News

Added Value Cheskin launches insight and innovation platform for Hispanic research

LOS ANGELES, May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Added Value Cheskin, a research based consultancy that specializes in multicultural work, has announced that its online insight and innovation platform AV-id(TM) is fully operational for use in the U.S. Hispanic market. 

According to Miguel Gomez Winebrenner, who co-leads the Hispanic Practice, this launch is a "direct response to the growing demands for a cost-effective platform that provides deep and ongoing qualitative insights."  AV-id(TM) projects are led by our experienced team of multi-cultural moderators, and can run for one week to more than a month, depending on the type and quantity of insights needed.

While AV-id(TM) has Spanish language capabilities and can be used with Hispanics of all acculturation levels, Mr. Gomez Winebrenner underscores that it is most effective with U.S. Dominants, Biculturals and Youth.  "There is no doubt that Hispanics - of all levels of acculturation - are getting online at a fast pace. However, at this point in time the unacculturated segment of the market is still under-represented, as such we need to take care to ensure that as technology evolves, we continue to capture insights from this large and important market." 

As a result, Added Value will offer AV-id(TM) in tandem with other qualitative tools to account for the opinions of offline unacculturated Hispanics.  For more information, contact Stephen.Palacios@added-value.com or Miguel.Winebrenner@added-value.com. 

About Added Value

Added Value, http://www.added-value.com, provides consultancy on brand development and marketing insight for iconic brands, both big and small, around the world. They help solve clients' central marketing questions about market, equity, positioning, innovation and communications.

Many clients are Fortune 500 companies, such as AT&T, Microsoft, Ford, HSBC, Allianz, and P&G, but they work with start-ups and challenger brands too.

The company has 23 offices in 14 countries, yet their experience spreads across 150 markets worldwide and across all industry sectors.

Added Value operates under the business names Added Value, Icon Added Value, Oracle Added Value, Added Value Cheskin, Added Value Saffron Hill and AV-Stratosfera.

Added Value Cheskin is based in Silicon Valley and has particular expertise in Intercultural work and the Technology sector.

Added Value is now one of the largest operations within WPP's Kantar division http://www.kantar.com, a wholly-owned subsidiary of WPP plc. WPP is the world leader in marketing communications services, employing 135,000 people (including associates) in 2,400 offices in 107 countries. For more information, visit http://www.wpp.com.

SOURCE  Added Value Cheskin

Added Value Cheskin

Web Site: http://www.added-value.com

Toshiba Expands Family of Ultra-Efficient, High-Speed, Low-Voltage MOSFETs with new 60V and 120V Devices

Powerful UMOS VIII Low R(DS(ON)), Low C(iss) MOSFETs Deliver High Efficiency in Synchronous Rectification and Motor Driver Designs

IRVINE, Calif., May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Toshiba America Electronic Components, Inc., (TAEC)*, a committed leader that collaborates with technology companies to create breakthrough designs, today announced that it has expanded its family of low-voltage, high-speed MOSFETs with new, ultra-efficient 60V and 120V devices that will save space and reduce losses in secondary synchronous rectification designs.

Targeted at switch mode power supplies in applications such as AC/DC adapters, industrial systems, telecom equipment and servers, the 16 new trench MOSFET devices are based on Toshiba's eighth generation U-MOS VIII-H process. This process delivers significant improvements in trade-off characteristics between low on-resistance (R(DS(ON))) and low input capacitance (C(iss)) and improves switching speeds and minimizes radiated noise.

Available in either TO-220 or TO-220SIS 'smart isolation' package formats, the new product line consists of eight 60V MOSFETs and eight 120V MOSFETs. By offering lower R(DS(ON)) * C(iss) 'figures of merit', compared to previous generations of devices, the new MOSFETs operate with lower conduction and drive losses and deliver significant efficiency increases.

Among the new MOSFETs are the TK100E06N1 (TO-220) and TK100A06N1 (TO-220SIS) 60V devices with typical on-resistance ratings (@ V(GS) = 10V) as low as just 1.9m Omega and 2.2m Omega, respectively. The 120V series includes TK56E12N1 (TO-220) and TK56A12N1 (TO-220SIS) devices with respective typical on-resistances of 6.1m Omega and 6.5m Omega (@ V(GS) = 10V).

Samples of all of the new parts are available now.

Toshiba's Discrete Products
Toshiba is a leading supplier in a number of discrete product categories, including power transistors, rectifiers LMOS logic, CMOS logic, photocouplers, small signal diodes and transistors.  The company's discrete devices are designed to meet the growing demand for high-performance and lower voltages in today's wireless telecommunications and consumer electronics applications, while emphasizing its strength in the automotive and industrial markets.

*About Toshiba Corp. and TAEC

About TAEC
Through proven commitment, lasting relationships and advanced, reliable electronic components, Toshiba enables its customers to create market-leading designs. Toshiba is the heartbeat within product breakthroughs from OEMs, ODMs, CMs, VARs, distributors and fabless chip companies worldwide. A committed electronic components leader, Toshiba designs and manufactures high-quality flash memory-based storage solutions, solid state drives (SSDs), hard disk drives (HDDs), discrete devices, advanced materials, medical tubes, custom SoCs/ASICs, imaging products, microcontrollers and wireless components that make possible today's leading smartphones, tablets, MP3 players, cameras, medical devices, automotive electronics, enterprise solutions and more.

Toshiba America Electronic Components, Inc. is an independent operating company owned by Toshiba America, Inc., a subsidiary of Toshiba Corporation, Japan's largest semiconductor manufacturer and the world's third largest semiconductor manufacturer (Gartner, 2011 Worldwide Semiconductor Revenue, March, 2012). Toshiba Corporation was founded in 1875 and today has over 490 subsidiaries and affiliates, with 203,000 employees worldwide and annual sales of $77 billion. Visit Toshiba's web site at http://www.toshiba.co.jp/index.htm.

© 2011 Toshiba America Electronic Components, Inc. All rights reserved.
Information in this press release, including product pricing and specifications, content of services and contact information, is current and believed to be accurate on the date of the announcement, but is subject to change without prior notice. Technical and application information contained here is subject to the most recent applicable Toshiba product specifications.

Editor's Note:  Images available for download from: http://www.toshiba.com/taec/news/press_releases/2012/powr_12_632.jsp

MEDIA CONTACT:
Dena Jacobson
Lages & Associates
Tel.: (949) 453-8080
dena@lages.com

SOURCE  Toshiba America Electronic Components, Inc.

Toshiba America Electronic Components, Inc.

CONTACT: Company, Rebecca Bueno, Toshiba America Electronic Components, Inc., +1-949-623-3099, rebecca.bueno@taec.toshiba.com

Web Site: http://www.toshiba.com/taec

Runcom Appointed Brightstar as its Distributor for 4G Solutions in North and Latin America

NEW ORLEANS, May 9, 2012/PRNewswire/ --

    Brightstar Inc., a leading global service company focused on enhancing the performance
and profitability of the key participants in the wireless device value chain and Runcom
Technologies, the world recognized OFDMA pioneer providing End-2-End 4G System solutions
to operators worldwide as well as Mobile Surveillance products for Safe City solutions,
disclosed today that they had signed an agreement that Brightstar will distribute Runcom
4G products in the North and Latin American markets

    "Our collaboration with Runcom Technologies will bridge between Runcom's leading 4G
technology to the wireless operators and WISP and will enable them to provide reliable,
competitive and quality broadband services to their subscribers at affordable costs," said
Gustavo Bencid. "Runcom has the leading technology, serving Fixed and Mobile Broadband
Wireless communications and we feel that adding our Marketing & Sales expertise to
Runcom's offering will fulfill the needs of service providers in emerging telecom
markets."

    "We see a great opportunity for Fixed and Mobile WiMAX growth in emerging markets,"
said Moshe Levinson, CEO at Runcom. "We value Brighstar leadership, experience and knowhow
in bringing value to Operators and Broadband Service Providers in its Territory, we also
expect that Brightstar will promote Runcom's Safe City solutions, like the deployment in
Buenos Aires that Runcom successfully delivered recently, to municipalities through North
and Latin America."

    About Runcom Technologies Ltd.

    Runcom is the world's pioneer of OFDMA based End-to-End WiMAX System solutions for
Fixed and Mobile operators worldwide. Runcom's 4G offering includes Base Stations, ASN
Gateways, NOC and a variety of high-end terminals including WiMAX Indoor and outdoor
CPE's, USB Dongles and handsets that comply with the IEEE802.16e-2009 standard for WiBro,
Mobile WiMAX and LTE applications; For more information, visit Runcom on the Internet:
http://www.runcom.com or contact:

   
    Israel Koffman
    VP Marketing and Sales
    Direct Phone: +972-3-9428874
    Office Phone: +972-3-9428888
    Mobile Phone: +972-545-303110
    Skype: Israel.Koffman
    FAX: +972-3-9528805

    About Brightstar Corp.

    Brightstar is the world's largest specialized wireless distributor and a leading
global services company focused on enhancing the performance and profitability of the key
participants in the wireless device value chain. The company supports over 80,000 points
of sale worldwide with operations in 51 countries and territories and provides a
comprehensive range of more than 100 customized services for value-added distribution,
supply chain optimization, retail, government and VARs, and consumer services.
Brightstar's services help customers manage the growing complexity of the wireless device
value chain and enable them to increase product availability, expand their channel reach
and drive supply chain efficiencies by getting the right products to the right place at
the right time for the best value.

    For more information, contact:

    Luis Cordoba

    direct +l-305-921-1366 Mobile +1-305-815-6243 (New Mobile number)

    Be part of the Mobility Solutions Program by registering your company at:
http://www.canalbrightstar.com/regsMan/brightstar/registro.php

    For more information visit: http://www.canalbrightstar.com
[http://www.canalbrightstar.com/descargas/brightstar/B_home.html ]

Source: Runcom Technologies Ltd

Catalyst Search Scientists Coauthor Book on Next-Generation Search

Authors Examine Use of Text-Mining Techniques in Electronic Discovery

DENVER, May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Two leaders of research and development at Catalyst have helped write a seminal new book on search, Next Generation Search Engines: Advanced Models for Information Retrieval, released in March by IGI Global.

Bruce Kiefer, leader of the platform group at Catalyst, and Reed Esau, a platform architect focused on research and development at Catalyst, together with Michael W. Berry, associate director of the Center for Intelligent Systems & Machine Learning at the University of Tennessee, co-authored the book's chapter, "The Use of Text Mining Techniques in Electronic Discovery for Legal Matters."

As volumes of e-discovery data have outgrown the manual processes long used to make relevance judgments, the authors explain how methods of text mining and information retrieval, including predictive coding, can be used to help reduce data volumes. Acknowledging that text-mining techniques have so far delivered uneven results, they start the chapter by looking at the historical bias of the collection process. They then examine how tools like classifiers, latent semantic analysis, and non-negative matrix factorization can deal with nuances of the collection process.

Their chapter is part of a book intended for scientists and decision-makers who wish to gain working knowledge about search in order to evaluate available options and to engage in a dialogue with software and data providers. The aim of the book is to give readers a better understanding of the latest trends in applied research.

Bruce Kiefer leads the platform group at Catalyst, including engineering and development, and is vice president of the company's Hosting Applications Division. He has worked in IT for many years, helping to build, deploy, manage, scale and repair networks and systems that solve problems. Before joining Catalyst in 2005, he was vice president of operations for Viawest Internet Services.

Reed Esau is a platform architect at Catalyst who focuses on research and development. He was instrumental in architecting and developing the infrastructure for Catalyst's new Insight e-discovery platform. With Catalyst for eight years, he has worked in software development for nearly two decades.

The book is available for purchase in hardcover and e-book editions from IGI Global (http://www.igi-global.com). The individual chapter can be purchased separately as a PDF download.

About Catalyst

Catalyst provides secure, scalable multi-lingual document repositories for electronic discovery, litigation support, and other complex regulatory matters. For over a decade, corporations and their counsel have relied on Catalyst to control litigation costs and make review teams more effective. Our systems and supporting services cover the heart of the litigation lifecycle-from processing and search, to analytics, review, production and trial. For more information about Catalyst, visit: http://www.catalystsecure.com.

SOURCE  Catalyst Repository Systems

Catalyst Repository Systems

CONTACT: Patty Daly, Director of Marketing, Catalyst Repository Systems, Inc., +1-303-895-5439, pdaly@catalystsecure.com

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

Choice Hotels International Launches iPad App

Continues to Be a Leader in Mobile Technology Strategy and Innovation for Hospitality Industry

SILVER SPRING, Md., May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The first hotel company to introduce a global iPhone app, Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH), continues to serve as an industry leader in the area of mobile technology innovation as it launched its new iPad app today. The company has also made upgrades to its existing iPhone and Android apps, making Choice Hotels readily accessible to millions of travelers around the globe.

(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120509/PH03455 )

"Choice Hotels continues to be a leader in the emerging channels of hospitality e-commerce and through our various apps we're able to reach the growing segment of consumers who are booking their travel on mobile devices," said Kelly Poling, vice president of distribution strategy and e-commerce for Choice Hotels. "Launching our iPad app is another logical extension of our distribution strategy, which puts the power of our 6,000-plus hotels in the hands of our growing mobile and tablet customer base."

The company's new iPad and existing iPhone and Android apps are free to download for all consumers and enable them to book rooms anytime, anywhere, using the most popular wireless devices available on the market. This translates to a win-win situation for both consumers and for Choice Hotels, putting the company's franchised hotels at guests' fingertips. There is no sign of slowing for the emerging trend of mobile travel purchasing--mobile revenue for Choice was up more than 250 percent year-over-year in 2011.

"In this super-connected world, booking options for consumers have grown while the booking time window of consumers has gotten smaller," said Christopher Brya, director of mobile and emerging channels for Choice Hotels. "Our customers have embraced the mobile platform and it's our job to extend the reach of Choice Hotels into those channels as they grow and evolve, when and how our guests need us."

When introduced in 2009, the Choice Hotels Locator app was the first global iPhone app for the hotel industry. The company recently celebrated the one-millionth download of that app in September 2011, which generates thousands of reservations every month and is used by more than 1,500 consumers on a daily basis.

"Enhancing our existing apps and launching our iPad app empowers customers and adds value to franchisees by extending Choice's distribution reach," added Brya.

The Choice Hotels iPad and iPhone apps enable consumers to:

    --  Search and book nearby hotels using GPS technology
    --  View hotel details, amenities, and photos
    --  Access their Choice Privileges account or sign-up
    --  View or cancel upcoming reservations
    --  Access Customer Service contact information
In addition, iPhone and iPad app users now can view their hotel search results in a list and map view as well as filter and sort their hotel search results, view local points of interest on the hotel search results map, and share their hotel via social media, text, and email. iPad app users have the added capabilities of being able to compare specific hotels and save a Choice Hotels property as a favorite through their Choice Privileges account.

The Choice Hotels Android app similarly enables consumers to locate hotels by city, address, ZIP code, airport, or popular attraction, view hotel photos, get hotel details and amenities, access their Choice Privileges account, and use mapping functionality. Recent upgrades to the Android app include improvements for speed, navigation and efficiency as well as search result filtering capabilities by both features and amenities.

The hotel company also launched a completely redesigned new mobile website in September 2011, incorporating great new features to meet changing guest demands, such as GPS-based search functionality, one-touch calling, and more hotel photos and amenities. The mobile site redesign came about through an extensive research process of listening and responding to feedback from both guests and franchise hotel owners.

About Choice Hotels
Choice Hotels International, Inc. franchises more than 6,100 hotels, representing more than 495,000 rooms, in the United States and more than 30 other countries and territories. As of March 31, 2012, more than 350 hotels were under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in the United States, representing more than 30,000 rooms, and approximately 80 hotels, representing approximately 7,000 rooms, were under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in approximately 20 other countries and territories. The company's Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge and Rodeway Inn brands serve guests worldwide. In addition, via its Ascend Collection membership program, travelers in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean have upscale lodging options at historic, boutique and unique hotels.

Additional corporate information may be found on the Choice Hotels International, Inc. web site, which may be accessed at http://www.choicehotels.com

Choice Hotels, Choice Hotels International, Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn and Ascend Collection are proprietary trademarks and service marks of Choice Hotels International.

(C) 2012 Choice Hotels International, Inc. All rights reserved.

SOURCE  Choice Hotels International, Inc.

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120509/PH03455
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Choice Hotels International, Inc.

CONTACT: Rocco Loverro, +1-301-592-6719, rocco_loverro@choicehotels.com

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

Billtrust and OB10 partner to offer more invoice connections to more customers

Invoice solution providers extend services to their respective customers, making more connections to more companies much easier

HAMILTON, N.J., May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Billtrust, the premier provider of outsourced billing services, and OB10, the e-Invoicing network, have partnered to offer business-to-business billers a solution for easily and cost-effectively connecting to the OB10 Network.

In this collaboration, Billtrust customers can seamlessly deliver their invoices directly to the OB10 network, enabling them to satisfy their customers' desire to receive electronic invoices directly into their financial system. This advanced integration provides efficiency for both accounts receivable and accounts payable departments. It also eliminates costly manual paper processing and enables identification of exceptions immediately upon invoice receipt.

"Our customers are seeing a significant increase in the number of requests from their customers to join third-party e-invoicing networks.  Since each of these networks has different standards and protocols, it is often a challenge for them to satisfy," said Flint Lane, CEO of Billtrust. "Much of this demand is being driven from customers on the OB10 network, and we're thrilled to be working with the OB10 team to streamline this process."

"Billtrust is an extremely innovative company that offers billers a unique solution for delivering invoices through a variety of channels," said Paul Frederick, President of OB10. "Providing their customers with an easy access point to connect to OB10 is a win-win for Billtrust and OB10 customers."

About Billtrust

Headquartered in Hamilton, NJ, Billtrust is a premier provider of outsourced billing solutions. The company's flagship product and service suite, called CompleteBilling, consists of paper, fax, e-mail and online billing (EBPP, EIPP). In addition, the company provides expert bill design, in-bill marketing services, and CustomerCare, an integrated online customer service tool. These comprehensive tools automate the billing process, enabling businesses to save money, increase productivity, improve cash flow, and seamlessly migrate to electronic delivery. For more information, visit Billtrust online at http://www.billtrust.com.

Find Billtrust on:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/_Billtrust
LinkedIn Company page: http://www.linkedin.com/company/99112
Billtrust Blog - http://blog.billtrust.com

About OB10

OB10 (http://www.OB10.com) is the leading global B2B e-Invoicing network. OB10 simplifies and streamlines the complex invoice-to-pay processes. Neither client organizations nor their suppliers are required to implement any hardware or software, and OB10 is independent of data file formats. OB10 can reduce the cost of paper invoice processing by typically 60% and can deliver an ROI in less than a year if the program follows OB10's best practice guidelines. Operational across Europe, North America and Asia, OB10 is compliant with the requirements of VAT, tax and e-Invoicing legislation and receives invoices from suppliers in 150 countries. To ensure unrivalled and rapid supplier enrollment, each new customer's suppliers are supported by an implementation services team responsible for getting them up and running on the OB10 network. Customers include: Agilent Technologies, Amgen, Aviva, Barclays, BP, British Energy, Cargill, Computacenter, Deutsche Lufthansa AG, DHL, Dr. Pepper, DSG International, Eli Lilly & Company, Fisher Scientific, General Motors, GlaxoSmithKline, HP, IBM, Imperial College, Kellogg's, Kraft Foods, Logica, Mohawk Industries, Motorola, Pfizer, Sara Lee, Schneider Electric, Severn Trent Water, Shaw Industries, Steria, Tesco, Unilever, US Federal Government, Whirlpool and Xerox.

Follow OB10 at:
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/22101
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/#!/OB10eInvoicing
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/i6JoZr
Wikipedia: http://www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/OB10
OB10 blog: http://www.ob10.com/OB10Blog/

SOURCE  Billtrust

Billtrust

CONTACT: Ernie Martin, Marketing Manager - North America of OB10, +1-770-668-1346, ernie.martin@OB10.com, or Belinda Rooney of SS|PR for Billtrust, +1-609-750-9110, brooney@sspr.com

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

Deloitte Digital Gamifies Executive Training with Badgeville

Delivers global engagement and adoption of world-class digital learning systems

MENLO PARK, Calif., May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Badgeville, The Behavior Platform, today announced that Deloitte Leadership Academy, an innovative digital executive training program for more than 10,000 senior executives at over 150 companies around the world, added Badgeville's gamification and reputation solution to reward participation, lesson progression, and to certify program completion with an optional diploma.

Deloitte Leadership Academy delivers lessons and insight from some of the world's best known business schools, such as Harvard Business Publishing and IMD, and global leaders in an easy to consume format via its online portal, newsletter, and mobile access. Badgeville's dynamic behavior management technology enables Deloitte to measure, surface and reward engagement across this online education platform.

"We view Badgeville's Behavior Platform, along with the gamification experiences it enables, a fundamental component of our digital business innovations that rely on measuring and influencing user behavior," said Frank Farrall, Lead Partner of Deloitte Digital. "Leadership Academy, a fully digital education program, offers many behaviors we can track and reward via Badgeville, including completing lessons, watching full educational videos, answering quizzes, and all the way up to earning an optional diploma."

Executives study at their own pace through the Leadership Academy's 12-competency framework that features the critical development points required to lead an enterprise. Executives can also achieve certificates provided jointly by Harvard Business Publishing and Deloitte that bring real-world business dilemmas to life. This special optional certification program, powered by Badgeville, offers executives the opportunity to make key leadership decisions and shape the outcomes of an interactive case; analyze and improve leadership skills using interactive tools; and complete tests on what they have learned.

"Education psychology at all levels is inherently rewards-driven," said Kris Duggan, CEO, Badgeville. "By measuring and tracking student behavior within a training environment, modern education software, such as Deloitte's Leadership Academy, can deliver a highly influential program to increase learning efficiency, depth of knowledge gained, information retention, and program completion."

Participants in the program have the option to learn along individual, team, or enterprise tracks, all of which feature certification and completion rewards powered by Badgeville. Executives in 14 countries have engaged with the program through the Deloitte professional network and through individual company sponsorship.

About Badgeville

Badgeville, the Behavior Platform, makes it easy for business leaders to measure and influence behavior across customer, partner, developer and employee communities. The leading provider of SaaS enterprise gamification solutions and services, Badgeville's global client roster features the world's most innovative enterprises across virtually every industry, including Samsung, Recyclebank, Deloitte, Dell, eBay, Universal Music, The Active Network, and more. Founded in 2010, Badgeville is based in Menlo Park, Calif., and has offices in New York and Europe. For more information, visit Badgeville on the web at http://www.badgeville.com

About Deloitte Leadership Academy

The Deloitte Leadership Academy was the brainchild of Tom Richardson, a Partner at Deloitte Australia. He recognized the need in himself to develop his leadership skills as his career progressed from being a subject matter expert in the accounting field to running and leading a business. Like many other executives, he found he had the technical skills but other areas of his knowledge such as talent management and delivering strategy at the enterprise level needed further refinement. The Deloitte Leadership Academy was his solution to this problem. The Leadership Academy is available in 14 countries through the Deloitte network and is now available for purchase online to individuals. We continue to add content, capabilities and leadership experiences to the service and will be launching in other countries over the coming years.

About DeloitteDeloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, a UK private company limited by guarantee, and its network of member firms, each of which is a legally separate and independent entity. Please see http://www.deloitte.com/au/about for a detailed description of the legal structure of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited and its member firms. Deloitte provides audit, tax, consulting, and financial advisory services to public and private clients spanning multiple industries. With a globally connected network of member firms in more than 140 countries, Deloitte brings world-class capabilities and deep local expertise to help clients succeed wherever they operate. Deloitte's approximately 169,000 professionals are committed to becoming the standard of excellence.

SOURCE  Badgeville

Badgeville

CONTACT: Kristin Miller, +1-719-634-8292, kmiller@sspr.com

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

Mike Counsil Electric Launches Awareness Campaign On Expired Smoke Detectors

"Most people know that they need to change their Smoke detector's batteries twice a year. But very few people know that their smoke detectors expire! That's why we're urging everyone that lives in a home 10+ years ago to call us for free smoke detectors," says Kim Hancock

SAN JOSE, Calif., May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Mike Counsil Electric, Inc. is raising awareness that 10-Year Old smoke detectors are Expired and Cannot be Relied upon!

Mike Counsil Electric, Inc. (MCE) is raising awareness in the community that 10-year old smoke detectors are expired. To do so, the company, is offering buy one and get one free smoke detectors to the first 50 homeowners in there service area to contact them, beginning (5-3-2012).

"Most people know that they need to change their Smoke detector's batteries twice a year. But very few people know that their smoke detectors expire! That's why we're urging everyone that lives in a home 10+ years ago to call us for free smoke detectors," Kim Hancock, President of Mike Counsil Electric, Inc. said. "If one live is saved, our investment of time and money will be well worth it."

The US Fire Administration, Federal emergency Management agency, National fire protection Association, and consumer Product Safety Commission all agree: If a smoke detector is 10 years of age or older, cannot be counted on to alert a homeowner of a fire. According to a study conducted by the Kentucky Injury Prevention and Research Center, after 10 years, smoke detectors have a 30% chance of Failure. That percentage gets larger after every passing year.

"Few people consider their smoke detectors. The only time they pay any attention to them is when they begin chirping because they need new batteries," Hancock continued. "More than 3,000 people die from fires every year, and thousands more are injured. Sometimes it's because they don't have smoke detectors, but in most cases, people don't have smoke detectors that work."

It's not enough to just have one smoke detector. The National Fire protection association and the U.S. Fire Administration recommend one in every level of a home, inside every bedroom, and outside all sleeping areas.

Mike Counsil Electric, Inc. also is offering free electrical offering free electrical safety inspection to homeowners. Electrical problems are among the most common reasons fire start. A certified MCE electrician will evaluate homeowners' panels, wiring, outlets, and all other electrical components in hopes of finding and stopping any malfunctions from occurring at a late date.

Homeowners interested in the two for one smoke detectors and the electrical safety inspections are encouraged to call Mike Counsil Electric, Inc. at 408-268-5015 for more information. Visit mikecounsilelectric.com for additional info on smoke detectors on the potential dangers of expired smoke detectors.

http://mikecounsilelectric.com

SOURCE  Mike Counsil Electric, Inc.

Mike Counsil Electric, Inc.

CONTACT: Kim Hancock of Mike Counsil Electric, Inc., +1-408-268-5015

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

High Sierra Acquires HighSierra.com

VERNON HILLS, Ill., May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- After many years of negotiation, High Sierra Sport Company, a manufacturer of innovative bags and adventure travel luggage, is pleased to announce the company has acquired the domain name HighSierra.com.

"We are excited about the purchase of HighSierra.com. The shortened URL HighSierra.com will make it easier for our customers to locate and contact us more quickly," said Hank Bernbaum, president of High Sierra.

Consumers can now bookmark HighSierra.com for easy access to High Sierra's latest products and company information. The launch of the new web site for High Sierra went live on May 2, 2012. It is part of the company's ongoing efforts to enhance the quality and availability of High Sierra products to consumers worldwide.

The previous owners of the old HighSierra.com web site have requested that all traffic be relocated to a new address: TahoeHighSierra.com. High Sierra has agreed to redirect previous customers, who relied on the original High Sierra web site, for a period of two years. Financial terms and details of the transaction are not disclosed.

"In an effort to identify with our customers and anticipate their product needs, we know HighSierra.com is a great place to start," said Bryan Kinsley, chief operations officer for High Sierra. "The shortened web site is how many of our current customers recognize our brand."

High Sierra's web sites, HSSC.com, HighSierraSport.com, and HighSierra.com boast a modern, colorful design. The site(s) is divided into six sections: All Products, Help Me Find a Bag, Find a Retailer, In the News, Community, and U.S. Ski Team. Each page provides detailed information and offers resources for High Sierra consumers.  Other functions of the web site include Caring for Your Pack, Product Demos and more for High Sierra consumers.

High Sierra is one of the premier manufacturers of innovative bag and adventure luggage. The company's products appeal to the active lifestyle and outdoor consumers. High Sierra was founded over 33 years ago and has grown to be the tenth largest outdoor company in the United States. 

For more information on High Sierra, please call 1 (800) 323-9590 or visit http://www.highsierra.com.

About High Sierra Sport Company:
High Sierra Sport Company, specializing in user-friendly adventure travel gear, offers versatile lines tailored for outdoor enthusiasts, skiers and snowboarders, travelers, students and professionals looking for the smart choice in durable and functional backpacks, duffels and wheeled luggage.

The company is also the official supplier of bags and luggage for the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Team, High Sierra's memberships include the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA), SnowSports Industries America (SIA) and the Travel Goods Association (TGA).

For more information, please call (800) 323-9590 or visit http://www.highsierra.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Stella Peterson
High Sierra Sport Company
stella@hssc.com
(847) 876-7248

SOURCE  Stella Peterson

Stella Peterson

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

Wireless Week Honors AT&T for Wi-Fi Leadership and Growth as Customer Connections Triple Year-Over-Year

Customers Can Now Connect to More Than 30,000 AT&T Operated Wi-Fi Hot Spots

DALLAS, May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- With the AT&T* Wi-Fi network continuing to scale and consumers making record a record number of Wi-Fi connections, Wireless Week honored AT&T with an industry leadership award for its Wi-Fi strategy, innovation and growth at their 15th Annual Leadership Awards ceremony Tuesday, May 8 at CTIA in New Orleans.

"Bolstered by the strategic acquisition of Wayport, AT&T's Wi-Fi network complements its cellular network in helping meet the demands of a customer base that has come to expect a fast, reliable connection on all of their devices, at all times, wherever they happen to be. Wireless Week is proud to recognize AT&T for doing an outstanding job of recognizing the value of Wi-Fi and making it an important part of its offerings," said Monica Alleven, editor in chief for Wireless Week.

Wireless Week also recognized AT&T for its record number of connections and network traffic made on the AT&T Wi-Fi network, which continued to grow in the first quarter of 2012:

    --  626.4 million AT&T Wi-Fi connections made in the first quarter of 2012,
        more than half of the 1.2 billion connections made in all of 2011.
    --  Quadrupled monthly Wi-Fi data uploads from mobile devices in first
        quarter 2012 versus first quarter 2011.
    --  Tripled AT&T Wi-Fi network traffic in first quarter 2012 versus network
        traffic for first quarter 2011.
    --  More than 79 connections per second made to more than 30,000 AT&T
        operated Wi-Fi Hot Spots.
"We made a decision to scale our network and invest in Wi-Fi technology, products and services to help deliver a better customer experience," said Angie Wiskocil, Senior Vice President, AT&T Wi-Fi Services. "Wi-Fi plays a strategic role in keeping our customers connected when and where they want, and we're thrilled to receive this recognition. Wi-Fi usage will only continue to skyrocket, and we're proud to provide fast, reliable and convenient access to customers and businesses across the country."

AT&T's recent acquisition of Montreal-based Wi-Fi managed services provider Superclick Networks, Inc. expands our services and platforms to deliver premium services in the high-end hospitality sector, domestically and internationally. Hotel locations account for approximately 45 percent of the total AT&T Wi-Fi network traffic, driven by business travelers and longer connection times during guests' stay.

Additionally, AT&T recently reached an agreement to provide free Wi-Fi across Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport's five terminals, totaling more than six million square feet of terminal space, in order to help travelers stay connected. Sporting venues and stadiums also choose AT&T Wi-Fi Services to deploy and manage their Wi-Fi networks in order to keep visitors engaged with the arena experience.

AT&T is also deploying free Wi-Fi to provide convenient connectivity for AT&T customers in high traffic areas. This year, AT&T launched free Wi-Fi at Staten Island's FDR Boardwalk, Brooklyn's Fort Greene Park and Manhattan's Central Park Zoo. To date, AT&T has launched free Wi-Fi at 21 park locations in New York City.

The AT&T Wi-Fi network continues to scale. AT&T customers can connect to the nation's largest Wi-Fi network** with access to more than 233,000 global roaming hot spots, including more than 30,000 AT&T operated domestic Wi-Fi Hot Spots. Most AT&T smartphone customers get access to our entire national Wi-Fi network at no additional cost, and Wi-Fi usage doesn't count against customers' monthly wireless data plans.

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

** Largest based on company branded and operated hotspots. Access includes AT&T Wi-Fi Basic. A Wi-Fi enabled device required. Other restrictions apply. See http://www.attwifi.com for details and locations.

About AT&T

AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) is a premier communications holding company and one of the most honored companies in the world. Its subsidiaries and affiliates - AT&T operating companies - are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation's fastest mobile broadband network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet, voice and cloud-based services. A leader in mobile broadband and emerging 4G capabilities, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide of any U.S. carrier, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T |DIRECTV brands. The company's suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world.

Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com. This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at http://www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATT.

© 2012 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. Mobile broadband not available in all areas. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

SOURCE  AT&T Inc.

AT&T Inc.

CONTACT: Jill Rountree, +1-512-495-7186, jrountree@connected.att-mail.com, for AT&T Corporate Communications

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

blinkx Users Relive Memorable Movie Moments Through New Partnership With AnyClip

From Oscar Winners to Cult Classics, Thousands of Film Clips Now Available at http://www.blinkx.com

SAN FRANCISCO, May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- blinkx, the world's largest and most advanced video search engine, today announced a partnership with AnyClip (http://www.AnyClip.com), the company that redefines how people consume and enjoy online video, to give blinkx users access to clips from over 12,000 feature films in its vast library from studios including Warner Brothers, Universal Studios, Vivendi Entertainment, First Look and Virgil Films.

blinkx and AnyClip will make it easy to watch any favorite movie moment, right at this moment. AnyClip's tagging technology extracts and indexes over 5,000 individual pieces of metadata from each full-length feature film. This means cinema-savvy users can search for movie content via snippets of dialogue, actors, props, and much more in over 12,000 full-length feature films from the top studios. Whether it's a quotable comedy, a pulse-pounding thriller, or a particular performance by an award-winning actor, blinkx users will now be able to search and share the moments that make us love a night at the movies.

"We're thrilled to partner with AnyClip to offer our users access to such a wide variety of film clips from their ever-growing database of licensed content," said Suranga Chandratillake, CEO, blinkx. "AnyClip has made films incredibly searchable, so we can hit the highlights and find our favorite moments quickly and easily - we're very pleased to partner with another company that puts such importance on improving entertainment with technology."

"Our innovative user experience and groundbreaking technology gives consumers an entirely new way to quickly and easily relive their favorite moments from their favorite movies," said Oren Nauman, CEO, AnyClip. "Partnering with blinkx is an exciting opportunity for AnyClip to gain an even bigger movie-loving audience who already expect a seamless and advanced video search experience."

As the pioneer in video search technology, blinkx has built a reputation as the smartest way to find rich media on the Web. The company has signed more than 720 partners and indexed over 35 million hours of video and audio content to date.

About blinkx

blinkx plc (LSE AIM: BLNX) is the world's largest and most advanced video search engine. Today, blinkx has indexed more than 35 million hours of audio, video, viral and TV content, and made it fully searchable and available on demand. blinkx's founders set out to solve a significant challenge - the growing amount of TV and user-generated content on the Web means keyword-based search technologies only scratch the surface. blinkx's patented search technologies listen to--and even see--video on the Web, helping users enjoy a breadth and accuracy of search results not available elsewhere. In addition, blinkx powers the video search for many of the world's most frequented sites. blinkx is based in San Francisco and London. More information is available at http://www.blinkx.com.

About AnyClip

AnyClip enables users to find any moment from any movie in its database. Its technology and innovative user experience allows consumers to relive their favorite moments from their favorite movies. AnyClip partners with film and television studios to create new promotional channels for movies and monetize their content catalog. Leveraging its distribution network, AnyClip allows third-party sites to provide their users with fun, exciting and legal movie content services, increasing traffic and ARPU. AnyClip was founded by Jerusalem Venture Partners (http://www.jvpvc.com) and GTI and is proud to have on its board industry luminaries such as Mickey Schulhof, former President and CEO of Sony America and Sony Media and Entertainment, Erel Margalit, Founder and Managing Partner of JVP who has led 15 NASDAQ IPOs to date, and Art Levitt, former CEO of Fandango, President of Disney Regional Entertainment and CEO of Hard Rock Cafe International.

SOURCE  blinkx

blinkx

CONTACT: Tim Turpin, Sparkpr, +1-415-321-1894, tim.turpin@sparkpr.com; Nicole Love, Marlin PR, +44-207-869-8328, blinkx@marlinpr.com; or NOMAD, Charles Lytle or Christopher Wren, both of Citi, +44-207-986-4000; Mike Chu, Stage Two for AnyClip, anyclip@stagetwo.com, +1-650-303-3822

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

Consmr launches new iPhone app and first Consmr Study

Nutella most popular product in America, Method's "Wood For Good" surface cleaner top-rated.

NEW YORK, May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Consmr (http://www.consmr.com) has announced the launch of Consmr for iPhone, a free iOS app that lets users call upon over 100,000 ratings of consumer packaged-goods to make smarter decisions at the supermarket and drugstore. They have also completed a study of the top 100 best products in America.

Founded by Ryan Charles, Consmr features reviews from thousands of avid shoppers and experts including Women's Health magazine and supermarket guru Phil Lempert. The app uses the iPhone's camera to instantly access Consmr's database of reviews from real people focusing on health, beauty, baby and grocery products.

The app also alerts you if a product has been recalled, and lets you search based on specific categories such as gluten-free and sensitive skin.

"With so many options in the supermarket, it's easy to buy the wrong product or a disappointing one. Our app is a quick and easy way to make the right choice," said Ryan Charles, CEO of Consmr. "We're happy to make the lives of shoppers everywhere a little bit easier."

Consmr's Study also revealed America's favorite consumer products based on over 100,000 ratings. Nutella was the most popular and natural home products company Method received highest aggregate rating for their "Wood For Good" surface cleaner and the 8th highest for their Sea Mineral Gel Hand Wash. Furthermore, Americans clearly cared about their skin - six of the top 25 highest-rated products were skin care products, with an assortment of mouth care, diet & fitness, personal care and household goods making up the rest.

To download the Consmr iOS App, please go to http://www.consmr.com/iphone.

SOURCE  Consmr

Consmr

CONTACT: Ryan Charles, Co-founder and CEO, +1-646-580-1160, press@consmr.com

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

FameUp.TV set to disrupt TV production and revolutionise online video space

A new media venture with a innovative production pipeline involving crowdsourcing all aspects of production is planning to change the way we think of content creation

LONDON, May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Based in London, a group of media executives & creatives are launching a whole new form of content creation - FameUp.TV. By crowdsourcing all aspects of production talent, both in front of and behind the camera, they are set to disrupt the conventional TV production pipeline.

FameUp is a revolutionary media venture combining the competition and excitement of talent shows with the creative passion of online audiences to form the first production company based on crowdsourcing. The site gives people the opportunity to take part in creating web TV by inviting them to win roles as cast and crew on professional productions that will be mentored by industry professionals. Disrupting the established system for recruiting acting and production talent, users will apply by submitting videos. This will allow everyone to bypass the old-fashioned model of agents and "who you know", giving fresh hope to millions of young talents looking for their break. Users will then take part in competitions to win key roles on productions - directing, filming, editing, presenting and obviously acting - and the winners will produce high quality web content whilst being mentored by professionals.

The result is diverse, high quality video content that can be distributed and syndicated online. As well as giving people a chance to take part in productions, users will get paid and raise their profile through the online distribution. FameUp is already cooperating with the JWT, one of Europe's biggest adverting agencies, and leading ad network BRIGHTROLL to enable maximum exposure of the content and various revenues streams.

The competition and voting process will be done by a specially built technological platform, developed exclusively for FameUp. The platform enables access and participation from all devices, full integration to social networks and gamification that enriches the user experience.

The venture is headed by Alon Shtruzman, previously VP Digital Media of FOX International Channels. Other prominent names on the team are Iris Maor, previously MD of Yipp Films and Jack Brough, a BAFTA nominated script writer and a prolific online video creator.

Alon Shtruzman, CEO: "Traditional production methods are expensive, cumbersome and don't utilise the enormous power of social networks and internet users in general. Millions of users upload self made content, proving creativity and execution ability. We take this massive resource, channel it into a competition format and make it more professional in order to produce better content that would appeal to advertisers. YouTube exhibit astonishing numbers, of both uploads and views. However the problem is that a big chunk of this content is irrelevant to advertisers and does not generate revenue. This is where we come in - by making some of this creative resource valuable."

FameUp will generate and fund the productions which will cover various genres - drama, comedy, reality, lifestyle etc. - focusing on content which appeals to advertisers. The productions themselves will be presented on FameUp's own site and syndicated on other sites to maximise viewership.

The venture has just been launched in the UK, firstly as an internet site and later in the year on all devices (mobiles, tablets, smart TVs, streaming, etc). After the UK launch, the venture will be rolled out in other European countries in local languages.

The idea for FameUp was originated and developed by David Yardeni, co-owner of TEDY Productions which has already invested approx.  1M pounds Sterling in developing the platform and formats. David is one of Israel's most influential and versatile content producers. He has over thirty years experience in stage, TV and film productions. He has worked in Israel, London and Los Angeles and the company he established, TEDY Productions, is Israel's biggest private production company in Israel. Since 2000 TEDY has produced 'A Star is Born' - still one of Israel's top rating shows on TV. The drive to develop this new venture came from TEDY's understanding of the profound changes in viewing habits, the movement of advertising money from TV to the online sphere and the popularity of technological platforms enabling video viewing on different devices.

http://www.fameup.tv

For more details:
Iris Maor
+44 20 35829199
Iris@digital-Creators.net

SOURCE  FameUp.TV

FameUp.TV

Web Site: http://www.fameup.tv

Big Data Needs a Big Switch

Gnodal launches the highest density, low latency, Best of Interop Winning, 40GbE (2RU) Switch

BRISTOL, England, May 9, 2012/PRNewswire/ --

    Gnodal Limited, a network company delivering cutting edge Ethernet Switch technology
solutions, today at Interop, announced the launch of the GS0072, the latest and biggest
addition to the industry leading GS-Series with 72 ports of 40 GbE built into a sleek 2RU
form factor. The GS0072 was recently awarded Best of Interop in the Networking Category
this week in Las Vegas.

    (Photo:
http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120509/531232 )

    Gnodal's adaptive switching technology is derived from a custom made ASIC and the
GS0072 is the first multi-ASIC product from Gnodal. Consolidating the Gnodal Fabric has
allowed Gnodal to have the highest port count of any 2RU switch. Such a high density
switch not only means a small footprint in the data center, it also delivers benefits in
terms of power consumption and efficiency, making the GS0072 a highly cost-effective
alternative to more complex chassis-based solutions.

    The GS0072 is an order of magnitude faster than most competitive switches with
congestion management and dynamic load-balancing, allowing the switches to operate at near
100% bandwidth utilization (throughput). The GS0072 is targeted at Cloud and Big Data
environments where 10GbE edge connectivity is required to accommodate very large numbers
of virtual clients as well as High Performance Computing applications that may require
native 40 Gbps capability to achieve extreme scalability and throughput.

    With an initial port-to-port latency as low as 282ns and additional hops at a mere
66ns, multi-stage networks containing thousands of ports can be assembled with an overall
system latency as low as 414ns making the GS-Series ideal for latency sensitive
applications. The GS-Series is built to scale from 72 ports to a massive network of up to
64,000 ports by combining other members of the family to create a cost-effective,
ultra-low latency, highly utilized Ethernet Fabric.

    Bob Fernander, Gnodal CEO, commented:

    "This product is groundbreaking. Being selected as Best of Interop Winner is further
endorsement that our customers have a product that can meet the demands of the modern data
center."

    About Gnodal Limited

    Gnodal has defined a revolutionary 10/40GbE switch family, free from current network
limitations, offering unprecedented performance improvements and almost unlimited
scalability. Gnodal switch products derive their extreme performance capability from its
own revolutionary architectural design that minimizes network congestion and delivers
optimum performance with minimal cost and power consumption. Gnodal products fulfill
today's high performance requirements in such markets as Scientific and Engineering,
Financial Services, Web 2.0, Cloud and Hosting providers, Video, Life sciences, and Oil
and Gas exploration. For more information, please visit http://www.gnodal.com
[../../../../Documents%20and%20Settings/System%20Administrator/Local%20Settings/Temporary%
20Internet%20Files/Content.Outlook/SOGFYL3G/www.gnodal.com_ ].

    Gnodal is headquartered in Bristol, UK with offices in Palo Alto, CA.

Photo:
http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120509/531232

Source: Gnodal

For additional information please contact Gnodal press office: Patrick Fraser, +44-117-9278132,         
patrick.fraser@mccann.com; Harriet Jones, +44-117-9278120, harriet.jones@mccann.com; Jim Preasmyer  +1-650-268-9920, jimp@gnodal.com

Worldwide Luxury Yacht Specialists 26 North Yachts Launches New Industry-Leading Yacht Brokerage Website: http://www.26NorthYachts.com

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Fort Lauderdale-based luxury yacht brokerage firm 26 North Yachts recently launched an upgraded website that, like the company, sets a higher standard for luxury yacht sales and purchase.

Comprehensive in its scope and coverage, 26NorthYachts.com provides extensive information and reviews on over 80 luxury yacht manufacturers, in addition to yacht reviews and comparisons. Employing the latest web technologies, 26NorthYachts.com also offers engaging podcasts and videos to review and showcase previously owned yachts for sale--all in a format easily accessed through mobile devices. Arming buyers and sellers with up-to-date information they require, the site provides strategy guides and market analyses, unique to the user's position in a deal. Finally, users will find the Hot Deals section useful in finding the yacht of their dreams priced to sell.

Co-Owner/Broker Nicholas Scherb said, "With the launch of our improved site, we are able to offer more to our sellers and buyers by way of enhanced information in the way that today's market consumes--typically online, through videos, podcasts, and a variety of mobile devices." Added Mike Carlson, co-owner/broker, "Our enhanced site further advances our position in the yachting industry through our use of cutting edge technology.  Simply put--we represent the forefront of how today's yacht sales are made."

About 26 North Yachts

26 North Yachts represents the finest private sailing and motor yachts available worldwide. Based in the yachting capital of the world, Fort Lauderdale, Fla., 26 North Yachts extends its service across the oceans covering every angle from sales to charter. 26 North Yachts is an exclusive brand providing the most professional and private service available. Their commitment to excellence is found in their ability to communicate and provide instant information, as expected in today's market. Their advanced marketing techniques and extensive database differentiates them from other brokerage houses in the industry, resulting in a successful sale for both buyer and seller. For more information about 26 North Yachts, call (954) 372-7026 or visit http://www.26northyachts.com.

Contact: Lara Pansolli, 26 North Yachts, (954) 372-7026, info@26northyacths.com

SOURCE  26 North Yachts

26 North Yachts

Web Site: http://www.26northyachts.com

Trend Micro(TM) SecureCloud(TM) "Plug-In" Makes It Easy for Companies Using Apache CloudStack to Encrypt and Protect Their Cloud Data

SAN FRANCISCO, May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Citrix Synergy -- Trend Micro Incorporated (TYO: 4704;TSE: 4704), a leader in cloud security, announced today at Citrix Synergy a product development initiative using Apache CloudStack currently in incubation at the Apache Software Foundation, giving Trend Micro first-mover advantage among those Apache CloudStack users searching for easy-to-deploy encryption solutions tailored to the Cloud.

Trend Micro delivers an innovative cloud encryption service, now available with a simple plug-in that makes it easier and quicker for CloudStack users to implement--rather than investing months in developing and deploying an encryption solution on their own.

Trend Micro SecureCloud is a patent-pending key management system that enables administrators to set policies that determine where and when encrypted data can be accessed. In addition, server validation applies identity and integrity rules when servers request access to secure storage volumes. SecureCloud's simple approach safely delivers encryption keys to valid devices without the need to deploy an entire file system and management infrastructure. With SecureCloud, one can protect sensitive information in cloud and virtual environments from theft, unauthorized exposure, or unapproved geographic migration to other data centers. This protection helps support internal governance and aids in complying with regulations like HIPAA, HITECH, Sarbanes-Oxley, GLB and PCI DSS.

In April 2012, Citrix moved CloudStack from the GPL to the Apache License 2.0 and contributed the CloudStack project to the Apache Software Foundation (ASF), thus turning CloudStack into a truly community run project with governance provided by the Apache Software Foundation rather than by Citrix alone.  In addition, Citrix has stepped up its investment in the project and the open source community and decided to become a platinum sponsor of the Apache Software Foundation.

"Citrix just contributed CloudStack to the Apache Software Foundation in April," said Steve Quane, Chief Product Officer, at Trend Micro. "One month later, as one of the first companies to show its commitment to CloudStack since that announcement, Trend Micro has already developed an effective encryption plug-in for CloudStack, a testament to our 'Security that Fits' strategy."

The SecureCloud plug-in for Apache CloudStack is a small module that simplifies and automates the process of synchronizing cloud assets into SecureCloud as part of the encryption provisioning process enabling SecureCloud administrators to easily define encryption key release policies for the data volumes that will be encrypted.

"As the industry adoption of cloud technologies in the enterprise moves mainstream, there is an increased demand for technology solutions that help address the security and compliance needs of the enterprise," said Peder Ulander, vice president of marketing for cloud platforms, Citrix. "The SecureCloud plug in for Apache CloudStack makes it easy for our customers to integrate secure data protection capabilities into their cloud.  We are excited to partner with Trend Micro around their Secure Cloud initiative and look forward to working with them on this initiative and others in the future."

Trend Micro is making the newly developed plug-in for Apache CloudStack available as a controlled beta to select customers on a limited basis. Those interested in joining this beta program should contact Dan Crowe at dan_crowe@trendmicro.com with "SecureCloud plug-in for CloudStack" in the subject line of their message.

About Trend Micro

Trend Micro Incorporated (TYO: 4704;TSE: 4704), a global cloud securityleader, creates a world safe for exchanging digital information with its Internet content security and threat management solutions for businesses and consumers.  A pioneer in server security with over 20 years' experience, we deliver top-ranked client, server and cloud-based security that fits our customers' and partners' needs, stops new threats faster, and protects data in physical, virtualized and cloud environments. Powered by the industry-leading Trend Micro(TM) Smart Protection Network(TM) cloud computing security infrastructure, our products and services stop threats where they emerge - from the Internet. They are supported by 1,000+ threat intelligence experts around the globe. 

Additional information about Trend Micro Incorporated and the products and services are available at Trend Micro.com. This Trend Micro news release and other announcements are available at http://newsroom.trendmicro.com/  and as part of an RSS feed at http://www.trendmicro.com/rss.   Or follow our news on Twitter at @TrendMicro.

SOURCE  Trend Micro Incorporated

Trend Micro Incorporated

CONTACT: Michael Sweeny of Trend Micro, +1-408-863-6384

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

Lakeside Software FastTrack 2.0 Accelerates Citrix Desktop Transformation

Advanced reporting, more intuitive GUI, improved logic and AppDNA Software support drive faster, more accurate reporting in the Citrix Virtual Desktop assessment tool

BLOOMFIELD HILLS, Mich., May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Lakeside Software, a leader in business intelligence solutions for IT professionals, announced today general availability of FastTrack 2.0, the second release of its wildly popular SysTrack FastTrack virtual desktop assessment tool for Citrix XenDesktop® customers.  Citrix XenDesktop customers can take advantage of the detailed analytical capabilities present in FastTrack 2.0 to smoothly transition to a user-centric environment by identifying issues and providing detailed recommendations needed to address any problems as they occur.  Scaling and ramping a pilot to production is now a seamless process that leverages on-demand and historical analysis of performance for effective, proactive management.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20111212/DE17893LOGO )

FastTrack 2.0 incorporates significant enhancements including:

    --  Advanced Reporting -- A new enhanced FastTrack report provides more
        detailed software and hardware recommendations for implementing a
        desktop transformation project.
    --  Intuitive GUI -- An updated graphical interface is more intuitive and
        provides additional context-sensitive help resources.
    --  Improved Logic -- Improved internal logic accelerates FastTrack
        assessment and reporting.
    --  Citrix AppDNA application management software support -- The popular
        application migration solution can now access core SysTrack data
        generated with a FastTrack assessment.
FastTrack 2.0 includes an intuitive wizard that dramatically simplifies the data collection process and outputs a comprehensive report providing the detailed, quantitative information Citrix customers need to successfully implement desktop transformation projects.  The wizard intuitively guides the user through the assessment process from the initial data gathering phase, through data analysis, then to modeling.  Transparent to the user, the wizard makes application delivery, XenDesktop FlexCast(TM) delivery, datacenter and location decisions based on the collected data.  The wizard will also proactively track the quality of the data in the assessment.  From within the wizard, the customer can troubleshoot issues and also evaluate the SysTrack products that can provide ongoing monitoring, optimization and problem resolution at the site and enterprise level.

"SysTrack FastTrack is being well received by the Citrix user community for its ability to help XenDesktop customers accelerate their desktop transformation initiatives," said Dan Salinas, VP of business development, Lakeside Software.  "FastTrack 2.0 is a natural evolution of our collaboration with Citrix that gives customers even more power to transform their desktops."

"Citrix and Lakeside software have a successful relationship to accelerate desktop transformation for our customers. The integration between SysTrack FastTrack and Citrix AppDNA software gives our customers valuable recommendations based on their unique configurations. As a result, we are able to help our mutual customers more rapidly assess, design and deploy virtual desktops using the market leading Citrix XenDesktop," said John Fanelli, vice president, product marketing, Enterprise Desktops and Applications group at Citrix.

About Lakeside Software

Lakeside Software is a leading provider of business intelligence solutions for IT.  SysTrack® solutions for User Experience Scoring, End-to-End Monitoring, Problem Diagnostics, Power Management, VDI Assessment and Planning, and Windows 7 Migration empower IT with the knowledge to dramatically improve productivity and reduce costs.  SysTrack's patented and massively scalable DataMine(TM) distributed database architecture aggregates node-level data unmatched in depth and quality, enabling SysTrack's sophisticated reporting intelligence to deliver an unprecedented level of insight into application usage and resource utilization.

Lakeside Software, SysTrack, SysTrack FastTrack and DataMine are registered trademarks and/or trademarks of Lakeside Software, Inc. in the United States and other jurisdictions.  Third-party trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners.

SOURCE  Lakeside Software

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20111212/DE17893LOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Lakeside Software

CONTACT: Media Relations, Lakeside Software, Inc., +1-248-686-1700, marketing@lakesidesoftware.com

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

theIRapp(TM) Launches in Canada

theIRapp(TM) Launches Its Mobile Investor Relations Application For Toronto Stock Exchange Listed Companies

NEW YORK, May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- theIRapp(TM), the only turnkey mobile investor relations app available to public companies via Apple's App Store and the Android Market, announced today that it has extended its investor relations mobile application to all companies listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. Previously, theIRapp(TM) was only available to U.S. listed public companies.

theIRapp(TM), launched in February 2012, is a turnkey IR solution that optimizes a company's IR content so that it is easily viewable on mobile devices. By simply providing its ticker symbol and corporate logo, any public company can have its own highly-customized mobile app at considerably reduced time, cost and effort than developing an app themselves via their own IT or web development initiatives.

Most existing financial apps only provide shareholders with basic data. theIRapp(TM) gives investors access to extensive, valuable corporate information in a tailored configuration which companies themselves can directly control through a secure content management system (CMS).  Importantly, it allows publicly traded companies to take advantage of the phenomenal growth in mobile data usage by institutional and individual investors, analysts, and brokers.

"Following the successful launch of theIRapp(TM) in the U.S., our Canadian launch is a natural expansion of this market-leading technology and makes it the leading tool for IR mobility in North America," said Jeffrey Corbin, co-founder of theIRapp(TM).  "With millions of investment professionals connected via a mobile device, theIRapp(TM) is transforming the landscape of investor relations.  The ability and ease of theIRapp(TM) to instantaneously relay vital corporate data to shareholders and potential investors drives engagement, increases brand awareness and fundamentally enhances companies' relationships with their investors."

Any company listed on the TSX or on a U.S. stock exchange, can have their own IR App available for download on iPhone(TM), iPad(TM)  and Android(TM) devices within a matter of weeks.  Companies including Unilife, MagneGas, BiolineRx, Pharming Group and Synthetic Biologics have already launched their own investor relations app with theIRapp(TM) - these can be found by searching the company names in Apple's App Store.

For more information on theIRapp(TM), including pricing, visit http://www.theIRapp.com/. 

About theIRapp(TM)

theIRapp(TM) (http://www.theIRapp.com) is a turnkey mobile application available to all publicly traded companies that enables their investor relations information to be downloaded via Apple's App Store on the iPhone and iPad as well as The Android Market for Android devices. theIRapp(TM) is a simple way for investors to keep abreast of critical company and stock information.  Given the viral nature of apps and the ease of sharing them with colleagues and friends, theIRapp(TM) is the next generation IR solution for establishing transparency, building shareholder loyalty and expanding an investor following.

By simply providing its ticker symbol and company's logo, in less than three weeks, a public company can have its own customized app available for download by millions of investors.  Through theIRapp(TM), retail and institutional investors have access to automated, real-time stock price information (via live data feeds), press releases, SEC filings, analyst coverage, corporate documents (fact sheets, presentations, etc.), videos, audiocast conference calls, upcoming events and company contact information. 

Media Contact:
Joe McGurk
KCSA Strategic Communications
(212) 896-1231
jmcgurk@kcsa.com

SOURCE  theIRapp

theIRapp

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

Adconion Media Group Rebrands Joost Media Into smartclip As Part Of Heightened Focus On U.S. Multi-Screen Video Advertising

NEW YORK and LONDON, May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Adconion Media Group, one of the largest global multi-channel digital distribution platforms with a potential reach of 687 million unique users across its video, display, social and e-mail platforms, is folding in and rebranding its Joost Media business into its global smartclip multi-screen video advertising division.

smartclip (http://www.smartclip.com), acquired by Adconion Media Group in November 2011, is already the European leader in digital video advertising. The company is now also operating in Latin America. Most recently, the smartclip offerings were launched in the Australian market, leveraging Adconion's presence in Asia-Pacific, creating a truly global platform.

The smartclip multi-screen video and brand advertising platform specializes in video ad formats across all Internet-connected devices including smartphones, tablet PCs, gaming consoles, set-top boxes and connected TVs, in addition to the classic PC.

Tyler Moebius, president and CEO of Adconion Media Group, states: "Building on the proven success of smartclip in the frontier of multi-screen video advertising, we are excited to extend these capabilities to our agencies and marketers on a global scale. Now, with the launch in the U.S., brands will benefit from the combination of the Joost Media team's U.S. market experience and trusted relationships coupled with smartclip's expertise and innovative multi-screen video ad products, that span across PC, mobile and Connected TV. smartclip has partnerships with some of the largest OEM and app developers in Europe and many of these partners have asked us to extend our monetization capabilities outside of Europe. In leveraging Adconion's global platform, and with the launch of smartclip in the U.S. we are able to provide global services to content owners and app developers looking to monetize global audiences across multiple screens."

With the integration of the companies and their technology platforms, smartclip can leverage the strength of Adconion's in-banner video and rich media capabilities, as well as its audience segmentation and targeting capabilities, in order to deliver targeted video advertising at scale.

"smartclip's global presence provides a major advantage for international brands, platforms and publishers: We are in the ideal position to integrate video ads on all platforms, across all screens and monetize premium video content on a global scale. With the integration of the existing Joost operations into the network, we will be able to deliver video ads in the U.S. immediately," explains Jean-Pierre Fumagalli, CEO smartclip.

smartclip is dedicating itself to become the most agile and reliable partner to advertisers everywhere on all major platforms. The company creates unique possibilities and innovative digital touch-points for video advertising, presenting brands to target groups, which are becoming increasingly harder to reach via traditional media.

Joost current clients and campaigns are being rolled into the smartclip platform. 

ABOUT SMARTCLIP
smartclip (http://www.smartclip.com) is a global multi-screen and brand advertising platform specializing in video ad formats across all Internet-connected devices including, next to the classic PC, smartphones, tablet PCs, gaming consoles, set-top boxes and connected TVs. The company helps advertisers and media agencies to reach targeted consumers. Publishers benefit from proprietary and innovative technology solutions for the monetization of their video content. smartclip is headquartered in Hamburg, Germany with major operations in Western Europe, Australia and Russia, pushing the frontier of digital video advertising. With this press release, smartclip is expanding its reach to the United States. The company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Adconion Media Group, which has 24 offices serving 20 countries around the world.

ABOUT ADCONION MEDIA GROUP
Adconion Media Group (http://www.adconion.com) operates one of the largest multi-channel digital distribution platforms, with a potential reach of 687m unique users monthly across display, rich media, video, social, mobile and email. This reach corresponds to more than half the global online population accordingly to Comscore. Dedicated to strong local partnerships with agencies and marketers, Adconion provides customized performance and brand products, designed in-house, which are delivered across multiple screens and ad formats from a single global platform. Adconion has 24 offices serving 20 countries around the world. It is a member of the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB), is one of the first companies to be IAB certified with its unique Ad Networks & Exchanges Quality Assurance program in the U.S. and is a founding member of IASH Europe.

SOURCE  smartclip

smartclip

CONTACT: U.S., Savannah Tikotsky, +1-212-808-4903, or Henry Feintuch, +1-212-808-4901, both of Feintuch Communications, smartclip@feintuchpr.com; or Kathrin Muller, + 49 40 6887 687 - 117, kathrin.mueller@smartclip.de, or Maike Bierbaum, + 49 40 6887 687 - 130, bierbaum@smartclip.com, both of Adconion Media Group

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

appsbar Arrives in Boston to Preview New Online Tool for Building and Publishing Web, Smart Phone and Tablet apps

BOSTON, May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --appsbar.com, the free-to-use resource for creating and publishing tablet and Smart Phone apps will be in Boston May 10 to preview their new resource for anyone to build and publish Apple, Android, Facebook and HTML5 apps faster and easier.

Following a one-year beta period, appsbar will emerge as an easier and faster tool for anyone to build a robust and dynamic app. Small businesses, non-profits, and everyday users will now have access to a more intuitive online interface that anyone can use to develop professional-level, native apps.

Appsbar founder Scott Hirsch will deliver a presentation on the future of appsbar:

    May 10, noon-2 pm
Boston College Club
    100 Federal Street, Boston (36th Floor, Triple Eagle Room)

To attend, please RSVP to jmcgurk@kcsa.com

Already in use by more than 100,000 app builders and ranked as the largest app developer in Google Play, Hirsch will discuss the all new appsbar and how it will continue to redefine how apps are built and used. The new appsbar.com will be released the week of May 14.

Since its launch in May 2011, appsbar has emerged as the leading way for anyone to build a professional-level app, for free. It has grown to a community of more than 100,000 app builders, whose individual apps average 900 downloads within the first few days. Musicians, small businesses, educators, non-profits and more have developed apps that have been launched more than 10 million times.

Please see this video for an explanation of appsbar: http://youtu.be/Oatucw4hoO0

With appsbar anyone can make apps for iPhones, iPads and Android devices. Additionally, appsbar will discuss how apps will be optimized to be used across Facebook and other HTML5 websites.

Media contact:
Joe McGurk for appsbar at pr@appsbar.com, 212-896-1231

About appsbar
appsbar is an online resource for anyone to build and publish free apps. Launched in 2011, appsbar fills the gap between over-simplified apps and costly, professionally-produced apps. Developed by Scott Hirsch and Appsbar Inc., it has grown into a community of everyday app developers and opened the way for businesses and people to engage with friends and brands online. For company information and partnership opportunities, visit http://www.facebook.com/appsbar or http://www.appsbar.com.

SOURCE  KCSA Worldwide

KCSA Worldwide

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

Adoption Option Council Brings Virtual Scrapbook to Hard Copy

Group seeks sponsors to help publish 100 copies of groundbreaking "Minnesota Loves Adoption" scrapbook

MINNEAPOLIS, May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- It's perhaps the most amazing love story there is: people come together to form a family, commit to loving unconditionally, celebrating triumphs and overcoming challenges. It's a love story told online at "Minnesota Loves Adoption," a virtual scrapbook featuring more than 30 stories from birth parents, adoptive parents, families touched by adoption, and people who were themselves adopted.

The Adoption Option Council of Minnesota (AOCM) has launched a sponsorship drive to print 100 copies of this scrapbook and provide them free of charge to Minnesota pregnancy counseling centers.

"Anything we can do to help put the truth about adoption into the hands of people when they need it and where they need it is worth the effort," says AOCM President Amanda Wagner. "I have no doubt our supporters will help us achieve that goal."

A special financial gift from a private family foundation helped AOCM create online and print resources to help pregnancy counseling centers better understand how to discuss adoption with their clients. The gift does not pay for the cost of sponsoring books.

A sponsorship of only $40 will cover the printing costs of one scrapbook. Sponsors may also make a personal dedication in each book they support. Visit http://www.minnesotalovesadoption.org to learn more.

About Adoption Option Council of Minnesota

Originally known as Adoption Option Committee Inc., Adoption Option Council of Minnesota -- adoptionoptionmn.org -- is a nonprofit dedicated to promoting adoption as a viable and loving alternate for those expecting a baby and not prepared to effectively parent. AOCM is convinced through statistics and personal experiences that adoption can offer healthy outcomes for children and birth parents who might otherwise experience great difficulties. To date, the organization has provided more than 1,000 birth parents (via their social workers) with small grants to help cover medical costs, rent and other expenses as a show of support during the months and years following completion of an adoption plan. A scholarship program is also available for birth mothers who are pursuing a college career. AOCM delivers accurate information about adoption and promotes it as a courageous choice through online and in-person presentations. The organization does not provide pregnancy counseling, make referrals to any particular adoption agency or reflect any political or religious agendas.

SOURCE  Adoption Option Council of Minnesota

Adoption Option Council of Minnesota

CONTACT: Jenny Eldredge, +1-952-944-0866, mobile, +1-612-619-4297

Web Site: http://minnesotalovesadoption.org

Wi-Fi Alliance® Introduces Two New Certification Programs for Advanced Enterprise Applications

AUSTIN, Texas, May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Wi-Fi Alliance® today announced that it will soon begin to certify products for two new programs that deliver enterprise-grade voice quality, mobility, power savings and security protections.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20070516/SFW029LOGO)

Wi-Fi CERTIFIED(TM) Voice-Enterprise is designed to support good voice call quality in large enterprise networks that require support for advanced WPA2(TM)-Enterprise security mechanisms.  The program builds on the existing Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Voice-Personal program to support fast transitions between access points APs and provide management for voice applications.

Wi-Fi CERTIFIED WMM®-Admission Control provides bandwidth management tools to optimize the delivery of voice and video traffic in Wi-Fi® networks.

Planned for launch late in the second quarter, the new certification programs will provide enterprise IT managers solutions for better voice quality and bandwidth management in their Wi-Fi networks, with the following benefits:

    --  Priority for voice applications: APs give priority to voice packets over
        data packets, optimizing performance in mixed traffic environments where
        heavy data, voice and video traffic co-exist
    --  Seamless mobility: Voice connectivity is preserved as the user moves
        within the enterprise network, from one AP to the next
    --  Power savings: Solutions are optimized for battery-operated devices,
        implementing mechanisms across the system that maximize power efficiency
    --  Advanced security protection: Industry-standard WPA2 security ensures
        only authorized users access the network and protects  the privacy of
        communications
"These new certification programs reflect Wi-Fi's continued prominence as an enterprise networking technology and bring important new tools to meet the needs of demanding enterprise applications," said Kelly Davis-Felner, marketing director of the Wi-Fi Alliance.  "As enterprise connectivity continues to evolve, Wi-Fi Alliance will continue to give IT managers confidence that products will meet the needs of ever-more-complex networks."

Voice-Enterprise and WMM-Admission Control-certified devices can connect with older Wi-Fi CERTIFIED devices, enabling a vast range of devices already in use to connect with products implementing these new features.  Voice-Enterprise and WMM-Admission Control-certified devices can support Wi-Fi CERTIFIED n technology, as well as other versions of Wi-Fi.

Products selected as the test suite devices for Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Voice-Enterprise testing are:

    --  Aruba 105 Wireless Access Point and Aruba 3200 Controller
    --  Broadcom® Wireless-N WLAN mini-card adapter reference design
    --  Cisco® Aironet® 1260 Series Access Point and Cisco Aironet 2100 Series
        WLAN Controller
    --  DSP Group® Expeditor TB Wi-Fi Reference Board
    --  Marvell® Plug Computer with 8787 Dual Band Wi-Fi
    --  Meru 802.11abgn AP310 Access Point and Meru MC1500 controller
    --  Qualcomm Atheros(TM) XSPAN Reference Design Concurrent Dual-Band Access
        Point
    --  Research In Motion® BlackBerry® Bold(TM) 9000
Products selected as test suite devices for the Wi-Fi CERTIFIED WMM-Admission Control testing are:

    --  Aruba 105 Wireless Access Point and Aruba 3200 Controller
    --  Cisco Aironet 1260 Series Access Point and Cisco Aironet 2100 Series
        WLAN Controller
    --  DSP Group Expeditor TB Wi-Fi Reference Board
    --  Marvell Plug Computer with 8787 Dual Band Wi-Fi
    --  Meru 802.11abgn AP310 Access Point and Meru MC1500 controller
    --  Ralink RT3800PDAP3 Wireless Access Point
    --  Ralink MIMObility 802.11n Reference Design
    --  Research In Motion BlackBerry Bold 9000
More information on Wi-Fi CERTIFIED programs, a list of Wi-Fi CERTIFIED products, technical specifications, white papers, and more are available at http://www.wi-fi.org

About the Wi-Fi Alliance®
http://www.wi-fi.org

The Wi-Fi Alliance is a global non-profit industry association of hundreds of leading companies devoted to seamless connectivity. With technology development, market building, and regulatory programs, the Wi-Fi Alliance has enabled widespread adoption of Wi-Fi worldwide.

The Wi-Fi CERTIFIED(TM) program was launched in March 2000. It provides a widely-recognized designation of interoperability and quality and it helps to ensure that Wi-Fi-enabled products deliver the best user experience. The Wi-Fi Alliance has completed more than 13,000 product certifications, encouraging the expanded use of Wi-Fi products and services in new and established markets.

Wi-Fi®, Wi-Fi Alliance®, WMM®, Wi-Fi Protected Access® (WPA), the Wi-Fi CERTIFIED logo, the Wi-Fi logo, the Wi-Fi ZONE logo and the Wi-Fi Protected Setup logo are registered trademarks of the Wi-Fi Alliance. Wi-Fi CERTIFIED(TM), Wi-Fi Direct(TM), Wi-Fi Protected Setup(TM), Wi-Fi Multimedia(TM), WPA2(TM), Passpoint(TM), and the Wi-Fi Alliance logo are trademarks of the Wi-Fi Alliance.

Follow us on Twitter: @wifialliance

Wi-Fi Alliance YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/wifialliance

SOURCE  Wi-Fi Alliance

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20070516/SFW029LOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Wi-Fi Alliance

CONTACT: Karl Stetson of Edelman for Wi-Fi Alliance, +1-206-268-2215, karl.stetson@edelman.com

Web Site: http://www.wi-fi.org

AnyMP4 Releases MP4 Converter for Mac Users - Rip DVDs and Convert Video to MP4

BEIJING, May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- After releasing the Windows version of MP4 Converter, AnyMP4 now introduces the Mac MP4 Converter for Mac users all around the world. This professional MP4 Converter for Mac software product can help users rip any DVD and convert various popular videos to one of the most commonly used video formats - MP4. Thus, users can easily put DVD movies and their favorite videos on mainstream portable devices with the program.

Specifically speaking, AnyMP4's Mac MP4 Converter is not only a DVD to MP4 Converter, but also a Video to MP4 Converter. With a powerful converting function, this two-in-one software can rip any DVD disc, DVD folder or IFO files to MP4 video with the original visual and sound effects onto a Mac. Also, it can be used to convert any video format including 3GP, 3G2, MPG, MPEG, VOB, M4V, TS, MTS, RM, RMVB, WMV, ASF, MKV, AVI, F4V, FLV, SWF, MPV, MOD, TOD, MOV and more to MP4 with super-fast speed and high output quality. Besides, this MP4 Converter for Mac has the ability to extract audio files from DVD movies and videos and then convert them to AAC, AC3, AIFF, FLAC, M4A, MKA, MP2, MP3, OGG, WAV, WMA and more. The unique design and user-friendly interface makes the converting operation much easier and faster.

AnyMP4's MP4 Converter for Mac has multiple editing features to help users customize DVD movies and added videos. For instance, users can use the "trim" function to cut a video's length by removing unwanted segments; the "crop" function can adjust the video's aspect ratio and help users to get rid of black edges; and the "watermark" function allows users to add the text/image watermark to make the video's effects much better. In addition, the "effect" function can adjust the video's brightness, contrast, saturation, hue and volume. Also the "merge" function can join various videos together. What's more, users can preview the original and output videos' effects at the same time.

MP4 Converter for Mac supports most popular portable devices. Users can enjoy DVD movies and videos on devices such as the iPad, iPad 2, iPhone, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPod, Kindle Fire, Android Phone, Nokia and more.

For more information about this compelling software, please visit the webpage below:

http://www.anymp4.com/mp4-converter-for-mac/

System Requirements

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

About AnyMP4

AnyMP4, a software producer, aims to provide the best and world-class solution of converting Blu-ray Disc, DVD and video/audio files. AnyMP4 is dedicated to developing the most powerful multimedia processing software for users all over the world. Our product portfolio ranges from video tools, DVD tools, Blu-ray tools, etc. on both Microsoft Windows and Apple's Mac OS X platforms. All these software can help you easily solve almost all DVD/Blu-ray/video issues. For more details about AnyMP4, please visit: http://www.anymp4.com

SOURCE  Harbour Software

Harbour Software

CONTACT: George Brown, +86-131-4638-1763, pr@anymp4.com, http://www.anymp4.com

Web Site: http://www.anymp4.com/mp4-converter-for-mac

Sharp® Announces Expansion Of High-Performance, Energy-Efficient LED Lighting Solutions Portfolio

LIGHTFAIR -- BOOTH #4741 -- LAS VEGAS CONVENTION CENTER

Leading LED provider to manufacture downlights, track lights, troffers and made-to-order lighting solutions at U.S. facilities

MAHWAH, N.J., May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Sharp Electronics Corporation today announced its plans to launch a new portfolio of market-leading LED downlighting, track lighting, and recessed troffer solutions, designed and manufactured in its facilities in the US.   This product offering is the first of what will become a steady stream of future luminaire and lamp solutions for lighting applications from Sharp.

These Sharp LED offerings - which will be available for shipment in late summer 2012 - will include 6-inch and 4-inch diameter downlights, in both round and square options, multiple lumen packages, and a variety of finishes and colors; track lights in two sizes and lumen packages, with a number of color and beam angle options; and 2'x2' and 2'x4' recessed troffers available in variety of customizable finishes, and energy saving dimming control options.

All of these Sharp products have been designed and will be manufactured at the company's Memphis, TN facility, thus enabling Sharp to deliver lighting solutions to customers in North America who require quick turnaround to get product to the job site.  Additionally, Sharp's capabilities out of its Memphis facility enable it to create and implement features that address the specific needs of users in each region of North America via easy product modifications, such as different finish options and ceiling thickness accommodations, as well as substantial customization of standard products for signature projects.

"With this announcement, Sharp is reinforcing its commitment to combine a history of LED leadership and innovation with our design and manufacturing capabilities in North America.  Sharp is dedicated to leading the way in addressing the evolving needs of LED specifiers, distributors, installers, and end users across a range of markets," said Al Near, vice president, sales and marketing. "Sharp has been at the forefront of the LED technology industry since its inception - mass-producing LED devices for more than 40 years and leading the Japanese market in LED lighting devices."

Sharp's LED luminaires are powered by its Zenigata chip technology which enables the delivery of extremely energy-efficient luminaires that offer higher color quality and better performance than comparable traditional source lighting products, such as incandescent, halogen, compact fluorescent, and even ceramic metal halide.

Sharp LED lighting solutions are designed to meet the highest industry standards, including Design Lights Consortium, California Title 24, Chicago Plenum guidelines and are ENERGY STAR® qualified.  With a design focus on "quality of light," not only should Sharp LED luminaires meet North America's most stringent energy codes, but they will do so by providing the color quality, dimming, and optical control properties similar to less efficient incandescent light sources, while providing even greater energy savings than mercury-filled, UV emitting fluorescent light sources.   

As compared to other LED lighting products, Sharp Zenigata components operate at high efficiency levels, combined with high levels of color saturation, yielding a CRI well above 90+.  Most other LED products with comparable light output typically deliver CRI measurements in the low to mid 80s. Sharp LED luminaires are superior to traditional source lighting products as they consume less energy and produce less heat resulting in additional energy savings and reduced HVAC loads in buildings. In addition, Sharp luminaires do not give off UV light, which can cause color fading in fabrics and artwork and do not contain mercury, which can lead to lamp disposal issues. Sharp luminaires feature extremely long lamp life delivering approximately 50,000 hours of operation, which can significantly reduce the relamping of traditional lighting sources from 10 to 50 times over the life of the lamp.   

"Sharp's announcement of plans to launch a portfolio of LED luminaires in the US further reinforces the company's global focus on energy-saving and energy-creating products," said Near. "The extraordinary efficiency and color quality of our LED lighting solutions, together with the dedication to environmentally conscious practices at Sharp facilities contributes to Sharp's overall vision for a cleaner and healthier world." 

Sharp offers an expanding portfolio of leading LED solutions that ideally position the company to address the needs of markets including retail and hospitality, where clients require a complete set of solutions in order to create an attractive environment where customers can shop or relax.

Sharp Electronics Corporation is the U.S. subsidiary of Japan's Sharp Corporation, a worldwide developer of one-of-a-kind home entertainment products, appliances, networked multifunctional office solutions, solar energy solutions, LED lighting and mobile communication and information tools. Leading brands include AQUOS® Quattron(TM) LCD televisions and 3DTVs, AQUOS BOARD(TM) interactive display systems, SharpVision® projectors, Insight® Microwave Drawer® ovens, Notevision® multimedia projectors and Plasmacluster® air purifiers. For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at http://www.sharpusa.com.  Follow us on Facebook or Twitter and watch us on YouTube.

©2012 Sharp Electronics Corporation

Sharp and all related trademarks are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sharp Corporation and/or its affiliated entities.

SOURCE  Sharp Electronics Corporation

Sharp Electronics Corporation

CONTACT: Wendie Larkin, Emanate Public Relations, +1-781-404-2411, wendie.larkin@emanatepr.com, or Jeff Leopold, Sharp Electronics Corporation, +1-201-529-8771, leopoldj@sharpusa.com

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

Mobile Industry Leaders Create Certification Mark for Renewed Devices

Mark will identify renewed wireless devices that meet Device Renewal Forum's "gold standard"

NEW ORLEANS, May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Device Renewal Forum (DRF) today announced during the International CTIA Wireless® 2012 conference a new Certification Mark to identify renewed devices that comply with its stringent standards and acceptance criteria.

The DRF was created to expand the use of renewed devices by building awareness and establishing a technology-agnostic "gold standard" for refurbishing, testing and certifying renewed devices on a global basis. Wireless devices that meet the rigorous refurbishment, inspection and testing requirements established by the DRF to ensure their proper function, performance and appearance will receive a Certificate of Acceptance and may bear the Certification Mark on their packaging. This designation indicates to regulators, operators, distributors, resellers, retailers and consumers that user expectations will be met and the device will not disrupt, degrade or harm wireless network performance (e.g., reduce capacity, preclude roaming, etc.).

For operators, offering certified renewed devices will help further penetrate their markets, build customer loyalty and improve margins. For original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), it will protect their brand image. For consumers, it guarantees value and satisfaction. For the environment, it reduces toxic waste and preserves national resources.

"Our goal is to facilitate the growth of the wireless devices renewal market," commented Perry LaForge, chairman of DRF. "By offering a well-recognized certification mark and brand, the DRF will make it easy for consumers and operators to identify quality and protect their monetary investment whenever selecting renewed devices."

Mike Cost, senior vice president of Brightstar, "We applaud the DRF for spearheading this important initiative that will further drive stringent global standards for device renewal. We fully support DRF in its efforts, and know that it will create an important differentiator for renewed devices that will in turn be a critical benefit for consumers."

"This certification mark is a critical step towards building a vibrant market for renewed devices," said David Edmondson, CEO of eRecyclingCorps . "Much like a certified pre-owned sticker in the used car industry, this branding will instill confidence in consumers while driving new revenue streams for operators and extending the lifecycle of mobile devices."

"As a returns management, repair and value recovery partner to the mobile communications industry, ModusLink understands first-hand the value this certification mark will bring to the renewed device market," said Scott Crawley, president, Integrated Services for ModusLink Global Solutions. "We are proud to be working alongside the other DRF members on this important initiative."

The certification mark will be made available only to those DRF members whose refurbishment, inspection and testing processes meet the quality standards established by the DRF Technical Specification subcommittee. The subcommittee is currently working on test criteria and process standards for certification.

The Device Renewal Forum was formed and formally announced in February 2012 by Sprint, Brightstar, eRecyclingCorps, ModusLink Global Solutions and the CDG to facilitate the renewal of wireless devices around the world.

The DRF is open to companies and organizations worldwide that want to make a positive and significant impact on the environment and the future of the wireless industry. 

For more information about the Device Renewal Forum (DRF), call +1 (714) 708-1355, email info@devicerenewalforum.org, or visit http://www.devicerenewalforum.org.

About DRF

Device Renewal Forum (DRF) is a trade association formed to expand the growth of the renewed wireless devices market by establishing a global and technology-agnostic "gold standard" for renewing, testing and certifying refurbished wireless devices. The DRF's goal is to ensure that only high-quality and properly functioning devices reenter the marketplace. By using industry best practices to renew, test and certify refurbished wireless devices, the demand for affordable phones can be fulfilled, while preserving consumer expectations, wireless network integrity and the environment. Its member companies include many of the world's leading service providers, distributors, device manufacturers, resellers, recyclers and reverse logistics companies.  For information about the DRF, visit http://www.DeviceRenewalForum.org.

    Contacts: Valerie Christopherson
              DRF News Bureau
                                           +1 949 306 6476 phone
              media@devicerenewalforum.org

SOURCE  Device Renewal Forum

Device Renewal Forum

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

exploreB2B Redefines Business Thought Leadership by Combining Employee Expert Knowledge with Advanced Company Profiles

Global B2B Social Network Brings a Smarter Solution to Professional Networking and B2B Social Media Through Collective Corporate Expertise and Industry Leadership

SAN FRANCISCO, May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- exploreB2B, the B2B networking service, today launched its Advanced Company Profiles to better establish a company's internal writers and employees as experts in specific fields. The Advanced Profiles create a system where the sum of employee expertise defines the reputation and thought leadership of the business as a whole - a practice traditionally reserved for a narrow group of company executives.

Company authors and leaders as well as individual employees across a variety of departments can establish greater credibility for the business through new insights and personalities. exploreB2B's Advanced Company Profiles create another unique asset for both the individual and the organization.

Advanced Company Profile Highlights:

    --  Revamped navigation enables single-employee Company Profile control,
        including topic management, article curation and profile updating
    --  Greater search engine optimization (SEO) value via multiple-employee
        thought leadership contributions
    --  Consolidated profiles include all employee thought leadership and
        category ownership
    --  Advanced corporate profiles include company data, product descriptions,
        personnel, company demographic and contact information
Supporting Quotes:

"Businesses have tremendous untapped thought leadership potential in their employees - thought leadership has long been reserved for a select group of executives, when the employees are often those developing new ideas, strategizing with clients and reading industry insights that foster business ideas. exploreB2B is the first forum where this untapped potential can come to fruition."

- Susanna Gebauer, exploreB2B co-founder and CEO

"Professionals need access to the most relevant information in the shortest amount of time, and they use exploreB2B because we have built a platform that supports the most active thought leaders across multiple industries. We remove the clutter from LinkedIn, and provide a structure unbeknownst to Quora - this is a hybrid social network, and it's effective."

- Jonathan Gebauer, exploreB2B co-founder and CEO

Upcoming Event
exploreB2B hosts a monthly topic forum which encourages leaders from alternate industries to focus on a specific and contemporary issue influencing multiple sectors. With developments in social media and content marketing, this month's forum will utilize the Advanced Company Profile feature to discuss issues and solutions surrounding 'Business Development.' Forum articles may be written as early as today; articles become part of the live forum beginning May 14th, 2012.

About exploreB2B
exploreB2B was founded in 2010 by siblings Jonathan Gebauer and Dr. Susanna Gebauer. Since November 2010, a beta-version of the platform has been open for public use for German speaking users. In October 2011, the startup closed a financial round with the Program for Research, Innovation and Technology (ProFIT), by the Investitionsbank Berlin (IBB), allowing them to expand their market and user base to an international audience. Usage of the basic platform functions is free. Additional premium functions are currently being released for test use, and can be found at http://www.exploreb2b.com.

SOURCE  exploreB2B

exploreB2B

CONTACT: Mike Clothier, SS|PR, mclothier@sspr.com

Web Site: http://exploreb2b.com

Egencia Mobile Extends to Additional Platforms

The leading TMC's mobile application is now available on Android and Mobile Web enabled devices.

BELLEVUE, Wash., May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Egencia®, the corporate travel arm of Expedia Inc., today launched the next phase of Egencia Mobile, extending their mobile application to Android and Mobile Web devices. Previously developed for the iPhone, Egencia Mobile enables business travelers to easily access flight and destination alerts, check-in online, receive one-click customer support and much more - nearly anywhere in the world, now on virtually any type of mobile device.

"Egencia Mobile further demonstrates Egencia's continued focus on providing the best-in-class experience for our mobile users by placing more power in their hands, ensuring they can easily view their itineraries and receive pertinent, up-to-date travel information while on the road," said Rob Greyber, President, Egencia "The app was designed specifically for business travelers, based on their feedback and catering to their needs by conveniently providing useful travel information quickly and easily on their device of choice."

Egencia Mobile App Features

Information At Your Fingertips

With Egencia Mobile, flight and destination alerts, online check-in, and customer support are always a touch away to help business travelers travel more efficiently, smartly, and safely.

Flight and Destination Alerts

This unique feature ensures that the traveler is instantly aware of time sensitive issues and crisis scenarios:

    --  Flight alerts inform travelers about flight delays and cancellations
        that may affect their trip.
    --  Destination alerts, covering natural disasters, security issues,
        weather, etc.
    --  Alerts are prominently displayed throughout the app so the traveler can
        easily and quickly view and access their alerts.
Additional Features and Functionalities

    --  Online Check-in is available today for all major airlines -- making
        check-in one click away.
    --  Interactive Maps for all trip stages.
    --  Flight Schedules: Egencia Mobile makes identifying flight options easier
        than ever. If the traveler misses their flight, they will be able to
        quickly determine if and when a next flight is available.
    --  Click-to-Call Egencia Customer Service: the "Contact" tab enables the
        traveler to call or email customer service with one touch.
Egencia Mobile is currently available in the following countries: UK, US, France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, Sweden, Spain, Italy, Canada, Australia, and India. Languages supported include English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Swedish, Canadian French, and Dutch. Thanks to Egencia's proprietary technology, all travelers can experience the same benefits and functionality regardless of location.

The app, built for Egencia clients, is accessible / downloadable for free at:

Apple App Store:
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/egencia/id446768364?mt=8

Google Play:
http://play.google.com/store/apps

Mobile Website:
http://mobile.egencia.com

About Egencia, an Expedia, Inc. Company

Egencia is the fifth largest travel management company in the world. As part of Expedia, Inc., (NASDAQ: EXPE), the world's largest travel marketplace, Egencia helps businesses get ahead by offering the only truly integrated corporate travel service. Egencia's industry expertise helps drive results that matter, delivering meaningful advancements that have a real impact. By combining a powerful offline and online service, Egencia delivers a complete corporate travel offering supported by global market expertise and a best-in-class technology platform.

For more information, go to http://www.egencia.com.

Egencia and the Egencia logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Expedia, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. Other logos or product and company names mentioned herein may be the property of their respective owners.© 2012 Egencia, LLC.  All rights reserved. CST # 2083922-50

SOURCE  Egencia

Egencia

CONTACT: North America, Sonia Reid, +1-425-679-7801, sreid@egencia.com ; or EMEA, Alex Mason, +44 (0) 207 065 5487, a.mason@egencia.com

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

Egencia Mobile Extends to Additional Platforms

PARIS, LONDON, MUNICH and BRUSSELS, May 9, 2012/PRNewswire/ --

         The leading TMC's mobile application is now available on Android and Mobile

                                   Web enabled devices.

    Egencia(R), the corporate travel arm of Expedia Inc., today launched the next phase of
Egencia Mobile, extending their mobile application to Android and Mobile Web devices.
Previously developed for the iPhone, Egencia Mobile enables business travellers to easily
access flight and destination alerts, check-in online, receive one-click customer support
and much more - nearly anywhere in the world, now on virtually any type of mobile device.

    "Egencia Mobile further demonstrates Egencia's continued focus on providing the
best-in-class experience for our mobile users by placing more power in their hands,
ensuring they can easily view their itineraries and receive pertinent, up-to-date travel
information while on the road," said Rob Greyber, President, Egencia. "The app was
designed specifically for business travellers, based on their feedback and catering to
their needs by conveniently providing useful travel information quickly and easily on
their device of choice."

    Egencia Mobile App Features

    Information At Your Fingertips

    With Egencia Mobile, flight and destination alerts, online check-in, and customer
support are always a touch away to help business travellers travel more efficiently,
smartly, and safely.

    Flight and Destination Alerts

    This unique feature ensures that the traveller is instantly aware of time sensitive
issues and crisis scenarios:

   
    - Flight alerts inform travellers about flight delays and cancellations that
      may affect their trip.
    - Destination alerts, covering natural disasters, security issues, weather, etc.
    - Alerts are prominently displayed throughout the app so the traveller can
      easily and quickly view and access their alerts.

    Additional Features and Functionalities

   
    - Online Check-in is available today for all major airlines -- making
      check-in one click away.
    - Interactive Maps for all trip stages.
    - Flight Schedules: Egencia Mobile makes identifying flight options easier than
      ever. If the traveller misses their flight, they will be able to quickly determine if
      and when a next flight is available.
    - Click-to-Call Egencia Customer Service: the "Contact" tab enables the
      traveller to call or email customer service with one touch.

    Egencia Mobile is currently available in the following countries: UK, US, France,
Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland, Belgium, Sweden, Spain, Italy, Canada, Australia, and
India. Languages supported include English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Swedish,
Canadian French, and Dutch. Thanks to Egencia's proprietary technology, all travellers can
experience the same benefits and functionality regardless of location.

    The app, built for Egencia clients, is accessible / downloadable for free at:

    Apple App Store:

    http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/egencia/id446768364?mt=8

    Google Play:

    http://play.google.com/store/apps

    Mobile Website:

    http://mobile.egencia.com

    About Egencia, an Expedia, Inc. Company

    Egencia is the fifth largest travel management company in the world. As part of
Expedia, Inc., (NASDAQ: EXPE), the world's largest travel marketplace, Egencia helps
businesses get ahead by offering the only truly integrated corporate travel service.
Egencia's industry expertise helps drive results that matter, delivering meaningful
advancements that have a real impact. By combining a powerful offline and online service,
Egencia delivers a complete corporate travel offering supported by global market expertise
and a best-in-class technology platform.

    For more information, go to http://www.egencia.com

    Egencia and the Egencia logo are either registered trademarks or trademarks of
Expedia, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. Other logos or product and company names
mentioned herein may be the property of their respective owners.(c) 2012 Egencia, LLC. All
rights reserved. CST # 2083922-50

   
    For more information, press only:

    North America:
    Sonia Reid
    +1-425-679-7801
    sreid@egencia.com

    EMEA:
    Alex Mason
    +44(0)207-065-5487
    a.mason@egencia.com

Source: Egencia

Award-Winning Novel FUGITIVE COLORS Debuts on Amazon.com

Author Lisa Barr simultaneously launches "GIRLilla Warfare: A Mom's Guide to Surviving the Suburban Jungle" http://www.girlillawarfare.com

CHICAGO, May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Journalist Lisa Barr announced today the debut of her award-winning novel FUGITIVE COLORS on Amazon.com, and the launch of her website "GIRLilla Warfare: A Mom's Guide to Surviving the Suburban Jungle" (http://www.girlillawarfare.com).

FUGITIVE COLORS by Lisa Barr (ISBN: 0615625940, GIRLilla Warfare Press, Soft Cover / $12.95 / 398 pages / publication date April 30, 2012), which won first prize at the Hollywood Film Festival for "Best Unpublished Manuscript," is a suspenseful tale of an artist's revenge after World War II. Julian Klein, a young American artist, leaves behind his religious upbringing for the artistic freedom of Paris in the 1930s, only to find himself trapped inside a world in which a paintbrush is far more lethal than a gun.

An artist-cum-unlikely spy, Julian is forced to contend with jealous inferior artists who attempt to destroy those with true talent. Love, Friendship, Betrayal and Passion painted in FUGITIVE COLORS is never black and white. Like an abstract painting, Julian's turbulent journey is emotionally charged as he tries to rescue some of the most important pieces of Modern Art, including his own.

"GIRLilla Warfare" website was created to ignite women to join forces against the real enemies: Mean Girls (Alpha-Terrorists), Mean Moms (the Controllers), Mean Marriages (Romance -- Who, What, Where?), Mean Divorces ('Screw You and Your New Girlfriend Too' & Selfish Parenting), and Mean Selves (Beating up our Bodies, why?). For better and for worse, "GIRLilla Warfare" is a blog of real stories by women in a quest to find true meaning along the Mean Streets of Suburbia. And yes...it CAN be done.

A journalist for 20 years, Lisa Barr served as a managing editor at The Jerusalem Post in Israel, managing editor of Moment Magazine and Today's Chicago Woman. Most recently she served as a staff reporter for the Chicago Sun-Times. Her work ranges from covering terrorism and politics to celebrities, lifestyle, sex and relationships. She has contributed to numerous publications worldwide. She earned her master's degree from the Medill School of Journalism, Northwestern University. Lisa lives in the Chicago suburb of Deerfield, Illinois, with her husband and three teenage daughters (lots of Girl Drama, and fodder for her next novel).

Contact: Marcy Padorr
847.917.7779
padorr4@ameritech.net

SOURCE  Lisa Barr

Lisa Barr

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

From Universal Studios Home Entertainment: Being Flynn

TWO-TIME ACADEMY AWARD® WINNER ROBERT DE NIRO STARS IN THE GRITTY FATHER-AND-SON DRAMA

AVAILABLE JULY 10, 2012 ON BLU-RAY(TM), DVD AND ON DEMAND FROM UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOME ENTERTAINMENT

"Undeniably powerful!  Robert De Niro gives a great performance!" - Peter Travers, Rolling Stone

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- OVERVIEW:  Two-time Academy Award® winner Robert De Niro (Raging Bull; The Godfather Part II), Paul Dano (There Will Be Blood; Little Miss Sunshine) and Academy Award® nominee Julianne Moore (Game Change; The Kids Are All Right) give powerhouse performances in Focus Features' Being Flynn. Based on a true story, the drama is a compelling exploration of the unbreakable yet fragile bonds between parent and child.  Adapted and directed by Academy Award© nominee Paul Weitz (About a Boy) from Nick Flynn's 2004 memoir Another Bulls--t Night in Suck City, Being Flynn debuts on Blu-ray(TM), DVD, Digital Download and On Demand from Universal Studios Home Entertainment on July 10, 2012.

Nick Flynn (Dano) is a young writer seeking to define himself.  His father Jonathan (De Niro) scrapes through life on his own terms, and has not seen his son in 18 years.  Taking a job at a homeless shelter, Nick finds purpose in his own life and work until one night Jonathan arrives seeking a bed.  To give the two of them a shot at a real future, Nick wrestles with the notion of reaching out to his dad in a moving story that reveals universal truths. With a gifted supporting cast that includes Olivia Thirlby (Juno), Lili Taylor (Public Enemies), and Wes Studi (Avatar) and featuring an original score by Badly Drawn Boy, Being Flynn possesses "honest feeling, genuine humanity and real intelligence" (A.O. Scott, The New York Times).

BONUS FEATURES EXCLUSIVE TO BLU-RAY(TM):  Unleash the power of your HDTV with perfect hi-def picture and perfect hi-def sound.

    --  BD-LIVE(TM):  Access the BD-Live(TM) Center through your
        Internet-connected player to watch the latest trailers and more!
    --  pocket BLU(TM) app:  The groundbreaking pocket BLU(TM) app uses iPad®,
        iPhone®, iPod®  touch,  Android(TM), PC and Mac®  to work seamlessly
        with a network-connected Blu-ray(TM) player.  Plus iPad® and
        Android(TM) tablet owners can enjoy a new, enhanced edition of pocket
        BLU(TM) made especially to take advantage of the tablets' larger screen
        and high resolution display.  Consumers will be able to browse through a
        library of Blu-ray(TM) content and watch entertaining extras on-the-go
        in a way that's bigger and better than ever before.  pocket BLU(TM)
        offers advanced features such as:
        --  Advanced Remote Control:  A sleek, elegant new way to operate your
            Blu-ray(TM) player. Users can navigate through menus, playback and
            BD-Live(TM) functions with ease.
        --  Video Timeline:  Users can easily bring up the video timeline,
            allowing them to instantly access any point in the film.
        --  Mobile-To-Go:  Users can unlock a selection of bonus content with
            their Blu-ray(TM) discs to save to their device or to stream from
            anywhere there is a Wi-Fi network, enabling them to enjoy content on
            the go, anytime, anywhere.
        --  Browse Titles:  Users will have access to a complete list of pocket
            BLU(TM)-enabled titles available and coming to Blu-ray(TM) Hi-Def.
            They can view free previews and see what additional content is
            available to unlock on their device.
        --  Keyboard:  Entering data is fast and easy with your device's
            intuitive keyboard.
    --  uHEAR(TM):  Never miss another line of dialogue with this innovative
        feature that instantly skips back a few seconds on your Blu-ray(TM) disc
        and turns on the subtitles to highlight what you missed.
BONUS FEATURES (BLU-RAY(TM) and DVD):

    --  THE HEART OF BEING FLYNN:  A behind-the-scenes look at the making of
        Being Flynn, featuring interviews with stars Robert De Niro and Paul
        Dano, and Director/Screenwriter Paul Weitz.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION - BLU-RAY(TM):

Street Date:  July 10, 2012
Copyright:  2012 Universal Studios.  All Rights Reserved.
Selection Number:  62121226
Running time:  1 Hour, 42 Minutes
Layers:  BD-50
Picture Format :  Widescreen 
Aspect Ratio:  2.40:1
Rating:  Rated R for language throughout, some sexual content, drug use and brief nudity
Languages/Subtitles:  English SDH, Spanish, French
Sound:  DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, Spanish DTS Surround 5.1

TECHNICAL INFORMATION - DVD:

Street Date:  July 10, 2012
Copyright:  2012 Universal Studios.  All Rights Reserved.
Selection Number:  62121227
Running time:  1 Hour, 42 Minutes
Layers:  Dual Layer
Picture Format:  Anamorphic Widescreen
Aspect Ratio:  2.40:1
Rating:  Rated R for language throughout, some sexual content, drug use and brief nudity
Languages/Subtitles:   English SDH, Spanish, French
Sound:  Dolby Digital 5.1, Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1

CAST AND FILMMAKERS

Cast:  Robert De Niro, Paul Dano, Olivia Thirlby, Lili Taylor, Wes Studi, Julianne Moore
Directed by:  Paul Weitz
Screenplay by:  Paul Weitz
Based on the Memoir by:  Nick Flynn
Produced by:  Paul Weitz, Andrew Miano, Michael Costigan
Executive Producer:  Jane Rosenthal, Meghan Lyvers, Kerry Kohansky, Caroline Baron, Nick Flynn
Director of Photography:  Declan Quinn, ASC
Production Designer:  Sarah Knowles
Film Editor:  Joan Sobel, ACE
Music by:  Badly Drawn Boy
Costume Designer:  Aude Bronson-Howard

For artwork, please log on to our website at http://www.ushepublicity.com

http://focusfeatures.com/being_flynn

Universal Studios Home Entertainment is a unit of Universal Pictures, a division of Universal Studios (http://www.universalstudios.com). Universal Studios is a part of NBCUniversal, one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production and marketing of entertainment, news and information to a global audience. NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment television networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group and world-renowned theme parks. Comcast Corporation owns a controlling 51% interest in NBCUniversal, with GE holding a 49% stake.

CONTACT: Universal Studios Home Entertainment

Jennifer Black

Executive Director, Publicity

(818) 777-0546
Jennifer.Black@nbcuni.com

SOURCE  Universal Studios Home Entertainment

Universal Studios Home Entertainment

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