Explore Anywhere Holding Corp. Announces Major Product Update
Company Software Keylogger PRO 2012 Now Capable of Auto-Updates
WABASH, Ind., Aug. 13, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Explore Anywhere Holding Corp. (OTC/QB: EAHC), specializing in developing computer monitoring solutions for parents, corporations, and educational facilities, today comments on a significant product update enabling auto updates for future new features and software maintenance. The update is currently active in Keylogger PRO 2012 and will soon be active in Spybuddy® 2012.
Bryan Hammond, CEO, Founder, President, and Chairman of the Board of Explore Anywhere Holding Corp. commented, "This new capability is a significant step for the Company. As we believe there is the potential for millions of end user customers, we have to be reactive to our customer's needs, this update allows us to improve or fix our products without our customers needing to lift a finger."
Additionally, the update enables the following enhancements: product installation without a computer re-boot, remote un-installation through the Explore Anywhere Customer Account, resistance to tampering and circumvention, and installation without the need to disable anti-virus programs.
For further information please contact Glenn Busch of Northstar Investments, Inc. at 603-401-8592 or northstar@exploreanywhere.com.
About Explore Anywhere Holding Corp.
Explore Anywhere specializes in computer monitoring solutions for parents, corporations, and educational facilities. Explore Anywhere's mission is to provide effective and useful computer monitoring products at affordable prices in an effort to cut down on the dangers of the Internet and the greater community at large. Its solutions implement technologies designed to address a range of emerging online threats.
Statements about our future expectations are "forward-looking statements", which are not guarantees of future performance. When used herein, the words "may," "will," "should," "anticipate," "believe," "appear," "intend," "plan," "expect," "estimate," "approximate," "potential" and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements involve risks and uncertainties inherent in our business, including those set forth in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and are subject to change at any time. Our actual results could differ materially from these forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statement.
Xilinx Board of Directors Authorizes A Repurchase Of Up To $750 Million Of The Company's Outstanding Common Stock
SAN JOSE, Calif., Aug. 13, 2012 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Xilinx, Inc. (Nasdaq: XLNX) today announced that its Board of Directors has granted an authorization for the Company to repurchase up to $750 million of its common stock, or approximately 8 percent of its outstanding shares at the current stock price. Since fiscal 2008, the Company has repurchased over 68 million shares for approximately $1.8 billion. Timing of repurchases and exact number of shares of common stock to be purchased will depend upon prevailing market conditions and other factors.
"Our repurchase authorization signals a high level of confidence in Xilinx's growth prospects as well as in our continued ability to consistently generate healthy operating cash," said Moshe Gavrielov, Xilinx President and Chief Executive Officer. "Through a cash deployment strategy that combines share repurchase and dividend, Xilinx has returned over $2.6 billion of cash to shareholders since fiscal 2008."
This release contains forward-looking statements and projections. Forward-looking statements and projections can often be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as "expect," "believe," "may," "will," "could," "anticipate," "estimate," "continue," "plan," "intend," "project" or other similar expressions. Statements that refer to or are based on projections, uncertain events or assumptions also identify forward-looking statements. Such forward looking statements include, but are not limited to statements related to the semiconductor market, the growth and acceptance of our programmable platforms, expected revenue growth, the demand and growth in the markets we serve, opportunity for expansion into new markets, and our expectations regarding our business outlook for the September quarter for fiscal 2013. Undue reliance should not be placed on such forward-looking statements and projections, which speak only as of the date they are made. We undertake no obligation to update such forward-looking statements. Actual events and results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements and are subject to risks and uncertainties including the general health of global economies as well as of the semiconductor industry, Xilinx's continued profitability and its ability to continue to generate cash at a rate necessary to support our dividend and stock repurchase programs and other risk factors listed in our most recent Form 10-K.
About Xilinx
Xilinx develops All Programmable technologies and devices, beyond hardware to software, digital to analog, and single to multiple die in 3D ICs. These industry leading devices are coupled with a next-generation design environment and IP to serve a broad range of customer needs, from programmable logic to programmable systems integration. For more information visit http://www.xilinx.com.
#1264F
Xilinx, the Xilinx logo, Artix, ISE, Kintex, Spartan, Virtex, Zynq, Vivado, and other designated brands included herein are trademarks of Xilinx in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
XLNX-F
Investor Relations Contact:
Lori Owen
Xilinx, Inc.
(408) 879-6911
ir@xilinx.com
Ingram Micro Broadens Geographic Reach Into High-Growth Middle East and North Africa Markets
Acquisition Expands Value-Added Technology Distribution and Services Capabilities
SANTA ANA, Calif., Aug. 13, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Ingram Micro Inc. (NYSE: IM), the world's largest technology distributor and supply-chain services provider, today announced it is broadening its geographic reach into the Middle East and North Africa with the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire certain IT businesses of Dubai-based Aptec Holdings Ltd. Aptec is a leading value-added distributor in the Middle East, Turkey and North Africa, with products and solutions covering data center, storage, security, networking, and software categories, including technical services.
The acquisition is expected to contribute more than $250 million in revenue to Ingram Micro on an annual basis and is expected to close before the end of the third quarter of 2012, subject to the satisfaction of certain closing conditions. Dr. Ali Baghdadi, founder and chief executive officer of Aptec, will lead the acquired operations reporting to Shailendra Gupta, senior executive vice president and president, Ingram Micro Asia-Pacific. Further details of the transaction were not disclosed.
"The acquisition of Aptec fits well with our strategic objectives to continue to build our higher margin specialty businesses while broadening our geographic reach to capitalize on higher growth markets," said Alain Monié, president and chief executive officer of Ingram Micro Inc. "The Middle East and Africa are robust and growing markets with total IT spending projected to reach $80 billion by 2015(1). Aptec has been highly effective in growing their business and enhancing profitability in these emerging markets and we believe this combination will further accelerate these ongoing objectives. Aptec has a long-tenured, accomplished leadership team and we look forward to joining forces with them."
Founded in 1980, Aptec currently operates in 6 countries and provides products and services to key Middle East and North Africa countries including the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Oman, Egypt, Lebanon, Pakistan and Turkey. The company's regional geographical coverage and extensive customer base are staffed by approximately 350 associates serving over 3,800 active resellers. Aptec's marketing programs, advanced logistics services, technical support, consultancy, high-level technical consulting and outsourcing services, financial services and product delivery and distribution capabilities have made the company one of the most prominent value-added distributors in the region.
"We are excited to join with Ingram Micro," said Baghdadi. "For more than 30 years Aptec has focused on building the company through innovation, value-added service and an unwavering commitment to our customers and vendor partners. The combined strength of Aptec in the Middle East and North Africa and the global leadership and strategic vendor and customer relationships of Ingram Micro provide an excellent opportunity for expanded reach into new services, products and geographies and we expect the union to offer even more value to our combined community."
(1)Source: IDC Blackbook, Q2 2012.
Cautionary Statement for the Purpose of the Safe Harbor Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995
The matters in this press release that are forward-looking statements are based on current management expectations. Certain risks may cause such expectations to not be achieved and, in turn, may have a material adverse effect on Ingram Micro's business, financial condition and results of operations. Ingram Micro disclaims any duty to update any forward-looking statements. Important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements include, without limitation: (1) we are dependent on a variety of information systems, which, if not properly functioning, or unavailable, could adversely disrupt our business and harm our reputation and earnings; (2) changes in macro-economic conditions may negatively impact a number of risk factors which, individually or in the aggregate, could adversely affect our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows; (3) we continually experience intense competition across all markets for our products and services; (4) we operate a global business that exposes us to risks associated with conducting business in multiple jurisdictions; (5) our failure to adequately adapt to IT industry changes could negatively impact our future operating results; (6) terminations of a supply or services agreement or a significant change in supplier terms or conditions of sale could negatively affect our operating margins, revenue or the level of capital required to fund our operations; (7) we have made and expect to continue to make investments in new business strategies and initiatives, including acquisitions, which could disrupt our business and have an adverse effect on our operating results; (8) substantial defaults by our customers or the loss of significant customers could have a negative impact on our business, results of operations, financial condition or liquidity; (9) changes in, or interpretations of, tax rules and regulations, changes in mix of our business amongst different tax jurisdictions, and deterioration of the performance of our business may adversely affect our effective income tax rates or operating margins and we may be required to pay additional taxes and/or tax assessments, as well as record valuation allowances relating to our deferred tax assets; (10) changes in our credit rating or other market factors such as adverse capital and credit market conditions or reductions in cash flow from operations may affect our ability to meet liquidity needs, reduce access to capital, and/or increase our costs of borrowing; (11) failure to retain and recruit key personnel would harm our ability to meet key objectives; (12) we cannot predict with certainty what loss we might incur as a result of litigation matters and contingencies that we may be involved with from time to time; (13) we may incur material litigation, regulatory or operational costs or expenses, and may be frustrated in our marketing efforts, as a result of new environmental regulations or private intellectual property enforcement disputes; (14) we face a variety of risks in our reliance on third-party service companies, including shipping companies for the delivery of our products and outsourcing arrangements; (15) changes in accounting rules could adversely affect our future operating results; and (16) our quarterly results have fluctuated significantly. We also face a variety of risks associated with our recently announced signing of definitive agreements to acquire Aptec and BrightPoint Inc., including: our ability to timely complete the transactions, if at all; our ability to complete the transactions considering the various closing conditions, including those conditions related to regulatory approvals and BrightPoint shareholder approval; the financial performance of Aptec, BrightPoint and Ingram Micro through the completion of the respective transactions; each of Aptec and BrightPoint's businesses may not perform as expected due to transaction-related uncertainties or other factors; the ability of each of Aptec, BrightPoint and Ingram Micro to retain relationships with customers, vendors and carriers; management's ability to execute its plans, strategies and objectives for future operations, including the execution of integration plans; growth of the mobility industry; uncertainties relating to litigation, including pending and future BrightPoint shareholder lawsuits related to the proposed or completed transaction; and other unknown, underestimated and/or undisclosed commitments or liabilities; our ability to maintain access to adequate levels of capital at reasonable rates ; and our ability to achieve the expected benefits and manage the expected costs of the transactions.
Ingram Micro has instituted in the past and continues to institute changes to its strategies, operations and processes to address these risk factors and to mitigate their impact on Ingram Micro's results of operations and financial condition. However, no assurances can be given that Ingram Micro will be successful in these efforts. For a further discussion of significant factors to consider in connection with forward-looking statements concerning Ingram Micro, reference is made to Item 1A Risk Factors of Ingram Micro's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended Dec. 31, 2011 and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2012; other risks or uncertainties may be detailed from time to time in Ingram Micro's future SEC filings.
About Ingram Micro Inc.
As a vital link in the technology value chain, Ingram Micro creates sales and profitability opportunities for vendors and resellers through unique marketing programs, outsourced logistics, technical and financial support, managed and cloud-based services, and product aggregation and distribution. The company is the only global broad-based IT distributor, serving 145 countries on six continents with the world's most comprehensive portfolio of IT products and services. Visit http://www.ingrammicro.com.
Hastings Entertainment to Announce Results for Second Quarter of Fiscal 2012 on August 20, 2012
AMARILLO, Texas, Aug. 13, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Hastings Entertainment, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAST), a leading multimedia entertainment retailer, will announce financial results for the second quarter of fiscal 2012 via a press release issued before the market opens on Monday, August 20, 2012.
About Hastings
Founded in 1968, Hastings Entertainment, Inc. is a leading multimedia entertainment retailer that combines the sale of new and used books, videos, video games and CDs, as well as trends and consumer electronics merchandise, with the rental of videos and video games in a superstore format. We currently operate 137 superstores, averaging approximately 24,000 square feet, primarily in medium-sized markets throughout the United States. We also operate three concept stores, Sun Adventure Sports, located in Amarillo, Texas and Lubbock, Texas, and TRADESMART, located in Littleton, Colorado.
We operate http://www.goHastings.com, an e-commerce Internet web site that makes available to our customers new and used entertainment products and unique, contemporary gifts and toys. The site features exceptional product and pricing offers. The Investor Relations section of our web site contains press releases, a link to request financial and other literature and access to our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
SOURCE Hastings Entertainment, Inc.
Hastings Entertainment, Inc.
CONTACT: Dan Crow, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, 806-677-1422, http://www.goHastings.com
NICE Introduces New Release of NICE Inform, Enhancing its Multimedia Incident Information Management Solution
Security control centers and Public Safety Answering Points can enhance investigation and debriefing capabilities by seamlessly integrating third party text, voice and video data into incident timelines
RA'ANANA, Israel, August 13, 2012/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --
NICE Systems (NASDAQ: NICE) today announced the introduction of its new release of the
NICE Inform multimedia incident information management solution. The new release of NICE
Inform builds on NICE's advanced capabilities by giving security control centers and
Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) the ability to integrate text, video and voice
recordings from third party capture platforms into holistic incident timelines. This
differentiating technology reinforces NICE's support of Next Generation 9-1-1 and its
commitment to meeting the challenge of external data integration for enhancing
investigations and debriefings.
NICE Inform provides the complete picture for PSAPs, airports, public transportation
systems, banks, and other markets that need to synchronize diverse multimedia for incident
reconstructions used in investigations and debriefings. This information can also be used
to improve future responses by helping organizations identify opportunities for training
operators to help improve their skills.
The latest release of NICE Inform allows third party recordings from numerous sources
to be imported into the NICE Inform organizer in various standard formats and then
synchronized with NICE video and voice recordings and other multimedia input. This enables
security operations to leverage their existing capture platforms to the fullest, and to
reconstruct events exactly as they happened for more thorough investigations.
For example, PSAPs can now amalgamate video from citizens' smart devices, in-car
mobile video recordings, and video recordings of incidents captured on third party
platforms to create comprehensive incident reconstruction timelines. A bank that uses
different Video Management Systems (VMS) for ATM transactions and building security can
merge video from these different systems for a complete reconstruction of any event. Mass
transit systems and airports that manage surveillance video through multiple VMSs can also
take advantage of this advanced technology. Using NICE Inform Version 5, they can piece
together all elements into one seamless timeline, regardless of the capture platform.
"Our NICE Inform enhancements are unmatched in the industry," said Guy Yaniv, General
Manager of the Surveillance Solutions Division at NICE.
"For the first time, a security operation center or PSAP can integrate multimedia
recordings - text, voice and video - from different capture platforms, including external
ones, into one complete incident reconstruction. This holistic picture helps improve the
investigation and debriefing capabilities required during an incident or security breach."
The NICE Security Offering addresses the needs of governments and enterprises with
intent-based solutions for fighting crime and terror, by anticipating, managing and
mitigating safety, security and operational risks. The offering enables capturing,
analysis and correlation of data from multiple sensors and systems, including audio,
video, radio, geo-location and web, providing a framework for fusing data silos into a
single, holistic operational view.
NICE Security solutions empower organizations to act effectively in real time to
prevent, manage and investigate incidents, ensuring fast resolution and debriefing, and
continuous security improvements. NICE Security solutions are deployed worldwide in
transportation systems, critical infrastructures, city centers and enterprise campuses.
About NICE Systems
NICE (NASDAQ: NICE) is the worldwide leader of software solutions that deliver
strategic insights by capturing and analyzing mass quantities of structured and
unstructured data in real time from multiple sources, including, phone calls, mobile apps,
emails, chat, social media, and video. NICE's solutions enable organizations to take the
Next-Best-Action to improve customer experience and business results, ensure compliance,
fight financial crime, and safeguard people and assets. NICE solutions are used by over
25,000 organizations in more than 150 countries, including over 80 of the Fortune 100
companies. http://www.nice.com.
Trademark Note: NICE and the NICE logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of NICE
Systems. All other marks are trademarks of their respective owners. For a full list of
NICE Systems' marks, please see: http://www.nice.com/nice-trademarks.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the
Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements,
including the statements by Messer Yaniv, are based on the current expectations of the
management of NICE-Systems Ltd. (the Company) only, and are subject to a number of risks
and uncertainties that could cause the actual results or performance of the Company to
differ materially from those described herein, including but not limited to the impact of
the global economic environment on the Company's customer base (particularly financial
services firms) and the resulting uncertainties; changes in technology and market
requirements; decline in demand for the Company's products; inability to timely develop
and introduce new technologies, products and applications; difficulties or delays in
absorbing and integrating acquired operations, products, technologies and personnel; loss
of market share; pressure on pricing resulting from competition; and inability to maintain
certain marketing and distribution arrangements. For a more detailed description of the
risk factors and uncertainties affecting the company, refer to the Company's reports filed
from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Company's
Annual Report on Form 20-F. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release
are made as of the date of this press release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to
update or revise them, except as required by law.
Corporate Media Contact
Erik Snider, +1-877-245-7448, erik.snider@nice.com
Investors
Marty Cohen, +1-212-574-3635, ir@nice.com, ET
Anat Earon-Heilborn +972-9-775-3798, ir@nice.com, CET
OutPersonals.com Gay Dating Site Unveils Site Makeover
Additional features added to enhance user experience
SUNNYVALE, Calif., Aug. 13, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- FriendFinder Networks Inc. (NasdaqGM: FFN) today announced that its leading gay dating and personals site, OutPersonals.com, has received a refreshing makeover that includes a faster and more efficient registration process, updated search pages and an innovative interactive video home page. With more than 8 million registrants since the site's inception, OutPersonals.com has improved user experience by simplifying the user interface while adding additional features and options to help users find great matches quickly. OutPersonals.com's mission is to connect adult gay singles and couples looking for friendships, relationships and casual encounters which is now even easier thanks to the site's face-lift.
"OutPersonalscontinues to offer its unique online dating experience to a diverse group of members domestically and internationally - and each month we strive to make that experience better for our customers," says Anthony Previte, Chief Executive Officer of FriendFinder Networks Inc.
OutPersonals.com's search and dating tools include interactive video home pages, 1x1 chat, member videos, flirts, bulletins, webcams, polls, advice and more with new features frequently being added. For more information, or to sign up, please visit http://www.OutPersonals.com.
About FriendFinder Networks Inc.
FriendFinder Networks Inc. (http://www.FFN.com) is an internet-based social networking and technology company operating several of the most heavily visited websites in the world, including AdultFriendFinder.com, Amigos.com, AsiaFriendFinder.com, Cams.com, FriendFinder.com, BigChurch.com and SeniorFriendFinder.com. FriendFinder Networks Inc. also distributes original pictorial and video content and engages in brand licensing. FriendFinder Networks is listed on the NasdaqGM under the ticker symbol FFN.
Media Contact for FriendFinder Networks Inc.
Lindsay Trivento
Director of Corporate Communications
561.912.7010 or ltrivento@ffn.com
Indoona Goes "Social": Communicate, Socialise and Share - the new Version of the Tiscali App Enhances the Smartphone Communication Experience
CAGLIARI, Italy, August 13, 2012/PRNewswire/ --
Tiscali presents Indoona 2.0, the new version of the application that continues to
revolutionise communication for mobile phone users.
The world of communication evolves very quickly and advances made in this field were
possible not just because of progress in technology and software, but also thanks to a
capacity to grasp and understand customers' needs and desires, a fundamental factor for
staying in this game.
These are the reasons that caused Tiscali to develop the social aspect of Indoona, the
application which lets you call, video call and send multimedia messages via the Internet
from smartphones to PCs, saving users money when calling traditional landline and mobile
networks and abroad.
The application automatically recognizes users from their mobile phone numbers. The
new version enhances the traditional "one-on-one" communication channel with several new
functions, meeting the demand for more sharing capability: not only by sending personal
messages, but ones to your whole circle of friends or contacts, sharing your feelings of
the time with them via photos, videos and more. In this sense, Indoona is the first app
for a TLC operator to integrate personal communication with social networking.
Thanks to Indoona users can post up to 300 character messages on their walls with
photos, videos and much more, also re-sharing their contacts' posts, taking part in
#discussions, sending emessages or mentioning other users. The relationship with your
smartphone contacts becomes intimate and social, thanks to the possibility of
communicating, socialising and sharing.
Indoona is available for smartphones and Apple and Android tablets, and it can also be
accessed from the web at http://www.indoona.com, with the same functions, by simply
downloading the client on your PC or Mac.
This is the first application that integrates and satisfies all today's communication
needs, no longer just those strictly personal and private, but also strongly focused on
social networking and sharing the sensations of a given moment.
Sky Vegas Serve up a Fantastic Range of Online Casino Games, fit for all Tastes
LONDON, August 11, 2012/PRNewswire/ --
Perfect mix of old and new casino games makes for a winning recipe full of
delicious cash prizes
The heat is being turned up inside Sky Vegas' fabled casino lobby. Excitement is
brimming because the online casino [http://www.skyvegas.com ] giants are now serving up
real treats for their ardent casino players, offering a superb range of online games, each
deliciously appetising and full of healthy cash prizes. Players can lick their lips at the
prospect of winning big by simply tucking into the best the online world has to offer.
Whether intrigued by the newest game releases or nostalgically gripped by the golden
oldies, Sky Vegas offers the perfect mix of new and traditional games.
Sky Vegas is constantly introducing new games to the casino lobby, each offering an
abundant supply of fun and excitement. Games, such as Happy Fruits
[http://www.skyvegas.com/category/exclusivegames/game/happy-fruits ], Sensible Soccer and
Cashback Slot, are jam-packed full of energy, with cash prizes and multiple bonus rounds
sprinkled on for extra flavour!
But for real kicks, players should try their luck tackling the lobby's most popular
releases, some of which currently offer the highest jackpot prizes around. Take Alice's
Wonderland, for example. This exciting 5-reel slot game has always been a player
favourite, but with a jackpot total creeping towards GBP460,000 that tea-party table is
getting seriously crowded with cash-thirsty players.
Rainbow King
[https://www.skyvegas.com/secure/vegas?action=GoGame&name=RainbowKing&tracking=homecentralcatslot ]
is another 'reel' favourite. This 5-reel, 20 win lines game has 3 different bonus
rounds within the game to increase winnings. For newcomers there is an added incentive.
This game will contribute 100% of their stakes to the Welcome Bonus- a starter if ever
there was one!
In fact there's never been a better time to sign up with Sky Vegas. Not only do
players have the opportune chance to give their bank balance a hearty boost, winning
incredible jackpot prizes, but new players will receive a free GBP10 welcome bonus when
they create a new Sky Vegas account too!
For more information on Sky Vegas games and to get your taste of the action, visit http://www.skyvegas.com
About Sky Vegas
Sky Vegas [http://www.skyvegas.com ] is the online casino division of BSkyB.
Established in March 2003, it now boasts more than 200 games including slots games, table
games, instant win games, penny arcade and community games. Sky Vegas does not accept
customers from the USA and operates fully within UK law under a licence issued by the
Alderney Gambling Control Commission.
Easy Access to Clear Web Marketing Data with Phone Call Tracking Program
Cyberset's portal provides clients with easy access to precise data on how net-based sales and marketing efforts translate into phone calls and ROI
LOS ANGELES, Aug. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- One seemingly eternal challenge faced by anyone who uses marketing services, on or off the Internet, is understanding precisely how those efforts translate into real-world results. Internet marketing companyCyberset's new Call Tracking Portal allows select clients to see exactly how its search-engine focused marketing efforts are generating phone calls from prospective customers -- and how those phone calls eventually translate into sales.
Cyberset's portal provides users with a number of ways to access information about their phone calls that allows them to understand how marketing efforts are paying off in an unusually flexible and precise manner. Call records can be organized in chart form chronologically or geographically, so that clients who are concerned with both worldwide and local Internet marketing can easily see where calls are coming from and when they are coming in. For example, clients concerned with calls from a particular city or zip code can easily organize the portal so that the information they desire is front and center.
Cyberset's graphs also differentiate between repeat calls and new visitors as well as providing information on calls that go to voicemail and hang-ups. In addition, calls from other marketing sources, such as newspaper, radio, or television advertising, can be added to the system upon request.
Just as important as tracking information on incoming phone calls, Cyberset's Call Tracking Portal allows users to track what happens once those calls come in through a precisely detailed telephone log. The log provides not only relevant information about the time and date of the call and which employee received it, but a recording of the actual call. Additional features allow users to build their own systems for calculating the performance of employees while also tracking the overall success of their Internet marketing program.
"Companies understand the value of high quality Internet marketing services but they are understandably concerned with pinning down the exact benefits in terms of a verifiable return-on-investment," said Cyberset CEO and President Shahab Saba. "What they're finding with our new tracking portal is that we've made it very easy for them to see exactly how their program is working for them. We've been very excited about this new portal for some time, but now that we are officially announcing it, it's extremely gratifying to see how excited our select clients are by the portal's precision and flexibility."
Along with its comprehensive Search Engine Optimization (SEO) focused web marketing efforts, Cyberset also provide full-service IT support, web design, and numerous other services for companies of all sizes. If you would like to learn more about Cyberset Internet marketing services, please call 818-883-7277 or visit the company online at http://www.Cyberset.com.
SOURCE Cyberset Corp.
Cyberset Corp.
CONTACT: Mike Pearl, +1-818-883-7277, ext. 112, support@cyberset.com
WASHINGTON, Aug. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On August 6, 2012, Senators Charles Grassley (R-IA), Tom Harkin (D-IA), Mark Kirk (R-IL), and Dick Durbin (D-IL) sent a letter to Zhang Yesui, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China in the United States, regarding recent reports detailing how individuals can obtain high quality counterfeit driver's licenses from websites operated by companies based in China. The letter specifically named the website, ID Chief. Today, operators of the ID Chief website announced that its business is closing and posted the following message:
We are stopping the website and novelty id service.
Thank you for your support, we want you to know we provided the very special service, that no other website can do. We just want let you know that if you find different website that looks like ours and has the same products that we sold they will steal your money, or your information, to use it for the bad things. You can know that we have deleted everyone data and there are not any records.
We also want you to be smart and only use your novelty id for buying beer in movies, We do not like criminals and do not think we are bad people, we just try to help the poor student have some fun. Again thank you for your support and understanding."
Brian Zimmer, President of the Coalition for a Secure Driver's License released the following statement:
"The Senators took the right step in addressing directly the Chinese ambassador and seeking his help. It is clear that action soon followed in China leading to an abrupt end to the menace of hundreds of thousands of counterfeit IDs flooding this country."
About the Coalition for a Secure Driver's License:
The Coalition for a Secure Driver's License is a 501 (c) (3) non-partisan, not for profit, crime prevention education public charity, supported by donor contributions from across the United States.
The CSDL slogan, "Working to protect the identity of every American", embodies our commitment to higher standards for both government and private entities that issue identity credentials, especially state agencies that issue driver's licenses and ID cards. CSDL undertakes research projects addressing best practices for DMVs, compliance with federal laws and regulations, identity fraud prevention and related identity management topics. CSDL provides research results and educational programs to the public and to state and federal officials and is a member of the Document Security Alliance and the American National Standards Institute.
US Aviation Academy Launches New Website to International Students
DALLAS, Aug. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- US Aviation Academy today officially announced the launch of a new website for international students at http://www.usaviationacademy.com. Widely known as one of the top flight schools for pilots in the United States, the company has taken great strides in reaching international students over the past few years, with their new website being the latest step.
The site aims to answer all questions international students may have. Features include detailed breakdowns of programs and courses, information about local student associations, and a complete listing of the steps of the entry process for international students.
To ensure students receive the best instruction possible, US Aviation Academy offers specialized programs for the home country of each student in order to meet all specific laws, regulations, and other requirements for holding pilot certification - from commercial to airline transport - in their part of the world. In total, they have trained students from over 30 countries.
They also know that coming overseas for flight school can be a challenge for students, with all the issues that can arise with moving to a foreign country. To ease their students' transition, the company has partnered with local housing providers to give students access to affordable, furnished apartments during their stay and offers transportation to and from their campus and local airports.
Known for being one of the most student friendly international flight schools around, US Aviation Academy has become so highly respected around the world that they currently hold a contract with the government of China to train all their pilots. For more information on their international flight programs, visit http://www.usaviationacademy.com.
ABOUT US AVIATION ACADEMY
US Aviation Academy is a CFR Part 141 flight school based in North Texas, with campuses in Denton and Sherman. A provider of flight training for all levels, from beginner aviators who want to learn to fly to career pilots, their school is recognized being in the top 10% of all flight academies in the nation and trains both domestic and international students. Their fleet includes everything from single engine Cessnas to multi-engine craft to rotor wing Schweizers and their instructors teach everything from fixed wing to helicopter piloting. They also feature cutting edge flight simulators on site. For a full listing of services offered and a look at their complete fleet, visit http://www.usaviationacademy.com.
For More Information, Contact:
US Aviation Academy:
Mike Sykes
+1-940-297-6416
User-Generated Video Production Creates Interactive Experience for Nonprofit CaringBridge
MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL, Aug. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- CaringBridge, the premier online space where people can connect, share and receive support and health updates, recently launched an interactive web site and user-generated video production project programmed by Minneapolis web design and development company Nighthawk Marketing.
The project, available at shareyourheart.caringbridge.org, dynamically combines user-generated content with pre-designed video in order to create a new, custom video experience for each user. Users are encouraged to share their video with friends and family using social media. The web site leverages modern technologies including HTML5 for wide compatibility across viewing media including Apple branded phones, tablets and mobile devices.
"Nighthawk Marketing is passionate about the CaringBridge mission and the Share Your Heart video campaign. Our team is doing some really unique, inspiring work for CaringBridge - and our other clients as well. We focus on 100% customer satisfaction to achieve extraordinary business results," said Andrea Douglas, chief marketing officer at Nighthawk Marketing.
The agency partners with clients to engineer and build engaging interactive projects that take an idea from conception to execution.
"Nighthawk Marketing has been an important digital technology partner in our Share Your Heart video campaign and has delivered above and beyond our expectations," noted Christine Mages, community engagement specialist at CaringBridge.
About Nighthawk Marketing
Nighthawk Marketing is a St. Paul & Minneapolis SEO and digital marketing agency, specializing in web design and development, search engine marketing, online reputation management and interactive video production. The agency works with Fortune 500 clients and large brands along with niche clients in the nonprofit, legal, telecommunications and retail industries. Additional information about the agency can be found at http://www.NighthawkMarketing.com.
SOURCE Nighthawk Marketing
Nighthawk Marketing
CONTACT: Andrea Douglas, +1-952-322-4792, info@nighthawkmarketing.com
Evolving Malware Turns OS X Lion from Predator into Prey
ThreatMetrix Labs Report Details Crisis Code and Escalating Trend of Apple OS X Vulnerability
SAN JOSE, Calif., Aug. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- ThreatMetrix(TM), the fastest-growing provider of integrated cybercrime prevention solutions, released today a report outlining code-level details on how new strains of malware penetrate the once-secure walls of Apple's OS X operating system. This malware trend, the most recent of which is known as "Crisis" or "OSX/Morcut-A," is judged to be significantly more sophisticated than past strains, and should serve as a warning to Apple users of further malware developments to come.
The ThreatMetrix Labs "Professional OS X Malware - A Reality" report outlines in detail the elegance and sophistication of the Crisis Trojan's programming code. ThreatMetrix Labs also identified numerous potential helper agent classes enabling Crisis to disrupt, disable and completely take over everything from stealing address book information to uploading and downloading files to accessing full file systems and camera snooping. The report also explores the continued trend of fraudsters turning their nefarious attentions to Apple as well as some of the company's efforts to combat the emerging threat.
"Apple has always been known for its virus immunity, but as technology develops very quickly, cybercrime matches the pace," said Andreas Baumhof, chief technology officer, ThreatMetrix. "This is a big jump from what has been seen in the past, and it should make users think twice about protecting themselves against malware on their OS X devices. ThreatMetrix has taken the lead in outlining the details of this malware, and will certainly work to prevent and detect threats to OS X in the future."
Apple seems to be aware of the growing threat to OS X. The company changed its marketing messaging on virus vulnerability and added extra restrictions on the Mac App Store accordingly. But while the recent release of OS X Mountain Lion shows that Apple has amplified its security, the quick and sophisticated pace of cybercriminals means the risk for malware is to be taken seriously.
"While the OS X Mountain Lion does include new security features known as Gatekeeper, the App Sandbox and FileVault 2, Apple should not take the security of its operating system for granted," added Baumhof. "This particular piece of malware is very well written, making it difficult for cybersecurity experts to engineer. This can lead to extensive OS X damage and security breaches for OS X users."
ThreatMetrix is the fastest-growing provider of integrated cybercrime prevention solutions. The ThreatMetrix(TM) Cybercrime Defender Platform helps companies protect customer data and secure transactions against fraud, malware, data breaches, as well as man-in-the browser (MitB) and Trojan attacks. The Platform consists of advanced cybersecurity technologies, including TrustDefender(TM) ID, which is cloud-based, real-time device identification, malware protection with TrustDefender(TM) Cloud and TrustDefender(TM) Client, as well as TrustDefender(TM) Mobile for smartphone applications. The company serves a rapidly growing global customer base across a variety of industries, including financial services, e-commerce, payments, social networks, government, and healthcare.
AudioQuest Introduces DragonFly USB Digital-Audio Converter
IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Computers have become the hub that connects people to a vast universe of digital entertainment content, from iTunes, streaming music and podcasts to watching YouTube videos, TV shows or movies. Unfortunately, most computers are limited by budget constraints and therefore do not have internal circuitry (the "soundcard") with the finesse to fully honor the fragile nature of both digital audio (the music file or stream) and analog audio (the output circuit). AudioQuest's DragonFly USB stick ($249) is a smart and simple solution that makes great computer sound available to everyone, everywhere.
Measuring just 19mm x 12mm x 46mm (60mm including the USB connector), DragonFly is a portable and easy to use Digital-Audio Converter (aka, "DAC") that plugs into a USB jack on a Mac® or Windows® PC, allowing the computer to make beautiful sound ... anywhere ... through headphones, powered speakers, or a full-on audio rig.
DragonFly's full 2-volt output drives headphones and ear buds directly, with ease and clarity. DragonFly's versatility also means that it can drive powered desktop speakers or a power amplifier directly using its 64-position (computer-controlled) analog volume control. In 'fixed' output mode, DragonFly behaves like a traditional DAC or disc player, sending a line-level signal to a preamp or AV receiver. All that's required is a low-distortion cable with a 3.5mm plug on the DragonFly end, and a 3.5mm plug or stereo RCAs at the receiving end.
How does DragonFly do it?
Maintaining subtle timing relationships is crucial in order to be able to reconstruct digital audio data back into the analog waveforms that we hear as dialog, sound effects or music. DragonFly employs a sophisticated asynchronous USB audio data transfer protocol that dramatically reduces digital timing errors. DragonFly's dual clocks enable native resolution up to 24-bit/96kHz, and ensure that DragonFly doesn't rely on imperfect mathematical approximations in the process of reconstructing the signal, resulting in better "tracking" and better sound.
DragonFly plays all music files, from reconstructed MP3s and CD-standard 16-bit/44.1kHz, all the way up to 24-bit/192kHz: 24-bit/176.4kHz and 24-bit/192kHz high-resolution files are neatly halved by the source computer and processed as appropriate by DragonFly at 24-bits/88.2kHz or 24-bit/96kHz. A smart 5-color LED behind the translucent DragonFly logo indicates the resolution of the incoming signal, and which of the internal clocks is being used.
Truly engaging audio has traditionally been restricted to home stereos and home entertainment systems. In addition to its capabilities to breathe fire into home and professional audio systems, DragonFly also lets great sound go out on the road, to the office, up in the air, to the beach, everywhere.
AudioQuest, based in Irvine, CA, manufactures and distributes premium-performance audio and video cable products, accessories, and solutions. The company currently sells to over 600 specialty audio/video dealers in the United States and Europe and to 45 independent distributors around the world. The company is privately owned. For more information or to find an AudioQuest dealer near you, visit http://www.audioquest.com
Contact:
Shane Buettner
VP, Communication
AudioQuest
+1-949-585-0111
As Seen On TV, Inc. Executes Letter of Intent to Acquire eDiets.com, Inc.
Combined Company has Generated $30 Million Revenue over Past 12 Months
Plan to Roll Out Celebrity Endorsed Infomercial in Time for Peak Diet Season
CLEARWATER, Fla., Aug. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- As Seen On TV, Inc. (ASTV), a direct response marketing company and owner of the website "AsSeenOnTV.com", announced today that it has signed a letter of intent to acquire eDiets.com, Inc. (DIET). The transaction is an all-stock deal, totals approximately $13 million in As Seen On TV, Inc. stock and is anticipated to result in pro-forma ownership of two-thirds As Seen On TV, Inc. shareholders to one-third eDiets.com, Inc. shareholders. The transaction, which is subject to certain closing conditions, is expected to close in 90-120 days.
eDiets.com, Inc. has generated $22 million in revenue over the past 12 months. eDiets.com, Inc. has focused its marketing and customer acquisition efforts on print media, short-form 30 and 60 second TV spots and Internet. In February 2012, Board member Tom Connerty assumed its CEO position and Chairman Kevin Richardson assumed its financial responsibilities and has since stabilized the business. eDiets.com, Inc. has spent $250 million to-date since its inception in 1996 in building its brand and is now the number three national diet meal delivery company behind Nutrisystem and Jenny Craig. Since inception eDiets.com, Inc. has helped millions of consumers effectively lose weight through its meal delivery and digital diet subscriptions.
Both As Seen On TV, Inc. and eDiets.com, Inc. believe there are numerous synergies between the two companies that make a combination greater than one plus one. The identified synergies range from public company expense savings, assembling the strongest direct marketing team, to creative marketing and direct response expertise and cost savings.
The two companies share a planned vision for accelerating the growth of eDiets.com, Inc. fresh food dietary meal delivery business. To-date customer acquisition has been driven by print media and short-form 30 and 60 second TV spots. The shared plan is to create, develop and utilize a long-form infomercial to more effectively acquire customers and spur growth of eDiets.com, Inc. subscribers. The As Seen On TV, Inc. team, led by Kevin Harrington, has a vision in creating an infomercial utilizing celebrities and will utilize its expertise in production and media buy planning. Additional opportunities include tying the eDiets.com, Inc. dietary meal delivery plan to other infomercial fitness products and the ability to upsell complementary fitness and household good products, two solid segments in the As Seen On TV world.
Tom Connerty has over 25 years of expertise in direct response marketing with leading consumer branded companies, including Nutrisystem and the Nautilus Group. Mr. Connerty served as Chief Marketing Officer of Nutrisystem from 2004 to 2008, and, in addition, he was promoted to Executive Vice President of Program Development in 2006. At Nutrisystem, Mr. Connerty was instrumental in successfully creating and implementing innovative direct marketing programs which contributed to Nutrisystem's rapid growth during his tenure at the Company. From 1999 to 2004, he served as Vice President of Direct Marketing of the Nautilus Group, where he played a key role in building the Bowflex division into one of the most profitable and recognizable names in the direct response home fitness market. Prior to Nautilus, he served as the Vice President of Broadcast for the Home Shopping Network where he managed advertising, programming and operations for two of the company's shopping channels that generated more than $1 billion in annual sales.
eDiets.com, Inc. will be structured as a wholly-owned subsidiary of As Seen On TV, Inc. and will continue to be operated by its current management team. Kevin Harrington, Chairman of As Seen On TV, Inc. stated, "Kevin Richardson and Tom Connerty have done a great job recently in positioning eDiets.com, Inc. for future growth. The opportunity for all of us here is to accelerate growth of eDiets.com, Inc. over the next few years by matching their teams marketing experience and background at Nautilus and Nutrisystem and our expertise in direct response television and celebrity rolodex."
Tom Connerty, CEO of eDiets.com, Inc., stated, "I'm extremely excited about this merger. Both entities bring a lot of experience and success marketing products directly to consumers across a wide range of product categories. A lot of synergies exist between the two companies that I feel will create a powerful direct marketing partnership poised for significant profitable growth in 2013 and beyond."
Kevin Richardson, Chairman of eDiets.com, Inc., stated, "The combination of these two teams puts us well on the way of assembling the "dream team" of direct response marketing. We are very excited to see the synergies benefit both groups of shareholders."
About As Seen On TV, Inc.
As Seen On TV, Inc. is a direct response marketing company and owner of AsSeenOnTV.com. We identify, develop and market consumer products for global distribution via TV, Internet and retail channels. As Seen On TV, Inc. was established by Kevin Harrington, a pioneer of direct response television. For more information go to http://www.AsSeenOnTV.com and http://www.TVGoodsInc.com.
About eDiets.com, Inc.
eDiets.com, Inc. is a leading provider of personalized nutrition, fitness and weight-loss programs. eDiets.com, Inc. features its award-winning, fresh-prepared diet meal delivery service as one of the more than 20 popular diet plans sold directly to members on its flagship site, http://www.eDiets.com. The company also provides a broad range of customized wellness and weight management solutions for Fortune 500 clients. eDiets.com's unique infrastructure offers businesses, as well as individuals, an end-to-end solution strategically tailored to meet its customers' specific goals of achieving a healthy lifestyle. For more information, please call 310-954-1105 or visit http://www.eDiets.com.
Transaction Notes:
The completion of the acquisition is conditioned execution of a definitive agreement, registration of the shares to be issued to eDiets.com, Inc. stockholders on a registration statement on Form S4 and other customary closing conditions. As a result, the acquisition may not be consummated.
Forward-Looking Statements:
Except for statements of historical fact, the matters discussed in this press release are forward-looking and made pursuant to the Safe Harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. "Forward-looking statements" describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as "future," "plan" or "planned," "expects," or "projected." These forward-looking statements reflect numerous assumptions and involve a variety of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the company's control that may cause actual results to differ materially from stated expectations. These risk factors include, among others, the failure to complete the transaction, limited operating history, difficulty in identifying and marketing products, intense competition and additional risks factors as discussed in reports filed by the company with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available at http://www.sec.gov.
Important Information for Investors and Stockholders
This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a solicitation of any vote or approval. As Seen On TV, Inc. will file with the Securities and Exchange Commission a registration statement on Form S-4 and information statement/prospectus which will form a part of the registration statement will be mailed to eDiets.com, Inc.'s stockholders. As Seen On TV, Inc. and eDiet.com, Inc. also plan to file other documents with the SEC regarding the proposed transaction. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS OF AS SEEN ON TV, INC. AND EDIETS.COM, INC. ARE URGED TO READ THE INFORMATION STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS THAT WILL BE FILED WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION. Investors and stockholders will be able to obtain free copies of the information statement/prospectus and other documents containing important information about As Seen On TV, Inc. and eDiets.com, Inc., once such documents are filed with the SEC, through the website maintained by the SEC at http://www.sec.gov. As Seen On TV, Inc. and eDiets.com, Inc. will make available free of charge at http://www.tvgoodsinc.com and http://www.ediets.com, respectively, copies of materials they file with, or furnish to, the SEC.
Contact Information:
Steven Hart
As Seen On TV, Inc.
Corporate Strategy & Development
shart@tvgoodsinc.com
917-658-7878
eDiets.com
John Mills
Senior Managing Director at ICR, LLC
310-954-1105
SHANGHAI, Aug. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Taomee Holdings Limited (NYSE: TAOM) ("Taomee" or the "Company"), one of the leading children's entertainment and media companies in China, today announced that the release of its Seer animation app for Apple iOS is now available for download in the App store.
Taomee launched Seer animation series on its own online video site v.61.com in Jan, 2012. By date, the animation has been viewed over 100 million times by online video users, and the animation series ranked as No.1 most popular animation on Taomee video site since launched.
Seer animation tells the story of a group of space energy robots with a theme of space exploration and adventure. Space energy robots in the story offer a sci-fi adventure experience and foster children's interest in science and environmental protection.
The mobile version of Seer animation is available in simplified Chinese and traditional Chinese, for Apple iOS with iPad version.
About Taomee Holdings Limited
Taomee Holdings Limited is one of the leading children's entertainment and media companies in China driven to deliver exceptional entertainment to children and families. Founded in 2007, Taomee is one the first companies in Greater China to develop animated franchises for children through online virtual world that are both fun and educational. The Company's virtual worlds are widely trusted by millions of parents and caregivers across Asia. The Company's Mole's World and Seer franchises and characters have reached millions of children and families through virtual worlds, books, monthly print magazines, mobile applications, animated television series and movies
This press release contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words or phrases such as "may," "will," "expect," "anticipate," "aim," "estimate," "intend," "plan," "believe," "potential," "continue," "is/are likely to" or other similar expressions. Among other things, the management's quotations and outlook information contain forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: the Company's business strategies and initiatives as well as business plans; future business development, results of operations and financial condition; expected changes in revenues and certain cost or expense items; expectations with respect to increased revenue growth and the Company's ability to sustain profitability; the Company's services and products under development or planning; the Company's ability to attract users and further enhance the Company's brand recognition; and trends and competition in the children's entertainment and media market and industry, including those for online entertainment. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in Taomee's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its registration statement on its final prospectus dated June 10, 2011. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of the press release, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as required under applicable law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward looking statements are reasonable, the Company cannot assure you that their expectations will turn out to be correct, and investors are cautioned that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results.
Top Secret Pre-Order Plans For Activision Publishing's 007(TM) Legends Video Game Uncovered
SANTA MONICA, Calif., Aug. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Rogue spies have breached MI6 and uncovered information on pre-order exclusives for this year's upcoming 007(TM) Legends video game. Fans that reserve an early copy of 007 Legends in North America - planned to launch October 16(th) from Activision Publishing, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Activision Blizzard, Inc. (Nasdaq: ATVI) - will gain access to the Nemesis Pack from Amazon.com and the 007 Pack from GameStop. The content of each of these exciting pre-order packs are as follows.
Pre-order Now from Amazon.com - Nemesis Pack
Play 007 Legends through the eyes of two notorious Bond rivals - Jaws and Baron Samedi. With the Nemesis Pack, gamers get to play as Moonraker's space-suited henchman or Live and Let Die's voodoo king sporting his iconic skeleton paint in the Legends and multiplayer split-screen modes. Unlockable only for the Xbox 360(®) video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and PlayStation(®)3 system, for a limited time, while supplies last.
Pre-order Now from GameStop - The 007 Pack
Players will be able to dress for success in split-screen multiplayer mode with an exclusive James Bond character outfit, and additionally, use the most famous of James Bond's handguns - the Walther PPK pistol. With the 007 Pack, fans also get early access to the Fast Switch gadget, which increases weapon swap speed by 50%. Unlockable only for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 system, for a limited time, while supplies last.
007Legends features an original, overarching storyline tying together five classic Bond movie-inspired missions, plus a sixth mission based on this year's highly-anticipated movie - SKYFALL - which will be available as post-launch downloadable content. Each movie-inspired mission in 007 Legends includes multiple levels featuring re-imagined movie moments that showcase state-of-the-art spy gadgets, an arsenal of weapons, sleek vehicles and exotic locations, where players will use Bond's quick wits and style to take down notorious villains and their brutal henchmen, offering the most diverse Bond gaming experience yet!
For more intel about 007 Legends and the latest updates on pre-order and launch offers, visit the game's official Web site - http://www.007Legends.com - and Facebook page - http://www.facebook.com/007LegendsGame. 007 Legends is being developed by Eurocom, under license from EON Productions Ltd. and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, Inc. (MGM) for the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 system, and Windows PC. The game is currently rated "RP" (Rating Pending) by the ESRB.
About Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc.
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc., through its operating subsidiaries, is actively engaged in the worldwide production and distribution of motion pictures, television programming, home video, interactive media, music and licensed merchandise. The company owns the world's largest library of modern films, comprising around 4,100 titles. Operating units include Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc., Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., United Artists Films Inc., Ventanazul, MGM Television Entertainment Inc., MGM Networks Inc., MGM Domestic Networks LLC, MGM Distribution Co, MGM International Television Distribution Inc., Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Home Entertainment LLC, MGM ON STAGE, MGM Music, MGM Worldwide Digital Media, MGM Consumer Products and MGM Interactive. In addition, MGM has ownership interests in international TV channels reaching nearly 120 countries. MGM ownership is as follows: Providence Equity Partners (29%), TPG (21%), Sony Corporation of America (20%), Comcast (20%), DLJ Merchant Banking Partners (7%) and Quadrangle Group (3%). For more information, visit http://www.mgm.com.
About EON Productions/Danjaq, LLC
EON Productions Limited and Danjaq LLC are wholly owned and controlled by the Broccoli/Wilson family. Danjaq is the US based company that co-owns, with MGM, the copyright in the existing James Bond films and controls the right to produce future James Bond films as well as all worldwide merchandising. EON Productions, an affiliate of Danjaq, is the UK based production company which makes the James Bond films. The 007 franchise is the longest running in film history with twenty-two films produced since 1962. Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli succeeded Albert R 'Cubby' Broccoli in 1995 and have produced some of the most successful Bond films ever including CASINO ROYALE and QUANTUM OF SOLACE. They are currently producing the 23(rd) film, SKYFALL.
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, mainland 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, including statements about the expected release date of 007 Legends are forward-looking statements that are not facts and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. 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 unanticipated product delays and 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.
Leapster GS, The Ultimate Learning Video Game System, Is Now Available
LeapsterGS includes a built-in camera, video recorder and motion sensor, and features a library of hundreds of games, videos, music, eBooks and more
EMERYVILLE, Calif., Aug. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. (NYSE:LF), the leader in educational entertainment, today announced that LeapsterGS(TM), the ultimate learning video game system, is now available at retail and online. LeapsterGS, the newest addition to the award-winning Leapster® family, is a groundbreaking improvement of Leapster Explorer(TM). This revolutionary new gaming handheld offers fast-action gameplay packed with rich learning in a sleek and kid-tough design. LeapsterGS keeps kids engaged in learning by putting them in charge of the action with updated features including motion-based play, a built-in camera and video recorder, kid-friendly controls, and a large library of high-quality educational entertainment.
"LeapsterGS is an aspirational learning game solution that both parents and kids will love," said Greg Ahearn, chief marketing officer at LeapFrog. "Kids will experience fast-paced game-system action, and parents can trust their kids are engaged with age-appropriate educational entertainment. Our learning content is designed by our highly experienced team of learning experts to ensure our library keeps kids immersed in the game as they build important skills."
LeapsterGS comes with the new Escape of the Sillies game, the popular onboard Pet Pad writing game and choice of a free additional download from the LeapFrog App Center.
Fast-action Gaming
The LeapFrog LeapsterGS learning video game system delivers the ultimate gaming experience to kids. The faster LF 2000 processor and kid-friendly multi-button controls on LeapsterGS get kids into the action as they build core skills for success in school and in life. Kids are introduced to STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) as they complete action-packed challenges to build the ultimate water balloon launcher in the arcade-style game, Disney's Phineas and Ferb. In Kat's Math-errific Magic Show, a new game that helps build number recognition, addition, subtraction and multiplication skills, kids will dive into fast-action gameplay as they help collect frogs that have escaped and scattered backstage during the Big LeapSchool Talent Show. Additionally, parents can select just the right level of difficulty and the type of problems they would like their child to solve.
Ready, Set, Action!
The built-in camera, video recorder and microphone put kids right into the games they play. Exclusive to LeapsterGS, the Escape of the Sillies game transports kids into the game with the built-in camera and face-morphing technology, where they will customize faces of silly monsters while building their math skills. Additionally, the Camera Game Pack includes three different activities that kids can engage in, such as playing a photo journalist as they hunt for photographs and personalizing the game pieces in a matching game to build skills in spelling and math.
Tilt, Turn and Race Through Learning Fun
With the new built-in motion sensor, kids take charge of the action as they tilt, turn and shake their way through games. The T-Rex Rush game makes the most of this new feature and has kids dodging obstacles and dashing through the Arctic, desert and jungle as they keep baby T-Rex on course and practice math skills. Exclusive to LeapsterGS, the Splurgle! game uses the motion sensor to help Splurgle, a raindrop who gets blown off course, navigate his way back home through a maze of pipes as kids learn characteristics of liquids, solids and gases.
A Growing Content Library
LeapFrog has created skills-based, high-quality content that is safe and age-appropriate. The LeapsterGS content library features hundreds of action-packed games, music, videos, eBooks and more. This robust library is a combination of signature LeapFrog educational entertainment content designed by LeapFrog's learning experts, and engaging content curated by LeapFrog from some of the biggest names in children's entertainment. LeapsterGS holds 2GB of memory and is compatible with hundreds of LeapFrog Explorer cartridges and LeapFrog App Center digital content.
Availability
LeapsterGS is sold at MSRP $69.99 and is recommended for children 4 to 9 years. Downloads are priced at MSRP $5.00 and up and game cartridges at MSRP $24.99. LeapsterGS is available at leapfrog.com, online and at major retailers in the U.S., Canada, UK and Ireland mid-August, and in other select other countries such as Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Hong Kong, Singapore, Philippines, Korea, Thailand and other Asian countries later in the fall. The LeapFrog App Center can be accessed through the LeapFrog Connect Application for the LeapsterGS platform. For more information on LeapsterGS, visit leapfrog.com/LeapsterGS.
About LeapFrog
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc. is the leader in educational entertainment for children. LeapFrog's award-winning product portfolio helps millions of children achieve their potential by delivering best-in-class curriculum through engaging content, fun multimedia learning platforms and toys. The Learning Path, LeapFrog's proprietary online destination for parents and extended family, provides personalized feedback on a child's learning progress and offers recommendations to enhance each child's learning experience. Through the power of play, LeapFrog's products and curriculum help children of all ages prepare for school and life success. LeapFrog's products are available in more than 45 countries and have been used by teachers in more than 100,000 U.S. classrooms. LeapFrog is based in Emeryville, California and was founded in 1995 by a father who revolutionized technology-based learning solutions to help his child learn how to read. Come see the learning at leapfrog.com.
MEDIA CONTACTS
Monica Ma Kathryn Green
LeapFrog PR LeapFrog PR
510-596-3437 510-596-3405
mma@leapfrog.com kgreen@leapfrog.com
SOURCE LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20090219/LFLOGO http://photoarchive.ap.org/
LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
NHN Japan's "LINE camera" Achieves 10 Million Downloads
TOKYO, Aug. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- NHN Japan Corporation announced on August 10 its "LINE camera" -- the official camera app for the free-calling and free-messaging app 'LINE' achieved 10 million* downloads as of August 7 in only 4 months since the service was released.
This easy-to-use camera app allows users to edit and decorate their photos taken on smartphone cameras and then to share their finished creations with friends and groups via a range of SNS services.
One of the reasons for LINE camera's success can be explained by an original feature which gives users the ability to decorate their own photos using LINE's popular Sticker Characters. LINE camera was released on April 12 for Android and April 26 for iPhone, and about a month later on May 9, downloads exceeded the 5 million mark.
Even after this, LINE camera continued to add new editing features much to the delight of its users. The increased number of stickers (now over 800), as well as color varieties for stamps and frames, and the introduction of brightness adjustment tools, all contributed to enable LINE camera to reach this level of popularity.
LINE camera took 117 days to achieve 10 million downloads. When this time span is compared to that of other camera apps such as Instagram which took 355 days, it is immediately obvious how rapidly this app is gaining popularity.
LINE camera has also reached the No.1 spot in the Free Apps category at App Stores in 13 countries and No.1 in the Camera category at App Stores in 22 countries, as well as achieving the No.1 spot in the Camera category at Google Play stores in 16 countries.
NHN Japan says it plans to add even more fun features such as Photo Stamp which will allow LINE camera users to create their own personal collages by trimming their photos into heart and star shapes, as well as introducing a new Live Filter mode with which users can experiment with various filters while actually taking photos.
The company also says it will keep expanding and improving features for LINE camera and other LINE-related services with the aim of enriching and enhancing the communicative experience between LINE users.
*The download figure is the total for both iPhone and Android.
About LINE camera
App Name: LINE camera
OS Support: iPhone 3GS/4/4S (iOS 4.0 or higher)/Android 2.1 or higher
Languages: English, Japanese, Chinese (Traditional/Simplified), Korean
Price: Free
Service Webpage: http://camera.line.naver.jp/en
About NHN Japan Corporation
NHN Japan is the local affiliate of Korea's premier Internet company, NHN Corporation. NHN Japan is headquartered in Shinagawa, Tokyo, with Akira Morikawa as CEO.
About LINE (http://line.naver.jp/en)
LINE is a free-calling and free-messaging app, operated and owned by NHN Japan Corporation.
SOURCE NHN Japan Corporation
NHN Japan Corporation
CONTACT: Fumiko Hayashi, PR Room, Web Services Business Division, NHN Japan Corporation, Tel: +81-70-5077-6073 (Japanese only), E-mail: Webservice-PR@nhn.com
EitaroSoft to Participate in "gamescom2012" to Exhibit New 3D Action MMORPG "The Ring of the Dragon" at GREE's Booth
TOKYO, Aug. 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- EitaroSoft Inc. will exhibit its new 3D action online role-playing game (RPG) "The Ring of the Dragon" (hereafter referred to as "R.O.D.") at "gamescom 2012," the largest game show in Europe, which will be held in Cologne, Germany, for five days from August 15 (Wednesday) through 19 (Sunday). The gamescom 2012 version -- which is dramatically updated with attractive new action game elements -- of "R.O.D." will be on display at the booth of GREE, who operates the social networking service (SNS), with which EitaroSoft plans to cooperate in launching the sale of "R.O.D." in countries where English is the mother tongue, including North America, from the coming autumn.
1. "Grasp" is added as a new attack action element for the enemy monster.
2. "Karma System," which branches "LAW" and "EVIL" according to the choices of players, is installed.
3. Horse riding function provides users with a stimulating and faster transporting experience in the great field.
About The Ring of the Dragon
The Ring of The Dragon (R.O.D.), the newest addition to a long list of large-scale games developed by EitaroSoft, Inc., is a highly popular action-type game which offers users the great enjoyment of cooperating with other online players in an online party play to conquer various patterns of assaults mounted by the enemy boss. The game was designed with global marketing in mind from the beginning. The game, for example, comes with real, beautiful graphics which are certain to attract global fans of authentic fantasy games, and provides a riddle-solving fantasy which is felt familiar, attractive and yet deep by people in any country of the world. As high-end online RPGs currently available in the world smartphone market are still scarce, we will provide high-quality, full-fledged fantasy RPGs aimed at experienced users having played such games with their PCs or home game consoles.
About gamescom 2012
Gamescom is a trade fair for video games held annually at Koelnmesse in Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, and it is a leading international game industry show. Almost 50% of visitors including both B2B and B2C are from overseas. Cologne is one of Europe's leading media hubs from where news is dispatched to the rest of the world, so it is the best place to promote brand-new projects for developers and publishers.
About EitaroSoft, Inc.
EitaroSoft, Inc. successfully developed Japan's first 3D engine with application software. The company developed a 3D avatar system based on its self-developed 3D technology, realizing Japan's first 3D avatar system for a mobile phone browser by utilizing the state-of-the-art Ajax technology. It is also focusing on research and development of network technologies, including P2P-based online technology and Japan's first full-3D online RPG allowing four players to participate simultaneously in it. EitaroSoft makes it a point to develop new technologies, having developed a number of technologies to realize services previously considered unrealistic and earned much appreciation from customers, both at home and abroad, who desire differentiated services not available anywhere else.
Established: January 2002
Head office: Uchisaiwaicho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Contact:
Eri Tokita
Division Director
Global Business Division
EitaroSoft, Inc.
Tel: +81-3-3580-6200
E-mail: pr@eitarosoft.co.jp (English and Japanese)
Little Tikes® Pioneers Technology Enhanced Educational Toys
VAN NUYS, Calif., Aug. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Little Tikes® has delivered an engaging play experience for more than 40 years and is keeping that heritage alive with groundbreaking toys in 2012. This month, Little Tikes® extends their classic brand of toy play into a revolutionary level of learning with the launch of iTikes(TM), a dynamic line of pre-school toys that can be enhanced through the advanced technology of Apple mobile digital devices. Designed to be enjoyed on their own and with extended capability through exclusively designed free iTikes(TM) Apps, iTikes(TM) inspires the love of learning and creates a world of discovery using smart technology and rich, engaging content. iTikes(TM) products are suitable for kids three years old and up.
The following iTikes(TM) products will debut at retail this month:
iTikes(TM) Canvas: The iTikes(TM) Canvas transforms the iPad into a fun and easy to use drawing pad. Without the App the toy comes with a classic magnetic doodle board. With the App the play is expanded. Draw with the conductive pen, play interactive learning games, and press the shapes on the sides to magically stamp images on to your work of art. Price: $39.99; Compatible with iPad, iPad 2 and the New iPad.
iTikes(TM) Piano: The iTikes(TM) Piano is the first toy keyboard that teaches kids how to actually play and read music. Without a device, the keyboard comes with four songs built in that can be played in four modes: Freeplay, Stepper, Solo and Playback. With the App, kids can learn pitch training, sight reading and music theory. Price: $49.99; Compatible with all Apple mobile digital devices.
iTikes(TM) Map: The iTikes(TM) Map and companion App are jam-packed with content. By itself the map comes with a smart-pen that recognizes the images on the map. Through the eyes of the device camera and the technology of Augmented Reality, the map virtually turns into a lifelike playground. Price: $59.99; Compatible with all iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, 4s and iPod touch 3 and 4.
iTikes(TM) Microscope:The iTikes(TM) Microscope lets the child explore using a real lens-based microscope to examine and interact with 36 actual specimens. With the App, the specimens come to life with interactive 3D images and animated fun facts. Price: $89.99; Compatible with all Apple mobile digital devices.
iTikes(TM) products are not endorsed, sponsored, affiliated with or otherwise authorized by Apple Inc.
Apple is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the US and other countries. iPad, iPad 2, New iPad, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4s, iPod touch 3, iPod touch 4 are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the US and other countries.
Susan Hale
MGA Entertainment
818/221-4326/shale@mgae.com
Orbitz Worldwide, Inc. to Participate at the 14th Annual Pacific Crest Global Technology Leadership Forum
CHICAGO, Aug. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Orbitz Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: OWW) announced today that it will participate in the 14th Annual Pacific Crest Global Technology Leadership Forum in Vail, Colorado on Tuesday, August 14, 2012.
Sam Fulton, Senior Vice President, Global Product Strategy, of Orbitz Worldwide, will participate in a panel at 3:00 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time (MDT). A live audiocast of the session will be available to the public through the company's Investor Relations website at investors.orbitz.com. A replay of the audiocast will be available on the Investor Relations website for approximately 30 days.
About Orbitz Worldwide
Orbitz Worldwide is a leading global online travel company that uses innovative technology to enable leisure and business travelers to research, plan and book a broad range of travel products. Orbitz Worldwide owns a portfolio of consumer brands that includes Orbitz (http://www.orbitz.com/), CheapTickets (http://www.cheaptickets.com/), ebookers (http://www.ebookers.com/), HotelClub (http://www.hotelclub.com/), RatesToGo (http://www.ratestogo.com/) and the Away Network (http://www.away.com/). Also within the Orbitz Worldwide family, Orbitz Worldwide Distribution (corp.orbitz.com/partnerships/distribution) delivers private label travel solutions to a broad range of partners including many of the world's largest airlines, and Orbitz for Business (http://www.orbitzforbusiness.com/) delivers managed corporate travel solutions for corporations. For more information on partnership opportunities with Orbitz Worldwide, visit corp.orbitz.com.
Orbitz Worldwide uses its Investor Relations website to make information available to its investors and the public at investors.orbitz.com. You can sign up to receive email alerts whenever the company posts new information to the website.
SOURCE Orbitz Worldwide, Inc.
Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20070813/AQM125LOGO http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Orbitz Worldwide, Inc.
Faster Answers, Better Results with CCH Mobile: Enhanced New IntelliConnect App Advances Business On-the-go
Desktop Research Even Faster with New IntelliConnect Search Express Icon
RIVERWOODS, Ill., Aug. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The latest CCH Mobile(TM) enhanced App now makes it even easier for CCH IntelliConnect® users to quickly access, save and send tax research using Smartphones and tablets - enabling professionals the flexibility to see and share information whenever and wherever they want. And with the new IntelliConnect Search Express desktop icon, premier content is literally a single click away. CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business is a leading global provider of tax, accounting and audit information, software and services (CCHGroup.com).
"Creating greater convenience and more efficiency based on feedback from our customers is truly within our DNA," said Tina Rajski, CCH Product Manager. "Our newest CCH Mobile features and the IntelliConnectSearch Express desktop icon are the latest examples of how we leverage customer insights to quickly drive new enhancements that deliver faster answers and better results."
Advanced CCH Mobile App
The newly enhanced App for IntelliConnect replaces the previous mobile App and makes content searches more expedient than ever. After downloading the new App for Apple iPhone®, iPad® and Android(TM) devices, users have instant access to their favorite IntelliConnect research and publications including, Tax Tracker News(TM) and IRS Code and Regulations. Additional key features enable users to:
-- Access CCH Mobile alerts for the latest tax legislation updates,
briefings and breaking news;
-- Enhance search capabilities with keyword search functionality and more
citation search options;
-- Search favorite publications directly from the App - offering direct
access to content used most frequently; and
-- Enjoy direct access to research folders. Users can save documents on
mobile devices and access them later on IntelliConnect.
"I've had customers tell me they've used our mobile App thousands of miles away from their office while overseas," added Rajski. "With every new download, more subscribers are realizing how the enhanced App is advancing their business by accessing information when and where it's needed."
Converting to the new App is a breeze - IntelliConnect subscribers who have the previous CCH Mobile App on their iPhone, iPad or Android device will automatically be prompted to download the updated App.
IntelliConnect Search Express
With IntelliConnect Search Express, users no longer need to enter their user ID and password to sign on; it's built into the IntelliConnect sign on icon - available through a one-time download to the computer desktop screen. All users have to do is click on the icon, enter a keyword or citation search topic when the IntelliConnectSearch Express box pops up and hit return. It's that simple - specific information is instantly pulled up from premium content stored in the powerful IntelliConnect research platform.
Other recently released IntelliConnect enhancements enabling faster research include:
-- Federal Tax Glossary - This resource helps define terms for
practitioners researching new areas and is valuable for training new
staff;
-- Suggested Search Expansion - A feature that significantly increases the
number of substantive terms to aid the researcher in crafting key-word
searches;
-- Treatment Codes in Federal Rulings - Treatment codes from the Federal
Citator are now merged directly into the text of the impacted ruling.
It's a time-saving enhancement that provides links to associated rulings
for easy navigation;
-- New Federal Tax Practice Tools Node - It's the latest federal node now
included in the browse tree and enables users to add federal practice
tools to their "favorites" list or easily search all federal content at
once; and
-- Treatise Relate - Users can easily extract details and guidance from
selected CCH Expert Treatise Library titles.
24/7 Mobile Access
In addition to the enhanced features of CCH Mobile, users also can stay connected to the latest federal and state tax headlines with the CCH Tax News Highlights App. Free downloads are available for iPhone and iPad devices by clicking here and for Android devices by clicking here.
For More Information
More than 300,000 users today rely on IntelliConnect for faster answers and better results. For more information on the CCH Mobile enhanced App, IntelliConnectSearch Express and the entire award-winning IntelliConnect research platform, please call a CCH sales representative at 1-888-CCH-REPS (1-888-224-7377) or visit CCHGroup.com/IntelliConnect.
About CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business
CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business (CCHGroup.com) is a leading global provider of tax, accounting and audit information, software and services. It has served tax, accounting and business professionals since 1913. Among its market-leading solutions are The ProSystem fx(®) Suite, CorpSystem(®), CCH(®) IntelliConnect(®), Accounting Research Manager(®) and the U.S. Master Tax Guide(®). CCH is based in Riverwoods, Ill. Follow us now on Twitter @CCHMediaHelp. Wolters Kluwer (http://www.wolterskluwer.com) is a market-leading global information services company. Wolters Kluwer is headquartered in Alphen aan den Rijn, the Netherlands. Its shares are quoted on Euronext Amsterdam (WKL) and are included in the AEX and Euronext 100 indices.
SOURCE CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business
CCH, a Wolters Kluwer business
CONTACT: Eric Scott, +1-847-267-2179, eric.scott@wolterskluwer.com, or Brenda Au, +1-847-267-2046, brenda.au@wolterskluwer.com
Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) Delivers First Online Destination Built for Organic Farmers
OFRF Site / Social Media Channels Provide Stage to Showcase Organic Farming for Health & Prosperity ReportSANTA CRUZ, Calif., Aug. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) announced today the release of the first online destination built especially for organic farmers that provides easy access to research, policy programs and educational and community-building tools to better meet their urgent needs. Entering its third decade serving organic farmers, OFRF proudly launches the innovative online portal with easy, interactive access to rich organic information.
"Everything we do at OFRF builds the infrastructure for organic farmers' success. They are some of the most innovative entrepreneurs in America and we are proud to provide them with technological tools that will better meet their needs," said Maureen Wilmot, Executive Director of OFRF.
While the new web portal provides an innovative platform, it also serves as a stage to launch the long-awaited Organic Farming for Health & Prosperity report. This science-based, peer-reviewed report extols the multiple societal benefits of organic farming in North America. The audience for the report includes policy makers, educators, researchers, healthcare professionals, business leaders and families.
In the past decade, the organic food industry has more than quadrupled in growth, and OFRF continues to grow with it by offering a wide range of support to a very specific group of individuals. "We knew that if we built an online portal with the singular interest of serving organic farmers, we would attract highly qualified partners," said Denise Ryan, External Relations Director of OFRF. "We are very excited about developing the platform to grow more integrated partnerships with organizations who share our vision."
About the Organic Farming Research Foundation
Organic Farming Research Foundation (OFRF) has a very clear vision -- that organic farming will be the leading form of agriculture for healthy people who thrive on a healthy planet. OFRF sponsors organic farming research and education projects and works to create federal farm policy, bringing more farmers and acreage into organic production. Founded in 1990, OFRF is the leading non-profit, national champion of the American organic family farmer. For more information, see http://www.ofrf.org and find us on Facebook!
Contact Info:
Denise Ryan
External Relations Director
(831) 426-6606
denise@ofrf.org
SOURCE Organic Farming Research Foundation
Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120809/DC55267 http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Organic Farming Research Foundation
AEA Technology, Inc. Introduces their new E20/20 Step Time Domain Reflectometer (TDR)
CARLSBAD, Calif., Aug. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- AEA Technology, Inc. is proud to introduce its newest product the E20/20 Step TDR. "E" standing for the "Enhanced" version of our 20/20 Step TDR. This new TDR replaces our 20/20 Step TDR which has been on the market for eight years, pioneered a path for hand-held Step TDRs, and has gained steadily in popularity and a loyal following among its users.
We compiled years of customer comments and input concerning the 20/20 TDR to totally re-design it for a more user friendly instrument, updated the technology, and added advanced features like Micro Fault locating. The same rugged case and lightweight packaging was maintained for convenient "Belt Friendly" portable cable testing. Key enhancements include:
-- New keypad with LED indicators for active Function Keys and
alpha-numeric keypad for data entries
-- Larger LCD fonts for a clearer display
-- Simpler and easier to use menus, context sensitive help and a Setup
Wizard
-- USB-2 PC interface
-- New ranges: 0-10ft (2m) minimum and 20,000ft (5Km) maximum
-- Zoom on cursor marked events
-- New Micro Fault locating - Quickly locate minute service affecting
faults that can slow or interrupt high-bandwidth applications.
-- Update the TDR's Cable List from the PC
-- Save and Recall traces by name and automatic date/time stamp
The new ETDR PC Vision(TM) software has also been upgraded with numerous improvements and added features. Key software enhancements are:
-- New Com Port Tab for easy communications setup at the PC
-- Enhanced graphical display with more information about the traces and
new two traces comparison graph
-- New trace upload methods for saving some or all traces on the PC at once
or copying a list of saved traces in the TDR's memory.
-- Uploading and downloading Cable Lists that can be customized on the PC
AEA Technology, Inc. is located in Carlsbad, CA. Originally known as "Advanced Electronic Applications and AEA Wireless, the company has been in business for 39 years supplying economical hand-held SWR meters, Vector Network Analyzers, Spectrum Analyzers, FDRs and Step TDRs.. All instruments are designed and manufactured at our Carlsbad, CA facility.
Visit our web site at http://www.aeatechnology.com or call us at 1-800-258-7805 or +1-760-931-8979 to find out more about the new E20/20 TDR and the superior performance a Step TDR provides.
Lyons Consulting Group Builds and Hosts Ecommerce Site for ALCO Stores, Inc.
Launches New Ecommerce Site on Magento Platform In Less Than Three Months
CHICAGO, Aug. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Lyons Consulting Group, the premier ecommerce strategy, design, development, hosting and support firm, today announced that it built and hosts the new ecommerce store that ALCO Stores, Inc. (Nasdaq: ALCS) recently launched at ALCOstores.com. Lyons delivered ALCO's site on a Magento Enterprise platform in less than three months and is now serving shoppers with more than 10,000 items of high-quality merchandise at value prices.
To create a rich online shopping environment in a short time frame, Lyons Consulting Group built upon the already robust Magento platform, which has the latest in ecommerce marketing and merchandising features. The Lyons team collaborated with the ALCO Stores team to develop a striking design with a clean user experience, improved inventory efficiency with an integration to the OMX Order Management System, and a PCI-compliant hosted payment gateway to securely process payments.
"In selecting a firm to build the online store at ALCOstores.com, we turned to Lyons Consulting Group based on their ecommerce experience, reputation and breadth of services. The Lyons team took the time to understand our business and has proven to be a reliable and responsive partner," said Brent Streit, Senior Vice President of Marketing and ecommerce for ALCO Stores. "In a very short time we were able to create a robust consumer experience with a wide selection of products, both to serve our loyal base of ALCO shoppers and to reach new customers. The ecommerce store is an extension of ALCO's brand."
"We are proud of the work we have done for ALCO Stores and look forward to seeing the results from our efforts as the ecommerce store gains visibility among shoppers in the coming months. The new site was launched in June 2012, and the lyonscg team continues to assist ALCO with this exciting online venture through hosting and our 24/7 in-house support center," said Rich Lyons, CEO of Lyons Consulting Group.
About ALCO Stores, Inc.
ALCO Stores, Inc. is a broad-line retailer with 215 stores primarily located in small, underserved communities across 23 states. ALCO recently announced the launch of a full-service ecommerce store at ALCOstores.com to serve shoppers with more than 10,000 items of high-quality merchandise at value prices. Based in Abilene, Kansas, ALCO Stores had sales of $482.8 million in the most recent fiscal year. For more information, or to experience the ecommerce store, please visit ALCOstores.com.
About Lyons Consulting Group
Lyons Consulting Group is the premier ecommerce strategy, design, development and support firm dedicated to help clients continually grow and succeed in their online business. With a proven track record to deliver creative, robust and most importantly, increasingly profitable ecommerce sites, our diverse group of experts are committed to customer satisfaction and project excellence.
As the leading Magento and Demandware partner in the US, lyonscg has years of experience in ecommerce strategy, creative design, platform customization, technical development, backend integration, quality assurance, and support. lyonscg understands that each client's sites and needs are unique, yet are able to deliver each and every time. Bottom Line: Lyons Consulting Group helps online businesses to realize the potential of ecommerce. Guaranteed. For more information about lyonscg or to see their extensive list of clients, visit lyonscg.com or call 312.564.3142.
Submissions Now Open For 2013 Independent Games Festival
Festival, IGF Pavilion expanded to include six finalists per category
SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Organizers are now officially opening submissions for the 2013 Independent Games Festival, to be held at GDC 2013 in San Francisco next March.
The longest-running and highest-profile independent video game festival, summit and showcase is now accepting entries to the 15(th) annual Festival, with deadlines in the Main and Student Showcase categories by October 17th and October 31st respectively, and finalists to be announced on January 2013.
Following over 850 entries to IGF 2012, the Festival has expanded each existing category to six finalists, all of which will be available in playable form at a larger, expanded IGF Pavilion on the GDC show floor, and will compete for nearly $60,000 in prizes.
These include the $5,000 Nuovo Award, honoring 'abstract, shortform, and unconventional' games, as well as the Excellence in Art, Audio, Design, Technology, Student Game and Audience Award prizes, each worth $3,000, and the crowning $30,000 Seumas McNally Grand Prize.
Notable former Independent Games Festival winners over the previous 15 years include Spelunky, Fez, Minecraft, Limbo, World of Goo, Braid, CastleCrashers, Everyday Shooter and many more of the game industry's breakthrough independent titles.
Winners will be announced on stage at the high-profile Independent Games Festival Awards on Wednesday, March 27, 2013, at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, with the IGF Pavilion open from March 27-29, and the sister Independent Games Summit event taking place on March 25 and 26.
All of the Independent Games Festival events take place as part of the 2013 Game Developers Conference, which is held March 25(th) - March 29(th), 2013 in San Francisco, and the IGF continues as the most vital showcase of independent game talent across the wide spectrum of artistically- and commercially-aimed development.
"All of us here at the IGF are eager to see this year's selection of games. Each year, the community manages to outpace itself in innovation and artistry, and we expect nothing less for this 15th anniversary Festival," said IGF Chairman Brandon Boyer.
"In the same spirit of that evolution, we've given our submission system an overhaul that should greatly enhance the experience for both our entrants and our judges alike, and look forward to hearing your feedback. Best of luck to all entrants -- we can't wait to see what you create!"
Submissions to the competition are now open to all independent game developers; important dates for IGF 2013 are as follows:
-- August 9, 2012 - Submissions are Open
-- October 17, 2012 - Submission Deadline, Main Competition
-- October 31, 2012 - Submission Deadline, Student Competition
-- January 7, 2013 - Finalists Announced, Main Competition
-- January 14, 2013 - Finalists Announced, Student Competition
-- March 25 - March 29, 2013 - Game Developers Conference 2013
-- March 25 - March 26, 2013 - Indie Games Summit @ GDC 2013
-- March 27 - March 29, 2013 - IGF Pavilion @ GDC 2013
-- March 27, 2013 - IGF Awards Ceremony (Winners Announced!)
For a complete list of information on the 2013 Independent Games Festival, including submission specifics, frequently asked questions, and more discussion on this year's changes from the IGF Chairman, please visit the official Independent Games Festival website: http://www.igf.com
About the UBM TechWeb Game Network
A core provider of essential information to the professional game industry, the UBM TechWeb Game Network - formerly known as the Think Services Game Group - offers market-defining content, and drives community through its award winning lineup of print, online, event and research products and services. These include the Game Developers Conference®, the Webby Award-winning Gamasutra.com and network of sites, the Game Advertising Online ad network, the Game Developers Conference® Online, the Game Developers Conference(TM) Europe, the Game Developers Conference(TM) China, Game Developer Magazine, Game Developer Research, the Game Career Seminars and GameCareerGuide.com, the Independent Games Festival and Summit, and the Game Developers Choice Awards. Visit http://www.jointhegamenetwork.com
About UBM TechWeb
UBM TechWeb, the global leader in technology media and professional information, enables people and organizations to harness the transformative power of technology. Through its three core businesses - media solutions, marketing services and paid content - UBM TechWeb produces the most respected and consumed brands and media applications in the technology market. More than 14.5 million business and technology professionals (CIOs and IT managers, Web & Digital professionals, Software Developers, Government decision makers, and Telecom providers) actively engage in UBM TechWeb's communities and information resources monthly. UBM TechWeb brands includes: global face-to-face events such as Interop, Web 2.0, Black Hat and Enterprise Connect; award-winning online resources such as InformationWeek, Light Reading, and Network Computing; and market-leading magazines InformationWeek, Wall Street & Technology, and Advanced Trading. UBM TechWeb is a UBM plc company, a global provider of news distribution and specialist information services with a market capitalization of more than $2.5 billion. Visit: http://www.ubmtechweb.com
Nestle's El Mejor Nido ("The Best Nest") Launches Back-to-school Program Benefitting Hispanic Families And Their Schools
Back to School Program Celebrates the New School Year
GLENDALE, Calif., Aug. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Nestle USA, under its El Mejor Nido ("The Best Nest") platform, celebrates the new school year with an exciting back-to-school program featuring free backpacks filled with Nestle products and school supplies, a Favorite Lunch Box contest, and a free downloadable, bilingual book.
El Mejor Nido leverages Nestles nutrition, health and wellness expertise to help Hispanic consumers nurture a fulfilling family life and stay connected to their culture. Through this new program, Nestle is continuing its long standing commitment to education, while helping to make going back to school easier. "Our El Mejor Nido Back-to-School program is designed to provide support and inspiration for Latino families" said Juan Carlos Motta, head of Nestle's Emerging Markets division. "We've created a terrific program that celebrates the start of the new school year and helps both families and their schools."
The El Mejor Nido Back-to-School program focuses on key multicultural elements of language, food and family, and includes the following elements:
-- Backpack of School Supplies: The "Mochila Movement" Up to 700 families
will receive a backpack ("mochila") valued at more than $50 filled with
school supplies, Nestle products, coupons and the new bilingual book. To
receive a backpack, families can apply online from August 6 - 24,
answering questions such as, "What is your family doing to help your
children stay connected to their culture?" Applications are being
accepted at http://bitly.com/NestleBackToSchool.
-- Favorite Lunch Box Contest: Moms can submit and exchange their favorite
lunch box menu ideas for a chance for both the winner and their local
school to each receive $1,000. The exchange and contest runs from
August 27 - September 21. More details and official rules can be found
at Facebook.com/ElMejorNido after August 27.
-- Bilingual e-Book: Nestle has designed and produced the second in a
series of bilingual books. The new book "Poppy Learns Something Special"
will be distributed in a free, bound paperback version in various
retailers, while the first book "Poppy's Best Day Ever," is available as
a free downloadable PDF at elmejornido.com. Research has shown that
dual-language books like the Poppy series are an effective method for
increasing a child's facility with two languages and can help Hispanic
children stay culturally connected.
-- Tips for Parents: Nestle has developed a series of tips ("Consejos
Familiares") that Hispanic parents can follow to promote bilingual
learning and help children stay connected with their cultures, which
will be available on Facebook and the El Mejor Nido website after August
24.
Nestle USA has a long-standing commitment to education, and believes that it's the key to a brighter future for everyone. Education, specifically children's literacy, is a primary focus of Nestle's community affairs programs. Nestle USA has also donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to local schools since 2009 through our partnership with Superior Grocers of Southern California. More information on Nestle USA's educational initiatives can be found on our website.
About Nestle USA
Named one of "The World's Most Admired Food Companies" in Fortune magazine for fifteen consecutive years, Nestlé provides quality brands and products that bring flavor to life every day. From nutritious meals with Lean Cuisine(®) to baking traditions with Nestle(®) Toll House(®), Nestle USA makes delicious, convenient, and nutritious food and beverage products that make good living possible. That's what "Nestle. Good Food, Good Life" is all about. Nestle USA, with 2011 sales of $10 billion,is part of Nestle S.A. in Vevey, Switzerland -- the world's largest food company with a commitment to Nutrition, Health & Wellness -- with 2011 sales of $94 billion. For product news and information, visit Nestleusa.com or NestleNewsroom.com.
All trademarks are owned by Societe des Produits Nestle S.A., Vevey, Switzerland or are used with permission.
SOURCE Nestle USA
Nestle USA
CONTACT: Edie Burge, Nestle USA, +1-818-551-3284, Edie.burge@us.nestle.com
Hybrid MacBook Drive Upgrades Now Available at MyService
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Aug. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- MyService, a leading nationwide Apple Authorized Service Provider and Reseller, now carries the Momentus XT 750GB hybrid drive by Seagate. This Mac upgrade delivers the capacity and value of a traditional hard drive combined with speeds that are close to that of a solid state drive.
The hybrid drive technology combines a 7200RPM hard disk with an 8GB solid state buffer. The drive's firmware assigns commonly used files to the solid state portion in order to boost the overall speed of the drive. Boot and system files get stored in the buffer while files like your iTunes library are kept in the traditional portion.
"We did a real world test where we installed OS X Lion on two identical 13 MacBook Pros," said Robert Baker, co-founder of MyService. "One had the hybrid drive and the other a standard 5400RPM HD. The hybrid drive booted the MacBook Pro in 17 seconds vs. 34 seconds with the traditional drive. Boot times were twice as fast with the hybrid and only a couple seconds slower than that of a full solid state drive."
The drives are standard height (9.55mm) 2.5" SATA hard drives and will fit in all MacBook, MacBook Pro and Intel Mac mini models. They are compatible with 10.6, 10.7 and 10.8 Mountain Lion.
"These drives are great for users who want more speed out of their Mac but need the larger capacity of a traditional hard drive," explained Baker. "Since large capacity solid state drives are still relatively expensive, these hybrid drives deliver great performance value."
MyService offers these drives for self-install on their online store or also as a full service hard drive upgrade. The full service upgrade includes round trip shipping of your Mac, professional installation and data transfer. Since MyService is an Apple Authorized Service Provider, this upgrade will not void your computer's Apple warranty.
About MyService:
MyService is a leading nationwide Apple Authorized Service Provider and Reseller. Since 2001 they have serviced over 40,000 Macs working with consumers, education facilities and businesses throughout the U.S., building a reputation for quality one Mac repair at a time. Copyright 2001-2012 MyService. All rights reserved. Apple, the Apple logo, are registered trademarks of Apple Computer in the U.S. and/or other countries.
BeagleBoard.org hobbyists unleash 20 new "cape" plug-in boards, fueling Linux development on BeagleBone, a credit-card-sized computer platform
- BeagleBone adopted by thousands for creative development of electronics and applications.
- BeagleBone eliminates barriers with easy development on one-of-a-kind, credit-card-sized Linux computer platform based on ARM® Cortex(TM)-A8 processor that runs Android 4.0 and Ubuntu software.
- Open-source Linux developers can now easily create exciting new features with "capes": camera, touch screen, motor control, battery power and more on BeagleBone.
DALLAS, Aug. 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- "Throwing a bone" to designers, makers and hobbyists looking to easily and affordably develop creative, Linux-based electronics, BeagleBoard.org today announced the availability of more than 20 new plug-in boards for the widely-adopted BeagleBone Linux computer platform. Creatively calling the plug-in boards "capes" in reference to the cape worn by a beloved cartoon beagle super hero, the active open source BeagleBoard.org community designed the plug-in boards to foster an even wider range of innovations such as robot motor drivers and sensors that measure location and pressure. Adding cape plug-in boards to the popular and expandable BeagleBone computer that is used as a development kit allows hobbyists and developers to quickly and easily augment BeagleBone's capabilities with LCD screens, motor control and battery power as well as the ability to create their own circuits. The new cape plug-in boards are made available through http://www.beaglebonecapes.com.
Today, thousands of designers, makers, hobbyists and engineers have adopted BeagleBone for its one-of-a-kind functionality as a credit-card-sized Linux computer that connects with the Internet and runs software such as Android 4.0 and Ubuntu. With plenty of I/O and processing power for real-time analysis provided by the Sitara((TM)) AM335x ARM® Cortex((TM))-A8 processor from Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI), the cape plug-in boards help developers differentiate products and accelerate time to market.
With a feature-rich processor, the BeagleBone computer platform allows developers to fully utilize the technology within a full-featured, open hardware Linux development kit. BeagleBone users also benefit from the thriving BeagleBoard.org community of more than 5,000 active members who interact and collaborate through an online support system.
Inspired to expand development options for their BeagleBone mini computer platforms, participants in the BeagleBoard.org community created cape plug-in boards to enhance the sensors, actuators and interfaces available on the BeagleBone platform. The cape plug-in boards can be plugged into BeagleBone's two 46-pin dual-row expansion headers, providing similar headers so that up to four cape plug-in boards can be stacked at a time.
"BeagleBone has inspired numerous developers to create a wide variety of innovations from self-teaching electronic education kits to underwater robots," said Clint Cooley, president, CircuitCo. "These cape plug-in boards open up endless possibilities for simplified designs and new innovations. I'm excited to see what developers from the BeagleBoard.org community will create next with their BeagleBones."
Popular cape plug-in boards ease application development
The BeagleBone LCD7 Cape, one of the most popular cape plug-in boards, delivers touch screen capability, featuring a 7-inch TFT LCD screen with 4-wire resistive touch and five user buttons. The BeagleBone LCD Cape includes the option of choosing default standoffs or buying a set of piano-black aluminum stands.
The BeagleBone Camera Cape, the newest cape plug-in board, eliminates the need for cameras to consume sometimes scarce USB ports and reduces total system power consumption. The QuickLogic CSSP camera interface (CAM I/F) solution expands the application space for BeagleBone in the automatic identification and data capture, portable consumer, industrial tablet and industrial smartphone markets.
Other currently available BeagleBone cape plug-in boards include but are not limited to:
-- LCD touch screen capes (7 inch and 3.5 inch) provide LCD solutions with
touch screen capability.
-- BeagleBone Weather Cape provides data including temperature, barometric
pressure, humidity and ambient light.
-- BeagleBone DVI-D Cape provides a DVI-D interface for connecting an
external monitor.
-- BeagleBone Breakout Cape provides access to the various BeagleBone
components during troubleshooting.
-- BeagleBone Breadboard provides powerful prototyping tool without the
need of soldering.
-- BeagleBone CANBus Cape makes use of DCAN1 interface of TI's AM335x
processor, enabling interfacing to automotive components and motor
controllers, such as TI's Stellaris® ARM Cortex-M-based Jaguar module
used in the popular US FIRST® Robotics League.
-- BeagleBone RS232 Cape provides an RS232 interface.
-- BeagleBone Battery Cape provides a portable power solution.
"BeagleBone cape plug-in boards give open hardware examples of how to implement various interfaces and tested configurations that can be used for experimentation immediately," said Jason Kridner, community advocate, BeagleBoard.org. "In fact, these capes are inspiring thousands of BeagleBoard.org community developers to build their own plug-in boards. I expect there to be more than a hundred by next year."
A small group of enthusiastic engineers interested in creating powerful, open and embedded devices are pioneering new ground in open hardware and have worked together on the concept and realization of the BeagleBone, BeagleBoard and BeagleBoard-xM. The resulting open-source hardware platforms bridge desktop and embedded development, allowing developers to design to their specification and collaborate with the open source community on creative new applications. The BeagleBoard.org community has more than 5,000 members and aims to engage passionate developers and fuel their innovations, whether they are designing projects for work or fun. With publicly hosted open source software, social media feeds of on-going development and an active community mailing list and live chat, developers have easy access to support and exchange of ideas. Visit http://www.beagleboard.org to get started today.