Premier Exhibitions, Inc. to Open Two Unbelievable Exhibitions at South Street Seaport
COMPANY ANNOUNCES OPPORTUNITY TO EXPERIENCE A WORLD WITHOUT SIGHT IN NEW EXHIBITION STARTING SUMMER 2011; "DIALOG IN THE DARK"
ALSO DEBUTS REDESIGNED, INTERACTIVE BODIES... THE EXHIBITION OPEN FEBRUARY 4th
NEW YORK, Feb. 4, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Premier Exhibitions, Inc. (Nasdaq: PRXI) today announced that it is bringing its newest blockbuster exhibition, Dialog in the Dark, this summer 2011 to South Street Seaport in New York City. Dialog in the Dark will appear alongside Premier's mega-blockbuster BODIES...The Exhibition, which opens its new fully redesigned, interactive experience today, February 4th.
Dialog in the Dark, is hailed as a unique and inspiring exhibition, which replicates familiar environments and challenges individuals to perform tasks without the use of their sight. Visitors will be escorted through galleries in total darkness where NYC-centric scents, sounds, temperatures and textures will come alive and turn daily routines into an unforgettable experience. Relying solely on guides from the New York area who are blind or visually-impaired, visitors will be expertly and securely led through a variety of interactive environments. Dialog in the Dark will ultimately leave visitors with a lasting appreciation of a full range of senses, which are often taken for granted.
"Dialog in the Dark is a thought-provoking, memorable experience that we are thrilled to showcase in New York City this summer," says Chris Davino, Chief Executive Officer of Premier Exhibitions, Inc. "When you eliminate the ability to see, those things that we deem as familiar appear in a whole new way, transforming us forever. Coupled with our newly redesigned BODIES exhibition, we hope these two incredible opportunities allow visitors to walk away with new insights and perspectives on how we function every day."
In addition, The Company today unveiled a newly-enhanced BODIES...The Exhibition at the historic South Street Seaport. On display since November 2005, BODIES...The Exhibition underwent a month-long redesign to offer a more interactive, awe-inspiring experience for visitors. The enhanced Exhibition offers a glimpse into one of the universe's most complex systems - the human body. Showcasing more than 225 real human body specimens, 130 never-before-seen in New York, the Exhibition leads visitors through striking, informative galleries. Each gallery provides an up-close look inside a specific system, including skeletal, muscular, reproductive, respiratory and circulatory. Through the visitor's journey the exhibition also offers informative video installations and new hands-on experiences, including a specimen touch booth and Mindball, a unique interactive game where two players control a ball with their brain waves.
"The newly customized BODIES...The Exhibition in New York City is spectacular," states Kris Hart, Chief Marketing Officer of Premier Exhibitions, Inc. "We have incorporated fantastic new educational opportunities and never-before-seen components to this, our flagship Exhibition. We are excited to welcome visitors to explore the updated Exhibition as it truly shows 'life uncovered' in a remarkable way."
A recipient of worldwide acclaim since its inception, BODIES...The Exhibition has attracted millions of visitors in New York as well as additional cities, including Las Vegas, Washington DC, London, Sao Paulo, Barcelona and Prague. The specimens in the Exhibitions are preserved through a revolutionary technique called polymer preservation. In this process, human tissue is permanently preserved using liquid silicone rubber that is treated and hardened. BODIES...The Exhibition recently celebrated its fifth anniversary in New York City by breaking the Guinness Book of World Records for "Most High Fives in One Hour."
Atlanta-based Premier Exhibitions, Inc. is presenting Dialog in the Dark through an extensive long-term licensing agreement with the global originator of the exhibition, Andreas Heinecke. Andreas Heinecke, CEO and founder of Dialogue Social Enterprise, has overseen the success of this exhibition as it has grown in popularity around the world for the last 20 years. Dialog in the Dark has been showcased in over 30 different locations worldwide and visited by more than seven million people. As part of his groundbreaking work, Heinecke was awarded a Fellowship in 2005 by Ashoka, a global organization which recognizes social entrepreneurs who work for change and strive to make a positive social impact through innovative solutions.
"Dialog in the Dark is not an ordinary exhibition, but rather a platform for communication and exchange between cultures," states Andreas Heinecke. "The exhibition has provoked a change in perspectives, challenging our skills and perceptions towards human diversity. We are thrilled to work with Premier Exhibitions to enhance the experience of Dialog in the Dark and continue the success we have seen worldwide."
Weekdays:
Adult - $26.50
Senior (60+) - $22.50
Military w/ ID - $22.50
Children (4-12) - $20.50
Family Package -$79 (4 tickets for a
family of 4)
Weekend/Holiday:
Adult - $27.50
Senior (60+) - 23.50
Military w/ID - $23.50
Children (4-12) - $21.50
Family Package - $79.00
About Premier Exhibitions Inc.
Premier Exhibitions, Inc. is a major provider of museum-quality exhibitions throughout the world. Premier Exhibitions Inc. is a recognized leader in developing and displaying unique exhibitions for education and entertainment. The Company's exhibitions present unique opportunities to experience compelling stories using authentic objects and artifacts in diverse environments. Exhibitions are presented in museums, exhibition centers and other entertainment venues. The company produces Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, BODIES...The Exhibition, Bodies Revealed and Dialog in the Dark. More information about Premier Exhibitions, Inc. is available at http://www.prxi.com.
About Dialogue Social Enterprise GmbH
Dialogue Social Enterprise creates exhibitions and workshops in either complete darkness - >>Dialogue in the Dark<< (DiD) - or absolute silence - >>Dialogue in Silence<< (DiS) -, facilitated by blind or deaf guides and trainers. We build platforms for encounter, where deficits turn into potentials. Dialogue-Programs help overcome disability-related prejudices, while empowering disabled people through employment.
Dialog in the Dark is a brand of Dialogue Social Enterprise
SOURCE Premier Exhibitions, Inc.
Premier Exhibitions, Inc.
CONTACT: Lizzie Jenkins, +1-212-445-8146, ejenkins@rogersandcowan.com, or Lauren Wilsman, +1-212-445-8486, lwilsman@rogersandcowan.com
Spread Betting Management: Trading Without the Trading Platform
LONDON, February 4, 2011/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The markets never sleep. With spread betting providers such as City Index
(http://www.cityindex.co.uk/) allowing traders to speculate on indices and
stocks from around the globe, technically twenty-four hour trading is
possible. In reality though, to sit at a trading desk around the clock would
be unwise, unhealthy and impossible. However, it would be equally unwise to
open a position and leave it running without any precautions. So what can you
do to maximise your spread betting potential away from the trading platform?
1) Exit Strategy
Some traders focus their analysis on finding the perfect entry price
point for their spread bet. While this is important, the price at which you
plan to exit the spread bet is of equal value. Concentrating on stop losses
and limit orders can be an effective way of managing your trading away from a
computer.
2) Timeframe Consideration
Having the ability to react quickly to market movements can make a
significant difference in short-term spread betting. For this reason, unless
you have constant access to a trading platform and your spread betting
account, it may be worth considering more medium to long-term spread betting.
For a short-term trader there can be a lot of pressure to frequently check
the markets, which can lead to spread betting mistakes and indecision.
3) Mobile Trading
Mobile trading
(http://www.cityindex.co.uk/trading-platform/mobile-trading-platform.aspx)
now accounts for 15 percent of trades with City Index. Market Strategist
Joshua Raymond believes this is down to the greater level of autonomy it
allows traders. "The ability to trade whenever they want and wherever they
are is completely where we feel the industry is going. No longer are you
restricted to making spread bets in front of the computer."
You can get more out of your spread betting with a free City Index
seminar. Find out more here:
Today more and more individual traders are discovering the benefits of
derivatives, and many of them are discovering them through a City Index
trading platform.
As a group, we transact in excess of 1.5 million trades every month for
individuals in over 50 countries worldwide. We provide access to a wide range
of instruments including margined foreign exchange, contracts for differences
(CFDs) and, in the UK, spread betting
We constantly look to widen the range of assets we offer, improve the
performance of our platforms and expand the range of services we provide. The
result is that our customers benefit from innovative trading tools with
transparent pricing, competitive spreads, and a high standard of customer
service and support. For more information, visit http://www.cityindex.co.uk/trading-platform/
Spread betting and CFD trading are leveraged products which can result in
losses greater than your initial deposit. Ensure you fully understand the
risks.
iPhone is a trademark of Apple Inc. App Store is a service mark of Apple
Inc.
Source: City Index
Contact: Joshua Raymond, City Index Group, Tel: +44(0)20-7107-7002, Email: joshua.raymond@cityindex.co.uk, Jonathan Smith / Alex Nekrassov, New Century Media, Tel: +44(0)20-7930-8033, Email: jsmith@newcenturymedia.co.uk / alexnekrassov@newcenturymedia.co.uk
Verizon Wireless has Record Sales on First Day of iPhone 4
Available to General Public on Feb. 10
BASKING RIDGE, N.J., Feb. 4, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- At 8:10 p.m. EST yesterday, Verizon Wireless ceased online orders of iPhone 4 to existing customers and ended the most successful first day sales in the history of the company.
"This was an exciting day," said Dan Mead, president and chief executive officer for Verizon Wireless. "In just our first two hours, we had already sold more phones than any first day launch in our history. And, when you consider these initial orders were placed between the hours of 3 a.m. and 5 a.m., it is an incredible success story. It is gratifying to know that our customers responded so enthusiastically to this exclusive offer - designed to reward them for their loyalty.
"I am proud of our employees who worked tirelessly to strengthen and scale our systems, enabling unprecedented customer orders through our website. Overall, it was a very good day," he added.
?Mead also said customers will have another opportunity at being among the nation's first to own an iPhone 4 on the Verizon Wireless network.
"Yesterday's launch set the pace for next week when we open up sales to everyone across America."
The general market launch of the iPhone 4 on the Verizon Wireless network will occur on Feb. 10. The company will open its more than 2,000 Verizon Wireless Communications Stores at 7 a.m. It will also be available at all Apple store locations, Best Buy, select Wal-Mart stores, and online at http://www.verizonwireless.com and http://www.apple.com.
About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's fastest and most advanced 4G network and largest and most reliable 3G network, and serves more than 94 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 82,000 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: MEDIA - Brenda Boyd Raney of Verizon Wireless, +1-908-559-7518, Brenda.Raney@verizonwireless.com
IndiaMART.com Brings Innovation in its Brand Campaign to Reach Out to More SMEs
NEW DELHI, February 4, 2011/PRNewswire/ --
- To Have Fixed Presence in all Pages of Economictimes.com for Entire
Duration of Campaign
- Have Shoshkele on the Economic Times & Times of India
Websites too
- Sponsor SME Section of Budget on Economictimes.com
- Highlight the Benefits of Going Online to SMEs Through Such Presence
As an extension to the nationwide SME (Small and Medium Enterprises)
awareness drive, IndiaMART.com, India's largest online B2B marketplace, is
set to receive maximum exposure through its online campaign. With a fixed
presence on all the pages of economictimes.com, IndiaMART.com aims to
capitalise on the opportunity by reaching out to a huge base of SMEs through
this endeavour. The B2B marketplace will also incorporate shoshkele
extensively on Times of India and Economic Times websites too. Reiterating on
the need to focus on the SMEs, it has also decided to sponsor the SME section
of Budget on economictimes.com.
Commenting on the massive drive undertaken, Mr. Dinesh Agarwal, Founder &
CEO, IndiaMART.com, said, "Internet has become an integral part of every
business and brought every market within reach. Our brand awareness drive is
an extension of our core objective of weaving a robust eco-system for SMEs in
the online space. We are trying to realise this through several innovations
such as fixed presence on all pages of economictimes.com; shoshkele et al.
With the nationwide drive now in full swing, we are upbeat about the
outcome."
IndiaMART.com started with its campaign last month and has made rapid
progress in creating a buzz in the industry. Attempting to build a rich
business network for SMEs, IndiaMART.com has intensified its awareness drive
by taking it to the next level. The launch commenced with high fervour
covering leading newspapers, magazines, radio stations, websites and outdoor.
In its last campaign, IndiaMART.com had undertaken a similar drive that
extended its reach across nation through radio, print media, online campaign.
Going beyond the usual, IndiaMART.com, through the ongoing drive will get
enhanced visibility that will create a roadmap to reach out to SMEs present
in all the corners of the country.
About IndiaMART.com
IndiaMART.com is India's largest online B2B marketplace connecting global
buyers with suppliers through business directories, online product catalogs,
buy-sell offers, industry specific marketplaces, printed media and trade
shows participation.
Founded in 1996 by Mr. Dinesh Agarwal (CEO), the company has a pan-India
presence in over 100 cities. With over 2400 employees located across 55
offices in the country, IndiaMART.com offers an extensive range of value-
added products and services to its 1 million registered members and nearly 5
million global buyers across various industries and verticals.
IndiaMART.com has won numerous awards over the years and has been widely
covered by media such as CNBC, BBC, BusinessMoney, CNN, Businessworld,
Economic Times, Financial Express, etc for its pioneering role in promoting
SME business in the country. Its existing investors include Intel Capital and
Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd (Times Group), India's largest print media group.
OEConnection Unveils Next-generation Dealer Parts Portal
OEC 2.0 IS NEW COMPREHENSIVE PARTS E-COMMERCE PLATFORM
RICHFIELD, Ohio, Feb. 4, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- OEConnection LLC announced today the release of OEC 2.0, a next-generation solution that encompasses leading OEConnection web-based products integrated into a complete parts e-commerce platform. OEC 2.0 is designed to provide automotive dealer franchises with the most productive, efficient and cost-effective solution for managing their wholesale parts businesses. Built upon OEConnection's new service-oriented architecture, the solution promises greatly- improved application interoperability and enhanced user productivity.
OEC 2.0 offers dealerships a single solution for managing replacement parts inventory and trade with other dealerships, body shops, independent repair facilities, and fleets. Featuring the most widely-used parts sourcing and marketing tool in the industry, OEC 2.0 gives users online access to parts from manufacturers, dealers, and authorized distributors. The new product also features all-makes online parts ordering and fulfillment capabilities for collision and mechanical replacement parts enabling dealerships to improve service to wholesale customers and compete more aggressively with the aftermarket. To provide dealers with greater insight into their parts business, a data mining and reporting tool is included, providing access to information on overall inventory effectiveness, parts movement, customer activity, and "score-card" reports relative the local market.
"For ten years, OEConnection has been unmatched at building powerful technology solutions that bring high value to automakers, new car dealerships, and their customers," said Charles Rotuno, President & CEO of OEConnection. "OEC 2.0 represents the next-generation solution to help dealers increase customer satisfaction, improve efficiency, and grow OE parts sales, offering our customers a new level of usability and operational efficiency," Rotuno added.
Using a single, user-friendly interface, dealership wholesale parts departments will benefit from streamlined business processes as well as standardized exchanges of information. For example, a wholesale parts dealership will have the ability to easily locate and buy parts online, sell OE parts to other dealerships, market and reduce idle inventory, sell collision and mechanical parts to body and repair shops, generate a parts sales market report, and much more - all within the same familiar web-based application.
Available to automotive franchise dealerships at special bundled pricing, OEC 2.0 promises the greatest value and savings for OEConnection online technologies.
About OEConnection LLC
OEConnection is the leading Online Parts & Service Exchange (OPSX) in the automotive industry and beyond, serving over 20,000 dealership and repair customers. Customers use OEConnection products over 5 million times each month to market, manage and move original equipment parts, facilitating an estimated $12 billion in annual replacement parts trade. The company is headquartered in the greater Cleveland area at 4205 Highlander Parkway, Richfield, Ohio, 44286. Additional information is available at http://www.oeconnection.com or by emailing Marilyn Thaxton at Marilyn.Thaxton@OEConnection.com.
India's First Web TV 'Indiavibes' Launches & Silicon Valley Based Potmax LLC Signs a Deal that Enables Joint Production/Marketing of Indian and American Content Across Both Countries
SANTA CLARA, Calif. and KOCHI, India, Feb. 4, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Kochi based Vibes Visual & Media Pvt Ltd signs an agreement with Hollywood based Potmax LLC operating from Santa Clara enabling the later to sell its content in US markets and likewise to enable joint marketing as well as production activities. Vibes Media had recently launched India's first Web TV -Indiavibes on Jan 1st 2011. Being a production company, Vibes has the capacity to rise above the line, as is evident from its approach with Indiavibes which made such an agreement possible with a US firm in such a short span.
Potmax LLC works in the forefront to provide fresh content to the market and has been operational for two years. The present agreement with Vibes enables it to provide good quality content at a very competitive price.
Vibes media aims to market and sell its content in US market through its association with Potmax LLC and also setting up joint production activities in the future.
In recognition of the close commitment between the two companies, Andrine Mendez joins Potmax LLC as an Advisory Board Member, effective immediately.
"We are very humbled and honored to have such an agreement and believe that this will bring new dimension in bringing Indian content & Entertainment Industry to a global level," Andrine Mendez said as he announced about the formal agreement here in Cochin.
Neil Banerjee, CFO/Founder of Potmax LLC, said "This is a great opportunity for Potmax and takes the company a step further into international content production and distribution. This is a real example of silicon valley style innovative approach towards bringing new ideas together and create new strengths to expand the scope on an international level. This agreement with Indiavibes will provide avenues for talents to have a greater platform to launch themselves. We are ecstatic to find a partner that is equally forward looking and share a similar vision."
About Indiavibes TV
Indiavibes covers all categories like fashion, music, films, business, technology, blogging, lifestyle, current affairs and almost everything that this century and the years ahead would ever need. Public can access Indiavibes' contents from http://www.indiavibes.tv
About Potmax LLC
Potmax LLC (http://www.potmax.com and http://www.potmax.net) stands for maximizing the potential through talent identification, Audio visual content creation through international collaboration with vision to provide avenues to open up doors for communities, artists and individuals by providing expertise and services in this internet age.
SOURCE Potmax LLC
Potmax LLC
CONTACT: Neil Banerjee of Potmax LLC, +1-408-431-5101, info@potmax.com
Audiovox Announces Definitive Agreement to Acquire Klipsch
Purchase signals Company's entrance into high-end performance speakers to both retail and commercial channels
HAUPPAUGE, N.Y., Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Audiovox Corporation (Nasdaq: VOXX), announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Klipsch Group Inc. and its worldwide subsidiaries ("Klipsch") for total consideration of $166 million, subject to certain contingencies and adjustments, plus related transaction fees and expenses. Klipsch, headquartered in Indianapolis, is a global leader in providing high-performance audio solutions serving the residential, professional and personal listening markets. Klipsch Group products are sold through premier retail, online, and distribution channels around the world.
The acquisition is expected to be financed by a combination of existing Audiovox cash and a new asset-based revolving credit facility from Wells Fargo Capital Finance, LLC that will also be used for operating capital. The combined assets of Audiovox and Klipsch will secure the borrowings under the financing commitments and the Company expects the transaction to close within 30 days. Subsequent to the close of the transaction, Audiovox expects to have excess availability under the credit facility for general corporate purposes. However, there is no assurance at this time that this transaction will be completed.
This transaction is expected to be accretive to cash flow and earnings per diluted share ("EPS") in fiscal 2012 inclusive of all costs for financing. The Company noted that on a pro-forma basis, for the latest twelve months ended November 30, 2010, revenue for the combined companies approximates $742.2 million compared to $573.1 million for Audiovox as a stand-alone company.
Patrick Lavelle, President and CEO of Audiovox Corporation stated, "This transaction will add the world renowned Klipsch Group brands- Klipsch, Jamo, Energy and Mirage- and its world class management team- to the growing Audiovox family of companies. This highly respected company has for over 60 years been synonymous with premium high-end audio solutions, and today enjoys the well-deserved reputation as 'The' preeminent audio brand for residential, professional and personal listening use. They have a strong and stable base of retail, e-commerce, commercial distribution, and professional installation business partners in North America, Europe and around the world. Klipsch Group provides an outstanding new distribution channel for our company to reach the home and commercial installation markets."
Klipsch will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Audiovox and will be run as a stand-alone operation in Indianapolis, and will continue under the leadership of the current management team. We are highly confident that this acquisition will result in both near and long term value growth for our shareholders and enhance our position in the premium audio category for years to come.
Fred Klipsch, Chairman and CEO of Klipsch Group, Inc. stated, "Our team looks forward to partnering with Audiovox and with the additional resources Audiovox has to offer accelerating our domestic and global growth. Klipsch remains focused on providing our customers with the best speaker solutions in the industry, maintaining our deep customer and supplier relationships and leveraging our world class employee base. Klipsch Group will continue to be 'The' innovative premium speaker provider our partners expect and trust."
Lavelle added, "While Klipsch will operate as a stand-alone company, we see many opportunities to leverage distribution, global brand development, and brand expansion in areas such as OEM automotive and professional audio."
Wells Fargo Securities, LLC acted as exclusive financial advisor to the Company and Wells Fargo Capital Finance, LLC provided the committed debt financing. Houlihan Lokey Howard & Zukin acted as financial advisors to the Klipsch Group and Vantage Point Venture Partners. Barnes & Thornburg LLP served as legal counsel for Klipsch Group. Duane Morris LLP assisted as legal counsel for Audiovox Corp.
About Audiovox
Audiovox (Nasdaq: VOXX) is a recognized leader in the marketing of mobile and consumer electronics products and accessories. The company has a substantial International operation selling products through offices in Europe, Asia, Venezuela and Mexico. In addition, the company is a supplier of Original Equipment (OE) both domestically and internationally to a significant number of the major vehicle manufacturers in the world.
Among the lines marketed by Audiovox are its mobile entertainment products including rear seat entertainment systems, mobile multimedia systems and satellite radio. Vehicle security, remote start and collision avoidance products round out our mobile electronic lines. Our consumer electronics products include digital camcorders, DVRs and Internet radios. We also supply high end TV remote controls, wireless speakers, headphones, the leading line of HD indoor/outdoor antennas, connectivity products, and personal sound amplifiers.
You can find Audiovox products in virtually every distribution channel from the world's largest retailers to car dealers to small independents. The company owns over twenty global brands and markets its products domestically primarily under Audiovox, RCA, Jensen, Acoustic Research, and Advent. Key European brands include Magnat, Mac Audio, Heco, Schweiger and Oehlbach. For additional information, visit our Web site at http://www.audiovox.com.
About Klipsch Group, Inc.
Founded in 1946 by Paul W. Klipsch, one of America's most celebrated audio pioneers, and then acquired by Fred and Judy Klipsch in 1989, Klipsch has long been a high-end name in speaker design. Today, the brand continues its success as a leading global manufacturer of premium sound solutions for home, personal and commercial use. From massive professional cinema speakers to tiny headphones, Klipsch remains committed to delivering the most powerful, detailed and emotional sound experiences. The products sold by Klipsch include home theater systems, floorstanding speakers, bookshelf speakers, center speakers, surround speakers and sound systems, subwoofers, headphones, flat panel speakers, architectural speakers, outdoor speakers, iPod/Computer speakers, cinema speakers, business music systems, accessory products and more. For more information, visit http://www.klipsch.com.
Safe Harbor Statement
Except for historical information contained herein, statements made in this release that would constitute forward-looking statements may involve certain risks and uncertainties. All forward-looking statements made in this release are based on currently available information and the Company assumes no responsibility to update any such forward-looking statement. The following factors, among others, may cause actual results to differ materially from the results suggested in the forward-looking statements. The factors include, but are not limited to risks that may result from changes in the Company's business operations; our ability to keep pace with technological advances; significant competition in the mobile and consumer electronics businesses as well as the accessories business; our relationships with key suppliers and customers; quality and consumer acceptance of newly introduced products; market volatility; non-availability of product; excess inventory; price and product competition; new product introductions; the possibility that the review of our prior filings by the SEC may result in changes to our financial statements; and the possibility that stockholders or regulatory authorities may initiate proceedings against Audiovox and/or our officers and directors as a result of any restatements. Risk factors associated with our business, including some of the facts set forth herein, are detailed in the Company's Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2010.
Company Contact:
----------------
GW Communications
Glenn Wiener, President
Tel: 212-786-6011
Email: gwiener@GWCco.com
Azavea, George Mason University and Harvard University Present District Builder, an Open Source Web-based Redistricting Application
PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of their Public Mapping Project, Dr. Michael P. McDonald of George Mason University and Dr. Micah Altman, Senior Research Scientist at Harvard University Institute for Quantitative Social Science, have teamed up with Azavea, a geospatial analysis (GIS) software development company, to develop District Builder (http://www.publicmapping.org/resources/software), an open source, web-based redistricting application. The software is designed to give the public access to online redistricting tools and can be configured to redistrict any state or locality within the United States.
Every ten years, city council, state legislature and congressional district boundaries must be redrawn to reflect the nation's growing and shifting population. Legislators and political consultants shift district boundaries according to their own political interests, often at the expense of the citizens they represent. The Public Mapping Project's District Builder enables redistricting authorities to solicit public input and open government watchdog groups to allow the public to generate redistricting plans for their state and localities. Users select blocks, tracts, counties, or other geographies, and assign them to districts. As districts are edited, users view demographic information, population count and other statistics. They can save their plans, share them with others, and generate summary reports.
The code can be downloaded and installed on an organization's servers or run using Amazon.com hosting infrastructure. The Public Mapping Project's website lists instructions for accessing the software at: http://www.publicmapping.org/resources/software. Several organizations have committed to using the software. The Wason Center for Public Policy at Christopher Newport University and the Public Mapping Project are sponsoring the Virginia College and University Legislative Redistricting Competition, which will utilize District Builder: http://www.varedistrictingcompetition.org. The Midwest Democracy Network will host instances of the software for use by its member organizations. Later in February, Azavea will launch a local version for Philadelphia, demonstrating how District Builder can be used at the local level.
Azavea is no stranger to political and redistricting projects. In 2009, the firm released "Redistricting The Nation" (http://www.redistrictingthenation.com), a website providing the public with better information about the legislative redistricting process and tools that encourage fair representation and competitive elections.
The Public Mapping Project is supported by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, the Joyce Foundation, and the Judy Ford Wason Center at Christopher Newport University.
About Azavea
Azavea is an award-winning geospatial analysis (GIS) software development firm specializing in the creation of location-based web and mobile solutions, as well as geospatial analysis services to enhance decision-making. Visit http://www.azavea.com
About the Public Mapping Project
The Public Mapping Project is comprised of a coalition of people who believe that democracy works best when the public is engaged. The principal investigators of the project are Dr. Michael McDonald and Dr. Micah Altman. Visit http://www.publicmapping.org/
MeeGenius! Partners With Leading Educational Entertainment Products - So Smart
Virtual Book Store Rings in the New Year with So Smart Partnership
NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- MeeGenius!, the premier virtual bookstore for enhanced children's stories, has partnered with leading educational entertainment products So Smart. Available on the Web at http://www.MeeGenius.com, iTunes App Store, Google TV and the Google Chrome Webstore, MeeGenius! offers a selection of classic children's stories - both old and new - and adorns each story with advanced technological features such as word highlighting, digital recording, audio playback and character personalization.
Available exclusively on the MeeGenius! Website and App are So Smart stories including the following favorite titles, "Away We Go," "Where Do We Sit," "What to Wear," "Edward's Kite" and "Iggy's Wagon." So Smart is the leading creator and producer of top rated educational entertainment products for you children.
Parents, Wandy Yeap Hoh and David Park, are the entrepreneurs behind MeeGenius! The pair created MeeGenius! with the view of making reading more engaging and interactive, and as a way to share their love of reading with children everywhere. "David and I shared a dream of building a business by and for families that could educate and stimulate the imaginations of our children - that is the foundation of MeeGenius!" said Yeap Hoh. MeeGenius' founders plan to expand their offerings to thousands of entertaining children's books over the years to come.
One Economy Forms Council of City and State Leaders To Deliver Broadband Adoption Solutions
80 Elected Officials Join National Technology Adoption Advisory Council
WASHINGTON, Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- One Economy, a global nonprofit at the forefront of bringing broadband opportunity to underserved communities, announced today the launch of a leadership forum of this country's leading municipal and state elected officials called the National Technology Adoption Advisory Council (NTAAC). One Economy's NTAAC is a coalition of elected officials who have consistently made increased access to technology a part of their civic platforms and who are dedicated to securing public and private sector funding to support sustainable broadband adoption initiatives.
The launch of the NTAAC comes just a few weeks before the anticipated release of the National Technology Information Agency's National Broadband Map. One Economy National Engagement Officer BMaynard Scarborough has been tapped to lead this initiative.
"Technology adoption is imperative to the future and economic strength of this nation," said Kelley Dunne, President and CEO, One Economy Corporation. "During his recent State of the Union address, President Barack Obama made a commitment to bring 98% of Americans online over the next five years. We are closer to making that mission a reality with the active engagement and dedication of bi-partisan elected leaders like those who now make up the National Technology Adoption Advisory Council."
The mission of the NTAAC is to convene, support and empower local and state governments in their effort to leverage broadband to improve their communities and the lives of their constituents. The Council represents the interests of their constituents as it relates to policy, legislative and administrative developments on the national level, and together they will generate a blueprint on how local elected officials can utilize various broadband technologies to drive workforce development, education improvement, and economic growth.
"We have an unprecedented opportunity to bring digital opportunity to every city and state in the nation," said NTAAC Co-Chair and Birmingham City Councilor Johnathan F. Austin (District 5). "One Economy and this council have a wealth of knowledge, ideas, expertise and partnerships that can, and will create a sustainable broadband adoption program nationwide."
NTAAC is a bi-partisan council with upwards of 80 elected officials from across the United States including Alabama, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Washington, D.C., Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin. Click here for full list of members.
"While the members of the NTAAC come from communities with unique constituents and needs, we share a common vision in the need of 21st century technology in improving the economic, education and health outcomes of our communities," said Michigan State Representative, Maureen L. Stapleton (District 4-Detroit), Co-Chair of the NTAAC. "I look forward to working with this council and One Economy in bringing forward solutions to universal technology access."
The NTAAC is Co-Chaired by Birmingham City Councilor Johnathan F. Austin (District 5) and Michigan State Representative Maureen L. Stapleton (District 4-Detroit), along with a six member executive panel comprised of leadership from one (1) representative from the Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, Northeast, Northwest/West, Southeast and Southwest Regions. The NTAAC will convene its inaugural strategy session in Washington, D.C. in early March 2011, and will conduct quarterly regional progress forums.
ABOUT ONE ECONOMY
One Economy is a global non-profit that uses innovative approaches to deliver the power of technology and information to low-income people. More than 19 million people have used One Economy's online tools and resources on its Public Internet Channel http://www.pic.tv to build better lives. To date, One Economy has launched on the ground programs in 42 U.S. states, Africa, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East.
SOURCE One Economy
One Economy
CONTACT: Carol Gregory, +1-202-393-4577, cgregory@one-economy.com
Independent Global Study Confirms IsatPhone Pro as the Ultimate Handheld Satellite Phone
LONDON, February 3, 2011/PRNewswire/ --
- IsatPhone Pro Performance and Features Compared to Iridium 9555 and
Thuraya XT
An independent study of three latest-generation handheld satellite phones
has validated Inmarsat's claims for IsatPhone Pro, and concluded that it
outperforms the Iridium 9555 and Thuraya XT in a number of critical areas.
The global research programme, commissioned by Inmarsat, was conducted
over a two-month period in 16 locations around the world by TelAstra, Inc.,
an international telecommunications consultancy with extensive experience of
satellite communications. They undertook a fully-independent comparison study
of the three satellite phones using the six published claims made by Inmarsat
for IsatPhone Pro: global coverage; robust handset; clear voice quality;
reliable network connection; long battery life; and ease of use.
"All the satphones have pluses and minuses, and all of them would be
acceptable with various limitations," said Roger Rusch, TelAstra, Inc. "But
unquestionably, IsatPhone Pro is the best. It works everywhere and is the
most rugged. The voice quality is excellent, it has a reliable network
connection, and the longest battery life of the three satphones. It is also
easy to use.
"Although we were not asked to compare the price of the satphones or
satphone services, it appears that IsatPhone Pro prices are significantly
less expensive, and the service rates appear to be highly competitive as
well. IsatPhone Pro would be our choice regardless of affordability or any
other single issue," he said.
The comprehensive Satphone Comparison Study from TelAstra, Inc. provides
extensive data on the user experiences of two researchers and their
conclusions.
TelAstra, Inc. verified the global coverage of IsatPhone Pro, with
consistent performance in all 16 locations, from Anchorage to Zimbabwe. The
study also acknowledged the global coverage provided by Iridium, although it
noted frequent connection denials and disconnections. No claims of global
service are made for Thuraya XT.
In mechanical drop tests to measure the robustness of the three handsets,
IsatPhone Pro led the group; the only effect of half-metre and metre drops
was a loose battery cover, which was easily put back in place before
successfully making a call. The Thuraya XT experienced a damaged antenna,
while the Iridium 9555 suffered the most extreme damage, with a cracked case
and broken antenna, and was not functional after the drop tests.
Voice quality on IsatPhone Pro was frequently reported as clear and
"better than cellular". The Iridium 9555 provided similar voice quality under
the best conditions, but the study found that it sometimes offered "terrible
call quality". The researchers reported Thuraya XT's voice quality as
slightly inferior to the other two handsets even in the best conditions,
although not significant enough to be a factor.
The study found that the IsatPhone Pro took between 72 to 120 seconds to
obtain an GPS fix and make a call. For subsequent calls, and without the need
to get another GPS fix, IsatPhone Pro was ready for calls within 10 to 34
seconds. Thuraya XT also acquired very quickly, the study found.
The study found that the Iridium 9555 was ready for dialling within 31 to
40 seconds. However, while the availability of IsatPhone Pro and Thuraya XT
was essentially 100% during the entire testing programme, the researchers had
to wait for between 5 and 12 minutes to connect to the Iridium network on
several occasions.
Similarly, while IsatPhone Pro and Thuraya XT offered reliable
connections, the researchers experienced frequent dropped calls with the
Iridium 9555. They conclude that "it seems impossible to have an extended
call on Iridium 9555 without interruption... Our experience was that most of
the time the Iridium service is hit or miss".
In comparison, TelAstra, Inc. found IsatPhone Pro to be "remarkably
stable". The researchers commented in the report: "We routinely talked while
walking around Palos Verdes, Los Angeles, for 20 minutes or more. We had two
1.5-hour and one 2.5-hour uninterrupted stationary calls during the battery
capacity tests."
Tests on the battery life of the three handsets showed that IsatPhone Pro
had the longest talk time and stand-by time, with measured talk time of 7
hours 45 minutes (against a published claim of 8 hours) and measured stand-by
time of 84 hours (against a published claim of 100 hours). This compared to a
talk time of 5 hours 6 minutes, and stand-by time of 30 hours, for the
Iridium 9555; and talk time of 6 hours 19 minutes, and stand-by time of 38
hours 30 minutes, for the Thuraya XT.
The study looked at a range of areas to assess the phones' ease of use.
It found that, while the keypads of IsatPhone Pro and Iridium 9555 were large
enough to use while wearing gloves - essential in certain environments - the
smaller keypad of the Thuraya XT was more likely to cause input errors. The
researchers found that all screens were difficult to read in bright sunlight;
in dim light, the monochrome screen of the Iridium 9555 was the hardest to
read. The study found that all handsets were convenient to hold while talking
or walking.
"We know that satellite phone users apply these six criteria when judging
a service, which is why we designed IsatPhone Pro to perform well in these
areas," said Drew Brandy, Director of Land Business at Inmarsat. "We were
highly confident that we were offering the market leading service, but the
hard facts of this independent study now confirm it. This is an extensive
piece of research, conducted globally, and it validates all of our claims."
A video interview with Roger Rusch, detailing the research programme and
explaining the findings, is available at YouTube (http://bit.ly/satcomp).
The research programme was undertaken by Roger Rusch and Charles Emmert
of TelAstra, Inc., veterans of the satellite communications industry, in late
2010.
They visited 16 locations: Finland (Helsinki and Kaustinen); Italy
(Lake Como, Milan and Rome); Japan (Tokyo); Singapore; South Africa
(Johannesburg); United Arab Emirates (Dubai); United Kingdom (London); United
States of America (Anchorage, Fairbanks, Los Angeles, New York and West Palm
Beach); Zimbabwe (Victoria Falls).
About Inmarsat
Inmarsat plc (LSE: ISAT) is the leading provider of global
mobile satellite communications services. Since 1979, Inmarsat has been
providing reliable voice and high-speed data communications to governments,
enterprises and other organizations, with a range of services that can be
used on land, at sea or in the air. The company's services are delivered
through a global network of more than 400 distribution partners and service
providers operating in 100 countries. For the year ended 31 December 2009,
Inmarsat plc had total revenue of US$1,038.1 million (2008: US$996.7 million)
with an EBITDA of US$594.2 million (2008: US$531.2 million). For more
information, please visit http://www.inmarsat.com .
Source: Inmarsat plc
Media Contact: John Warehand, PR Manager, Inmarsat, Tel No: +44-20-7728-1579, Mob: +44-7739-778128, Email: john_warehand@inmarsat.com
doddle to Announce New Partnership With Independent Filmmaker Project
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla., Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- doddle, a digital database of filmmaking resources available in the United States, UK and soon, the entire world, is pleased to announce its partnership with Independent Filmmaker Project, the nation's oldest and largest non-profit for independent filmmakers with over 10,000 members worldwide.
doddle creators Jim Robertson and Rich Kwiat will be designing new technology exclusively for members of the IFP, which will assist filmmakers in fulfilling their creative visions. Through their customized application for mobile devices, IFP members will have exclusive access to the most up-to-date services, advice, and tools necessary to bring their work from script to screen.
"We are honored to be partnering with the IFP, a great organization that supports independent filmmakers all over the world," say Robertson and Kwiat. "The vision we had when creating doddle is in tandem with the mission of the IFP: to provide resources necessary for any filmmaker, anywhere in the world, and we are thrilled to be able to use our technology to assist IFP's 10,000 members in realizing their creative visions."
In addition to the IFP industry directory, access to FILMMAKER Magazine, as well as online panels & workshops from IFP's signature programs, the service will include doddle's database, which boasts over a million listings for vendors, crew, talent, hospitality, food, film offices, and other resources necessary for developing, producing and distributing film and media projects at all budget levels.
IFP's Executive Director Joana Vicente, producer of over 40 feature films and documentaries, says "doddle's technology and IFP's resources are the perfect match, allowing our members to access the information necessary for every stage of their creative process whenever, wherever. This new service is incredible tool to facilitate production and more importantly, empower artists the world over."
About IFP:
Independent Filmmaker Project is the nation's largest and oldest non-profit organization that supports independent filmmakers. Through its year-round signature programs, including Independent Film Week, Independent Filmmaker Labs, The Gotham Independent Film Awards and its publication, FILMMAKER Magazine, IFP supports over 350 filmmakers each year and over 7,000 since its inception.
doddle is a database of resources for the film and television industry. Listings include vendors, crew, talent, hospitality, food, film offices, and more across the country, in the UK and soon all over the world. It is available as an app and as an online directory at http://www.doddleme.com, and industry leaders are beginning to call doddle the "New Bible" for anyone planning a film or television project. doddlePRO, which debuted at Sundance Film Festival 2011, allows users to create and share patent-pending, digital call sheets using their iPhones, reducing and hopefully ultimately eliminating the amount of paper needed during a film project.
Return to the Kingdom of Ehb! DUNGEON SIEGE III to Launch May 31, 2011
Square Enix Reveals Preorder Incentives for Reincarnation of Classic Action-RPG Franchise
LOS ANGELES, Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Square Enix, Inc., the publisher of SQUARE ENIX® interactive entertainment products in North America, announced today that DUNGEON SIEGE® IIIwill be available at North American retailers on May 31, 2011. Developed by Obsidian Entertainment(TM), Inc., the all-new incarnation of the classic action-RPG franchise will make its debut on high-definition home video game consoles alongside its familiar place on PC Windows-based machines. This May, players will experience the much-awaited next chapter in the DUNGEON SIEGE lore on the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system and the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft and Windows PC.
In DUNGEON SIEGE III, players assume the role of one of four heroes, fighting for the sake of their fallen comrades and to restore the land of Ehb. Conflict is constant in this action-RPG and decisions have lasting consequences, allowing players to alter the storyline. Choose to do battle as a lone hero or fight for honor in the co-op mode with up to three friends. Thanks to the robust AI, DUNGEON SIEGE III's co-op multiplayer mode allows players to seamlessly drop in and out of battle without interrupting the action or impacting the campaign.
In addition, Square Enix is offering exclusive incentives for players who preorder DUNGEON SIEGE III at the following retail outlets:
PREORDER PROGRAMS
GameStop
Receive two exclusive in-game items by preordering at GameStop
-- Burning Band of Scorch
This exclusive preorder in-game ring increases the raw damage of
a player's attacks and sets all foes ablaze with any weapon.
-- Talisman of the Grand Mage
This exclusive preorder in-game necklace reduces incoming damage
on the player and grants the ability to lash out with a mystical
attack that injures enemies in close-range combat.
Steam
Relive the classic DUNGEON SIEGE I and DUNGEON SIEGE II games as a
gift with purchase through Steam
Players who prepurchase DUNGEON SIEGE III will get three games for
the price of one, as Valve will offer single-player versions of
both DUNGEON SIEGE I and DUNGEON SIEGE II as free downloads for PC
-- platforms.
Amazon.com
Receive a limited preorder exclusive in-game ring
-- Bite of the Arakun
Grants the player the ability to poison enemies with lingering
injury or soften their defenses, leaving them vulnerable for
follow-up attacks.
Best Buy
Another exclusive preorder in-game amulet
-- Sacred Heart of the Legion
Increases a player's health and pushes close combat assailants
back each time the bearer is struck in battle.
Walmart
Mini-comic and strategy guide
Pick up the DUNGEON SIEGE mini-comic from Dark Horse Comics and a
free mini-strategy guide from Prima Games with a preorder at
-- Walmart.
-
"DUNGEON SIEGE has returned and it's better than ever. We [Square Enix] have partnered with Obsidian to bring this critically acclaimed classic franchise back in an all new, re-imagined form," said Ami Blaire, vice president of marketing at Square Enix, Inc. "With its heart-pounding action, epic lore and an endless variety of quests, DUNGEON SIEGE III is a must-have for any video game collection."
Prepare to honor thy legion and reclaim the kingdom of Ehb in the ultimate DUNGEON SIEGE experience on May 31, 2011. For more information and to preorder now, visit: http://www.dungeonsiege.com.
About DUNGEON SIEGE III
Story
Torn asunder, the delicate balance of power between the kingdom of Ehb's factions has fallen apart. As one of the few remaining members of the disgraced protectors of the land, the 10th Legion, it is up to you to rebuild the once great Legion and prevent Ehb from descending into darkness. Joined by a group of unique companions, you will travel through the striking land of Ehb defeating all manner of villains and beasts through a combination of heroic abilities, screen-shaking magic and pure cunning.
DUNGEON SIEGE III seamlessly blends intuitive action gameplay, a robust RPG system featuring a large selection of abilities, an extensive multiplayer component and the depth of story Square Enix and Obsidian Entertainment are known for creating.
Features
-- Experience DUNGEON SIEGE on high-def consoles for the first time.
-- Adventure solo or with friends in drop-in, drop-out co-op multiplayer.
-- Uncover a deep story that only Square Enix and Obsidian Entertainment
can deliver.
-- Choose one of four highly customizable heroes with a wide range of
abilities.
-- Recruit companions with unique personalities, abilities and views on the
world around them.
-- Make weighty decisions that impact alliances, enemies and ultimately the
storyline of the game.
DUNGEON SIEGE III is not yet rated. Please visit the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) website at http://www.esrb.org for more information about ratings. For more information about DUNGEON SIEGE III, please visit the official website at: http://www.dungeonsiege.com.
About Square Enix, Inc.
Square Enix, Inc. develops, publishes, distributes and licenses SQUARE ENIX®, EIDOS® and TAITO® branded entertainment content throughout the Americas as part of the Square Enix Group. The Square Enix Group operates a global network of leading development studios and boasts a valuable portfolio of intellectual property, including: FINAL FANTASY®, which has sold over 97 million units worldwide; DRAGON QUEST®, which has sold over 54 million units worldwide; TOMB RAIDER®, which has sold over 35 million units worldwide; and the legendary SPACE INVADERS®. Square Enix, Inc. is a U.S.-based, wholly-owned subsidiary of Square Enix Holdings Co., Ltd.
Obsidian Entertainment is an entertainment software development company passionately dedicated to making high quality role playing games for Windows PC and console systems. Obsidian was founded in 2003 by five game development veterans who've produced, programmed and/or designed award-winning role playing games for a variety of platforms over the last 15 years: Feargus Urquhart, Chris Parker, Darren Monahan, Chris Avellone and Chris Jones. Obsidian Entertainment's Web site can be found at http://www.obsidian.net.
DUNGEON SIEGE, DRAGON QUEST, EIDOS, FINAL FANTASY, SQUARE ENIX, SQUARE ENIX logo, SPACE INVADERS, TAITO and TOMB RAIDER are registered trademarks or trademarks of the Square Enix group of companies. OBSIDIAN ENTERTAINMENT is a trademark of Obsidian Entertainment, Inc. "PlayStation" is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment. Windows, Xbox, Xbox 360 and Xbox LIVE are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies. All other marks are the properties of their respective owners.
SOURCE Square Enix, Inc.
Square Enix, Inc.
CONTACT: Elizabeth Stewart or Sonia Im of Square Enix, Inc., +1-310-846-0400, na.pr@square-enix.com; or Jennifer Poulson, +1-310-248-6113, jennifer.poulson@ogilvypr.com, or Adam Ly, +1-310-724-5964, adam.ly@ogilvypr.com, both of Ogilvy Public Relations, for Square Enix, Inc.
Technology Expertise and Entrepreneurial Leadership Combine To Create Industry-Leading Service Provider
RALEIGH, N.C. and CHAMPAIGN, Ill., Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Pavlov Media and Wavelength Corporation are pleased to announce that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement. Wavelength, headquartered in Raleigh, NC is a wholesale provider of managed data, video and low-voltage construction services to student and traditional apartment communities. Pavlov Media, headquartered in Champaign, IL provides both wholesale and retail managed data, video and voice services to student, military and luxury multifamily housing communities.
The merger creates a powerful and unique company that will service 100,000 users in 35 states with a full range of wireless and wired turn-key solutions.
"We are excited about this transaction and are confident it will mean great things for Wavelength, our customers, partners and vendors," said Eric Teague, Co-founder and CEO of Wavelength.
Mark Scifres, Founder and CEO of Pavlov Media said, "The two firms have been in careful discussions for years, we know each other well and agree the time has come to leverage our resources and respective talents. We think the impact of this merger will be transformative to our customers."
Wavelength will join the family of Pavlov Media subsidiaries and will continue to operate using the Wavelength brand. Eric Teague will join Pavlov Media as the Executive Vice President and Chief Business Development Officer.
Glenn Meyer, Senior Vice President for Corporate Development for Pavlov Media stated, "We are excited about this transaction and the opportunity to partner with the Wavelength team. This deal makes tremendous sense for both companies as our geographic markets are aligned, our skill sets are complimentary and the economies of scale are significant. Wavelength's management team has proven their ability to build a world-class team, design innovative solutions and to create value for their customers."
Bob Grosz, Executive Vice President and Chief Sales Officer for Pavlov Media commented, "This merger offers us the unique opportunity to combine the strengths of our two organizations. Additionally, this merger will improve the quality of the user experience in both Internet and video. Pavlov Media is a leader in this space with a strong reputation for delivering cutting edge solutions. Together, we will be providing a variety of solutions and real quality choices to the vast majority of the national apartment developers in this country."
About Wavelength Corporation:(http://www.gowavelength.com) Wavelength Corporation headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina is one of the nation's premier providers of broadband services (video and data) to the multi-family real estate market. The company currently serves over 20,000 users in 28 states throughout the country. For information regarding this press release or the company please contact:
Eric Teague
(252) 756-4481
About Pavlov Media: (http://www.pavlovmedia.com) Pavlov Media, founded in 1994 and Headquartered in Champaign, Illinois, is one of the nation's largest private providers of broadband services (Video, Data and Voice) to multi-family real estate owners. In addition the company, through its citywide and regional networks, offers commercial grade services in several of its larger markets. Pavlov operates in 70 markets throughout the country. For information regarding this press release or the company please contact:
Glenn Meyer
(425) 503-0943
SOURCE Pavlov Media
Pavlov Media
CONTACT: Eric Teague of Wavelength Corporation, +1-252-756-4481; or Glenn Meyer, +1-425-503-0943, for Pavlov Media
Nutrisystem Introduces New BMI App for the iPhone(TM) to Help Americans Stay on Track to Reach Their Health and Weight Loss Goals
Free Downloadable BMI App is the Latest Addition to the Nutrisystem Suite of Weight Loss Management Mobile Apps
FORT WASHINGTON, Pa., Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Nutrisystem, Inc. (Nasdaq: NTRI), the number one home delivery weight loss program, today announced the expansion of its line-up of weight loss management mobile applications with the launch of its new BMI (body mass index) app for the iPhone(TM). The new app, which is downloadable for free at (http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/bmi-body-mass-index/id410449057?mt=8#), will provide Nutrisystem members and non-members with an engaging way to quickly and easily assess their BMI, as well as track and monitor changes in BMI over time.
BMI is an effective way to estimate healthy body weight and one of the most widely used diagnostic tools to help identify health and weight problems. The Nutrisystem BMI app for the iPhone features the ability to:
-- Calculate BMI in seconds and tell the user if he/she is underweight,
healthy or overweight
-- Generate a basic diet plan to help improve and maintain an ideal BMI
-- Save and track BMI data
-- Provide reminders for regular BMI checks
"When it comes to healthy living, knowing and monitoring your BMI is a very important step in the right direction. At Nutrisystem, we feel that it is our mission to help all Americans lead a healthier lifestyle," said Chris Terrill, Chief Marketing Officer of Nutrisystem. "With the introduction of this new, free BMI app for the iPhone, we're making it simple for anyone - members and non-members alike - to measure their BMI and make positive changes to improve their health."
Added Terrill, "This app is the latest addition to Nutrisystem's suite of health and weight loss mobile apps. It furthers our commitment to serving as a leader in the mobile space for weight loss management solutions."
The introduction of the new Nutrisystem BMI app for the iPhone follows Nutrisystem's announcement that it has conducted an extensive revamp of its food program. Last month, Nutrisystem announced that it is incorporating its highest scoring, best tasting fresh frozen gourmet foods into all of its weight loss plans at the lowest price in the Company's history. The Nutrisystem 28-day program will now include one-third frozen foods and two-thirds of pantry foods and comes with a gourmet money back guarantee and free shipping.
The Nutrisystem® Select® Plan, available only in the Continental U.S., can be purchased by calling the Nutrisystem hotline 1-800-891-3215 or logging onto http://www.nutrisystem.com.
About Nutrisystem, Inc.
Nutrisystem, Inc. (Nasdaq: NTRI) is the number one home delivery weight loss company. Nutrisystem is sold direct to the consumer through nutrisystem.com, by phone, and at select retailers, with convenient home delivery. The Company offers proven nutritionally balanced weight loss programs designed for women, men, and seniors, as well as the Nutrisystem® D(TM) program, specifically designed to help people with type 2 diabetes who want to lose weight and manage their diabetes. The Nutrisystem programs are based on more than 35 years of nutrition research and the science of the low glycemic index, and offer a variety of great tasting, satisfying high-fiber, good carbohydrate meals that are heart healthy. Nutrisystem was named the "Least Expensive Home Delivery Program" by CBS Money Watch in January 2011. The program has no membership fees and provides 24/7 weight management support and counseling by trained weight loss coaches and online weight management tools free of charge. Nutrisystem proudly supports the American Diabetes Association in its movement to Stop Diabetes(TM) and WomenHeart, The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease, in its mission to bring about a greater awareness of the link between heart disease and obesity. For more information or to become a customer visit http://www.nutrisystem.com or call 1-800-891-3215. Follow Nutrisystem on Twitter @nutrisystem and on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/nutrisystem.
Apple is a trademark of Apple, Inc, registered in the U.S. and other countries. iPhone is a trademark of Apple, Inc. Content purchased from the iTunes Store is for personal lawful use only. Don't steal music.
SOURCE Nutrisystem, Inc.
Nutrisystem, Inc.
CONTACT: Susan McGowan, +1-215-706-5392, smcgowan@nutrisystem.com
PinksandGreens.com-Hits a Hole in One for Women's Golf Fashion
NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- In the world of women's golf, slightly masculine and unflattering clothing has always been the prevailing norm. However in April 2009, PinksandGreens.com set out to revolutionize this realm of fashion and to bring a brand new style to the game of golf. Today, just shy of its two year anniversary, PinksandGreens has become the ultimate one-stop destination for chic, fashionable women's golf apparel and accessories featuring over 30 brands.
"Almost all of our first-time customers remark that up until they found PinksandGreens.com they have had extreme difficulty finding fashionable golf clothes," explains PinksandGreens.com founder Allison Dorst. "As a golfer myself, I knew how difficult it was to find stylish things to wear on the course."
PinksandGreens is also consistently praised for their excellent customer service and complimentary personal shopper service. Chief Customer Officer Victoria Sacco gives insight behind PinksandGreens customer service relationships, "Every one of the employees at PinksandGreens has personally tried on all the brands we feature. We all have personal experience with the cut, sizing and feel of the brands we carry and can offer customers first-hand knowledge when making sizing or style suggestions." Whether a customer is putting together a single outfit or completely revamping their entire golf wardrobe, PinksandGreens offers extensive feedback to ensure the customer is purchasing the proper size and style for their individual needs.
Dorst also spoke about new additions to the site and trends coming for the Spring 2011 season. "I'm excited to announce we're seeing the return of the golf dress. Dress loving golfers will certainly adore these pieces as they are the ultimate fusion of active wear with feminine charm." PinksandGreens will be featuring golf dresses from brands such as Nike Golf, A|U|R|, and Annika.
Another positive highlight for the world of women's golf apparel was the addition of new sizes. "I found many women's golf fashions were not available on both sides of the size spectrum: size 0 and plus sizes. I started discussion threads on our Facebook page, Twitter and other social media outlets to find out what clothing styles and sizes our customers wanted to see more of. I forwarded all of the comments to our vendors hoping they would see the increased need for change. The voices of Dorst and her customers were certainly heard. This spring season PinksandGreens will be featuring an expanded sizes with brands such as EP Pro which now cuts to size 22 in bottoms and size 1X in tops and GG Blue with a size 0.
The newcomer GG Blue made its PinksandGreens debut in Fall of 2010 and is quickly becoming a hit with customers. GG Blue is fashion forward, functional and flexible. The GG Blue collections demonstrate that golfing and resort wear can be both beautiful and comfortable without sacrificing functionality.
Extreme Networks Brings Networking to OpenStack Cloud as Newest Member of Open Source Movement
Open Source Cloud Initiative Adds Open Standards Ethernet Switching Leader to Impressive List of Vendors and Cloud Service Providers Creating Cloud Solution
SANTA CLARA, Calif., Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Extreme Networks, Inc., (Nasdaq: EXTR) today announced its membership in the OpenStack(TM) community, an open source cloud operating system founded by Rackspace® and NASA, furthering its mission to deliver high- performance virtualized network infrastructure that transitions customers to the cloud. Now with more than 50 participating companies, Extreme Networks has joined the premier open source cloud software initiative focused on driving open cloud standards.
"Extreme Networks has long been an innovator in open standards-based, high-performance networking," said Mark Collier, Vice President of Community Development and Marketing for OpenStack at Rackspace. "As networking will play a key role in the evolution of the cloud, we look forward to Extreme Networks' active participation in helping to evolve the networking layer of the OpenStack cloud."
OpenStack brings together a dedicated community of cloud service providers and technology vendors focused on building open source software infrastructure for public, private and hybrid cloud architectures. As a new member, Extreme Networks will focus on integrating and automating the networking layer of OpenStack architectures, enabling advanced service layer capabilities and end-to-end provisioning of resources.
With the emergence of private and public cloud architectures, the OpenStack open source initiative will accelerate the deployment of open and interoperable cloud services. A key component to enabling cloud services is defining and integrating network-level functionality into the stack with the goal of creating a fully automated and self-provisioning cloud infrastructure.
"OpenStack shares our vision of open and scalable cloud computing, and has already proven to be a leader in providing open source cloud-based solutions to the marketplace," said Kevin Ryan, director of Data Center Solutions Marketing for Extreme Networks. "The OpenStack community is positioned to define how cloud services are built and delivered."
With its high-performance data center solutions, the BlackDiamond® and Summit® switches running the ExtremeXOS® operating system, Extreme Networks is well suited to deliver high performance cloud-based networking infrastructure. With advanced data center features including XNV(TM) and Direct Attach(TM), the company has been a leader in integrating across multi-vendor virtualized environments in Managed Hosting, Cloud and Enterprise environments.
About Extreme Networks, Inc.
Extreme Networks provides converged Ethernet network infrastructures that support data, voice and video for enterprises and service providers. The company's network solutions feature high performance, high availability and scalable switching solutions that enable organizations to address real-world communications challenges and opportunities. Operating in more than 50 countries, Extreme Networks provides wired and wireless secure LANs, data center infrastructure and Service Provider Ethernet transport solutions that are complemented by global, 24x7 service and support. For more information, visit: http://www.extremenetworks.com
Extreme Networks, the Extreme Networks logo, Direct Attach, BlackDiamond, Summit, and ExtremeXOS and XNV are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Extreme Networks, Inc. in the United States and other countries. All other names are the property of their respective owners.
Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters set forth in this press release, including without limitation statements as to features and benefits of Extreme Networks products, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date. Because such statements deal with future events, they are subject to risks and uncertainties, including network design and actual results of use of the product in different environments. We undertake no obligation to update the forward-looking information in this release. Other important factors which could cause actual results to differ materially are contained in the Company's 10-Qs and 10-Ks which are on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. http://www.sec.gov
SOURCE Extreme Networks, Inc.
Extreme Networks, Inc.
CONTACT: Greg Cross of Extreme Networks Public Relations, +1-408-579-3483, gcross@extremenetworks.com
SALT LAKE CITY, Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- simplyXcart(TM) (http://www.simplyxcart.com), a company offering niche a la carte solutions to X-CART storefront owners, recently launched as a division of VITAL BGS (http://www.vitalbgs.com). The company is an exclusive resource for X-CART online web store users, providing affordable shopping cart setup services, training, design, order fulfillment, and even call center services. To kick off the launch, simplyXcart is offering a free, full-featured X-CART shopping cart website through a free drawing. Valued at more than $2,500 - the company wants to highlight more about its partner companies, who have donated their services and software to help educate small business owners and incent them to learn more creating an online business through utilizing a full featured shopping cart platform.
The giveaway includes a host of web store features, including an X-CART license, the actual web store setup, training, three months of free hosting, three months of "simply self-service" membership, and an SSL certificate from GoDaddy. Design is provided via a 7dana website template, compliments of http://www.7dana.com. Webgility (http://www.webgility.com) will provide an eCC license and QuickBooks X-CART integration, for seamless order processing. A CD SEO pro license is included by WebsiteCM (http://www.websitecm.com). Three Optimized Foreign Language Packs by http://www.RS-C.net are included, Magic Zoom (http://www.magictoolbox.com) is providing a high quality JavaScript zoom feature, and Marketing Manager, provided by http://www.firetanksoftware.com equips users to mine data and better market to a customer database.
simplyXcart(TM) aims to offer the best pricing and services for web store mod installations and development. To enter in the drawing, register at http://www.simplyxcart.com/register.php March 1, 2011. The winner will be informed via eMail.
Nefsis Video Conferencing Adds Support for Vaddio HD Conference Room Cameras
SAN DIEGO, Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Online video conferencing services innovator Nefsis® today announced support for Vaddio HD pan-tilt-zoom conference room cameras. Vaddio is a major supplier of video peripherals, high definition conference room cameras, and related installation equipment. The addition of Vaddio support to the Nefsis online service provides more options for Nefsis customers that seek to add room-based systems to their desktop and multi-office video conferencing systems.
There are several new cloud-based applications that have come to market. They generally make once-complicated applications easy to activate, with minimal or no upfront costs, and automated maintenance. Nefsis does this for video conferencing. It is typical for Nefsis customers to start with a webcam, plug it in and go, and within minutes have a secure, multipoint video conferencing system. "What we're seeing now is a spike in interest among Nefsis subscribers to add conference rooms to their video conferencing systems," said Tom Toperczer, Nefsis Vice President of Marketing.
In addition to simply adding support for more room-based peripherals, the Vaddio HD-18 PTZ camera works with Nefsis over YPbPr using analog cables - also called "yipper" cables. This particular configuration supports longer cable runs as may be required for larger conference rooms or specific telepresence settings where precise gaze angles are required. In addition, Nefsis added a video format configuration for this camera so that it is recognized and graphically displayed as a point-and-click video input option for the user.
The additional Vaddio HD/PTZ support is available now to all Nefsis Professional subscribers at no additional charge. Interested parties are invited to take a free trial at Nefsis.com.
About Nefsis
Headquartered in San Diego, California, Nefsis is a specialist in video conferencing software and online services for business. The Nefsis approach combines cloud computing and multi-core processing to deliver effortless video conferencing to employees, customers and business partners anywhere they have Internet access. Nefsis is especially popular among small-to-medium sized organizations, where its high-quality video, security controls and easy implementation deliver exceptional value.
For more information, please visit http://www.nefsis.com or call +1 (858) 715-0970 in the Americas or +44 (0) 870 224 0415 in the UK and Europe.
MEDIA CONTACT
Xenia Moore
Phone: (858) 715-0970
xmoore@nefsis.com
Nefsis is a registered trademark of Nefsis Corporation. All other trademarks mentioned are property of their respective owners.
AT&T Announces the World's Most Powerful Smartphone, the Motorola ATRIX 4G, Will Be Available for Preorder on Feb. 13
Unique line of Accessories, Including the Motorola Laptop Dock, Available with Bundled Pricing
DALLAS, Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ --
Key Facts
-- AT&T* begins pre-sales for Motorola ATRIX(TM) 4G on Feb. 13
-- Motorola ATRIX 4G, powered by the Android 2.2 platform, available
exclusively for AT&T customers for $199.99 with a two-year service
agreement.
-- Motorola ATRIX 4G is expected to be available from AT&T and select
retail channels for customers by March 6 or earlier.
-- AT&T will offer bundled pricing for the Motorola ATRIX 4G and the
Motorola Laptop Dock.
4G Portfolio
AT&T is the leader in smartphones, and expects to widen that lead in 2011. In January, AT&T committed to an industry-leading Android portfolio in the U.S. in 2011 and said it plans to offer two 4G smartphones in the first quarter. An industry first, the Motorola ATRIX 4G is the leading edge of more than 20 advanced, 4G devices AT&T plans to deliver in 2011. AT&T has completed the deployment of HSPA+ to virtually 100 percent of its mobile broadband network, which enables 4G speeds when combined with enhanced backhaul.
Motorola ATRIX(TM) 4G
The Motorola ATRIX(TM) 4G Android 2.2 smartphone will be offered exclusively by AT&T and is the world's most powerful smartphone. Featuring a 2x1 GHz dual-core processor for a total of 2 GHz of processing power, a unique webtop application, the world's first qHD display, and Adobe flash player, the, ATRIX 4G delivers a remarkable combination of application processing power with 4G speed capability and a high-resolution qHD display, a first for the industry.
It will be complemented by breakthrough accessories that include a revolutionary, super-thin Motorola Laptop Dock -- for which ATRIX 4G is the "engine" -- and the Motorola HD Multimedia Dock that uses ATRIX 4G's HDMI video output capabilities and processing power to enable a revolutionary browsing, application and media experience.
AT&T will offer two special packages for customers who choose to purchase ATRIX 4G in addition to these unique accessories. The first combines ATRIX 4G and the Motorola Laptop Dock for a promotional price of $499.99 after a two-year service contract and $100 mail-in-rebate after subscription to Data Pro smartphone data plan and tethering add on. Customers who choose to purchase the Motorola Laptop Dock separately pay $499.99. AT&T is also offering an Entertainment Access Kit for ATRIX customers which includes the Motorola HD Multimedia Dock, a Bluetooth® keyboard and mouse, and a remote control for $189.99.
Motorola ATRIX 4G will also include AT&T Mobile Hotspot service built into the smartphone, allowing users to connect additional Wi-Fi-enabled devices.
AT&T U-verse® TV customers will be able to manage their DVR recordings - and U-verse customers with a qualifying TV plan can download and watch hit TV shows - right from their ATRIX 4G handset using the U-verse Mobile application. In addition, any ATRIX 4G user, whether or not they have U-verse TV at home, can still enjoy a variety of video options - including live TV - with the new U-verse Live TV application, preloaded and available for $9.99 a month.
"Motorola ATRIX 4G stole the show at the Consumer Electronics Show in January and we're delivering ATRIX 4G and its truly innovative line of accessories for our customers very soon," said Jeff Bradley, senior vice president, Devices, AT&T Mobility and Consumer Markets. "Any smartphone customer looking for the most powerful and innovative solution on the market has to consider the ATRIX 4G."
"Today consumers use their smartphones to stay constantly connected to the information that matters to them most. The Motorola ATRIX 4G along with our webtop application and innovative docks enable a truly mobile computing experience never before possible on a smartphone," said Alain Mutricy, senior vice president, portfolio and product device management, Motorola Mobility.
1. Mobile broadband coverage is not available in all areas. 4G speeds delivered by HSPA+ with enhanced backhaul. Will be available in limited areas. Availability increasing with ongoing backhaul deployment. Learn more at att.com/network.
2. Motorola ATRIX 4G: Requires a minimum data service starting at $15/month. Two-year voice agreement required. Qualified customers only. Motorola ATRIX 4G is configured to work only with the wireless services provided by AT&T. Early termination fee of up to $325. Price of ATRIX 4G and Motorola Laptop Dock package is before $100 mail-in-rebate AT&T Promotion card & with 2-yr DataConnect agreement is $599.99. Allow 60 days for fulfillment. Card valid for 120 days wherever major credit cards accepted. May be used to pay wireless bill. Not redeemable for cash & cannot be used at ATMs or gas pumps. Card request must be postmarked by 4/20/11. Must be a customer for 30 consecutive days to receive Card. Some restrictions & other charges apply. See terms at store or att.com/wirelessrebate.
3. Laptop Dock - Firefox browser use with AT&T Mobile Broadband requires Tethering Plan.
4. Mobile Hotspots and Tethered devices require at a minimum a DataPro Tethering Plan. Devices connected to a Mobile Hotspot or tethered to the ATRIX 4G use data from your DataPro Tethering Plan. Tethering Plans are not unlimited and significant charges may be incurred if the included data allowance is exceeded. Performance may vary depending on the number of devices connected and other factors.
5. Geographic and service restrictions apply to AT&T U-verse services. Call or go to http://www.att.com/u-verse to see if you qualify. Download and watch capability available for select content and requires select devices, Wi-Fi connection, and qualifying U-verse TV plan or monthly subscription fee. Standard data charges may apply. AT&T U-verse Live TV requires compatible device, eligible data plan, and mobile broadband service. Service not available in all areas. Programming subject to blackout restrictions. Data rates apply.
6. Price established by AT&T for AT&T-owned retail outlets. Prices may vary at independent retailers.
*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.
About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates - AT&T operating companies - are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's fastest mobile broadband network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet and voice services. A leader in mobile broadband, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T | DIRECTV brands. The company's suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their leadership in local search and advertising. In 2010, AT&T again ranked among the 50 Most Admired Companies by FORTUNE®magazine.
Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com. This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at http://www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATTNews. Find us on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/ATT to discover more about our consumer and wireless services or at http://www.Facebook.com/ATTSmallBiz to discover more about our small business services.
About Motorola Mobility
Motorola Mobility, Inc. (NYSE: MMI) fuses innovative technology with human insights to create experiences that simplify, connect and enrich people's lives. Our portfolio includes converged mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets; wireless accessories; end-to-end video and data delivery; and management solutions, including set-tops and data-access devices. For more information, visit motorola.com/mobility.
TaskRabbit Launches RabbitRewards Program in Celebration of the Chinese New Year
SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- TaskRabbit, the leading online crowdsourcing marketplace that taps into the power of the community to get everyday Tasks and errands done, celebrates the Year of the Rabbit by launching its RabbitRewards program.
RabbitRewards is a customer loyalty plan allowing customers to collect "Carrots" for every Task completed. For every three Tasks complete, a customer receives one Task free...up to two free Tasks per month. RabbitRewards can be applied towards one-time Tasks or TaskRabbit's new Recurring Task packages, including weekly laundry, grocery shopping, and house cleaning.
"We are so excited for the Year of the Rabbit," says TaskRabbit's CEO and founder, Leah Busque. "We now call 2011 the 'Year of Collaborative Consumption,' which describes the rapid rise in swapping, sharing, and bartering facilitated through the latest technologies and peer-to-peer marketplaces. As people continue to embrace the notion of collaborative consumption, 2011 will prove to be an auspicious year for TaskRabbit and our customers."
The Year of the Rabbit will be an auspicious one for TaskRabbit, as it brings with it the following characteristics:
-- Calmness: Rabbit years are typically relatively peaceful. This is
fortuitous as TaskRabbit is dedicated to ensuring that its time-strapped
customers have a tranquil 2011 by providing a forum for the outsourcing
of their daily Tasks and errands. TaskRabbit's team of Runners allows
our customers to spend more time relaxing and doing what they enjoy,
like hitting a yoga class.
-- Collaboration: Rabbit years are historically good for establishing
partnerships. TaskRabbit is on a mission to ensure that 2011 proves no
different. TaskRabbit's customers have the benefit of collaborating with
our 300+ Runners and tapping into the skills, knowledge and know-how of
this community.
-- Money Made Easily: Traditionally, money can be made more easily in
rabbit years. Over the turbulent 2010, TaskRabbit was able to provide
unemployed or under-employed Runners with an effective way to make
money. The company will continue to do so in 2011.
About TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit is an online and mobile marketplace that helps people live smarter by allowing them to outsource everyday errands and tasks. A flexible, on-demand delivery network, TaskRabbit also partners with local businesses looking to expand their reach and revenue at no cost. The service is available in Greater Boston and San Francisco.
Omaha Steaks iPhone Application Makes Top Ten on Super Bowl Party Planning List
OMAHA, Neb., Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Steak Time, the Omaha Steaks iPhone application (app) designed to provide the tools for preparing and serving the perfect steak every time, is currently featured as one of the top ten apps in the Super Bowl XLV Party Planning Section of the iTunes App Store at http://ht.ly/3Pzkx. With nearly 100,000 downloads, the app, which is available at no charge, offers informational "Steak 101" training including "how to" videos, tips for perfect grilling and hundreds of delicious shareable steak recipes by category, complete with grocery list creating capabilities.
The most innovative feature in the app is the Grilling Timer, a function which enables the user to create a personalized steak timer setting for each guest. The timer indicates when to put the steaks on the grill and exactly when to turn them to achieve the specific degree of doneness that each guest prefers. Best of all, using the timer eliminates the guesswork in grilling by calculating the logistics needed to ensure that all the steaks are cooked to perfection - from rare to well done -- and come off the grill at exactly the same time.
The Steak Time app made the Rewind 2010 iPhone apps list as one of the best new apps in the Hot Trends category of Fun for Foodies. Steak Time is available through the iTunes store and can be downloaded on the iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch.
About Omaha Steaks
Omaha Steaks, founded in 1917, is an Omaha, Nebraska-based, fifth-generation, family-owned company that markets and distributes a wide variety of the finest quality USDA-approved, grain fed beef and gourmet foods. Today, Omaha Steaks is recognized as the nation's largest direct response marketer of premium beef, available to customers by calling 1-800-960-8400, online at http://www.OmahaSteaks.com or at retail stores nationwide.
SOURCE Omaha Steaks
Omaha Steaks
CONTACT: Beth Weiss, Corporate Communications Director of Omaha Steaks, +1-402-597-8135, Fax, +1-402-597-8252, bethw@omahasteaks.com
STMicroelectronics Extends Sound Terminal® Advantage for Miniaturized, High-Quality Audio Equipment
Audio processor optimized for MEMS-enhanced features integrates direct digital microphone input and active sound shaping for best playback quality
GENEVA, Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a leading supplier of ICs for consumer and mobile products, has unveiled an audio processing chip that connects directly to the latest miniature microphones and provides a new way of boosting performance from small, low-cost, or even damaged speakers. The device will allow customers to deliver market-leading miniaturized audio products offering outstanding sound quality.
The new device, the STA321MP, joins ST's SoundTerminal® audio IC family, and features a built-in interface for a MEMS digital microphone as well as a standard microphone input. With tiny dimensions and low sensitivity to noise from LCDs and power components, MEMS microphones are ideal for multi-function products such as smartphones. The STA321MP permits direct connection of a MEMS microphone, saving parts count and cost.
In addition, the STA321MP has a second MEMS input that can be connected to a tiny sensor for detecting speaker movements. This allows designers to apply active-sound shaping using ST patented techniques to optimize speaker performance. In active-sound shaping, the processor compensates automatically for distortion or damage to the speaker enabling high-quality audio performance from over-driven speakers or from those with torn or restricted-movement cones.
As a third-generation SoundTerminal IC, the STA321MP delivers advanced features and performance. Support for designers includes complete development kits for MEMS-based systems, as well as the APWorkbench graphical development environment. APWorkbench helps designers configure Sound Terminal products intuitively, and includes features for setting up active sound shaping.
Main features of STA321MP:
-- Audio processing optimized for use with MEMS microphones
-- Direct output to high-efficiency digital amplifier
-- PDM/analog and dual-I2S input
-- Low power consumption
-- Ultra low-profile 1mm-high QFN package
The STA321MP is available now in a 7 x 7mm QFN package, priced at $3.00 in quantities of 1000. Alternative pricing options are available for larger quantities.
About STMicroelectronics
STMicroelectronics is a global leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications with innovative semiconductor solutions. ST aims to be the undisputed leader in multimedia convergence and power applications leveraging its vast array of technologies, design expertise and combination of intellectual property portfolio, strategic partnerships and manufacturing strength. In 2010, the Company's net revenues were $10.35 billion. Further information on ST can be found at http://www.st.com.
SOURCE STMicroelectronics
STMicroelectronics
CONTACT: Michael Markowitz of STMicroelectronics, +1-781-591-0354, michael.markowitz@st.com
Send Something That Says Something This Valentines Day - Say It With Celebrations
LONDON, Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Looking for the perfect gift to send this Valentines Day? Then why not send something that says something and SayitwithCelebrations®
CELEBRATIONS®, everyone's favourite chocolates in miniature, are now available in personalised gift boxes that fit neatly through the letterbox. They can be fully personalised with your own message and photo to let that special someone know how much they mean to you this Valentines Day.
To celebrate Valentines Day, SayitwithCelebrations® will be running a daily competition on Twitter. From the 7th -11th February 2011, simply follow @SIWCelebrations and retweet "@SayItWithCelebrations #SayItWithCelebrations" for the opportunity to win a free gift for that special someone in your life. Winners will have their free personalised chocolate gift delivered direct to their Valentine ready for the 14th February. One winner will be picked randomly per day and full terms and conditions can be found here.
Say It With Celebrations® personalised gift packs can be ordered online via a brand new website - SayitwithCelebrations.co.uk - and delivered straight to the lucky recipient's door. Priced between 2.49 pounds Sterling and 5.49 pounds, the gift boxes offer unbeatable value and are a great way to ensure that cupid's arrow hits its target.
Follow us on Twitter
Become a fan on Facebook
For further information and more images, please contact:
Paul Isbell
Profero
Office: +44 (0) 20 7529 8575
E-mail: Paul.Isbell@profero.com
Celebrations® personalised chocolates are available in three gift pack formats:
Little Message - 2.49 pounds
A smart gift pack of Celebrations® chocolates with your choice on a card from six greetings plus your personal message inside. Nice to hold, great to receive and all in a new way to Send Something that Says Something.
Small Wallet - 3.99 pounds
A bit more special than the Little Message gift pack with the addition of your photo on a compact keepsake card you remove and keep once the Celebrations® chocolates have long gone
Double Wallet - 5.49 pounds
The ultimate combination of Celebrations® chocolates with a removable card that reveals your personalised message and photo. A real delighter for someone that deserves a more special thought.
Mars, Incorporated is a private, family-owned company founded in 1911 and employing over 65,000 associates at more than 230 sites, including 135 factories, in 68 countries worldwide. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, U.S.A., Mars, Incorporated is one of the world's largest food companies, generating global revenues of more than $30 billion annually and operating in six business segments: Chocolate, Petcare, Wrigley, Food, Drinks, and Symbioscience. These segments produce some of the world's leading brands: Chocolate - M&M'S®, SNICKERS®, DOVE®, GALAXY®, MARS®, MILKY WAY® and TWIX®; Petcare - PEDIGREE®, WHISKAS®, SHEBA®, CESAR®, and ROYAL CANIN®; Wrigley - ORBIT®, EXTRA®, STARBURST®, DOUBLEMINT® and SKITTLES®; Food - UNCLE BEN'S®, DOLMIO®, EBLY®, MASTERFOODS® and SEEDS OF CHANGE®; Drinks - KLIX® and FLAVIA®; Symbioscience - WISDOM PANEL(TM) MX, SERAMIS®, and COCOAPRO(TM).
Verizon Communications Announces Common Stock Repurchase Authorization for Up to 100 Million Shares
NEW YORK, Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, NASDAQ: VZ) announced today that its Board of Directors has authorized the corporation to repurchase up to 100 million shares of its common stock.
The board also determined that no additional shares may be acquired under a previously approved program to repurchase up to 100 million shares. Under the previous program, which was due to end Feb. 28, 2011, approval remained to purchase approximately 60 million shares.
Approximately 2.8 billion shares of Verizon common stock are outstanding.
Under the plan approved today by the board, Verizon's senior officers have the option to repurchase shares for the corporation over time in the open market, in privately negotiated transactions or otherwise, with the amount and timing of repurchases depending on market conditions and corporate needs. The company may also, from time to time, enter into Rule 10b5-1 plans to facilitate repurchases of its shares under this authorization.
The authorization to repurchase shares terminates when the aggregate number of shares repurchased reaches 100 million or at the close of business on Feb. 28, 2014, whichever is earlier.
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, NASDAQ: VZ), headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America's most reliable wireless network, serving 94.1 million customers nationwide. Verizon also provides converged communications, information and entertainment services over America's most advanced fiber-optic network, and delivers innovative, seamless business solutions to customers around the world. A Dow 30 company, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of more than 194,000 and last year generated consolidated revenues of $106.6 billion. For more information, visit http://www.verizon.com.
VERIZON'S ONLINE NEWS CENTER: Verizon news releases, executive speeches and biographies, media contacts, high quality video and images, and other information are available at Verizon's News Center on the World Wide Web at http://www.verizon.com/news. To receive news releases by e-mail, visit the News Center and register for customized automatic delivery of Verizon news releases.
SOURCE Verizon Communications Inc.
Verizon Communications Inc.
CONTACT: Bob Varettoni, +1-908-559-6388, robert.a.varettoni@verizon.com
Zillow and Yahoo! Real Estate Launch Largest Real Estate Network on the Web
SEATTLE and SUNNYVALE, Calif., Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Zillow.com® and Yahoo!® Real Estate (http://realestate.yahoo.com) today launched an exclusive partnership that brings together the two sites and creates the largest real estate network on the web, according to comScore® Media Metrix®(1) Zillow's sales force now sells local advertising across both sites, and the 4 million for-sale listings on Zillow now also appear on Yahoo! Real Estate. Zillow® and Yahoo! Real Estate announced plans for the partnership in July 2010.
Real estate agents and brokers will now have the ability to buy local advertisements on both sites with just one phone call to Zillow. Tens of thousands of industry professionals have reached Zillow's nearly 16 million monthly unique users(2) with advertising programs like Zillow's Premier Agent, which allows agents to target specific ZIP code searches, and with Showcase Ads and Featured Listings, which allow agents and brokers to increase traffic to individual listings. Both of these programs will now be extended to Yahoo! Real Estate.
For the first time, real estate agents have the opportunity to advertise locally on Yahoo! Real Estate, one of the largest individual real estate sites on the web, gaining access to a new set of customers and clientele. Home buyers will now have access to more local listings on Yahoo! Real Estate, along with more photographs.
In addition to selling local ads, Zillow is also selling national display advertising across both sites to new home builders, real estate agents and brokers.
Additionally, Zillow is now Yahoo! Real Estate's exclusive provider of for-sale listings. Any for-sale listing that appears on Zillow - including many listings not found on other sites, such as for-sale-by-owner listings - will automatically appear on Yahoo! Real Estate.
The Yahoo! and Zillow relationship began in 2006 when Yahoo! Real Estate incorporated Zillow's Zestimate® home valuations for more than 72 million U.S. homes into its user experience.
"We're thrilled to be providing agents and brokers with outstanding new opportunities to extend their reach on the largest online real estate network," said Spencer Rascoff, Zillow CEO. "One phone call can now connect industry professionals to the biggest real estate network on the web. The launch of this partnership will simplify advertising decisions and bring Zillow listings to millions of additional users every month."
"This partnership brings together the scale of Yahoo!'s audience with the depth of Zillow's real estate listings," Greg Hintz, head of Yahoo! Listings, said. "No other real estate websites are better suited to bring such a vast offering to agents, brokers and advertisers."
Real estate agents or brokers interested in advertising across the Yahoo!/Zillow Real Estate Network can contact Zillow's sales team at 866-324-4005.
About Zillow.com
Zillow Inc. is a real estate information company with a marketplace where homeowners, buyers, sellers, renters, real estate agents and mortgage professionals find and share vital information about homes and mortgages. Launched in early 2006 with Zestimate® home values and data on millions of U.S. homes, Zillow has since added homes for sale and homes for rent, a directory of real estate and lending professionals, Zillow Advice, Zillow Mobile apps and Zillow Mortgage Marketplace. One of the most-visited U.S. real estate websites, with nearly 16 million unique visitors per month, Zillow's goal is to help people become smarter about homes and real estate in every stage of their lives -- home buying, selling, renting, remodeling and financing. The company is headquartered in Seattle.
Zillow.com, Zillow and Zestimate are registered trademarks of Zillow, Inc.
About Yahoo!
Yahoo! is an innovative technology company that operates the largest digital media, content, and communications business in the world. Yahoo! keeps more than half a billion consumers worldwide connected to what matters to them most, and delivers powerful audience solutions to advertisers through its unique combination of Science + Art + Scale. Yahoo! is headquartered in Sunnyvale, California. For more information, visit the pressroom (pressroom.yahoo.net) or the company's blog, Yodel Anecdotal (yodel.yahoo.com).
Yahoo! is the trademark and/or registered trademark of Yahoo! Inc.
comScore and Media Metrix are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of comScore, Inc.
(1) The Yahoo!-Zillow Real Estate Network was the most-visited real estate entity (including both networks and individual websites) as measured by comScore Media Metrix Key Measures - Ranked Category, December 2010.
(2) Zillow had 15.7 million monthly unique users in January 2011, according to Omniture internal tracking.
SOURCE Zillow.com
Zillow.com
CONTACT: Katie Curnutte of Zillow.com, +1-206-757-2785, press@zillow.com
AT&T Debuts Multi-Million Dollar Advertising Campaign for Business Customers
Campaign Redefines Concept of 'Network'; Showcases Transformative Customer Solutions
DALLAS, Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- AT&T* debuted a multi-million dollar B2B advertising campaign to showcase how it is delivering transformative network-based and mobility solutions to companies that are redefining how people everywhere live and work.
The advertising campaign - AT&T's largest in the B2B space since 2004 - begins today with a television ad titled "Anthem."
The business campaign is a natural extension of AT&T's Rethink Possible® campaign. AT&T Business Solutions sells networking services, solutions, and applications to millions of businesses across the U.S. and around the world, including all of the Fortune 1000, 50% of the companies on the FTSE, 80% of the companies on the DAX, and 87% of the companies on the CAC 40.
Initially targeted to large enterprises, the campaign is using television and print ads to reinforce AT&T's industry leadership in the business space while conveying a concept central to its customer strategy - namely, that its "network" is much more than a physical structure.
The ads and accompanying microsite will demonstrate how AT&T is applying its people, expertise and technology to bring its intelligent global network together with mobile access and devices, software and applications to create a world of new possibilities for companies. The campaign also illustrates how companies being served by AT&T actually become a natural part of and benefit from this powerful network "ecosystem."
Examples showcased in the campaign include:
-- Inventory that can be taught to learn, so products get routed to where
they are needed the most.
-- Machines that have a voice, so they can tell headquarters when they need
refilling.
-- Money that works smarter, so financial institutions can turn dreams into
realities.
-- Medical histories that can be brought to life, so doctors have access to
a patient's medical history even when away from home.
In portraying its network as a living, breathing intelligent system that is helping companies rethink how they run their businesses, AT&T's B2B campaign is addressing the fundamental need for all companies to 1) reduce the complexity of their operations while 2) improving their overall productivity.
"Businesses of all sizes have a daunting set of requirements driven by rapidly morphing technology and a tough economy," said Kevin Peters, chief marketing officer of AT&T Business Solutions.
"Companies need be mobile, nimble, and work better while reducing complexity and increasing efficiency," he said. "This campaign demonstrates how our network, innovation, and technology help them achieve that."
Although initially focused on larger companies, in the coming months AT&T plans to introduce ads targeted specifically to the more than three million small companies it serves today.
*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.
About AT&T
AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates - AT&T operating companies - are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's fastest mobile broadband network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet and voice services. A leader in mobile broadband, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T | DIRECTV brands. The company's suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their leadership in local search and advertising. In 2010, AT&T again ranked among the 50 Most Admired Companies by FORTUNE®magazine.
Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com. This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at http://www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATT. Find us on Facebook at http://www.Facebook.com/ATT to discover more about our consumer and wireless services or at http://www.Facebook.com/ATTSmallBiz to discover more about our small business services.
CONTACT: Janet Wyles, +1-908-234- 6067, Wyles@att.com, or Andrea McLaughlin, +1-908-234- 6071, Andrea.McLaughlin@att.com, both of AT&T Corporate Communications
Samuel Adams and FromYouFlowers.com Deliver the Perfect 'Hoppy' Valentine's Day Gift for Guys
Now men have a reason to look forward to Valentine's Day with new beer-inspired gift that incorporates every man's favorite flower - hops
BOSTON, Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- In a twist on traditional Valentine's Day gifts, Samuel Adams and FromYouFlowers.com have brewed up the perfect delivery for beer lovers. As almost 75 percent of men say they would prefer a beer-themed gift over more traditional options such as flowers*, guys across the country are sure to crave the new Samuel Adams® Hoppy Valentine's Day gift basket. The basket perfectly pairs two Samuel Adams Boston Lager® Pint Glasses with hops, a Samuel Adams keychain, organic dark chocolate with orange and a hint of spice, artisanal salami, gourmet smoked gouda cheese and an assortment of mixed nuts, all perfectly packaged and ready to enhance their favorite craft beer drinking experience.
"Men are typically overlooked on Valentine's Day, so we wanted to come up with a way for them to receive something they actually want and will enjoy," said Samuel Adams founder and brewer Jim Koch. "Since hops, which are an ingredient in beer, are actually flowers, we thought a beer-themed basket would be a refreshing addition to a holiday dominated by gifts for women. Couple the basket with a six-pack of Samuel Adams Boston Lager, and you have the perfect gift."
Each item in the basket was carefully chosen with the beer lover in mind, offering high quality pieces that can be used year-round. The Samuel Adams Boston Lager Pint Glass is the first glass specifically designed to showcase the beer as the brewers intended, delivering the optimum full-flavored taste and aroma of Samuel Adams Boston Lager. Samuel Adams worked with a team of world-renowned sensory experts to develop a unique shaped glass that features a unique angled lip, delivering the beer to the right points on the drinker's palate; a neck and lip design that helps sustain the head of the beer, enhancing the release of the Noble hop aromas; a narrower glass base to keep the brew at the optimum temperature; and a laser etched nucleation site at the bottom of the glass to maintain flavor release during the drinking experience.
The Bavarian Noble hop "flowers" showcased in the basket provide a "beery" aroma reminiscent of every guy's favorite beverage. These are the same signature Noble hops that Koch hand selects each year in Bavaria for Samuel Adams Boston Lager. The basket is rounded out with an assortment of food items that pair well with Samuel Adams Boston Lager.
"We're thrilled with the opportunity to work with Samuel Adams on such a unique and exclusive delivery," said Dave Adams, FromYouFlowers.com CEO. "Year after year, women are stumped when picking out an original Valentine's Day gift for their guy. With this new basket, they'll have something the man in their life will appreciate, delivered right to their door."
With 70 percent of women struggling to find the perfect gift for their sweetheart, the Samuel Adams Hoppy Valentine's Day basket offers the perfect Valentine's Day gift for men and a welcome solution for women everywhere.*
The Samuel Adams Hoppy Valentine's Day basket will be available exclusively at FromYouFlowers.com in limited quantities through February 14, retail price $54.99. Visit http://www.FromYouFlowers.com/bostonbeer to order online, or call 1-800-838-8853 for phone orders.
*Survey conducted by Wakefield Research, an independent research provider. Demographic quotas were set to ensure that results are nationally representative of the survey audience. Results have a margin of error of 3.2%.
THE BOSTON BEER COMPANY BACKGROUND:
The Boston Beer Company began in 1984 with a generations-old family recipe that Founder and Brewer Jim Koch uncovered in his father's attic. After bringing the recipe to life in his kitchen, Jim brought it to bars in Boston with the belief that drinkers would appreciate a complex, full-flavored beer, brewed fresh in America. That beer was Samuel Adams Boston Lager®, and it helped catalyze what became known as the American craft beer revolution.
Today, the Company brews more than 21 styles of beer. The Company uses the traditional four vessel brewing process and often takes extra steps like dry-hopping and a secondary fermentation known as krausening. It passionately pursues the development of new styles and the perfection of its classic beers by constantly searching for the world's finest ingredients. While resurrecting traditional brewing methods, the Company has earned a reputation as a pioneer in another revolution, the "extreme beer" movement, where it seeks to challenge drinkers' perceptions of what beer can be. The Boston Beer Company strives to elevate the image of American craft beer by entering festivals and competitions the world over, and in the past five years it has won more awards in international beer competitions than any other brewery in the world. The Company remains independent, and brewing quality beer remains its single focus. While Samuel Adams is the country's largest-selling craft beer, it accounts for less than one percent of the U.S. beer market. For more information, please visit http://www.samueladams.com.
FROM YOU FLOWERS BACKGROUND:
From You Flowers® is the largest privately held online floral and gifting company in the U.S. Owned and operated by partners with over 35 years of combined experience in the floral industry, the company is a member of the Bloomnet floral network and has delivery capabilities worldwide via an affiliation with the finest premier florists from around the world.
CONTACT: Katie Powell, Samuel Adams, +1-617-368-5091, katie.powell@bostonbeer.com; or Tina Clabbers, DeVries Public Relations, +1-212-891-0460, cclabbers@devries-pr.com
rollApp Launches a Free Cloud Version of Open Office Integrated With GoogleDocs and DropBox
PALO ALTO, Calif., Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- rollApp Inc. announced today the release of a free beta service http://rollApp.com that provides users with online editions of Open Office, integrated with GoogleDocs and DropBox. It offers SMBs and independent professionals a turn-key solution that combines rich functionality of the traditional office suites with all the benefits of cutting-edge cloud platforms: on-demand scalability, anywhere access, no install/support pain, and reduced cost.
rollApp is developing a technology which allows instant conversion of virtually any traditional software into online SaaS. Software publishers will only need to upload their existing installation packages to http://rollApp.com , to make them available for anybody to use via any standard web browser, without any installs or downloads. The look and feel and the functionality of the software running through rollApp will mirror the original.
Today rollApp's beta program offers 10+ popular software packages, including Open Office tools for editing documents, spreadsheets and presentations. rollApp plans to gradually add more applications and, once the platform is tested with the top-100 apps, http://rollApp.com will allow open submission of applications by third-party vendors (see http://rollApp.com/beta for details).
Applications on http://rollApp.com are available as pure online products and are fully integrated with popular cloud storage systems. Users can access applications via conventional browsers, such as Google Chrome, IE, Firefox and Safari, and work with their existing GoogleDocs or DropBox files in one, browser based environment. rollApp plans to integrate with more cloud storage providers, as well as to deliver user experience on leading mobile platforms.
The ultimate vision of rollApp is to set computer users free, removing the limitations associated with their hardware and operating systems. rollApp's service will give each user absolute freedom and access to a wide variety of software applications regardless of users' device or platform.
Today's first beta brings value to the end-users who have already moved their office files to the cloud and are looking for rich functionality of conventional desktop office suites in their cloud environment.
About rollApp
Founded in May 2010, rollApp Inc. is a Palo Alto based startup chartered to create and operate a global Software-on-Demand service which will deliver third-party SW applications to any web-browser over broadband/3G/4G.
Focused Labs Raises $2 Million to Increase Brand 'Likes' on Facebook, Rebrands as GraphEffect
SANTA MONICA, Calif., Feb. 3, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Focused Labs, a leading provider of social media marketing services, announced today that it has closed a $2 million round of funding, and will be rebranding as GraphEffect. Investors in the round include CrossCut Ventures, Rincon Venture Partners, Founder Collective, Baroda Ventures, Lerer Ventures, Thrive Capital, and angel investors including Matt Coffin (founder of LowerMyBills) and Stephano Kim (President of x+1).
GraphEffect, who is participating in the Facebook Advertising API beta program, helps brands and agencies leverage Facebook advertising to increase "likes" and acquire new customers. GraphEffect's social advertising platform uses a set of social performance algorithms to target Facebook ad campaigns that increase user engagement on Facebook fan pages and increase downstream conversions within the Facebook feed.
The company, co-founded by Southern California entrepreneurs Clark Landry and James Borow, achieved profitability in 2010 and will use the capital raised to expand its sales and technology divisions.
"Over the past year we have driven millions of new fans and customers for our clients. Our goal from day one has been to become the leaders in the social advertising space, and we are confident in our ability to achieve this with the help of our new partners," said James Borow, CEO of GraphEffect. "We are thrilled to have attracted capital from such a diverse and well-regarded syndicate of investors," added Clark Landry, Executive Chairman of the company.
"James, Clark and their team have done an outstanding job of ramping up the business over the last 12 months by attracting some of the best brands and agencies to their unique suite of social media advertising tools," said Brian Garrett, Managing Director of CrossCut Ventures. "The new investors are very excited to work with GraphEffect on one of the most exciting growth opportunities in the social media ecosystem."