News

Nine Year Old Girl Pitches Online to Raise Funds for Her Dad!

LONDON, June 26, 2012/PRNewswire/ --

    Pora Ora (http://www.poraora.com), the ground breaking virtual 3D online universe
that is transforming the way that 5-12 year old children learn, has launched an online
Kickstarter campaign. Kickstarter facilitates 'people power' funding enabling the woman
(or man) on the street to change the world when done in mass.

    (Photo:
http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120626/540058 )

    With membership expected to reach 500,000 children by the end of 2012, the Kickstarter
campaign will enable its creators, Caped Koala Studios, to expand the game further with
innovative content that will challenge and motivate children to learn as well as develop
their creativity.

    Pora Ora's no.1 fan, and daughter of the CEO, takes center stage in the appeal to
raise funds and proves hard to resist! If the pitched funding of $100,000 is not reached
by 28 July 2012, all the pledges are cancelled.

    Pora Ora is packed with exciting and engaging games, puzzles and quests, all geared to
a global school curriculum. Children learn through their avatar whilst exploring the
worlds of Pora Ora alongside their Pora Pal (virtual pet) who need wisdom, creativity and
exploration points to keep them healthy and happy.

    With strong security settings embedded within the game, children have to complete an
eSafety quest and gain parental permission to access the interactive features. Pora Ora
can also be set to school mode, allowing teachers to utilize this fantastic free
educational resource in the classroom. Teachers and parents are able to control the safety
features, track the child's progress and offer in-game rewards through the parent portal.

    With the money raised through Kickstarter, Caped Koala will develop new worlds, Pora
Pals, gaming features and apps. Their stretch goals include creating a coding game and
developing the tools to enable children to create their own world. Caped Koala wants to
give all children the opportunity to access this valuable and effective game based
learning resource.

    "Our Kickstarter campaign has the potential to fund the creative growth and expansion
of Pora Ora. The education system hasn't changed in years. It remains a granular system
where creativity has fallen down the priority list to the extent that it is almost
unrecognized in the education sector. If we reach our target, we will be able to
revolutionize education and ensure that Pora Ora can be enjoyed by children, parents and
teachers alike. We believe that Pora Ora will become the world's top online education and
entertainment destination for children." Neil Gallagher, Caped Koala, CEO.

    View their Kickstarter campaign here: http://www.poraora.com/kickstarter

    About Caped Koala Studios

    Caped Koala Studios is an immersive-learning and entertainment company. They are
committed to developing a love of learning in young children; encouraging them to be
creative, imaginative, inquisitive and social.

    If you are interested in a review or in featuring Pora Ora and their Kickstarter
campaign then please contact:

    Jonny Davies, jonnyd@pha-media.com, +44(0)207-0251-361

Photo:
http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120626/540058

Source: Caped Koala Studios

Apartment Dwellers Get Social With ActiveBuilding Community Portals

ActiveBuilding Adds a Social Media Twist to Traditional Apartment Community Websites

SEATTLE, June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- ActiveBuilding introduces a social media component to web-based community portals as part of the company's innovative resident retention and communication product suite for apartment communities. Unlike traditional community websites that market towards prospective renters and simply offer online rent payment and service requests for current residents, ActiveBuilding community portals are completely resident-focused and exclusive to the community residents and staff.  Apartment residents interact directly with the staff and their neighbors on private, community-based social networks within ActiveBuilding portals.

"ActiveBuilding is focused on enhancing the resident experience," says ActiveBuilding CEO Kobi Bensimon. "Elevating the level of communication and sense of community is vital for resident retention and increasing NOI for apartment communities, so we created the perfect tool to achieve those goals."

Utilizing social profiles similar to other popular, social media websites, apartment residents connect based on shared interests, including everything from restaurant recommendations to scheduling play-dates for children and pets.  ActiveBuilding enables neighbors to communicate and socialize unlike any other software of its kind. Residents also choose how they connect and communicate within the portal. Communication options include following activity feeds on the Web, receiving updates via text message, email and daily digests, and chatting directly with staff and neighbors.

According to Philip Mayer, Manager of Innovation at Camden Property Trust, the social component of ActiveBuilding enhances the sense of community and a majority of Camden communities currently utilize the ActiveBuilding.  "We want our residents to become neighbors in a community, not just people who live in a building; and ActiveBuilding helps us make that happen."

In addition to the variety of communication tools, residents have the ability to track package deliveries, submit service requests, schedule amenities, manage guest authorizations, and receive important information from on-site staff at their convenience.

About ActiveBuilding
ActiveBuilding, a Seattle-based company, provides exclusive, online community portals for resident and staff communication in the multifamily housing industry.  ActiveBuilding's enhanced level of communication creates a sense of community and assists with resident retention, as well as providing more efficient, paperless operations for multifamily management teams on a national scale.

For additional information, visit (http://www.activebuilding.com) or contact ActiveBuilding at info@activebuilding.com or 888.304.5220.

About Camden
Camden Property Trust, an S&P 400 Company, is a real estate company engaged in the ownership, development, acquisition, management and disposition of multifamily apartment communities. Camden owns interests in and operates 197 properties containing 67,025 apartment homes across the United States. Upon completion of 8 properties under development, the Company's portfolio will increase to 69,425 apartment homes in 205 properties. Camden was recently named by FORTUNE® Magazine for the fifth consecutive year as one of the "100 Best Companies to Work For" in America, ranking #7.

For additional information, please contact Camden's Investor Relations Department at (800) 922-6336 or (713) 354-2787 or access our website at camdenliving.com 

CONTACT:
Jennifer Pendleton
ActiveBuilding
949.689.5423

SOURCE  ActiveBuilding

ActiveBuilding

Web Site: http://www.activebuilding.com

Verizon Wireless And Comcast Team Up In Shreveport To Deliver First-Class Video Entertainment, Communications And Internet Experiences

Offers and Incentives Bring Both New and Existing Customers More Value, Convenience and Choice

SHREVEPORT, La., June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon Wireless and Comcast today announced they will offer each other's services in Shreveport and deliver a variety of offers and incentives for new and existing customers.  Now, consumers in Shreveport looking to stay connected to the people and things they love while on the go or at home have new options for outstanding video, phone, Internet and wireless services.

Based on the package chosen, customers of both Comcast and Verizon Wireless could qualify for a variety of offers and incentives, including Visa® prepaid cards valued up to $300, a complementary 12-month subscription to Xfinity® Streampix(TM), and Comcast HD DVR at no additional cost for six months, and/or a complementary 12-month upgrade to Blast!, the Xfinity Internet service that provides download speeds of up to 30 Mbps with PowerBoost®.

"Our momentum with Comcast in delivering these value packages in other markets is continually drawing praise from customers," said Frank Antonacci, Central Texas region president, Verizon Wireless.  "Because mobility is a top priority for the consumer, we have developed an offering that provides a terrific wireless, entertainment and communications experience in one spot.  Comcast's product suite continues to deliver exceptional entertainment and communications services and the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network is the ideal complement to complete the package."

Frances Smith, director, Government & Regulatory Affairs, Comcast - South Area said, "Together with Verizon Wireless, we're delivering more value for more consumers by providing an entertainment and communications solution that aligns with their lifestyles.  Now, Comcast customers in Shreveport will have the option of building a great in-home experience through our Xfinity services, along with the reliability of Verizon Wireless' network while on the go."

In addition to Shreveport, Comcast and Verizon Wireless are expanding the offer to to several cities across Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, South Carolina and Tennessee today.   Verizon Wireless and Comcast have previously introduced this offering in the following markets: Atlanta, Chicago, Colorado, Kansas City, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Portland, Ore., Salt Lake City, San Francisco and Seattle.

Consumers have the flexibility to order these services in person at select Verizon Wireless Communications Stores or by calling 1-855-704-7400.  More details, including availability and eligibility, can be found at http://www.verizonwireless.com/xfinity or http://www.comcast.com/wireless.

For customers who wish to sign up in person, these packages are available at the following retail location in Shreveport:

    --  7230 Youree Dr, Suite 110, Shreveport, LA 71105
About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's largest 4G LTE network and largest, most reliable 3G network. The company serves 93.0 million retail customers, including 88.0 million retail postpaid customers.  Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 80,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, NASDAQ: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, NASDAQ: VOD).  For more information, visit http://www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at http://www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

About Comcast Cable
Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ: CMCSA, CMCSK) (http://www.comcast.com) is one of the nation's leading providers of entertainment, information and communications products and services. Comcast is principally involved in the operation of cable systems through Comcast Cable and in the development, production and distribution of entertainment, news, sports and other content for global audiences through NBCUniversal. Comcast Cable is one of the nation's largest video, high-speed Internet and phone providers to residential and business customers. Comcast is the majority owner and manager of NBCUniversal, which owns and operates entertainment and news cable networks, the NBC and Telemundo broadcast networks, local television station groups, television production operations, a major motion picture company and theme parks.

SOURCE  Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless

CONTACT: Audrey Lundy, Verizon Wireless, +1-972-444-5516, Audrey.Lundy@verizonwireless.com, or Frances Smith, Comcast, +1-601-321-2006, Frances_Smith@cable.comcast.com

Web Site: http://www.verizonwireless.com

Verizon Wireless is Bringing the Power of Its 4G LTE Network to Waco

WACO, Texas, June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon Wireless today announced it is bringing the nation's largest 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) network to Waco.  With the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network, customers can use their 4G LTE wireless devices in Waco to surf the Web, listen to music, stream live video, take advantage of thousands of applications, and stay in touch with family and friends, all with speeds up to 10 times faster than before.             

When Verizon Wireless turns on its 4G LTE network in Waco, customers will have access to the fastest wireless service across the city, includingBaylor University, Richland Mall, TSTC Airport, Floyd Casey Stadium and Waco Municipal Stadium.

"The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network connects more than 200 million people with the fastest data network speeds in the country," said Frank Antonacci, region president. "We keep expanding the areas we cover in Texas and when our 4G LTE compatible devices, like the DROID 4 by Motorola, are run on the network the speeds are up to 10 times faster giving our customers the best possible wireless experience."

The Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network is available to more than two-thirds of the U.S. population in 258 markets across the country and offers more than six times the geographic coverage of its nearest competitor's 4G LTE network.  Verizon Wireless customers looking to experience the nation's fastest 4G network can choose from the largest selection of 4G LTE devices, ranging from tablets, mobile hotspots, smartphones and more, including the new DROID INCREDIBLE 4G LTE by HTC, available in stores and online in the coming weeks.

Verizon Wireless customers can also take advantage of HomeFusion(?) Broadband, which leverages the power and speed of the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network to deliver high-speed, in-home Internet access for residential broadband. 

In real-world, fully loaded network environments, Verizon Wireless 4G LTE customers should experience average data rates of 5 to 12 megabits per second (Mbps) on the downlink and 2 to 5 Mbps on the uplink.   

Visit http://www.verizonwireless.com/lte for more information about the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network and a list of current markets.   

About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's largest 4G LTE network and largest, most reliable 3G network. The company serves 93.0 million retail customers, including 88.0 million retail postpaid customers.  Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 80,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, NASDAQ: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, NASDAQ: VOD).  For more information, visit http://www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at http://www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

SOURCE  Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless

CONTACT: Audrey Lundy, Verizon Wireless, +1-972-444-5516, Audrey.Lundy@verizonwireless.com

Web Site: http://www.verizonwireless.com

DailyCandy Launches 3rd Annual "Start Small, Go Big Contest" As Past Winners Mark Significant Business Growth

TOP ROSTER OF BIG WIG MENTORS INCLUDE FOUNDERS OF REBECCA MINKOFF, LAUREN MOFFATT, JONATHAN ADLER, DWELLSTUDIO, FRESH & ONE KINGS LANE

New Categories Allow for More New Small Businesses to Enter & Win

NEW YORK, June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- DailyCandy, the original trusted source for handpicked discoveries of fashion, food and fun, announced the launch today of  its 3rd annual "Start Small, Go Big" campaign, an innovative program which draws on DailyCandy's unique ability to discover up-and-coming small businesses and help them grow into "the next big thing."  The 2012 "Start Small, Go Big" contest, sponsored for the third year in a row by Ink(SM) from Chase, the small business credit card portfolio from Chase, includes mentors from some of the biggest names in fashion, home, beauty and food including Rebecca Minkoff, Jonathan Adler, Lauren Moffatt, Christiane Lemieux of DwellStudio, Lev Glazman & Alina Roytberg of Fresh, Alison Pincus and Susan Feldman of One Kings Lane, and more. This year, DailyCandy will unveil two new categories: the Digital & Tech category and the Most Inventive Award, a special recognition for innovation, growth, and reinvention, presented by Ink from Chase.

DailyCandy has acted as a "launch pad" for the newest and best designers, boutiques, restaurants, and products. The "Start Small, Go Big" campaign, takes that one step further, bringing together the founders and CEOs of select companies DailyCandy has always admired with tomorrow's innovators. On October 9th & 10th in New York City, six winners will meet with big wig mentors at the DailyCandy Academy to spend crucial one-on-one time gaining guidance and insights important to every small business owner. Winners also receive free advertising and promotion from DailyCandy, reaching millions of consumers across DailyCandy's email platform, website and extensive social media network, and will be invited as the guest of honor at an exclusive celebration with the brightest and boldest movers and shakers from NYC's top industries.

"The importance of that first-hand advice from those who've come before cannot be overstated," said Ashley Parrish, editor-in-chief of DailyCandy. "Our contest winners from the last two years continually refer to the insights and counsel they heard from their mentors at the DailyCandy Academy -- and after for those who kept in touch. Combine that with the chance to align their company with the strong and healthy DailyCandy brand halo - there's nowhere to go but up."

The key to winning Start Small, Go Big: each product or service should make life a little sweeter, just like DailyCandy. To enter, winner wannabes should visit dailycandy.com/startsmallgobig, fill out their key business info, select a category (Fashion, Home, Food & Drink, Health & Beauty, and Digital & Tech) and finish these five statements: 1) The world needs my business because... 2) My big idea moment was... 3) My greatest challenge so far has been... 4) The most creative business solution I've used so far is... and the outcome was... and 5) As a small business owner, I've had to

think outside the box and here's one way I've done it... On August 8th, DailyCandy editors will unveil the top 18 finalists (three from each category) and invite America to vote (daily!) for their favorites. On September 4, after the votes have been tallied, six winners will be announced. (In 2011, 3,050 contestants entered; 102,000 votes were cast.)

Past winners (all women in their late 20s and early 30s) have gone on to sell their clothes in high-end boutiques, launch e-commerce sites and scale their operations to national distributions.

    --  Nella Pasta, winner of the food category in 2010, has increased revenue
        511% since winning the contest. The company's locally sourced and
        sustainable pastas are now sold in 15 retail locations, 15 farmer's
        markets, 3 restaurants and the company now employs 9 people (as opposed
        to zero for all above in 2010). Nella Pasta's food mentor, Marcus
        Samuelsson, encouraged them to always stay true to their passion, to
        sell local and sustainable food.
    --  Cold Spring Apothecary, winner of the beauty category in 2011, has not
        only increased revenue by 250% but also its brand awareness, thanks to
        articles in Vogue and Martha Stewart following their DailyCandy win.
        Mentor Lev Glazman of Fresh reminded Stacey, the founder, to focus on
        high-quality products vs. too many skus. Cold Spring Apothecary is
        currently opening a second storefront, a spa and is releasing her first
        book due out this fall.
    --  Quinn Popcorn,winner of the food category in 2011, had 6,000 bags of
        popcorn when they won SSGB (those sold out immediately after the win).
        Today, Quinn Popcorn makes five times that much each month. They are in
        retailers nationwide including Whole Foods and Dean & Deluca. Food
        critic, Top Chef judge and DailyCandy mentor Gail Simmons, taste tests
        new flavors to help finalize ingredients.
    --  Dolly Pearl,winner of the fashion category in 2010, has gone from
        hand-sewing her pieces on the floor of her NYC apartment, to hiring
        seamstresses, working out of a warehouse and selling her feminine
        designs to high-end bridal boutiques nationwide, including Bella
        Bridesmaid's 12 locations across the country. Mentor Isaac Mizrahi
        cautioned owner Vi Hoang to do as much as she can herself before
        outsourcing and possibly diluting her vision.
Roster of big wig mentors (to date) include:

    --  Jonathan Adler - Adler, a potter since his teenage years, got his start
        after showing his pots to Barneys. Today, Adler has healthy brand with
        18 store locations nationwide. (http://www.jonathanadler.com)
    --  Lauren Moffatt - Accomplished vintage chic fashion designer from
        Philadelphia who sewed pieces from her collection by hand on her 31-foot
        sailboat docked on the NYC's Hudson River. Today, her full line of
        ready-to-wear, swimwear and outerwear is sold in high-end boutiques
        worldwide. (http://www.laurenmoffatt.net)
    --  Rebecca Minkoff - Following her start selling "I heart NYC" t-shirts off
        of her bicycle, Minkoff catapulted to success following the introduction
        of her "Morning After Bag". Today, she sells full fashion lines for
        women and men. (http://www.rebeccaminkoff.com)
    --  Founders of Fresh, Lev Glazman & Alina Roytberg - With the hope of
        creating products as effective as they are indulgent, Glazman & Roytberg
        pioneered the use of natural ingredients like soy, milk, sugar and rice
        in their products. Today, they have 14 stores in the US and one in
        London. (http://www.fresh.com)
    --  Founder and Creative Director of DwellStudio, Christiane Lemieux -
        Launched in 1999, DwellStudio fuses bright modern designs with luxurious
        details. Christiane authored her first book "Undecorate" in 2011.
        DwellStudio's flagship store is in SoHo, NYC; the company sells to
        boutique retailers nationwide. http://www.dwellstudio.com
    --  Founders of One Kings Lane, Alison Pincus and Susan Feldman - Susan and
        Alison launched the company in 2009, a mere five months after their
        first time meeting. Today, One Kings Lane is the leading online curated
        home decor flash sale company in the world. (http://www.onekingslane.com)
The "Start Small, Go Big" site (http://www.startsmallgobig.com) serves as a resource for new business owners looking for insights, tips, and invaluable early-day resources. Visitors can follow the continued growth of past contest winners and hear counsel from industry experts who've blazed the trail to success. To learn more about DailyCandy's Start Small, Go Big contest or the DailyCandy Academy and the mentors participating this year, visit http://www.dailycandy.com/startsmallgobig.

About DailyCandy

DailyCandy is the original, trusted source for handpicked discoveries of fashion, food and fun. DailyCandy editors find the genuine, the next and the unique for more than six million readers- nationally and via 11 local city editions. Come enjoy the hunt, the scoop and the share - and the sweetest deals in your city. Explore from your inbox, at DailyCandy.com and on these social networks: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, Foursquare, Tumblr, and YouTube. DailyCandy is a unit of NBCUniversal's Entertainment & Digital Networks and Integrated Media.

SOURCE  DailyCandy

DailyCandy

CONTACT: Meredith Howard, DailyCandy, +1-646-230-8554, mhoward@dailycandy.com

Web Site: http://www.dailycandy.com

TantaComm Launches Evaluate, an Expansive Quality Monitoring Tool Designed to Improve Performance Management at BPOs

MIDDLETON, Wis., June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- TantaComm, an industry-leading provider of interaction recording, call compliance, and quality management solutions, recently launched TantaComm Evaluate, the performance management component of the company's IQ product portfolio.  TantaComm Evaluate provides robust functionality to help BPOs measure the effectiveness of their call center operations and business processes.

"The launch of TantaComm Evaluate serves as an additional layer to Capture, our foundational interaction recording platform," stated Ruben Moffett, Chief Operating Officer.  "Evaluate builds upon functionality previously provided by TantaComm, but delivers advanced features and benefits through a sleek user interface designed around operational users.  Quality Monitoring is a critical business function to high performing call centers.  Our solution is robust yet easy to use and administer.  Keeping it simple while meeting the diverse needs of outsourced call centers was the challenge and I believe that our technology team delivered an excellent solution."

TantaComm Evaluate offers a wide array of functionality, including:

    --  Create, modify, and re-use existing customized quality monitoring
        evaluation forms without involving a professional services team
        resulting in lower administrative investment
    --  Document, track, and report  on agent performance for improved
        performance management and training opportunities
    --  Validate and manage Evaluator behavior to ensure consistency and
        accuracy across performance management practice
    --  Capture additional data points related to key call volume trends and
        customer insight for improved customer service
Evaluate is the third product launched as part of the organization's IQ product suite.  Previously, the company launched TantaComm Capture, an evolution of the company's existing call recording software, and TantaComm Protect, a suite of solutions designed to ensure the integrity and security of recorded interactions and to enable BPOs to meet the 12 PCI-DSS requirements.

To learn more about TantaComm Evaluate, visit http://www.tantacomm.com or email sales@tantacomm.com  to schedule a live demo.

About TantaComm

TantaComm is globally recognized as the premier provider of compliance recording and quality management solutions for Business Process Outsourcers (BPOs).  TantaComm has an 18-year history of success minimizing risk, enhancing the customer experience, improving quality performance, and streamlining service delivery and administration.  The company serves many of the world's largest BPOs with implementations on every continent.  For more information, visit http://www.tantacomm.com.

SOURCE  TantaComm

TantaComm

CONTACT: 1-800-444-8522

Web Site: http://www.tantacomm.com

Riding on Mobile Wave, LodgeNet Reveals New Mobile Services for Hotels at HITEC

LodgeNet to Demonstrate Latest Mobile Technologies for Hotels Including An Interactive Programming Guide, mCheckout, mDining, mCompendium And mGuest Requests at 2012 HITEC Conference

SIOUX FALLS, S.D., June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Continuing the expansion and utility of its "four screen" services, LodgeNet Interactive Corporation (NASDAQ: LNET), the leading provider of interactive media and connectivity services to the hospitality industry and the consumers they serve, will unveil the addition of several highly requested guest services to its LodgeNet Mobile app at the 2012 HITEC Conference, June 25-28 in Baltimore.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20080115/AQTU120LOGO)

LodgeNet Mobile's all-new Interactive Programming Guide (IPG) is the first of many new guest services on display at HITEC. The launch of its much-anticipated IPG comes at a time when mobile usage by guests is exploding, driving the hotel industry's demand for integrated mobile applications. The IPG, available only through the app, will provide hotel guests with TV programming and scheduling information on a hotel-specific basis.

"Our presence at HITEC will give hoteliers the opportunity to experience our four screen services in action," said Derek S. White, President of Interactive & Media Networks for LodgeNet. "The release of our mobile IPG service gives hotels more opportunities and greater power to connect with guests through a device central to their travel experience."

Launched on January 31, 2012, the LodgeNet Mobile app is already a traveler favorite and is available in more than 600,000 guest rooms across 2,600 North American hotels. The IPG service is offered to travelers on an annual subscription basis via an "in-app" purchase for the price of $0.99 per year and is available for iOS devices (iPhone®/iPad®, pending Apple approval), as well as all Android(TM) smartphones.

On and Off-Site Tools to Enhance the Guest Experience

The LodgeNet Mobile app and its IPG service will be demonstrated at the upcoming HITEC conference on June 25-28, 2012 at the Baltimore Convention Center. Conference attendees will have the opportunity to test out the app's extensive capabilities and "super-suite" of features. Besides the IPG, other new features include:

    --  mCheckout:  Regardless of location, guests using LodgeNet Mobile can
        request a complete folio review, check out from the hotel, and receive
        an e-mail receipt.
    --  mDining:  Allows guests the ability to browse menus and place orders
        directly from their mobile device (smartphone and/or tablet). Guests can
        have remote dining experiences by placing orders at a location other
        than their room, e.g., ordering drinks and appetizers to a designated
        seat by the pool.
    --  mCompendium:  Hotels can create and customize the "My Hotel" section of
        the application tailored to a brand's look and feel. Hotels have
        complete control over their messaging, providing a fully branded
        experience to keep guests informed with timely, property-specific
        information and merchandising/promotional opportunities.
    --  mGuest Requests:  This feature may well bring an end to the late-night
        front desk phone call. Whether requesting extra towels, more pillows or
        anything else, the feature allows guests to make these requests with a
        few taps and a click - without picking up the phone. Through available
        integration with other property systems, the appropriate hotel staff can
        receive immediate notification of a request - helping reduce response
        time and increase guest satisfaction.
    --  Local Services:  A totally redesigned section of the app, specifically
        tailored for traveling consumers.
"With each new feature added to LodgeNet's mobile app, we're continuing to redefine what the ideal travel experience is all about. Travelers already view their smartphones and tablets as anywhere/anything devices so they expect to use their devices for a wide variety of hotel services too," said White. "We've put the full hotel service experience at the tip of a guest's fingers, and all from the comfort and convenience of their personal mobile device."

Mobile Going Viral

LodgeNet's latest additions to its "mega app" join an already impressive feature list including remote control functionality for adjusting volume, changing channels and ordering in-room movies. "In the end, mobile is about delivering simplicity and consistency to our guests. Not only is LodgeNet's app an in-room 'super remote', it's rapidly becoming the go-to device that travelers rely on throughout their trip," said Todd Kelly, Vice President of Interactive & Mobile Applications for LodgeNet.

For more information about LodgeNet Mobile, please contact Ann Parker, Director of Corporate Communications for LodgeNet Interactive at (605) 988-1000, or for Consumer Press, Vanessa Horwell, Media Relations Liaison at (305) 749-5342 x 232 or vanessa@thinkinkpr.com.

About LodgeNet

LodgeNet Interactive Corporation is the leading provider of interactive media and connectivity services to hospitality and healthcare businesses and the consumers they serve. Recently named by Advertising Age as one of the Leading 100 US Media Companies, LodgeNet Interactive serves approximately 1.6 million hotel rooms worldwide in addition to healthcare facilities throughout the United States. The Company's services include: Interactive Television, Broadband, award-winning Mobile and Advertising Media Solutions along with nationwide technical and professional support services. LodgeNet Interactive Corporation owns and operates businesses under the industry leading brands: LodgeNet, The Hotel Networks and LodgeNet Healthcare. LodgeNet Interactive is listed on NASDAQ and trades under the symbol LNET. For more information, please visit http://www.lodgenet.com.

LodgeNet and the LodgeNet logo are registered trademarks of LodgeNet Interactive Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

SOURCE  LodgeNet Interactive Corp.

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20080115/AQTU120LOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
LodgeNet Interactive Corp.

CONTACT: Ann Parker, Director of Corporate Communications, LodgeNet Interactive Corporation, +1-605-988-1000, communications@lodgenet.com

Web Site: http://www.lodgenet.com

Microsoft to Acquire Yammer

Microsoft extends cloud services with best-in-class enterprise social networking.

REDMOND, Wash. and SAN FRANCISCO, June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Microsoft Corp. and Yammer Inc. today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Microsoft will acquire Yammer, a leading provider of enterprise social networks, for $1.2 billion in cash. Yammer will join the Microsoft Office Division, led by division President Kurt DelBene, and the team will continue to report to current CEO David Sacks.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO)

"The acquisition of Yammer underscores our commitment to deliver technology that businesses need and people love," said Steve Ballmer, CEO, Microsoft. "Yammer adds a best-in-class enterprise social networking service to Microsoft's growing portfolio of complementary cloud services."

Launched in 2008, Yammer now has more than 5 million corporate users, including employees at 85 percent of the Fortune 500. The service allows employees to join a secure, private social network for free and then makes it easy for companies to convert a grassroots movement into companywide strategic initiative.

Yammer will continue to develop its standalone service and maintain its commitment to simplicity, innovation and cross-platform experiences. Moving forward, Microsoft plans to accelerate Yammer's adoption alongside complementary offerings from Microsoft SharePoint, Office 365, Microsoft Dynamics and Skype.

"When we started Yammer four years ago, we set out to do something big," Sacks said. "We had a vision for how social networking could change the way we work. Joining Microsoft will accelerate that vision and give us access to the technologies, expertise and resources we'll need to scale and innovate."

The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approval.

About Yammer

Yammer (http://www.yammer.com) is a leading provider of enterprise social networks with over 5 million verified corporate users including employees of more than 85 percent of the Fortune 500. The basic version of Yammer is free, and customers can pay to upgrade their network to receive advanced administrative and security controls, integrations with enterprise applications, priority customer service and a designated customer success manager.

About Microsoft

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

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements, which are any predictions, projections or other statements about future events. Actual results may differ materially from these forward-looking statements because of a variety of risks and uncertainties about our business, which we describe in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Forms 10-K and 10-Q. We do not undertake any duty to update any forward-looking statement.

SOURCE  Microsoft Corp.

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Microsoft Corp.

CONTACT: Rich Adolph, Waggener Edstrom Worldwide for Microsoft, +1-253-858-8249, richa@waggeneredstrom.com, or Rapid Response Team, Waggener Edstrom Worldwide for Microsoft, +1-503-443-7070, rrt@waggeneredstrom.com; or Shelley Risk, Yammer, +1-415-205-9805, srisk@yammer-inc.com

Web Site: http://www.microsoft.com

The Late-Round Quarterback

New book reveals key player in your successful fantasy football season

CINCINNATI, June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- With the start of the next NFL season right around the corner, wouldn't it be great to make your fantasy football picks based on a proven strategy? Winning means more than drafting an elite quarterback as early as possible. In fact, that may be the wrong move to make once you consider the real value of certain players in today's pass-happy NFL. There are plenty of theories on websites and blogs about who to draft when, but how many of them are based on statistical proof?

The just-released e-book, The Late-Round Quarterback ($4.99) (http://lateroundqb.com/) shows fantasy football enthusiasts how to use math and logic, combined with football knowledge to choose players and adjust lineups as the season progresses. Sure, luck plays a part, but as in everything else in life, preparation is the big factor. The Late-Round Quarterback will get enthusiasts one step closer to bringing home the trophy this year, something author J.J. Zachariason has done more than his fair share of times in the ten years he's been playing fantasy football.

Zachariason shares his proven method, including:

    --  How scoring impacts strategy
    --  Which players are most important to the game
    --  How to separate sleepers from busts...and so much more!
Walk into your draft night with a proven plan of attack, based on the data that matters. Download The Late-Round Quarterback now and make this your breakout season.

About the author:  J.J. Zachariason will be the first to tell you he has an unhealthy obsession with fantasy football. His formula for success allows you to benefit from the inexperienced players and jump ahead of knowledgeable owners in your fantasy league. And he's fed up with the faulty data analysis spewed out by the so-called experts. Besides, it's much more fun to win when you're playing the fantasy version of the greatest sport on the planet. Zachariason lives in Greater Cincinnati where he works as a Project Manager for Copperfox Marketing.

Media Contact: Annie McManis, Copperfox Marketing
annie@copperfoxmarketing.com
513.404.3232

SOURCE  The Late-Round Quarterback

The Late-Round Quarterback

Web Site: http://lateroundqb.com

Alliant Technologies Proudly Announces the Launch of SmartUC Hosted Collaboration Solution

MORRISTOWN, N.J., June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Alliant is proud to launch SmartUC, a hosted Unified communications and collaboration solution that enables Alliant to use the power of the cloud to quickly deliver voice and video applications to our customers.  This complete Unified Collaboration platform is one of many new Alliant Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) offerings.

Alliant, a Cisco Gold and Master UC partner, is one of the first to offer a dedicated Cisco voice and video architecture in an "as a service" model.  It is a cloud based, end-to-end system that provides customers access to Cisco's full suite of collaboration applications including Cisco Unified Communications, Unity Connection, Unified Presence, and Unified Mobility application services. The result is unprecedented flexibility, resiliency and affordability in how our customers can utilize Collaboration Services on a per-seat, per-month basis.

"Our SmartUC service offering enables our customers to quickly realize all the benefits of the enhanced collaboration services powered by the Cisco Hosted Collaboration Solution platform," said Scot Chapman, Alliant's Product Development Manager. "Since Alliant is providing SmartUC as a fully hosted service with full lifecycle support included, our customers will further benefit from predictable monthly budgeting and reduced operating expenses."

The SmartUC service provides our customers with cost effective deployment and management. The platform is hosted in two redundant datacenters in the cloud, it is operated by Alliant's 24x7x365 network operations center staffed by Cisco certified expert engineers.  The high availability infrastructure design allows customers access to a live change request portal with new feature implementation, upgrade automation and a 99.97% application availability SLA, all supported by Alliant's ITIL-based total lifecycle operations methodology. 

Bruce Flitcroft, Alliant founder and CEO, added, "With SmartUC, there is finally a way for our customers to cost effectively purchase every feature of Cisco's UC platform with flawless implementation within 30 days."

Alliant's SmartUC service offer manages all the servers in the cloud as well as all the gateways at the customer premises.  Alliant's web based management portal provides customers a single view for every user enterprise-wide, even in multi-cluster networks. Alliant offers customers a cost effective solution that provides unparalleled value and a partner they can trust to ensure smooth implementation and simple ongoing administration.

About Alliant Technologies, LLC

Headquartered in Morristown, NJ with sales and service offices across the Northeast, Alliant Technologies, LLC is a certified and experienced IT engineering and operations firm delivering integrated IT infrastructure solutions.  Alliant's services include: borderless networking, IP collaboration, server and desktop virtualization, data storage, Alliant Managed Services, and infrastructure cabling.  Our creative, innovative services make your business more powerful and profitable. 

Alliant Technologies. Consult. Connect. Care.  http://www.AlliantTech.com

Press Contact:
Katie Patterson
Alliant Technologies
973-775-4112
kpatterson@allianttech.com

SOURCE  Alliant Technologies, LLC

Alliant Technologies, LLC

Web Site: http://www.allianttech.com

Improve your golf game with your iPhone 4/4s and Rokform's Golf Shooter(TM)

SANTA ANA, Calif., June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Rokform® LLC. announces the first Golf Specific iPhone 4/4s case mount for recording golf swings on and off the course.  In a collaborative effort with PGA Tour professional players and instructors, Rokform® has produced what could be considered the best product in the world of golf swing video analyses.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120625/LA29980)

The Rokform® Golf Shooter(TM) for the iPhone 4/4s lets you instantly mount your iPhone 4/4s for steady swing recordings on and off the course.  The Golf Shooter(TM) simply sticks into the turf while the iPhone 4/4s is securely mounted using the included award-winning Rokbed(TM) v3 protective iPhone 4/4s case. "I use the Rokform® Golf Shooter(TM) as part of my regular teaching program and my students can use it out on the course.  I can see what is going on with their swings in real world settings.  As a golf game improvement tool, I have not found anything better, or easier to use in my 20 years of teaching," said Bob Townsend of San Diego Golf Institute.

The Rokform® Golf Shooter(TM) gives pros and amateurs alike the ability to view their golf swings without expensive equipment.  "Every time I went to the range I saw players asking fellow golfers to take iPhone video of their swing.  To me this seemed like a big hassle not only for the player swinging but the one taking the video!  The Rokform® Golf Shooter(TM) not only eliminates the need for a second person it allows the player to get a precise, consistent, down the line view of their swing.  With all the free and or low-cost golf swing Aps available, you can have what used to cost thousands of dollars in your bag at all times for under $130!" said Jeff Whitten, VP of Rokform.

Launched in January 2011 Rokform has quickly established itself in the industry by manufacturing uniquely designed and engineered products for the iPhone and iPad.  Rokform products include billet aluminum and polycarbonate iPhone 4/4s cases, screen protectors, lanyards and stands. Rokform products are available through select resellers and http://www.rokform.com

CONTACT: Eve Sarkisyan, +1-818-422-4472, eve@yespublicrelations.com

SOURCE  Rokform LLC.

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120625/LA29980
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Rokform LLC.

Web Site: http://www.rokform.com

Interphase Awarded First Patent for the penveu(TM) Interactive Display System

SAN DIEGO, June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- ISTE 2012 -Interphase Corporation  (NASDAQ: INPH) today announced the company has been awarded patent number 8,217,997 by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), to be issued on July 10, 2012. The patent covers the penveu(TM) targeting system, which eliminates the need for calibration by inserting a targeting system - invisible to the human eye, but visible to the pen - into the display stream.  The patent is part of an intellectual property portfolio that includes four other pending patent applications filed with the USPTO, and internationally, all directly relating to this handheld device. 

"This patent protects the intellectual property (IP) behind the unique targeting system we invented for penveu, allowing us to realize the full potential of its disruptive technology.  penveu brings interactivity and collaboration to classrooms and board rooms alike," said Yoram Solomon, Ph.D., vice president and general manager of penveu, and the principal inventor in this patent.  "Current interactive whiteboard systems suffer from a need for calibration and our technology avoids that need and is accurate to a single pixel."

penveu is a device that disrupts the $1.8 billion interactive whiteboard (IWB) industry, by enhancing the functionality of currently installed projectors and large screen displays. It encompasses superior technology - bringing rocket science to the masses in a sleek, pinpoint-accurate device - incorporating satellite and military navigation system technologies that are only now available to commercial markets.  It is compatible with any computer connected to a projector, large screen display, or TV using a VGA connector, regardless of operating system - all for a fraction of the current market price for such classroom technology.

"Interphase has developed interactive technology in penveu that clearly innovates in a market that has seen very little technology advancement in the past decade," said Greg B. Kalush, chief executive officer for Interphase.  "The USPTO's approval of this patent is a big step toward fulfilling our company's commitment to bring innovative and disruptive technologies to market."

Full details of the allowance are listed in the Issue Notification Certificate issued by the USPTO.  For more information on penveu, please visit http://www.penveu.com.

Sales and Partnership Inquiries
For sales or partnership inquiries please contact info@penveu.com or call +1 (800) 777-3722. 

About penveu(TM)
penveu(TM) is an Interphase (NASDAQ: INPH) product, offering an incredibly exciting handheld device that radically evolves the industry by enhancing the functionality of installed projectors and large screen displays making any flat surface - from pull down screens to HDTVs - an interactive display system.  It's an affordable solution that brings rocket science to the education and enterprise markets in a sleek, pinpoint-accurate device that is so portable it fits in a pocket.  For more information, please visit our website at http://www.penveu.com.

About Interphase Corporation
Interphase Corporation (NASDAQ: INPH) is a diversified information and communications technology company, committed to innovation. The company delivers customers best in class solutions for connectivity, interworking, packet processing, contract manufacturing, and electronic design services and is well known as the premier provider of LTE and WiMAX solutions.  In addition, Interphase recently expanded its business to include desktop virtualization and embedded computer vision technology solutions, targeted at the enterprise and education technology markets with the introduction of the penveu(TM).

penveu is a service mark and trademark of Interphase Corp. All other product names, service marks, and trademarks mentioned herein are trademarks of their respective owners

This press release contains forward looking statements about the business and prospects of the Company. These statements are made under the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  Such forward looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the introduction of a new product, including details of the proposed timing and distribution of the product and statements predicting trends, sales and market opportunities in the markets in which we intend to sell the product. The actual results of the Company could differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements because of various risks and uncertainties, including (without limitation) the risk that the product introduction may be delayed or not happen in the anticipated manner, the risk that market acceptance and sales opportunities may not happen as anticipated once the product has been introduced into the market, the risk that our current distribution channels may not choose to distribute the product or may not be successful in doing so, the risks that acceptance of our product in vertical application markets may not happen as anticipated, the risk that published third party growth estimates regarding these markets are not accurate, the risk of delays in our ability to design, manufacture, market and sell the new product due to technological, market, or financial factors, and other risks described in our most recent Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

SOURCE  Interphase Corporation

Interphase Corporation

CONTACT: Investor: Joseph Hassett, Interphase Corporation, +1-866-630-INPH, ir@interphase.com; Media: Alicia V. Nieva-Woodgate, ANW Networks, +1-415-515-0866, alicia@anwnetworks.com

Web Site: http://www.iphase.com

HITN Announces Release of HITN Learning at ISTE Conference in San Diego

New Cloud-Based Program offers practice for grades 3-6 in Math and ELA, aligned to Common Core, in English and Spanish

NEW YORK, June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- HITN today announced the release of HITN Learning, its new online education program for schools and parents, at the ISTE Conference in San Diego.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120625/CL29577 )

HITN's history of advocacy for education comes to fruition with HITN Learning, which was designed from the ground up to comply with the new Common Core standards. The cloud-based program offers test practice in Math and English Language Arts and includes a writing component that incorporates healthy living prompts. Metrics for teachers, district administrators, and parents provide real-time insights into student progress. For students in the system whose primary language is Spanish, or whose parents are primarily Spanish-speakers, the program includes the option for both written and spoken Spanish prompts.

"As a former teacher and elementary school principal, I'm acutely aware of the need for a program like this one, which provides a bridge between school and home," said HITN's CEO Jose Luis Rodriguez, who is currently serving on Governor Andrew Cuomo's NY Education Reform Commission and on the board of Connect2Compete. "Parental involvement in the learning process has been shown time and again to be a differentiating factor in student success, and providing parents with access to an easy-to-understand 'snapshot' of their children's progress in HITN Learning is a very important element in the program."

A pilot for the program has been completed, and was met with great enthusiasm by students, teachers, parents and administrators. Students particularly responded to the idea of earning tickets to play games (which re-enforce the math and ELA components of the program) and were excited to access the program outside of school, from home and other locations with internet access.

Additional research is underway in cities across the U.S. and in Puerto Rico.

For more information about HITN Learning, or to request a free trial of the program, please contact info@hitnlearning.com.

About HITN, Inc.

HITN, Inc. was established in 1983 as a non-profit organization with a mission to advance the educational, socio-economic and cultural aspirations of Latinos in the U.S. and Puerto Rico through technology. HITN-TV is the first U.S. Latino-controlled, non-commercial, Spanish-language, media company, delivering educational programming to more than 40 million homes nationwide on Satellite and Cable focusing on Health, Financial Literacy, and Education. In addition to HITN Learning, HITN's educational division is the recipient of a Ready To Learn grant for Project LAMP, a children's educational media initiative to develop and evaluate best-in-breed media-based educational interventions for literacy, math and English Language Learning challenges in an effort to help close the achievement gap for early learners. HITN's CBO Connect provides outreach services in underserved communities across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. http://www.hitn.org.

SOURCE  HITN, Inc.

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120625/CL29577
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
HITN, Inc.

CONTACT: Drew Kristofik of HITN, Inc., +1-203-216-5860, dkristofik@hitn.org

Web Site: http://www.hitn.org

Saffar Announces the Sale of Zawya to Thomson Reuters

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Saffar, a Middle East and North Africa ("MENA")-focused financial services and investment group, has announced the sale of Zawya Limited, the leading MENA online business intelligence platform, to Thomson Reuters, the world's foremost provider of information for businesses and professionals.

With the sale to Thomson Reuters, Saffar's investment in Zawya becomes one of the most successful internet and media investments in the MENA region. Since Saffar's acquisition of a majority stake in the company, Zawya has grown from a start-up to become the leading MENA business information platform, reflecting Saffar's ability to identify compelling regional investment opportunities. Saffar created sustainable value in the business by expanding the business model, forming strategic partnerships and institutionalising the corporate structure.

Zawya is today a globally recognised Middle Eastern brand due to the business' comprehensive content, innovative products and regional analysis. Zawya enables over 750,000 unique visitors per month to find and connect with the best business and investment opportunities in the region.

Yousef Al-Quraishi, Chairman of Saffar, said, "The scope of this sale and the quality of the parties involved underscores the value that can be created when institutional support, founding vision and strong management come together. The sale of Zawya to Thomson Reuters is a testament to the fact that Zawya has become an unsurpassed regional platform."

Ihsan Jawad, Vice Chairman of Zawya, said, "As entrepreneurs, we are proud to have founded and built one of the leading internet companies in the Middle East. We are also pleased that our focus on quality from day one has made Zawya fit for a global player like Thomson Reuters."

Arma Partners acted as exclusive financial adviser to Saffar, and SNR Denton and Maples & Calder acted as legal advisers to Saffar on the sale of Zawya.

About Saffar

Founded in 2001, Saffar encompasses investments in financial services and telecommunications across the MENA region. Investments include Credit Suisse Saudi Arabia, Kalaam Telecom and Saffar Capital Limited. Saffar Capital Limited is regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority and is licensed to arrange credit or deals in investments, advise on financial products or credit and manage assets.

SOURCE  Saffar

Saffar

CONTACT: Rima Kadi Aboualwan, Director, Saffar, +971 4 373 5777, rkadi@saffar-capital.com

Shine America, Fox Broadcasting Company and ACTV8.ME Launch Companion App for MasterChef Season Three to Provide Comprehensive Interactive Experience

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Shine America, Fox Broadcasting Company and ACTV8.ME today launched a fully interactive second screen experience to accompany the third season of hit reality-competition series MasterChef, which currently airs Mondays and Tuesdays (9:00-10:00 pm ET/PT) on FOX.

The new MasterChef second screen app, which is available today on the App Store for iPhone and iPad with an Android version available in the coming weeks, will offer an interactive show experience for the viewer, featuring recipes; exclusive content with show judges Gordon Ramsay, Joe Bastianich and Graham Elliot; quizzes and polls to better get to know the contestants; as well as many other special surprises. Furthermore, viewers will be able to synchronize the app with the live show or DVR recording to enjoy real-time interaction with the show and other MasterChef fans.

David Anderson, SVP and Head of Digital for Shine America added, "MasterChef is the ideal format to create this type of deep interactive experience. MasterChef is a brand that's all about inspiring home cooks throughout the world so we've designed this app to feature the best recipe content, tips, and instructional videos that will allow the viewer to bring the show right into their own home and lives."

Bill Bradford, Senior Vice President of Digital Media for Fox Broadcasting Company says, "We're always looking for new ways to enhance and extend the FOX experience for our viewers, and the MasterChef app is a perfect way to do that. Not only does it give MasterChef fans new, creative ways to engage with their favorite show, but it also allows us to forge deeper connections with our audience."

Through the new MasterChef app, viewers can earn badges by watching and answering episodic trivia, download recipes from each episode, chat about the show in real-time via Twitter and Facebook, and watch quick video tips from the contestants. In addition, it features an in-app store, giving fans an easy way to purchase MasterChef merchandise.

Brian Shuster, CEO of ACTV8.ME says, "We are really excited to create a one-to-one relationship with the MasterChef audience and the app helps create that deeper relationship between show and viewer. We are also excited to continue building our relationship with FOX, with their great interactive team that have real visionary leadership and a smart growth strategy. We are also very fortunate to be working with Shine America. The digital team has helped push the boundaries of the application and the potential of the consumer experience."

About ACTV8.me

ACTV8.me empowers hit TV shows with its technology working alongside major TV networks and production partners. ACTV8.me delivers a "complete global media integration platform," which brings amazing new user experiences to life in next-generation TV connectivity. ACTV8.me is also working with its network and production partners to create new bi-directional TV entertainment; a new breed of interactive TV shows will emerge from these partnerships.

ACTV8.me leads the way in developing and designing new second-screen interactive TV shows, interfaces and mobile applications that facilitate discovery of content and users' relationships with it. With its proprietary technologies, ACTV8.me marries broadcast and cable television to the two largest social media platforms on the planet, and then makes it all interactive, thus creating the ultimate uber platform.

Its second-screen platform was built over three years with a vision and focus to empower subscribers to interact with TV content, while integrating social channel engagements, such as Facebook and Twitter, and a new digital ad model that creates a first of its kind, one-to-one relationship with the consumer. Their deployments enhance the TV viewing experience by providing interactivity, social game mechanics, community sharing and exclusive offers in the form of real-time digital coupons.

http://www.actv8.me

About SHINE AMERICA

Shine America is a world leader in producing and distributing compelling scripted and unscripted television and digital content, building brands through the leveraging of its intellectual property and creating integrated marketing opportunities for advertisers. Shine America is known for popular and award-winning original series including The Biggest Loser, Tabatha Takes Over, Shear Genius, and The Buried Life; adaptations of Shine Group formats MasterChef, One Born Every Minute and Parental Control; long-running scripted hits The Office, Ugly Betty, and The Tudors; and over 20 groundbreaking original online series on MSN, Yahoo!, YouTube premium channels and other platforms, many of these produced in partnership with global brands such as Toyota, Kraft Foods, Subway and Microsoft. Through its distribution arm, Shine International, Shine America distributes its extensive library of programming and formats to more than 150 countries.

    Media contacts:

    Steve Webster            Chris Stolte          Joe Schlosser
    CMPR                     CMPR                  Shine America
    Office (310) 426-9900    Office (310) 426-9900 Office (323) 790-8321
    stevewebster@cmpr.net    chris@cmpr.net        joe.schlosser@shineamerica.com

    Gaude Paez
    Fox Broadcasting Company
    Office (310) 369-3276
    gaude.paez@fox.com

SOURCE  ACTV8.ME

ACTV8.ME

Web Site: http://www.actv8.me

Number-One Wedding Brand TheKnot.com Launches Beauty And Lifestyle Site TheBlush.com

-- TheBlush.com and Sephora Partner for Beauty Content, Sweepstakes and In-Store Events --

NEW YORK, June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- XO Group Inc. (NYSE: XOXO; http://www.xogroupinc.com), a global media and technology company and founder of the #1 wedding brand, TheKnot.com, today announced the launch of TheBlush.com (http://www.theblush.com), a new women's and lifestyle site focusing on beauty, fashion and career. With an existing audience of 10 million-plus women across the XO Group family of brands, TheBlush.com will provide daily inspiration, advice and deals on all things beauty, style and life.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120625/NY29654LOGO)

"Whether they're planning a wedding, setting up their homes or preparing for a new baby, beauty and fashion remain top-of-mind for our massive audience of women aged 18 to 34," said Carley Roney, cofounder of XO Group Inc. "With the launch of TheBlush.com, our community of 10 million-plus women will now have a daily destination to feed their beauty, fashion and career fix - top searched-for topics across all of our brands - and the site will serve as an additional opportunity for our partners to target this engaged and active audience."

In celebration of the launch, TheBlush.com has partnered with Sephora, the leading specialty beauty retailer, for beauty content, sweepstakes and in-store events. Kicking off today, TheBlush.com and SEPHORA have created a sweepstakes, The Blush + Sephora Beauty Haul Sweepstakes, which will provide women on TheBlush.com a chance to win a $250 Sephora gift card.

Features of TheBlush.com include:

    --  Thousands of Beauty & Fashion Finds: Whether it's the summer's hottest
        hairstyles, finding office-appropriate shorts or the newest beauty
        trends, you can browse through thousands of photos and videos for ideas.
    --  Behind-the-Scenes Style Inspiration: How do the folks at American
        Apparel dress versus the ones at Etsy? Get inspired with an insider's
        glimpse at more than 200 photos of outfits from staff at leading
        companies like Match.com, Rue La La, Redbook and more via a weekly "How
        We Dress @" roundup.
    --  Exclusive Expert & Celebrity Interviews: From Giuliana Rancic to
        Bethenny Frankel, read up on what celebrities and industry experts have
        to say when it comes to favorite fashion picks, great beauty buys and
        their best real-life advice.
    --  Beauty & Style Giveaways: Sephora. Kiehl's. Kohl's. Score beauty and
        fashion freebies from top brands every day!
"Whether its hunting down the best beauty products or translating runway looks into actual wearable trends, TheBlush.com will provide young women with a much-needed daily destination that helps them realistically put their best look forward every day - after all, we know how busy they are," added Ysolt Usigan, site director of TheBlush.com.

About TheBlush.com

From the creators of #1 wedding brand TheKnot.com, TheBlush.com is a new women's and lifestyle site focusing on beauty, fashion and life. With a built-in audience of over 10 million young women, TheBlush.com serves as a daily destination delivering an honest take on all things beauty, style and life, and where trends are translated with a real-life approach. TheBlush.com is part of XO Group Inc. (NYSE: XOXO; http://www.xogroupinc.com), formerly The Knot Inc., a global media and technology leader devoted to weddings, pregnancy and everything in between.

About Sephora Americas:

Since 1998, Sephora has been TRANSFORMING BEAUTY in the US. Today, Sephora Americas operates more than 300 stores in the US and Canada, as well as the world's top beauty website, Sephora.com. In 2010, Sephora expanded into Latin America where it partnered with Brazilian beauty market leader Sacks.com; in 2011, it opened two retail stores in Mexico; and in 2012, it opened one retail location in Brazil. Sephora is well-known for its unique retail concept, which is rooted in its distinctive open-sell store design, the beauty expertise of its sales consultants and, most important, its unparalleled combination of over 200 classic and emerging brands across a broad range of product categories including skincare, color, fragrance, bath and body, smilecare and haircare, as well as Sephora's own private label. Sephora has also been recognized as a leading digital brand and continues to advance in this arena through mobile and social media initiatives, including an active Facebook page, its online beauty community BeautyTalk, its mobile site and apps. In addition to its North and Latin American business and its initiative with JCPenney, which includes more than 300 Sephora inside JCPenney locations, Sephora today has more than 1,600 stores within 29 countries in Europe and 115 locations in China. Sephora was founded in France in 1970 and was acquired in 1997 by Paris-based LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the world's leading luxury products group. For further information, please visit http://www.sephora.com.

SOURCE  XO Group Inc.

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120625/NY29654LOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
XO Group Inc.

CONTACT: Jacalyn Lee, Public Relations, TheBlush.com, +1-347-924-0507, Jacalyn@xogrp.com

Web Site: http://www.xogroupinc.com

Ecrio Delivers VoLTE Client Software to NTT DOCOMO

Companies extend long standing relationship with FlexIMS(TM) for 4G/LTE

CUPERTINO, Calif., June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Ecrio, the leading supplier of LTE/4G real time communications client software for the mobile industry, today announced that it has completed the delivery of the VoLTE Client Software to NTT DOCOMO Inc.

Ecrio CEO Michel Gannage said, "We are extremely proud to continue our relationship with NTT DOCOMO, a global leader in telecom technology. We look forward to supporting NTT DOCOMO and their strategic handset suppliers when it offers its customers this new VoLTE Service."

"With its FlexIMS Architecture, Ecrio brings NTT DOCOMO a flexible, low power consumption, low latency Client Software Framework that enables VoLTE to be implemented either on the LTE Baseband Processor or on the Application Processor.  With that foundation and Ecrio's experience deploying millions of IMS enabled handsets globally, NTT DOCOMO extends its technology to support advanced LTE communication services," stated Mitsunobu Komori, Executive Vice President and CTO of NTT DOCOMO.

About Ecrio
Ecrio is the leading supplier of 4G/LTE real time communications client software and services for the mobile industry. Ecrio offers a comprehensive suite of standards compliant Communications Client Solutions including SIP/IMS Framework, Messaging (SMS over IMS), Rich Communication Suite (RCS, RCS-e), VoLTE and Video Calling (3GPP, GSMA IR.92, IR.94). Built on the FlexIMS(TM) Architecture, Ecrio's Mobile Communications Client Suite (MCCS) functionalities can be distributed across the Baseband Processor and the Application Processor, yielding optimal latency and power consumption. The MCCS has been deployed on more than 50 million handsets. Ecrio's customers include leading operators such as NTT DOCOMO, SK Telecom and Verizon Wireless, and leading device and chipset platform providers. For more information, please visit http://www.ecrio.com.

FlexIMS( )is a trademark of Ecrio Inc.

Contact: Sopheak San, 408-366-7900, ssan@ecrio.com

SOURCE  Ecrio

Ecrio

Web Site: http://www.ecrio.com

SOS Online Backup Launches New Android App

SOS Online Backup releases enhanced Android app making it easy to backup and protect Google-enabled devices and access files in the secure SOS cloud.

LOS ANGELES, June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- SOS Online Backup has made available the latest version of its software for Google Android smart-phones and tablets. The app sports an all-new look with simplified backup selection and universally accesses cloud files from PCs, Macs, iPhones and other Android devices - free trial available at http://www.sosonlinebackup.com/android.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120619/LA23409LOGO )

"SOS for Android is the only app of its kind backed by a cloud provider of SOS's caliber," said Ken Shaw, CEO and Founder of SOS Online Backup. "There are lots of apps that let you push slivers of data from your Android to the Cloud. SOS is the only app that lets you backup all your Android data, with the same service that also lets you backup your PCs, Macs and iOS devices. It fully protects Android applications, music, pictures, videos and files on the SD card. It also gives SOS subscribers full access to their secured personal cloud including any files from Windows PCs, Macs or iPhones. Three-tier encryption and universal connectivity are features you won't find in services like Dropbox, iCloud and Google Drive."

SOS Leads the Way in Android Backup

SOS for Android has two primary functions: My Cloud and Protect. In My Cloud, users have instant access to all of the files in their personal cloud including those from other devices and computers. Files can be downloaded then opened in any other app on the device for viewing or editing.

The Protect tool enables users to select which files on their device they would like to backup to their cloud. Pictures, videos, music and applications are backed up with a single tap on each. Other files on the device, including those on SD storage, can be selected as well. Also, unlike many services, including Dropbox and Google Drive, SOS uses "client-side" encryption in all cases - meaning files are always encoded and protected before being transferred over the Internet.

The new SOS for Android app can be downloaded from the Google Play Store. Current subscribers can access their existing account and new users can start a free trial in-app - new accounts can also be used to backup any other PCs, Macs or iPhones/iPads. Starting at $4.95/year for 15GB of backup storage, SOS is simple and affordable.

The SOS Product Suite

SOS is available for homes, businesses and enterprises. A single SOS for Home account can protect 5 PCs & Macs including an unlimited number of smart-phones and tablets without any per-computer fees - includes Facebook backup as well. With our very-own 'ForeverSave' technology, the SOS cloud archives file versions forever and will never automatically delete data considered "old."

For small businesses, SOS for Business protects an unlimited number of PCs and Apple computers, provides unlimited versioning with Timeline Recovery and has built-in local backup - it starts at $39.99/month. For enterprises with large Windows networks that need bare metal backup, Cloud Boot capabilities, granular Exchange backup/restore and other advanced needs, SOS ServerSave starts at $129/month.

About SOS Online Backup

Based in El Segundo, California, SOS builds first-in-class online backup, cloud storage and file sharing software for homes and small businesses, server and database support for large enterprises as well as branded solutions for managed service providers, resellers and OEMs. SOS is the four-time winner of PC Magazine's Editors' Choice Award and has received noteworthy acclaim from The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and others for its PC, Mac, iOS, Android and Facebook backup applications. For more information, visit http://www.sosonlinebackup.com.

SOURCE  SOS Online Backup

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120619/LA23409LOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
SOS Online Backup

CONTACT: Stephen Gold, stephen.gold@sosonlinebackup.com

Web Site: http://www.sosonlinebackup.com

Electus Announces Three New Series Featuring Chef Nathan Lippy, The Beer Chicks & Drink Inc. For Its Food-centric YouTube(TM) Channel, HUNGRY, The Place To Satisfy Your Food Obsession, Set To Debut On June 27th

NEW YORK, June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Ben Silverman's multimedia studio Electus, an operating business of IAC (Nasdaq: IACI), today announced three new series for HUNGRY, the Company's food-centric YouTube(TM) channel, launching on Wednesday, June 27th. From grilling to beer to mixology, the new series continue to expand the delicious variety of programming offered on HUNGRY's menu.

Conceptualized under the leadership of veteran food television executive and HUNGRY CEO Bruce Seidel, in partnership with leading entertainment and sports agency Creative Artists Agency (CAA) and with consultation from celebrity chef Duff Goldman, HUNGRY creates the perfect blend of strong characters and unique personalities with real, helpful, and highly entertaining tidbits on everything food. The participating chefs will create amazing, accessible dishes, in ways never seen before, and will explore the world of food for a new generation of passionate food fanatics.

"HUNGRY's newest series will satisfy all of your summer food needs, whether you're looking for unique grilling ideas or tips on the best summer beer & cocktails," said Bruce Seidel, CEO of HUNGRY. "We're especially excited to offer viewers a variety of shows in the 'drink' category, which we feel is perfectly suited to evolve online. Not only will these series offer fresh perspectives that will teach and entertain people, they will also indulge viewers' thirsty obsessions."

The three newest HUNGRY family members include:

    --  SUMMER BEER COCKTAILS with THE BEER CHICKS (Featuring Christina Perozzi,
        Hallie Beaune): Christina Perozzi and Hallie Beaune -known as The Beer
        Chicks - want to change the country's perception of beer! They are
        diving into the evolving world of brewskis, and will quench viewers
        thirst for delicious summer cocktails featuring one special ingredient -
        BEER! Summer Beer Cocktails with The Beer Chicks will premiere in
        mid-July.

    --  DRINK INC. (Featuring Steve Livigni, Daniel K. Nelson): Drink Inc.
        follows the eccentric adventures of Steve Livigni and Daniel K. Nelson,
        two of LA's top mixologists. As the owners of some of the city's most
        renowned bars, Steve and Daniel are constantly creating show-stopping
        cocktails that impress L.A.'s demanding foodie community. Each week,
        join Steve and Daniel as they visit some of the most unique restaurants
        to gain inspiration to help them create never-before-tasted cocktails.
        Drink Inc. will premiere on June 28th.

    --  GRILL THIS WITH NATHAN LIPPY (Featuring Chef Nathan Lippy): Whether it's
        charcoal or gas, the grill becomes king when the weather heats up. Chef
        Nathan Lippy shows viewers his tricks for creating a three-course meal -
        appetizer, dinner, and dessert -entirely on the grill. Give him five
        minutes and Chef Nathan will satisfy viewers' appetites....and also
        throw in a refreshing cocktail to keep you cool by the grill! Grill This
        with Nathan Lippy will premiere in August.
Lippy, Perozzi & Beaune and Livigni & Nelson join HUNGRY's previously named food personalities Duff Goldman, Chris Cosentino, Alex Thomopoulos, Casserole Queens, Greenfield Brothers, Fung Brothers and Laura Vitale.

Utilizing the reach of leading websites CitySearch and Urbanspoon, HUNGRY's high impact, buzz-worthy programming is specifically tailored to food-lovers of all kinds around the world. From intense culinary challenges and one-of-a-kind dining experiences, to hilarious food pranks and gastronomic adventures, HUNGRY aims to feed the food obsession in each of us. Additional HUNGRY programming and talent will be announced in the weeks and months to come.

Officially launching on Wednesday, June 27th, Electus will announce The HUNGRY Channel's full talent and programming slate in the coming weeks.  Viewers can subscribe to The HUNGRY Channel for trailers and show updates at: http://www.youtube.com/hungry. For additional information or to connect with HUNGRY's social media platforms, please visit: Twitter: https://twitter.com/HungryYouTube; Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HungryYouTube; Google Plus: https://plus.google.com/100071664812864525751/posts

About Electus
Electus is the first integrated multimedia entertainment studio to unite producers, creators, advertisers and distributors under one roof and produce all forms of content for distribution across a variety of platforms around the world. Headed by Ben Silverman in partnership with IAC [NASDAQ: IACI], the company connects advertisers, distributors and content creators early on in the development process, enabling marketers and advertisers to be a true partner in campaigns and content creation. Electus International, the global distribution arm of Electus, is responsible for all international sales and distribution for Electus' programming and its studio partners as well as programs and formats from other well-known 3rd party providers. For more information on Electus, visit http://www.electus.com.

Media Contacts

Electus
Stacy Simpson

212.314.7470
Stacy.simpson@iac.com

Sunshine Sachs
Jessica Berger / Dani Dalesandro

212.691.2800
berger@sunshinesachs.com / dalesandro@sunshinesachs.com

Little Green Pickle
Carrie Welch

917.846.3599
carrie@littlegreenpickle.com

SOURCE  Electus

Electus

Web Site: http://www.electus.com

Sony Mobile Unveils National Campaign for Xperia ion Smartphone Launch in US

-- Campaign showcases Sony's first 4G LTE smartphone - Xperia ion - now available on AT&T, allowing you to experience HD everywhere

-- Fully integrated campaign demonstrates Xperia features and capabilities

-- TV spot features unique Sony entertainment experiences, including Spider-Man and new music from Matt & Kim

ATLANTA, June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Sony Mobile Communications (USA) Inc. launches a campaign featuring its first-ever national television commercial introducing the Xperia ion as Sony's first LTE smartphone now available exclusively on AT&T. The TV spot is just one part of a fully integrated campaign which includes television, digital, out-of-home, social media and print components.  The campaign emphasizes Sony's connected entertainment and the unique HD everywhere experience that is brought to life by the Xperia ion.

(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120625/NY29757 )

The launch of Xperia ion makes its mark as the launch of the first Sony -branded LTE smartphone in the U.S. and delivers on the company's strategy to offer premium entertainment experiences across multiple screens. The campaign behind it is designed to build awareness for Sony's mobile offerings that will appear under the Xperia name. 

Peter Farmer, Vice President of Marketing for North America at Sony Mobile Communications said, "The Sony brand has long been synonymous with entertainment and innovation, and this campaign shows how the Xperia ion continues this tradition by providing consumers with a truly connected entertainment experience that only Sony can offer."   

An Integrated Campaign

The Xperia ion national advertising campaign was developed by McCann Worldgroup and is an extension of Sony's global 'Made of Imagination' campaign platform. It kicks off with a television spot, directed by Emmy-nominated music video director Paul Hunter.  The spot also includes familiar and timely Sony brand assets such as The Amazing Spider-Man and new music by Sony/RED distributed music artist Matt & Kim. Phase one of the campaign, which will be deployed across television, print, digital, out-of-home and retail will roll out over the next couple months.

"To launch the Made of Imagination platform for Sony Mobile in the US, we wanted to show how the Xperia ion can unlock amazing entertainment experiences that totally immerses users," said Mat Bisher, Creative Director at McCann New York. "We wanted to bring it to life in a way that felt exciting and imaginative."

The 60 and 30-second launch commercials, takes viewers on an entertaining, imaginative journey following an Xperia ion user walking to his apartment, as the experiences on his phone come to life around him. Artist Matt & Kim play their latest single "Let's Go," Spider-Man stops a thief, and a full-scale military assault takes place, all on one block. The TV spot can be viewed on Sony Mobile's US YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/sonyxperiaus.

To augment the TV spot to online, digital agency LBi conceived of and created microsite Xperia World (http://www.sonymobile.com/xperiaworld) demonstrating the Xperia ion's promise of immersive entertainment. LBi shot the same scene captured for the TV commercial from multiple angles and repurposed it for the microsite as a massive high-definition photo, creating a virtual city street with Sony entertainment properties including movies, TV shows, bands, songs and games. Users are encouraged to share their experience through social channels like Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and Pinterest with a challenge to find all the different Sony entertainment properties contained in the single block.

TV spot Credits:
Title: "One Block"
Agency: McCann New York
Chairman: Linus Karlsson
Vice Chairman: Andreas Dahlqvist
Co-Chief Creative Officers: Tom Murphy, Sean Bryan
Creative Directors: Jason Schmall, Mat Bisher
Executive Producer: Greg Lotus
Production Company: Prettybird
Director: Paul Hunter
DP: Larry Fong
Executive Producer: Ali Brown
Head of Production: Leslie Evers
Line Producer: Tom Meloth
Editorial: Final Cut
Editor: Stephen Berger
Visual Effects: Mass Market, Full Scale Effects
FX Supervisor: David Peterson

Pricing and Availability

Xperia ion is now available exclusively through AT&T and costs just $99.99 with a two-year agreement. The new Xperia ion is ideal for creating and showcasing premium entertainment with video, photo, gaming and music.  For more information on this all-new 4G LTE Android smartphone, visit http://www.sonymobile.com/Xperiaion.

About Sony Mobile Communications (USA) Inc.

Sony Mobile Communications (USA) Inc. is a subsidiary of Sony Mobile Communications AB which is part of the Tokyo-based Sony Corporation Group of Companies, a leading global innovator of audio, video, game, communications, key device and information technology products for both the consumer and professional markets. Through its Xperia(TM) smartphone portfolio, Sony Mobile Communications delivers the best of Sony technology, premium content and services, and easy connectivity to Sony's world of networked entertainment experiences. For more information: http://www.sonymobile.com

About McCann New York

McCann Erickson New York is the flagship and largest office of McCann Erickson Worldwide, with operations in more than 115 countries and a client roster that includes preeminent global marketers and many of the world's most famous brands.  The agency is a unit of McCann Worldgroup, a leading global marketing solutions network, comprised of a collaborative roster of best-in-class agencies that emphasize creativity, innovation and performance.

About The Amazing Spider-Man(TM)

One of the world's most popular characters is back on the big screen as a new chapter in the Spider-Man legacy is revealed in The Amazing Spider-Man(TM).  Focusing on an untold story that tells a different side of the Peter Parker story, the new film stars Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Rhys Ifans, Denis Leary, Campbell Scott, Irrfan Khan, with Martin Sheen and Sally Field.  The film is directed by Marc Webb from a screenplay written by James Vanderbilt and Alvin Sargent and Steve Kloves from a story by James Vanderbilt, based on the Marvel Comic Book by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko.  Laura Ziskin, Avi Arad, and Matt Tolmach are producing the film in association with Marvel Entertainment for Columbia Pictures, which will open in theaters everywhere in 3D on July 3, 2012.  The Amazing Spider-Man is the story of Peter Parker (Garfield), an outcast high schooler who was abandoned by his parents as a boy, leaving him to be raised by his Uncle Ben (Sheen) and Aunt May (Field).  Like most teenagers, Peter is trying to figure out who he is and how he got to be the person he is today.  Peter is also finding his way with his first high school crush, Gwen Stacy (Stone), and together, they struggle with love, commitment, and secrets.  As Peter discovers a mysterious briefcase that belonged to his father, he begins a quest to understand his parents' disappearance - leading him directly to OsCorp and the lab of Dr. Curt Connors (Ifans), his father's former partner.  As Spider-Man is set on a collision course with Connors' alter-ego, The Lizard, Peter will make life-altering choices to use his powers and shape his destiny to become a hero.

About Sony Pictures Entertainment

Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America, a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. SPE's global operations encompass motion picture production and distribution; television production and distribution; home entertainment acquisition and distribution; a global channel network; digital content creation and distribution; operation of studio facilities; development of new entertainment products, services and technologies; and distribution of entertainment in more than 159 countries.  For additional information, go to http://www.sonypictures.com/

© "Sony" is the registered trademarks or trademarks of Sony Corporation and its subsidiaries. © "XPERIA" is the registered trademark of Sony Mobile Communications AB. © All other trademarks or registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

SOURCE  Sony Mobile Communications

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120625/NY29757
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Sony Mobile Communications

CONTACT: Vinti Bhatnagar, Burson-Marsteller for Sony Mobile Communications, +1-212-614-5036, vinti.bhatnagar@bm.com; or Bruce Stockler, McCann Worldgroup, +1-646-865-2643, Bruce.Stockler@mccann.com, Product images: http://www.sonymobile.com/cws/corporate/press/pressreleases/latestnews/

Web Site: http://www.sonymobile.com

Thomson-Shore Announces Agreement with Clays Ltd, Both Companies to Expand Sales

DEXTER, Mich., June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Thomson-Shore, a book manufacturer specializing in short to medium run digital and offset book printing, binding and publishing services, recently announced a partnership agreement with UK-based Clays Ltd.  The global print initiative gives each printer access to each other's market, creating value and market opportunity for customers of both Thomson-Shore and Clays.

Under the agreement, Thomson-Shore will print books for Clays' customers seeking distribution in the U.S.  Clays, the UK's leading print group producing over 170 million books annually, will print Thomson-Shore customer's books, for distribution anywhere outside of North America.  Both companies will also share marketing and sales resources, to promote this new initiative.

"Thomson-Shore customers have come to expect that we'll deliver unparalleled quality, service and innovation," said Kevin Spall, CEO, Thomson-Shore.  "Our agreement with Clays is a result of our recognition that this leading global brand shares our commitment to excellence.  We are thrilled with the opportunity to offer Thomson-Shore customers a way to produce quality books for distribution in the UK and other areas of Europe, ultimately helping them sell more, more efficiently."

"Developing our 'distribute and print' model with Thomson-Shore enables us to add further value to the comprehensive services we offer our customers," said Tanya Dunbar, sales director, Clays.

About Thomson-Shore

Located in Dexter, MI, Thomson-Shore is a 100 percent employee-owned book manufacturer specializing in short to medium run digital and offset book printing and binding. Thomson-Shore is focused on providing the highest standard of quality book making, excellent customer service, and reliable schedules. Thomson-Shore is commonly known for its stance as one of the most eco-friendly book manufacturers and has always been on the leading edge of "green" book manufacturing. For more information visit their website at http://www.thomsonshore.com.

SOURCE  Thomson-Shore

Thomson-Shore

CONTACT: Regan Borton, Thomson-Shore, +1-734-426-6353

Web Site: http://www.thomsonshore.com

City of Regina Calls on the Windows Azure Cloud to Launch Open Data Initiative

Local government chooses Microsoft cloud technology to enhance transparency and improve service delivery for citizens and businesses alike.

REDMOND, Wash., June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Harnessing the power of Microsoft Corp.'s Windows Azure cloud services, the city of Regina, Canada, recently launched an innovative, Web-based open data initiative to put important information directly in the hands of citizens virtually anytime, anywhere. With the city's Open Data Portal, Regina citizens will now be able to visit a user-friendly online portal that offers easy access to data sets such as ward boundaries, points of interest, solid waste collection and land use -- and this is just the beginning.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO)

"The city is committed to open government and transparency, and this open data initiative is a big part of that," said Alyssa Daku, city of Regina manager, Corporate Information Governance. She added that before offering data in the portal, the city of Regina manually processed more than 2,000 data requests every year, many of which were duplicates. With Open Government Data Initiative (OGDI) DataLab, the city, individuals and businesses are all expected to benefit from this increased access to information.

"OGDI DataLab allows us to work more efficiently, which, in the end, leads to better use of funds and improved public services," Daku said. "This increased access to information is also great for citizens. It is so exciting to think about the possibility of new services, local innovation and economic growth that it could lead to."

Using open standards and application programming interfaces, the city of Regina can submit its data to the OGDI DataLab repository for use by external developers, government employees or citizens. OGDI DataLab promotes the use of the city's data by capturing and publishing reusable software assets, patterns and practices. Local developers can share and interact with this data via Windows Azure and develop applications with more ease and at a lower cost to the city.

"Government innovators in Canada and across the globe are increasingly providing open data portals for the public -- promoting better governance, increased transparency and improved delivery of public services," said Nik Garkusha, Open Platforms lead, Microsoft Canada. "Customers and technology partners are telling us that open data is a win-win situation for everyone."

More information on how publically available government data can be easily accessed is available at Microsoft's Open Government Data Initiative.

More information about how organizations are turning to Microsoft technology is available in the Microsoft Customer Spotlight newsroom.

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

SOURCE  Microsoft Corp.

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Microsoft Corp.

CONTACT: Rapid Response Team, Waggener Edstrom Worldwide, +1-503-443-7070, rrt@waggeneredstrom.com

Web Site: http://www.microsoft.com

Aiseesoft Releases MXF Converter for Mac - Convert MXF Recordings on Mac

BEIJING, June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Aiseesoft, a top-ranking provider for Windows and Mac DVD/video converter, iPad/iPhone/iPod transfer software, announces the release of the Aiseesoft MXF Converter for Mac. This professional software is able to convert recorded MXF files with outstanding output video quality and amazing converting speed.

Aiseesoft Mac MXF Converter supports most popular MXF files recorded by professional cameras such as Panasonic P2, Canon EOS C300, Canon XF300, Sony PDW 510P, Sony PDW-700, etc. And, it offers users a most convenient solution to editing MXF files in its video editing applications, such as Adobe Premiere, and Avid Media Composer, etc.

Besides converting MXF files to professional video editing software, this software can also convert MXF files to other popular video formats like MP4, MPEG, AVI, WMV, MPEG, FLV, MOV, and so on. Then, users can enjoy the output video easily and conveniently on Mac or portable devices like iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, Android devices, Windows Phone, BlackBerry, PSP, etc.

Moreover, this MXF Converter for Mac offers users some basic video editing features for the average user. With it, users can trim video length, crop video frame, add watermark to source file, and adjust source video brightness/saturation/contrast/hue. Users can even join different MXF files together and output a single file. All these wonderful features assist users in creating a completely customized output video file.

To save time, this software is equipped with the NVIDIA® CUDA(TM) and AMD APP technology, which enables the application to take full advantage of CUDA-enabled or APP-enabled GPU to speed up the MXF file converting process.

Aiseesoft MXF Converter for Mac is the best option for users to convert and transcode MXF files on Mac. For more information about this software, please visit: http://www.aiseesoft.com/mxf-converter-for-mac/

System Requirements

    Processor: Intel(R) processor
    OS Supported: Mac OS X 10.4 or above
    Hardware Requirements: 512MB RAM, Super VGA (800×600)
     resolution, 16-bit graphics card or higher.

About Aiseesoft Studio

As a professional multimedia software provider, Aiseesoft Studio is dedicated to developing the best multimedia desktop applications to help the Windows and Mac users smoothly convert, edit and transfer various video/audio files. In order to meet users' various requirements, Aiseesoft Studio constantly brings in new ideas, technologies, etc. To Aiseesoft Studio, Users' satisfaction is a consistent pursuit. For more information, please visit: http://www.aiseesoft.com.

SOURCE  Harbour Software

Harbour Software

CONTACT: Alva Jones of Aiseesoft Studio at Tel: +86-13466759823 or Email: pr@aiseesoft.com

Web Site: http://www.aiseesoft.com/mxf-converter-for-mac/index.html

ZocDoc Launches in Spanish, Helping Improve Access to Medical Care for Hispanic Patients

ZocDoc en Espanol Will Help Patients Find Spanish-Speaking Doctors and Instantly Book Appointments Online

NEW YORK, June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- ZocDoc, a company with a mission of improving patient access to healthcare, today introduces ZocDoc en Espanol - a Spanish-language version of their service which will make it even easier for Hispanic patients to find Spanish-speaking doctors and instantly book appointments online. With more than 1.3 million patients throughout the country already using ZocDoc, the new Spanish-language site will make it even easier for Hispanic patients to use this free service to secure fast access to care.

(Logo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20111128/NY11439LOGO )

ZocDoc allows patients to find a doctor or dentist nearby who accepts their insurance, view the doctor's real-time availability, and instantly book an appointment online. The service also helps patients see a doctor faster; most ZocDoc patients see a doctor in 24 to 72 hours - a vast improvement from the average three week wait that patients in the US experience when seeing a physician.

Nearly 40 percent of doctors listed on ZocDoc speak Spanish, and with the introduction of ZocDoc en Espanol, the company will be able to better serve the fastest-growing population in the US. Currently, more than one in six US residents is Hispanic, and more than half of the growth in the total US population between 2000 and 2010 was due to the increase in the Hispanic population.

"Research shows that language barriers cause patients to delay care, in many cases postponing important preventive checkups and even delaying treatment of more acute health issues," said ZocDoc CEO Cyrus Massoumi. "With the launch of ZocDoc en Espanol, we hope to empower the many millions of Spanish-speaking patients throughout the country to get the fast access to quality care that they need and deserve."

According to the US Census Bureau, more than 60 percent of US Hispanics speak Spanish at home and nearly half of Spanish speakers say they need "English assistance." As health outcomes are largely dependent on flawless communication with healthcare providers, patients who cannot speak with a doctor in their native language are more likely to have poorer health outcomes. Hispanics generally report feeling less understood by their doctors, as well as less able to understand their doctors, and they are twice as likely to leave a doctor's office with unasked questions.

To use this free service, patients simply enter their location, insurance, and the type of doctor they would like to see on the ZocDoc en Espanol website (espanol.zocdoc.com) or the free ZocDoc mobile app. The service then shows local Spanish-speaking doctors' availability, credentials, and verified patient reviews to help patients choose the physician who best fits their needs. Patients then select an available appointment time and complete a brief confirmation process. Additionally, ZocDoc's free mobile apps for iPhone and Android allow patients to find doctors and secure appointments anytime, anywhere - whether the doctor's office is open or closed.

ZocDoc helps empower patients by revealing a hidden supply of doctor appointments (including many last-minute cancellations) and making them instantly available online. This transparency reduces patients' long wait times and increases efficiency for local doctors' practices - a vital service given the country's current doctor shortage.

ZocDoc en Espanol currently offers medical appointments in 19 major metropolitan areas including Atlanta, Austin, Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami-Palm Beach, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Tampa Bay, and Washington, DC.

About ZocDoc

ZocDoc, founded in 2007, is improving access to healthcare by enabling patients to search for doctors, sort by location and insurance accepted, read verified reviews, and instantly book an appointment online or via the free ZocDoc Apps for iPhone, Android, and BlackBerry. More than 1.3 million people use ZocDoc to find a doctor or dentist each month. To learn more about ZocDoc, please visit the ZocDoc press room. Follow the latest ZocDoc news on the ZocDoc blog, via Twitter, or on Facebook.

CONTACT: Jessica Aptman, +1-212-715-8647, press@zocdoc.com

SOURCE  ZocDoc

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20111128/NY11439LOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
ZocDoc

Web Site: http://zocdoc.com

K12 Inc. Expands Online Course Catalog for School Districts

Industry's Largest Online K-12 Course Catalog Now Includes More Middlebury Interactive Languages(TM) and Expanded Electives

HERNDON, Va., June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- K12 Inc., the nation's leading provider of proprietary curricula and online education programs for students in kindergarten through high school, today announced that it has expanded its course catalog available to school districts for the school year 2012-2013.  The company's catalog, the most extensive in the K-12 industry with more than 550 unique online courses and titles, includes over 85 new or enhanced courses and titles, including world languages and expanded electives.

(Logo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110113/PH29436LOGO )

More than 2,000 school districts in all 50 states have chosen K12 to provide curricula, services and support for online and blended learning programs. Over the past decade, the company has delivered over 4 million online course enrollments from its award-winning portfolio, including full-time online programs, credit recovery, core K-12 courses, world languages, AP(®), and high school electives.  New courses for the 2012-2013 school year include:

    --  World Languages - Now K12 offers school districts new and enhanced
        Middlebury Interactive Languages courses.  Combining Middlebury
        College's proven language pedagogy with K12's expertise in online
        learning, schools and districts have access to courses in five world
        languages for grades 3-12, available in multiple levels to help students
        achieve world language fluency.
    --  Expanded Electives - Designed to engage and motivate today's teenagers
        in high-interest subject areas, K12 now offers 19 new high school
        electives including Criminology, Law & Order Legal Studies, Gothic
        Literature, Great Minds in Science, Hospitality & Tourism, International
        Business, Mythology & Folklore, and Introduction to Social Media.
    --  Other New and Updated Courses and Titles - K12 has also added new core,
        remediation and credit recovery courses, as well as updated versions of
        more than 45 existing courses and titles across its catalog.
    --  Common Core Alignment - The company continues to develop all of its
        courses in full alignment with Common Core State Standards, as well as
        other state and national standards.
"Successful online learning begins with world-class curricula, developed by curriculum experts, cognitive scientists, and instructional designers who create courses that are highly effective and engaging to students of all ages and skill levels," said John Olsen, Executive Vice President of Operations for K12.  "We are pleased to offer our newly expanded catalog to school districts as they continue to broaden their use of online solutions to provide their students highly individualized educational experiences in any learning environment - from full-time virtual, to blended, to traditional classrooms."

K12 provides the industry's most complete continuum of online learning solutions, including award-winning curricula and education support services for full-time online learning, online courses, world languages, credit recovery, remediation, assessment, and test readiness. MDR's market research service EdNET Insight recently reported that K12 is the leading provider of online curriculum to school districts across the United States.

For comparison purposes, K12 counts each full, year-long course as a single, unique course; these courses, which are available over two semesters, are not counted as two, unique courses.  In addition, any course that is available in more than one curriculum in the K12 family of brands is only counted as a single, unique course. When counted using methodologies commonly seen within the industry, the K12 catalog has over 850 courses.

About K12 Inc.
K12 Inc. (NYSE: LRN), a technology-based education company, is the nation's largest provider of proprietary curricula and online education programs for students in kindergarten through high school. Using 21st century tools to prepare 21st century students, K12 provides the broadest array of options for students to learn in a flexible and innovative way, at an individualized pace. K12 provides curricula and academic services to public and private schools and districts, traditional classrooms, blended school programs, and directly to families.  K12 is accredited through AdvancED, the world's largest education community. Additional information on K12 for schools and districts can be found at http://www.K12.com/educators.

© 2012 K12 Inc. K12 is a registered trademark, and the K12 logo is a trademark of K12 Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

SOURCE  K12 Inc.

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110113/PH29436LOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
K12 Inc.

CONTACT: Press Contact: Beth Halloran, bhalloran@k12.com, +1-703-436-3263

Web Site: http://www.k12.com

UBM Channel and CRN Announce the 2012 Solution Provider 500 List

List formerly known as the "VAR500" to be published in CRN's upcoming App for iPad

FRAMINGHAM, Mass., June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- UBM Channel today announced the 2012 CRN Solution Provider 500 list, formerly known as the VAR500.  Featuring a new name to more accurately describe their collective business models, the Solution Provider 500 list recognizes the highest producing and most forward-thinking technology integrators and solution provider organizations in North America.  The 18th annual 500 rankings are based on descending order of 2011 revenue.  The 2012 Solution Provider 500 list will be published in its entirety only in CRN's upcoming App for iPad, scheduled to launch in July 2012.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120625/AQ29357LOGO)

The Solution Provider 500 is a ranking of value-added resellers, solution providers and integrators in North America based on their revenue size and forward-thinking approach to the channel. Revenue size is determined by the amount of annual products and services sold over the course of 2011.  Companies with no public documentation were required to submit a notarized affidavit attesting to their 2010 and 2011 revenues.

The top ten business activities for companies on the list are:

    --  IT Consulting Services
    --  Hardware Reselling and Integration
    --  Network/Infrastructure Design and Implementation
    --  Data Center Services and Solutions
    --  Security Services and Solutions
    --  Managed Services
    --  Storage Services and Solutions
    --  Cloud Services and Solutions
    --  Virtualization Services and Solutions
The top ten vendors they sell are:

    --  Microsoft
    --  Cisco
    --  VMware
    --  HP
    --  Dell
    --  IBM
    --  Symantec
    --  Citrix
    --  EMC
    --  Juniper
"The organizations listed in this year's Solution Provider 500 list are today's true integration innovators who generate high revenues by putting their customers' needs first," said Kelley Damore, Vice President and Editorial Director at UBM Channel. "This year's list reflects the continued growth of the IT reseller channel with 78 new companies making the cut.  When you consider the fact that there were 78 new companies on this year's list, with 8% of those companies in the top 100, it speaks volumes about the opportunities available for hard-working upstarts in the IT Channel."

A sample of the Solution Provider 500 list is available online at CRN.com.  The entire 2012 database will be published only in CRN's upcoming App for iPad, scheduled to launch next month.  The CRN Technology News App will provide subscribers exclusive content and full access to our premier Solution Provider lists.  For more information, visit http://www.CRN.com/Tablet.

About UBM Channel

UBM Channel is the premier provider of IT channel-focused events, media, research, consulting, and sales and marketing services. With more than 30 years of experience and engagement, UBM Channel has the unmatched channel expertise to execute integrated solutions for technology executives, managing partner recruitment, enablement and go-to-market strategy in order to accelerate technology sales. UBM Channel is a UBM company. To learn more about UBM Channel, visit us at http://www.ubmchannel.com. Follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/ubmchannel.

UBM plc (http://www.ubm.com)
UBM plc is a leading global business media company. We inform markets and bring the world's buyers and sellers together at events, online, in print and provide them with the information they need to do business successfully. We focus on serving professional commercial communities, from doctors to game developers, from journalists to jewellery traders, from farmers to pharmacists around the world. Our 6,000 staff in more than 30 countries are organised into specialist teams that serve these communities, helping them to do business and their markets to work effectively and efficiently.

Contacts:
Scott Regan, Senior Marketing Manager

UBM Channel

508.416.1186
scott.regan@ubm.com

SOURCE  UBM Channel

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120625/AQ29357LOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
UBM Channel

Web Site: http://www.ubmchannel.com

IP Infusion Helps Network Equipment Manufacturers Transition to Software-Defined Networking Architecture with ZebOS 7.10

ZebOS Platform Software Offers Equipment Manufacturers the Abstraction, Portability and Programmability Required to Deliver Scalable, Reliable Next-Generation Networks

SUNNYVALE, Calif., June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- IP Infusion, Inc., a leading provider of intelligent network software for enhanced Ethernet and IP services, today announced the availability of ZebOS® 7.10 network platform. ZebOS software helps network equipment manufacturers transition to a software-defined networking (SDN) architecture in support of next-generation networking requirements. With this release, ZebOS dramatically improves the bandwidth scaling capabilities of networking equipment to support large-scale virtualized data centers, accelerates the transition to LTE/Evolved 4G and supports the drive for 100 percent application service availability.

"Mobility, Big Data and cloud services are fueling a pace of innovation in networking unlike anything we've seen before. The time to market pressure for OEMs to deliver new and differentiated solutions and take advantage of opportunities created by these trends is also increasing," said Lauren Robinette, Principal Analyst for Cloud and Managed Service at ACG Research. "OEMs are increasingly dedicating the majority of engineering resources to those development efforts that will add the greatest value and differentiation. Using standards-based software-defined networking platforms such as IP Infusion's ZebOS software allows OEMs to avoid product commoditization and delays in product delivery while delivering new solutions as fast as possible."

ZebOS 7.10 provides the platform foundation for building SDN-enabled networking equipment for mobile backhaul, Carrier Ethernet and data center networking. It provides the abstraction, portability, and programmability required to deliver the scalability and reliability of modern networks. With new enhancements to ZebOS 7.10, IP Infusion supports the following next-generation networking requirements:

    --  Comprehensive Bandwidth Scaling for Virtualized Networks - ZebOS 7.10
        adds new technologies to drive the adoption of large-scale virtualized
        data centers in public/private/hybrid clouds. Included in this release
        are the latest drafts of the IETF Transparent Interconnection of Lots of
        Links (TRILL) standard and IEEE Shortest Path Bridging (SPB) as well as
        advancements in IS-IS and BGP route scaling.
    --  Faster Transition to LTE and Evolved 4G networks - ZebOS 7.10 adds
        enhancements that enable the seamless migration from SONET/SDH services
        to Ethernet for mobile backhaul and other applications. Key capabilities
        include technologies such as pseudowire support, linear protection and
        timing protocols that provide the predictability and reliability
        required by traditional SONET/SDN services.
    --  Support for Seven-Nine's Reliability - ZebOS 7.10 supports the industry
        transition from five-nine's network reliability (5.26 minutes of
        unplanned downtime per year) to seven-nine's (3.15 seconds per year) for
        traditional telecommunication and new cloud services. IP Infusion is
        adding a high availability framework based on OpenSAF 4.2, providing
        application service framework checkpointing, as well as control plane
        functionality to ensure graceful restart and stateful switch failover.
ZebOS is a comprehensive standards-based Layer 2 and Layer 3 network platform that enables network equipment manufactures to accelerate the development of SDN-based architectures for next generation mobile backhaul, Carrier Ethernet, and Data Center/Cloud networks. The network platform is designed based on the key tenets of SDN: control/data plane separation, abstraction and portability of network services, and network programmability. The modular design enables network equipment manufacturers to optimize solutions for their specific market requirements. ZebOS supports more than 200 protocols that conform to leading IEEE, IETF and MEF industry-specific standards and implementation agreements. When combined with the Advanced Hardware Integration Software and HA modules, ZebOS provides the ability for customers to quickly enter new markets, release new networking capabilities, and adopt new cost-effective silicon to meet the new time-to-market requirements.

"Both consumers and enterprises depend on reliable and scalable networking services, which is putting exponential pressure on network equipment providers to rethink how they design and build next-generation networking equipment," said Sandy Orlando, Vice President of Marketing at IP Infusion. "Our latest announcement provides customers with a networking platform to build modular networking solutions with the highest levels of scalability and reliability. The ZebOS modular architecture provides a foundation for transitioning networking equipment to an SDN architecture."

Follow IP Infusion on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.

About IP Infusion

IP Infusion is the Software-Defined Networking (SDN) company relied on for more than a decade by equipment manufacturers to help deliver products faster with lower costs and better differentiation. Over 250 customers, including all major networking equipment manufacturers, use IP Infusion's SDN platform ZebOS® to build products that address the evolving needs of cloud, carrier and mobile networking. IP Infusion's technology is deployed in networks with the highest levels of reliability across five continents that transport billions of mobile messages and provide the foundation for public, private and hybrid clouds. IP Infusion is headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif., and is a wholly owned and independently operated subsidiary of ACCESS CO., LTD.

©2012 IP Infusion. All Rights Reserved. IP Infusion(TM), IP Infusion logo and combinations thereof are registered trademarks, and ZebOS® is a trademark of IP Infusion. Other terms and product names may be trademarks of others.

Media Contact
Majhon Phillips

+1 (408) 727-0351
majhonphillips@mcgrathpower.com

SOURCE  IP Infusion, Inc.

IP Infusion, Inc.

Najafi Companies to Acquire Assets and Business of Cinram

TORONTO, June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ - Cinram International Income Fund (TSX:
CRW.UN) (together with its subsidiaries, "Cinram" or the "Fund"), one
of the world's largest providers of multi-media products,announced today that it has reached agreements with newly formed
subsidiaries of Najafi Companies (collectively, "Najafi") for the sale
of substantially all of Cinram's assets and businesses in the United
States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France and Germany.

"Cinram is a market leader in its industries with a long track record of
best in class performance," said Jahm Najafi, CEO, Najafi Companies.
"We look forward to a seamless transition for our customers, and to
build on Cinram's significant base of strengths and expertise."

"We look forward to joining with Najafi Companies," said Steve Brown,
CEO, Cinram. "Cinram will continue its focus on strengthening its
competitive position in the market with a much stronger financial
footing."

Details of the transaction terms and process are summarized in the
schedule to this release.

Moelis & Company acted as financial advisor to Cinram.

About Cinram

Cinram International Inc., an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of the
Fund, is one of the world's largest providers of pre-recorded
multimedia products and related distribution and logistics services.
With facilities in North America and Europe, Cinram International Inc.
manufactures and distributes pre-recorded DVDs, Blu-ray discs, audio
CDs, and CD-ROMs for motion picture studios, music labels, publishers
and computer software companies around the world.. The Fund's units are
listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol CRW.UN. For more
information, visit our website at http://www.cinram.com.

About Najafi Companies

Najafi Companies is a private investment firm whose current portfolio
companies include Direct Brands, Actissia, SkyMall, Trend Homes and
Snowflake Power. The firm makes highly-selective investments up to $1
billion in transaction value in companies with strong management teams
across a variety of industries. The firm takes a long-term view on its
investments and focuses its efforts to create value through growth and
superior performance.

Certain statements included in this release constitute "forward-looking
statements" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such
forward-looking statements include statements concerning the possible
effects of the transactions described herein, and the likelihood of
their successful completion. Such forward-looking statements involve
known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may
cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Fund to be
materially different from any future results, performance or
achievements expressed or implied by such forward looking statements.
These risks may affect the achievement of the expected results of the
transactions described herein. The transactions are subject to
conditions, and there can be no assurance that the said transactions
will be successfully completed or that, if completed, the expected
consequences will result in whole or in part, and the deviations from
such expectations may be material.

Schedule - Summary of Transaction Terms

Implementation Process

The transaction will be implemented through a court-supervised process.
Cinram has applied for and obtained an order from the Ontario Superior
Court of Justice (Commercial List) to commence proceedings under the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA). These proceedings are limited to Cinram's operations in North
America, Cinram will also be seeking recognition of its CCAA
proceedings under applicable U.S. laws. These CCAA proceedings do not
apply to Cinram's European businesses.

The hearing for the approval of the sale transaction and a vesting order
of the purchased assets will be scheduled before the Ontario Superior
Court of Justice (Commercial List).

The court restructuring process is not expected to affect Cinram's
day-to-day operations. Cinram has access to the funding necessary to
maintain its operations and the operations will continue without
disruption during this period. Cinram will operate its business in the
ordinary course, including continuing to pay its suppliers for all
goods and services through the course of the court restructuring
process.

Lender Support

The sale transaction has the support of members of the steering
committee of lenders under Cinram's senior secured credit facilities.
Cinram anticipates further support of the sale transaction from
additional lenders following the public announcement of the
transaction.

Details of the sale transaction

The sale transaction includes the following key elements:

        --  Najafi will purchase substantially all of the assets used in
            Cinram's core businesses for the manufacture of pre-recorded
            multimedia products and the provision of related logistics
            services, digital media solutions and outsourced vendor
            management inventory services in North America and
            substantially all of the European business.

        --  The sale transaction is subject to customary conditions,
            including receipt of approval under the Investment Canada Act
            and completion of other regulatory processes, and receipt of
            any other requisite approvals, in North America and Europe.

        --  Najafi will continue to fulfill Cinram's obligations to its
            customers and suppliers in respect of any of the acquired
            assets or business.

        --  The sale transaction is expected to close by early August,
            2012, although the transfer of portions of the business may
            occur later in the year.

Assets excluded from the sale transaction include the assets used in
Cinram's telecommunications products logistics services (the "Wireless
Business") and certain real estate assets.

The proceeds of the sale transaction, and proceeds generated from the
excluded assets, will be used to repay Cinram's senior creditors (and
will not be available for distribution to unitholders).

SOURCE  Cinram International Income Fund

Cinram International Income Fund

CONTACT:  John H. Bell
Tel: 416.332.2902
johnbell@cinram.com
Anne Robertson
The Lavidge Company
(Public relations advisor to Najafi Companies)
480- 998-2600
arobertson@lavidge.com

Collabnet's New TeamForge Delivers Integration, Visibility and Reporting for ALM and Enterprise Cloud Development

Major release helps teams orchestrate multiple tool sets, including enterprise Git and Subversion across hybrid development processes and cloud environments

BRISBANE, Calif., June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- CollabNet® (http://www.collab.net), a global leader for Enterprise Cloud Development and Agile ALM products and services, today announced a major new release of its TeamForge® ALM platform. The new version delivers on CollabNet's enterprise cloud strategy by incorporating new tools and functionality to help IT organizations better manage, collaborate and drive value using hybrid development processes and environments. Significantly, TeamForge now offers the industry's only combined platform for Git and Subversion usage and management. Other new features include integrated code review and search, and enterprise planning and reporting to help orchestrate hybrid development processes and DevOps both on-premise or across any cloud - private, public or internal.

"Integration and orchestration are critical factors for organizations that are transforming development via cloud, Agile and DevOps initiatives," said Chris Clarke, VP of product management. "This latest release of TeamForge adds important functionality and tools to the platform, provides tighter coupling to CloudForge(TM) and leverages the CollabNet Connect framework to help customers better orchestrate the entire software development and deployment lifecycle."

CollabNet's TeamForge is the industry's most complete and open platform for building and deploying vital applications by distributed teams. Using TeamForge, enterprise IT organizations can leverage a mix of technology processes, commercial and open source tools, and deployment applications through both on-premise deployments or as an offering within its CloudForge enterprise cloud platform. TeamForge simplifies and manages the growing complexity of rapidly increasing iterations, global distributed teams, the hybrid use of processes, tools and clouds, and supports the need to increase collaboration throughout the entire ALM lifecycle - plan, code, track, build and test, lab management, release and report.

Major new features of TeamForge include:

Orchestration across Tools and Clouds
TeamForge now natively embeds a number of newly added open source tools, including Git, Gerrit and ReviewBoard, commercial partner tools, including Black Duck® Code Sight(TM), as well as provides significant enhancements to its Jenkins/Hudson integration. These newly added tools work completely within the TeamForge platform to orchestrate and integrate cloud services, such as build, test and code sharing, into a team's development processes - from public or private clouds, such as Amazon EC2 and CloudForge.

Single Platform for Git and Subversion
TeamForge's newly added Git Distributed Version Control System (DVCS) capabilities work alongside the existing Subversion capabilities, making it possible to achieve enterprise-wide development coordination, release practices and governance across a hybrid mix of SCM technologies and SCM server locations. Git and Subversion access is governed within TeamForge to enable project security and compliance across the organization via a rich set of roles-based access controls.

In addition, TeamForge also has embedded Gerrit, a leading code review and security management tool to deliver fine grained permissions for Git. By adding in Gerrit, ReviewBoard, and Code Sight, TeamForge provides a rich set of capabilities to improve developer productivity and code quality by automating code search and discovery, code review and continuous integration and delivery.

Planning, Measurement and Reporting
TeamForge now provides improved organizational-wide planning, measurement and reporting to support DevOps processes. A datamart collects metrics across tools and clouds to provide executives with integrated dashboards and detailed reporting. In addition, new Agile reporting and planning provides story point burn-downs, planning by flexible units and graphical task boards. Collectively, the new capabilities help teams deliver high-quality applications on-time and on-budget, and provide new visibility and actionable information for optimizing resource allocation to improve software quality and reduce compliance risks.

"Users are demanding more integration, not only within offerings from a single vendor, but across best-of-breed requirements, coding or test tools from multiple sources." says Jim Duggan, Research VP at Gartner in the July 2011 "Hype Cycle for Application Development, 2011" report. "Federated ALM tools are focused on planning, management, measurement and reporting. This new generation of tools also enables sharing of data, as well as cross-activity, cross-project and cross-tool rollups for more effective control and delivery of development projects."

For more information on the latest release of TeamForge, or to attend a free webinar outlining the new capabilities, please visit (http://www.collab.net/teamforge6.2).

Share This Story Via Twitter: #CollabNet releases update to #TeamForge for improved #ALM and enterprise #cloud development #ECD. Visit: http://www.collab.net

About CollabNet

CollabNet is a leading provider of Enterprise Cloud Development and Agile ALM products and services for software-driven organizations. With more than 10,000 global customers, the company provides a suite of platforms and services to address three major trends disrupting the software industry: Agile, DevOps and hybrid cloud development. Its CloudForge development-Platform-as-a-Service (dPaaS) enables cloud development through a flexible platform that is team friendly, enterprise ready and integrated to support leading third party tools. The CollabNet TeamForge® ALM, ScrumWorks® Pro project management and Subversion Edge source code management platforms can be deployed separately or together, in the cloud or on-premise. CollabNet complements its technical offerings with industry leading consulting and training services for Agile and cloud development transformations. Many CollabNet customers improve productivity by as much as 70 percent, while reducing costs by 80 percent. For more information, please visit (http://www.collab.net).

CollabNet, TeamForge, and ScrumWorks are registered trademarks of CollabNet, Inc.  CloudForge is a trademark of CollabNet, Inc.  Subversion is a registered trademark of the Apache Software Foundation. Other names may be trademarks of their respective holders.

Contact:
Christie Denniston
Catapult PR-IR
M: 303-827-5164
O: 303-581-7760
cdenniston@catapultpr-ir.com

SOURCE  CollabNet

CollabNet

Web Site: http://www.collab.net

ftopia And Brother(TM) Partner To Deliver Desktop Integration And "One-Touch Pull Scanning" To The Cloud

Business Teams Can Now Efficiently Scan-to and Operate Brother(TM) Scanners and All-in-Ones from the Cloud

SAN FRANCISCO and BRIDGEWATER, N.J., June 25, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- ftopia, a global provider of cloud-based data collaboration and storage services, and Brother International Corporation, premier provider of products for the home, home office and office, today announced a partnership that enables businesses to securely scan files and directly upload them to the ftopia cloud service. The partnership marks the first cloud-based file sharing and storage solution that is part of Brother Online, a suite of smart, web-based business services and solutions. 

The new one-touch desktop integration allows businesses to perform the following functions within the ftopia "secure rooms":

- Operate Brother(TM) scanners and all-in-ones directly from the ftopia application

- Scan to ftopia cloud service, directly to the desired location

- Quickly and seamlessly distribute scanned documents for collaboration

- Immediately share important documents with outside parties - thanks to ftopia "shared workspaces"

- Help replace error-prone workflows like scanning to USB keys and attaching files to e-mail communications

Users simply subscribe to the ftopia service and register their Brother devices online. Then they place the documents in the feeder, trigger a one-touch pull scan from the ftopia workspace and the file is directly sent as a PDF to the desired ftopia cloud location.  Users will have immediate access to the file from the ftopia workspace and if they are using the ftopia desktop application feature, the file is also automatically synchronized to their local hard drive, allowing users to view and annotate the image even if they are offline.

This integrated solution comes on the heels of the launch of OmniJoin(TM) web and video conferencing service from Brother, also part of the Brother Online offering.  Brother Online will continue to add a variety of scanning and workflow solutions, which will complement and expand the value of Brother scanners, printers, and Multi-Function Center® devices.

"More and more organizations are reducing paper in their offices. Yet to do this in a scalable way today involves USB keys, emails--all sorts of workflows which ftopia was created to simplify," said Philippe Honigman, CEO of ftopia. "Integrating with Brother scanners fulfills the need to be able to efficiently move documents from paper to the cloud in a secure and reliable way. Archiving documents or sending a digital copy of that supplier agreement has never been easier."

"Brother recognizes the power of cloud services for customers. This web-based aid can help reduce the burden on IT and help organizations digitize hard-copy information thus allowing users to better deliver it and share it.  The combination of ftopia services and Brother scanners and all-in-ones, can help users communicate data that historically has been locked in printed form," said Dan Waldinger, Director of Marketing, Solutions & Services at Brother." 

The integration of Brother hardware, with web-based services from ftopia, provides one-touch pull scanning to the cloud, and is available immediately. For more information about this integrated solution, visit http://www.brothercloud.com and http://www.ftopia.com.

About ftopia
ftopia is a Software as a Service (SaaS) provider based in Paris, France and San Francisco (CA). Incorporated in 2009, ftopia harnesses cloud computing to deliver innovative, scalable, secure, and cost-efficient online file-sharing solutions to professionals and businesses. Our goal is to enable professional users to share information easily, securely, and instantly with their teammates, customers, and partners - no matter where they are or what network endpoint they use. ftopia is a privately-held company with offices in Paris, San Francisco (CA), Dublin, and Stuttgart.

About Brother
Brother International Corporation is one of the premier providers of products for the home, home office and office. The U.S. corporate office in Bridgewater, N. J., was established on April 21, 1954 and currently markets many industrial products, home appliances and business products manufactured by its parent company, Brother Industries, Ltd. of Nagoya, Japan.

These products include an award-winning line of Multi-Function Center® machines and printers. Brother also provides the number-one line of facsimile machines in the U.S. and is the leader in electronic labeling, with its full line of P-touch® Electronic Labeling Systems. For more information you can visit the website at http://www.brother.com.

SOURCE  Brother International Corporation

Brother International Corporation

CONTACT: Kirsten Swenson, MSLGROUP Americas, +1-781-684-6533, kirsten.swenson@mslgroup.com; Martin Pannier, ftopia, 1-888-414-8768, press@ftopia.com

Web Site: http://www.brother.com