Commerce Under Secretary Rebecca Blank and NTIA Administrator Lawrence E. Strickling to Announce Broadband Internet Adoption Report Release
WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- U.S. Commerce Department Under Secretary for Economic Affairs Rebecca M. Blank and NTIA Assistant Secretary for Communications and Information Lawrence E. Strickling will participate in a teleconference to announce the release of a new report, "Exploring the Digital Nation: Home Broadband Internet Adoption in the United States. The report examines the well-documented gap in broadband Internet adoption across households and analyzes which factors are important in explaining some of the adoption gap.
WHO: Commerce Under Secretary for Economic Affairs Rebecca M. Blank
Commerce Assistant Secretary for Communications and Information Lawrence E. Strickling
WHEN: Monday, November 8th from 9:30 to 10:00 a.m. (EST)
Name Dynamics Inc to Change Ticker Symbol to NDIX From BBTC, Effective November 5, 2010
Follows Completion of Merger with BounceBackTechnologies.com
CHARLOTTE, N.C., Nov. 4, 2010/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Name Dynamics Inc, the company behind UniversalBusinessListing.org (UBL), announced today FINRA had approved the change of the company's stock ticker symbol to NDIX, effective November 5, 2010. This follows the completion of the merger of Name Dynamics with BounceBackTechnologies.com (Pink Sheets: BBTC) which will now be NDIX (Pink Sheets: NDIX).
Shareholders will not have to change their stock certificates; all current BounceBackTechnologies.com certificates will continue to be valid. The new CUSIP NUMBER for Name Dynamics Inc. is: 62987M 108.
Name Dynamics CEO Doyal Bryant said the change in ticker symbol was an important reflection of the company's new name and direction.
"Our company intends to show leadership in the field of online business identity management with the growth of UBL worldwide and with other key products that enhance and monitor online visibility and content," said Bryant. "It also fits our expansion into monitoring business reputation, such as mentions on social networks or blogs, and reviews or ratings. With recent changes like the ones made by Google Places, the tools and services we offer should become increasingly important to assist businesses to expand their online presence."
About Name Dynamics Inc
Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Name Dynamics Inc creates products that expand the scope of public identity for businesses and how they communicate it online across search engines, social networks, mobile phones, directory assistance and the next generation of online Yellow and White Pages. The company's branded product UniversalBusinessListing.org (http://www.UBL.org) has been recognized as one of the key tools for local search visibility. For more information, please visit us at http://www.NameDynamic.com or by calling 704-930-0302.
This news release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are indicated by words such as "expects," "intends," "anticipates," "believes" and similar expressions. Our ability to achieve the results anticipated in such forward-looking statements is subject to risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, our ability to successfully centralize and consolidate various support functions, in addition to general economic conditions, operating results, market acceptance of our solutions and other risks detailed from time to time in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements are made in accordance with "safe harbor" provided by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and no assurance can be given that the future results that are the subject of such forward-looking statements will be achieved. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.
SOURCE Name Dynamics Inc
Name Dynamics Inc
CONTACT: Chris Travers, info@ubl.org, +1-212-933-9865, or Eileen Pacheco, eileen@tango-group.com, +1-508-888-7478
Skyview Capital Portfolio Company Completes Strategic Acquisition
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Skyview Capital, LLC, a privately held investment firm headquartered in Beverly Hills, CA, announced today the successful acquisition of 3ple-Media, BV, by its portfolio company NewNet Communication Technologies, LLC. Headquartered in Schiphol-Rijk, the Netherlands, 3ple-Media is a leader in providing innovative multimedia messaging solutions to wireless carriers worldwide.
3ple-Media's award winning Mercury platform enables carriers to implement highly cost effective, media rich, campaigns such as live media broadcast, mobile advertising, streaming video and premium content subscription services. Optimized for multimedia messaging, Mercury delivers unsurpassed performance and scalability in a carrier grade platform, allowing carriers to capitalize on revenue generating multimedia opportunities.
Mercury's advanced service compilation layer supports rapid development of multimedia campaigns, such as mobile advertizing and streaming media services that enrich the subscriber's experience. Carriers are in full control of content creation and can launch highly effective campaigns supported by sophisticated platform services and analysis tools.
The acquisition of 3ple-Media and the Mercury platform represents a significant milestone in the evolution of NewNet's product portfolio and market focus. 3ple-Media's globally deployed employees will become part of NewNet's team, ensuring business and product development continuity.
NewNet's CEO, Ron Pyles, said, "The Mercury Multimedia platform has already had a positive impact on mobile operators in their quest for improved revenues, better multimedia services and faster delivery to subscribers. By efficiently harnessing the powerful combination of leading edge technology and commercial innovation, Mercury unlocks the multimedia opportunity for operators and enriches the subscriber's experience. NewNet is pleased to have the opportunity to make the Mercury platform and applications available to carriers, content providers and advertisers on a global basis."
"We are excited that NewNet has emerged to take the business we have built to its next stage through continued investment in the Mercury platform and aggressive marketing on a global basis," said Costi Manda, Managing Director, CTO and co-founder of 3ple-Media. "NewNet's industry presence and seasoned management team will enable the business to advance development plans and fully capitalize on the current demand for multimedia services."
"This has been an extremely active year for both Skyview Capital and NewNet Communication Technologies, with no signs of slowing down. The acquisition of 3ple-Media represents yet another Skyview cross-border European investment, and is the second significant acquisition in 2010 on behalf of NewNet. 3ple-Media's multimedia platform and leading edge technology is strategically important to the continued development of NewNet as a leading global telecom solutions provider," said Alex Soltani, Chairman and CEO of Skyview Capital. "We will continue to make needed investments to further expand NewNet's product portfolio, technology development, and market reach, positioning NewNet for exceptional future growth."
The effective date of the agreement was September 29th 2010. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
About 3ple-Media, BV
3ple-Media, a Multimedia R&D company, provides a revolutionary solution that enables mobile operators the ability to rapidly develop, deploy and analyze media rich applications to their subscribers. The high performance platform provides a new source of high revenue growth for mobile carriers. The end-to-end services ensure complete access to and delivery of all multimedia campaigns at optimal quality. 3ple-Media is headquartered in The Netherlands.
About NewNet Communication Technologies, LLC
Headquartered in Shelton, Connecticut, NewNet Communication Technologies, LLC is a recognized leader in text messaging and network signaling solutions for wireless, IP, and wireline networks. NewNet's robust, scalable telecom signaling platforms have enabled the rapid development and deployment of over four thousand carrier grade, revenue generating applications worldwide. NewNet, a pioneer in text messaging systems has deployed messaging platforms to mobile operators in over sixty countries. For nearly two decades, NewNet has been synonymous with signaling platform excellence and is a trusted name in SS7 signaling solutions. For more information, visit http://www.newnet.com.
About Skyview Capital, LLC
Skyview Capital, LLC, is a private investment firm headquartered in Beverly Hills, California, which specializes in the acquisition and management of "systems critical" businesses in the areas of technology, telecommunications, business services, and niche manufacturing. By leveraging its operational capabilities and financial strength, Skyview systematically enhances the long-term value of the companies it acquires. For more information, visit http://www.skyviewcapital.com.
SOURCE Skyview Capital, LLC
Skyview Capital, LLC
CONTACT: Sal Morlando, of NewNet Communication Technologies, LLC, +1-203-500-5388; or Jeffrey White of Skyview Capital, LLC, +1-310-273-6000
Hyper-local Leader Adds More News Coverage and Social Network Tools
CHICAGO, Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- The Chicago Tribune Media Group has re-launched its TribLocal website. Emphasizing its commitment to hyper-local news coverage, the new site features more real-time news and event coverage from a growing staff of reporters, community producers and citizen contributors.
The cleaner, more simplified site design incorporates social network functionality allowing users to share stories and provide comments. Event listings are more comprehensive and provide users with calendar sync options.
"There is tremendous demand for hyper-local news and event coverage in the suburbs. By combining the journalistic strengths of the Chicago Tribune with aggregated content from community users, TribLocal is the go-to source to stay engaged in your community," said Jane Jansen, general manager of TribLocal. "Our websites and newspapers help connect consumers, community groups and businesses in a simple and easy-to-use environment."
Content on TribLocal.com continues to be aggregated into a full color weekly newspaper that is home delivered on top of the Thursday Chicago Tribune. The print edition also features a new layout and design that complements this new site.
Residents, organizations, businesses and schools are encouraged to share their stories, photos and events on the new website.
About TribLocal
A product of Chicago Tribune Media Group, TribLocal is the go-to source of real-time relevant news and happenings in 87 suburban Chicagoland communities that helps readers make informed decisions and organize their life. TribLocal's Web sites and newspapers are a compilation of suburban stories, photos and events written by staff reporters, community producers and citizen contributors, along with news gathered from other media outlets, to offer the most comprehensive information in one spot. Launched in 2007, TribLocal provides a unique mix of professional and user-generated content online along with a weekly digest of local news printed in a Thursday newspaper.
Chicago Tribune Media Group is a media and business services company that publishes the Pulitzer Prize-winning Chicago Tribune. CTMG also produces related print and interactive media serving Chicagoland like RedEye, Hoy, Chicago Magazine, TribLocal, TheMash, chicagotribune.com, chicagonow.com and metromix.com. Reaching 4.8 million adults each week in the greater Chicago area, CTMG is the leading news and information destination in Chicagoland.
SOURCE Chicago Tribune Media Group
Chicago Tribune Media Group
CONTACT: Kate Mersman of Chicago Tribune Media Group, +1-312-222-3165, Kmersman@tribune.com
Campus MovieFest and Panasonic Announce the First National 3D Student Film Festival
The World's Largest Student Film Festival Offers 3D Movie-Making Opportunities Using the Latest Panasonic 3D Technology
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Campus MovieFest (CMF), the world's largest student film festival, and Panasonic have announced the launch of CMF 3D, Powered by Panasonic. The announcement was made at the Blu-Con 2010 conference in Beverly Hills by Shiro Kitajima, President of Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company, Jon Landau, Academy Award®-winning producer and CMF advisor, and David Roemer, Co-founder and CEO of Ideas United, which runs Campus MovieFest.
Campus MovieFest is the only event of its kind, giving hundreds of thousands of students across the world everything they need to create original short movies all for free. This year, CMF will tour more than 60 colleges and universities. During the events, over 75,000 students are equipped for a week with Panasonic HD cameras, Apple laptops, and all the training and support they need. Students see their movies on the big screen at red carpet finales on each campus, leading up to the CMF International Grand Finale in Hollywood in June 2011.
For the first time, CMF's top student filmmakers will now get hands-on access to the latest Panasonic 3D camcorders, including the Panasonic HDC-SDT750, during their filmmaking experiences. Students will be selected from the CMF Distinguished Filmmakers Network, comprised of award-winning students at CMF events nationwide who earn special opportunities and exposure. Students will focus on various themes for their movies, including a sports theme that will be showcased at Arnold Schwarzenegger's Sports Film Festival in March.
"We started Campus MovieFest as students ten years ago, and now 350,000 student participants later, we're celebrating the best CMF year yet by offering unforgettable movie-making opportunities for students everywhere," said David Roemer, Co-founder and CEO of Ideas United. "We're honored to launch CMF 3D, partnering with the worldwide leaders in 3D at Panasonic to empower our students to get their hands on the latest 3D innovations. We're also especially grateful for Jon's support as he continues to educate the next generation and revolutionize the industry, most recently having inspired our students to push nearly every boundary with AVATAR."
.
In June 2011, CMF will highlight the best movies - both made using Panasonic HD and 3D camcorders - from the 2010-2011 World Tour at its International Grand Finale, which will feature workshops, guest presenters, industry luminaries, and a gala awards ceremony. Students will receive Panasonic 3D prize packages for the best uses of 3D in their storytelling.
"Panasonic is proud to continue our relationship with Campus MovieFest, now with the launch of CMF 3D," said Shiro Kitajima, President of Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. "We are committed to engaging the next generation of filmmakers so they're prepared to deliver outstanding 3D content, and we can't wait to showcase the results on our 3D VIERA HDTVs."
Panasonic Corporation has been a leader in the creation of end-to-end standards and technologies to enable consumers to experience immersive Full HD 3D TV. For more than 15 years, Panasonic has maintained an R&D facility, Panasonic Hollywood Laboratory, in the Los Angeles area for the development of entertainment-related technologies and ongoing liaison with major studios for the development of the 3D Blu-ray Disc format.
Campus MovieFest (CMF), the world's largest student film festival and a premier outlet for the next generation of movie lovers, began ten years ago when four students at Emory University provided fellow students with everything they needed -- including Panasonic camcorders and Apple laptops -- to make movies in one week. Since then, more than 350,000 students have told their stories on the big screen, receiving all the necessary technology and training for free thanks to participating schools and corporate partners. Past winners have walked away with more than $2 million in prizes and seen their films at CMF events nationwide, at Cannes, at Paramount Studios, and on millions of smaller screens - including AT&T mobile devices, in-flight on Virgin America, and online.
About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company
Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company (PCEC), a market and technology leader in High Definition and 3D TV, is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth's natural resources and protect our environment through the company's Eco Ideas programs. Information about Panasonic products is available at http://www.panasonic.com. Additional company information for journalists is available at http://www.panasonic.com/pressroom.
ConnectWise Upgrades Developer Network Web Portal, New and Updated APIs for ISVs and Integrators
TAMPA, Fla., Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- ConnectWise , the leading business operating system designed exclusively for IT service providers, VARs and MSPs, today announced that the ConnectWise Developer Network website has been re-launched with several key enhancements aimed at facilitating additional partner interaction and collaboration for even better integration and utilization of the company's APIs. This announcement was made at the vendor integration meeting that was held during the highly anticipated ConnectWise event, IT Nation 2010, where over 30 integration partners gathered as sponsors of the year's ConnectWise Summit.
The new Developer Network site now provides a new documentation platform with the ability to comment or rate the documents, as well as private forums that enable partner and vendor integrators to share tips and best practices. The ConnectWise Developer Network features all the tools developers need to get started as part of the industry's foremost eco-system including a robust set of APIs, improved sample test program, documentation, and forums for self-service support.
Accessed by more than 300 organizations, ConnectWise APIs are freely available to partners and independent software vendors to allow them to deeply integrate ConnectWise business automation software into their own applications or websites. The API stack continues to grow with more integration points available through existing APIs and new APIs added, including System API, Purchasing API, Reporting API, Marketing API and Member API.
"ConnectWise has always promoted and enabled third-party integration with its industry-leading professional services automation software, allowing developers to connect to ConnectWise for the betterment of their users," said Arnie Bellini, ConnectWise CEO. "By updating, refreshing and making over our Developer Network site, we are providing easier access and enabling better implementation of our APIs for partners looking to enhance their businesses through complementary solutions that help deliver outstanding services and maintain operational efficiency."
Designed exclusively for the IT Channel, ConnectWise is the leading IT business software for service providers, MSPs, technology consultants, integrators, and developers. Today more than 43,000 IT professionals rely on ConnectWise PSA software to achieve greater accountability, operational efficiency and profitability. According to the 2010 MSPmentor 100 list, more than half of the top 100 IT-based managed serviced providers worldwide use ConnectWise. ConnectWise fully integrates CRM, sales, IT ticketing, project tracking, IT service management, SLAs, dispatch scheduling, mobile IT services, time and expenses into a singular IT management software to dramatically streamline IT companies. Over the last 28 years, ConnectWise has become the premier business operating system for IT solution providers. ConnectWise APIs are accessed by over 300 organizations, including ConnectWise partners and industry leaders of the IT Nation. For more information visit http://www.ConnectWise.com or call 800-671-6898.
All product and company names herein may be trademarks of their respective owners.
WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, Mobile Future, a non-profit and non-partisan wireless coalition, released a paper offering an overview of 10 key ways competition and choice are driving mobile innovation and making the case for the bipartisan policy framework that has long defined U.S. wireless policy.
Entitled "Mobile Momentum: How Consumer-Driven Competition Shapes & Defines the Modern U.S. Wireless Landscape," the paper examines how the U.S. mobile marketplace has been carefully nurtured through periods of Republican and Democratic leadership via policies that allow consumer choice and market competition to shape and direct wireless innovation. The paper points specifically to the 1993 bi-partisan, pro-innovation Congressional decision that embraced consumer choice over heavy regulation and triggered 10 seminal benchmarks that advance the U.S. mobile ecosystem to this day:
-- Most Diverse Carrier Choices
-- Lowest Mobile Voice Prices
-- Nearly 100% Adoption
-- Most Robust Network Investment
-- Rapidly Rising Mobile Connectivity
-- Accelerating Mobile Innovation
-- Most Competitive Device Market
-- Largest Apps Market
-- Customer-responsive Marketplace
-- Powerful Engine of Job Creation
"While elections are inevitably partisan, sound policy that stands the test of time often is not," said Mobile Future Chairman Jonathan Spalter. "As policymakers seek ways to encourage the next wave of mobile innovation for our society and our economy, we need to acknowledge the bipartisan path that got us this far. The rapid, awe-inspiring innovation and profound private-sector capital investment of the past two decades has been fueled by a centrist policy framework that showed rare restraint and clear deference to consumer choices in a competitive marketplace. That's a foundation to build on in the time ahead."
The report points to several key areas where policymakers can make a difference. The most pressing need is to free up more spectrum to accommodate growing demand. Other recommendations include carefully examining the diverse ways in which consumers embrace mobile connectivity to avoid imposing regulations that would stifle innovation and limit competition; considering policies that send clear pro- capital investment messages; and acknowledging the competitive nature of the U.S. mobile marketplace.
"This success didn't happen by accident," Spalter added. "Forward-looking policies led to an explosion in wireless growth, job creation, investment and innovation and policymakers today must be vigilant to ensure that policies going forward maintain a climate in which mobile technologies continue to evolve and deliver new services, products and opportunities to consumers."
Mobile Future is a broad-based coalition of businesses, non-profit organizations and individuals interested in, and dedicated to, advocating for an environment in which innovations in wireless technology and services are enabled and encouraged. Its mission is to educate the public and key decision makers on innovations in the wireless industry that have transformed the way Americans work and play, and to advocate continued investment in wireless technologies.
SOURCE Mobile Future
Mobile Future
CONTACT: Sally Aman, +1-202-262-8003, aman@a2pr.com, for Mobile Future
BillingTree's Growth Continues and Leadership Team Expands to Include Frank Helstab, Director of Corporate Development
Sidney Fingerhut tapped for ISO Manager role, customer acquisition exceeds quarterly forecast, PaynCash solution debuts, annual conference & golf tournament launched, and charities selected for 2010 Rock Block proceeds - JDRF® & ChildHelp®
PHOENIX, Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- BillingTree, Inc, one of the nation's leading on-demand payment processors, announced several third quarter milestones today. The company appointed Frank Helstab as Director of Corporate Development and Sidney Fingerhut as Independent Sales Organization Manager to expand the company's leadership team, following its continued customer growth. BillingTree added multiple new accounts to exceed its forecast for the third consecutive quarter in 2010.
Mr. Helstab's new position will focus on expanding the company's third-party marketing relationships while Mr. Fingerhut will build an outside sales and referral program to drive new vertical expansion.
Prior to joining BillingTree, Mr. Helstab held the role of Managing Director for the Institute of Corporate Planning & Finance. His experience includes serving as a professional lecturer and seminar leader since 1979, having spoken to top and middle management professionals in the Fortune 1000 companies. He has appeared as a guest speaker on financial network television programs, acted as a professional authority on radio talk shows, and has spoken to thousands of entrepreneurs on the topics of mergers/acquisitions, and maximizing corporate value.
Mr. Fingerhut joins BillingTree after serving as Chief Executive Officer of Fingerhut Enterprises, and has over 22 years of extensive experience managing large, complex business change initiatives in healthcare, financial services, retail, distribution, consumer products, manufacturing, mining, utilities, architecture and engineering worldwide. While serving as VP of Business and Strategic Strategies for Nynex Consulting Group, Mr. Fingerhut was responsible for developing a best of breed sales and engineering team, new business development, and high level relationships with major corporate accounts worldwide.
"I am excited to have these two gentlemen round out our core leadership team," commented Scott McCollum, BillingTree's President. "Each brings another level of expertise to our organization that will help rapidly expand our growth proposition and outlook."
BillingTree third quarter highlights include:
-- Expanding leadership team to include Frank Helstab & Sidney Fingerhut
-- Continuing customer growth; exceeding forecast for the third consecutive
quarter in 2010
-- Announcing Conference 2010 - the company's inaugural annual conference
and golf tournament to be held in Scottsdale, AZ on November 12
-- Launching BillingTree's PaynCash, a new cash payment offering that
supply's same-day, cash payments at thousands of MoneyGram® agent
locations
-- Selecting JDRF® and ChildHelp® as the benefiting charity's for all
proceeds raised by BillingTree's Rock Block 2010, featuring Night
Ranger, Skid Row, FireHouse, and Chad Hollister
Related News
Rock Block returns to Phoenix featuring Night Ranger, Skid Row, FireHouse, and Chad Hollister
BillingTree Appoints Randy Phelps COO After Experiencing Strong Growth in First Half of 2010'
About BillingTree
The proven leader in on-demand payment processing, BillingTree empowers customers with competitive advantage through a simplification of the billing and receivables process. By delivering the most innovative technology while making it as easy and inexpensive as possible to accept payments, BillingTree has revolutionized the payments landscape. Our software-as-a-service (SaaS) model delivers industry-leading payment solutions, proven integration, and point-and-click simplicity. BillingTree's focus on innovation has allowed us to help more than 1,500 customers eliminate manual processes and automate their payment cycles. BillingTree - Growth is our Business. For more information, visit http://www.mybillingtree.com or call 877.4.BILLTREE.
All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Contact:
Dave Yohe
Corporate Marketing
BillingTree
Tel: 602.443.5948
dave@mybillingtree.com
SOURCE BillingTree
BillingTree
CONTACT: Dave Yohe, Corporate Marketing of BillingTree, +1-602-443-5948, dave@mybillingtree.com
Video Helps Kids Understand and Deal with Cyber Bullying - on their terms
SEATTLE, Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Cyber bullying, it's in headlines all too often these days as literally millions of kids gain access to new technology and the online world. With incidents of cyber bullying on a dramatic rise, the educational experts at Twisted Scholar have just released their latest anti-bullying DVD The Wild Wild Web - a students guide to preventing cyber bullying. In development for over a year, the new DVD shows students that cyber bullying is not OK and there are ways to deal with the problem safely and skillfully, in a fun yet educational manner.
The Wild Wild Web provides a critical tool for educators, counselors, law enforcement officials and even parents to begin engaging young people on the subject of online harassment or cyber bullying. With a humorous yet candid approach, the DVD targeted for kids ages 10-16 is fast paced and visually engaging. It speaks to kids, not at kids; helping them to understand what cyber bullying is, how it happens and how it can be avoided.
-- It establishes a common sense code of conduct for the web.
-- It empowers students - whether bully, victim, or bystander - to stop the
cycle of harassment.
-- It offers concrete solutions and techniques to stop cyber bullying and
diffuse a potentially dangerous situation.
"Online technology is an incredibly positive thing for a lot of kids. It allows them to socialize in forms that are larger than their school or community. And we shouldn't lose sight of that. But we do have to realize that technology can make the common behavior of teenagers - be it bullying or something else spontaneous that may not be a good idea - worse, by making it permanent or widespread," Jill Tucker, educational writer, San Francisco Chronicle.
"The Wild Wild Web is a fabulous, fast-paced film that is perfectly targeted at the upper elementary/middle school audience! Relevant, funny, interactive, and informative, it hits the target squarely in the center and keeps this hard-to-corral audience captivated and learning," Betsy Ballard, Olweus trained anti-bullying counselor.
Filled with real-world techniques, testimonials and comments from experts and kids, the DVD establishes an open forum where students and adults can begin discussing this new phenomenon.
"I've been hearing the words 'cyber bullying' but I didn't really get it until I watched this DVD. It's not boring like some news shows or school movie, it made sense to me and it's fun to watch," said Will, age 13.
"There's been talk at my high school about cyber bullying and I thought I got it, but after watching the video it helped me to understand what it really means, and ways to stay away from getting caught up in it!" added Colin age 15.
The Wild Wild Web is 26 minutes and sells for $69.95. It comes complete with a comprehensive teacher/discussion guide developed by Emmy-award winning educational writer Lynn Brunelle.
Twisted Scholar, Inc., is an innovative Seattle-based production company, creating fun and visually interesting educational products solidly researched, sensitive and most of all effective. Founded 20 years ago by well-known Seattle radio personality Marty Riemer, Twisted Scholar has developed original video segments and series for such clients as Nickelodeon, Lyric Studios (producers of PBS Television's "Barney"), CBS, ABC, Outdoor Life Network and Microsoft.
First Non-Flat Mount for Your Samsung 9000 Series 3D LED HDTV: New Peerless Product Extends, Tilts & Swivels for Any Room Setup
Designed Exclusively for Top-of-the-Line Samsung HDTV
CHICAGO, Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Until now, the only way to wall-mount the pencil-thin, picture-perfect Samsung Class 9000 Series 3D LED HDTV has been to hang it like a picture frame that can be seen only if viewers are standing directly in front of it. The new Peerless SUAC9000 Ultra Slim Articulating Wall Mount is the first solution that lets you extend, tilt and swivel the screen on this new Samsung star by as much as 90 degrees - providing all the right moves to accommodate any room setup.
Special Solution Needed
Standard articulating mounts cannot be used with the Samsung Class 9000 Series LED HDTV because of the unit's unique design. All of the Samsung electronics are located in a connection panel concealed beneath the stand. To install the display on a wall, the panel must be removed from the base and attached to the back of the screen. Standard mounts cannot fit over the panel housing, and the mounting kit provided by Samsung allows the display to be hung only in a fixed position. This limits visibility when the room shape or configuration forces less-than-ideal TV placement. It also prevents viewing from adjacent rooms.
The new articulating Peerless mount - designed exclusively for the 9000 Series - is the first to solve the problem. A special adapter plate enables the mount to be attached over the connection panel, while the articulating arm allows the display to be positioned at any angle for full visibility wherever viewers are sitting.
Maximum Movement
When retracted, the Peerless SUAC9000 mount holds the Samsung screen a mere 1.25" from the wall. This ultra-slim profile all but hides the mount as well as maintaining the super-svelte look of the 0.3"-deep Samsung HDTV.
When extended, Peerless' articulating arm allows the Samsung Class 9000 Series HDTV to pivot a full 90 degrees left or right, tilt 5 degrees forward or backward, and pull out as much as 28.9" to suit the space. This allows optimal positioning in any room, regardless of the distance, angle or height of the installed display from the viewer.
Fits Both Models
The Peerless SUAC9000 Ultra Slim Articulating Wall Mount fits both the 46" and 55" models of the Samsung Class 9000 Series 3D LED HDTV. It has a gloss silver finish that complements the Samsung's titanium brushed silver luster, integrated cable management, and is UL Certified for safety.
Availability
The new mount retails for $549 and is available through local AV dealers and Best Buy's Magnolia Home Theater. Peerless Industries recommends use of professional installation services from these or other sources to ensure secure mounting and maximum mount performance.
About Peerless Industries, Inc.
Peerless Industries is a 70-year old designer, manufacturer and distributor of A/V solutions including flat panel mounts, projector mounts, carts/stands, furniture, cables, screen cleaners and a full assortment of accessories. Peerless manufactures over 3,600 products that serve original equipment manufacturers, retailers and commercial installers in 25 vertical markets through direct salespeople and authorized distribution. For more information, visit http://www.peerlessmounts.com or follow @ PeerlessMounts on Twitter http://www.twitter.com.
SOURCE Peerless Industries, Inc.
Peerless Industries, Inc.
CONTACT: Megan Parker of SS | PR, +1-847-415-9326, mparker@sspr.com, for Peerless Industries, Inc.
California-Based Retailer Expands Product Line for Holiday Gift Shopping
LOS ANGELES, Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- California-based online retailer, BBS Ventures Incorporated, has announced an expansion in their product line found at http://www.JustGotGifts.com.
Founder and CEO of BBS Ventures, Ben Boswell, said, "We've increased the number of products available on our Web site so that there is something for everyone! With the holidays just around the corner, JustGotGifts.com makes shopping faster and easier."
JustGotGifts.com operates as an electronic commerce (e-Commerce) retail business. The site offers a wide range of products, with everything from consumer electronics to toys for children. The expansive variety of products found on the Web site eliminates a customer's need to shop on multiple sites, therefore saving them time and money.
With customer satisfaction in the forefront, JustGotGifts.com offers high quality products at low prices. Visitors of the site have the luxury of browsing through new products and weekly specials. Return customers can set up their own account for faster transactions and the capability of tracking and managing orders.
For customer convenience, and by means of a search function on the Web site, consumers can easily sort through thousands of products to find exactly what they are looking for.
Boswell added, "Customer care is our top priority. Visitors of our site are taken care of from the time they log on to the completion of their order. We strive to make each visit a convenient and pleasant experience, not only for shopping but for sharing great gift ideas as well."
New products are added to the site frequently and items purchased can be shipped anywhere in the United States and Canada. In addition to online sales, a customer service team is available during normal business hours for customer support. Order tracking is available on all purchases to ensure your gifts will arrive just in time for the holidays.
The Answer to Security Problems: RFID Systems at Black Hat Abu Dhabi
ABU DHABI, UAE, November 4, 2010/PRNewswire/ -- Of all of the topics to be covered at Black Hat Abu Dhabi, the
one that impacts the most industries is probably RFID, affecting everything
from hospitals and transport companies to hotels and airports.
Insecure RFID implementation on Passports and Government ID
Documents for Automatic Immigration (E-Gates) is perhaps one of the most
serious security risks, and can result in faked documents and stolen
identities, however, vulnerabilities in the RFID system can have serious
consequences for any industry.
The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority represented by the
UAE Computer Emergency Response Team (aeCERT), in cooperation with Khalifa
University of Science and Technology with UBM, have brought to the Middle
East, Black Hat which brings together experts and companies in the IT
security field to discuss the latest in IT security issues, trends, and
solutions, including how to identify vulnerabilities within RFID systems.
Black Hat will take place from the 8th to 11th of November 2010 in Emirates
Palace.
Lukas Grunwald, CTO of DN-Systems Enterprise Internet
Solutions GmbH, will be speaking on 'RFID Enabled Passports and Government ID
Documents', a presentation showcasing the risks of "Insecure" RFID
implementation on Passports and Government ID Documents for Automatic
Immigration (E-Gates), as well demonstrating how easily a identity could be
stolen. An overview of already existing electronic ID will be given, as well
as a showcase of the developments of the new German eID with Multi-Usage for
government, legal and private use, for Parking-Meters, home banking and
e-commerce.
Adam Laurie, a freelance security consultant working in the field of
electronic communications, will be discussing 'RFID Security' in a
presentation on how RFID is being heralded as the answer to many security
problems, such as access control, vending, and biometric identification, and
how effective it really is. This talk will specifically look at the details
of the ICAO 9303 Machine Readable Travel Document standard, and discuss what
safeguards and improvements it provides.
Black Hat Abu Dhabi will take place from the 8th to 11th
November 2010 at the Emirates Palace, and will include a wide variety of
intensive technical presentations, delivered by the leading thinkers of the
information security world. The event will also provide hands-on, multi-day
training sessions on the latest in IT security trends and techniques, while
the Black Hat Briefings will offer an opportunity for industry experts to
share their experience and knowledge with other professionals.
For more information or to register your interest please
visit: http://www.blackhat.com or contact becky.crayman@ubm.com.
Individuals, associations, government bodies, academic
institutions and companies interested in finding out more about Black Hat Abu
Dhabi should contact the organisers, UBM Middle East for information, on
+971-2-406-4471 or email becky.crayman@ubm.com
Black Hat briefings and training is the largest and most
important security conference series in the world. Black Hat Abu Dhabi is
organised by UBM Middle East on behalf of TechWeb, a division of United
Business Media.
For media information contact:
Abdul Karim Samaan, Grayling Momentum, abdulkarim@graylingmomentum.com
or +971-4-390-1630
Appitalism.com Launches a Social Community for Apps and Digital Content
Appitalism Creates a Destination for the Discovery, Discussion and Download of the Best Digital Content for All Devices
NEW YORK, Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Launching today, Appitalism.com is the first site to combine a social community with an online store to help consumers quickly and easily discover, discuss and download the best digital content for all devices. Compatible with smartphones, tablets, PCs and eBook readers, the site debuts with a catalog of more than ten million premium apps, songs, books, games and videos.
Independent of any device or platform affiliations, Appitalism.com offers an unbiased and personalized experience for members based on their interests and on feedback from the wider community. Through Appitalism's chat feature, members can discuss, rate and review all of the content on the site, empowering them to collectively determine the best apps and content. Members can intuitively discover the latest and greatest digital content, either through Appitalism's search engine, category directory or community recommendations.
"Appitalism was developed as an open marketplace, combining a large variety of content with the ability for consumers to discuss, review and rate that content," said Simon Buckingham, CEO of Appitalism. "Our goal is to be the leading destination for consumers seeking to learn about and purchase the highest rated apps and content for any device."
Appitalism is free to join and active members who write reviews and continually engage with the site are rewarded with titles and badges and earn "App Rewards" for their contributions to the community. App Rewards can be redeemed for any items in the Appitalism content catalog.
To join the community and discover a diverse array of digital content - from music to movies and from ring tones to apps - visit Appitalism.com, fuel for your digital life.
About Appitalism.com
Appitalism.com combines a social community with an online store, enabling consumers to discover, discuss and download digital media from a catalog of over ten million premium apps, songs, books, games and videos compatible with a broad range of digital devices including smartphones, tablets, PCs and eBook readers. Simply put, there is no better way to discover and download apps and digital content than on Appitalism.com.
SOURCE Appitalism.com
Appitalism.com
CONTACT: Peter Sadler, +1-646-452-6418, psadler@5wpr.com
Jawbone® Introduces JAMBOX(TM): The World's First Intelligent Wireless Speaker and Speakerphone
A breakthrough in sound, wireless computing and design
SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Jawbone, the leader in personal mobile technology, today announced their latest breakthrough: JAMBOX, the first intelligent wireless speaker and speakerphone.
In addition to deliveringfull spectrum audio, JAMBOX quickly and easily connects with mobile phones, computers, tablets, iPods® or any other Bluetooth® device, allowing consumers to seamlessly stream and share music, movies, games, phone and conference calls anywhere -- all wirelessly, all in the palm of your hand.
"Jawbone has been committed to providing the most advanced technology in compact and elegantly designed lifestyle products," says Hosain Rahman, CEO and founder of Jawbone. "JAMBOX is an extension of this commitment -- we've combined cutting-edge innovations in acoustics and microcomputing into a meticulously crafted package. JAMBOX is not just a new kind of stereo speaker; it's a whole new category of high quality mobile audio."
Breakthrough Science Delivers Full Spectrum Sound
JAMBOX utilizes more than 40 years of acoustics research to produce sound quality and volume unparalleled for a speaker of its size. Its two highly powerful acoustic drivers and ultra-small dome produce an audio spectrum almost as wide as the human ear itself. These drivers and speakers work in concert with an innovative moving-wall passive bass radiator and airtight enclosure -- the only one of its kind in a compact speaker -- to deliver such shimmering highs and massive low frequencies that they can literally be felt from feet away.
Constantly Evolving Technology
JAMBOX is the only speaker in the world that gets smarter with time. It can be updated with apps, software and new features at Jawbone's industry-first online platform, MyTALK. Audio alerts offer totally hands-free convenience, letting you know battery life, caller ID, call functions and more. JAMBOX can also be personalized with voice and language options. This one-of-a-kind intelligence means JAMBOX will always be up-to-date with the latest and greatest technologies.
Modern Design Looks As Good As It Sounds
With its stainless steel construction and industrial-weight molded rubber casing, JAMBOX is a sturdy, highly portable and versatile speaker system in a package that looks like minimalist art. "JAMBOX exemplifies Jawbone's obsession with ensuring that form is always integrated with function," says Yves Behar, Chief Creative Officer. "It's built totally differently from your typical speaker: All four sides are wrapped in a single grill to cut down on moving parts, achieving a strong, minimal form unlike any other speaker, while also making it highly durable." JAMBOX's innovative single-grill construction also fully exposes the speakers, resulting in a richer, louder, and broader spectrum of sound. Uncompromising attention to detail extends to the four distinct design options, which according to Behar, "visually reflect sound in the forms of dots, diamonds and waves bringing an artisan quality to JAMBOX's pure box aesthetic."
Fully Experience Mobile Media Wherever You Go
With JAMBOX, all mobile media comes brilliantly to life -- you will literally feel the thump of every kick drum, cinematic car crash and video game battle. The built-in professional-quality microphone lets you to share conference calls anywhere -- in the office, at home, or on the road -- alone or with a group. Without docks or cords, JAMBOX can be carried from room to room or thrown in a bag, delivering the freedom of pristine wireless audio anytime, anywhere.
JAMBOX comes in four stunning designs: Blue Wave, Black Diamond, Grey Hex and Red Dot. The full JAMBOX line is available for pre-order today on jawbone.com for $199. JAMBOX will be available at Apple Stores and select Best Buy outlets on November 16, 2010.
About Jawbone
For more than a decade, Jawbone has produced personal wireless technologies unparalleled in their innovation, ease-of-use and sophistication of design. Jawbone is the creator of the award-winning and best-selling premium ICON Bluetooth headset and the inventor of NoiseAssassin® technology, the world's first and only military-grade noise-eliminating technology. Jawbone delivers products that innovate and improve the mobile lifestyle through ever-changing software and wearability. Privately-held and headquartered in San Francisco.
Become a fan on Facebook: Facebook.com/jawbone
Follow us on Twitter: @JawboneEarwear
For more information, images and a video demo, please visit:
Majesco Entertainment Announces 'Babysitting Mama' for Wii(TM) Available Tomorrow at Retailers Nationwide
Latest Mama Brand Extension Includes Plush Baby Doll For A Whole New Way To Play Wii!
EDISON, N.J., Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Mama is talented in so many ways; she cooks, gardens, crafts and now cares for little ones! Majesco Entertainment Company (Nasdaq: COOL), an innovative provider of video games for the mass market, has just announced the availability of Babysitting Mama exclusivelyfor Wii(TM) at major retailers nationwide. Developed by Cooking Mama Limited, this simulation game lets girls play the Wii game as they play with a plush baby. By tucking the Wii Remote(TM) into the baby doll included with the game, the doll becomes the controller, letting girls play with the interactive doll and game together.
"We are thrilled to bring Babysitting Mama to market," said Jesse Sutton, CEO, Majesco Entertainment. "The game represents the alignment of true innovation, strong brand, overwhelming retail support and solid marketing strategy. We can't wait for girls to bring Babysitting Mama home this holiday season so they can share this unique experience with friends and family."
Using the adorable plush baby doll and Nunchuk(TM) controller, girls can enjoy 40 different activities from feeding, changing and playing peek-a-boo, to racing the baby through an obstacle course. Babysitting Mama features six unique babies, each with his or her own personality and needs, along with a range of indoor and outdoor environments that Mama and baby can play in. The plush baby also "comes to life" as cries and coos play through the Wii Remote inside the baby, making it seem as if baby is responding directly to the player's care. The game even supports two-player mode, so friends can see who the better babysitter is! When the game is off, players can continue to play with the baby, and even use the cradle packaging as part of the play experience.
Babysitting Mama for Wii(TM) is rated E and is available tomorrow at retailers nationwide. The plush baby, Wii game and fun cradle package carry a suggested retail price of $49.99. To see the launch trailer and find out more, please visit the official site at http://www.babysittingmama.com.
About Majesco Entertainment Company
Majesco Entertainment Company is a provider of video games for the mass market. Building on more than 20 years of operating history, the company is focused on developing and publishing a wide range of casual and family oriented video games on Kinect for Xbox 360®, PlayStation®Move, Wii(TM), Nintendo DS(TM) and other leading systems. Product highlights include Cooking Mama(TM), Babysitting Mama(TM), TETRIS® Party Deluxe and Zumba Fitness®. The company's shares are traded on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the symbol: COOL. Majesco is headquartered in Edison, NJ and has an international office in Bristol, UK. More info can be found online at http://www.majescoentertainment.com or on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/majesco.
UBM TechInsights Announces Japanese Version of PatentVista Enterprise
Global Need for Strategic Management of Patent Portfolios Fuels Demand for Japanese-Language Support
OTTAWA, Ontario, Nov. 4, 2010 /PR Newswire/ -- UBM TechInsights today announced that PatentVista® Enterprise, its Web-based, patent management software, is now available in Japanese. Customers in Japan can now use PatentVista in their native language, simplifying and accelerating the process of managing their patent portfolios.
Until now, many Japanese companies have had to rely on cumbersome tracking systems, such as spreadsheets, to organize, review, search, and manage their patent portfolios. Now, Japanese customers will benefit from a more efficient, streamlined process to manage their intellectual property (IP) assets in their own language.
PatentVista enables companies to securely and collaboratively organize, review, search, and survey their IP portfolios. It significantly reduces research time, increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of customers' patent prosecution, licensing, acquisition, and divesture activities. It is estimated that a typical company with a portfolio of 2,000 patents that files 150 patents per year can save up to US$500,000 annually using PatentVista. By using PatentVista to create a properly structured patent portfolio, companies can also increase revenues from the licensing and sale of non-strategic patents rights.
"Japan has traditionally been a hotbed for innovation in the semiconductor and electronics industries, amplifying the need for a tool that enables users to manage their global patent portfolios," said Emil Alexov, senior vice president of sales and marketing at UBM TechInsights. "With PVE, Japanese companies can create a well-structured and strategic patent portfolio pursue a more proactive IP strategy that maximizes return on their IP assets, and helps them achieve their business goals."
PatentVista embodies UBM TechInsight's IP Lifecycle Management best practices, which provide technology companies with the foundation for proactively managing the innovation process. Phases of the IP Lifecycle include assessing and analyzing IP assets; strategizing and innovating; establishing IP; leveraging IP; and monetizing IP. These best practices can be customized to a company's vision, market, and competitive landscape in order for it to capitalize on its most valuable assets, and support overall business objectives.
Patent Vista is licensed on a per-seat basis. A 30-day trial is also available.
UBM TechInsights will feature live demos of PatentVista at the Patent Information Fair and Conference, booth #21, November 10-12 at the Science Museum in Tokyo, Japan. To schedule an on-line demonstration, please contact patentvista@ubmtechinsights.com.
About UBM TechInsights
UBM TechInsights provides professional services and essential intelligence to manage technology and Intellectual Property (IP) portfolios. With over 20 years of experience in technical analysis and IP matters UBM TechInsights provides a comprehensive IP management process that delivers maximum strategic advantage and financial returns for customers around the world. The company provides information and customized services in IP, Technical Intelligence, and Business Intelligence for each stage of the IP lifecycle. Global markets served include Automotive, Clean Technologies, Consumer Electronics, Investment, Legal, Medical Devices, Semiconductors, and Software. For more information, please visit http://www.ubmtechinsights.com.
SOURCE UBM TechInsights
UBM TechInsights
CONTACT: Yuko Sudoh, Sales Coordinator - Japan, Semiconductor Insights Japan K.K., 011 81 3 6860 4755, sudoh@ubmtechinsights.com, or Jill Perry, Senior Marketing Manager, +1-613-576-0144, jperry@ubmtechinsights.com, or Marisa Marzano, PR, +1-705-484-5105, mmarzano@ubmtechinsights.com, all of UBM TechInsights
GeoShield Adds New Layer of Security to Microsoft Forefront TMG
New Security Software Provides Visibility to True Geographical Location of a Server
LAS VEGAS, Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Microdasys, an Internet Security firm, is pleased to unveil its latest product, GeoShield, the only data origin security software system that adds a new layer of security to Microsoft Forefront TMG by providing visibility into the actual geographic location of a server.
The software is designed to thwart data theft, phishing and online fraud.
"The development of GeoShield was intended to provide enterprises with better visibility into their data streams. As GeoShield allows the definition of a trusted realm, a geographic representation of a company's business interests, it greatly reduces threat exposure and risk of attack," said Matthew Schroeder, CTO at Microdasys. "The recent spike in malicious iFrame attacks through hacked web sites and poisoned banner ads that silently download malware from offshore hosts, confirm the need for security policies that take geo-location into consideration."
The software, a native 64 bit plug-in into Forefront TMG and ISA Server 2006, which is now generally available and easily installable, seamlessly works in concert with all security features that Forefront TMG provides without the need for extra hardware.
Administrators can set security policies that confine users and devices to certain geographic regions, thus greatly limiting exposure to attack and data loss without impeding business processes.
Key benefits of the product include:
-- Blocks access to servers that are located in untrusted geographical
regions.
-- Allows security policies based on actual server location.
-- Intercepts embedded email and web links and blocks or allows connections
based on the Geo Policy.
-- Stops Phone-Home Trojans and data exfiltration to untrusted countries,
regardless of protocol or port.
-- Increased productivity and security by allowing only connections to
countries you normally do business with.
Microdasys(TM) is a fast-growth internet security company, founded in 2002, by recognized and successful IT security experts. As pioneers in scanning encrypted (SSL/HTTPS) web traffic, Microdasys was first-to-market with SCIP(TM) SSL Content Proxy; Microdasys(TM) completes your Internet security solution through total visibility into your Web content and data origin, and uncovers all threats hidden by SSL and XML encryption. Microdasys' advanced solutions are offered through a worldwide network of distributors and resellers.
Contact: Jason Meyers
Mindspace PR /Phoenix
480-941-8497
Jason@mindspace.net
Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click appropriate link.
The Future of Entertainment Starts Today as Kinect for Xbox 360 Leaps and Lands at Retailers Nationwide
Kinect transforms Times Square into a celebration of controller-free fun.
NEW YORK, Nov. 4 /PRNewswire/ --Last night, New York's famed Times Square went controller-free, as the Crossroads of the World was transformed into a dancing, singing, A-list celebration for today's North American launch of Kinect for Xbox 360. A full day of demos, star-studded appearances and a massive, choreographed dance routine culminated in an excited line of thousands of fans eagerly waiting to take home the future of home entertainment, now available at more than 30,000 retailers nationwide.
Unlike any other consumer technology available today, Kinect for Xbox 360 lets you use your body and voice to play your favorite games and entertainment, literally turning you into the controller. Simply step in front of the revolutionary sensor, and Kinect sees you move, hears your voice and learns how you play. No buttons. No barriers. Just you. With 17 Kinect games available this holiday season -- including dance, fitness, sports, racing and family experiences -- Kinect gets everyone in the family off the couch, on their feet and in the game.
"Kinect transforms entertainment and introduces Xbox 360 to millions of new people -- families, friends and people of all ages," said Don Mattrick, president of the Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft Corp., who will ring the opening bell at the Nasdaq stock exchange today. "Years of research and a team of engineers and artists have created something approachable, simple and affordable that everyone can enjoy."
The Kinect for Xbox 360 Experiential Tour pulled into Times Square at 8 a.m. yesterday, opening its doors to thousands of passers-by who experienced firsthand the magic moment when YOU become the controller. Actor/producer Mark Wahlberg then joined Xbox to get millions of kids off the couch, active and into the controller-free fun, announcing that Microsoft will donate Kinect for Xbox 360 to thousands of Boys & Girls Clubs across the country.
Later that evening, hundreds of choreographed dancers took to the streets with best-selling recording artists Ne-Yo and Lady Sovereign for a surprise concert tribute to the greatest controller ever invented -- you. And as the clock struck midnight, the flagship Toys"R"Us in Times Square joined thousands of retailers across the country as they opened their doors and introduced eager customers to a brand new way to play.
"There's no question that Kinect is going to be one of the hottest holiday gifts of 2010," said Chris Byrne, The Toy Guy® and content director of TimetoPlayMag.com. "This is active, engaging play that lets the whole family have fun together. Simple for players and elegant in the execution, this is a revolutionary product with something for everyone -- games, movies, music -- all controller-free."
Deemed a "breakthrough innovation" by Popular Mechanics, the "best of what's new" by Popular Scienceand awarded the National Parenting Publications Awards Gold Award, Kinect for Xbox 360 promises to usher in a new era of entertainment. Kinect transforms everyone's living room into a movie theater, a sports arena and a social playground, reaching the people that matter most to you, no matter where they live in the world.
And if you're one of the more than 25 million Xbox LIVE members, you can control movies, music and even live sports from ESPN on Xbox LIVE with the wave of a hand or the sound of your voice. Share your experiences with friends and family over Xbox LIVE and through Video Kinect -- a video chat experience that can be enjoyed couch to couch or with Windows Live Messenger.(1)
Kinect for Xbox 360 is a great value for the whole family. The all-in-one Xbox 360 4GB Console with Kinect includes the new Xbox 360 4GB console, Kinect sensor and "Kinect Adventures," priced at $299.99 ERP (U.S.). Or for those who have an Xbox 360 console(2) at home, the stand-alone Kinect for Xbox 360, priced at $149.99 ERP (U.S.), includes the Kinect sensor and "Kinect Adventures," and works with the 45 million Xbox 360 consoles currently in homes worldwide. More information is available at http://www.xbox.com/Kinect or http://www.facebook.com/xbox.
About Xbox 360
Xbox 360 is a premier home entertainment and video game system. With the addition of Kinect, Xbox 360 will forever transform social gaming and entertainment with a whole new way to play -- no controller required. Xbox 360 is also home to the best and broadest games as well as the largest on-demand library of music, standard- and high-definition movies, TV shows and digital games, all in one place. The entertainment center of the living room, Xbox 360 blends unbeatable content with a network of 25 million Xbox LIVE members to create a limitless entertainment experience that can be shared at home or across the globe. More information about Xbox 360 can be found online at http://www.xbox.com.
About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.
(1) Kinect works with select Xbox LIVE features and content. Xbox LIVE Gold membership and/or additional subscriptions and requirements apply for some features. See http://www.xbox.com/live.
CONTACT: Adam Zukor, +1-206-268-2247, adam.zukor@edelman.com, or Meredith Williams, +1-503-471-6802, meredith.williams@edelman.com, both of Edelman for Microsoft Corp.
Harmonix and MTV Games' Dance Central(TM) Available Today in North America
2010's Most Anticipated Dance Game Gets You on Your Feet and Moving to the Beat with Creative, Fun Choreography and the Hottest Hits from Mega Artists!
Dance Central Launches with Downloadable Tracks from Ne-Yo, Lady Sovereign and Sean Paul
NEW YORK, Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Harmonix, the world's premier music video game developer, and MTV Games, a part of Viacom's MTV Networks (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), along with distribution partner Microsoft, today announced that Dance Central(TM), the first controller-free, body-tracking, fully immersive dance video game, is available today in North America, exclusively for Kinect(TM) for Xbox 360®.
Joining MTV Games and Microsoft at a Dance Central launch celebration in New York's Times Square last night, music superstars Ne-Yo and Lady Sovereign performed some of their biggest hits for a crowd of more than 600 people. The performers celebrated that their songs, "Because of You" and "I Got You Dancing," respectively, are among the first Dance Central downloadable content available beginning today, exclusively on Xbox LIVE, along with Sean Paul's "Temperature." Each song will be available for $2.99, or 240 Microsoft Points.
Each downloadable track for Dance Central will deliver fresh music and new choreography and routines on Easy, Medium and Hard difficulties in Break It Down, Perform It! and Dance Battle that will keep the dance floor rocking.
In addition, fans will be able to outfit their Xbox Live Avatars beginning today with new accessories and clothes from the Xbox LIVE Store, including everything from a Dance Central boom box to new character outfits, sunglasses, hats, shoes, ELIOT the Robot and more.
Free from any controller, Dance Central(TM) features fun choreography and authentic routines for beginners and experts alike of all ages to master, alongside a killer 32-song soundtrack that spans a great sampling of pop, funk, hip-hop, Latin and R&B artists, including Cascada, Kool & The Gang, Kylie Minogue, Salt-N-Pepa, Nelly Furtado, Christina Milian and more. To view the full Dance Central set list click here.
Whether rehearsing in Break It Down or owning the dance floor in Perform It!, Dance Central introduces players to more than 600 moves in the game and more than 90 dance routines on-disc, created by professional choreographers. In addition, players can earn achievements, unlock new character outfits and venues and progress through the dance ranks. In Dance Battle, players can challenge friends to an epic living room showdown.
Developed by Harmonix, the world's premiere music videogame developer, published by MTV Games and distributed by Microsoft, Dance Central will be available Nov. 4, 2010, in North America exclusively for Kinect for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft (U.S. ERP: $49.99) and Nov. 10, 2010 in Europe (UK ERP: Pounds Sterling 39.99/EU ERP: Euro 49.99).
Dance Central is rated "T" for Teen by the ESRB. For more information on Dance Central, as well as new art and video assets, please visit http://www.dancecentral.com/press.
MTV Networks, a division of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), is one of the world's leading creators of entertainment content, with brands that engage and connect diverse audiences across television, online, mobile, games, virtual worlds and consumer products. The company's portfolio spans more than 150 television channels and 350 digital media properties worldwide, and includes MTV, VH1, CMT, Logo, Harmonix, Nickelodeon, Nick at Nite, Noggin, The N, AddictingGames, Neopets, COMEDY CENTRAL, Spike TV, TV Land, Atom, Gametrailers and Xfire.
About MTV Games
MTV Games is dedicated to creating, marketing and publishing high-quality, innovative interactive products that are relevant to the MTV audience and complement the core values of the MTV Networks brands.
About Harmonix Music Systems, Inc
Harmonix Music Systems, Inc., based in Cambridge, MA, and established in 1995, is the leading developer of groundbreaking music-oriented videogames. Harmonix was founded by Alex Rigopulos and Eran Egozy, who formed the company to invent new ways for non-musicians to experience the unique joy that comes from making music and have pioneered music and rhythm gaming in the US. For more information please visit http://www.harmonixmusic.com.
CONTACT: Mariana Agathoklis, +1-212-846-5755, Mariana.Agathoklis@mtvstaff.com, or Stephanie Myers, +1-617-491-6144 ext 111, stephanie.myers@harmonixmusic.com for MTV Games/Harmonix, or Jessica Lange, +1-503-471-6831, Jessica.lange@edelman.com, for Microsoft
AirportRentalCars.com Launches Enhanced Website Chock Full Of Trip Planning Extras
NORWALK, Conn., Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- AirportRentalCars.com, a leading website for online car rental reservations and part of the priceline.com (Nasdaq: PCLN) group of travel services, announced today the launch of an enhanced website that gives travelers a one-stop place to plan their trips, from car rentals and hotel rooms to real-time flight information, driving directions and the latest weather forecasts.
"The new AirportRentalCars.com website http://www.AirportRentalCars.com was designed to provide air travelers with all the real-time trip information they need before and after they land at their destination," said AirportRentalCars.com General Manager Lucy Bueti. AirportRentalCars.com offers the following features:
-- Reservations with top rental car brands. AirportRentalCars.com works
with over 16 top rental car brands, including Alamo, Avis, Budget,
Hertz, National, Enterprise, Dollar, Thrifty, EZ and more.
-- No credit card required. Most reservations made through
AirportRentalCars.com do not require a credit card and can be cancelled
prior to pickup.
-- Round-trip, one-way, airport and off-airport rentals.
-- Promo code-friendly reservations. The AirportRentalCars.com site lets
travelers use promo codes for vehicle discounts, upgrades and more.
-- Hotel reservations. Need a hotel for the evening? The site features an
easy to use hotel reservation service.
-- Real-time flight information. Find out if your flight will be on-time
or delayed.
-- Driving directions. Enter starting and finishing points and the mapping
system will show you how to get there.
-- Airport terminal maps. AirportRentalCars.com offers printable terminal
maps for major airports.
-- Up-to-date weather reports.
About The Priceline Group of Companies
The Priceline Group of Companies (Nasdaq: PCLN) is a leader in global online hotel reservations, with approximately 61 million room nights booked in 2009. The Group is composed of four primary brands - Booking.com, priceline.com, Agoda.com and TravelJigsaw. The Priceline Group provides online travel services in 38 languages in 99 countries in Europe, North America, Asia, the Middle East and Africa.
Based in Amsterdam, Booking.com is a leading international online hotel reservation service operating in 89 countries in 37 languages. Booking.com offers its customers access to approximately 100,000 participating hotels worldwide.
In the U.S., priceline.com gives leisure travelers multiple ways to save on their airline tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars, vacation packages and cruises. In addition to getting compelling published prices, travelers can take advantage of priceline.com's famous Name Your Own Price® service, which can deliver the lowest prices available. Priceline.com also operates the following travel websites: Travelweb.com, Lowestfare.com, RentalCars.com and BreezeNet.com.
Singapore-based Agoda.com is an Asian online hotel reservation service that offers hotel rooms around the world and is available in 30 languages. With headquarters in Manchester, UK, TravelJigsaw is a multinational car hire service, offering its reservation services in more than 4,000 locations in 80 countries. Customer support is provided in 20 languages.
SOURCE priceline.com
priceline.com
CONTACT: Press, Brian Ek, +1-203-299-8167, brian.ek@priceline.com, or Investor Relations, Matthew Tynan, +1-203-299-8487, matt.tynan@priceline.com
Warner Bros. Consumer Products and Hot Topic Celebrate Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows with Exclusive Product Boutique at Locations Nationwide
Hot Topic Stores in the U.S. and Canada to Feature Exclusive Merchandise Boutique Area Dedicated to the Highly Anticipated Final Film Along with Special Mobile Game
Online Sweepstakes Gives Fans the Chance to Win a Trip for Two to the Star-Studded U.S. Premiere of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2 in Summer 2011
BURBANK, Calif., Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP) and its longtime retail partner, Hot Topic (Nasdaq: HOTT), have announced the creation of exclusive Harry Potter merchandise boutiques in anticipation of the Warner Bros. Pictures' release of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 1, in theaters November 19, 2010. These dedicated boutiques will feature all-new products inspired by the famous wizard at each of Hot Topic's 680 locations in the United States and Canada. Additionally, an in-store mobile application will offer challenges and rewards to customers who participate through their iPhone and Android mobile devices.
Beginning today, the innovative Harry Potter-themed boutiques at all Hot Topic stores will offer fans an extensive product line, featuring junior and young men's and women's apparel, including exclusive Gryffindor and Slytherin polo and tie combination tees, along with bags, throws, jewelry, key chains, stationery, posters and more -- all just in time for the debut of the final title of the blockbuster film franchise.
"As fan excitement grows towards the climax of the Harry Potter films, we are delighted to once again team up with Hot Topic to create these unique boutiques," said Karen McTier, Executive Vice President of Domestic Licensing and Worldwide Marketing, Warner Bros. Consumer Products. "The offerings are quite extensive and fans of all ages will be excited once they step inside the stores and immerse themselves in the film-inspired product."
"Hot Topic has always been a premier destination for Harry Potter fans and we are thrilled to partner with WBCP on this latest venture," said Betsy McLaughlin, CEO, Hot Topic. "The films resonate greatly with our customer base and we are fortunate to be able to provide exclusive product at all of our locations nationwide, as well as online."
In conjunction with the product boutique launch, Hot Topic and WBCP will also offer the SCVNGR destination-based mobile promotional application, which will allow customers to unlock digital "badges" by visiting Hot Topic locations and participating in various challenges. Each of the five badges represents one of the four school houses in Harry Potter, along with one for Hogwarts. Customers are encouraged to visit the store weekly for a chance to collect all five and also to unlock the featured rewards: a mini-movie poster and 20% off any in-store Harry Potter item, redeemable at all participating Hot Topic stores.. Some of the whimsical challenges include dressing up as a favorite character and posing for the camera or describing their least favorite flavor of Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans.
In addition to the merchandise boutiques, certain items will be exclusively available online at http://www.hottopic.com. The site is also set to host an online sweepstakes where Harry Potter fans can enter to win a trip to the star-studded U.S. premiere of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2, becoming among the first to see the final installment of the record-breaking film saga. The premiere event will be held in Summer 2011, with the city and exact date to be announced next year.
About Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 1
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 1 begins as Harry, Ron and Hermione set out on their perilous mission to track down and destroy the keys to Voldemort's immortality -- the Horcruxes. On their own, without the guidance or protection of their professors, the three friends must now rely on one another more than ever. But there are Dark Forces in their midst that threaten to tear them apart as Harry draws ever closer to the task for which he has been preparing since the day he first stepped into Hogwarts: the ultimate battle with Voldemort.
This film has been rated PG-13 for some sequences of intense action violence, frightening images and brief sensuality.
Warner Bros. Consumer Products, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, is one of the leading licensing and retail merchandising organizations in the world.
About Hot Topic
Hot Topic, Inc. is a mall and web based specialty retailer operating the Hot Topic and Torrid concepts, as well as the e-space music concept, ShockHound. Hot Topic offers music/pop culture-licensed and music/pop culture-influenced apparel, accessories, music and gift items for young men and women principally between the ages of 12 and 22.
Media Contacts:
Warner Bros. Consumer
Products Hot Topic
Rita Cooper Leigh Rodwick
Director, Worldwide
Public Relations Director, Marketing
Warner Bros. Consumer
Products Hot Topic
626/839-4681 ext.
818/ 954-3821 2468
rita.cooper@warnerbros.com lrodwick@hottopic.com
(TM) & (C) Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights (C) J.K. Rowling.
(s10)
HARRY POTTER and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and (C) Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s10)
SOURCE Warner Bros. Consumer Products
Photo:http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20101104/MM93025 http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20101104/MM93025 http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Video:http://multivu.prnewswire.com/mnr/warnerbros/47063
Warner Bros. Consumer Products
CONTACT: Warner Bros. Consumer Products, Rita Cooper, Director, Worldwide Public Relations, Warner Bros. Consumer Products, +1-818-954-3821, rita.cooper@warnerbros.com; or Hot Topic, Leigh Rodwick, Director, Marketing Hot Topic, +1-626-839-4681 ext. 2468, lrodwick@hottopic.com
SANTA MONICA, Calif., Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Activision Publishing, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) revealed today that the soundtrack to the most anticipated game of the year, Treyarch's Call of Duty®: Black Ops, will also be available for download starting November 9th. Featuring the music of renowned film composer, Sean Murray, the digital-only soundtrack includes 30 tracks available through iTunes and other major digital media retailers.
The Call of Duty: Black Ops soundtrack, part of a digital distribution agreement between Activision Publishing, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) and Fontana, the award-winning independent sales, marketing and distribution division of Universal Music Group, will be available for purchase online for a retail price of $11.99 per entire soundtrack or $.99 per track.
Sean Murray, one of the entertainment industry's most esteemed musical talents, reunites with Treyarch for the Call of Duty: Black Ops soundtrack, an encore to his Call of Duty®: World at War composition.
Rated "M" (Mature - Blood, Drug Reference, Intense Violence and Language) by the ESRB, Call of Duty: Black Ops is scheduled to be released worldwide on November 9th for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, Nintendo Wii(TM) and Windows PC. Pre-orders for the title are currently available. For additional Call of Duty updates, visit http://www.callofduty.com/blackops and also via Twitter @JD_2020.
About Fontana
Fontana Distribution, the independent arm of Universal Music Group Distribution, provides unparalleled sales and marketing support, as well as back office services, for a diverse roster of labels and their artists. Fontana distributes more than 80 labels including Rap-A-Lot Records, Eagle Rock, Downtown, Vagrant Records, WaterTower Music, American Gramophone, Kedar Entertainment, Last Gang, Savoy Label Group, ESL, Music World, Delicious Vinyl, Ipecac, Six Degrees, SMC, VP Records, and many others. In addition, Fontana distributes select projects from UMG labels worldwide.
About Activision Publishing, Inc.
Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision Publishing, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products.
Activision maintains operations in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Spain, Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, Australia, South Korea, China and the region of Taiwan. More information about Activision and its products can be found on the company's website, http://www.activision.com.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements: Information in this press release that involves Activision Publishing's expectations, plans, intentions or strategies regarding the future are forward-looking statements that are not facts and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Activision Publishing generally uses words such as "outlook," "will," "could," "would," "might," "remains," "to be," "plans," "believes," "may," "expects," "intends," "anticipates," "estimate," future," "plan," "positioned," "potential," "project," "remain," "scheduled," "set to," "subject to," "upcoming" and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause Activision Publishing's actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements set forth in this release include, but are not limited to, sales levels of Activision Publishing's titles, shifts in consumer spending trends, the impact of the current macroeconomic environment, the seasonal and cyclical nature of the interactive game market, Activision Publishing's ability to predict consumer preferences among competing hardware platforms, declines in software pricing, product returns and price protection, product delays, retail acceptance of Activision Publishing's products, adoption rate and availability of new hardware (including peripherals) and related software, industry competition including from used games and other forms of entertainment, litigation risks and associated costs, rapid changes in technology, industry standards, business models including online and used games, and consumer preferences, including interest in specific genres such as music, first-person action and massively multiplayer online games, protection of proprietary rights, maintenance of relationships with key personnel, customers, licensees, licensors, vendors, and third-party developers, including the ability to attract, retain and develop key personnel and developers that can create high quality "hit" titles, counterparty risks relating to customers, licensees, licensors and manufacturers, domestic and international economic, financial and political conditions and policies, foreign exchange rates and tax rates, and the identification of suitable future acquisition opportunities and potential challenges associated with geographic expansion, and the other factors identified in the risk factors sections of Activision Blizzard's most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon information available to Activision Publishing and Activision Blizzard as of the date of this release, and neither Activision Publishing nor Activision Blizzard assumes any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements believed to be true when made may ultimately prove to be incorrect. These statements are not guarantees of the future performance of Activision Publishing or Activision Blizzard and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond its control and may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations.
Call of Duty and Activision are registered trademarks of Activision Publishing, Inc. All other trademarks and trade names are the properties of their respective owners.
Xbox 360 and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of the Microsoft Corporation. "PlayStation" is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Wii is a trademark of Nintendo.
SOURCE Activision Publishing, Inc.
Activision Publishing, Inc.
CONTACT: Bianca Harzbecker, Associate Publicist, Activision, Inc., +1-310-496-5290, bianca.harzbecker@activision.com; or Twitter, Josh Olin of Treyarch, @JD_2020, for Activision, Inc.
Passenger Information: TER SNCF(Regional French Railway) on Track to Provide Real Time Multimodal, Visual and Spoken, Passenger Information
MONS, Belgium, November 4, 2010/PRNewswire/ -- In addition to safety and dependability, information in real time which
is clear, precise and reliable is a fundamental part, for all passengers, of
a quality service. TER SNCF passengers are kept abreast in real time of next
departures and timely announcements by 538 information display screens
equipped with Acapela synthesised voices. TER SNCF and French regions have
already provided 250 stopping points with this technology, by 2012 an
additional 150 stations points will be equipped.
State of the art passenger information display screens
Real time visual information display screens are particularly adapted to
small and medium sized stations and to stations such as those near urban
areas that are TER stopping points. They allow, thanks to a GPRS or 3G
connection, passengers to know in real time when the next three TER trains
and coaches are due to depart, their destination, stops made along the way
and any delays.
This technology brings together information which can be both seen and
heard. It is made possible by Acapela VaaS, devised by the Acapela Group, an
expert in vocal solutions, which has been chosen by TER SNCF to vocalise the
written information appearing on the screens.
Acapela VaaS
The text-to-speech solution provided by Acapela enables the vocalisation
in real time of any written text whatsoever. Therefore all information
relating to TER trains and coaches can be transformed, word for word, into
voice which is broadcast through the screens. The process is totally
automated but the result appears very natural. The announcements are smooth
and fluid to hear and the mechanical effect of pre-recorded announcements
disappears.
Technically, Acapela VaaS is a 'cloud computing' solution - a service
providing on-line vocalization - which speech empowers all web applications.
The screens connect to the Acapela VaaS server, send the information to be
vocalised, and the server automatically transforms the text into speech. This
service, available around the clock and completed in several seconds,
responds very rapidly.
A partnership between Acapela, TER SNCF and the French regions
For 18 months, from the start of 2008 to mid 2009, TER SNCF in
partnership with the Acapela Group, carried out trials in 18 French regions
using nearly 50 screens. As part of SNCF's engagement to adapt all of its
services to people with restricted mobility (Personnes a Mobilite Reduite -
PMR), the project was also presented to the consultative council of the PMR
in May 2008.
All station information, predictive or not, is therefore guaranteed to be
delivered in real time to all passengers, including people with a sight or
hearing disability.
The project has been a real success, as much for the associations for
people with restricted mobility as for the regional councils. The deployment
of screens with sound, jointly financed by the regions and SNCF, started in
July 2009 and continues now. Twelve regions have placed orders: Alsace,
Bourgogne, Centre, Champagne, Franche-Comte, Haute-Normandie, Limousin,
Midi-Pyrenees, Nord-Pas de Calais, Pays de la Loire, Picardie and
Provence-Alpes- Cote d'Azur. Which means that as of today 538 screens have
been installed, by 2012 this number will have risen to between 600 and 800.
'SNCF's adoption of our voice synthesis to improve its passenger
information system together with its validation of our voice synthesis on
line, Acapela VaaS, to assure a reliable and high quality service for
passengers with sight difficulties, is very important for us. It confirms the
positioning of Acapela as an established expert as well as an inventor of
solutions proposing new uses for speech synthesis' said Lars-Erik Larsson,
CEO of the Acapela Group.
'The passenger information services offered by TER SNCF are designed to
accompany the client before, throughout and after his or her journey. In
equipping the TER stopping points with this technology, TER SNCF, together
with the regions, is once again making the choice of providing real time
multimodal passenger information. Acapela's voice synthesis technology,
coupled with the specialised technology of visual information display
screens, enables the provision of high quality visual and spoken information
for all TER clients' said Sylvie Bourgeois, Director of Marketing and Service
at TER SNCF.
About TER SNCF: TER SNCF is the true solution for mobility across the
regions' network and represents the public transport offered by SNCF in 20
French regions (outside of Ile-de-France and Corsica) TER SNCF comprises 260
lines on which circulate each day 6,300 trains used by 800,000 passengers.
TER SNCF offers local government transport solutions adapted to everyday
passengers: wide range of connections, schedules, personalised services...to
keep pace with regional dynamics and meet the challenge of quadrupling TER
traffic by 2030. http://www.sncf.com / http://www.ter-sncf.com
Acapela Group, the leading voice expert, invents text to speech solutions
to give your content a voice in up to 30 languages. Our speech solutions
allow you to turn any written text into natural speech files, using any of
our 50 High Quality standard voices or your own synthezised voice talent.
Acapela can answer all text to speech needs and provide perfect vocalization
whether for voice integration and development, online & on demand use, audio
files production, or ready to speak products for personal accessibility use.
etyres Video Shows How Easy Changing a Tyre Can Be
CAMBRIDGE, England, Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- etyres, the UK's leading online tyre retailer, has released a short online video showing motorists how changing a tyre is so easy even a child can do it.
Most motorists dread the idea of getting a puncture and being stranded at the roadside waiting for a breakdown truck.
Now etyres has released a short online video which shows drivers how they can fit their spare wheel in a matter of minutes and be back on the road in no time.
And to demonstrate just how easy it is, the entire procedure is filmed being carried out by 10-year-old William Stepney.
Tony Bowman, managing director of etyres, said: "Many motorists are under the false impression that only qualified mechanics or big strong men with bulging biceps can change a tyre -- but this video dispels that myth.
"All you need to be armed with is the basic knowledge of how to carry out this straightforward procedure and if you follow our step-by-step guide you will never have to worry about being stranded at the side of the road with a puncture again."
The short video covers everything from what tools are needed to complete the job to tips on fitting and tightening the wheel nuts.
Once the spare has been fitted, the motorist can drive home safely and shop around for the best deal on a replacement tyre, rather than having to pay an extortionate fee charged by the recovery garage.
There is another money-saving advantage to being able to replace a punctured tyre with the spare -- it could preserve the condition of the tyre so that it can be repaired.
Another common misconception is that all punctured tyres have to be thrown away - this is not the case, especially if the damaged tyre has been switched with the spare as quickly as possible and not driven far.
If the damage has occurred in the tread area of a tyre it is possible for it to be repaired safely and cheaply, often at a fraction of the cost of a new replacement.
All etyres mobile fitting vans are equipped with puncture repair facilities which enable minor tread repairs to be repaired to BSAU 159 standard.
About etyres
Launched in 1997, etyres is the UK's first online tyres retailer. It operates a mobile fitting service, which means customers can have their tyres fitted at a location of their choice -- either at their home or place of work. etyres can fit tyres all over the country, whether customers need tyres in Bradford or tyres in Huddersfield.
Its low overheads mean the price customers pay is always low -- up to 40% cheaper than the leading high street tyre depots on a range of tires including Continental tyres and 4x4 tyres.
PR Contact:
Denna Bowman
LowerCourt 3
Copley Hill Innovation Park
Cambridge Road
Babraham
Cambridge
CB22 3GN
+44(0)1223-832444
KingsIsle Entertainment Partners With GameStop to Offer Exclusive 'Epic Bundle' Game Card
PLANO, Texas, Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Over the last year the Wizard101 game card program has grown to become one of the most popular game card offerings on the market. The cards, now available in over 40,000 retail outlets across the country, provide players with a convenient way to gain access to premium content within Wizard101.
This holiday season, KingsIsle Entertainment has partnered with leading games retailer GameStop to offer an exclusive "Epic Bundle" game card that includes an extraordinary assortment of in-game items, including:
-- A massive fantasy palace - including personal dueling arena and minigame
kiosk - which players can explore, decorate and show-off to friends
-- A flying gryphon mount that increases player travel speed by 40%
-- An ancient spear of great power suitable for players of all levels
-- Decorative clothing and armor suitable for both boy and girl characters
-- A powerful and mysterious dueling pet with new powers and talents
expressly designed to help players in the game. The pet comes as an egg
that players can hatch, feed and train to Epic level
-- One month premium content access or 5,000 Crowns
-- An additional housing slot (above the normal limit of 3)
The "Epic Bundle" game card is priced at $39 and includes over $100 worth of in-game items and currency. The bundle is available immediately at GameStop stores across the country.
"We are thrilled to partner with GameStop to launch this new offering for our community," said Fred Howard, vice president of Marketing. "We've added some fun twists and cool features to this bundle and I'm excited for our players to discover all of the hidden surprises."
In Wizard101, kids and families enter the magical world of Wizard City as student Wizards setting out to hone their skills, cast spells and summon powerful creatures to fight evil forces. The characters and worlds of Wizard101 are influenced by literature, history and pop culture, giving the game a depth and quality appreciated by families and players of all ages.
Wizard101 can be downloaded at http://www.Wizard101.com. Players seeking access to premium areas and items may purchase pre-paid cards in participating stores or purchase a subscription or Crowns online. New worlds, activities, pets and Wizard clothing are periodically added to the game, creating an ever-changing world with new things to see and do.
About KingsIsle Entertainment, Inc.
KingsIsle Entertainment is a developer and publisher that specializes in creating high-quality massively multiplayer online games which provide entertainment for the entire family. Wizard101, KingsIsle's flagship property, has received the Parent Tested Parent Approved Media Seal of Approval in 2009 and has been recognized by the National Parenting Publications Awards. Wizard101 was named the #1 Best Family/All Age Game by Beckett Massive Gamer Magazine, and the #1 Best Family Game by MMORPG.com for 2009. The company's experienced and creative team is raising the bar in online entertainment by offering products with rich storylines, friendly navigation, top-quality art and fully-voiced characters. KingsIsle is headquartered in Plano, Texas, and has a development studio in Austin, Texas. For more information, please visit http://www.kingsisle.com.
KingsIsle and Wizard101 are trademarks or registered trademarks of KingsIsle Entertainment, Inc.
Telefonica Brazil Selects Allot to Deliver Network Management Services
Managed services for enterprises provide real-time visibility, application management and optimization
BOSTON, Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Allot Communications Ltd. (Nasdaq: ALLT), a leading supplier of service optimization and revenue generation solutions for fixed and mobile broadband service providers worldwide, announced today that Telefonica Brazil has selected Allot as a partner in their "Smart" solution, a managed services offering targeted at enterprise customers. Allot's real time carrier-class monitoring, reporting and application management solutions play a strategic part in the optimization of the network. By facilitating a comprehensive view into what is happening on their network, Allot's solutions enable Telefonica's customers to optimize their network for business critical applications.
"With more and more enterprise customers moving to cloud-based solutions, the quality of the network is becoming even more strategic," said Vin Costello, Allot's Vice President and General Manager for the Americas. "Operators are now offering their enterprise customers network management services which address this growing business need. Allot's solutions, which are already deployed in a number of leading Tier 1 operators, enable a managed services offering which ensures the prioritization of business critical applications."
About Allot Communications
Allot Communications Ltd. (Nasdaq: ALLT) is a leading provider of intelligent IP service optimization and revenue generation solutions for fixed and mobile broadband operators and large enterprises. Allot's rich portfolio of solutions leverages Dynamic Actionable Recognition Technology (DART) to transform pipes into smart networks that can rapidly and efficiently deploy value added Internet services. Allot's scalable, carrier-grade solutions provide the visibility, topology awareness, security, application control and subscriber management that are vital to managing Internet service delivery, enhancing user experience, containing operating costs, and maximizing revenue in broadband networks.
Safe Harbor Statement
Information provided in this press release may contain statements relating to current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about future events that are "forward-looking statements" as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements generally relate to the company's plans, objectives and expectations for future operations. These forward-looking statements are based upon management's current estimates and projections of future results or trends. Actual future results may differ materially from those projected as a result of certain risks and uncertainties. These factors include, but are not limited to: the continued growing business need of enterprise customers for network management services, changes in general economic and business conditions and, specifically, a decline in demand for the company's products; the company's inability to develop and introduce new technologies, products and applications; loss of market; and other factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the company's annual report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements are made only as of the date hereof, and the company undertakes no obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Allot Communications Contacts:
Jonathon Gordon
Director of Marketing
Allot Communications
Tel: +972 9 7628423
jgordon@allot.com
CONTACT: Jonathon Gordon, Director of Marketing of Allot Communications, +972-9-7628423, jgordon@allot.com; or PR Contact: Danielle Matthews of Calysto Communications, +1-404-266-2060, ext. 27, dmatthews@calysto.com
izmocars Releases AddOnAuto 3.0: Faster, Better, and Generating Millions of Dollars in Accessories Sales for Dealers
All new interface increases speed, performance and usability; enhances image visualization and provides multiple customization/personalization options
SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- izmocars (http://www.izmocars.com), a leading Internet business solutions provider for the auto retailing industry, today released AOA 3.0, a completely upgraded version of AddOnAuto (AOA), the dealership accessories solution that is generating millions of dollars in accessories sales gains each month for dealerships across the country.
The AOA 3.0 upgrades are all designed to further enhance the consumer accessories purchase experience and to make the product even more intuitive for dealership personnel, including a completely new interface, built from the ground up, for increased speed, performance and usability; multiple customization options, including custom skins and more colors; dynamic and heightened vehicle and accessory image views, and more granular product and category details.
"Dealers using AOA tell us that it has literally revolutionized accessory sales - and profit gains - in their dealerships," said izmocars President Tej Soni. "AOA's rich accessories visualization has dramatically increased the number of consumers who purchase accessories from 1 in 10 to 1 in 2. With this new AOA release, we are taking the accessories purchase experience to the next level, making visualization even more immediate, robust, detailed and dynamic for consumers - all while adding greater speed, customization and more user-friendly options for dealers. Our goal is simple: inspire every customer to purchase accessories and enable every dealer to rev up profits with easy, hassle-free accessory sales."
izmocars' AOA provides a seamless consumer experience by integrating accessories shopping and financing with the car purchase, while making it very easy for dealers to launch an accessories sales business by eliminating the need to carry physical inventory.
Kirk Spencer of Burien Toyota of Burien, Washington, is just one dealer who has seen skyrocketing accessory sales and profits almost immediately after implementation of AOA. "We didn't think this product could get any better: we went from $5,000 to $20,000 per month in accessory sales in just 45 days after implementing AOA...and we went to $50,000 the next month! With AOA 3.0, we're excited about how much further we can go!" said Spencer. "Amazingly, we have both expanded and simplified the accessories sales process with AOA. And, because AOA makes it easy to explain accessories and provides something in every budget range, customers are excited and want to look at accessories options, our sales staff is having fun selling accessories - and, bottom line, we are all thrilled with the profits!"
AOA 3.0 Upgraded Features:
-- All-new interface, built from the ground up for increased speed,
performance and usability
-- Enhanced customization options
-- More detailed color scheme options
-- Custom skins
-- More "in-page" dealer-specific image options, with additional
advertising message options
-- More comprehensive category selection with more detailed descriptions
-- Dynamically changing vehicle view - from front to rear - as consumer
adds accessories
-- Accessories 'fly in' to vehicle image to highlight before and after
-- Zoom in/enlarge vehicle image capability, including full screen image
with installed accessories
-- Manufacturer information and OEM parts highlighted in listings
-- Wheel filter system for selection by finish, size and/or manufacturer
-- Category filter by price/name of product/manufacturer
-- More detailed product descriptions screens, including multiple
thumbnails
-- Shopping cart/mini-cart enable review of products prior to finalizing
purchase
-- Touchscreen-ready interface for tablets that support Flash
-- Popular Products section automatically generates the most sold products
for each specific dealership
-- Related/Required Parts automatically displayed for shopper's specific
vehicle
About izmocars
izmocars is a leading provider of Automotive Business Solutions including: Website and Online Marketing Solutions, Enterprise-level Automotive CRM, iConsult - Sales Performance Coaching and AddOnAuto - an In-Store Accessories Sales Solution.
izmocars is also the world's leader in Interactive Media Content for the automotive industry. Founded in 2002, izmocars services some of the most successful eDealers in the country. izmocars is based in San Francisco, with offices in Long Beach, CA, Chattanooga, TN, Philadelphia, PA, and Brussels in Europe.
SOURCE izmocars
izmocars
CONTACT: Melanie Webber, +1-424-603-4340, melanie@mwebbcom.com, or Angela Jacobson, +1-714-454-8776, angela@mwebbcom.com, both of mWEBB Communications for izmocars
Sony Optiarc America Introduces Next-Generation Blu-ray Disc Rewritable Drives
SAN JOSE, Calif., Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Optiarc America today announced its next-generation half-height internal Blu-ray Disc® (BD) rewritable drives for the computer aftermarket.
Available in a retail and OEM configuration, the new drives are an ideal replacement burner for a standard DVD drive while offering all the benefits of Blu-ray Disc technology, including Blu-ray 3D(TM) high-definition playback.
The drives write single BD-R media at up to 12X and dual layer BD-R media at up to 8X speeds, recording a full 25GB disc in about 10 minutes. The 12X recording speed is achieved using 6X compatible BD-R media.
The BWU-500S retail branded model comes with CyberLink's Media Suite 8 software for capturing, authoring, editing, backing up, viewing high-definition personal content and playing back Blu-ray Disc movies including 3D Blu-ray movies. Also included in the retail box is one 25GB Sony BD-R blank disc.
The new drives can record up to 50GB of data for random access storage and backup on BD-R (write once) or BD-RE (rewritable) discs, or up to 220 minutes of high-definition 24M bps MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 video on a BD-R/RE 50GB disc.
The drives also record standard 4.7GB DVD+/-R discs at up to 16X speeds, 8.5 GB DVD+/-R Double/Dual layer at up to 8X, DVD+RW at up to 8X, DVD-RW at up to 6X, CD-R at up to 48X, CD-RW at up to 24X, and support DVD-RAM recording at up to 12X speeds.
The internal drives feature a Serial ATA (SATA) interface and standard 5.25-inch form-factor for easy installation inside a desktop PC. They also incorporate intelligent monitoring for consistent recording, and adjusting read-speed technology which enhances smooth playback.
Availability
The BWU-500S retail branded drive and the OEM BD-5300S drive are available this month through authorized distributors, resellers and select online sites.
All trade names are either registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective holders.
SOURCE Sony Optiarc America
Sony Optiarc America
CONTACT: Elizabeth Boukis of Sony Electronics Inc., +1-408-352-4593, elizabeth.boukis@am.sony.com
New Cell Site Activated as Part of Ongoing AT&T Investment in New York Wireless Network
PALMYRA, N.Y., Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of its continuing network investment to support growing demand for mobile devices and services, AT&T* today announced the activation of a new cell site in the southwestern corner of Wayne County in Palmyra that will enhance coverage for area residents and businesses along Route 31 between Palmyra and Macedon as well as along Route 21 from Palmyra towards the Manchester exit of the New York State Thruway.
The new cell site is one part of AT&T's ongoing efforts to drive innovation and extend its mobile network. It is also part of our ongoing investment to build the networks that will fuel economic growth and create jobs, and enable AT&T's customers to quickly access the content, applications and services that matter most to them.
"More than ever before, customers look to wireless communications to stay in touch with family, friends and business colleagues," said Robert Holliday, vice president and general manager, AT&T upstate New York. "We're working to make this possible by adding new wireless coverage and offering exciting products to help our customers stay connected with their world, at home and on the go."
"Delivering dependable wireless coverage for consumers and business customers who need to stay connected is our ultimate objective," said Hal Lenox, president, AT&T New York. "Our ongoing investments in this critical part of the state will help us ensure that our customers have access to the wireless services that help drive economic growth."
AT&T's mobile network is based on the Global System for Mobile (GSM) standard, the most open and widely used wireless network platforms in the world. AT&T offers data roaming in 200 countries, as well as voice calling in more than 220 countries.
AT&T also owns and operates the nation's largest Wi-Fi network** with more than 23,000 hotspots in the U.S. and provides access to more than 125,000 hotspots globally through roaming agreements. Most AT&T smartphone customers get access to our U.S. Wi-Fi network at no additional cost, and Wi-Fi usage doesn't count against customers' monthly data plans.
For more information about AT&T's coverage in upstate New York or anywhere in the United States, consumers can visit an AT&T Coverage Viewer. The online tool can measure the quality of coverage based on a street address, intersection, ZIP code or even a landmark.
For updates on the AT&T wireless network, please visit our AT&T network news page.
*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.
** Largest based on company branded and operated hotspots. Access includes AT&T Wi-Fi Basic. A Wi-Fi enabled device required. Other restrictions apply. See http://www.attwifi.com for details and locations.
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 mobile broadband network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet and voice services. A leader in mobile broadband, AT&T also 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® and AT&T |DIRECTV 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 Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their leadership in local search and advertising. In 2010, AT&T again ranked among the 50 Most Admired Companies by FORTUNE®magazine.
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 http://www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATT. Find us on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/ATT to discover more about our consumer and wireless services or at http://www.Facebook.com/ATTSmallBiz to discover more about our small business services.
Cautionary Language Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
Information set forth in this press release contains financial estimates and other forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results might 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 and revise statements contained in this news release based on new information or otherwise.
SOURCE AT&T Inc.
AT&T Inc.
CONTACT: Kate MacKinnon of AT&T Inc., +1-508-271-8442, kate.mackinnon@att.com
Traxxit Technologies Corporation Created to Participate in People, Asset, and Pet Tracking by GPS
SEYMOUR, Conn., Nov. 4, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- FUSE Equity Ventures, LLC announced the organization of Traxxit Technologies Corporation (Traxxit). Traxxit is quickly becoming a leading provider of GPS devices and a web mapping software portal that enables users to locate the position of people, assets, and pets using Location Based Services (LBS).
"Our business and technical teams have been working on the product suite for some time and the pieces have come together towards our market launch," said Tom Gudsnuk, CEO and President. "After considerable diligence and the assessment of the market the time was right to have a new and refreshing entry that is elegant, multi-functional, small, re-usable and reasonably priced for any consumer. The product plans are to deliver innovative, robust, and stable products to meet customer needs globally."
With a team with more than 175 years of communication product experience and expertise, the Traxxit product suite includes: the MiniTraxx360® and Traxxit360® tracking devices, and the MyTraxxit® web portal software.
About Traxxit
Traxxit delivers products and solutions for people, assets, and pet tracking. Using the latest Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) technology, the Traxxit devices are small, innovative and re-usable without reconfiguration. The web-based location system is dynamic and easy to use. The company is privately held and located in Seymour, CT, with offices in CT, NJ, FL, CO, and TX. Traxxit offers products and services through its global network of partners and customers. For more information, visit http://www.traxxitt.com
Media Contact:
James M. Artimez
Traxxit Technologies Corporation
1 (305) 297-0274
james.artimez@traxxitt.com
This press release was issued through eReleases(R). For more information, visit eReleases Press Release Distribution at http://www.ereleases.com.
SOURCE Traxxit Technologies Corporation
Traxxit Technologies Corporation
CONTACT: James M. Artimez, Traxxit Technologies Corporation, +1-305-297-0274, james.artimez@traxxitt.com