Peter Tyson

Updated W2 form - IRS Phishing Scam

2009-10-28T13:26:00.001-05:00

I almost fell for this new phishing scam, but the 3rd email used an email address the government would not know about.

Never trust any email attachments you get.

-----Original Message-----
From: Internal Revenue Service [mailto:up2date@irs.com]
Sent: Wednesday, October 28, 2009 9:44 AM
To: Business Owner

Subject: Updated W2 form

Dear ,

Important changes within the IRS Employers W-2 forms.
Attached is a updated version of the W-2 form that needs to be completed by all US based employers.
Please update your records and make sure the W-2 form will updated before December 1 2009.
Whether you rely on a tax professional or handle your own taxes,
the IRS offers you convenient programs to make filing and payment easier.
Spend less time and worry on taxes and more time running your business.
Use e-file and the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) to your benefit.
For e-file, visit www.irs.gov for additional information.
For EFTPS, visit www.eftps.gov or call EFTPS Customer Service at 1-800-555-4477.

Cash for Gold Craze

2009-08-15T17:59:00.000-05:00

A Jewelers Perspective on the Cash for Gold Craze

5 tips on how not to get ripped off selling your old gold jewelry.

Ashland, OR, August 07, 2009 -- Is there value to consumers in taking advantage of the ubiquitous cash for gold promotions? An industry expert weighs in. Recently the media has been flooded with advertisements encouraging consumers to cash in on their gold jewelry. Even sign-swingers can be seen on busy street corners waving passerby's into pawn shops with the promise of "top dollar" for gold chains, class rings, outdated-looking pendants, etc. Unfortunately, according to the business news website MarketWatch.com, consumers may be getting gored on gold prices. And, there are plenty of complaints and cries of scam posted on the Net. Certainly sellers need to be wary - they're probably getting short-changed. With the price of gold hovering close to $1,000 and ounce, what exactly does "top dollar" mean? Who makes the determination?

"People simply don't know if their being low-balled on the overall value of their jewelry", according to 30-year veteran of the fine jewelry industry, Ron Hansen of GoldAndGems.com Fine Jewelry. "If you find yourself financially-strapped and truly need to convert your jewelry to its cash value, your best bet is to take the items to your local jeweler." A full-service jewelry store typically is a member of the Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) - the industry's guardian of ethics and integrity. Here are JVC's tips for selling gold jewelry.

Tips for Selling Gold Jewelry

1. Choose a reputable jeweler, someone that's known to you or has been recommended by a trusted source. Preferably, select a jeweler that's a member of the Jewelers Vigilance Committee.

2. Set off on your expedition with reasonable expectations. When you bought the jewelry you paid for more than the value of the gold. The price included labor, packaging and the retail mark-up of the item. The jeweler will only pay you for the actual gold in an object. Since gold is always blended with other metals to make jewelry, expect that a substantial percentage of the object is made of something other than gold.

3. Don't expect to be paid for the non-gold component of the jewelry. The jeweler may conduct a test to determine how much gold is in the jewelry - known in the trade as its "karat fineness." This is called a "scratch" or "acid" test. Expect the jeweler to actually scratch the gold to conduct the test.

4. The price offered to you by the jeweler may not be the market price of gold that day. Prices are not regulated, so the parties are free to negotiate a price that's acceptable to both sides.

5. Bring a form of government issued identification. Some jewelers are also required by anti-money laundering laws to obtain seller identification.

With rare exceptions, it's unlikely that weight value will come anywhere close to the original cost of the item. If you're not completely cash-strapped, but simply tempted by the relentless media push to empty your jewelry box, then ask yourself if you truly want to sell something as scrap that at one time held some sentiment for you. Talk to your jeweler about redesigning or refurbishing your outdated treasures.

A certified jeweler is highly skilled at appraisal, design consultation, model making, carving, metallurgy, filing, burnishing, polishing, gem-setting and much more. With a fine jeweler's touch, almost any unwanted jewelry becomes valuable again and saves you the hassle of selling your old gold jewelry.

Contact Information
============================
Gold and Gems Fine Jewelry
Ron Hansen
541-488-2753
web@goldandgems.com
http://www.goldandgems.com/

Gold and Gems Fine Jewelry
25 N. Main St,
Ashland, Oregon 97520
877.917.8477

Get Your Own Radio Station For Free

2009-07-28T09:44:00.000-05:00

Get Your Own Radio Station For Free

I'm listing to some music right now from an online radio station that I own. My play list is not too big at the moment, only 7 songs, but I was just testing how the site worked and those 7 songs only took me 2-3 minutes to find and then add to the play list.

I didn't have to upload anything.

This new site is called Live IPs (http://www.liveips.com). Unlike other radio stations that you an create, all of your selections must come from YouTube. Yes, these are not just songs, but videos so I guess saying you can have your own MTV (The way it USED to be) would be more accurate than saying it's a radio station, but everyone knows and understands radio. Besides, if you minimize the station player window (it's completely browser-based) you only hear the music just like a radio station.

You can use the station you create in two ways: 1) LIVE is much like a live radio show and you have to keep selecting songs and add them to the station. or 2) you can use a play list and build your list ahead of time and them play them all at once. If you create a play list it will repeat and keep playing as long as you have your DJ window open on your computer.

Registering for an account is easy just like you would find on most other sites. When you register for a station or channel, you also are registered for the site forums which can be accesses from the menu menu of the site. There you can talk to other DJs, learn more about the site, tell others about the station you create, and ask questions if you need help using the system.

To add songs to your play list, select the option for play list. Then you can click on the link for "Search YouTube!". This will open a window that gives you access to Youtube videos. You can also open a new browser window and go to YouTube that way. After you find a video you need to add the information to LiveIPs. Enter in the artist name and title first. Then add the link to the video and you can drag and drop the title into this field. The URL that you want will look like this one: http://www.YouTube.com/watch?v=-DMYDp8y6SU.

You can describe your video if you want to and then rate it so people know what you think about it. The last thing is to enter in the length of the video you are adding in minutes and seconds. Then click on "insert" and it will be added to your play list. This doesn't take long and you if you add 10 3 minute songs you have programmed about 30 minutes of music in about 3 minutes.

Some may complain that this is not like real radio because you cannot talk live and I admit that is one limitation that the site owners have not addressed yet, but I don't think it's a huge problem given all that you can do with a station. It shouldn't be too hard to create a video of yourself and add it whenever you want to talk to listeners of your station. You could also create ads to play in between songs the same way.

Take a look at http://www.liveips.com and see what you think. Listen to one of the channels and open an account for your own free radio station. If you have questions they have a community forum where you can get tips and make suggestions. I think you will the site easy to use and a lot of fun.

Product or Service Reviewed: LiveIPs.com
Description: Offers uses free accounts they can use to create online radio stations. The only limitation is that the material must be videos found on YouTube.com. Stations can play 24 hours a day and there are no bandwidth limitations at this time.
URL: http://www.liveips.com/

Killer iPhone App Offered

2009-07-24T10:35:00.000-05:00

First iPhone Spy Call Software Technology Now Available

Groundbreaking iPhone software can remotely control 3G and 3GS models to turn on the microphone and allow users to listen from another phone. The spy software is undetectable and is suitable for use by parents protecting teenagers, or corporations and investigators that need to monitor communications including cell phone GPS location, call log activity, SMS, email, and call intercept.

July 23, 2009 -- FlexiSPY Ltd, has developed and released the only commercially available spy call software for iPhone, and is offering it in new versions of its FlexiSPY iPhone Spy Phone software. FlexiSPY develops cutting-edge solutions for iPhone, BlackBerry, Windows Mobile, and Nokia-Symbian that are widely used to supervise and protect teenagers and employees, and to investigate infidelity and criminal activity. Adding spycall to smartphone monitoring of SMS text messages, email, call logs, location tracking and cell phone call intercept (phone tap) completes the spy toolkit.

FlexiSPY - When Failure is Not an Option

A spy call is similar to an audio bug; and provides the ability to secretly switch on the iPhone microphone from any other phone, and listen into the immediate surroundings.

FlexiSPY has software packages with various performance levels for all iPhone 2G, 3G, and 3GS models, iPhone Spy - BASIC, LIGHT and PRO. The new spy call technology is offered in the popular PRO package, which also secretly records all SMS messages, Call Records, Emails and GPS locations. The highly anticipated release of FlexiSPY iPhone PRO-X that adds call intercept is expected soon.

FlexiSPY is high quality spy software; it leaves no trace of installation, and is completely undetectable. It offers full remote control of all internal settings plus the unique ability to remotely disable and uninstall itself. FlexiSPY silently uploads data via GPRS or WiFi connection to globally distributed secure servers where all data is accessible from secure user web accounts and includes a map display with control options for historical and real time tracking. Also offered is email relaying, which forwards captured data to a user specified email address.

FlexiSPY iPhone LIGHT is identical to PRO, with the exception of spy call. BASIC lacks remote control and email capture, but starting at only $39.99 per quarter, it offers more features at a lower cost than the best offerings from competitors. Discounted upgrades from BASIC to LIGHT or PRO are also included.

"FlexiSPY has helped thousands of people worldwide protect loved ones and understand the reasons for relationship problems. We are also particularly proud of the modest part we have played in bringing criminals to justice" says Marc Harris, Marketing Manager of FlexiSPY Co Ltd. " Given the success of the iPhone, we will be able to offer these benefits to an even greater audience."

"Our customers continually confirm that FlexiSPY is the most powerful spy phone solution available anywhere today, and that the benefits of its technical sophistication really becomes apparent to them when actually used in real life situations - particularly features such as remote uninstall that protect their confidentiality" says Harris. "We decided to introduce the iPhone BASIC for cost sensitive customers who can now experience a professional grade upgradable product at a price that is much cheaper than the alternative low-quality products that are easily detected and often result in customers getting caught"

Not only is cell phone monitoring software invaluable for concerned spouses, parents, and corporations, but also can be used by law enforcement, financial institutions, mobile backup companies, and others. FlexiSPY is obtainable through online purchase and direct download to supported mobile devices from the FlexiSPY.com website.

About FlexiSPY Ltd
FlexiSPY is the acknowledged leader in the design and development of professional grade cell phone monitoring software; and is the only company offering cross-platform spyphone software solutions for BlackBerry, iPhone, Windows Mobile, and Nokia-Symbian to consumer, corporate and government markets. The company stands behind their products with service including live chat, live phone support with experienced staff, extensive documentation, and an unmatched 10-day, no-quibble unconditional money back guarantee.

First iPhone SpyCall Software Technology Now Available

Contact:
Media Services
Flexispy Ltd.
USA 1-646-240-4063
UK 44 207 979 7126
Hong Kong 85 230 509 021

Vegas Magazine

2009-07-05T11:22:00.000-05:00

Vegas

by Fern Siegel , Wednesday, June 24, 2009
I arrived at work one morning to find a copy of Vegas on my desk, with a Post-it slapped above the strangely death-like gaze of actress Heather Graham. The note read: "Mock me." As my colleagues will attest, I'm the first to do a coffee run and aim to be a congenial office mate. So let the jabs begin!

In all seriousness, it wasn't that hard. What is it about Las Vegas that brings out the big hair and big jewelry? Or the nightclub ads that give Calvin Klein's a run for their money? It helps explain why the lifestyle magazine's mission, per its company president, is to "arm readers with all the ingredients necessary for their pursuit of Luxury, Access, Money and Power." Wait till this guy finds out about the recession, will he be surprised!

Then again, Sin City is billed as an escape from America. That means you can gamble 24/7 while being served endless cocktails, then get married by an Elvis impersonator to a stripper you met 15 minutes earlier in a neon-lit chapel.

Yes, I know all about the family-friendly efforts and the hotels that make the Sphinx look like a hood ornament, but when it comes to glitzy overkill, Las Vegas stands alone. (The Venetian's Tao Beach features a pool surrounded by 14-foot-high columns of fire, Xboxes, daybeds and a 30-foot bar.) Too often, luxury and money are used for conspicuous consumption. People, try emulating fashion icon Diana Vreeland, who said less jewelry made more of a statement. As for Power, there is the power to indulge your fantasies -- just ask your LV cabdriver -- and the power to jump-start sane health care. Given how most of us treat our bodies, it's probably a toss-up.

Vegas, however, celebrates the body beautiful, which can mean full-time work in its namesake, according to the "model couple" profiled in the "Voyeur" section, which is top-heavy with local talent -- from Michael Curry, a master puppeteer, to poker champ Phil Hellmuth. Laura Diane and Jay Rebholz run a modeling agency that provides DJs, go-go dancers, valet parkers and golf caddies. Posed among mannequins and scattered limbs, a la "Dexter," Jay is draped in black, apparently fulfilling George Costanza's dream to be "ensconced in velvet," while Laura is sporting a hot pink teddy, her hands perched possessively on Jay's thigh.

Laura, 28, was once a pussycat doll at Pure, a local hotspot, but admitted, "My knees started hurting." I feel your pain! Ask anyone who spends hours at work in front of a computer, moving only to order lunch. The joints are the first thing to go; idealism is the second.

Perhaps we could take a page out of Elaine Newton's book. Vegas pop-culture editor Michael Shulman asked local VIPS "What can't you live without?" Newton, who is slugged "hostess/icon," picked the agedashi tofu at Raku, since "freedom" and "culture" were probably too generic. Her dogs, Troy and Geisha, came in second. She's also a big fan of Botox, which, judging from the photo, may be used on the poodles. I was stunned, however, by "icon," a term usually reserved for a name, face, picture or edifice that carries well-known significance and embodies certain qualities, like the Empire State Building or JFK.

Hold the presses! Newton isn't alone. Apparently, there is a second icon in LV: Jojo Zanone-Pucci, who has a passion for and expertise in upscale timepieces. There are macro icons and micro icons. Now, I agree with Ms. Z-P about the artistry of classic watches. To quote Keats, "a thing of beauty is a joy forever," but a Cartier Tank Louis is also an acquired taste. The under-30 crowd tells time via their cell phones. I'm guessing they take the same approach to an exquisitely crafted Bucherer chronograph, profiled in the mag's "Indulge" section, as they do to newspapers.

Vegas, which is heavy on profiles and accessory features, is splashy, like the city. In short, it's oversized, loaded with pretty women and divorced from current economic reality. Then again, if you are nostalgic for the Reagan era, Vegas leads the way.

MAG STATS
Published by: Niche Media Holdings/Greenspun Media Group
Frequency: 10 times a year
Web site: http://www.vegasmagazine.com

This commentary is insightful. I recommend it to others.
Post your response to the public Magazine Rack blog.
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Fern Siegel is Deputy Editor of MediaPost.

Magazine Rack for Wednesday, June 24, 2009:
http://www.mediapost.com/publications/?fa=Articles.showArticle&art_aid=108617

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42 Million Americans Listen to Radio Every Week

2009-04-24T14:08:00.000-05:00

Friday, April 24, 2009

42 Million Americans Listen to Radio Weekly on Digital Audio Platforms

The latest study by Arbitron and Edison Research shows continued growth in usage and ownership of various forms of digital audio platforms, including online radio, iPod/MP3 players, and podcasting. The weekly online radio audience increased significantly in the past year to 17% of the U.S. population age 12 and older; up from 13% in 2008. On a weekly basis, online radio reaches 20% of 25-to-54 year-olds; up from 15% in 2008.

Bill Rose, senior vice president of marketing, Arbitron Inc., says "The sharp growth in weekly usage of Online radio... provides compelling evidence that radio's digital platforms may be reaching critical mass. We are... seeing encoded streams of AM/FM broadcasts with significant audience in local markets."

Key findings from The Infinite Dial 2009: Radio's Digital Platforms, include:

More than one in five radio listeners (21%) say AM/FM radio has a big impact on their lives; ranking second only to owners of the Apple iPhone in particular (23%) and cell phone owners in general (47%) as the audio platform/device that has a big impact on people's lives.

Online radio listeners are more likely to be upscale, well-educated and employed full time;

- 54% of weekly online radio listeners are employed full-time (compared to 43% among persons 12 and older);
- 16% of weekly online radio listeners live in homes with an annual income greater than $100,000 (vs. 10% among persons 12 and older);
- 37% of weekly online radio listeners have a college degree or higher education level (vs. 29% among persons 12 and older).

Weekly online video viewing among persons age 12 and older is up significantly in the past year, from 18% in 2008 to 27% (approximately 69 million) in 2009.

- 34% of persons age 12 and older report having a profile on Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn, or any other social networking Web site, up from - 24% in 2008
- 63% of teens age 12-to-17 report having a profile on these social networking sites
- 64% 18-to-24 year-olds have a profile on these social networking sites.

iPod/portable MP3 player ownership and iPod use continues to grow dramatically.

- 42% of persons age 12 and older own an iPod or other brand of portable MP3 player

- 64% of 18-to-24 year-olds own a digital audio player

- 32% of teens age 12-to-17 and persons 18-to-24 are spending less time with over-the-air radio specifically due to time spent with iPod/other portable MP3 players

- 22% of Americans age 12 and older have ever listened to an audio podcast

- 11% (27 million) reported having listened to an audio podcast in the past month in 2009

Tom Webster, vice president of strategy and marketing, Edison Research, concludes that "... consumer use of new digital platforms... is becoming nearly ubiquitous... a window of opportunity for radio to... spread its content across the expanding choices consumers use to control their media experience."

The complete study, The Infinite Dial 2009: Radio's Digital Platforms, may be downloaded free of charge via the Arbitron and Edison Research Web sites linked here.

Post your response to the public Research Brief blog.

See what others are saying on the Research Brief blog.

We use the term research in the broadest possible sense. We do not perform an audit, nor do we analyze the data for accuracy or reliability. Our intention is to inform you of the existence of research materials and so we present reports as they are presented to us. The only requirements we impose are that they are potentially useful and relevant to our readers and that they pass the rudimentary test of relying on acceptable industry standards. We explicitly do not take responsibility for the findings. Please be aware of this and check the source for yourself if you intend to rely on any of the data we present.

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Brand Manager Pushes Life and Brand to Extremes

2009-04-06T16:19:00.000-05:00

Hansen Beverage Company Brand Manager Pushes Life and Brand to Extremes

Corona, CA, April 06, 2009 -- Steve Jugan Crowned Executive Level Crossover Athlete 2009 Push Champion.

When Steve Jugan Allied Brand manager for Hansen's Beverage Company decided to make Lost Energy the title sponsor for an ultimate actions sports adventure game, he decided to show his true and pure dedication by walking the walk or should we say Board, Ride, Bike, Skate, Wake and Surf. Jugan from Yorba Linda, California joined a group of other action sport junkies to do something that has never been done before and be part of The Push-Lost Energy invitational. The Push is a one day, non-stop "Hexathlon" of action sports designed to literally push an athlete both mentally and physically from one event to another for 15 hours straight across 160 miles of some of Southern California's most beautiful locations.

Jugan, the self-professed action sports enthusiast and native of California, has spent most of his life in the snow, dirt and surf, so when the founder of The Push Bob Krause and partner Marco Thompson approached him he was sold. "I get a ton of pitches from people with a lot of ideas, but I had never heard of an event quite like this one," said Jugan. Convinced that the event catered to hit his target demographics and psychographics, he offered his event prowess to the table and became the title sponsor. "The Push is a wicked combination of six of the most popular action sports - Snowboarding, Motocross, Downhill Mountain Biking, Skateboarding, Wakeboarding and Surfing - all mixed up into a day long adventure," says Krause, the creator of The Push. This concept was devised by him and his 18 year old son Ryan as the ultimate father-son bonding experience in which they completed 23 non stop action sports while traveling over 300 miles across southern California all in one day.

The Push was held on March 28, 2009, participants included Amateur and Pro athletes as well as a mix of sport enthusiasts and business executive types all hoping to be crowned the worlds best crossover athlete. Participants arrived Friday night March 27th at the Lake Arrowhead Resort for an evening of schmoozing, food and some basic training. At 8am the next morning they were on the slopes and ready to roll. From that point on participants drove from location to location showing off their very best to the judges while the event organizers had every type of board and bike waiting for them at each location.

"I can't wipe the smile off my face, 2010 is going to be unreal," says Jugan. "Only in So-Cal can you be on the slopes in the morning, ride the desert in the day and then surf until the sun goes down.

To learn more about the Push, go to

www.lostenergydrink.com/newswww.lostenergydrink.com/news www.thepushgames.com or check out their blog at http://thepush09.wordpress.com

Contact Information
Lost Energy Drink
Steve Jugan
951-280-3241
steven.jugan@hansens.com
www.lostenergydrink.com

Winning Retail Business Plans Released

2008-11-26T15:34:00.002-06:00

Retail Institute Releases Winning Retail Business Plans

Create a Winning Retail Business Plan in one day and get the financing you need.

Toronto, Canada, November 26, 2008 -- The revised 2009 edition of Winning Retail Business Plans is now available at a discounted promotional price. This business plan system will give any aspiring retailer the tools to get their concept on paper and create a professional Winning Retail Business Plan.

"There are scores of entrepreneurs out there who have great retail concepts but are not sure of how to get to the next level" stated Ron Pawlowski, Managing Partner at The Retail Institute.

Creating a written business plan with financial objectives and projections is essential if a retail concept needs to be shared with any stakeholder. These can include potential partners, employees, suppliers and most essential, investors. The package is designed so that any aspiring retailer can create a Winning Retail Business Plan with all the financials and present the plan to conventional and non conventional investors. "Entrepreneurs can consider presenting their plan to local banks as well as a wide array of other financing sources that they may not even be aware of. In the long run, many of these unconventional sources are better for the entrepreneur." added Pawlowski. The revised package comes with a 111 page manual, retail business plan template as well as spreadsheets for personal financial statements, cash flow projections, cash sensitivity projections and a trial balance sheet. The Winning Retail Business Plans package is also ideal for existing retailers who wish to expand or obtain secondary financing.

The site can be accessed at http://www.retailinstitute.ca

Contact:
Ron Pawlowski
The Retail Institute
Toronto Canada
905 778 1234
ronp@retailinstitute.ca
www.retailinstitute.ca

Contact Information
The Retail Institute
Ron Pawlowski
905 778 1234
ronp@retailinstitute.ca
www.retailinstitute.ca

Performance Benchmarking
Christian Randolph
This Is Funny
Adult Portals

European Search Engine Looks For Sale or Merger

2008-10-14T10:19:00.000-05:00

UK-Based Gasta Search Engine Network Enters Into Sales / Merger Talks

The Gasta search network is a blended search that will deliver web results, news, videos, and images with one single keyword search, then lets users social bookmark search results in their own library. The Gasta search network extends its reach into Europe and USA, has search engines launched in South Africa, China, and Japan. Gasta is a European trademark and the Gasta search engine was last year's winner of the PWC award for innovation, it also holds one of the UK most valuable property domain holdings.

Belfast, Ireland (PRWEB) October 14, 2008 -- It was announced here today that the Belfast-based web 2.0 Search Engine Network Gasta is in talks with several companies for a possible sale or merger. A well established player in European, US, and Asian search, The Gasta.com search engine network currently consists of 450+ Domains, is translated into six languages, offers a contextualised ad system, powerful SEO options, keyword management tools, and full service administration to create, launch, and quickly deploy new search engines in emerging markets and geographical regions as needed.

Gasta has created a very easy to use back-end admin system that is designed for non technical use, within the admin you can add new keywords, manage ad campaigns, replicate advertising codes, and launch new search index's and directories in minutes, Gasta has developed its own text based contextualised ad system, InstantAdsTM and the keyword direct hit service SearchMatchTM allowing users to buy targeted keywords for the geographic region they do business in. As well as this there are many SEO options including InstantLinksTM the free link exchange system that publishes the main directory." We can launch new search engines in emerging regions very easily, with the rapid deployment platform we have developed" said Higgins. "We can launch in Poland and Malaysia very quickly and have been looking out for possible local partners on the ground in these regions".

While Gasta.com is well-established in the Search Industry, it has chosen to maintain a low profile and provided state of the art services to its visitors and advertisers. Christian Nielsen, owner of NielsenTech.com, an Internet consulting firm located in the US said he has used Gasta for many years. "Yes, I was submitting client sites to Gasta's system back as early as 1999 when we started doing SEO and web promotion. They have evolved over the years, and we have keep in contact due to their attitude of service and ethics. Most other firms in the US don't seem to know about them and that's been a competitive edge for us."

Gasta.com owner Francis Higgins believes that now is a 'good time' to transition the search engines network due to the convergence of web 2.0 technologies. Higgins said "We believe that we have created great distribution platform to easily explore and rapidly develop new and emerging regions. We have looked into the possibility of partnering with a mobile carrier to deliver local mobile search in which great opportunities are coming in the future, Gasta works well now on mobiles but we would need the expertise of the big carriers to make an impact and monetize the service.

We have worked hard over the past 12 years to improve the reach and the depth of the Gasta network. With the rapid deployment and white label solution we have developed we can quickly launch blended search engines that will bring up web results, videos, news, and images with one keyword. Our brand commands a high level of respect by those that are familiar with us and those that do some research will see our extensive digital footprint built up over the years that shows our quality and consistency and has established our brand's value in the search marketing industry."

Contacts
Francis Higgins
Comm Director Gasta Search Networks
bizz @ amiwired.com
+44(0)2890333748
Mob:+44(0)7816447363

Independent Film Quarterly Magazine

2008-09-19T15:30:00.000-05:00

Independent Film Quarterly

by Tanya Irwin , Friday, September 19, 2008

I CONFESS, I'M addicted to magazines. I can't go anywhere near a newsstand or bookstore without coming away with at least one. So seeing a free pile of magazines sitting anywhere is practically like hitting the lottery -- or at least winning on a scratch-off ticket.

I was up in Traverse City, Mich. earlier this month at the Traverse City Film Festival hanging out with my "good friends" Madonna and Michael Moore when I spied a pile of IFQs sitting on a table in one of the theater lobbies. Score!

The cover is intriguing. A black and white photo of a female who looks like a cross between a young Deborah Harry and Nico is set against a pink background. The issue is billed as the "Cannes Special Edition." Even though Danny Glover is the only name I recognized on the cover (I'll admit it, I like movies but I'm no art film aficionado) I figure maybe I'll know who some of the people are after reading about them. And maybe I'd learn something I didn't know from perusing the usual bourgeois entertainment zines.

As it turns out, the cover model is Emmanuelle Seigner, who appeared in "The Diving Bell and The Butterfly," which I have heard of. She's married to legendary director Roman Polanski. Penned by Nicole Holland, the interview is Q&A style and while it's decently written and somewhat interesting, I couldn't help but cringe at some of the "questions." I use quote marks because in several cases they aren't so much questions as statements of fawning adoration. Obviously the interviewee is a big deal in the film industry, but the tone of the article struck me as unprofessional and amateurish. I felt more like I was reading a high school newspaper than an internationally circulated magazine.

If that were the only such article in the 64-page magazine, I could give it a pass. But wait, there's more. We move on to another Q&A piece by Nicole Holland, this time with Asia Argento, whose father, Dario Argento, is a big-deal director in Europe. I've never heard of either of them or their movies, but the four-page piece is much the same as the first piece.

Moving along, there's another three-page Q&A by Nicole Holland, this time with Cecile De France, another actress I've never heard of. She was in a French movie with Gerard Depardieu. Finally, someone I have heard of. I'd been starting to feel seriously un-artsy fartsy.

The magazine describes itself on its Web site as "one of the fastest growing Film/Art & Society magazines featuring exclusive in-depth interviews with celebrated iconic figures in film, music and pop culture. IFQ invites you to experience this avant-garde film and pop culture movement." The advertising statistics sheet states that the target audience includes "producers, actors, directors, musicians, artists, film distributors, record labels, entertainment attorneys, dub houses, film labs, film festival directors, music festival directors, art festival directors, editors and the general public alike." I'm guessing they skew fairly young since the magazine has a profile on MySpace.

IFQ can be found in select Barnes & Nobles, Borders, Books-A-Million, on 3,000 newsstands nationwide and at domestic and international film, music and art festivals and related events. It has controlled circulation mailings that are sent to industry leaders, trade shows, music festivals, art festivals and film festivals, domestic and international.

Every article in the magazine is in Q&A style. While I don't mind that formatting as an occasional alternative to the objective third-person narration, it becomes grating after a while. Unless the person is a really big deal, I don't think it's necessary to preserve every single word they say. Spare the reader the gory details and get to the point. Exercise your competence as a writer and spin a tale that draws me in. Otherwise my take is that the writer is just being lazy or doesn't know how to write an actual story. But maybe to the 20,000 readers of this magazine, all of these interviews ARE with big-deal people. In which case, I guess all I can say is, "Enjoy."

MAG STATS
Published by: Disticor (Newsstand Distributor); Publisher and Editor in Chief: Stuart Alson
Frequency: Quarterly
Web site

Post your response to the public Magazine Rack blog.

See what others are saying on the Magazine Rack blog.
Tanya Irwin is Deputy Editor of MediaPost. She can be reached at tanya@mediapost.com.

Magazine Rack for Friday, September 19, 2008:
http://blogs.mediapost.com/magazine_rack/?p=526

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Oilmen Happy Over Conflicts Dividing Electric-Drive Vehicle Industry

2008-09-15T19:36:00.000-05:00

PLUG-IN ELECTRIC CAR RACE GETS TENSE

Consumers can help pick the tomorrow's winners by completing the on-line "Join the Plug-In Revolution" survey.

PAPILLION, NE, April 17, 2008 - Electric sports car builder Tesla is suing electric luxury car builder Fisker, claiming the latter stole company trade secrets. GM and Toyota are sparing, directly and via surrogates over to the relative merits of their competing plug-in electric car strategies. The furor over California's supposed retreat on its Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate continues to spiral with "conflict of interest" charges against one of its Air Resources Board members.

At stake is a rapidly evolving, multi-billion dollar global market for the next generation of electric cars, which use little or no petroleum, promising to reduce the nation's dependence on imported oil. Propelled by intensifying concerns over national security, climate change and resource depletion, carmakers large and small are racing to develop and market three classes of electric-drive vehicles: Plug-in Hybrids, Extended-Range Electric Vehicles and Battery Electric Vehicles.

Plug-in Hybrids are essentially internal combustion engine vehicles that offer electric-only driving ranges from 10-30 miles. Vehicles in this class will include the next generation Toyota Prius and Saturn VUE, both in development and slated to be available sometime around 2010.

Extended-Range Electric Vehicles are predominately electric cars with onboard internal combustion engine generators that recharge the large batteries, giving the vehicles significant range beyond that of their battery pack. This class includes the Chevy Volt, Fisker Karma and Tesla Whitestar, that latter two now locked in the clinches of a legal boxing match.

Battery Electric Vehicles are traditional, battery-only cars that are charged exclusively by an external electric power source such as the grid or a home owner's solar panels. These vehicles include the Think city and Nissan Denke, the former available for sale in Europe and the latter to appear in America sometime after 2010.

Fortunes and careers are being wagered in this high stakes gamble to become the environmental vehicle leader of the 21st Century. Who will win with which technology is yet to be seen. At last count, there are nearly 20 different electric car programs currently in development by manufacturers in North America, Europe and Asia.

The Plugin.EVWorld.Com (http://plugin.evworld.com) on-line survey is giving consumers the opportunity to express their preferences and concerns about the cars of the future. The survey takes only a minute to complete and those completing the survey will be rewarded by a FREE downloadable Thank You gift worth $10. To date, more than 1,100 people have completed the survey.

"Join the Plug-in Revolution" is sponsored by EV World (http://www.evworld.com).

On-line since 1998, EV World is recognized as one of the leading Internet information portals on sustainable electric-drive vehicle technology, public policy, investments and people. For further information, please contact us at 01 (402) 339.9877 US Central Time.

Contact Information:
Bill Moore
EV World.Com, Inc.
Editor in Chief
P.O. Box 461132
Papillion, NE
United States 68046
Voice: 402.339.9877

Laser Hair Removal Threatened by Common Dangers

2008-09-12T23:39:00.000-05:00

New Route to Hair Free Skin - But Are You At Risk of Serious Complications?

In the USA in 2007 nearly 1.5 mil. laser hair removal procedures were carried out. Shockingly a staggering 19.9% of patients undergoing these procedures experience complications. LaserHairRemoval-Info.com was founded in 2005 to provide consumers with little-publicized information on laser hair removal, and is launching a new book aiming to bring the knowledge needed by consumers out from behind the locked doors of the laser clinics and places it firmly in the hands of those that need it.

New York, NY, September 12, 2008 -- Success of Laser Hair Removal Threatened by Increasingly Common Dangers and Widespread Ignorance.

The removal of unwanted hair using lasers is becoming increasingly commonplace; in the USA in 2007, nearly 1.5 million laser hair removal procedures were carried out1 and shockingly a staggering 19.9% of patients undergoing these procedures experience complications2.

Increasingly consumers are having to take their fate into their own hands and perform the research and investigation necessary to ensure that they receive the appropriate treatment rather than relying on the dubious expertise of some of the laser hair removal clinics, many of which are not operating under the direct supervision of a qualified doctor or dermatologist.

"I never want to go near a laser again," says former laser hair removal patient Andrea (age 43) of Brooklyn, New York. After undergoing treatments totaling $2,900 in cost over the course of a year, Andrea has now reverted to shaving her unwanted body hair as the treatment was almost completely ineffective. "The wasted money, although it is a lot of money to me, is irrelevant compared to what I have suffered in pain and embarrassment undergoing treatment after treatment which initially had no effect at all and then when the laser strength was increased resulted in sore, unsightly burns."

Now a brand new report has been created, aimed squarely at consumers who want to get laser hair removal without the risk of side effects or ineffective treatment. Readers can download this free insider report, Top 10 Must-Know Tips on Laser Hair Removal, from http://www.laserhairremoval-info.com/download/booklet.htm. This no-nonsense guide will help patients to avoid the fate experienced by Andrea and ensure that they get the right laser hair removal treatment for their specific circumstances.

"Be prudent and selective when evaluating your options for any possible cosmetic procedure," advises dermatologist Gary Monheit, MD, president of the ASDS.

Patients must realize that just because a laser clinic near their home is offering treatment for a good price doesn't mean that this particular clinic possesses the expertise or the equipment to safely and effectively treat their skin type. The knowledge offered in the newly published book: Insider Secrets of Laser Hair Removal (available from September 2008) gives consumers the ability to understand the whole process of laser hair removal and how it will apply to their own physiology and specific goals.

LaserHairRemoval-Info.com was founded in 2005 to provide consumers with little-publicized information on laser hair removal. The site offers a range of articles, research materials and message forums for people considering this life-changing treatment.

Contact Information
LaserHairRemoval-Info.com
Ingrid Preube
49-531-577497
ingrid@laserhairremoval-info.com

Industry Makes Request to Decrease Asbestos Regulations

2008-08-19T10:30:00.000-05:00

LegalView Offers Mesothelioma Blog Readers Details of Disconcerting Request to Decrease Asbestos Regulations from Industry

LegalView informed mesothelioma blog readers of an potentially troubling request by automotive, chemical and mining industries' paid researchers to "water down" asbestos regulations. The industry-hired scientists argued that asbestos is no longer as dangerous, even though several international health organizations have declared no safe level of the material.

Denver, CO - August 2, 2008 -- LegalView, the number one resource for everything and anything legal on the Internet, recently updated readers with the latest piece of mesothelioma information, relating to the request by paid researchers for the automotive, chemical and mining industries to decrease asbestos regulations. In a July 2008 summit in Washington D.C., the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) met with the Office of Solid Waste and Emergency regarding the request. The industry researchers argued that asbestos fibers found in sand, taconite and other materials are less toxic than originally deemed in the 1980s when the regulations were created. However, the EPA along with the International Agency for Research on Cancer, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and The World Health Organization (WHO) have all determined that no level of exposure to asbestos fibers is safe and the material as well as products using asbestos should be permanently banned.

Asbestos was mined for years and was frequently used in the construction industry for an array of products, most often insulation. However, it was determined that exposure to asbestos fibers causes a deadly form of lung cancer known as mesothelioma. Individuals who suffer from mesothelioma cancer should contact an experienced mesothelioma attorney to receive a legal consultation on the possibility of developing a personalized mesothelioma lawsuit. Because the cancer is fatal and no completely effective mesothelioma treatment exists to reduce the disease it may be important to develop litigation and potentially receive monetary compensation to pay for costly medical bills. Mesothelioma is a dormant condition that can take decades before symptoms reveal themselves, at which point, little can be done to improve the illness.

According to news reports, at the Washington D.C. summit, approximately 83 public health officials signed a 29-page report on the "science-for-hire" practice, which Dr. Michael Silverstein, who wrote the report, alleges is occurring on the part of automotive, chemical and mining industries. The report, opposing the request, urged the EPA to focus on public health rather than big industry and to avoid decreasing the asbestos regulations.

Learn more about this ongoing issue as well as other legal issues through LegalView.com. LegalView continues to maintain a comprehensive library of legal issues; issues that may be causing harm to millions of Americans each year. LegalView recently updated several of its issues to include detailed information and news. Some of the recently updated sites include information on the Zimmer Durom cup, the Ketek antibiotic and Avandia prescriptions.

The Durom cup, manufactured by Zimmer Holdings, is an artificial hip component that has been under fire by physicians who have said the device is failing their patients. Because of the alleged Zimmer Durom cup risks, the company has ceased manufacture of the hip socket. However, since production began in 2006, nearly 12,000 patients received the cup and may be affected by the failing hip socket and should contact a knowledgeable attorney for advice about the potential Durom cup recall.

Ketek is a pharmaceutical prescription antibiotic that is used to treat upper respiratory infections including pneumonia or bronchitis. Reports have tied the antibiotic with the possibility of severe liver damage among patients. Additional Ketek side effects may also be considered dangerous and those who report signs of yellowing skin or jaundice should consult a doctor immediately

The Avandia portal is continually being updated to provide the public with extensive research, scientific findings and experienced attorney links. Avandia is a prescription drug used to treat type 2 diabetes, which currently affects millions of individuals in the United States. Recent research, however, has found a disturbing link between the use of Avandia and an increase of heart disease as well as osteoporosis among patients. Individuals who feel they may have symptoms relating to heart disease or who have suffered from a bone fracture likely induced by the Avandia side effects, should speak with a medical expert immediately. Additionally, it is advisable to locate an experienced pharmaceutical law firm in case legal advice is necessary for an Avandia settlement.

About LegalView:
LegalView.com is a public service brought to you by Legal WebTV Network, LLC, a Limited Liability Corporation created by a group of the nation's most highly respected law firms: Anapol Schwartz; Brent Coon and Associates; Burg Simpson; Cohen, Placitella and Roth; James F. Humphreys and Associates; Lopez McHugh; and Thornton and Naumes. For more information on the accomplishments and track records of LegalView.com's superior sponsoring law firms and to get in touch with LegalView attorneys, visit LegalView at www.LegalView.com/.

CONTACT INFORMATION
Katie Kelley
LegalView
720-226-6613

Alan Haburchak
LegalView
720-226-6613

Recording Artist Karlina Covington's CD Sales Benefit Youth Center

2008-08-18T23:26:00.000-05:00

Local Independent Female Recording Artist Karlina Covington Croons for the Community

Cnotes Records Recording Artist Karlina Covington is helping to empower our youth by releasing a new cd where a % of the proceeds will benefit the Eugene Bowman Center in San Diego, CA

Jul 27, 2008 - Cnotes Records Recording Artist Karlina Covington is crooning for our community and helping to empower our youth by releasing a new cd where a percentage of the proceeds will benefit the Eugene Bowman Economic Empowerment Center in San Diego California (http://www.empowering-youth.org/) headed by Lorraine Bowman and Lauren Town.

Based in North Hollywood, California, the record label she is signed to, Cnotes Records (www.cnotesrecords.com) is dedicated to helping our community by not only by contributing currency, but time and education via entertainment or "edutainment" as well. Cnotes Records CEO, Cedric Buard says, "by helping our community we help our world, and Cnotes Records vows to help our world."

Karlina believes that by helping and educating our youth, we can build a better future for us all. Her release "Make Me High" is mostly an R&B/Pop release, but also features strong blues, rock and smooth jazz genre hits in the mind of Alicia Keys, Pink, Aliyah, and Janet Jackson, including an undeniable original sound. The 1st single "See You Again" is already gaining high exposure on the independent charts, and has won over 6 reviewer awards, including "Track of the Day" on a popular Internet site. You can listen to her latest single and more for FREE by visiting www.cnotesrecords.com

Karlina's CD Release party is planned for Saturday, August 30, 2008 (North Hollywood)
Make Me High Anticipated Release date: September 2, 2008 (Available online and via Cnotes Records)
Benefiting our community by providing high quality edutainment.

About the company:

Cnotes Records has been in business in the North Hollywood area since 2007, and has vowed from the beginning to help the community in which they do business and live. This is their 6th independent release and the first in which a percentage of the proceeds will benefit a non-profit organization. They serve the entertainment and small business industry and provide an abundance of products and services to help your business succeed. Visit www.cnotesrecords.com for more information.

Contact:
Cedric Buard
Cnotes Records
818.913.4854
www.cnotesrecords.com

For more information:
Keywords: Cnote,Cnotes,Records,Karlina,Covington,Cedric,Buard

Contact us: 5625 Satsuma Avenue North Hollywood, California 91601 8189134854 www.cnotesrecords.com info@cnotesrecords.com

StoresOnline, Stores Online, Imergent, and Terminal Resource

2008-08-17T20:01:00.000-05:00

We received a letter in the mail offering us a free meal and a free MP3 player if we would attend a "Conference" for StoresOnline that seems to be offering a complete package designed to let you sell things on the Internet. The main company behind this seems to be:

StoresOnline.com
Imergent, Inc.
754 E Technology Ave
Orem, UT 84097 US
801-434-8582 Phone
801-226-8848 Fax

Terminal Resource, L.C.
51 West Center, Suite 208
Orem, UT
888.296.5022
Fax 801.691.5566

Doing some searches in Google for "stores online scam" and "stores online sucks" will turn up some interesting listings that you may want to check out if you are thinking about attending. But you may save yourself a trip if you just visit their web site first. While the site looks very professional, the thing you will discover there is that they are offering their service for $300 a month. While they may be providing more than simple hosting, they better be providing a hell of a lot more, since that is pretty outrageous for any startup ecommerce hosting account that provides little in return that guarantees you will be making anything from your investment. Oh I forgot to mention that you have to commit to 1 YEAR of hosting with them, or $3,600. If you know little to nothing about web hosting, designing, marketing, and promotion I doubt VERY much that you will make your money back. Think about it. If you could really make a lot of money with little effort, wouldn't you just do that for your self to start with? Why would you sell a great money making system to others?

Your first clue is the fact that while they are offering something that you should be excited about and they have to give you a free meal AND a free MP3 player, just to make sure they get you in the door...!

So my advice is to check it out if you are interested. Get the free meal and free MP3 player. But make darned sure you know what you are investing in before you give them any money! If you have any doubts what I suggest is you look around and find an Internet or ecommerce consultant and pay them to help you get started. You will pay a LOT less money and have a MUCH better chance of starting a real business that may do well. And expect to pay a monthly hosting fee that will be between $15-$50 a month, NOT $300 a month!

P.S. I just found a site called Stores Online Sucks and I will list the link below. For me, this confirms EXACTLY what I had been thinking about this company. They are taking advantage of people that have some money but are generally clueless about the web.

Links
====
Rip Off Report: Stores Online
Stores Online Sucks

New IP Camera Technology Improves Surveillance

2008-08-15T23:56:00.000-05:00

Arecont Vision Sharpens the View at the Lucky Eagle Casino.

Arecont Megapixel Cameras Enable Improved Monitoring at Gaming Tables

GLENDALE, Calif.-- July 25, 2008 --The Lucky Eagle Casino in Southwest Washington State has completed a new installation of megapixel cameras from Arecont Vision, the industry leader in megapixel IP camera technology. The casino, which has been in operation since 1995, chose to upgrade their existing analog system in order to improve the ability to view and identify critical information on video.

"It is important that our surveillance operators clearly see the indexes of the cards," said Miguel Grijalva, Director of Surveillance, Lucky Eagle Casino. "We need to view suits and clearly distinguish between a heart and a diamond, and the analog cameras we had were not providing enough of this detail."

After installation on a test server of two Arecont Vision megapixel cameras, the AV2100 and the AV5100, for a two week evaluation, the Lucky Eagle Casino purchased Arecont Vision AV2100M 2 megapixel cameras to upgrade the existing system, supplementing their analog cameras. According to Mr. Grijalva, the Arecont Vision cameras deliver highly detailed images of jackpot hands, as well as increased accuracy in chip activity at the roulette tables.

Arecont Vision AV2100M 2 megapixel cameras have a frame rate of 24 fps (frames per second) with a resolution of 1,600 x 1,200 and a minimum illumination of only 0.1 lux @ F1.4. One of the latest additions to Arecont Vision's MegaVideo® line of megapixel cameras, AV2100M megapixel cameras leverage proprietary patent-pending technology and help alleviate the cost and frame rate shortcomings often associated with multi-megapixel camera systems. To help ensure image clarity, the AV2100M delivers full motion HDTV progressive scan resolution and for added cost-efficiency features Power over the Ethernet (PoE).

The HD resolution of the cameras allows wider shots, enabling the casino's surveillance staff to achieve comprehensive coverage using a single dedicated camera for each table. "The frame shot is the same as the analog camera frame shot, but the clarity is several times better," said Mr. Grijalva. "If a guest had a full flush, we can go back and readily confirm it because the picture quality is so excellent."

The camera also features a built-in electronic PTZ (pan/tilt/zoom) function. In addition to the improved clarity, the casino surveillance operators found that the digital zoom was highly beneficial in live monitoring or reviewing footage. These investigative digital capabilities help the casino spot unusual activity or instances of suspicious behavior or cheating, as well as help ensure employee procedure compliance.

According to Mr. Grijalva, his team was particularly impressed with the quality of the images produced by Arecont Vision AV2100M 2 megapixel IP cameras when viewing details on the roulette wheel and for identifying stacks of chips. "The new megapixel cameras have also helped determine if a customer's claim is valid or for claims of short changing on chips," he said. "We are considering adding Arecont Vision megapixel cameras to the lobby entrances for facial recognition now as well."

For more information contact Arecont Vision by calling toll free 1-877-CAMERA-8, or visiting www.arecontvision.com

About Arecont Vision

Arecont Vision is the leading manufacturer of high-performance megapixel IP cameras and associated software. Arecont Vision products are made in the USA and feature proprietary low-cost massively parallel image processing architectures MegaVideo® and SurroundVideo® that represent a drastic departure from traditional analog and network camera designs. These innovative technologies enable Arecont Vision to deliver multi-megapixel digital video at analog camera price points.

EDITORS' NOTE: Electronic files and photos are available upon request by emailing Jennifer O'Reilly at in|fusion advertising at joreilly@ifadvertising.com
Contacts

in|fusion
Jennifer O'Reilly
phone: 203-252-2173
fax: 203-252-2174
e-mail: joreilly@ifadvertising.com

Teaching Kids About Math and Science Using Baseball

2008-08-08T19:47:00.000-05:00

Baseball Used to Teach Kids About Math and Science Through Sports Byte Competition

At minor league baseball stadiums, children ranging in age are learning the science and math behind the sport all while having a good time watching the game courtesy of the Ewing Kauffman Foundation and powered by Hot Lava Software.

Warrenton, VA, August 08, 2008 -- The Ewing Kauffman Foundation realized that a growing problem in our society is the lack of interest in the math and science fields of study, especially in the up and coming generation of students. With an interesting play on learning and enabled by Hot Lava Software, kids are "head faked", using the words of Randy Pausch, into learning about the science behind the game of baseball.

Minor League teams such as the Frederick Keys, Bowie Baysocks, Wilmington Blue Rocks, Delmarva Shorebirds, Kansas City T-Bones, and Aberdeen Ironbirds have already started participating in this new-age learning program.

At home games, between innings, a nutty professor takes the stage on top of the home team dugout. Quickly catching the attention of the audience, a cell phone ring is played over the loud speaker. The professor challenges the audience, "Are you smarter than me, the professor?"

Now that the audience is enticed, "the professor" asks a science-based question about the game of baseball such as "Which has more drag, a smooth ball (sporta) or a rough ball (sportb)?"

Using the technology by Hot Lava Software, answers are text messaged to a number that is displayed up on the big screen and immediately the user receives a text message back that states if the answer provided was correct along with a hot link to a site with more educational information about baseball. Out of all the participants, one is chosen to receive a prize package including things such as team paraphernalia all the way to a free Kajeet cell phone.

Audiences seem very interested in this technology-enabled between inning game. The pre-teen to teen ages especially show great interest in participating in a game at a baseball stadium where they are the target audience and they can utilize their cell phones. It is a change to the activities that focus more on younger children.

So far tens of thousands of baseball fans have been reached through this method of learning simply by attending a baseball game. Without even knowing, all of these users have experienced more than just a baseball game when the last pitch is thrown; they have been taught the physics behind the game and a few walk away inspired to learn more.

About the Kauffman Foundation
The Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation of Kansas City is a private, nonpartisan foundation that works with partners to advance entrepreneurship in America and improve the education of children and youth. The Kauffman Foundation was established in the mid-1960s by the late entrepreneur and philanthropist Ewing Marion Kauffman. Information about the Kauffman Foundation is available at www.kauffman.org

About Hot Lava Software, Inc.
Hot Lava Software Inc. is the leading provider of mobile authoring, publishing, delivery and tracking solutions. Using Hot Lava Software's content development and publishing system (LMA) integrated with the Hot Lava Mobile Delivery and Tracking System TM (MDTS) allows organizations to have the tools and knowledge needed to launch and track mobile initiatives faster, with more cost efficiency. Hot Lava Software provides mobile content solutions and a mobile content design, authoring and publishing solution to corporations, government and universities around the world. More information is available at http://www.hotlavasoftware.com/

Joy Torchia
(816) 932-1045
jtorchia@kauffman.org

Bob Sanregret
(540) 428-2988
bobs@hotlavasoftware.com

Contact Information

Hot Lava Software Inc
Laisa Bernard
540-428-2988
laisab@hotlavasoftware.com
http://www.hotlavasoftware.com

International Phone Service Comes To Beijing and Hong Kong

2008-08-05T09:27:00.000-05:00

Beijing and Hong Kong Get Super-Cheap International Phone Service with Rebtel

Rebtel expands low-cost and free interational mobile phone service to Beijing and Hong Kong.

Stockholm, Sweden - April 23 -- First Shanghai. Now Beijing and Hong Kong. In just three months, Rebtel http://www.rebtel.com, the people's global communications company, has delivered on its promise to expand low-cost and free international calling to more Chinese cities.

Starting today, Beijing and Hong Kong residents can use their mobile phones to call any phone, anywhere in the world for just pennies per minute, and make free calls to friends, family, and work colleagues in more than 40 countries.

Using Rebtel Direct, calls from Beijing and Hong Kong to the U.S. and Canada, for example, cost less than 2¢ per minute whether you're calling a landline or mobile phone. By comparison, the same calls on China Mobile will cost $1.16 per minute.

"But if you think Rebtel Direct rates are still too expensive you can use our Smart Call system and make that same calls for free," said Hjalmar Winbladh, Rebtel's co-founder and CEO. "With Rebtel you can now call friends and family in more than 40 countries around the world from Beijing or Hong Kong for nothing more than the cost of calling around the corner."

A Rebtel account can be set up in just a minute or two. The service works with any mobile phone just the way it is, and is registered and authorized to work with all Beijing and Hong Kong mobile operators.

There is no charge to set up a Rebtel account. All new comers get a free 10 minute call to test the service.

After an account is set up subscribers only pay for the minutes they use. Smart Calls between the counties served by Rebtel are always free and only one of the two people on a call must be a Rebtel subscriber.

"This is a great time to be expanding our service in China," said Winbladh. "Hong Kong and Beijing have been important international business centers throughout history, and now athletes and media from more than 200 countries around the world will soon converge on China for the Summer Olympics."

How Rebtel works
Rebtel gives people local phone numbers in their country to call their friends, family or work colleagues who live abroad.

By making all calls local, people can call each other as often as they like and talk as long as they want, for little or nothing more than the cost of the local calls.

That means, for example, Rebtel gives someone living in Beijing a local Beijing phone number that will connect them to their friend in New York. And Rebtel gives the person living in New York a local New York phone number to call their friend in Beijing.

Getting started is fast and easy:
1. Go to http://www.rebtel.com and enter your mobile number and your friend's mobile number.
2. Rebtel creates local numbers and sends them in text messages (SMS) to each phone.
3. Save the number in your phone's address book and use it any time to call your friend abroad.

About Rebtel
Rebtel is a global communications company for individuals and businesses that make international calls. With Rebtel it's possible to call any phone, anywhere in the world, for just pennies per minute. Rebtel's services can be used with any mobile phone without modification or software downloads. There is no charge to set up a Rebtel account. No monthly fees, no connection fees and no hidden costs. Anyone may make a free 10 minute call to test the service. Thereafter, customers only pay for the minutes they use. Smart Calls between the 46 counties served by Rebtel are always free and only one of the two people on a call have to be a Rebtel customer. For more information, or to start using Rebtel services, go to http://www.rebtel.com.

Press Contact: Greg Spector
Company Name: Rebtel
Phone: +1 415 717 4666
Website: http://www.rebtel.com

Women's Fashion Blog Has Inside Story

2008-07-27T12:33:00.000-05:00

New Blog Gives Inside Story on Women's Fashion

London fashion expert Caryn Franklin's website howtolookgood.com is not only a dedicated women's fashion advice site on body shape, but now includes her new blog, offering a real behind the scenes, no holds barred insight into the UK fashion industry

London, UK - July 27, 2008 -- In her new blog (http://www.howtolookgood.com/blog) Caryn tells it like it is and offers readers the opportunity to sign up and interact with her, by posting comments and receiving feedback and advice on all issues around fashion and how to dress for body shape.

She also flags up her own clothing solutions giving insight into the wardrobe of a 'fashion expert.'

Written with authority (she has spent 25 years in the business and has interviewed everyone from Yves Saint Laurent to Georgio Armani, as well as presenting on numerous TV shows, writing books and contributing to women's magazines) Caryn also writes from an ageless perspective.

As Caryn Franklin says, "Women can love fashion and dress confidently whatever their age, when they understand how to see beyond what commercial fashion offers. I give women tools to create the best wardrobe for their shape, age and lifestyle. And I'm there as a resource on my site. Since our launch in 2001, I have answered many hundreds of questions from readers."

Caryn's main website http://www.howtolookgood.com offers advice and tips on how to be a clever consumer of women's fashion and by signing up to her new blog, subscribers will receive a free e-book on Jeans - giving them all the information they need on shape, fit and brand.

The site also offers women the opportunity to download one of 19 different e-books on

how to dress for your body shape (http://www.howtolookgood.com/advice_home.html), for either their current wardrobe, or when shopping for new clothes.

These comprehensive and practical e-books are designed to provide valuable tips and advice to help women avoid making time consuming and costly mistakes by understanding what to wear and also what to avoid.

As these three testimonials show, Caryn's advice has been crucial:

Good morning,

I just wanted to let you know how absolutely wonderful your e-book has been for me. Until I read it last week I would stand in front of a wardrobe that consisted primarily of black and white, and still be confused about what I should wear. Always feeling out of shape and completely uncomfortable, with no confidence at all in my appearance.

The following day we went out to dinner and might I say, I looked and felt great. I had three comments on how great I was looking. It was all clothing from my existing wardrobe, put together with your rules and it looked great.

I have had my colours and style done before; however no one has ever produced an action plan (what a brilliant idea, particularly the collage). And the cost to have them come into your home and assist is quite expensive.

I cannot thank you enough; you really are the Queen of Style.

Jacqueline

Hi Caryn,

Simply had to put pen to paper, so to speak.

Just read the first 15 pages of your e-book and it addresses my central concern - large and square shoulders. Your diagrams and short to-the-point good for, or bad for remarks, are just what I require. Great, I now know what suits my top half and this will make such a difference to my shopping and confidence.

Many, many thanks. My 4-year search is over.

Kind regards,

Trixie

Thank you for your very helpful and practical e-book. It's the only one I know of with exclusively the right advice for women of my particular shape, and I found it a valuable source of inspiration. I just wish it had been around when I was sixteen. What a lot of heartache (at not being the 'right shape') and shopping headaches I would have avoided, not to mention how much money I could have saved! I've told all my friends about your site. They are all equally enthusiastic.

Kind regards

Aimée

The website also provides information on the current fashion trends to help readers understand what's on offer this season, news from the catwalks, an online shopping directory and a monthly newsletter.

For additional information on the news that is the subject of this release, contact info@brilliantproductions.co.uk or visit howtolookgood.com

About Howtolookgood.com

Howtolookgood.com was launched in February 2001 by Caryn Franklin and Jane Galpin offering fashion advice for all women.

About the author: Caryn Franklin has worked in the fashion industry for 25 years. She presented the BBC's Clothes Show for 12-years and has presented many other fashion shows including Style Bible, Style Academy, The Frock and Roll Years, as well as appearing regularly on network TV shows LK Today, GMTV and This Morning. She has written many books, contributes to mainstream women's magazines and has interviewed everyone from Yves Saint Laurent to Georgio Armani. Through her company Brilliant Productions, she hosts many live shows on the subject of image and style and her website howtolookgood.com offers all women advice on how to look good, whatever their body shape.

Contact: Caryn Franklin or Jane Galpin, owners

Brilliant Productions Ltd

0870 442 4498

http://www.howtolookgood.com

Contact Information
Julian Barrett
Brilliant Productions Ltd
http://www.howtolookgood.com
01453 839321

Multi-Billion Online Sports Betting Biz Tapped

2008-07-27T12:08:00.000-05:00

Casinos VIP Lounge Taps into the Multi-Billion Online Sports Betting Biz

Online casino portal CasinosVIPLounge.com launches a new sports betting section. Among the info available are detailed reviews of leading sports betting websites as well as articles on the most prominent sports betting events.

July 27, 2008 -- CasinosVIPLounge.com, a leading online casino portal (http://www.casinosviplounge.com/), recently unveiled a new section targeted at online sports betting aficionados. The new sports betting section provides readers with extensive and valuable information on this particular industry, from in-depth reviews of the most popular sports betting websites and detailed gambling advice to articles on the hottest sports betting (http://www.casinosviplounge.com/sports-betting-intro.html) action.

Over the years, betting on sports has become a multi-billion dollar industry. According to sports betting industry experts, the total amount of money wagered on bets annually in the United States alone stands at over $200 billion. Today, thousands of online bettors enjoy placing daily bets on their favorite sports, such as horse racing, soccer, American football, hockey, baseball, basketball, boxing and golf. Trustworthy information on winning odds, Internet bookmakers and the most popular sporting events is crucial to people seeking to make successful wagers.

CasinosVIPLounge editor-in-chief Marcy Jefferson said, "The CasinosVIPLounge team is very proud to launch this new sports betting section. We seek to provide newcomers to this industry as well as seasoned bettors with reliable information and useful advice. CasinosVIPLounge has already become an authority in the world of online casinos. We expect to achieve the same status in the world of online sports betting."

About CasinosVIPLounge

CasinosVIPLounge, a top provider of reliable and up-to-date information on online casinos and sports betting websites, has already gained tremendous prominence. CasinosVIPLounge offers in-depth reviews of the online gaming industry's most reputed online casino destinations, breaking casino news as well as updates on the richest promotional offers available over the Internet. Already a major authority in the world of online gaming, Casinosviplounge.com is an independent online casino portal not affiliated with any online gambling website.

Contact Information
John Smith
CasinosVIPLounge
http://www.casinosviplounge.com/
18665598690

Sales of iPhone 3G Kicked By Telecommunications Giant

2008-07-11T20:35:00.000-05:00

AT&T Kicks Off Sales of iPhone 3G Phone

Online Resources Available to Help Customers Prepare for Purchase

Variety of Attractive Plans Combine Voice and Unlimited Data

Dallas, Texas, July 11, 2008 - AT&T begins selling iPhone 3G today in its retail stores at 8 a.m. local time across the United States, along with a variety of attractive monthly plans that combine voice and unlimited data use. iPhone 3G uses the nation's fastest 3G wireless network, which reaches 300 major metropolitan areas.

Pricing and Eligibility
AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) has announced that AT&T is making it easy for customers to prepare for their iPhone 3G purchase by posting "Get iReady" tips and frequently asked questions at www.att.com/iphone. The site also includes a link for customers to check their upgrade eligibility and other wireless account information.

iPhone 3G phones will be available for $199 for the 8GB model and $299 for the 16GB model. These prices require two-year contracts and are available to the following customers:

    * iPhone customers who purchased before July 11*
    * Customers activating a new line with AT&T
    * Current AT&T customers who are eligible, at the time of purchase, for an upgrade discount

Current customers who are not eligible for an upgrade discount can purchase iPhone 3G for $399 for the 8GB model or $499 for the 16GB model. Both options require a new two-year service agreement. Current customers may also choose to wait until they become eligible for an upgrade discount. Eligibility is generally determined by amount of time remaining on a current contract and payment history.

Current AT&T customers who are upgrading to iPhone 3G will pay an $18 upgrade fee and new AT&T customers will pay the standard $36 activation fee.

Voice, Data and Text Messaging Plans
AT&T brings iPhone 3G customers the best coverage on the globe and the largest mobile-to-mobile calling community with unlimited calling to AT&T's 71.4 million wireless customers. iPhone 3G customers can choose from four individual AT&T Nation plans, which bundle voice and unlimited data (e-mail and Web browsing).

    * AT&T NationSM Unlimited: Includes unlimited Anytime Minutes for $129.99 a month.
    * AT&T Nation 1350: Includes 1350 Anytime Minutes and unlimited Night & Weekend Minutes for $109.99 a month.
    * AT&T Nation 900: Includes 900 Anytime Minutes and unlimited Night & Weekend Minutes for $89.99 a month.
    * AT&T Nation 450: Includes 450 Anytime Minutes and 5,000 Night & Weekend Minutes for $69.99 a month.

All AT&T Nation and AT&T FamilyTalk® plans for iPhone 3G include nationwide long distance and roaming, Visual Voicemail, Rollover®, unlimited Mobile to Mobile calling, Call Forwarding, Call Waiting, Three-Way Calling and Caller ID.

AT&T will offer FamilyTalk plans, with bundled voice and unlimited data, starting as low as $129.99 a month for two iPhone 3G lines. Up to three additional iPhone lines can be added for $39.99 each.

Unlimited text messaging can be added for an additional $20 ($30 for FamilyTalk plans of up to five lines); $15 (1,500 messages), or $5 (200 messages).

Additional Tips for Consumers
New AT&T customers who wish to port or retain their phone number from another wireless carrier should consider bringing a copy of a bill from their current service provider. Customers will be asked to provide account information as it appears on record with their current provider, including:

    * Account number
    * Name of the account holder
    * Account holder's SSN or Tax ID
    * Billing address
    * PIN or password (if applicable)

Customers who inherit an original iPhone from a friend or family member will need to request a SIM card from AT&T for the phone and activate the device using the in-home activation process through iTunes.

Customers should listen to voice mail messages on their current devices and write down any necessary information before purchasing iPhone 3G, because existing voice mail messages will be lost when upgrading to iPhone's Visual Voicemail feature.

AT&T will offer accessory bundle options specific to iPhone 3G in its retail stores.

iPhone 2.0 Software
All iPhone customers will benefit from the iPhone 2.0 software, which will be pre-loaded on all iPhone 3Gs and available as a free download for current iPhone customers. The new software will include numerous enhancements, such as business-class e-mail access via Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync; the iPhone Software Development Kit (SDK), which allows a business to easily create applications customized to its needs; and the App Store, available at www.apple.com/webapps, which offers a wide-range of applications - from games to business, education to entertainment and productivity to social networking.

For example, AT&T has developed YELLOWPAGES.COM Mobile for iPhone, which takes local mobile search to a new level by allowing users to discover businesses and local events based on their popularity among other iPhone users, get directions and access business reviews. Numerous enterprise applications are and will continue to be available on iPhone 3G, via the App Store, including Oracle's CRM, collaboration and e-mail applications.

iPhone for Business
Oracle and Kraft Foods Inc. are among the first business customers to deploy iPhone 3G. Business customers interested in iPhone 3G should contact an AT&T business sales representative or review their account information online to determine their eligibility for upgrade pricing. Corporate e-mail and other business applications require the Enterprise Data Plan for iPhone, which is $45 a month and bundled with an eligible voice plan. Small business customers may qualify for AT&T BusinessTalk, the industry's only shared plan specifically for small businesses. Additional details on iPhone business offerings are available at www.att.com/iphoneforbusiness.

*iPhone 3G is available to customers who are currently prepaid customers; however, there is no prepaid plan for iPhone 3G. Additionally, customers' accounts must be in good standing at the time of purchase.

AT&T Offers Nation's Fastest 3G Network

Nation's Fastest 3G Network Complements Best Global Coverage and Industry-Leading Portfolio of 3G Devices

Dallas, Texas, July 10, 2008 - For customers who want access to blazing-fast wireless broadband service, there's one clear choice among all U.S. carriers. AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) today announced it offers the nation's fastest third-generation (3G) network, according to data compiled by leading independent wireless research firms. AT&T's superfast 3G mobile broadband network is currently available in nearly 300 major U.S. metropolitan areas, with plans to expand to nearly 350 by the end of the year. In addition, AT&T has the best global coverage of any provider with roaming available in more than 200 countries, including more 3G roaming than any other carrier.

The fastest 3G network claim is based on a variety of tests conducted by leading third-party researchers, who downloaded a variety of applications and files to test throughput and overall performance. AT&T was the winner by a significant margin.

AT&T also announced it has started doubling the data capacity of its 3G markets, and nearly half of all cell sites will receive additional 3G capacity by the end of the year. The additional capacity will help accommodate the anticipated growth of 3G subscribers over the next several years. According to the Yankee Group, the number of 3G subscribers in the U.S. is expected to increase by 160 percent by 2012.

"We've invested billions of dollars in our 3G network, and now we can proudly claim it as the nation's fastest 3G network," said Ralph de la Vega, president and CEO of AT&T's wireless unit. "We will continue to expand our 3G network coverage into new areas, grow our lineup of industry-leading devices, such as iPhone 3G, and deliver compelling new 3G services to market like Video ShareSM. And to top it off, only AT&T offers the best global coverage. AT&T's ability to serve its wireless customers is unparalleled in our industry."

Between 2005 and 2008, AT&T will have invested more than $20 billion in network improvements and upgrades - an average of $5 billion a year. Much of this network investment has gone to build out the 3G broadband data network, which today is available in 296 major metropolitan markets. In addition, the company is deploying additional 3G coverage using 850 megahertz (MHz) spectrum that is now available from the recent sunset of its older TDMA network. This spectrum extends farther and better covers the interior of buildings.

In addition to the company's constant 3G expansion in the U.S., only AT&T can offer 3G data roaming in 60 countries, including Japan and South Korea, as well as voice calling in more than 200 countries. Nearly all devices in AT&T's current portfolio are "world phones" that can be used around the world.

Another advantage of AT&T's 3G network is the ability for customers to simultaneously use voice and data features. For example, customers can make a call while checking for a local address on YELLOWPAGES.COM.

Sprint's "iphone clone" the Samsung Instinct priced at $129.99

Daytona Beach, FL (PRunderground) June 20, 2008 - Sprint's highly anticipated phone, the Samsung Instinct, goes on sale Friday. Sprint has announced via a press release that the instinct will cost $129.99, with a 2 year contract after a $100 mail-in rebate. The Samsung Instinct is Sprint's answer to the iPhone, which is slated to cost $199 next month.

There is a catch. Sprint also announced that activation of the Instinct requires a pricing plan offering unlimited data. Customers can choose from Everything plans for individuals starting at just $69.99 per month for 450 voice minutes or Talk/Message/Data Share plans for families starting at $129.99 per month for 1500 voice minutes to share between two lines.

The Instinct is a touchscreen device that includes EV-DO Rev. A, which is equivalent to AT&T's 3G speeds, for Web browsing, e-mail and more. The Instinct has already been awarded such honors as "Most Innovative Product at CTIA Wireless 2008?, and "Best Cell Phone" by CNET's CTIA 2008 awards. Only time will tell if Sprint has a winner with the Samsung Instinct. To purchase a Samsung Instinct you can visit http://samsunginstinctstore.com

About SamsungInstictStore.com
SamsungInstinctStore.com provides access to the best deals on Samsung Instinct phones and accessories. For more information please visit http://samsunginstinctstore.com

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Michelle Wagner
contact@samsunginstinctstore.com
http://samsunginstinctstore.com

UnitedHealth Group Inc.'s Earnings Guidance and Settlements Generates Comments

2008-07-03T12:25:00.000-05:00

A.M. Best Comments on UnitedHealth Group Inc.'s Earnings Guidance and Settlements

OLDWICK, N.J.-- July 03, 2008 --A.M. Best Co. has commented that the ratings of UnitedHealth Group Inc. (UnitedHealth) (Minnetonka, MN) (NYSE: UNH) and its subsidiaries remain unchanged following the company's release of a revision to earnings guidance and reduced second quarter and full year 2008 earnings. UnitedHealth also announced a settlement in the federal securities class action and Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) lawsuits.

On July 2, 2008, UnitedHealth announced a revision to its earnings outlook for 2008 following an assessment of preliminary second quarter 2008 results and recent business trends. The company's risk-based commercial business produced a lower level of gross margin than expected due to increased pressure on premium yields, which are resulting from a competitive commercial business environment. Furthermore, UnitedHealth is experiencing a decrease in the gross margin for Medicare Part D and Medicare Chronic Special Needs Plans.

Additionally, UnitedHealth announced that it had reached an agreement to settle both the federal securities class action and ERISA lawsuits. Both lawsuits arose from UnitedHealth's historical stock option practices. As a result of the settlements, UnitedHealth will pay $895 million pre-tax into a settlement fund for the benefit of class members of the federal securities class action lawsuit and $17 million into a settlement fund for the benefit of ERISA class members. UnitedHealth's insurance carriers will cover the majority of the ERISA settlement.

A.M. Best expects UnitedHealth to continue to experience pressure in the commercial market, which may result in lower margins. The result of these announcements and the subsequent payment for the settlements are expected to increase UnitedHealth's debt-to-capital ratio above 40%, should the company use debt for the payment. While A.M. Best is not comfortable with an increase in the debt-to-capital ratio above 40%, A.M. Best expects the ratio to remain less than 45% and for this ratio to return to 40%by second quarter 2009. A.M. Best also expects UnitedHealth's earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) interest coverage to remain at 10 times or greater. Additionally, A.M. Best would like UnitedHealth to scale back its share repurchase program until the debt-to-capital ratio decreases to 40%.

On January 29, 2008, A.M. Best issued a press release announcing a downgrade to the ratings of UnitedHealth Group and select subsidiaries. At that time, A.M. Best considered the change in the company's capital structure and increase in debt-to-capital ratio in the rating action.

If UnitedHealth's debt-to-capital ratio increases above 45% or if the company announces another negative revision to earnings (including any additional settlements or fines), a negative rating action may occur. Additionally, A.M. Best would take into consideration the magnitude of the amount of any settlement or fine in any rating action. A.M. Best will continue to monitor the financial results and risk-based capitalization of UnitedHealth and its insurance subsidiaries, as well as continue its ongoing dialogue with company management.

Founded in 1899, A.M. Best Company is a global full-service credit rating organization dedicated to serving the financial and health care service industries, including insurance companies, banks, hospitals and health care system providers. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Contacts

A.M. Best Co.
Analysts:
Sally Rosen, 908-439-2200, ext. 5280
sally.rosen@ambest.com
or
Kenneth Frino, 908-439-2200, ext. 5012
kenneth.frino@ambest.com
or
Public Relations:
Jim Peavy, 908-439-2200, ext. 5644
james.peavy@ambest.com
or
Rachelle Morrow, 908-439-2200, ext. 5378
rachelle.morrow@ambest.com

Program to Protect Consumers Against Fraud

2008-07-02T19:01:00.001-05:00

MoneyGram Announces Program to Protect Consumers Against Fraud

MINNEAPOLIS-- July 02, 2008 --MoneyGram International is adding to its existing efforts to protect consumers from fraud-induced money transfers in response to concerns from state Attorneys General. Through an agreement of voluntary compliance, MoneyGram is taking steps to enhance consumer protections and further address the problem of wire transfer fraud. The company and 44 states plus the District of Columbia are cooperating on a five-year plan to raise public awareness of the dangers of fraud through a variety of tactics including enhanced consumer education, more prominent fraud warnings for money transfer customers and enhanced training for agents.

Besides enhancing its own education efforts, MoneyGram will contribute $1.1 million to the AARP Foundation for Consumer Education to fund a fraud awareness program aimed at the elderly, who are often targets for fraud. This program is expected to get underway in the next three to six months.

"We are very pleased to help launch this program," said Tony Ryan, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of MoneyGram International. "We are committed to helping to stop fraud and protect consumers, and we know that this is an issue that none of us can tackle alone."

"AARP Foundation's fight against consumer fraud advances AARP's goal of ensuring the economic security of people 50 and over," said AARP Foundation President Robin Talbert. "Preventing consumer fraud and abuse are critical components of financial security. AARP, the AARP Foundation and hundreds of community volunteers have been fighting fraud directed at older consumers for more than 10 years. We are very proud of our outreach and education."

MoneyGram will also pay $150,000 to the Attorneys General Executive Committee to cover costs.

MoneyGram International, Inc. is a leading global payment services company. The company's major product and services include global money transfers, money orders and payment processing solutions for financial institutions and retail customers. MoneyGram has 152,000 global money transfer locations in 180 countries and territories. For more information, visit the company's website at www.moneygram.com.

Contacts

MoneyGram International
Michael Fox, 203-682-8218
mfox@icrinc.com

Inventors Wanted For Texas Reality TV Show

2008-07-02T10:00:00.000-05:00

Reality TV Show Looks for Inventors in Texas

How TV Shows and Internet Sites Help Thousands of Aspiring Inventors Transform their Big Ideas into Reality. Everyday Edisons has announced the casting calls for Season 3, with the next auditions being held at the Dallas Convention Center today, starting at 7am. Internet sites such as IdeaTango help inventors through online resources and community forums.

Dallas, Texas - March 16 -- Exactly how can the average person transform a mere sketch on a napkin into a useful product available to the masses? This was the question that Louis Foreman wanted to answer when he created Everyday Edisons, the inventor reality TV show on PBS. After two successful seasons, Everyday Edisons has announced the casting calls for Season 3, with the next auditions being held at the Dallas Convention Center today, starting at 7am.

Inventors are often not aware about the multi-step product development process through which a basic concept is transformed into a marketable product. This is where television shows like Everyday Edisons or websites like Dallas-based IdeaTango.com come into the picture.

Whereas some are able to take their ideas to the masses through TV reality shows, many more can interact through IdeaTango features like a virtual trade show, a yellow pages for service providers, community forums, and most importantly, educational guides to help inventors launch their million-dollar idea.

IdeaTango.com president and founder Bryan Daigle says, "It's great to see how Everyday Edisons is helping the independent inventors and bringing so many brilliant ideas into the market." "As thousands of inventors line up across the country for a shot at big time, we're also meeting many of these inventors along the way, helping them to turn their dreams into reality."

The Everyday Edisons show will be looking at a range of inventions, and also at those in various states of development, from simple concepts and sketched ideas to detailed, patented designs and factory prototypes. The finished products will also be reviewed by representatives from the major retailers.

In addition to the casting call, there will also be a series of seminars and an opportunity to meet with experts from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Everyday Edisons is produced with the cooperation of the United States Patent & Trademark Office, and like IdeaTango, hopes to propel thousands of local inventors into the spotlight.

About Everyday Edisons
Everyday Edisons is a reality TV show that airs on PBS, and follows inventors as they go from idea to product. The show's producers and industry experts work with all the contestants, helping them to succeed in the development and marketing of their inventions. Everyday Edisons is a production of Bouncing Brain Productions.

For more information about Everyday Edisons, visit www.everydayedisons.com

About IdeaTango.com
As seen on The Big Idea with Donnie Deutsch, local and national news stations across the country, and one of the largest technology blogs, Gizmodo, Dallas-based IdeaTango.com is a one-of-a-kind social networking site specifically created to help inventors act on their great ideas. This "ingenuity community" provides inventors interactive, collaborative, and educational tools to help inventors connect with valuable resources, and one another. IdeaTango is also the winner of the Rice Alliance 2007 "Most Promising" Web 2.0 Company award.

More information about IdeaTango.com is available at www.ideatango.com

Press Contact: Bryan Daigle
Company Name: IdeaTango.com
Phone: 214-680-3551
Website: http://www.ideatango.com

GE Lighting Systems Unveils LED Street Lights

2008-06-30T10:28:00.000-05:00

Making the Sunshine State a Little Brighter:

GE Lighting Systems Unveils LED StreetDreamsT at 2008 Annual Conference of Mayors

76th Annual Conference of Mayors

HENDERSONVILLE, N.C.-- June 30, 2008 --GE Lighting Systems, Inc., part of GE Consumer & Industrial, recently showcased its new LED StreetDreamsT post-top fixtures at the 76th Annual Conference of Mayors in Miami, Florida. From June 20-24, more than 250 mayors from cities all over the United States descended upon Miami, and GE offered them a sneak peek at one of its latest energy-efficient lighting solutions.

GE provided six of its LED StreetDreamsT luminaires for the event. The new lighting system was installed in the median along Pan American Drive leading up to Miami City Hall.

Municipal leaders are known to be major influencers in the specification and purchase of energy-efficient metropolitan lighting solutions. As downtown revitalization planning has become increasingly sensitive to environmental impacts, LED StreetDreamsT is expected to resonate well with mayors and other municipal authorities because of its energy-efficient LED technology and chic post-top design.

LED StreetDreamsT post-top fixtures will be introduced to the broader market in 2009.

StreetDreamsT is a trademark of the General Electric Company.

About GE Consumer & Industrial

GE Consumer & Industrial spans the globe as an industry leader in major appliance, lighting and integrated industrial equipment, systems and services. Providing solutions for commercial, industrial and residential use in more than 100 countries, GE Consumer & Industrial uses innovative technologies and "ecomagination," a GE initiative to aggressively bring to market new technologies that help customers and consumers meet pressing environmental challenges, to deliver comfort, convenience and electrical protection and control. General Electric (NYSE: GE) brings imagination to work, selling products under the Monogram®, ProfileT GE®, Hotpoint®, SmartWaterT Reveal® and Energy Smart® consumer brands, and Entellisys® industrial brand. For more information, consumers may visit www.ge.com.

Contacts

General Electric
David Schuellerman, 216-266-9702
david.schuellerman@ge.com