Introducing Poshbrood.com - A Revolution in Upscale Family Travel
The new, one-of-a-kind website takes the "Are we there yet?" out of family travel and helps frazzled moms find the relaxing family escapes they deserve
WASHINGTON, Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Poshbrood, Noun: A chic and swanky social crew typically consisting of one or two parents and their young.
Poshbrood announced today the launch of its dynamic website featuring a vetted list of luxury and hip family resorts, hotels, villas and cottages. The Poshbrood reviews are penned by hand-selected "parent traveler" contributors and include hip moms, media elite, and potentially even (shhhh) celebrities. Each Posh Pick will be thoroughly examined and the site will allow users to search for recommendations based on a series of criteria, including price, location, and type of property. Weekly updates served up to the Poshbrood community will include features like celebrity family interviews, travel tips, and breaking news on sales, new destinations, and must-have travel gear.
Poshbrood is the brainchild of Elizabeth Thorp, veteran travel writer and globetrotting mom of three young children. Thorp says, "While researching luxury family travel for a story last winter, I realized there was a dearth of resources recommending upscale travel options for parents." She decided to use the treasure trove of tips on fantastic family hotels, resorts and villas she had amassed while researching stories for MomLogic.com, Washingtonian, and Niche Media's Capitol File Magazine to fill the gap. "Poshbrood combines the style of Daily Candy with the insider's knowledge of BlackBook and the irreverence of No Reservations. I'm so excited to share our picks and to continue to build our catalogue," added Thorp.
Poshbrood has researched, identified, visited, and screened chic and luxurious travel options for busy families. Visitors who register for the Poshbrood newsletters before October 29th will be eligible to win one of four stays at Poshbrood.com featured properties including: a luxury four bedroom villa, Noble House on the Beach in Montego Bay from Jamaica by Villas by Linda Smith, a deluxe suite at the slick Trump Soho, and suites at Kimpton Hotel's Hotel Palomar DC and Hotel Marlowe in Boston.
Reinventing the Spin Cycle: Whirlpool Brand Unveils Industry's Most Efficient Laundry Pair
Nearly a decade after introducing front-load laundry to the U.S., Whirlpool brand is again poised to revolutionize the game of laundry with 6th Sense(TM) Technology
BENTON HARBOR, Mich., Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Almost 100 years young, Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) has introduced many of the country's household firsts including the automatic washing machine. This legacy provides a singular focus that drives innovation and technology with purpose that not only leads to greater resource efficiency and superior performance but also makes consumers' lives easier. Whirlpool brand, flagship of the world's leading manufacturer and marketer of home appliances, continues to build on its mastery of efficiency and innovation with the launch of the industry's most resource efficient laundry pair(1) - the premium front-load Duet® washer and dryer.
With new energy and water efficiency requirements for household appliances on the horizon, Whirlpool brand - in conjunction with its Institute of Fabric Science - created a laundry pair that not only meets, but exceeds government standards to help consumers conserve natural resources and save money.
To do so, the washer uses as little as 11.5 gallons of water per load and exceeds the minimum federal energy standard set for selling appliances by more than 160 percent, on average. The washer's EcoBoost(TM) option takes the guesswork out of efficiency by reducing the water temperature and increasing agitation duration so the decrease in the one (temperature-thermal) is offset by the increase in the other (tumbling-mechanical) to deliver the same results while using less water and energy.
The pair not only keeps clothes looking new longer with gentle wash and dry actions(2), but also saves as much as $3,300 in lifetime energy costs.(3) And, for every household that uses the new Whirlpool® Duet® laundry pair, 12,857 gallons of water could be saved every year.(3) If all households in the United States - 114.8 million according to the U.S. Census - used the new laundry pair for a year, the country could save 1.47 trillion gallons of water per year.
"As the industry's most resource efficient brand, Whirlpool is dedicated to delivering products that provide superior energy and water savings coupled with exceptional performance," said Wes Pringle, vice president brand business teams, Whirlpool Corporation. "Now, nearly 10 years after the introduction of front-load technology to the United States with the first Duet laundry pair, Whirlpool brand is leading the way again with the introduction of the industry's most efficient laundry pair--the new premium front-load Duet® washer and dryer."
Through Whirlpool brand's exclusive 6th Sense(TM) technology, intelligent tools that sense and manage what was once beyond a user's control, the laundry pair provides ultimate cleaning, gentleness and efficiency. For example, the pair's built-in suite of Laundry Apps includes features like Stain Assist and Hints & Tips that give practical advice on stains and other everyday laundry questions. Combined with the washer's easy-to-fill liquid detergent reservoir, which can hold up to 36 loads in one fill(4), the Whirlpool® Duet® premium washer senses load conditions and manages the precise release of each additive at the right time during the cycle for optimal fabric care and cleaning.
The new premium front-load Duet® washer and dryer will be available at national retailers later this year with an MSRP starting at $1,099.
With nearly 100 years of practice, Whirlpool Corporation knows a thing or two about household chores. This expertise led to the creation of the Whirlpool Institute of Fabric Science, an informational hub for everything laundry. Additionally, the institute offers daily tips, tricks and advice to consumers via Twitter and Facebook. For more information on Whirlpool brand please visit http://www.whirlpool.com
About Whirlpool Brand
Whirlpool Corporation is the world's leading manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances, with annual sales of approximately $17 billion in 2009, 67,000 employees, and 67 manufacturing and technology research centers around the world. Whirlpool brand recognizes that consumers lead busy, active lives and continues to create solutions that help consumers optimize productivity and efficiency in the home. In addition to designing appliance solutions based on consumer insight, Whirlpool brand is dedicated to creating ENERGY STAR® qualified appliances like the new Duet® premium washer which uses 82 percent less water and 86 percent less energy than a traditional top load washer manufactured before 2004. Whirlpool is one of Habitat for Humanity's largest corporate partners, donating a refrigerator and range to every new Habitat for Humanity home built in North America. For more information on Whirlpool brand, please visit http://www.whirlpool.com. Additional information about the company can be found at http://www.whirlpoolcorp.com.
1. Among leading brands, based on equal weighting of energy and water usage, electric dryers only.
2. Compared to traditional top load washers.
3. Compared to pre-2004 traditional top load washers and dryers, based on normal cycle, average use, 11-year washer life and 12-year dryer life, electric models only.
NASA and Gowalla Launch Partnership With Search for Moon Rocks
WASHINGTON, Oct. 14 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- NASA and Gowalla, a mobile and web service, have partnered to bring users one small step closer to the universe. The partnership populates Gowalla with NASA-related information and four virtual items -- moon rocks, a NASA patch, a spacesuit and a space shuttle -- that can be found at agency-related venues.
"NASA's partnership with Gowalla is a creative way for us to reach out and share information about what the nation's space agency is doing," said Bob Jacobs, NASA's deputy associate administrator for communications at NASA Headquarters in Washington.
Gowalla users who virtually "check-in" at NASA-related venues and places of discovery via their smart phone have a chance to find the four agency virtual items which can be swapped for other items, dropped in locations or kept in their vault. Anyone with a Gowalla account who collects three of the four items will receive a special pin in their Gowalla Passport. In addition, the first 100 people to collect three items will win the special edition NASA+Gowalla Map: Search for the Moon Rocks by JESS3, a creative agency that specializes in data visualization.
"Gowalla's mission is to inspire discovery by connecting people with the places around them," said Andy Ellwood, director of business development for Gowalla. "Space is one of the most interesting places for human exploration, and this partnership with NASA encourages our community to visit places in their world to learn more about our universe."
The partnership enables a NASA account and an account for astronaut Mike Massimino linked to the agency's primary Twitter account, @NASA, and Massimino's Twitter account, @Astro_Mike. NASA and Massimino also will drop virtual items for users to find and collect throughout the nation.
Gowalla users can find virtual moon rocks by checking in to any location where a real one is on display. The United States successfully brought lunar samples back to Earth during the Apollo 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, and 17 missions. NASA provides a number of lunar samples for display at museums, planetariums and scientific expositions around the world. Most lunar displays are open to the public.
Gowalla users can find the virtual NASA patch, spacesuit and space shuttles by checking in to NASA visitor centers, agency-related locations, or one of the more than 400 museums, science centers, planetariums, observatories, parks, nature centers, zoos and aquariums that are part of NASA's Museum Alliance.
To view the map and connect with NASA and @Astro_Mike on Gowalla and other social media applications, visit:
Online Social Game 'My Mad Millions' Rewards Players Offline for Losing Big Online
Top Players Receive 50% of Publisher's Revenue
NEW YORK, Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Apps Genius Corp (http://www.appsgenius.com), the developer and publisher of social games and software applications, today announced the launch of their flagship online social game, My Mad Millions for Facebook, which takes the genre to the next level. The game challenges players to spend an entire $300 million virtual inheritance by indulging in the excesses of the rich and famous. Users are rewarded with varying points for accomplishing their digital spending sprees and twice a month, the top 20% of active users will reap the rewards offline by sharing in 50% of Apps Genius' game revenue.
My Mad Millions players assume the role of a millionaire jet-setter who needs to spend an entire $300 million virtual inheritance and end up penniless. In addition to investing in the in-game stock market, which is integrated with real stock-market data, users are also presented with a number of options to divest themselves of their entire fortune, including:
-- Renting mansions, boats and jets or buying clothes and accessories;
-- Making bad bets on real-life sporting events, or gambling at the in-game
casino on poker and horse racing;
-- Hiring their friends in-game to be part of their entourage and paying
them salaries or buying them gifts;
-- Challenging other players in the battle arena to one-on-one games of
rock paper scissors, dice, war, or a coin toss.
Regular play works in the users' favor. Not only does it serve to keep their bank balance low, but the more users play My Mad Millions, the more points they earn in-game which can be redeemed offline. Each day, the game calculates the top 20% most active users and awards them Black Diamond Titanium Reward Cards which are redeemable for a share of 50% of the game's revenue twice a month. Apps Genius uses a propriety algorithm to measures players' gaming behavior, usage and social interactivity and split up the revenue share with these power users.
My Mad Millions players can also redeem targeted coupons, promotions, and third-party offers through the game as an affiliate partner that increase their virtual currency, energy, and game level, providing them with a richer gaming experience.
"Instead of spending $20 of real money on virtual tractors, we decided to develop a game where players could not only live a fantasy, but they could earn real money while doing so," said Adam Kotkin, CEO of Apps Genius. "My Mad Millions lets users live an extravagant lifestyle with none of the buyer's remorse."
Apps Genius Corp (http://www.appsgenius.com) develops markets, publishes and distributes social games and software applications that consumers can use on a variety of platforms. The platforms include social networks, wireless devices such as cellular phones and smart phones including the Apple iPhone(TM) and standalone websites. To date, we have released several applications including 'Slap a Friend', a game application for the Apple iPhone(TM) and Crazy Dream Application for Facebook(TM). Apps Genius Corp's goal is to develop and publish new titles on a recurring basis that are based on the same property and gaming platform. Examples of this franchise approach are the two games that we currently have under development that both utilize the same underlying platform, My Mad Millions and Rock The House. A core focus of our Social Gaming and Mobile Application development is to allow users and players to reach across different networks into a virtual application or gaming environment such as Facebook, MySpace, iPhone and Android and be able to play games and use applications from all users no matter what environment they are using the application in.
Contacts:
Matthew Caldecutt / Matt Clark
DKC Public Relations & Integrated Marketing
212-981-5264 / 212-981-5158
matthew_caldecutt@dkcnews.com / matt_clark@dkcnews.com
SOURCE Apps Genius Corp
Apps Genius Corp
CONTACT: Matthew Caldecutt, +1-212-981-5264, matthew_caldecutt@dkcnews.com; Matt Clark, +1-212-981-5158, matt_clark@dkcnews.com, DKC Public Relations & Integrated Marketing
now easier than ever to give the gift of personalized radio
OAKLAND, Calif., Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Pandora, the leading personalized radio service, today announced a new opportunity to share the delight of listening and discovery through gifted subscriptions that can be purchased directly on the site. Listeners have the option to either email a gift card immediately to the recipient or schedule the email for up to a year in advance. A printable version is also available. At a price of just $36, Pandora makes it easy and affordable to give the gift of personalized radio full of music people love.
Each gifted subscription is redeemable for one year of Pandora One, which includes:
-- Unlimited Listening, No Advertising -There's no monthly limit set for
listening and it is completely free of any interruptions.
-- High Quality Audio - Experience 192K bits per second audio. Simply put,
more bits mean better sounding music.
-- Easy Access - Play Pandora stations right from your desktop, without
opening a new browser window, through the Pandora One Desktop
Application.
-- Enhanced Customization Options - Surround the Pandora tuner with a
customized theme that will make the look of Pandora as personalized as
the music.
Chief strategy officer and founder of Pandora, Tim Westergren said, "We've been excited about this for a long time. It's the perfect gift for any occasion. For less than a penny a day you can give someone a year's worth of great personalized music. We anticipate the new Pandora gifting to be popular not only during the upcoming holiday season, but for all occasions where people are searching for that perfect, personalized gift to give."
Pandora is everywhere people are: near a computer, on a smartphone, or in front of a new TV or connected Blu-ray player. A Pandora One account can be used for unlimited listening on multiple connected devices at the same time.
Pandora gives people music they love anytime, anywhere, through connected devices. Personalized stations launch instantly with the input of a single "seed" - a favorite artist, song or genre. The Music Genome Project®, a deeply detailed, hand-built musical taxonomy, powers Pandora's personalization - using musicological "DNA" and constant listener feedback to craft personalized stations from a growing collection of hundreds of thousands of recordings. Tens of millions of people in the U.S. turn on Pandora to hear music they love. http://www.pandora.com
SOURCE Pandora
Pandora
CONTACT: Amanda Conti of Pandora Public Relations, +1-510-423-3976, aconti@pandora.com
Pampers Connects With Moms-to-Be Through Custom Content & Life Stories Provided by Real Moms
Pregnancy.Pampers.com Becomes Primary Resource for First-Time Moms Seeking Tips and Advice on Preparing for their Parenthood Debut
CINCINNATI, Oct. 14, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- From picking a name to preparing for all the physical changes that come alongside being pregnant, being an expectant mom can often be an emotional ride. Pampers Village, a leading online resource for families, aims to calm those pre-parenthood nerves by providing moms-to-be with insights and tips from the most credible source possible, real moms!
The recently upgraded content-rich site, pregnancy.pampers.com, includes real-life stories and advice written by more than twenty everyday moms from around the country, each of whom share personal experiences in parenthood with other moms and moms-to-be. Stories cover a variety of topics including: getting pregnant, being pregnant, baby names, and the everyday joys and challenges of new parenthood.
"Most moms have a million questions and feelings soaring through their minds during their first pregnancy, and possibly even during their second and third," said John Brase, marketing director for Pampers. "At Pampers, we love all babies and support their happy, healthy development and that's why we created pregnancy.pampers.com, so real moms can share their experiences and advice with other mom on topics they care about the most."
Pampers revitalized the content on its "Pregnancy" tab in efforts to provide parents with a stronger lifestyle perspective on becoming a parent. The content aims to serve as additional resource for parents-to-be to use alongside the expert content found in our weekly newsletters and the more traditional medical-based sites offering clinical advice. Special promotions and offers can also be found in the "Pregnancy" tab on Pampers Village.
To learn more about Pampers upgraded content, please visit pregnancy.pampers.com.
About Pampers®
Pampers is a trademark of Procter & Gamble (NYSE: PG) and the company's largest global brand and is the world's top-selling brand of baby diapers. Our business is inspired by babies and toddlers, created by Pampers. For more information on Pampers diapers and the Pampers Parenting Network, visit http://www.Pampers.com.
About Procter & Gamble
Four billion times a day, P&G brands touch the lives of people around the world. The company has one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands, including Pampers®, Tide®, Ariel®, Always®, Whisper®, Pantene®, Mach3®, Bounty®, Dawn®, Gain®, Pringles®, Charmin®, Downy®, Lenor®, Iams®, Crest®, Oral-B®, Duracell®, Olay®, Head & Shoulders®, Wella®, Gillette®, Braun® and Fusion®.
The P&G community includes approximately 127,000 employees working in about 80 countries worldwide. Please visit http://www.pg.com for the latest news and in-depth information about P&G and its brands.
SOURCE Procter & Gamble
Procter & Gamble
CONTACT: Tricia Higgins, Procter & Gamble Baby Care, +1-513-945-0451, higgins.mp@pg.com; Stacy De Fino, PainePR (for Pampers), +1-212-613-4922, sdefino@painepr.com
ID Experts and Kivu Consulting Partnership Solves Data Breach Complexities
Investigation and Incident Response to Comply with All State and Federal Requirements; Free Webinar "How to Take Action When a Security Breach Hits" on Thursday, October 28
PORTLAND, Ore. and SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Responding to a data breach incident can pose immense complexities for any organization. Helping hospitals, universities, government agencies, and financial institutions get back to business post-breach is the driving force behind the partnership of ID Experts and Kivu Consulting, by effectively and quickly responding to a breach and complying with the 47 federal and state breach notification laws.
"Since data breach incidents are often complex and require immediate attention, turning to third-party expertise is a smart option for some organizations in order to protect customers, students, employees, or patients. Frankly, most companies don't have this expertise in-house," said Ian Glazer, senior analyst, identity and privacy strategies, Gartner Group. "And often, there's a short window to respond. Case in point is California, which requires notification in just five days."
Immediate Investigations Required
Data breaches can occur in numerous ways--from an overseas hacker penetrating a secure network, to an employee's laptop stolen from a car. They all share one common element. Conducting an immediate investigation to determine the nature and scope of the incident, followed by an objective and documented assessment of regulatory obligations, is critical for compliance and achieving a positive outcome. When personally identifiable information or protected health information has been exposed, regardless of the reason, ID Experts and Kivu Consulting offer a complete and defensible data breach incident response plan. This includes forensics and digital analysis; evaluating the risks and potential harm; ensuring compliance with state and federal laws or any Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) investigations; and notification of those affected.
Free Webinar: "How to Take Action When a Security Breach Hits"
A free webinar "How to Take Action When a Security Breach Hits" will be held on Thursday, October 28 at 10:00 a.m. PT. ID Experts and Kivu Consulting will share their experience by outlining the steps to take when a security incident occurs and what organizations need to do to protect their customers and their business. From Kivu Consulting, Winston Krone, attorney and managing director, and Kai Lintumaa, senior forensic analyst, will discuss the investigative components to a data breach response. Mahmood Sher-Jan, senior director at ID Experts, will outline specific incident assessment, response, and notification steps so that companies cover their bases and do right by their customers and patients. For more information and to register, please visit https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/125055354.
About Kivu Consulting
Kivu Consulting combines technical and legal experience to offer investigative, data breach, and computer forensic analysis services to clients worldwide. Based in San Francisco, Kivu also has offices in New York and Los Angeles, with associate offices in London and Johannesburg, South Africa. Kivu Consulting is a licensed California private investigation firm and compliant with HHS Business Associate requirements. For more information, visit http://www.kivuconsulting.com.
About ID Experts
ID Experts is the leader in comprehensive data breach solutions that deliver the most positive outcomes. The company has managed hundreds of data breach incidents, protecting millions of affected individuals, for leading healthcare organizations, corporations, financial institutions, universities and government agencies. In healthcare, the company contributes to relevant legislation and rules including HITECH and is a corporate member of HIMSS. ID Experts is active with organizations that advocate for privacy for Americans including ANSI/Identity Theft Prevention, Identity Management Standards Panel and the International Association of Privacy Professionals. For more information, visit http://www.idexpertscorp.com/.
SOURCE ID Experts; Kivu Consulting
ID Experts; Kivu Consulting
CONTACT: Kelly Stremel of MacKenzie Marketing Group, +1-503-225-0725, kellys@mackenzie-marketing.com, for ID Experts; or Winston Krone, Esq., of Kivu Consulting, Inc., +1-415-524-7320, wkrone@kivuconsulting.com
Exclusive Downloadable Tracks From Linkin Park's Chart-Topping New Album, A Thousand Suns, Coming to Both Guitar Hero®: Warriors of Rock and DJ Hero® 2
Six Song Linkin Park Track Pack Available for Download Tuesday for the Guitar Hero® Music Library
3 Original, Exclusive Mixes To Arrive for DJ Hero 2 Later This Winter
For A Limited Time Only, Purchase Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock or DJ Hero 2 From Amazon.com and Score a Copy of Linkin Park's A Thousand Suns
SANTA MONICA, Calif., Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Activision Publishing, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) have announced today that Grammy-Award winning alternative artist, Linkin Park, will break new ground by becoming the first band to bring downloadable content to both the award-winning Guitar Hero® and DJ Hero® franchises, delivering songs and remixes from their number one album, A Thousand Suns. As an added bonus, gamers who purchase Guitar Hero®: Warriors of Rock or DJ Hero® 2 exclusively from Amazon.com between 12:01am PST on October 17 and 11:59pm PST on October 23 will also receive a copy of Linkin Park's new album which will be included along with their copy of the game*.
"We're looking forward to bringing our new albumto Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock and DJ Hero 2," says lead vocalist Chester Bennington. "I think our fans will have a blast playing it."
"Linkin Park is one of the biggest artists in the world because of the quality and depth of their music and their ability to reach so many diverse fans in a cutting edge way made them the right first choice to have music from one album featured in both Guitar Hero and DJ Hero downloadable content," said Tim Riley, Vice President, Music Affairs, Guitar Hero. "By having Linkin Park on disc and putting out more Linkin Park songs in both Guitar Hero and DJ Hero downloadable content, we continue to find new distribution channels for great music to reach fans in an interactive way."
Following the on-disc inclusion of "Bleed It Out," one of the band's most popular songs, in Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock, Linkin Park are cranking up their Guitar Hero presence with an exclusive six song track pack for the Guitar Hero music library. The Linkin Park track pack, which will have players strumming, drumming, and wailing for hours on end, will feature a collection of songs from Linkin Park's new album, A Thousand Suns and will be available for download beginning October 19.
The Linkin Park Track Pack for the Guitar Hero music library will feature the following tracks:
-- "Blackout"
-- "Burning In The Skies"
-- "The Catalyst"
-- "The Messenger"
-- "Waiting For The End"
-- "Wretches And Kings"
No strangers to the remix realm, having collaborated on crossover tracks with everyone from hip-hop icon JAY-Z to world-renowned DJ Hero remixer and consultant Z-Trip, three Linkin Park hits are also set to receive the exclusive DJ Hero remix treatment as downloadable content this winter for DJ Hero 2.
The Linkin Park Track Pack will be available on Xbox LIVE® Marketplace for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft for 960 Microsoft Points, on the PlayStation®Store for PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system for $11.99 and for Wii(TM) for 1200 Wii Points(TM). All songs in the track pack will also be released as downloadable singles for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft for 160 Microsoft Points, PlayStation 3 system for $1.99 and Wii for 200 Wii Points each. In addition to the in-game music store and Xbox LIVE Marketplace for Xbox 360, Xbox 360 owners can expand their Guitar Hero music library using the Guitar Hero VIP Pass Music Store, available exclusively on Xbox LIVE® online entertainment network. For more information about Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock and its entire line-up of downloadable songs and disc imports, please visit http://www.guitarhero.com.
About Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock
In Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock, join with friends on an epic rock journey to save rock. Featuring an impressive 90+ track set list, a totally redesigned rock-inspired guitar controller and a host of all-new gameplay features, living room legends and their friends can strum, drum and wail in the most immersive music videogame experience to date. Delivering the quintessential rock music collection that focuses on guitar shredding hits from bands such as Black Sabbath, Slipknot and Megadeth and larger-than-life band anthems from Queen, Muse and KISS, players can unleash more rewards and unlockable content than ever before in Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock's Quest Mode, the franchise's first ever story-based mode, and Quickplay+, which invites challenge-starved fanatics to test their rock skills. Running on the powerful Guitar Hero engine that has been expanded and refined and with encores from the critically-acclaimed and fan favorite gameplay features that made Guitar Hero one of the most popular franchises of all-time - such as Party Play, Competitive modes and any combination of up to four instruments - the game offers a complete interactive and connected experience bringing friends and foes to the stage in the ultimate rock music experience.
About DJ Hero 2
The ultimate mixer of music and friends, DJ Hero 2 will deliver the definitive way for players to come together and party with a host of new multiplayer modes - including DJ Battles that pit DJ against DJ in mixes produced specifically for battle gameplay - and invite vocalists into the spotlight with integrated on-screen singing and rapping of lyrics and rhymes while bringing the party to life with jump-in/jump-out Party Play gameplay. Featuring the biggest dance, pop and hip-hop hits by the hottest artists everyone knows and loves remixed by world-class DJ's in an all-new way, the game's soundtrack delivers 83 unique creations only available in DJ Hero 2. Further immersing players into the music, the game offers a heightened level of creative input and allows everyone to add their own touch, directly impacting the beats they're spinning with freestyle scratching, crossfading and sampling. The game will also feature an all-new career-based Empire Mode where players start out as an up-and-coming DJ on the road to becoming the head of a major entertainment empire, all of which is founded solely on their success as a DJ.
Dropping on October 19, DJ Hero 2 will invite a wave of new digital disc jockeys to the turntables as the game will be available as a Party Bundle which will include a copy of the game, two turntable controllers and a microphone, offering the ultimate "party-in-a-box." Gamers who experienced DJ Hero®, the #1 new videogame intellectual property of 2009, can pick up DJ Hero 2 as a Turntable Bundle featuring one turntable controller and a copy of the game or as standalone software. The gameis in development by FreeStyleGames for Xbox 360, PLAYSTATION 3 and Wii. The game is rated "T" (Teen - Mild Suggestive Themes, Lyrics) by the ESRB. For more information about DJ Hero 2, please visit http://www.djhero.com, http://www.facebook.com/djhero and http://www.twitter.com/djhero.
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.
Guitar Hero, DJ Hero and Activision are registered trademarks of Activision Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved.
"PlayStation" is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. Microsoft, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox LIVE, and the Xbox logos are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies. Wii is a trademark of Nintendo. All rights reserved.
*This offer is only available in the US.
SOURCE Activision Publishing, Inc.
Activision Publishing, Inc.
CONTACT: For DJ Hero media inquiries, Jordan Dodge, Publicist, DJ Hero, +1-650-930-1258, jdodge@guitarhero.com, or For Guitar Hero media inquiries, Drew Meyer, Junior Publicist, Guitar Hero, +1-310-255-2606, ameyer@guitarhero.com
Provides Business Users Access to the Cloud but Keeps Their Feet on the Ground
SAN JOSE, Calif., Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- NETGEAR®, Inc.(Nasdaq: NTGR), a global networking company that delivers innovative products to consumers, businesses and Internet service providers, today announced three unique hybrid cloud storage services for business customers. First, NETGEAR's rackmount ReadyNAS® storage platforms now include up to 100GB of online archive capacity. Secondly, business-class ReadyNAS storage platforms now support a cloud file server option that seamlessly shares files between local and offsite users. And finally, the company is delivering portals that simplify service billing and management for channel partners.
Typical storage cloud service models force customers to choose between on-premise and outsourced locations. NETGEAR's hybrid models deliver pay-on-demand services while still preserving data onsite. This best of both worlds approach to cloud services delivers flexibility and cost savings while keeping primary data in-house and under control.
"NETGEAR's hybrid cloud services get businesses of all sizes into hosted architectures," said Mark Song, Product Line Manager for storage at NETGEAR. "The hybrid model enables IT departments to smooth budget cycles and improve service levels with minimal risk. Our channel partners can now deliver these managed services without their own investment in storage capacity or cloud infrastructure."
"Cloud services are transforming the way smart IT departments manage their infrastructures. Many companies are interested in the cost savings associated with cloud computing but hesitate to completely commit their data to an online provider model," Benjamin S. Woo, program vice president, worldwide storage systems research at IDC. "Hybrid cloud service models are a novel approach to mixing the trust level of local storage with the benefits of cloud services, thus helping businesses take a low-risk, simple and cost effective approach to IT."
"We are very interested in the NETGEAR hybrid cloud file sharing solution as a means to realize our consolidated collaboration strategy in a cost effective way," said Michael Abowd, Director of Information Technology at ROKU. "The solution will offer us the ability to provide a single, secure, and centralized file sharing location across our dispersed organization, both internally and externally without adding complexity to our environment. And the ReadyNAS Vault option will provide the resiliency we need to recover from anywhere with an Internet connection."
ReadyNAS Vault was the industry's first embedded online archive offering and today's announcement furthers NETGEAR's leadership position. ReadyNAS platforms now include capacity for hybrid archive and disaster recovery. Business-class systems include up to 100GB for 12 months and the ReadyNAS Ultra family includes up to 2GB for 24 months. Overage pricing currently starts at $.40/GB.
Hybrid file sharing is delivered on all business-class ReadyNAS systems through Egnyte's Office Local Cloud service. This solution combines the fast performance of local storage with the simplicity of cloud access for remote and mobile workers. The Egnyte service runs directly on the ReadyNAS and plans start under $70/month.
New web portals for both ReadyNAS Vault and the Egnyte Office Local Cloud give partners a single Web-based interface where they can maintain locations and monitor accounts. These new hybrid cloud services enable NETGEAR partners as managed service providers without private cloud investment.
NETGEAR (NASDAQGM: NTGR) is a global networking company that delivers innovative products to consumers, businesses and Internet service providers. For consumers, the company makes high performance, dependable and easy home networking, storage and digital media products to connect people with the Internet and their content and devices. For businesses, NETGEAR provides networking, storage and security solutions without the cost and complexity of Big IT. The company also supplies all of the top Internet service providers with retail proven, whole home solutions for their customers. NETGEAR products are built on a variety of proven technologies such as wireless, Ethernet and powerline, with a focus on reliability and ease-of-use. NETGEAR products are sold in over 27,000 retail locations around the globe, and though more than 36,000 value-added resellers. The company's headquarters are in San Jose, Calif., with additional offices in 25 countries. NETGEAR is an ENERGY STAR® partner. More information is available at http://www.NETGEAR.com or by calling (408) 907-8000. Connect with NETGEAR at http://twitter.com/NETGEAR and http://www.facebook.com/NETGEAR.
Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 for NETGEAR, Inc.:
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Specifically, statements concerning NETGEAR's business and the expected performance characteristics, specifications, reliability, market acceptance, market growth, specific uses, user feedback and market position of NETGEAR's products and technology are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Safe Harbor. These statements are based on management's current expectations and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, the following: the actual price, performance and ease of use of NETGEAR's products may not meet the price, performance and ease of use requirements of customers; product performance may be adversely affected by real world operating conditions; failure of products may under certain circumstances cause permanent loss of end user data; new viruses or Internet threats may develop that challenge the effectiveness of security features in NETGEAR's products; the ability of NETGEAR to market and sell its products and technology; the impact and pricing of competing products; and the introduction of alternative technological solutions. Further information on potential risk factors that could affect NETGEAR and its business are detailed in the Company's periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to, those risks and uncertainties listed in the section entitled "Part II - Item 1A. Risk Factors," pages 36 through 52, in the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal second quarter ended June 27, 2010, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 5, 2010. NETGEAR undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
CONTACT: U.S. Media, Melanie Terbeek, Atomic PR, +1-415-593-1400, melanie@atomicpr.com, for NETGEAR; or U.S. Sales Inquiries, +1-408-907-8000, sales@netgear.com, or U.S. Customer Inquiries, 1-888-NETGEAR, of NETGEAR
AT&T Accelerates Timetable for Expanding Service in California
Alltel Customers Joining AT&T to Receive Free Mobile Devices on the Nation's Fastest Mobile Broadband Network
LOS ANGELES, Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- AT&T* said today that the timetable for expanding AT&T service in California has been accelerated and that it expects to complete network upgrades on wireless assets acquired from Verizon Wireless in June 2010 by the end of 2010 or the beginning of 2011. That is significantly sooner than the earlier estimate for enhancing AT&T's coverage in California by mid-2011. Once network integration work is completed, AT&T will launch service for Alltel customers in California Rural Service Area (RSA) 6.(1)
Every Alltel consumer customer in this area joining AT&T as a result of the transaction will receive an offer for a brand new AT&T handset at no additional cost.(2) Customers will be able to choose their free device from a list of the latest AT&T 3G handsets that are comparable to what they have today.(3) Additionally, the vast majority of customers choosing free comparable devices will be able to keep their existing rate plans, and none of these customers will be required to assume an additional contract term.
Customers will also have the opportunity to upgrade to a new device, like iPhone 4®, for an additional fee and with a new two-year contract, with current AT&T rates and associated data plan.
"AT&T has been working tirelessly to upgrade the Alltel network to the nation's fastest mobile broadband network, and we expect that coverage in this area will be as good as -- if not better than -- it is today, with the ability to talk and surf the Internet at the same time," said Andy Shibley, vice president and general manager of AT&T's Greater Los Angeles Area. "Our preparations will ensure that we deliver a superior customer experience when we launch service, and we look forward to expanding our presence in California."
"AT&T customers have access to the nation's fastest mobile broadband network. And not only does AT&T's network cover 97 percent of all Americans, AT&T also has the best international coverage of any U.S. wireless provider. That means our customers have voice service in more than 220 countries and data service in 200 countries."
AT&T representatives will communicate to new customers on a regular basis about any changes they can expect moving forward. For example, AT&T recently sent customers a letter describing the steps for choosing new devices. New devices will be mailed directly to AT&T customers' billing addresses approximately one to three weeks before service is launched in this area.
AT&T is an industry leader in delivering the benefits of mobile broadband networks, devices and applications. With the nation's fastest mobile broadband network, AT&T provides accelerated mobile data speeds and simultaneous voice and data capabilities for an amazing wireless voice and data experience.
(1) California RSA 6 includes Inyo and Mono counties.
(2) Applies only to postpaid customers with a contract.
(3) Customers with laptop cards and netbooks may not have a choice of devices, but they will receive a comparable new device at no additional charge.
*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.
About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates - AT&T operating companies - are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's fastest 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 @ATTNews. 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.
Dolby Digital Plus Brings 5.1-Channel Surround Sound to Movies and TV Shows Instantly Streamed from the Leading Online Movie Subscription Service
LOS GATOS, Calif. and SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Netflix, Inc. (Nasdaq: NFLX) and Dolby Laboratories, Inc. (NYSE: DLB) today announced that Netflix has selected Dolby® Digital Plus to deliver 5.1-channel surround sound for TV shows and movies streamed instantly over the Internet. Beginning October 18, the PlayStation®3 (PS3(TM)) computer entertainment system from Sony Computer Entertainment, Inc. will be the first consumer electronics device to support 5.1-channel surround sound on movies streamed from Netflix. Netflix said more devices would be added over time to support streaming digital surround sound.
"Netflix is committed to delivering an unparalleled experience to its members who watch TV shows and movies streamed instantly over the Internet," said Greg Peters, Netflix vice president of product development. "Netflix required an audio solution that could efficiently deliver an outstanding surround sound experience for a wide range of consumer devices. Dolby Digital Plus proved to be the best solution to meet our needs and the needs of our device partners."
Dolby Digital Plus supports up to 7.1 channels of premium-quality surround sound and allows consumers to enjoy outstanding high-definition audio from broadcasts, streaming and downloaded media, and Blu-ray Disc(TM). To date, tens of millions of TVs, set-top boxes, Blu-ray Disc players, Audio/Video receivers, and mobile phones have shipped with Dolby Digital Plus.
"Dolby Digital Plus makes the online entertainment experience rich, realistic, and memorable," said John Couling, vice president, marketing, products & platforms, Dolby Laboratories. "Dolby is excited to be working with Netflix and its partners to provide premium Dolby surround sound to Netflix subscribers. This collaboration will enable subscribers to enjoy movies and TV shows presented in surround sound just as the artists and directors intended."
Dolby Digital Plus is a sophisticated audio system based on Dolby Digital that has been adopted by many of the world's leading broadcasters, TV and set-top-box manufacturers, and device makers to provide consumers with full digital surround sound. It is designed to adapt to the changing demands of entertainment delivery while retaining compatibility with existing Dolby Digital 5.1-channel home theater systems.
About Dolby Laboratories
Dolby Laboratories (NYSE: DLB) is the global leader in technologies that are essential elements in the best entertainment experiences. Founded in 1965 and best known for high-quality audio and surround sound, Dolby creates innovations that enrich entertainment at the movies, at home, or on the go. Visit http://www.dolby.com for more information.
About Netflix, Inc.
With more than 15 million members in the United States and Canada, Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ: NFLX) is the world's leading Internet subscription service for enjoying movies and TV shows. For $8.99 a month, Netflix members in the U.S. can instantly watch unlimited movies and TV episodes streaming right to their TVs and computers and can receive unlimited DVDs delivered quickly to their homes. In Canada, streaming unlimited movies and TV shows from Netflix is available for $7.99 a month. There are never any due dates or late fees with Netflix. Among the large and expanding base of supported devices streaming from Netflix are the Microsoft® Xbox 360®, Nintendo® Wii(TM), and Sony Computer Entertainment's PS3 consoles; Blu-ray Disc players from the Best Buy(SM) Insignia brand, LG®, and Samsung; Internet TVs from LG, Samsung, Sony, and Vizio®; the Roku® digital video player and TiVo(SM) digital video recorders; and the Apple® iPhone®, iPad(TM), and iPod® touch. All of these devices are available for purchase in the United States. A growing number of supported devices are available for purchase in Canada. For more information, visit http://www.netflix.com.
Dolby is a registered trademark of Dolby Laboratories. Netflix is a registered trademark of Netflix, Inc.. All other trademarks remain the property of their respective owners. DLB-G
CONTACT: Sean Durkin of Dolby Laboratories, +1-415-645-5176, sdurk@dolby.com, or Catherine Fisher of Netflix, Inc., +1-408-540-3847, cafisher@netflix.com
Callaway Golf Introduces New Diablo Octane Drivers & Fairway Woods
New Drivers Mark Debut of Forged Composite(TM), the Lightest, Strongest, Most Precise Material Callaway Has Ever Used
CARLSBAD, Calif., Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Callaway Golf Company (NYSE: ELY) today announced the November 12 retail availability of the new Diablo Octane and Diablo Octane Tour Drivers, as well as the new Diablo Octane Fairway Woods. Twenty years after revolutionizing the driver market with the original Big Bertha Driver, Callaway's Diablo Octane Drivers introduce another innovative breakthrough in the form of a new material called Forged Composite(TM) -the lightest, strongest, most precise material the Company has ever used.
The performance characteristics of Forged Composite, a material developed in conjunction with Research and Development partner Automobili Lamborghini, has allowed Callaway engineers to develop an advanced clubhead with a greater transfer of power at impact and more accurate trajectories versus its all-titanium counterparts.
"Applying Forged Composite in tandem with a proprietary isothermal forging process has generated a measurable performance advantage over the metal alloys generally used to manufacture golf clubs," said Dr. Alan Hocknell, Sr. Vice President, Research and Development, Callaway Golf. "The Diablo Octane Drivers are configured to deliver unmatched power and precision through superior design, construction and advanced materials."
Employing Forged Composite in the crown of the Diablo Octane Driver has allowed Callaway engineers to precisely set the clubhead's Center of Gravity (CG) and Moment of Inertia (MOI) in order to promote accurate trajectories. This lighter, more efficient clubhead is then paired with a longer shaft to increase head speed and power at impact for longer distances. Additionally, Diablo Octane Drivers include Callaway's proprietary Hyperbolic Face Technology(TM), which utilizes a chemical milling process to provide a larger sweet spot and improved impact efficiency. Overall, Callaway's Diablo Octane powers drives beyond those of its all-titanium predecessor by an average distance of eight yards.
Diablo Octane Tour models feature a slightly smaller head size than standard models, a full hosel, and the more open look at address preferred by skilled players. Diablo Octane Drivers come with a Project X(TM) Graphite Shaft that is 46 inches in the standard model and 45.5 inches in the Tour model. The new product introduction retail price for the Diablo Octane and Diablo Octane Tour Drivers is $299.
Building on Callaway's heritage of innovation, the Diablo Octane and Diablo Octane Tour Fairway Woods are engineered to maximize power. The standard models feature a larger footprint and are designed with a deep CG for better playability and higher trajectories. The Tour models are designed with a smaller profile and a traditional hosel, and deliver increased workability with low, penetrating trajectories that are preferred by more accomplished players. Diablo Octane Fairway Woods feature aggressive Variable Face Technology® that increases the size of each club's sweet spot and generates high ball speeds for better distance. Diablo Octane Fairway Woods will be available at the new product introduction retail price of $199.
About Forged Composite
Forged Composite is the lightest, strongest, most precise material Callaway has ever employed. Encompassing more than 500,000 intertwined turbostratic fibers per square inch, this revolutionary material features an incredibly high threshold for withstanding the extreme forces encountered by Lamborghini and Callaway products. Forged Composite is one-third the density of titanium, yet features a greater load carrying capacity per unit mass in bending. The implementation of a new, proprietary isothermal forging process enables Callaway and Lamborghini engineers to incorporate Forged Composite into their designs with a level of precision that was previously unachievable.
About The Callaway Golf-Automobili Lamborghini Partnership
On September 30, 2010, Callaway Golf and Automobili Lamborghini announced an agreement to connect the resources of their world-renowned Research and Development teams. This unique alliance establishes an ongoing partnership to develop innovative technologies and materials such as Forged Composite, the first collaborative element of this union.
The origins of this recently formalized relationship date back several years. Through the constant pursuit of lighter and stronger materials, the Lamborghini and Callaway Research and Development teams cultivated similar areas of expertise. A major point of convergence surrounded the development of advanced composite structures. These highly developed materials comprised of microscopic carbon fibers feature remarkable strength and performance characteristics in comparison to the metal alloys that are generally used throughout the automotive and golf industries.
Through an unwavering commitment to innovation, Callaway Golf Company (NYSE:ELY) creates products and services designed to make every golfer a better golfer. Callaway Golf Company manufactures and sells golf clubs and golf balls, and sells golf apparel, footwear and accessories, under the Callaway Golf®, Odyssey®, Top-Flite®, and Ben Hogan® brands in more than 110 countries worldwide. For more information on Callaway Golf's complete lineup of equipment, footwear and accessories, please visit http://www.callawaygolf.com.
CONTACT:
Scott Goryl
Callaway Golf
(760) 804-4080
Scott.Goryl@CallawayGolf.com
Server Technology Launches Newest Version of Sentry Power Manager: Designed for Improved Data Center Power Management Efficiency and Performance
New Functionality in Version 4.3 features PUE Reporting, Advanced Scheduling, Syslog Support and Improved Third-Party PDU Device Integration
RENO, Nev., Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Server Technology, Inc., the global leader for Power Distribution Unit and Power Management Solutions, today introduced the latest update to the Sentry Power Manager (SPM) solution, version 4.3. "This new version will provide a whole new level of data, information and features to help data center professionals manage their mission critical operations," said Brandon Ewing, president of Server Technology. "Through our customer-driven innovation process and superior engineering, we continue to expand the capabilities of our Sentry Power Manager solution. When used in combination with our cabinet power distribution units, SPM is the most comprehensive solution available today to measure, monitor and trend power and environmental information in your data center - right at the device level," said Ewing.
The latest version of SPM supports Server Technology's patented Per Inlet Power Sensing (PIPS(TM)) devices as well as providing support for third-party power distribution units (PDUs), including APC, Geist and Raritan. Server Technology's revolutionary PIPS(TM) devices accurately monitor the power in-feed information, providing an extremely cost-effective and accurate alternative to complex branch circuit monitoring at the Remote Power Panel (RPP).
"We put a lot of new features and functionality in this version," said Calvin Nicholson, senior director of software and strategic alliances. "The most important new features are the support of our PIPS product, the PUE reporting availability, the syslog support and the ability to schedule outlet control, device discovery and database maintenance options," said Nicholson.
In addition to the PUE reports, this new version of SPM provides reports for trending power/load per location, cabinet, groups, clusters, and circuits. New reporting for circuit summary, subtotal reports for input load and power and power summary reports are included, as well as the option of an increased number of email alert addresses.
About Server Technology
Server Technology, Inc. is the global leader in power distribution units and power management products used in the world's leading enterprise data centers, service providers and branch office locations. For over 25 years, Server Technology has been recognized for innovative, intelligent power distribution, remote power monitoring and power management and measurement. Driven by customer innovation, the company is committed to helping companies reach their power consumption and green initiative goals. Server Technology, Inc. is headquartered in Reno, Nevada with worldwide distribution and regional offices in the United Kingdom, Germany and Singapore. To contact Server Technology call 1-800-835-1515 or visit http://www.servertech.com.
About Sentry Power Manager (SPM)
SPM is a power monitoring, measurement and management solution designed to help data centers measure their power usage and achieve their green initiative goals. SPM is engineered for monitoring and managing multiple devices in IP-based enterprise networks. SPM provides a global view of power distribution units with the ability to monitor, trend and report on temperature, humidity, current and device status.
SOURCE Server Technology, Inc.
Server Technology, Inc.
CONTACT: Julie Brown, Marketing Manager of Server Technology, Inc., 1-800-835-1515, Julie.Brown@servertech.com
Norman Enhances Email Security Protection Solution
Offers Latest Anti-Spam Capabilities, Microsoft Exchange 2010 Support and New Policy Management Add-On
FAIRFAX, Va., Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Norman ASA, a leading global network security company, announced today that Norman Email Protection 5.0, a high performance email security solution available as a product or a service, is now available with significant enhancements.
Norman Email Protection is a secure email management solution designed to not only shield networks from malware, spam, viruses and phishing attempts, but also delivers effective tools for managing legitimate messages and attachments residing in the network.
Norman's Enhanced Sender Reputation System
Most spam today comes from cybercriminals running botnets with sophisticated network infrastructures sending out millions of emails attempting to penetrate networks from large enterprises to the SMB. With Norman Email Protection 5.0, an effective defense is put in place when the solution analyzes email IP reputation based on real-time activity. Sender Reputation System servers are updated every five minutes providing an instant reaction and protection from new spam waves. With frequent database updates, SRS may also rapidly elect to clear email from recently cleaned computers and hosts which have become botnet-free. These ultra-fast reaction times means the SRS is the ideal counter-measure to email attacks. SRS operates at the connection level and requires few computing resources. Emails originating from known spammers can be automatically rejected or quarantined.
Email Policy Management
Norman NEP 5.0 is a complete inbound and outbound solution which enables organizations to control what content can and cannot leave or enter a local network through email, and how it should be processed. NEP 5.0 scans both inbound and outbound mail. The solution institutes rules which examine subject, body and attachments of emails. These rules use standard dictionaries which take advantage of commercially-available lists of terms specific to industries (accounting, medical, etc.). Additionally, policies may be applied to specific users, groups and domains.
Works with Standards-Based All Email Servers
Norman Email Protection 5.0 seamlessly integrates with Microsoft Exchange, Lotus Domino and all other SMTP standards-based servers.
About Norman ASA
Founded in Norway in 1984, Norman ASA is a global leader and pioneer in proactive content security solutions and forensics malware tools. Norman's proactive antimalware solutions, including malware analysis tools, network security and endpoint protection, are powered by patented Norman SandBox® technology and used by security solutions providers around the world.
Norman's unified core antimalware protection for clients, servers and network security are delivered as products and services designed to protect business communications and resources, including corporate and government networks and applications, remote employees, branch offices and extranets. Norman's solutions are available through Norman subsidiaries and a network of global partners. For more information, visit http://www.norman.com.
For additional information:
John Callahan
Norman ASA
703.279.6650
John.callahan@norman.com
SOURCE Norman ASA
Norman ASA
CONTACT: John Callahan, Norman ASA, +1-703-279-6650, John.callahan@norman.com
Peak Performance Launches the Brand New Online Game The Rescue Operation
STOCKHOLM, October 14, 2010/PRNewswire/ -- Peak Performance is launching The Rescue Operation - a challenging and
fun educational online game, which offers both beautiful scenery and dramatic
suspense. Through the challenging gameplay you experience the full potential
of the Black Light collection, which up to this point is one of Peak
Performances most technically refined alpine collections, developed for and
by mountain guides. By playing the game and performing well you can win an
outfit from the Black Light collection.
The Rescue Operation, produced by the award-winning Swedish digital
agency Know IT Hello There, is set somewhere in the snowy mountains of Peru.
Here a small cargo plane crashes and its load consisting of five cargo boxes
containing important information is spread over the snowy slopes. In order to
save the plane crew and reach the boxes you will have to climb, jump between
cliffs, and balance over dizzying heights and ski down steep mountain walls.
While playing the player learn about the features, facts and benefits
that come with the Black Light collection. A full set of functional,
lightweight garment for both men and woman - for all season mountain
activities. The collection includes base layers, mid-layers, shells and
insulating materials from GORE-TEX(R), Schoeller(R) and Primaloft(R).
"This is a completely new way for us to spread the word and teach our
target groups about our technical and functional garments. Besides it's a fun
way of getting prepared for the up coming winter", says Fredrik Kjellberg,
Online Marketing Manager Peak Performance.
Except for learning about various functional garments and insulation
technologies the player also are introduced to the secrets behind dressing
right in extreme weather conditions. The player's achievements render points
that make it possible for him or her to compete against friends and other
players and enter the high score
Besides having a fun game experience while playing The Rescue operation
the player also has the chance to win great prices. First prize is a shell
jacket and shell pants from Black Light, 2nd prize a 200 Euro gift voucher
from Peak Performance web shop and 3rd prize a 100 Euro voucher.
"We are all avid gamers and sport freaks. When we approached Peak
Performance with our game idea we hoped they would like it. Luckily they did.
Looking back it has been great fun working with Peak Performance and we are
proud of the result", says Oskar Eklund, CEO at Know IT Hello There.
For more information please contact:
Karin Sturesson, PR responsible, Peak Performance, phone: +46-8-50-65-55-00,
e-mail: karin.sturesson@peakperformance.se
Oskar Eklund, VD, Know IT Hello There, phone: +46-761-12-03-86,
e-mail: oskar@hellothere.se
Source: Peak Performance
For more information please contact: Karin Sturesson, PR responsible, Peak Performance, phone: +46-8-50-65-55-00, e-mail: karin.sturesson@peakperformance.se; Oskar Eklund, VD, Know IT Hello There, phone: +46-761-12-03-86, e-mail: oskar@hellothere.se
Jim Beam Black® Double Aged Bourbon Helps Consumers Throw Away Their Past With Interactive 'Beamfire' Online Game and Sweepstakes
Online Game and Sweepstakes Part of Premium Bourbon's New '8 Years Changes Everything' Campaign
DEERFIELD, Ill., Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Jim Beam Black® Double Aged Bourbon has launched the Beamfire Sweepstakes* - an online program that allows consumers to toss items from the past into a virtual bonfire in celebration of how much they've matured over the last eight years. The program is part of a new platform from the premium Bourbon titled "8 years changes everything," which plays up the product's eight-year aging process.
Beamfire lives online at http://www.beamfire.com and provides consumers with opportunities to ditch the memories of the trucker hats they used to wear, the music they used to play, and even the company they used to keep. Over the course of eight weeks, entrants earn points and badges for participating in a series of weekly challenges. Beamfire challenges will include topics such as: "My Old Wardrobe," "Where I Used to Live" and "My Old Job," among others. Each point received during the sweepstakes period will convert into sweepstakes entries. For each weekly drawing, up to ten (10) branded prize packs will be awarded, for a total of up to eighty (80) weekly prizes throughout the sweepstakes. Additionally, at the conclusion of the sweepstakes period, all eligible participants will automatically be entered into the Grand Prize drawing for a chance to win one of three $8,000 grand prizes.
"Our new Jim Beam Black '8 years changes everything' platform and redesigned packaging reflects the award-winning Bourbon in our new bottles - in part, a result of the extra years spent in the barrel," said Drew Munro, general manager Bourbons, Beam Global Spirits & Wine. "Much like this delicious Bourbon, Jim Beam Black drinkers have grown up over the course of eight years, and this campaign playfully appeals to those now ready for a more premium option and helps them celebrate how they've matured along with our Bourbon."
In addition to the Beamfire online program, Jim Beam Black has also unveiled new advertisements and refreshed its packaging.
Jim Beam Black Ad Campaign
A series of "8 years changes everything" advertisements are currently running in print and digital media outlets. These ads illustrate how much can change in eight years and highlight Jim Beam Black's openness to share its age with the public.
"If your palate has developed over the last 8 years, consider this perfect timing," one of the ads states.
Packaging
Jim Beam Black has updated its look and now features sleeker, more premium packaging. The new bottle holds this same quality Bourbon but with a more distinguished look. Each bottle also comes with a hang tag featuring its award-winning taste credentials - the Bourbon ranked highest among several higher-priced North American whiskeys including: Woodford Reserve®, Wild Turkey® 101 and Jack Daniel's® Gentleman Jack® by the Beverage Testing Institute (93 rating)(1). The 86-proof premium Bourbon spends eight years in new charred, white oak barrels and has a full-bodied flavor with smooth caramel and warm oak notes.
Jim Beam Black is available in 750 ML (SRP $21.99) and 1 L bottles in retail locations throughout the country.
* NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Must be a legal resident of the 50 United States or D.C. (except CA) and 21 years of age or older to participate. Void where prohibited. Subject to complete official rules. Sweepstakes begins on October 15, 2010 at 12:00:01 a.m. EDT and ends on December 10, 2010 11:59:59 p.m. ET.
Jim Beam is committed to social responsibility and advises legal purchase age consumers to drink smart®. Through drinksmart.com, Beam Global educates legal purchase age consumers about how to make responsible choices about alcohol.
About Beam Global Spirits & Wine:
Inspiring conversations around the world, Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Inc. is building brands people want to talk about. Consumers from all corners of the globe call for our brands, including Jim Beam® Bourbon, Sauza® Tequila, Canadian Club® Whisky, Courvoisier® Cognac, Maker's Mark® Bourbon, Laphroaig® Scotch Whisky, Cruzan® Rum, EFFEN® Vodka, Larios® Gin, Whisky DYC®, Teacher's® Scotch Whisky, DeKuyper® Cordials and Liqueurs and Knob Creek® Bourbon. Beam Global Spirits & Wine is part of Fortune Brands, Inc. (NYSE: FO), a leading consumer brands company. For more information on Beam Global Spirits & Wine, its brands, and its commitment to social responsibility, visit http://www.beamglobal.com and http://www.drinksmart.com.
Jim Beam® Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, 40% Alc./Vol.
(1) Beverage Testing Institute, Inc. - 2008 Professional Tasting - Chicago, IL
CONTACTS:
Dan Cohen Jason Lourie
Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Inc. Edelman
847-444-7657 312-240-2925
Dan.Cohen@BeamGlobal.com Jason.Lourie@edelman.com
SOURCE Beam Global Spirits & Wine
Beam Global Spirits & Wine
CONTACT: Dan Cohen of Beam Global Spirits & Wine, Inc., +1-847-444-7657, Dan.Cohen@BeamGlobal.com; or Jason Lourie of Edelman, +1-312-240-2925, Jason.Lourie@edelman.com, for Beam Global Spirits & Wine
SWINDON, England, October 14, 2010/PRNewswire/ -- ISL Online will exhibit the virtual and live chat software at Gitex
Technology week, held in Dubai from 17th to 21st October. The company will
join forces with the company ArtiSol and present the advanced helpdesk
solution, which allows companies to deliver fast, efficient, cost-effective
customer service, and online support.
ISL Online (http://www.islonline.com) is one of the leading providers of
remote desktop access and support, web conferencing, and live chat software.
At Gitex ISL Online will focus on its enterprise instant messaging software -
ISL Pronto. Together with ArtiSol (http://www.artisol.com), they will offer a
complete helpdesk solution including virtual and live chat agents.
Virtual chat agent is using artificial intelligence to answer the sales
and support queries by the website visitors. When the questions cannot be
answered automatically, the live chat session is initiated with the second
line live support operators.
The chat sessions are running in a cloud, which lowers the software and
infrastructure costs and provides a perfect helpdesk solution for the mobile
workforce. Cloud computing will be also a hot theme at Gitex technology week,
discussed at the Gitex Cloud Confex platform.
You are welcome to visit ISL Online and ArtiSol at Gitex Technology week
in Dubai. They will be showcasing their solutions at Za'abell hall, stand 37.
http://www.islonline.com has been supplying easy-to-use, on-demand
business software for remote desktop support and access, web meetings and
instant live chats since 2003 to over 80,000 business users worldwide. The
products are bundled together in an 'All in One' pack to offer anyone - from
small, midsized and big businesses, to individuals - a new, easier and secure
way to access PCs, for collaboration with clients, partners and employees in
real time.
ISL Online Headquarters, Barbara Viskovic | Marketing&PR, XLAB d.o.o. | Pot za Brdom 100 | SI-1000, Ljubljana, T. +386-1-2447760 | F. +386-1-2447770, press@islonline.com
Cobra Electronics Revolutionizes Radar Detection with Cobra iRadar(TM) System
New Detection System Works with iPhone® to Alert Drivers to Radar/Laser Guns, Speed/Red Light Cameras, and Other Road Hazards
CHICAGO, Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Cobra Electronics Corporation (Nasdaq: COBR), the leading manufacturer of radar detection devices, announced today the launch of its new Cobra iRadar Detection System. The Cobra iRadar system combines industry-leading radar/laser gun and speed/red light camera detection technology with the ease of use of iPhone to create a revolutionary detection system.
The Cobra iRadar Detection System consists of a state-of-the-art Cobra radar detector and the Cobra iRadar App for iPhone. The system uses Bluetooth® wireless technology to connect iPhone to the detector, and the iPhone Multi-Touch display to control the detector's settings. As a result, the Cobra iRadar Detection System enables motorists to view, hear and log alerts for radar/laser guns as well as upcoming speed/red light cameras and other potential hazards.
"The Cobra iRadar Detection System is truly revolutionary," said Sally Washlow, senior vice president of marketing and sales for Cobra Electronics. "It pairs Cobra's industry-leading radar/laser detection technology with iPhone's exceptional display and GPS capabilities to create a truly new standard for detection systems. What makes using Cobra's iRadar system so remarkable is that it not only provides drivers an unprecedented amount of crucial information, it does so with clarity and convenience."
The Cobra iRadar detector is a sleek, compact and powerful unit. It detects all radar and laser guns on the market and alerts motorists to upcoming threats from all directions with its 360 degree protection. Its large, crisp speaker provides clear and precise warnings while its escalating audio alerts let you know the distance to any threat. The Cobra iRadar detector unit also works as a standalone detector when not paired to the app, ensuring that it is in radar/laser gun detection mode at all times.
The Cobra iRadar App is the control center for the iRadar Detection System. Using the Bluetooth wireless technology in iPhone, drivers can control all the settings of the iRadar detector including which alert notifications it will provide and the audio volume at which they will be provided. In addition, the app allows drivers to view past alert locations on a map, mark user locations, and view their speed, compass heading and car battery voltage.
The Cobra iRadar App includes at no cost Cobra's exclusive AURA(TM) Camera and Driving Hazard Database, which enables drivers to receive alerts for speed and red light camera locations as well as other driving hazards. Utilizing GPS technology in iPhone, the iRadar app alerts the driver to upcoming speed and red light cameras, known speed traps and dangerous intersections. These locations are 100% verified and updated daily automatically.
The Cobra iRadar Detection System has a manufacturer suggested retail price of $169.95 and is available now at retailers nationwide and at http://www.cobra.com
The Cobra iRadar App, along with the AURA database, is available for free from the App Store for iPhone or at http://www.itunes.com/appstore/.
Cobra Electronics is a leading global designer and marketer of communication and navigation products, with a track record of delivering innovative and award-winning products. Building upon its leadership position in the GMRS/FRS two-way radio, radar detector and Citizens Band radio industries, Cobra identified new growth opportunities and has aggressively expanded into the marine market and has expanded its European operations. The Consumer Electronics Association, Forbes and Deloitte & Touche have all recognized Cobra for the company's innovation and industry leadership. To learn more about Cobra Electronics, please visit the Cobra site at http://www.cobra.com. Follow Cobra on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/CobraElectronicor become a fan at http://www.facebook.com/CobraElectronics.
CONTACT: Chris Kooistra of Cobra Electronics, +1-773-307-8386, ckooistra@cobra.com, or Susan Schonfeld and Pazia Schonfeld of Universe PR Central, +1-845-721-9456, info@UniversePRCentral.com, for Cobra Electronics
Largest Global Online Small Business Directory Launches hotfrog AdVantage in the UK
LONDON, October 14, 2010/PRNewswire/ -- hotfrog announces the launch of hotfrog AdVantage, offering businesses
the ability to create a targeted professional ad on relevant category pages
throughout the website and an enhanced, advertising-free company page on http://www.hotfrog.co.uk. This adds to the enhanced search engine
optimisation which users have come to expect from the hotfrog service.
hotfrog, which provides a FREE internet profile to more than four million
small businesses in the UK is the largest global online business directory.
The company has been active in the UK since 2007, with more than five million
local searches and 2.6 million unique users per month, representing a vital
route to market for the small businesses which power the UK economy.
In addition to the extensive free information businesses can already
include in their hotfrog listing, hotfrog AdVantage will help businesses
increase sales opportunities, be seen by more customers, more often and stand
out from competitors on hotfrog.
Businesses will be able to track results on a dedicated reporting
dashboard, enabling them to see how many people are clicking through to their
company profile, how many leads are being generated and which category
keywords people are using to find their business. Using this, they will be
able to assess the effectiveness of their hotfrog AdVantage ad and make
changes as often as they wish to drive more page views, more prospects and
more sales to their business.
Anthony Byrne, Global Product Director, hotfrog said; - "Building on the
success of our unique business model, which includes the ability to add
detailed company, product and service information, upload images to showcase
projects, and include coupons for special offers - all for free -- hotfrog
AdVantage will help SMBs further stand out against relevant local competitors
and appropriate category listings,".
"To demonstrate the value it will bring, we are offering a free 60-day
trial with no obligation and an additional 30 days free for users who choose
to continue on with the paid program."
David Catterall, Managing Director, hotfrog said;- "At hotfrog, we
understand that the value we deliver to SMBs is visibility. We have
established a global online business directory that helps our customers
succeed by investing in and creating rich data solutions that help address
the needs of consumers and SMBs alike,"
Following implementation in the UK, hotfrog will be rolling out hotfrog
AdVantage to the United States, Australia, Canada, Italy, Germany, Spain and
Brazil by the end of the of the year.
hotfrog AdVantage costs just GBP9.95 per month. There are no upfront fees
or charges, simply pay-as-you-go and you can cancel at anytime.
*When you sign-up to hotfrog AdVantage you will receive at least a 60-day
trial before your monthly charges begin. Sign up for the paid product before
the end of your trial to receive an extra 30 days free.
About hotfrog
Founded in 2005, hotfrog is the largest global online business directory
for small businesses, operating in 36 countries with more than 61 million
listings. Owned by Reed Business Information, hotfrog offers intelligent
marketing tools helping small businesses easily turn listings into new
business leads. Year to date there have been more than more than 21 million
visits to hotfrog in UK, helping people find the SMB they need. For more
information about hotfrog please visit http://www.hotfrog.co.uk/
Microsoft Delivers New Innovations That Reinforce Its Dynamic Business Vision for CRM and ERP Customers and Partners
Microsoft announces new Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online promotion and global expansion of Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail.
LONDON, Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq: MSFT) opens Convergence 2010 Europe today in London with a keynote address from Kirill Tatarinov, corporate vice president, Microsoft Business Solutions. Throughout the three-city event that also includes Prague and The Hague, Oct. 14-21, Tatarinov will share how the company is delivering on its Dynamic Business vision by providing customer-driven innovations.
As part of his keynote address, Tatarinov announced forthcoming promotional pricing for Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online. He also discussed the expansion of Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail into new markets, the availability of an ERP two-tier connector and partner productivity enhancements for Microsoft Dynamics NAV 2009 R2.
"The competitive differentiator for Microsoft Dynamics is the simplicity, innovation and value our products deliver through a consistent user experience and elegant modern interoperable architecture," Tatarinov said. "The innovations delivered through our Microsoft Dynamics ERP and CRM solutions either in the cloud or on-premises provide people with relevant business insight, enabling them to make more-informed decisions and become more productive."
Delivering a New Level of Value for Microsoft Dynamics CRM
The new Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 release, which was made available in beta last month for both cloud-based and on-premises deployments worldwide, delivers the Power of Productivity through familiar, connected and intelligent experiences for users inside and outside any organization. This release also marks the expansion of Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online into 40 markets and 41 languages worldwide.
Tatarinov today announced a new global launch promotion for Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online at a price of $34 (euro 31) per user, per month for the first 12 months of service; this pricing will be available to new customers from launch until June 30, 2011. This promotion complements a partner incentive that was announced in July 2010, where partners can receive 40 percent margin on the value of new subscriptions for Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online during the same time period. Formal launch events for Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 and the upcoming global release of Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online will begin in January 2011.
Further demonstrating the commitment to deliver Microsoft Dynamics ERP solutions globally, Tatarinov announced 22 new markets where Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail will be available as of Feb. 1, 2011.
The planned markets are Austria, Belgium, Brazil, China, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungry, Iceland, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand and Turkey.
Microsoft also announced the general availability of the Microsoft Dynamics ERP two-tier connector that accelerates deployments between Microsoft Dynamics AX across subsidiaries, divisions or branch entities, and SAP Business Suite at the corporate headquarters. A two-tier ERP implementation model helps organizations consolidate disparate ERP solutions, provides standardization and rationalization of IT investments, and improves business agility and value by facilitating cost-effective business process integration. More information about a two-tier implementation model can be found at http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/presskits/dynamics/docs/TwoTierERP.xps.
For partners building solutions on Microsoft Dynamics NAV, the company introduced new development features for Microsoft Dynamics NAV 2009 R2 that will be added to the previously introduced update and will be made available in December 2010. These new features provide significant productivity improvements, giving partners the tools they need to develop, set up, configure and customize vertical solutions for customers. Those interested in learning more can visit http://www.microsoft.com/dynamics/nav.
In addition, Microsoft announced that the currently available Environmental Sustainability Dashboard for Microsoft Dynamics AX has been certified by Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), verifying that the reporting of GRI content within the dashboard is compliant with the GRI standards. This recognition makes the Dashboard one of only four software applications and the only midmarket ERP solution with the GRI certification in the software applications category to date. More information about the Dashboard and its benefits to customers can be found in a new white paper at http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/presskits/dynamics/docs/SustainabilityWP.xps.
Microsoft Dynamics is a line of simple to learn and use ERP and CRM solutions that work with your existing technology and scale as you grow to give you long-term value. By using software and online services that work the way people and organizations work, businesses are better able to make informed decisions and adapt to rapid change. Microsoft Dynamics helps your people be more productive and your investments in existing systems last longer, while enabling your business to derive the insights necessary to respond quickly and have a competitive edge in an ever-changing world of business.
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.
CA Technologies Support for VMware vCloud(TM) API to Enable Process and Workload Automation in Private, Public and Hybrid Clouds
ISLANDIA, N.Y. and COPENHAGEN, Denmark, Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Today at VMworld Europe 2010, CA Technologies (Nasdaq: CA) announced plans to integrate CA IT Process Automation Manager with the VMware vCloud(TM) API. The integration, which is under development using the VMware vCloud API in BlueLock's VMware-based public cloud, is intended to enable process automation and orchestration for providing and consuming virtual resources in the cloud. It also will empower customers to deploy and manage virtualized workloads in VMware vCloud-based private, public and hybrid clouds.
Such integration of CA IT Process Automation Manager and the VMware vCloud API will facilitate the creation and control of VMware vApps along with their instantiation, deployment and operation. In addition, CA Workload Automation customers will be able to automatically initiate, monitor, and manage workloads in VMware vCloud API-enabled private, public or hybrid clouds. For example, this automated process will permit using public clouds as a bursting option for server capacity on-demand.
"Our CA IT Process Automation Manager and CA Workload Automation solutions will help enable customers to maximize their investment in VMware vCloud API-enabled public clouds," said Roger Pilc, general manager, Virtualization and Automation, CA Technologies. "As customers go beyond experimentation with public clouds, our integration work will deliver a solid foundation to automate and manage workloads between private and public VMware vCloud API-enabled architectures. This capability can help to significantly lower cost and provide a compelling ROI."
"Customers will gain new value from their virtualization investments as CA Technologies extends its automation solutions to VMware vCloud(TM)-powered service providers through the VMware vCloud API," said Parag Patel, vice president, Global Strategic Alliances, VMware. "Service providers that leverage the CA Technologies solution running on VMware vCloud technology will be able to provide enterprises a managed and assured automation path for application workloads to be run seamlessly across hybrid clouds, a key enabler as customers drive toward providing IT as a Service."
CA IT Process Automation Manager and CA Workload Automation are critical technologies for IT organizations considering the use of private and public clouds. They can help customers to lower risks and contain costs by using process automation to move workloads across private and public clouds. By automating processes, workloads can be better managed, monitored, and executed to deliver improved business outcomes.
"As a certified VMware vCloud(TM) Datacenter Services provider, BlueLock is able to provide secure and agile public cloud resources using the robust VMware vCloud(TM) functionality," said Pat O'Day, CTO, BlueLock. "CA Technologies pioneering use of the VMware vCloud API demonstrates the powerful cloud bursting capabilities of its innovative process and workload automation solutions."
CA Technologies will be demonstrating the integration of CA IT Process Automation Manager and the VMware vCloud API in booth 40 throughout VMworld Europe 2010.
CA Technologies (Nasdaq: CA) is an IT management software and solutions company with expertise across all IT environments - from mainframe and distributed, to virtual and cloud. CA Technologies manages and secures IT environments and enables customers to deliver more flexible IT services. CA Technologies innovative products and services provide the insight and control essential for IT organizations to power business agility. The majority of the Global Fortune 500 relies on CA Technologies to manage evolving IT ecosystems. For additional information, visit CA Technologies at http://www.ca.com.
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Cognizant Deploys a Global Risk Engineering Platform for Torus Insurance
Global specialty insurer partners with Cognizant to enhance risk engineering services to its internal and external clients
LONDON and TEANECK, N.J., Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH), a leading provider of consulting, technology, and business process outsourcing services, has announced the successful development and deployment of a state-of-the-art global risk engineering platform for Torus Insurance.
The new platform streamlines Torus' analytical risk engineering processes enabling better differentiation of risks with superior pricing accuracy, thus improving service to buyers and their brokers, and improving operational efficiency and effectiveness. Its intuitive interface and user-friendly reports will also improve the consistency, reliability, and security of risk-related data, and enhance customer experience.
"This platform developed by Cognizant is an important part of our efforts to establish Torus as a property leader with an intense focus on risk differentiation through best-in-class engineering and actuarial analysis," said Bob Klepper, Chief Underwriting Officer for Global Property at Torus.
"Our relationship with Cognizant, which started with a consulting engagement in August 2009, has since expanded into several areas," said Jeff Smith, Group Chief Information Officer at Torus. "We originally selected Cognizant for its consulting-led approach, application development capabilities, as well as its industry expertise in developing critical business applications for global insurers. Cognizant's ability to take up end-to-end responsibility from defining the IT blueprint, to designing the user experience, building the system, and rolling out post-production support has helped us build an application that will provide us better visibility of the risks we underwrite, improve productivity, and enhance the perception of Torus with clients and brokers."
"We are pleased to have successfully developed and deployed such a futuristic risk engineering platform for Torus," said Sanjiv Gossain, Senior Vice President and Head of the UK and Ireland Operations for Cognizant. "The success of this engagement is a testament to our consulting, domain, business analysis, development, and delivery capabilities. Our solution accelerators focused on insurance risk information enabled us to deliver a solution that will allow Torus to systematically analyze complex industry data while achieving substantial efficiency gains. We look forward to further strengthening our relationship with Torus as we develop the customer and broker portal, which will form part of the next stage release of the product."
About Torus
Torus provides property, casualty and specialty insurance, as well as reinsurance to a global client base through its European, US and Bermudian based subsidiaries. Launched in 2008, Torus now has over 400 employees in 13 offices worldwide. Torus carries a group rating of A - (excellent) from A.M. Best and has capital of approximately $1 billion provided by First Reserve Corporation and Corsair Capital. For more information visit http://www.torusinsurance.com
About Cognizant
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) is a leading provider of information technology, consulting, and business process outsourcing services. Cognizant's single-minded passion is to dedicate our global technology and innovation know-how, our industry expertise and worldwide resources to working together with clients to make their businesses stronger. With over 50 global delivery centers and approximately 88,700 employees as of June 30, 2010, we combine a unique global delivery model infused with a distinct culture of customer satisfaction. A member of the NASDAQ-100 Index and S&P 500 Index, Cognizant is a Forbes Global 2000 company and a member of the Fortune 1000 and is ranked among the top information technology companies in BusinessWeek's Hot Growth and Top 50 Performers listings. Visit us online at http://www.cognizant.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release includes statements which may constitute forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, the accuracy of which are necessarily subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied include general economic conditions and the factors discussed in our most recent Form 10-K and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Cognizant undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.
SOURCE Cognizant
Cognizant
CONTACT: U.S.: Catherine Marenghi, +1-781-223-8673, catherine.marenghi@cognizant.com, or Europe: Michele Cotton, +44 (0) 07979504927, michele.cotton@cognizant.com, or Asia-Pac: Harsh Kabra, +91-9823273191, harsh.kabra@cognizant.com
Warrior Girl Corp's ACES Goes After the Online Job-Training Market
MIAMI, Oct. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Advanced Career Education Systems Inc. (ACES) -a fully owned division of Warrior Girl Corp (Pink Sheets: WRGL) -- is set to shake-up the educational landscape again, by offering on-line career training solutions for high school graduates with alternative ambitions other than pursuing community college or university degrees.
Current research shows that only 33% of American high school graduates go on to college, the other 77% make up the domestic market for ACES job training solutions. This student market is double the college market size.
For as low as $40 per month, an aspiring student can enroll in a job-training program which could ultimately land an occupation paying $30,000 to $68,000 and even more in traditional occupations as well as in emerging careers such as energy consulting, bioscience, and even nuclear plant engineering to name a few.
Following the trailblazing path of the big three on-line university companies (Kaplan, DeVry, and the University of Phoenix), ACES is carving out a niche of its own in on-and-off-line job education solutions.
While in the past, Department of Educational initiatives focused primarily on improving high school graduation rates as a means to funnel these students to universities and community colleges; the government has engaged in a fresh approach which entails directing high school graduates to vocational schools as a viable alternative.
ACES is piggybacking off the Obama Administration's paradigm shift to become a gateway for high school graduates to excel in non-traditional outlets and industry trends favor this approach.
According to the EPC Research Center, 3.07 million students will graduate in the 2012 - 2013 school year. The Minnesota Private College Research Foundation reports that 33.28% of these students enter college. The remaining high school graduates comprising roughly 77% represent the annual low hanging fruit for candidates to enroll in alternative schools, such as ACES convenient on-line job training education solutions.
The traditional university/community college career path becomes even more problematic as a growing number of applicants are struggling to gain admission to these institutions due to the surge in applications.
And as the United States enters a new economy, the workforce will be dependent on receiving an education where dedicated skills to vocational jobs become imperative. ACES will be poised to serve this impending need. Watch for the ACES online vocational programs in the near future.
ABOUT WARRIOR GIRL CORP:
Warrior Girl Corp is a new entrant in the high growth sector of online education. One of its main goals is to combat the high dropout rate from schools in the U.S. by offering online high school and vocational programs to the millions of people that have dropped out of school. The company's Advanced Career Education Services (ACES) division operates all of the company's online education services and is pursuing a three-fold expansion of business: (1) through organic growth, (2) through the acquisition of synergistic educational companies that add value, accreditations, course offerings and additional revenue streams and (3) by exploring complementary businesses to maximize the company's revenue-generating capabilities. The company anticipates rapid growth amid a large and expanding private education market.
For more information on enrollment, please contact: Advanced Career Education, phone number: 305-924-3661 or visit us at http://www.acesonline.biz/
Safe Harbor Statement:
Included in this release are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Although the company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements will prove to have been correct. The company's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequently occurring events or circumstances.
SOURCE Warrior Girl Corp
Warrior Girl Corp
CONTACT: Mike King, Princeton Research for Warrior Girl Corp, +1-702-650-3000
Citynet Calls for Federal Government to Suspend Broadband Grant Funding
BRIDGEPORT, W.Va., Oct. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Jim Martin, president and chief executive officer of Citynet, has asked the federal government to suspend funding of the $126 million stimulus grant the State of West Virginia received for construction of high-speed broadband infrastructure.
Martin made his request in a letter to Earl Devaney, chairman of the Recovery and Transparency Board, and Lawrence Strickling, assistant secretary of the Department of Commerce. It was a response to an earlier letter from Jim Pitrolo, legislative and policy director for Gov. Joe Manchin, that defended the state's questionable activities to the federal government.
"The state's response clearly highlights why the federal government needs to suspend the award until there are major modifications in the plan," Martin said. "It is clear from the state's letter that little will be done with the federal taxpayer funds to increase the availability of adequate and competitively priced high-speed Internet infrastructure in West Virginia. The current approach will cost the state future job growth."
In his letter, he points out several shortcomings in the state's plan, including:
-- 700,000 homes and 110,000 businesses - The state's initial application
boasted that the grant would provide high-speed Internet access to at
least 700,000 households and 110,000 businesses. However, now the state
plan excludes those households and businesses and provides only
potential benefits to state agencies. This difference should be
reconciled.
-- Economic development and job creation - The state plan would do
absolutely nothing to empower high-paying-job-creating businesses or
institutions. The federal government should request an explanation of
why the state plan does not meet this basic goal of the federal
legislation that authorized the broadband program.
-- Creation of middle-mile infrastructure - Despite all the rhetoric, the
state plan does not create a middle-mile solution. The state scheme
provides only isolated fiber extensions to isolated state agencies. The
state should provide maps, along with a detailed inventory of planned
assets, and demonstrate how the plan would be a middle-mile solution
that would benefit all West Virginians.
-- Open-Access Network Facilities - The state plan talks about open network
access. However, details of the plan indicate all assets would be owned
by Frontier Communications, and the state has not published pricing for
the use of these taxpayer-funded assets being given to Frontier. The
current arrangement would not guarantee open access to the
taxpayer-funded assets by competitors. Nor does the state plan require a
usage rate that is reflective of the taxpayer dollars being given to
Frontier. Further, the federal government should compel the state to
provide an explanation of why it has ignored its fiduciary
responsibility to manage the grant by turning over that responsibility
to Frontier.
-- Affordability - The state plan would not provide an affordable solution
for the state agencies it potentially would serve. The plan does not
even address affordability. The federal government should require the
state to explain why affordability is not an issue and require the state
to address the anti-competitive nature of the plan.
"The citizens of West Virginia deserve transparency and accountability from their public servants, and this is even more true given the magnitude and importance of the need for broadband enablement in our state," Martin said. "I was born and raised in West Virginia, and I am aware of the consequences this program could have for West Virginia in terms of job growth and competing for high-paying, 21st century jobs."
Companies today rely on affordable high-speed Internet with sufficient capacity to survive, he said, and the state plan does not assist in any way to meet this need. Martin's fear is that West Virginia will not be able to compete in the future with neighboring states for new companies and jobs.
West Virginia ranks 48th in the nation in broadband enablement.
OnStar Extends Chevy Volt Owners Connected Customer Experience
DETROIT, Oct. 13 /PRNewswire/ --
-- MyVolt.com Allows Owners to Take Charge with 24/7 Access to their
Vehicle
-- OnStar Technology Readies Chevrolet Volt for Smart Grid Connectivity
MyVolt.com, a new website that will give Chevrolet Volt owners the ability to remotely access operational information specific to their vehicle and control various functions of their car, will be available this month for select smart phones, OnStar President Chris Preuss said today.
The new website leverages OnStar's real-time data connection to enhance the overall Volt ownership experience. It allows owners to perform tasks including checking their battery's state of charge, setting the charge time and unlocking the doors. It also:
-- Displays charge status, indicating whether the car is plugged in or not,
and at what voltage (120V or 240V)
-- Provides flexibility to "Charge Now" or schedule charging at a later
time
-- Displays percentage of battery charge level and expected electric and
total ranges
-- Displays miles per gallon, electric only miles, odometer readings and
miles driven for last trip
-- Remotely starts the vehicle to pre-condition the interior temperature
Volt owners will be able to manually set grid-friendly charge modes for off-peak times when electricity rates are lowest and then send text or email notifications for charge reminders, interruptions of charging and when a full charge is complete.
"Tools like MyVolt.com and the OnStar MyLink Mobile App put command and control into the hands of our customers," said Preuss. "Our technology allows customers to take control of their energy consumption by making informed choices about their charging needs."
Chevrolet Volt owners can also opt-in to receive a monthly OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics e-mail report summarizing the results from queries of several hundred diagnostic trouble codes as well as understanding their energy efficiency, maintenance information, tire pressure, and OnStar account status.
The new site also links Chevrolet Volt owners direct to social media channels like Facebook and Twitter facilitating the immediate sharing of information like energy efficiency, driving history, rate/charging details and other vehicle operational attributes to their personal social network.
"OnStar technology makes the Chevrolet Volt Smart Grid ready direct from the factory," said Preuss. "The technology is simple, intuitive and helps subscribers work cooperatively with their utility company to manage real-time load requirements that are both economically and environmentally friendly."
The Volt comes standard with five years of OnStar Directions and Connections service, which includes Automatic Crash Response, OnStar Destination Download and eNAV Navigation, Hands-Free Calling and Stolen Vehicle Assistance. The OnStar MyLink Mobile App will be available for Volt owners on select smartphones Oct. 30.
OnStar demonstrated the functionality of the OnStar MyLink Mobile App for the Chevrolet Volt at the Consumer Electronics Show in January.
The Chevrolet Volt is an electric vehicle with extended-gas range capability. When the Volt's lithium-ion battery runs low, a gas engine seamlessly engages to extend the total driving range before the driver needs to refuel or recharge the battery. In moderate conditions, the Chevrolet Volt will offer 25-50 miles of electric, gas-free driving and an additional 310 miles of extended gasolinerange (based on GM testing; official EPA estimates not yet available).
General Motors, one of the world's largest automakers, traces its roots back to 1908. With its global headquarters in Detroit, GM employs 208,000 people in every major region of the world and does business in more than 120 countries. GM and its strategic partners produce cars and trucks in 31 countries, and sell and service these vehicles through the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, FAW, GMC, Daewoo, Holden, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM's largest national market is China, followed by the United States, Brazil, Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Italy. GM's OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. General Motors acquired operations from General Motors Corporation on July 10, 2009, and references to prior periods in this and other press materials refer to operations of the old General Motors Corporation. More information on the new General Motors can be found at http://www.gm.com.
About OnStar
OnStar, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Motors, is the leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security and communication services. OnStar is available on more than 40 MY 2011 GM models. OnStar provides services to nearly six million subscribers in the U.S. and Canada. Shanghai OnStar Telematics Co. Ltd., a joint venture between OnStar, LLC, Shanghai Automotive Industry Sales Co., Ltd. and Shanghai General Motors, provides services in China. More information about OnStar can be found at http://www.onstar.com. OnStar Stolen Vehicle Slowdown is a recipient of the 2010 Edison Award for Best New Product in the technology category.
The Doors Are the First Band with Rock Band 3 Downloadable Content, Featuring Keys and Pro Mode
Rock Band 3 Owners Can Download "Light My Fire," "Riders on the Storm" and "Touch Me" for Free Through the In-Game Music Store During Launch Week
Newly-Discovered Live Doors Set Releases Nov. 22 on Rhino Records/Bright Midnight Archives
CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Oct. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Harmonix, the world's premier music video game developer, and MTV Games, a part of Viacom's MTV Networks (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), today announced that the legendary music of The Doors will be the first available for download in Rock Band 3 when the game launches Oct. 26 in North America and Oct. 29 in the rest of the world for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, Nintendo Wii(TM) and Nintendo DS(TM)*, and MTV Games and Harmonix are giving away three of The Doors' songs for one week to any fan that purchases Rock Band 3 and plays online to celebrate the release of the game.
"I'm very excited that keyboards are finally a part of Rock Band. It's about time you guys got hip to the necessity of keys in rock," said Ray Manzarek, keyboardist for The Doors. "This is going to be great for all the gamers, because it's a lot more difficult. Rock Band 3 will require some brainwork, so . . . 'Break On Through!' The free downloads, 'Light My Fire,' 'Riders On the Storm' and 'Touch Me,' are all great keyboard songs. And look out for The Doors' lost masterpiece, Live in Vancouver, when it comes out Nov. 22!"
"At the outset of the Rock Band 3 project, we identified The Doors, and their powerful songs driven by intricately woven keyboard, guitar and drum parts, as ideal for our game," said Paul DeGooyer, Senior Vice President of Music, Electronic Games and Programming for MTV Networks. "As they are also one of the greatest rock bands of all time, we are tremendously proud that they will be the first artist featured in the Rock Band 3 download store, and that we're able to bring this special offer of their music to everyone who buys Rock Band 3 the week it releases."
On Oct. 26, twelve of The Doors' most-loved songs, including three tracks with the Pro Guitar and Pro Bass feature, will be added to the Rock Band 3 Music Store of downloadable content for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 system and Wii. It was previously announced that The Doors' quintessential song, "Break On Through (To the Other Side)" is featured in the on-disc soundtrack of Rock Band 3 and is also the soundtrack for the game's opening cinematic clip.
A three-pack of songs that feature Pro Guitar and Pro Bass upgrade downloads will be available for free to fans that purchase Rock Band 3 and play online during the first week the game is available (Oct. 26 - Nov. 1). The free pack, which is available only through the Rock Band 3 in-game Music Store, includes "Light My Fire," "Riders on the Storm" and "Touch Me," which incorporate five-button guitar and bass, Drums, Pro Drums and Keys, Pro Keys and harmonies, where applicable, as well as a free expansion that will add Pro Guitar and Pro Bass parts.
Additionally, a nine-pack of songs from The Doors will also be available for download that week. This includes some of the classic rockers' most-loved songs, like "Hello, I Love You," "L.A. Woman," "Love Her Madly" and "Roadhouse Blues," all featuring Drums, Pro Drums, five-button guitar and bass parts and, where applicable, harmonies and Keys/Pro Keys parts. A complete list of the songs that will be available follows:
-- "Light My Fire" (Free from Oct. 26 - Nov. 1 in game, features Pro Guitar
and Pro Bass)
-- "Riders on the Storm" (Free from Oct. 26 - Nov. 1 in game, features Pro
Guitar and Pro Bass)
-- "Touch Me" (Free from Oct. 26 - Nov. 1 in game, features Pro Guitar and
Pro Bass)
-- "Hello, I Love You"
-- "L.A. Woman"
-- "Love Her Madly"
-- "Love Me Two Times"
-- "Peace Frog"
-- "People Are Strange"
-- "Roadhouse Blues"
-- "Soul Kitchen"
-- "The Crystal Ship"
Beginning Nov. 2, The Doors' Rock Band downloads will be available for purchase only as individual songs or in a bundle of all 12 songs.
As noted above, on Nov. 22, The Doors - Live In Vancouver, a two-disc set of previously unreleased live recordings from June 6, 1970, at the Pacific Coliseum in Vancouver, British Columbia, will be released by Rhino and Bright Midnight Archives. The set features a guest performance by Albert King on four songs and includes "When The Music's Over," "Five To One," an extended version of "Light My Fire" and much more from this historic performance. Suggested pricing is $19.98 (CD) and $13.99 (digital). More details are available at http://thedoors.shop.musictoday.com/Dept.aspx?cp=1127_40995.
To date, Rock Band fans have downloaded more than 75 million songs from the Rock Band Music Store, and the Rock Band Network Music Store. With more than 2,000* tracks available in the Rock Band platform, Harmonix and MTV Games stands next to none as the leading provider of downloadable content for rhythm video games. Rock Band pioneered offering content in a variety of ways, through on-disc game play, game export, downloadable content and the Rock Band Network. The Rock Band platform allows fans to interact with their favorite music in a unique and hands-on way, and also gives artists the ability to reach fans through a whole new channel.
Rock Band 3 will be compatible with all Rock Band(TM) and The Beatles(TM): Rock Band(TM) peripherals, as well as most Guitar Hero® and other authorized third-party music video game peripherals and microphones. Pro Mode requires Rock Band Pro-compatible instrument controllers. Mad Catz is the official, licensed peripheral manufacturer and distributor for Rock Band 3 game controllers. Rock Band Pro Guitar mode is compatible with the Rock Band 3 Fender(TM) Mustang(TM) PRO-Guitar(TM) Controller and the Rock Band 3 Squier® by Fender Stratocaster® Guitar Controller (manufactured and distributed by Fender). Find more information on how to pre-order Rock Band 3 today here.
*Available on-disc, via download and disc export. Internet connection and key purchase required. Wii has more than 1,500 song tracks available for purchase on the Rock Band platform on-disc, via song import, and download. Not applicable to Nintendo DS.
About MTV Networks
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.
About Electronic Arts
Electronic Arts Inc. (EA), headquartered in Redwood City, California, is a leading global interactive entertainment software company. Founded in 1982, the Company develops, publishes, and distributes interactive software worldwide for video game systems, personal computers, wireless devices and the Internet. Electronic Arts markets its products under four brand names: EA(TM), EA SPORTS(TM), EA Mobile(TM) and POGO(TM). In fiscal 2010, EA posted GAAP net revenue of $3.7 billion and had 27 titles that sold more than one million units. EA's homepage and online game site is http://www.ea.com. More information about EA's products and full text of press releases can be found on the Internet at http://info.ea.com.
CONTACT: For MTV Games/Harmonix, Mariana Agathoklis, +1-212-846-5755, Mariana.Agathoklis@mtvstaff.com, or Stephanie Myers, +1-617-491-6144 ext 111, stephanie.myers@harmonixmusic.com
Drexel Engineers May Soon Replace E-Z Pass Box with Transparent Antenna
PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 13 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Ateam of Drexel electrical engineers are working to develop transparent antennas that can be customized for printing to fabrics, automobiles and military vehicles. The antennas are created from an ink-jet printer technique that coats conductive polymers onto flexible materials.
"We're creating wireless devices for high speed, flexible communication. Imagine not having an E-Z Pass box on the windshield of your car," said Dr. Adam Fontecchio, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering and associate dean of engineering for undergraduate affairs. "You could have a transparent antenna laminated to your windshield instead. The applications are endless."
The ink jet fabrication is environmentally safe. With this new printing method antennas can be rolled up for easy transport and made transparent at a low-cost.
"The transparent printing technique will revolutionize information technology. Our goal is to make possible ubiquitous and unobtrusive high-speed wireless communications links using transceivers that are fabricated using unconventional materials on non-traditional substrates such as fabric and glass," said Dr. Kapil Dandekar, associate professor and assistant department head of electrical and computer engineering and associate director of the A.J. Drexel Institute for Applied Communications and Information Networking (ACIN).
This project was initiated using funding from the U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Research, Development, and Engineering Center through the ACIN institute. The research team comprised of faculty and students has spun out a local business at the ACIN center in Camden, NJ. This company, Metantenna, LLC has been further supported by a National Science Foundation small business grant. Metantenna seeks to provide clients with ink jet fabricated antennas for specialized wireless communications applications.
"We're looking forward to finding additional investors in the research so that we can proceed to develop a small-scale transparent-antenna distribution plant," said Dr. Timothy Kurzweg, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering and assistant dean of engineering.
CONTACT: Elizabeth Brachelli, public relations manager, Drexel University's College of Engineering, +1-215-895-6454, +1-267-357-2527 (cell) or ebrachelli@coe.drexel.edu; Niki Gianakaris, director, Drexel News Bureau, +1-215-895-6741, +1-215-778-7752 (cell) or ngianakaris@drexel.edu
ZisBoomBah.com 'App' Encouraging Kids to 'Play With Food' Recognized by Michelle Obama as Winning Tool in Fight Against Childhood Obesity
BOULDER, Colo., Oct. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- A purple ant named Zis is hoping to make a mark on the dinner plates of children nationwide, and First Lady Michelle Obama has added her endorsement.
Zis is one of three ant characters featured at the website ZisBoomBah.com, an online community featuring interactive tools to educate children on smart food choices. The free application--called Pick Chow!--has been named the grand prize winner in the First Lady's national Apps for Healthy Kids competition.
Pick Chow! encourages kids to create healthy meals by dragging and dropping foods onto a virtual plate. The "Add it Up!" meters show the nutritional values in a fun and easy way and rates each meal with one to five stars - a feature that helps children learn quickly how their choices make a difference in creating a well-balanced meal. The application can generate an email to parents who receive a recipe, shopping list and coupons that make the meal a reality.
ZisBoomBah.com is the brainchild of Karen Laszlo a serial entrepreneur. Laszlo began developing the idea for Pick Chow! in 2008 with her brother and co-founder Mike Carcaise, a former restaurateur. With the help of a panel of nutritionists, marketers and web developers, the Company launched its test site in October 2009 and its award-winning website in March 2010.
"We understand the role education plays in childhood obesity," said Laszlo. "A healthy dose of fun goes a long way with grade school children when learning about food. We were confident that we were on the right track, and to have the First Lady validate our idea is inspiring to say the least."
Laszlo and her ZisBoomBah team plan to use the grant money from the competition to visit more than 20 major U.S. cities with a Pick Chow! Across America tour; a series of events featuring celebrity guests, panel discussions, cooking challenges where kids are the judges, and the trio of ants that make nutrition education fun.
ZisBoomBah competed against nearly 100 technology innovators from across the nation in the Apps for Healthy Kids competition. ZisBoomBah's Pick Chow! application was chosen based on a number of benchmarks including content of message, originality and potential to engage and motivate the target audience.
About ZisBoomBah
ZisBoomBah is a healthy lifestyle company focused on promoting nutrition education and healthy living for kids and their parents through innovative technology applications or "apps." Based in Boulder, Colo., ZisBoomBah is the creator of the "Pick Chow!" web tool to help make food fun for kids. The Company is partnering with national food and lifestyle brands on tours and experiential events to entertain and educate children and families across the United States and Canada.
Demandbase Unveils New Web Service to Dramatically Decrease Web Site Abandonment and Increase Online Conversion Rates
Demandbase Real-Time ID Service Now Increases Registration Rates and Lead Quality for B2B Marketers
SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Demandbase, Inc., a technology company providing marketing performance-improvement solutions, today announced the availability of a new Real-Time ID Service for Web Forms, enabling B2B marketers to overcome low customer conversion rates and poor data quality common in online marketing. Marketers can plug the API-based web service into existing online forms and instantly see higher ROI on any program that relies on web site visitors to submit information, including Google paid search, email, webinars, banner ads, social media and other lead generation programs. This latest product launch follows the Demandbase API for LivePerson web chat, driving higher sales and support sufficiency for online chat.
"B2B Marketers are faced with poor cost-per-lead metrics relative to their B2C counterparts, and are still struggling with how to monetize web traffic into actual sales leads," said Chris Golec, CEO of Demandbase. "So many marketing and lead gen campaigns depend on visitors completing some kind of registration, inquiry, or lead form for success. With more than 97 percent of visitors lost, web form abandonment becomes the Achilles heel for B2B marketers."
The Real-time ID Service for Web Forms plugs in to existing forms to identify businesses and critical company or account information. This enables significantly shorter forms that more visitors will complete because information like company address, industry, revenues, or number of employees can simply be appended in the background. With the amount of information often requested of Web visitors--frequently more than ten questions--typically only two to three percent of web visitors will bother to complete the form. In addition, a large portion of information entered by visitors is either inaccurate or inconsistently formatted, making it difficult for marketers to merge into CRM and Marketing Automation systems for retargeting or qualification for sales follow up. The Demandbase Real Time ID Service for Web Forms greatly increases both the accuracy and the quantity of information on a potential lead that is fed in to sales and marketing databases.
"The improved conversion rates, increased data quality, automated data hygiene, and deeper information made possible by the new Real-Time ID Service offers 'no brainer' economics for any B2B marketer that cares about lead volume, cost per lead, and, ultimately, revenue," added Golec.
Leading marketers are adopting the Real-Time ID Service to advance their online marketing performance results. "Demandbase's new Real-Time ID Service provides deeper web site visitor intelligence which drives faster conversions, higher quality leads and lower costs per lead," said Lisa Kost, vice president of corporate marketing and global field marketing for ArcSight. "Demandbase has helped us fine-tune the front end of our demand generation engine and increase our pipeline velocity while improving efficiencies between our sales and marketing teams."
The real-time identification of key accounts is made possible by Demandbase's Business Resolution Platform, which uses proprietary algorithms that intelligently combine a database of 800 million IP addresses across North America and Europe, over 30 million business contacts, and information from social networks critical for business including Facebook and LinkedIn. This multi-tiered process ensures that target accounts are identified by Demandbase in a fraction of a second and appended with the most current information, fully standardized for CRM and marketing automation systems. The cloud-based service has matched more than 1 billion visits in 2010 and currently identifies more than 100 million businesses every month without the use of cookies or tracking personal information.
About Demandbase
Demandbase is a technology company that enables B2B marketers to improve marketing conversions and turn Web traffic into sales. Delivered on demand, Demandbase's SaaS solutions leverage its proprietary Business Resolution Platform, combining real-time identification of the companies visiting a web site with a new breed of B2B Web analytics, measurement, and integration tools to make every customer or prospect interaction more effective, and significantly increase conversion rates. Demandbase works as a standalone service or integrated with other Sales and Marketing technologies to give them new intelligence, enabling companies to align marketing and sales strategies and improve overall campaign performance. Founded in 2006 and in use at more than 1,000 companies, Demandbase is headquartered in San Francisco, California, and funded by Adobe Systems (Nasdaq: ADBE), Altos Ventures and Sigma Partners. For more information, visit http://www.demandbase.com.
SOURCE Demandbase, Inc.
Demandbase, Inc.
CONTACT: Denise Welch, +1-781-849-2022, denise@dottedlinecomm.com, for Demandbase, Inc.
Envivio Delivers 'TV without Boundaries' for Windows Phone 7
Delivers High Quality of Experience and Enables Advanced Playback Features for Microsoft's Latest Smartphone OS
SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., Oct. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Envivio, the leading provider of live and on-demand multi-screen video processing solutions, announced today it has added support for the new Windows Phone 7 operating system to its multi-screen video head ends based on the 4Caster(TM) C4 family of encoder/transcoders. The enhancement will maximize video quality by using the industry's highest quality H.264 compression -- Envivio Extreme(TM) encoding -- and provide support for the advanced playback and content protection features Telco operators and over the top service providers need to offer premium video services.
"The combination of the Envivio Three Screens video processing platform and Microsoft IIS Smooth Streaming has proven itself a winner for deployments around the world," said Envivio vice president of marketing Boris Felts. "Providing support for Windows Phone 7 is a natural extension of the work we have already done with Microsoft and furthers Envivio's commitment to enabling the best video services for the latest generation of smartphones."
Envivio 4Caster C4 encoders use Envivio Extreme H.264 encoding to deliver content via Microsoft IIS Smooth Streaming to the IIS Smooth Streaming Client 1.1 installed on Windows 7 Phone devices. A dedicated interface between the 4Caster encoder and Microsoft PlayReady DRM Server, developed by Microsoft and Envivio, secures delivery of high-value VC-1 and H.264 encoded content while ensuring complete transparency for subscribers.
Envivio encoders process video at a variety of resolutions simultaneously to enable Live Smooth Streaming adaptive streaming, which ensures viewers receive uninterrupted video live play at the highest quality possible given variable network bandwidth and PC processing conditions. The solution enables advanced playback features including DVR controls for Live Smooth Streaming, multiple audio language support, offline playback support, and H.264/AAC support.
Windows Phone 7 support will be available as part of Envivio 4Caster C4 version 2.3 (live applications) and version 2.5 (offline, file-to-file applications) firmware upgrades announced by Envivio during the recent IBC 2010 in Amsterdam. The Envivio software is in the final stages of beta testing with partners worldwide and will be available for deployment in Q4 2010.
For more information about Envivio's market-leading Three Screens solutions, please visit our website http://www.envivio.com.
About Envivio
Envivio is the leader in solutions for video-over-IP delivery. We remove the boundaries of traditional television and make the world's video content universally enjoyable by all viewers, on any device, across any network, at any time. Now in its second decade of developing market-leading video convergence solutions, Envivio has amassed dozens of patents, pioneered video-over-IP methods, and continually led in the deployment of emerging standards and new technologies. Today Envivio solutions deliver millions of content streams to hundreds of different styles of mobile devices, set top boxes, and PC platforms, on behalf of content owners, telecom operators, cable and satellite companies and mobile service providers in every market in the world. Deployment and support are backed by a global staff that is familiar with local technical, regulatory and market guidelines encountered around the world. Envivio is headquartered in South San Francisco, California and has offices worldwide including France England, China, Singapore and Japan.
Envivio is a registered trademark and 4Caster, Extreme and TV without Boundaries are trademarks of Envivio, Inc. All trademarks used herein, whether recognized or not, are the properties of their respective companies.