photos and a complete list of conference sessions, visit http://www.CESweb.org, the interactive source for all CES information.

The 2008 International CES is scheduled for January 7-10, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

About CEA:

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the consumer technology industry through technology policy, events, research, promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA represents more than 2,100 corporate members involved in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and integration of audio, video, mobile electronics, wireless and landline communications, information technology, digital imaging, home networking, multimedia and accessory products, as well as related services that are sold through consumer channels. Combined, CEA's members account for more than $140 billion in annual sales. CEA's resources are available online at http://www.CE.org, the definitive source for information about the consumer electronics industry.

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

UPCOMING EVENTS -0-

-- CEA Winter Retreat

February 26-28, 2007, Vail, CO

-- Digital Music Forum East

February 27-28, 2007, New York, NY

-- EHX Spring 2007

March 6-10, 2007, Orlando, FL

-- CEA Washington Forum

March 26-28, 2007, Washington, DC

-- Digital Patriots Dinner

March 27, 2007, Washington, DC

-- CONNECTIONS (TM): The Digital Home Conference and Showcase

May 1-3, 2007, Santa Clara, CA

-- Hometech Middle East 2007

May 13-15, 2007, Dubai, UAE

-- SINOCES 2007

July 6-9, 2007, Qingdao, China

-- CEA Industry Forum

October 15 - 17, 2007, San Diego, CA

-- EHX Fall 2007

November 6-9, 2007, Long Beach, CA

DTV Transition and New Car Technologies Highlighted on Day Three at the 2007 International CES

FCC Chairman Martin and CEA's Shapiro Discuss DTV Transition and Broadband Technology -- Hot Products Honored at Last Gadget Standing SuperSession

LAS VEGAS The digital television (DTV) transition, the growing relationship between the automotive and consumer electronics industries and electronics recycling were the hot topics on the third day of the 2007 International CES(R). Produced by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA(R)), the 2007 International CES, the world's largest consumer technology tradeshow, runs through today and celebrates its 40th anniversary.

Wednesday's Industry Insider Series featured Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Kevin Martin, who joined CEA President and CEO Gary Shapiro for a one-on-one conversation about the digital television transition, cable compatibility, net neutrality and other issues critical to the consumer electronics industry. Chairman Martin noted that the significant increase in broadband use has been one of the things he's been most proud of in his term.

"The goal is that everyone has access to broadband," said Martin. "It impacts the way that we get entertainment, seek healthcare and receive education. Trying to put in place a regulatory environment that allows operators to invest in broadband technology is critical for consumers to be able to take advantage of the technologies we see on the show floor."

The morning SuperSession, "Connect2Car: The Automobile's Convergence with Consumer Electronics," moderated by Chris Cook of AAMP of America, included a panel of leading experts from both the consumer electronics industry and the automotive industry. The panelists included Rich Chutorash, director electronics new product, Johnson Controls Inc.; Wieland Holfelder, vice president and chief technology officer, DaimlerChrysler Research, Engineering and Design North America Inc.; Keith Lehmann, senior vice president - Consumer Electronics, Kenwood USA Corporation; Timothy Nixon, manager, Advanced Technology Development, Ford Motor Company and Stephen Witt, vice president, Brand Marketing, Alpine Electronics.

The panels discussed several current roadblocks to better integration of cutting-edge CE products into personal vehicles. The roadblocks included the moving target of consumer demand, the issue of differing standards between CE and automobiles and the varying product cycles of the two industries. The panelist concluded by proposing ideas for better integration. The ideas ranged from the announcement of Ford's new "Sync" platform to an optical interface. Witt explained the next phase must focus on four key factors: convergence of the car and home, driver convenience, ease of use and user content management. He concluded by stating, "Never before have the points of view of these two industries been as similar as they are today."

Jason Linnell, executive director, National Center for Electronics Recycling, moderated a panel discussion regarding the public's knowledge of, and participation in, electronics recycling. Other speakers at the "Federal and State Policy Developments in Electronics Recycling" panel included: Walter Alcorn, environmental consultant, Alcorn Consulting; Shawn DuBravac, economist, CEA; Jay Illingworth, vice president, Electronics Product Stewardship Canada; Verena Radulovic, Product Stewardship, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Office of Solid Waste; and Peter Robertson, partner, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, LLP.

DuBravac presented the results of a CEA consumer survey, which found that 76 percent of consumers are unaware of their local electronics recycling options. Of that 76 percent, 71 percent said they would recycle if they only knew where to do so. DuBravac referred attendees to CEA's new consumer website, myGreenElectronics.org, which will provide consumers with local e-waste recycling information, the latest environmental tips and an ever expanding searchable database of green products.

Panelists also discussed the state of e-cycling in the United States and recommended a national e-cycling initiative that would nationalize a uniform set of standards rather than create 50 different jurisdictions for handling e-waste. Alcorn presented data from the National Center for Electronics Recycling's (NCER) Patchwork Study, which found that the state patchwork of e-cycling regulations amount to $25 million in costs that would be avoided with a national program. Peter Robertson remarked that the timing for such a plan may be ideal because, "a Democratic Congress is simply more amenable to a national e-cycling initiative than a Republican one."

In Wednesday's standing-room only Last Gadget Standing SuperSession, 10 finalists competed head-to-head for product votes and laughs from the crowd. Hosts Robin Raskin, from "The Boomer" and advisors from Yahoo!Tech, moderated the session. Finalists included the V-Click cell phone from D-link, HP TouchSmart PC, RoboSapien's RS media robot, Nokia n95, Data Drive Thru's Tornado data port, Archosa Wireless Portable Media player with touch screen, a Salton coffee maker with weather information, Great Call Jitterbug, Pure Digital Point and Shoot Camcorder and Samsung Ultra Music Phone.

Each product was allotted a four minute demo and at the end, the audience voted online at tech.yahoo.com and by applause. The online winner was the HP TouchSmart PC. The Data Drive Thru Tornado data port won the audience applause portion.

For information on the day three conference sessions and panels, visit the CES blog at CES.blogs.com.

For more information on the 2007 International CES, including keynote transcripts, photos and a complete list of conference sessions, visit http://www.CESweb.org, the interactive source for all CES information.

About CEA:

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the consumer technology industry through technology policy, events, research, promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA represents more than 2,100 corporate members involved in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and integration of audio, video, mobile electronics, wireless and landline communications, information technology, digital imaging, home networking, multimedia and accessory products, as well as related services that are sold through consumer channels. Combined, CEA's members account for more than $140 billion in annual sales. CEA's resources are available online at http://www.CE.org, the definitive source for information about the consumer electronics industry.

CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES - Defining Tomorrow's Technology. All profits from CES are reinvested into industry services, including technical training and education, industry promotion, engineering standards development, market research and legislative advocacy. -0-

D2Audio's Intelligent Digital Amplifiers Featured in the New AMD LIVE!(TM) Home Cinema

D2Audio PC-Compatible Audio Amplifier Technology is a Key Component in AMD's New Class of Convergence-Oriented Entertainment Platforms

LAS VEGAS D2Audio(R), developer of the world's only Intelligent Digital Amplifiers(TM), powers the new AMD LIVE!(TM) Home Cinema all-in-one entertainment system. AMD (NYSE:AMD) selected D2Audio's Digital Audio Engine(TM) DAE-1 IC for its integrated features, sophisticated intelligence and stunning Home Theater audio performance.

There were three essential drivers in AMD's selection process: 1.) The superior sound quality of the D2Audio amplifier, which is the first digital amplifier to meet THX Ultra 2 performance standards; 2.) D2Audio's capability to integrate efficient, high-power audio amplifiers into the system without affecting normal CPU operation; and 3.) D2Audio's dynamic thermal management assures cool operation in even the harshest of environments.

"We are extremely impressed with AMD's creative mainstream approach to this new class of all-in-one digital media devices," said Brian Wong, chief executive officer and president, D2Audio. "AMD's well-engineered platforms are complemented by D2Audio's intelligent amplifier IC controllers, which support several sophisticated and scalable system-level solutions. The real winners are the consumers, who receive an Internet-ready digital home theater system that is sleek and easy to use with superior sound quality."

D2Audio developed a range of fully compatible amplifiers and platforms for this market, including 2.1, 3.1, 5.1 and 7.1 channel amplifier configurations, as well as upcoming fully-integrated motherboard solutions.

"D2Audio's high-power, integrated audio amplifier technology is a key element enabling the immersive entertainment experience provided by the AMD LIVE! Home Cinema," said Joe Menard, corporate vice president of AMD's Consumer Business. "We anticipate that the cooperation between AMD and D2Audio will help our OEM customers to better serve the needs of consumers seeking the ultimate in surround sound audio quality."

D2Audio's integration of the DSP and PWM controller allows the amplifier to deliver a more sophisticated solution, which performs extensive software correction, optimization and monitoring functions. This solution was engineered to address power supply interaction and thermal management, while maintaining outstanding sound quality.

"The close coupling of the DSP with the PWM controllers provides D2Audio unparalleled flexibility in dealing with the many issues present in an all-in-one CPU-based system," said Dr. Skip Taylor, chief technology officer of D2Audio. "The demands of a consumer digital media platform require a high level of real-time control, monitoring and correction. I applaud AMD's deep understanding of these matters and their importance in developing a robust system solution."

D2Audio's product range includes highly advanced designs incorporating the world's only all-digital feedback to achieve the highest levels of audio performance. As a recognized audio leader with an extensive IP portfolio, D2Audio continues to push into new markets.

About D2Audio Corporation

The D2Audio Corporation, maker of the world's only Intelligent Digital Amplifiers, supplies a full line of cost-efficient, powerful, multi-channel platforms. These systems include ICs and firmware with market leading performance and superior sound quality for digital media applications in consumer, professional, and automotive industries. The patented D2Audio Intelligent Digital Amplifier technologies, now with D2Audio SoundSuite(TM) , deliver an immersive audio experience with the D2Audio(R) Digital Audio Engine(TM) (DAE) IC platforms. For more information on D2Audio and its products, please visit http://www.d2audio.com.

(C) Copyright 2006 D2Audio Corporation. All rights reserved. D2Audio, Intelligent Digital Amplifiers, DAE, the D2Audio logo and the other trademarks named on the D2Audio website are trademarks of D2Audio. AMD and AMD LIVE! are trademarks of Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

D2Audio Corporation, Austin

XE Mobile Brings First Sony Ericsson Walkman(R) Phone to the Pay-As-You-Go Market

Rings in New Year with Exciting Handsets, Expanded Distribution and Growing Subscriber Base

LAS VEGAS XE Mobile, the nation's sexy, new pay-as-you-go wireless service designed to meet the needs and lifestyles of the youth and college age market, is showcasing the first Sony Ericsson Walkman(R) phone for the pay-as-you-go market to wireless technology buyers descending to Las Vegas this week for the start of the 2007 Consumer Electronics Show. This announcement comes on the heels of launching new handsets from the industry's leading manufacturers, including Nokia and Motorola, and expanding distribution into music retailers, supercenter stores and the office product marketplace.

"XE Mobile is prepared to be at the forefront of the industry as we head into 2007 with the introduction of the first ever Walkman(R) phone for the pay-as-you-go segment," said Mark Ghermezian, president and CEO of XE Mobile. "Digital music is everywhere, and we believe that the XE member wants the ability to listen to music on their phone without the additional costs of downloading music from their service provider. The Walkman(R) product line resonates well with our target market and this partnership with Sony Ericsson is another step forward for us as we continue to build our XE brand."

"Americans of all income levels are infatuated with music and telecommunications on the go. Increasingly they are looking for one device that does it both," said Roger Entner, vice president of wireless telecom at Ovum, a leading analyst and consulting company. "Offering this type of phone to the pay-as-you-go user clearly shows that companies are recognizing that wireless consumers, regardless of how they pay for their service, are looking for more than a simple 'send and end' handset."

According to Ghermezian, the company's solid financial backing and partnerships with top telecom leaders are paving the way for success in 2007. "We understand our market and have the relationships in place to bring the best the industry has to offer to our members. We are continuously exploring new avenues and will remain committed to establishing partnerships that allow us to expand our portfolio and distribution channels so that we remain the nation's leading MVNO for the youth and collegiate market."

"XE Mobile was quick to pick up on the popularity of music on the go and we're honored that they turned to Sony Ericsson to bring the W300 to their members. It's an ideal target market for us too," said Paul Hamnett, vice president, sales, Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications Inc. (USA).

The W300 Walkman(R) phone offered by XE Mobile will be priced at only $99.99 offering the same great Walkman(R) music quality experience as high-end models, in a compact and eye catching, clamshell design. The handset, which supports both MP3 and AAC music files, provides a great sound experience with up to 30 hours of music listening. The experience for XE members is enhanced by direct music keys, shuffle function, as well as a built-in FM radio with RDS and flight mode. Sony Ericsson's Disc2 phone software supplied with the handset allows XE members to easily transfer their favorite CDs to their mobile phone and enjoy them anywhere, anytime without missing a call.

The W300 Walkman(R) phone offered by XE Mobile is loaded with features including a removable 256MB Memory Stick Micro(TM) (M2(TM)) expandable to 1GB, as well as a stereo headset, USB cable and music management software. Media player information and caller ID details can be accessed from the front of the clamshell, without opening the phone. In addition to the great music features, the handset has an integrated camera with 4x digital zoom for XE members to take and view photos or record videos and Bluetooth(R) technology, ideal for sharing data with other Bluetooth-enabled devices.

XE Mobile prides itself in offering a fun and affordable wireless solution that includes nationwide coverage with straight-up rates and access to the nation's largest youth discount program.

XE Mobile rates start as low as 10 cents per minute, with up to 250 free incoming minutes each month, unlimited free incoming text messages and international long distance rates from only five cents per minute. Members are never locked into any contract or plan and can easily adjust as their wireless service needs change throughout the year. Included free with the purchase of every phone with XE Service is the XE Club Card, the nation's most widely accepted discount program for youth. The XE Club Card, with a $40 value, provides members with exclusive discounts of up to 50% off at more than 21,000 retailer locations around campuses and national businesses, as well as online merchant providers. Participating partners include Target.com, Microsoft, FYE Music Stores, DELL, ArmaniExchange.com, Urban Outfitters, Barnes n' Noble, Greyhound, Foot Locker and more.

About XE Mobile

XE Mobile is an emerging leader in the telecom industry offering nationwide pay-as-you-go wireless for the youth and collegiate market. With flexible service pricing options and access to a broad range of wireless content applications, XE Mobile is available through a variety of distribution channels nationwide. XE Mobile is an affiliate of and is financially backed by Triple Five Group of Companies (http://www.triplefive.com). Triple Five's portfolio includes Mall of America, the largest mall in the United States and West Edmonton Mall, the largest mall in the world. For more information or to get your XE phone, please visit http://www.xemobile.com or call 1.877.99.GET.XE.

Compatible service and service agreement required for operation. The Sony Ericsson marble logo is a trademark or registered trademark of Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB. Sony is a trademark or registered trademark of Sony Corporation. Ericsson is a trademark or registered trademark of Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson. The WALKMAN(R) logo and symbol are registered trademarks of Sony Corporation. The Bluetooth word mark is a trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such mark by Sony Ericsson is under license. All other marks are the property of their respective owners

ZAP (OTCBB:ZAAP) Introducing iZAP Lithium Battery Line for the iPod at CES

¶ iZAP Portable Energy Adds Hours to iPod Playback Time

LAS VEGAS Advanced technology vehicle and energy pioneer ZAP (OTCBB:ZAAP) introduced a new series of lithium battery packs designed specifically to work with the iPod.

Called iZAP, the battery accessories for the iPod are part of a new line of ZAP Portable Energy systems to power a wide range of mobile electronics. The iZAP's Portable Energy(TM) chargers and power packs are designed to work in conjunction with the iPod, including the iPod mini, iPod shuffle, iPod nano and the iPod with video.

"Our new iZAP series of lithium battery packs are specifically designed for the iPod - one of the most popular new consumer electronics on the market," said ZAP CEO Steve Schneider. "Part of ZAP's mission with advanced energy technologies is to continually find new market applications for advanced batteries so that economies of scales in battery manufacturing can be developed to power full-size automobiles. We are particularly excited about the announcement yesterday of the new iPhone."

ZAP says that the iZAP designed for the iPod shuffle can extend listening time up to 60 hours. ZAP is also introducing a new Recharge-It-All line of Portable Energy at CES. The new rechargeable power packs can power a wide range of mobile electronics like cell phones, digital cameras, laptops and more.

ZAP Portable Energy helps solve the growing battery dilemma for mobile electronics, offering a rechargeable source of power out in the field or extending the battery life of your favorite electronic device. The technology also reduces the need for disposable batteries, which can be bulky, expensive and harmful to the environment. The lithium-ion battery system can be recharged up to 1000 times and has up to four times the power of conventional batteries.

iPod and iPhone are registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.

About ZAP

ZAP has been a leader in advanced transportation technologies since 1994, delivering over 90,000 vehicles to consumers in more than 75 countries. A publicly owned company, ZAP is at the forefront of fuel-efficient transportation with new technologies including energy efficient gas systems, hydrogen, electric, fuel cell, alcohol, hybrid and other innovative power systems. ZAP is also offering Portable Energy technology that manages power for mobile electronic devices like cell phones, PDA, MP3/iPod, laptop computer, digital cameras and more. For purchasing, dealer and investor information, call 707-525-8658 or visit http://www.zapworld.com.

Forward-looking statements in this release are made pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, continued acceptance of the Company's products, increased levels of competition for the Company, new products and technological changes, the Company's dependence upon third-party suppliers, intellectual property rights, and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

ZAP

iBloks Offers New Features to Elevate Digital Photos and Videos to the Next Level with 3D

iBloks Selected as a Microsoft Prestigious Innovation Showcase Company Featured at CES; Free Customizable 3D Mods Allow People Everywhere to Create Like Pros and Make an Impact with Their Presentations at Home and at Work

LAS VEGAS  iBloks, Inc. today at CES announced its selection to be one of Microsoft's prestigious Innovation Showcase companies with its unique high-quality 3D platform for people everywhere. iBloks was the first multimedia Windows Vista certified application in the market and also works on Windows XP and Mac computers. iBloks also now integrates with Microsoft Powerpoint to enable businesses to connect to their customers through a revolutionary new multimedia presentation.

"iBloks enriches the personal experience people can have with the digital content that matters to them the most on the web and mobile devices," said Julia Miller, chief executive officer of iBloks. "iBloks has marked the arrival of 3D multimedia experience with software as a 3D unified service for people to express themselves and businesses to communicate the essence of their brand like never before."

iBloks lights up on Vista by showcasing the improved visual and multimedia capabilities that our new operating system has to offer. iBloks leverages and extends the power of real-time 3D rendering technologies in .NET Framework 3.0, Vista Sidebar Gadgets, Vista Photo Explorer, and improved ink and mobility functionality. Integration with Powerpoint now allows businesses an easy way to add 3D multimedia videos to their presentations. iBloks is one of the first commercial applications to integrate the Windows Presentation Foundation into a consumer software product, which operates on Windows XP and lights up on Windows Vista.

The iBloks Unified Service Platform

The unified services platform is a turnkey method for people to easily mix multiple media types together using "drag and drop" functionality to instantly create and experience unlimited sharing of their personal iBloks via email, IM, social networks, Powerpoint, web pages or blogs. As a result, iBloks accelerates the imagination of individuals and businesses to create and share stunning digital works of art. Designers from around the world have created 3D Mods for people to showcase their photos and videos in 3D virtual worlds.

The iBloks platform is powered by next-generation Windows Vista graphic technology making it easy for 3D designers to create and monetize their creations directly at iBloks, and people can create rich, personal experiences from the moment they access the website through the immersive 3D iBlok environment.

About iBloks

Founded in 2005, iBloks' mission is to revolutionize personalized entertainment(TM) and self-expression by providing a creative, fun and easy-to-use digital media platform that is designed to push the creative boundaries of consumers and communities. For additional information, please visit iBloks at: http://www.ibloks.com.

iBloks, the iBloks logo, and Mix.Share.Play. are registered trademarks, and personalized entertainment is a trademark of iBloks, Inc. All other product and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.

Connected Consumer Experience and Content Partnerships Hot Topics for Day Two at the 2007 International CES

Dell and CBS Keynotes and Cisco Industry Insider Focus on the Future of Consumer Technology

LAS VEGAS The connected consumer experience and partnerships in the content community were the hot topics on the second day of the 2007 International CES(R). Industry pioneers from Dell, CBS and Cisco delivered addresses on day two, sharing their visions for the future of consumer technology and its unique relationship with the content community. Produced by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA(R)), the 2007 International CES, the world's largest technology tradeshow runs through tomorrow and celebrates the show's 40th anniversary.

Tuesday's morning keynote, presented by Michael Dell, founder and chairman, Dell, Inc., was chock-full of announcements related to new hardware, customer programs and a landmark environmental program. Joined by Paul DiMeo, a regular designer on "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," Dell highlighted the company's community outreach via the popular ABC series and announced its first home entertainment suite, which will feature the industry's first high-definition television (HDTV) tuner.

Joined by a "Dr. Evil" look-alike, Dell announced a new service called DataSafe, allowing users to back up files online with a password protected program and have their data pushed to a new system. Additionally, in keeping with Dell's ever-expanding focus on gaming, Dell announced its new XPS 710 computer system, which utilizes liquid and ceramics and optimizes heavy gaming.

Dell's keynote concluded with the unveiling of a new environmental program, "Plant a Tree for Me." The new program, which will allow Dell's customers to donate $2 for each notebook computer and $6 for each desktop PC they buy, will benefit the Conservation Fund and the Carbonfund, two nonprofit groups that promote ways to reduce or offset carbon emissions. "I challenge every PC vendor in the industry to join us in providing free recycling," said Dell.

Leslie Moonves, president and CEO of CBS Corporation, captured a large audience with a keynote address focused on the future and growth of the content industry. Moonves shared the stage with a wide range of stars and talent from the interactive content community and CBS Corporation. Joining Moonves were Anthony Zuiker, creator of "CSI: CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION;" College Sports Television Founder and President Brian Bedol; the hosts of the "Opie and Anthony" radio show and Ilene Chaikin and Jennifer Beals, creator and star, respectively, of Showtime's, "The L Word."

During his address Moonves declared that there is no new media or old media, just media. To address the shift in the way media is consumed, Moonves announced many key partnerships with other leading members of the content community. Joining him on stage during these announcements were Linden Lab Founder and CEO Philip Rosedale, who showcased the virtual world, "Second Life;" Sling Media Co-Founder and CEO Blake Krikorian, who introduced a new service offered by CBS and Sling Media called, "Clip and Sling," and Chad Hurley, Co-Founder and CEO of YouTube. Moonves concluded by saying that audiences and the content community now realize anything is possible in the digital realm.

Cisco Systems Chairman and CEO John Chambers delivered an Industry Insider address to a crowded Hilton Theater audience about "The Human Network." Identified as one of the top four focal points for the company in the next decade, the human network or connected consumer experience requires complex technology and a simple user experience, Chambers said. The human network - the convergence of all forms of human expression - is safe, open, simple and virtualized.

Chambers walked the audience through several demonstrations of the human network throughout his presentation, which included devices that self-install and register, RFID technology allowing consumers to purchase sports tickets on their TV and have them delivered to their cell phone, and live TV chats with friends. Cisco is uniquely capable of providing the human network, Chambers said, because it has a broad technology base, convergence expertise, strong partnerships and is device neutral, content agnostic, standards based and customer focused.

For information on the day two conference sessions and panels, visit the CES blog at CES.blogs.com.

For more information on the 2007 International CES, including keynote transcripts, photos and a complete list of conference sessions, visit http://www.CESweb.org, the interactive source for all CES information.

About CEA:

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the consumer technology industry through technology policy, events, research, promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA represents more than 2,100 corporate members involved in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and integration of audio, video, mobile electronics, wireless and landline communications, information technology, digital imaging, home networking, multimedia and accessory products, as well as related services that are sold through consumer channels. Combined, CEA's members account for more than $140 billion in annual sales. CEA's resources are available online at http://www.CE.org, the definitive source for information about the consumer electronics industry.

CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES - Defining Tomorrow's Technology. All profits from CES are reinvested into industry services, including technical training and education, industry promotion, engineering standards development, market research and legislative advocacy. -0-

Oregan Showcases Mobile Content on TVs at CES 2007

Cross-Platform Interoperability Goes Mainstream with Oregan's Multi-Platform Software Enabling Any Device to Be Instantly Connected via Internet Protocol

LAS VEGAS Ushering ubiquitous media and connectivity, Oregan Networks, a leader in research and commercialisation of networked consumer technologies, demonstrates interoperability of mobile media with larger screen appliances and home theatre systems - with mobile handsets acting as portable media hubs for user generated and commercial digital media.

Home videos, photos and music stored on advanced handsets with WiFi connectivity, such as the Nokia N80 and N90 series, can be "pushed" onto media renderers, or Digital Media Player devices, powered by Oregan Media Browser - Oregan's universal media access engine.

Oregan empowers convergence device brands and service operators to introduce innovative network entertainment scenarios, emphasising ease of use and "consumer delight" factors in its software products. Oregan Media Browser works on multiple Operating Systems and hardware platforms to deliver digital media over IP connectivity and is built in compliance with networking standards, developed by the Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) and Consumer Electronics Association (CEA).

Key benefits of the Oregan Media Browser for consumers include:

-- Ease of use, rapid User Interface response and advanced interactivity;

-- Automatic discovery of devices and content on a local or home network;

-- Unified user interface framework for accessing home and web media.

Oregan's Chief Executive Officer, Mark G Perry said, 'Oregan places a strong emphasis on delivering entertainment to a multitude of devices and has worked successfully on enabling this model. Being a high tech company, Oregan remains a consumer-focused organisation, understanding the needs of the average end user and the challenges of creating visually compelling and reliable content delivery devices. "

About Oregan Networks Ltd.

Oregan Networks (http://www.oregan.net) develops complete internet media client solutions enabling web infotainment services, IPTV, and home network media distribution on non-PC consumer electronics and carrier grade IPTV appliances. Over 3 million units of Oregan's software have been licensed to leading global brands, including Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, Philips Electronics and NTT.

Trademark Notice

Oregan Networks, Oregan and Oregan Media Browser are trademarks of Oregan Networks Ltd. All other trademarks or registered trademarks are the property of their respective holders.

Skullcandy Loads Podcast Ready's myPodder on MP3 Watches

Podcast Ready's Sixth Major Device Partnership Puts Portable Podcast Subscribing and Listening on Wrist

LAS VEGAS and HOUSTON Podcast Ready, creator of the first truly portable podcast management software and Skullcandy, designer and developer of headphones and audio-integrated lifestyle products with an attitude, have partnered to offer Podcast Ready's myPodder(TM) software preloaded on Skullcandy's MacGyver and Bully MP3 player watches. The agreement allows Skullcandy users to easily find, manage and listen to podcasts virtually anywhere from their wrist. Podcast Ready also has partnerships in place with iriver, MediaReady, Wolverine, COWON and mobiBLU.

The Skullcandy MacGyver MP3 Watch provides up to 1 Gig of memory for podcasts and music on user's wrists. The MacGyver sports a selectable 5-mode audio equalizer, 3-D stereo sound, music shuffle play feature, built-in voice recorder and integrated USB cable. Users can listen to podcasts and music in MP3 and WMA formats, plus use the watch as a thumb drive to store and transfer other types of data files. The MacGyver MP3 Watch is available in 512 MB and 1 GB versions.

The Skullcandy Bully provides heavy weight style as a 1 GB MP3 and voice recorder, with anodized aluminum bands in either silver or gold with inlaid diamonds (ok, fake diamonds). Integrated audio functionality makes the Bully a unique music and podcast player. It is waterproof up to 100 meters and features a non-scratch sapphire crystal face, voice recorder, built-in microphone, built-in lithium-ion battery, and included USB or AC adaptor charger. The Bully does not require any special software to operate and is compatible with any computer running Windows 98/2000/XP or Mac 0SX.

Podcast Ready's myPodder software provides complete podcast access and portability, unlike other podcast-enabling technologies that are available only on desktop computers. Users can plug a compatible Skullcandy device into any Internet-connected computer and instantly access myPodder to update, subscribe to and manage their favorite podcasts. Podcast Ready also provides a simple-to-use podcast directory and one-click podcast subscription.

"Skullcandy echoes the rapid growth in podcasting by facilitating podcast management for their customers," said Russell Holliman, founder and CEO of Podcast Ready. "Having Podcast Ready's myPodder preinstalled on one of the coolest MP3 devices available will provide many innovators and trendsetters with access to Podcast Ready's directory and management tools."

"Skullcandy prides itself on being an innovator in cutting edge audio integration and product design, and we see that our customers are increasingly interested in relevant media content, like podcasting," said Paul Alden, director of manufacturing, Skullcandy. "We are pleased to be able to make our MP3 watch players 'Podcast Ready' through this partnership."

Skullcandy devices are available at http://www.skullcandy.com and at consumer electronics outlets and snow and action sports specialty retailers around the world.

About Skullcandy

Skullcandy is a leading designer and developer of headphones and audio-integrated products with an attitude. Skullcandy headsets, audio watches, LINK bags and packs and other products are available through consumer electronics outlets and snow and action sports specialty retailers around the world. More at http://www.skullcandy.com

About Podcast Ready

Podcast Ready provides software and services that remove the obstacles that are limiting the widespread adoption of podcasting, making subscribing and listening to podcasts easier and more portable. The company's website provides podcast subscribers with an easier-to-use, feature-rich portal for the management of podcast programs and subscriptions. The company's myPodder(TM) software is available pre-loaded on select MP3 players and by free download at http://www.podcastready.com. Unlike other companies, Podcast Ready's enabling podcast player technology is installed on a user's device rather than the desktop; is O/S and device independent; provides one-step syncing; allows sharing of permitted content; and remains independent of a dedicated portal. Podcast Ready was founded in Houston, Texas by Russell Holliman, an early member of the podcasting community.

stimTV Network Wins Emmy Award from the National Television Academy

Technology & Engineering Emmy Award for Best Use of "On Demand" Technology

LOS ANGELES NPOWR Digital Media's stimTV(TM) Network (http://www.stimtv.com) announced today that it has been awarded a Technology & Engineering Emmy Award (R) by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. The award, presented Monday night in Las Vegas, falls into the category of "Outstanding Innovation and Achievement in Advanced Media Technology for the Best Use of 'On Demand' Technology." The stimTV(TM) Network was nominated along with internet giants such as ABC.com, AOL music and Turner Broadcasting. This category has particular relevance as video and access to video are becoming the dominant form of information presentation on the web, and as traditional television migrates into the new world of internet television.

The Technology & Engineering Emmy Awards were presented at the Venetian in Las Vegas during the opening evening of the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Peter Price, president and CEO of the National Television Academy, presided over the ceremony, which was attended by more than 450 industry leaders. NPOWR co-founders, CEO Robert Whitmore and CTO Dwight Marcus, the inventor of the stimTV(TM) technology, were on hand to accept the award on behalf of the company.

The stimTV(TM) Network was awarded for its patented and patent pending technology which has enabled the company to create a powerful video discovery and presentation player for use in media-rich websites, internet-enabled television and mobile applications. NPOWR Digital Media's system instantly unicasts a stream of television-like programming customized to each viewer's preferences, choices, demographic characteristics and viewing profile. "NPOWR's technology is the first to blend the convenience of video-on-demand with the power of conventional television," said Marcus. The system raises the internet video viewing experience from a search result modality or platform for pre-programmed embedded play lists into a dynamic, multi-tiered, customized video surfing experience with the ability to instantly opt-in to go deeper into content or commercial messages of interest.

"NPOWR's stimTV(TM) player is empowering the digital media revolution and will enable viewers to discover and experience video content," said Rowland Perkins, Chairman of NPOWR Digital Media, Inc. "At NPOWR we believe that intuitive, fun and addictive user interaction is vital to the online experience. On behalf of the entire stimTV(TM) team, I'd like to express our gratitude to the members of the National Television Academy for recognizing our breakthrough technology."

About NPOWR Digital Media, Inc.

Incorporated in July 2001, California-based NPOWR Digital Media, Inc. is fast becoming a leader in next-generation technologies facilitating personalized media viewing over the internet. The company is utilizing these breakthrough technologies in the progressive launch of the stimTV(TM)Network, an internet broadband network which delivers an audience-pleasing personalized viewing experience. The stimTV(TM)Network offers an effective e-commerce forum to artists, media content owners, viewers, product purveyors and advertisers. For more information, visit http://www.npowr.com.

Jan 11

 Michael Dell Keynote