Nobel Peace Prize honoree Mother Teresa, legendary actress Katharine Hepburn, Negro Leagues Baseball and Cowboys of the Silver Screen are among the subjects headlining the 2010 stamp program, the U.S. Postal Service announced today.

In addition, consumers get much-needed assistance in sending greeting cards: the first stamp designed especially for oversized or odd-sized cards. On May 17, the Postal Service will issue the Monarch butterfly stamp for use on cards that require additional postage. An illustration of a generic butterfly will be depicted on cards or envelopes to remind customers to buy the new Monarch butterfly stamp. Click here for more information.

Mother Teresa

Mother Teresa, who received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 for her humanitarian work, was known for her compassion toward the poor and suffering. A diminutive Roman Catholic nun and honorary U.S. citizen, she served the sick and destitute of India and the world for nearly 50 years. Her humility and compassion, as well as her respect for the innate worth and dignity of humankind, inspired people of all ages and backgrounds to work on behalf of the world's poorest populations. This stamp is tentatively planned to go on sale nationwide Aug. 26, Mother Teresa's birthday. Click here for more information.

Katharine Hepburn

The Legends of Hollywood series honors Katharine Hepburn, one of America's most fascinating and enduring film stars. This stamp will be issued May 12. Click here for more information.

Negro Leagues Baseball Stamp

The Negro Leagues Baseball stamps, to be issued in June, pay tribute to the all-black professional baseball leagues that operated from 1920 to about 1960. Drawing some of the most remarkable athletes ever to play the sport, the Negro leagues galvanized African-American communities across the country, challenged racist notions of athletic superiority, and ultimately sparked the integration of American sports. Click here for more information.

Cowboys of the Silver Screen

Four extraordinary performers who helped make the American Western a popular form of entertainment are honored on this stamp. Film stars from the silent era through the singing era are featured on the stamps: William S. Hart, Tom Mix, Gene Autry, and Roy Rogers. The stamps go on sale April 17. Freelance illustrator Robert Rodriguez produced the stamp art for these images. Click here for more information.

William S. Hart

William S. Hart (1864-1946) became one of the most popular leading men of the silent film era and frequently played the stalwart, tough-as-nails cowboy, and his favorite horse was a brown and white pinto named Fritz. Click here for more information.

Tom Mix

Tom Mix (1880-1940) was one of the most celebrated Western film stars of the 1920s. Click here for more information.

Gene Autry

For more than two decades, Gene Autry (1907-1998) entertained movie audiences and won the hearts of millions of fans with his distinctive singing style and easygoing personality. Click here for more information.

Roy Rogers

Roy Rogers (1911-1998) found great success in show business with his first starring role in a 1938 film, but kept his modest roots as a down-to-earth country boy that Americans couldn't help but admire. Click here for more information.

Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games

With this stamp featuring an illustration of a snowboarder, the Postal Service continues its tradition of honoring the spirit of athleticism and international unity inspired by the Olympic Games. The stamp will be issued Jan. 22 as the XXI Olympic Winter Games convenes Feb. 12-28 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Click here for more information.

Lunar New Year

On Jan. 14, the U.S. Postal Service will issue the third of 12 stamps in its Celebrating Lunar New Year series, which began in 2008 with the Year of the Rat. The Year of the Tiger begins on Feb. 14 and ends on Feb. 2, 2011. The 44-cent stamp will go on sale nationwide Jan. 14 and be dedicated at the El Pueblo Historic Monument in Old Chinatown in Los Angeles. Click here for more information.

Distinguished Sailors

This stamp honors four sailors who served with bravery and distinction during the 20th century: William S. Sims, Arleigh A. Burke, John McCloy, and Doris Miller. Click here for more information.

William S. Sims

Commander of U.S. naval forces in European waters during World War I, William S. Sims (1858-1936) was an outspoken reformer and innovator who helped shape the Navy into a modern fighting force. Click here for more information.

Arleigh A. Burke

After serving as one of the top destroyer squadron commanders of World War II, Arleigh A. Burke (1901-1996) had an equally distinguished postwar career in which he played a major role in modernizing the Navy and guiding its response to the Cold War. Click here for more information.

John McCloy

Described by a shipmate as "like a bull" who couldn't be stopped, John McCloy (1876-1945) has the distinction of being one of the few men in the nation's history to earn two Medals of Honor for separate acts of heroism. Click here for more information.

Doris Miller

The first African American hero of World War II, Doris Miller (1919-1943) became an inspiration to generations of Americans for his actions at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. Click here for more information.

Mackinac Bridge

The Mackinac Bridge in Michigan is the subject of the 2010 Priority Mail stamp, which goes on sale Feb. 3. The bridge, nicknamed "Mighty Mac," connects the two peninsulas of Michigan. Click here for more information.

Bixby Creek Bridge

The Bixby Creek Bridge in California is the subject of the 2010 Express Mail stamp, which goes on sale nationwide Feb. 3. This bridge was one of the seven classic concrete-arch bridges that eased the way for recreational and commercial travel in California along the Big Sur coast by way of the Carmel-San Simeon Highway, now known as State Highway Route 1. Click here for more information.

Bill Mauldin

Pulitzer prize-winner Bill Mauldin, one of America's favorite cartoonists of World War II, will be honored on a stamp in March. Click here for more information.

Abstract Expressionists

This stamp honors the artistic innovations and achievements of 10 abstract expressionists, a group of artists who revolutionized art during the 1940s and 1950s and moved the U.S. to the forefront of the international art scene for the first time. The stamps go on sale March 11. Abstract expressionism refers to a large body of work that comprised radically different styles, from still, luminescent fields of color to vigorous, almost violent, slashes of paint. Elements from Barnett Newman's Achilles (1952) were used to frame the stamps. Click here for more information.

Flags of Our Nation (Set 4)

In 2010, the U.S. Postal Service continues its Flags of Our Nation series with 10 more stamp designs that feature the Stars and Stripes plus the states of Montana through North Dakota. The stamps will go on sale in April. Click here for more information.

Love: Pansies in a Basket

The 2010 Love stamp features a white woven basket brimming with purple pansies. The stamps go on sale in the spring. The Postal Service began issuing its popular Love stamps in 1973. Click here for more information.

Kate Smith

Kate Smith (1907-1986), the celebrated singer and entertainer whose signature song, "God Bless America" (composed for her by Irving Berlin), has been called America's unofficial national anthem, is being honored with a stamp that goes on sale in time for the National Hockey League playoffs. The stamp will go on sale May 1. Click here for more information.

Oscar Micheaux

The 33rd stamp in the Black Heritage series, to be issued June 22, honors pioneering filmmaker Oscar Micheaux, who wrote, directed, produced and distributed more than 40 movies during the first half of the 20th century. Click here for more information.

Sunday Funnies

The Sunday Funnies stamp pane honors Archie, Beetle Bailey, Dennis the Menace, Garfield and Calvin and Hobbes. The stamps will go on sale in July. Click here for more information.

Offering an idealized portrait of American adolescence, Archie existed only in comic-book form before debuting in newspapers in 1946. A typical small-town teenager with a knack for goofing things up, 17-year-old Archie Andrews is often torn between haughty brunette Veronica Lodge and sweet, blonde Betty Cooper. Click here for more information.

A military strip with universal appeal, Beetle Bailey first appeared in September 1950. Possibly the laziest man in the Army, Private Beetle Bailey is an expert at sleeping and avoiding work. His chronic indolence antagonizes Sergeant Orville P. Snorkel, who is tough on his men but calls them "my boys." Click here for more information.

Dennis the Menace follows the antics of Dennis Mitchell, a good-hearted but mischievous little boy who is perpetually "5-ana-half" years old. His curiosity tests the patience of his loving parents and neighbors, guaranteeing that their lives are anything but dull. The comic debuted in March 1951 as a single-panel gag. Click here for more information.

Garfield first waddled onto the comics page in June 1978. Self-centered and cynical, the crabby tabby hates Mondays and loves lasagna. He lives with Jon Arbuckle, a bumbling bachelor with a fatally flawed fashion sense, and Odie, a dopey but devoted dog. Click here for more information.

Calvin and Hobbes explores the fantasy life of 6-year-old Calvin and his tiger pal, Hobbes. The inseparable friends ponder the mysteries of the world and test the fortitude of Calvin's parents, who never know where their son's imagination will take him. The strip ran from November 1985 to December 1995. Click here for more information.

Scouting

The U.S. Postal Service celebrates the adventure and spirit of scouting with a stamp that will go on sale July 27 at the Boy Scout's Jamboree at Fort A.P. Hill, VA. Click here for more information.

Winslow Homer

The ninth issuance in the American Treasures series features Boys in a Pasture, an 1874 painting by Winslow Homer, considered one of the greatest American painters of the 19th century. The painting is part of the Hayden Collection at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. This stamp will go on sale Aug. 12. Click here for more information.

Julia de Burgos

With this 26th stamp in the Literary Arts stamp series, the Postal Service honors Julia de Burgos, one of Puerto Rico's most celebrated poets. The stamp goes on sale in September. Click here for more information.

Hawaiian Rain Forest

The 2010 Nature of America issuance features the Hawaiian Rain Forest, the 12th stamp pane in an educational series focusing on the beauty and complexity of major plant and animal communities in the United States. The stamp will go on sale in August. Click here for more information.

Holiday Evergreens

Decorating with evergreens during the winter holiday season is a popular and appealing tradition. The Postal Service joins in the winter celebrations by issuing Holiday Evergreens, beautiful new stamps that feature close-up views of the foliage and cones of four different conifers: ponderosa pine, eastern red cedar, blue spruce, and balsam fir. The stamps go on sale in October. The artist, the late Ned Seidler, was a gifted painter of nature subjects. When painting flora, he frequently used cuttings from his own yard. Click here for more information.

Angel with Lute

This stamp features an angel playing a lute from a fresco painted by Melozzo da Forli (1438-1494). The stamp goes on sale in October. Click here for more information.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses, and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

For more information and low-resolution images on the stamps in the 2010 series, visit USPS Newsroom at usps.com/news.

A self-supporting government enterprise, the U.S. Postal Service is the only delivery service that reaches every address in the nation, 150 million residences, businesses and Post Office Boxes. The Postal Service receives no tax dollars. With 36,000 retail locations and the most frequently visited website in the federal government, the Postal Service relies on the sale of postage, products and services to pay for operating expenses. Named the Most Trusted Government Agency five consecutive years and the sixth Most Trusted Business in the nation by the Ponemon Institute, the Postal Service has annual revenue of more than $68 billion and delivers nearly half the world's mail. If it were a private sector company, the U.S. Postal Service would rank 28th in the 2009 Fortune 500.

To download the stamp image(s), simply click on the corresponding link(s) below:

24-0_USPS10STA044.jpg - Monarch (First-Class Surcharge Rate)

11-0_USPS10STA036.jpg - Mother Teresa

0-0_USPS10STA012.jpg - Katharine Hepburn stamp sheet

1-0_USPS10STA012a.jpg - Katharine Hepburn stamp

21-0_USPS10STA014.jpg - Negro Leagues Baseball - both stamps

22-0_USPS10STA014a.jpg - Negro Leagues Baseball - play at home plate

23-0_USPS10STA014b.jpg - Negro Leagues Baseball - Rube Foster

16-0_USPS10STA005e.jpg - Cowboys of the Silver Screen - Block of 4 stamps

12-0_USPS10STA005a.jpg - Cowboys of the Silver Screen - Roy Rogers

13-0_USPS10STA005b.jpg - Cowboys of the Silver Screen - Tom Mix

14-0_USPS10STA005c.jpg - Cowboys of the Silver Screen - William S. Hart

15-0_USPS10STA005d.jpg - Cowboys of the Silver Screen - Gene Autry

7-0_USPS10STA026.jpg - Year of the Tiger - stamp

8-0_USPS10STA026a.jpg - Year of the Tiger - stamp sheet

0-0_USPS10STA017a.jpg - Distinguished Sailors - Block of 4 stamps

1-0_USPS10STA017b.jpg - Distinguished Sailors - William S. Sims

2-0_USPS10STA017c.jpg - Distinguished Sailors - Arleigh A. Burke

3-0_USPS10STA017d.jpg - Distinguished Sailors - John McCloy

4-0_USPS10STA017e.jpg - Distinguished Sailors - Doris Miller

15-0_USPS10STA039a.jpg - Olympic Winter Games Vancouver 2010 -

17-0_USPS10STA008.jpg - Mackinac Bridge

11-0_USPS10STA003.jpg - Bixby Creek Bridge

6-0_USPS10STA019.jpg - Bill Mauldin

0-0_USPS10STA042.jpg - Abstract Expressionists - Sheet of 10 stamps

1-0_USPS10STA042a.jpg - Abstract Expressionists - text on the back of the stamp sheet

10-0_USPS10STA042j.jpg - Abstract Expressionists - Mark Rothko painting

11-0_USPS10STA042k.jpg - Abstract Expressionists - Clyfford Still painting

2-0_USPS10STA042b.jpg - Abstract Expressionists - Willem de Kooning painting

3-0_USPS10STA042c.jpg - Abstract Expressionists - Arshile Gorky painting

4-0_USPS10STA042d.jpg - Abstract Expressionists - Adolph Gottlieb painting

5-0_USPS10STA042e.jpg - Abstract Expressionists - Hans Hofmann painting

6-0_USPS10STA042f.jpg - Abstract Expressionists - Joan Mitchell painting

7-0_USPS10STA042g.jpg - Abstract Expressionists - Robert Motherwell painting

8-0_USPS10STA042h.jpg - Abstract Expressionists - Barnett Newman painting

9-0_USPS10STA042i.jpg - Abstract Expressionists - Jackson Pollock painting

0-0_USPS10STA001.jpg - Flags of Our Nation - Sheet of 10 stamps

1-0_USPS10STA001a.jpg - Flags of Our Nation: Stars and Stripes stamp

2-0_USPS10STA001b.jpg - Flags of Our Nation: Montana

10-0_USPS10STA001j.jpg - Flags of Our Nation - North Dakota

3-0_USPS10STA001c.jpg - Flags of Our Nation - Nebraska

4-0_USPS10STA001d.jpg - Flags of Our Nation - Nevada

5-0_USPS10STA001e.jpg - Flags of Our Nation - New Hampshire

6-0_USPS10STA001f.jpg - Flags of Our Nation - New Jersey

7-0_USPS10STA001g.jpg - Flags of Our Nation - New Mexico

8-0_USPS10STA001h.jpg - Flags of Our Nation - New York

9-0_USPS10STA001i.jpg - Flags of Our Nation - North Carolina

16-0_USPS10STA040a.jpg - Pansies In A Basket

20-0_USPS10STA013.jpg - Kate Smith

5-0_USPS10STA018.jpg - Oscar Micheaux

17-0_USPS10STA041b.jpg - Sunday Funnies - Block of 5 stamps

18-0_USPS10STA041c.jpg - Sunday Funnies - Beetle Bailey

19-0_USPS10STA041d.jpg - Sunday Funnies - Calvin and Hobbes

20-0_USPS10STA041e.jpg - Sunday Funnies - Archie

21-0_USPS10STA041f.jpg - Sunday Funnies - Garfield

22-0_USPS10STA041g.jpg - Sunday Funnies - Dennis the Menace

12-0_USPS10STA037.jpg - Scouting

24-0_USPS10STA016.jpg - Winslow Homer

10-0_USPS10STA031.jpg - Julia de Burgos

13-0_USPS10STA038.jpg - Nature of America: Hawaiian Rain Forest -

14-0_USPS10STA038a.jpg - Hawaiian Rain Forest - text on the back of the stamp sheet

9-0_USPS10STA029b.jpg - Holiday Evergreens

23-0_USPS10STA043.jpg - Angel with Lute

SOURCE U.S. Postal Service

RELATED LINKS
http://www.usps.com

While snowstorms caused unexpected delays for travel and gift delivery in many areas across the globe over Christmas, Twitter users at LightInTheBox.com enjoyed faster order fulfillment with LightInTheBox.com's new TwitVantage Program aimed exclusively at Twitter users.

With TwitVantage ( http://blog.lightinthebox.com/twitvantage.html ), a LightInTheBox.com customer's order is given priority simply by tweeting @LightInTheBox ( http://twitter.com/lightinthebox ) with relevant order information. The tweeted order is then flagged to be processed, packaged and shipped within about 2 hours versus a normal processing time of 24-48 hours. Once the order is ready for delivery, a "Twitter robot" developed specially by LightInTheBox.com will notify the customer immediately via Twitter. LightInTheBox.com also launched a related fulfillment speed contest, and it turned out that the fastest TwitVantage order only took 25 minutes to ship.

LightInTheBox.com has mentioned that the program in its current form would not last forever as the original intention was not to favor one group of users over others, but rather to promote customer awareness of LightInTheBox.com's Twitter streams. "We believe Twitter is a great new way for customers to stay in touch with us, many times better than phone calls, emails or filing customer tickets, so we want to encourage its usage with this TwitVantage program," said Kevin Wen, co-founder of LightInTheBox.com. "We understand and empathize with our customers' stress over the waiting period during the Christmas, so we have tried to make it shorter and a little bit more fun with this program as well.

"It is no doubt that this is the first 'Twitter Christmas' for e-Commerce, which will probably reveal a whole new Twitter era for e-Commerce competition on innovative marketing programs and customer experiences with Twitter. LightInTheBox.com is looking forward to such innovations," Kevin added.

About LightInTheBox.com

LightInTheBox.com is a leading global online distributor. It offers more than fifty thousand quality products to customers in more than 160 countries, and serves both individual consumers and commercial customers.

    Related Links

    LightInTheBox: http://www.LightInTheBox.com


    LightInTheBox on Twitter: http://twitter.com/lightinthebox


    LightInTheBox's TwitVantage Program:
http://blog.lightinthebox.com/twitvantage.html

SOURCE LightInTheBox.com

RELATED LINKS
http://www.LightInTheBox.com
http://twitter.com/lightinthebox
http://blog.lightinthebox.com/twitvantage.html

Medina International Holdings, Inc. (Pink Sheets: MIHI) received an order for a Firehawk 24' boat from a township in New Jersey through its wholly owned subsidiary Harbor Guard Boats, Inc.

"We are very pleased to receive a 24' fire rescue boat order which is one of many orders we are working on," commented Mr. Daniel Medina, CEO of Medina International Holdings, Inc.

Tim Spooner, VP of Sales and Distribution states that "Even though the marine industry had slowed in 2009 due to the economic down turn, the need for emergency craft remains a priority for Local, State and Federal governments, and funding is being allocated."

About Medina International Holdings, Inc.

Medina International Holdings, Inc., through its subsidiary Harbor Guard Boats, Inc., produces commercial fire, rescue, police and patrol boats utilizing the highest design and performance standards. The company's products combine safety, power, handling and stability with a proprietary hull design and equipment features that address specific niche markets with products ranging from 12' to 37'.

For more information, visit http://www.medinaih.com, http://www.medinamarine.com, or http://www.harborguardboats.com.

This press release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), including statements regarding potential sales and the success of the company's business, as well as statements that include the word "believe" or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Medina International Holdings, Inc. to differ materially from those implied or expressed by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others, the risk factors included in Medina's Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for the current fiscal year and any subsequent reports filed with the SEC under the Exchange Act. This press release speaks as of the date first set forth above and the company assumes no responsibility to update the information included herein for events occurring after the date hereof. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated due to factors such as the lack of capital, inability to timely develop products or services, inability to deliver products or services when ordered, inability of potential customers to pay for ordered products or services, and political and economic risks inherent in domestic and international trade.


    CONTACTS:

    Medina International Holdings, Inc.
    Daniel Medina / President
    (909) 522-4414

SOURCE Medina International Holdings, Inc.

RELATED LINKS
http://www.medinaih.com
http://www.medinamarine.com
http://www.harborguardboats.com

A new study by ERA/AECOM, a highly respected economic forecasting firm, finds that Cirque du Soleil performances at the Orange County Great Park will bring jobs, increased revenues at local business establishments, and more tax dollars to Orange County. The study was commissioned by the Orange County Great Park Corporation and presented as part of the Orange County Great Park Strategic Business Plan, outlining development goals and financial stability for the Park over the next ten years.

Report available here: http://media.ocgp.org/docs/CirqueImpactReportIrvine.pdf

The economic study shows that direct spending by Cirque du Soleil and visitors to Orange County will bring $2.4 million per season and 300 seasonal jobs. The City of Irvine's general fund will also benefit from an estimated $88,000 in tax revenues per season.

Last May, Cirque du Soleil selected the Great Park as the official Orange County site location for its touring shows. Performances of the Cirque du Soleil 2010 touring show KOOZA begin January 8th(,), and Cirque du Soleil has the option to return as many as 8 times through 2018.

"Cirque du Soleil brings great value to the Great Park, the City of Irvine and all of Orange County," said Larry Agran, Chair of the Orange County Great Park Corporation Board of Directors. "In addition to bringing world class entertainment to the Great Park, Cirque du Soleil benefits many facets of our local community by creating jobs and boosting sales at our local restaurants, hotels and business establishments."

The report states that the Cirque du Soleil organization will spend $1.7 million in Orange County per production to operate, staff and promote the Irvine shows:

  • The Cirque will hire approximately 165 southern Californians to help with site preparation, set up, tear down, ticket sales, and usher work.
  • The Cirque will bring 50 performers/artists and 100 support administrative staff, who will stay in Irvine hotels.
  • The Cirque will purchase groceries from local establishments to serve three meals per day to the 150 visiting staff members, and will purchase $40,000 in fuel to operate its equipment and kitchen.
  • The Cirque will spend approximately $50,000 in Southern California to transport its staff between the hotels and the performance venue at the Great Park.
  • The Cirque will spend an estimated $125,000 during seven weeks for rental of temporary office space and equipment.
  • Local spending by Cirque includes promotional cost of $300,000 for advertising and marketing and $40,000 for a premiere grand opening event.
  • Other cirque expenditures in Southern California will include approximately $20,000 for professional fees to lawyers, consultants, architects and engineers.

Cirque's decision to select the Great Park as its Orange County venue was driven in part by the Park's new, 14-acre Festival Site. The site features 530,000 square feet of unobstructed paved surface, and has been described by local event companies as "a dream location."

"Cirque du Soleil will be the first tenant of our Festival Site, which is generating a lot of interest among large event organizers," said Mike Ellzey, Chief Executive Officer, Orange County Great Park Corporation. "The development of the Festival Site literally paves the way for other groups to bring their large events to the Great Park. As that happens, similar economic benefit will continue to flow into Orange County."

For more information on the Orange County Great Park, please go to www.ocgp.org.

SOURCE Orange County Great Park

Verizon Wireless, the wireless company with the largest 3G network, has activated a new cell site in Crawford County, Pennsylvania, which enables more customers to use their wireless phones concurrently to make calls; send and receive email and text, picture and video messages; view high quality videos; access the Internet; and download music, games and ringtones, while enjoying clearer reception and fewer dropped calls.

The new cell site improves coverage along State Route 18 from Harmonsburg south to Conneaut Lake Road, along Highway 285 from Conneaut Lake Road south to Townline Road, along Conneaut Lake Road east from Grieser Road to North Watson Run Road.

"We've always believed even the most advanced device is only as good as the network it runs on. We continue to aggressively invest in our Pennsylvania network to increase coverage and capacity for our customers, add new services, and maintain our 3G network leadership," said Roger Tang, president-Ohio/Pennsylvania/West Virginia Region, Verizon Wireless.

This network improvement is part of Verizon Wireless' continual effort to expand coverage, improve capacity and enhance the quality of its wireless voice and data network in Pennsylvania and throughout the country. Verizon Wireless has invested more than $50 billion since it was formed--$5.5 billion on average every year--to increase the coverage and capacity of its premier nationwide network and to add new services. In 2009, the company invested nearly $195 million in its Pennsylvania network.

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable and largest wireless voice and 3G data network, serving 89 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 85,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ) and Vodafone (NASDAQ and LSE: VOD). For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

SOURCE Verizon Wireless

IDenta Corp. (PINKSHEETS: IDTA) CEO Yaacov Shoham today issued the following statement concerning airplane explosives and the incident in Detroit last week.

Stated Shoham, "Concerning the airplane incident last week, (Northwest Airlines Flight 253) IDenta Alert Explosive Identification kits could have easily and accurately helped to identify the suspected substance, especially since, according to the news, the explosive was PETN, one of the standard and well-known explosives (already used in the past by terrorists). IDenta has IDenta Alert Explosive Identifiers available to identify all of the substances already known to be explosives. The IDenta test is an instant test, inexpensive, very reliable, safe, easy to use etc."

PETN is a stronger explosive than TNT which is the most standard known explosive, the effect of 1 kg of TNT = to 0.60 kg of PETN.

The airports in France are in the beginning stages of using IDenta Alert Explosive Identifiers and are the first to do so.

As previously released, two large International companies (connection established at the 2009 Explosives Detection Symposium and Workshop in San Diego) that are manufacturing electronic devices to detect explosives at airports, have inquired about and received information and samples of IDenta Alert Explosive Identifiers kits. IDenta expects to penetrate this very important market of airport security also. These electronic devices are being used extensively at airports and the two companies are looking to provide an inexpensive and reliable chemical explosive kit as a backup for the electronic devices. In our opinion IDenta Alert is the best kit to be used as a backup for the electronic devices for detecting and identifying explosives and illicit drugs.

However IDenta Corp. is already selling the IDenta Alert Explosive Identifiers for different Homeland Security and Army agencies around the world, and as we have released since the 2009 Explosives Detection Symposium and Workshop in San Diego, the penetration to the different agencies in USA is developing rapidly.

We want to emphasize that the new connections developed at the San Diego workshop are in addition to the DOD test.

We have been in the last few months in contact with the DOD officers to finalize the tests for IDenta's Alert Explosive Detectors. IDenta has helped them to develop and establish a special protocol how to use the explosive kits.

The DOD test is still in progress, and hopefully will be concluded positive in a relatively short period.

At The San Diego Explosive Detection 2009 Symposium and Workshop, in our opinion, we have been able to receive the best possible connections and exposure for IDenta's Alert Explosive Detectors.

Information concerning IDenta's Alert Explosive Identifiers may be found at www.IDenta.biz

Meanwhile, IDenta has already made all the changes requested by the still yet unnamed American agency (previous news release) and expects to have a signed agreement for the initial order of 100,000 Alert Explosive Identifiers very shortly.

ABOUT IDENTA

Since 2003, IDenta Corporation has been recognized as a worldwide leader in the development of proprietary on-site drug, drug precursor and explosive detection kits. IDenta develops, manufactures and distributes products for both the professional and civil markets which consistently pass the highest qualifications and testing procedures of law enforcement and security agencies around the world.

Information concerning IDenta's entire product line may be found at www.IDenta.biz

DISCLAIMER

Certain of the statements contained herein may be, within the meaning of the federal securities laws, "forward-looking statements" that are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on management's expectations as of the date hereof, and the company does not undertake any responsibility to update any of these statements in the future.

For Investor Relations, lobbying interests or information concerning IDenta's products internationally or the development of new chemical detectors, contact: Yaacov Shoham, IDenta Corp., CEO, Tel: +972-52-6554487, fpi@drugsdetector.com, www.IDenta.biz.

For information about the Accutest® - IDenta products in the US, please contact: Mr. Eyal Golan, COO, JANT PHARMACAL CORPORATION, 16255 Ventura Blvd. #505, Encino, CA 91436, Toll Free: 800-676-5565, 661-478-0582 (mobile), golan@accutest.net, www.accutestIDenta.net.

SOURCE IDenta Corp.

I Wanna Be On®, the pioneering social research network and production company, has launched Reel 2 Life to explore the inspirational side of news stories, celebrity trends, and all forms of pop culture phenomena.

Reel 2 Life seeks to establish a robust community of individuals and small business owners who have extracted a positive message from the media. Currently, Reel 2 Life is assembling and reviewing video clips and other story materials to post on the Reel2Life Blog. Eventually, Reel 2 Life will produce documentary programming that contains and evaluates empowering media messages.

"I Wanna Be On® was founded on the principle of 'empowerment media', that is, the company was always committed to explore and develop programming to empower individuals to overcome personal and professional limitations," according to Professor Vincent Presti.

I Wanna Be On® had previously produced two documentaries, I Wanna Be On: Law v. Dream and Reality Faith, that contained inspirational messages about how Professor Presti's students used their media ambitions and personal faiths to overcome personal and professional hardships.

A major inspiration for launching Reel 2 Life was Pope Benedict's meeting with artists and media figures in the Sistine Chapel last month. "The Pope's call to reflect beauty in the creative process to inspire faith was our rallying call," noted Professor Presti. "Reel 2 Life will be our social network platform where we can gather, share, and communicate empowering stories impacted by the media and pop culture."

Professor Presti conjectures, "Even though the success of Reel 2 Life may require some divine intervention, Reel 2 Life will help bring people together to discuss media and perhaps find some form of beauty between their personal faith and its manifestation in the media."

About the Company

Founded in 2006, I Wanna Be On® is a pioneering empowerment media organization. Our first-look deal with CBS Television to develop legal-themed reality programming evolved into an Internet media enterprise focused on helping individuals and businesses improve their ordinary routines through imaginative, problem-solving exercises.

Professor Vincent Presti, Founder and CEO, was a former associate at Wilson Sonsini in Palo Alto and closely follows trends in Silicon Valley.

For additional information, you can visit www.iwannabeon.com, send an e-mail to info@iwannabeon.com, or contact Professor Presti directly at 212 924 3901.

SOURCE I Wanna Be On, Inc.

IDenta Corp. (PINKSHEETS: IDTA) CEO Yaacov Shoham today issued the following statement concerning airplane explosives and the incident in Detroit last week.

Stated Shoham, "Concerning the airplane incident last week, (Northwest Airlines Flight 253) IDenta Alert Explosive Identification kits could have easily and accurately helped to identify the suspected substance, especially since, according to the news, the explosive was PETN, one of the standard and well-known explosives (already used in the past by terrorists). IDenta has IDenta Alert Explosive Identifiers available to identify all of the substances already known to be explosives. The IDenta test is an instant test, inexpensive, very reliable, safe, easy to use etc."

PETN is a stronger explosive than TNT which is the most standard known explosive, the effect of 1 kg of TNT = to 0.60 kg of PETN.

The airports in France are in the beginning stages of using IDenta Alert Explosive Identifiers and are the first to do so.

As previously released, two large International companies (connection established at the 2009 Explosives Detection Symposium and Workshop in San Diego) that are manufacturing electronic devices to detect explosives at airports, have inquired about and received information and samples of IDenta Alert Explosive Identifiers kits. IDenta expects to penetrate this very important market of airport security also. These electronic devices are being used extensively at airports and the two companies are looking to provide an inexpensive and reliable chemical explosive kit as a backup for the electronic devices. In our opinion IDenta Alert is the best kit to be used as a backup for the electronic devices for detecting and identifying explosives and illicit drugs.

However IDenta Corp. is already selling the IDenta Alert Explosive Identifiers for different Homeland Security and Army agencies around the world, and as we have released since the 2009 Explosives Detection Symposium and Workshop in San Diego, the penetration to the different agencies in USA is developing rapidly.

We want to emphasize that the new connections developed at the San Diego workshop are in addition to the DOD test.

We have been in the last few months in contact with the DOD officers to finalize the tests for IDenta's Alert Explosive Detectors. IDenta has helped them to develop and establish a special protocol how to use the explosive kits.

The DOD test is still in progress, and hopefully will be concluded positive in a relatively short period.

At The San Diego Explosive Detection 2009 Symposium and Workshop, in our opinion, we have been able to receive the best possible connections and exposure for IDenta's Alert Explosive Detectors.

Information concerning IDenta's Alert Explosive Identifiers may be found at www.IDenta.biz

Meanwhile, IDenta has already made all the changes requested by the still yet unnamed American agency (previous news release) and expects to have a signed agreement for the initial order of 100,000 Alert Explosive Identifiers very shortly.

ABOUT IDENTA

Since 2003, IDenta Corporation has been recognized as a worldwide leader in the development of proprietary on-site drug, drug precursor and explosive detection kits. IDenta develops, manufactures and distributes products for both the professional and civil markets which consistently pass the highest qualifications and testing procedures of law enforcement and security agencies around the world.

Information concerning IDenta's entire product line may be found at www.IDenta.biz

DISCLAIMER

Certain of the statements contained herein may be, within the meaning of the federal securities laws, "forward-looking statements" that are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on management's expectations as of the date hereof, and the company does not undertake any responsibility to update any of these statements in the future.

For Investor Relations, lobbying interests or information concerning IDenta's products internationally or the development of new chemical detectors, contact: Yaacov Shoham, IDenta Corp., CEO, Tel: +972-52-6554487, fpi@drugsdetector.com, www.IDenta.biz.

For information about the Accutest® - IDenta products in the US, please contact: Mr. Eyal Golan, COO, JANT PHARMACAL CORPORATION, 16255 Ventura Blvd. #505, Encino, CA 91436, Toll Free: 800-676-5565, 661-478-0582 (mobile), golan@accutest.net, www.accutestIDenta.net.

SOURCE IDenta Corp.

Spare Backup, Inc., (OTC Bulletin Board: SPBU) today announced the launch of a remote, 'cloud based' customer portal service with the UK's leading independent mobile phone retailer, "The Carphone Warehouse." The proposition will ensure that customers have their most precious and valuable electronic property protected and readily available. Spare Backup and The Carphone Warehouse have developed the proposition jointly and more product announcements will follow in the New Year.

The dedicated and easy to use interface will also provide The Carphone Warehouse customers a personal hub in the cloud that provides simple to use features for the user, while offering an array of complimentary services tailored to each individual's needs.

Both companies will work jointly to deliver the best possible experience to customers within the cloud based platform: Mobile Apps, Music, Photos, Mobile Banking and data storage.

Spare Backup and The Carphone Warehouse have entered into a confidential revenue sharing agreement that will operate on a mutually beneficial basis.

"We wanted to work with a partner that understood our business and our customers. It was a natural move for us to work with Spare Backup," explains Tom Guy, Head of Digital Services, The Carphone Warehouse.

"We really got behind what The Carphone Warehouse was trying to achieve for its customers and worked very closely with the company to deliver a customer proposition that would be easy to use and that would be hugely beneficial to users. The proposition we have jointly developed is an extremely robust proposition for consumers and we are very pleased to partner with The Carphone Warehouse," says Cery Perle, CEO of Spare Backup.

For additional information, visit http://www.sparebackup.com. For investor relations, please contact our investor relations department at 760-779-0251 Ext. 224 or ir@sparebackup.com.

For media relations: Rob Forbes, Generator PR Ltd, +44 (0) 1256 460008 + +44 (0) 7525 264252 or rforbes@generatorpr.com

Spare Backup, Inc. specializes in helping consumers, small office/home office users and small to mid-sized businesses protect their computer data quickly, automatically and cost-effectively. The company's flagship Spare Backup product is the first totally automated online backup service that intelligently selects, secures and stores files without any user intervention, automatically backing up documents, email, music, photos and other PC files on a continuous basis or according to the schedule of the user's choice. The company recently has launched a suite of services in consumer cloud computing. The company is headquartered in Palm Desert, California.

Safe Harbor Statement:

The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor for forward-looking information made on the company's behalf. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, which address the company's expectations of sources of capital or which express the company's expectation for the future with respect to financial performance or operating strategies can be identified as forward-looking statements. Such statements made by the company are based on knowledge of the environment in which it operates, but because of the possibility of unknown factors, as well as other factors beyond the control of the company, actual results may differ materially from the expectations expressed in the forward-looking statement. An investment in our common stock involves a significant degree of risk. You should not invest in our common stock unless you can afford to lose your entire investment. You should consider carefully all risk factors and other information in our annual report and quarterly filings before deciding to invest in our common stock.

If any of the following risks and uncertainties develops into actual events, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be materially adversely affected and you could lose your entire investment in our company.

SOURCE Spare Backup, Inc.

Square Enix, Inc., the publisher of Square Enix® interactive entertainment products in North America, announced today that FINAL FANTASY® CRYSTAL CHRONICLES®: THE CRYSTAL BEARERS® arrived at North American retailers today. An action adventure developed exclusively for Wii(TM), Square Enix delivers an unforgettable addition to the CRYSTAL CHRONICLES universe this holiday season.

The CRYSTAL CHRONICLES franchise enters the action-adventure genre for the first time with FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES: THE CRYSTAL BEARERS. Combining in-depth storytelling and an expansive world with motion-driven, real-time gameplay, this title allows players to freely explore and interact with a vibrant game world.

Continuing the strong tradition of graphical excellence in the FINAL FANTASY series, the game melds realistic gameplay and fantastical art direction. FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES: THE CRYSTAL BEARERS is a unique experience for this holiday season and accessible to gamers of all levels.

STORY

A thousand years have passed since the events of the original FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES. The destruction of the Yuke Crystal during the Great War had at once brought the victorious Lilty Tribe prosperity, the defeated Yuke Tribe apparent annihilation, and the world a new age of science and reason. In this new era exists a rare breed of powerful beings called "crystal bearers," whose seemingly magical abilities have led them to be feared and scorned by the public. The young mercenary Layle is one such crystal bearer, who has been hired to escort the new passenger airship Alexis, the pinnacle of Lilty technology and a symbol of their current dominance. However, when the Alexis is suddenly besieged by a horde of monsters, Layle comes face-to-face with an adversary thought to have vanished from the pages of history, on a quest that may threaten the future of the world...

FEATURES

  • Enjoy a new chapter of the series that takes place a thousand years after the events of the original FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES, where technology has advanced to its peak and magic is considered taboo
  • Encounter the first FINAL FANTASY game developed exclusively for Wii, complete with motion-driven gameplay and intuitive controls that are accessible to gamers of all levels. Enjoy a variety of actions and third-person shooter style gameplay
  • Step into the hero's shoes and experience the action first-hand! Control Layle's crystal bearer powers to battle adversaries, navigate through obstacles and move objects at will in a highly interactive environment
  • Traverse the terrain, swing from high places or take a swim in a world in which all areas are open for exploration
  • With an extra Wii Remote(TM), friends and family can jump in to assist the player in times of need
  • Engage in a variety of playable events that blend seamlessly into the game's story
  • Traverse the vast game world on foot, by train, or on the back of a chocobo!
  • Enhance Layle's powers with accessories that can be purchased at shops or custom-made at workshops using various materials

FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES: THE CRYSTAL BEARERS is rated T (Teen). Please visit the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) website at www.esrb.org for more information about ratings. FINAL FANTASY CRYSTAL CHRONICLES: THE CRYSTAL BEARERS will be available at North American retailers for the suggested price of $ 49.99 for Wii. The official website can be found at http://www.thecrystalbearers.com.

About Square Enix Co., Ltd. and Square Enix, Inc.

Square Enix Co., Ltd. (Square Enix), a wholly owned subsidiary of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd., with headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, develops, publishes and distributes entertainment content including interactive entertainment software and publications in Asia, North America and Europe. Square Enix brings two of Japan's best-selling franchises - FINAL FANTASY, which has sold over 92 million units worldwide, and DRAGON QUEST®, which has sold over 50 million units worldwide - under one roof. Square Enix is one of the most influential providers of digital entertainment content in the world and continues to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation.

Square Enix, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd. with offices in Los Angeles, California. It handles operations in North America, including development, localization, marketing and publishing of Square Enix titles. More information on Square Enix can be found on the Internet at http://www.square-enix.com.

DRAGON QUEST, FINAL FANTASY, SQUARE ENIX and the SQUARE ENIX logo are registered trademarks of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd. in the United States and/or other countries. CRYSTAL CHRONICLES and THE CRYSTAL BEARERS are registered trademarks of Square Enix Co., Ltd., in the United States and/or other countries. Wii is a trademark of Nintendo.

SOURCE Square Enix, Inc.

This entire year was marked by an abundance of media coverage and attention surrounding prescription painkillers, largely the result of widespread misuse throughout Hollywood. Over the past 12 months, several high-profile celebrities have been linked to prescription medications including Steven Tyler, Lindsay Lohan and, Courtney Love, while autopsies for Michael Jackson, Anna Nicole Smith, DJ AM, and Heath Ledger all found that drugs played a major role in untimely and unfortunate deaths. Furthermore, new study findings released in 2009 demonstrate a growing number of people--including teens, military personnel and women in their 20s--are abusing prescription painkillers such as Oxycontin, Hydrocodone and Percocet.

The Waismann Method, a pioneering medical opiate detoxification procedure, has continued to dedicate itself to educate people on the dangerous and potential fatal effects of painkillers, and plans to maintain its effort to spread awareness about alternative treatments available for those who may be facing issues with dependency.

"Regardless of what many think, prescription painkiller abuse is not a new trend," said Clare Kavin, administrative director of the Waismann Method. "For the past several years, we've seen a significant increase in opiate use. As these drugs become more widely accepted by the public, we have a responsibility to ensure education is accessible and available."

As A-list stars continue to make headlines with their prescription drug use scandals and speculations, it has become clear that these pills, which can be easily found in everyday medicine cabinets, are being taken with very little consideration of consequence. According to a study from the National Survey of Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), more than 50 million Americans aged 12 and older admitted to non-medical use of prescription drugs. (1) Additionally, in December the Office of National Drug Control Policy, along with the University of Michigan for the National Institute on Drug Abuse, revealed that seven of the 10 drugs most abused by high school seniors are prescription or over-the-counter drugs acquired primarily from teens' friends or relatives. (2)

Along with all-too-common celebrity news, several studies released in 2009 revealed shocking statistics related to prescription drug use. Among these, in September the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported the drug-related death rate roughly doubled from the late 1990s to 2006. While cocaine and heroin continue to be significant killers, most of the increase is attributed to prescription opiates such as the painkillers methadone, Oxycontin and Vicodin. (3)

Dr. Michael Lowenstein, co-director of the Waismann Method, explains that attitudes toward prescription drug use have become a major cause for concern. "I have treated several patients who became dependent on painkillers after believing that--unlike alcohol, cocaine or heroin addiction-- prescriptions were the 'safer' drug of choice," said Dr. Lowenstein. "Just because a doctor prescribes it, does not mean that it is a safe drug. There is no such thing, which has become incredibly apparent in the news this year. Our hope is that the public becomes more aware of the effects painkillers can have and the devastating outcome that can result when these pills are taken without any regard."

To learn more about the Waismann Method, call 1-800-423-2482 or visit www.opiates.com.

About The Waismann Method

Performed in a hospital intensive care unit, the Waismann Method involves the administration of medications to reverse the physiological dependence on opiates while the symptoms of withdrawal are addressed. During the procedure, the patient experiences minimal conscious withdrawal, and will be able to return home within days. Seventy-five percent of the prescription drug dependent patients who are treated with the Waismann Method remain drug free after one year.

www.opiates.com

www.domusretreat.com

twitter.com/opiates

(1) National Survey of Drug Use and Health - http://www.oas.samhsa.gov/nsduh/2k8nsduh/2k8Results.cfm

(2) Office of National Drug Control Policy - http://www.whitehousedrugpolicy.gov/news/press09/121409.html

(3) Center for Disease Control and Prevention - http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db22.htm#summary

SOURCE Waismann Method

Navios Maritime Holdings Inc. ("Navios Holdings") (NYSE: NM), a global, vertically integrated seaborne shipping and logistics company, announced today that the Capesize vessels Navios Phoenix and Navios Stellar were delivered from a Japanese and a South Korean shipyard respectively to Navios Holdings' owned fleet.

The Navios Phoenix is a Capesize vessel of 180,242 dwt. She was delivered to Navios Holdings' fleet on December 21, 2009. Approximately $52.5 million was used to finance the purchase from the escrow established under the 8 7/8% First Priority Ship Mortgage Notes.

The Navios Stellar is a Capesize vessel of 169,001 dwt. She was delivered to Navios Holdings' fleet on December 23, 2009.

Time Charter Coverage

As of December 23, 2009, Navios Holdings had contracted 99.5%, 86.1%, 63.4% and 56.6% of its available days on a charter-out basis for 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012, respectively. Navios Holdings has extended its long-term fleet employment by entering into agreements to charter-out vessels for periods ranging from one to 12 years.

About Navios Maritime Holdings Inc.

Navios Maritime Holdings Inc. is a global, vertically integrated seaborne shipping and logistics company focused on the transport and transshipment of drybulk commodities including iron ore, coal and grain. For more information please visit our website: www.navios.com.

Navios Holdings may, from time to time, be required to offer certain owned Capesize and Panamax vessels to Navios Maritime Partners L.P. ("Navios Partners") (NYSE: NMM) for purchase at fair market value according to the terms of the Omnibus Agreement. For more information please visit its website: www.navios-mlp.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements (as defined in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) concerning future events and Navios Holdings' growth strategy and measures to implement such strategy; including expected vessel acquisitions and entering into further time charters. Words such as "expects," "intends," "plans," "believes," "anticipates," "hopes," "estimates," and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements include comments regarding expected revenues and time charters. Although Navios Holdings believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, no assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to have been correct. These statements involve known and unknown risks and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates which are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond the control of Navios Holdings. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to changes in the demand for drybulk vessels, competitive factors in the market in which Navios Holdings operates; risks associated with operations outside the United States; and other factors listed from time to time in Navios Holdings' filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Navios expressly disclaims any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in Navios Holdings' expectations with respect thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based.


    Public & Investor Relations Contact:
    Navios Maritime Holdings Inc.
    +1.212.279.8820
    investors@navios.com

SOURCE Navios Maritime Holdings Inc.

Developer Ronnie Gilley creates 2,000 jobs through Country Crossing, an entertainment destination situated in rural Southeast Alabama. Alabama currently has the tenth fastest growing unemployment rate in the country.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091224/CL30465LOGO )

Country Crossing is designed as a country music entertainment extravaganza with country music star-themed venues and attractions. The development opened on December 1, 2009, and has nearly completed construction of the first of three phases.

The project's job creation is expected to employ nearly 8,000 people at the height of development and will level to more than 6,000 jobs once all phases of the project are complete.

"Our drive to make this development a reality is simple -- create jobs and economic stimulus for the state of Alabama," says Gilley. "We are using private investment funds to bring about a significant change for our state. The taxpayers have given enough, and we have acknowledged that."

Country Crossing is privately funded and is supported overwhelmingly by the citizens of the county in which it is located. Local elected officials and business leaders have applauded the efforts of the development to bring about a change to the downward spiraling economy.

Gilley adds, "As we move forward with this project, the state will begin to capture tourist revenue that will add to the depleting tax coffers of Alabama. We have been able to do this without using taxpayer money and we will continue to benefit our state this way."

The entertainment venue is expected to provide between $2-5 million per year for local charities, contribute significantly to the tax revenue of the county and state, attract out-of-state vacationers to the state and continue to create jobs.

Country Crossing is a one-of-a-kind entertainment destination resort located in Dothan, Ala. It has been designed to create lasting family memories and to bring the spirit of music to the community and visitors.

Country Crossing is strategically situated on Highway 231 South. Attractions include celebrity themed restaurants: John Anderson's Cafeteria, Darryl Worley's Worley Bird Saloon and Lorrie Morgan's Hot Chicken. Phase One also includes George Jones Possum Holler Bed & Breakfast, The Grascals Bluegrass Hollow RV Park, a 78-space RV park, and the electronic bingo entertainment center. Phase Two of the project is already underway and will include two hotels a family entertainment center and much more.

Country Crossing is located at 300 Country Crossing Parkway, Cottonwood, AL 36320

For more information about Country Crossing, please visit www.countrycrossing.net

SOURCE Country Crossing

Navios Maritime Holdings Inc. ("Navios Holdings") (NYSE: NM), a global, vertically integrated seaborne shipping and logistics company, announced today that the Capesize vessels Navios Phoenix and Navios Stellar were delivered from a Japanese and a South Korean shipyard respectively to Navios Holdings' owned fleet.

The Navios Phoenix is a Capesize vessel of 180,242 dwt. She was delivered to Navios Holdings' fleet on December 21, 2009. Approximately $52.5 million was used to finance the purchase from the escrow established under the 8 7/8% First Priority Ship Mortgage Notes.

The Navios Stellar is a Capesize vessel of 169,001 dwt. She was delivered to Navios Holdings' fleet on December 23, 2009.

Time Charter Coverage

As of December 23, 2009, Navios Holdings had contracted 99.5%, 86.1%, 63.4% and 56.6% of its available days on a charter-out basis for 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012, respectively. Navios Holdings has extended its long-term fleet employment by entering into agreements to charter-out vessels for periods ranging from one to 12 years.

About Navios Maritime Holdings Inc.

Navios Maritime Holdings Inc. is a global, vertically integrated seaborne shipping and logistics company focused on the transport and transshipment of drybulk commodities including iron ore, coal and grain. For more information please visit our website: www.navios.com.

Navios Holdings may, from time to time, be required to offer certain owned Capesize and Panamax vessels to Navios Maritime Partners L.P. ("Navios Partners") (NYSE: NMM) for purchase at fair market value according to the terms of the Omnibus Agreement. For more information please visit its website: www.navios-mlp.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements (as defined in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) concerning future events and Navios Holdings' growth strategy and measures to implement such strategy; including expected vessel acquisitions and entering into further time charters. Words such as "expects," "intends," "plans," "believes," "anticipates," "hopes," "estimates," and variations of such words and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements include comments regarding expected revenues and time charters. Although Navios Holdings believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, no assurance can be given that such expectations will prove to have been correct. These statements involve known and unknown risks and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates which are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond the control of Navios Holdings. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to changes in the demand for drybulk vessels, competitive factors in the market in which Navios Holdings operates; risks associated with operations outside the United States; and other factors listed from time to time in Navios Holdings' filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Navios expressly disclaims any obligations or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect any change in Navios Holdings' expectations with respect thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any statement is based.


    Public & Investor Relations Contact:
    Navios Maritime Holdings Inc.
    +1.212.279.8820
    investors@navios.com

SOURCE Navios Maritime Holdings Inc.

Starting today, professional hockey fans can buy lottery tickets that show their team loyalty, as the Pennsylvania Lottery and the National Hockey League(R) partnered to offer a new $2 instant game featuring the Philadelphia Flyers(R) and Pittsburgh Penguins(R).

"This is another great collaboration between the Lottery and Pennsylvania's professional sports teams," Lottery Executive Director Ed Trees said. "In addition to getting a chance at winning one of the $20,000 top prizes, players can also enter promotional drawings for the opportunity to win second-chance prizes like an authentic Philadelphia Flyers or Pittsburgh Penguins player jersey."

The Lottery launched instant games with the Philadelphia Eagles and Pittsburgh Steelers football teams in August 2009 and with the Philadelphia Phillies and Pittsburgh Pirates baseball teams in April 2008.

The NHL(R)-themed instant game offers 10 top prizes of $20,000, more than 32,000 prizes from $40 to $400, and more than $7 million in total cash prizes. Players have 10 chances to win on each ticket. On the instant game, if the "home team" beats the "away team" the player wins the prize to the right of that game. A player who finds a "stick" symbol wins the prize shown for that game. A player who finds a "puck" symbol wins 10 times the prize shown for that game. The overall odds of winning a prize are 1-in-4.54.

The Philadelphia Flyers/Pittsburgh Penguins instant game features second-chance promotional drawing opportunities to win hundreds of prizes, including winners' choices of authentic player jerseys. Four separate drawings will be held throughout the hockey season; Jan. 28 is the entry deadline for the first drawing, which will be held the week of Feb. 1. Entry requirements and all deadlines are detailed on the back of every instant ticket and at www.palottery.com.

About the Pennsylvania Lottery: The Pennsylvania Lottery remains the only state lottery that designates all its proceeds to programs that benefit older residents. Since its inception 37 years ago, the Pennsylvania Lottery has contributed more than $19.2 billion to programs that include property tax and rent rebates; free and reduced-fare transit; the low-cost prescription drug programs PACE and PACENET; long-term living services; and the 52 Area Agencies on Aging, including more than 600 full- and part-time senior centers throughout the state. The Pennsylvania Lottery reminds its players to play responsibly. Players must be 18 or older.

For more information on the Pennsylvania Lottery, visit www.palottery.com.

Media contact: Kirstin Alvanitakis, 717-702-8008

Editor's Note: To view and download images of the Flyers and Penguins instant tickets, go to www.palottery.state.pa.us/instant-games.aspx.

SOURCE Pennsylvania Lottery

The "Yule Log" program is a tradition that began at WPIX in New York City in 1966 as a gift to the many city-dwellers who lived in apartments and homes without fireplaces. The first program was a 17-second loop and aired on Christmas Eve. The Cox 11 Yule Log is a 30 minute loop, which was taped on location at the Williamsburg Lodge and is presented without commercial interruption.

"We are delighted to have the chance to deliver this holiday tradition that many people are familiar with, and we hope that Cox can help make the Christmas holiday a festive and joyful occasion for our customers," said Gary McCollum, Senior Vice President and General Manager Cox.

An overview of Cox 11 holiday programming is as follows:

December 24 Cox 11 Holiday Programming

  • 10:30-11am - "One Silent Night" featuring Walter Cronkite telling the story of Christmas at Flanders Field in 1914, supported by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.
  • 11:00-11:30am - "We Need a Little Christmas" featuring Angela Lansbury and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir
  • 12-12:30pm - "Sing We Now of Christmas" Featuring Gladys Knight and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir
  • 12:30-1pm - "Celebrate Christmas" featuring Audra McDonald and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir
  • 4-4:30pm - "One Silent Night" featuring Walter Cronkite telling the story of Christmas at Flanders Field in 1914, supported by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir
  • 4:30-5pm - "We Need a Little Christmas" featuring Angela Lansbury and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.
  • 5-10pm - "The Yule Log"

December 25 Cox 11 Holiday Programming

  • 8am-7pm - "The Yule Log"
  • 7-7:30pm - "Sing We Now of Christmas" Featuring Gladys Knight and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir
  • 7:30-8pm - "Celebrate Christmas" featuring Audra McDonald and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir

For more information, contact Felicia Blow at 222-8432 or felicia.blow@cox.com.

About Cox Communications:

Cox Communications is a multi-service broadband communications and entertainment company with more than 6.2 million total residential and commercial customers. The third-largest cable television company in the United States, Cox offers an array of advanced digital video, high-speed Internet and telephony services over its own nationwide IP network, as well as integrated wireless services. Cox Business is a full-service, facilities-based provider of communications solutions for commercial customers, providing high-speed Internet, voice and long distance services, as well as data and video transport services for small to large-sized businesses. Cox Media offers national and local cable advertising in traditional spot and new media formats, along with promotional opportunities and production services. Cox Communications wholly owns and operates the Travel Channel. More information about the services of Cox Communications, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cox Enterprises, is available at www.cox.com, www.coxbusiness.com, and www.coxmedia.com. In Hampton Roads, Cox has more than 400,000 basic cable subscribers.

SOURCE Cox Communications

Developer Ronnie Gilley creates 2,000 jobs through Country Crossing, an entertainment destination situated in rural Southeast Alabama. Alabama currently has the tenth fastest growing unemployment rate in the country.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091224/CL30465LOGO )

Country Crossing is designed as a country music entertainment extravaganza with country music star-themed venues and attractions. The development opened on December 1, 2009, and has nearly completed construction of the first of three phases.

The project's job creation is expected to employ nearly 8,000 people at the height of development and will level to more than 6,000 jobs once all phases of the project are complete.

"Our drive to make this development a reality is simple -- create jobs and economic stimulus for the state of Alabama," says Gilley. "We are using private investment funds to bring about a significant change for our state. The taxpayers have given enough, and we have acknowledged that."

Country Crossing is privately funded and is supported overwhelmingly by the citizens of the county in which it is located. Local elected officials and business leaders have applauded the efforts of the development to bring about a change to the downward spiraling economy.

Gilley adds, "As we move forward with this project, the state will begin to capture tourist revenue that will add to the depleting tax coffers of Alabama. We have been able to do this without using taxpayer money and we will continue to benefit our state this way."

The entertainment venue is expected to provide between $2-5 million per year for local charities, contribute significantly to the tax revenue of the county and state, attract out-of-state vacationers to the state and continue to create jobs.

Country Crossing is a one-of-a-kind entertainment destination resort located in Dothan, Ala. It has been designed to create lasting family memories and to bring the spirit of music to the community and visitors.

Country Crossing is strategically situated on Highway 231 South. Attractions include celebrity themed restaurants: John Anderson's Cafeteria, Darryl Worley's Worley Bird Saloon and Lorrie Morgan's Hot Chicken. Phase One also includes George Jones Possum Holler Bed & Breakfast, The Grascals Bluegrass Hollow RV Park, a 78-space RV park, and the electronic bingo entertainment center. Phase Two of the project is already underway and will include two hotels a family entertainment center and much more.

Country Crossing is located at 300 Country Crossing Parkway, Cottonwood, AL 36320

For more information about Country Crossing, please visit www.countrycrossing.net

SOURCE Country Crossing

This entire year was marked by an abundance of media coverage and attention surrounding prescription painkillers, largely the result of widespread misuse throughout Hollywood. Over the past 12 months, several high-profile celebrities have been linked to prescription medications including Steven Tyler, Lindsay Lohan and, Courtney Love, while autopsies for Michael Jackson, Anna Nicole Smith, DJ AM, and Heath Ledger all found that drugs played a major role in untimely and unfortunate deaths. Furthermore, new study findings released in 2009 demonstrate a growing number of people--including teens, military personnel and women in their 20s--are abusing prescription painkillers such as Oxycontin, Hydrocodone and Percocet.

The Waismann Method, a pioneering medical opiate detoxification procedure, has continued to dedicate itself to educate people on the dangerous and potential fatal effects of painkillers, and plans to maintain its effort to spread awareness about alternative treatments available for those who may be facing issues with dependency.

"Regardless of what many think, prescription painkiller abuse is not a new trend," said Clare Kavin, administrative director of the Waismann Method. "For the past several years, we've seen a significant increase in opiate use. As these drugs become more widely accepted by the public, we have a responsibility to ensure education is accessible and available."

As A-list stars continue to make headlines with their prescription drug use scandals and speculations, it has become clear that these pills, which can be easily found in everyday medicine cabinets, are being taken with very little consideration of consequence. According to a study from the National Survey of Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), more than 50 million Americans aged 12 and older admitted to non-medical use of prescription drugs. (1) Additionally, in December the Office of National Drug Control Policy, along with the University of Michigan for the National Institute on Drug Abuse, revealed that seven of the 10 drugs most abused by high school seniors are prescription or over-the-counter drugs acquired primarily from teens' friends or relatives. (2)

Along with all-too-common celebrity news, several studies released in 2009 revealed shocking statistics related to prescription drug use. Among these, in September the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported the drug-related death rate roughly doubled from the late 1990s to 2006. While cocaine and heroin continue to be significant killers, most of the increase is attributed to prescription opiates such as the painkillers methadone, Oxycontin and Vicodin. (3)

Dr. Michael Lowenstein, co-director of the Waismann Method, explains that attitudes toward prescription drug use have become a major cause for concern. "I have treated several patients who became dependent on painkillers after believing that--unlike alcohol, cocaine or heroin addiction-- prescriptions were the 'safer' drug of choice," said Dr. Lowenstein. "Just because a doctor prescribes it, does not mean that it is a safe drug. There is no such thing, which has become incredibly apparent in the news this year. Our hope is that the public becomes more aware of the effects painkillers can have and the devastating outcome that can result when these pills are taken without any regard."

To learn more about the Waismann Method, call 1-800-423-2482 or visit www.opiates.com.

About The Waismann Method

Performed in a hospital intensive care unit, the Waismann Method involves the administration of medications to reverse the physiological dependence on opiates while the symptoms of withdrawal are addressed. During the procedure, the patient experiences minimal conscious withdrawal, and will be able to return home within days. Seventy-five percent of the prescription drug dependent patients who are treated with the Waismann Method remain drug free after one year.

www.opiates.com

www.domusretreat.com

twitter.com/opiates

(1) National Survey of Drug Use and Health - http://www.oas.samhsa.gov/nsduh/2k8nsduh/2k8Results.cfm

(2) Office of National Drug Control Policy - http://www.whitehousedrugpolicy.gov/news/press09/121409.html

(3) Center for Disease Control and Prevention - http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/databriefs/db22.htm#summary

SOURCE Waismann Method

American Electric Power's (NYSE: AEP) Cook Nuclear Plant Unit 1 reached full power Tuesday after completing testing and monitoring of the restored turbine generator system. Reactor start-up began last Friday, and an initial connection to the transmission grid took place early Saturday morning. Although at full reactor power, the electrical output will be reduced by an annual average of approximately 70 megawatts because the repaired low-pressure turbine rotors do not include the largest row of blades. New low-pressure turbine rotors that support full electrical output will be installed in the fall of 2011.

The 1,030-megawatt unit had been out of service since September 2008 when turbine vibrations, caused by broken low-pressure turbine blades, damaged the turbine generator, support structures and associated systems.

Cook Unit 1 is now scheduled for refueling in March 2010. While there would be sufficient fuel to operate for a longer period, the refueling will be done then to maintain a site refueling schedule that does not require both units to be off line at the same time.

American Electric Power is one of the largest electric utilities in the United States, delivering electricity to more than 5 million customers in 11 states. AEP ranks among the nation's largest generators of electricity, owning nearly 38,000 megawatts of generating capacity in the U.S. AEP also owns the nation's largest electricity transmission system, a nearly 39,000-mile network that includes more 765-kilovolt extra-high voltage transmission lines than all other U.S. transmission systems combined. AEP's transmission system directly or indirectly serves about 10 percent of the electricity demand in the Eastern Interconnection, the interconnected transmission system that covers 38 eastern and central U.S. states and eastern Canada, and approximately 11 percent of the electricity demand in ERCOT, the transmission system that covers much of Texas. AEP's utility units operate as AEP Ohio, AEP Texas, Appalachian Power (in Virginia and West Virginia), AEP Appalachian Power (in Tennessee), Indiana Michigan Power, Kentucky Power, Public Service Company of Oklahoma, and Southwestern Electric Power Company (in Arkansas, Louisiana and east Texas). AEP's headquarters are in Columbus, Ohio.

SOURCE American Electric Power

Developer Ronnie Gilley creates 2,000 jobs through Country Crossing, an entertainment destination situated in rural Southeast Alabama. Alabama currently has the tenth fastest growing unemployment rate in the country.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091224/CL30465LOGO )

Country Crossing is designed as a country music entertainment extravaganza with country music star-themed venues and attractions. The development opened on December 1, 2009, and has nearly completed construction of the first of three phases.

The project's job creation is expected to employ nearly 8,000 people at the height of development and will level to more than 6,000 jobs once all phases of the project are complete.

"Our drive to make this development a reality is simple -- create jobs and economic stimulus for the state of Alabama," says Gilley. "We are using private investment funds to bring about a significant change for our state. The taxpayers have given enough, and we have acknowledged that."

Country Crossing is privately funded and is supported overwhelmingly by the citizens of the county in which it is located. Local elected officials and business leaders have applauded the efforts of the development to bring about a change to the downward spiraling economy.

Gilley adds, "As we move forward with this project, the state will begin to capture tourist revenue that will add to the depleting tax coffers of Alabama. We have been able to do this without using taxpayer money and we will continue to benefit our state this way."

The entertainment venue is expected to provide between $2-5 million per year for local charities, contribute significantly to the tax revenue of the county and state, attract out-of-state vacationers to the state and continue to create jobs.

Country Crossing is a one-of-a-kind entertainment destination resort located in Dothan, Ala. It has been designed to create lasting family memories and to bring the spirit of music to the community and visitors.

Country Crossing is strategically situated on Highway 231 South. Attractions include celebrity themed restaurants: John Anderson's Cafeteria, Darryl Worley's Worley Bird Saloon and Lorrie Morgan's Hot Chicken. Phase One also includes George Jones Possum Holler Bed & Breakfast, The Grascals Bluegrass Hollow RV Park, a 78-space RV park, and the electronic bingo entertainment center. Phase Two of the project is already underway and will include two hotels a family entertainment center and much more.

Country Crossing is located at 300 Country Crossing Parkway, Cottonwood, AL 36320

For more information about Country Crossing, please visit www.countrycrossing.net

SOURCE Country Crossing

Com-Guard, Inc. (Pink Sheets: CGUD), the technology company that is currently offering its software in multiple markets for the sales of its Transactional Cash Engine Software, is announcing its Pay-Guard(TM) software in the secure marketplace for Transaction Processing.

Dr. Edward W. Savarese, CEO and founder said, "We are working hard to position our software in multiple markets, especially to compete in the market for secure transactions in the e-commerce market.

The Company expects to immediately commence marketing and sales of its licensed, Pay-Guard software in the Transactional Cash Engine Software market.

The Company will commence a Sales and Marketing program to target five (5) growth opportunities.

Secure Transactions - In the secure transactions market, consumers want to shield their confidential information from the vendors that they are buying from. The Pay-Guard software will allow transactions to be secure and the buyer's information will be hidden and protected.

Loyalty Card Programs - Retailers are finding it more costly to accept Credit Card payments and develop customer loyalty. The "Transactional Cash Engine Software" technology will allow Merchants to combine their loyalty programs with a combined payment technology. The retailer will save transaction fees and the consumer will be rewarded with savings and gifts as decided by the merchant.

Online Payments - Consumers are increasingly using the Internet to pay for transactions. And they are concerned about Internet fraud and the theft of credit card details. Merchants are searching for ways to transact sales in a secure manner with the least expense.

Pay Day Advance and Money Transfers - The "Transactional Cash Engine Software" is especially suited to allow merchants to secure their pay day advances and to securely transfer money over the internet.

Specialty Payment Programs - Schools, Travel Companies, Restaurants etc. are looking for ways to have their goods and services paid for without incurring Credit Cards fees. The "Transactional Cash Engine Software" will allow the Company to personalize these payment programs at a reduced rate.

About Com-Guard.com, Inc.:

Com-Guard.com, Inc. (www.com-guard.com) is developing and marketing a line of software products offering its software in multiple markets for the sales of its Transactional Cash Engine Software for the computer industry that provides solutions for a variety of solution markets.

This press release contains forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Act of 1995. Expression of future goals and similar expressions reflecting something other than historical fact involve risks and uncertainties. The actual results the company achieves may differ materially from any forward-looking statements due to such risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties may cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially from expectations in this press release. These and other risks are detailed in Com-Guard's Disclosure and Information Statement at www.pinksheets.com and its previously filed quarterly reports on Form 10-QSB and its annual report on Form 10-KSB.

SOURCE Com-Guard, Inc.

A new, innovative online website by Martin Door® Manufacturing, allows consumers to design a new garage door from the convenience of their own home.

Design Online(TM) is an easy-to-use interactive website that takes the guesswork out of designing and purchasing a garage door. Consumers are guided step-by-step through the process of choosing size, style, color, window, and insulation options. Each step has a "Help Me Decide" feature designed to provide more information on each selection, giving the consumer the ability to make an informed decision.

That choice comes with lots of options. Martin Garage Doors offer the broadest range of color options in the industry, with five standard colors and 77 powder coat choices. Martin Doors® are available in several kinds of materials ranging from state-of-the-art steel designs, to exquisite aluminum carriage house doors. Martin Door also offers the ultra modern Athena Glass garage door and the unique all-copper metal door as design choices, which can be customized.

In certain areas, consumers can choose to schedule a free at-home estimate and receive professional measurements for their design choice.

Dubbed "The World's Finest, Safest Doors", Martin has been a pioneer for safety within the garage door industry. Martin garage doors and openers come standard with over 30 safety and quality features. Ken Gilles, a spokesman for the Consumer Product Safety Commission, recently told the Salt Lake Tribune that Martin Door builds its product to "a higher standard" than the rest of the industry.

Martin garage doors offer a lifetime warranty including the whole door, all of the hardware items, the torsion spring, and any option items like windows or locks.

Martin Doors® are built for more than durability and quality. A Martin garage door can instantly add value to any home.

With Design Online(TM), curb appeal is just a click away.

To learn more about Martin garage doors and Design Online(TM), visit www.MartinDoor.com

SOURCE Martin Door Manufacturing

Core Services Corporation ("Core Services"), an Oracle Certified Partner, announced upcoming availability of its comprehensive client support portal. Best-practice business decision-making requires reliable, real-time information that is aggregated and organized for strategic-level review and analysis. Core Services' ongoing commitment to its clients' success prompted it to develop this new dashboard application that enables more efficient management of routine support issues, improved problem resolution times, and reduced unscheduled service outages.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091130/NY17702LOGO)

Unlike its competitors, Core Services' client portal will deliver a single focal point for client environments hosted at Core Services' multiple data centers, uniquely customized for each client. Clients may choose to connect to their portal via a Virtual Public Network ("VPN") or the Internet. Once authenticated via iSupport, clients may access the powerful monitoring and management tools, thus facilitating informed business decisions seamlessly and efficiently.

"Our clients deserve easily accessible Oracle Applications information that is essential to achieving their business objectives," says Jim Bistis, Core Services' President and CEO. "With this latest innovation, our clients will have easy, single log-in, 24 x 7 access to their support portal, empowering them to manage service requests, database clones, scheduled outages, printer queues, and Nagios monitors."

Managing complex applications such as Oracle's E-Business Suite has traditionally necessitated bearing the burden of using multiple nonintegrated tools. Core Services' client-centric focus made providing clients with painless access to critical application management data a priority. Core Services' clients will benefit from customizable dashboards that will aggregate and display high-impact information, e.g., instance hardware and application settings, key performance metrics, current and historic service levels, and resource utilization, among others.

This portal technology enables Core Services to offer completely new management tools, such as the Service Request ("SR") Work Queue, which aggregates all client service requests on a single web page. These can be managed actively or used for convenient progress tracking and trend analysis. Live queries by clients of their environments ensure that the displayed information is as current as the most recent mouse click.

Bistis concludes, "We wanted to organize scattered content, services, and processes into a meaningful, productive tool for our clients. As technology evolves, coupled with collective feedback from our clients, portal enhancements and additional benefits to our clients will be ongoing."

Final testing of this value-added portal and related powerful application tools is nearing completion, with client access expected in early 2010.

About Core Services:

Core Services Corporation, an Oracle Certified Partner, delivers Oracle-based business operations solutions and information systems and support to clients worldwide by providing award-winning Oracle Consulting and Hosting services. Additionally, Core Services is authorized to sell and service Oracle E-Business Suite, leveraging the Oracle Business Accelerators. Focused exclusively on Oracle Applications since 1990, Core Services also offers Managed, Remote DBA, Disaster Recovery, and Consulting services for new Oracle implementations and upgrades. For more information about Core Services, visit http://www.coreservices.com.


    Contact:
    Jennifer A. Lasida
    Director of Marketing and Events
    Core Services Corporation
    +1 281-394-2360
    jlasida@coreservices.com

SOURCE Core Services Corporation

Dot TK, the registry for .TK domain names, today announced that they have opened the .TK registry for free domains with full name server support. Since 2001 Dot TK has provided free domain name registration services but only in combination with its URL forwarding service. Starting today Dot TK users will have full DNS control over the domains they have registered.

Dot TK only allowed URL forwarding in the past as this was the only way to prevent domain squatting. Domain squatting is the illegal act of registering a domain name in bad faith, intent to profit from the goodwill of a trademark (or other name) belonging to someone else.

Today Dot TK has introduced new technology to count 'hits' on a website, even if this website operates with its own name servers and name server technology. So now the systems of Dot TK will continue to successfully prevent domain squatting, as they have over the last eight years.

"Adding full name server support to our free service allows all users to register sub-domains, to use different Internet protocols and to run their websites in a more efficient way," explains Joost Zuurbier, CEO at Dot TK. "Registrants can choose to continue to use URL forwarding or to use DNS support, with or without the combination of the Dot TK DNS Service. These flexible options are now available for everyone - and all for free."

"New or modified name server updates are updated in just a few minutes through our global root server infrastructure," explains Maurice van der Meer, CTO at Dot TK. "Not only does Dot TK allow registrants to use their own name servers, but we also allow them to manage A, MX and CNAME records of their registered domains through My Dot TK, the Dot TK web interface".

Dot TK is continuing to grow exponentially. With various product releases in 2009, such as TweaK and TK-it!, Dot TK has grown in to the largest free country code top level domain registry in the world. Adding full name server support to its free service offering will boost this expansion even more. Dot TK is a joint venture of the Government of Tokelau, its communication company Teletok and BV Dot TK, a privately held company. Offices of Dot TK are located in the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and in Turkey.



    More information about Dot TK: www.dot.tk
    Media contact: Marcel Trik - marcel@dot.tk
    Phone: +31 (0)20 5315726


SOURCE Dot TK

Desarrolladora Homex, S.A.B. de C.V. (Homex or the Company) ( HXM, BMV: HOMEX) today announced the timely delivery of the first homes at its affordable entry-level project, Jardin das Paineiras, at Sao Jose dos Campos, Brazil. Jardin das Paineiras is a development that will ultimately comprise 1,300 units, and is the Company's first international pilot project.

At ceremonies marking the event were representatives from the Caixa Economica Federal, the main source of financing for Homex' clients in Brazil, and Sao Paulo's State Government Housing Secretariat, as well as the Company's first satisfied customers. Gerardo de Nicolas, Homex' CEO, delivered the first 15 homes from the first stage of the Company's Jardin das Paineiras project.

Through the successful delivery of these first homes, Homex has proven its ability to replicate its vertically integrated business model across borders. Undeserved foreign housing markets offer important business expansion opportunities for Homex while the Company continues to gain market share in Mexico, its home market. The Company's expansion into the Brazilian market is most timely, as housing has become an important focus of the Brazilian government as a means to support social and economic development, under its program inaugurated in 2009 dedicated to low income families entitled "Minha Casa, Minha Vida." The initiative of Brazilian President Lula is intended to finance one million affordable entry-level homes through an investment of R$34 billion.

"We feel very pleased as we witness the successful initial results of our first international project, the result of a smooth execution of our proven business model, which we have been fine-tuning for more than 20 years in Mexico. Today, we are exporting those proven processes that will give us a competitive advantage in the Brazilian market at the same time that we build high quality homes, suitable to our customers' needs and desires, which benefit from Homex' efficient business model and cutting-edge construction technology," commented de Nicolas.

"Adapting Homex' business model to the Brazilian market has been an enriching experience as well, since we have been innovating in many positive ways here in the country. As an example, our customers from day one are in direct contact with our unique sales process and sales team, learning about our comprehensive product offering, as well as the extensive amenities that we will incorporate into our developments, including our parks, kindergarten and elementary schools, sports facilities and activities and other socially- oriented programs. At the same time our customers benefit from efficiencies provided by our proprietary IT platform and unique construction technology to provide them with the highest quality homes for their families," said Erika Taboada, head of Homex' Brazil division.

"With the success of this initial phase of our development here at Sao Jose dos Campos, I am most confident that we have a very workable business model that will lead us to achieving continued improvement in profitability and working capital management, while at the same time gaining traction with our customers as the homebuilder of choice in this market," added Ms. Taboada.

"To see the satisfaction and amazement on the faces of our customers who are receiving their homes in record timing and who have received personalized and professional service by our sales force and administrative personnel during the entire process gives us even more energy to continue with our projects here in Brazil, where seven million families are in need of homes. For us, it is very gratifying to be able to improve the quality of life for hard working families. At the same time, we also feel very proud to be an active contributor to the economic development of the region, as we have generated approximately 550 jobs in Brazil during our first eight months of operation," de Nicolas concluded.

About Homex

Desarrolladora Homex, S.A.B. de C.V. is a leading, vertically integrated home-development company focused on affordable entry-level and middle-income housing in Mexico. It is one of the most geographically diverse homebuilders in the country. Homex has a leading position in the top four markets in the country, is the largest homebuilder in Mexico, based on the number of homes sold, accumulated revenues and net income, and the only company in the sector with its shares fully listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

For additional corporate information please visit the Company's web site at: http://www.homex.com.mx

SOURCE Desarrolladora Homex, S.A.B. de C.V.

BNA Books, a division of specialized news and information publisher BNA, announced today the publication of the Third Edition of Privacy in Employment Law, which continues to bring to light the extent, and limits, of individual rights and employer authority in this litigious area of workplace law.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090529/DC24463LOGO)

The new Third Edition of Privacy in Employment Law includes the following updates:

  • Increased regulation of medical certification for FMLA leave -- what doctors should supply and who can approach them for medical information about employees
  • New state laws limiting credit checks for job applicants by "job relatedness"
  • New Jersey appellate court's limiting of employer policies governing e-mail inspection to a standard of reasonableness
  • Ninth Circuit's restriction of public employer's reading of employee text messages where employees had a reasonable expectation of privacy despite employer's blanket reservation of power of control
  • Developments under laws allowing conscientious objection to specific work assignments
  • Efforts to expand biometric monitoring and restrictive RFID implantation
  • Protections for victims of domestic violence, and much more

This treatise lets you know when an employer crosses the legal line with tools such as employee monitoring, surveillance, background checks, personality tests, and more. It includes lists of relevant state laws that address key topics, as well as text of selected foreign statutes and the European Union directive on privacy law. The author's meticulously assembled citations provide guidance needed to assess current legislation and judicial decisions on key issues.

Matthew W. Finkin is the author of the new Third Edition of Privacy in Employment Law. An attorney and arbitrator, he is the Albert J. Harno and Edward J. Cleary Chair in Law at the University of Illinois, Champaign, IL. Professor Finkin is considered a national and international authority on the dynamic specialty of individual employment rights, and has lectured extensively in the United States, Asia, and Europe.

BNA is a leading private publisher of news and information products for professionals in law and business. In addition to Privacy in Employment Law, BNA's Book Division publishes Global Employee Privacy and Data Security Law; Age Discrimination in Employment Law; Reductions in Force in Employment Law; Canadian Labour and Employment Law for the U.S. Practitioner; Covenants Not to Compete: A State-by-State Survey; Employment Discrimination Law; Drafting and Enforcing Covenants Not to Compete; The Fair Labor Standards Act; The Family and Medical Leave Act; Tortious Interference in the Employment Context: A State-by-State Survey; Wage and Hour Laws: A State-by-State Survey; and other titles in legal specialties. For a free BNA Books catalog, call 1-800-960-1220 or send an e-mail request to books@bna.com. The BNA Books website, including an online catalog, can be found at bnabooks.com.

The Third Edition of Privacy in Employment Law (1,152 pp. Hardcover/Order #1826-PRY9/$345.00 plus tax, shipping, and handling) may be purchased from BNA Books, PO Box 7814, Edison, NJ 08818-7814. Telephone orders: 1-800-960-1220. Fax orders: 1-732-346-1624. A 10% discount is available on print copies of books when ordering from the website at bnabooks.com. Please note that discounts cannot be combined.

SOURCE BNA Books

Do you have last minute holiday shopping left to do? If you live in the Atlanta area, or even if you don't, the JW Marriott Hotel Buckhead Atlanta has created the perfect opportunity to get all of your holiday shopping done in one getaway. This Buckhead hotel special features rates from $179 per night - that's a $100 savings.

Connected by an enclosed promenade to Lenox Square Mall, guests are sure to enjoy world-class shopping, fine dining and lavish accommodations. Complete with deluxe bedding, oversize marble bathrooms and opulent amenities, the award-winning Buckhead hotel offers genuine comfortable luxury, convenience and a passion for personal service.

The JW Marriott Buckhead Atlanta Legendary Shopping Package includes:

  • Deluxe North Atlanta accommodations for one night
  • Complimentary hotel valet parking
  • Breakfast for two
  • Kids eat free with paying adult (one for one) - any kids' meal
  • 10% off Macy's Shopping Pass
  • $25 Simon Mall Gift Card valid at most Lenox Square and Phipp's Plaza store
  • $25 Buckhead Nights Dining Card
  • Rates from $179-$209 per room, per night
  • Valid through December 31, 2009

Be sure that the promotional code SHO appears in the Corporate/Promotional code box when making your online reservation, or call 1-800-834-7015 in the US and ask for promotional code SHO.

For package details, terms and conditions, visit http://marriott.com/hotels/hotel-deals/atljw.

About JW Marriott Hotel Buckhead Atlanta

Discover the sophisticated grandeur of a hotel in Atlanta, GA with contemporary expressions of timeless elegance at the JW Marriott Atlanta Luxury Hotel in Buckhead. Enjoy the convenience of a Buckhead luxury hotel connected to Lenox Square Mall, across the street from the MARTA train station and only a block away from the prestigious Phipps Plaza. Designed to surpass expectations, this Atlanta luxury hotel provides award-winning service with meticulous attention to detail including candlelight aromatherapy in the lobby and stunning decor. Perfect for modern corporate events or breathtaking wedding ceremonies, Atlanta, Georgia luxury hotel banquet rooms provide the latest in technology, professional services and renowned cuisine.

For more information or to make a reservation, call 404-262-3344 or visit www.jwmarriottbuckhead.com.

SOURCE JW Marriott Hotel Buckhead Atlanta

Laser Energetics, Inc. (Pink Sheets: LNGT) announced today that the Company made a strategic move to deploy "stocking" Distributors in different locations around the world. The Distributors create a "force multiplier" to the Company's inside and outside sales team, as well as to the Company's manufacturers representatives. As a result of this program, the Company has secured initial orders for the Dazer Laser equal to $1,468,125.

"This addition to our market development strategy will enhance the roll out of the Dazer Laser(TM) Light Fighting Technologies 'Non-Lethal - Less Violent' Laser Weapons," states Robert D. Battis, Founder and CEO of Laser Energetics. "These life saving, non-lethal weapons will help all branches of the military, law enforcement, correctional facilities, security, border patrol, piracy control, homeland security, airport security and much more. This weapon is humanitarian and will save the lives of both the enforcer and the threat at longer ranges."

Battis further explained, "The key to our strategy is that we can deploy Distributors with greater geographic reach and greater political contacts than we are capable of rapidly developing ourselves. These Distributors are also required to purchase and stock our product. We solved the problem of Distributors stocking our product at their facility by having Laser Energetics hold the inventory. This helps Laser Energetics put a check and balance system in place, making sure these products don't get in the wrong hands since the Company is required to approve all sales. This strategy will ensure we maintain final say on all sales ensuring responsible business practices."

The Company's first two distributors have satisfied their contractual obligations and made their initial purchases of the Dazer Laser. These first two orders are for $1,174,500 and $293,625, respectively, totaling $1,468,125.

The two models purchased are the Dazer Laser(TM) DEFENDER and the Dazer Laser(TM) GUARDIAN. These non-lethal weapons have the ability to control the threat at ranges of 1 meter to 2400 meters (model dependent). The Dazer Laser(TM) - Light Fighting Technologies emit a green, "eye safe" laser beam, that is shaped into approximately a 1 foot to 8 foot Dazer Zone(TM) (model dependent). When focused on the threat's eyes, the threat's vision is temporarily impaired, their balance is affected, and they can become affected by nausea. This controls the threat, making it difficult for them to maneuver. The Ultimate "Non-Lethal - Less Violent(TM)" Weapon. Saving Lives - One DAZE at a Time(TM)!

For more information and photos go to the Founders Message at www.laserenergetics.com

About Laser Energetics, Inc.:

Laser Energetics has and continues to develop a comprehensive and strategic laser product line that addresses laser applications in Industry, Science, Medicine, Homeland Security and the Military. The Company has had a primary focus on its Alexandrite laser technology.

Safe Harbor: Statements regarding financial matters in this press release other than historical facts are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The company intends that such statements about the Company's future expectations, including future revenues and earnings, technology efficacy and all other forward-looking statements be subject to the safe harbors created thereby. The Company is a development stage company who continues to be dependent upon outside capital to sustain its existence. Since these statements (future operational results and sales) involve risks and uncertainties and are subject to change at any time, the Company's actual results may differ materially from expected results.

SOURCE Laser Energetics, Inc.

Spirit AeroSystems, Inc. (NYSE: SPR) today announced that, effective immediately, it will commence direct international parts sales and distribution.

In making this announcement, Spirit is responding to customers' expressed desire to deal directly with Spirit and not through an intermediary. Spirit's sales and distribution network has developed and matured since its separation from Boeing in 2005 and the company is now fully capable of engaging directly with international customers.

"We believe it is the right time to strengthen relationships with our international customers by responding directly to their spare parts requirements. We look forward to offering our international customers the same long term services, low cost parts, Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO), and product support solutions that we currently offer to our domestic customers," said Carolyn Harms, Spirit AeroSystems VP/GM of Aftermarket Customer Support.

Spirit AeroSystems has a comprehensive plan for customer engagement and intends to establish regional centers around the world to be closer to their markets.

This network, together with Spirit's MRO locations in Wichita, Kan., Prestwick, Scotland, and the recently opened Taikoo Spirit joint venture in Jinjiang, China, positions Spirit in close proximity to its worldwide customer base, allowing Spirit to respond quickly and effectively to emerging customer needs.

The transition from Spirit's current international distributor begins immediately and is projected to be complete by June 30, 2010. No service interruption is expected. Spirit is working to make the transition seamless and transparent to its customers.

On the web: www.spiritaero.com

About Spirit AeroSystems, Inc.

Based in Wichita, Kan., Spirit AeroSystems is the world's largest independent supplier of commercial airplane assemblies and components. In addition to its Kansas facility, Spirit has locations in Tulsa and McAlester, Okla.; Prestwick, Scotland; Samlesbury, England; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; and is developing new manufacturing facilities in Kinston, N.C.; and Saint-Nazaire, France. In the U.S., Spirit's core products include fuselages, pylons, nacelles and wing components. Additionally, Spirit provides aftermarket customer support services, including spare parts, maintenance/repair/overhaul, and fleet support services in North America, Europe and Asia. Spirit Europe produces wing components for a host of customers, including Airbus.

SOURCE Spirit AeroSystems

Table Mountain Casino is known for BIG names in entertainment! Harry Connick Jr. is known for BIG talent! On Wednesday, January 27, 2010, Table Mountain Casino will be swaying to the soothing voice of Mr. Harry Connick Jr.!

Harry Connick Jr.'s love of music can be traced back to his New Orleans roots. He began performing at the age of 5 and by 10 he had appeared on his first jazz recording. At 18, he left his home town of New Orleans headed for NYC to pursue his musical dream. Within just a few short years, Harry Connick Jr. had created and released albums with major record labels. Some say the start of his true fame came from his work with director Rob Reiner. Harry Connick Jr. wrote the score to the 1989 hit movie, "When Harry Met Sally." The success of this film led Connick to his first multi-platinum album.

Although he is widely known for his music, he is a multi-talented artist! Harry Connick Jr. is an accomplished actor on stage, film and television. In addition to his singing and acting ability, he is also known by his fans for his charm and overwhelming charisma.

President and CEO of Table Mountain Casino, John Mayewski expressed, "Harry Connick Jr. is an amazing entertainer who I have had the pleasure of seeing many times in New Orleans. His show is sure to be sold out very quickly! So if you would like to see Harry Connick Jr. up close and personal, Table Mountain Casino Event Center is the place to be, and do not hesitate to get your tickets today!"

Located just minutes from Fresno, Table Mountain Casino's Indoor Event Center is widely known for their impressive array of headliner shows at affordable prices! Shows have recently included Former American Idol David Cook, Tom Jones, Melissa Etheridge, Bonnie Raitt, John Legend, Counting Crows, and Jewel.

Tickets for the January 27th show go on sale Monday, December 21st and can be purchased at the Main Casino Cage or at tmcasino.com. Doors open at 7:00 p.m., show is at 8:00 p.m. Ticket prices are $45 VIP, $35 Reserved and $25 for General Admission. Club members save $5, Platinum Members save $10. Must be 18 years and older to attend. No refunds, cameras or videos.

About Table Mountain Casino: Table Mountain Casino is owned and operated by the Table Mountain Rancheria Band of Indians who actively support many community-based agencies and non-profit organizations serving residents of the Greater Fresno area and the regional San Joaquin Valley community. To learn more about Table Mountain Casino, its community service programs and current promotions, please visit tmcasino.com.

SOURCE Table Mountain Casino

Los Angeles County residents, businesses and visitors are enjoying improved service thanks to a new Verizon Wireless cell site. The site expands 3G wireless coverage at the intersection of Foothill Boulevard and Pennsylvania Avenue. The increase in network coverage and capacity means more calls, emails, text and picture messages for locals, plus expanded wireless access to the web.

Verizon Wireless invested over $600 million in California during 2008 to enhance service and coverage. Nationally, the company has invested more than $48 billion in its network since it was formed in 2000. The result is the nation's largest, most reliable 3G network that powers services such as Mobile Broadband and email.

Businesses of any size can tap into the power of Mobile Broadband. The service allows users to connect to the Internet wirelessly while on the go to download music over-the-air, and access e-mail or corporate data. For example, customers can download a small 1 megabyte PowerPoint® presentation in about eight seconds and upload the same-sized file in less than 13 seconds.

Small business owners interested in Mobile Broadband, and other wireless solutions, can visit http://smallbusiness.vzw.com where they will find:

  • An online forum to share experiences and connect with other business owners
  • Access to Small Business Specialists in each Verizon Wireless store
  • Discounts and promotions to help businesses stretch their budgets
  • Summaries of mobile solutions like email, wireless Internet and Push to Talk service
  • 24/7 tech support

Verizon Wireless tests its network and those of its competitors. The company determines if voice calls and data connections are successful on the first attempt and stay connected. Nationally, Verizon Wireless' real-life test men and women drive 91 specially equipped vehicles almost 1,000,000 miles annually. They drive on Interstate, U.S. and state highways, as well as major roads and streets in high-population areas, based upon U.S. Census counts. Vehicles are equipped with computers that automatically make more than three million voice call attempts and more than 16 million data tests annually on Verizon Wireless' network and the networks of other carriers.

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable and largest wireless voice and data network, serving 87.7 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with more than 87,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

SOURCE Verizon Wireless

The Tax & Accounting business of Thomson Reuters recently released the latest version of its Internet-based ONESOURCE® Property Tax software. "With its slick automation and browser navigation, this major upgrade is designed to help property tax professionals be more productive while managing personal property reporting and compliance," said Richard Nearhood, vice president of Software & Technology for ONESOURCE Property Tax, Thomson Reuters. Included in this new version is the Next Generation Asset Manager, building on the popular functionality and powerful tools that make ONESOURCE Property Tax the market leader.

"We're excited to introduce the next generation in property tax software," said Joe Mulcahy, senior vice president and general manager of ONESOURCE Property Tax at Thomson Reuters. "This efficient, powerful application not only enables access to information from anywhere, via the Internet, but also allows faster access to data and more automation of tasks. This decreases manual effort and increases accuracy of property tax work."

Enhancements to ONESOURCE Property Tax include:

  • access to the Asset Manager through Internet browser interface;
  • improved download speeds for large asset queries;
  • fast scrolling through thousands of assets without paging through data;
  • intelligently populates the relevant tool sets and data when needed by the user;
  • automatically analyzes year-to-year cost changes to improve reporting and reconciliation of partial additions and deletions; and,
  • automatically tracks asset moves to reconcile locations / cost centers to fixed asset systems, creating a better audit trail and accurate reporting.

ONESOURCE Property Tax resides on ONESOURCE, the online platform for corporate tax professionals. Users access ONESOURCE Property Tax gadgets, functionality, and information through a single-sign-on. Licensed users can access other Thomson Reuters corporate tax solutions (such as Checkpoint®, ONESOURCE WorkFlow Manager, and ONESOURCE Income Tax) through the single-sign-on.

Additional information can be obtained by visiting http://onesource.thomsonreuters.com.

About Thomson Reuters

Thomson Reuters is the world's leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals. We combine industry expertise with innovative technology to deliver critical information to leading decision makers in the financial, legal, tax and accounting, healthcare and science and media markets, powered by the world's most trusted news organization. With headquarters in New York and major operations in London and Eagan, Minnesota, Thomson Reuters employs more than 50,000 people and operates in over 100 countries. For more information, go to www.thomsonreuters.com.

The Tax & Accounting business of Thomson Reuters is the leading provider of technology and information solutions, as well as integrated tax compliance software and services to accounting, tax and corporate finance professionals in accounting firms, corporations, law firms and government. Tax & Accounting includes the Corporate Software & Services, Professional Software & Services, and Research & Guidance business groups.

SOURCE Thomson Reuters

AT&T* today released Hawaii network investment and expansion details that have contributed to customers benefiting from the nation's fastest 3G network and an unsurpassed low local dropped call rate--one of the most common measures of wireless performance--according to drive test data collected by third-party independent wireless engineering firm Global Wireless Solutions (GWS).

"AT&T is committed to providing our customers with the very best possible network experience, and our network is one of the key reasons why AT&T is the leading wireless provider in Hawaii," said Tammi Terrell, vice president and general manager for AT&T in Hawaii. "Since 2007 through the third quarter of 2009 we have invested more than $23.5 million in the Hawaii network to advance our goal of providing customers with a wireless experience that is second to none. More people in Hawaii have chosen AT&T over other companies because we have outstanding people; we're easy to do business with online, at our call centers, and at a number of retail locations; and we have the best selections of handsets."

Nationwide more than twice the number of smartphone customers have chosen AT&T over its nearest competitor. AT&T is investing billions of dollars in its wireless network companywide in 2009 alone. Hawaii network enhancements include initiatives to improve speed, capacity and coverage.

AT&T 2009 network enhancements in Hawaii to date include:

  • Increased 3G network capacity and speed with deployment of 1900MHz spectrum to more than 110 cell sites, building upon the strong reach and in-building wireless coverage already provided by 850MHz spectrum used across the islands;
  • Deployed new 3G cell sites;
  • More than doubled backhaul capacity to cell sites across Hawaii, expanding the critical connections that deliver traffic from a cell site into the global IP backbone network, helping meet the unprecedented demand for mobile connectivity; and
  • Enhanced network reliability and emergency preparedness in case of natural disaster.

In 2010, AT&T plans to roll out even faster 3G speeds in 25 of the top 30 markets with deployment of HSPA 7.2. This technology doubles the theoretical peak speed of today's 3G network. As with all wireless connections, typical real-world speeds will be less than the theoretical maximum, and will vary based on a number of factors. AT&T is currently planning for field trials of next generation LTE wireless technology. AT&T expects LTE field trials to begin next year, with deployment beginning in 2011, which is when manufacturers expect a wide variety of compatible devices to be available.

As part of AT&T's ongoing commitment to deliver the best possible wireless experience, AT&T recently announced the launch of AT&T Mark the Spot, an iPhone app that enables customers to quickly and easily provide feedback on AT&T network performance in a specific location. The new AT&T Mark the Spot app adds to AT&T's existing network performance data to further fine-tune network investment planning and prioritization moving forward. The app, available today as a free download via the iTunes App Store, enables users to provide valuable feedback with as little as two button clicks.

The latest GWS data confirms a national dropped call rate of only 1.32 percent and that AT&T has the nation's fastest 3G network.

Along with AT&T tracking to invest between $17 billion and $18 billion this year--billions of which is dedicated to its wireless network--these metrics demonstrate that AT&T's investments are paying off for customers.

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

About AT&T

AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates - AT&T operating companies - are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's fastest 3G network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet and voice services. AT&T offers the best wireless coverage worldwide, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse(SM) and AT&T | DIRECTV(SM) brands. The company's suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T's Yellow Pages and YELLOWPAGES.COM organizations are known for their leadership in directory publishing and advertising sales. In 2009, AT&T again ranked No. 1 in the telecommunications industry on FORTUNE® magazine's list of the World's Most Admired Companies.

Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com. This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATTNews. Find us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ATT to discover more about our consumer and wireless services or at www.facebook.com/ATTSmallBiz to discover more about our small business services.

© 2009 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. 3G service not available in all areas. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies.

Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

Information set forth in this news release contains financial estimates and other forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially. A discussion of factors that may affect future results is contained in AT&T's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. AT&T disclaims any obligation to update or revise statements contained in this news release based on new information or otherwise.

SOURCE AT&T Inc.

AT&T* today released Lexington network investment and expansion details that have contributed to customers benefiting from the nation's fastest 3G network and an unsurpassed low local dropped call rate - one of the most common measures of wireless performance - according to drive test data collected by third-party independent wireless engineering firm Global Wireless Solutions (GWS).

"AT&T is committed to providing our customers with the very best possible network experience to complement our line-up of the most popular wireless devices that is unmatched in the industry," said AT&T Tennessee and Kentucky Vice President and General Manager Jim Thorpe. "Since 2007 through the third quarter of 2009 we have invested more than $22 million in the Lexington network to advance our goal of providing customers with a wireless experience that is second to none."

More than twice the number of smartphone customers have chosen AT&T over its nearest competitor. AT&T is investing billions of dollars in its wireless network companywide in 2009 alone. Lexington network enhancements include initiatives to improve speed, capacity and coverage.

"Competition in the wireless industry is robust and it is driving meaningful investment and innovation in the local marketplace," said AT&T Kentucky President Mary Pat Regan. "Our capital infrastructure investments help grow the local economy and bring advanced wireless connectivity to businesses and consumers across the community."

AT&T 2009 network enhancements in Lexington to date include:

  • Expanded the 3G footprint in Lexington with the addition of UMTS equipment at 29 cell sites. This expansion brought wireless high speed data to areas North of Lexington and continuing to Georgetown.
  • Further expansion took place south of Lexington and also added new 3G coverage in the Richmond and Danville areas.
  • Deployed two cell sites to enhance coverage; one in the Edwington area near Mt. Sterling, and the other in nearby Nicholasville.

In 2010, AT&T plans to roll out even faster 3G speeds in 25 of the top 30 markets with deployment of HSPA 7.2. This technology doubles the theoretical peak speed of today's 3G network. As with all wireless connections, typical real-world speeds will be less than the theoretical maximum, and will vary based on a number of factors. AT&T is currently planning for field trials of next generation LTE wireless technology. AT&T expects LTE field trials to begin next year, with deployment beginning in 2011, which is when manufacturers expect a wide variety of compatible devices to be available.

As part of AT&T's ongoing commitment to deliver the best possible wireless experience, AT&T recently announced the launch of AT&T Mark the Spot, an iPhone app that enables customers to quickly and easily provide feedback on AT&T network performance in a specific location. The new AT&T Mark the Spot app adds to AT&T's existing network performance data to further fine-tune network investment planning and prioritization moving forward. The app, available today as a free download via the iTunes App Store, enables users to provide valuable feedback with as little as two button clicks.

The latest GWS data confirms a national dropped call rate of only 1.32 percent and that AT&T has the nation's fastest 3G network.

Along with AT&T tracking to invest between $17 billion and $18 billion this year - billions of which is dedicated to its wireless network - these metrics demonstrate that AT&T's investments are paying off for customers.

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

About AT&T

AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates - AT&T operating companies - are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's fastest 3G network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet and voice services. AT&T offers the best wireless coverage worldwide, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse(SM) and AT&T | DIRECTV(SM) brands. The company's suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T's Yellow Pages and YELLOWPAGES.COM organizations are known for their leadership in directory publishing and advertising sales. In 2009, AT&T again ranked No. 1 in the telecommunications industry on FORTUNE® magazine's list of the World's Most Admired Companies.

Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com. This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATTNews. Find us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ATT to discover more about our consumer and wireless services or at www.facebook.com/ATTSmallBiz to discover more about our small business services.

© 2009 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. 3G service not available in all areas. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies.

Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

Information set forth in this news release contains financial estimates and other forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially. A discussion of factors that may affect future results is contained in AT&T's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. AT&T disclaims any obligation to update or revise statements contained in this news release based on new information or otherwise.

SOURCE AT&T Inc.

Caturano and Company announced the launch of their 2009 Benchmarking Survey developed to help participants evaluate their year-end processes encompassing close, consolidation, reporting, and more. Participate today to benchmark your company's performance against your competitors and peers.

"Navigating through year-end processes is a daunting task for many organizations," said Dan Wheadon, Director of Consulting at Caturano and Company. "Organizations are faced with closing the year, preparing for audits and reviews, as well as getting ready for tax season. Many companies find that year-end processes require a number of resources to be focused on compliance, and not on operations."

Caturano and Company's first survey released in August 2009 generated survey respondents from a wide spectrum of companies with revenues up to several billion dollars and with employees numbering under five to several thousand. The respondents represented some of the region's leading industries including healthcare (28%), technology (25%), services (16%), and finance & insurance (9%), representing 78% of all participants.

Caturano and Company's performance management team will compile the results and provide participating organizations with a complimentary benchmark report analyzing critical information to assist your organization in enhancing processes related to year-end.

This survey is open to all participants regardless of size or industry; to participate please click here. All data collected in this survey will remain confidential. Participation is open through January 8, 2010.

About Caturano and Company

Caturano and Company is New England's largest regional full-service CPA, consulting, and wealth management firm and one of the top 40 CPA firms in the country, with 32 partners and over 370 employees. The firm provides services in the areas of assurance, tax, management and technology consulting, business risk and controls, transactional services, business valuation, and wealth management for companies ranging from small and emerging, to middle market and prominent public companies.

To serve the needs of our multi-location clients, the firm is an active member of Baker Tilly International, one of the world's top ten accounting and business advisory services networks, focused on serving the global needs of growing multi-national enterprises; comprised of 145 independent member firms with 509 offices in 110 countries.

For more information, visit www.caturano.com

SOURCE Caturano and Company

Mickey Mouse's faithful friend Pluto is joining the cast of Disney characters now soaring on a specially-themed Alaska Airlines jet.

Alaska Airlines this morning introduced its "Spirit of Disneyland II" aircraft at Portland International Airport. The plane is adorned with the faces of Disney's most recognized characters - Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy and, for the first time, Pluto. The new design replaces a previous Disney-themed aircraft retired two weeks ago. Alaska Airlines' Boeing 737-900 aircraft made its inaugural flight from Portland to Los Angeles International Airport carrying three Make-A-Wish® children on their way to the Disneyland Resort to have their wishes granted.

"We're honored to have our Disney and Make-A-Wish partners join us to debut Alaska's fourth Disney-themed aircraft," said Alaska Airlines' President Brad Tilden. "For the next seven years these five characters will serve as an iconic vehicle to bring customers across our network to the 'Happiest Place on Earth' and other Alaska Airlines destinations."

The "Spirit of Disneyland II" aircraft was welcomed at the gate by the three children and their families, as well as Mickey Mouse, Pluto and leaders from Make-A-Wish Foundation® of Oregon, Disneyland Resorts and Alaska Airlines, as travelers looked on from the terminal.

"When a child with a life-threatening medical condition wishes to meet a Disney character or visit a Disney park, we know that Alaska Airlines and Disneyland Resort are there to make it a dream-come-true," said Andrew Asato, Make-A-Wish Foundation of Oregon executive director. "With donated tickets and passes, as well as extra-special treatment for wish families, these partners have each provided an unduplicated resource to the Make-A-Wish Foundation for more than 20 years."

The special children on board, who live in Oregon and Washington and range in age from 3 to 5 years, will spend the next five days at the Disneyland Resort along with their families. During their visit, they will be treated to special activities, a meal with characters and a four-night stay at the Paradise Pier Hotel at the Disneyland Resort.

"Thanks to the larger size of this aircraft, we are thrilled to have Mickey's faithful companion Pluto join the cast of Disney characters on this special plane," said Lisa Becket, Disneyland Resort vice president of regional marketing strategies. "We're grateful to Alaska Airlines for giving our Disney characters a 'one-of-a-kind' opportunity to spread their magic across the sky."

Disney helps the Make-A-Wish Foundation® grant more than 5,000 wishes annually, making a trip to a Disney Park the most frequent wish requested by Make-A-Wish children.

Alaska Airlines has supported the Make-A-Wish Foundation® since 1985 and provides air transportation allowing about 80 children's wishes to be granted each year. The airline invites members of the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan to donate frequent-flier miles to the Make-A-Wish Foundation through the Charity Miles program. To make a donation of miles, visit alaskaair.com ( http://www.alaskaair.com ) and click on the "Mileage Plan" and "Charity Miles" links.

The "Spirit of Disneyland II" is the first 737-900 Disney-themed aircraft in Alaska Airlines' fleet. The airline introduced the first "Spirit of Disneyland," aircraft, graced with the faces of Mickey, Minnie, Donald Duck and Goofy, in 2002 and debuted the "Magic of Disneyland," featuring Tinker Bell, in 2005 in celebration of Disneyland's 50th anniversary. In 2006, Alaska introduced its "Spirit of Make-A-Wish" aircraft, adorned with the image of the wish-granting Genie from Disney's "Aladdin" and the Make-A-Wish Foundation logo.

The exterior of the "Spirit of Disneyland II" aircraft is painted bright blue with the characters' images and the words "We're going to Disneyland." The jet will fly throughout most of Alaska Airlines' route system, including flights to and from Southern California airports.

Note to media: For high-resolution photographs of the "Spirit of Disneyland II" airplane, visit Alaska Airlines' online newsroom at http://www.alaskasworld.com/newsroom. Images will be available by 11:30 a.m. Pacific time, Dec. 18.

Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air, subsidiaries of Alaska Air Group (NYSE: ALK), together serve more than 90 cities through an expansive network in Alaska, the Lower 48, Hawaii, Canada and Mexico. Alaska Airlines ranked "Highest in Customer Satisfaction Among Traditional Network Carriers" in the J.D. Power and Associates 2008 and 2009 North America Airline Satisfaction Studies(SM). For reservations, visit alaskaair.com. For more news and information, visit the Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air Newsroom at alaskaair.com/newsroom.

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts are where families experience and enjoy the magic of Disney's beloved characters and where dreams come true. More than 50 years ago, Walt Disney created a new kind of entertainment families could experience together, immersed in detailed atmospheres and vibrant storytelling. His vision now includes a collection of five of the world's leading family vacation destinations - Disneyland Resort, Anaheim, Calif.; Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista, Fla.; Tokyo Disney Resort, Urayasu, Chiba, Japan; Disneyland Paris, Marne-la-Vallee, France; and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, located on Lantau Island. In addition, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts includes the world-class Disney Cruise Line; Disney Vacation Club, with 10 resorts and more than 400,000 members; Adventures by Disney, a guided group vacation experience to some of the world's most popular destinations; and Walt Disney Imagineering, which creates and designs all Disney parks, resorts and attractions.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. Founded in 1980 when a group of caring volunteers helped a young boy fulfill his dream of becoming a police officer, the Foundation is now the largest wish-granting charity in the world, with 65 chapters in the United States and its territories. With the help of generous donors and more than 26,000 volunteers, the Make-A-Wish Foundation grants a wish every 40 minutes and has granted more than 185,000 wishes in the United States since its inception. (www.wish.org) The two Make-A-Wish chapters based in the Pacific Northwest have collectively granted more than 6,000 wishes to local children: the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Oregon, also serving Clark County, Washington (www.orwish.org) and the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Alaska, Montana, Northern Idaho & Washington. (www.northwestwishes.org)

SOURCE Alaska Airlines

STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), the leading supplier of MEMS for consumer and portable applications(1), has integrated a 3-axis digital accelerometer with a 2-axis analog gyroscope in a single module. The package-level integration of linear and angular motion sensors improves performance, boosts reliability, reduces size and shrinks cost, uncovering new possibilities for high-precision gesture and motion recognition in mobile phones, remote controllers, personal navigation systems and other portable devices.

MEMS motion sensors add an intuitive man-machine interface to mobile phones, portable multimedia players, game controllers, personal navigation systems and remote input devices, creating interaction by linking the user's wrist, arm, and hand movements to applications, navigation within and between menus, the movement of characters in a game and much more.

Robust and resistant to mechanical stress, the module leverages the same micromachining technology process that ST has already successfully applied to more than 600 million motion sensors sold in the market. The device boasts excellent stability over a wide operating temperature range (from -40 degrees C to 85 degrees C) and a negligible level of output noise.

ST's low-power motion-sensing module combines a user-selectable full-scale acceleration range of plus or minus 2g/plus or minus 4g/plus or minus 8g with the industry's widest angular-rate detection from 30 to 6000 dps(2) along the pitch and yaw axes(3). The gyroscope element provides two separate outputs for each axis at the same time: an unamplified output value for high accuracy of slow motion and a 4x amplification to detect and measure very fast gestures and movements.

Addressing power constraints in battery-operated portable devices, ST's new MEMS module includes power-down and sleep modes and it can operate with any supply voltage in the range of 2.7 to 3.6V. The device comes with built-in self-test capability that allows the customer to verify the functioning of both sensors after the assembly, without the need to move the board during testing.

"ST meets the market demand for cost-effective integration of multiple motion sensors in a single module," said Sam Guilaume, CEO, Movea, the industry leader in motion-sensing controllers. "With ST's new MEMS modules, and our complementary SmartMotion(TM) technology, we will provide unequalled motion-based solutions for user interfaces in remote controls, game pads, smartphones and other consumer devices."

"The only company with high-volume production of gyroscopes and accelerometers for consumer applications, ST now makes another significant step in MEMS consumerization by introducing the market's first multiple-axis sensing device in a single package," said Benedetto Vigna, General Manager of STMicroelectronics' MEMS, Sensors and High Performance Analog division. "Our customers will benefit from the industry-unique combination of superior performance, compelling price points, and large-scale production capacity at ST's dedicated 8-inch MEMS fab."

Samples of ST's LSM320HAY30 multi-axis motion sensor module are available now, with mass production scheduled for Q1 2010. Unit pricing is $3.3 for quantities over 50,000 pieces.

For further information on ST's complete MEMS portfolio, go to: www.st.com/mems.

About Movea

Movea is the global leader in developing and delivering technology, patents, and complete solutions for human motion sensing applications in consumer electronics, healthcare and sports markets.

Created in March 2007 by a team of industry leading researchers and executive managers, Movea SA was founded out of the French research institute CEA-Leti and is headquartered in Grenoble, France. Movea represents the commercialization of decades of intellectual property, research and development at CEA-Leti's world renowned Minatec innovation campus, focused primarily on human motion sensing for healthcare and sports applications. In December 2007, Movea acquired Gyration, the pioneer since 1989 in consumer motion products, in order to further position itself as the global leader in motion-sensing solutions for consumer electronics.

About STMicroelectronics

STMicroelectronics is a global leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications with innovative semiconductor solutions. ST aims to be the undisputed leader in multimedia convergence and power applications leveraging its vast array of technologies, design expertise and combination of intellectual property portfolio, strategic partnerships and manufacturing strength. In 2008, the Company's net revenues were $9.84 billion. Further information on ST can be found at www.st.com.

(1) According to iSuppli (June 2009)

(2) Degrees per second

(3) Pitch and yaw are types of angular motion: yaw is rotation around the vertical axis and pitch is the rotation around the side-to-side axis

SOURCE STMicroelectronics

What do legendary songwriter, Carole Bayer Sager, Saxophonist/Grammy Nominee, Gerald Albright, Singer Songwriter/Producer, Will Downing, and Super Producer, Onaje Allan Gumbs, have in common? All love Anwar Robinson's newest release called "Exceptional." The buzz on this track is getting louder and for good reason. It doesn't matter where you start to break down this song, you'll love every last drop. The lyrics are intimate and personal without sounding contrived. Each word flows into the next while Anwar drives raw emotion into every phrase. This is a beautifully crafted song and Anwar's passion for singing is evident. Had he performed "Exceptional" on the Idol show. . .who knows?

Carole Bayer Sager had this to say about the making of "Exceptional." "I met Bob and Tyrone a few years ago and was immediately impressed with not only the quality, but also the quantity of catalog of songs they produced. I invited them to have a meeting with David Foster and I because we were both impressed with their work. Tyrone shared a number of songs that we thought had really good potential. About a year or so later, Tyrone shared with me that he and Bob were working with an artist who was on American Idol. . .Anwar Robinson. I had been watching the show and had already taken notice of Anwar. Since that time, Tyrone shared with me a couple of songs that they wrote for Anwar ('Exceptional' and 'Night's Hot'). These songs show great creativeness and a high degree of writing skill. The marriage of song to artist is also an important point not to be overlooked as Anwar's performance is quite breathtaking. . .especially on 'Exceptional.'"

The good reviews don't stop. Gerald Albright, Will Downing and Onaje Allan Gumbs all weighed in to give Robinson praises for his brilliant performance on "Exceptional." As producers, Bo-Ty Productions take good artists and make them great. With Anwar, they've raised the bar and went from great to phenomenal. Robinson has the wind behind him with Bo-Ty Productions, LLC.

www.risingstarartists.com

SOURCE Rising Star Artists

Make your holiday vacation a special one with three-night packages for two adults or the family package for two adults and two children at Fairfield Inn & Suites Orlando Lake Buena Vista Hotel in the Marriott Village.

Just in time for the holidays, the Walt Disney World Package is a great way to cover all the parks in three days.

The Walt Disney World® Ticket Package in Orlando, Florida includes:

  • Three nights' Lake Buena Vista accommodations with one king or two double beds
  • Three-day Disney Magic Your Way ® Tickets which allows admission to one Disney Theme Park each day
  • Complimentary transportation to the parks
  • Complimentary hotel parking
  • Rates from $648-$948 per room, per night
  • Valid through March 31, 2010
  • Rates are per three-night stay

Be sure that the promotional code THM appears in the Corporate/Promotional code box when making your online reservation, or call 1-800-922-3192 in the US and ask for promotional code THM.

As to the Disney artwork/properties: ©Disney. Valid seven days a week through 3/31/10. Theme Park tickets must be used within 14 days of first use. Rates are per room, based on three-night stay. Additional ticket options are available and must be purchased through guest services. Limited number of rooms are available for this promotion.

For hotel package details, terms and conditions, visit http://marriott.com/hotels/hotel-deals/mcolz.

About Fairfield Inn & Suites Orlando Lake Buena Vista in the Marriott Village

Awarded with the 2009 Trip Advisor's Travelers' Choice Award as a Top 10 Family Hotel in the United States, this Orlando family hotel is playful and accommodating. As an Official Walt Disney World Good Neighbor® Hotel, the Fairfield Inn boasts charming hospitality at a great value. Situated by top attractions, this Orlando hotel is near Walt Disney World® Resort, Universal Studios, SeaWorld®, and Orlando Premium Outlets. Featuring an array of dining options, the Food Court includes pizza, deli sandwiches, ice cream, & Starbucks Coffee. Refreshing swimming pools and a children's splash zone create the perfect family environment at this extraordinary Orlando area hotel.

For more information or to make a reservation, call 407-938-9001 or visit http://marriott.com/mcolz.


    Media Contact:
    Lisa Moore
    Manager, Marketing and eCommerce
    Marriott Orlando Market Sales
    321-303-1297
    lisa.moore@marriott.com

SOURCE Fairfield Inn & Suites Orlando Lake Buena Vista in the Marriott Village

It looks a bit like a racing game in a video arcade, but the driver wears headphones. The object of this high-tech drive down the digital highway? Perfect the sound quality inside a future Ford vehicle long before the first prototype is ever built.

Ford Motor Company ( F) is the first North American automaker to utilize the Virtual Vehicle Sound Simulator to fine-tune sound inside a vehicle's cabin, part of a continuing effort by Ford to deliver industry-leading quietness and refinement with minimal noise, vibration and harshness.

The Virtual Vehicle Sound Simulator can shave valuable time and cost out of the vehicle development process. Calibrating cabin sound in the virtual world reduces the amount of real-world testing needed in the wind tunnels and on the test track once vehicles reach the prototype stage.

"We know sound inside a vehicle is a major factor in customer satisfaction," said Mark Clapper, technical leader for noise, vibration and harshness at Ford. "This is a major leap in technology that will provide Ford with a significant competitive advantage."

Listening virtually

The new Virtual Vehicle Sound Simulator technology gives Ford sound engineers capabilities similar to their visual counterparts, who are doing groundbreaking work with virtual reality and animation software - creating immersive experiences that allow designers to virtually sit in vehicles during the computer design process.

With the audio technology, engineers also predict sounds based on digital drawings of the vehicle and then combine those sounds into a realistic simulation. For the first time, engineers can hear what a vehicle would sound like under different road conditions, at various speeds and in a range of gear and throttle conditions as the simulated vehicle shifts, accelerates and decelerates.

Previously, Ford engineers would test the sound quality of specific components one at a time, playing back and measuring the sound of each component under a single drive condition. Now engineers can hear the way a vehicle's interior sounds in real-time under dozens of drive conditions simply by clicking through them. This ensures that the sound quality of the individual parts work in harmony with each other for a holistic analysis of the sound data.

For example, engineers can test the sound output from multiple exhaust system designs for a future model pickup truck while also switching between a variety of drive events that are likely to change in the real world, such as road surfaces, vehicle load conditions, shift points, vehicle and wind speeds, and throttle output.

"We create an array of 76 different simulated sounds from data gathered about the proposed vehicle," said Clapper. "We consider body shape and powertrain design under various road conditions and speeds. When we drive the simulator, it's amazing how we're able to recognize sounds with our ears that we would have never picked up otherwise from that mountain of data."

Ford engineers also can make comparisons against competitive vehicles with a simple click of the mouse. It allows them to perfect and enhance interior sounds from the earliest stages, which will help Ford to improve vehicle sound year after year.

Based on software from the aerospace and video gaming industries, the sound simulator also is proving to be the ideal tool to gather consumer research. Ford asks consumer test groups to don the headphones and provide feedback on the sound of vehicles. In past testing, vehicles stripped of their branding would be put to the consumer test, but consumers often still recognized the make of the vehicle they were driving. Now, consumers can rate Ford vehicles they can't even drive yet in the real world.

"Sometimes what looks acceptable on a spreadsheet sounds bad once you actually hear it in real life, which is why simulating sound real-time and under real-world conditions helps us to weed out unpleasant sounds before our designs even make it to the drawing board," Clapper said.

Clapper says his team is now able to eliminate mistakes up front, reduce the need for prototyping, shorten the time to market, and produce a product that not only delivers high-end interior quietness, but also provides vehicle sounds that are more engaging for the customer.

Industry-leading interior quietness

The Virtual Vehicle Sound Simulator will help Ford build upon significant strides it has made in quietness and overall sound quality in recent years. Ford design and engineering teams have begun delivering interior quietness that rivals many luxury brands, according to third-party consumer research.

Ford has the fewest wind noise, squeaks and rattle issues of any full-line vehicle manufacturer, according to J.D. Power and Associates' Initial Quality Study. Ford brands also achieve higher interior quietness customer satisfaction scores than their Asian counterparts, according to RDA Group's Global Quality Research Study.

A number of improvements in sound-deadening technologies and materials on Ford vehicles help block the noise outside so that the inside is a quiet, tranquil environment for driver and passengers.

Advancements in materials, such as expandable foam pellets strategically placed in the doors, headliner and pillars, can improve sound-deadening efficiency by up to 20 percent. Interiors are quieted further with hood insulators, inner and outer dash absorbers, sound-absorbing carpet, improved ceiling baffles, additional sound absorption in the trunk, and new interior and headliner materials.

Engineers stiffen certain parts of the vehicle, strategically mount engines and retune the rear suspension to reduce vibration, all to deliver a ride that fits the vehicle - quieter and more refined for a sedan like Fusion or Taurus, while sportier and more powerful for a Mustang or F-150.

Other ways Ford engineers build interior quietness into the 2010 lineup include:

  • Acoustic laminated windshields that feature a layer of sound-absorbent vinyl sandwiched between two sheets of glass
  • Improved body/door sealing to reduce wind noise
  • Expandable stuffers in the fenders and pillars
  • Constrained layer damping material on the entire floor to reduce road noise, especially generated by the tires
  • A retuned air induction system for a more refined powertrain and sound
  • All-new acoustic headliners to further deaden interior noise

An example of Ford's improvements can be heard in the all-new 2010 Ford Taurus, which achieved the quietest levels ever recorded in Ford labs following wind tunnel tests. Improvements are also found in the 2010 Ford Fusion, which features side mirrors designed to deflect air without creating wind noise. Engineers and designers produced a mirror that actually generates less wind noise than a vehicle without side-view mirrors.

Ford also raised the bar on road noise against competing models. The Lincoln MKZ, for example, holds the lowest recorded sound level measurement in internal 30-mph tests, coming in 3.5 dBA quieter than the Acura TL and 1.7 dBA quieter than the Lexus ES350.

"A 3 or 4 dBA variance in the 30-mph test results is definitely a noticeable difference to drivers or passengers. These are meaningful improvements that significantly enhance the driving environment," according to Mark McCarthy, manager, Vehicle Program NVH. "We made a concerted effort to fine-tune every component that could contribute to noise so that we can deliver a driving experience that rivals some of the high-end luxury brands, but at an affordable price."

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 201,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company's automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com.

SOURCE Ford Motor Company

AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: AAI), today launched nonstop service to Key West (Fla.) International Airport in from Orlando International Airport.

With four flights each week, AirTran Airways is the only low-cost carrier to provide scheduled, full-sized jet access to the island with its fleet of modern, Wi-Fi equipped Boeing 737s.

"Orlando's hometown airline, AirTran Airways, serves more non-stop destinations from Orlando than any carrier, and full-size jet service to Key West is our latest exciting addition," said John Kirby, senior director strategic planning for AirTran Airways. "The Conch Republic was the most requested new route out of Orlando, and AirTran Airways continues to meet passenger demands while providing the low fares and high-quality service our travelers expect."

AirTran Airways is also expanding service to the Caribbean today by launching nonstop flights to Nassau, Bahamas, in addition to existing routes to San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Cancun, Mexico. Additionally, the carrier will launch nonstop service to Aruba on Saturday, and flights to Montego Bay, Jamaica, will begin in February, providing more vacation destinations than ever for passengers.

The following nonstop flights to and from Key West will be available beginning December 17, 2009:


              Nonstop Service Between Orlando and Key West
              --------------------------------------------


       From      To          Flight     Departs     Arrives     Frequency
       ----      ---         ------     -------     -------     ---------
      Orlando Key West           868  11:30 a.m.  12:40 p.m. T, Th, Sat, Sun
      ------- --------           ---  ----------  ---------- ---------------
     Key West  Orlando           864  1:30 p.m.   2:40 p.m.  T, Th, Sat, Sun
     --------  -------           ---  ---------   ---------  ---------------


Following is an introductory fare AirTran Airways will offer for its new flights to/from Key West. Fares listed are one way and are valid in either direction:




                            Introductory
         Destination            Fare
         -----------       ------------
           Orlando                   $79
           -------                   ---


AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: AAI) and a Fortune 1000 company, has been ranked the number one low cost carrier in the Airline Quality Rating study for the past two years. AirTran is the only major airline with Wi-Fi on every flight and offers coast-to-coast service on North America's newest all-Boeing fleet. Its low-cost, high-quality product also includes assigned seating, Business Class and complimentary XM Satellite Radio on every flight. To book a flight, visit http://www.airtran.com.

*Sale Fare Terms & Conditions: All fares are one-way. All fares are non-refundable and a $75 fee per person applies to any change made after purchase, plus any applicable increase in airfare. Seven-day advance purchase required. Seats are limited, subject to availability, and may not be available on all flights. Tickets must be purchased by January 2, 2010. Sale fares are valid for travel January 5, 2010 through March 10, 2010. Blackout dates are as follows: February 12-13, 2010, February 15, 2010, and February 20-21, 2010. A first bag may be checked for a fee of up to $15 per person and a second bag may be checked for a fee of up to $25 per person. Reservations may be obtained or changed through an AirTran Airways Telephone Reservations Center for an additional $15 per person. Fares, routes, and schedules are subject to change without notice. Fares shown do not include Airport Passenger Facility Charges of up to $18. The September 11th security fee of up to $10 is not included. Fares do not include segment taxes of up to $3.70 per segment. A segment is defined as a takeoff and a landing.



    Media Contacts:      AirTran Airways
                         Christopher White
                         Cynthia Tinsley-Douglas
                         678.254.7442


SOURCE AirTran Airways

Volkswagen of America, Inc. is excited to offer customers a fun and playful way to get discounts on essential winter season parts. Drivers who visit Volkswagen's "It's A VW Winter Wunderland!" website, www.VWWinterWunderland.com, can download rebates that are valid at their local participating Volkswagen dealer. The rebates are good for discounts on tires, batteries, and wiper blades. Visitors to the site can also enjoy "Volkswagen Wunder Rally," the new interactive online game available from Volkswagen Parts and Service.

Volkswagen's "It's A VW Winter Wunderland!" website provides an interactive opportunity for customers to learn about the current national service and parts promotion. Drivers can race a virtual Volkswagen Eos, New Beetle, or Touareg through a town to collect as many Genuine Volkswagen Parts and Accessories as possible in under 60 seconds. Wintry obstacles, including snow-covered parked cars, penguins, and even the occasional polar bear, try to keep the player from getting back to the Volkswagen dealership in time.

"Wunder Rally provides a unique way to remind Volkswagen owners of all the things that can help keep their Volkswagen running at its best during the winter season," said Dana Kovarik, Service Marketing Specialist, Volkswagen of America. "And with a little fun, and special deals available right now, we're sure we can warm up the drivers' spirits as well."

Drivers can also visit their local Volkswagen dealership to pick up the latest parts, accessories, and Driver Gear for their Volkswagen. The Volkswagen Wunder Rally game and the "It's A VW Winter Wunderland!" national promotion runs now until February 28, 2010.

For more information on Volkswagen, please visit www.vw.com or media.vw.com.

About Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Golf, GTI, New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Eos, Passat, Passat Wagon, CC, Tiguan, Touareg and Routan through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. All 2010 Volkswagens come standard-equipped with Electronic Stabilization Program. This is important because the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has called ESC the most effective new vehicle safety technology since the safety belt. Visit Volkswagen of America online at www.vw.com or www.media.vw.com to learn more.

SOURCE Volkswagen of America, Inc.

ViewCast Corporation (OTC Bulletin Board: VCST), a developer of industry-leading solutions for the transformation, management and delivery of professional-quality video over IP and mobile networks, today announced that French-German cultural channel ARTE (Association Relative a la Television Europeenne) has purchased ViewCast's unified, end-to-end digital asset management solution, ViewCast Media Server (VMS). VMS is based on the technology assets acquired from Ancept in March of this year. ARTE's New-Technology/Multimedia sector, which manages the back office of various ARTE Internet sites, will use VMS to manage all of the department's video and media assets. VMS will also support ARTE's future video portal, which will ultimately serve as the entrance point to all of ARTE's existing online media offerings, such as the award-winning ARTE+7 service.

"We currently enjoy an excellent professional relationship with ViewCast and are successfully using several Niagara Pro encoders to deliver high quality content via our ARTE+7 website," said Mathias Weiler, leader of the New Technology/Multimedia sector at ARTE. "After evaluating a number of digital asset management solutions, we determined that VMS offers the advanced technical features that are critical for our unique and highly automated environment. These capabilities, together with the future possibility of seamless integration with our existing Niagara Pro encoders, distinguished VMS as the best, long-term investment option. ViewCast's innovative technology will enable us to manage our growing media asset repository with greater efficiency and flexibility, and elevate our Internet presence to the next level."

ViewCast President and CEO Dave Stoner said, "Companies like ARTE are experiencing a rapid proliferation of rich media assets that need to be managed effectively and intelligently across the organization so as to maximize productivity. Our Niagara Pro encoders have already proven their value by enabling ARTE to simplify its broadcast processes for the ARTE+7 site. The integration of our VMS digital asset management solution will further streamline ARTE's workflows and provide them with the end-to-end infrastructure they need to successfully bring their new web portal to fruition."

With the flexibility to transcode between all common media formats and automate content delivery across heterogeneous production systems and distribution mediums, VMS equips ARTE to manage key business processes with minimal complexity. Seamless integration with ARTE's existing production infrastructure further extends the value of VMS, helping ARTE save time and resources that might otherwise have been devoted to labor intensive system integration efforts and unnecessary technology expenditures.

ViewCast VMS provides a unified, end-to-end digital asset management platform that offers the power and scalability to manage the entire media lifecycle; it can ingest, manage and deliver video and other digital assets anywhere over the network. VMS utilizes IBM Content Manager as its middleware and repository and includes plug-ins that integrate with leading products, such as Telestream FlipFactory(TM), to provide a closed-loop and managed process for ingesting, transcoding and indexing audio and video content. It also provides sophisticated content distribution functionality, including the ability to schedule the delivery of content for a specific date and time. Users can also edit content directly through the web interface using browser-based editors, eliminating the need to download assets to the desktop and allowing quick and easy repurposing of video content through multiple platforms, i.e., broadband, mobile, traditional broadcast, etc.

More information about ViewCast's digital asset management and video streaming solutions is available at www.viewcast.com.

About ARTE

ARTE (Association Relative a la Television Europeenne) is a European public-service cultural television channel. ARTE was founded April 30, 1991, and is composed of three entities: the headquarters in Strasbourg and two members responsible for program production and delivery, ARTE France in Paris and ARTE Deutschland TV GmbH in Baden-Baden. The purpose of ARTE is to conceive and produce television programs that, in a broad sense, are cultural and international in character and conducive to promoting understanding and rapprochement among Europe's nations and to broadcast these programs or to authorize their broadcasting. More information is available at plus7.arte.tv and at www.arte.tv.

About ViewCast

ViewCast develops industry-leading hardware and software for the transformation and delivery of professional-quality video over IP and mobile networks. ViewCast's award-winning solutions simplify the complex workflows required for the Web-based streaming of news, sports, music, and other video content to computers and mobile devices, empowering broadcasters, businesses, and governments to reach and expand their audiences easily and effectively. With more than 300,000 video capture cards deployed globally, ViewCast sets the standard in the streaming media industry. ViewCast Niagara streaming appliances, Osprey video capture cards, and Niagara SCX encoding and management software provide the highly reliable technology required to deliver the multiplatform experiences driving today's digital media market.

ViewCast (www.viewcast.com) is headquartered in Plano, Texas, USA, with sales and distribution channels located globally.

ViewCast, Osprey, Niagara, Niagara SCX, GoStream, SimulStream, and EZStream are trademarks or registered trademarks of ViewCast Corporation or its subsidiaries. All other trademarks appearing herein are the property of their respective owners.



    ViewCast Contact:
    Jeff Kopang
    Vice President of Marketing
    Tel: +1 (972) 488-7200
    E-mail: jeffk@viewcast.com

    PR Agency Contact:
    Jessie Glockner
    Rainier Communications
    Tel: +1 (508) 475-0025  x140
    E-mail: jglockner@rainierco.com

    Investor Contact:
    Matt Clawson
    Allen & Caron
    Tel: +1 (949) 474-4300
    E-mail: matt@allencaron.com

SOURCE ViewCast Corporation

The Federal Government instituted the Stimulus Act which carries a provision that allows the Kandi COCO, a Qualified Plug-In Electric Vehicle, to receive $4,435 in Federal tax credits under the provisions of IRC 30D. To further "sweeten the deal," the state of Oklahoma has added an additional tax credit of 50% of the sales price, which can be found in Section 2357.22 of Title 68 of the Oklahoma Statutes. That puts Solus International Corporation, the exclusive distributor for the Kandi COCO, in a position with its dealers to offer a 100% fully electric vehicle to consumers for up to $11,000 in combined tax credits.

On December 31, 2009 the Federal and State tax credits are set to expire. Oklahoma residents have the opportunity to take advantage of the full tax credits only through December 31st, allowing them to make an impact on the environment at virtually no cost.

Solus International Corporation, Head of Dealer Development Robert Chaldekas states, "We are delighted that both the State and Federal governments recognize the value and importance of driving green. We encourage the residents of Oklahoma to take advantage of the tax credits before the year ends. It is our sincerest hope that every driver in America will join us in our mission of rethinking the way we drive."

To support the company's mission from now until December 31st, dealerships in Oklahoma City and Tulsa (GKU Electric Vehicles) and Moore (Trinity Trikes) will be offering consumers educational opportunities to learn the benefits and incentives of driving electric vehicles.

For more information on the educational opportunities regarding the Kandi COCO or the tax credits being offered to Oklahoma residents, visit www.kandiusa.com or for specific dealer locations visit www.kandidirect.com, www.trinitytrikes.com or www.rustywallismotors.com.



    CONTACT:          Emily Yost
                      Emily@eyostconsulting.com
                      www.eyostconsulting.com
    TELEPHONE:        818-419-4688

SOURCE Kandi COCO

Russia's Yota, the mobile services developer and provider and one of the world's leaders in Mobile WiMAX (4G) technology, has announced the test run of the mobile broadband 4th-generation Internet access network in Managua, the capital of Nicaragua. The Yota network was rolled out in record time - in three months since the beginning of construction.

During the press conference attended by representatives of WiMAX Forum, Intel and Samsung, the strategic partners of Yota, journalists were told about the project and its perspectives in details.

Ricardo Olarte, Northern Cone General Manager of Intel, said that "the broadband penetration in Latin America is very low, and is the reason why the initiative taken by Nicaragua will allow a significant leap in the adoption of new technologies placing the country at the forefront and generating a positive effect in people and businesses to improve the competitiveness of it."

In July 2009, the public international tender for 2.5-2.7 GHz spectrum was announced in order to provide the whole territory of Nicaragua with communications services based upon the Mobile WiMAX standard. Yota became the winner of the tender. "The implementation of this project, which is basically a rapid transition from dial-up and scarce fixed-line communications to 4G technology, will pave the way in a very short time for achieving meaningful social effects in Nicaragua," said Dr. Mo Shakouri, Vice President and board member of WiMAX Forum.

Yota will start to operate in Nicaragua with its wireless broadband Internet access service. Later the company plans to increase the number of services and will concentrate on the high-quality voice services demanded in the market.

"The record time of deployment of the network in Nicaragua shows that Yota has accumulated the strong expertise and has created the proven network infrastructure based on Samsung equipment. All these issues allow Yota to deployment networks in any country in the world extremely fast," commented Doctor Song, Samsung Electronics

Yota services, developed during Yota's Russian project, and several types of end-user equipment will be available to subscribers, both to end-users and companies: USB modems, routers. The stationary VoIP device developed specially for Nicaragua, as well as the line of inexpensive netbooks with embedded Intel(R) WiMAX/WiFi module from the world's leading producers will be launched in the market of the country.

These devices are scheduled for sale next spring when everyone will be allowed free use of the Yota services before commercial use of the network begins in mid-2010.

"We see great potential in our project in Nicaragua. The demand for communications services in this country is enormous. According to recent studies, the country cries out for telephony and for at least 300,000 new Internet connections," says Yegor Ivanov, the vice president of business development at Yota. "Aside from Nicaragua, Yota includes Latin America, the CIS, as well as a series of countries in Asia and Africa, a total of 75 nations, into its global expansion plan. Currently, Yota manages more than USD 500mn of investment funds allocated for the international expansion in 2009. The company plans to raise the volume of investments to USD 1.5bn by the end of 2010."

About Yota

Yota is the developer and supplier of innovative mobile services. Yota is one of the world's leaders in 4G technologies development and networks deployment. The company provides fast mobile Internet access and a set of services based upon its network.

Yota has begun providing commercial 4G network service in Russia since June 2009, and reached the break-even point this October, less than in five months. In the first half of October, the subscriber base of the company surpassed 200,000 active users at a rate of 2,500 new clients a day.

Yota offers a set of unique mobile services that utilize the capabilities of the fast wireless Internet access: VoIP, mobile television, video content delivery, access to the music catalog with hundreds of thousands of records from world's leading record labels and many others.

Yota is a member of the international WiMAX Forum association which comprises the world-leading 4G technology vendors and service providers.

    http://www.yota.ru/en, http://www.yota.ru/es


    Contacts for the media:
    Natalya Tsarevskaya-Dyakina
    Yota, PR director
    +7-495-926-7585
    pr@yotateam.ru


SOURCE Yota

ATS Medical, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATSI), manufacturer and marketer of state-of-the-art cardiac surgery products and services today announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office has issued patent number 7,594,974 regarding a novel method of cutting tissue materials for use in implantable devices.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20040202/ATSILOGO)

The patent, entitled "Method of Cutting Material for Use in Implantable Medical Device," was issued on September 29, 2009. This technology, also protected through several domestic and foreign patents, has been instrumental in the design and manufacture of the ATS 3f® based tissue products. The essence of the Company's technology enables the cutting of tissue material through a laser based system. The laser precisely cuts the source material to a predetermined pattern as designated by the user. The cutting energy of the laser is such that the cut edges of the material prevent the possibility of delamination or fraying. However, the communication of thermal energy to the material is controlled to minimize the effect to surrounding tissues. The patented method is an important factor in the manufacture and performance of tissue based implantable devices.

Michael Dale, President and CEO of ATS Medical, Inc. comments, "We are very pleased with the continued progress and protection regarding our key tissue technologies. ATS acquired a variety of intellectual property as part of the 3f® Therapeutics, Inc. acquisition, and we continue to broaden our technology and protection in all areas. We believe this technology has many applications throughout the areas of tissue based implantable devices."

About ATS Medical

ATS Medical, Inc. is dedicated to 'Advancing The Standards' of cardiac surgery through the development, manufacturing and marketing of innovative products and services for the treatment of structural heart disease. ATS Medical serves the cardiac surgery community by focusing on two distinct but operationally synergistic market segments: heart valve disease therapy and surgical ablation of cardiac arrhythmias.

ATS was originally founded to develop the ATS Open Pivot® Heart Valve as a new mechanical heart valve standard of care. Today the ATS Open Pivot Heart Valve is the preferred mechanical heart valve in many markets around the world and the fastest growing mechanical prosthesis in the market. Building on this legacy and addressing the largest market segment in heart valve therapy, the ATS 3f® brand encompasses an innovative tissue heart valve portfolio to address conventional open surgery requirements as well as the growing demand for less invasive sutureless based procedures. The ATS 3f® portfolio includes offerings at various stages including early product development, pivotal clinical trials, and market commercialization. Completing the portfolio in heart valve therapy is the ATS Simulus® annuloplasty product line. Simulus products assist the surgeon in repairing a patient's native heart valve as an alternative to replacement. Continuing ATS Medical's focus on serving the cardiac surgery community are the ATS CryoMaze® products for surgical cryoablation of cardiac arrhythmias. ATS CryoMaze® products are used by surgeons to treat patients suffering from cardiac arrhythmias, the largest and fastest growing form of structural heart disease in populations over 60 years of age. The ATS Medical web site is http://www.atsmedical.com.

Cautionary Statements

This Press Release contains forward-looking statements that may include statements regarding intent, belief or current expectations of the Company and its management. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of important factors, including the results of clinical trials, the timing of regulatory approvals, the impact of pending healthcare reforms, regulatory actions, competition, pricing pressures, supplier actions and management of growth. For a discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties that could affect the Company's activities and results, please refer to the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008 and its most recent quarterly report on Form 10-Q.

SOURCE ATS Medical, Inc.

Oyster Hotel Reviews (www.oyster.com), the new travel site that provides unbiased, professional reviews and undoctored photos of the world's hotels, today launched its coverage of Boston. The site now includes reviews for Las Vegas hotels, New York hotels, Los Angeles hotels, San Francisco hotels , Miami hotels, Hawaii hotels, Jamaica hotels, Aruba hotels, Dominican Republic hotels, U.S. Virgin Island hotels, and Bahamas hotels with more than 200,000 photos taken by Oyster reporters.

Oyster's reviewers stay in hotels anonymously, systematically evaluate the properties on more than 70 different dimensions, and take hundreds of photos. They sleep in the beds, swim in the pools, eat the food, and interview other guests at the hotel to ensure an objective, comprehensive analysis according to the comprehensive hotel review guidelines that Oyster created. Every review looks at service, design, dining, cleanliness, nearby nightlife, and even the thread count of the bed sheets. In addition, the site considers the specific needs of different types of travelers, including families with children, honeymooners, weddings, business travelers, pet owners, and those looking for exceptional value.

"Hotel stays usually account for the biggest portion of your travel expenses, but a hotel is not something you can return if you're unsatisfied and before Oyster, a hotel was not something you could see before you checked-in," says Oyster CEO and Co-Founder Elie Seidman." Oyster helps travelers find that perfect hotel by providing a comprehensive review with a level of detail not seen elsewhere -- online or off. Only on Oyster.com can a traveler narrow down the search results to find, for example, a hotel with a gym that provides free-weights, free Wi-Fi, babysitting, and rental-car service onsite. Plus, with more than a hundred photos of each hotel to peruse, travelers won't be surprised -- we back up our opinion with honest, undoctored photos."

The Best of Boston

After careful deliberation, Oyster editors awarded top Boston hotels with an "Editor's Choice" award in several categories, including luxury, value, kid-friendly, and romance. Additionally, the editorial team compiled "best of" lists and slideshows for niche travelers planning a Boston vacation including those looking for pet-friendly hotels, gay-friendly hotels, hotels near sports venues, and hotels for college visits.

Editor's Choice Awards for Boston include:

Best Value Hotel: Radisson Hotel Boston

Best Luxury Hotel: Four Seasons Boston

Most Romantic Hotel: Fifteen Beacon

Best Boutique Hotel: Fifteen Beacon

Best Kid-Friendly Hotel: Marriott's Boston Custom House: A Marriott Vacation Club Resort

Best Historic Hotel: Omni Parker House

Best Hotel Restaurant: The Eliot Suite Hotel

Best Hotel Bar: Liberty Hotel

Oyster will be adding to existing coverage of Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York in the upcoming months. The site will launch coverage of Washington, D.C., hotels in December and Orlando hotels in January. Additional U.S. cities and popular European destinations will be added during 2010.

In addition to reviews, the Oyster Blog provides pearls of wisdom and fun travel gems. The site's popular Photo Fakeouts spotlight misleading images found on the hotel websites -- from disappearing views to tiny pools made to seem far bigger than they are. Oyster editors answer travel questions via Ask Oyster, evaluate the value of package "deals" in the Bundle Breakdown, and provide entertainment in Hotel Humor and Marketing Mishaps. Stay Here, Not There helps travelers hone in on the perfect hotel.

To insure that Oyster readers find the best value for their chosen hotel, Oyster provides rates and availability from several online travel agencies. Further, flexible travelers looking for the best bargain can use the site's rate calendar to choose the most affordable dates of travel. The rate calendar displays the average price per day found across several travel sites and can uncover deep discounts. When users make purchasing decisions, they can click on the rates provided by their preferred travel sites and within seconds be sent deep into the site's booking path for a seamless purchase.

About Oyster Hotel Reviews

Oyster Hotel Reviews (www.oyster.com) is the first and only travel site dedicated to publishing objective, in-depth reviews, written by trained journalists, of the world's hotels. Oyster reviewers stay in hotels anonymously while systematically evaluating the properties and taking hundreds of photos of every hotel. Oyster Hotel Reviews adheres to the highest editorial standards; it does not accept compensation or incentives from hotels, and pays for all travel expenses. Hotels cannot pay to be reviewed nor can they influence the reviews in any way. The site aggregates hotel prices from leading travel sites and provides several booking options for each hotel. Oyster is financed by Bain Capital Ventures and is led by an accomplished and experienced management team including Oyster co-founder Elie Seidman and executive editor Scott Medintz.

www.oyster.com

SOURCE Oyster Hotel Reviews

NewPage Corporation announced today that its No. 3 sheetfed coated paper product, Gusto®, now offers cover weights that are 7 and 9 pt. caliper guaranteed for direct mail and other printed materials that require a specific thickness to meet U.S. Postal Service mailing requirements.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080514/NEWPAGELOGO )

Printers choose Gusto because it is an economical, bright white coated paper that delivers brilliant printed results while consistently performing on press. Gusto is also readily available in text and cover weights, in both gloss and satin finishes, and is manufactured, stocked and serviced in North America.

"We are very pleased to offer our customers an economical, caliper guaranteed product that meets the necessary, yet stringent, demands of the postal service," said Steve DeVoe, general manager, sheetfed and caliper grades for NewPage.

Gusto caliper guaranteed cover weights are available for any orders placed on or after December 14, 2009. For samples of the entire Gusto line, or any NewPage product, contact NewPage ExSamples® at 800-638-3313. For more information about NewPage, please visit our Web site at www.NewPageCorp.com.

About NewPage Corporation

Headquartered in Miamisburg, Ohio, NewPage Corporation is the largest coated paper manufacturer in North America, based on production capacity, with $4.4 billion in net sales for the year ended December 31, 2008. The company's product portfolio is the broadest in North America and includes coated freesheet, coated groundwood, supercalendered, newsprint and specialty papers. These papers are used for corporate collateral, commercial printing, magazines, catalogs, books, coupons, inserts, newspapers, packaging applications and direct mail advertising.

NewPage owns paper mills in Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Nova Scotia, Canada. These mills have a total annual production capacity of approximately 4.4 million tons of paper, including approximately 3.2 million tons of coated paper, approximately 1.0 million tons of uncoated paper and approximately 200,000 tons of specialty paper.

SOURCE NewPage Corporation

Analyzing compounds in general chemistry and organic chemistry is now easier with Vernier Software & Technology's new Mini Gas Chromatograph--the Mini GC. Students from high school through college can learn to separate and identify compounds using technology that is now thousands of dollars less than traditional gas chromatographs. In addition to unprecedented value, the Mini GC provides educators with another one-of-a-kind feature--size. At half the size of a shoe box, Vernier's Mini GC takes up a small footprint on the lab bench and is light enough to be easily moved from lab to lab.

Using technology patented by Seacoast Science, the Mini GC is specifically designed to separate a mixture, and identify the components of an unknown compound. It allows students to detect Alcohols, Aldehydes, Ketones, Aromatic Hydrocarbons, Carboxylic Acids, Chlorinated Hydrocarbons, Esters, and Nitriles.

This sensor uses an advanced MEMS "chemi-capacitive" GC chip developed by Seacoast Science. The MEMS chip allows students to use room air as a carrier gas. (Helium and Nitrogen can also be used.) This unique feature allows the GC to be both portable and affordable.

"The Mini GC really represents breakthrough technology for science education," said Dan Holmquist, Senior Partner at Vernier and a former chemistry instructor.

"In the past, chemistry instructors have only had the option of gas chromatographs that cost many thousands of dollars--often over $10,000. This new technology gives college chemistry instructors the ability to outfit a lab more cost effectively. At the same time, high school science lab teachers who may have considered gas chromatography beyond their reach can now provide state-of-the-art technology for advanced chemistry classes."

The Mini GC connects by USB to a Windows or Macintosh computer using Vernier's Logger Pro 3 software for analysis and peak integration. It can also be used with the Vernier LabQuest for a handheld solution. Logger Pro and LabQuest software allow students to set flow rate and temperature of the column (including temperature ramping), collect data, perform peak integration, and determine retention time.

Logger Pro 3 software and LabQuest are sold separately. Built into the Mini GC is a high-quality Restick column. Included with the gas chromatograph are two spare septa, one high-quality Hamilton syringe, power supply, USB cable, carrying case and a GC lab manual with five well-tested chromatography experiments.

Availability and Pricing

The Vernier Mini Gas Chromatograph is currently available for $1,749.00. For more information and detailed specifications, visit www.vernier.com/gc-mini.

About Vernier Software & Technology

Vernier Software & Technology has been an innovator of data-collection technology for 28 years and its products are used in more than 130 countries. Creating easy-to-use and affordable science interfaces, software, and 75 sensors for data collection, and their products can be found in education from elementary school to college. Vernier helps teachers enhance their science curriculum, increase learning, and build students' critical thinking skills. For more information visit www.vernier.com.

SOURCE Vernier Software & Technology

Atari, Inc., one of the world's most recognized videogame publishers, and acclaimed MMO developer Cryptic Studios(TM), announced today a Collector's Edition and a Digital Deluxe Edition of Star Trek Online, available for purchase on February 2, 2010, for a limited time only. Both packages include exclusive content, collectibles and game access. Right now, the $79.99 Collector's Edition can be pre-ordered at GameStop.com and the $59.99 Digital Deluxe Edition can be pre-ordered at Direct2Drive and STEAM. Both special editions are also available at Atari.com.

"True Star Trek fans are sure to appreciate the exclusive features the Star Trek Online Collector's Edition and Digital Deluxe Edition boast," says Jim Wilson, President and CEO of Atari, Inc. "With extended content and one-of-a-kind collectible items, Star Trek fans and gamers alike can experience the full extent of the Star Trek experience."

The Star Trek Online Collector's Edition adds to the experience with such bonus features as:

  • Deluxe Packaging: Futuristic 3dX holography set in a high quality brushed aluminum finish. Heavy duty construction with magnetic closures and nested compartments for all components.
  • Deluxe Manual: High-end, hardbound, art book, manual and disc case in a single, elegant package. "HD Printing" on over 40 glossy pages highlights exclusive art from the Star Trek Online universe.
  • Communicator Badge: High-quality cast-metal design based on the in-game badge model. Fully 3D sculpted with recessed burst and curved contours.
  • Guest Passes: Credit card style buddy passes to invite three of your friends for a three-day trial of Star Trek Online. Codes can be transmitted digitally or physically.
  • Red Matter Capacitor (in-game item): A unique item that charges up and delivers extra energy to all of your ship's equipment for a short time.
  • "Star Trek: The Next Generation" Uniform (in-game item): Uniform Options from "The Next Generation" Series. The timeless look worn by Picard, Data and Riker.
  • "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" Uniform (in-game item): Uniform Options from the "Deep Space Nine" Series. Gray shoulders on a black uniform, just like Sisko, Worf and Dax.

The Star Trek Online Digital Deluxe Edition offers such bonuses as five exclusive in-game items as well as the ability to play as a "Joined Trill" - a symbiote that grants you several lifetimes of experience. The five exclusive in-game items include:

  • Original Star Trek Uniform Set: Three uniforms from the original series (blue, red, yellow).
  • Exclusive "KHAAAN!" Emote: An unforgettable moment from the second Star Trek Film. This exclusive emote allows players to relive Kirk's unforgettable moment of fury, with the timeless cry... "KHAAAN!"
  • Exclusive Klingon Blood Wine Toast Emote: Raise a glass like a Klingon! Greet other players with an exclusive Klingon gesture -the blood wine toast.
  • Unique Registry Prefix: Give your ship the coveted NX prefix, seen only on a handful of elite Starfleet vessels like the Defiant, 22nd century Enterprise, and Prometheus.
  • Unique Ship Item: Automated Defense Battery. This Tactical Module grants any ship a passive 360 arc attack power with a short range.

In Star Trek Online, the Star Trek universe will appear for the first time on a truly massive scale. In this massively multiplayer online game, players can pioneer their own destiny as Captain of a Federation ship or become a Klingon Warlord and expand the Empire to the far reaches of the galaxy. Players will visit iconic locations from the popular Star Trek fiction, travel to unexplored star systems, and contact new alien species. Every moment spent playing Star Trek Online will feel like a new Star Trek episode in which you are the hero. Immerse yourself in the future of the Trek universe as it moves into the 25th century: a time of shifting alliances and new discoveries. As the Captain of your very own ship, it's up to you to lead your crew on missions that span the galaxy.

Star Trek Online is a licensed product from CBS Consumer Products. For more information, please visit: www.startrekonline.com

Videos, screens, and additional assets are available at the Atari press vault. Log onto:

www.atari-press.com.

ABOUT ATARI, SA

Atari group is a global creator, producer and publisher of interactive entertainment for interactive game platforms that include PC, online, consoles from Microsoft, Nintendo and Sony and advanced smart phones (i.e. iPhone). Divisions of Atari, SA include Cryptic Studios, Atari London Studio, Eden Studios, Atari Interactive, Inc. and Atari, Inc.

Atari benefits from its global brand and an extensive catalogue of popular games based on classic owned game franchises (Asteroids, Centipede, Missile Command, Lunar Lander), original owned franchises (Test Drive, Backyard Sports, Deer Hunter), MMO games from Cryptic Studios (Star Trek Online, Champions Online) and third party franchises (Ghostbusters, Project Runway, Dungeons and Dragons).

For more information please visit www.atari.com

© 2009 Atari Europe SASU. All rights reserved.

Atari word mark and logo are trademarks owned by Atari Interactive, Inc.

© 2009 Paramount Pictures Corporation. TM, ® & © 2009 CBS Studios Inc. STAR TREK and related marks and logos are trademarks of CBS Studios Inc. All Rights Reserved.

About Cryptic Studios

Based in Los Gatos, CA, Cryptic Studios is a leading developer of massively multiplayer online games committed to delivering the next level of MMO gameplay. Cryptic develops AAA titles for PC and consoles, including Star Trek Online and Champions Online. For more information on Cryptic Studios, please visit the official website at: www.crypticstudios.com.

SOURCE Atari, Inc.

Today, Lee's Sandwiches celebrates the grand opening of their newest store in Santa Ana with festivities and promotions throughout the day along with complimentary samples from their extensive menu of traditional Asian sandwiches and Euro sandwiches.

Customers can expect the famous Lee's hot baguettes, made fresh every 30 minutes, and their famous cafe sua da, (Lee's Coffee), a special blend of iced Vietnamese-style French-pressed coffee with condensed milk, which is an instant favorite among coffee lovers for its rich and smooth taste.

Lee's Sandwiches is a full-service made to-order gourmet deli and bakery, specializing in fresh-baked baguettes and croissants, with a selection of over 20 different deli meats and fresh vegetables.

The new location is at one of the busiest intersections in Santa Ana and is located inside the Bristol Place Plaza on Bristol Street.

The store opens at 8:00 a.m. today and festivities begin at 9:30 a.m. The store will be closed from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. for the Grand Opening celebration, usual business hours thereafter.

Lee's Sandwiches of Santa Ana is located on 3350 South Bristol St., Suite A, Santa Ana, CA 92704. For more information visit them on www.leesandwiches.com.

SOURCE Lee's Sandwiches

See more news releases in: Retail, OTC, SmallCap, New Products & Services

 

Tradeshow Marketing Company Unveils Ultimate Squeegee(TM) as DRTV Product

SAMMAMISH, WA, Dec. 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ - Tradeshow Marketing Company, Ltd. (Pink Sheets: TSHO) today unveiled their Ultimate Squeegee(TM) as the product that will be featuring in their upcoming direct response television (DRTV) campaign. As part of the product announcement, the company has created an interim informational web site that will allow shareholders and general consumers to see the latest revision of the upcoming infomercial, located at www.ultimatesqueegee.com.

The Ultimate Squeegee(TM) is a revolutionary window cleaning tool that combines a window washing cloth and a squeegee into a single, fast, effective, and convenient tool. The product offering will also include narrower version for smaller windows, as well as an extension pole for hard-to-reach windows.

"We are very happy to finally announce the Ultimate Squeegee as our first infomercial product," said Luniel de Beer, President and CEO of Tradeshow Marketing. "The response to the product has been phenomenal at home shows and we're excited to bring it to national television. The team at Cesari Direct has done a fantastic job of coordinating and managing all the aspects of the campaign, and I'm very pleased with the progress to date."

"All of the pieces are coming together quite nicely," said Tim O'Brien, VP of Business Development and Campaign Management at Cesari Direct. "There are many details to put in place to ensure a successful launch, and we are on track for our launch in early 2010."

About Cesari Direct

Founded in 1993, Cesari Direct (www.cesaridirect.com) produces both long and short form direct response television campaigns, and provides media buying, online marketing, and campaign management services. Rick Cesari, Founder and CEO, has long been considered a pioneer in the DRTV industry, having created and produced more than 75 successful infomercial campaigns including the Juiceman Juicer, the George Foreman Grill, the Sonicare toothbrush, and OxiClean.

About The Tradeshow Marketing Company

The Tradeshow Marketing Company, Ltd. is a publicly traded consumer-products company focused on the development and distribution of unique products that have broad appeal and improve the lives of consumers. The company operates a direct demonstration business via trade shows and exhibitions throughout North America, and various product-specific e-commerce web sites. The company was established in 2003, and is headquartered in Sammamish, Washington.

Safe Harbor Statement

This release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. "Forward-looking statements" describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as "may", "future", "plan" or "planned", "will" or "should", "expected," "anticipates", "draft", "eventually" or "projected". You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company's annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company.

All company or product names used are the property of their respective owners and may be the trade marks(TM), service marks(SM), or registered marks(R) of other companies, and are used for information purposes only and to their owners' benefit, without intent to infringe.

More information is available about Tradeshow Marketing Company at www.tsho.com

SOURCE Tradeshow Marketing Company Ltd.

The first live 3D broadcast ever to be shown on giant video screens at a major sporting event was unveiled today at Cowboys Stadium, electrifying over 80,000 fans who were given 3D glasses upon entering the stadium. Beginning with the second half kickoff of the Dallas Cowboys-San Diego Chargers football game, the enormous center-hung display in the spectacular new stadium was converted from high definition 2D, enabling fans to view both live action and instant replays in 3D.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091213/PH25315 )

Measuring 160 feet in length and 72 feet in height on the sideline boards--the largest video board installation in the world--the four board video cluster, suspended 90 feet directly over the center of the playing surface, stretches from the 20-yard line to the 20-yard line. Its massive size allowed fans on all levels in the stadium to view the game in crisp, clear 3D images during the second half.

The technology that made the conversion from 2D to 3D possible was created by HDlogix of Edison, NJ, a leader in imaging and video-based products for the world's consumers, entertainment companies and service providers. In addition to its technology for large public venues, the company's new ImageIQ 3D(TM) technology--which will be shown to the public for the first time at 2010 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas next month--will enable for the first time real-time conversion of any HDTV signal to 3D on any 3D-ready display.

"The HDlogix 3D technology experienced by the Dallas Cowboys fans today at Cowboys Stadium will soon be enjoyed by television viewers around the world," said Jim Spinella, President and CEO of HDlogix. "Our new ImageIQ 3D(TM) technology will make it possible for anyone to enjoy 3D video of sporting events, feature movies and television shows whether they were produced in 3D or not. We believe it is the next significant evolution in television viewing."

About HDlogix

HDlogix focuses on building imaging and video-based products and services. Its three primary product lines are: ImageIQ, an extensive suite of image and video optimization and enhancement technologies; Clique, a set of mobile and desktop video communications client software applications; and Hue, a popular range of colorful high definition web cameras. The company has spent over a decade in advanced video research and holds an extensive portfolio of intellectual property which provides unique product differentiation and underpins continuous innovation.

SOURCE HDlogix

 

Alcohol Countermeasure Systems Penetrates New Markets Through Acquisition of Seres Ethylometre of France

TORONTO, Dec. 11 /PRNewswire/ - Alcohol Countermeasure Systems Corp (ACS) has acquired the assets and intellectual property of Seres Ethylometre effective December 1, 2009. The assets include the popular 679 series and newly launched SAF'IR family of infrared breath alcohol testers.

As part of the acquisition, key employees of Seres will be redeployed within France or relocated to global ACS offices to manage the transition to the new manufacturing facility in Toronto, Canada starting January 2010. Manufacturing processes and components will remain uncompromised to retain the OIML and other product certifications that Seres has achieved.

"We admired Seres' capability of combining the accuracy of infrared breath alcohol detection with the compact size of a handheld alcohol tester. With this technology now under the ACS umbrella, we can leverage our relationships acquired over 35 years to bring new choices to our customers," said Felix J.E. Comeau, Chairman & CEO of ACS.

"We are very proud that Seres Ethylometry will become a significant part of the ACS group," says Stephane Vialettes, President of Seres Environnement.

Chris Wilson, Business Unit Manager of Alcohol Testers at ACS said, "The accuracy of infrared technology to measure breath alcohol concentration is undeniably superior - but has typically been accompanied by high prices. This new relationship will permit ACS to deliver affordable infrared breath testers."

ACS will retain the Seres brand through its French subsidiary Alcolock France to continue supporting existing customers.

About ACS:

Alcohol Countermeasure Systems is an international group of companies with a Canadian head office in Toronto. For over 35 years it has lead in the design and manufacturer of alcohol sensing and breath testing instruments, notably the alcohol interlock for transportation safety. Clients include police, government, automotive, medical and industrial organizations, and the public market.

About Seres Ethylometre

Seres Ethylometry is a division of Seres Environnement with over 20 years experience in the manufacture of premium breath alcohol testers which use infrared (IR) technology.

SOURCE Alcohol Countermeasure Systems Corp.

Atari, Inc., one of the world's most recognized videogame publishers, and acclaimed MMO developer Cryptic Studios(TM), announced today a Collector's Edition and a Digital Deluxe Edition of Star Trek Online, available for purchase on February 2, 2010, for a limited time only. Both packages include exclusive content, collectibles and game access. Right now, the $79.99 Collector's Edition can be pre-ordered at GameStop.com and the $59.99 Digital Deluxe Edition can be pre-ordered at Direct2Drive and STEAM. Both special editions are also available at Atari.com.

"True Star Trek fans are sure to appreciate the exclusive features the Star Trek Online Collector's Edition and Digital Deluxe Edition boast," says Jim Wilson, President and CEO of Atari, Inc. "With extended content and one-of-a-kind collectible items, Star Trek fans and gamers alike can experience the full extent of the Star Trek experience."

The Star Trek Online Collector's Edition adds to the experience with such bonus features as:

  • Deluxe Packaging: Futuristic 3dX holography set in a high quality brushed aluminum finish. Heavy duty construction with magnetic closures and nested compartments for all components.
  • Deluxe Manual: High-end, hardbound, art book, manual and disc case in a single, elegant package. "HD Printing" on over 40 glossy pages highlights exclusive art from the Star Trek Online universe.
  • Communicator Badge: High-quality cast-metal design based on the in-game badge model. Fully 3D sculpted with recessed burst and curved contours.
  • Guest Passes: Credit card style buddy passes to invite three of your friends for a three-day trial of Star Trek Online. Codes can be transmitted digitally or physically.
  • Red Matter Capacitor (in-game item): A unique item that charges up and delivers extra energy to all of your ship's equipment for a short time.
  • "Star Trek: The Next Generation" Uniform (in-game item): Uniform Options from "The Next Generation" Series. The timeless look worn by Picard, Data and Riker.
  • "Star Trek: Deep Space Nine" Uniform (in-game item): Uniform Options from the "Deep Space Nine" Series. Gray shoulders on a black uniform, just like Sisko, Worf and Dax.

The Star Trek Online Digital Deluxe Edition offers such bonuses as five exclusive in-game items as well as the ability to play as a "Joined Trill" - a symbiote that grants you several lifetimes of experience. The five exclusive in-game items include:

  • Original Star Trek Uniform Set: Three uniforms from the original series (blue, red, yellow).
  • Exclusive "KHAAAN!" Emote: An unforgettable moment from the second Star Trek Film. This exclusive emote allows players to relive Kirk's unforgettable moment of fury, with the timeless cry... "KHAAAN!"
  • Exclusive Klingon Blood Wine Toast Emote: Raise a glass like a Klingon! Greet other players with an exclusive Klingon gesture -the blood wine toast.
  • Unique Registry Prefix: Give your ship the coveted NX prefix, seen only on a handful of elite Starfleet vessels like the Defiant, 22nd century Enterprise, and Prometheus.
  • Unique Ship Item: Automated Defense Battery. This Tactical Module grants any ship a passive 360 arc attack power with a short range.

In Star Trek Online, the Star Trek universe will appear for the first time on a truly massive scale. In this massively multiplayer online game, players can pioneer their own destiny as Captain of a Federation ship or become a Klingon Warlord and expand the Empire to the far reaches of the galaxy. Players will visit iconic locations from the popular Star Trek fiction, travel to unexplored star systems, and contact new alien species. Every moment spent playing Star Trek Online will feel like a new Star Trek episode in which you are the hero. Immerse yourself in the future of the Trek universe as it moves into the 25th century: a time of shifting alliances and new discoveries. As the Captain of your very own ship, it's up to you to lead your crew on missions that span the galaxy.

Star Trek Online is a licensed product from CBS Consumer Products. For more information, please visit: www.startrekonline.com

Videos, screens, and additional assets are available at the Atari press vault. Log onto:

www.atari-press.com.

ABOUT ATARI, SA

Atari group is a global creator, producer and publisher of interactive entertainment for interactive game platforms that include PC, online, consoles from Microsoft, Nintendo and Sony and advanced smart phones (i.e. iPhone). Divisions of Atari, SA include Cryptic Studios, Atari London Studio, Eden Studios, Atari Interactive, Inc. and Atari, Inc.

Atari benefits from its global brand and an extensive catalogue of popular games based on classic owned game franchises (Asteroids, Centipede, Missile Command, Lunar Lander), original owned franchises (Test Drive, Backyard Sports, Deer Hunter), MMO games from Cryptic Studios (Star Trek Online, Champions Online) and third party franchises (Ghostbusters, Project Runway, Dungeons and Dragons).

For more information please visit www.atari.com

© 2009 Atari Europe SASU. All rights reserved.

Atari word mark and logo are trademarks owned by Atari Interactive, Inc.

© 2009 Paramount Pictures Corporation. TM, ® & © 2009 CBS Studios Inc. STAR TREK and related marks and logos are trademarks of CBS Studios Inc. All Rights Reserved.

About Cryptic Studios

Based in Los Gatos, CA, Cryptic Studios is a leading developer of massively multiplayer online games committed to delivering the next level of MMO gameplay. Cryptic develops AAA titles for PC and consoles, including Star Trek Online and Champions Online. For more information on Cryptic Studios, please visit the official website at: www.crypticstudios.com.

SOURCE Atari, Inc.

Blue Gem Enterprise (OTC Bulletin Board: BGEM) is pleased to announce that high profile professional football player, wide receiver Terrell Owens has signed an exclusive endorsement deal for Title Sports Drink, a new all natural electrolyte replenishment drink manufactured by The Electric Beverage Company and distributed exclusively by Blue Gem Enterprise. The deal includes TV commercials, public appearances and product placement featuring the all pro wide receiver and reality television personality known as T.O. Though the deal was signed in the fall, Owens, one of the all time great wide receivers, and new all natural Title Sports Drink agreed to delay active endorsement until after the season ends. Sports agent Mike Ornstein of Sports Link, Inc. brokered the deal after Terrell Owens started drinking Title in the off season. "He absolutely loved it," says Ornstein. "He drinks it because it works for him and it tastes great. He literally can't get enough of it."

Terrell Owens is considered to be one of the great all time wide receivers in pro football history, a perennial All Pro and one of the most popular and controversial players to ever play the game. Owens, however, is as well known for his antics as he is for his commitment to health, physical fitness and excellence. "I signed on with Title because it's an amazing drink, hydrates my body better than any other drink and gives me true energy. Title is fitting of its name, not just the health aspect, but it tastes better than any other drink." says Owens.

About Title Sports Drink

Title Sports Drink is a revolutionary new sports drink which has more electrolytes than leading sports drinks, and is all natural, giving it a very unique selling proposition. Title Sports Drink is a highly advertised new drink owned by The Electric Beverage Company, Inc., and its commercials feature Ronnie Brown and Vontae Davis, two of South Florida's most high profile athletes. Terrell Owens also is an official endorser of Title, as is Heavyweight Champion Boxer Cedric Boswell

About Blue Gem

Blue Gem Enterprise is an emerging beverage distribution company headquartered in South Florida and serves the area from Southern Georgia through the Florida keys, including major chains, independent stores, hospitals, gyms, hotels and other retailers. It is the mission of Blue Gem to become one of the leading distributors of non alcoholic beverages and foods in the state of Florida.

Safe Harbor

This press release includes statements that constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the "Reform Act"). Blue Gem Enterprise, Inc. claims the protection of the safe-harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Reform Act. These forward-looking statements are often characterized by the terms "may," "believes," "projects," "expects," or "anticipates," and do not reflect historical facts. Specific forward-looking statements contained in this press release include, but are not limited to: our successful integration of diversified growth companies, impact of the company's expansion plan, and new business development success, future financial results, development and acquisition of new product lines and services, the impact of competitive products or pricing from technological changes, the effect of economic conditions and other uncertainties. The forward-looking statements contained herein involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations contained in any such, forward-looking statements. These risks include, but are not limited to: failure to manage operating expenses or integrate new companies and/or technologies, each of which could have a material impact on our business, our financial results, and the company's stock price. Most of these factors are difficult to predict accurately and are generally beyond the Company's control. Forward-looking statements speak only as to the date they are made and Blue Gem Enterprise does not undertake to update forward-looking statements to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date the forward-looking statements are made.

SOURCE Blue Gem Enterprise

 

HotelsCombined.com Names the Top 10 Places to Celebrate New Year's Eve 2009

SYDNEY, Dec. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- To help travelers find the New Year's Eve party that best fits their celebration style, HotelsCombined.com, the world's leading hotel search engine, has named the Top 10 Places to Celebrate New Year's Eve. People around the globe come together to share in vibrant celebrations ranging from the awe-inspiring fireworks display in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil to the New Year's ball drop in New York City. No matter where travelers ring in the New Year, HotelsCombined.com offers unbeatable deals among the world's largest database of more than 200,000 hotels, making it the best resource to find the perfect New Year's Eve hotel retreat worldwide.

HotelsCombined.com Top 10 Places to Celebrate New Year's Eve 2009

1. Waikoloa, Hawaii - Hilton Waikoloa Village Blue Moon New Year's Eve Party. North America and this Big Island hotel ring in the New Year under a historic blue moon, which will not occur again on New Year's Eve until 2028.

http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Hilton_Hotel_Waikoloa.htm

2. Clearwater, Florida. - Sandpearl Resort Once in a Blue Moon Package. Celebrate with Blue Pearl Cocktails, stargazing with a professional astronomer and a keepsake star from the International Star Registry.

http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Sandpearl_Resort_Clearwater_Florida.htm

3. Huntsville, Alabama. - Huntsville Marriott's "Blue Moon Ball" New Year's Eve Party. Includes live band "Kozmic Mama" and continental breakfast with champagne at midnight.

http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Marriott_Hotel_Huntsville.htm

4. New York City, New York. - Crowne Plaza Times Square New Year's Eve Party in the Broadway Ballroom. Includes three-course dinner, flowing Louis Roederer Champagne, live music and dancing and unrivalled viewing area to watch the ball drop live.

http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Crowne_Plaza_Hotel_Times_Square_Manhattan_New_York.htm

5. Las Vegas, Nevada. - Black Eyed Peas Host New Year's Eve at LAX Nightclub. Party with Will.i.am, Apl.de.ap, Taboo and Fergie at this Luxor Hotel Nightclub and then head out to the strip at midnight to view one of the largest fireworks displays in the world, shot from seven Las Vegas Strip hotel rooftops.

http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Luxor_Hotel_Las_Vegas.htm

6. Reykjavik, Iceland - Grand Hotel Reykjavik New Year's Celebration. Celebrate the New Year in the world's northernmost capital with a four-course meal, gala party and views of the city's all-night fireworks displays.

http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Grand_Hotel_Reykjavik.htm

7. Barcelona, Spain - Murmuri Barcelona Hotel New Year's Eve package. Enjoy VIP treatment and a New Year's Eve Cotillion gala dinner highlighted by the Spanish tradition of eating 12 grapes in 12 seconds as clock bells mark the end of the year.

http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Hotel_Murmuri_Barcelona.htm

8. London, England - Kensington Close Hotel New Year's Eve Bond Ball. This 007 themed party encourages guests to dress in costume for this annual event featuring London's best disc jockeys, signature martinis and a casino.

http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Kensington_Close_Hotel_London.htm

9. Sydney, Australia - Shangri La Hotel Blu Bar on 36 New Year's Eve Party. Boasting the city's best views of Sydney Harbour, this extravaganza features gourmet canapes, champagne on arrival and during the world - renowned midnight fireworks display at midnight.

http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Shangri_La_Hotel_Sydney.htm

10. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - The Copacabana Palace glamorous New Year's Eve. Relax in luxury with a private dinner and drinks on famous Copacabana Beach, where 2 million revellers dressed in traditional white garments gather for Rio's largest fireworks display and beachside stages and live music.

http://www.hotelscombined.com/Hotel/Copacabana_Palace_Hotel_Rio_de_Janeiro.htm

About HotelsCombined.com

HotelsCombined.com is the world's leading hotel meta-search engine and world's largest online hotel rate aggregator, with the largest database of 200,000 hotels in 20,000 destinations, across 195 countries. HotelsCombined.com laser targets its resources to deliver more than 900,000 real-time hotel deals which can be compared and booked directly through leading supplier partners such as Expedia.com, Booking.com, Travelocity.com and Hotels.com as well as via corporate hotel partnerships with InterContinental, Hilton and many others. The more than 3.5 million HotelsCombined.com monthly worldwide visitors utilize 4.5 million hotel images, 2.5 million hotel descriptions and maps and 1.5 million customer reviews to help choose the best hotel and best available deal. For more information or to find unbeatable hotel deals, visit www.hotelscombined.com.


    Media Contacts:

    Vicki Byrne
    Head of Business Development
    Phone: +61 2 8011 4192
    Email: Vicki@HotelsCombined.com
    Website: http://www.HotelsCombined.com

SOURCE HotelsCombined.com

Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne celebrated the opening of the new PoWeR Innovations Research facility on the campus of University of Alabama in Huntsville, Ala, on Dec. 9. The facility is part of a collaborative effort designed to develop new technologies and business strategies for both the company and the university. Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne is a United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX) company.

"We believe that combining Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne's capabilities and experience with the curriculum, creativity and talent at the University of Alabama in Huntsville will enable us to create new technologies and expand into new business areas," said Jim Maser, president, Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne. "We are optimistic this collaboration will serve as a model for other companies."

Through the partnership, the University of Alabama in Huntsville will provide offices, laboratories and support so Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne personnel can collaborate on planning, research and development activities. The university will also provide access to its academic expertise to collaborate in development of academic and business opportunities between both parties. In return, Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne will provide access to its technical and business personnel co-located at the university. Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne will help develop new technologies of interest to both parties.

Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne, Inc., a part of Pratt & Whitney, is a preferred provider of high-value propulsion, power, energy and innovative system solutions used in a wide variety of government and commercial applications, including the main engines for the space shuttle, Atlas and Delta launch vehicles, missile defense systems and advanced hypersonic engines.

Pratt & Whitney is a world leader in the design, manufacture and service of aircraft engines, space propulsion systems and industrial gas turbines. United Technologies, based in Hartford, Conn., is a diversified company providing high technology products and services to the global aerospace and commercial building industries.

SOURCE Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne

According to ABC News reporter, Buck Wolf, nearly one in four grooms proposes to their future brides over the holidays. Furthermore, November and December account for almost 26 percent of proposals, as surveyed by the Fairchild Bridal Group, publisher of "Modern Bride." With these numbers in mind, the Detroit Marriott Troy Hotel has created a superb, all-inclusive wedding package for newly engaged couples looking to celebrate their upcoming nuptials in the Detroit area.

This amazing new wedding package offers special pricing for weddings held on Fridays or Sundays in 2010. Couples are also given the opportunity to select a Saturday date in the months of January, February, March and November 2010 to receive special pricing. The hotel also specializes in creating memorable ethnic weddings, designed to capture all of the traditions and important personal details that you and your families hold dear. From classic Jewish weddings to vibrant Indian ceremonies, the Detroit Marriott Troy takes pleasure in turning your dreams into realities.

This all-inclusive Troy wedding package includes:

  • Three butler passed hor d'oeuvres
  • Five hours of premium open bar
  • Exquisitely-prepared dinner with menu and service style of your choice
  • Custom-designed wedding cake
  • Signature table centerpieces
  • Specially-priced children and entertainment menu
  • Overnight guest room for the bride and groom (includes breakfast for two the following morning in Shula's Steak House)
  • Discounted Troy accommodations for guests
  • Customized wedding web page

The hotel will also be hosting a wedding show on February 7, 2010 from 1-4 p.m. A not-to-miss wedding-planning event, be inspired and let the Marriott turn your inspiration into a grand occasion.

For more information or to book your wedding package, visit http://weddings.troymarriotthotel.com today.

About Detroit Marriott Troy

Discover the upscale, contemporary design of this Detroit area hotel situated in affluent Oakland County near downtown Detroit, The Somerset Collection, Chrysler and major corporations, as well as The Palace of Auburn Hills, home of the Pistons. For more information or to make a reservation, call 877-757-7131 or visit www.troymarriotthotel.com.


Media Contact:
Jodie Kennedy
Manager, Marketing & eCommerce
Marriott International
P: 248-761-3561
F: 248-485-6736
jodie.kennedy@marriott.com

SOURCE Detroit Marriott Troy

Obopay announced that its Obopay Mobile Payments application for the iPhone will be available from the Apple App Store beginning today. The free download will enable iPhone users to send money to friends and family more quickly and easier than ever with Obopay's application.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091210/NY23950 )

Highlights / Key Facts:

Now, iPhone users have a fully secure, proven and easy-to-use mobile payments service available at their fingertips. Recently named Technology Pioneer 2010 by the World Economic Forum, Obopay is an innovative mobile payments service provider in the U.S. as well as international markets. Obopay has established partnerships with companies such as Nokia, MasterCard, AT&T and Verizon Wireless.

Obopay iPhone application features include:

  • Send money to anyone with a US phone number
  • Send money to your kids or anyone 13 years of age or older and track how they spend the money all from your iPhone
  • View full transaction history from anywhere
  • Receive money free of charge regardless of how many people send you money or the amount you receive
  • Set up your account to automatically deposit the funds that you receive into your own bank account without having to manually intervene
  • Request money from contacts
  • Receive a Push Notification when you get a request for money
  • Check the status of a request anytime, from anywhere

Some of the more popular uses of Obopay include:

  • Parents sending money to children: Parents can instantly send money to their teens - or any family member - using Obopay on the iPhone.
    • Obopay is a unique application in the App Store that allows parents to set up controlled accounts for their children and see at a glance where the kids are spending the money, schedule recurring "allowance" payments into the account and send emergency money to family members. It also prevents the danger of children incurring overdraft penalties or interest charges or potentially damaging their parents' credit.
    • Teens receive a prepaid card with their name embossed on the card and immediately can access the received money at any ATM or merchant location which accepts cards.
  • Splitting the bill: One no longer needs to worry about friends not having exact cash at dinner when splitting the bill, because they can pay you back on the spot with Obopay.
  • Small and medium-sized merchants: Small and medium-sized merchants such as gardeners, babysitters, contractors and online merchants now can be paid instantly through a secure environment creating efficiencies and greater convenience.
  • Obopay leverages Apple's iPhone OS platform and alerting capabilities by giving users comfort that their payment was successfully sent and received.
  • Obopay offers a companion MasterCard prepaid card, thus enabling iPhone users to have up-to-the minute awareness of their available balance and recent transactions.
  • It's free to download Obopay to your mobile phone, sign up for the service, access your account information as well as receive money. Sending money costs as little as $0.25 per transaction.

Quote:

"Obopay's iPhone application makes it easier than ever to send and receive money," said Carol Realini, founder and CEO of Obopay. "iPhone users can now instantly conduct financial transactions in a secure environment -- from anywhere, anytime, with anyone in the U.S."

SOURCE Obopay

 

IGN Takes Videogame Content Mainstream With Launch of 'Game On,' a New Videogame Channel

 

Relationship with MSN marks first in a series of moves by IGN to extend its reach to mainstream audiences across a variety of media platforms.

SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- IGN.com, the leading online videogame media outlet, will power and serve as the content provider for Game On, a new videogame channel on MSN, which launches today at http://gameon.msn.com.

Game On offers consumers a custom experience that features IGN's industry-leading editorial and video content and the highest-quality gaming information available on the Web today. It joins popular MSN properties like Wonderwall and Delish as the latest addition to MSN's stable of content partner offerings.

"We're thrilled to team up with MSN to put videogame content squarely in the mix alongside sports, movies and music content - securing a place for videogames in the entertainment mainstream. By partnering with MSN, we're able to extend our videogame content to a much broader audience of entertainment enthusiasts," said Roy Bahat, president of IGN Entertainment.

"Game On is an excellent addition to the MSN entertainment portfolio. Videogame media is gaining ground among mainstream audiences, and is a category that has great growth opportunity. We're excited to work with IGN, to tap into one of the most engaged audiences on the Web today," said Adam Berliant, director, MSN.

IGN is responsible for all advertising sales for the channel, which will include a breadth and depth of content that appeals to gamers throughout every stage of the gaming life cycle. Tapping into the well-rounded IGN portfolio of gaming sites, the channel features - related news stories, videogame previews and reviews, cheats, gaming tips, premium video content, top 10 lists and more.

The relationship with MSN marks the first in a series of moves by IGN to align with major entertainment brands and extend its reach to a broader audience across a variety of media platforms, including:

  • Television. On December 12th FOX-TV will bring IGN's annual Holiday Buyer's Guide to television screens across the country.
  • Retail. F.Y.E. recently launched a major Holiday promotion with IGN, bringing IGN to F.Y.E. retail stores nationwide.
  • Online. IGN revealed a new version of its flagship site IGN.com, updated with a bold new layout and navigation capabilities to make the site as accessible and appealing as possible for new the broadening gaming audience.
  • Online Video. IGN syndicates its video offerings to external partners including Xbox Live, Yahoo!, Hulu, MySpace and more, and its dedicated YouTube channel currently ranks among the Top 100 YouTube channels of all time, with subscriber numbers surpassing the likes of Oprah, ESPN and the NHL.

In recent years, IGN.com has strengthened its position as the premier online destination for the videogame audience, reaching the most concentrated audience of males 18-34 and technology influencers on the Web today. These relationships represent the latest moves by IGN to extend its reach beyond the traditional core gamer to a more mainstream audience, offering premium content and relevant coverage for men.

About IGN Entertainment

IGN Entertainment, a unit of News Corporation, is a leading Internet media and services provider focused on the videogame and entertainment enthusiast markets. Collectively, IGN's properties reached more than 47.5 million unique users worldwide in October 2009, according to Internet audience measurement firm comScore Media Metrix. IGN's network of videogame-related properties (IGN.com, GameSpy, FilePlanet, TeamXbox, Direct2Drive and others) is one of the Web's leading videogame information destinations. IGN also owns and operates the popular movie-related website, Rotten Tomatoes and one of the leading male lifestyle websites, AskMen.com. In addition, IGN provides technology for online game play in videogames. IGN is headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area, with offices across North America, Europe and Australia.

SOURCE IGN Entertainment

The baby boomer generation has grown up with Donny Osmond, one of the most popular stars in pop music history. Now, a new generation has discovered him after his recent win on this season's hit TV series Dancing With The Stars and a recent reunion with sister Marie resulted in a wildly successful Las Vegas show that continues its run. Donny Osmond - The Definitive Collection (Polydor/UMe), released December 15, 2009, is a reminder of his hit-making career.

Spanning four decades, Donny Osmond - The Definitive Collection contains all six of his solo Pop Top 10 hits and four other Top 15s; the two biggest hits from the Osmonds; his two highest charting duets with his sister Marie, and their fan favorite "A Little Bit Country, A Little Bit Rock & Roll"; his 2002 solo remake of the Osmonds' hit "Crazy Horses"; "Any Dream Will Do" from the musical Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat; and the U.K. 12-inch mix of "Soldier Of Love," making U.S. CD debut on this collection. Track-by-track annotations include trivia and never-before-available information from the MGM Records archives.

One of nine children, Donny's family became well-known as regular performers on Andy Williams' hit musical variety television series. Donny made his TV debut on December 10, 1963, one day after his sixth birthday. Less than 10 years later he was a teen idol.

Between 1971 and 1973, he hit gold and Top 10 with "Go Away Little Girl" (#1), "Hey Girl," and remakes of Paul Anka's "Puppy Love," Roy Orbison's "Sweet & Innocent" and the Johnny Mathis ballad "The Twelfth Of Never." With his brothers, he mined gold with "One Bad Apple" (#1) and "Yo-Yo." Other Top 15 hits on Donny Osmond - The Definitive Collection are "Too Young," "Why" and "Are You Lonesome Tonight." With Marie in 1974, he scored the Top 10s "Morning Side Of The Mountain" and "I'm Leaving It All Up To You" (a gold single as well) before starring with her in a variety series.

Donny returned to the charts in 1989 when "Soldier Of Love" hit #2; "Sacred Emotion" also then went Top 15. Subsequently, he starred in nearly 2,000 performances of the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. A talk show with Marie, a best-selling autobiography, starring as the singing Shang in Disney's animated film Mulan, and more, followed. Donny Osmond - The Definitive Collection concludes with 2004's "Breeze On By," a U.S. Adult Contemporary Top 40 and U.K. Pop Top 10.

As his popularity on Dancing With The Stars has proved once again, Donny Osmond's star shines as bright as ever.

www.ilovethatsong.com

SOURCE Universal Music Enterprises

The unofficial force - the Baker Street Irregulars - have arrived on mobile devices. GOSUB 60, an independent innovator and publisher of mobile entertainment, announces their latest game Sherlock Holmes: The Game is Afoot! With a sleek combination of "Hidden Object" and "Spot the Difference" gameplay, this game is anything but elementary.

True to Sherlock Holmes' original mysteries, this app offers the authentic stories with a number of mysteries ranging from "A Scandal in Bohemia" to "The Red-Headed League". Each story has five levels filled with photorealistic artwork that is so compelling, players feel like they're right alongside Sherlock and Watson! The eBooks offered with the completion of every case give players the opportunity to download Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's short stories directly to their handset, free.

GOSUB 60's core value of innovation played a huge role in the development of Sherlock Homes: The Game is Afoot, leading the company to originate a new genre: the eBook fused mobile game. "Since eBooks are currently one of the fastest growing categories in the Apple App Store, it makes sense to combine the two genres to give the consumer added value," says Josh Hartwell, CEO of GOSUB 60, "and it helps set GS60 games apart from the competition." Complete with killer gameplay and a world-famous brand, this application is unparalleled by anything else on the market.

Sherlock Holmes: The Game is Afoot is available through major carriers for iPhone, Blackberry and feature phones. Price for unlimited access starts at $2.99. Downloads will be available through carrier app stores, Apple App Store, BlackBerry App World and MobileDeluxe.com. For more information on Sherlock Holmes: The Game is Afoot, please visit www.MobileDeluxe.com.

About GOSUB 60:

Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, GOSUB 60 is the parent company to Mobile Deluxe: a leading developer, publisher and distributor of casual mobile entertainment. Since 2006, GOSUB 60 has been named the only non-venture funded independent company ranked in the Top Ten Mobile-Publishers. Founded in 2003, innovation and entrepreneurship continue to be at the forefront of this company's ideology. In collaboration with esteemed partners like Verizon Wireless, AT&T, Apple, PBS and Disney Interactive, Mobile Deluxe distinguishes itself as an extraordinary small business. For more information please visit: www.MobileDeluxe.com.

SOURCE GOSUB 60

UMC (NYSE: UMC; TSE: 2303), a leading global semiconductor foundry, presented today at the 2009 International Electron Device Meeting (IEDM) held here, a unique 'hybrid' high-k/metal-gate (HK/MG) technology approach for 28nm. The method combines the benefits of 'gate-first' process strength for nMOS with 'gate-last' features for pMOS to realize up to 30% enhanced transistor performance compared to a gate-first only process.

"The spirit of innovation is always a key factor when developing advanced technologies," said Mr. S.C. Chien, vice president of Advanced Technology Development at UMC. "This published work demonstrates UMC's ability to conceive and develop alternative solution paths, leveraging in-depth learning of existing HK/MG process options to respond to today's rising demand for cutting-edge products and applications."

There are two different HK/MG integration schemes co-existing in the industry, gate-first and gate-last. For gate-first, the HK/MG is inserted before the gate is patterned (formed). For 'gate-last' or 'replacement metal gate', MG is 'filled in' after a polysilicon dummy gate is formed and then removed. In addition to the newly proposed hybrid approach, UMC has been developing gate-last HK/MG technology since gate-last has been proven in high volume within the industry for CPU manufacturing. The company's advanced technology development efforts are taking place at UMC's 300mm Fab and R&D complex in Tainan, Taiwan.

Note From UMC Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

Some of the statements in the foregoing announcement are forward looking within the meaning of the U.S. Federal Securities laws, including statements about future outsourcing, wafer capacity, technologies, business relationships and market conditions. Investors are cautioned that actual events and results could differ materially from these statements as a result of a variety of factors, including conditions in the overall semiconductor market and economy; acceptance and demand for products from UMC; and technological and development risks.

About UMC

UMC ( UMC, TSE: 2303) is a leading global semiconductor foundry that provides advanced technology and manufacturing services for applications spanning every major sector of the IC industry. UMC's customer-driven foundry solutions allow chip designers to leverage the strength of the company's leading-edge processes, which include production proven 65nm, 45/40nm, mixed signal/RFCMOS, and a wide range of specialty technologies. Production is supported through 10 wafer manufacturing facilities that include two advanced 300mm fabs; Fab 12A in Taiwan and Singapore-based Fab 12i are both in volume production for a variety of customer products. The company employs approximately 13,000 people worldwide and has offices in Taiwan, Japan, Singapore, Europe, and the United States. UMC can be found on the web at http://www.umc.com .

    Editorial Contacts:

    In the USA:
     UMC-USA
     Charlene Loveless
     Tel:   +1-408-523-7850
     Email: charlene.loveless@umc-usa.com

    In Taiwan:
     UMC
     Richard Yu
     Tel:   +886-2-2700-6999 ext. 6951
     Email: richard_yu@umc.com

SOURCE United Microelectronics Corporation

ABBYY®, a leading provider of document recognition, data capture and linguistic software, introduced the ABBYY Recognition Server(TM) for Google Search Appliance(TM). ABBYY Recognition Server works as a background optical character recognition (OCR) service, enabling Google Search Appliance to index full text content from documents in image formats to make them easily discoverable. ABBYY Recognition Server for Google Search Appliance is a highly efficient solution for organizations looking to decrease administrative costs and prevent the loss of company equity by ensuring that all valuable organizational knowledge is electronically accessible 24 x 7.

"Organizations need a fast and reliable way to sort through the tremendous volumes of information they accumulate over time," said Bret Peters, vice president at Fig Leaf Software, a Google reseller and certified training partner for the Google Search Appliance. "Implementing the ABBYY Recognition Server for the Google Search Appliance will enable us to help our clients sort through their information faster and increase their efficiency, without spending a large amount of time on training."

Often times, the success of a company rests on its ability to build efficient processes that keep information moving. Companies that are able to quickly organize and access information are in a better position to save money and time with shorter training periods for new employees, and increased productivity from knowledge workers in their daily work. Google Search Appliance is an enterprise search system designed to index searchable and editable file formats on an organization's file servers, Web servers, content management systems, and other resources. Google Search Appliance makes these documents available for the user to search using an easy to use Google interface.

"OCR technology is a valuable tool for organizations of any size that need their documents and information readily available to them, without the cumbersome process of sorting through scattered information," said Dean Tang, CEO of ABBYY USA. "ABBYY Recognition Server for Google Search Appliance gives enterprise organizations a cost-effective and efficient way to access knowledge that was previously un-retrievable in search results, reducing the organizational cost that results from lost documents."

The addition of ABBYY Recognition Server extends Google Search Appliance's indexing capabilities beyond text-based formats such as HTML, DOC, XLS and TXT to support documents in TIFF, JPEG, image-based PDF and other image formats to make them discoverable. ABBYY Recognition Server for Google Search Appliance automatically crawls specified network archives, retrieves image files and performs OCR on the document. It then submits the recognized text of the document to Google Search Appliance in an XML feed, accompanied with a link to the original image. The feed is then indexed by Google Search Appliance and the image becomes fully searchable, based on all text elements within.

For more information about ABBYY and its products, please visit http://www.abbyyusa.com.

About ABBYY

ABBYY is a leading provider of document recognition, data capture and linguistic software. Its products include the ABBYY FineReader line of optical character recognition (OCR) applications, ABBYY FlexiCapture line of data capture solutions, ABBYY Lingvo dictionary software, and development tools. Paper-intensive organizations from all over the world use ABBYY software to automate time- and labor-consuming tasks and to streamline business processes. ABBYY products are used in large-scale government projects such as those of Australian Taxation Office, Lithuanian Tax Inspectorate, Ministry of Education of Russia, Ministry of Education of Ukraine, and Montgomery County Government of the USA. Companies that license ABBYY technologies include BancTec, Canon, EMC/Captiva, Hewlett-Packard, Microsoft, NewSoft, Notable Solutions, Samsung Electronics and more. ABBYY OCR applications are shipped with equipment from the world's top manufacturers such as BenQ, Epson, Fujitsu, Fuji Xerox, Microtek, Panasonic, Plustek, Toshiba, and Xerox. ABBYY is headquartered in Moscow, Russia, with offices in Germany, the United States, Ukraine, the UK, Japan and Taiwan. For more information, visit http://www.abbyy.com/.

ABBYY, the ABBYY Logo, FineReader, Lingvo, Recognition Server and FlexiCapture are either registered trademarks or trademarks of ABBYY Software Ltd. Other product names mentioned herein may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective owners and are hereby recognized.

SOURCE ABBYY

The University of Oxford's Law Faculty, in conjunction with the Said Business School of the University of Oxford, is launching a pioneering new degree program: "The Oxford Master's in Law and Finance." The new degree, which begins in October 2010, will be a full-time nine-month program offering students with a prior background in law the chance to develop an advanced interdisciplinary understanding of financial transactions, and of the swiftly evolving economic and regulatory context.

The program will aim to provide an "MBA" equivalent for lawyers working in finance, as well as those pursuing a career in financial institutions, government or business and will support and lead the integration of law and finance, a new field which holds much significance for the future. "The Oxford Master's in Law and Finance will act as a launch-pad for a successful career in law, regulation, or academic finance," explained Professor John Armour of Oxford, currently a visiting professor at Columbia Law School, and Academic Director of the new program.

The Master's in Law and Finance will bring together legal practitioners, financial experts, economists, and academics, both as students of the program and in delivering the program, which will involve practical case studies that have been developed in partnership with industry participants.

Professor Timothy Endicott, Dean of the Faculty of Law at Oxford, explained the reason for developing this new program: "It is crucial for law schools to make a contribution to understanding the challenges of regulating markets in ways that enable commerce to thrive without allowing unmanaged risks to escalate into disasters." Professor Endicott believes Oxford Law has "an important role in research and in training lawyers at the graduate level in law and finance."

Recently, the University of Oxford's Law Faculty brought together lawyers and financial economists, practitioners and academics, from the US and the UK, at a Law & Finance Forum in New York. At the Forum, speakers and panelists discussed national and international issues such as enforcing securities laws, shareholder activism and litigation, financial and corporate regulation following the financial crisis, and litigation financing and insurance.

Oxford Law's John Armour and Paul Davies, Allen & Overy Professor of Corporate Law, were joined by legal practitioners and advisors in addressing these issues. The Forum was predominantly composed of Oxford Law alumni.

The Forum demonstrates Oxford Law's commitment to enhancing its presence in the US and its ties with its US alumni, as well as its more general emphasis on law and finance.

Notes for Editors:

For more information, a photograph or to set up interviews, please contact the University of Oxford's Faculty of Law on +44 1865 281050 or email lawfac@law.ox.ac.uk.

The Faculty of Law is the largest unit in the University's social sciences division. Its members include many of the UK's and the world's leading legal scholars, earning the faculty its top (5*) rating in the 1996 and 2001 Research Assessments conducted by HEFCE. The 2008 RAE assessment showed that substantially more top-rated research activity went on in Law at Oxford from 2001-2007, than any other university in the UK.

For more information about the University of Oxford's Faculty of Law, go to: http://www.law.ox.ac.uk.

SOURCE University of Oxford

After a deadly car accident at the age of 18, Cara Maddy was told she would never walk, talk, or function beyond the level of a third grader. Overcoming this tragedy served as inspiration for her novel, "A Life in IV Acts" (published by AuthorHouse). Maddy's novel follows the life of seven people forced to deal and cope with the unexpected situations life throws their way.

A young man who feels he has nothing left to live for encounters the Stewart family. However, the family is coping with the loss of a daughter, a loner son whose girlfriend is pregnant, and a daughter who hasn't been able to cope with the death of her sister. As the characters continue in their struggles, they discover more about themselves and each other. They learn how to trust one another, when to ask for help and when to take on tasks individually.

"With a car crash, a stabbing, a shooting, two life changing surgeries, and a family in turmoil, 'A Life in IV Acts' will keep the attention of many different types of readers."

-Cara Maddy

"A Life in IV Acts" is a motivational tale combining the different backgrounds and experiences of its seven characters. Readers are immediately captured by the drama and personal stories that unfold in each chapter. Maddy's novel demonstrates how quickly life floats by as readers become so invested in each character's life they remain reflecting even after they read the final page.

Paperback 9 X 6

Approximately 228 pages

ISBN 9781449015909

$14.49 retail price

Available at http://www.amazon.com and http://www.barnesandnoble.com.

About the Author

Cara Maddy was born and raised in Pullman, Washington. She attended Northwest Nazarene University on a track and field scholarship where she graduated with a degree in Arts Administration. In her free time, Maddy enjoys writing and reading fiction. She now works as an Ultrasound Technician and resides in Connecticut with her husband of 14 years and two children.

AuthorHouse is the premier book publisher for emerging, self-published authors. For more information, please visit http://www.authorhouse.com.


EDITORS: For review copies or interview requests, contact:
Ryne Meadors
Tel: 317-926-1727
Fax: 317-926-1728
Email: rmeadors@trendyminds.com
(When requesting a review copy, please provide a street address.)

This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com.

SOURCE AuthorHouse

Former members of The Hillside Singers, famous for the '70s smash hit, "I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing," based on the Coca-Cola theme, have set their sights on composing and singing for kids with their new children's CD released by Oniram Music, Bug in a Puddle.

Recording under the group name Treehouse 10, four former Hillside Singers members - songwriters/musicians and siblings Frank Sebastian Marino, Joelle Marino McDermott, Laura Marino and Bill Marino - and family friend Michael Chabler, have written and recorded an album filled with beautifully high-spirited, creative and poetic original songs that will delight both kids and parents.

Leading off the album is the infectious "There's a Beat," about a child's discovery of the rhythms that can be found in nature and living in each of us. The song sets the tone for the rest of the CD, which embraces the child's spirit and stirs the imagination with images of flying through the air and with an array of colorful characters. Other songs feature a tap-dancing frog ironically named Red; the adventures of a man overwhelmed by his cats (all 29 of them); a Hippo Lake, where monkeys can't sleep from the noise; and a bug wondering about the universe. The exuberant "Happy-Go-Lucky Go Merry-Go-Round," written by the siblings' father, Sev Frank Marino, a theme writer and guitarist with the "Tonight Show" with both Jack Paar and Johnny Carson, evokes the feeling of being on a carousel ride.

The album closes with a lullaby about the beauty of the lights at night, written by the siblings' mother, Sophia (Billie) Marino, for a child who was afraid of the dark.

The album's production was truly a family affair. Youngest sibling, Karen Marino Panica, is also a songwriter on Bug in a Puddle. Other family members performing on the CD are Joelle Marino McDermott's children: singer/songwriter and musician Garth Michael McDermott (whose songs have been heard on major network television shows including CBS's "How I Met Your Mother") and Meghan McDermott Friedland and Celene McDermott, both of whom are lead singers and also featured on piano. Nephew Andrew Panica is the graphic designer of Bug in a Puddle's 12-page lyric booklet.

Michael Chabler, lyricist of six of the eleven songs on the album, says: "We want this music to inspire children to have a sensitivity to the world around them and to grow their imaginations, without being didactic." Chabler is featured vocalist on the title track and the CD's cover artist. The album was finished shortly after his son was born. Laura Marino adds: "On the musical side, we aimed at composing the songs so that they were both melodically and harmonically interesting to help develop the child's musical ear."

The CD was recorded and mixed at Sync Sound in New York by Bill Marino, an Emmy Award-winning engineer and producer.

Bug in a Puddle is available on Amazon.com, CD Baby.com and iTunes. For more information, visit www.treehouse10.com.

SOURCE Oniram Music

Axis Communications today announced that its network video cameras will play a key role in a comprehensive safe school project in Portugal. More than 12,000 network cameras will be installed in order to increase security in public schools in a cost-effective way. The installation started in August 2009 and is expected to continue during 2010.

The selected network camera models are the AXIS 225FD for the indoor installations and the AXIS 221 for outdoor installations. Axis network cameras are going to be installed in 1,200 schools, in 2nd and 3rd class of primary education and in secondary schools. The cameras will be installed in corridors and school entrances.

"We are proud to deliver our network cameras to the schools in Portugal. We have seen an increasing interest in installations of network video products at schools and universities due to a heightened interest in student security." said Ray Mauritsson, President, Axis Communications. "As the schools often have the infrastructure in place, a cost-efficient installation of network cameras with superior image quality can easily be deployed."

Axis' network cameras have been selected for this project because of their exceptional image quality, ease of installation and maintenance as well as their ability to connect directly to existing IP networks in schools. Furthermore, the functionality PoE (Power over Ethernet) will also reduce installation costs as the cameras will be fed with power through the Ethernet cable, unifying power and data on one cable.

About Axis

Axis is an IT company offering network video solutions for professional installations. The company is the global market leader in network video, driving the ongoing shift from analog to digital video surveillance. Axis products and solutions focus on security surveillance and remote monitoring, and are based on innovative, open technology platforms. Axis is a Sweden-based company, operating worldwide with offices in more than 20 countries and cooperating with partners in more than 70 countries. Founded in 1984, Axis is listed on the NASDAQ OMX Nordic, under the ticker AXIS. For more information about Axis, please visit our website at http://www.axis.com

SOURCE Axis Communications

According to the Pew Internet and American Life Project, 45 percent of individuals between the ages of 70 and 75 are now online. For seniors living far away from their families, especially during the holidays, getting online provides a way to keep in touch with children and grandchildren with much more regularity and non-medical home care company GRISWOLD SPECIAL CARE is making that effort even easier with the introduction of its Family 411 social networking site - a first in the home care industry.

Family 411 (located at www.family411.net) is a privacy-protected social network that gives family members access to online updates about their loved ones that are posted by other family members, caregivers or aging relatives themselves. E-mails can also be generated to additional family members and friends with updates. According to Fiona Middleton, GRISWOLD SPECIAL CARE's senior vice president, Family 411 represents a great way for family members to stay in touch as well as a jumping-off point for seniors to further immerse themselves in all the Internet has to offer.

"Family 411 is the perfect tool for seniors wanting to test the social networking waters. Keeping in touch with family members becomes something they can do on a daily basis," said Middleton. "The benefits aren't just short term, either: A recent UCLA study also suggested that Internet usage engages complicated brain activity. The added exercise and improved brain function allows seniors - especially those with Alzheimer's or dementia - to stay more alert and aware of their surroundings long after they step away from the computer."

GRISWOLD SPECIAL CARE is the world's oldest, multinational non-medical home care company with more than 200 years of combined industry experience on its staff. This franchised, non-medical home care company refers caregivers who provide in-home care services including personal care, homemaking, companionship, incidental transportation and other services to older adults and people recovering from illness and/or surgery. GRISWOLD SPECIAL CARE has more than 100 offices in the U.S., South Korea and Mexico.

SOURCE GRISWOLD SPECIAL CARE

Nationally-known expert Kenneth Doka, Senior Bereavement Consultant to Hospice Foundation of America (HFA), will host a discussion of the need for, and role of, bereavement camps as an intervention for children, adolescents, and their families during Hospice Foundation of America's (HFA's) live online webinar on Monday, February 1, from 1pm -- 2:30pm ET. Dr. Doka will be joined by Sherry Schachter, Director of Camp Courageous in New York; Angela Hamblen, Director of Camp Good Grief in Tennessee; and Bonnie Carroll, Executive Director of TAPS, which offers support to those suffering the loss of a military loved one.

"Almost 875,000 children and adolescents have experienced the death of a parent," states Dr. Doka. "Camps can be an innovative and successful milieu for supporting bereaved young people." The speakers will examine underlying theoretical models of bereavement camps; identify some considerations in developing a camp program, including setting the target population, securing funding, and training staff and volunteers; discuss compliance issues; and explore some special issues that may arise. Schachter, Hamblen, and Carroll will each discuss their specific experiences in running a bereavement camp, focusing on camp structure, which children may benefit most from the program, and successful activities. The webinar and supporting materials will offer a toolbox of practical information such as intake forms, publicity materials, and hands-on suggestions.

"If you already run a camp, this webinar will reaffirm and review the most current information and best practices," notes Amy S. Tucci, CEO/President of HFA. "If your organization is considering starting a camp, this webinar will be a great place to explore this new and viable approach to serving the bereaved youth of your community."

To register, go to: http://store.hospicefoundation.org/home.php?cat=28. The Organization Registration Fee is $100, which allows access to both the live webcast and an archived online program for one year past the live webinar, with unlimited CEs (1.5 hours) available for a wide range of professions. Individuals may register for the live webinar for $35 and 1.5 hours of CE credit is included for the registered individual.

To learn more about this exciting educational offering, contact HFA at 800-854-3402 or http://www.hospicefoundation.org/education/webinars.


Contact: Lisa Veglahn, 800-854-3402
lveglahn@hospicefoundation.org

SOURCE Hospice Foundation of America

The nonprofit Aquarium of the Pacific and the plastics industries of the American Chemistry Council (ACC) today announced a new partnership to provide more recycling opportunities to aquarium visitors. The announcement kicks off the holiday season for the aquarium as "Scuba Santa" will be delivering special gifts and treats to the various birds, fish and other animals on Saturday and Sunday. And to further support this new recycling partnership, the aquarium will offer a free admission with the purchase of a regular adult admission, when you bring in a plastic bottle to recycle. The offer is only valid this weekend, Dec. 5-6.

As part of the program, ACC will provide a total of eight recycling bins to the aquarium. The bins will be decorated with images of marine life and educational messages reminding visitors about the importance of recycling as part of the overall solution to keeping our ocean and beaches clean.

"The ACC's recycling bins stand out from our others by providing us with another important teaching tool. The ocean images depicted on them allows us to remind our visitors how this everyday act can help protect ocean life," said Dr. James B. Wood, Aquarium of the Pacific Director of Education.

This is not the first time the two groups have joined forces. ACC was a partner in the creation of the recent Aquarium exhibition, Our Watersheds: Pathway to the Pacific. ACC is excited to once again work with the aquarium.

"The Aquarium of the Pacific is home to many forms of marine life, and we all must do what we can to protect them," said ACC Manager of State Affairs Sherri McCarthy. "Learning to reduce, reuse and recycle is an important way all of us can make a difference for the environment. Much of what ends up as litter and debris shouldn't be trash at all because it is valuable, recyclable material."

The aquarium is the latest partner to become part of a statewide recycling awareness campaign, "Plastics. Too Valuable to Waste. Recycle.(SM)," which has found success in a variety of areas. The campaign began in 2008 when representatives from the California Department of Parks and Recreation, ACC and Keep California Beautiful (KCB) launched a recycling program that placed - and continues to maintain - hundreds of permanent and seasonal recycling bins at State Parks sites in the Los Angeles and Central Coast areas. The program soon spread to State Parks beaches in the San Diego, Monterey and Santa Cruz areas, the City of Brentwood and the City of Woodland. For more information, see www.2valuable2waste.com.

The Aquarium of the Pacific, a nonprofit institution, is dedicated to instilling a sense of wonder, respect, and stewardship for the Pacific Ocean, its inhabitants, and ecosystems. Home to over 11,000 animals, the Aquarium explores the waters of Southern California and Baja and the Northern and Tropical Pacific. The Aquarium features hands-on discovery labs staffed by knowledgeable volunteers; the Lorikeet Forest aviary; its interactive Shark Lagoon; the bilingual kiosk exhibit Whales: Voices in the Sea; and the bilingual Gulf of California exhibition. The Aquarium was rated #2 Los Angeles area Family Destination in the latest Zagat U.S. Family Travel Guide. A world of discovery awaits people of all ages, backgrounds, and interests. The Aquarium is open daily from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and is located at 100 Aquarium Way in Long Beach, Calif. General admission is $23.95 for adults (12+), $20.95 for seniors (62+), $11.95 for children (3-11), and free for children under 3 and Aquarium members. For advance tickets and information, the public may visit www.aquariumofpacific.org or call 562/590-3100.

The American Chemistry Council (ACC) represents the leading companies engaged in the business of chemistry. ACC members apply the science of chemistry to make innovative products and services that make people's lives better, healthier and safer. ACC is committed to improved environmental, health and safety performance through Responsible Care®, common sense advocacy designed to address major public policy issues, and health and environmental research and product testing. The business of chemistry is a $689 billion enterprise and a key element of the nation's economy. It is one of the nation's largest exporters, accounting for ten cents out of every dollar in U.S. exports. Chemistry companies are among the largest investors in research and development. Safety and security have always been primary concerns of ACC members, and they have intensified their efforts, working closely with government agencies to improve security and to defend against any threat to the nation's critical infrastructure.

SOURCE American Chemistry Council

Sazerac Rye (fall 2008 edition) was rated by world-renowned critic Jim Murray as the "2010 world whisky of the year" in his recently released 2010 Whisky Bible, and promptly sold out in leading whisky retailers as a result.

The new shipment of the 2009 edition has just arrived in the UK, and Master of Malt are the first to offer it for sale.

Tasting notes for the whiskey have been compiled by the tasting team at Master of Malt and read as follows:

Nose: Huge and powerful sweet rye on the initial nosing gives way to cinnamon toasted brioche, leather, and more than a hint of maraschino cherry. A really huge hit of oak follows, somewhat vinous with it - we were reminded of a barrique aged chardonnay. There's something slightly medicinal lurking somewhere - a hint of iodine perhaps? It's definitely not out of place amongst the other huge aromas given off by this whiskey though. A slight suggestion of coconut right at the tail end.

Palate: An initial astringency is surprising after the sweetness of the nose, but it soon becomes clear what the game is here, as under-ripe banana that arrived first is elbowed out of the way by its caramelized, almost barbequed banana.

Finish: As the complexity continues to build, we get hints of cola nut, and a touch of hazelnut latte. The spiciness continues right to the end, and the finish seems to go on for ever.

Overall: We've had a lot of ryes over the years at Master of Malt, but this is a different beastie entirely. We wouldn't go as far as to call this whiskey austere, but it's definitely a grown-up dram. If you've not had the pleasure of sampling an American whiskey of this age this is a very, very good place to start.

Sazerac Rye 18 Years Old (fall 2009 edition) is available now from Master of Malt priced at GBP89.95, and for a limited time only Master of Malt are giving away a free 5cl miniature of Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon with every bottle sold.

About Master of Malt

Established in 1985, Master of Malt has a proud heritage of over 25 years in whisky retail. They are one of the UK's leading online whisky (http://www.masterofmalt.com/) merchants, and one of the most highly rated independent bottlers, all of whose single cask whiskies scored over 90 points in the Jim Murray Whisky Bible 2009.

Sazerac Rye (http://www.masterofmalt.com/whiskies/sazerac-straight-rye-18-year-old-whiskey-fall-2009/)18 Years Old (fall 2009 edition) is available now from Master of Malt priced at GBP89.95, and for a limited time only will come with a free 5cl miniature of Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon.

For further information please visit http://www.masterofmalt.com and for the latest news about Master of Malt http://twitter.com/masterofmalt.

SOURCE Master of Malt

Forget the chocolate this Holiday Season and give your loved ones something they can be proud of - beautiful, younger-appearing skin - with Dermagenics® Physician-Formulated Anti-Wrinkle Moisturizer. Women and men will love the ultimate youthful appearance made possible with an all-in-one cream for the face, eyes and neck combined.

Dermagenics Ultra-Intensive Anti-Wrinkle Beauty Moisturizer is gentle enough for under the eyes, yet powerful enough for the face and neck, thereby ridding the need for multiple creams and serums for different skin sites. Designed for day and night use, it contains powerful natural ingredients and the latest patented anti-aging discoveries.

Dermagenics was recently rated one of the top five anti-wrinkle creams on the market by a scientifically based, independent skin-care organization. New Beauty Magazine described Dermagenics as "just one of those rare finds whose praises ought to be sung." Dermagenics is the perfect gift for busy executives, travelers, and moms alike who all would welcome a streamlined, convenient skin-care product that effectively replaces costly, complicated skin-care regiments.

To keep the skin safe, the physician-formulated Anti-Wrinkle Dermagenics Moisturizer contains no potentially harmful chemicals commonly found in other skin creams, such as alpha hydroxys and glycolic acid. Like many doctors, the FDA has expressed concern that alpha hydroxy acids can actually make your skin more susceptible to sun damage, which is known to cause wrinkles and even skin cancer. Other harmful ingredients left out include formaldehyde, toxic alcohol, harmful oils, waxes, nylons, allergenic fragrances and artificial dyes.

Physician-formulated, Dermagenics Anti-Wrinkle Beauty Moisturizer is one of the safest, most convenient, and powerfully effective anti-aging and moisturizers for the face, eyes and neck. And because many people have busy schedules, it is a perfect gift because it is one cream that does the job of multiple products, suitable for day and night use for all skin types.

Dermagenics can be purchased on the Internet at www.dermagenics.BIZ or by calling the toll-free number 1-877-754-6289.

Dermagenics is distributed by Universal Skin Technologies, LLC, 15332 Antioch St., #446, Pacific Palisades, CA. 90272.

SOURCE UST

 

Alberta companies delivering new products to the health & medical marketplace

    Alberta Centre for Advanced Micro Nano Technology Products (ACAMP) hosts
    health & medical seminar

EDMONTON, Dec. 4 /PRNewswire/ - Today ACAMP hosted a health & medical seminar, explaining how technologies like nanotechnology, biomaterials and microfluidics can play a powerful role in the creation of innovative healthcare products that help promote health and improve the quality, cost and outcomes of patient care, while opening new markets for Alberta companies worldwide.

"Nanotechnology is a platform for innovation in health, and many other industries, and ACAMP offers both technical and business services to move those innovations into the marketplace," said Doug Horner, Minister of Alberta Advanced Education and Technology. "Our government helped to build an accomplished biomedical research community in Alberta, and our renewed innovation system will lead to more biomedical breakthroughs, like Acticoat's silver treated bandages."

"Alberta is well known for innovative conventional energy applications, similarly, substantial investments in the development of health and medical applications have made the province a world leader in a host of medical applications," said Ken Brizel, CEO of ACAMP. "Innovative new products and services for improving the quality of health care within the region and worldwide will expand Alberta's economy."

In addition to health and medical technology solutions, the seminar features discussions by venture capitalists on moving ideas from the laboratory to the marketplace and the various ways to secure investment for entrepreneurs and start-up companies. Future ACAMP seminars will cover MNT (Micro Nano Technologies) for the conventional energy, agriculture & forestry industries and clean technologies. For complete information on the programs go to www.acamp.ca for details.

ACAMP is a not for profit organization that provides specialized technical and business services. ACAMP clients have access to world-class equipment, facilities, expertise and a network of organizations to support the development and manufacturing of micro and nanotechnology based systems and advanced materials for applications worldwide. ACAMP's funding comes from Alberta Advanced Education & Technology, Western Economic Diversification Canada and Industry. Funding for the ACAMP seminar series is provided by the National Research Council's Industrial Research Assistance Program.

SOURCE ACAMP

Verizon Wireless has activated a new cell site in Oshkosh that expands network coverage, enabling more customers in the area to use their wireless phones concurrently to make calls; send and receive email and text, picture and video messages; access the Internet; view high-quality videos; and download music, games and ringtones, while enjoying clearer reception and fewer dropped calls.

The new cell site, which is equipped with a permanent backup generator for times of emergency, expands Verizon Wireless' voice and data network in Oshkosh and the surrounding area from State Highway 21 south to 9th Avenue, and from U.S. Highway 41 east to Ohio St.

"This network expansion reflects our ongoing commitment to meet the growing needs of our customers and to provide them with the reliable, high-quality service they expect from Verizon Wireless," said T.J. Fox, president-Wisconsin/Illinois Region, Verizon Wireless.

"The value we offer our customers is closely tied to our industry-leading customer retention," Fox said. "Wireless consumers today understand that value is not defined by price alone. A major reason our customers choose Verizon Wireless and stay with us is because we offer the nation's most reliable network."

The new cell site in Oshkosh is part of Verizon Wireless' continual effort to expand coverage, increase capacity and enhance the quality of its wireless voice and data network in Wisconsin and throughout the country. Verizon Wireless has invested more than $50 billion since it was formed--$5.5 billion on average every year--to increase the coverage and capacity of its premier nationwide network and to add new services. More than $277.4 million of this investment has been spent in Wisconsin, including more than $79.5 million in the past 18 months.

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable and largest wireless voice and 3G data network, serving 89 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 85,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ) and Vodafone (Nasdaq and LSE: VOD). For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

SOURCE Verizon Wireless

Gaming industry leader IGT (NYSE: IGT) has installed its new Sex and the City(TM) Multi-Level Progressives in nine Nevada casinos, with more installs on the way. Focused on delivering superior player entertainment and boosting operator revenues, IGT has developed a well-branded and truly fun experience in Sex and the City(TM) slots. The Sex and the City® brand was officially licensed by HBO Licensing & Retail.

Sex and the City(TM) Multi-Level Progressives feature IGT's innovative and top-performing MultiPLAY game interface. Sex and the City(TM) slots are the first MegaJackpots® product to offer IGT's exclusive MultiPLAY functionality. MultiPLAY gives players the option of playing the game up to four times, simultaneously, with different outcomes on the same machine. MultiPLAY means more ways to win.

Sex and the City(TM) Multi-Level Progressives also offer a chance at five progressives and four interactive bonus games. With each bonus game, players will get to watch their favorite video clips from the HBO® series. Plus, Mr. Big (played by Chris Noth) himself talks players through the bonus games, cheers them on and congratulates them on their wins - "Hey kid, that was well done." Players will also be immersed in the sounds of Sex and the City with IGT's new MEGAfx Surround Chair.

"We are excited about our partnership with IGT on the Sex and the City(TM) slot machine," said James Costos, vice president, HBO Licensing & Retail. "We worked closely with them to ensure the game is true to the Sex and the City brand and are thrilled with the final product. We're sure fans of the show will be too."

Fans and players can find Sex and the City(TM) Multi-Level Progressives at the Bellagio, Caesars Palace, Hard Rock, MGM Grand, Palms, Planet Hollywood, the South Point and The Venetian. They can also find it at the Atlantis in Reno, Nev.

"We knew this game was a winner from the start," IGT Vice President of MegaJackpots® Tom Mikulich said. "Our game development team made sure the slot was absolutely true to the Sex and the City brand - right down to the shoes and cosmos. And simply put, this game is fun. Players are going to love it, and our customers will, too."

International Game Technology (www.IGT.com) is a global company specializing in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution, and sales of computerized gaming machines and network systems products.

HBO Licensing & Retail officially licenses the HBO® brand for the development and merchandising of innovative product lines inspired by the network's award-winning programming. With products created around classic series like Sex and the City® to current hits like True Blood®, Entourage® and Flight of the Conchords(SM), items including fashion apparel, jewelry, digital and CD soundtracks, books as well as exclusive, premium collections in partnership with upscale, designer brands are reflective of the popularity and originality of the programs and their mass appeal. Merchandise can be purchased in retail stores, at http://store.hbo.com, and at the groundbreaking HBO retail hub, the HBO Shop®, located at 42nd and 6th Avenue in New York City. HBO Licensing & Retail products are also sold internationally across Europe, Asia and Australia.

Official HBO Licensed Product. © 2009 Home Box Office, Inc. All Rights Reserved. HBO and related service marks and trademarks are the property of Home Box Office, Inc.

SOURCE IGT

Tickets.com--a leading global provider of integrated, high-performance ticketing solutions--has added its proprietary mobile platform ProVenueMobile(TM) to the Tulsa Performing Arts Center (TPAC). TPAC's decision to offer ProVenueMobile differentiates them by allowing patrons to complete a ticket transaction on any Internet enabled mobile phone with the option of Tickets@Phone® delivery. TPAC patrons can utilize ProVenueMobile to purchase tickets for Legally Blonde--The Musical; on-sale December 7, 2009.

ProVenueMobile(TM) allows full-circle ticket purchases to be made 24/7 from any Internet-enabled mobile phone, directly through a client's branded, mobilized website. The mobile platform set a new standard in the ticketing industry in early 2009 by being the first technology to allow real-time ticket transactions from a mobile phone that also offers Tickets@Phone; the delivery of a digital, bar-coded ticket via MMS or picture message.

"Mobile ticketing has arrived and we are delighted to be one of the first organizations to offer the user-friendly ProVenueMobile to our customers," said John Scott, director, TPAC.

TPAC presents outstanding cultural events and performances spotlighting artists--ranging from international stars to local favorites--touring shows, arts organizations, and community-based programming. In addition to Legally Blonde, other shows on sale include The Nutcracker, performed by the Tulsa Ballet, David Sedaris' The Santaland Diaries and Tony Award winner August: Osage County.

"We're thrilled that TPAC has embraced ProVenueMobile," said Larry Witherspoon, chief executive officer, Tickets.com. "It's so gratifying to work with clients that integrate new technologies into their ticketing services portfolio."

Tickets can also be purchased through the venue's website (http:www.tulsapac.com) or box office.

The national U.S. touring company of Legally Blonde runs January 5 - 10, 2010 at TPAC's Chapman Music Hall, the largest of the Tulsa, OK-based Center's four theaters.

About Tickets.com

Tickets.com is a leading provider of fully integrated event ticketing technologies, solutions, and services for thousands of top arts, entertainment, and sports organizations worldwide. Delivering the latest in ticketing technology, Tickets.com offers the advanced ProVenue® ticketing platform, which serves the core of a comprehensive web-based suite of integrated features, products, and services that help clients enhance ticket sales, marketing efforts, and overall customer experience. A privately held subsidiary of MLB Advanced Media, LP, since 2005, Tickets.com is headquartered in Costa Mesa, CA, and has regional offices across the U.S. and around the world. The company also sells tickets directly to consumers at www.tickets.com.


Media Contacts:
Chaeli Walker
Tickets.com
Tel (714) 327-5492
cwalker@tickets.com

SOURCE Tickets.com

Guidepoint Global, LLC, a leading primary research firm, today announced the launch of their Sleep Apnea Tracker, a monthly longitudinal data release that monitors and projects trends and market share in the worldwide Sleep Apnea market.

The Sleep Apnea Tracker captures actual patient usage for 87 different Sleep Apnea mask brands sold in the United States from 15 different equipment providers going back to January 2006. In the most recent dataset, over 46,000 Full Face Masks, Nasal Masks and Nasal Pillows/Prongs are captured, representing approximately 10% of the total market for Sleep Apnea masks. As a sign of the Tracker's historical accuracy and predictive utility, when Resmed Corporation (RMD) reported its results for the quarter ended September 30, 2009, it reported sequential quarterly growth in worldwide mask sales of 3.6% and year-over-year growth within North America of 23%. Over the same period, Guidepoint's Sleep Apnea Tracker mask data suggested 5.5% sequential growth and 19.3% growth year-over-year. The Sleep Apnea Tracker is available to subscribers through Guidepoint's online client portal, where current and historical data can be downloaded into users' proprietary models.

"Historically, Sleep Apnea has been a challenging area to follow, and anecdotal evidence of the state of the market was all people could rely on," said Maxim Jacobs, Senior Analyst at Guidepoint Global. "Guidepoint's new Sleep Apnea Tracker will provide followers of the Sleep Apnea market a more systematic way to analyze the area, and supply them with almost 4 years of historical data with which to extract lessons on the trajectory of new product launches within the market."

Guidepoint's Sleep Apnea Tracker will be its 27th Tracker, a collection of novel research products that monitor trends and market share in select medical technology and therapeutic industries. Information about the full suite of Trackers, covering areas including Cardiovascular Devices, Aesthetics, Ophthalmology, Dentistry, Therapeutics, Orthopedics and Hospital-based Capital Equipment, is available at http://www.guidepointglobal.com.

About Guidepoint Global, LLC

Guidepoint Global is a leading primary research firm founded in 2003 providing customized information solutions in the Healthcare, Technology, Media, Telecommunications, Energy, Industrials, Consumer Goods & Services, and Financial Services sectors. Clients include some of the world's leading private equity firms, mutual funds, hedge funds, strategy consultancies and multinational companies. Through phone consultations, face-to-face meetings, custom surveys, and proprietary data products, coupled with an industry-leading compliance platform, Guidepoint provides its clients with the insight required to make informed decisions.

SOURCE Guidepoint Global, LLC

Subaru of America, Inc. today announced pricing on the 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Special Edition model at $32,995 plus $695 D&D. The new model is priced $2,000 lower than the base price of the 2010 WRX STI and will be limited in production. The vehicle features an upgraded performance suspension from the Japanese domestic market WRX STI spec C and spec C wheels.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080325/SUBARULOGO )

The 2010 WRX STI Special Edition is aimed at the driving enthusiast who is willing to trade a few amenities to gain an extra measure of handling performance over the already extraordinary WRX STI. Suspension for the new version of this high-performance machine is adopted from the Japanese domestic market WRX STI spec C model, which adds a 1-millimeter thicker rear stabilizer bar, stiffer rear sub-frame bushings plus upgraded springs. The front springs are 16-percent stiffer, while the rear springs have been stiffened by 29-percent.

Available in early spring, only 125 units of the 2010 WRX STI Special Edition will be painted in exclusive Aspen White. The WRX STI Special Edition will also be available in Obsidian Black Pearl, WR Blue Mica and Dark Gray Metallic colors. All models will be set off by the charcoal-colored 18 x 8.5 in. 14-spoke alloy wheels from the JDM WRX STI spec C.

The WRX STI Special Edition was developed by Subaru Tecnica International, the high-performance and motorsports subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. Compared with the standard 2010 WRX STI, the WRX STI Special Edition features halogen rather than HID headlights; a single-disc CD player / 4-speaker audio system instead of the 6-CD / 10-speaker system; manual air conditioning in place of automatic climate control, and side mirrors without integrated signals.

All other aspects of the WRX STI Special Edition remain as on the standard model, including the 305-horsepower / 290 lb.-ft. 2.5-liter intercooled, turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine, 6-speed manual transmission and a high level of driver-selectable powertrain- and dynamic handling-control systems. The car's bulged fenders and rear quarter panels, rear gate-mounted spoiler and aerodynamic ground effects give the WRX STI a direct link to Subaru competition cars. The hood scoop, brake-cooling air intakes and engine heat outlets are all functional.

The Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which remains exclusive to the Impreza WRX STI, offers three selectable automatic performance modes in addition to six manual center differential locking settings. The WRX STI is in addition equipped with limited-slip front and rear differentials. The Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system features three driver-selectable positions. On all WRX STI models, the 18-in. wheels are fitted with Dunlop SP600 245/40R18 Summer performance tires.

The Brembo Performance Brake System employs ventilated 4-wheel Super Sport anti-lock (ABS) disc brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). Side-curtain airbags and front seat side airbags are standard. The Incline Start Assist feature can momentarily prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when being driven away from a stop on an incline.

About Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru boasts the most fuel efficient line-up of all-wheel drive products sold in the market today based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero- landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For additional information visit www.subaru.com.


Contact:
Heather Ward
Subaru of America, Inc.
856-488-5093
hward@subaru.com

Michael McHale
Subaru of America, Inc.
856-488-3326
mmchale@subaru.com

SOURCE Subaru of America, Inc.

Already known for its entertaining and educational articles, videos and quizzes, HowStuffWorks.com today announced that the Stuff to Rattle Your Brain App is available for free from the App Store.

The app enables iPhone or iPod touch users to tune in instead of zone out while passing time. With just a shake of the device, players select from "20 Random Questions," "Keep Going 'til I'm Wrong" or "Practice, Practice, Practice." Players can then choose from over a dozen categories, covering everything from sports trivia to geography, all drawn from HowStuffWorks.com's award-winning content.

"The Stuff to Rattle Your Brain App is the first of several seriously smart apps we are developing as part of our broader mobile strategy to help people engage their minds in a fun, offbeat way while using their beloved iPhone or iPod touch," said Kathryn Kelly, VP of Media and Marketing for HowStuffWorks.com. "Our popular podcasts already offer compelling and enlightening programming to users' devices. We are delivering an app that will entertain consumers while fulfilling our mission to make everyone just a little bit smarter."

Building on the success of the site's highly popular podcasts, which include "Stuff You Should Know" and "Stuff You Missed in History Class," HowStuffWorks.com is entering the mobile realm with interactive trivia. The Stuff to Rattle Your Brain App was developed through a partnership with CUBiC Digital, a company that designs, develops and delivers mobile content and applications.

A few samples for curious consumers include:

* It's true that only Thanksgiving surpasses Super Bowl Sunday for one-day food consumption in America. Find out more in: How the Super Bowl Works

* It's true that a blue whale's heart is the size of a small car and its tongue could hold 50 people. Find out more in: How Whales Work

* It's false that we add more bones as we get older. Find out more in: 16 Unusual Facts About the Human Body

If a player answers incorrectly, they can tap the innovative Multi-Touch user interface to "Find Out More," and be instantly connected to the HowStuffWorks.com article that answers the question. Competitive types can also see how their scores match up to other players in real time.

The Stuff to Rattle Your Brain App is available for free from the App Store on iPhone and iPod touch or at www.itunes.com/appstore/

Consumers also can access HowStuffWorks.com content through its new dedicated mobile site, which features top lists, blogs and quizzes on a variety of topics including electronics, auto, science, adventure, and health and beauty.

About HowStuffWorks.com

HowStuffWorks.com is an award-winning online resource that provides credible and easy-to-understand information and explanations for thousands of topics. The site has been recognized with multiple Webby Awards and has been prestigiously designated among Time Magazine's "25 Web Sites We Can't Live Without" and PC Magazine's "Top 100 Web Sites." In 2007, HowStuffWorks.com was acquired by Discovery Communications ( DISCA, DISCB, DISCK).

SOURCE HowStuffWorks.com

LivingSocial, the social media developer behind top Facebook application "Visual Bookshelf" and its flagship application "LivingSocial," today announced the "12 Days of Gifting," a holiday gift buying program that will feature significant savings at participating spas, restaurants, sports, and more in major cities across the U.S. through December 20. In the spirit of giving, LivingSocial will make a charitable donation from a portion of the proceeds to local non-profits that are doing great work in the communities LivingSocial Deals serves.

The "12 Days of Gifting" offers LivingSocial's community of more than 80 million people the opportunity to save 50% off or more each day on gifts for friends, family and co-workers in Washington D.C., Boston, Atlanta, and Seattle. Through the power of group buying, LivingSocial Deals works with local merchants in each city to save people thousands of dollars every day. One offer per day is announced every morning and is spread virally through Facebook, Twitter, and email. Vouchers are activated as soon as the sign-up quota for each offer is met and users have to 'beat the clock,' as the offer is only good for 24 hours.

"12 Days of Gifting" are available weekdays December 3-20, 2009; examples include:

  • For DC sweet-tooths: $25 cupcakes at Red Velvet Cupcakery ($50 value)
  • For Seattle sushi lovers: $25 credit to Shiku Sushi in Seattle ($50 value)
  • For ATL golfers: $60 Keith Jones Golf Swing Analysis in Atlanta ($165 value)
  • For Boston chocoholics: $25 chocolates at Hotel Chocolat ($50 Value)

"LivingSocial Deals has already saved people hundreds of thousands of dollars, so we are confident the 12 Days of Gifting will provide thoughtful ideas at great prices for holiday shoppers while benefitting local charities," said Tim O'Shaughnessy, CEO and Co-founder of LivingSocial. "While shoppers gain access to luxurious gifts at affordable prices, merchants also benefit from the program, by securing revenue and foot traffic through 2010."

LivingSocial Deals has grown rapidly since its launch in August 2009, expanding from Washington, D.C., New York City, and Boston to Atlanta, and Seattle, with more cities rolling out in coming weeks. For more information or to sign up for deals in your city, go to http://deals.livingsocial.com.

About LivingSocial

LivingSocial is an online community that connects 80 million people to all the things they care about. As the creator of top Facebook applications "Visual Bookshelf" and its flagship "LivingSocial," it's the most comprehensive place on the web for people to engage with others around topics like entertainment, food, fashion, technology and more. LivingSocial also powers group buying through Deals, its new social commerce program which invites people and their friends to save 50% off or more each day at their favorite restaurants, spas, sporting events, hotels and other local attractions in major cities. The company is headquartered in Washington, D.C. To start sharing your favorite things, or to find out more information about LivingSocial, visit www.livingsocial.com. You can also follow LivingSocial on Twitter at www.twitter.com/livingsocial.

SOURCE LivingSocial

Devotees of LaMar's Donuts can now place advance orders, download Internet-only coupons, and view a behind-the-scenes photo gallery of how LaMar's treats are made by hand, thanks to a brand-new Web site at www.LaMars.com.

Developed by Denver-based Vanguard Communications, LaMar's public relations and Web marketing firm since 2000, the new site offers increased user-friendly and practical features such as a faxable order form for each LaMar's location and an interactive map for navigating to the closest LaMar's in any of six states.

And for a mouthwatering experience, site visitors can experience virtual donut making through an interactive gallery of some two-dozen photographs.

"The online experience will almost convince you that you're enjoying the aroma of hot, fresh donuts coming straight out of the kitchen," said Jami Blair, LaMar's Marketing Director. "Even if you enjoy a fresh LaMar's Donut nearly every day, this Web site will likely have you salivating for your next one."

In the nearly 50 years since the first LaMar's opened in Kansas City, LaMar's Donuts have become one of the most critically acclaimed donuts in the nation. Here is how the Rocky Mountain News described the experience: "Bite into a barely fried LaMar's glazed raised and the light-golden exterior collapses into a creamy pleasure. Just enough chewing is involved to make this a superior doughnut."

About LaMar's Donuts

Founded in 1960 by Ray Lamar in Kansas City, the first LaMar's Donuts grew to national fame in part due to the long lines of customers that formed every morning at its door, as well as TV appearances by Ray Lamar and his gourmet donuts on NBC's The Tonight Show and on The Food Network, among other productions. Since franchises became available in the 1990s, LaMar's Donuts has grown to 27 locations in six states: Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska. LaMar's Donuts have been recommended by Zagat's Survey, the New Yorker and Gourmet Magazine, and were chosen in the summer of 2008 as one of America's five best donuts by AOL Cityguide. More information is at www.lamars.com.

SOURCE LaMar's Donuts

The United States Mint will officially launch the commemorative quarter for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CMNI), in Garapan, Saipan, at 9:30 a.m. (local time) December 10, 2009. After the ceremony United States Mint Deputy Director Andy Brunhart, Governor Benigno R. Fitial, First Lady Josie Fitial and Lt. Governor Eloy Enos will present a new Northern Mariana Islands quarter to more than 1,000 children in attendance who are 18 years old or younger. In addition, the public also may exchange their currency for $10 rolls of Northern Mariana Islands quarters.

The Northern Mariana Islands quarter was released into circulation November 30, 2009. It is the sixth -- and final -- coin in the United States Mint 2009 District of Columbia and U.S. Territories Quarters Program. The coin's reverse design is by United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Phebe Hemphill. The design includes a large limestone latte, the supporting column of ancient indigenous Chamorro structures; a canoe of the indigenous Carolinians representing the people's seafaring skills across vast distances; and two white fairy tern birds flying overhead. A Carolinian mwar (head lei) -- symbolic of the virtues of honor and respect -- borders the bottom of the design near the inscription, NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS.

NOTE: On the eve of the launch, Wednesday, December 9, 2009, the public and news media are invited to a Public Coin Forum at the American Memorial Park Visitor's Center, where they can learn about new United States Mint coin programs and ask questions about the future of U.S. coinage.

For a digital image of the Northern Mariana Islands quarter, go to:

http://www.usmint.gov/pressroom/?action=Photo#2009DCTerri


WHAT:
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Quarter Launch and Coin Exchange
Coin Collectors Forum Hosted by Deputy Director Andy Brunhart

WHO:
United States Mint Deputy Director Andy Brunhart
Governor Benigno R. Fitial
First Lady Josie Fitial
Lt. Govenor Eloy Inos
CNMI Quarter Commission member Catherine Perry Anderson, Mistress of
 Ceremonies

WHEN:
Launch Ceremony:  Thursday, December 10, 2009, at 9:30 a.m. (GMT +10)
Collectors Forum:  Wednesday, December 9, 2009, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
 (GMT +10)

WHERE:
Launch Ceremony:  American Memorial Park Amphitheater, Beach Road,
 Garapan, Saipan
Collectors Forum:  American Memorial Park Visitor's Center, Beach
 Road, Garapan, Saipan

SOURCE United States Mint

Salsarita's Fresh Cantina, one of the nation's fastest growing, fast-casual Mexican restaurant chains, is celebrating December with a special "Spin the Wheel" promotion at the Ballantyne Quad location on 14021 Conlan Circle in Charlotte. Guests are encouraged to bring in any valid coupon and trade it in for a chance to spin the wheel to win a menu discount.

"During the holidays consumers are inundated with coupons they don't use or need. Salsarita's is offering our Ballantyne customers a chance to trade any coupon in at checkout for a chance to win a free menu item or discount," said Patricia Morris, brand manager, Salsarita's Fresh Cantina. "You can bring in a coupon for an oil change, dry cleaning or even another restaurant as long as it is valid."

The promotion is being tested at this single corporate location for the month of December and if successful, will be rolled out to franchisees nationwide in 2010. Prizes include various discounts off entree menu items, a complimentary meal or a free cookie. Guests landing on the grand prize spot will be entered into a weekly drawing in which they'll have the chance to win a year's supply of free burritos. Typically, in-store promotions are piloted at selected corporate locations and then expanded systemwide based on the campaigns' effectiveness.

"Many chains discourage couponing, which we feel is counter intuitive for our fast casual offering since customers are seeking ways to save on restaurant meals now more than ever," said Paul Mangiamele, president and CEO, Salsarita's Fresh Cantina. "Ultimately, we want our customers to become lifetime guests and this unique promotion is focused on delivering value, while exposing our guests to our legendary food and hospitality."

Salsarita's specializes in serving made-to-order burritos, tacos, tortilla pizzas and taco salads. Prepared fresh-daily in each restaurant, guests can enjoy high-quality dishes featuring ground beef, grilled chicken, grilled steak, or pork, grilled shrimp and fresh vegetables. Salsarita's also offers a choice of 13 delicious fillings and four homemade salsas. Every order is prepared in full view of customers in a 700-square-foot display kitchen with a contemporary Hispanic motif.

With new locations opening across the country, Salsarita's is one of the leading fast-casual fresh-Mexican restaurants in the United States, and is quickly gaining brand recognition and a reputation for quality and legendary hospitality.

"In today's tough economy, we thought this would be a unique and fun way to offer our loyal guests a price break over the holiday season," said Morris. "We invite family and friends to stop in and take advantage of the promotion and enjoy our delicious Fresh-Mexican fare."

Salsarita's is currently looking for qualified candidates with food service, operations or real estate experience to join its team as area representatives, area developers or single-unit franchisees. The estimated initial investment for a traditional restaurant is between $296,700 and $577,100 depending on the real estate selection ranging from 2,200 to 2,700 square-feet, which includes a $25,000 franchise fee. The company's comprehensive training and support program includes a three-week Burrito Boot Camp at the corporate headquarters, pre- and post-grand opening on-site support and ongoing business coaching.

About Salsarita's Fresh Cantina

Founded in 2000, Salsarita's Fresh Cantina is one of the fastest-growing Mexican fast-casual Mexican restaurant chains, recognized for its people, food and world-class hospitality. Customers can create delicious made-to-order meals from a flavorful Mexican menu that offers burritos, tacos, quesadillas, nachos, tortilla-crusted pizzas and salads with a wide selection of meats, fresh vegetables and homemade salsas in lively, family-friendly environment. The company is currently closing in on its first hundred restaurants with the goal of opening 200 restaurants by the end of 2012. For general information, please visit www.salsaritas.com or call 704-540-9447. For franchising information, please visit http://www.salsaritasfranchising.com or call 866.61SALSA.


Media Contact
Jenna Kantrowitz
Fish Consulting
646-454-9708
jkantrowitz@fish-consulting.com

SOURCE Salsarita's Fresh Cantina

Conformity Inc., provider of the first enterprise-class management and governance solution for SaaS and cloud applications, and TriCipher, a leading provider of Internet Identity solutions, today announced the integration of the Conformity solution with TriCipher's myOneLogin Secure Single Sign-on (SSO) authentication service. With the integration, the Conformity solution will provide automated user provisioning for myOneLogin including user account provisioning and management with enforcement of policy-based SaaS access rights. The integration will also incorporate myOneLogin user authentication information into Conformity's advanced analytics and compliance reporting, and provide single sign-on to the Conformity solution.

myOneLogin Secure Single Sign-on is an on-demand service combining strong authentication, single sign-on and federation. Through the integration with Conformity, joint customers benefit from comprehensive and secure SaaS identity management, with automated provisioning and tracking of user attributes. The joint solution mitigates data security and compliance risks associated with managing multi-SaaS environments, delivering:

  • Comprehensive SSO and authentication support for all SaaS applications, including stronger security models such as two factor authentication.
  • Integrated access and authorization management across the employee lifecycle.
  • Alignment of SaaS authentication and permissions with Microsoft Active Directory.
  • Comprehensive access, utilization and compliance reporting.

"The integrated capabilities of the Conformity and TriCipher solutions provide a compelling opportunity for organizations seeking to comprehensively manage SaaS user access, authentication and authorizations," said Doug Harr, CIO at Ingres. "For the first time, joint customers will be able to ensure employee access, authentication and authorizations for SaaS and cloud applications are seamlessly managed across the employee lifecycle."

The Conformity platform provides templates, tools and workflow needed to manage all cloud applications in a customer's environment. Conformity also provides additional analytics, reporting, and provisioning automation through integrations with Salesforce.com, Google Apps, NetSuite, OpenAir, QuickArrow, Xactly, ADP and now myOneLogin. Please check the Conformity website at www.conformity-inc.com for the most current list of integrated applications.

About Conformity

Conformity is the provider of the first enterprise-class management and governance platform for cloud applications. Conformity enables organizations to centrally manage on-demand applications, users and data, reducing security and compliance risks and operational costs associated with SaaS and cloud applications. For more information about Conformity, please visit www.conformity-inc.com or call 512-682-8200.

About TriCipher

TriCipher, Inc. provides Internet identity services to protect web and enterprise portals, the people that use them and the business processes that flow through them against fraud and identity theft. TriCipher myOneLogin(TM) is the first secure, on-demand offering that delivers strong authentication, single sign-on (SSO) and federation capabilities for web applications in a single solution. The TriCipher Armored Credential System(TM) (TACS) is a unified authentication system that enables companies to deploy and manage multiple types of credentials from a single infrastructure. Through this flexible "Authentication Ladder," TriCipher protects customer investment by adjusting authentication strength to defeat new threats and to meet regulatory changes without the need to implement a new infrastructure. Founded in 2000, TriCipher is headquartered in Los Gatos, Calif. The company is funded by ArrowPath Venture Capital, EPIC Ventures, Intel Capital, RBC Technology Ventures, and Trident Capital.

SOURCE Conformity Inc.

BNA is pleased to announce new delivery options for e-mail updates included in its State Health Care Regulatory Developments report. Now, subscribers can customize State HealthRegToday e-mail alerts by topic, format, and frequency.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090105/56509LOGO)

"We're happy to offer BNA customers greater flexibility than ever," said Chuck Gibbons, managing editor. "Our subscribers can choose to receive information only on the topics that most affect them. They have HTML and plain text e-mail delivery options, and can choose a format that best suits a desktop or PDA. Customers can receive e-mail updates daily, weekly, biweekly, or monthly, according to their information needs."

BNA's State HealthRegToday report offers a complete, up-to-date summary of health care regulations promulgated by all 50 states and the District of Columbia, from proposal to enactment. BNA editors summarize state registers, notices, and other relevant information.

Each concise, detailed entry includes citations to the state administrative code, date of publication, hearing schedules, effective dates, comment deadlines, and names and telephone numbers of state regulatory contacts, with links to full text.

For more information, please contact Debra Kramer at 301-570-4234 or dkramer@bna.com.

BNA is a leading publisher of specialized information to legal, business, and government professionals. The company's print and electronic news, analysis, and reference services have provided extensive coverage of new developments for more than 80 years. Visit BNA at www.bna.com.

SOURCE BNA

KSINO, the premium apparel company announced today that it has signed exclusive celebrity spokesperson agreements with two of poker's hottest players -- Lacey Jones and Leo Margets. Both Jones and Margets are competitive players in the WSOP and have attained serious player status, gaining notoriety as much for their poker skills as for their physical beauty. KSINO is quickly gaining its own reputation as the clothing line for both men and women living and loving a fast-paced lifestyle. Their website offers exclusive videos that follow the exploding brand on their global travels, as well as a loyal following on their Facebook fan page. The brand has chosen to sign exclusive agreements with the two players who speak to that lifestyle.

"To say that I am thrilled to have Lacey and Leo as brand ambassadors is an understatement," said Alex That, President of KSINO. "They are two very beautiful women who are also very talented poker players. They turn heads at the tables not only for how they look, but for how they play," he continued. "That's what KSINO is about, playing great and looking hot while doing it."

"I really love being part of the KSINO family, it's about more than just great looking clothes, it's a fun lifestyle. It's my lifestyle," said Ksino brand ambassador, Lacey Jones.

"Estoy encantada de unirme a Ksino! me siento muy identificada con la marca, ahora puedo sentarme en la mesa con estilo y estando super comoda...I love it!! Ksino no es solo una marca de ropa, estan creando y redefiniendo el juego, es un estilo de vida!" said Leo Margets, Ksino brand ambassador who hails from Spain.

KSINO is quickly gaining its own reputation as the clothing line revolutionizing style at the tables and redefining the game.

KSINO clothing is now available at D.Fine at The Bellagio, The Men's Store at The Mirage and at KSINO.com.

About Lacey Jones

  • Lacey graced the cover of Bluff Magazine in their November 2008 issue. One of only 3 Bluff covers featuring women in their whole circulation history.
  • In 2009 she signed on with Absolute Poker.
  • Placed 3rd in WPS 2009.
  • 2009, Lacey hosted interviews at the 2009 WSOP for ESPN 360, wsop.com, Bluffmagazine.com and pkr.com. She even hosted the official kick off party for the 2009 World Series of Poker.

About Leo Margets

  • An avid runner, she discovered poker in 2005
  • In 2008 won the University Poker championship in her home town of Barcelona, as a result of her first win, 888.com offered her sponsorship for national events.
  • July 2009 on her first to Las Vegas and her first WSOP event she finished 27th out of 6500 players, landing the title of "Last Woman Standing"

About KSINO

With the explosive growth and enduring popularity of the poker and gaming phenomenon, the KSINO clothing brand was created to provide premium designer apparel to one of the world's most exciting lifestyles: the multi-billion dollar gaming industry. For those that appreciate, identify and live the fast-paced gaming lifestyle, you will love the look of the KSINO collection and the quality feel of each garment. KSINO's unique and innovative designs bring together style, cool comfort and a quest for excellence to your gaming world.

For further information or to request appearances for Jones and Margets on behalf of KSINO or for interviews with President Alex That, call Jules Feiler/The Pitching Staff at (917) 573 - 0562 or email Jules at Julesfeiler@aol.com.

SOURCE KSINO

Not that they ever went away... Braces hold up more than pants, they hold up tradition. Invented in 1822 to hold up high-waisted trousers, today's braces (also called suspenders in the United States) are worn by celebrities from Daniel Craig as James Bond to Michael Douglas as Gordon Gekko, and of course Larry King, as himself.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20091130/NY18332 )

The pinnacle of men's braces is considered by many (GQ, Esquire, and New York Times) to be Trafalgar's Limited Edition Hand Woven Silk Braces. These braces famously depict hobbies, avocations and notable events in a style reminiscent of Norman Rockwell's paintings, or vintage illustrations.

For example, Trafalgar Limited Edition Braces are available in a Skull & Crossbones pattern favored by sec