Magazines

Chevron Energy Solutions Named One of the World's 50 Most Innovative Companies

2009-03-03T16:00:00.000+02:00

SAN FRANCISCO, March 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Chevron Energy Solutions, a unit of Chevron Corporation (NYSE: CVX), was named by Fast Company magazine as one of "The World's 50 Most Innovative Companies." The company also ranked in the top five on the magazine's list of "Most Innovative Clean Energy Companies."

"We are honored to be recognized on Fast Company's Top 50 List," said Jim Davis, President of Chevron Energy Solutions. "It helps raise awareness of our work to bring energy efficiency and renewable power to government, education and business facilities."

Fast Company selected and ranked the 50 companies in its February 2009 issue based on examples of success and strength, including character and finances. (See http://www.fastcompany.com/fast50_09) According to the magazine, the companies illustrate the power and potential of innovative ideas and creative execution and are the kinds of enterprises that will redefine the future and point the way to a better tomorrow.

Chevron Energy Solutions was recognized for the company's innovative approach, which is to help schools, government buildings and other large facilities lower their energy costs and carbon footprint through energy-efficient technologies and renewable power systems. Since 2000, Chevron Energy Solutions has developed hundreds of projects across the country and become the largest installer of solar power for education institutions in North America. The company's projects have saved customers an average of 30 percent in energy costs and more than $1 billion to date.

About Chevron Energy Solutions

Chevron Energy Solutions designs and builds sustainable energy projects that increase energy efficiency and renewable power, reduce energy costs, and ensure reliable, high-quality energy for government, education and business facilities. Since 2000, Chevron Energy Solutions has developed hundreds of projects involving energy efficiency and renewable energy for government, education, and business customers in the United States. Its parent, Chevron Corporation, is investing across the energy spectrum to develop energy sources for future generations by expanding the capabilities of alternative and renewable energy technologies.

    Contact:  Juliet Don, Chevron Energy Solutions, 415.733.4673

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Maxwell Systems Wins Two 2009 Constructech Top Products Awards

2009-03-03T15:23:00.000+02:00

Maxwell Systems Quest Machine Control Wins Top New Product

Maxwell Systems Estimation Digital Takeoff Wins Top Enhanced Product

KING OF PRUSSIA, Pa., March 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Maxwell Systems, Inc., a leading provider of integrated construction business management software solutions, has been named winner of two 2009 Constructech Top Products Awards. Maxwell Systems(TM) Quest(TM) Machine Control has been awarded Top New Product and Maxwell Systems(TM) Estimation(TM) Digital Takeoff has been awarded Top Enhanced Product. "These products are among the best technology currently available for commercial construction applications," said Mike Carrozzo, chief editor of Constructech magazine.

The Constructech Top Products is an annual competition that recognizes superior product innovation, success, usefulness, uniqueness, adaptation, and potential for growth in the commercial construction marketplace. "Companies will turn to products and services like those included in our 2009 Constructech Top Product Awards to take on the challenges that most certainly remain ahead," added Peggy Smedley, editorial director of Constructech.

"Being honored by Constructech is a testament to the quality of our product innovations and to Maxwell Systems' commitment to developing and enhancing solutions that meet the business needs of our customers and the commercial construction industry," said Jim Flynn, Maxwell Systems President & CEO. "Our suite of solutions has been continually enhanced and expanded over 30 years as we invest in technology, engage our customers, and spearhead methods to streamline business processes."

Top New Product Winner: Maxwell Systems Quest Machine Control integrates machine control systems directly with Maxwell Systems Quest Earthwork, earth-measuring software. It's ideal for contractors doing sitework, grading and excavation, heavy/highway, or any contractors measuring cut and fill.

Top Enhanced Product Winner: Maxwell Systems Estimation Logistics helps electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and HVAC contractors by automating the bidding process and lowering costs associated with bidding and winning jobs. The solution has been enhanced to deliver Digital Takeoff, which is far more accurate than traditional manual methods, thus helps contractors to bid more work and win more projects in less time and with increased profitability. Estimation Digital Takeoff allows contractors to generate takeoffs straight from digital plan files instead of paper blueprints. Users may download plans from an online plan room, scan in plans or upload them from a CD; there's no need for a digitizer board, stylus pen, or paper blueprints.

About Constructech Commercial

Constructech Commercial magazine is focused on providing the construction industry with the necessary tools to increase productivity and profitability by looking at the true value of information technology and building control automation through the eyes of the builder, contractor, and corporate owner.

About Maxwell Systems

Maxwell Systems is a leading provider of integrated construction business management and property management software solutions and services. Founded in 1975, Maxwell Systems is dedicated to helping its 10,000 customers streamline their estimating, job cost accounting, and project management processes and improve profitability. As an industry leader, Maxwell Systems possesses the knowledge and experience to help customers grow their business while maximizing the return on their technology investment. As a technology partner, Maxwell Systems provides outstanding support plus a host of professional services including consulting and educational services. Maxwell Systems' headquarters are in King of Prussia, PA, with offices in Baltimore, MD, Fort Collins, CO, Santa Cruz, CA, and Sarasota, FL. More information available at www.maxwellsystems.com.

Maxwell Systems, Quest, and Estimation are trademarks of Maxwell Systems, Inc.

Other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

    Media Contacts:
    Andrea Frassoni, Maxwell Systems, Inc.
    800-688-8226, ext. 1240
    afrassoni@maxwellsystems.com

    Karen Higgins, A & E Communications, Inc.
    610-831-5723
    khiggins@aandecomm.com

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Carrie Underwood, Eva Longoria, Brooke Shields, Lauren Hutton and Anjelica Huston in an Iconic Ad Campaign Shot by Annie Leibovitz

2009-03-03T14:00:00.000+02:00

BADGLEY MISCHKA CELEBRATES TWO DECADES OF GLAMOUR!

NEW YORK, March 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Badgley Mischka is celebrating two glamorous decades in fashion with an advertising celebration campaign featuring some of the most recognizable faces in Hollywood: Eva Longoria, Carrie Underwood, Brooke Shields, Lauren Hutton and Anjelica Huston.

Shot by legendary photographer Annie Leibovitz at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles, the ladies posed along with the designers in classic Leibovitz style. Each of the women is wearing Badgley Mischka couture eveningwear and accessories.

The campaign will debut in April issues of magazines such as Vogue, Elle, Harper's Bazaar and InStyle and features the tagline, "Two Decades of Glamour," symbolic of Badgley Mischka's strong relationship with Hollywood over the past twenty years.

Mark Badgley & James Mischka met in 1982 at Parsons School of Design in NYC. In 1988, the duo joined forces and started the line, which gained in popularity when Winona Ryder wore their gown to the Academy Awards in 1996. She was the first of many major red carpet moments including Jennifer Lopez at three consecutive Oscars, Madonna, Catherine Zeta Jones, Sharon Stone, Jennifer Garner, Julia Roberts, Kate Winslet, Sarah Jessica Parker, Ashley Judd, Carrie Underwood, Eva Longoria, Teri Hatcher and Brooke Shields.

In the Spring of 1999, the first collection hit retailers such as Henri Bendel and Barney's. Since then, the brand has flourished into a true lifestyle brand recognizable worldwide. To date, the label includes: Badgley Mischka Couture, Eveningwear, Handbags, Eyewear, Footwear, Accessories, Jewelry, Watches, Swimwear, Fragrance, Home, Bridal and Bridesmaids. Badgley Mischka is sold in the most prestigious stores in the world including Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and Holt Renfrew.

B-ROLL: CELEBRITY & DESIGNER SOUNDBITES AND BEHIND-THE-SCENE'S FOOTAGE

FOR ONLINE MEDIA:

Downloadable Video and Photos Available Starting Wednesday, March 4, 2009: www.dogmatic.com/MNR/BadgleyMischka/20th

FOR TV MEDIA:

Satellite Feed of B-Roll Package on Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Feed 1: 10:45AM-11:00AM, ET

Feed 2: 1:45PM-2:00PM, ET

Coordinates for feeds: Galaxy 19, Transponder 15, C-Band;

DL Freq.: 4000 (V)

Trouble#: 646.336.7977; Audio 6.2/6.8

    For more information, please contact:
    Elana Gichon / Dogmatic / 310.450.3884 / elana.gichon@dogmatic.com

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Consumers Digest Exposes Online Universities' Exploitation of Federal Title IV Student Financial-Assistance Program

2009-03-03T13:00:00.000+02:00

DEERFIELD, Ill., March 3 /PRNewswire/ -- For-profit online universities represent a $6.2 billion industry with some 620,000 students as of fall 2008. Because of questionable oversight by the federal government, some of these "institutions," such as Kaplan University and University of Phoenix, are able to skirt requirements of the Title IV student-assistance program that is part of the Higher Education Opportunity Act, and thus, mostly taxpayer money is filling the coffers of these companies. The transgressors often use high-pressure tactics to mislead individuals regarding the value of a degree and the costs involved in working toward that degree. Many potential students are deceived about the transferability of credits earned elsewhere. Allegedly, instructors are pressured to inflate students' grades to keep them enrolled and the financial aid flowing in -- and are rewarded for doing so. For students, all of this can result in subpar coursework, insufficient job training and a degree that is devalued by employers -- a complete waste of a student's time and money.

In the course of producing the investigative report, "Degrees of Difficulty: The Truth About Online Universities," in the April issue of Consumers Digest (on sale March 3), interviews with 26 former employees and students from the biggest for-profit online universities brought to light the questionable role of admissions "advisers" who know little about academia but a lot about sales; the existence of giant call centers adorned with large wallboards that track applicants and enrollment numbers; and bonus- and commission-based enrollment practices -- even though federal law prohibits schools that are eligible for federal funding from using these practices.

Consumers Digest interviewed former advisers who say students weren't always told which previous college credits would transfer until after signing a contract. In some cases, schools continued to tap student loans even after students stopped taking classes. Clearly, as the deeply troubled banking industry has recently proven, providing billons of dollars in loans to unqualified borrowers has very serious economic consequences. More effective government oversight and overhaul of antiquated or inadequate regulations are badly needed.

All of this is supremely upsetting -- particularly today, given that the hopes of many people who have been laid off hinge on applying an online education to landing a new job. It complicates the already difficult task of convincing potential employers that an online education equals that of a brick-and-mortar institution.

Consumers Digest warns consumers not to enroll at a for-profit online university until obtaining in writing a formal audit of transferable college credits. If consumers are considering a degree in a career field that requires recognition by a professional organization, they should consult the body that grants licenses to do business to ensure that the online school's accreditation is recognized. Consumers should also find out the official drop date of an online university -- usually buried in student-manual small print -- and closely examine all financial documents, in an effort to ensure that there are no disbursements of funds after withdrawal from classes.

Consumers Digest, launched in 1959, is designed to inform and educate readers so they can buy with confidence, no matter the product or service. The magazine is committed to providing practical advice, factual evaluations and specific recommendations, leading consumers to exceptional values in today's complex marketplace.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Southwest Airlines Named No. 7 in FORTUNE Magazine's Top 50 Most Admired Companies in the World

2009-03-02T23:40:00.000+02:00

Southwest is Only U.S. Airline to Make List of World's Top 50 Most Admired Companies

DALLAS, March 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Southwest Airlines today celebrated with its 35,000 Employees the news that it was named as one of the Top 10 Companies in FORTUNE magazine's ranking of the World's Most Admired companies. It is the 13th consecutive year that the Dallas-based airline has been named to the Most Admired list. Southwest ranked No. 7 on the list of the 50 Most Admired Companies in the World in the March 16, 2009, issue of FORTUNE, which hit newsstands today.

"I celebrate this wonderful honor with the Employees of Southwest Airlines," said Gary Kelly, Southwest's Chairman, President, and CEO. "I'm privileged to work with the most dedicated, happy, productive, and devoted airline Employees in the world."

The honor is particularly special this year, because it is the first year FORTUNE magazine has combined both its World's Most Admired and America's Most Admired surveys into one. FORTUNE's own news release on the survey says: "the new Most Admired list is the definitive report card on corporate reputations."

The ranking is determined from surveys sent to company executives, boards of directors, and analysts of multiple industries, and each Company is rated on several criteria, including quality of management, people management, use of corporate assets, financial soundness, quality of products/services, social responsibility, longterm investment, and innovation.

In addition to being named one of FORTUNE's Top 10 Most Admired Companies in the world, Southwest, which serves only the domestic United States, also ranked third in the list of the World's Most Admired Airlines.

After 37 years of service, Southwest Airlines, the nation's leading low-fare carrier, continues to stand above other airlines--offering a reliable product with exemplary Customer Service. Southwest Airlines is the most productive airline in the sky and offers Customers a comfortable traveling experience with all premium leather seats and plenty of legroom. Southwest's updated gate areas and improved boarding procedure make flying Southwest Airlines even more convenient and simple. Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV), the nation's largest carrier in terms of domestic passengers enplaned, currently serves 64 cities in 32 states (service to Minneapolis-St. Paul begins March 8, and service to Boston Logan International Airport will begin in Fall 2009). Based in Dallas, Southwest currently operates more than 3,200 flights a day and has more than 35,000 Employees systemwide.

www.southwest.com

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Better Homes and Gardens Home Line Coming to Walmart Stores in Canada

2009-03-02T16:00:00.000+02:00

DES MOINES, Iowa, March 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Meredith Corporation (NYSE: MDP), one of America's leading media and marketing companies, has reached a multi-year agreement with Walmart Canada Corp. to launch a line of home and garden products based on the Better Homes and Gardens brand. Financial terms were not disclosed, and the transaction will not impact Meredith's financial results this fiscal year.

Walmart Canada will work with the Better Homes and Gardens creative staff to design products that appeal to the Canadian consumer and reflect the brand's high standards and timeless style. The program will feature items, in an updated traditional style, eventually including bedding and bath accessories, dinnerware and kitchen textiles. The merchandise is expected to be available exclusively in more than 200 Walmart Canada stores by fall 2009.

"We are pleased to extend the Better Homes and Gardens style into the homes of millions of Canadian shoppers," said Steve Lacy, Meredith President and CEO. "We're confident the Canadian consumer will be very pleased with the quality and style of these products."

Today's announcement follows the successful fall 2008 launch of an expanded line of Better Homes and Gardens licensed products in Walmart stores across the United States. The Canadian expansion marks the first time Better Homes and Gardens licensed products will be sold outside of the United States.

About Meredith Corporation

Meredith Corporation (http://www.meredith.com) is the leading media and marketing company serving American women. Meredith combines well-known national brands -- including Better Homes and Gardens and Parents -- with local television brands in fast growing markets. Meredith is the industry leader in creating content in key consumer interest areas such as home, family, health and wellness and self-development. Meredith then uses multiple distribution platforms -- including print, television, online, mobile and video -- to give consumers content they desire and to deliver the messages of its marketing partners. Additionally, Meredith uses its many assets to create powerful custom marketing solutions for many of the nation's top brands and companies. In the last two years, Meredith has significantly added to its capabilities in this area through the acquisition of cutting-edge companies in areas such as online, word-of-mouth and database marketing.

     CONTACT:
     Art Slusark
     (515) 284-3404
     art.slusark@meredith.com

     Patrick Taylor
     (212) 551-6984
     patrick.taylor@meredith.com

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

HFM U.S. Creates Brand-Centric Structure for Leading Women's Titles, to Maximize Brand Equity, Integration, Strategic and Revenue Opportunities

2009-03-02T15:14:00.000+02:00

New Chief Brand Officer Positions Created Naming:

Carol Smith, SVP, Chief Brand Officer, ELLE Group

Deborah Burns, SVP, Chief Brand Officer, Luxury Design Group (ELLE DECOR and Metropolitan Home)

Carlos Lamadrid, SVP, Chief Brand Officer, Woman's Day Group

NEW YORK, March 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Alain Lemarchand, President & CEO, Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. (HFM U.S.) today announced a dynamic new structure to promote growth for the future by creating brand groups centered around the women's titles, each led by Chief Brand Officers. The Chief Brand Officers will have responsibility for their respective business units, including developing new revenue streams, setting brand direction across platforms, and integrating print and digital advertising sales. Lemarchand named Carol Smith SVP, Chief Brand Officer, ELLE Group; Deborah Burns SVP, Chief Brand Officer, Luxury Design Group which includes ELLE DECOR and Metropolitan Home; and Carlos Lamadrid SVP, Chief Brand Officer, Woman's Day Group. They will report to Lemarchand and will serve on the company's Executive Committee.

"HFM U.S. has evolved from a print magazine publisher into a diverse media company with an updated structure to match," said Lemarchand. "Our respected magazines have grown into full fledged brands with successful extensions on the internet and mobile, as well as on television, radio, books, branded events and licensed products. The key to that continued success is the brand quality and continuity across platforms that the new structure facilitates. By aligning each group's powerful assets under one champion, we are creating nimble, cohesive, strategic and focused units that will propel these successful brands even further ahead. Carol, Deborah and Carlos are exceptional professionals each possessing talent and deep experience. I am confident that they will be excellent brand leaders."

Lemarchand added that, "We want to stay ahead of the marketplace and give our business partners what they are looking for -- strong brands that reach magazine readers, web and mobile users, radio listeners, television viewers and shoppers. Consumers expect brand quality on all platforms all the time, and advertisers demand multiplatform integrated packages that reach targeted consumers. It's a new day, and we have embraced the challenge to better serve our customers and business partners in the future by giving them what they need."

Each brand group will be comprised of three primary areas reporting to the Chief Brand Officer: content development led by the VP, Brand Content, advertising sales across all platforms overseen by the VP, Brand Publisher and new business extensions under the VP, Brand Development.

The following Editors In Chief of the women's titles have been named VP, Brand Content: Roberta Myers, VP, Brand Content, ELLE Group; Margaret Russell, VP, Brand Content, ELLE DECOR; Donna Warner, VP, Brand Content, Metropolitan Home and Jane Chesnutt, SVP, Brand Content, Woman's Day Group. They will remain as Editors In Chief of their magazines and are additionally responsible for brand consistency and contributing content across platforms. Preserving editorial integrity is key, and the Editors In Chief will be part of an Editorial Committee which Lemarchand will chair. The brand content editors will work closely with digital editors on the development of content through joint project groups; the Digital Media group will remain responsible for digital platforms.

The ELLE Group will name a VP, Brand Publisher and VP, Brand Development. For the Luxury Design Group, Barbara Friedmann will assume the role of VP, Brand Publisher for both ELLE DECOR and Metropolitan Home, and Christie Boyle will become VP, Brand Development, Luxury Design Group. For the Woman's Day Group, Claire Marin has been named VP, Brand Publisher and Renee Ifill has been appointed VP, Brand Development.

ELLE

ELLE is the largest fashion magazine in the world, with 42 editions on five continents. It is also the foundation of numerous brand extensions, including ELLE DECOR (25 editions), ELLE A Table (five editions), ELLE Accessories (seven editions) and ELLE.com (20 websites). The U.S. edition reaches an audience of 5.1 million readers, who find in ELLE style and substance with an independent point of view.

Woman's Day

Woman's Day is the trusted resource for more than 22 million women, helping them to Live Well Every Day. From looking and feeling their best, to cooking a great meal or creating a loving home, Woman's Day meets the essential needs of its readers with both substance and style. Publishing 17 issues each year, the magazine inspires women with information they can use to enhance the quality of their days, and ultimately, the quality of their lives. WomansDay.com launched a new redesign this Fall making it easier for users to find and navigate through information.

Luxury Design Group (ELLE DECOR and Metropolitan Home)

ELLE DECOR

ELLE DECOR is a chic and sophisticated GPS (Global Positioning System) for the world of design. Founded in 1990 and published by Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S., it is known for interiors that are as personal and idiosyncratic as they are luxurious and inspiring. What began as an off-shoot of ELLE nineteen years ago has grown to become part of an international network of 23 editions on six continents, wielding a global footprint second only to ELLE itself. In 2007, the magazine saw its best year ever, with 1,266 advertising pages, up 13% over the prior year and the #1 growth rate in the category.

Metropolitan Home

Metropolitan Home stands alone as the definitive guide to modern design and the ultimate authority on what's next. The magazine is the unparalleled champion of state-of-the-art style. Each page of Metropolitan Home informs and inspires its 2.7 million readers to decorate, renovate, garden and cook as they create a modern haven for themselves and their families. Metropolitan Home's distinctive voice elevates personal style and celebrates the effect that quality design has on today's world.

Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. www.hfmus.com enthusiast brands and targeted media products reach nearly 60 million consumers through magazines, online and mobile content. The company's editorial hallmarks are trusted expert content along with independent product testing. Our prestigious brands fall into five sectors and include: Fashion (ELLE, ELLEgirl); Automotive (Car and Driver, Road & Track, Jumpstart Automotive Media); The Luxury Design Group (ELLE DECOR, Metropolitan Home, PointClickHome); Women & Health (Woman's Day and Woman's Day Special Interest Group) and Enthusiasts (American Photo, Boating, Cycle World, Flying, Popular Photography, Premiere and Sound & Vision). HFM U.S. Total Solutions marketing initiative packages these assets across brands and platforms with customized marketing programs. HFM U.S. is part of Lagardere's (www.lagardere.com ) media division Lagardere Active, a producer of special interest content in over 40 countries.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Liza Zimmerman Named Chief Editor of Cheers Magazine

2009-03-02T14:00:00.000+02:00

SAN FRANCISCO, March 2 /PRNewswire/ -- The Beverage Information Group announced today that Liza Zimmerman, former managing editor of Market Watch -- the trade arm of the company that publishes Wine Spectator and Cigar Aficionado -- has been named chief editor of Cheers magazine. In her new post, Zimmerman will be overseeing Cheers' editorial content and conference planning as well as developing new online, print, and face-to-face products for the Beverage Information Group and www.CheersOnline.com.

Zimmerman has been writing, educating and consulting about cocktails, wine and food for more than 15 years. Seven of her career years were spent at New York-based M. Shanken Communications, revitalizing Market Watch magazine. She has also published hundreds of stories in the United States and abroad in publications such as Wine Spectator, Wine & Spirits, Time Out New York, Fodor's and La Cucina Italiana. Her cocktail column, In Good Spirits, appeared in the Seattle Weekly for a year. Her wine and spirits blog by the same name, found on her website, www.LizaTheWineChick.com, covers the drink world's latest news, personalities and brands. She is the exclusive wine and spirits columnist for the San Francisco edition of www.Examiner.com and her wine and cocktail columns are currently featured in Wine Business Monthly, Caviar Affair and In the Mix.

"In a relatively short period of time, Liza has had an exceptional career as a journalist covering the drinks business and the hospitality industry for both consumer and business publications," says Charles Forman, senior vice president and group publisher of the Beverage Information Group, a division of M2MEDIA360. "We expect her expertise and love of the business to have both an immediate and lasting impact on both Cheers and the Cheers Beverage Conference, in which she will play a major role."

Zimmerman is also one of approximately 100 people in the United States to hold the Diploma of Wine & Spirits, a precursor to Master of Wine recognition. She has taught at both Copia, The American Center for Wine, Food and the Arts in Napa, Calif., and at The Culinary Institute of America's Rudd Center for Professional Wine Studies in St. Helena, Calif.Liza Zimmerman can be contacted at (415) 839-5062 or lzimmerman@m2media360.com.

For questions about the Beverage Information Group and its parent company M2MEDIA360 or for interview information, contact Sue Gillerlain at (630) 326-9012 or sgillerlain@m2media360.com.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Denon Classics' Andre Rieu #1 Top Selling Classical Artist & #8 Pollstar Touring Act in 2008!

2009-03-02T11:00:00.000+02:00

Andre Rieu's New 'Greatest Hits' on CD and DVD set for release March 3rd

Longest North American Tour Ever Beginning in April '09

SANTA MONICA, Calif., March 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Denon Classics, once again the U.S.'s #1 independent Classical label is celebrating the announcement of Andre Rieu as the #1 selling Classical artist for 2008 according to Billboard Magazine as well as attaining the #8 spot in Pollstar Magazine among all the touring acts of 2008 in the U.S.! Rieu landed atop this year's sales tally as the nation's top selling classical artist according to Billboard Magazine. He returns to the United States in the Spring of 2009 for an unprecedented "Greatest Hits Tour" celebrating his 30th anniversary as a performer with more consecutive U.S. dates than he has ever scheduled before, spanning April, May and June. To commemorate his artistic achievement and to honor his upcoming 30-year milestone, Denon Classics will release "Andre Rieu's Greatest Hits" as chosen by his fans and collected from all of his Denon releases on CD, DVD and a deluxe CD/DVD set on March 3rd.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20081217/LA52981LOGO)

Andre Rieu has already earned the distinction as the #1 pledge drive artist for PBS and now the #1 Classical artist according to Billboard Magazine. Firmly established as one of the top performing artists according to Pollstar Magazine who ranked him as the #8 top touring draw of the year on ticket sales approaching $77 million (placing him in good company amongst the likes of Madonna, The Eagles, Bon Jovi and Coldplay), Rieu has won legions of fans worldwide and his success continues to grow with each new release and tour. Combining unparalleled showmanship with shrewd marketing, Rieu has built a world class musical career with sold out tours and increasing sales of his specials and recordings despite the ever changing dynamics of the industry.

Born in 1949 in the Dutch Province of Maasticht, Andre Rieu began his classical music training at the age of five encouraged by his father, a professional conductor. Focusing on the violin throughout, Rieu immersed himself in his musical studies attending the conservatoire in Liege, Maastrich and finally in Brussels where he concluded his musical training with distinction (Premier Prix). It did not take long before Rieu founded his first ensemble, the Maastrich Salon Orchestra performing throughout the world even as he is engaged as a violinist in the Limburg Symphony Orchestra. In 1987, Rieu recruited the 12 member Johann Strauss Orchestra. It was from this foundation that he soon catapulted to success performing concerts throughout Europe in support of his first album, "From Holland With Love," which included the piece "Second Waltz" -- a beautiful version of a Dmitri Shostakovich composition that captured the imagination of ever-larger audiences triggering a wave of affection for the waltz and earning him the fond nickname, Waltz King! With each subsequent project, Rieu gradually built a juggernaut musical enterprise of world tours (with an expanded 50 member orchestra), recording studios and TV specials -- all of which were produced, designed and marketed in house. It's an incredible endeavor matched only by the likes of similar enterprises such as Cirque du Soleil.

2009 is certain to be another banner year for Rieu with the 30-city arena tour, select repeat airings of his specials on PBS beginning in March and the release of his hand-picked greatest hits collections. Denon Classics' "Greatest Hits" collections include songs and performances taken from all of his hit releases on the label such as "Live in Dublin," "At Radio City," "Live in Vienna," "At The Movies," "Wonderland," "New Years in Vienna," "Tuscany," "Homecoming" and more. "Andre Rieu's Greatest Hits" will be released as a 15-track CD, a 20-performance DVD and a two-disc limited edition CD with bonus tracks which will also include a bonus DVD with five exclusive performances.

A platinum selling artist around the world, Rieu's worldwide appeal is as strong as ever having recently earned his 4th Platinum certification from Canada's CRIA for the DVD "CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD" bringing his total awards to 15 to date (including 11 Gold Sales certifications).

Rieu recently completed a record-breaking tour of Australia in 2008 selling out his eleven city World Stadium Tour (which included traveling with a full sized replica of Vienna's spectacular Schonnbrun Palace) which only added to his already multi-platinum sales. Rieu's specials dominated the music DVD charts in Australia capturing the top 6 spots on the charts (with 21 of his specials landing in the top 50 overall!).

Confirmed U.S. dates for Rieu's "Greatest Hits" tour are:

    4/23  New York             Hammerstein Ballroom
    4/24  Bridgeport           Arena @ Harbor Yard
    4/25  Nassau, NY           Nassau Coliseum
    4/26  New Jersey           Prudential Center
    4/27  Reading              Sovereign Center
    4/28  Philadelphia         Susquehanna Bank Center
    5/14  Baltimore            1st Mariner Arena
    5/15  Wilkes-Barre         Wachovia Centre
    5/16  Cleveland            Quicken Loans
    5/17  Pittsburgh           Mellon Arena
    5/18  Columbus             Nationwide Arena
    5/19  Detroit              Fox Theatre
    5/21  Chicago              Allstate Arena
    5/22  Milwaukee            Milwaukee Theatre
    5/23  Minneapolis          Target Center
    5/24  Des Moines           Iowa Events Center
    5/25  Omaha                Qwest Center
    5/26  Denver               Pepsi Center
    6/12  Vancouver            GM Place
    6/13  Seattle/Tacoma       Tacoma Dome
    6/14  Portland             Rose Garden Arena
    6/16  Oakland              Oracle Arena
    6/17  Sacramento           Arco Arena
    6/18  Fresno               SaveMart Arena
    6/19  Los Angeles          Nokia Theatre
    6/20  San Bernardino       Citizens Business Bank Arena
    6/22  San Diego            Cricket Wireless Pavilion
    6/23  Phoenix              Jobing.com Arena
    6/24  Las Vegas            Orleans Arena
    6/25  Salt Lake City       Usana Amphitheatre

The Savoy Label Group (SLG) features not only the historic Savoy Jazz label but also the Denon, Denon Classics, SLG and 429 Records labels. Savoy Label Group is the North American unit of Columbia Music Entertainment (formerly Nippon Columbia), the oldest music company in Japan. SLG is lead by Steve Vining and CME is headed by Chairman Strauss Zelnick, founder of Zelnick Media which owns interests in and manages an array of media companies.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

NEWSWEEK International Editions: Highlights and Exclusives, March 9, 2009 Issue

2009-03-01T18:59:00.000+02:00

COVER: Radical Islam Is a Fact of Life. How to Live With It. (All overseas editions). Newsweek International Editor Fareed Zakaria argues that in order to prevail, the West must learn to distinguish between those Islamic groups who have nihilistic philosophies and expansionist aims and those looking to apply their values at home. "Anything that emphasizes the variety of groups, movements and motives within that world strengthens the case that this is not a battle between Islam and the West," Zakaria writes. "[Osama] Bin Laden constantly argues that all these different groups are part of the same global movement. We should not play into his hands, and emphasize instead that many of these forces are local, have specific grievances and don't have much in common." Zakaria, however, stresses that this "does not mean we should accept the burning of girls' schools, or the stoning of criminals. Recognizing the reality of radical Islam is entirely different from accepting its ideas."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/187093

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090301/NYSU003 )

COVER: Losing Hand. (Japan only). Tokyo Bureau Chief Christian Caryl reports on Japan's dramatic leadership deficit. Despite the embarrassment caused by Shoichi Nakagawa, Japan's finance minister who resigned last month, Prime Minister Taro Aso, the man responsible for appointing Nakagawa, is still on the job--despite approval ratings in the single digits and an apparent lack of any coherent plan for rescuing the world's second-largest economy. Aso's propensity for gaffes and his failure to find a modus vivendi with the emboldened opposition have condemned Japan to paralysis at just the moment when it's in dire need of strong leadership. Many blame Aso's failings on his predecessors and Japanese traditions that value seniority over performance. But pretty much everyone agrees the biggest problem is the LDP itself, which has singlehandedly ruled Japan since the party's founding in 1955.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/186965

Politics Takes a Right Turn in Jerusalem. In his first foreign media interview since being asked by Israeli President Shimon Peres to form Israel's next government, Prime Minister-elect Benjamin Netanyahu tells Special Diplomatic Correspondent Lally Weymouth that he believes it is possible to halt Iran's nuclear program without having to resort to military action, but it shouldn't be ruled out. "I think this regime is vulnerable to pressure that ought to be intensified. But none of these sanctions and other measures that are contemplated would have much of an effect if the Iranians believe that a military option is off the table," he says.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/187077

Avigdor Lieberman. Weymouth also interviewed Avigdor Lieberman, whose Yisrael Beytenu party was a surprise winner in Israel's recent election. Last week Lieberman sat down for his first foreign interview and discussed his proposal of a loyalty oath for all Israelis. "The dividing line for Yisrael Beytenu is who supports terror and who fights terror. We cannot accept that there are people in Israel that even during even the war openly supported Hamas," he says. This proposal, he adds, is not only meant for Israeli Arabs but Jews as well. "[I propose] to outlaw these parties and these political leaders [who supported Hamas]," Lieberman says. "Secondly, there must be some kind of national or military service for all Israelis. We take all our examples from Europe or the United States."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/186953

Anti-Semitism in Araby. Josef Joffe, a senior fellow at the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies and Abramowitz fellow at the Hoover Institution, examines Hillary Clinton's peacemaking trip to Israel and the West Bank this week, another chapter in "the longest-running show in American diplomacy." The reasons for the slow pace are familiar: the status of Jerusalem, problems with security, Jewish settlements, civil war among the Palestinians, etc. But one other key problem is stubbornly ignored: "the fact that no Arab regime has shown itself willing to truly prepare its people for peace with Israel, which would mean accepting the lasting presence of Jews in their midst." Anti-Semitism is a very real part of Arab life today. "Whereas this darkest of creeds is no longer tolerated in polite society in the West, in the Arab world, Jew hatred remains culturally endemic."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/186974

Waiting for Barack. Denis MacShane, a Labour M.P. and Britain's minister for Europe under Tony Blair, writes that "all of Europe looks anxiously to Washington for answers to the world's intractable problems: a banking freeze-up, a job meltdown, a Middle East with no solution in sight, an Iran racing for nuclear arms, a quagmire in Afghanistan, a Russia that treats the European Union as a playpen for the Kremlin's divide-and-rule diplomatic games." Yet Barack Obama is the first president in decades with no experience or knowledge of Europe, and this is a time when Europe is disunited and quarrelsome on economic, security and foreign-policy issues.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/186966

What Hillary Didn't Do in Asia. Kishore Mahbubani, dean of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (National University of Singapore), writes that Hillary Clinton's recent trip to Asia provides some early clues on how she'll manage the task of engaging in long-term strategic thinking on major geopolitical challenges. "There's no doubt she did a competent job. Clinton followed the advice of her briefing books, making Japan her first stop to reassure this nervous and insecure ally. Then she went to Indonesia, probably at Obama's instigation, to rebuild America's image in the world's most populous Islamic country. South Korea was an essential stop to send the usual tough signals to North Korea. And then came China, her most important destination." Yet, there's little evidence Clinton has engaged in any serious strategic thinking about U.S.-China relations. During her trip, she refrained from asking any big questions.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/186967

How to End a Genocide Debate. Contributor Grenville Byfordreports on the 1915 massacre of Armenians in what is now Eastern Turkey, and the ongoing debate over whether it was "genocide." "In all probability, Turkey and Armenia can only resolve the genocide dispute if they recognize that 'was it a genocide?' may be the ultimate question, but it is not the most important one today," he writes. Two questions outrank it: what common facts can Turks and Armenians be brought to accept, and is the common ground sufficient for both sides to start binding up the wounds? As important as the final answer, however, is the development of empathy across the divide.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/186973

WORLD VIEW: A Deal With Syria Is Possible. Contributor Richard N. Haass writes that there may be an opportunity now to make peace between Israel and Syria. Damascus is signaling that it's ready to negotiate a separate peace with Israel and it needs America's help to do it. "Any accord between Israel and Syria would require a push from the outside. Turkey has been hosting talks between the two countries, but it cannot succeed on its own. The United States needs to become a participant ... President Obama correctly views dialogue as a tool, not a reward. It is time to put the tool to use, and to see what can be built."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/186954

THE LAST WORD: Alexander Medvedev, deputy chief executive of energy giant Gazprom. Senior Editor Michael Freedmanmet with Medvedev to discuss the economic crisis, foreign investment in the Russian energy sector and the Ukraine gas dispute. "We value our reputation very highly. That's why we have done everything possible to prevent the crisis. Unfortunately we became hostages of the political situation in Ukraine and a commercial dispute went out of the commercial terms."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/186975

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

NEWSWEEK: Media Lead Sheet/March 9, 2009 Issue (on newsstands Monday, March 2).

2009-03-01T17:23:00.000+02:00

COVER: "Radical Islam is A Fact of Life. How To Live With It." (p. 24). Newsweek international Editor Fareed Zakaria argues that radical Islam is a fact of life, which we must learn to deal with. In order to prevail, the West must learn to distinguish between those who have nihilistic philosophies and expansionist aims and those looking to apply their values at home. "Anything that emphasizes the variety of groups, movements and motives within that world strengthens the case that this is not a battle between Islam and the West," Zakaria writes. "[Osama] Bin Laden constantly argues that all these different groups are part of the same global movement. We should not play into his hands, and emphasize instead that many of these forces are local, have specific grievances and don't have much in common." Zakaria, however, stresses that this "does not mean we should accept the burning of girls' schools, or the stoning of criminals. Recognizing the reality of radical Islam is entirely different from accepting its ideas. We should mount a spirited defense of our views and values. We should pursue aggressively policies that will make these values succeed. Such efforts are often difficult and take time--rebuilding state structures, providing secular education, reducing corruption--but we should help societies making these efforts. The mere fact that we are working in these countries on these issues--and not simply bombing, killing and capturing--might change the atmosphere surrounding the U.S. involvement in this struggle."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/187093

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090301/NYSU003 )

INTERVIEW: "Politics Takes a Right Turn in Jerusalem" (p. 30). In his first foreign media interview since being asked by Israeli President Shimon Peres to form Israel's next government, Prime Minister- elect Benjamin Netanyahu tells Special Diplomatic Correspondent Lally Weymouth that he believes it is possible to halt Iran's nuclear program without having to resort to military action, but it shouldn't be ruled out. "I think this regime is vulnerable to pressure that ought to be intensified. But none of these sanctions and other measures that are contemplated would have much of an effect if the Iranians believe that a military option is off the table," he says.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/187077

"Avigdor Lieberman" (p. 31). Weymouth also interviewed Avigdor Lieberman, whose Yisrael Beytenu party was a surprise winner in Israel's recent election. Last week Lieberman sat down for his first foreign interview and discussed his proposal of a loyalty oath for all Israelis. "The dividing line for Yisrael Beytenu is who supports terror and who fights terror. We cannot accept that there are people in Israel that even during even the war openly supported Hamas," he says. This proposal, he adds, is not only meant for Israeli Arabs but Jews as well. "[I propose] to outlaw these parties and these political leaders [who supported Hamas]," Lieberman says. "Secondly, there must be some kind of national or military service for all Israelis. We take all our examples from Europe or the United States." A video of this interview is also available on Newsweek.com.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/186953?tid=relatedcl

POLITICS: "Obama's Pelosi Problem" (p. 34). White House Correspondent Holly Bailey reports on the friction between the White House and Congress over courting support for the stimulus package. While President Barack Obama worked to win over Republicans, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi was going in the opposite direction. Pelosi didn't share the president's dream of brotherly love breaking out in the Capitol. To the ire of Republicans, and some Democrats, Pelosi maneuvered to put the stimulus package on the fast track, cutting short debate on the bill and cutting Republicans out of the discussion.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/186961

THE WHITE HOUSE: "The Busiest Woman in Washington" (p. 38) Editor-At-Large Evan Thomas and Political Correspondent Katie Connolly profile Desiree Rogers, the First Family's social secretary, gatekeeper and imagemaker, whose top job is to cast the Obamas as occupants of a "People's House." A New Orleans native, Rogers describes her job as "one cornerstone of building the Obama presidency brand."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/186963

DANIEL GROSS: "Reining In Bubbles So They Won't Pop" (p. 44). In an adaptation of Senior Editor Daniel Gross'snew book, "Dumb Money: How Our Greatest Financial Minds Bankrupted the Nation," Gross breaks down some of the reasons why our advanced financial system suffered such a catastrophic failure and looks at whether it's possible to keep this from happening again. "There's plenty of blame to go around: poor regulation, eight years of a failed Republican economic philosophy, Wall Street-friendly Democrats who helped stymie reform, misguided bipartisan efforts to promote home ownership, Wall Street greed, corrupt CEOs, a botched rescue effort, painfully fallible central bankers," Gross writes. "Everybody--individuals, companies, institutions, and governments--got caught up in the stupidity."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/186949

SHARON BEGLEY: "Why Doctors Hate Science" (p. 49). Senior Editor Sharon Begley writes about why doctors are reluctant allow science to guide their practices and to listen to scientists conducting "comparative-effectiveness research" that determines which treatments, including drugs, are more medically and cost-effective for a given ailment than others. "The power of medical culture explains only part of the resistance to following practices that have been shown scientifically to be superior to others. Some doctors insist that results of such studies do not apply to their patients, since every patient is different," Begley writes. Money, however, also matters. "In one infamous case in the mid-1990s, a federal agency concluded that spinal fusion doesn't help back pain, a decision that threatened insurance coverage for it. Surgeons, who stood to lose piles of money, got Congress to decimate the agency's budget, forcing it to pull back from making recommendations."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/187006

EDUCATION: "Rethinking Race In the Classroom" (p. 52). National Correspondent Allison Samuels writes about why in the age of Obama, the call to banish "Huck Finn" and abolish Black History Month is wrong. "There's a case to be made that, in the age of Obama, it is more important than ever to study works like 'Huck Finn,'" Samuels writes. "As adamant as some African-American teachers and professors are about keeping the books in the classroom, some black parents feel very differently," she writes. "Parents, teachers and mentors are all responsible for arming students with the right tools for the future. And when our children end up learning only half the story, no one wins."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/187009

MOVIES: "Till Death Do Us Part" (p. 60). Senior Editor Devin Gordon reviews the long-awaited, "Watchmen" movie. Zack Snyder's film adaptation of the graphic novel is meticulous, even slavish, in its recreation of Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons's imagery. "'Watchmen' loyalists are already rejoicing. But is that a good thing?" writes Gordon. "Speaking as an admirer, but not an apostle, of the graphic novel, I thought the 'Watchmen' movie was confusing, maddeningly inconsistent and fighting a long, losing battle to establish an identity of its own."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/186958

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

NEWSWEEK Cover: Radical Islam Is A Fact Of Life. How To Live With It.

2009-03-01T16:18:00.000+02:00

Fareed Zakaria Writes, "It is crucial that we adopt a more sophisticated strategy toward radical Islam"

Not All Islamic Fundamentalists Support Jihad or are Potential Terrorists

NEW YORK, March 1 /PRNewswire/ -- In the March 9 Newsweek cover, "Radical Islam Is a Fact of Life. How to Live With It" (on newsstands Monday, March 2), Newsweek International Editor Fareed Zakaria argues that radical Islam is a fact of life, which we must learn to deal with. He emphatically does not say that we should accept the medieval values of the Islamists, or that we should not continue trying to destroy Al Qaeda. But to prevail in a generational cultural struggle, the West must learn to distinguish between those who have nihilistic philosophies and expansionist aims and those looking to apply their values at home.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090301/NYSU003 )

Reports from Nigeria to Bosnia to Indonesia show that Islamic fundamentalists are finding support within their communities for their agenda, which usually involves the introduction of some form of Sharia-Islamic law--reflecting a puritanical interpretation of Islam. No music, no liquor, no smoking, no female emancipation. "The groups that advocate these policies are ugly, reactionary forces that will stunt their countries and bring dishonor to their religion. But not all these Islamists advocate global jihad, host terrorists or launch operations against the outside world--in fact, most do not," Zakaria writes. "Consider, for example, the most difficult example, the Taliban. The Taliban have done all kinds of terrible things in Afghanistan. But so far, no Afghan Taliban has participated at any significant level in a global terrorist attack over the past 10 years--including 9/11." Zakaria also points out that while some elements of the Taliban are closely associated with Al Qaeda, "the Taliban is large, and many factions have little connection to Osama bin Laden. Most Taliban want Islamic rule locally, not violent jihad globally," he writes.

This is why "it is crucial that we adopt a more sophisticated strategy toward radical Islam," Zakaria writes. "This should come naturally to President Obama, who spoke often on the campaign trail of the need for just such a differentiated approach toward Muslim countries." The Washington Institute, a think tank often associated with conservatives, also agrees with this view. Its report due to be released this week recommends that the United States use more "nuanced, noncombative rhetoric" that avoids sweeping declarations like "war on terror," "global insurgency," even "the Muslim world."

"Anything that emphasizes the variety of groups, movements and motives within that world strengthens the case that this is not a battle between Islam and the West," Zakaria writes. "Bin Laden constantly argues that all these different groups are part of the same global movement. We should not play into his hands, and emphasize instead that many of these forces are local, have specific grievances and don't have much in common. That does not mean we should accept the burning of girls' schools, or the stoning of criminals. Recognizing the reality of radical Islam is entirely different from accepting its ideas. We should mount a spirited defense of our views and values. We should pursue aggressively policies that will make these values succeed. Such efforts are often difficult and take time--rebuilding state structures, providing secular education, reducing corruption--but we should help societies making these efforts. The mere fact that we are working in these countries on these issues--and not simply bombing, killing and capturing--might change the atmosphere surrounding the U.S. involvement in this struggle."

(Read cover article at www.Newsweek.com)

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

BusinessWeek Ranks Babson College #23 in Best Undergraduate Business School Ranking

2009-02-27T18:29:00.000+02:00

WELLESLEY, Mass., Feb. 27 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Babson has been ranked #23 on the BusinessWeek 2009 ranking of "The Best Undergraduate Business Schools." Babson has moved up 5 spots from #28 in 2008 and 10 total spots in just two years.

BusinessWeek ranked 101 colleges that met stringent quality criteria. To identify the best business programs, BusinessWeek used five measures, including a survey of more than 85,000 graduating seniors at top schools and a poll of undergraduate recruiters. BusinessWeek also calculated letter grades on teaching quality, facilities and services and job placement based on the student survey.

This year's ranking continues to provide an indication of the strength of Babson's faculty and overall academic program; the continued momentum of our students' appreciation for our facilities, services and programs; and strong reputation in the recruiter and employer marketplace:

* recruiter survey - up 22 spots from 2008

* student survey - remained steady at #21 in the ranking, up 35 spots in two years' time and included an A+ on teaching quality and an A+ on facilities and services (up from a C in 2007)

* academic quality - up 8 spots from 2008, thanks to an average SAT of 1254 and 86.1 % of students with internships

BusinessWeek's complete ranking of the Top 50 Undergraduate Business Schools is available in their March 9, 2009 issue. The complete list of the top undergraduate business schools, as well as school profiles, Q&As and interactive tools can be found at BusinessWeek.com at http://www.businessweek.com/bschools/undergraduate.

"While these rankings do not change how we prepare and teach our students, they do remain an external measure that prospective students and their parents use to evaluate colleges. The ranking data provide an opportunity to assess how the marketplace evaluates what we do while offering some insights into areas where we can seek improvement. We will continue our efforts of steady improvement and look forward to even higher rankings in the years to come," said President Leonard Schlesinger.

"What is personally so exciting to us about this ranking is that it provides strong validation of our excellence across the campus -- in academics, in student life and in our facilities and services. Thank you for all you have done to help achieve this recognition, while at the same time making Babson a truly unique and special place," said Dennis Hanno, Dean of the Undergraduate School.

Babson College in Wellesley, Mass., is recognized internationally as a leader in entrepreneurial management education. Babson grants BS degrees through its innovative undergraduate program, and grants MBA and custom MS and MBA degrees through the F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business at Babson College. Babson Executive Education offers executive development programs to experienced managers worldwide. For information, visit www.babson.edu.

This news release was issued on behalf of Newswise(TM). For more information, visit http://www.newswise.com.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

U.S. News Media Group Expands Premium Content on Amazon Kindle

2009-02-27T17:44:00.000+02:00

- New digital-only magazine to be delivered through extended wireless service -

WASHINGTON, Feb. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- U.S. News Media Group, one of the nation's leading sources of news analysis and service journalism, today announced that its newly released digital-only product U.S. News Weekly is now also available on Amazon Kindle.

Through this new distribution channel, content from U.S. News Weekly, a digital-only magazine that includes hard news reporting, insightful analysis, unique features and cutting-edge commentary, will be electronically delivered to Kindle users the same day it is published by U.S. News. Similar to the Kindle version of U.S.News & World Report magazine, Kindle users can subscribe and purchase individual issues of U.S. News Weekly.

Every week, the digital magazine will cover national and world news through the following sections: This Week in Washington, The Presidency column, Washington Whispers, Commentary and Opinion editorials, and rotating features including profiles of leading newsmakers, Pro/Con exchanges on hot-button issues, and Q&As with Washington's power brokers.

"While the media industry continues to debate fee-for-payment options, we're moving forward to make our already successful paid and free products widely accessible to readers," said Brian Kelly, editor of U.S.News & World Report. "By providing U.S. News Weekly content on Amazon Kindle, it's easy for readers to receive the news analysis and in-depth reports they want. It's a timely, effective delivery platform that fits our fresh reporting and analysis."

U.S. News Weekly and U.S.News & World Report are currently offered through Amazon Kindle at www.amazon.com/kindlestore.

About the U.S. News Media Group

The U.S. News Media Group is a multi-platform digital publisher of news and analysis, which includes the monthly U.S. News & World Report magazine, the digital-only U.S. News Weekly magazine, www.usnews.com, and www.rankingsandreviews.com. Focusing on Health, Money & Business, Education, and Public Service/Opinion, the U.S. News Media Group has earned a reputation as the leading provider of service news and information that improves the quality of life of its readers. The U.S. News Media Group's signature franchises include its News You Can Use(R) brand of journalism and its "America's Best" series of consumer guides that include rankings of colleges, graduate schools, hospitals, health plans, and more.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Villanova School of Business Ranked #11 in the Nation by BusinessWeek

2009-02-26T23:24:00.000+02:00

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 26 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Villanova School of Business (VSB) placed #11 in BusinessWeek's fourth annual ranking of undergraduate business schools nationwide, published today. This represents a two-point jump for Villanova, which placed #13 last year. The ranking is based on faculty and educational quality, professional development, business relevance, and student satisfaction.

"We are honored to see Villanova's commitment to excellence and the quality of our business students, faculty, and staff recognized through this national ranking," said VSB Dean James M. Danko. "The BusinessWeek results confirm our strong, consistent position among the top business schools in the United States."

Villanova School of Business is known for its strong liberal arts foundation, its state-of-the-art Applied Finance Lab and learning facilities, and its Augustinian focus on service and volunteerism. Over the past several years, VSB has received recognition on the national stage for its rankings performances as well as its innovative achievements. A radically-redesigned undergraduate curriculum was introduced to incoming freshmen in 2008, and the VSB faculty has restructured itself and redefined its evaluation system. Financial giving to the school has increased five fold, and student applications and student quality have reached unprecedented levels.

"Especially in light of the economic challenges we now face, young business leaders need to approach the practice of global business with increasing agility and openness to change. It's our job to teach them how to solve problems creatively and holistically--and to remain deeply committed to their ethical responsibilities throughout their careers," said Danko. "We've been entrusted by our students--and their parents--to provide this return on their educational investment. Today's BusinessWeek ranking provides positive affirmation that we're doing this successfully."

Established in 1922, the Villanova School of Business serves over 2,500 students across its undergraduate and graduate programs. BusinessWeek ranks the VSB part-time MBA program #11 in the nation and the VSB executive MBA #18 in the nation. VSB is home to faculty research centers including the Center for Global Leadership, the Institute for Research in Advanced Financial Technology, the Center for Marketing and Public Policy Research, the Center for the Study of Church Management, and the Daniel M. DiLella Center for Real Estate.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Playboy Special Report: The Persecution of Barry Bonds

2009-02-26T14:13:00.000+02:00

NEW YORK, Feb. 26 /PRNewswire/ -- For more than five years the national media coverage of the BALCO investigation has been fed by a national obsession to shame, humiliate and prosecute athletes for alleged lies about sports doping. In "The Persecution of Barry Bonds" San Francisco based author and journalist Jonathan Littman takes a different view of the greatest steroid sports scandal in history, one that asks what it was all about, and whether the point of the whole multi-million dollar investigation has been to divert attention from the real villains, Bud Selig, the Commissioner of Major League baseball and the owners who profited for more than a decade by a culture of rampant steroid abuse. The full report is available online now at http://www.playboy.com/steroids and will be printed in the April issue of Playboy, on newsstands Friday, March 20.

Littman broke the inside story of BALCO in May 2004 for Playboy in "Gunning for the Big Guy." He has reported on this story for nearly six years, filing more than fifty stories on the topic. Littman has met and interviewed the key players in this drama dozens of times over the past half decade. The only journalist to have interviewed three of the four original BALCO investigators, Littman has attended nearly every trial and hearing in the sprawling, massively covered scandal, from the BALCO trials to the hearings in the perjury case against Barry Bonds, to the Clemens Congressional hearing. Previously unknown facts uncovered in Littman's report include:

    1.  NOVITZKY'S GAME: How Agent Jeff Novitzky got the green light for an
        unprecedented multi-million dollar IRS witch hunt. Before the 2003
        raid on BALCO, before a single headline was ever written, Littman knew
        that Agent Novitzky, a then unheralded IRS agent, was obsessed with
        bringing down Barry Bonds.

    2.  PROTECTING BUD: How Novitzky and the BALCO federal prosecutors
        seemingly protected Bud Selig and Major League baseball, by not
        calling the Commissioner or baseball's owners to testify to their
        knowledge of rampant steroid use in baseball.

    3.  HIDING THE CLEAR: Previous press reports repeated the government
        account that The Clear, the centerpiece drug in BALCO was an illegal
        steroid. Secret grand jury testimony of Jeff Novitzky himself reveals
        that the government knew early on that it was not an illegal drug.

    4.  PERJURY TRAP: The BALCO investigation, far from an attempt to clean up
        sports, was designed to entrap one man, Barry Bonds.  How the
        government misled Bonds on the day of his Grand Jury testimony and
        appears to have to set up baseball's all-time home-run king on a
        perjury charge.

    5.  TRUTH TELLER UNMASKED: At the very time Agent Novitzky was given
        unprecedented powers and funds to trip up athletes in lies, the
        Treasury opened an investigation that questioned his credibility. The
        origins of a five-year-old secret investigation that has already
        caused the lawyer for one BALCO defendant to ask a judge to set aside
        a conviction and may imperil the Bonds case.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

AnalogicTech's AAT1282 Flash Driver IC Named Finalist for EDN Innovation Award

2009-02-26T12:35:00.000+02:00

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Feb. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Advanced Analogic Technologies, Inc. (AnalogicTech(TM)) (Nasdaq: AATI), a developer of power management integrated circuits, announced today that the AAT1282 Flash Driver IC has been selected by EDN Magazine as one of three finalists in the Power IC: Drivers category for the publication's prestigious EDN Innovation award. Introduced by AnalogicTech in April, 2008, the AAT1282 is the industry's first 2A flash LED driver to use a super capacitor to deliver the high light intensity needed for mobile phones featuring cameras with resolutions greater than 5 Megapixels.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050829/SFTU089LOGO)

Over the past 18 years, EDN's Innovation Awards have honored the people, products and technologies that have shaped the semiconductor industry. Awards are given in 28 categories. Three finalists in each category are selected by EDN's editors as products that demonstrate a level of innovation resulting in a significant advance in technology or product development. During the month of February, EDN's worldwide audience of electronic engineers and engineering managers will vote on the ultimate winners in each category. Winners will be announced at a dinner and awards ceremony on March 30, 2009 in San Jose, CA.

Smaller Footprint

A new generation of high intensity White LEDs (WLEDs) offers an attractive space-saving and lower cost alternative to conventional xenon flash, the bulky de facto standard for flash in high performance digital still cameras and smart phones. But their adoption has been hindered by rigorous requirements for high current, forward voltage and peak current to deliver such a high intensity level of light. The AAT1282 stores the output of a boost converter in a high-capacity super capacitor and uses fixed input current limiting. This allows designers to use compact WLEDs to deliver the high intensity light needed for professional-quality flash and video applications in high megapixel cameras without draining or damaging the Lithium-ion battery.

"Given the number of innovative products announced each year and the level of competition, we are delighted that EDN has named the AAT1282 as one of the three finalists in this product category," said Ed Lam, vice president of marketing and engineering at AnalogicTech. "Our development team worked very hard on this project so we are proud that the editors at EDN acknowledge that effort and recognize the benefits this product will bring by improving photo quality and simplifying portable product designs."

About EDN

Published 26 times a year, EDN serves the vital information needs of design engineers and engineering managers worldwide. The publication provides in-depth design features and technical information on the microprocessors and other digital ICs, analog ICs, ASICs, computers and software, computer peripherals, components, power sources, interconnects and packaging. EDN also explores important application areas such as computers, communications, embedded design, industrial and consumer electronics. The magazine is published by Reed Business Information, the largest business-to-business publisher in the U.S. and a member of Reed Elsevier Group Plc (NYSE: RUK and ENL), a world-leading publisher and information provider.

About AnalogicTech

Advanced Analogic Technologies, Inc. (AnalogicTech) is a supplier of Total Power Management(TM) semiconductor solutions for a variety of consumer, communications, and computing systems. The company focuses its design and marketing efforts on the application-specific power management needs of such devices as mobile handsets, smartphones, digital cameras, netbooks / notebooks, personal navigation systems, and wireless LANs. AnalogicTech also develops and licenses device, process, package, and application-related technologies. AnalogicTech is headquartered in Santa Clara, CA and Macau, S.A.R., with offices in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, and the U.K., as well as a worldwide network of sales reps and distributors. The company is listed on NASDAQ under the symbol AATI. For more information, please visit http://www.analogictech.com. (AnalogicTech - G)

AnalogicTech and the AnalogicTech logo are trademarks of Advanced Analogic Technologies Incorporated. All other brand and product names appearing in this document are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective holders.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Arab Media Group Selects never.no Interactivity Suite to Support ATN's Participation-TV Venture

2009-02-26T10:49:00.000+02:00

OSLO, Norway, February 26 /PRNewswire/ --

- Visit never.no at CABSAT, Stand Z-13

never.no, creators of the software that powers the world's most popular interactive video systems, today announced that Arab Media Group (AMG) has selected never.no's Interactivity Suite to support a participation-TV venture by AMG's Arab Television Network (ATN), including channels such as MTV Arabia. Located in Dubai, AMG is the largest media conglomerate in the Middle East, comprising television, radio, print, online, and advertising companies.

"The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the fastest-growing and most competitive media market in the world, and AMG is the largest and most dynamic media organization in the UAE," said Lars Lauritzsen, CEO of never.no. "The selection of our Interactivity Suite to be the enabling technology behind this high-profile project represents further recognition by the global media industry of the suite's exciting potential. We are committed to helping AMG redefine the playing field for participation TV in combination with mobile marketing concepts."

never.no's Interactivity Suite comprises four software applications that enable audience members both to influence a television broadcast in real time and to interact with one another. Using it, media owners and advertisers can track consumers from medium to medium, communicate with them individually, and tailor content and advertising to suit them. Broadcasters also can use the Interactivity Suite to integrate user-submitted content into their programming.

The suite consists of Auto-Dialogue System, which provides design, configuration, deployment and operation of one-to-one dialog services in electronic media and is targeted at mobile phones; Interactivity Desk, an editorial system for managing and moderating viewer input and executing simple broadcast control functions including preparation and scheduling of content; Dynamic Content Scheduler, which provides frame-accurate scheduling and configuration of broadcast time besides automating interactions with graphics systems, video servers, automation systems, and station clocks; and Intelligence, a data mining and statistical reporting tool.

The Interactivity Suite interfaces in all directions through industry-standard protocols and supports any format logic from simple SMS votes to highly complex and individualized applications with timelines spanning several years. Currently, it provides the basis for more than 2,000 diverse mobile consumer services, and produces daily live television broadcasts on some 30 channels around the world.

"We wanted the best, most reliable, and most functional solution for enabling participation TV, which is why we opted for never.no, the leading player in the global interactive market," said Khadeeja Al-Marzooqi, general manager of AMG's Arabian Digital Network. "We are expecting a great response from our audience and ultimately a higher market share as a result both of the creative and the technology aspects of our participation-TV project."

More information on this and any other never.no products is available at http://www.never.no or by phone at +47-22-01-66-20.

About Arab Media Group

Founded in March 2005, Arab Media Group (AMG) is the largest media organization in the UAE. Its business interests include nine radio stations, three newspapers, television, online, distribution, printing, events management and outdoor advertising. Its most recent ventures are the launch of MTV Arabia through its ATN subsidiary, and the launch of Virgin Radio.

About never.no

never.no connects broadcasters, brands, outdoor media owners and digital screen networks with online and mobile consumers. never.no's interactive video platform enables audience participation by modifying the video stream based on live, user-submitted opinions and content. Able to function with traditional TV, webTV, IPTV and mobile TV platforms, the never.no product suite powers interactive TV formats and entire channels and allows viewers to participate through mobile phones and the Internet. With datacenters in Oslo, Los Angeles, and Dubai, never.no serves customers including broadcast, telco, and media companies worldwide. More information about never.no products is available at http://www.never.no.

All trademarks appearing herein are the property of their respective owners.

    Agency Contact:

    Marguerite Clark
    Wall Street Communications
    Telephone: +33-1-45-25-36-91
    E-mail: marguerite@wallstcom.com

    never.no:

    Lars Lauritzsen
    CEO
    Telephone: +47-22-01-66-20
    E-mail: lars@never.no

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Technology vendors seize opportunity to gain market share, emerge from global crisis stronger at International IC-China Conference & Exhibition

2009-02-26T05:41:00.000+02:00

SHENZHEN, China, Feb. 26 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- Global Sources (Nasdaq: GSOL) announces the opening of the 14th International IC-China Conference & Exhibition (IIC-China, http://www.english.IIC-China.com ), the only systems design event in mainland China, at Shenzhen Convention and Exhibition Center through Feb. 27.

    (Logo:http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030303/LNM011LOGO-b )

    IIC-China is also scheduled to be held in:

    -- Xi'an: March 2-3, Xian Greenland PICO International Convention and
       Exhibition Centre;
    -- Beijing: March 5-6, China World Trade Center; and
    -- Shanghai: March 9-10, Shanghai Mart.

For the third year, IIC-China's Shenzhen, Xi'an and Shanghai venues will also present Components Zone, mainland China's largest electronic components sourcing event.

"Mainland China's electronics exports may have slowed down from the double-digit growth we are used to, but they remain robust. Mainland China is the single largest source of manufactured electronics worldwide. It is an industry driven by both global and domestic demand," said Mark A. Saunderson, President of Global Sources' Electronics Business Unit.

"Recent mainland China government policy is expected to expand demand for consumer electronics in mainland China. The breadth and size of the market, coupled with favorable policy are expected to support the international technology companies that supply this industry.

"With the recent dramatic market changes, electronics manufacturers recognize there is no longer a place for low-price, 'me-too' products. They are now focusing on quality and innovation to survive and prosper.

"Engineers working for these companies must keep apace of latest design possibilities and new technology. Their job depends on inspired design, and inspired design demands new technology -- in a word, innovation; and innovation is what IIC-China is all about.

"At a time when marketing and promotion are key to survival and growth, exhibitors use IIC-China to stand out from the crowd and leapfrog competitors who are pulling back."

Top technology companies keen to penetrate mainland China market

With mainland China ranked as the world's largest IC market, companies like Altium, Analog Devices, Atmel, Fairchild Semiconductor, Intel, Intersil, Maxim, Micrel, Microchip Technology, Microsoft Windows Embedded, NEC Electronics, Numonyx, NXP Semiconductors and Vishay are seizing this opportunity to exhibit their latest products and services to mainland China's engineering community.

Intel China's director of embedded sales and marketing group, Terry Sze, said: "Although the global economic downturn is affecting mainland China, we are glad to see that so many technology manufactures from around the world are still participating at IIC-China -- this provides Intel and our fellow technology companies a great opportunity to network with each other.

"Intel has been promoting the development of industrial and home automation and embedded ecosystem for over 30 years. Today, we work with our business partners and over 3,500 clients on developing innovative IA embedded solutions catering to different applications. The development of embedded Internet, which is expected to connect over 15 billion embedded computing devices by 2015, relies on our constant effort to exchange ideas with our business partners and clients."

IIC-China delivers educational conferences to engineers seeking inspiration

Industry gurus from leading technology companies are scheduled to deliver the latest design theories and application methodology on next-generation communication, embedded systems, automotive electronics and power management technologies.

Companies to host seminars include Actel, Freescale Semiconductor, Fujitsu Microelectronics, Future Technology Devices International (FTDI), Infineon Technologies, International Rectifier and STMicroelectronics.

Saunderson said: "For 14 years, IIC-China has connected great minds, original ideas and new technology. It has helped mainland China evolve from being the world's factory to a power house for technologic innovations. Technology vendors and engineers have always relied on IIC-China as the perfect channel that delivers solutions for them to cope with different challenges every step along the way."

Global Sources' design-to-export solution for Greater China and Asia's electronics industry

IIC-China is an important part of Global Sources' portfolio of electronics industry media and trade show brands. Combining 29 online and 10 print media, plus four events which run 13 times across 11 cities, Global Sources provides Greater China and Asia's electronics industry with end-to-end support - from product conceptualization through to export of finished products.

Global Sources' key electronics industry event brands also include International IC-Taiwan Conference & Exhibition ( http://www.english.iic-taiwan.com ) and China Sourcing Fairs: Electronics and Electronics & Components ( http://www.chinasourcingfair.com ).

For more information about Global Sources, visit http://www.corporate.globalsources.com .

About Global Sources

Global Sources is a leading business-to-business media company and a primary facilitator of trade with Greater China. The core business uses English-language media to facilitate trade from Greater China to the world. The other business segment utilizes Chinese-language media to enable companies to sell to, and within Greater China.

The company provides sourcing information to volume buyers and integrated marketing services to suppliers. It helps a community of over 790,000 active buyers source more profitably from complex overseas supply markets. With the goal of providing the most effective ways possible to advertise, market and sell, Global Sources enables suppliers to sell to hard-to-reach buyers in over 240 countries.

The company offers the most extensive range of media and export marketing services in the industries it serves. It delivers information on 4.3 million products and more than 196,000 suppliers annually through 14 online marketplaces, 13 monthly magazines, over 100 sourcing research reports and 11 specialized trade shows which run 32 times a year across 11 cities.

Suppliers receive more than 53 million sales leads annually from buyers through Global Sources Online ( http://www.globalsources.com ) alone.

Global Sources has been facilitating global trade for 38 years. Global Sources' network covers more than 69 cities worldwide. In mainland China, Global Sources has over 2,800 team members in more than 44 locations, and a community of over 1 million registered online users and magazine readers for Chinese-language media.

    Global Sources Press Contact in Asia
     Camellia So
     Tel:   +852-2555-5021
     Email: cso@globalsources.com

    Global Sources Press Contact in U.S.
     James W.W. Strachan
     Tel:   +1-480-664-8309
     Email: strachan@globalsources.com

    Global Sources Investor Contact in Asia
     Investor Relations Department
     Tel:   +852-2555-4777
     Email: investor@globalsources.com

    Global Sources Investor Contact in U.S.
     Kirsten Chapman & Timothy Dien
     Lippert/Heilshorn & Associates, Inc.
     Tel:   +1-415-433-3777
     Email: tdien@lhai.com

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

American Media Inc. Names Allan Donnelly Editor-In-Chief of FLEX Magazine

2009-02-25T21:09:00.000+02:00

WOODLAND HILLS, Calif., Feb. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- David J. Pecker, Chairman, President and CEO of American Media, Inc. (AMI), today announced that Allan Donnelly has been named the new Editor-in-Chief of FLEX magazine. Since joining FLEX in 2006, Mr. Donnelly has been involved in all aspects of the magazine and website, rising from Senior Editor to Online Editor and, most recently, Executive Editor. His involvement with AMI and Weider Publications dates back to 2001, when he began as an Editor at Men's Fitness and a contributor to Muscle & Fitness.

Since its inception in 1982, FLEX magazine has been the world's leading publication for bodybuilding enthusiasts. FLEX reaches over one million readers a month.

About American Media, Inc.

American Media, Inc. is the leading publisher of celebrity journalism and health and fitness magazines in the U.S. These include Star, Shape, Men's Fitness, Fit Pregnancy, Natural Health, and The National Enquirer. In addition to print properties, AMI manages 14 different web sites. The company also owns Distribution Services, Inc., the country's #1 in-store magazine merchandising company.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. Names Eddie Alterman Vice President, Editor In Chief of Car and Driver

2009-02-25T16:34:00.000+02:00

NEW YORK, Feb. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- Alain Lemarchand, President and CEO, Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. (HFM U.S.) announced today that Eddie Alterman has been named Vice President, Editor In Chief of Car and Driver. Alterman will report to Lemarchand will begin his new position on Monday, March 2, 2009. HFM U.S. Group Editorial Director John Owens has served as acting editor in chief since Csaba Csere's departure two months ago.

"We are fortunate to have Eddie Alterman joining us as the editorial head of one of our largest and most important brands. He is a respected journalist and has extensive experience in automotive both in print and digital content. He and John Driscoll, Vice President, Publisher Automotive Group, will make a great team," said Lemarchand. "We're confident that Alterman and his group will be able to create outstanding content that will accelerate the growth of the brand by enlarging the audiences of automotive enthusiasts as well as consumers who look to Car and Driver and CarandDriver.com for credible advice and reviews when they are buying a car."

In 2006, Alterman was founder and Editor In Chief of Motivemag.com, an online car magazine combining original editorial and user-generated content. Before that Alterman founded and served as Editor In Chief of MPH's magazine and website. He also coordinated advertising and marketing effort for print and online and was named one of Crain's Detroit Business's "40 Under 40" young leaders. Alterman worked for Men's Journal and began writing the magazine's car column and automotive feature stories from 2006 to present. During his tenure with Automobile, he developed and supervised the brand's web site and maintained writing, editing, and custom-publishing responsibilities.

About Car and Driver

Car and Driver's expert editorial team is recognized by car enthusiasts and automotive manufacturers as credible journalists who practice to the highest standards. The magazine is published by Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. twelve times each year delivering an audience of over 11 million readers monthly (source: MRI Fall 2008). With a circulation of 1.3 million copies (ABC Jan-June 2008), Car and Driver is the world's largest monthly automotive magazine. The magazine is a leading publication for in-market buyers, and the Car and Driver brand extends to many platforms including a web site, mobile site, radio, custom marketing programs and an integrated marketing database. CarandDriver.com relaunched last year with an easy-to-search format for the consumer which combines Car and Driver's credible car reviews with improved searchability and tools for people who are in the market to buy a car. CarandDriver.com's advertising is sold by Jumpstart Automotive Media, an HFM U.S. company.

Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. (www.hfmus.com) enthusiast brands and targeted media products reach nearly 60 million consumers through magazines, online and mobile content. The company's editorial hallmarks are trusted expert content along with independent product testing. Our prestigious brands fall into five sectors and include: Fashion (ELLE, ELLEgirl); Automotive (Car and Driver, Road & Track, Jumpstart Automotive Media); The Luxury Design Group (ELLE DECOR, Metropolitan Home, PointClickHome); Women & Health (Woman's Day and Woman's Day Special Interest Group) and Enthusiasts (American Photo, Boating, Cycle World, Flying, Popular Photography, Premiere and Sound & Vision). HFM U.S. Total Solutions marketing initiative packages these assets across brands and platforms with customized marketing programs. HFM U.S. is part of Lagardere's (www.lagardere.com) media division Lagardere Active, a producer of special interest content in over 40 countries.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Economic crisis draws global buyers to India to source competitively-priced gifts and home decor

2009-02-25T08:50:00.000+02:00

HONG KONG, Feb. 25 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- Five international buyers are scheduled to meet pre-screened Indian suppliers at two Private Sourcing Events ( http://www.PrivateSourcingEvents.com ) in New Delhi. The events for Kitchen & Tabletop Accessories, and Crafts, Gifts & Packaging are being held today and tomorrow, respectively, by Global Sources' (Nasdaq: GSOL) ( http://www.globalsources.com ) sales representative for India.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030303/LNM011LOGO-b )

Global Sources' Chairman and CEO, Merle A. Hinrichs, said: "Though China continues to be the world's number one sourcing destination, India offers some unique advantages to buyers aside from lower prices.

"While high volume production is China's forte, India's suppliers are able to produce handcrafted items in small quantities. This is particularly important today as buyers look to place smaller orders in response to slowing consumer demand.

"To diversify their sourcing options, many buyers are turning to India and other emerging countries. The further expansion of Private Sourcing Events this year to India, Vietnam and other alternative sourcing locations helps them do this."

Representing US$37.8 billion in annual sales, buyers scheduled to participate in the Kitchen & Tabletop Accessories, and Crafts, Gifts & Packaging events are:

    -- Atico -- the largest sourcing and product development company in the
       U.S.
    -- Dollar General -- the largest discount chain in the U.S. based on store
       locations
    -- El Corte Ingles -- Spain's largest retailer
    -- Newell Rubbermaid -- a global marketer of consumer and commercial
       products
    -- Test Rite -- one of Taiwan's largest trading companies

One participating buyer, Product Manager of Test Rite India, Sanjiv Kumar, said: "As we expand our India sourcing program, we're working with a lot of suppliers for the first time. So, it's important for us to find new, quality suppliers for a whole range of products.

"Private Sourcing Events help us find quality suppliers with products that deliver the right mix of quality and value our customers expect."

One participating supplier, Senior Merchandiser of Rajan Overseas, Shaheer Ahmad, said: "India-made products are moving up the value chain and this is bringing more top buyers to the region. Private Sourcing Events put us on the fast track to meet these buyers. And this type of face-to-face format is ideal for negotiations. We're extremely happy to have been selected to participate."

Hinrichs concluded: "Through our online, face-to-face and print channels, we strive to give buyers the best range of options so they can make the best possible sourcing decisions."

World's top buyers scheduled to attend upcoming Private Sourcing Events

Over 100 Private Sourcing Events are planned for 2009, with dozens of buyers including Carrefour, Auchan, Metro and Lowe's scheduled to participate. All Private Sourcing Events are complimentary for buyers and only Global Sources suppliers are eligible to participate. More information about Private Sourcing Events is available at http://www.PrivateSourcingEvents.com .

Suppliers wishing to participate should contact csm@globalsources.com.

Specialized Global Sources websites, face-to-face events and trade magazines

Private Sourcing Events are part of the company's portfolio of brands for sourcing and product information services, which include Global Sources Online ( http://www.globalsources.com ), China Sourcing Fairs ( http://www.chinasourcingfair.com ) and Global Sources monthly magazines.

For more information about Global Sources' products and services to connect quality buyers and quality suppliers, visit http://corporate.globalsources.com .

About Global Sources

Suppliers receive more than 53 million sales leads annually from buyers through Global Sources Online ( http://www.globalsources.com ) alone.

    Global Sources Press Contact in Asia
     Camellia So
     Tel:   +852-2555-5021
     Email: cso@globalsources.com

    Global Sources Press Contact in U.S.
     James W.W. Strachan
     Tel:   +1-480-664-8309
     Email: strachan@globalsources.com

    Global Sources Investor Contact in Asia
     Investor Relations Department
     Tel:   +852-2555-4777
     Email: investor@globalsources.com

    Global Sources Investor Contact in U.S.
     Kirsten Chapman & Timothy Dien
     Lippert/Heilshorn & Associates, Inc.
     Tel:   +1-415-433-3777
     Email: tdien@lhai.com

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Launch of Thomson Innovation in Taiwan Enables Customers to Enhance Their Intellectual Property Research and Business Decision-Making

2009-02-25T07:56:00.000+02:00

TAIPEI, Taiwan, Feb. 25 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Thomson Reuters, the world's leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals, announced today the launch of Thomson Innovation(SM), the international award- winning premier intellectual property (IP) research and analysis solution ( www.thomsoninnovation.com ) to enhance productivity and decision making for enterprises and IP, legal and R&D professionals in Taiwan.

Thomson Innovation was most recently named one of the 100 best information technology (IT) projects of 2008 by Infoworld, an International Data Group IT online media and events business. Earlier in 2008, Thomson Innovation was recognized by R&D Magazine as one of the top 100 most technologically significant products introduced to the marketplace in the past year.

Thomson Innovation integrates IP, scientific literature, business data and news with analytic, collaboration and alerting tools. Researchers, information professionals, attorneys and analysts can simultaneously search global patent data, Taiwan and Asian patent sources, scientific literature, as well as business and news content to help their companies inspire innovation, drive strategy, increase productivity and gain a critical competitive advantage.

As the world's leading provider of Asia-Pacific patent content in English including Japanese full-text, Korean abstracts and editorially-enhanced abstracts of Chinese utility models and Chinese applications from 2007 to present, Thomson Innovation helps customers effectively track and manage global activity.

Thomson Innovation supports strategic IP decision making through powerful analysis and visualization tools, such as charting, citation mapping and search result ranking. The tracking functionality enables the centralized control of managing research done across an organization, including reporting options for client charge backs and cost allocation.

Customers also benefit from powerful functionality such as the ThemeScape landscape visualization tool which enables at-a-glance view of search results including first-level patent data, value-added patent information from Derwent World Patents Index(R) (DWPI), and scientific literature (comprising Web of Science(R), Current Contents Connect(R), INSPEC(R) and ISI Proceedings). DWPI is the world's most comprehensive database of enhanced patent documents.

Said Mr. Gary Liang, Senior Regional Manager, Asia Pacific, Thomson Reuters, "We understand our Taiwan customers' IP needs and the challenging business environment they operate in. Thomson Innovation meets our customers' demand for complete, reliable information and premium content from DWPI for worldwide IP research plus powerful applications and analytics on one robust platform for optimum effectiveness. This total solution helps them save time and money, accelerate their business decisions and optimize their IP assets in today's competitive marketplace."

Thomson Innovation will be launched in Taiwan at workshops held in Taipei, Hsinchu and Tainan from February 25-27. For registration, visit http://www.isiuser.com/event20090225-27.html .

About Thomson Reuters

Thomson Reuters is the world's leading source of intelligent information for businesses and professionals. We combine industry expertise with innovative technology to deliver critical information to leading decision makers in the financial, legal, tax and accounting, scientific, healthcare and media markets, powered by the world's most trusted news organization. With headquarters in New York and major operations in London and Eagan, Minnesota, Thomson Reuters employs more than 50,000 people in 93 countries. For more information, go to thomsonreuters.com .

    Contact:

     Pamela Lim
     Manager, PR & Communications
     Healthcare and Science
     Tel:   +65-6411-6737
     Email: pamela.lim@thomsonreuters.com

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Solos Endoscopy, Inc.'s Breast Endoscopy System Featured in January Issue of Outpatient Surgery Magazine

2009-02-24T15:41:00.000+02:00

BOSTON, Feb. 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Solos Endoscopy, Inc. (Pink Sheets: SNDY) is pleased to announce that the Company's Breast Endoscopy System, the MammoView(TM), was featured in the "Product News" section of Outpatient Surgery Magazine in the January 2009 issue. The article focused on the MammoView(TM)'s functionality and its ability to detect breast cancer earlier, with minimally invasive ductoscopy.

The MammoView(TM) product line employs advanced microendoscopes and optical technology which can detect precancerous and cancerous cells approximately five years before a mammogram would, as stated in the article. Using the MammoView(TM), doctors can enter the breast through the nipple, navigate through the mammary ducts, where most breast cancers originate and develop, and use irrigation and video technology to observe any abnormalities. The procedure lasts approximately fifteen minuets.

"Solos Endoscopy is pleased to have the MammoView(TM)'s direct advantage to mammography outlined in one of the surgical industries top magazines. We expect that our inclusion will increase the worldwide exposure of our products to potential customers and partners," stated Bob Segersten, President of Solos Endoscopy, Inc.

To view the article in its entirety, please go to www.solosendoscopy.com.

About Outpatient Surgery Magazine: Outpatient Surgery Magazine serves as a meeting place for decision makers in facilities where ambulatory surgery is done. The magazine facilitates the exchange of ideas, advice, experiences and information between surgical facility management team members. It also delivers relevant info and advice from experts, professional advisors, industry, and others: http://www.outpatientsurgery.net/.

About Solos Endoscopy, Inc.: Solos Endoscopy, Inc. is a healthcare technology company whose mission is to develop and market breakthrough technology, applications, medical devices, and procedural techniques for the screening, diagnosis, treatment and management of medical conditions. Backed by technical support, Solos' sales team can help make the right buying decisions for the hospital, surgery center, or physician office. Additional information is available on the Company's website at: www.solosendoscopy.com.

Safe Harbor: This release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 27E of the Securities Act of 1934. Statements contained in this release that are not historical facts may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain. Actual performance and results may differ materially from that projected or suggested herein due to certain risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, ability to obtain financing and regulatory and shareholder approval for anticipated actions.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

How to Stay Healthy on a Budget: 31 Money-saving Tips From Natural Solutions Magazine

2009-02-24T14:55:00.000+02:00

BOULDER, Colo., Feb. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Money is tight these days, so people are paying close attention to how they spend their precious dollars. This can include eating at home more and canceling pricey gym memberships. In this new economic era, unrestrained spending is out. But don't allow tight times to compromise the health of you or your family. To help health seekers navigate the new terrain, the editors at Natural Solutions: Vibrant Health, Balanced Living magazine have published "31 Ways to Stay Healthy and Save Money" in their March issue -- on newsstands now.

"The things that keep us healthy are often the first to go when we clamp down on our spending," said Linda Sparrowe, Natural Solutions' editor-in-chief. "We can't stop paying the mortgage or the utilities, so we downgrade our healthy lifestyle expenditures to 'dispensable.'" Turns out that's not such a healthy idea. Uncertain times like these, Sparrowe says, create an inordinate amount of stress, which is reason alone to find a way to keep what keeps you sane. How can you do that without breaking the bank?

Barter. Many service providers are willing to strike a trade. To keep a healthful practice, such as yoga classes or regular massages, offer valuable skills in trade.
Strike a deal. Let a massage student practice on you for free. Offer to pay for a yearlong gym membership for a discount over the month-to-month price, or join budgets with a friend to hire a personal trainer who will let each person pay half the fee.
Plan ahead when you shop. In addition to sale items, zero in on the store's private-label brand (for food and supplements), the bulk-foods section, and value packs of meat, poultry, and fish. Buy seasonal produce with a friend and take weekly turns chopping it to avoid expensive pre-cut produce.

Want more tips? Log on to www.naturalsolutionsmag.com.

About Natural Solutions

Natural Solutions: Vibrant Health, Balanced Living, formerly Alternative Medicine magazine, has been the trusted voice in the natural health arena for 15 years. Natural Solutions guides and inspires its readers to make informed decisions about their health and well-being in all aspects of their lives. Visit naturalsolutionsmag.com to view a free digital edition of the magazine.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Real Simple Unveils Re-Launch of Website, RealSimple.com

2009-02-24T14:00:00.000+02:00

NEW REALSIMPLE.COM GOES LIVE TODAY WITH FRESH, DAILY CONTENT AND A STREAMLINED LOOK TO HELP MAKE CONSUMERS' LIVES EASIER, EVERY DAY

SITE'S TRAFFIC UP 35% VERSUS 2008

NEW YORK, Feb. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Real Simple, the award-winning Time Inc. lifestyle brand, today unveils its new website, RealSimple.com, it was announced by Tanya Singer, Executive Director, RealSimple.com and Steve Zales, President, Digital, Time Inc. Lifestyle Group. The guiding philosophy of the site, "life made easier, every day," is showcased in fresh, daily content enabling consumers to find smart, realistic solutions to their everyday challenges.

Featuring the channels "Food & Recipes," "Home & Organizing," "Beauty & Fashion," "Holidays & Entertaining," "Health," and "Work & Life," the new RealSimple.com includes all content areas that are integral to the brand. It has been redesigned to be the premiere destination for busy women looking for realistic yet inspiring solutions.

"The new RealSimple.com combines the great service consumers expect from Real Simple magazine with the fresh, interactive quality of the web," said Singer. "Whether visitors are looking for information on how to get stains out or how to throw a special celebration, RealSimple.com is the go-to resource for digital consumers looking to make life easier."

RealSimple.com has received a complete overhaul based on the brand's beautiful, streamlined aesthetic. The homepage features "Today's Tip," valuable advice to make life easier, accompanied by a How-To video or photograph, across all content areas from Real Simple editors. "Today's Tip" is also offered as a newsletter and an RSS Feed. The homepage also highlights the site's popular blogging network, "Simply Stated," and its most recent blog posts, and provides entry into a new faceted search experience designed to give users more control over accessing solutions.

"RealSimple.com already has a very loyal consumer base, and we're excited to extend the site's offerings through the re-launch," echoes Zales. "The website will provide consumers with more features to help them gain control over their lives as well as provide advertisers with additional, meaningful ways to reach our growing and highly engaged audience."

RealSimple.com is launching with more than 100 original "How-To" videos featuring the brand's editors and covering a wide range of topics including, how to carve a turkey, how to fold a fitted sheet, how to apply eyeliner, and how to make a martini. The site features written, step-by-step instructions on the same page as the video so consumers can easily follow along. RealSimple.com will continue to add more "How-To" videos to the site in the coming months.

RealSimple.com also features more than 100 checklists on everything from the basic vacation packing checklist to commonly overlooked tax deductions. These checklists are a smart way for consumers to get organized and track their progress for a given task.

RealSimple.com has already experienced significant traffic growth, with 17.6 million page views in January 2009 (up 35% over the 2008 monthly average) and 2.1 million unique visitors in January 2009 (up 19% over the 2008 monthly average.) (Source: Omniture).

RealSimple.com has garnered tremendous response from advertisers. Despite the site's rapid growth, it has been sold out of advertising inventory throughout 2008 and into 2009. The growth of RealSimple.com is a big priority for the brand in 2009, both in providing the ultimate online service to its consumers as well as the ability to offer advertisers large, multiplatform deals. RealSimple.com counts among its launch partners All Bran (which will have 100% share of the new Health channel at launch), Best Buy, Quaker, Shredded Wheat, and Purina.

About Real Simple:

Real Simple is a multimedia, award-winning power-brand that launched in April 2000. With more than 8.6 million consumers per month in print, 2 million consumers on the Web, and many viewers through the new TLC television series, Real Simple. Real Life. The brand delivers content designed to make busy women's lives easier across all media platforms.

Real Simple is part of Time Inc., one of the largest content companies in the world and the largest publisher in the U.S. Time Inc. is a Time Warner company.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Win A Rockin' Weekend in Cleveland for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

2009-02-24T12:48:00.000+02:00

"I Want to Rock in Cleveland Sweepstakes"

CLEVELAND, Feb. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and mental_floss magazine want to send you and a guest to "A Rockin'Weekend in Cleveland. "You'll get the VIP treatment at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in Cleveland (April 3-4, 2009). Witness rock history as Metallica, RUN-D.M.C., Little Anthony and the Imperials, Jeff Beck, and Bobby Womack will be honored.

The Grand Prize winner and a guest will be treated to a red carpet experience at the newly re-imagined Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland. Transportation, spending money and two tickets to the VIP pre-induction party and the induction ceremony are included. Fifty Runner-Up prizes, including Rock Hall and mental_floss T-shirts, CDs and Rock Hall memberships will also be awarded.

No purchase or payment necessary to enter or to win the Sweepstakes. A purchase will not increase your chances of winning. Void where prohibited by law. You must be 21 to enter. One entry per person. The Sweepstakes ends at 11:59 P.M. (EST) on March 16, 2009. The odds of winning depend upon the number of entries received.

For more details and an entry form, visit: www.iwanttorockincleveland.com

Mental Floss, LLC

Mental Floss, LLC is a rapidly growing media company that creates content that blurs the lines between education and entertainment. mental_floss magazine is its flagship product; other products include a popular web site, a series of eight books published by HarperCollins and Law School and Med School in a Box. For more information about the company and its line of products, visit: www.mentalfloss.com

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum is the nonprofit organization that exists to educate visitors, fans and scholars from around the world about the history and continuing significance of rock and roll music. It carries out this mission both through its operation of a world-class museum that collects, preserves, exhibits and interprets this art form and through its library and archives as well as its educational programs. www.rockhall.com

    Contact:
    Toby Maloney
    Toby@mentalfloss.com
    440.338.1816

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Courion Named Finalist for SC Magazine Awards Europe

2009-02-23T14:00:00.000+02:00

MANCHESTER, England, Feb. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- Courion(R) Corporation, leaders in access and compliance management, today announced that the Courion Enterprise Provisioning Suite(TM) solution was voted as a finalist for the SC Magazine Awards Europe in the Best Identity Management category. The SC Magazine Awards Europe rewards excellence and innovation within IT security.

The annual SC Magazine Awards Europe has recognised security's key contributors and outstanding products for more than a decade. As the industry's preeminent award program, individuals, brands, and products chosen address not only the challenges prominent today, but also the emerging threat landscape of tomorrow. The Awards presentation will take place on Tuesday 28 April 2009 at the Hurlingham Club in West London.

Courion's inclusion as a finalist follows SC Magazine US naming its Enterprise Provisioning Suite a "Best of 2008" identity management product, where it was praised as "an excellent overall product with ease of use and excellent pricing."

"We are delighted to be included as a finalist in SC Magazine's Best Identity Management award category," explains Courion's UK General Manager, Stuart Hodkinson. "This is yet another example of the recognition our Enterprise Provisioning Suite has received for how quickly and easily it solves even the most complex identity and access management, risk and compliance challenges."

The Enterprise Provisioning Suite is an example of Access Assurance, Courion's unique approach to access and compliance management, ensuring only the right people have the right access to the right resources and are doing the right things. Access Assurance unifies Access Governance, Access Provisioning and Access Compliance in even the most complex, heterogeneous environments. This comprehensive approach increases operational efficiency and transparency, strengthens security, and improves compliance, while delivering the industry's fastest time to value and lowest total cost of ownership.

About Courion

Courion's award-winning Access Assurance solutions are used by more than four hundred organizations and over 7.5 million users worldwide to quickly and easily solve their most complex identity and access management (password management, provisioning, and role management), risk and compliance challenges. Courion's business-driven approach results in unparalleled customer success by ensuring users' access rights and activities are compliant with policy while supporting both security and business objectives. For more information, please visit our website at www.courion.com.

Courion is a registered trademark. All other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners

    Rachel Weeks            Chris Green
    Courion Corporation     DMG Europe
    +1 508-661-0467         +44 1256 807362
                            courion@daviesmurphy.com

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Metastorm Named One of KMWorld's '100 Companies That Matter in Knowledge Management' List for Sixth Consecutive Year

2009-02-23T13:00:00.000+02:00

Industry Publication Recognizes Metastorm for Demonstrating Innovation in Knowledge Management

BALTIMORE, Feb. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- Metastorm, a leading provider of Business Process Management (BPM), Business Process Analysis (BPA), and Enterprise Architecture (EA) software for aligning strategy with execution, today announced its inclusion for the sixth straight year in KMWorld Magazine's "100 Companies That Matter in Knowledge Management." This annual list is compiled through discussions with practitioners, theorists, analysts, vendors and their customers and colleagues, and will be featured in KMWorld's March 2009 print issue.

According to KMWorld's editor in chief, Hugh McKellar, "Each company embodies as part of its culture agile and limber execution of its mission, embracing a spirit of both adaptability and innovation."

About Metastorm Inc.

With a focus on enterprise visibility, resource optimization, efficiency and agility, Metastorm offers market-leading software for enterprise and business architecture (EA), business process analysis (BPA), and business process management (BPM). As an integrated product portfolio, Metastorm Enterprise allows organizations to improve business results by better aligning strategy with execution. By combining the power of these three disciplines onto a common platform, Metastorm is helping organizations worldwide focus on the right business improvements, instill stronger governance, and accelerate time to value. For more information and success stories on organizations powering strategic advantage with Metastorm Enterprise, visit www.metastorm.com.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Brand New FREE Digital Life-coaching Magazine for Women Provides Timely, Practical, 'Life-Stimulus' Resource in Challenging Times - www.zakarmagazine.com

2009-02-23T11:00:00.000+02:00

ATLANTA, Feb. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- ZAKAR Magazine launches this week providing women with a resource for personal empowerment and growth in these tough social times. ZAKAR, published by Jennifer Keitt (http://www.jenniferkeitt.com), founder and host of the nationally syndicated radio show, Today's Black Woman, is loaded with practical articles on information pertinent to a woman's daily life, from emotional well-being, career success, financial empowerment, dating, mating and relating to self- care and fitness.

ZAKAR introduces to women its exclusive Z-Coaches, who team up with them to bring a sense of balance and hope for empowered living. Because of the publication's convenient digest size, women will literally be able to carry their coaches and life empowerment around with them in their purses and planners!

"Women are struggling now more than ever with the recent collapse of our economy and societal chaos that we have been plunged into and they are in dire need of powerful personal growth tools and resources to help them stabilize, bringing back a sense of well-being and wholeness into their lives. We're offering them hope, encouragement, coping strategies and focused thought that they can literally download and carry with them at all times," Keitt said.

As founder and host of Today's Black Woman Radio Show (http://www.todaysblackwomanradio.com), Keitt has invested almost twenty years in empowering women globally who want the best out of their lives. "I am committed to women and our lives, making sure that we have the resources, personal growth tools, strategies, and urgent support, ensuring that we all become and stay "recession-proof," she declares.

ZAKAR is one more resource in a growing bundle of empowerment tools Keitt offers to women. Her goal is to empower, educate, equip and encourage women in what Keitt calls the 7 key areas of a woman's life: spiritual, emotional, physical, financial, relational, occupation and self-esteem. ZAKAR speaks the language of today's real women in a way that makes them feel safe, secure and empowered to return to their lives.

The premiere digital issue of ZAKAR is being distributed FREE and is available online at http://www.zakarmagazine.com. To order printed copies call 678.569.2407.

For almost two decades Jennifer Keitt has been empowering, educating, equipping and encouraging women through her nationally syndicated radio show, Today's Black Woman. She is now releasing her latest personal empowerment tool for women: ZAKAR MAGAZINE! For further information, please contact us at 404-314-4646.

This press release was issued through 24-7PressRelease.com. For further information, visit http://www.24-7pressrelease.com.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Autonomy to Power Largest Spanish Newspaper's Website

2009-02-23T09:00:00.000+02:00

CAMBRIDGE, England and SAN FRANCISCO, California, February 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Autonomy Corporation plc (LSE: AU. or AU.L), a global leader in infrastructure software for the enterprise, today announced that 20 Minutos, the highest circulating Spanish newspaper reaching an audience of 2.5 million readers daily, has selected Autonomy's meaning-based technology to power its public facing website, http://www.20minutos.es and index up to 2.2 million documents. The unique news portal features an extensive selection of news stories in a number of different formats including text, audio, and video attracting approximately half a million unique users daily. 20 Minutos' readers will now benefit from instant access to sought-after content, customized recommendations to conceptually similar stories and automatic summaries of articles in any format for a first-class user experience.

"As the largest news provider in Spain, 20 Minutos consistently strives to exceed the expectations of its content-hungry audiences in the age of information overload," commented JosÃ© Martinez Soler, Director General, 20 Minutos. "Legacy technologies for data retrieval rely heavily on keywords thus potentially omitting key documents from the results. Furthermore, their inability to understand the meaning of information results in the lack of any processing capabilities. Autonomy was the obvious choice for us owing to its unique conceptual capabilities, language and format independence, and unparalleled scalability."

Autonomy's core infrastructure software, the Intelligent Data Operating Layer (IDOL), can derive meaning from content from over 1,000 data types and virtually all languages thus overcoming traditional barriers to data retrieval and allowing cross-referencing across languages, geographical locations and data types. IDOL's truly innovative features such as Conceptual Retrieval, Hyperlinking, and Summarization add unprecedented level of intelligence to data access and processing thus enabling 20 Minutos' readers to keep their finger at the pulse of information, automatically and in real-time.

"Today's discerning online reader expects to find desired information at the click of a button," commented Emmanuel Meriot, Regional Manager for Autonomy Southern Europe. "Autonomy is delighted to supplement 20 Minutos' unique news offering with a first-class user experience for its web readers."

Please visit http://www.autonomy.com/idolserver to find out more.

About Autonomy

Autonomy Corporation plc (LSE: AU. or AU.L), a global leader in infrastructure software for the enterprise, is spearheading the meaning-based computing movement and was recently ranked by IDC as the clear market share leader in enterprise search with market share nearly double that of its nearest competitor. Autonomy's technology allows computers to harness the full richness of human information, forming a conceptual and contextual understanding of any piece of electronic data including unstructured information, be it text, email, voice or video. Autonomy's software powers the full spectrum of mission-critical enterprise applications including information access technology, pan-enterprise search, information governance, end-to-end eDiscovery and archiving, records management, business process management, customer interaction solutions, and video and audio analysis, and is recognized by industry analysts as the clear leader in enterprise search.

Autonomy's customer base is comprised of more than 17,000 global companies and organizations including: 3, ABN AMRO, AOL, BAE Systems, BBC, Bloomberg, Boeing, Citigroup, Coca Cola, Daimler AG, Deutsche Bank, Ericsson, Ford, GlaxoSmithKline, Lloyd TSB, NASA, Nestle, the New York Stock Exchange, Reuters, Shell, T-Mobile, the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. More than 350 companies OEM Autonomy technology, including BEA, Citrix, EDS, H-P, Novell, Oracle, Sybase and TIBCO, and the company has over 400 VARs and Systems Integrators. The company has offices worldwide. Please visit http://www.autonomy.com for more information on Autonomy.

Autonomy and the Autonomy logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autonomy Corporation plc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

    Autonomy Editorial Contacts:

    Assia Svinarova
    Autonomy (UK)
    +44-1223-448000
    assias@autonomy.com

    Edward Bridges
    Financial Dynamics (UK)
    +44-207-831-3113
    edward.bridges@fd.com

    David Vindel
    The Red Consultancy
    +44-207-025-6529
    david.vindel@redconsultancy.com

    Ian Bain
    The Red Consultancy (US)
    +1-415-618-8806
    ian.bain@redconsultancy.com

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

NEWSWEEK: International Editions: Highlights and Exclusives, March 2, 2009 Issue

2009-02-22T19:34:00.000+02:00

COVER: The Education of Larry Summers (All overseas editions). Senior Editor Michael Hirsh and Editor-At-Large Evan Thomas profile Larry Summers, Obama's top economic adviser. Summers has gone from being part of the government that got out of the way of the markets in the freewheeling days of the late 1990s to become the man mainly in charge of the immense government bailout. Summers's greatest test will be persuading Congress to vote for "entitlement reforms" -- i.e., cutbacks and/or higher taxes on Social Security and health benefits for the poor and elderly. Summers plans to urge the president and Congress to venture into an area where politicians have long feared to tread, the so-called third rail of politics. "Necessity requires it, he says -- if the United States cannot curb its spending and debt, interest rates will soar and the economy will plunge once more."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/185934

America's New Shrink. Every day seems to bring bad news, with more on the way, observes Senior Editor Jonathan Alter. The nation is in a pessimistic mood and although Obama is popular and refreshing, he is still well short of transformative. "For all of the legislative achievements of his first month in office, Americans have not yet had their faith in the future restored," Alter writes. Despite Obama's initial stumbles, which include mistakes in cabinet selection, Alter believes President Obama has a good chance of restoring confidence and pulling America back from the brink. He writes, "My take on Obama... is that he has a firm grasp of the psychological and substantive challenges of the presidency. Equally important, his 2008 campaign proved that he possesses a superior sense of timing."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/185800

The No-Risk Culture. Special Correspondent Tracy McNicoll reports that despite the French's long held negative beliefs about entrepreneurship, there is a new law aimed at simplifying and promoting business startups. At the start of this year, a law took effect that allows just about anyone to become their own boss, without endless bureaucracy and fees. Retirees, students, workers, the unemployed and even bureaucrats can sign up online in 15 minutes and start building their own businesses, without losing their existing publicly funded pensions and unemployment and other benefits. By mid-February, there were already 62,000 auto-entrepreneurs on the books, suggesting that the number of startups could surpass half a million by the end of the year. Finance Minister Christine Lagarde says the figures "will explode the initial objective." Philippe Hayat, founder of 100,000 Entrepreneurs, a network of businesspeople that has been trying to change French attitudes toward entrepreneurship, calls the legislation "a revolution."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/185810

Going Back To the Farm. Special Correspondent Mary Hennock reports over the last 30 years, as its economy has raced ahead, China has witnessed the world's largest internal migration, with some 250 million farmers and others abandoning its impoverished heartland in search of factory work and a better life on the coast. Now, as the economy slows, many of those factories have shut down, and unemployment is thought to have hit 10 percent. Among the most worrisome effects: some 20 million migrant workers have returned home, flooding areas where able-bodied youngsters were recently a rarity. This is producing great anxiety among Chinese officials, who have begun warning of civil unrest in unusually stark terms. The fear is that jobless workers -- many of them young men -- will band together and turn to violence or crime.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/185811

GLOBAL INVESTOR: Keeping Stability at All Costs. Ruchir Sharma, head of emerging markets at Morgan Stanley Investment Management, writes about Brazil's divergent attitude toward the global economic crisis. It's not as if Brazil is completely unaffected by the worldwide collapse in economic growth. After expanding at an average of nearly 4 percent over the past five years, the Brazilian economy is set to slow to a crawl in 2009. "But given its long history of crises, Brazil's reaction to the current shock is more along the lines of 'we have seen this movie before' -- and its past experience has seasoned the nation to weather such storms," Sharma writes. Another reason Brazil is different compared with many emerging markets in Eastern Europe and Asia is the country's main policy objective this decade of seeking stability above all else, rather than the 'growth at any cost' mantra in several other emerging markets."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/185826

Bring On The Credit. Special Correspondent Barrett Sheridan reports that the problem with China's banks isn't their size -- the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China is the world's sixth largest corporation, with a market value greater than Microsoft. It's that, despite their wealth, they don't lend enough. And what loans they do make go mostly to large companies and state-owned businesses. According to research by Morgan Stanley, just 7 percent of the loans made last December went to households. This isn't an accident, but the fruit of a deliberate government policy, a war on lending that Beijing has waged to help keep inflation in check. To keep prices stable during China's years of torrid growth, Beijing set quotas on how many loans could be issued. Now that the global economy is cooling, inflation is no longer a worry, according to Brad Setser, an economist at the Council on Foreign Relations, Beijing's policymakers ought to "unshackle the banks."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/185815

WORLD VIEW: Why Chavez May Outlast Us All. Jorge Castaneda, a former foreign minister of Mexico and Global Distinguished Professor at New York University, writes that Venezuela's Hugo Chavez may wind up as the longest reigning elected president in history anywhere. To win his last election, "Chavez used every conceivable instrument of the state, every imaginable subterfuge, every trick in the book, to stack the deck in his favor and against his opponents," Castaneda writes. However, as long as his opposition remains divided, they will have trouble curtailing Chavez's force. "Their defeat may prove dispiriting, and Chavez has the power to concentrate even more power in his hands, as well as further clamping down on the media, the judiciary, the unions, human-rights groups, the business community, students and the opposition."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/185825

THE LAST WORD: Igor Yurgens, economic-policy advisor to Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. Yurgens spoke to Newsweek about his radical prescriptions for reversing Russia's dependence on oil and what he sees as the main problem with the government's policies. "Our ideal scenario is that the state should mix liberal and statist policies. They should allow the market to decide what industries should die naturally, but at the same time selectively support the sectors whose collapse would cause the most social upheaval." He adds that the state should "spend its money on strategic goals like economic diversification, and developing nanotechnology, biotechnology and information technology. The biggest fault is that the government has not explained its strategy to people, and there appears to be favoritism in selecting which businesses to bail out. People believe that the state is helping its friends and letting others fail."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/185824

/PRNewswire - Feb. 22/

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

NEWSWEEK: Media Lead Sheet/March 2, 2009 Issue (on newsstands Monday, February 23)

2009-02-22T19:14:00.000+02:00

COVER: The Confidence Game (p. 18). Senior Editor Jonathan Alter writes that every day seems to bring bad news, with more on the way, and the nation is in a pessimistic mood. Although Obama is popular and refreshing, he is still well short of transformative. "For all of the legislative achievements of his first month in office, Americans have not yet had their faith in the future restored," Alter writes. Despite Obama's initial stumbles, which include mistakes in cabinet selection, Alter believes President Obama has a good chance of restoring confidence and pulling America back from the brink. He writes, "My take on Obama...is that he has a firm grasp of the psychological and substantive challenges of the presidency. Equally important, ever since his 2008 campaign proved that he possesses a superior sense of timing."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/185800

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090222/NYSU002 )

LIVING POLITICS: "Paging Doctor Zeke" (p. 23). Senior Washington Correspondent Howard Fineman profiles oncologist Ezekiel Emanuel, brother to White House chief of staff Rahm and Hollywood agent Ari, who has just taken a key role advising the budget direct, Peter Orszag. "In the view of the health-care industry, Zeke is a fundamentalist. He favors guaranteed care for everyone through a system of government vouchers; national boards, he says, should help decide which treatments work most effectively. Costs should be funded by a dedicated national value-added tax."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/185801

ECONOMY: The Reeducation of Larry Summers (p. 24). Senior Editor Michael Hirsh and Editor-at-Large Evan Thomas profile Larry Summers, Obama's top economic adviser. Summers has gone from being part of the government that got out of the way of the markets in the freewheeling days of the late 1990s to become the man mainly in charge of the immense government bailout. Summers's greatest test will be persuading Congress to vote for "entitlement reforms" -- i.e., cutbacks and/or higher taxes on Social Security and health benefits for the poor and elderly. Summers plans to urge the president and Congress to venture into an area where politicians have long feared to tread, the so-called third rail of politics. "Necessity requires it, he says -- if the United States cannot curb its spending and debt, interest rates will soar and the economy will plunge once more."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/185934

ECONOMY: The Stunted Economic Stimulus (p. 28). Contributing Editor Robert J. Samuelson writes that the $787 billion economic stimulus program is deeply disappointing, given that the expectation is for the package to focus exclusively on reviving the economy. "The case for a huge stimulus, which I support, is that it's insurance against the possibility of a devastating downward economic spiral," Samuelson writes. "If the economic outlook is as bleak as Obama says (and it may be), there's no reason to dilute the upfront power of the stimulus. But that's what Obama's done." The stimulus package offers only modest relief. Postponed spending weakens the economic benefit. By using the stimulus for unrelated political and policy goals, Obama mandates delays. This is not a quick stimulus.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/185852

INTERVIEW: "To Pack a Real Punch" (p. 40). Newsweek international Editor Fareed Zakaria interviews Alex Molinaroli, the president of power solutions at Johnson Controls, which will supply the battery for Ford's first plug-in electric vehicle. "The automotive companies' being in a crisis [means] now's the time for a disruptive technology. Before, I don't think they could afford to retool, and they weren't motivated to retool. The automotive industry has now moved beyond trying to protect the old technology, to a place where they want to be a part of the solution. Now it's a race."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/185797

HEALTH: "Anatomy of a Scare" (p. 42). Senior Editor Sharon Begley reports that the study that linked childhood vaccines to autism set off a panic that is still affecting families today, even though the research didn't hold up. "Scientists and government officials who defended the safety of childhood vaccines were not shy about attributing the fears to the science illiteracy of the public and the fearmongering of the press," Begley writes. However, by this time mistrust of the scientific establishment had mushroomed into something decidedly ugly and the antivaccine campaign began to have an effect. "As parents postponed vaccinating their children, or refused vaccines entirely, children were suddenly catching preventable diseases, and some were dying." An overwhelming majority of vaccine and autism experts were convinced that parents were putting their children at real risk over a phantom fear. "It is bad enough that the vaccine-autism scare has undermined one of the greatest successes of preventive medicine and terrified many new parents. Most tragic of all, it has diverted attention and millions of dollars away from finding the true causes and treatments of a cruel disease."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/185853

"A New Mission for the NAACP" (p. 48). Contributing Editor Ellis Cose writes that though the NAACP marked its 100th anniversary this February, in recent years there have been times when even supporters of the venerable organization have questioned its role in the modern world. Benjamin Jealous, 36, named to the top job last May, is the youngest NAACP CEO ever and has taken over at a time when some Americans question the need for not just the NAACP but for all the civil-rights groups, now that we have an African-American president. "[Jealous] hopes to make the association matter in a way that it has not for a long time: as an irresistible voice for progressive change...His more visible, more aggressive NAACP will spawn a new mass movement, mobilizing support for wider health-care access and quality jobs." Those are big dreams for an organization that many have long thought of as irrelevant.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/185805

CULTURE: "Her Cups Runneth Over" (p. 52). Contributor Eliza Gray writes about the 50th anniversary of Barbie and the two new books coming out about her creation. Robin Gerber's "Barbie and Ruth" and Jerry Oppenheimer's "Toy Monster: The Big, Bad World of Mattel" give two different accounts of who they claim is responsible for Barbie's creation, but they are in total agreement about their subjects' shared passions: Barbie dolls and large breasts. "In her half century of existence, Barbie has become something of a Rorschach test for views about modern feminine identity. Either she's a sunny, self-confident, good-time girl...or, more commonly, she's the original bimbo, a relic of postwar paternalism that teaches its young owners to worship at the altar of blond hair, peach skin and formidable cleavage atop a waistline the size of a pinkie ring." With the creation of Barbie, America's toy chests have never been the same.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/185788

/PRNewswire -- Feb. 22/

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

NEWSWEEK Cover: The Confidence Game

2009-02-22T17:02:00.000+02:00

PRESIDENT OBAMA HAS THE CONFIDENCE TO RESTORE HOPE TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE

OBAMA HAS A "FIRM GRASP OF THE PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SUBSTANTIVE CHALLENGES OF THE PRESIDENCY"

NEW YORK, Feb. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Every day seems to bring bad news, with more on the way, observes Senior Editor Jonathan Alterin the March 2 Newsweek cover "The Confidence Game" (on newsstands Monday, February 23). The nation is in a pessimistic mood and although Obama is popular and refreshing, he is still well short of transformative. "For all of the legislative achievements of his first month in office, Americans have not yet had their faith in the future restored," Alter writes. Despite Obama's initial stumbles, which include mistakes in cabinet selection, Alter believes President Obama has a good chance of restoring confidence and pulling America back from the brink. He writes, "My take on Obama...is that he has a firm grasp of the psychological and substantive challenges of the presidency. Equally important, his 2008 campaign proved that he possesses a superior sense of timing."

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090222/NYSU002 )

In these difficult economic times, the question is: What's a president to do? "If he starts in with the happy talk, he sounds like John McCain saying 'the fundamentals of the economy are strong,' which is what sealed the election for Obama in the first place," Alter writes. "But if he gets too gloomy, he'll scare the bejesus out of the entire world. The balance Obama strikes is to say that things will get worse before they get better, but that they will get better. Now he must convince us that's true."

Alter examines why confidence is the critical piece of what makes a good leader. "Leadership in a peacetime crisis also involves making the right calls on policy--but at bottom, it's dependent on a subtle understanding of how to make people feel better so that they invest in the future," he writes. "Too much confidence makes people and nations hubristic, while those on the receiving end feel conned. Too little confidence breeds timidity and uncertainty, which can be fatal." For years the country has lacked that balance, acting too confident for too long in the unerring genius of markets. Though it's still early in his presidency, President Obama is showing signs of carrying himself in a more naturally confident way, with the right blend of traits. "He's bold enough to add a couple of zeroes to the conversation about spending, but humble enough to utter those three most unpresidential words: 'I screwed up,'" Alter writes.

"Obama is betting on two things: first, that people are so tired of being bamboozled that a little straight talk about their woes will make them feel more in control, the prerequisite for genuine confidence. And second, that he'll get props for trying, that the very effort of riding events instead of letting them ride him will at least offer the illusion of mastery. Once these mental pieces are fastened in place and we're fully 'in recovery,' to use therapy lingo, the enduring problems won't seem so terrifying anymore," he writes.

(Read cover story at www.Newsweek.com)

Cover: http://www.newsweek.com/id/185800

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Risk & Insurance Magazine Designates 38 Aon Professionals as Power Brokers

2009-02-20T18:35:00.000+02:00

Citing underscores Aon's ability to deliver distinctive value to clients;

Five of Aon's rising stars also recognized as 40-Under-40

CHICAGO, Feb. 20 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Risk & Insurance Magazine, one of the risk management industry's top publications, today designated 38 risk management executives from Aon Corporation, the leading global provider of risk management services, as Power Brokers(TM) in the publication's annual list of most influential commercial insurance brokers.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041215/CGW049LOGO)

Published in a special issue, Risk & Insurance recognized 146 people in 25 industry categories. Aon executives took top honors in 21 categories - highlighting the company's breadth of expertise and its ability to provide distinctive client value.

"Year after year, dozens of Aon's professionals are honored as Power Brokers for the exceptional client service and creative risk strategies they continuously deliver," said Steve McGill, chairman and chief executive officer of Aon Risk Services. "We commend each and every one for their commitment to providing clients with unparalleled fact-based solutions."

The 38 Aon executives named 2009 Power Brokers are:

    Name:                     Category:                Previous Power Broker:
    Anna M. Adams             Aviation                 2008
    Deborah Bates             Transportation
    Hilda Batlle              Pharmaceuticals
    James R. Beardsley        Transportation           2007; 2008
    Aaron F. Davis            Financial Institutions
    Dominic Davison-Jenkins   Telecommunications
    Clyde K. Ebanks           Global
    Gary Eppinger             Nonprofits
    Jennifer Fahey            Automotive               2007; 2008
    Allison Firth             Retail-Wholesale
    Frederick O. Flemig       Long-term Healthcare
    Vincent Flood             Financial Institutions   2007
    Jim Gloriod               Energy                   2008
    Thomas P. Hams            Aviation
    Kevin Kalinich            Technology               2007; 2008
    John Keely                Marine                   2007; 2008
    Paul Kim                  Telecommunications       2007
    Lee Lindsay               Global
    Lynn Marcin               Fine Art
    Rick Miller               Real Estate              2007
    Geoffrey P. Mills         Global
    Rich Moore                Hospitality
    Carol L. Murphy           Workers' Compensation    2008
    Marshall Nadel            Utilities                2007; 2008
    Dave Nichols              Hospitality
    Michael O'Connell         Financial Institutions   2007; 2008
    Manny Pereira             Chemicals
    John Peterson             Real Estate
    Matthew Schneider         Nonprofits
    Lori Shaw                 Entertainment-Sports
    Alfred Tobin              Telecommunications       2007; 2008
    Howard M. Tollin          Environmental
    Peter Townsend            Marine
    James E. Walters          Chemicals
    Carol A. Williams         Automotive               2008
    Susan Winterode           Pharmaceuticals
    Marvin Inkster            Utilities
    Gary J. Tom               Utilities

In addition to Power Brokers, five Aon professionals were named to the magazine's coveted 40-Under-40 list that identifies successful brokers who have excelled in their careers at a young age. These five rising stars are:

    Hilda Batlle, vice president
    Javier Soler Gonzalez, director
    Chris Choi, real estate practice leader
    Matthew Edelheit, assistant director casualty brokerage
    Todd Denton, vice president

According to Risk & Insurance, Power Broker designations are based on nominations provided by brokers and judged by separate panels of risk managers for each industry segment. Judging is primarily based on a nominee's demonstrated knowledge of the particular industry group, creativity in solving risk-related problems and level of client service.

About Aon

Aon Corporation (NYSE: AOC) is the leading global provider of risk management services, insurance and reinsurance brokerage, and human capital consulting. Through its more than 37,000 colleagues worldwide, Aon readily delivers distinctive client value via innovative and effective risk management and workforce productivity solutions. Aon's industry-leading global resources and technical expertise are delivered locally through more than 500 offices in more than 120 countries. Named the world's best broker by Euromoney magazine's 2008 Insurance Survey, Aon also ranked highest on Business Insurance's listing of the world's largest insurance brokers based on commercial retail, wholesale, reinsurance and personal lines brokerage revenues in 2008. A.M. Best deemed Aon the number one insurance broker based on brokerage revenues in 2007 and 2008, and Aon was voted best insurance intermediary, best reinsurance intermediary and best employee benefits consulting firm in 2007 and 2008 by the readers of Business Insurance. For more information on Aon, log onto http://www.aon.com/.

    Media Contact
    Kelly Drinkwine             Allyson Marcus
    312.381.2684                312.755.3592
    kelly_drinkwine@aon.com     allyson.marcus@kemperlesnik.com

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Amazon.com Tops BusinessWeek's List of 'Customer Service Champs'

2009-02-19T22:30:00.000+02:00

USAA, Jaguar, Lexus and The Ritz-Carlton round out the top 5

NEW YORK, Feb. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Amazon.com, Jaguar, and Lexus top BusinessWeek's third annual ranking of "Customer Service Champs." The BusinessWeek list ranks the best providers of customer service and digs into the techniques, strategies, and tools they use to deliver great service. Amazon, which beat out USAA for the number one spot this year, has earned a reputation for strong service by letting customers get what they want without ever talking to an employee. But when things go wrong at Amazon -- and they occasionally do -- the company's employees get involved. That may be where Amazon stands out most markedly from other companies.

If anything, the tough economy has made starker the difference between companies that put customers first and those that sacrifice loyalty for short-term gain. In this year's ranking, which uses data culled from J.D. Power & Associates, which, like BusinessWeek, is owned by The McGraw-Hill Companies, more than half of the top 25 brands showed improved customer service scores over last year. Among the bottom 25 of the more than 200 brands surveyed, scores mostly fell.

To come up with the winners, BusinessWeek started with existing data from J.D. Power & Associates which surveys consumers every year about customer satisfaction. BusinessWeek looked at two of the several measures they assess: the perceived quality of a company's staff, and what customers think of its processes, such as return policies or reservation procedures.

BusinessWeek aggregated the scores within an industry for each individual brand. Because some businesses work across multiple industries, such as banking and insurance, BusinessWeek included the brand only in the industry in which it scored highest. BusinessWeek's results may differ from J.D. Power's satisfaction rankings, which also consider quality, presentation, and price.

As in past years, BusinessWeek also surveyed 5,000 people using the BusinessWeek Market Advisory Board, asking them to nominate three companies they felt were best at customer service and three they felt were the worst. More than 1,000 readers responded. J.D. Power took those top choices and surveyed consumers nationwide. That allowed BusinessWeek to expand the rankings beyond J.D. Power's existing database, which includes only a limited number of retailers, for example. J.D. Power then ranked all of the brands using scores from its database and the additional surveys. To account for differences between sectors -- buying a Lexus, for example, is nothing like buying a cell phone -- BusinessWeek gave bonus points for those companies that lead their industries and subtracted points for those that fell below third place. They also gave 25 bonus points to brands that did best in our readers' poll.

One outlier: Starbucks, which got many votes from readers. Because none of its peers did well in the readers' survey or appeared in J.D. Power's 2008 database, BusinessWeek left it off the list. As a result, BusinessWeek can only give the coffee chain a venti honorable mention. For a more complete description of our methodology, go to www.businessweek.com/go/09/method.

BusinessWeek's special report, "Customer Service Champs," is featured in the March 2, 2009 issue, on newsstands February 20th. Additional content, including readers' experiences and a slide show on top customer service contenders, is available online at www.businessweek.com/go/customer.

BusinessWeek's Ranking of "Customer Service Champs"

    Rank   Brand
     1     Amazon.com
     2     USAA
     3     Jaguar
     4     Lexus
     5     The Ritz-Carlton
     6     Publix Super Markets
     7     Zappos.com
     8     Hewlett-Packard
     9     T. Rowe Price
     10    Ace Hardware
     11    Keybank
     12    Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
     13    Nordstrom
     14    Cadillac
     15    Amica
     16    Enterprise Rent-A-Car
     17    American Express
     18    Trader Joe's
     19    JetBlue Airways
     20    Apple
     21    Charles Schwab
     22    BMW
     23    True Value
     24    L.L. Bean
     25    JW Marriott

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Physicians Practice and University of Cincinnati Physicians Partner to Improve Patient Care in Cincinnati, Ohio

2009-02-19T14:00:00.000+02:00

BALTIMORE, Feb. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Physicians Practice and the University of Cincinnati Physicians have joined forces to help provide area physicians and their staff more time to devote to patient care. This new partnership is a unique program designed to help doctors in the Cincinnati area better handle the cumbersome and time-consuming issues of managing a busy practice. Through this new alliance, University of Cincinnati Physicians will use Physicians Practice's extensive resources to deliver essential practice management tools to help local physicians manage the business aspects of medicine more efficiently and effectively.

Physicians' need for practice management information is an ever-increasing one. According to Pricewaterhouse Coopers, every hour a physician spends with a patient results in 36 minutes of paperwork. Additionally, the cost of running a medical practice has increased and now consumes as much as 62 percent of the revenue (2007 Medical Group Management Association Cost Survey), while reimbursement continues to decline from year to year (2006 and 2007 Physicians Practice Fee Schedule Surveys). Furthermore, according to the 2008 Future Physicians of America Survey, nearly 70 percent of medical students do not feel adequately prepared for managing or owning a practice in the future.

Under their new partnership, University of Cincinnati Physicians will sponsor the distribution of Physicians Practice, America's Leading Practice Management Journal, to approximately 1,800 local primary-care doctors in the Cincinnati area. Physicians Practice will be mailed monthly, beginning next month, and will serve to help physicians and their office staff address the numerous challenges faced by today's medical practices. The journal will also feature a section sponsored and written by University of Cincinnati Physicians highlighting the medical group's latest clinical offerings as well as articles of interest to physicians in the region.

"UC Physicians is excited about our new partnership with Physicians Practice. We believe Greater Cincinnati physicians will benefit from the journal and so will we," says Chris Ralston, Director of Marketing and Physician Relations of UC Physicians. "Many of our colleagues from around the country have enjoyed great success with Physicians Practice. It's a tribute to the quality of the journal."

"It is great to be able to partner with the University of Cincinnati Physicians to bring practice management information and resources directly to Cincinnati physicians," says Marcy Holeton, Senior Vice President and General Manager of CMPMedica US. "Our expertise in practice management and technology will help the University of Cincinnati Physicians medical practices to spend less time on business and more time with patients."

For more information on the benefits of partnering with Physicians Practice to improve patient care, visit www.PhysiciansPractice.com, and select For Hospitals.

About Physicians Practice

For more than 18 years, healthcare executives have turned to Physicians Practice to help them cultivate physician relationships. Physicians Practice maintains approximately 60 hospital partnerships and the journal is distributed to nearly 260,000 practicing physicians. We create award-winning content and multimedia services to help community-based doctors in the United States and Canada strengthen their practice operations, which ultimately improves patient care. Physicians Practice is owned by CMPMedica, a division of United Business Media. Visit www.PhysiciansPractice.com for additional information about our acclaimed healthcare business education solutions.

About University of Cincinnati Physicians

UC Physicians is the clinical practice group for faculty members at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. Our 650 physicians provide clinical services in nearly every healthcare specialty at more than 25 locations throughout Greater Cincinnati.

UC Physicians providers teach and train medical students, perform innovative research and treat patients. We are dedicated to supporting the community through healing, teaching, and leading.

    Hospital program contact:
    Steve Gottshall
    Associate Publisher
    847 242 9552
    steven.gottshall@cmpmedica.com

    Media contact for Physicians Practice:
    Amy Tubman
    Senior Marketing Manager
    410 818 2705
    amy.tubman@cmpmedica.com

    Media contact for University of Cincinnati Physicians:
    Dama Kimmon
    Assistant Director of Public Relations
    513 558 4519
    dama.kimmon@uc.edu

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

AZEK(R) Trim Voted #1 Brand in Quality by Builder Magazine Study

2009-02-19T13:00:00.000+02:00

SCRANTON, Pa., Feb. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- AZEK(R) Trim, manufactured by AZEK Building Products, was named the #1 brand in "Quality" in Builder Magazine's 2009 Brand Use Study in the category of Exterior Trim.

"The results of the Builder Brand Use Study highlight that builders trust the quality and performance of AZEK trim products," said Ralph Bruno, President, AZEK Building Products. "This is the second year in a row that AZEK Trim has been named the top trim brand in Quality and we appreciate that builders recognize our on-going commitment to providing the best trim product on the market."

Bruno says, as part of this commitment, AZEK Trim products will be further enhanced with a new technology called The AZEK Edge. Setting a new industry standard, The AZEK Edge is made with proprietary technology to create trim that is "S4S" -- or Surfaced 4 Sides. The smooth, sealed edges of each board ensure AZEK Trim will stay cleaner in the dealer yard and on the jobsite. Not only will AZEK Edge stay cleaner, but if it does get dirty when being handled or installed, it is easier to clean. The edges are precision cut and square to make fitting boards side to side and end to end faster and easier. The AZEK Edge will be on all AZEK Trim, including AZEK Cornerboards, in both Traditional (smooth) and rustic Frontier texture.

AZEK Trim, the only trim with an ICC code listing (ESR-1074), is also the only code-listed trim acceptable for use in ground contact applications. AZEK Trim can be milled, routed, and heat-formed into custom shapes. With a 25 year warranty, AZEK Trim resists moisture and insects, and will not rot, warp or decay.

The Builder Brand Use Study was conducted by Hanley Wood Publishing along with Readex, a leading research firm, using a sample of 10,800 readers of Builder Magazine. Data was collected via mail from Sept. 22 - Nov. 5, 2008, with a 32% response rate.

Fueled by forward thinking, AZEK Building Products remains committed to quality, innovation and branded leadership. AZEK premium, exterior products are available at more than 2,000 dealers in North America. 1-877-ASK-AZEK (275-2935) www.azek.com

NOTE: AZEK (in all caps) is a registered trademark of AZEK Building Products. If you use AZEK in any other way that use constitutes misuse of our trademark.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Global Sources' 2009 Importer Survey: Changing buyer behavior creates challenges, opportunities for China suppliers

2009-02-19T07:46:00.000+02:00

HONG KONG, Feb. 19 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- Despite falling consumer spending worldwide, many international buyers plan to increase imports this year, particularly from China. Concerns over supplier stability and changing product requirements are driving up the frequency of buyer communication with suppliers, and a small group of major buyers remain in control of the vast majority of imports in developed markets such as the U.S. These and other findings are highlighted in the 2009 Importer Survey, completed this month by Global Sources (Nasdaq: GSOL).

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030303/LNM011LOGO-b )

"Close to 50% of surveyed buyers expect to maintain or increase their total import value in 2009," said Global Sources' COO, Craig Pepples. "We see a slight decrease in average price per item, and we know today's buyers require more flexibility in terms of order size. But China remains at the center of their sourcing plans, with 57% of surveyed buyers expecting to increase or maintain their total value of imports from China in 2009, as compared to 2008."

    Among surveyed buyers:

    -- 26% say they will increase spending on imports in 2009;
    -- 20% expect to keep import spending flat; and
    -- 54% indicated they will spend less on imports.

    Survey results also show that:

    -- 32% of buyers plan to increase total import volume in 2009;
    -- 18% will keep import volume flat; and
    -- 50% expect to decrease purchasing volume.

"Buyers indicated their biggest concern in 2009 is declining consumer spending (21%). This was followed by supplier-side concerns, including difficulty in finding quality suppliers (16%), increasing prices (15%), and concerns about supplier stability (15%)," said Pepples.

The survey also indicated that buyers are reviewing all their options and sourcing more cautiously to reduce risk.

    Among surveyed buyers:

    -- 42% said they are making more inquiries to new and existing suppliers,
       as compared to 2008;
    -- 29% are making about the same number of inquiries;
    -- 29% are making fewer inquiries.

    Buyers are also using a wide range of methods to find suppliers:

    -- 40% use sourcing websites and search engines;
    -- 39% attend trade shows and other face-to-face sourcing events;
    -- 16% use trade magazines;
    -- 5% use research reports.

Surveyed buyers also indicated that the most effective ways for suppliers to win orders are to improve product quality (18%), provide better prices (18%) and accept smaller order sizes (14%).

Pepples said: "As buyers change the way they source, suppliers must also change the way they operate to win orders.

"Buyers are submitting more inquiries than ever before, as indicated by the Survey. Metrics from Global Sources Online ( http://www.globalsources.com ) confirm this. Buyers sent about 18 million inquiries to suppliers in the fourth quarter of 2008, up 119% from the same period a year earlier.

"With buyers looking at more options for each purchase, suppliers must work harder to win the order. They must submit more competitive bids and lower minimum order requirements. Moreover, as more cautious buyers use a wider range of channels to find products, suppliers also need to promote themselves across more of these channels to get buyers' attention."

A small number of buyers control developed markets

"The 80/20 rule applies in many markets," said Pepples, citing a related study of the U.S. import market in 2008. "A small group of buyers control the vast majority of market share. This is good news for suppliers if they focus their promotion on influencing those critical buyers who control the market."

    Key findings of the U.S. import market study include:

    -- the top 3,000 importers accounted for two-thirds of all imports into
       the U.S. by volume and value in 2008, according to U.S. Customs data;
    -- 60,000 importers account for 75% of all U.S. imports by both value and
       volume.

Pepples said: "This is the first-ever report giving such in-depth analysis of the U.S. buyer universe and it supports what we have been telling our suppliers all along. In today's challenging times, it is even more important for exporters not to waste time and energy influencing those without real buying power."

Complete results of Global Sources' 2009 Importer Survey are available for download at http://www.corporate.globalsources.com/MEDIA/DOWNLOAD/Global_Sources_Importer_ Survey_09ENG.ppt . (Please copy and paste the full URL to an internet browser for proper viewing.)

About Global Sources

Suppliers receive more than 53 million sales leads annually from buyers through Global Sources Online ( http://www.globalsources.com ) alone.

    Global Sources Press Contact in Asia
     Camellia So
     Tel:   +852-2555-5021
     Email: cso@globalsources.com

    Global Sources Press Contact in U.S.
     James W.W. Strachan
     Tel:   +1-480-664-8309
     Email: strachan@globalsources.com

    Global Sources Investor Contact in Asia
     Investor Relations Department
     Tel:   +852-2555-4777
     Email: investor@globalsources.com

    Global Sources Investor Contact in U.S.
     Kirsten Chapman & Timothy Dien
     Lippert/Heilshorn & Associates, Inc.
     Tel:   +1-415-433-3777
     Email: tdien@lhai.com

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Financial Information Industry Professionals Convene at 2009 World Financial Information Conference (WFIC) in Athens

2009-02-19T02:29:00.000+02:00

9th Biennial FISD Event Highlights Financial Information and its Interaction with Risk Management, New Markets, Product Innovation & Cost Management

Keynote by breakingviews.com's Rob Cox Offers Insights Regarding Today's Financial Services Challenges and Strategies

WASHINGTON, Feb. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- The Financial Information Services Division (FISD) of the Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) today announced that Rob Cox, US Editor and Director for breakingviews.com, will be the opening keynote for its 9th Biennial World Financial Information Services Conference (WFIC), slated for October 4-7, 2009, at Divani Apollon, Athens, Greece.

Cox's background is well-suited to kick off WFIC, particularly during such a critical time in the history of the financial services industry and world economy. Among many other key roles, Cox edits the breakingviews.com columns that appear in the New York Times each business day and regularly in Fortune magazine, and is a regular contributor on CNBC. Last year, he was the recipient of an International M&A Media Award for his coverage of Microsoft's bid for Yahoo. His work has appeared in many publications in the United States, including the New York Times, New York Magazine, Fortune, Esquire, Barron's and the Wall Street Journal, and numerous publications abroad.

Cox became founding editor of breakingviews following a stint at Bloomberg News in London, where he oversaw European finance coverage. As South Europe bureau chief, he led Bloomberg's editorial operations in Milan, Rome, Athens, Istanbul, Lisbon and Madrid from 1995 until 1998. Before coming to Europe, Rob covered Wall Street, banking, and the stock market for Bloomberg and for American Banker. He is a graduate of Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism and the University of Vermont.

According to Tom Davin, Managing Director for FISD, "We couldn't be more pleased to have someone of Rob Cox's expertise and industry knowledge kicking off the 2009 WFIC conference. He is someone who will help set the tone for a stimulating and valuable conference for the 350 financial services professionals anticipated to join us for this key event." Davin further added, "In addition, we are also excited about the slate of speakers and events scheduled for WFIC this year, as these events will enable fellow financial information professionals to delve into issues of paramount importance, especially during such a critical economic period."

¿ For more information about WFIC, please visit: http://www.fisd.net/wfic/2009/

¿ To request a complimentary media pass, or to schedule an interview with Rob Cox or Tom Davin, please contact Eileen Bramlet at EBramlet@siia.net

About FISD

The Financial Information Services Division (FISD) of the Software and Information Industry Association provides a neutral business forum for exchanges, market data vendors, specialist data providers, brokerage firms, investment managers and banks to address and resolve business and technical issues related to the distribution, management, administration and use of market data. Participants use the forum to exchange ideas, build business relationships and improve the business climate associated with the worldwide flow of financial information. For more information, visit www.fisd.net.

About SIIA

The Software & Information Industry Association (SIIA) is the principal trade association for the software and digital content industry. SIIA provides global services in government relations, business development, corporate education and intellectual property protection to more than 500 leading software and information companies. For further information, visit www.siia.net.

    FISD Business Contact: Tom Davin, tdavin@siia.net, +1-202-789-4465
    SIIA Communications Contact: Eileen Bramlet, ebramlet@siia.net,
    +1-703-927-2022

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Despite global economic crisis, 47% of China suppliers expect double-digit growth in 2009

2009-02-18T09:15:00.000+02:00

HONG KONG, Feb. 18 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- China's suppliers remain optimistic about sales growth prospects in 2009, with 47% of executives expecting sales growth of 10% or more in 2009. This is according to a survey conducted by Global Sources' (Nasdaq: GSOL) Chief Executive China magazine ( http://www.ceconline.com ) early this month.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030303/LNM011LOGO-b )

Among suppliers selling within China, 57% expect double digit sales growth, while 36% of export-focused companies project growth greater than 10%.

Results are from senior executives of 191 companies engaged primarily in domestic sales and 202 companies focused mainly on exporting.

Enterprises outline key strategies to overcome challenges

Chief Executive China conducted a separate poll to gauge China enterprises' primary strategic responses to the current global economic crisis. As of Feb. 18, more than 8,900 readers responded:

    -- 43% said they will build brands and/or increase efficiency and product
       quality;
    -- 21% indicated they will cut costs;
    -- 20% said they will focus on the domestic market and/or emerging
       markets; and,
    -- 16% indicated they will expand their online channels.

Global Sources' COO, Craig Pepples, said: "With China's retail sales still strong, it's no surprise that companies focused on the domestic market remain optimistic. What's surprising is that, despite the global economic downturn, China's exporters are generally projecting much higher sales ahead.

"This optimism is, in part, due to the fact that many have already adapted to the current global economic situation and have evolved new strategies to deal with the crisis.

"Given China's increasing cost base, cost cutting is less of an option than previously. To justify higher prices, suppliers are now looking to improve quality and production efficiency while, at the same time, building their brands.

"We see this as a natural evolution, and one that is not without precedent. Japan, Korea and other Asian economies also moved up market at about the same stage in their development when faced with economic and competitive pressures."

Detailed results of the Chief Executive China 2009 Supplier Outlook & Expectations Survey are available for download at http://www.ceconline.com/survey/CECSurvey_Feb09-Combine-Eng-Final.ppt .

About Chief Executive China magazine and website

Chief Executive China is China's leading monthly management magazine, having successfully introduced advanced management ideas to China's business professionals since 1992. As verified by BPA Worldwide's December 2008 audit, Chief Executive China has a circulation of more than 195,000 subscribers, 77% percent of whom are chairmen, CEOs, presidents, general managers, owners or other senior executives.

In terms of audited circulation, influence, brand recognition, reader loyalty and content, Chief Executive China is the leading business publication in China.

Chief Executive China Online ( http://www.ceconline.com ) is the largest and most popular management website for China's executives. It elaborates on the management topics covered in the magazine and acts as an interactive platform between peers and experts. As of December 2008, more than 1 million active registered users belong to this online community.

About Global Sources

Suppliers receive more than 53 million sales leads annually from buyers through Global Sources Online ( http://www.globalsources.com ) alone.

    Global Sources Press Contact in Asia
     Camellia So
     Tel:   +852-2555-5021
     Email: cso@globalsources.com

    Global Sources Press Contact in U.S.
     James W.W. Strachan
     Tel:   +1-480-664-8309
     Email: strachan@globalsources.com

    Global Sources Investor Contact in Asia
     Investor Relations Department
     Tel:   +852-2555-4777
     Email: investor@globalsources.com

    Global Sources Investor Contact in U.S.
     Kirsten Chapman & Timothy Dien
     Lippert/Heilshorn & Associates, Inc.
     Tel:   +1-415-433-3777
     Email: tdien@lhai.com

Thomson Reuters Releases 2009 Patent Focus Report

2009-02-18T05:01:00.000+02:00

Report Examines Recent Developments at Major Patenting Authorities Worldwide

PHILADELPHIA and LONDON, Feb. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- The Healthcare and Science business of Thomson Reuters today released its 2009 Patent Focus Report. Authored by Joff Wild, editor of Intellectual Asset Management magazine, and published in the Thomson Reuters KnowledgeLink(SM) eNewsletter, this report explores recent activities at each of the world's major patenting authorities (USA, Europe, Japan, China and India). The report is available free at http://go.thomsonreuters.com/pfr2009.

"The 2009 Patent Focus Report combines expert insight with the stories behind the statistics," said Tim Hamer, SVP Global Marketing Services at Thomson Reuters. "This highly anticipated report discusses the issues facing the world's major issuing authorities and dissects significant patent disputes and their outcomes."

Key findings from the 2009 Patent Focus Report include:

For the first time a Chinese company, Huawei Technologies Co Ltd, topped the list of Patent Co-operation Treaty applications.
The European Patent Office received 140,700 applications in 2007, up over 3% from the year before. In contrast, the number of patents granted fell from 62,800 in 2006 to 54,700 in 2008.
The number of patent examiners in India has remained relatively static - raising questions about the quality of patents coming out of the Indian IP Office. In response, at the end of 2008 India announced 414 new examiner posts to be created by 2012.
For the second year in a row, the Japan Patent Office reported the lowest level of approved patent applications since the mid-1990s.
Patent approval rates at the US Patent and Trademark Office continue to fall to below 50% of applications examined.

Published as part of the customizable KnowledgeLink eNewsletter, the 2009 Patent Focus Report draws on the expertise of Thomson Reuters specialists and guest authors, and delivers unique insight into trends in information management and cutting-edge research for information professionals, research scientists and intellectual property specialists. KnowledgeLink is distributed every two months to subscribers who can register for free and select their customized content at scientific.thomsonreuters.com/news.

About Thomson Reuters

W. L. Gore & Associates Recognized as One of World's Most Innovative Companies

2009-02-17T23:30:00.000+02:00

Company Earns a Spot on Fast Company's 2009 "Fast 50" List

NEWARK, Del., Feb. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc., maker of GORE-TEX(R) fabric and thousands of other market-leading products, has earned a spot on Fast Company magazine's 2009 "Fast 50" list of the world's most innovative companies. Gore is ranked No. 30. The complete list is available at fastcompany.com and in the magazine's March issue, now on newsstands.

Known for a wide range of products, including everything from implantable medical devices to guitar strings, Gore is a leading manufacturer of thousands of advanced technology products for the electronics, fabrics, industrial and medical markets. The company is headquartered in Newark, Del., posts annual sales of nearly $2.5 billion, and employs more than 8,500 associates in nearly 50 facilities throughout the world.

"At Gore, we apply leading edge materials technology to create innovative solutions for highly challenging applications. From our waterproof and breathable fabrics to our life saving medical devices, we make products that truly impact people's lives," says Gore's global technology leader, Jack Kramer. "For more than 50 years, our products have performed in demanding environments, where failure is not an option. Innovation is core to our success, and it's an honor to earn recognition as one of the world's most innovative companies."

In its "Fast 50" list, Fast Company magazine highlights three of Gore's recent innovations-GORE(TM) OPTIFADE(TM) Concealment, a cutting-edge camouflage pattern engineered with a deer's vision system in mind; GORE(TM) inLIGHTEN(TM) Window Screens, a unique window screen made with an ultra fine material that makes it appear virtually invisible; and a yet-to-be-named technology that adds fire resistance to such materials as nylon and polyester while maintaining the performance and comfort of Gore's traditional outerwear.

According to fastcompany.com, the magazine "searches for examples of success and strength--of character as well as finances," when creating its "Fast 50" rankings. This year's list includes companies from around the world that have continued to produce innovative products and achieve success, despite tough economic times.

American Airlines Named One of Nation's 'Top 50 Employers' by Readers of Equal Opportunity Magazine

2009-02-17T16:09:00.000+02:00

American Is Only Airline To Make List In 16th Annual Survey

FORT WORTH, Texas, Feb. 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- American Airlines said today it is honored by its selection as one of the nation's "Top 50 Employers" by readers of Equal Opportunity magazine in that publication's 16th annual survey. The selection was announced in the winter 2008/2009 issue of the magazine, published this month.

American ranked number 25 on the Top 50 list, the only airline to make the prestigious group. Readers of Equal Opportunity voted for companies they would most prefer to work for or that they believe are progressive in hiring members of minority groups.

Equal Opportunity, the nation's first career magazine for minority college graduates, is read by more than 40,000 members of minority groups, representing students, entry-level workers and professional employees in many career disciplines.

"American is honored and proud to be named one of the country's top 50 employers by readers of Equal Opportunity," said Denise Lynn, American's Vice President - Diversity and Leadership Strategies. "Encouraging and promoting diversity among employees is good for our customers, smart for our business, and perhaps most importantly, the right thing to do as a good corporate citizen."

The top 50 ranking in Equal Opportunity magazine is the latest recognition of American's efforts to encourage diversity and inclusion across all facets of its business. Last year, American was named one of the "Top 60 Companies for Hispanics" by Hispanic Business magazine, one of just two airlines to make the list. American received that designation for the third consecutive year. In addition, for the seventh consecutive year, American received the highest possible score from the Human Rights Campaign, an organization dedicated to promoting and ensuring understanding of gay and lesbian issues through innovative education and communication strategies.

American has a long history of fostering equal employment opportunities for minority employees. In 1963, the airline hired the first African-American flight attendant to fly for a U.S. commercial airline. The first African-American pilot was hired in 1964 and its first female pilot was hired in 1973.

Today, approximately 32 percent of American and American Eagle's domestic employees are minorities and about 40 percent of the two airlines' employees are female.

Diversity efforts at American are guided in part by the company's Diversity Advisory Council, which is comprised of representatives from the 16 Employee Resource Groups at American. Now in its 15th year, the Council helps ensure that American is a good place to work for all employees.

To learn more about American's diversity and inclusion efforts, go to AA.com's "About Us" section and select "Diversity & Inclusion."

About American Airlines

American Airlines, American Eagle and the AmericanConnection(R) airlines serve 250 cities in 40 countries with, on average, more than 3,400 daily flights. The combined network fleet numbers more than 900 aircraft. American's award-winning Web site, AA.com(R), provides users with easy access to check and book fares, plus personalized news, information and travel offers. American Airlines is a founding member of the oneworld(R) Alliance, which brings together some of the best and biggest names in the airline business, enabling them to offer their customers more services and benefits than any airline can provide on its own. Together, its members serve nearly 700 destinations in over 140 countries and territories. American Airlines, Inc. and American Eagle Airlines, Inc. are subsidiaries of AMR Corporation. AmericanAirlines, American Eagle, AmericanConnection, AA.com, We know why you fly and AAdvantage are registered trademarks of American Airlines, Inc. (NYSE: AMR)

AmericanAirlines(R) We know why you fly(R)

Current AMR Corp. releases can be accessed on the Internet.

The address is http://www.aa.com

Meredith Corporation Joins EPA Climate Leaders Program; Posts 2009 Corporate Sustainability Report

2009-02-17T15:04:00.000+02:00

DES MOINES, Iowa, Feb. 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Meredith Corporation (NYSE: MDP), one of America's leading media and marketing companies, has joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Climate Leaders program.

Climate Leaders is an industry-government partnership that works with companies to develop comprehensive climate-change strategies. As a partner, Meredith has committed to reducing its environmental impact by completing a corporate-wide inventory of greenhouse gas emissions, setting reduction goals, and annually reporting its progress to the EPA.

"Our participation demonstrates that companies can be responsible environmental stewards while simultaneously increasing business efficiency," said Steve Lacy, Meredith President and CEO. "This program is a win-win, and we are proud to be a partner with the EPA in climate change management."

Also this month, Meredith published its 2009 corporate sustainability report online. The document outlines sustainable business practices the company currently has in place. Visit http://www.meredith.com/meredith_corporate/sustainability.html to view the report, as well as other environmental information.

About Meredith Corporation

Meredith Corporation is the leading media and marketing company serving American women. Meredith combines well-known national brands -- including Better Homes and Gardens, Parents, Ladies' Home Journal, Family Circle, American Baby, Fitness and More -- with local television brands in fast growing markets. Meredith is the industry leader in creating content in key consumer interest areas such as home, family, health and wellness and self- development. Meredith then uses multiple distribution platforms -- including print, television, online, mobile and video -- to give consumers content they desire and to deliver the messages of its marketing partners. Additionally, Meredith uses its many assets to create powerful custom marketing solutions for many of the nation's top brands and companies. The goals of these programs are to increase consumer loyalty and produce repeated consumer interaction. In the last two years, Meredith has significantly added to its capabilities in this area through the acquisition of cutting-edge companies in areas such as online, word-of-mouth and database marketing.

Television Star and Best-Selling Author Sandra Lee and Hoffman Media, Launches New Magazine Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade(R) Today

2009-02-17T11:57:00.000+02:00

Magazine Fills Gap During Media Downturn

BIRMINGHAM, Ala., Feb. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Sandra Lee, host of the highly-rated, Emmy-nominated Food Network show, "Semi-Homemade Cooking with Sandra Lee," today launches her new magazine, Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade(R). The inaugural issue published by Hoffman Media, focuses on ingenious culinary and lifestyle solutions for those who want to stretch their time and resources while enriching their home life.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090217/NY70724 )

The premier issue contains over 180 quick and easy recipes and ideas, 20 minute money-saving meals and affordable decorating tips. Featured in the first issue are recipes and decorating ideas for a Sweetheart Valentines Supper and a St. Patty's Day Shamrock Soiree. The magazine integrates brand-specific items into recipes.

The magazine is published in a bimonthly format with the majority of the content geared toward food and entertaining and the remainder focused on home, gardening, crafts and lifestyle in general. Sandra's trademark 70/30 Semi-Homemade philosophy will be the foundation for all content: The 70/30 philosophy is a formula for anyone at any skill level to combine 70 percent ready-made products with 30 percent fresh ingredients, and creative touches allowing the end user to take 100 percent of the credit for something that looks, tastes, and/or feels as if it were completely made from scratch.

Sandra Lee, who takes on the new role of Editor-in-Chief, said, "I am thrilled to embark on this groundbreaking endeavor with Hoffman Media. Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade magazine marries fresh, innovative ideas with brand integration allowing the reader to achieve attainable results while saving time and money, so they can make every day and every meal special."

Hoffman Media, publisher of the wildly successful Cooking with Paula Deen, has developed a truly unique magazine format with Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade that features unprecedented brand name product integration. The magazine will keep with Sandra Lee's philosophy that specific brands deliver specific results, and include brand-names that provide a legitimate Semi-Homemade solution throughout its content and recipes. Hoffman Media believes this distinctive format will benefit readers and appeal to advertisers.

Phyllis Hoffman, President of Hoffman Media added, "We are honored to partner with Sandra Lee on the launch of our newest magazine. Her semi-homemade approach to preparing great food, effortless entertaining and affordable decorating is so relevant for today's consumer. We are thrilled to bring the magazine to the market and Sandra's loyal fans."

Sandra Lee's long and diverse career certainly prepares her to take on the role as an authoritative voice in all aspects of home living. Sandra has gained the trust and admiration of millions of viewers and readers as the advocate for the overextended person. As a graduate of the Cordon Bleu, a veteran Food Network star, a regular QVC guest expert in the home, food, garden, floral and crafts categories, as well as the best-selling author of 17 books, Ms. Lee's breadth of experience is unique in the market. The premier issue of Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade will have a distribution of over 300,000 copies to all major newsstand outlets, with a newsstand price of $4.99 and a subscription offer of $19.98. The title will be sold both on newsstands and at major retailers throughout the country and will be supplemented by the web site, www.semihomemademag.com.

About Semi-Homemade(R)

Sandra Lee is an internationally acclaimed home and food expert with an Emmy-nominated television show "Semi-Homemade Cooking with Sandra Lee," which airs on the Food Network. With 17 books to her credit, she is a New York Times and Amazon.com best-selling author. Semi-Homemade is a media company that revolutionizes the way people think about homemade. With her trademark 70/30 Semi-Homemade philosophy, Sandra Lee has become the advocate for the overextended homemaker. Semi-Homemade allows anyone to take 100% of the credit for something that feels and tastes as if it were made completely from scratch.

About Hoffman Media, LLC

Since its founding in 1983, Hoffman Media has been a leader in special-interest publications. Targeting the women's market, the company publishes Cooking with Paula Deen, Victoria, TeaTime, Southern Lady, Taste of the South, Just CrossStitch, and Sew Beautiful.

From Hard Knocks to Opportunity Knocking

2009-02-17T11:00:00.000+02:00

Entrepreneur Shows How a Layoff Can Be the Doorway to Business Ownership

IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- While no time is ever a good time for a layoff, with the right plan and attitude, Entrepreneur knows any time can be a good time to start a business. In a special report in the February issue, three former corporate employees share how their pink slips eventually led to new businesses. For those already working to grow their companies, a complementary report takes a look at how to innovate during the recession in order to emerge even stronger when the economy recovers.

The SBA reports that an estimated 637,100 number of business were started in just 2007, and this number could rise dramatically considering the unemployment rate is up to 7.6% (January figure from the Department of Labor). From startup dos and don'ts to examples of how a passion can turn into a business, anyone looking for a new career path can learn more about whether business ownership is right for them with Entrepreneur.

"For those with the entrepreneurial spirit," says Amy Cosper, VP/editor-in-chief at Entrepreneur, "losing a job can serve as motivation to explore new ventures outside of corporate employment. We offer sound advice on what to consider before getting started and arm aspiring entrepreneurs with the lessons others like themselves have learned--helping them get off on the right foot as business owners."

At the same time, entrepreneurs working hard to drive their established businesses forward can find new ways to innovate--even within a recession--in a secondary special report. After all, some of the most innovative ideas from Campbell's, GE, McDonald's, 3M, and Coca Cola emerged during times of economic duress. Smaller businesses can emerge just as triumphant by learning from other industries, testing ideas, and going where consumers go.

"Inspiration for innovation is everywhere," says Cosper, "from books to websites, events and everyday life." Indeed, Entrepreneur's own list of "2009 Trends to Watch," available at www.entrepreneur.com/hottrends, depicts countless areas ripe with business potential, including the green movement, digital opportunities, ideas on health, and products and services for both boomers and millennials.

To read the two special reports in the February issue of Entrepreneur, pick up a copy on newsstands today or visit Entrepreneur.com. For "Laid Off in 2008? Start a Business in 2009," go to www.entrepreneur.com/magazine/entrepreneur/2009/february/199706.html. For the "Special Report: Innovate in a Recession," visit www.entrepreneur.com/magazine/entrepreneur/2009/february/199724.html.

You can also hear Amy Cosper, Entrepreneur's editor-in-chief, discuss how layoffs are leading to business startups in a radio interview from Market Watch with Moe Ansari at www.entrepreneur.com/uploadedFiles/images/mm/l/MktWrap_CosperItvw_020309.mp3.

About Entrepreneur Media Inc.

Entrepreneur Media Inc. is the premier content provider for and about entrepreneurs. Our products engage and inspire every day with the advice, solutions and resources that fuel the bold and independent way entrepreneurs think.

After 31 years, nobody reaches more growing businesses. As the original magazine for the small and midsize business community, Entrepreneur continues to be the definitive guide to all the diverse challenges of business ownership. Entrepreneur.com is the most widely used website by entrepreneurs and emerging businesses worldwide. Entrepreneur Press publishes the books that turn entrepreneurial skills into business success.

To learn more, visit www.entrepreneur.com.

To advertise, please contact us at www.entrepreneur.com/mediakit.

Rhode Island Manufacturing Jobs Fell 4.1% in 2008 According to State Industrial Directory

2009-02-16T15:20:00.000+02:00

EVANSTON, Ill., Feb. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Industrial employment in Rhode Island dropped 4.1% over the past twelve months according to the 2009 Rhode Island Manufacturers Register, a compilation of state industry published annually by Manufacturers' News, Inc. (MNI) Evanston, IL. MNI (http://www.manufacturersnews.com) reports Rhode Island lost 2,878 industrial jobs from December 2007 to December 2008, continuing the steep losses the state has seen over the past several years.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070213/MNILOGO)

Manufacturers' News reports Rhode Island is home to 2,099 manufacturers employing 68,077 workers. Rhode Island's job losses echo those seen across New England with Maine and New Hampshire's industrial employment each down 1.5% over the past year, and Vermont's down 2.3%, according to earlier MNI reports.

"As with the entire nation, Rhode Island's industrial employment is suffering due to global competition, the weak housing sector, and stagnating demand," said Tom Dubin, President of the Evanston, IL-based publishing company, which has been surveying industry since 1912. "Additionally, the state's concentration in luxury goods manufacturing, such as jewelry, has taken a hit as the demand for these items continues to diminish."

According to MNI, fabricated metal manufacturing is Rhode Island's largest sector by employment, with 7,480 of the state's jobs, down 3.3% over the year. The jewelry industry accounts for another 6,303 jobs, down 12.5% in 2008, with the closure of jewelry maker Colibri Group, among others. Industrial equipment manufacturing represents 6,168 of the state's jobs, and is one of the few Rhode Island sectors to gain employment, up 1.9% in the past twelve months. Instruments and related products also posted a gain of 129 jobs or 1.9%.

Sectors losing jobs include chemicals and allied products, down 16% after KIK Custom Products, an aerosol manufacturer, shut down its plant in Cumberland. Employment in textiles and apparel fell 13%, due partially to the closure of two Charbert textile facilities. Furniture and fixtures were down 5%; rubber and miscellaneous plastic products, down 3.6%; transportation equipment, down 3.4%; printing/publishing, down 3.3%; primary metals, down 2.3%; lumber/wood, down 1.6%; stone, clay, glass, down 1.4% and food products, down 1.2%. Employment in electronics manufacturing and paper/allied products remained stable over the year.

Providence ranks as the state's top manufacturing city with 9,834 jobs, down 8.5% over the year. Pawtucket accounts for 7,680 jobs, down 1% since December 2007. Cranston is home to 5,812 of the state's workers, 4.4% fewer than a year ago. Warwick saw employment drop 5.8% and is currently home to 5,240 industrial workers, while North Kingstown jobs remained steady over the year with the fifth-ranked city home to 5,086 jobs.

Detailed profiles of Rhode Island's 2,099 manufacturers and 316 industrial distributors can be found in the 2009 Rhode Island Manufacturers Register, available in print for $82 and on CD-ROM from $108. Each profile provides up to 30 facts, including vital contact information (phone, web, e-mail), 6,223 executives by name and title, product(s) manufactured, annual sales, number of employees, and more. Visitors to mnileads.com may generate custom profiles of manufacturers using thirteen different criteria, including area or zip code, county, SIC, sales volume, number of employees, and more.

Manufacturers' News, Inc., publisher of manufacturers' directories since 1912, compiles and produces profiles of manufacturers, statistics and databases for all 50 states. MNI also maintains IndustryNet.com, an industrial search engine designed specifically for locating manufacturers and suppliers nationwide. For more information, contact Manufacturers' News, Inc., 1633 Central St., Evanston, IL, 60201, 847-864-7000, FAX 847-332-1100.

Photos: National Museum of American History and USA Weekend Magazine Partner for National Anthem YouTube Singing Contest

2009-02-16T13:00:00.000+02:00

Winner to perform at the museum and the Baltimore Orioles game on Flag Day, June 14

WASHINGTON, Feb. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- The Smithsonian's National Museum of American History, home of the Star-Spangled Banner, the flag that inspired the national anthem, has partnered with USA Weekend Magazine to launch the Star-Spangled Banner YouTube Singing Contest on Sunday, Feb. 15.

To view the Multimedia News Release, go to: http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/americanhistory/37059/

"The Star-Spangled Banner is one of our nation's most treasured objects, a symbol of what this country stands for," said Brent D. Glass, director of the museum. "We thought that this contest would be a fun way to dispel the notion that history is boring and engage people with their flag and their anthem."

Fifteen semi-finalists will be selected by April 17 according to vocal performance, originality, accuracy and popularity on YouTube. All semi-finalists will receive a signed copy of the book "The Star Spangled Banner: The Making of an American Icon," and their videos will be featured on the museum's Star-Spangled Banner Web site.

The top video will be chosen by a panel of celebrities, Smithsonian judges and a representative from the Orioles and announced May 19. The winner will be invited to perform the national anthem at the museum and at the Baltimore Orioles versus Atlanta Braves game in Baltimore on Flag Day, June 14. USA Weekend will provide the winner with a trip for two to Washington, D.C., including airfare, hotel accommodation for two nights, tickets and transportation to the game and $400 spending money.

"This is the first YouTube contest at the Smithsonian and it fits well with the notion that the Star-Spangled Banner belongs to everyone," said Matthew MacArthur, the museum's director of New Media.

For contest rules, sample videos, lyrics and to enter, participants should visit the Star-Spangled Banner YouTube Singing Contest Web site. Entries may be submitted from Feb. 15 to April 13, 2009. Participants and others can follow the contest via Twitter: http://twitter.com/amhistorymuseum (@amhistorymuseum)

The National Museum of American History is located at 14th Street and Constitution Avenue N.W., and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Check http://americanhistory.si.edu or for general Smithsonian information, call (202) 633-1000; (202) 633-5285 (TTY).

Pioneering Architects Aram Bassenian and Carl Lagoni Inducted Into Hall of Fame

2009-02-16T10:00:00.000+02:00

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Feb. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- In an era when home design equates to home-sales success as never before, the National Association of Home Builders and Professional Builder magazine recently recognized the contributions of Aram Bassenian, AIA, and Carl Lagoni, AIA, to advancing the art of residential design. Both men were among the ten members of the inaugural class of inductees into the Best in American Living Hall of Fame.

The innovative work of Bassenian and Lagoni has catapulted their planning and architectural firm to the top of the list as the most awarded office in the 25-year history of the Best in American Living Awards, the premier national new-home design competition. Among the 80+ awards bestowed on the firm are Home of the Year, Best Single-Family Detached Home in every size category, and Best Custom Home, as well as multiple wins for Best in Region.

"Aram Bassenian and Carl Lagoni have been honing their expertise in all things residential for more than 35 years," said Paul Deffenbaugh, editorial director of Professional Builder magazine, in presenting this honor. "They've designed best-in-class communities in nearly every category -- from conventional and high-density detached homes to townhomes, condominiums, apartments, senior housing and resort communities."

The firm's reputation for best-in-class design solutions has extended its business beyond the United States. Currently the company designs new communities throughout China, in North Africa, the Middle East and India.

"As architects, it is our assignment to design homes that link to the past, yet look forward in lifestyle and technology. That vision mixes with skilled hands to create a home of character that also appeals to the senses," said Chairman and CEO Aram Bassenian.

During these difficult times for the economy in general and housing in particular, Bassenian Lagoni Architects isn't resting on the accomplishments of the past. An aggressive research and development program explores new lifestyle solutions, new concepts and new elevation styles that enable builders to profitably create homes and neighborhoods at price points that attract new buyers.

"We pride ourselves on being on the leading edge of design," explained President Carl Lagoni. "We try to help define the trends rather than just replicate them."

For more information and project images, contact Heather McCune, Director of Marketing, at 949-553-9100, ext. 245; or hmccune@bassenianlagoni.com

NEWSWEEK: International Editions: Highlights and Exclusives, February 23, 2009 Issue

2009-02-15T19:03:00.000+02:00

COVER: Fall of the Petrostates (All overseas editions). Senior Editor Rana Foroohar reports that with the world economy collapsing in recession, and falling demand driving the price of oil down to $37 per barrel, the trio of Vladimir Putin, Hugo Chavez and Mahmoud Ahmadinejad are losing their strength. The empires that they built on oil are proving rickety, vulnerable to inflation and joblessness, and now mounting political unrest is jeopardizing their personal power. "High oil prices and oil wealth reshaped geopolitics in recent years," says energy expert Daniel Yergin. "Now we're seeing the reversal of all that." The decline of the petro-czars is an unexpected bright spot in a grim global recession. Barack Obama has invited America's enemies to talk, and Putin, Chavez and Ahmadinejad are responding with surprising alacrity because the price of oil no longer supports their geopolitical ambitions.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/184766

COVER: Flight From South Africa (Africa only). Africa Bureau Chief Scott Johnson reports that a number of recent independent studies show that mass departures from South Africa are ongoing and are sapping the nation of its skilled and best-educated young citizens. The most dramatic figures can be found among South African whites, who are leaving at a pace consistent with the advent of "widespread disease, mass natural disasters or large-scale civil conflict," according to a report by the South African Institute on Race Relations. Some 800,000 out of a total white population of 4 million have left since 1995, by one count. But they're hardly alone. Blacks, coloreds (as people of mixed race are known in South Africa) and Indians are also expressing the desire to leave. The new South Africa has been relatively stable since apartheid was swept away in 1994. But that stability could be jeopardized if its human capital keeps leaving at the current rate.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/184783

Fear Comes to the Russian Heartland. Moscow Bureau Chief Owen Matthews and Special Correspondent Anna Nemtsova report on how the failing global economy is affecting Russian towns like Magnitogorsk, a steel town of nearly 500,000 straddling the Ural River, about 900 miles east of Moscow. Prosperity and stability are vanishing fast in Magnitogorsk, where four of the city's eight giant steel smelters have been shut down, their workers placed on indefinite leave. While the global economy was pushing oil prices to new highs, Prime Minister Vladimir Putin could do no wrong. Now serious unrest seems imminent. The biggest threat lies in cities like Magnitogorsk -- company towns that are dominated by a single industry.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/184763

The Kremlin Vigilantes. Matthews and Nemtsova examine the growth of anti-immigrant groups in Russia, which are becoming more violent and getting more explicit support from authorities. One group -- the Young Guard, the youth group of the ruling United Russia party -- says its mission is to help fulfill Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin's plan to rein in the number of migrant laborers coming into the country. Such a policy represents a big turnaround for Russia, which until very recently has officially welcomed immigrants if not with open arms than at least with grudging acceptance. But as the Russian economy craters, its immigrant community looks set to suffer most as a backlash against foreigners -- Russia's time-honored scapegoats from tsarist times -- gathers pace.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/184777

No Rest for the Weary. Special Correspondent Tracy McNicoll reports that French President Nicholas Sarkozy has committed himself to changing the law that makes it illegal to work on Sunday. The idea of keeping shops open on Sundays is, symbolically, at the core of Sarkozy's economic ideology: ennobling the idea of work while giving people more choices about how to make and spend their money. He has pushed to give the French more freedom to earn overtime, to retire later if they please, to work as many years, days and hours as they want to -- including Sundays. But as logical as that may sound, in France it's widely viewed by the political elite as unseemly.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/184782

An Island, Lost at Sea. Contributing Editor Stryker McGuire reports on the changing "special relationship" between the U.S. and Great Britain. The first world figure to actually shake President Barack Obama's hand was Tony Blair, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown's predecessor and longtime rival in British politics. What Brown and much of the commentariat are willfully ignoring is that the importance of the Anglo-American special relationship depends upon which end of the telescope you view it through. It's a big deal in Britain. But the term "special relationship" is almost entirely foreign to American ears. After all, the United States is increasingly Hispanic and increasingly wedded economically to Asia, and is bound to shift or at least broaden its longtime alliances.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/184780

WORLD VIEW: Israel's Biggest Danger. Newsweek International Editor Fareed Zakaria writes that while most commentators focus on the future of the peace process and the two-state solution in Israel, handling the relationship with its Arab minority is more crucial even than dealing with Hizbullah or Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Benjamin Netanyahu has warned that Israel's Arabs constitute a demographic time bomb. Benny Morris, the once dovish historian who chronicled the forced expulsion of most Palestinians from the Jewish state in 1948, has turned to arguing that Israel needs to protect itself from the Arabs now living within its borders. "It's a dangerous spiral: the worse the distrust gets, the less loyalty Israel's Arabs feel toward their country--and vice versa," Zakaria writes.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/184765

THE LAST WORD: Mustafa Barghouthi, Palestinian reformist legislator. Barghouthi says that the most pressing issue for him and the Palestinian government is to end the conflict between Palestine and Israel. "I don't think this conflict should last longer, and it's awful for both people. And the result of the elections in Israel, in my opinion, reflects how dangerous this conflict is for Israel, too. I look at it as a cancer that is eating our lives," he says.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/184788

/PRNewswire - Feb. 15/

NEWSWEEK Cover: Stress Could Save Your Life (Or at Least it's Better for You Than You Think)

2009-02-15T16:58:00.000+02:00

In Some Circumstances, Stress Can Be Good For You; 'Most People Do Their Best Under Mild To Moderate Stress' Says Psychologist

Stress Evolved To Help Us Survive; In The Short Term, It Can Energize Us

Take The Newsweek/WebMD Resiliency Quiz

NEW YORK, Feb. 15 /PRNewswire/ --- In the past several years, a lot of us have convinced ourselves that stress is unequivocally negative for everyone, all the time. But what's often overlooked is a common-sense counterpoint: in some circumstances, it can be good for you, too, reports Senior Writer Mary Carmichaelin the February 23 Newsweek cover "Stress Could Save Your Life" (on newsstands Monday, February 16). As Spencer Rathus puts it in "Psychology: Concepts and Connections," "some stress is healthy and necessary to keep us alert and occupied." Yet that's not the theme that's been coming out of science for the past few years. "The public has gotten such a uniform message that stress is always harmful," says Janet DiPietro, a developmental psychologist at Johns Hopkins University. "And that's too bad, because most people do their best under mild to moderate stress."

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090215/NYSU005 )

The stress response -- the body's hormonal reaction to danger, uncertainty, or change -- evolved to help us survive, and if we learn how to keep it from overrunning our lives, it still can, Carmichael reports in the cover story, which is an installment of Newsweek's continuing "Health for Life" series with Harvard Medical School. In the short term, it can energize us, "revving up our systems to handle what we have to handle," says Judith Orloff, a psychiatrist at UCLA. In the long term, stress can motivate us to do better at jobs we care about. A little of it can prepare us for a lot later on, making us more resilient. Even when it's extreme, stress may have positive effects -- which is why, in addition to posttraumatic stress disorder, some psychologists are starting to define a phenomenon called posttraumatic growth.

"There's really a biochemical and scientific bias that stress is bad, but anecdotally and clinically, it's quite evident that it can work for some people," says Orloff. "We need a new wave of research with a more balanced approach to how stress can serve us."

Carmichael reports that when she started asking researchers about "good stress," many of them said it essentially didn't exist. "We never tell people stress is good for them," one says. Another allowed that it might be, but only in small ways, in the short term, in rats. And those people who thrive on stress -- who become policemen or ER docs or air-traffic controllers because they like seeking out chaos and putting things back in order -- aren't they using stress to their advantage? No, the researchers say, those people are unhealthy. "This business of people saying they 'thrive on stress'? It's nuts," says Bruce Rabin, a distinguished psychoneuroimmunologist, pathologist and psychiatrist at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Some adults who seek out stress and believe they flourish under it may have been abused as children or permanently affected in the womb after exposure to high levels of adrenaline and cortisol, he tells Newsweek. Even if they weren't, he added, they're "trying to satisfy" some psychological need.

Also in the cover package, Dr. Anthony L. Komaroff, the Simcox-Clifford-Higby professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, looks at the link between stress and disease. He writes that while there is "much evidence" linking stress to the heart and blood vessels, the relationship isn't a simple one. "And despite some widely held and popular ideas, the link between stress and other diseases is even less clear," he writes. "Surely, experiencing stress may worsen the symptoms of almost any condition. But there is little evidence that stress is the exclusive or even the principle cause of any disease."

And on WebMD.com, take the Newsweek/WebMD resiliency quiz. An excerpt:

    1. Who tends to be least resilient?
           A. People who are insecure
           B. People who are happy
           C. People who are sad
           D. People who are self-focused

Egocentric or self-focused people are more likely to take things personally. And the extent to which people take things personally affects their ability to be resilient. This is why people who survive natural disasters tend to recover more quickly than those who survive attacks directed at them personally. Answer: D

    2. Resilient people:
           A. Don't get stressed when times are bad
           B. Are trained in stress-management techniques
           C. Seek help from reliable people in times of stress
           D. Make concrete plans for handling traumatic events

It's not that resilient people don't feel stress, or that they're better trained to deal with it (although more resilient people may be more likely than others to learn stress management). Resilient people recognize that bad things happen to good people, so they aren't overwhelmed by stress when they experience setbacks. Resilient people have confidence in their ability to deal with bad situations. Answer: C

For the full quiz, visit webmd.com/Newsweek/resilience

(Read cover package at www.Newsweek.com)

http://www.newsweek.com/id/184154

TBWA Worldwide Named to Fast Company Magazine's List of the World's 50 Most Innovative Companies

2009-02-13T15:36:00.000+02:00

NEW YORK, Feb. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Fast Company Magazine has placed TBWA Worldwide 24th on its list of "The World's 50 Most Innovative Companies." TBWA\Worldwide is one of only three marketing communications companies on the list that includes Team Obama, Google, Hulu, Apple, Amazon, Facebook and Disney.

In its selection of the "World's Most Innovative Companies", Fast Company's March issue noted that, "each company illustrates the power and potential of innovative ideas and creative execution. These are the kinds of enterprises that will redefine our future and point the way to a better tomorrow."

Tom Carroll, President & CEO TBWA Worldwide said of TBWA's recognition, "Our objective has always been to be considered as one of the top creative companies, not just among the advertising industry but amongst the most innovative and creative companies in the world. To be included alongside Apple, Google and Disney is a reflection of the fact that we have been delivering both 'Disruptive' and creative ideas in a truly global and inclusive culture. Our objective is to bring out the best in our clients and their brands. Fortunately for us they want and expect TBWA to create work that gets us this kind of recognition."

TBWA Worldwide (www.tbwa.com) creates Disruptive ideas for global clients, including ABSOLUT, adidas, Apple, Beiersdorf, Henkel, Infiniti, Mars, McDonald's, Michelin, Nissan, Pernod Ricard, Pioneer, Samsonite, Standard Chartered Bank, Singapore Airlines, Sony PlayStation and Visa. TBWA is one of the fastest-growing networks in the Top-Five worldwide advertising agencies, and was named 2008 Global Agency of the Year by Advertising Age and Adweek, magazines. TBWA has 267 offices in 77 countries, and approximately 12,000 employees worldwide.

TBWA is part of Omnicom Group Inc. (NYSE: OMC) (www.omnicomgroup.com), a leading global marketing and corporate communications company. Omnicom's branded networks and numerous specialty firms provide advertising, strategic media planning and buying, digital and interactive marketing, direct and promotional marketing, public relations and other specialty communications services to over 5,000 clients in more than 100 countries.

Natural Health Magazine Selects Top Green Companies

2009-02-13T14:00:00.000+02:00

Environmental Activist, Ed Begley, Jr. to Guest Edit First Annual Natural Health Green Choice Awards

NEW YORK, Feb. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- In its May 2009 issue, Natural Health magazine will honor the greenest companies of 2008. The Natural Health Green Choice Awards will identify large, multinational companies with tremendous reach and influence that are implementing substantial, systemic green initiatives and inspiring others to follow suit. Renowned actor and environmental activist Ed Begley, Jr. will be a special guest editor for the issue. He and his wife Rachelle Carson will grace the issue's cover. Begley, Jr., will present the Natural Health Green Choice Awards to ten winners at a cocktail reception at Tavern on the Green on May 5, 2009.

Each candidate submitted data about its alternative energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, water use, recycling, operational energy footprints and LEED certifications--criterion by which the winners will be chosen.

The 25 award finalists are conserving energy, saving water, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, shrinking carbon footprints, and reducing waste at unprecedented levels. They are also contributing to huge gains in alternative energy and encouraging their more than three million employees to embrace sustainability.

"We are thrilled to have Ed Begley, Jr., as our guest editor for the first annual Natural Health Green Choice Awards. Mr. Begley has been the embodiment of green living and green ideas for the past 38 years and as the owner of Begley's Best, a line of non-toxic household cleaners, he's the perfect person to help us choose the best green companies of 2008," says editor in chief, Mary Bolster.

Begley, Jr. works with organizations like the Environmental Media Association, the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, the Thoreau Institute, the Earth Communications Office, Tree People and Friends of the Earth, and many others. He has won numerous awards for his environmental initiatives as well as for his work in film and television. He received six Emmy Award nominations for the television series St. Elsewhere and currently stars in "Living With Ed," a reality show about green living on HGTV.

The 25 finalists are:

    Aveda
    British Airways
    Canon
    Chipotle
    Clif Bar
    Coca Cola
    Discovery
    Flor
    Ford
    Gap
    Green Mountain Energy
    Hain Celestial Group
    Ikea
    Kohls
    Kraft
    L'Oreal
    Niman Ranch
    Organic Valley
    P&G
    Shaklee
    Starbucks
    UPS
    Verizon
    Wal-Mart
    Whole Foods

Since 1971, Natural Health has been the leader in the healthy lifestyle category providing a wide breadth of choices and options for a healthy lifestyle including fitness, health, wellness, beauty, travel, style and home. The brand includes naturalhealthmag.com, international edition, annual beauty awards and our signature Women's Wellness retreats. Natural Health, a Weider Publication published by American Media, Inc. has received the Gold Aveda Environmental Award for best publishing practices.

Around the Rings Launches First Online Version of Ultimate Insider's Guide; Vancouver is Sixth Edition

2009-02-13T00:56:00.000+02:00

ATLANTA, Feb. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- One year out from the beginning of the 2010 Winter Olympics in British Columbia, Around the Rings has launched its first online edition of The Ultimate Insider's Guide:

http://www.aroundtherings.com/Vancouver/VancouverGuide.aspx

Content will be free to all users for the first 30 days.

The guide includes contact details for businesses and organizations with a stake in next year's Games. These range from the IOC to worldwide sponsors to government offices, along with restaurant and entertainment recommendations.

"Previous editions were always printed a few days before the Opening Ceremony so that the journalists and high-level visitors who used them had the most current information possible," said ATR editor Ed Hula. "This time, we wanted to make the information available for a longer period. Instead of a shelf-life of just a few weeks, this content will be available for one full year. It will be updated through March 2010, when the Paralympics conclude. "

The guide is divided into six chapters: Vancouver Games, Olympia, Business, Media, Government and Fun, Food and Nightlife.

Vancouver Games will include executives and media contacts; Olympia will include IOC contacts as well as upcoming host cities, while Fun, Food and Nightlife features restaurants and other attractions that have been personally reviewed by ATR staff.

Vancouver-area businesses can still be a part of the Vancouver Insider's Guide. Listings are free. Submissions should include business name; contact person; telephone; website; description of the business. Send to Vancouver@aroundtherings.com.

The guide will be available free of charge to all Web site visitors for the first 30 days. After that, some information will be available only to ATR subscribers or will be available for purchase.

The Vancouver Games run Feb. 12-28, 2010. The Paralympics are March 12-21.

AroundTheRings.com is the only publication devoted to providing original, on-the-scene reporting about the $5 billion dollar business of the Olympic Movement. With headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, Editor Ed Hula's staff includes correspondents around the globe.

For a two-week trial subscription of Around the Rings, contact Kathy Kuzcka via email at: kathy@aroundtherings.com or by phone at +1 404.874.1603 ext. 104

Your best source of news about the Olympics is http://www.AroundTheRings.com, since 1992.

    Contact:
    Trista McGlamery
    Assistant Editor
    (404) 874-1603 ext. 105
    trista@aroundtherings.com

GQ Names Robert Geller 2009 Best New Menswear Designer in America

2009-02-13T00:26:00.000+02:00

NEW YORK, Feb. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- GQ today announced Robert Geller as winner of the Second Annual "Best New Menswear Designers in America" project. This competitive initiative, established in 2008 in collaboration with the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), was created to recognize the rising stars of American men's fashion design.

The magazine selected six finalists for the 2009 competition, and they were each featured in the February issue. A panel of industry experts -- Thom Browne, American menswear designer; Steve Evans, the Levi's(R) brand vice president of merchandising; Kevin Harter, Bloomingdale's vice president of fashion direction; Steven Kolb, CFDA executive director; Jim Moore, GQ creative director; and Jim Nelson, GQ editor-in-chief -- gathered to select the winner at the conclusion of a presentation event for the designer's fall 2009 collections on Wednesday, February 11, in New York City.

"It was by no means an easy decision -- this is an extremely talented Gang of Six," said Jim Nelson. "All the designers impressed us tremendously with the strength and breadth of their collections, as well as the seriousness with which they approach their work. It's also true that we were wowed by the singularity of Robert Geller's vision, and we think he's a significant -- and welcome -- new force in the American men's fashion scene."

As the winner, Robert Geller will receive a $50,000 cash prize and the opportunity to create a limited-edition collection for the Levi's brand. Geller's collection will debut at Levi.com and be available for a month-long exclusive in all major Bloomingdale's locations at the start of New York Fashion Week in September. He will take part in a mentoring program led by GQ, the Levi's brand, and Bloomingdale's. A select item or outfit from the Robert Geller collection for Levi's will be featured in the September 2009 issue of GQ.

"For me, it was encouraging to see not just good American menswear designers but important menswear designers -- and Robert Geller represents just that," added Thom Browne, a member of the selection panel.

Robert Geller was born in Hamburg, Germany, in 1976. In 2001, he graduated with a degree in fashion design from the Rhode Island School of Design and began a traineeship at Marc Jacobs in New York City. Geller launched his eponymous menswear line for fall/winter 2007. The line is currently being sold at over 50 of the world's most influential boutiques, including Isetan, Lane Crawford, and Odin.

Other designers that participated in the 2009 BNMDA competition are: Benjamin Bixby (Andre Benjamin, designer), Rogues Gallery (Alex Carleton, designer), Save Khaki (David Mullen, designer), Shipley & Halmos (Sam Shipley and Jeff Halmos, designers), and Yigal Azrouel (Yigal Azrouel, designer).

About the CFDA

The Council of Fashion Designers of America, Inc. is a not-for-profit trade association whose membership consists of more than 350 of America's foremost fashion and accessory designers. The CFDA Foundation, Inc., is a separate not-for-profit company organized to raise funds for charity and industry activities. In addition to hosting the annual CFDA Fashion Awards, the organization sponsors key programs, including its scholarship, CFDA Masters, and professional development programs. The CFDA, through the CFDA Foundation, mobilizes its membership to raise funds for important charitable causes: Fashion Targets Breast Cancer and 7th on Sale. For more information, please visit www.CFDA.com.

About Bloomingdale's

Bloomingdale's is America's only nationwide, full-line, upscale department store, and a division of Macy's, Inc. It was founded in 1872 and currently operates 40 stores in New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Illinois, Minnesota, Georgia, Florida, Nevada, and California. For more information, or to shop anytime, visit www.bloomingdales.com.

About the Levi's brand

Invented in 1873 by Levi Strauss & Co., Levi's jeans are the original, authentic jeans. The Levi's(R) brand offers the widest range of great-fitting jeans on the market, and its iconic jeans are the most widely recognized and often imitated products in the history of apparel. The Levi's brand has captured the attention, imagination, and loyalty of generations of diverse individuals in more than 110 countries around the world and continues to do so today through more than 135 years of jeanswear innovation.

GQ is the leading men's general-interest magazine with a monthly readership of 6.1 million readers. The magazine is published by Conde Nast Publications.

Richard Grinold, John Bogle, Andrew Lo Among Top Honorees in Portfolio Management Research

2009-02-12T15:00:00.000+02:00

NEW YORK, Feb. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- The Journal of Portfolio Management announces the winners of the 10th Annual Bernstein Fabozzi/Jacobs Levy Awards for articles contributing to the theory and practice of portfolio management.

Richard Grinold of Barclays Global Investors was awarded top honors for his article "Dynamic Portfolio Analysis," which received the Best Article award by readers of Institutional Investor, Inc.'s The Journal of Portfolio Management.

"I am grateful to the readers of The Journal of Portfolio Management for the Bernstein Fabozzi/Jacobs Levy Award. I hope the award will stimulate further research into the area of dynamic portfolio management. It is an area of some importance and it is hard to grasp at a strategy level without getting trapped in a tangle of technical material," states Grinold.

In addition to Best Article, readers of The Journal of Portfolio Management also voted for three Outstanding Articles. John C. Bogle's article, "A Question so Important that it Should be Hard to Think about Anything Else," which focuses on the costs and benefits of today's financial system, was recognized as an Outstanding Article. John C. Bogle is the Founder of The Vanguard Group.

Readers also recognized "130/30: The New Long-Only" by Andrew W. Loof MIT and AlphaSimplex Group and Pankaj N. Patel of Credit Suisse. This article has been widely cited in both the financial media and in academic articles. Also winning for Outstanding Article were Eric H. Sorensen, Edward Qianand Ronald Huaof PanAgora Asset Management. Their article "Information Horizon, Portfolio Turnover, and Optimal Alpha Models" looks at the effects of trading costs on portfolio alpha.

Now celebrating its 10th Anniversary, the annual Bernstein Fabozzi/Jacobs Levy Awards are generously funded by Jacobs Levy Equity Management. Noted Jacobs Levy Principal Bruce Jacobs, "This year's winning articles take a variety of views on investment performance. Two of the winning articles focus on ways in which to evaluate portfolios as dynamic, changing entities. Richard Grinold presents a framework that allows one to estimate the efficiency of a portfolio whose holdings change as new information arrives and old information ages. Edward Qian, Eric Sorensen and Ronald Hua provide a method for integrating turnover costs with an alpha-generating model. Andrew Lo and Pankaj Patel construct "passive" 130/30 portfolios that can be used as investment vehicles or as benchmarks for performance measurement. Finally, John Bogle asks the big question of how professional investment management has performed for its clients."

About The Journal of Portfolio Management -- www.iijpm.com

Edited by Frank Fabozzi and founded in 1974 by Peter Bernstein, The Journal of Portfolio Management is the leading editorial source of cutting-edge strategies and analyses for institutional investment management. The Journal of Portfolio Management is published quarterly by Institutional Investor, Inc.

About Jacobs Levy Equity Management -- www.jacobslevy.com

Jacobs Levy Equity Management, founded in 1986, is an independent, leading-edge quantitative equity manager focused exclusively on U.S. equity portfolios. Bruce Jacobs and Kenneth Levy are widely recognized for their award winning research on equity management, market neutral long-short strategies, and enhanced active 130-30 strategies, collected in their books Equity Management: Quantitative Analysis for Stock Selection and Market Neutral Strategies.

    Media contacts:

    Andrew O'Donnell
    The Journal of Portfolio Management
    +1 212-224-3076 - aodonnell@iijournals.com

    Catherine Basha
    Jacobs Levy Equity Management
    +1 973-410-9222 - catherine.basha@jlem.com

Wedding Solutions Publishing, Inc. Proudly Announces the Launch of WedSpace.com, the First and Only Social Networking Site for the Bridal Market

2009-02-12T14:04:00.000+02:00

SAN DIEGO, Feb. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Wedding Solutions Publishing, the largest publishing company of wedding planning books, and creators of WeddingSolutions.com and UltimateRegistry.com is proud to announce the launch of WedSpace.com.

WedSpace.com offers all the social networking elements of popular sites like Facebook and MySpace, but is specific to the bridal market. It allows brides and grooms to connect with other engaged couples, guests and local vendors. Members can share wedding photos, videos, and music; create their own blogs, polls, groups, articles, and events; read news and classifieds; and so much more. Brides can instant message and even video chat with their friends, wedding party or local vendors.

"WedSpace.com is the most advanced and easy-to-use social networking site on the internet and will soon become the ultimate meeting place for engaged couples, their guests and local vendors," says Alex Lluch, creator of WedSpace.com and author of over 3 million books sold, including the best-selling wedding books in North America.

"One of the main benefits of WedSpace is that it allows couples to view detailed information, photos, videos, articles, and what other brides are saying about local wedding vendors. They can even video chat with those vendors, putting an end to driving all around town to interview wedding vendors," says Tim Heredia, marketing manager for WedSpace.com. "WedSpace.com will revolutionize the way brides find the best vendors for their wedding," says Rich Markel, President of AFWPI, Association for Wedding Professionals International.

"I can't wait to create my WedSpace page and connect and share ideas with my family and friends and the thousands of other brides who are planning a wedding like mine," says Marianne Moser, whose wedding is in September of this year.

Since 1993, Wedding Solutions Publishing has helped millions of couples plan the wedding of their dreams through their best-selling wedding books and popular wedding planning sites. With the addition of WedSpace.com to the company's Web portfolio, Wedding Solutions Publishing aims to become the one-stop shop for all couples planning a wedding.

About Wedding Solutions Publishing, Inc.:

Wedding Solutions owns multiple wedding-related sites, including WeddingSolutions.com, WedReviews.com, UltimateRegistry.com, and TravelAgentWebsite.com

Wedding Solutions is located in San Diego, California. For more information, contact Holly White at 619-589-1919 x 110

Robert Half Legal Identifies Practice Areas and Jobs in Demand for 2009

2009-02-12T13:00:00.000+02:00

MENLO PARK, Calif., Feb. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- In a weak economy, certain specialties remain strong. An increase in bankruptcy filings and foreclosures, litigation, corporate securities and patent proceedings is generating demand for legal services in these areas. In response, law offices are recruiting professionals with relevant experience as they move swiftly to capitalize on new business opportunities. These and other findings are featured in the 2009 Salary Guide from Robert Half Legal, a leading staffing service specializing in positions in the legal field.

"As competition intensifies and client budgets contract, law firms need top talent to enhance their service offerings and grow revenue," said Charles Volkert, executive director of Robert Half Legal. "While some firms are consolidating resources to achieve these objectives, others are hiring experienced attorneys who can make immediate contributions to building niche practice groups."

Volkert noted that legal departments are experiencing an increase in corporate governance and litigation work. "To control costs, corporate counsel are hiring outside specialists on a project basis to augment internal teams and access skills that are in short supply within their organizations."

Following are in-demand positions for 2009, according to Robert Half Legal:

Bankruptcy/foreclosure attorneys - Lawyers with five or more years of experience handling complex bankruptcy and foreclosure matters, including restructuring and litigation, are in demand by law firms.
Patent prosecution attorneys - An increase in patent prosecution has heightened the need for attorneys with three or more years of trademark or patent experience. An undergraduate degree in electrical engineering is desirable.
Litigation paralegals - Candidates with three to five years of litigation experience are sought by law firms and corporations to provide discovery, motion and trial preparation support.
In-house attorneys - Attorneys with at least three years of transactional law, litigation, regulatory and corporate securities experience are being recruited by corporations to help them meet ongoing legal requirements.
Foreclosure legal secretaries and legal support professionals - Legal secretaries and legal support candidates with two to five years of foreclosure and litigation practice area experience are in demand. Law firms and companies seek candidates who possess excellent computer skills and are detail-oriented.

The Robert Half Legal Salary Guide is based on an analysis of the thousands of job orders and placements managed nationwide by account executives with Robert Half Legal. The guide includes an overview of the current hiring environment and national average starting salary ranges for positions in the legal field. Because compensation can vary significantly by geographic area, the guide also includes an analysis of hiring trends and compensation variances for more than 75 U.S. markets. A complimentary copy of the 2009 Salary Guide is available by calling 1-800-870-8367.

About Robert Half Legal

Robert Half Legal is the legal staffing division of Robert Half International. The company provides law firms and corporate legal departments with highly skilled professionals, including attorneys, paralegals and legal support personnel, on a project and full-time basis. Robert Half Legal offers online job search services at www.roberthalflegal.com.

Global Sources announces bonus share issue

2009-02-12T06:30:00.000+02:00

NEW YORK, Feb. 12 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- Global Sources Ltd. (Nasdaq: GSOL) today announced a one for ten bonus share issue on Global Sources' outstanding common shares. Shareholders of record on February 27, 2009 will receive one additional common share for every ten common shares held, of face value of $0.01 each. The bonus share issue will be distributed on or about March 31, 2009.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030303/LNM011LOGO-b )

About Global Sources

Suppliers receive more than 53 million sales leads annually from buyers through Global Sources Online ( http://www.globalsources.com ) alone.

Safe Harbor Statement

This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27-A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21-E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The company's actual results could differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements as a result of the risks associated with the company's business, changes in general economic conditions, and changes in the assumptions used in making such forward-looking statements.

    Global Sources Press Contact in Asia
     Camellia So
     Tel:   +852-2555-5021
     Email: cso@globalsources.com

    Global Sources Press Contact in U.S.
     James W.W. Strachan
     Tel:   +1-480-664-8309
     Email: strachan@globalsources.com

    Global Sources Investor Contact in Asia
     Investor Relations Department
     Tel:   +852-2555-4777
     Email: investor@globalsources.com

    Global Sources Investor Contact in U.S.
     Kirsten Chapman & Timothy Dien
     Lippert/Heilshorn & Associates, Inc.
     Tel:   +1-415-433-3777
     Email: tdien@lhai.com

Philadelphia Tribune Names City's 10 Most Influential African Americans

2009-02-12T01:00:00.000+02:00

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- A cross-section of more than 350 of Philadelphia's elected and government officials, educators, businesspersons, community activists and labor leaders today attended a reception at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, here, at which The Philadelphia Tribune's annual list of the City's "Most Influential" African Americans was announced to the public.

Scheduled to be published in the newspaper's Sunday supplement, The Tribune Magazine, on March 1, 2009, the list includes three elected officials: State Representative Dwight Evans, U.S. Congressman Chaka Fattah and Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter; two education leaders: School Superintendent Dr. Arlene Ackerman and School Reform Commission Chair Sandra Dungee-Glenn; two businesspersons: A. Bruce Crawley, president, Millennium 3 Management Inc. and founder, Philadelphia African American Chamber of Commerce and Ahmeenah Young, president and CEO, Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority; one appointed government official: Carl Greene, executive director, Philadelphia Housing Authority; two community/civic leaders: J. Whyatt Mondesire, president, Philadelphia NAACP, and Sharmain Matlock-Turner, president and executive director, Greater Philadelphia Urban Affairs Coalition.

In addition to the list of "Most Influentials," the Tribune also published a list of "10 People Under 40 to Watch in 2009," 75 "African-American Leaders," and 42 "Movers & Shakers" of the Delaware Valley, who demonstrate leadership beyond their positions.

According to Tribune Magazine Editor Shonda McClain-Hill, the selection process for the "Most Influential" issue extends over a six-month period, with final recommendations made by a blue-ribbon panel of African-American professional and civic leaders, including Robert L. Archie, Jr. Esq., Duane Morris LLP; Romona Riscoe-Benson, president, African American Museum in Philadelphia; Irv Randolph, managing editor of the Philadelphia Tribune and Barbara Grant of Cardenas Grant Communications.

Commenting on this year's "Most Influential" issue, Tribune Publisher Robert W. Bogle said: "With the many challenges we face, both as a nation and a city, we need leadership that speaks to the specific issues of our community. One cannot talk of this City's greatness and commitment to its residents without including the contributions of African Americans -- who they are and what they do to make our city function more effectively."

The Philadelphia Tribune is the nation's oldest and the Greater Philadelphia Region's largest daily newspaper serving the African-American community. The National Newspaper Publisher's Association, a trade association representing 205 African-American-owned newspapers, has recognized the publication as the "Best Newspaper in America" in seven out of the last eleven years.

New England Journal of Medicine Publishes Results From the Landmark ATHENA Trial with Multaq(R) (dronedarone) in Atrial Fibrillation

2009-02-11T22:05:00.000+02:00

- Multaq(R) (dronedarone) significantly reduced the risk of cardiovascular hospitalization or death by 24 percent in patients with atrial fibrillation -

PARIS, Feb. 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Sanofi-aventis (Paris Bourse: EURONEXT: SAN; and New York: NYSE: SNY) announced today that the ATHENA trial was published in the New England Journal of Medicine. The trial showed that Multaq(R) (dronedarone), in addition to standard therapy, significantly reduced the risk of first cardiovascular hospitalization or death by 24 percent (31.9% vs. 39.4%, p<0.001) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF)/atrial flutter (AFL) or a recent history of these conditions.

Atrial fibrillation is the leading cause of hospitalization for arrhythmia in the US(1) and represents one-third of hospitalizations for arrhythmia in Europe(2). Hospitalization due to AF has increased dramatically (two-to-three fold) in recent years in the US(1). Atrial fibrillation is a complex disease that increases the risk of stroke up to five-fold(3), worsens the prognosis of patients with cardiovascular risk factors(4) and that doubles the risk of mortality(5).

The authors' findings, as reported in the New England Journal of Medicine, showed a significant decrease in the risk of cardiovascular death by 29 per cent (p=0.03) in patients with AF. Multaq significantly decreased the risk of arrhythmic death by 45 per cent (p=0.01) and there were numerically fewer deaths (16 per cent) from any cause in the dronedarone group compared to placebo (p=0.18). First cardiovascular hospitalization was reduced by 26 per cent (p<0.001) in the dronedarone group.

"The ATHENA trial is the first trial to show a reduction in the incidence of cardiovascular hospitalization or death in patients taking an anti-arrhythmic drug for atrial fibrillation" commented Dr. Stefan H. Hohnloser J.W., Goethe University's Division of Clinical Electrophysiology, Frankfurt, Germany, principal investigator of the ATHENA study.

Reported significant adverse events in the Multaq(R) arm vs. placebo arm included diarrhea (9.7% vs. 6.2%), nausea (5.3% vs. 3.1%), bradycardia (3.5% vs. 1.2%), QT-interval prolongation (1.7% vs. 0.6%); skin disorders (10.3% vs. 7.6%) consisting mainly of rash, and an increase in blood creatinine (4.7% vs. 1.3%)*. There was no difference in permanent study drug discontinuation between Multaq(R) and placebo (30.2% vs. 30.8%).

Dr. Stuart J. Connolly, Director of the division of cardiology at McMaster University, Ontario, Canada and co-principal investigator of the ATHENA trial said "The clinical benefits observed with dronedarone in ATHENA occurred without a significantly higher rate of thyroid or pulmonary disorders compared with placebo reported within the study period."

About the ATHENA Study

The landmark ATHENA study is the only double-blind, antiarrhythmic study in patients with AF that assesses morbidity-mortality. The study was conducted at more than 550 sites in 37 countries and enrolled a total of 4,628 patients.

The patients studied in ATHENA were either 75 years of age or older (with or without cardiovascular risk factors) or below 75 years of age with at least one additional cardiovascular risk factor (hypertension, diabetes, previous ischemic cerebrovascular event, left atrium size greater than 50 mm or left ventricular ejection fraction lower than 40 percent). Patients with recently decompensated heart failure or in New York Heart Association (NYHA) class IV were excluded. Patients were randomized to receive dronedarone 400 mg BID or placebo, with a mean follow-up of 21 months.

The ATHENA study objectives were designed to show a potential benefit of dronedarone on the primary composite endpoint of all-cause mortality combined with cardiovascular hospitalization compared with placebo. The pre-specified secondary endpoints were death from any cause, cardiovascular death and hospitalization for cardiovascular reasons. The pre-specified safety endpoint was the incidence of treatment emergent adverse events (between first study drug intake and last study drug intake plus 10 days) including all adverse events, serious adverse events and adverse events leading to study drug discontinuation.

About Atrial Fibrillation

AF is a common heart arrhythmia in which the upper chambers of the heart beat in an uncoordinated and disorganized fashion, which can cause palpitations, shortness of breath and fatigue. AF currently represents a major economic burden for society. Seventy percent of the annual cost of AF management in Europe is driven by in-patient care and interventional procedures. Hospitalizations for AF have increased dramatically (two-to-three-fold) in recent years. AF hospitalizations now represent a third of all hospitalizations for arrhythmia and mortality in the US and Europe. AF affects nearly 7 million people in the European Union and the United States.

The condition is increasingly frequent with advancing age and is often caused by age-related changes in the heart or as a result of cardiovascular disease. AF increases the risk of stroke up to five-fold and heart failure two-to-three-fold. AF also doubles the risk of mortality.

Without appropriate management, AF can lead to serious complications such as stroke and congestive heart failure. In addition to preventing stroke and reducing the burden of the disease, successful management of AF should also aim at further reducing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

The goals of treatment for patients with AF are related to managing the arrhythmia itself and to the prevention of thromboembolism. AF may be treated with medications that either slow the heart rate or revert the heart rhythm back to normal sinus rhythm.

About dronedarone (Multaq(R))

Multaq(R) (dronedarone) is an investigational treatment and the only antiarrhythmic drug to have shown a significant reduction in cardiovascular hospitalization or death in patients with AF/AFL. Multaq(R), discovered and developed by sanofi-aventis, has been studied in a clinical development program including more than 6,200 patients. Multaq(R) is one of the major therapeutic innovations in atrial fibrillation for the last twenty years. Multaq(R) has been granted a priority review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and a registration dossier is also under regulatory review by the European Medicines Agency (EMEA).

About sanofi-aventis

Sanofi-aventis, a leading global pharmaceutical company, discovers, develops and distributes therapeutic solutions to improve the lives of everyone. Sanofi-aventis is listed in Paris (EURONEXT: SAN) and in New York (NYSE: SNY).

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. These statements include product development, product potential projections and estimates and their underlying assumptions, statements regarding plans, objectives, intentions and expectations with respect to future events, operations, products and services, and statements regarding future performance. Forward-looking statements are generally identified by the words "expects," "anticipates," "believes," "intends," "estimates," "plans" and similar expressions. Although sanofi-aventis' management believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, investors are cautioned that forward-looking information and statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict and generally beyond the control of sanofi-aventis, that could cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied or projected by, the forward-looking information and statements. These risks and uncertainties include among other things, the uncertainties inherent in research and development, future clinical data and analysis, including post marketing, decisions by regulatory authorities, such as the FDA or the EMEA, regarding whether and when to approve any drug, device or biological application that may be filed for any such product candidates as well as their decisions regarding labelling and other matters that could affect the availability or commercial potential of such products candidates, the absence of guarantee that the products candidates if approved will be commercially successful, the future approval and commercial success of therapeutic alternatives as well as those discussed or identified in the public filings with the SEC and the AMF made by sanofi-aventis, including those listed under "Risk Factors" and "Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" in sanofi-aventis' annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2007. Other than as required by applicable law, sanofi-aventis does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information or statements.

* The mechanism of blood creatinine increase was well defined in a separate study of healthy volunteers and is not indicative of renal toxicity

(1) Singh SN et al. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2006;48:721-730

(2) Fuster V et al. ACC/AHA/ESC Guidelines. European Heart Journal 2006;27:1979-2030

(3) Wolf et al. Stroke. 1991;22:983-988.

(4) Wachtell K et al. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2005;45:712-719.

(5) Benjamin EJ et al. Circulation. 1998;98:946-952.

    MEDIA CONTACT :
    Marisol Peron
    Tel: 908-981-6565
    Mobile: 908-672-9051
    Email: marisol.peron@sanofi-aventis.com

The Next Mrs. Mellon

2009-02-11T20:44:00.000+02:00

Nicole Hanley and Matthew Mellon in Avenue Magazine

NEW YORK, Feb. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Fashion designer and stylist Nicole Hanley graces the cover of this month's Avenue magazine featuring she and her fiance, 44-year-old banking and oil scion, Matthew Mellon. The article, titled A Perfect Match, highlights the soon-to-be-union of two important families and the launch of HANLEY MELLON, their 'American legacy meets European bohemian' collection.

The piece narrates a beautiful story of a whirlwind romance leading to a marriage proposal with excursions from Palm Beach to Asia and eventually to the development of their fashion brand HANLEY MELLON. It also discusses Hanley's impeccable eye for style and Mellon's extensive industry experience -- creating a perfect marriage in both love and business. As Hanley states, "It felt right joining forces. And the joy is being able to create with the person that you love."

Symbolizing accessible luxury; in a range of color, texture and price, HANLEY MELLON's line offers a selection of impeccably crafted items that are easily layered and styled. Pieces include dinner and military jackets, wide leg and skinny trousers, high waist shorts, vests, dresses, t-shirts, tank tops and cashmere staples. Couture details such as fabric-covered buttons, scarf hems and the use of chain accents create a stylish, chic look.

ABOUT NICOLE HANLEY

To her collaboration with fiance Matthew Mellon, former Ralph Lauren Stylist and HANLEY designer, Nicole Hanley brings years of fashion experience to HANLEY MELLON. Her designs reflect her background as both a designer and a stylist developing silhouettes that take a fresh approach to classic styles.

ABOUT MATTHEW MELLON

To his collaboration with fiance Nicole Hanley, entrepreneur and banking heir Matthew Mellon brings years of industry expertise to HANLEY MELLON. Matthew's background includes developing Jimmy Choo with his ex-wife Tamara Mellon, shoe company Harry's of London and cashmere label Degrees Of Freedom.

Subaru Forester Wins MotorWeek Drivers' Choice Award for Best Small Utility

2009-02-11T18:33:00.000+02:00

- Award Joins Growing List of Accolades for Subaru of America's Most Popular Model -

CHERRY HILL, N.J., Feb. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2009 Subaru Forester has been recognized with the MotorWeek Driver's Choice Award for Best Small Utility. The team at MotorWeek, a weekly magazine series produced by Maryland Public Television, evaluated vehicles for this year's awards based on performance, technology, practicality and dollar value. The winners, including the new Subaru Forester, represent what MotorWeek considers to be the best in each class.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090211/PH69652 )

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050404/PHSUBARULOGO )

"We are excited that MotorWeek has recognized the new Subaru Forester with their Driver's Choice Award," said Tom Doll, executive vice president of Subaru of America, Inc. "This award is really a tribute to our designers and engineers, who have created a versatile, all-wheel drive vehicle that is fun to drive, offers great value, in a unique combination that drivers appreciate in these difficult economic times."

Other awards received by the 2009 Subaru Forester include: Motor Trend's 2009 Sport/Utility of the Year; Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) "Top Safety Pick" - Small SUV; and the Polk Automotive Loyalty Award for consumer loyalty in the Compact SUV category.

About MotorWeek

MotorWeek, the original television automotive magazine series, is one of the nation's leading sources for automotive industry news, new car information and driving entertainment. The award-winning series, seen nationwide on PBS, PBS HD, SPEED and V-me, is sponsored by Cars.com, Valvoline and Goodyear. The weekly series is produced by Maryland Public Television. For more information on MotorWeek and the Drivers' Choice Awards, visit www.pbs.org/motorweek.

About Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru makes the best-selling All-Wheel Drive car sold in America based on R.L. Polk & Co. new vehicle retail registration statistics calendar year-end 2007. In addition, Subaru boasts the most fuel efficient line-up of all-wheel drive products sold in the market today based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero- landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For additional information visit www.subaru.com.

Subaru and Forester are registered trademarks of Subaru of America, Inc.

    Contact:
    Heather Ward
    Subaru of America, Inc.
    856-488-5093
    hward@subaru.com

    Michael McHale
    Subaru of America, Inc.
    856-488-3326
    mmchale@subaru.com

AutoWeek Offers Free Virtual Tour of the 2009 Chicago Auto Show

2009-02-11T17:58:00.000+02:00

DETROIT, Feb. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- The editors at AutoWeek released today a virtual tour of the 2009 Chicago Auto Show, which is available, along with a map of the show floor, for free download at www.autoweek.com/chicagotour. The audio podcast can be saved to portable devices to accompany those attending the event. For those unable to attend, the virtual tour is an interactive way to experience the show remotely using the Web map and photo galleries.

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The tour, divided into chapters corresponding to manufacturer displays, provides AutoWeek editors' insight into almost every brand at the show.

The Chicago Auto Show is open to the public on Friday, February 13, through Sunday, February 22, and is held at McCormick Place on South Martin Luther King Drive. More information can be found at www.chicagoautoshow.com.

AutoWeek is a fortnightly automotive-enthusiast publication based out of Detroit, Michigan, and is one of more than 30 titles published by Crain Communications Inc. Through its print and online products, the AutoWeek brand is symbolic of core automotive passion. It is a must read for those who live the automotive lifestyle. AutoWeek delivers by-the-minute news to autoweek.com while taking an in-depth look at the enthusiast world in the primarily subscription-based magazine. AutoWeek provides readers with more information more often, giving them their car fix before the other guys even start their engines.

American Media, Inc. Provides Lenders With Updated Information

2009-02-11T15:33:00.000+02:00

NEW YORK, Feb. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- American Media, Inc. (AMI) today said that it has made available at its corporate website certain information, including the average estimated monthly circulation of certain key magazine titles during the period April 2008 through January 2009, as well as the recent levels of the Company's Revolving Credit Facility and cash balances. The information is available at: http://www.americanmediainc.com/bankinfo/

About American Media, Inc.

American Media, Inc. is the leading publisher of celebrity journalism and health and fitness magazines in the U.S. These include Star, Shape, Men's Fitness, Fit Pregnancy, Natural Health, and The National Enquirer. In addition to print properties, AMI owns Distribution Services, Inc., the country's #1 in-store magazine merchandising company.

EE Times Europe Online News Network Reports Double Digit Traffic Growth

2009-02-11T13:00:00.000+02:00

BRUSSELS, Belgium, Feb. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- TechInsights Europe, the leading dedicated media and marketing services business serving the European electronics market, announces record online traffic for its flagship news network eetimes.eu, reporting year-on-year page view growth of 13% (Note 1). Compared to the most recent three months average, the network's page views are up 18% (Note 2).

EE Times Europe's news network, including the eetimes.eu web site featuring seven multilingual regional editions, reached over 348,000 page views in January 2009 and welcomed over 122,000 monthly unique visitors (Note 3). During 2008, the network delivered over 3.3 million page views, representing a 16% year-on-year increase compared to 2007.

"Print media remains a core element of our portfolio, as it offers unique marketing and branding opportunities to our clients," stated Andre Rousselot, VP Europe and Publisher at TechInsights Europe. Mr. Rousselot continued: "At the same time, many of our clients are seeking the measurability and immediacy of online. Our online results confirm we are successfully leveraging our print publishing base to build an online-centric business model."

Geert De Vuyst, Sales Director at TechInsights Europe added: "One of the reasons for our online success is the fact that we offer a unique combination of integrated media solutions - online channels, e-mail newsletters and print magazines - and face-to-face events that, when put into action together through our clients' marketing plans, offers unparalleled reach."

Through the EE Times Europe's news network, TechInsights' staff of experienced editors based in Europe's key geographical regions delivers breaking news, analysis and insights into industry trends, product announcements and expert advice to the European electronics industry.

(Note 1) Publisher and Omniture data, Jan. 2009 compared to Jan. 2008.

(Note 2) Publisher and Omniture data, Jan. 2009 compared to the average of October, November and December 2008.

(Note 3) Publisher and Omniture data, Jan. 2009.

About EE Times Europe (www.eetimes.eu)

EE Times Europe, a TechInsights brand, provides marketing professionals in the electronics industry with integrated online and print marketing services. EE Times Europe's print edition is a monthly magazine that brings news, analysis, product and design information to 70,000 readers in over 40 European countries. EE Times Europe's online network includes multilingual regional editions and electronic newsletters. For more information, visit www.eetimes.eu.

For more information on TechInsights Europe, please contact: Geert De Vuyst, Tel. +32 2740 0050, e-mail geert.devuyst@eetimes.be

www.techinsights-europe.com

www.unitedbusinessmedia.com

Crafters Choose Stampin' Up!(TM) Nine Years Running

2009-02-09T19:46:00.000+02:00

Coordinated products and business opportunity a big draw

SALT LAKE CITY, Feb. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- For the ninth year in a row, Stampin' Up! has won Creative Keepsakes magazine's coveted Readers' Choice Award for its core product - decorative rubber stamps - as well as the categories of Stamping Inks , Software and Idea Books. Creating Keepsakes calls Stampin' Up! results a "sweep" in these respective categories. During the economic downturn, Stampin' Up! has also seen renewed interest in its direct-sales business opportunity.

Stampin' Up! is a Utah-based, creative, direct-sales company that specializes in exclusive stamp art and color-coordinated accessories, and provides home-based business opportunities.

Born from the passion that Shelli Gardner and her sister shared for stamping and a desire to help support their families, Stampin' Up! had a humble beginning with a small number of distributors who were mostly friends and family, and a limited product line. The sisters felt that if the hobby attracted them so strongly, it would also appeal to other women both as customers and distributors. They were right. Stampin' Up! is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, and the direct-sales company has grown to over 500 employees and a distributor [demonstrator] base of approximately 40,000 globally that shares the co-founders' passion for crafting.

"We constantly work to offer unique, high-quality products that both our customers and demonstrators love, products that they can use to explore and express their creativity," says Gardner, who is now CEO. "It's wonderful to see that those efforts are so well received by the crafting community. We are also happy to offer so women the opportunity to run their own businesses and achieve their personal desires on so many different levels."

US crafters are not the only ones to give accolades to Stampin' Up! The company has launched into Europe, Australia and New Zealand in the past three years, and has received an enthusiastic welcome. Australia experienced a 56 percent increase in sales in 2008 and a 63 percent increase in demonstrator count, and in New Zealand, demonstrator count increased by 138 percent and sales more than doubled.

"In this challenging global economy, people are looking for ways to supplement their incomes and reduce their stress," says Gardner. "When you love crafting, and then get paid for sharing that love with others, you can accomplish both."

While maintaining the great product lines for which it continually receives "Readers Choice Awards" (http://www.stampinup.com/us/enu/10455.asp), Stampin' Up! is diversifying into new product areas such as vinyl wall clings called Decor Elements and Gardner's personally endorsed line of favorite products, Shelli's Signature Collection, as well as exclusive die-cut products through a recent partnership with Sizzix.

"We're excited about what we've got coming up too," says Gardner. "Readers should stay tuned for next year!"

Stampin' Up!, a 20-year-old, multimillion dollar, direct-sales company, offers an exclusive line of decorative stamp sets and accessories for home decor, greeting cards, craft projects and scrapbooking. Currently, tens of thousands of demonstrators from the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, France, Germany and the United Kingdom teach the art of stamping. Stampin' Up! operates two state-of-the-art facilities, including an 80,000-square-foot manufacturing plant in Kanab and a 300,000-square-foot corporate office, distribution center and demonstrator support call center in Riverton, UT. For more information, call 801.257.5336 or visit www.stampinup.com.

U.S. News Media Group Announces Carbon-Neutral Environmental Guide

2009-02-09T18:14:00.000+02:00

- Spring issue to be printed on manufactured carbon-neutral paper -

WASHINGTON, Feb. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- U.S. News Media Group, one of the nation's leading sources of news and service journalism, today announced that it will print its 2009 Environment & Energy guide on manufactured carbon-neutral paper. The magazine, scheduled to go on newsstands March 24, 2009, will include reports on energy policy, environmental resources, new technologies, and more.

U.S. News has decided to print the April issue, on high-quality paper that comes from a Catalyst Paper mill having extremely low emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. And by participating in the "Catalyst Cooled" program, U.S. News is paying for carbon offsets, in the form of a park-reforestation program, that make the paper carbon neutral.

"U.S. News has been looking for ways to reduce our carbon footprint," said Mark W. White, Vice President of Manufacturing. "We're applaud the efforts Catalyst has made to reduce its carbon footprint while maintaining the quality of its paper. And we're especially pleased to be using paper that is not only manufactured carbon neutral but also certified as being sourced from sustainably managed forests."

About the U.S. News Media Group

The U.S. News Media Group is a multi-platform digital publisher of news and analysis, which includes U.S. News & World Report magazine, U.S. News Weekly, www.usnews.com, and www.rankingsandreviews.com. Focusing on Health, Money & Business, Education, and Public Service/Opinion, the U.S. News Media Group has earned a reputation as the leading provider of service news and information that improves the quality of life of its readers. The U.S. News Media Group's signature franchises include its News You Can Use(R) brand of journalism and its "America's Best" series of consumer guides that include rankings of colleges, graduate schools, hospitals, health plans, and more.

New Shopko Store Design Takes Top Honors

2009-02-09T15:55:00.000+02:00

GREEN BAY, Wis., Feb. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Shopko announced today that it won first place in Chain Store Age's 2008 Retail Store of the Year design competition for the design of its new prototype store that debuted in Suamico, Wisconsin, early last year. Shopko's new store design will be profiled in the magazine's February issue.

The annual competition celebrates retail design across all industry segments. Designed by leading retail design firm Chute Gerdeman Retail in conjunction with Shopko's in-house design team the new store was a first place winner in the Discount Store/Mass Merchant category.

The new design, which will be used for future Shopko stores, incorporates a number of elements that give the store a stronger connection to its core customers -- women shoppers who are driven by value, convenience, and family.

The Shopko store experience was completely redesigned -- from the identity and exterior architecture to the interior design, floor plan, fixtures, adjacencies, and graphic communications. The new stores welcome shoppers with a central entry that feels like a specialty store -- modern and warm, with the new Shopko logo incorporated in the flooring. At the entry of each of the store's major departments, dramatic boutique focal points, incorporating classic design elements, help break up the big box feel and make the store easier to shop. Many of the focal areas are complemented by a generously proportioned lampshade overhead as well as an area rug below.

Columbus, OH-based Chute Gerdeman, known for delivering creative and fresh interpretations of retailers' brand stories, developed residential cues throughout the store. Armoire fixtures, comfortable seating, coffered ceiling elements, picture rails, crown molding, and crisp white woodwork highlight the merchandise and ensure design longevity. To more closely connect to the core customer, framed lifestyle imagery is displayed on the integrated rail system around the perimeter of the store -- much like she would proudly display family photos at home.

In October 2008, Shopko celebrated the grand openings of the second and third stores featuring the award-winning design, one in Sussex, Wisconsin and another in North Branch, Minnesota. A fourth store is currently under construction in Council Bluffs, Iowa. The store is on schedule to open in March of this year.

About Shopko

Shopko Stores Operating Co., LLC is an affiliate of Sun Capital Partners, Inc., a leading private investment firm focused on leverage buyouts, equity, debt, and other investments in market-leading companies that can benefit from its in-house operating professionals and experience. Shopko is a $2.2 billion retailer of quality goods and services headquartered in Green Bay, WI, with stores located in 13 states throughout the Midwest, Mountain and Pacific Northwest regions. Retail formats include 135 Shopko stores, providing quality name-brand merchandise, great values, pharmacy and optical services in small to mid-sized cities and 6 Shopko Express Rx stores, a convenient neighborhood drugstore concept. For more information, please visit http://www.shopko.com.

About Chute Gerdeman Retail

Founded in 1989, Columbus, Ohio-based Chute Gerdeman Retail is a retail branding and design firm. The firm's client list includes M&M'S/Mars, Walt Disney Imagineering, Target, Levi Strauss, Tween Brands Inc., Kohl's, C&A Brazil, Shopko, Sheetz, Smithsonian, Hamleys (UK), Lowe's, Einstein Bros. Cafe, KFC (Japan), Hanesbrands Inc., Pepsi-Cola, Ross-Simons, Nationwide Arena, Marriott Vacation Club International, Starwood and Wolverine. In addition to its consistent recognition as one of the industry's "Most Exciting Design Firms" by the readers of DDI magazine for 11 years in a row, the firm has received numerous awards for its design leadership. For more information, go to http://www.chutegerdeman.com.

Thomson Reuters Launches Liquent PublishPerfect(TM)

2009-02-09T15:30:00.000+02:00

Software Allows Users To Compile, Publish, Review, and Approve Documents Seamlessly

PHILADELPHIA and LONDON, Feb. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- The Healthcare and Science business of Thomson Reuters today announced the introduction of Liquent PublishPerfect, an enterprise publishing product that enables the efficient, integrated, and compliant publishing of reports. The seamless document management system integration provides an uninterrupted user experience from compilation to approval.

"In a market where time is of the essence, Liquent PublishPerfect allows users to remain in one program instead of going between several," said Jeff Huntsman, Vice President Global Sales, Services & Software Solutions at Thomson Reuters. "The resulting reports are generated to the PDF specification as required by regulatory authorities, saving time and money."

Features of Liquent PublishPerfect include:

Separate stand-alone publishing process outside of Submission Publishing.
100% web-based solution that requires no software installation.
Provides additional information publishing such as watermarks, overlays and bookmarks.
Compliant outputs.

Liquent PublishPerfect equips each unique document management system to create PDF documents that are fully compliant with the specifications of the regulatory authorities. It provides users the flexibility to carry out internal quality control and review notification procedures efficiently and within one program.

For more information on Liquent PublishPerfect, please visit http://scientific.thomsonreuters.com/regsolutions or the Thomson Reuters Services and Software Solutions booth #301 at DIA EDM in Philadelphia, PA, February 10-11, 2009.

About Thomson Reuters

Vermont Manufacturing Jobs Fell 2.3% in 2008 According to State Industrial Directory

2009-02-09T15:15:00.000+02:00

EVANSTON, Ill., Feb. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Industrial employment in Vermont dropped 2.3% over the past twelve months according to the 2009 Vermont Manufacturers Register, a compilation of state industry published annually by Manufacturers' News, Inc. (MNI) Evanston, IL. MNI (http://www.manufacturersnews.com) reports Vermont lost 1,197 industrial jobs from December 2007 to December 2008, the first major loss of industrial employment the state has seen in several years.

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Vermont reported no significant change in manufacturing employment over the 06-07 period and tallied a loss of just a half percent in the 05-06 survey period, according to MNI.

Manufacturers' News reports Vermont is home to 1,580 manufacturers employing 51,254 workers. Vermont's job losses echo those seen across New England with Maine and New Hampshire's industrial employment each down 1.5% over the past year, according to earlier MNI reports.

"As with the entire nation, Vermont's industrial employment is suffering due to stagnating demand," says Tom Dubin, President of the Evanston, IL-based publishing company, which has been surveying industry since 1912. "Global competition continues to hit many of Vermont's core sectors, while the weak housing market has affected industries such as wood products, furniture and building products."

According to MNI, Vermont's largest sector by employment is electronics, with 8,269 of the state's jobs, down a half percent over the year. Food products account for 5,265 jobs, down 8%, due partially to the closure of Clear Source, Inc., a water bottling plant in Randolph. Industrial equipment manufacturing represents 4,675 of the state's jobs, with no significant change reported over the year.

Sectors losing jobs include stone, clay and glass products, down 15%, following layoffs at granite cutter Rock of Ages in Graniteville, among others. Chemicals and allied products were down 8%, textiles and apparel were down 7%, printing and publishing, down 6% and furniture/fixtures, down 5.4%. Lumber and wood fell 3.6%, following the closure of Stanley Works, a Pittsfield tool manufacturer, among others. Jobs in transportation equipment fell 1.9%, partially due to layoffs at NSK Steering Systems.

Sectors gaining jobs include rubber and miscellaneous plastics, up 11.5% and fabricated metal products, up 1.9%. Paper and allied products saw an increase of 3.1% following the expansion of Weidmann Electrical Technology, a manufacturer of industrial paper products and transformer accessories.

Essex Junction ranks as the state's top manufacturing city with 6,597 jobs, with no significant change over the year. Burlington accounts for 4,112 jobs, down 1% since December 2007. Rutland accounts for 2,128 of the state's jobs, down 1.8% over the year. South Burlington saw employment increase 2.4% and is currently home to 1,726 industrial workers, while Brattleboro jobs are down 10% with the fifth-ranked city home to 1,573 workers.

Detailed profiles of Vermont's 1,580 manufacturers and 245 industrial distributors can be found in the 2009 Vermont Manufacturers Register, available in print for $77 and on CD-ROM from $95. Each profile provides up to 30 facts, including vital contact information (phone, web, e-mail), 4,733 executives by name and title, product(s) manufactured, annual sales, number of employees, and more. Visitors to mnileads.com may generate custom profiles of manufacturers using thirteen different criteria, including area or zip code, county, SIC, sales volume, number of employees, and more.

BowTie Press Author, Bo Bengtson, Honored by The Alliance of Purebred Dog Writers

2009-02-09T13:00:00.000+02:00

IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- BowTie, Inc., the world's largest publisher of pet and animal magazines and websites, is proud to announce that Bo Bengtson, editor-at-large of Dogs in Review and author of Best In Show, published by Kennel Club Books, a division of BowTie Press, received the Alliance of Purebred Dog Writers (APDW) Stonehenge Award at its annual awards luncheon held February 8, 2009, in New York City.

The Stonehenge Award, given to an individual who has contributed significantly to the dog sport over the years, recognizes a lifetime of achievement for Bengtson, who has been an influence in the fancy for more than 50 years.

"Our publishing house is rightly proud of Bengtson and this history-making volume that has been called the most important book ever published about the international sport of showing dogs," says Andrew DePrisco, editor-in-chief and vice-president of Kennel Club Books.

Bengtson is regarded as the foremost international authority on show dogs both past and present. Born and educated in Sweden, he has spent several decades studying dogs worldwide. While maintaining a selective kennel, primarily of Whippets, Bengtson has bred or owned more than 100 champions, including many Best in Show winners. As a judge, he has officiated at the world's top dog shows: Westminster, Crufts and the World Show.

Bengtson is also the recipient of the American Whippet Club's Certificate of Achievement, the Swedish Kennel Club's Hamilton plaquette, and the Dog Writers Association of America's Maxwell and Elsworth S. Howell awards. He is the author of several critically acclaimed books about dogs in the United States and abroad, including Dogs of the World, The Whippet, Dogs and Dog Shows Around the World, and most recently, the highly celebrated Best In Show. He also founded and published award-winning publications, including Sighthound Review and Dogs in Review.

"Bo's dedication to the sport and his global vision have raised the bar among both the fancy and American dog publications," says Allan Reznik, editor-in-chief of Dogs in Review and editor at large of Dog Fancy and Dog World.

To schedule an interview with Bengtson, contact Lisa MacDonald, marketing director, at 949-855-8822, ext. 3345.

About BowTie, Inc.

BowTie, Inc. is the leader in special interest pet magazines, trade magazines, books and websites dedicated to pet-loving consumers, pet-supply retailers, veterinarians, breeders and pet professionals worldwide. Divisions of BowTie, Inc. include BowTie Magazines, BowTie Press, BowTie News, Thoroughbred Times Company, Global Distribution Services and www.AnimalNetwork.com.

NEWSWEEK: Media Lead Sheet/ February 16, 2009 Issue (on Newsstands Monday, February 9)

2009-02-08T18:58:00.000+02:00

COVER: "We Are All Socialists Now" (p. 22). Newsweek Editor Jon Meacham and Editor-at-Large Evan Thomas write, "Whether we want to admit it or not, the America of 2009 is moving toward a modern European state." They observe that the America of 2009 was moving toward a European social democracy, even before President Obama proposed the largest fiscal bill in American history. "If we fail to acknowledge the reality of the growing role of government in the economy, insisting instead on fighting 21st-century wars with 20th-century terms and tactics, then we are doomed to a fractious and unedifying debate. The sooner we understand where we truly stand, the sooner we can think more clearly about how to use government in today's world."

   http://www.newsweek.com/id/183663

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"Big Government is Back -- Big Time" (p. 24). Europe Editor Michael Freedman reports on the extent to which the United States is turning European. When Obama said that it was time to get past stale arguments over whether government is big or small, he was echoing the eclectic philosophy of French president Nicolas Sarkozy, and in endorsing the "Buy American" rules, members of the Obama administration were seconding the old French culture of "economic patriotism." "Until the financial crisis began last year, this kind of business bashing and protectionism was largely relegated to the far left, and it seemed axiomatic in the United States that the business of America was business," Freedman writes. "But with an urgency not seen since Ronald Reagan declared that government was in fact the problem, policymakers are now reconsidering the relationship between government and the private sector."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/183664

"Decline? I'll Decline" (p. 28). Senior Editor Daniel Gross writes that the United States' best days aren't necessarily behind us. "Those who fret about an era of slow-growth Socialism presume that our government is incapable of learning from mistakes and crafting intelligent policies. The prospect of an enhanced safety net wasn't incompatible with growth in the 1930s and 1960s, and it isn't now," Gross writes. "And today, state ownership and control of private enterprise is a temporary last resort, not an enduring governing strategy. In Europe's social democracies, CEOs frequently welcomed government involvement because it protected them from competition. By contrast, U.S. managers can't wait to get out from under the government yoke. Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley have already started talking about how they plan to pay back the bailout money before the end for this year -- so they can pay out humongous bonuses next January."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/183667

"The Bailout Isn't a Morality Play" (p. 29). Contributing Editor Robert J. Samuelson writes that we need to move beyond populist denunciations of "bailing out Wall Street." "We should resist turning the debate into a morality play about whether Wall Street and bankers deserve to be rescued. Although beating up on them may be politically and morally satisfying, it's beside the point. If the financial sector isn't revived, the economy will remain depressed," Samuelson writes.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/183717

"How Bad Is It, Really?" (p. 30). Zachary Karabell, president of River Twice Research, writes that statistics don't tell the full story when it comes to reported jobless numbers. Statistics say unemployment in January jumped to a 16-year high of 7.6 percent and 1.8 million jobs lost in the last three months, but there are problems with the way the data is assembled. "Collectively, we rely on the unemployment figures and other statistics to frame our sense of reality. They are a vital part of a matrix of data that we use to assess if we're doing well or doing badly, and that in turn shapes government policies and corporate budgets and personal spending decisions," Karabell writes. "The problem is that the statistics aren't an objective measure of reality; they are simply a best approximation created by smart people working for government agencies. Directionally, they capture the trends, but the idea that we know precisely how many are unemployed is a myth. That makes finding a solution all the more difficult."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/183558

"Worthwhile Canadian Initiative" (p. 31). Newsweek International Editor Fareed Zakaria writes that there's much we can learn from our quiet neighbor to the north, especially since it is the only country, in the industrialized world that has not faced a single bank failure, calls for bailouts or government intervention in the financial or mortgage sectors. "Canada has done more than survive this financial crisis," Zakaria writes. "The country is positively thriving in it. Canadian banks are well capitalized and poised to take advantage of opportunities that American and European banks cannot seize."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/183670

"Why There Won't Be a Revolution" (p. 32). Contributing Editor Jerry Adler writes that Americans might get angry sometimes, but we don't hate the rich, preferring rather to laugh at them. "In America, the country that invented the modern model of wealth -- i.e., derived neither from inherited landholdings nor royal patronage -- mocking the rich is historically one of the most durable cultural memes, matched only by envy of them."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/183718

"Our Nuclear Nightmare" (p. 40). Henry A. Kissinger offers a solution to help lower the chances of calamity as nations like Iran and North Korea seek to develop atomic weapons. "Any further spread of nuclear weapons multiplies the possibilities of nuclear confrontation; it magnifies the danger of diversion, deliberate or unauthorized. And if the development of weapons of mass destruction spreads into Iran and continues in North Korea -- in the face of all ongoing negotiations -- the incentives for other countries to follow the same path could become overwhelming."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/183673

"Worst Job in the World" (p. 43). During a recent interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani told Special Diplomatic Correspondent Lally Weymouth that his country isn't failing, despite a major economic crisis and spreading border insurgency, although international help is needed. "When the oil prices went up and the food commodities also went up, we had problems," Gilani said. "We are a frontline state fighting against terrorism and extremism, and we are paying a heavy price for that ... One suicide-bomb attack creates a flight of capital, and no investment. The world should look after us, and the world should know that we are catering to the needs of 3.5 million Afghan refugees."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/183671

"The Draw of 'Dead Town'" (p. 44). National Correspondent Suzanne Smalley and Editor-at-Large Evan Thomas explore the draw of gang life for two recently reformed young men in L.A. "Getting out of a street gang in L.A. is about like getting a tattoo removed: slow, painful, scarring. In street lore, a gang banger can never leave a really brutal gang ... escaping the pull of gang life is extremely difficult," Smalley and Evans write.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/183677

NEWSWEEK Cover: We Are All Socialists Now

2009-02-08T17:53:00.000+02:00

NEW YORK, Feb. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- "Whether we want to admit it or not the America of 2009 is moving toward a modern European state," Newsweek Editor Jon Meacham and Editor-at-Large Evan Thomas write in an essay opening the February 16 Newsweek cover package, "We Are All Socialists Now" (on newsstands Monday, February 9). Meacham and Thomas write that the America of 2009 was moving toward a European social democracy, even before President Obama proposed the largest fiscal bill in American history. "If we fail to acknowledge the reality of the growing role of government in the economy, insisting instead on fighting 21st-century wars with 20th-century terms and tactics, then we are doomed to a fractious and unedifying debate. The sooner we understand where we truly stand, the sooner we can think more clearly about how to use government in today's world," they write.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090208/NYSU002 )

Meacham and Thomas observe that this shift towards more government intervention in the economy began not under a Democrat but a Republican. "The architect of this new era of big government? History has a sense of humor, for the man who laid the foundations for the world Obama now rules is George W. Bush, who moved to bail out the financial sector last autumn with $700 billion." The Obama administration is now caught in a paradox, having to borrow and spend to fix a crisis created by borrowing and spending. "Obama talks of the need for smart government. To get the balance between America and France right, the new president will need all the smarts he can summon," Meacham and Thomas write.

Also in the cover package, Europe Editor Michael Freedman reports on the extent to which the United States is turning European. When Obama said that it was time to get past stale arguments over whether government is big or small, he was echoing the eclectic philosophy of French president Nicolas Sarkozy, and in endorsing the "Buy American" rules, members of the Obama administration were seconding the old French culture of "economic patriotism." "Until the financial crisis began last year, this kind of business bashing and protectionism was largely relegated to the far left, and it seemed axiomatic in the United States that the business of America was business," Freedman writes. "But with an urgency not seen since Ronald Reagan declared that government was in fact the problem, policymakers are now reconsidering the relationship between government and the private sector."

While it's impossible to know just what the day after the crisis will look like, the broad contours of the new economic world are becoming visible. "Now one of the big debates in the U.S. is how to bridge the gap between business and government in a way that avoids stagnation while still satisfying the intense demand for financial and social services. In other words, can America adopt a more European model, only with a faster rate of growth?" Freedman believes that if Obama can somehow forge a middle path that builds upon the best of the European safety net while also encouraging the dynamism and innovation that has helped the U.S. prosper, it will provide evidence that government can actually be a part of the solution.

    (Read cover package at www.Newsweek.com)

    Cover:http://www.newsweek.com/id/183663

    Big Government is Back-Big Time:http://www.newsweek.com/id/183664

SOBeFiT Magazine Promotes its Launch With First Annual 5K Run+Walk & Fitness Festival in South Beach

2009-02-06T18:53:00.000+02:00

MIAMI, Feb. 6 /PRNewswire/ -- SOBeFiT Magazine, the first South Florida publication dedicated to providing expert advice on the topics of fitness, nutrition, health and sports for men and women, will host its sold-out, first annual 5K Run+Walk & Fitness Festival in South Beach presented by The Sports Club/LA, as part of the series of events that celebrate the publication's recent launch.

On February 8th, 2009, hundreds of runners and fitness enthusiasts will gather on 8th Street and Ocean Drive to take part in this family-friendly event, to walk or run along some of South Beach's most famous streets, taking in the sights and sounds of the Art Deco neighborhood and enjoying the cool ocean breeze. Race-day registration will be available from 6:00 am to 7:15 am, and the runners will take to the street at 7:30 am sharp.

Setting the pace along the way will be Marta Montenegro, the Editor-in- Chief and driving force behind SOBeFiT Magazine. Montenegro conceptualized the event more than a year ago as a celebration of South Florida's commitment to improve its fitness, nutrition, health and sports activity, which are also the core topics of the publication.

Montenegro adds that this race is a dream come true in many aspects. "After participating in so many runs and half-marathons, the fact that I'm able to share this particular race with so many like-minded people from my team and my community gives me great hope for this publication, since it marks the achievement of many of our short-term goals and gets us ready for the challenges that lie ahead of us," she exclaims.

A bevy of health and fitness activities will be awaiting the participants at the post-race festival area on the beach, where attendees can enjoy calming chair massages, complimentary stretch sessions and a variety of health screenings. Activities for adults and children alike include an interactive tennis serve cage, Hole-in-One putting competitions, face painting, and arts and crafts stations. Marta will host a post-race pancake breakfast, alongside one of her favorite SOBeFiT contributors, former Miami Dolphin and current restaurateur John Offerdahl.

Awards will be given in the following categories: Top 3 Male/Female overall, Top 3 Male/Female Masters, Top 3 Male/Female Wheelchair, and Top 3 Male/Female in each of the 13 age divisions. $3000 in cash prizes will be awarded to top runners.

Sponsors of the race include State Farm's 50 Million Pound Challenge, U Wellness Center & Programs, Pasha's Healthy Mediterranean Cuisine, Fit Source Training Solutions, Offerdahl's Cafe Grill, Y-100, Sister to Sister Foundation, Next Generation Waters, and Cliff Drysdale Tennis.

Official results from the SOBeFiT Magazine 5k Run+Walk will be posted at www.runmiami.com after the event.

About MPG Publishing

SOBeFiT is the first title from MPG Publishing. Our parent company is ABA Capital Group, an investment holding firm formed in Spain in 2008. However, the company began in 1990 when Venezuelan entrepreneur, Enrique Auvert, and three other partners launched ABA Mercado de Capitales, the first broker dealer in western Venezuela. After promoting its first mutual fund in 1992, ABA shifted its focus towards investment banking with a market emphasis on private equity acquisitions. The early years of the current decade saw ABA concentrating its growth strategy on the acquisition of companies in the financial, oil, cattle and ranching, construction and capital goods sectors. By 2005, the group initiated an expansion outside of Venezuela upon becoming majority stockholder in Asesorias e Inversiones, a broker dealer in Colombia. That same year, ABA promoted ABA Global Fund SPC, a Cayman Islands private equity fund. Since then, the fund has been the vehicle for the group's expansion in the United States, Panama, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Barbados and British Virgin Islands.

    Media Contacts:
    Candy Tree, SOBeFiT Magazine
    T: 305-375-9595 x217
    ctree@sobefitmagazine.com

    Ariana Blanco, SOBeFiT Magazine
    T: 305-375-9595 x224
    ablanco@sobefitmagazine.com

Wisconsin-Based SOHO Publishing LLC Launches Business-to-Business Social Networking Site SOHOBiztube.com to Help Businesses Grow

2009-02-06T15:19:00.000+02:00

MILWAUKEE, Feb. 6 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, businesses and individuals are utilizing social media and social networking to make connections, find jobs and create awareness. The social web is becoming an integral part of today's business process. However there has been a gap for businesses looking to connect with other businesses in meaningful ways. On Friday, February 6th, SOHOBiztube.com, a business-to-business social networking site, will launch to help businesses leverage the many powerful social media tools to promote their business, connect with other businesses and grow.

"SOHOBiztube.com emerges today from the beta testing phase of development and will be launched in a public event at The Iron Horse Hotel in Milwaukee," said Cd Vann owner and managing partner of SOHO Publishing LLC. "We have received tremendous engagement during testing and over 200 businesses signed up in last three weeks with no promotion."

SOHOBiztube.com is a social networking site that is dedicated to creating opportunities for "Growing Your Business Using Social Media and Connections" by helping growing businesses utilize social media tools and social networking to effectively brand and enhance their visibility.

The site helps member businesses use social web tools like video, audio, blogs, podcasts, Twitter, feeds and distribute press releases in one seamless location. Recommendations and referrals also help businesses gain credibility to network and find new clients and vendors.

Unlike other business-type social networking sites like LinkedIn.com, SOHOBiztube offers an organization-focused structure by which businesses can showcase their team and demonstrate strength, cohesiveness, shared mission and commitment to the delivery of quality products, services and customer attention on behalf of the company.

Nationwide, member businesses will have an affordable opportunity to communicate with internal and external partners, strategic alliances, customers, clients and peers using one company membership. Connections will be held by the business even if team members change, creating greater value for the company itself.

The site can be described as one part interactive online business directory, one part LinkedIn with a heavy flavoring of YouTube, but with a B2B focus. SOHOBiztube.com also offers exclusive expert business content from the monthly contributors to MagazineSOHO, an international sister publication. Content areas include Web Design, IT, Business Growth 2.0, Marketing, Advertising, Branding, Public Relations, Business Travel, Life Coaching, Mobile Consulting, Recruitment, Finance, Legal Advice, Sales and Business Coaching.

About SOHO Publishing LLC. Based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, SOHO Publishing is owned by Cd Vann, Jim Schlesing and Steve Ball Jr. The firm owns and operates MagazineSOHO, SOHOBiztube and the Naked Biz Growth seminar. MagazineSOHO is an international niche business-focused publication that is dedicated to helping growing businesses grow by providing expert content and profiles of people doing it right; SOHOBiztube.com is a social networking site that is dedicated to "Growing Your Business Using Social Media & Connections" by helping growing businesses utilize social media tools and social networking to effectively brand and enhance their visibility. Visit http://www.SOHOBiztube.com for more.

Baxa Corporation Ranks Seventh in ColoradoBiz Magazine's Top 50 Family-Owned Companies

2009-02-06T14:00:00.000+02:00

ENGLEWOOD, Colo., Feb. 6 /PRNewswire/ -- Baxa Corporation, an Englewood Colorado-based medical device company, announces its 7th-place ranking in the 2009 list of the Top 50 Family-Owned Companies in Colorado. Qualifying companies must be based in Colorado, the company's ownership must be controlled by a single family, and controlling family members must be active in management. In addition, the family has to have been involved in the company for at least two generations, or seem likely to be. Baxa Corporation is owned and managed by the sons of founder Brian Baldwin. It's the company's fifth year on the annual ColoradoBiz magazine list.

"Working in a family-owned business provides us with a unique opportunity to keep our products and services relevant," affirms Greg Baldwin, Baxa Chairman and CEO. "Over our 34 years in operation, we have been able to focus on customer needs and have a direct impact on patient safety because of our size and direct management," he continues.

Baxa Corporation was founded in 1975 by Brian Baldwin and Ronald Baxa. The company began with a simple product that protected patients from wrong-route drug administrations and grew to develop innovative, high-quality products for hospital pharmacies. Through more than three decades of rapid growth and change in the healthcare industry, the Baldwin family has continued to play an active role in the company's day-to-day business.

Since pioneering the first product designed to safely and accurately dose oral liquid medications, Baxa has remained committed to developing solutions for handling, measuring and administering fluid medications. Today, Baxa products have earned a reputation as innovative solutions for practical problems faced by nurses, healthcare providers and health-system pharmacies.

The complete list of 2009 top 50 family-owned businesses can be accessed at: http://www.cobizmag.com/images/uploads/lists/FamilyOwnedList.pdf.

About Baxa Corporation

Baxa, a customer-focused medical device company, provides innovative, solution-based technologies for medication handling and delivery. Its systems and devices promote the safe and efficient preparation, handling, packaging, and administration of medications. Key products include the PadLock(R) Set Saver, Rapid-Fill(TM) Automated Syringe Fillers, Exacta-Med(R) Oral Dispensers, MicroFuse(R) Syringe Infusers, Repeater(TM) Pharmacy Pumps, and Exacta-Mix(TM) and MicroMacro(TM) Multi-Source Automated Compounders; used worldwide in hospitals and healthcare facilities. Privately held, Baxa Corporation has subsidiaries and sales offices in Canada and the United Kingdom; direct representation in Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Luxembourg, The Netherlands and Switzerland; and distribution partners worldwide. Further information is available at www.baxa.com.

About ColoradoBiz magazine

Continually published for more than 30 years, ColoradoBiz is the state's preeminent business publication and media franchise. The primary mission of ColoradoBiz is to inform and educate the region's business professionals about the issues, people, businesses and management trends at the forefront of influencing economic conditions in Colorado and the West. For more information, visit www.cobizmag.com.

    Contact:
    Marian Robinson, Vice President, Marketing
    Baxa Corporation:  800.567.2292 ext. 2157 or 303.617.2157
    Email:  marian.robinson@baxa.com

    Maggie Chamberlin Holben, APR
    Absolutely Public Relations: 303.984.9801 or 303.669.3558
    Email: maggie@absolutelypr.com

BRIDES Magazine and De Beers are Dynamic Duo

2009-02-06T12:15:00.000+02:00

De Beers debuts DUO ring in honor of BRIDES 75th Anniversary

NEW YORK, Feb. 6 /PRNewswire/ -- In an inaugural partnership, De Beers will debut a unique Diamond Engagement Ring in honor of BRIDES 75th Anniversary. Fittingly named the Duo, this original design is a platinum engagement ring and a wedding band in one, interlaced together and featuring white diamonds. The rings will be unveiled on February 10 along with special "Bridal windows" at De Beers stores across the country, including the flagship location on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. The Duo Ring will be featured in the March/April issue of BRIDES, on newsstands the same day.

(PHOTO: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090206/NY67499 )

As an extraordinary anniversary present, De Beers is treating one lucky BRIDES reader to the Duo Ring and a matching diamond wedding band, valued at over $18,000. The contest will be announced on the Editors Page in the March/April issue.

BRIDES and De Beers are promoting the launch of the De Beers Duo Ring by creating custom windows in ten De Beers locations across the country. These "Bridal windows" will highlight BRIDES magazine and the Duo Ring while bringing to life the vivid components of every wedding. Not only will the windows feature extraordinary floral designs and extensive photo exhibitions, but inside each store astounding wedding cakes will be on display and live models will pose in gowns by celebrated designers Badgley Mischka, Monique Lhuillier and Vera Wang. These will be on display January 10-14.

To further this integrated partnership. De Beers and BRIDES are hosting interactive celebrations for engaged and pre-engaged women in De Beers locations across the country including New York, Washington DC, Bal Harbour, Naples, Dallas, Houston, Las Vegas, Beverly Hills, Costa Mesa, and San Francisco.

ABOUT THE DUO

An intimate twist of two bands, interlaced together to symbolize the essence of love and the sentiment of marriage. Tiny white diamonds and a smooth platinum band represent the promise of two people, bound by love and matrimony forever. Unique in design, this stunning ring is an engagement ring and a wedding band in one, finished with a perfect white round brilliant stone to create the De Beers Duo engagement ring. The delicate entwine effect and contrast in texture of the sparkling micropave, and flawless platinum create a modern and elegant style.

ABOUT BRIDES

BRIDES was the world's first wedding magazine, launched in 1934. In 75 years of publication it has remained the most widely read magazine in the category and the country's foremost authority on engagement, weddings, and marriage. BRIDES reaches over 6.5 million readers per issue and is published six times a year by Conde Nast Publications.

ABOUT DE BEERS

De Beers Diamond Jewellers was established in 2001 as an independently managed and operated company by De Beers SA, the world's premier diamond mining and marketing company, and LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the world's leading luxury goods company.

Trend Micro Worry-Free(TM) Business Security Named eWeek Channel Insider's 'Product of the Year' for Host/Client Security

2009-02-05T18:31:00.000+02:00

CUPERTINO, Calif., Feb. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Trend Micro Incorporated (TSE: 4704), a global leader in Internet content security, today announced Trend Micro Worry-Free(TM) Business Security (WFBS) 5.0 Advanced received the eWeek Channel Insider "Product of the Year" Award in the Host/Client Security category.

http://www.channelinsider.com/c/a/Reviews/Channel-Insiders-10-Best-Products-of-the-Year/2/

For eWeek Channel Insider's top 10 best products of 2008, senior technology editor Frank Ohlhorst looked back at more than 200 products he reviewed throughout the year and weighed them for innovation, functionality, up-sell and value-add service opportunities and market potential. The result is a top 10 list of the best of the best.

"Trend Micro is honored that Worry-Free Business Security is recognized by eWeek Channel Insider as winning the Product of the Year award in the Host/Client security category and that it placed among the top 10 best products of 2008," said Frank Mong, VP of Marketing, Small and Medium Business at Trend Micro. "Not only do our Worry-Free customers get safer, smarter, simpler security, they receive un-matched protection by the Trend Micro(TM) Smart Protection Network that powers all Worry-Free products and solutions."

"I've reviewed all of my reviews to pick the cream of the crop, the best of the best channel products of the year. I've re-examined the results and put a new evaluation filter on them, screening the previous reviews for their innovation, up-sell opportunities, value-added service opportunities and market potential," wrote Frank Ohlhorst. "For host/client security, Trend Micro brings something new to the table with Worry-Free Business Security 5.0 Advanced, a product that offers both traditional software features, along with hosted features. Highly configurable and starting at a low per seat price, Worry-Free Business Security 5.0 Advanced can meet the needs of many small to medium businesses with little fuss or muss."

In a review published last summer, Ohlhorst wrote: "The real value of the product comes from the little extras that Trend Micro includes, such as Wi-Fi protection and IM protection. Most products on the market ignore the threats that can come via those two elements. That shows Trend Micro is thinking about the complete picture when it comes to small business security."

http://www.channelinsider.com/c/a/Reviews/Trend-Micro-Makes-Play-for-Symantec-Partners/

Trend Micro Worry-Free Business Security 5.0 Standard and Advanced are designed to protect small and medium businesses and their reputations against data theft and risky websites. Trend Micro's safer, smarter, simpler security blocks viruses, spyware, and other Web-based threats to protect businesses assets and customer information.

Worry-Free Business Security 5.0 has a number of features to address business' internet security concerns. Unique web threat protection prevents exposure to infected Web sites without relying on matching each threat to a pattern file. This stops threats before they reach businesses without causing PC slowdown. Worry-Free location awareness automatically changes Worry-Free Security settings on notebooks to set protection for employees inside or outside the office. Application behavior monitoring monitors application activities and prevents unauthorized, harmful changes to computer system files. Multilayer spam blocking blocks spam before it reaches businesses. Integrated protection layer stops spam by checking IP addresses against Trend Micro's constantly updated database of known spam sources.

About Trend Micro:

Trend Micro Incorporated, a global leader in Internet content security, focuses on securing the exchange of digital information for businesses and consumers. A pioneer and industry vanguard, Trend Micro is advancing integrated threat management technology to protect operational continuity, personal information, and property from malware, spam, data leaks and the latest Web threats. Visit TrendWatch at http://www.trendmicro.com/go/trendwatch to learn more about the threats. Trend Micro's flexible solutions, available in multiple form factors, are supported 24/7 by threat intelligence experts around the globe. Many of these solutions are powered by the Trend Micro(TM) Smart Protection Network, a next generation cloud-client content security infrastructure designed to protect customers from Web threats. A transnational company, with headquarters in Tokyo, Trend Micro's trusted security solutions are sold through its business partners worldwide. Please visit http://www.trendmicro.com.

Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Announces Election of Arlen Kantarian to the Board of Directors

2009-02-05T17:47:00.000+02:00

NEW YORK, Feb. 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) today announced that its Board of Directors has elected Arlen Kantarian as a member of the Board of Directors. He will replace Rick Boyko, who is stepping down. Mr. Boyko has served on the Board since June 2004.

Mr. Kantarian is an innovative marketing and entertainment executive who was most recently the CEO of the United States Tennis Association's (USTA) Professional Tennis operation, which includes the US Open, the U.S. Davis Cup and Olympic teams, and the USTA National Tennis Center. During his nine-year tenure, US Open revenues nearly doubled, and the US Open became the largest annually attended event in the world. In 2008, Mr. Kantarian was named to BusinessWeek's "Top 100 Most Influential People in Sports." Prior to joining the USTA, Mr. Kantarian was President and CEO of Radio City Entertainment where he tripled the company's earnings, making it the nation's No. 1 live entertainment company. Previously, he was Vice President of Marketing for the National Football League, and held senior-level marketing positions at Pepsi-Cola and Colgate-Palmolive.

MSLO Executive Chairman Charles Koppelman stated: "I am pleased to welcome Arlen as the newest member of our Board. Arlen's deep understanding of powerful brands and his track record in marketing them will be tremendous assets to MSLO. I am grateful to Rick Boyko for his many contributions during his years of service to our company."

"I'm delighted to be joining MSLO's Board of Directors. This is a great company with great strengths and I look forward to working with Martha, Charles and an exceptionally accomplished team as we explore new opportunities to build on the company's successes and grow its valuable brands," said Mr. Kantarian.

About Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc.

Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) is a diversified media and merchandising company, inspiring and engaging consumers with unique lifestyle content and distinctive products. The Publishing segment encompasses four magazines, including the company's flagship publication, Martha Stewart Living, periodic special issues and books. The marthastewart.com website provides consumers with instant access to MSLO's multimedia library, search and find capabilities, recipes, online workshops, community and personalization, as well as wedding-planning tools powered by WeddingWire. The Broadcasting segment produces such programming as the Emmy-winning daily, nationally syndicated television series, "The Martha Stewart Show," and Martha Stewart Living Radio on SIRIUS channel 112 and XM Radio 157. In addition to its media properties, MSLO offers high-quality Martha Stewart products through licensing agreements with carefully selected companies, including the Martha Stewart Collection exclusively at Macy's, Martha Stewart Everyday at Kmart, Martha Stewart Crafts with EK Success at Wal-Mart, Michaels and independent retailers, Martha Stewart for 1-800-FLOWERS.COM and a co-branded food line with Costco. In April 2008, Emeril Lagasse joined the Martha Stewart family of brands; MSLO acquired the assets related to Lagasse's media and merchandising business, including television programming, cookbooks, and emerils.com website and his licensed kitchen and food products. For additional information about MSLO, visit www.marthastewart.com.

Inc. Now Accepting Applications for the 2009 Inc. 500 5000

2009-02-05T17:27:00.000+02:00

List Will Recognize Fastest-Growing Private Companies Amidst Economic Downturn

Special 2009 Focus on Job Creation

NEW YORK, Feb. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Inc. magazine and Inc.com (www.inc.com) today announced that the application process for this year's annual Inc. 500|5000 list of America's fastest-growing private companies is now open. The list, published for the past 27 years, is a distinguished editorial award, a celebration of innovation, a network of modern entrepreneurial leaders and an esteemed public relations showcase presented by the leading entrepreneurial advocate, Inc. Magazine. Companies can apply now by visiting http://www.apply5000.com. The deadline for applications is March 31, 2009.

"The 2009 list will be the most important we've ever published," said John Koten, CEO and Editor in Chief of Mansueto Ventures. "While the list has always highlighted companies that have achieved extraordinary growth, this year we are going to develop a separate ranking of the businesses that have produced the most new employment. President Obama has rightly made this a top priority of his administration and we think this is a way we can help to support this vital cause."

A recent study by the U.S. Census Bureau and funded by the Kauffman Foundation found that job growth in the U.S. between 1980 and 2005 would have been negative were it not for the positive contribution of newly-formed, growth-oriented enterprises. "It's widely known that large companies employ a smaller and smaller percentage of the workforce," said Koten. "Far less well known is that it's really only a sub segment of the small business economy -- growth-oriented new firms -- that is responsible for job creation."

To be eligible, companies must be U.S.-based, privately held, for profit, independent, and have been generating revenue since January 7, 2005, at the latest. The companies will be ranked according to percentage revenue growth from 2005 through 2008.

"We experienced a phenomenal 379 percent growth rate from 2004-2007," said Go Daddy CEO and Founder Bob Parsons. "Being on the 2008 Inc. 500|5000 list validates most everything about Go Daddy, including our culture, product offerings, pricing and industry-best customer service. You don't just make a list like the Inc. 500|5000 without doing things right."

In addition to honoring the top 5000 fastest-growing private companies, the information collected by Inc. will be used to advance the study of company growth and the entrepreneurial economy in the U.S. Private Company profile information can also be found at IncBizNet, the online home for successful private companies.

Results of the Inc. 500|5000 will be announced on Inc.com on August 12, 2009. The top 500 companies will be featured in the September issue of Inc. magazine. All 5000 companies will be profiled on Inc.com. Inc. invites all entrepreneurs and growing private companies to the Inc. 500|5000 conference, which will take place September 24 - 26, 2009 near Washington, DC.

About Inc.

Inc. is the only major business magazine dedicated exclusively to owners and managers of growing private companies, delivering real solutions for today's innovative company builders. It provides hands-on tools and market-tested strategies for managing people, finances, sales, marketing, and technology. Inc., a Mansueto Ventures LLC publication, inspires and informs, with cutting-edge coverage that reflects our readers' energy, brashness, and imagination. Please visit http://www.inc.com.

Inc. magazine and Inc.com are excited to announce its call for entries to the 2009 Inc. 500|5000, the list of America's fastest-growing private companies. For more information please contact John Koten at jkoten@inc.com or (212) 389-5389; or Megan Burns at mburns@inc.com or (212) 389-5495.

    Contacts:  John Koten, (212) 389-5389; jkoten@inc.com
               Megan Burns, (212) 389-5495; mburns@inc.com

ESSENCE Magazine Presents Will You Marry Me? 2009: Five Gentlemen Surprise Their Girlfriends With One Special Question in ESSENCE's February Issue

2009-02-05T16:46:00.000+02:00

Time is running out to vote for your favorite couple!

Readers have until February 12th to vote for their favorite couple on Essence.com, watch videos of their surprise proposals and help select the winner of a $50,000 dream wedding!

Winning couple to be revealed during a pre-Valentine's Day special on ABC-TV's Good Morning America February 13th!

NEW YORK, Feb. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Isn't it romantic? ESSENCE offered gentlemen across the country the chance of a lifetime -- to surprise their girlfriends with a dreamy proposal in the pages of the magazine for its third annual Will You Marry Me? feature. The letters came pouring in, but only five special men were selected and will share their love story with more than 8 million readers. Readers can now log on to Essence.com to see videos of each of the romantic proposals captured by ESSENCE's hidden cameras, see each woman's shocked responses and vote for their favorite duo. The couple to receive the most votes by February 12th will receive a $50,000 dream wedding courtesy of ESSENCE. On February 13th, the announcement of the winning couple will be revealed during a pre-Valentine's Day special on ABC-TV's Good Morning America. Tiffany & Co. is the sponsor of Will You Marry Me? 2009.

ESSENCE was bombarded with letters from men wanting to propose in the magazine after publishing an ad in the September 2008 and October 2008 issues. The five chosen couples are: Rashad A. Sanders and Andrea J. Hill of Houston; Anthony D. Lewis and Kirstan K. Simmons of Houston; E. Sean Collierof Atlanta and Ashley P. McCollum of Cincinnati; Ebiakpo Jituboh and DeKeisha George of Queens, NY, and Rahway, NJ; and Edmond Clark and Tamica Young of Griffith, Indiana.

This year's proposals are even more endearing -- and demonstrate the power of love against all odds. Watch as one couple copes while battling multiple sclerosis, while another finds joy in the midst of pain after the recent death of a parent. There are also funny moments during the proposals, such as when one woman opens her restaurant menu during dinner to find her boyfriend's proposal, or when another is shocked to find an interesting message from a scuba diver during a visit to her favorite aquarium!

"ESSENCE is so excited about the return of Will You Marry Me? We are inviting our more than 8 million readers, who have become dedicated fans of this annual celebration of love, to log on to Essence.com right now to vote for their favorite couple and help them win the ultimate dream wedding," says Angela Burt-Murray, editor-in-chief, ESSENCE.

Readers will find the creative and endearing wedding proposals on Essence.com -- along with photo galleries, pictures of the engagement rings, guest books and a space to leave special messages for each couple. Post-proposal interviews are also featured, as well as each of the letters from the grooms-to-be that are featured in ESSENCE's February 2009 issue and the moving responses from the future brides. In addition, readers will find wedding and honeymoon tips, and can share their own proposal stories with other Essence.com readers.

ESSENCE's first Will You Marry Me? feature, which showcased innovative acts of romance, made magazine history in 2007 with the first-ever magazine marriage proposals and catapulted a multimedia, interactive experience that drove millions to the online home of the pre-eminent magazine for African-American women, Essence.com. Readers voted for their favorite couples, and the close polls resulted in ESSENCE and the South African Tourism Board sending all of the couples to South Africa for a lavish honeymoon vacation. Last year, one couple received a lavish destination wedding and honeymoon cruise aboard a Royal Caribbean International cruise ship, courtesy of ESSENCE and Royal Caribbean, and the remaining couples all won an extravagant Caribbean honeymoon cruise. Find photo galleries on all of the couples on Essence.com.

Go to www.essence.com to vote now -- remember you have until February 12th!

About Essence Communications Inc.:

Essence Communications Inc. (ECI) is the leading media and communications company dedicated to African-American women. With a multi-platform presence in publishing, live events, and online, the Essence brand is "Where Black Women Come First". The company's flagship publication, ESSENCE magazine, is the preeminent lifestyle magazine for African-American women; generating brand extensions such as the Essence Music Festival, Women Who Are Shaping the World Leadership Summit, Window on Our Women (WOW I & II) and Smart Beauty I, II & III consumer insights, the Essence Book Club, Essence.com, and ventures in digital media (mobile, television and VOD) via Essence Studios. For 38 years, ESSENCE magazine, which has a readership of 8.1 million, has been the leading source of cutting-edge information relating to every area of African-American women's lives. Additional information about ECI and ESSENCE is available at essence.com.

About Essence.com:

Essence.com is the daily online destination for African-American women that informs, entertains and connects. The expansive web destination delivers daily fresh content, engaging blogs, robust photo galleries, a substantial online community and original video programming across four channels that include: News & Entertainment, Fashion & Beauty, Relationships and Lifestyle. Essence.com is currently the largest and fastest growing African-American magazine website. The site's growth is unsurpassed and reaches more than a million monthly unique visitors. The new Essence.com launched in September 2008 as one of the first projects to come from the partnership between The Warner Bros. Television Group and Time Inc.'s Essence Communications Inc.

Tribune Forms Online Entertainment News Bureau

2009-02-05T16:00:00.000+02:00

CHICAGO, Feb. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Tribune Company today announced the creation of an online entertainment news bureau that will provide original, multimedia content to the company's newspaper and television websites. The bureau will be powered by the combined resources of the Los Angeles Times (http://latimes.com), long the country's premier outlet for entertainment industry news, and Zap2it (http://zap2it.com), the leading online source of movie and television listings.

The bureau will deliver expanded coverage of movies and television, and will leverage writers and reporters from across Tribune to bring readers constantly updated blogs and other multimedia news on more than 60 top TV shows. One of the team's first editorial projects will be a behind-the-scenes look at the unstoppable phenomenon of "American Idol." While located at The Times, the bureau's editorial content will be aggregated on the Zap2it portal, which will be enhanced and re-launched early this year.

"The Los Angeles Times covers entertainment like no one else, and it's a natural fit to locate Tribune's online bureau here," said Russ Stanton, Los Angeles Times editor. "This allows us to combine the best of Tribune's entertainment content with Zap2it's industry-leading movie and TV listings to reach an even greater audience."

The new bureau will serve a combined online audience of about 9 million unique visitors viewing 65 million pages a month across all Tribune online entertainment offerings.

"This bureau will work with reporting and producing teams at all our newspapers and TV stations to bring our audiences the most complete, behind-the-scenes entertainment report on the Web," said Marc Chase, president of Tribune Interactive. "Zap2it is now also well positioned to become a national one-stop for the best TV, movie and celebrity news and buzz."

Times editors and veteran entertainment journalists Richard Rushfield and Joseph Kapsch will lead the operation, working closely with colleagues at The Times, Tribune Interactive, Zap2it and across all Tribune newspapers.

Rushfield has been named director/national entertainment programming for "The Syndicate," Tribune Interactive's new online marketplace. He will be responsible for coordinating coverage among Tribune sites and will continue to serve as entertainment editor for latimes.com.

Kapsch has been named editorial director for Zap2it.com, and will oversee the expansion of Zap2it into a national entertainment portal, aggregating information from Tribune sources as well as a network of entertainment bloggers. He will oversee a redesign of Zap2it, launching in the first half of the year. Kapsch will also retain his current responsibilities as executive producer/entertainment, latimes.com.

Delivering exclusive, behind-the-scenes coverage of Fox's talent show juggernaut "American Idol" will be one of the bureau's first projects.

"The more than 4 million fans who visit Zap2it each month will not only find a richer, more informative site, but one that still has the detailed TV and movie listings and showtimes they depend on," said Rebecca Baldwin, general manager of Zap2it.

TRIBUNE is America's largest employee-owned media company, operating businesses in publishing, interactive and broadcasting. In publishing, Tribune's leading daily newspapers include the Los Angeles Times, Chicago Tribune, The Baltimore Sun, Sun Sentinel (South Florida), Orlando Sentinel, Hartford Courant, Morning Call and Daily Press. The company's broadcasting group operates 23 television stations, WGN America on national cable, Chicago's WGN-AM and the Chicago Cubs baseball team. Popular news and information websites complement Tribune's print and broadcast properties and extend the company's nationwide audience. At Tribune we take what we do seriously and with a great deal of pride. We also value the creative spirit and nurture a corporate culture that doesn't take itself too seriously.

About the Los Angeles Times

The Los Angeles Times (http://latimes.com) is the largest metropolitan daily newspaper in the country, with a daily readership of 2 million and 3 million on Sunday, and a combined print and interactive local weekly audience of 5.5 million. The fast-growing latimes.com draws over 10 million unique visitors monthly.

The Los Angeles Times and its media businesses and affiliates -- including The Envelope (http://theenvelope.com), Metromix (http://losangeles.metromix.com), Times Community Newspapers, Hoy (http://hoyinternet.com), and California Community News -- reach approximately 5.3 million or 40% of all adults in the Southern California marketplace. The Pulitzer Prize-winning Los Angeles Times, has been covering Southern California for over 126 years and is part of Tribune Company, one of the country's leading media companies with businesses in publishing, the Internet and broadcasting. Additional information is available at http://latimes.com/mediacenter.

About Zap2it.com

Zap2it.com is the online destination for more than 4 million TV and Movie fans who want to stay connected to popular shows, films, events, celebrities, and other fans. Zap2it is a service of Tribune Media Services. For more information about Zap2it, visit http://www.Zap2it.com/mediakit.

CEO Confidence Upticks From All-Time Low

2009-02-05T14:32:00.000+02:00

Business Leaders Still Very Pessimistic

NEW YORK, Feb. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Chief Executive magazine's CEO Index, the nation's only monthly CEO Index, quietly rebounded in January according to 543 top executives surveyed. In January, all components of the CEO Index increased after three months of record declines.

The CEO Confidence Index rose 10.3 points, or 20 percent, to 51.2 points, in January in what was its greatest improvement since September 2008. The Employment Confidence Index, a sub-index used to calculate overall confidence in the job market, increased 60 percent, from 22 to 35.3 points; and the Business Condition Index increased to 27 points from 16.8, a 60 percent increase from last month.

"While the recent uptick is encouraging, it does not imply that CEOs have started to gain confidence in the economic environment," said Edward M. Kopko, CEO and Publisher of Chief Executive magazine. "The low reading of the employment confidence, despite the increase in January, is suggestive of a continued poor labor market over the coming months."

According to the survey, many CEOs believe that if they can use the current economic conditions to their advantage they will come out triumphant in the end. As such, this month, 41.6 percent of respondents rated current investment opportunities as "good," a 10.3 percent increase from last month. While 44.5 percent said they would consider them "bad," a 10.3 percent decrease from previous polling. "Now is an excellent time to be a well capitalized buyer of companies. We are actively negotiating for additional acquisitions," said Steve Townes, CEO of Ranger Aerospace.

For additional information regarding the confidence of public and private-company CEOs, details about CEO attitudes on employment, investment and business conditions, visit our full report at http://www.chiefexecutive.net/ceoindex.

About Chief Executive Magazine

Chief Executive is a controlled circulation magazine that has been published since 1977. It reaches 42,000 chief executive officers and their peers, reaches a total readership of 220,000. Chief Executive Group facilitates "Chief Executive of the Year," a prestigious honor bestowed upon an outstanding corporate leader, nominated and selected by a group of his or her peers. Anne Mulcahy, Bob Ulrich, A. G. Lafley, George David, Fred Smith, Bill Gates, John Chambers, Michael Dell and Sandy Weill are just some of the leaders who have been honored during the award's 23-year history. Chief Executive also organizes roundtable meetings and conferences to foster opportunities for top corporate officers to discuss key subjects and share their experiences within a community of peers. Visit www.chiefexecutive.net for more information.

    CEO Index, January 2009
    Respondents: 543

    Index                          January,       December,       Monthly
                                     2009           2008           Change

    CEO Index                         51.2          40.9            10.3
    Current Confidence Index            62          52.1             9.9
    Future Confidence Index           43.9          33.3            10.6
    Business Condition Index            27          16.8            10.2
    Invest Confidence Index           84.4          76.2             8.2
    Employment Confidence Index       35.3            22            13.3

MIPS Technologies' Multi-threaded Multiprocessor Named a Finalist in Prestigious EDN Innovation Awards

2009-02-05T13:30:00.000+02:00

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Feb. 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- MIPS Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: MIPS), a leading provider of industry-standard architectures, processors and analog IP for digital consumer, home networking, wireless, communications and business applications, today announced that its MIPS32(R) 1004K(TM) Coherent Processing System (CPS), the industry's first embedded multi-threaded, multiprocessor licensable IP core, was named a finalist in the prestigious annual Innovation Awards from EDN Magazine. Instituted in 1990, the Innovation Awards honor the people, products, and technologies that have shaped the semiconductor industry over the past year.

"We are pleased that EDN's editors have selected the 1004K CPS as a finalist in the prestigious Innovation Awards competition," said Brad Holtzinger, vice president of worldwide sales and corporate marketing, MIPS Technologies. "This is yet another honor in a series of recent accolades given to the 1004K CPS, reflecting an understanding among technologists of the merits of our multi-core technology. Industry standard benchmark results and feedback from customers are clearly demonstrating that the combination of multi-threading and multiprocessing provides significant performance benefits."

During the month of February, EDN's worldwide audience of electronics engineers and engineering managers will use an online ballot to select the ultimate winners from among the finalists. EDN's editorial staff and Editorial Advisory Board also take part in determining the final winners. Readers are encouraged to visit http://www.EDN.com/innovation to review each of the nominees. Winners will be announced at a dinner and awards ceremony on March 30, 2009, in San Jose, Calif.

The 1004K CPS provides among the best performance efficiency and configurability in a multiprocessing system -- up to four single- or multi- threaded processors integrated with advanced system coherency. The 1004K coherent processing system helps lower SoC development costs since for many applications, fewer processors are needed than with other multiprocessor solutions. Multi-threading in each CPU provides significant performance gains over single-threaded multiprocessor offerings. A wide array of vertical applications such as digital home entertainment, home networking and office automation are poised to benefit from coherent multiprocessing with multi- threading. The 1004K CPS is available in two versions: the 1004Kc(TM) using integer cores, and the 1004Kf(TM) with a floating point unit in each core.

About MIPS Technologies, Inc.

MIPS Technologies, Inc. (NasdaqGS: MIPS) is the world's second largest semiconductor design IP company and the number one analog IP company worldwide. With more than 250 customers around the globe, MIPS Technologies is the only company that provides a combined portfolio of processors, analog IP and software tools for the embedded market. The company powers some of the world's most popular products for the digital entertainment, home networking, wireless, and portable media markets -- including broadband devices from Linksys, DTVs and digital consumer devices from Sony, DVD recordable devices from Pioneer, digital set-top boxes from Motorola, network routers from Cisco, 32-bit microcontrollers from Microchip Technology and laser printers from Hewlett- Packard. Founded in 1998, MIPS Technologies is headquartered in Mountain View, California, with offices worldwide. For more information, contact (650) 567- 5000 or visit http://www.mips.com.

MIPS, MIPS32, 1004K, 1004Kc and 1004Kf are trademarks or registered trademarks in the United States and other countries of MIPS Technologies, Inc. All other trademarks referred to herein are the property of their respective owners.

Oil and Gas Investor Magazine Announces Schedule of Live Webcasts of Key Executives and Financial Leaders at Winter NAPE 2009

2009-02-04T23:49:00.000+02:00

HOUSTON, Feb. 4 /PRNewswire/ -- Oil and Gas Investor announced today that its editorial team will broadcast live interviews of 30 or more oil and gas industry executives and financial leaders at OilandGasInvestor.com on Thursday, February 5, 2009 from the Winter NAPE Expo at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas.

The interviews can be seen via live webcast at oilandgasinvestor.com, or at the Oil and Gas Investor booth #3267 at NAPE. The archived event will also be available on demand at OilandGasInvestor.com. Some of the scheduled interviews include:

    Time      Interview         Title                    Company

    8:30 AM   Arshad Matin      President & CEO          Seismic
                                                         MicroTechnology

    8:45 AM   Mark Plummer      CEO & Owner              The Chestnut Group
                                                         of Cos.

    9:00 AM   Craig Davis       President                INEXS

    9:45 AM   Carrie Manion     Sr. Vice President,      Well PointSystems
                                Worldwide Sales &        Inc.
                                Services

    10:30 AM  Jim Sledzik       Partner & President,     Energy Ventures
                                Houston Office

    10:30 AM  Aaron Ball        Attorney, Oilfield       Looper, Reed & McGraw
                                International
                                Transactions & Planning

    10:45 AM  Mark Nierenberg   Vice President           JP Morgan Property
                                                         Exchange Inc.

    11:00 AM  Bill Marko        Managing Director        Jefferies Randall
                                                         & Dewey

    11:30 AM  Ian Cross         Vice President           IHS Energy

    12:00 PM  Cameron Smith     Sr. Managing Director    Rodman Energy Group

    1:30 PM   Charlie Prioleau  EVP-Finance & CFO        Force 5 Energy LLP

    2:00 PM   Dan Steele        Sr. Vice President       Bank of Texas

    2:00 PM   Adrian Goodisman  Managing Director &      Scotia Waterous
                                Co-Head, U.S.

    3:00 PM   Adam Conners      Associate Director       C.K. Cooper & Company

    3:00 PM   Sunil Deshmukh    CEO                      North American
                                                         Exploration LLC

    3:30 PM   Rick Makin &      Investment Managers      GE Energy Financial
              Patrick Williams                           Services

    3:45 PM   Tim Parker        CEO                      High Mount
                                                         Exploration &
                                                         Production LLC

    4:00 PM   Tim Murray        Managing Director        Guggenheim Partners

Headquartered in Houston, Hart Energy Publishing's market-leading publications include Oil and Gas Investor, E&P, PipeLine and Gas Technology and FUEL. Hart also offers online information services OilandGasInvestor.com, A-Dcenter.com, EPmag.com, and produces newsletters, including Oil and Gas Investor's A&D Watch and Oil and Gas Investor This Week, custom publishing products, conferences, electronic media, and unique multi- and single-client consulting services.

    Press Contact:
    John Lauletta
    Marketing Director
    713-260-6476
    jlauletta@hartenergy.com

Global Sources reports preliminary fourth quarter results within guidance

2009-02-04T06:30:00.000+02:00

   -- Fourth quarter 2008 results conference call scheduled for March 12 --

-- Management to present at CLSA Asia Investors' Forum on Feb. 10 and at ROTH
                  Capital Partners Conference on Feb. 17 --

NEW YORK, Feb. 4 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ Global Sources Ltd. (Nasdaq: GSOL) ( http://www.globalsources.com ) expects the fourth quarter 2008 results to meet the guidance it provided on Nov. 13, 2008:

    -- Revenues are expected to be between $63.0 million and $64.0 million.
    -- GAAP earnings per share are expected to be between $0.12 and $0.13.
    -- Non-GAAP earnings per share are expected to be between $0.14 and $0.15.

    (Logo:http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030303/LNM011LOGO-b )

Global Sources' chairman and CEO, Merle A. Hinrichs, said: "As expected the fourth quarter 2008 proved to be a difficult environment; however, we continue to believe we will achieve our revenue and earnings guidance provided in November. Revenue for the quarter is expected to grow 4% to 5%, compared to the fourth quarter of 2007, driven by online revenue that is expected to increase by approximately 14%.

"Looking ahead, business remains challenging and it is uncertain when global trade will recover. However, we do expect revenue for the first half of 2009 to decline compared to the first half of 2008, but we believe we will still be profitable. We have a long track record of profitably, and we remain committed to prudent expense management and shareholder value.

"Global Sources is very well positioned for when the market improves. China is expected to remain the primary supplier to the world for consumer products and is a very attractive market opportunity. We have a well differentiated, end-to-end product offering, strong sales representation and a highly experienced management team. In addition, we have a very strong balance sheet with the financial and operating flexibility to weather the economic challenges."

Global Sources' non-GAAP metrics

Management believes non-GAAP metrics are useful measures of operations and provides GAAP to non-GAAP reconciliation tables in the Company's earnings press releases. Global Sources defines non-GAAP net income as net income excluding non-cash, stock-based compensation (SBC) expense or credit, gains or losses on acquisitions and investments, and/or impairment charges, for all historical and future references to non-GAAP metrics. Non-GAAP EPS is defined as non-GAAP net income divided by the weighted average of diluted common shares outstanding.

February 2009 Conference Participation

Chairman and CEO, Merle A. Hinrichs, is scheduled to present at the following conferences in February 2009:

    -- CLSA Asia Investors' Forum: Tuesday, Feb. 10 at 9:30 a.m. PT / 12:30
       p.m. ET at the Four Seasons Hotel in Las Vegas.
    -- ROTH Capital Partners Conference: Tuesday, Feb. 17 at 2:00 p.m. PT /
       5:00 p.m. ET at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Dana Point, California.

A replay of both Global Sources' audio presentations will be available at Global Sources' Investor Relations website http://www.investor.globalsources.com for 90 days. In addition, the ROTH Capital Presentation is scheduled to be webcast live.

Conference call for Global Sources fourth quarter 2008 earnings on March 12

Chairman and CEO, Merle A. Hinrichs, and Eddie Heng, CFO, are scheduled to conduct a conference call at 8:00 a.m. ET on March 12, 2009 (8:00 p.m. on March 12, 2009 in Hong Kong) to review these results in more detail. To participate please call at least 10 minutes in advance to ensure all callers are placed into the call at start time. Investors in the United States may participate in the call by dialing (888) 212-8315, and international participants may dial (1-706) 643-0144. Investors in Hong Kong may call (852) 3011-4522. A live webcast of the conference call is scheduled to be available on Global Sources' corporate site at http://www.investor.globalsources.com .

For those who cannot listen to the live broadcast, a webcast replay of the call is scheduled to be available on the company's corporate site for 30 days. A telephone replay of the call is also scheduled to be available through March 16, 2009. To listen to the telephone replay, dial (800) 642-1687, or dial (1- 706) 645-9291 outside the United States, and enter pass code 83730628#. For those in the Hong Kong area, the replay dial-in number is (852) 3011-4541, and the pass code is 83730628#.

About Global Sources

The company provides sourcing information to volume buyers and integrated marketing services to suppliers. It helps a community of over 753,000 active buyers source more profitably from complex overseas supply markets. With the goal of providing the most effective ways possible to advertise, market and sell, Global Sources enables suppliers to sell to hard-to-reach buyers in over 230 countries.

The company offers the most extensive range of media and export marketing services in the industries it serves. It delivers information on 4.3 million products and more than 196,000 suppliers annually through 14 online marketplaces, 13 monthly magazines, over 100 sourcing research reports and 9 specialized trade shows which run 27 times a year across eight cities.

Suppliers receive more than 43 million sales leads annually from buyers through Global Sources Online ( http://www.globalsources.com ) alone.

Global Sources has been facilitating global trade for 37 years. Global Sources' network covers more than 69 cities worldwide. In mainland China, Global Sources has over 2,800 team members in more than 44 locations, and a community of over 1 million registered online users and magazine readers for Chinese-language media.

Safe Harbor Statement

    Global Sources Press Contact in Asia
     Camellia So
     Tel:   +852-2555-5021
     Email: cso@globalsources.com

    Global Sources Press Contact in U.S.
     James W.W. Strachan
     Tel:   +1-480-664-8309
     Email: strachan@globalsources.com

    Global Sources Investor Contact in Asia
     Investor Relations Department
     Tel:   +852-2555-4777
     Email: investor@globalsources.com

    Global Sources Investor Contact in U.S.
     Kirsten Chapman & Timothy Dien
     Lippert/Heilshorn & Associates, Inc.
     Tel:   +1-415-433-3777
     Email: tdien@lhai.com