News

General Availability for Short and Numeric-Only .tel Names Begins Tomorrow

LONDON, June 13, 2011/PRNewswire/ --     Telnic Limited (http://telnic.tel), the Registry Operator for
the .tel top level domain (TLD), today announced that the General
Availability registration period for short (two-character) and numeric-only
.tel names will commence tomorrow at 3.00 p.m. BST.

    Following the premium-priced Landrush registration period,
which commenced on Wednesday 1st June 2011 at 3 p.m. BST and which lasted two
weeks, General Availability will enable anyone to register any remaining
short and numeric-only .tel names at regular registration pricing.

    As with the previous Landrush period, the following strings
remain unavailable for registration in this round:

    Short domains

    - all one-letter (from a.tel through to z.tel) domains

    - all two-character country code top level domains (ccTLDs,
such as uk.tel for example)

    Numeric-only domains

    - all single-digit (from 0.tel through to 9.tel) domains

    - all combinations of digits and/or digit and hyphen strings
that contain eight or more characters (for example, 12345678.tel or
123-5678.tel)

    All registrations will be on a first-come, first served basis.
As with existing .tel domain name registrations, commercial pricing will be
set by ICANN-accredited Registrars and their resellers. General Availability
pricing is anticipated to be similar to existing .tel registration costs.
Registrations can be from one to ten years. A list of ICANN-accredited
Registrars can be found at http://telnic.org/get-started-buy.html.

    Further information regarding short and numeric-only .tel
names can be found at http://telnic.org/short-numeric-only.html.

    Note to Editors:

    About Telnic Limited - see http://about.telnic.tel

    Primary Contact - Justin Hayward, Telnic Limited: http://justin.tel

Source: Telnic Limited

.

Radware's Alteon OS 27 Certified by SAP for Integration with SAP NetWeaver 7.0 to Deliver Faster Response Time, High Availability and Improved Security

Use of Alteon OS 27 Improves End-User Quality of Experience, Increases Productivity and Reduces Total Cost of Ownership

MAHWAH, New Jersey, June 13, 2011/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --

    Radware [http://www.radware.com ](NASDAQ: RDWR), a leading provider of
integrated application delivery
[http://www.radware.com/Products/ApplicationDelivery/default.aspx ] solutions
for business-smart networking, today announced its Alteon
[http://www.radware.com/Products/ApplicationDelivery/Alteon/default.aspx ](R)
OS 27 has achieved certified integration with the SAP [http://www.sap.com/index.epx ]
NetWeaver(R) technology platform. With the use of the Alteon OS 27, SAP(R)
applications experienced faster application response time, increased
efficiency and higher availability.

    The SAP Integration and Certification Center (SAP ICC) has certified
Radware's Alteon OS 27 for integration with SAP NetWeaver 7.0 via the
following three integration scenarios: application delivery and WAN
optimization-network performance optimization for enterprise SOA-based
solutions 1.0 (ESOA-AW-PO 1.0), network security for enterprise SOA-based
solutions 1.0 (ESOA-AW-SEC 1.0), and reliability and availability for
enterprise SOA-based solutions 1.0 (ESOA-AW-RA 1.0). To earn certified
integration with SAP applications, the Alteon OS 27 solution passed all SAP
certification requirements
[http://www.radware.com/workarea/showcontent.aspx?ID2801 ].

    Extensive performance testing
[http://www.radware.com/workarea/showcontent.aspx?ID2773 ] showed the
ability of Radware's Alteon OS 27 to improve the quality of experience (QoE)
with SAP applications for end users, delivering up to 2x faster transaction
response times as well as up to 3x faster file download. With increased
speeds, SAP applications gained highly available infrastructure efficiency
through Alteon's health monitoring and smart load balancing features. Also,
by leveraging Alteon OS 27's compression, TCP optimization and other
application acceleration features, SAP applications experienced reduced
bandwidth consumption and up to 15 percent server processing offloading,
which can lead to reduced costs and yield higher overall ROI.

    In using Radware's Alteon OS 27, now SAP-certified, end users can
receive additional service benefits, including:

   
    - Accelerated Application Performance - Organizations achieve
      significant improvements in SAP application performance through a set of
      application acceleration features including SSL acceleration, caching
      and compression- resulting in faster response time for improved
      productivity and QoE. Furthermore, by offloading CPU-intensive tasks
      from servers to the Alteon OS 27 application delivery controller, the
      same infrastructure running SAP applications is able to process more
      capacity while reducing server costs.

    Additional benefits, although not certified by SAP, will provide
customers with the following:

   
    - Business continuity at all times - Alteon OS 27's advanced
      health monitoring enables to instantly detect any unavailable resource
      along the transaction path, further guaranteeing transaction completion
      through redirecting requests only to the available servers. Even in case
      of disaster, Radware's Alteon OS 27 global sever load balancing (GSLB)
      functionality automatically redirects new user requests to the disaster
      recovery (or backup) site. Users - or the IT manager - do not need to
      perform any configuration in their desktops/laptops or in the data
      center in order to benefit from this functionality.
    - Link optimization - in case of an ISP outage, Alteon OS 27
      automatically re-routes all traffic through the remaining links, further
      ensuring continuous service to the remote users of SAP applications.
    - Enhanced security in support of SAP applications - By deploying
      Alteon OS 27 in conjunction with SAP applications, organizations can
      benefit from tighter security and regulatory compliance. This enables
      the continuous availability of SAP applications, protecting against
      known and emerging threats such as Network DoS (Denial of Service)/DDoS
      (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks and HTTP page floods.
    - Cost-effective scalability - Radware's Alteon OS 27 is powered
      by the company's OnDemand Switch
      [http://www.radware.com/Products/default_Platform.aspx ](R) hardware
      platform which enables customers to pay for the exact capacity required
       for best investment protection. Through its "pay-as-you-grow"
      approach, no forklift upgrade is required, guaranteeing short-term and
      long-term savings on CAPEX and OPEX and full investment protection.

    "We are pleased to have earned SAP certification of our Alteon OS 27
solution," said Guri Geva, Director Global Alliances, Radware. "Radware
understands that business needs can change in an instant - and with our
cost-effective application delivery solutions such as Radware's Alteon
portfolio, we offer unique features that truly arm our partners with
competitive advantages."

    Certification papers, technical integration guides, performance report
and more are available at http://www.radware.com/SAPNetWeaver7.

    Radware has incorporated the Alteon product family into its Business
Smart Data Center solutions and strategy, which is based on an approach to
offer a range of innovative capabilities. For more information on Alteon or
any of Radware's solutions, please visit http://www.radware.com.

    About Radware

    Radware (NASDAQ:RDWR), a global leader in integrated application
delivery [http://www.radware.com/Products/ApplicationDelivery/default.aspx ]
solutions, assures the full availability, maximum performance, and complete
security of business-critical applications for nearly 10,000 enterprises and
carriers worldwide. With APSolute(R), Radware's comprehensive and
award-winning suite of application delivery and network security
[http://www.radware.com/Products/ApplicationNetworkSecurity/default.aspx ]
products, companies in every industry can drive business productivity,
improve profitability, and reduce IT operating and infrastructure costs by
making their networks "business smart". For more information, please visit
http://www.radware.com.

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements that are
subject to risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results
to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include, but are
not limited to, general business conditions in the Application Switching or
Network Security industry, changes in demand for Application Switching or
Network Security products, the timing and amount or cancellation of orders
and other risks detailed from time to time in Radware's filings with the
Securities and Exchange Commission, including Radware's Form 20-F.

    SAP, SAP NetWeaver and all SAP logos are trademarks or registered
trademarks of SAP AG in Germany and in several other countries. All other
product and service names mentioned are the trademarks of their respective
companies.

   
    Press Relations:
    Joyce Anne Shulman
    +1-201-785-3209
    joyceannes@radware.com

Source: Radware Ltd

.

Hulu Exclusively Premieres "Misfits," "The Booth at the End" and "Whites"

Already popular in the U.K., these shows are now available for the first time in the U.S. through Hulu.com and Hulu Plus

LOS ANGELES, June 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Hulu(TM) is exclusively premiering in the U.S. Misfits, The Booth at the End and Whites on Hulu.com and the Hulu Plus subscription service.  Misfits, The Booth at the End and Whites gained considerable popularity on TV in the U.K. but have never before been seen in the U.S. The top-rated shows will appear on Hulu through exclusive first run, multi-year distribution deals with the respective content companies. 

To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hulu-exclusively-premieres-misfits-the-booth-at-the-end-and-whites-123591404.html

The summer of brand new exclusives on Hulu kicks off with the BAFTA award-winning Misfits, premiering with the first two episodes of season one on June 20th. The Booth at the End will premiere on July 11th and Whites on July 20th; both will launch with the first episodes from the first season, and new episodes for all three will be released each week up through the current, on-air seasons.

"As soon as the team saw Misfits, The Booth at the End and Whites, we knew that these shows would be a perfect addition to the high-quality premium TV programming offered on Hulu. Like the other exclusive content we've offered on the site, these shows are smart, unique and engaging," said Andy Forssell, SVP of Content Acquisition and Distribution for Hulu. "With this summer slate, not only are we offering TV fans a great schedule of top-notch new current season content, but we are also providing additional opportunities for our advertising partners to connect with key audiences through the summer season."

About Misfits

Produced by Clerkenwell Films for Channel 4 and distributed by BBC Worldwide.

For fans of: Heroes, Battlestar Galactica, Flash Forward, Warehouse 13, Caprica, Being Human

Show Page: http://www.hulu.com/misfits

Kelly (Lauren Socha), Nathan (Robert Sheehan), Curtis (Nathan Stewart-Jarrett), Alisha (Antonia Thomas) and Simon (Iwan Rheon) are five unruly teenagers forced to do community service as payback for their crimes. But when a freak electrical storm hits their town, strange things begin to happen to them that are way out of their control. In fact, they have no idea that they've actually turned into superheroes, each with a power, a power they didn't choose or want - a power which reveals each of their deepest, darkest insecurities. But while they just want to finish their community service and get through the challenges of everyday teenage life - relationships, friendships, parents and sex - fate has another task in store for them: they must save their town from the evil that has descended upon it. If you think life's tough for your average superhero, it's even tougher when you've got a curfew.

Howard Overman, writer of Misfits, said, "I'm delighted that Hulu is premiering Misfits to an American audience. It's great to have the opportunity to reach new viewers through such an innovative and high-quality platform. Hulu feels like a perfect home for a smart, contemporary show like Misfits."

About The Booth at the End

Produced by Vuguru.

For fans of: Lost, Fringe, 24, Lie to Me, X-Files

Show Page: http://www.hulu.com/the-booth-at-the-end

In this psychological thriller, a mysterious man sits at the booth at the end of a diner. People approach him because they've heard The Man has a gift. He can solve their problems: a parent with a sick child, a woman who wants to be prettier, a nun who has lost her faith. The Man can give these people what they want. For a price. The Man makes a proposition. In exchange for realizing their desires, these individuals must complete a task, return to The Man and describe every step in detail. The trick is that these tasks are things that would normally be inconceivable to them. Set off a bomb. Rob a bank. Kill a child. But the Man never forces anyone to do anything. It's always up to the individual to start - or stop. The Booth at the End asks the question: "How far would you go to get what you want?"

Vuguru President Larry Tanz noted, "Vuguru is excited to bring the much-anticipated U.S. release of The Booth at the End to Hulu's summer line-up of exclusive programming. Writer Christopher Kubasik, Director Jessica Landaw, Producer Vanishing Point Entertainment, and a powerful cast led by Xander Berkeley have created a truly incredible series that will intrigue and surprise viewers."

About Whites

Produced by BBC, Distributed by Content Media Corporation.

For fans of: The Office (UK), Peep Show, Spaced, Top Chef, Kitchen Confidential, Kitchen Nightmares, Master Chef

Show Page: http://www.hulu.com/whites

Set in the kitchen of a country house hotel, Whites follows the trials and tribulations of head chef Roland White (Alan Davies) and his long suffering sous chef Bib (Darren Boyd). Having been on the brink of success 15 years ago, Roland has since lost the sparkle and drive needed to win a long-coveted Michelin star. He can cook with the best of them when he puts his mind to it, but laziness gets the better of him, much to the annoyance of restaurant manager Caroline (Katherine Parkinson). Bib, meanwhile, is under pressure and hasn't spent time with his wife for months. It doesn't help that Skoose (Stephen Wight), the apprentice chef, has zero respect for him or that quirky waitress Kiki (Isy Suttie) takes an order for an eggless omelet and the owner Celia (Maggie Steed) steals food right off the plate just as they are about to go out. Despite all their problems, Bib knows he is lucky to be working alongside a true culinary genius and Roland knows that Bib is a true friend. But this doesn't stop things from getting heated in the kitchen.

Mark Freeland, Head of Comedy, BBC said, "I'm very pleased that Hulu has become our partner in showcasing the hotel kitchen comedy Whites to the US audience. It's a smart show. Hulu is a smart brand. It's a great mix. Like tomatoes and basil."

About Hulu

Hulu is an online TV service whose mission is to help people find and enjoy the world's premium content when, where and how they want it. As we pursue this mission, we aspire to create a service that users, advertisers and content owners unabashedly love. Hulu was founded in 2007 and is operated independently by a dedicated team with offices in Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and Beijing. NBC Universal, News Corporation, The Walt Disney Company, Providence Equity Partners and the Hulu team share in the ownership of the company. (http://www.hulu.com)

SOURCE  Hulu

Video:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hulu-exclusively-premieres-misfits-the-booth-at-the-end-and-whites-123591404.html
Hulu

CONTACT: Elisa Schreiber, Hulu, +1-310-571-4956, Elisa@hulu.com

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

Allot Communications Shares Included in the TASE-100 Index

BOSTON, Massachusetts, June 13, 2011/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --

    Allot Communications Ltd. [http://www.allot.com ] (NASDAQ: ALLT
[http://finance.yahoo.com/q?s=allt ]), a leading supplier of service
optimization and revenue generation solutions for fixed and mobile broadband
service providers worldwide, announced today that it has been advised by the
Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (TASE) that its shares will be included on the
TA-100 Index as of June 15, 2011. Inclusion in this exclusive index places
Allot among the top 100 most valuable companies listed on the TASE.

    Allot's President and CEO, Rami Hadar, commented that "Allot is a
leading player in the service optimization market, one of the fast-growing
markets in the telecommunications field. Allot's solutions have become
critical for operators, due primarily to the rapid and dramatic growth in
mobile data, as smartphones and tablets become increasingly popular. We
believe that as a result of these trends, service optimization solutions
will be deployed by the vast majority of service providers worldwide, both
in wireless and wireline networks. Recently, these trends have been the
driver in Allot's consistent growth and its penetration into large Tier 1
carriers, which require intelligent network management."

    About Allot Communications

    Allot Communications Ltd. (NASDAQ: ALLT) is a leading provider of
intelligent IP service optimization and revenue generation solutions for
fixed and mobile broadband operators and large enterprises. Allot's rich
portfolio of solutions create smart networks that can rapidly and
efficiently deploy value added Internet services. Allot's scalable,
carrier-grade solutions provide the visibility, topology awareness,
security, application control and subscriber management that are vital to
managing Internet service delivery, enhancing user experience, containing
operating costs, and maximizing revenue in broadband networks.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    Information provided in this press release may contain statements
relating to current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about
future events that are "forward-looking statements" as defined in the
Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking
statements generally relate to the company's plans, objectives and
expectations for future operations, including our expectation that service
optimization solutions will be deployed by the vast majority of service
providers worldwide, both in wireless and wireline networks. These
forward-looking statements are based upon management's current estimates and
projections of future results or trends. Actual future results may differ
materially from those projected as a result of certain risks and
uncertainties. These factors include, but are not limited to: changes in
general economic and business conditions and, specifically, a decline in
demand for the company's products; the company's inability to develop and
introduce new technologies, products and applications; loss of market; and
other factors discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the company's
annual report on Form 20-F filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission. These forward-looking statements are made only as of the date
hereof, and the company undertakes no obligation to update or revise the
forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future
events or otherwise.

   
    Allot Communications Contacts

    Jay Kalish
    Executive Director Investor Relations
    +972-54-2211365
    jkalish@allot.com

Source: Allot Communications Ltd.

.

Panasonic Unveils the LUMIX GF3, the Company's Smallest and Lightest Digital Interchangeable Lens System Camera With a Built-In Flash*

The LUMIX GF3 Body Weighs Just 7.83oz and Produces High-Quality Photos, Full-HD Video Recording Capabilities and Smart Touch-Screen Controls

SECAUCUS, N.J., June 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Panasonic today announces its latest compact system camera (CSC), the mirror-free Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GF3 is the company's smallest and lightest digital interchangeable lens camera with a built-in flash(*1), with its body size comparable to that of a smartphone and weighing just 7.83oz (body only), less than a standard 8oz cup of coffee.  The Panasonic's LUMIX GF3 realizes all the features desired from a traditional DSLR interchangeable lens camera, only it accomplishes them in an ultra-compact body that is lightweight and simple to master.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110613/NY18173 )

This remarkable reduction in size and weight is thanks to advancements in new mirror-free camera technology, and large DSLR format sensors that are more compatible with a new class of compact Micro Four Thirds (MFT) System lenses. This new class of Compact System Cameras offers a weight and compactness not seen in traditional DSLRs, yielding greater portability and creative control. The DMC-GF3's image quality comes from a large DSLR-sized 12.1-megapixel sensor and newly advanced image processing technologies.

The LUMIX GF3 digital camera is based on the Micro Four Thirds standard of lenses, which includes Panasonic's 3D lens, thus the LUMIX GF3 not only provides outstanding still photos, full-High Definition 1080/60i video, but is also capable of shooting 3D still photos.

The Panasonic LUMIX GF3 produces high-quality photos with true-to-life details, thanks to excellent resolution, image rendering and color reproduction; high-grade lens options; and extremely precise Auto Focus (AF). Plus, the LUMIX GF3 creates the right balance between resolution and noise reduction, thus producing life-like images with accurate auto exposure and white balance, creating rich colors.  Taking a page from the renowned LUMIX GH2's image quality, the LUMIX GF3 boasts full sized DSLR like Image quality thanks the same Venus Engine FHD image processor.  The Venus Engine FHD image processor makes impressive low noise images from its 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor. Notably, images shot in low-lit situations at high ISO sensitivity setting, are stunningly clear with extremely sharp resolution. The image processor also excels in energy consumption by extending the battery life, despite its smaller size.

Thanks to a new mount, the LUMIX GF3 is approximately 16.7% smaller and 16.2% lighter than its predecessor, the LUMIX GF2.  Despite its small size and unlike many CSC cameras in this class, the LUMIX GF3 still maintains a built-in flash and features a new pop-up mechanism that helps prevent the vignetting effect due to short distances between the flash unit and the interchangeable lens.  With a newly-designed aluminum body that incorporates an ergonomic grip, and a well-designed control dial combined with a 3-inch touch enabled screen, the LUMIX GF3 is extremely intuitive and easy to use.   

"The Panasonic GF3 compact system camera is extremely small and its newly-designed rounded body is quite attractive, which we expect to be popular among those users wanting to step-up from a point-and-shoot, yet who view traditional DSLRs as bulky and overly complex," said Darin Pepple, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. "While the size and weight of the GF3 has been greatly reduced, Panasonic does not compromise what is at the core of every LUMIX, which is exceptional photo and video quality with an easy-to-use interface."

All models in Panasonic's LUMIX G Series of digital cameras feature Contrast AF for their focus system, as opposed to phase-difference AF systems, used in traditional DSLRs, which is susceptible to a mechanical margin of focus errors at wide apertures. With a Contrast AF system, focusing is controlled by the image sensor so that mechanical margin of error is reduced to achieve precise focusing, thus boosting higher number of in focus shots, especially when shooting in low light with wide open lens aperture. As a result, when the LUMIX GF3 is used with Panasonic's new wide aperture interchangeable lens, the LEICA DG SUMMILUX 25mm / F1.4 ASPH, also announced today, the performance of the Contrast AF system is optimally maximized.

The Panasonic LUMIX GF3 features a high-speed and extremely precise Contrast AF system that locks in approximately 0.18 seconds.  Taking further advantage of Contrast AF, the LUMIX GF3 incorporates full-area focusing which makes it possible to set focus on any point in the field- of-view. The LUMIX GF3 also features Light Speed AF, an extremely fast AF which measures at approximately 0.1 seconds(*2), which is achieved by reducing the detection time for focusing by doubling the sensors drive speed from 60 fps to 120 fps. With the combination of touch-control shooting, focusing on close up macro or still life objects is evermore quick and accurate thanks to the newly adopted Pinpoint AF that unlike a DSLR, offers near pixel level touch control focusing.

Manual control over focus is available in the DMC-GF3 and now features a quick 4x magnification feature. By simply touching the subject, that subject is then enlarged in a small window, allowing you to keep the rest of the image in view as a framing reference. Beyond 4x, that small window fills the monitor so even more control over focus fine-tuning can be achieved. This handy feature is available from both the MF (Manual Focus) Assist and AF + MF focus modes.

At the heart of the LUMIX GF3's simplified functionality is a large 3.0-inch touch enabled LCD (460k- dot) that allows for intuitive touch control of menus and most shooting, focusing, playback and effects controls. Menus can be customized using simple drag-and-drop actions similar to those on some touch-enabled smartphones. This allows for a custom user interface, giving Quick Menu access to functions that can be tailored to any user's expertise level. Users can also release the shutter using the touch-screen. Once locked onto a subject, the LUMIX GF3 tracks the subject with the AF Tracking feature and another touch allows the user to select the size of the AF area. In addition, Pinpoint AF function allows even more precise focus setting by further enlarging the focusing area. With increased customization, users can set the touch shutter and touch AF ON/OFF based on their preference. Touch-control also makes playback of photos and videos easy to flip through like pages in a book.

For those who miss the tactile feel of a traditional DSLR mode dial, the DMC-GF3 offers an innovative mode thumb wheel that quickly cycles though all available modes with visual feedback provided on the large 3'' touch-enabled LCD.

The LUMIX GF3 records 1920 x 1080 full-HD video in the AVCHD format, which features almost twice the recording time in HD quality than the conventional Motion JPEG. A dedicated video record button on the top lets users instantly start recording video, without having to hassle with any menu settings. The LUMIX GF3 allows for Touch AF in video recording, enabling professional-like features, such as rack focusing. For instance, by touching the subject on the screen, the focus is shifted to the subject.

Contributing to its ease-of-use, the LUMIX GF3 features Panasonic's acclaimed iA(*3) (Intelligent Auto) mode - and the new advanced iA Plus mode - are automatically engaged once the iA button is pressed, helping to make shooting video and photos with the LUMIX GF3 extremely simple - even to users new to compact system cameras. Panasonic's iA features include MEGA O.I.S. (included in several lenses), Intelligent ISO Control, and Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Detection, AF Tracking, Intelligent D-range Control and Intelligent Resolution.  With the new  iA Plus mode, the LUMIX GF3 easily enables commonly desired manual enhancements not available from standard camera auto modes such as peripheries defocusing around faces, exposure compensation, and color balance adjustments which are visually adjusted by moving an on screen slider with the user's finger or the thumb wheel. 

The LUMIX GF3, like all CSCs in the Panasonic LUMIX G Series, is equipped with a highly-efficient Dust Reduction System. In some system cameras, if dust or other foreign matter gets inside the digital camera while the lenses are being changed, it's possible that the debris could cling to the image sensor and show up as a spot in your photos. However, the Panasonic Dust Reduction System helps to eliminate this problem by placing a supersonic wave filter in front of the Live MOS sensor that vibrates vertically approximately 50,000 times per second - thus repelling dust and other particles from the LUMIX GF3's sensor.

Two modes - Photo Style and Creative Control - let users at any skill level get creative with their photos.  With Creative Control, the user can choose the most-frequently-used color modes (Expressive, Retro, High Key, Sepia, High Dynamic and newly added Miniature Effect(*4) mode) with easy access. In Miniature Effect mode, the peripherals are defocused while saturation and contrast is emphasized so the photos look like a diorama. The Photo Style mode revitalizes the conventional film mode with settings in Standard, Vivid, Natural, Monochrome, Scenery, Portrait presets while enabling finer adjustment of contrast, sharpness, saturation and noise reduction.

The LUMIX GF3, like all the CSC in the LUMIX G Series of digital cameras, is compatible with other Micro Four Thirds lenses and the full sized Four Thirds System standard via an optional mount adaptor.  Other accessories available to the LUMIX G Series include external flashes, PL and ND filters, leather cases, straps, and more.  The Panasonic LUMIX GF3 will be available in black, white, red and brown bodies for a suggested retail prices of $699.99 with the 14mm lens kit system starting in July 2011, and $599.99 with the 14-42mm lens kit system starting in late August  2011; and. For more information on Panasonic LUMIX G Series compact system cameras, please visit http://www.panasonic.com/lumix.

*1 For an interchangeable lens system camera with a built-in flash as of June 13, 2011

*2 Approximately 0.1 sec with LUMIX G VARIO HD 14-140mm / F4.0-5.8 ASPH. / MEGA O.I.S., approx. 0.18 sec with LUMIX G 14mm / F2.5 ASPH. and with LUMIX G VARIO 14-42mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / MEGA O.I.S..

*3 Some functions in iA mode may be unavailable depending on the lens that is mounted

*4 Sound will not be recorded with [MINIATURE EFFECT] in Creative Control Mode and approximately 1/10 of the time period is recorded. (If you record for 10 minutes, the resulting motion picture recording will be approximately 1 minute long).

Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

* Four Thirds and Micro Four Thirds and Four Thirds and Micro Four Thirds Logo marks are trademarks or registered trademarks of Olympus Imaging Corporation, in Japan, the United States, the European Union and other countries.

* The "AVCHD" is a high definition (HD) digital video recording / playback format jointly established by Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation.

* All other company and product names are trademarks of their respective corporations.

* This unit is compatible with both SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Cards. You can only use SDHC Memory Cards on devices that are compatible with them.

About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company

Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company, is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations.  Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth's natural resources and protect our environment through the company's Eco Ideas programs. Company information for journalists is available at http://www.panasonic.com/pressroom.

SOURCE  Panasonic

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110613/NY18173
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Panasonic

CONTACT: MeeJin Annan-Brady of Panasonic, +1-201-392-6124, meejin.annan-brady@us.panasonic.com; or Blayne Murphy of Cohn & Wolfe, +1-212-798-9763, blayne.murphy@cohnwolfe.com

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

Panasonic Launches New LEICA SUMMILUX DG / 25mm F1.4 Micro Four Thirds Interchangeable Lens, New LUMIX Nano Surface Coating

The New LEICA DG SUMMILUX 25mm / F1.4 ASPH. Lens  Compatible With Panasonic LUMIX G Series of Compact System Cameras, Including LUMIX GF3

SECAUCUS, N.J., June 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Panasonic today announced a new interchangeable Micro Four Thirds lens, the LEICA DG SUMMILUX 25mm/F1.4 ASPH. (H-X025), compatible with the company's LUMIX G Series of compact system cameras (CSC), including the LUMIX GF3, which was also announced today. The LEICA DG SUMMILUX 25mm / F1.4 ASPH. lens features outstanding brightness of F1.4, and despite the high-performance, it also remains incredibly compact and lightweight. The lens' brightness allows for a beautiful soft focus when shooting both photos and videos - without having to rely on a flash.   

The LEICA DG SUMMILUX 25mm / F1.4 ASPH. lens adopts Panasonic's Nano Surface Coating technology on the surface of the lens, which helps dramatically minimize reflection at the entire visual light range (380nm-780nm). The technology encompasses an extra-low refractive index coating with nano-sized structure and results in the super-clear photo with dramatic reduction of ghost and flare.

The new lens system comprises of nine elements in seven groups using two aspherical lenses and one UHR (Ultra High Refractive) index lens. The newly developed UHR index lens and glass mold aspherical lenses achieve uniformed description from the center to the edges. 

The lens' versatile 25mm focal distance (Equivalent to 50mm on a 35mm camera) is suitable for wide variety of occasions, giving users the flexibility in composition, perspective and aperture control.  The lens is capable to take daily snapshots including scenic sunsets to dimly-lit indoor shots to the deliberately-creative shots using soft focus.

When mounted on the Panasonic LUMIX G Series digital cameras, the LEICA DG SUMMILUX 25mm/F1.4 ASPH. lens can take maximum advantage of Contrast AF system, which boasts both high accuracy and high speed for optimal photos. Furthermore, seven blades give the aperture a rounded shape that produces an attractively smooth effect in out-of-focus areas when shooting at larger aperture settings. The lens also features a metal mount, making it extremely durable - even when repeatedly changed.

The LEICA DG SUMMILUX 25mm / F1.4 ASPH. lens will be available in August 2011 and pricing will be announced approximately 30 days prior to shipping. For more information about Panasonic LUMIX G Series digital cameras and Micro Four Third lenses, please visit http://www.panasonic.com/lumix.

About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company

Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company, is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations.  Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth's natural resources and protect our environment through the company's Eco Ideas programs. Company information for journalists is available at http://www.panasonic.com/pressroom.

SOURCE  Panasonic

Panasonic

CONTACT: MeeJin Annan-Brady (Panasonic), +1-201-392-6124, meejin.annan-brady@us.panasonic.com or Blayne Murphy (Cohn & Wolfe), +1-212-798-9763, blayne.murphy@cohnwolfe.com

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

Ness Technologies to be Acquired by an Affiliate of CVCI

Ness Stockholders to Receive $7.75 per Share in Cash in a Transaction Valued at $307 Million

TEANECK, New Jersey, June 10, 2011/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --     Ness Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: NSTC and TASE: NSTC), a global provider
of information technology solutions and services, announced today that the
company has entered into a definitive merger agreement under which an
affiliate of Citi Venture Capital International (CVCI), a global private
equity investment fund, will acquire the company in an all-cash transaction
valued at approximately $307 million.

    Under the terms of the agreement, Ness stockholders will receive $7.75
per share in cash for each share of common stock they hold, representing a
premium of 17.6% over the closing price of the company's shares on the Nasdaq
Global Select Market on June 9, 2011, the last trading day prior to today's
announcement, or 22.2% over the average closing price of the company's shares
over the 30 trading days prior to June 10, 2011.

    The company's Board of Directors, acting upon the unanimous
recommendation of a Special Committee of disinterested members of the
company's Board of Directors, approved the transaction as being in the best
interests of Ness Technologies and its stockholders and recommends that the
company's stockholders approve the transaction.

    "We believe this transaction provides attractive value for our
stockholders and represents an exciting opportunity for Ness, our over-500
customers and our 6,900 employees to continue our growth and development in
partnership with CVCI," said Sachi Gerlitz, president and CEO, Ness
Technologies. "We look forward to completing the transaction and continuing
to provide superior solutions and services to our strong customer base, as we
build upon our leadership position in our markets and continue to implement
our strategic plan."

    "We are excited about the prospect of increasing our investment in Ness,"
said Bob Khanna, CVCI's Managing Director. "Ness is the leader in several
segments of the IT services marketplace, serves the most sophisticated global
clients and has an outstanding reputation for delivering complex projects. We
look forward to working with management, employees and partners of all
business units to ensure that Ness becomes even more valuable to its clients
and fully leverages the strengths of its global network."

    P. Howard Edelstein, Chairman of the Special Committee, said: "After a
thorough assessment, we concluded that the transaction with CVCI delivers
significant value and is in the best interest of our stockholders."

    The transaction is subject to certain closing conditions, including
approval of the company's stockholders, antitrust regulatory approvals and
other customary closing conditions. Ness's stockholders will be asked to vote
on the proposed transaction at a special meeting that will be held on a date
to be announced. Ness expects the transaction to be completed in the next
three to six months.

    Jefferies & Company, Inc. is acting as financial advisor to the Special
Committee, and managed the process for the Special Committee soliciting bids
from both strategic and financial sponsors in response to an unsolicited
indication of interest. BofA Merrill Lynch is acting as financial advisor to
the Board of Directors of Ness. Citigroup Global Markets Inc. is acting as
financial advisor to CVCI. Olshan Grundman Frome Rosenzweig & Wolosky LLP is
acting as legal advisor to Ness, Ropes & Gray LLP is acting as legal advisor
to the Special Committee and Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP is acting
as legal advisor to CVCI.

    About Ness Technologies

    Ness Technologies (NASDAQ: NSTC and TASE: NSTC) is a global provider of
IT and business services and solutions with specialized expertise in software
product engineering; and system integration, application development,
consulting and software distribution. Ness delivers its portfolio of
solutions and services using a global delivery model combining offshore,
near-shore and local teams. With about 6,900 employees, Ness has operations
in North America, Europe, Israel and India, has customers in over 20
countries, and partners with numerous software and hardware vendors
worldwide. For more information about Ness, visit http://www.ness.com.

    About Citi Venture Capital International

    CVCI is a leader in global emerging markets private equity investing, and
currently manages over $7 billion in equity investments and committed
capital. CVCI has an internationally integrated investment team with over 45
professionals worldwide with a local presence in Singapore, Mumbai, New
Delhi, Hong Kong, London, New York and Santiago. CVCI-advised funds have made
significant investments in Business Services and Cross-Border Outsourcing
companies and have an established track record of investments in this sector
and a global perspective of the trends and drivers in the industry. Over the
last decade, funds and entities advised by CVCI have invested in business
services and IT Services companies in China, the U.S., India, Mexico, and
Korea.

    CVCI is part of Citi Capital Advisors. Citi Capital Advisors is a global
alternative asset management platform that offers a broad range of innovative
strategies and products to select institutional and ultra-high-net-worth
investors.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning
of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking
statements often are preceded by words such as "believes," "expects," "may,"
"anticipates," "plans," "intends," "assumes," "will" or similar expressions.
Forward-looking statements reflect management's current expectations, as of
the date of this press release, and involve certain risks and uncertainties
that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in
or implied by these statements. Factors that could cause actual results to
materially differ from those projected in forward-looking statements include,
but are not limited to, the following: (i) the occurrence of any event,
change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the
merger agreement; (ii) the inability to complete the merger due to the
failure to obtain stockholder approval or the failure to satisfy other
conditions to the completion of the merger; (iii) risks related to disruption
of management's attention from the company's ongoing business operations due
to the merger; and (iv) the effect of the announcement of the merger on the
company's relationships with its customers, operating results and business
generally. Additional factors that may cause results to differ materially
from those described in the forward-looking statements are set forth under
"Item 1A. Risk Factors" in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on March 4, 2011, as
amended, and in the company's subsequent SEC filings.

    The company is under no obligation, and expressly disclaims any
obligation, to update or alter its forward-looking statements to reflect
circumstances or events occurring after the date hereof or to reflect the
occurrence of unanticipated events or changes in the company's expectations.

    Additional Information about the Transaction and Where You Can Find It

    In connection with the proposed transaction, the company will file a
proxy statement with the SEC. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS ARE STRONGLY
ADVISED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT WHEN IT BECOMES AVAILABLE, BECAUSE IT
WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION. Investors
and stockholders may obtain a free copy of the proxy statement (when
available) and other documents filed by Ness at the SEC's website at
http://www.sec.gov. The proxy statement (when available) and other relevant
documents may also be obtained for free from Ness by directing a request to
Investor Relations, Ness Technologies, 300 Frank W. Burr Boulevard, 7th
Floor, Teaneck, NJ 07666, USA, telephone: +1-(201)-488-3262.

    Ness and its directors, executive officers and certain other members of
its management and employees may be deemed to be participants in the
solicitation of proxies from its stockholders in connection with the proposed
transaction. Certain directors and executive officers of Ness have interests
in the transaction that may differ from the interests of Ness stockholders
generally, with respect to, among other things, acceleration of vesting of
stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units, and other
benefits conferred under employment agreements and other arrangements.
Certain information regarding the interests of such directors and executive
officers is set forth in the company's proxy statements and Annual Reports on
Form 10-K previously filed with the SEC, and will be described in the proxy
statement relating to the transaction when it becomes available.

   
    Ness Media Contacts:

    Maya Lustig
    Israel: +972-3-767-5110
    Email: maya.lustig@ness.com

    David Kanaan
    Intl: +972-54-425-5307
    Email: media.int@ness.com

    Ness Investor Relations Contacts:

    Drew Wright
    USA: +1-201-488-3262
    Email: investor@ness.com

    Maya Lustig
    Israel: +972-3-767-5110
    Email: maya.lustig@ness.com

Source: Ness Technologies Inc

.

Quadrant 4 Systems Launches Cloud Computing Services to Global Customers and Multiple Verticals

ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill., June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Quadrant 4 Systems Corp. (OTCQB: QFOR), a leading IT consulting company ("Quadrant 4"), today announced the launch of a set of new initiatives for Cloud Computing, Data Management and Managed Services for the financial, health care, and retail verticals. These new initiatives will provide Quadrant 4's global customers with a cost-effective model for securing, transporting and distribution of data and streamlining applications within a Web-hosted environment.

The global cloud computing market ('the Cloud') is expected to grow from $37.8 billion in 2010 to $121.1 billion in 2015, representing a compound annual growth rate of 26.2%, as forecast by industry researcher MarketsandMarkets.com. "The digital management of data is making a definitive transition from hard-wired computing solutions to that of the Cloud. This month, Apple Computer announced its plans to bring cloud computing services to its consumers. Quadrant 4 is taking a similar lead in the small- to-mid-sized business market with the launch of our cloud platform to all new and existing customers. Our solutions can reduce overall IT services and maintenance costs, while streamlining operations, which can result in increased productivity for a wide range of customers," said Nandu Thondavadi, CEO of Quadrant 4.

"The U.S. federal government's initiative to implement an electronics records management system poses immediate challenges in the storage and retrieval of large volumes of highly sensitive, confidential data. Our data security and management initiative not only addresses the health care industry, but also is common across all our market verticals and represents significant new sales opportunities for our company," said Dhru Desai, Chairman and CFO of Quadrant 4.

About Quadrant 4 Systems Corp.

Quadrant 4 Systems Corp. is a leading provider the next generation IT Services and ITES led by a team of accomplished IT industry veterans. By leveraging its talents and facilities in North America and off-shore offices in India, the Company provides smart-sourced solutions that help over 150 business customers achieve their goals of developing customized solutions and cost savings across multiple verticals and geographies. With three acquisitions completed, Quadrant's growth-through-acquisition business model has yielded sustained year-over-year growth in earnings, profitability and market recognition. For more information on Quadrant 4, please visit http://www.quadrantfour.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements which are subject to the inherent uncertainties in predicting future results and conditions. Any statements that are not statements of historical fact (including statements containing the words "believes," "plans," "anticipate," "expects," "estimates," and similar expressions) should be considered to be forward-looking statements, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act of 1934, as each is amended, for which the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a safe harbor. Certain factors (including but not limited to those risk factors identified from time to time in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission as well as changes in economic conditions; outcome of negotiations; changes in the Company's access to necessary capital; outcome of litigation; volatility of capital markets; variability and timing of business opportunities; changes in accounting policies and practices; the effects of internal organizational changes; adverse state and federal regulation and legislation; and the occurrence of extraordinary or catastrophic events and terrorist acts; or other unforeseen changes in circumstances) could cause actual results and conditions to differ materially from those projected in such forward-looking statements. We do not undertake any obligation to release publicly revised or updated forward-looking information, and such information included in this release is based on information currently available and may not be reliable after this date.

Investor Contact:
DC Consulting, LLC
(407)792-3332
investorinfo@dcconsultingllc.com

SOURCE  Quadrant 4 Systems Corp.

Quadrant 4 Systems Corp.

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

Made in IBM Labs: Researchers Unveil Nanotechnology Circuits for Wireless Devices

Scientists Build the First Wafer-Scale Graphene Integrated Circuit Smaller than a Pinhead(1)

YORKTOWN HEIGHTS, N.Y., June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, IBM (NYSE: IBM) Research scientists announced that they have achieved a milestone in creating a building block for the future of wireless devices. In a paper published yesterday in the magazine Science, IBM researchers announced the first integrated circuit fabricated from wafer-size graphene, and demonstrated a broadband frequency mixer operating at frequencies up to 10 gigahertz (10 billion cycles/second).

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20090416/IBMLOGO)

Designed for wireless communications, this graphene-based analog integrated circuit could improve today's wireless devices and points to the potential for a new set of applications. At today's conventional frequencies, cell phone and transceiver signals could be improved, potentially allowing phones to work where they can't today while, at much higher frequencies, military and medical personnel could see concealed weapons or conduct medical imaging without the same radiation dangers of X-rays.

Graphene, the thinnest electronic material consisting of a single layer of carbon atoms packed in a honeycomb structure, possesses outstanding electrical, optical, mechanical and thermal properties that could make it less expensive and use less energy inside portable electronics like smart phones.

Despite significant scientific progress in the understanding of this novel material and the demonstration of high-performance graphene-based devices, the challenge of integrating graphene transistors with other components on a single chip had not been realized until now, mostly due to poor adhesion of graphene with metals and oxides and the lack of reliable fabrication schemes to yield reproducible devices and circuits.

This new integrated circuit, consisting of a graphene transistor and a pair of inductors compactly integrated on a silicon carbide (SiC) wafer, overcomes these design hurdles by developing wafer-scale fabrication procedures that maintain the quality of graphene and, at the same time, allow for its integration to other components in a complex circuitry.

"Just a few days before IBM commemorates its 100th anniversary, our scientists have achieved a nanotechnology milestone which continues the company's century-long pursuit of innovation and technology leadership," said T.C. Chen, vice president, Science and Technology, IBM Research. "This research breakthrough has the potential to increase the performance of communication devices that enable people to interact with greater efficiency."

The breakthrough is also a major milestone for the Carbon Electronics for RF Applications (CERA) program, funded by DARPA.

How it Works

In this demonstration, graphene is synthesized by thermal annealing of SiC wafers to form uniform graphene layers on the surface of SiC. The fabrication of graphene circuits involves four layers of metal and two layers of oxide to form top-gated graphene transistor, on-chip inductors and interconnects.

The circuit operates as a broadband frequency mixer, which produces output signals with mixed frequencies (sum and difference) of the input signals. Mixers are fundamental components of many electronic communication systems. Frequency mixing up to 10 GHz and excellent thermal stability up to 125 degrees C has been demonstrated with the graphene integrated circuit.

The fabrication scheme developed can also be applied to other types of graphene materials, including chemical vapor deposited (CVD) graphene films synthesized on metal films, and are also compatible with optical lithography for reduced cost and throughput.

Previously, the team has demonstrated standalone graphene transistors with a cut-off frequency as high as 100 GHz and 155 GHz for epitaxial and CVD graphene, for a gate length of 240 and 40 nm, respectively.

IBM and Nanotechnology Leadership

In the company's 100 year history, IBM has invested in scientific research to shape the future of computing. Today's announcement is a demonstration of the results garnered by IBM's world-leading scientists and the company's continual investment in and focus on exploratory research.

Nanotechnology is an enabling technology that is expected to spark advances in various fields. These include advanced functional materials, sensing, tools, healthcare, bio-analytics, water purification, energy technology, and more. IBM scientists apply their nanoscience expertise to problems outside of nanoelectronics and help tackle some of the biggest challenges of our time, such as more efficient use of solar energy, and new ways of purifying or desalinating water.

IBM also recently opened the Binnig and Rohrer Nanotechnology Center - a facility for world-class nanoscale research recently opened on the campus of IBM Research - Zurich. The building is the centerpiece of a 10-year strategic partnership in nanoscience between IBM and ETH Zurich, one of Europe's premier technical universities, where scientists will research novel nanoscale structures and devices to advance energy and information technologies.

Media Contact
Ari Entin
IBM Communications
aentin@us.ibm.com
Office: (408) 927-2272
Mobile: (408) 391-6508

(1) http://www.cellsalive.com/howbig.htm

SOURCE  IBM

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20090416/IBMLOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
IBM

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

Mati Kochavi - Founder and CEO of AGT International and Chairman Of 3i-MIND - Leads Panel on Urban Management at Economist Ideas Forum

SANTA CLARA, Calif., June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading a special session at the Economist Ideas: Information forum that featured Lieutenant Governor of California Gavin Newsom, Mati Kochavi, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of AGT International and Chairman of 3i-MIND, assured that in order to meet future population growth, become more energy efficient, improve security, and modernize procedures, cities must eliminate the silo management approach currently in use, and instead share information across the board to truly integrate their infrastructures.

Moderated by Tom Cochran, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of the United States Conference of Mayors, the session  - "Cities And Security: Resilience And Risk In A Borderless World" - addressed the key issues surrounding  urban management in today's urbanized world. Additional panelists included Gavin Newsom, Lieutenant Governor of California and former Mayor of San Francisco, and Ajay Prasad, former Secretary of the Ministries of Defense and Civil Aviation, Government of India.

Addressing the forum, Mr. Kochavi said: "We live in an increasingly complex, urbanized world; one that is embedded with new vulnerabilities, challenges, and threats. By 2050, the United Nations predicts that 7 of every 10 people will live in massive urban centers that will be presented with complicated issues. Well-run cities will be the safest places on earth, but will also need to manage the evolving needs of their cities and populations." Continuing, Mr. Kochavi stated: "Cities need to invest now to make their centers more intuitive and intelligent; to ensure well-being and security for their citizens. City managers need to embrace a holistic, integrated urban management approach to make sure that they can predict, prevent, prepare, and manage any challenge."

AGT International's Urban Management solution provides a central platform for all stakeholders to plan for and manage the multi-dimensional opportunities and risks that arise in the urban environment by streamlining the management of basic urban services, and providing integration between city agencies such as energy, water, sanitation, mass transit and traffic control. Whether it be a natural or man-made disaster, terrorist threat, or an unexpected technological disruption, AGT's Urban Management solution analyzes data and information, and transforms it into intelligence that enables public officials, first-responders and government agencies to make quick and coordinated decisions for an effective response.

The Economist Ideas Economy: Information forum, titled "Making Sense of the Deluge", took place in Santa Clara, California this week and was attended by innovative policy makers, business leaders, and theorists. Through interactive panel discussions and special sessions, the forum examined the data revolution from a range of perspectives.

About AGT International:

One of the fastest-growing public safety and security solutions organizations in the world, AGT International has operations on five continents. Led by a unique vision, AGT International combines the brain trust of its brightest minds globally with ahead-of-the-curve technology to unlock the world's potential. AGT International partners with governments and corporations to help them predict, prepare for, prevent, and manage challenges and threats that arise in complex environments - with services that include urban management, health emergency management, cyber and food security.  Founded 4 years ago and led by Founder and CEO Mati Kochavi, AGT International currently has nearly 2,000 employees worldwide and is managing $8 billion in projects. AGT International is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland.

SOURCE  AGT International

AGT International

CONTACT: Svetlana Vaisman of AGT International, +1-917-975-5318, Svetlana.vaisman@teneostrategy.com

Georgia-Based Retailer of Children's Products Announces New Web Site

MOLENA, Ga., June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Georgia-based retailer of children's products, VO Smart Shopper Incorporated, has announced the launch of a new e-commerce Web site: http://www.OurKidsSite.com.

Founder and President of VO Smart Shopper Incorporated, Virginia Oglesby, said, "We're excited to share our fun, safe and high quality products with families all over the world. Our toys offer great play value and are backed by our team's extraordinary customer service!"

OurKidsSite.com is an e-commerce Web site, retailing unique specialty toys, games, arts and crafts, sports and outdoor play, electronics, gifts and children's furniture. The online site stocks over 6,000 products.

VO Smart Shopper Incorporated is a small, family owned and operated business that takes great pride in its ability to offer exceptional service to each and every customer. Oglesby added, "As a large family with lots of grandchildren, we understand the importance of providing your children with toys that are both fun and safe!"

The modular styling of play sets available on OurKidsSite.com allows customers to expand to more challenging activities for years of play as children grow. For customer convenience, OurKidsSite.com categorizes its extensive line of products into categories which can be easily accessed by visitors of the site. New products are added to the site frequently and items can also be purchased in bulk by small toy stores, day care centers and organizations looking to purchase numerous items.

In addition to online sales, a customer service team is available during normal business hours for customer support and can be contacted by emailing vcso@att.net.

For more information on http://www.OurKidsSite.com, visit their Web site or call 770-884-9002.

SOURCE  VO Smart Shopper Incorporated

VO Smart Shopper Incorporated

CONTACT: Michelle Boyd, +1-813-382-8810

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

IBM Business Analytics Helps Papa Gino's Grab a Bigger Slice of the Pie

Better Visibility into Consumer Buying Patterns Helps Pizza Firm Plan for Growth with New iPhone Application and Text Message Campaigns

ARMONK, N.Y. and BOSTON, June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- IBM (NYSE: IBM) today announced that Boston-area based pizza chain Papa Gino's has turned to IBM business analytics software to help better meet customer expectations for on-time, anywhere pizza deliveries in 30 minutes or less -- with food ordering capabilities now available through a new iPhone application.

To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ibm-business-analytics-helps-papa-ginos-grab-a-bigger-slice-of-the-pie-123623499.html

(Logo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20090416/IBMLOGO)

Analytics has given Papa Gino's increased visibility into the performance of its online customer loyalty campaign, which has recently boasted a 50 percent increase in the total of an average order.

The company now has the ability to compare this and other performance data from all of its marketing and promotions activities with pizza sales and frequency of transactions -- and then measure them against the company's performance goals. As a result, Papa Gino's can tailor its mobile commerce campaign more effectively to help increase both the average ticket price as well as ordering frequency.

Today, Papa Gino's new customer loyalty program allows pizza lovers in New England to quickly and easily receive promotions on discounted meals through their preferred delivery method of text messages* and redeem reward dollars for take-out or dine-in pizzas.

Trends such as the explosion of mobile shopping, the proliferation of smart phones, and the drive to better harness data through the social web to drive results have transformed the way midsize firms do business.

In fact, some 72 percent of CIOs in midsize companies who took part in a recent IBM survey** say they plan to invest in mobile applications to drive commerce. At the same time, 83 percent plan to invest in business analytics to turn data into actionable information, such as customer preferences.

Papa Gino's 280 restaurants in the New England area include two restaurant brands: the Papa Gino's pizzeria chain, plus a grilled sandwich shop chain called D'Angelo. As both chains continue to expand in the Northeast U.S., the mid-size company has collaborated with IBM Business Partner QueBIT to implement IBM analytics software.

http://www.youtube.com/embed/rjKDmbb-b6U

Tailoring Campaigns to Consumer Habits

As the company looked to implement new strategies to stay ahead in the competitive restaurant industry, Papa Gino's sought to use business analytics to track data from its email-driven customer rewards program to measure the impact on transactions throughout the course of the campaign. The program alerts customers about the number of points or reward dollars they can spend on meal purchases.

Using data gathered from its ordering database, the company can now target different promotions to customers depending on how frequently they order from Papa Gino's. By tracking responses to different offers, the company has been able to be more effective in driving responses while increasing profitability.

Business analytics has also helped Papa Gino's more effectively tailor its online ordering campaigns to drive both an increase in value of the average ticket and the frequency of orders. For example, the company found that with online ordering, there was a significant increase in the amount of food ordered per ticket but no increase in frequency. With the loyalty rewards, there was little increase in tickets but the frequency jumped significantly. Now, Papa Gino's has been able to better tailor its marketing campaign to both help increase the average ticket price as well as ordering frequency. The customer rewards program has helped increase the average ticket generated through online ordering by an average of 50 percent.

"We are finding as more and more people join our rewards program our transaction count grows significantly. That's not something we would have been able to tell as easily without being able to track and analyze that data on customer feedback and response," said Paul Valle, chief information officer of Papa Gino's.

Prior to using business analytics, Papa Gino's struggled with drawing intelligence from multiple sources of disparate information. Managers often spent 80 percent of their time just gathering data and less time acting upon it. Now, managers can spend more of their time focusing on the data that can make a difference to the restaurant, for example, avoiding excessive labor costs from mismanaged staff scheduling -- or conversely, duplicating efficient practices throughout the chain.

For example, store managers have complete visibility into the last trending weeks of sales and their prior year sales for those same weeks. Receiving those daily reports helps the store managers staff according to anticipated volume and make sure they're in tune with their sales forecasts. By rolling up the store staffing forecasts to districts and regions, the executives can also monitor whether the labor forecast is aligned with sales forecasts and step in if it is not.

Today, Papa Gino's is looking to apply analytics to better help employees access real-time data through mobile devices. For example, district managers will be using tablets such as iPads and smart phones to instantly access information to better help them review and respond to data about orders, inventory and sales instantly as they work with store managers. Papa Gino's is looking to business analytics as a proof of concept in the stores' kitchens in order to track all the points in the pizza making process, from hand tossing the dough to boxing the pie.

"Our district managers used to spend hours a day pulling together all their information. Now they can spend hours a day doing something about the information," said Valle. "We're confident in our ability to gather and use this data intelligently. It's truly the future of how we are going to run our business here."

To find out how IBM and our Business Partners are working with thousands of midsize companies around the world, visit: http://www.ibm.com/engines. 

*Papa Gino's internal marketing research shows that 80 percent of potential customers preferred to receive offers through text messages over email.

**These findings are the results of "The Essential CIO" Midmarket CIO Study 2011 -- part of the Global CIO Study conducted by IBM Global Business Services and the IBM Institute for Business Value (IBV).

Contact:
Jennifer C. Clemente
IBM Communications
917-992-3147
jennic@us.ibm.com

SOURCE  IBM

Video:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ibm-business-analytics-helps-papa-ginos-grab-a-bigger-slice-of-the-pie-123623499.html
IBM

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

Gilt Groupe Announces PARK & BOND as Name of Full-Price Men's Retail Site

PARK & BOND Launches in Late Summer with 80 Brands across Multiple Categories

NEW YORK, June 10, 2011/PRNewswire/ -- Gilt Groupe, Inc., an innovative online shopping destination, announced today that their full-price men's retail site will be named PARK & BOND and will launch in late summer. PARK & BOND, http://www.parkandbond.com, will be a trusted resource for the male consumer--both for the world's best clothing, accessories, and lifestyle product, and also for advice on how men can incorporate those items into their daily life with confidence and style. The name, which was developed in house at Gilt, evokes two of Manhattan's most stylish streets, Park Avenue and Bond Street. One is classic and timeless, the other contemporary and hip. Together they encapsulate the personality of the site--and how the modern American man should dress.

(Logo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110610/NY17817LOGO)

With approximately 80 brands at launch, PARK & BOND will outfit the luxury customer with a mix of fashion and wardrobe staples that every man needs--and that is not currently offered in one place. Among the highly curated selection of brands launching with the site are Alexander McQueen, Isaia, Etro, Paul Smith, N. Hoolywood, A.P.C., Neil Barrett, Thomas Pink, Todd Snyder, Vince, Theory, Common Projects, Brooks Brothers, and Florsheim by Duckie Brown. "Today's man does not dress in one brand from head to toe. He picks his favorite pieces and assembles a look that represents him--PARK & BOND will encourage and enable customers to easily do just that," said Brooke Cundiff, who is in charge of merchandising for the new site.

"Moving into the full-price retail space is the natural next step following the runaway success of Gilt MAN," said John Auerbach, who currently serves as General Manager of Gilt MAN, and will also be President of PARK & BOND. "Men shop differently than women, and PARK & BOND is designed with their needs in mind. Men are increasingly taking charge of their own wardrobe decisions and we aim to give them the tools to continue that trend--to outfit themselves without going 'shopping'." And unlike the Gilt MAN flash-sales mode, merchandise on PARK & BOND will live according to seasonality, enabling consumers to shop any brand at any time.

About Gilt Groupe, Inc.

Gilt Groupe, http://www.gilt.com, is an innovative online shopping destination offering its members special access to the most inspiring merchandise and experiences every day, many at insider prices. Gilt continually searches the world for the most coveted brands, including fashion for women, men, and children, home decor, hotels and travel experiences on every continent, and unique activities in a growing list of cities and destinations. We believe that every day is an opportunity to inspire and be inspired.

SOURCE  Gilt Groupe, Inc.

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110610/NY17817LOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Gilt Groupe, Inc.

CONTACT: Jennifer Miller, Gilt Groupe, Inc., +1-646-524-9102, jmiller@gilt.com; or Marcy Engelman, Engelman & Co., +1-212-645-9222, marcy@engelmanandco.com, or Dana Gidney Fetaya, Engelman & Co., +1-212-645-9222, dana@engelmanandco.com

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

Vivante Corporation Dynamic GUI Composition Engine Lowers GPU Power Consumption Up To 5X

5 of top 10 application processor vendors adopt Vivante's ultra-low power solution to accelerate Android Smart Phones, Tablets and TVs.

SUNNYVALE, Calif., June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Vivante Corporation, a leading supplier of graphics and visualization technologies for mobile and consumer entertainment applications, announced today industry wide adoption of its energy saving display and pixel composition engine by 5 of the top 10 application processor vendors and used in over 30 SoC designs. The composition and GUI engine is a super-fast 2D and pixel processing pipeline that supports up to 8K x 8K resolution. This technology can blend, scale, animate, layer, filter, process, and combine multiple input sources (3D, 2D, HD Video) to compose for final viewing. The IP block can be combined with Vivante's complete line of ultra-low power, high performance 3D engine or other 3D cores to create the ultimate visual experience and power scalable solution that cuts power by up to 5X. Support for all CPU architectures is supported, including ARM, MIPS, x86 and PowerPC.   

(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20091008/VIVANTELOGO)

Today, the industry is at an inflection point where existing solutions driving eye catching UIs and responsive user experiences have to balance performance and battery life for all-day/multi-day use. The results have shown a strain on battery life as additional processing power is required to drive larger screen resolutions, pixel counts and display sizes. To resolve this power/usage dilemma, Vivante is delivering an essential piece of the puzzle and created a breakthrough of this barrier.

Current implementations to accelerate GUI and display functions are mainly done using the 3D engine. Since 85% of device usage is for non-3D applications, the ideal power savings turns off the 3D engine and uses the specialized 2D/Composition engine to do the heavy lifting for display tasks. The powerful GUI composition engine can focus on rendering stunning user interfaces with substantial power savings due to purpose-built hardware that is optimized for task-specific workloads. The 3D engine is now free to focus on 3D intensive activities.

                        2D/GUI
                        Engine    3D Core
        4 Layer
        Blending        18 mW      90 mW
       (4x 1080p
        Surfaces)
       Scaling +
        Rotation        15 mW      70 mW
        SD to HD
       Conversion       18 mW     100 mW
         Pixel
       Processing       15 mW      80 mW
      Animated GUI      12 mW      60 mW
        Effects

    Table: Example power savings achieved for display processing
     configurations. These power savings deliver an additional 45 - 90
     minutes of user interaction battery life (40nm process technology).

Vivante's energy efficient solutions help scale system performance and reduce power by load-balancing graphics resources, offloading GUI processing from the 3D to the 2D composition engine, and creating an optimal switchable graphics implementation that can dynamically change between 2D and 2D+3D. Battery life can be extended for hours while users continue to experience accelerated GUI/display effects. The addition of a Vivante 2D composition core with any 3D engine will bring the best balance of performance, visual fidelity, power savings and bandwidth efficiency.     

"Vivante's clever breakthrough off-loads the 3D engine and focuses on the essential needs of the tasks at hand," said Dr. Jon Peddie, of Jon Peddie Research, the multimedia's industry's market research firm. "Capturing the leading SoC suppliers as clients, I expect to see this approach used by most if not all suppliers."

Vivante CEO Wei-Jin Dai says, "Our vision is this innovative technology should be in every application processor that powers high resolution Android screens. We have succeeded in developing an important piece of the visual ecosystem as market demand for better graphics, real time effects, and instant UI response keeps growing. With SoC designers at a cross road of balancing visual performance and power, our IP will help bridge this gap by being a fundamental piece of the solution and lowering the overall system power. Consumers can have a memorable user experience and solutions providers can create the next wave of popular multimedia devices with GUI acceleration that steps it up to the next level."

About Vivante Corporation

Vivante, a leading supplier of graphics and visualization technologies, provides the highest performance in the most area efficient designs with the lowest power characteristics across a range of Khronos Group API and Android conformant products based on the ultra-threaded ScalarMorphic(TM) architecture. The organization's focus on development and engineering excellence, and customer-focused dedication, has helped transform the company into a key technology provider used by the world's leading semiconductor companies. Vivante GPUs ship in customer silicon solutions across a wide range of consumer electronics and embedded platforms running the latest graphics and multimedia intensive applications. Vivante is a privately held company incorporated in California and headquartered in the heart of Silicon Valley. Global R&D centers span the U.S., Europe and China. For more information, visit http://www.vivantecorp.com

Android is a trademark of Google Inc. Use of this trademark is subject to Google Permissions.All other trademarks referred to herein are the property of their respective owners.

SOURCE  Vivante Corporation

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20091008/VIVANTELOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Vivante Corporation

CONTACT: Benson Tao of Vivante Corporation, 1-888-OES20GPU, pr@vivantecorp.com

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

It looks like some members of "Anonymous" were arrested in Spain. Sucks for them.... According to Sony, the attacks will cost them 14 billion (yep billion) yen. Yikes.... Anyone sell hacker insurance?

Quote

The Spanish police said Friday that they had arrested three suspected computer hackers in connection with recent cyberattacks on Sony’s PlayStation Network as well as corporate and government Web sites around the world.

The arrests have dismantled the local leadership of the shadowy international network of computer hackers known as Anonymous, which has claimed responsibility for a wide variety of attacks, the National Police said in a statement.

(further)Sony has estimated that the hacker attacks will cost it at least 14 billion yen, or $173 million, in damages, including information technology spending, legal costs, lower sales and free offers to lure back customers.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/11/technology/11hack.html?_r=1&smid=tw-nytimes&seid=auto

Cox to Bring Unbelievably Fair Wireless Plans to Northern Virginia

Company Enlists VIP's, Provides Free Reward at http://www.unbelievablyfair.com

HERNDON, Va., June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- A new, "Unbelievably Fair" wireless service is coming to Northern Virginia, Cox's cuddly little mascots reveal in a local advertising campaign that begins this week. The debut of this campaign officially marks Northern Virginia as Cox's next market to receive wireless service.  In the state of Virginia, Cox Wireless is currently available in Hampton Roads.

The award-winning ads feature actual consumer reactions to the outrageous, but all too common offers, made by incumbent wireless providers. The ads feature a faux wireless service provider, "Your Wireless," at a mall kiosk and speak plainly about the "gotchas" included in the wireless plans to which most consumers subscribe. "You're going to charge me for not using all of my minutes?," "That's pretty unfair" and "That's horribly unfair" were among the humorous consumer reactions. The ads bring to light the unfairness of many of today's wireless plans in which consumers pay for all of the minutes in their plan, regardless of whether they actually use them.  The mall shoppers frown, gasp and give looks to kill when presented with the opportunity to buy these currently available plans. 

"Total loss of unused minutes as well as unforeseen overage charges on bills are just two examples of what our customers have told us is just unfair," said Allen Roberts, Vice President of Operations, Cox Virginia. "We are excited to bring our Unbelievably Fair approach to wireless service to Northern Virginia and add even more value to the Cox bundle of services."

With the addition of wireless, Cox will continue to change the way it serves its customers. Beginning last year, Cox opened new Solutions Stores at a number of locations in the Hampton Roads area to provide a personal, interactive and one-stop shopping retail experience for all communications and entertainment services. Coming soon, the company will unveil "Mobile Solutions" as the centerpiece of its Northern Virginia stores, featuring Cox's wireless products and services and highlighting the integration of Cox services.

Introducing higher value alternative telecommunications services to the marketplace is a tradition at Cox. In 1997, Cox was the first cable company to begin offering traditional landline telephone services. In 1993, Cox began serving commercial customers with business-class voice and data solutions. Thanks to its pioneering spirit, Cox's residential and commercial customers were among the first in the nation to enjoy a competitive choice among providers. 

Consumers in Northern Virginia can register at http://www.unbelievablyfair.com to be among the first to learn about the plans, devices and offers that will launch in Northern Virginia and also receive a free video reward for registering at the site.

The company's wireless service is currently available in Hampton Roads, Va., Omaha, Neb., Orange County, Calif., Oklahoma City and Tulsa, Okla., Rhode Island and Cox communities in Connecticut and Cleveland, Ohio.

About Cox Communications:

Cox Communications is a broadband communications and entertainment company, providing advanced digital video, Internet, telephone and wireless services over its own nationwide IP network. The third-largest U.S. cable TV company, Cox serves more than 6 million residences and businesses. Cox Business is a facilities-based provider of voice, video and data solutions for commercial customers, and Cox Media is a full-service provider of national and local cable spot and new media advertising.

Cox is known for its pioneering efforts in cable telephone and commercial services, industry-leading customer care and its outstanding workplaces. For seven years, Cox has been recognized as the top operator for women by Women in Cable Telecommunications; for six years, Cox has ranked among DiversityInc's Top 50 Companies for Diversity, and the company holds a perfect score in the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index. More information about Cox Communications, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cox Enterprises, is available at http://www.cox.com and http://www.coxmedia.com.

SOURCE  Cox Communications

Cox Communications

CONTACT: Media, Mike Leone, +1-703-480-4916, Mike.Leone@cox.com, or Kathryn Falk, +1-703-480-5248, Kathryn.Falk@cox.com

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

Call of Duty®: Black Ops Escalation Available Now On PlayStation®3 System

SANTA MONICA, Calif., June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Call of Duty®: Black Ops Escalation, the latest content pack from the record-setting Call of Duty®: Black Ops is now available on the PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system.

Escalation features four new multiplayer maps and an unprecedented Zombie experience, including famed director George A. Romero, Robert Englund, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Michael Rooker and Danny Trejo, as well as an original music track from Avenged Sevenfold titled "Not Ready to Die."

The Escalation content pack's new multiplayer maps include:

    --  "Hotel," where players battle it out on the roof of a Cuban luxury hotel
        and casino against the vivid backdrop of old Havana
    --  "Convoy," which delivers intense, close-quarters combat at the scene of
        an ambushed U.S. military convoy
    --  "Zoo," which sets gamers on an eerie ride through an abandoned Soviet
        Russian Zoo with danger at every turn
    --  "Stockpile," which pits players in a remote Russian farm town, housing
        secret WMD facilities
    --  "Call of the Dead," Escalation's Zombie experience that assembles a
        zombie-carnage dream team to fight against a new and undefeatable zombie
        horde menace, all set in the dark, ice-covered isles of Siberia

"For the millions of dedicated fans playing Black Ops each and every day online around the world,we crafted for them unique multiplayer maps and experiences with Escalation, that will allow PS3 players to continue enjoying the game for a long time to come," said Treyarch Studio Head, Mark Lamia. "And with Call of the Dead, we went all out to give our loyal Zombie fans a totally new creative to enjoy."

Call of Duty: Black Ops Escalation can be downloaded for $14.99 from the PlayStation®Store for PlayStation 3 system. Developed by Treyarch and published by Activision Publishing, Inc. (NASDAQ: ATVI), Call of Duty: Black Ops is rated "M" (Mature) by the ESRB for Blood and Gore, Intense Violence and Strong Language.  For additional Call of Duty updates and information, visit us on the web at http://www.callofduty.com/blackops, http://www.facebook.com/codblackops, and also via Twitter @Treyarch.

"Not ready to Die," the new single by Avenged Sevenfold, created for Call of the Dead, is now available for download on the iTunes store : http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=433328681.

About Activision Publishing, Inc.

Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision Publishing, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products.

Activision maintains operations in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Spain, Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, Australia, South Korea, China and the region of Taiwan. More information about Activision and its products can be found on the company's website, http://www.activision.com.

Call of Duty and Activision are registered trademarks of Activision Publishing, Inc. All other trademarks and trade names are the properties of their respective owners. "PlayStation" is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.

SOURCE  Activision Publishing, Inc.

Activision Publishing, Inc.

CONTACT: Kyle Walker, PR Manager, Activision Publishing, Inc., +1-424-744-5677, kyle.walker@activision.com

Web Site: http://www.callofduty.com/blackops

The Echo Nest Maps Facebook Music for Developers, Offers $10,000 for Best App

SOMERVILLE, Mass. and NEW YORK, June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Echo Nest, a music intelligence company powering smarter music applications for leading media companies and thousands of independent developers, has added Facebook to its free "Rosetta Stone" music ID mapping service. This technology will power a new generation of socially-connected music apps on Facebook and elsewhere, offering a richer experience for music fans and a new way for artists to reach them.

(Logo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20101214/NE17511LOGO )

With over a half a billion active users, Facebook is a main hub where music fans can connect with artists, who are embracing Facebook in droves. Meanwhile, music apps provide millions of listeners with exciting new ways to listen to and discover music. To date, these apps rarely direct fans to the appropriate Facebook artist pages or, perhaps more importantly, allowing them to "like" artists as they listen. As a result, fans have missed out on opportunities to express their taste as they listen, and to connect with the artists they love on Facebook.

For developers, The Echo Nest's new API offering enables them to easily build music applications with links and "likes" to the appropriate Facebook artist pages, alongside the rest of The Echo Nest's rich music data API, which lets developers work with over five billion data points on over 18 million songs and over 1.5 million artists. For music fans, The Echo Nest's new Facebook integration will mean a more informed and connected listening experience.

To encourage the development of innovative music applications around Facebook, The Echo Nest will award one of the company's trademark blue "Sweatsedo" luxury-wear suits filled with $10,000 to the developer of the best app using The Echo Nest API and new Facebook feature (details below).

"Though music is probably the most social entertainment medium, truly social music applications are still in their infancy," said Jim Lucchese, CEO of The Echo Nest. "Our goal with the launch of Rosetta for Facebook and the $10,000 Sweatsedo prize is to give developers the tools and incentive to build better music apps that incorporate what Facebook has to offer artists and their fans."

Music services and social networks list millions of artists and songs, from chart-toppers to lesser-known indie bands, but each uses different unique identifiers and URLs to refer to the same artists. The lack of any common music ID has forced developers to sort through jumble of disparate IDs in order to build apps that take full advantage of music services and social networks such as Facebook.

The Echo Nest's Rosetta Stone technology acts as a universal artist ID translator, allowing developers to map offerings to a variety of music services including MusicBrainz, Rdio, 7digital, and others -- and now Facebook, the world's most popular social network. The addition of Facebook to The Echo Nest's Rosetta Stone ID translator is important due to the social network's increasing prominence as a tracker of taste. As Facebook continues to expand its reach and functionality, people will be able "like" artists and learn more about them on Facebook from wherever they happen to be listening.

In addition to building better apps on the Facebook platform itself, developers for the web, smartphones, and tablets can now include millions of links and "like" buttons for artists on Facebook, increasing the value of their apps -- as well as the value of Facebook, which was not actively involved in building this tool -- while helping people learn about new artists and express appreciation for the ones they already like. And Rosetta Stone is free for developers to use as they see fit.

For example, a developer could use this technology to let listeners "like" the currently-playing artist on an internet radio service such as MusicMaze.fm, or click through to the appropriate Facebook artist page from a music discovery app such as Discovr for iPad. This is no easy feat for developers to tackle on their own, because simple text search cannot sufficiently map these artists -- and yet accurate matching is a must for users.

Developers have until 11:59pm EDT on August 10, 2011 to submit links to and descriptions of their applications to devcontest@echonest.com. More details on the contest can be viewed at http://developer.echonest.com/devcontest. Judges for the prize will include Paul Lamere, The Echo Nest director of developer platform, and Eliot Van Buskirk, editor of Evolver.fm, published by The Echo Nest.

About The Echo Nest

The Echo Nest is a music intelligence company that connects the greatest application developers to the best data and music to enable the next generation of music experiences. Powered by the world's only machine learning system that actively reads about and listens to music everywhere on the web, The Echo Nest opens up a massive repository of dynamic music data to application developers ranging from one- person operations to the largest media companies in the world. Over 160 music applications have been built on its platform to date. The Echo Nest's customers reach over 100,000,000 music fans.

The Echo Nest was co-founded by two MIT Media Lab PhDs. Winner of three National Science Foundation SBIR grants, The Echo Nest's investors include Matrix Partners and Commonwealth Capital Ventures, Argos Management and three co-founders of MIT Media Lab. For more information, visit the.echonest.com.

SOURCE  The Echo Nest

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20101214/NE17511LOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
The Echo Nest

CONTACT: Elissa Barrett, The Echo Nest, +1-617-628-0233x43, elissa@echonest.com

Web Site: http://www.the.echonest.com

TheSampleSale.com - Under New Management

HOLLYWOOD, Fla., June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- TheSampleSale.com, a members only sample sale site has been acquired by The SWI Group. The site will continue to provide members with exclusive limited-time savings on some of the most renowned luxury brands. They are adding new designers daily and will continue to improve the online buying experience. Membership is absolutely free. Best of all, customers don't have to wait in lines or deal with pushing and shoving as with traditional in-store sample sales. The online sample sale experience is definitely the way to go!

Members are sure to love the new and improved website. TheSampleSale.com features large, detailed product images and in-depth descriptions. Customers can shop with confidence knowing that what they see is what they will get. Members will also notice a huge increase in the number of sample sales offered on the site. Discount designer brands are being featured more frequently and in larger quantities. Another huge upgrade to the site the addition of high-end luxury brands. From New and upcoming designer such as Whitney Eve to famous designers such as Prada, Yves Saint Laurent and Marc Jacobs, customers will have a very stylish selection all at prices that cannot be matched anywhere else.

TheSampleSale.com shopping experience is great! Members receive exclusive access to daily Sample Sales which run from 24 to 72 hours. In addition to incredible savings of up to 85% on luxury brands, member benefits include free shipping on orders over $75, same day shipping on all orders placed before 2:00 pm EST, a 100% Authenticity Guarantee on all purchases, and an easy 14-day return policy. As an added bonus of membership at TheSampleSale, members receive a $25 virtual account credit for every friend that is referred for membership and makes a purchase.

To become a member of TheSampleSale, consumers can simply visit the company's website at http://www.thesamplesale.com to submit a request for membership. Members will receive an email acceptance notification to immediately begin to shop and enjoy the amazing savings.

About TheSampleSale

Founded to provide a uniquely targeted sales channel for designer brands to reach value conscious consumers. TheSampleSale is a members-only private sale website running limited-time Sample Sales featuring savings on men's, women's and children's fashion, jewelry, watches and accessories.  Additionally, membership at TheSampleSale includes:

    --  TheSampleSale's 100% Authenticity Guarantee.
    --  Low price guarantee.
    --  Free Shipping.
    --  Shop Today. Ship Today.
    --  Easy 14-Day Return Policy.
    --  $25 Membership Referral Bonus.

Get the latest buzz and inside scoop, follow TheSampleSale on Facebook and Twitter at http://www.facebook.com/TheSampleSale and http://www.twitter.com/TheSampleSale.

Media Contact:Tiffany DerokoThe SWI Group954.985.3827 ext. 1150tiffany@swisswatchintl.com

This press release was issued through eReleases(R).  For more information, visit eReleases Press Release Distribution at http://www.ereleases.com.

SOURCE  TheSampleSale

TheSampleSale

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

Capital Online Revenue Unveils Retiree Aid Program in Response to Government Takeaways

Forward-thinking business education program announces innovative new strategy for reaching out to retirees and senior citizens

BRADENTON, Fla., June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- There is a certain malaise that tends to affect recent retirees, one in which they feel as though they no longer possess any practical usefulness to their families or to society in general. This feeling is triggered by the sudden transition from steady work and income-earning to a period in which earnings may only come in the form of retirement benefits, and day-to-day activities are less strenuous. In many retired persons, and senior citizens in particular, this problem can yield serious psychological consequences, including depression. And while this affliction tends to go overlooked, one company, Capital Online Revenue, is seeking to change the way people adjust to retirement.

Known primarily as a business education program, Capital Online Revenue has long implemented cutting-edge technology to provide distance education options to college students, stay-at-home parents, and the recently unemployed. Now, it is turning its attention to retired persons, launching a new initiative to make the program more accessible to senior citizens.

The Capital Online Revenue program is well-suited for this. The makeup of the formula both promotes mental dexterity and allows the client to actually make a profit. The program works by guiding its clients through a step-by-step plan for launching their own successful online business. Video tutorials will provide business instruction, while the creation of the business itself will bring a profit -- something Capital Online Revenue actually guarantees.

This effectively kills two birds with one stone. Retirees who miss the mental engagement and regular activity of the workforce will benefit from the stimulation of the learning experience itself. Meanwhile, the launching of the business will ward off depression that might otherwise stem from a feeling of purposelessness.

Additionally, the learning process implemented by Capital Online Revenue is welcoming even to those without prior business experience -- or even prior computer experience. One of the program's biggest selling points has always been its beginner-friendly sense of ease, which makes it an ideal program for senior citizens who might not consider themselves to be computer-savvy. There is no previous experience necessary with Capital Online Revenue, as its tutorials explain everything clearly and in great depth. Furthermore, there is a team of coaches on hand, via phone or e-mail, to ensure that all questions are answered promptly and satisfactorily, leaving no room for confusion or self-doubt but ample room for continued growth and self-improvement, no matter what stage of life the client happens to be in.

ABOUT:

Capital Online Revenue is an educational system that provides individuals with the knowledge they need to develop and manage a successful online business. The traditional job market has failed to provide the employment that workers need to support their families and generate a regular source of income, so many are turning to Capital Online Revenue to learn how to create their own opportunities.

Through the lessons that Capital Online Revenue provides, many individuals have managed to secure more than just income; they have taken control of their time, their careers, and their professions. Through flexible schedules and the ability to make their own business decisions, many of these entrepreneurs have improved their lives.

For more information about Capital Online Revenue visit http://www.capitalonlinerevenue.com.

SOURCE  Capital Online Revenue

Capital Online Revenue

CONTACT: Aaron Reed, Capital Online Revenue, +1-877-597-2590, aaron@capitalonlinerevenue.com

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

Qualcomm to Acquire the Assets of Semiconductor Design Innovator Rapid Bridge

SAN DIEGO, June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ: QCOM) today announced it has agreed to acquire substantially all of the assets of Rapid Bridge LLC, a San Diego-based inventor of advanced techniques for the design and development of semiconductor products.  The company's technology reduces complexity in integrated circuit (IC) development at advanced technology nodes to enable greater design flexibility and optimized die size and power consumption.

Rapid Bridge's San Diego design team and San Diego/Bangalore engineering services operations will be integrated into Qualcomm CDMA Technologies.  The asset acquisition, which is subject to regulatory approval and fulfillment of certain terms and conditions, is expected to close by the end of fiscal year 2011.

About Qualcomm 

Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ: QCOM) is the world leader in 3G and next-generation mobile technologies.  For more than 25 years, Qualcomm ideas and inventions have driven the evolution of wireless communications, connecting people more closely to information, entertainment and each other.  Today, Qualcomm technologies are powering the convergence of mobile communications and consumer electronics, making wireless devices and services more personal, affordable and accessible to people everywhere.  For more information, visit Qualcomm around the Web:

http://www.qualcomm.com

Corporate Blog: http://www.qualcomm.com/blog

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/qualcomm

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/qualcomm

Except for the historical information contained herein, this news release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions.  If such risks or uncertainties materialize or such assumptions prove incorrect, the results of Qualcomm could differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and assumptions.  All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including the expected benefits and costs of the transaction; management plans relating to the transaction; any statements of the plans, strategies and objectives of management for future operations, including the execution of technology integration plans; any statements of expectation or belief; and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing.  Risks, uncertainties and assumptions include the possibility that expected benefits may not materialize as expected; that Qualcomm is unable to successfully implement technology integration strategies; and other risks detailed from time to time in the Company's SEC reports, including the report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 26, 2010, and most recent Form 10-Q.

Qualcomm is a registered trademark of Qualcomm Incorporated.  All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Qualcomm Contacts:
Tina Asmar, Corporate Communications
Phone:  1-858-845-5959
Email:  corpcomm@qualcomm.com

Warren Kneeshaw, Investor Relations
Phone:  1-858-658-4813
Email:  ir@qualcomm.com

SOURCE  Qualcomm Incorporated

Qualcomm Incorporated

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

Cricket Enhances its Feature Phone Line-Up with the Samsung Chrono(TM)

~ Form and Function Are the Perfect Pair for This Fashionable Flip Phone ~

SAN DIEGO, June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Cricket Communications, Inc., a leading provider of innovative and value-driven wireless services and a wholly owned subsidiary of Leap Wireless International, Inc. (NASDAQ:LEAP), and Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile), the No. 1 mobile phone provider in the United States(1), today announced the launch of the Samsung Chrono(TM) (SCH-r261).

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20101220/MM20546LOGO-b)

The stylish Chrono is available now for a suggested MSRP of $59.99 in Cricket branded retail stores, select dealers and on http://www.mycricket.com. The attractive flip-style design makes the Samsung Chrono ideal for consumers looking for a quick and simple way to stay connected on Cricket's reliable 3G network. Equipped with Bluetooth® Wireless capabilities, the Chrono is perfect for quickly pairing other Bluetooth-enabled devices while on-the-go for a seamless hands-free experience. Users can personalize the Chrono by using Cricket Storefront to download applications, games, ringtones and wallpapers. The Chrono features an integrated VGA camera and approximately 55MB of internal memory for users to store pictures, contacts, text messages and more. The Chrono is available in tanned silver.

"We're excited to bring the Samsung brand to our value-priced clam shell, feature-phone category," said Matt Stoiber, vice-president and general manager of devices for Cricket.  "The Samsung Chrono's large display, keyboard and simple to use interface make it really easy to use and a perfect fit for anyone."

The Chrono's keypad features large keys that allow users to easily text as much as they would like with one of Cricket's unlimited talk and text plans. The value and feature packed Samsung Chrono is offered with Cricket's all-inclusive unlimited plans, including the basic $35 unlimited talk and text, and the robust $45 plan which provides users with unlimited talk, text, 411 information, navigation, international text, unlimited picture messages, unlimited web browsing and more. In addition, the $45 rate plan provides convenient access to MyHomeScreen, MyBackup, and Cricket Navigator, a platform that gives users turn by turn directions without ever having to upgrade new map features like other expensive navigation systems.

For more information about Cricket's dynamic device lineup, please visit http://www.mycricket.com. 

About Cricket

Cricket is the pioneer of simple and affordable unlimited wireless services with no long-term commitments or credit checks required serving more than 5.8 million customers in 35 states and the District of Columbia. Cricket offers wireless voice and broadband Internet services over the latest technology, high-quality, all-digital 3G CDMA2000 1X and 1xEV-DO wireless network. Cricket's nationwide wireless voice service plans include unlimited anytime minutes, unlimited U.S. long distance, unlimited text and picture messaging, unlimited text to Mexico, unlimited Mobile Web, unlimited directory assistance, as well as a variety of calling features and feature-rich mobile applications such as popular games, ringtones and wallpapers. For more information on Cricket, visit http://www.mycricket.com. Cricket is offered by Leap Wireless International, Inc., headquartered in San Diego, Calif. For more information on Leap, visit http://www.leapwireless.com.

About Samsung Telecommunications America

Samsung Telecommunications America, LLC, a Dallas-based subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., researches, develops and markets wireless handsets and telecommunications products throughout North America. For more information, please visit http://www.samsungwireless.com.

About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2009 consolidated sales of US$116.8 billion. Employing approximately 188,000 people in 185 offices across 65 countries, the company consists of eight independently operated business units: Visual Display, Mobile Communications, Telecommunication Systems, Digital Appliances, IT Solutions, Digital Imaging, Semiconductor and LCD. Recognized as one of the fastest growing global brands, Samsung Electronics is a leading producer of digital TVs, memory chips, mobile phones and TFT-LCDs. For more information, please visit http://www.samsung.com

(1) No. 1 mobile phone provider in the U.S. claim for Samsung Mobile based upon reported shipment data, according to Strategy Analytics Q1 2011 U.S. Market Share Handset Shipments Report.

SOURCE  Cricket Communications, Inc.

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20101220/MM20546LOGO-b
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Cricket Communications, Inc.

CONTACT: Greg Lund, Media Relations, Cricket Communications, Inc., +1-858-882-9105, glund@cricketcommunications.com; or Amy Wakeham, Investor Relations, +1-858-882-9876, awakeham@leapwireless.com; or Jesica Eastman of MWW Group, +1-214-414-3322, jeastman@mww.com, for Samsung Mobile

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

Mood Entertainment Expands its Reach in France

PARIS, June 10, 2011/PRNewswire/ --

    - Deal With DEM Multimedia Signifies Continuing Growth in Europe

    More shoppers across France will be able to purchase games and music as
DEM Multimedia has signed a distribution agreement with Mood Entertainment, a
leading producer and distributor of specialty music and casual PC games. Mood
Entertainment's products are sold using interactive displays in retail stores
with high shopper traffic that allow customers to sample content prior to
purchase.

    DEM Multimedia is a distributor that specializes in the distribution of
games, home entertainment, and consumer electronics. In 2010 the company
distributed millions of CDs and DVDs throughout the country, filling more
than 600 orders every business day to department stores, hypermarkets, and
specialized retailers across France.

    'The retail industry in Europe is increasingly recognizing that consumers
purchase more, and more often, when they have the opportunity to sample
content at the point-of-purchase,' said Ken Cross. 'Our agreement with DEM
Multimedia increases the number of shoppers in France who can benefit from
our interactive displays.'

    This deal will give Mood Entertainment access to 50% more hypermarkets in
France, including such household names as the Carrefour Market, Leclerc and
Intermarché (ITM).

    'France is the largest market for Mood Entertainment after the United
States, and this partnership simply adds more velocity to our growth in the
country, and in Europe.' said Lorne Abony, CEO of Mood Media Corporation.

    About Mood Entertainment

    Mood Entertainment, formerly Somerset Entertainment, is leading producer
and distributor of specialty music and PC casual games selling more that 19
million CDs annually. Mood Entertainment's distribution network encompasses
more than 28,000 interactive displays in 18,500 high-traffic retail locations
in more than 20 countries. Music labels include diverse collections of
concept-based music compilations, and casual games include franchise titles
from major game developers including PopCap, BigFish, Encore and iWin. Titles
are sold using unique interactive displays that allow for sampling at the
point-of-sale.

    Mood Entertainment is a division of Mood Media Corporation. For more
information on Mood Entertainment visit http://www.somersetent.com

    About Mood Media Corporation

    Mood Media Corporation (TSX:MM/ LSE AIM:MM), named Canada's fastest
growing company by PROFIT Magazine is a leading in-store media specialist
that uses a mix of music, visual and scent media to help its clients
communicate with consumers with a view to driving incremental sales at the
point-of-purchase.

    Operating through its two principal divisions, In-Store Media and Retail
Point-of-Purchase, Mood Media Corporation works with over 470,000 commercial
locations in over 40 countries throughout North America, Europe, Asia and
Australia.

    Through its subsidiaries Mood Media, Muzak, and Mood Entertainment, Mood
Media Corporation's products and services reach 150 million people every day
in a broad client base including more than 850 U.S. and international brands
in diverse market sectors that include: retail, from fashion to financial
services; hospitality, from hotels to health spas; and food retail, including
restaurants, bars, quick-serve and fast casual dining.

    For further information:

    For more information on Mood Media Corporation visit
http://www.moodmedia.com or contact:

   
    Jeremy Jacobs
    Fleishman Hillard Inc. (New York)
    +1-212-453-2498
    jeremy.jacobs@fleishman.com

    Alan O'Sullivan
    Fleishman-Hillard (London)
    +44(0)20-7395-7017
    alan.osullivan@fleishmaneurope.com

Source: Mood Media Corporation

.

IGT Announces Successful Results of Tender Offer for Shares of Entraction

-- All necessary conditions have been met to complete the transaction

-- Over 93% of shares were tendered during initial offer period

-- Settlement expected to commence on June 15, 2011

-- Offer period extended to give remaining shareholders an additional opportunity to tender

LAS VEGAS, June 10, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT) has announced that all conditions for the completion of its cash offer (the "Offer") to acquire all shares of Entraction Holding AB ("Entraction") have been fulfilled.

The Offer, launched on May 5, 2011 through its wholly-owned Swedish subsidiary Eagle Ice AB(1) ("Eagle Ice"), has been accepted by shareholders representing 9,508,408 B shares and 144,660 A shares respectively, corresponding to 93.2 percent of the shares and 80.3 percent of the votes in Entraction. 

IGT previously received necessary approvals from the Maltese anti-trust and gaming authorities.  Settlement for shareholders who have already accepted the Offer is expected to commence on June 15, 2011.

The acceptance period has been extended until June 23, 2011 (17:00 CET), which will allow shareholders who have not yet accepted the Offer to tender their shares. Settlement for shareholders who accept the Offer during the extended acceptance period is expected to commence on or around June 29, 2011.

IGT intends to initiate compulsory acquisition proceedings for the remaining shares in Entraction in accordance with the Swedish Companies Act and plans to act for a delisting of the Entraction shares from NASDAQ OMX First North Premier.

About IGT

International Game Technology (NYSE: IGT) is a global leader in the design, development and manufacture of gaming machines and systems products, as well as online and mobile gaming solutions for regulated markets. More information about IGT is available at http://www.IGT.com or follow IGT on Twitter at @IGTNews or Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/IGT.

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995

This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties.  Actual events or results may differ materially from those described in this press release due to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, among others, the possibility that the transaction might not close or that the closing may be delayed, IGT's integration of Entraction, its products, technologies and employees may experience difficulties, and the anticipated benefits of the transaction to IGT and its customers might not be realized.  More information about potential factors that could affect IGT's business and financial results is included in IGT's filings with the SEC, including under the captions "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in IGT's Annual Report on Form 10-K for its 2010 fiscal year and its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for its fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2011, and available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov and on the investor relations section of IGT's website at http://www.IGT.com.  All information provided in this release is as of June 10, 2011, and IGT does not intend, and undertakes no duty, to update this information.

(1) Eagle Ice AB, previously under the name Goldcup 6663 AB, is a newly incorporated Swedish limited liability company, with company registration number 556850-8856.

For further information, visit http://info.igt.com.

SOURCE  IGT

IGT

CONTACT: Matt Moyer, Vice President, Investor Relations of IGT, +1-866-296-4232

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

ISL Light Remote Support & Access for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch

SWINDON, England, June 10, 2011/PRNewswire/ --     ISL Light iOS application has been released today, and is available free
of charge on the App Store (http://bit.ly/kcNi8P). It allows iPhone, iPad and
iPod Touch users to remotely control any Windows, Mac, or Linux computer and
access remote PCs.

    One touch on the iPhone or iPad enables the user to view and control a
remote computer or access unattended remote computers even behind a firewall
or a NAT proxy.

   
    Key features of ISL Light iOS (Remote Support & Access):

    - Connect to any computer even behind a firewall
    - Connections are secured by symmetrical AES-256 encryption
    - View remote screen
    - ISSC Turbo Desktop Sharing
    - Switch between multiple monitors
    - Automatic screen resolution correction
    - Remotely control the keyboard and mouse
    - Reboot a remote computer and resume the session
    - Use special keys such as Ctrl, Alt, Windows(R) and function keys
    - Send Ctrl+Alt+Del to remote computer
    - Switch between left and right mouse click

    Watch a short video (http://bit.ly/kWjG5H) to see how remote desktop
access and support from your Apple mobile device works.

    Available for free on the App Store

    ISL Light is available for download free of charge on the App Store
(http://bit.ly/kcNi8P) . To start a new remote support session from an Apple
mobile device, a valid ISL Online account(1) is obligatory. For more
information on the latest ISL Online release please visit
http://www.islonline.com/isl-light/ios and register for a free trial
(http://bit.ly/l7xlRE).

    (1) Users with an active free trial, users with active Hosted Service
Licence or for Server License users a valid Extended Support Service.

    About ISL Online

    ISL Online (http://www.islonline.com) provides SaaS-based remote access,
support, live chat and online meetings solutions to quickly, simply and
securely connect millions of internet-enabled devices across the globe
-Windows, Mac or Linux computers and smartphones. Designed for consumers,
mobile professionals and IT organizations, ISL Online's solutions empower
over 100.000 active users to create more than 5 million sessions yearly. ISL
Light is a flagship product that has been delivering simple, reliable and
highly secure professional remote desktop support since 2003.

     http://www.islonline.com

Source: ISL Online

ISL Online Headquarters, Barbara Viskovic, Marketing&PR, XLAB d.o.o., Pot za Brdom 100, SI-1000, Ljubljana, press@islonline.com, T. +386-1-2447766, F. +386-1-2447770

California Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom Addresses Silicon Valley Entrepreneurs and Deal Makers During Fireside Chat at "Launch: Silicon Valley 2011"

Newsom Discusses California Tech Companies' role in Jobs, Innovation and the Economy

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., June 9, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Silicon Valley Association of Startup Entrepreneurs (SVASE) today announced that California Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom helped to kick off Launch: Silicon Valley 2011, Silicon Valley's most affordable, high visibility product launch showcase for emerging technology companies.

To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/california-lt-governor-gavin-newsom-addresses-silicon-valley-entrepreneurs-and-deal-makers-during-fireside-chat-at-launch-silicon-valley-2011-123535859.html

Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom participated in a discussion with Bill Reichert, Managing Director of Garage Technology Ventures, on the Lt. Governor's plan to jumpstart California's economy and the high tech industry's role in these efforts.

Full video: California Lieutenant Governor, Gavin Newsom's Fireside Chat at Launch: Silicon Valley 2011 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W7_OPvr6es0

"California's fast growing technology sector continues to have a positive impact on our state's economy," said Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom. "SVASE and their showcase, Launch: Silicon Valley, have played an important role in the delivery of technology innovation and success and I look forward to working in partnership with these entrepreneurs and investors who are helping to drive our economy forward."

Launch: Silicon Valley 2011, held June 7 at Microsoft's Mountain View Campus, is considered Silicon Valley's most affordable, high visibility platform for emerging technology companies to demo their products or services for launch into the market. Each year 30 startups in cleantech, life science,mobile, next generation internet, and technology makepresentations to investors and other influencers who can help shape their success. In addition to the presentations, participants also have the opportunity to network with the audience.

Video replays of winning companies' event presentations will be available at http://bit.ly/LaunchSiliconValley2011Presentations.

About SVASE

Founded in 1995 by entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs, The Silicon Valley Association of Startup Entrepreneurs (SVASE) is the largest and fastest growing nonprofit in Northern California dedicated exclusively to helping technology and life science entrepreneurs start and grow successful businesses.

SVASE provides support and resources for entrepreneurs, from the idea through initial rounds of funding to product launch, delivered at 12 monthly events and a continually evolving web site. For more information about SVASE, please visit http://www.svase.org.

About Garage Technology Ventures

Garage Technology Ventures is a seed-stage and early-stage venture capital fund headquartered in Palo Alto, California, with investors that include Thomas Weisel Partners and CalPERS, the California Public Employees Retirement System. Garage is focused on investing in emerging technology startups in the Western U.S. For more information about Garage, visit http://www.garage.com.

Related Links:

Launch: Silicon Valley 2011

Silicon Valley Assoc of Startup Entrepreneurs (SVASE)

Launch: Silicon Valley 2011 Video

CA Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom

Media Contact:
Jeff Lettes, Director of Communications (SVASE), Principal, Global Media Strategy
jlettes@globalmediastrategy.com  408-406-1161

Francisco Castillo, Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom
Francisco.Castillo@ltg.CA.GOV 916-445-8994

SOURCE  The Silicon Valley Association of Startup Entrepreneurs (SVASE)

Video:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/california-lt-governor-gavin-newsom-addresses-silicon-valley-entrepreneurs-and-deal-makers-during-fireside-chat-at-launch-silicon-valley-2011-123535859.html
The Silicon Valley Association of Startup Entrepreneurs (SVASE)

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

FCC Should Focus Its Efforts on Finding a Practical Way for LightSquared to Proceed

Tests Confirm Planned Network Will Cause Substantial Interference

WASHINGTON, June 9, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Speaking today at an event sponsored by the National Space-Based PNT Advisory Board, Jim Kirkland, Vice President and General Counsel of Trimble, a founding member of the "Coalition to Save Our GPS" sent a strong message to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC):

"The test data discussed today makes clear that there is substantial interference to GPS if LightSquared turns on high-powered terrestrial facilities in the spectrum next door to GPS," Kirkland said. "The data confirm what the industry told the FCC before it granted the waiver, and also confirms that there is no viable technical fix.  It's time for the FCC to stop squandering resources trying to find a solution to an unfixable problem. Instead, it should focus its efforts on finding spectrum that LightSquared can operate in -- where LightSquared won't interfere with GPS.

"When it comes to broadband and GPS, it's not an either/or situation -- the United States can, and should have both.  LightSquared says it has other spectrum and it should use it," Kirkland said.

At issue is an unusual waiver granted to LightSquared in January by the FCC's International Bureau allowing the dramatic expansion of terrestrial use of the mobile satellite spectrum (MSS) immediately neighboring that of the GPS -- utilizing extremely high-powered ground-based transmissions that tests have shown will cause interference to hundreds of millions of GPS receivers across the United States.   

At the event, Kirkland and government representatives discussed testing conducted to measure interference to GPS receivers used in aviation and other critical government applications.  In at least one test, LightSquared failed to deliver test equipment that matches its proposed operations, thus causing optimistic results -- and even those optimistic results showed interference. 

"It's clearly a good thing that LightSquared is trying to do," Kirkland said. "No one in the GPS industry opposes its goals of increasing wireless data capacity and competition, but the available data has shown overwhelming interference, and LightSquared should not be allowed to launch in the spectrum adjacent to GPS."

A joint industry report is due to the FCC on June 15th, when the FCC will begin a public comment period before making its final decision. 

About the Coalition

The "Coalition to Save Our GPS" is working to resolve a serious threat to the Global Positioning System. The FCC granted a highly unusual conditional waiver for a proposal to build 40,000 ground stations that could cause widespread interference with GPS signals - endangering a national utility which millions of Americans rely on every day. The conditional waiver was granted to a company called LightSquared.

http://www.SaveOurGPS.org

CONTACT: Prism Public Affairs
Dale Leibach: 202-207-3630 or dleibach@prismpublicaffairs.com
Anne Tyrrell: 202-207-3632 or atyrrell@prismpublicaffairs.com

SOURCE  Coalition to Save Our GPS

Coalition to Save Our GPS

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

Midas Medici Acquires Assets of Energy Hedge Fund Center, LLC

Acquisition of EHFC by Midas' CommodityPoint Business Provides Sophisticated Online Community for Clients Interested in Hedge Funds in the Energy and Commodity Sectors

NEW YORK and BRNO, Czech Republic, June 9, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Midas Medici Group Holdings, Inc. ("Midas") (OTCBB: MMED), an innovative green IT company in the fields of virtualization, cloud computing and data management, as well as Smart Grid solutions, today announced that its Czech Republic-based CommodityPoint business has acquired the assets of Energy Hedge Fund Center, LLC ("EHFC"), a web portal and community for clients interested in hedge funds in the energy and commodity sectors.

The acquisition of EHFC by CommodityPoint was officially consummated on June 8, 2011.  EHFC has been historically quite active with approximately 10,000 unique visitors, a community of 1,400+ members and a newsletter with 1,300+ subscribers.  Clients include: hedge funds, investment banks, institutional and private investors, energy companies, educational institutions, government, consultants and the media.

"I am pleased to announce the acquisition of assets belonging to EHFC," stated Nana Baffour, CEO and Co-Founder of Midas. "For Midas, EHFC represents an opportunity to establish a brand and reputation in the financial community side of the energy and commodities trading sectors.  Through our Czech Republic-based CommodityPoint business, we believe we can successfully leverage current products and services into this community and also penetrate the environmental side of energy as well.  In addition, utilizing Midas' expertise in IT infrastructure and deployment we can impact how the data is managed, stored, delivered and presented in order to substantially enhance the value of our EHFC acquisition."

EHFC drew attention to the interest in energy and commodity funds with its definitive sponsored research on hedge funds in energy in 2004 and the book 'Energy and Environmental Hedge Funds: The New Investment Paradigm' (Wiley, 2006).  It has continued this research ever since. Principals Gary M. Vasey and Peter C. Fusaro have extensive expertise in energy and energy related market development, risk management and commodities trading, as it relates to energy and 'green' energy-related plays. The two have spoken at numerous conferences and given many online seminars. Additionally, they maintain the EHFC Energy Hedge Fund Directory and produced a second report on hedge funds in energy in January 2005. They are also the editors of Energy Hedge, an online newsletter.

"Having co-founded EHFC in 2004 and now leading CommodityPoint as principal analyst, I am intimately familiar with both businesses and believe that it is the perfect time to leverage the strong online community that's been built over the years at EHFC into the CommodityPoint brand," said Dr. Gary M. Vasey, Managing Director of CommodityPoint. "With record high prices for most commodities and the advent of new commodity exchange traded instruments, the commodities sector has become an attractive and uncorrelated asset class for investors.  The resulting increase in demand for data, information and education in the commodity sector creates a substantial opportunity for Midas and CommodityPoint as we seek to expand the services offered at EHFC to meet the growing need for information surrounding these sectors."

CommodityPoint is the foremost analyst firm covering global wholesale commodity market technologies and is a division of Midas Medici's UtiliPoint brand.  Dr. Gary M. Vasey is the principal analyst and Co-Founder of CommodityPoint and brings years of practical experience to his role. With offices in Europe and the United States, and backed by an experienced research team, CommodityPoint provides a unique view of the utilities and commodities marketplace.

About Midas Medici Group Holdings, Inc.

Midas Medici Group Holdings, Inc. (OTCBB: MMED) is a green IT company that supplies mid-sized and select enterprises and institutions with leading-edge IT solutions in the fields of virtualization, cloud computing and data management, as well as working with utilities and other institutions to transform the electric grid through digital technologies.  Across its Consonus and UtiliPoint brands, Midas works with its customers by optimizing IT and data center investments, cutting energy usage and preventing data loss, all while maximizing productivity.  Through a management team with decades of experience, Midas is positioning itself to take advantage of the high-growth IT industry through its unique specialized services at the intersection of energy and technology. 

For comprehensive investor relations material, including fact sheets, presentations conference calls and video, please follow the appropriate link: Investor Presentation, Investor Portal and Overview Video.

For more information on Midas Medici, please visit: http://www.midasmedici.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This release contains certain "forward-looking statements" relating to the business of the Company and its subsidiary companies. All statements, other than statements of historical fact included herein are "forward-looking statements" including statements regarding: the Company's business and operations; business strategy, plans and objectives of the Company and its subsidiaries; and any other statements of non-historical information. These forward-looking statements are often identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "believes," "expects" or similar expressions, involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, they do involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, and these expectations may prove to be incorrect. Investors should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including those discussed in the Company's periodic reports that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and available on its website (http://www.sec.gov). All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these factors. Other than as required under the securities laws, the Company does not assume a duty to update these forward-looking statements.

Company Contact:

Johnson Kachidza
Chief Financial Officer
212-792-0920

Investor Contact:

Trilogy Capital Partners
Darren Minton, President
Toll-free: 800-592-6067
info@trilogy-capital.com

SOURCE  Midas Medici Group Holdings, Inc.

Midas Medici Group Holdings, Inc.

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

BlackArrow to Debut Multiplatform Dynamic Advertising Capabilities at Cable Show

Showcase to Feature iOS and Android Support for Tablet and Smartphone Devices, Demonstrations of In-market VOD Advertising Solutions

SAN JOSE, Calif., June 9, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- BlackArrow, a leading worldwide provider of advanced advertising solutions for New Television platforms, will showcase enhancements to the BlackArrow Advanced Advertising System that enable centralized, multiplatform advertising management across tablet, smartphone and television environments at The Cable Show in Chicago. The company also will demonstrate the latest version of its dynamic ad solution for video-on-demand (VOD) television, announced last week.

The BlackArrow Multiplatform Advanced Advertising Showcase (booth ES-19) will feature new support for iOS- and Android-based tablets and smartphones. The exhibit will highlight BlackArrow's sophisticated suite of placement and ad management controls that provide customers with an integrated workflow for core elements of advanced advertising across multiple platforms, including consistent addressability; integrated inventory allocation and ad packaging; and unified ad management and reporting.

BlackArrow also will highlight new features of its Advanced Advertising System in the context of a live VOD market scenario. The showcase will demonstrate dynamic ad insertion using scenarios that highlight broadcast-window based ad packaging, as well as integrated, "single pitch" workflows that enable programmers to use the same content assets for both static and dynamic VOD advertising. 

"A unified approach to advertising management is critical to the success of advertising across a broad spectrum of on-demand environments and viewing devices," said Dean Denhart, chief executive officer for BlackArrow. "Using the same BlackArrow Advanced Advertising System that already is in-market, operators and programmers can build comprehensive advertising strategies and business models suited to any on-demand platform, along with the new generation of untethered devices."

About The BlackArrow Advanced Advertising System

The BlackArrow Advanced Advertising System is designed specifically for the technological complexities and business issues within on-demand television advertising environments. The BlackArrow Sales Suite enables ad sales organizations to define, manage and monetize multiplatform, multioperator advertising campaigns to reach audiences who increasingly consume time-shifted programming on their televisions, computers, mobile and tablet devices. For content distributors, the BlackArrow Decision Suite offers powerful ad decisioning and proven system interoperability to streamline deployment in complex cable and distribution environments.

About BlackArrow, Inc.

BlackArrow is a leading worldwide provider of advanced advertising technology for New Television platforms. The company's multiplatform advertising system is designed specifically for video content distributed over any on-demand platform, enabling networks and content distributors to maximize advertising revenues. BlackArrow is privately held, and backed by Cisco Systems (NASDAQ: CSCO), Comcast Interactive Capital, Intel Capital (NASDAQ: INTC), Mayfield Fund, Motorola Ventures (NYSE: MOT), NDS Group, LTD., Polaris Venture Partners and Time Warner Cable. The company has offices in New York City and San Jose, Calif. http://www.blackarrow.tv

BlackArrow is a trademark of BlackArrow, Inc. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.

SOURCE  BlackArrow

BlackArrow

CONTACT: Paul Schneider, PSPR, Inc., for BlackArrow, +1-215-702-9784 (office) or +1-215-817-4384 (mobile), pspr@att.net

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

mShopper® Launches Industry-Leading Mobile Commerce Stores That Require No IT Investment and Can Be Live in One Day

The company is asking retailers to take The mShopper Challenge: Simply give them a product data feed and get the world's best mobile commerce solution in one day, or receive their first three months free.

BOULDER, Colo., June 9, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- mShopper®, a leader in mobile commerce solutions for retailers, today released a complete upgrade to its mobile commerce stores (mStores(TM)) that includes 35 new conversion-focused features, a new customizable mobile commerce design, and a suite of marketing tools designed to drive traffic and sales. mShopper's goal, according to company officials, is to make it as painless as possible in terms of time and money for retailers to drive sales from their rapidly increasing audience of mobile phone shoppers.

Chris Herzog, VP eCommerce Development at online electronics and computer retailer Geeks.com, explained: "mShopper has been with us every step of the way to make sure we had the best mStore possible. And it was ready faster and for much less money than other m-commerce providers we considered."

"We challenge our competitors' belief that a beautiful, effective mobile shopping site requires 3-6 months and hundreds of thousands of dollars," explained mShopper's CEO, David Gould. "We've invested three years in a mobile technology that builds a customized mStore in just one day so merchants can be selling to mobile shoppers much faster."

Gould added: "Retailers benefit from mShopper's unique pricing model that charges them based on performance instead of a more expensive upfront fee."

Company officials also emphasized that mShopper's Mobile Commerce Platform (MCP) offers merchants more than just functional mobile technology. It includes built-in marketing tools to merchandise featured products and deals, promote the mStore to current and new shoppers, and send out text messages. GetFirstDibs(TM) is mShopper's patent-pending text-messaging platform allowing retailers to communicate to opted-in mobile subscribers and drive sales through direct response and repetitive branding.

"We needed a feature to tell mobile shoppers about our daily deals," explained David Goldfarb, President of YourBestDeals.com. "Our mStore came with a very user-friendly Daily Deal scheduler with consumer-facing countdown timers. We now have some of the finest conversion rates with mShopper's platform."

The MCP was designed to let merchants easily make changes to reflect their unique brand, product line, and marketing efforts. It lets merchants customize page layouts and themes, select checkout options (e.g., Amazon, PayPal, Google), and even determine the product details, images and reviews appearing to shoppers.

Since mShopper's solution is not an app that needs to be downloaded, any shopper with a smartphone can simply type in a retailer's current web address and automatically be redirected to their mobile optimized site.

Gould added: "If you want to pay more, wait longer, and get less, we're simply not the company for you."

Company officials have issued a challenge to retailers. Gould explained: "Send us your product data feed and we'll deliver a live mStore with 35 sales-focused features in one day...or your first 3 months are on us. Visit mShopper.com to begin."

Notes to Editors:

    --  mShopper is led by Founder/CEO David Gould, a Harvard MBA that realized
        the potential of selling to mobile consumers while in charge of Mobile
        Content for Virgin Mobile.
    --  mShopper first entered mobile commerce in 2007 with a consumer-facing
        mobile website called PriceCrusher that represented 100 leading
        merchants and allowed shoppers to easily price compare and purchase
        while on-the-go.
    --  mShopper is headquartered in Boulder, Colorado

About mShopper

mShopper has been helping retailers sell to mobile shoppers since 2007. mShopper provides an easy-to-use software solution allowing small and medium-sized retailers to create a customized, feature-packed mobile commerce site (not app) that works beautifully on any smartphone device. With just a merchant's product datafeed and custom messaging a merchant can go mobile with no IT resource investment. The company provides more than just a mobile store, however. The software includes patent-pending tools to quickly build a database of mobile subscribers, send them product alerts via text message, promote special deals-of-the-day, and drive traffic from both current and new shoppers.

Learn more by visiting mShopper.com and downloading a mobile commerce whitepaper, signing up for a weekly webinar, and using the mCalculator to learn how much money you're losing without a mobile-optimized site.

http://www.mShopper.com

SOURCE  mShopper

mShopper

CONTACT: Kathryn Wardell, VP Sales & Service, +1-720-279-8028, Kathryn@mShopper.com, or Ken Barber VP of Marketing and Product Development Ken.Barber@mShopper.com

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