News

Contemporary Art and Ultra-Contemporary Technology Converge on the High Seas With Latest Novel Concept From Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity becomes first cruise line to present art tours on iPads

MIAMI, Aug. 11 -- Playing off the series of hip, high-tech "firsts" it has introduced in recent months, premium cruise line Celebrity Cruises is debuting the industry's first self-guided art tours on an iPad®. Earlier this year, Celebrity introduced the first "Celebrity iLounge" - a modern lounge equipped with MacBook® workstations, a retail space featuring Apple products and accessories, and an enrichment center where certified staff present a variety of courses and offer guests tips on Mac and iPod® usage. Celebrity Cruises is itself an iPad pioneer, having become the first cruise line to present a menu and wine list on an iPad when it introduced its engaging "Qsine" specialty restaurant earlier this year.

  (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100811/FL49467-a )
  (Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100811/FL49467-a )
  (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100811/FL49467-b )
  (Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100811/FL49467-b )

"The response to the Celebrity iLounge and to the iPad menus in Qsine was so positive, we knew our guests would relish yet another opportunity to capitalize on the latest technology in an entertaining, enriching way," said Celebrity's Senior VP of Hotel Operations Lisa Lutoff-Perlo. "Celebrity's 'Designed for you' platform is built on our commitment to listen to our guests and offer experiences inspired by them and their sophisticated travel desires."

A new addition to Celebrity's extensive "Celebrity Life" series of onboard entertainment and enrichment activities, the iPads on each Solstice Class ship house floor plans of every deck on the ship, with select works of art flagged on every deck. A guest simply touches the screen to select the work of art he or she would like to learn more about, and the screen transitions to full details about the piece, including the title of the work, artist's name, medium used, description and image. In addition to the art tour application, the iPads also present guests with the opportunity to explore digital versions of each Solstice-Class vessel's in-stateroom art catalogs.

With more than 14,000 works of original, contemporary art on its three Solstice Class ships alone, Celebrity Cruises is the holder of one of the world's largest corporate collections of contemporary art. Throughout the ships, a vast range of mediums is represented, including glass, acrylics, oils, photography, digital prints, video, etchings, sculptures and collages. Approximately 15 percent of the art on each Solstice Class ship is site-specific or commissioned artwork, such as the signature living trees in enormous vases suspended within the Solstice Class ships' sweeping, airy Grand Foyers.

Celebrity's new iPad art tours will be available on Celebrity Solstice beginning August 15, and on Celebrity Eclipse and Celebrity Equinox beginning August 21. The tours currently are in English, and also will be offered in Spanish by the end of this year. Celebrity will add German and French versions in 2011.

Celebrity Cruises is designed for discerning cruisers, with modern, sophisticated environments, impeccable service, enriching and inspiring onboard programs, and world-class cuisine. The ultimate in premium cruising, Celebrity sails in Alaska, California, Canada/New England, Europe, the Pacific Coast, Panama Canal, South America, and year-round in the Caribbean and the Galapagos Islands. Celebrity also offers immersive cruisetour experiences in Alaska, Canada, Europe and South America. Celebrity's mega-series of honors include being named the top mega-ship line in Condé Nast Traveler's annual Readers' Choice Awards (November 2009). Celebrity's fleet currently consists of 10 ships. Its $3.7-billion investment in building five stylish Solstice Class ships between 2008-2012 represents the largest five-year investment in premium cruising. For more information, call your travel agent, dial 1-800-437-3111 or visit http://www.celebritycruises.com.

Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100811/FL49467-a
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100811/FL49467-b
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network:  PRN 22, 23
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100811/FL49467-a
http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100811/FL49467-b
Source: Celebrity Cruises
   

CONTACT:  Elizabeth Jakeway, +1-305-539-6127,
ejakeway@celebritycruises.com, Tavia Robb, +1-305-539-6721,
trobb@celebritycruises.com

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

Welcome Aboard! PDN PhotoPlus Expo to Host Annual Bash on Famed Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Sea, Air, and Space Museum Offers Interactive Exhibits, Breathtaking Views of Manhattan, and an Evening of Fun and Entertainment You Can't Afford to Miss

NEW YORK, Aug. 11 -- PDN PhotoPlus International Conference + Expo has announced it will host its annual "PhotoPlus Expo Bash" Friday night, October 29 on the USS Intrepid.  The USS Intrepid is one of the most famous and successful ships in U.S. history, now a national historic landmark and unique attraction in New York City.  Attendees of this year's PDN PhotoPlus Bash will have access to the entire ship including an incredible array of sea, air, and space exhibits representing some of the most memorable moments in American history.  In addition, attendees will have access to the Intrepid's flight deck, revealing breathtaking views of Manhattan.

  (Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100811/NY49432 )
  (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100811/NY49432 )

The annual PDN PhotoPlus Bash will be held on Friday night, October 29 from 8:00 p.m. to 11 p.m.  Tickets are currently available for the early bird rate of $25.00 until October 15 as a registrant of the show.  For more information go to at PhotoPlus Expo Bash.  Cocktails and a live DJ will add to the evening's festivities.

"This year's PhotoPlus Expo Bash aboard the USS Intrepid is expected to be the biggest photography party to date and is clearly the most interesting and exciting venue we've had for our annual party," said Lauren Wendle, Vice President and Group Publisher of Photo District News.  "The interactive exhibits and displays will offer great picture-taking opportunities and the view of Manhattan from the ship's flight deck is simply breathtaking.  We hope everyone will be able to join us for this fun and memorable experience," added Ms. Wendle.

Fighter planes, helicopters, a submarine and even the Air France Concorde are all part of the Intrepid's Sea, Air, and Space museum. All will be available for exploration and photos.  Guests will also have an opportunity to immerse themselves in the new, 14-seat 4D Motion Ride Theater where they can transcend time, space, and imagination. Each seat brings a wide range of dynamic 4D simulation and vibration, combined with 3D graphics, high definition sound and unmatched speed. Put on your 3D glasses and hold on tight!

To learn more about the USS Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum, visit the Intrepid Museum.

About PDN PhotoPlus International Conference + Expo

Designed for professionals in the photographic and imaging industries, PhotoPlus showcases the latest advances in photography, both traditional and digital. Held annually at the Jacob Javits Convention Center, attendees have the opportunity to explore an inspiring array of photography and imaging products and services - everything from image capture and color management to retouching and storage - all from the industry's leading manufacturers.

The show also offers over 100 photography and imaging seminars and hands-on workshops taught by world-renowned experts with a focus on cutting-edge innovations in digital imaging products and techniques.

About the USS Intrepid

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is one of America's leading historic, cultural and educational institutions.  Opened in 1982, the Museum has welcomed more than 10 million visitors.  The Museum is centered on the aircraft carrier Intrepid (CVS-11), one of the most successful ships in U.S. history, and now a national historic landmark and one of the most unique attractions in New York City. In 1943, Intrepid was commissioned and served proudly in World War II.  She went on to serve as one of the primary recovery vessels for NASA, three tours of duty off Vietnam, and submarine surveillance in the North Atlantic during the Cold War. Today she continues her service as a premiere educational center and a monument to all who have served our nation in uniform.  The Museum features a range of interactive exhibits and events providing a snapshot of heroism, education, and excitement.

  Website: http://www.photoplusexpo.com/

             
  Facebook:   http://www.facebook.com/photoplusexpo
  Twitter:    @PhotoPlusExpo (http://www.twitter.com/photoplusexpo)
  Hashtags:   #PPE10, #photo, #followfotog
  Flickr:     http://www.flickr.com/photos/pdnphotoplusexpo

Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100811/NY49432
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN21
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100811/NY49432
Source: PDN PhotoPlus International Conference + Expo
   

CONTACT:  Lou Desiderio, Synergy Communications, Inc., +1-917-627-0912,
lou@pr-synergy.com; Scott Heath, Synergy Communications, Inc.,
+1-951-735-3686, scottheath@pr-synergy.com

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

Lockerz.com(TM) (http://www.lockerz.com) Launches SHOP - the Web's Newest Commerce Model - Across Europe, Canada, Australia and New Zealand

Millions of Lockerz Members Around the World Can Now Earn Huge Discounts Off World's Best Brands

SEATTLE, Aug 11 -- Lockerz.com(TM) ( http://www.lockerz.com/ ), the fast-growing new shopping destination for men and women 13-30, officially launched Lockerz SHOP today in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Spain and Sweden as well as Canada, Australia and New Zealand. This expansion follows the successful BETA launch of SHOP in the U.S. in May.

Lockerz.com, with more than 16 million registered members globally, rewards its members with Lockerz Pointz(TM) or "PTZ" simply for doing what they love most on the web including watching videos, listening to music, shopping for the latest in fashion, gaming, electronics and sports gear and later this year, connecting with friends. Currently, there are more than six ways for members to earn PTZ on Lockerz through engagement and connection with the website, and more than 10 new ways over the coming months.

In Lockerz SHOP, members may redeem their earned PTZ for huge discounts off any product for sale in 10-12 weekly brand boutiques, even up to 100% off MSRP for Lockerz's most active members. With every purchase in Lockerz SHOP, members earn additional PTZ for future discounts.

Members choose to use as many or as few PTZ as they've earned using Lockerz patent-pending PTZ slider.  The PTZ slider instantly calculates the discount off the full price of any item.  Lockerz members also have the option of saving their points and redeeming them for a limited number of free prizes every few weeks.

"We're excited by our member reaction to this new e-commerce model and continue to learn from our Beta testing in the U.S. and now 11 new countries so that we may continue to improve on the member experience," said Lockerz founder and CEO Kathy Savitt.

Lockerz SHOP sells a wide selection of premium global brands from apparel and jewelry to electronics, gaming and dorm decor. To date, more than 150 brands have signed to market and sell their collections on Lockerz. SHOP boutiques include Microsoft, Nintendo, Rock & Republic, Ben Sherman, House of Harlow, Razor and Sony, among others.

About Lockerz.com(TM) ( http://www.lockerz.com )

Founded in March 2009, the mission of Lockerz is to be the homepage of a new generation - Generation Z (ages 13-30). The invitation-only site combines video, shopping and social networking with a robust loyalty program that rewards members with Lockerz Pointz(TM) (PTZ), which can be redeemed for discounts on name-brand merchandise. Lockerz is a start-up company funded by Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers (KPCB), the Silicon Valley venture capital firm, and online media conglomerate Liberty Media. The company is headquartered in Seattle, WA.

Source: Lockerz.com
   

CONTACT:  Adam Miller, +1-201-964-2390, amiller@mww.com

Web Site:  http://www.lockerz.com/

GoldenEye 007(TM) Classic Edition Hardware Bundle Features Exclusive Gold Wii(TM) Classic Controller Pro(TM)

Nintendo and Activision Unveil Limited Edition Controller Bundle, Giving Gamers the Ultimate 00 Agent Arsenal

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Aug. 11 -- Activision Publishing, Inc. (NASDAQ:ATVI) is giving GoldenEye fans a vintage Bond gaming experience with the GoldenEye 007(TM) Classic Edition, a game bundle featuring an exclusive gold Classic Controller Pro(TM).  Inspired by the legendary golden gun, the gold controller gives fans and Wii(TM) gamers an additional control scheme option, allowing them to play with added accessibility -- the full bundle will be available this fall for $69.99.

"In addition to the Wii Remote and Nunchuk, GoldenEye will also support the Wii Zapper for 'point and shoot' gamers, giving players several ways to experience GoldenEye on Wii," said David Pokress, Head of Marketing for Licensed Properties, Activision Publishing.  "We also couldn't pass up the opportunity to pay homage to the golden gun with the gold Classic Controller Pro, which looks cool and also gives shooter fans a familiar control scheme to use as they blast their way through the game."

Developed exclusively for Wii and based on the GoldenEye film, GoldenEye 007 gives players the chance to use the lethal, gritty style of Daniel Craig's James Bond to outwit, outmaneuver and overtake an arms syndicate that threatens the world in an innovative, modern take on the legendary GoldenEye movie.  GoldenEye 007 features an unprecedented lineup of four-player split-screen MP options that encourage social gaming, including 40 total characters, eight classic Bond characters, ten maps, three standard modes and 18 special modifiers that allow gamers to create hundreds of game combinations. GoldenEye 007 also features online multiplayer for up to eight players designed for seasoned FPS online gamers with unique modes and a robust XP system for unlockables and achievements.

The GoldenEye 007 video game for Wii(TM) is rated "T" (Teen -- for Violence) by the ESRB.  GoldenEye 007 is developed by Eurocom (the Nintendo DS(TM) version is being developed by n-Space) under license from EON Productions Ltd and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM). For more information about the game, visit http://www.goldeneyegame.com.

About Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc.

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc., through its operating subsidiaries, is actively engaged in the worldwide production and distribution of motion pictures, television programming, home video, interactive media, music and licensed merchandise.  The company owns the world's largest library of modern films, comprising around 4,100 titles.  Operating units include Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc., Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., United Artists Films Inc., Ventanazul, MGM Television Entertainment Inc., MGM Networks Inc., MGM Domestic Networks LLC, MGM Distribution Co, MGM International Television Distribution In, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Home Entertainment LLC, MGM ON STAGE, MGM Music, MGM Worldwide Digital Media, MGM Consumer Products and MGM Interactive.  In addition, MGM has ownership interests in international TV channels reaching nearly 120 countries.  MGM ownership is as follows:  Providence Equity Partners (29%), TPG (21%), Sony Corporation of America (20%), Comcast (20%), DLJ Merchant Banking Partners (7%) and Quadrangle Group (3%).  For more information, visit http://www.mgm.com.

About EON Productions/Danjaq, LLC

EON Productions have produced twenty two James Bond films since 1962.  In 1995, Michael G Wilson and Barbara Broccoli took over the 007 franchise from Albert R 'Cubby' Broccoli and are responsible for producing some of the most successful James Bond films ever, including CASINO ROYALE and more recently QUANTUM OF SOLACE.  The James Bond franchise is the longest running in film history.  EON Productions and Danjaq LLC are affiliate companies and control all worldwide merchandising for James Bond.

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.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements: Information in this press release that involves Activision Publishing's expectations, plans, intentions or strategies regarding the future are forward-looking statements that are not facts and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Activision Publishing generally uses words such as "outlook," "will," "could," "would," "might," "remains," "to be," "plans," "believes," "may," "expects," "intends," "anticipates," "estimate," future," "plan," "positioned," "potential," "project," "remain," "scheduled," "set to," "subject to," "upcoming" and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause Activision Publishing's actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements set forth in this release include, but are not limited to, sales levels of Activision Publishing's titles, shifts in consumer spending trends, the impact of the current macroeconomic environment, the seasonal and cyclical nature of the interactive game market, Activision Publishing's ability to predict consumer preferences among competing hardware platforms, declines in software pricing, product returns and price protection, product delays, retail acceptance of Activision Publishing's products, adoption rate and availability of new hardware (including peripherals) and related software, industry competition, rapid changes in technology, industry standards and consumer preferences, protection of proprietary rights, litigation against Activision Publishing, maintenance of relationships with key personnel, customers, licensees, licensors, vendors and third-party developers, counterparty risks relating to customers, licensees, licensors and manufacturers, domestic and international economic, financial and political conditions and policies, foreign exchange rates and tax rates, integration of recent acquisitions and the identification of suitable future acquisition opportunities, and the other factors identified in the risk factors section of Activision Blizzard's most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon information available to Activision Publishing and Activision Blizzard as of the date of this release, and neither Activision Publishing nor Activision Blizzard assumes any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements believed to be true when made may ultimately prove to be incorrect. These statements are not guarantees of the future performance of Activision Publishing or Activision Blizzard and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond its control and may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations.

GoldenEye 007 © 2010 Danjaq, LLC and United Artists Corporation.  007 and related James Bond trademarks © 1962 - 2010 Danjaq, LLC and United Artists Corporation. 007(TM) and related James Bond trademarks are trademarks of Danjaq, LLC and licensed by EON.  Activision is a registered trademark of Activision Publishing, Inc.  All other trademarks and trade names are the properties of their respective owners.  All rights reserved.

Source: Activision Publishing, Inc.
   

CONTACT:  Kyle Walker, Senior Publicist of Activision, Inc.,
+1-424-744-5677, kyle.walker@activision.com

Web Site:  http://www.activision.com/
http://www.goldeneyegame.com/
http://www.mgm.com/

Company News On-Call:  http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/007396.html

shopkick and Simon Property Group to Bring Location-Based Shopping App to More Than 100 of the Nation's Largest Malls

Largest deployment of location-based mobile shopping app will bring shopkick kickbucks and other rewards to consumers, and foot traffic to mall retailers

INDIANAPOLIS, Aug. 11 -- shopkick, the Silicon Valley-based "mobile meets retail" startup, and Simon Brand Ventures (SBV), the business-to-consumer arm of Simon Property Group, Inc. (NYSE:SPG) today announced a strategic alliance to deliver the shopkick location-based shopping application to more than 100 Simon mall locations across the country in time for the holiday shopping season.

A whole new world will be delivered to the shopper once the free shopkick mobile application is downloaded to the consumers' smart phone. As the shopper walks through the door of a participating retailer that has installed the "shopkick Signal" technology, they will learn of great deals at the store that can stretch their dollar. In addition, just by entering the store, the customer earns a new shopkick currency called "kickbucks" that can be redeemed for rewards or donated to charity.

shopkick will launch within the next few weeks, and start rolling out in the first Simon malls. Simon will promote the shopkick app to consumers at its malls, and deploy shopkick's location technology in key areas of its participating locations. Simon will also help to facilitate the installation of shopkick's technology inside the stores of interested retailers in its malls, to help drive foot traffic and new customers to them.

Simon is the nation's largest shopping mall operator and is working with shopkick to further enhance customers' shopping experiences with rewards and offers - delivered simply for walking into a Simon mall.

"There is simply no more effective partner in the U.S. to reach shoppers at scale than Simon Property Group.  Simon and shopkick together will turn the malls into interactive, rewards-filled worlds that enhance shoppers' in-mall experience," said Cyriac Roeding, CEO and co-founder of shopkick. "At the same time, we'll drive foot traffic to the mall's retailers. It's a win-win-win situation, and the future of retail."

shopkick is the first location-based mobile application that promises consumers rewards and offers not just for shopping, but simply for walking into a retail location. Traditional GPS location-based services require shoppers "check in" and are only accurate within one or two blocks or don't work within shopping centers, so aren't viable for mall partners, where hundreds of retailers share a physical space. The patent-pending, low cost "shopkick Signal" technology requires no consumer check in and can guarantee that a user is truly present in the retail location, and is easy to install.

"After a year of due diligence researching location-based apps, we found shopkick offers by far the best way for retailers and brands to communicate directly with shoppers - on the phone, the only interactive device they bring with them to the mall," said Mikael Thygesen, president of SBV, and chief marketing officer of SPG. "Shoppers get a great experience - with high-value rewards, great offers, gaming elements, and more; and retailers get increased traffic and new customers. We're excited to be among the first to deliver this unique benefit. We invite our valued retailer tenants to join the roll-out of this cost-effective solution in their own stores, to drive additional traffic and enhance the overall shopping experience for customers."

How it works

Consumers choose to download the free "shopkick" mobile application for their smart phones. (The "shopkick" app for iPhone will be available in the coming weeks on the iTunes App Store, followed by apps for additional smart phones.) When the "shopkick" app is open on the smart phone, it detects the "shopkick Signal" technology installed in the retail location as the consumer walks through the door, and the shopper instantly receives rewards from shopkick, called "kickbucks." Because the detection occurs on the consumer's phone, the privacy of presence information is completely under the user's control.

Shopkick "kickbucks" can be immediately redeemed for Facebook credits, song downloads, immediate in-store cash-back rewards at shopkick partner stores, magazine subscriptions, even donations to charities. Retailers like Best Buy, Macy's and others that support the "shopkick" app also will deliver to consumers special in-store deals, and/or added bonuses for scanning barcodes of specific products.  Similar to the "cost per click" traffic-based online business model, retailers will pay shopkick only for those consumers who actually walk into their stores with the "shopkick" app, recognizing the in-store "shopkick Signal" system.

About Simon Property Group

Simon Property Group, Inc. is an S&P 500 company and the largest real estate company in the U.S.  The Company currently owns or has an interest in 373 retail real estate properties comprising 256 million square feet of gross leasable area in North America, Europe and Asia.  Simon Property Group is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana and employs more than 5,000 people worldwide.  The Company's common stock is publicly traded on the NYSE under the symbol SPG.  For further information, visit the Simon Property Group website at http://www.simon.com.

About Simon Brand Ventures

Simon Brand Ventures (SBV), Simon's business-to-consumer arm, has pioneered the transformation of shopping centers into a medium where consumer brands can build relationships with Simon shoppers.  SBV has engaged in a number of consumer business initiatives designed to support our shoppers, our tenants, and our strategic marketing relationships including the American Express®/Simon Giftcard; events at signature Simon properties such as Simon Fashion Now(TM); the launch of Simon platform programs such as Simon Kidgits Club®, Simon GamePlay, and Simon Project Style®; a national media delivery channel including static, digital, and experiential marketing and advertising vehicles; and multiple national and local marketing alliances with American Express, Coca-Cola, Ticketmaster, and U.S. Bank among others.

About shopkick, Inc.

shopkick, Inc. is a new Palo Alto-based startup funded by the Kleiner Perkins iFund, Greylock Partners, and Reid Hoffman, founder of LinkedIn and investor in Facebook and Zynga, that brings the power of the mobile internet to the retail experience. shopkick launched its mobile application CauseWorld in the United States in December 2009, in partnership with Citi, Kraft Foods and Procter & Gamble, which became the fastest-growing location-based retail app in the App Store within weeks from launch.  In August 2010, shopkick demonstrated the first easily deployable and low-cost "in-store presence" location technology, the shopkick Signal, at the Best Buy flagship store in San Francisco.  For more information, visit http://www.shopkick.com.

Source: Simon Property Group
   

CONTACT:  Les Morris, Simon Property Group, lmorris@simon.com,
+1-317-263-7711; or Martha Shaughnessy, for shopkick, martha@atomicpr.com,
+1-415-593-2022

Web Site:  http://www.simon.com/

Toshiba Introduces Double Data Rate Toggle Mode NAND in MLC and SLC Configurations

IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 11 -- Toshiba America Electronic Components, Inc. (TAEC)* is  introducing 32nm double data rate Toggle Mode NAND, in multi-level cell (MLC) versions with densities of 64Gb(1), 128Gb and 256Gb and single-level cell (SLC) versions with densities of 32Gb, 64Gb and 128Gb.  Toggle Mode NAND features a faster interface than conventional or "legacy" asynchronous NAND memory with lower power consumption than competing synchronous DDR NAND product offerings.

Toshiba DDR Toggle Mode 1.0 NAND has a fast interface rated at 133 megatransfers/second(2) (MT/s), compared to 40MT/s for legacy SLC single data rate NAND, which makes it suitable for high performance solid state storage applications including enterprise storage. Since it uses an asynchronous interface similar to that used in conventional NAND, the Toshiba DDR Toggle Mode NAND requires no clock signal, which means that it uses less power and has a simpler system design compared to competing synchronous NAND alternatives. The DDR interface in Toggle Mode NAND uses a Bidirectional DQS to generate input/output signals (I/Os) using the rising and falling edge of the write erase signal.  Toggle Mode NAND also has on-die termination to help achieve less crosstalk.

Scalability to future high-frequency operation is enabled as a result of the bi-directional data signal. Toshiba recently announced a commitment to a new standard for the most advanced high-performance NAND flash memory, a DDR NAND flash with a 400Mbps(3) interface.  This next generation Toggle Mode DDR NAND 2.0 is targeted to provide a three-fold increase in interface speed over Toggle DDR 1.0 and a ten-fold increase over the 40Mbps single data rate NAND in widespread use today.

Toshiba Toggle Mode NAND supports common legacy NAND commands including basic, multi-plane and cache operations.

  Toshiba 32nm Toggle Mode Specifications

  Toshiba 32nm Toggle Mode Specifications
  ---------------------------------------
                                      Page/Block
    Type    Density   Configuration      Size     Package    Vcc    VccQ
    ----    -------   -------------   ----------  -------    ---
     SLC      32Gb       2st/2CE       8kB/1MB         132   2.7-     1.8
            (4GB)(4)                                 BGA      3.6
                                                                      3.3

              64Gb       4st/4CE       8kB/1MB         132   2.7-     1.8
              (8GB)                                  BGA      3.6
                                                                      3.3

              128Gb      8st/4CE       8kB/1MB         132   2.7-     1.8
             (16GB)                                  BGA      3.6
                                                                      3.3
                                                                      ---
     MLC      64Gb       2st/2CE       8kB/1MB         132  2.7-      1.8
              (8GB)                                  BGA      3.6
                                                                      3.3

              128Gb      4st/4CE       8kB/1MB         132   2.7-     1.8
             (16GB)                                  BGA      3.6
                                                                      3.3

              256Gb      8st/4CE       8kB/1MB         132  2.7-      1.8
             (32GB)                                  BGA      3.6
                                                                      3.3
                                                                      ---

  About Toshiba Corp. and TAEC

Through proven commitment, lasting relationships and advanced, reliable electronic components, Toshiba enables its customers to create market-leading designs. Toshiba is the heartbeat within product breakthroughs from OEMs, ODMs, CMs, distributors and fabless chip companies worldwide. A committed electronic components leader, Toshiba designs and manufactures high-quality flash memory-based storage solutions, discrete devices, displays, advanced materials, medical tubes, custom SoCs/ASICs, digital multimedia and imaging products, microcontrollers and wireless components that make possible today's leading cell phones, MP3 players, cameras, medical devices, automotive electronics and more.

Toshiba America Electronic Components, Inc. is an independent operating company owned by Toshiba America, Inc., a subsidiary of Toshiba Corporation, Japan's largest semiconductor manufacturer and the world's third largest semiconductor manufacturer (Gartner, 2009 WW Semiconductor Revenue, April 2010).  Toshiba was founded in 1875, and today operates a global network of more than 740 companies, with 204,000 employees worldwide and annual sales surpassing $68 billion.

For additional company and product information, please visit http://www.toshiba.com/taec/. For more information on TAEC memory products, visit memory.toshiba.com

(1) When used herein in relation to memory density, gigabit and/or Gbit means 1,024x1,024x1,024 = 1,073,741,824 bits. Usable capacity will be significantly less due to the need for overhead data areas, formatting, bad blocks, and other constraints. For details, please refer to specifications.

(2) Megatransfers (MT) per second refer to the number of data transfers (or data samples) captured per second, with each sample occurring at the clock edge. In a double data rate system, the data is transferred on both the rising and falling edge of the clock signal. For purposes of measuring data transfers in this context, 1 Megatransfer equals 1,000,000 transfers per second. Actual data transfer speed may vary depending on the device, read and write conditions, and file size.

(3) Mbps, or megabit per second. For purposes of measuring read and write speed in this context, 1 megabit or Mb = 1,000,000 bits. Maximum read and write speed may vary depending on the device, read and write conditions, and file size.

(4) When used herein in relation to memory density, gigabyte and/or GB means 1,024x1,024x1,024 = 1,073,741,824 bytes. Usable capacity will be significantly less due to the need for overhead data areas, formatting, bad blocks, and other constraints.  For details, please refer to specifications.

Information in this press release, including product pricing and specifications, content of services and contact information, is current and believed to be accurate on the date of the announcement, but is subject to change without prior notice.  Technical and application information contained here is subject to the most recent applicable Toshiba product specifications.  In developing designs, please ensure that Toshiba products are used within specified operating ranges as set forth in the most recent Toshiba product specifications and the information set forth in Toshiba's "Handling Guide for Semiconductor Devices," or "Toshiba Semiconductor Reliability Handbook." This information is available at http://www.chips.toshiba.com, or from your TAEC representative.

MEMY 10 599

Source: Toshiba America Electronic Components, Inc.
   

CONTACT:  agency, Jan Johnson of MultiPath Communications,
+1-714-633-4008, jan@multipathcom.com, for Toshiba America Electronic
Components, Inc.; or company, Rebecca Bueno of Toshiba America Electronic
Components, Inc., +1-949-623-3099, rebecca.bueno@taec.toshiba.com

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

New ARMOR Rugged Tablet Optimizes Communications for Mobile Workforce

PARSIPPANY, N.J., Aug. 11 -- The new ARMOR(TM) X10gx rugged tablet from DRS Technologies enhances the efficiency and productivity of an increasingly mobile workforce.  It offers AT&T wireless certification and optional integrated Gobi(TM) 2000 mobile broadband to keep the user connected on multiple wireless networks. The ARMOR(TM) X10gx also is equipped with standard 802.11n Wireless LAN connectivity and Bluetooth® v2.0 + EDR (Class 2), as well as integrated GPS. Standard routing of GPS and WLAN to two RF ports allows switching between internal antennas within the unit and external antennas, such as those mounted on a vehicle roof.

The ARMOR X10gx rugged tablet meets MIL-STD-810G and is approved by UL for use in explosive and/or hazardous environments. It also carries an ingress protection (IP) rating of 67.  "This rugged tablet meets the demanding conditions encountered by people working in field service; transportation, rail and port facilities; public safety, and other areas of challenging environments, meaning it is fully protected against dust and can withstand the effects of immersion in water to depths up to 1 meter," said Mike Sarrica, vice president and general manager for DRS Tactical Systems.

With a weight of just 4.7 lbs. the ARMOR(TM) X10gx also features a new docking system.  Other features include an Intel® Core2 Duo(TM) Processor with up to 4GB RAM and Intel® embedded Montevina system architecture and a 64GB solid-state hard drive with options up to 160GB that is user-replaceable.  Additional features and benefits of the ARMOR(TM) X10gx can be found at http://tinyurl.com/2f96qxx.

"The ARMOR(TM) X10gx is our tenth generation offering. We have drawn upon many years of our experience as well as the experience from our military and commercial personnel that have deployed our rugged mobile computers around the world," added Sarrica.

The first units are planned to ship by September 15, 2010.

Source: DRS Technologies
   

CONTACT:  Bill Graulty, +1-860-679-9761

New Fashion Brand With A Mission - Bold Girlz Debuts Online

NEW YORK, Aug. 11 -- NEW teen fashion and accessory brand, Bold Girlz is thrilled to announce the launch of its online store, BoldGirlz.com, featuring on-trend and priced right apparel and accessories.  Each month, Bold Girlz will select a different non-profit to receive a percentage of sales.  For the month of August, the non-profit One is Greater Than None has been chosen and will be spotlighted on the site.

"The girls who founded One is Greater Than None (1>0) have spoken to thousands of teenagers at conferences, schools and summits, encouraging them to make a difference globally, nationally and locally. I believe that it is important to show other teenagers what is possible when you really believe in something- that's why they have been chosen to receive 10% of the proceeds from Bold Girlz apparel and jewelry sales this month," founder, Cheryl Beck states.

BoldGirlz.com features four sections that spell out BOLD: Brave, Original, Loving, and Daring and spotlight over 30 incredible stories of girls being BOLD in areas of Sports, Music, the Arts and Community Service.   New stories will be posted each month and the featured teens can re-post these stories on Facebook and share them with friends- creating a social networking buzz. Social Media is a major part of the Bold Girlz marketing plan- focusing predominantly on Facebook and Twitter. Followers will receive a 20% off promotional code for purchases made on the BoldGirlz.com site before 8/31/10.

Other apparel companies have taken a similar approach to giving back to charity, but no other fashion brand is focused on highlighting and empowering girls. What's your story?

ABOUT BOLD GIRLZ

Bold Girlz, a division of Bold Brands, Inc., is the fashion brand that empowers teen girls to give back.  Launched in the summer of 2010 by founder Cheryl Beck of NYC, Bold Girlz strives to promote girls talents as well as their inner beauty- and to give them fashion choices that show the world who they really are and what they stand for. 10% of proceeds support causes benefitting women and girls.

ABOUT ONE IS GREATER THAN NONE

1>0's global initiative sponsors the rescue and care of Ghanaian children. 1>0 also funds weekend clinics that provide free medical, dental and vision care to thousands of Americans through Remote Area Medical (RAM).

Source: Bold Girlz
   

CONTACT:  Kerry Gillick-Goldberg, +1-516-455-3179

Web Site:  http://www.boldgirlz.com/

Arctic Cooling's Arctic Sound product range has already proven itself to ASE Labs by offering slick designs combined with good sound quality. Today, ASE Labs has Arctic Cooling's most recent expansion in the Arctic Sound line, the P311 Bluetooth headphones. Does this headset live up to the standards set by its wired counterparts?Next Page »

Nespresso Opens in Shanghai its 200th Boutique Worldwide

SHANGHAI, August 11, 2010--

    - On-Going Expansion of its Boutique Network in Major International
Cities a Major Factor in Continuing Double-Digit Growth at Nespresso

    Nestlé Nespresso today officially opened in the dynamic city
of Shanghai its 200th boutique worldwide. It joins new boutique locations
opened this year in the international cities of Miami, Cape Town, and a new
flagship boutique in Brussels as Nespresso continues to grow its global
retail network to more than 220 boutiques this year. Melbourne, New York
(Soho) and a new flagship in Munich are also scheduled for 2010.

     (Photo:
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100811/403714 )

    "Shanghai is China's gateway to the world and the world's
gateway to China. As a dynamic and cultured metropolis, Shanghai provides the
perfect location to establish our third boutique in China and our 200th
boutique worldwide. It marks a significant milestone in growing our global
brand community," said Richard Girardot, CEO of Nestlé Nespresso SA.

    Today, Nestlé SA announced strong first six months for
Nespresso, with organic growth above 25%. Despite a changing competitive
environment, Nespresso continues its expansion into new markets and persists
with double-digit growth rates in its more established markets, such as
Switzerland and France. Nespresso continues to grow capacity to meet rising
demand. As planned, the extension started in Avenches will double capacity by
2012 and bring total investment here to more than CHF 400 million.

    "Nespresso is firmly on track to surpass CHF 3 billion in
annual global sales," Mr Girardot told journalists attending the boutique
opening in Shanghai. "The Nespresso global boutique network plays an
important role in our company's continuing growth, generating around 30% of
our sales."

    The Nespresso schedule of boutique openings in 2010 underlines
its commitment to grow outside Europe. New flagship boutiques in Brussels and
Munich, and steady expansion in France, emphasise the Nespresso commitment to
sustained category leadership in European markets. Nespresso is also on track
with its plans to roll out a new customer service model in the second half of
this year.

    Nespresso opened its first boutique in Paris in 2000. Today,
Nespresso Boutiques can be found from Hong Kong to New York. "Our boutiques
are embassies for our brand. They enable consumers new to Nespresso to meet
the brand and explore its deep coffee expertise - which is so important as
Nespresso builds its presence in new markets," said Mr Girardot.

    About Nestlé Nespresso SA

    Nestlé Nespresso SA is the pioneer and market leader in
highest-quality portioned premium coffee. Headquartered in Lausanne,
Switzerland, Nespresso has a presence in more than 50 countries and more than
4500 employees. In 2009, it operated a global retail network of more than 190
exclusive boutiques. Nespresso achieved global 2009 sales of CHF 2.77
billion, maintaining an average annual growth rate of 30 percent since 2000.
For more information, visit http://www.nespresso.com.

   
    CONTACT
    Julian Liew
    Corporate PR & Public Affairs Manager
    Nestlé Nespresso SA
    E-Mail: julian.liew@nespresso.com
    Tel: +41-21-796-97-42

Photo:
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100811/403714

Source: Nestle Nespresso SA

CONTACT Julian Liew, Corporate PR & Public Affairs Manager, Nestlé Nespresso SA, E-Mail: julian.liew@nespresso.com, Tel: +41-21-796-97-42

Bracketron Launches New Mobile Tagging Marketing Initiative

Interactive 2D barcode reader allows users to view online content by scanning codes from product packaging and print materials.

MINNEAPOLIS, Aug. 11 -- Bracketron, the leading manufacturer in mounting solutions for mobile consumer electronics, recently launched a new marketing campaign featuring Microsoft®Tag - a breakthrough technology that allows users instant access to online content with the simple scan of a barcode using their smartphone.

Initially, Bracketron is using tagging to connect users with product videos that they can instantly view directly on their phones while in a retail store, at a tradeshow or while viewing a print advertisement or brochure. Users will be required to download the free application from the MicrosoftTag site (http://tag.microsoft.com/) or iTunes in order to scan the barcode.

"We are very excited about the potential of mobile tagging technology as an innovative new way to market and sell our products, particularly in the retail environment," said Mark Mandel, Executive Vice President. "Tagging offers a unique new way to bridge offline and online mediums, and we think it makes a lot of sense for our business and our customers."

At present, Bracketron is the only known manufacturer in the mobile mounting space leveraging this new technology, and an early adopter within the consumer electronics industry at large.

About Bracketron

Founded in 2001, Bracketron's successful first product offering, the custom bezel mount, was engineered for the professional installer looking for custom mounting solutions.

Today, Bracketron is the leading manufacturer and supplier of mounting solutions and accessories for GPS, satellite radio, cell phone, iPod/iPhone/iPad, laptop & netbook computer and other mobile electronics. Our robust product line includes innovative mounting solutions for your window, cup holder, dash, vent and visor.

For more information about the company, visit http://www.bracketron.com/ or call 1.866.237.4443.

Source: Bracketron
   

CONTACT:  Christian Johnson of Bracketron, 1-866-237-4443

Web Site:  http://www.bracketron.com/

Toluna Opens Office in Spain

LONDON, August 11, 2010--     Toluna plc (LSE: TOL), the world's leading online panel and survey
technology provider, announced its expansion today in Europe with the opening
of a new office in Madrid, Spain.

    The new office further leverages Toluna's ability to offer local
sales and support services to its fast growing base of customers and
prospects in Spain. Carlos Hidalgo de Morillo Jiménez who recently
joined Toluna's South European Sales team as Account Director will
head up the office in Madrid. Carlos brings a unique and comprehensive
understanding of the industry, having previously worked as a Project Director
for Communications Agency, ASAP Worldwide and as a Consultant and Business
Developer at The Nielsen Company in Spain. The opening of the Spanish office
is yet another signal of Toluna's continued growth, with the company now able
to support clients with local teams in Spain, France, Germany, UK,
Netherlands, Australia, Japan and the US.

    "This is a natural move for Toluna and one that is in line with our
company strategy. We are proud to now have an office in Spain - to serve the
growing demands of the Spanish region. The opening of the Spanish office is
another step toward providing strong sales and operational support at a local
level," said Frederic-Charles Petit, CEO of Toluna. Toluna enjoys a unique
position in the panel vendor market, with its community model being rolled
out across all of its panels. The community model is identified instantly by
a quick glance at the site Toluna.com. Panel members have access to
discussion forums, product tests, opinion ratings, as well as product
comparison and poll areas.

    About Toluna

    Toluna is the world's leading independent online panel and survey
technology provider to the global market research industry. The company
provides online sample and survey technology solutions to the world's
leading market research agencies, media agencies and corporates, from its
17 offices in Europe, North America and Asia Pacific.

    In 2009, Toluna welcomed Greenfield Online and Ciao Surveys into the
group - complementing its traditional strengths in Europe and increasing its
online sample and delivery capacity in the US, Canada and Asia Pacific.

    Unlike other panel providers, Toluna has developed a unique online
community approach to the management of its panels. Through the use of web
2.0-based technology it has created the world's first social voting community
site toluna.com (http://www.toluna.com), focusing on maximising panellist
engagement to offer increased survey responsiveness and data reliability to
its clients.

    Toluna is enabling over 100 corporate organisations to generate valuable
customer insight by creating, hosting and managing their own online
communities using its software as a service community management solution;
PanelPortal. In addition, Toluna's portfolio of research technology solutions
also includes QuickSurveys an online self-service tool that enables you to
ask 1-5 questions and receive 2,000 responses in a few hours, Interactive
Voice Recognition, Mobile survey capabilities and BrandSpector a new approach
to measuring the efficiency and effectiveness of online advertising campaigns
using Toluna's online panel.

   
    Contact:

    Rachel Adams
    Telephone number: +44(0)20-3058-5000
    Email address: contact@toluna.com
    http://www.toluna-group.com

Source: Toluna

Contact: Rachel Adams, Telephone number: +44(0)20-3058-5000, Email address: contact@toluna.com

FinanceAcar Launches World's First Car Finance Comparison Engine

LONDON, Aug. 11 -- UK car finance specialist, http://www.financeacar.co.uk/, announced today that it has launched the world's first car finance comparison engine. It fills an estimated 11.5 billion pounds gap left by traditional comparison websites in the UK such as Moneysupermarket.com that only compare car finance prices based on car loans. A car loan is just one form of car finance used by less than 1 in 5 car buyers in the UK and the size of the comparison gap in the US and Europe is proportionately similar. FinanceAcar solves this problem as it instantly compares all car finance options (car loans, hire purchase and car leasing) and empowers car shoppers with information that has never been available in one place before by answering the question: "What is the lowest monthly price I need to pay to drive the car I want?"

According to the Finance and Leasing Association and Keynote, at least 80% of all car shoppers use car finance for the average 2 million new vehicles acquired each year in the UK (market of circa 19 billion pounds/year) and until now, most of it could not be compared. FinanceAcar allows a user to select their preferred new vehicle by make and model, by budget and/or by car type and then it tells them the cheapest monthly price to finance that car. Importantly, it is not just a comparison website but also an ecommerce website. A user can choose their car, select their finance and insurance deals, complete a credit check and application and have the car delivered to their front door.

Founder Mark Peatey, who launched itv.com and grew it to become one of the UK's largest websites says, "Our product fills a huge gap in a massive market. There are many different and confusing products and, until now, there has been no way for people to compare all monthly finance prices for each individual car. We democratise car shopping by putting all the finance options and their prices for any selected car in one place for the first time."

Co-founder, Nadim Saad, added, "Our intention is to use FinanceAcar to reinvent the way people shop for cars and thereby change car ownership. A BMW 1 series can be financed on a car lease for as little as 220 pounds/month and after 3-4 years you can have a stress free new upgrade much the same way as your mobile handset. The traditional alternative is to pay 600 pounds/month to buy the car and keep it. However, because it is tough times and people can drive a better car for less money per month, we believe that with full product comparison a lot of people will trade up to a better car while trading down from ownership."

  Market Data Source - Finance and Leasing Association, Keynote

  About FinanceAcar

FinanceAcar (http://www.financeacar.co.uk/) is a UK car finance specialist. Its new product was selected by Microsoft as its "startup of the day" and it was recently voted by Seedcamp (one of Europe's largest groups of tech investors) as one of the top 5 products (out of 200) presented to London Seedcamp. Its product is the world's first comparison engine that compares all car finance products for new cars (car leasing, hire purchase and car loans) in one place, making it comprehensive in car finance compared to other comparison engines such as Moneysupermarket that only compare car loans. The website compares finance from top UK lenders for 6,000 vehicles and offers more than 1,000,000 different prices.  The site now allows car shoppers to choose their car by make or budget and within seconds it presents the best finance product and best UK monthly price for that car based on the monthly cost of ownership. Once the user obtains the best monthly price, they can get a full personalised quote, obtain a credit check, apply for finance and have their chosen car delivered to their door.  FinanceAcar's team and partners combine more than 30 years of UK car finance experience with more than 30 years of blue chip media, internet and technology knowledge. They draw on experience from launching one of the UK's largest websites (itv.com) and several international businesses.

Source: FinanceAcar
   

CONTACT:  Mark Peatey of FinanceAcar, +44-(0)7-932-656-523,
press@FinanceAcar.co.uk

Web Site:  http://www.financeacar.co.uk/

Verizon Wireless Keeps Customers Connected With the Samsung Gusto

Multiple Messaging Options and Voice Enhancement Audio Technology Let Customers Share Moments Instantly with Family and Friends

BASKING RIDGE, N.J., and DALLAS, Aug. 11 -- Verizon Wireless and Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile) announced that the Samsung Gusto(TM) is available online today and in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores in the coming weeks. The sleek Samsung Gusto sports a 2-inch main display, multiple messaging options, Dynamic Voice Enhancement technology with noise suppression, mobile Web browser and Bluetooth® technology for hands-free communication.

  (Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100811/NY48874)
  (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100811/NY48874)

  Color: Metallic Gray

  Key features and specifications:
  --  Slim form factor
  --  2-inch internal screen
  --  Mobile Web browser to connect on the go
  --  Messaging options include text, picture and voice messaging; Mobile
      IM; Mobile Chat; Mobile Email; and Mobile Web Email
  --  VGA camera with night shot
  --  Bluetooth® technology to support headset, hands-free, serial port,
      object push for vCard and vCalendar and phonebook access

  Lifestyle features:
  --  Dynamic Voice Enhancement technology with noise suppression to reduce
      background noise levels and enhance speech frequencies
  --  Driving Mode - changes the handset volume automatically to high,
      overrides vibrate settings, and reads contact information aloud when a
      call or message is received
  --  Fake Call feature - lets customers set up a pseudo call with a timer
      to manage social situations
  --  Voice Commands - voice dial, send text, send picture, digit dial, text
      message readout, call announcement, My Verizon, check features,
      contacts, redial, GoTo, help and driving mode
  --  Personal Organizer and Tools - calendar, calculator with currency
      converter, world clock, alarm clock and stop watch
  --  Media Center-capable - access downloadable games, ringtones,
      wallpapers, location-based services and more
  --  Preloaded with Bing Search
  --  VZ Navigator® capable - receive audible turn-by-turn directions to
      more than 15 million points of interest and share the directions with
      others

  Price and availability:
  --  The Samsung Gusto is available online today at http://www.verizonwireless.com
      for free after an online discount with a new two-year customer
      agreement and in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores in the coming
      weeks for $19.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate with a new two-year
      customer agreement.  Customers will receive the rebate in the form of
      a debit card; upon receipt, customers may use the card as cash
      anywhere debit cards are accepted.
  --  For additional information on Verizon Wireless products and services,
      visit a Verizon Wireless Communications Store, call 1-800-2 JOIN IN or
      go to http://www.verizonwireless.com.

  About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable and largest wireless voice and 3G data network, serving more than 92 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 79,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ)(NASDAQ: VZ) and Vodafone (NASDAQ:VOD). For more information, visit http://www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at http://www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

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.

Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100811/NY48874
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network:  PRN6
http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100811/NY48874
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Verizon Wireless
   

CONTACT:  Albert Aydin, Verizon Wireless, +1-908-559-7513,
Albert.Aydin@verizonwireless.com; or Makenzie Blythe, MWW Group for Samsung
Mobile, +1-214-414-3331, mblythe@mww.com

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

Company News On-Call:  http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/094251.html

Navman Wireless Releases ROI Calculator for Fleet Tracking

Free Tool Instantly Shows Potential Savings of Fleet Tracking Deployments

GLENVIEW, Ill., Aug. 11 -- Navman Wireless today announced the availability of an interactive ROI calculator enabling fleet managers to instantly determine the potential savings of deploying the Navman Wireless OnlineAVL2 fleet tracking system in their particular organization. The free calculator is online at http://www.navmanwirelessus.com/roi-calculator or http://www.fleetTrackingROI.com.

The calculator delivers instant estimates of the impact of GPS-based fleet tracking on fuel, downtime, overtime and insurance costs as well as CO2 emissions, based on the actual size and usage profile of the user's fleet. Company-specific metrics used in the calculations range from the number of miles and hours logged per vehicle per month, to overtime hourly wage, average hourly charge per customer, monthly insurance premium per vehicle, and lost revenue per vehicle per day from downtime.

Results are displayed interactively on-screen as users input data in six different categories. Projected monthly savings and increased revenues are shown by individual parameter as well as in total, with pie charts and graphs illustrating the savings breakdown by category and the payback timeline. Reports with the finished calculations can be emailed with a click, providing documentation of expected benefits that can be used to help make a purchase decision.

"Every fleet manager is faced with a unique fleet makeup, usage scenario and business model. The only way to adequately predict the impact of a fleet tracking system is to customize the calculations to fit your own situation," said Renaat Ver Eecke, Vice President and General Manager, Navman Wireless North America. "Our ROI calculator does that quickly, easily and with more detailed input from the user than any tool we've seen."

Navman Wireless' OnlineAVL2 fleet tracking and management platform tracks all vehicles in the fleet in real time as well as measuring fleet, vehicle and driver performance. Its GPS-based tracking and extensive reports help reduce fleets' fuel usage, improve fleet productivity, enhance customer service, and identify problems such as excessive idling, inaccurate timesheets, unauthorized stops and personal vehicle use, as well as providing other insights that help fleet managers optimize operations.

About Navman Wireless

Navman Wireless is a global leader in GPS-based fleet optimization products and services, including real-time vehicle tracking and OEM GPS solutions that enable companies to track, monitor and communicate with their movable and fixed equipment assets. The company's flagship OnlineAVL2/Qube system is installed in more than 110,000 vehicles owned by over 8,500 customers worldwide, making Navman Wireless one of the world's largest fleet management providers with coverage on five continents. Navman Wireless is based in Glenview, IL, with facilities in the U.S., Mexico, UK, Italy, Taiwan, Ireland, Singapore, New Zealand and Australia. For more information, visit http://www.navmanwireless.com or http://www.navmanwirelessus.com.

Source: Navman Wireless
   

CONTACT:  Lisa Kornblatt of S&S Public Relations, +1-847-415-9330,
lkornblatt@sspr.com, for Navman Wireless

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

NouvEON Announces the Acquisition of Information Technology Solutions Provider, InCentric Solutions

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Aug. 11 -- Today, NouvEON announced that it has acquired InCentric Solutions LLC, an integrated information technology solutions provider based in Raleigh, N.C. The combined strengths of NouvEON and InCentric create a powerful end-to-end management consulting services organization.  The acquisition further expands NouvEON's national footprint and key industry penetration, along with deeper system integration expertise and a new hardware and software business line.  It also further extends NouvEON's reach into the greater Raleigh market.

NouvEON will use the high powered technology solutions to improve clients' business productivity and reduce technology costs through collaborative portal solutions, enterprise messaging, infrastructure optimization, virtualization and mobile solutions. "NouvEON's strong base in the big four-experienced industry consulting and value-focused services combined with deeper technology skills and services is a dynamic and powerful combination for our current and prospective clients," says founder and CEO of NouvEON, T.J. Eberle. "We're excited to add the InCentric people and services to further enhance our ability to serve our clients and provide a career destination for our employees," he adds.

Mark Milam, CEO of InCentric Solutions, notes, "The opportunity to join forces and create a new organization focused on building value in management and technology consulting services, with deep industry expertise, is a win-win for our employees and customers."

"I am excited about the depth of talent that will come from the combined organization, the impact that it will have on our clients, and the value that our consulting organization will be able to bring to bear on complex, challenging business problems," adds R.J. Fabian, Practice Lead for Raleigh practice.

The combined organization will continue to be known as NouvEON.  A combined workforce of more than 110 consulting and administrative professionals will be based in Charlotte with an additional geographic office in Raleigh, N.C. Completion of the transaction is effective immediately.  NouvEON was represented by Leroy Davis of 7 Mile Advisors. Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

About NouvEON

NouvEON is an employee-owned management consulting firm, which specializes in delivering high-value solutions to mid-market and Fortune 1000 companies. Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., NouvEON represents a "New Era" in consulting services. In this "New Era," NouvEON  develops true client partnerships by offering strategic and project-based management consulting services including organizational change management, systems integration, strategy, process excellence and delivery management. For more information visit the company website at: http://www.nouveon.com

Source: NouvEON
   

CONTACT:  Jodie DuBreuil, jdubreuil@nouveon.com, +1-704-944-3155 or
+1-919-368-3329

Web Site:  http://www.nouveon.com/

U.S. Cellular Adds HTC Desire(TM) - the Second of Five Android-Powered Phones Planned for Its Smartphone Lineup

CHICAGO, Aug. 11 -- HTC Desire(TM), U.S. Cellular's much-anticipated second Android-powered phone, launches August 27 to offer customers another engaging way to connect with their favorite people, entertainment and applications on the wireless company's nationwide 3G network.  HTC Desire, one of five Android-powered phones that the company is introducing this year, will be available in stores and at uscellular.com just weeks after U.S. Cellular customers welcomed the Samsung Acclaim(TM).  The Samsung Galaxy S(TM) will join the smartphone lineup in October, with two LG Android-powered phones following closely behind.

"With 160,000 Android-powered phones activated each day, there's no question that they are among the hottest phones on the market right now," said Edward Perez, vice president of sales and marketing operations for U.S. Cellular. "For us, it's not just about delivering this array of cutting-edge phones that our customers want and deserve. We also have their backs with industry-first, customer-focused programs, like Overage Protection and Battery Swap. We love making our customers' lives easier."

The allure of HTC Desire is apparent at first glance, with its slim, stylish design and vibrant 3.7-inch touchscreen that shows streaming video and graphics in vivid detail. The phone also delivers a five megapixel, autofocus camera with flash and integrated GPS. Its Wi-Fi capabilities allow users to connect to the Internet via wireless hotspots at home or on the road. Customers can upload pictures and videos to a variety of social networking and sharing sites including Facebook, Flickr, and YouTube. With a tethered modem data plan, the HTC Desire can be connected directly to a laptop for yet another way to access the Internet on the go.

HTC Desire is preloaded with U.S. Cellular applications such as My Contacts Backup, City ID, Tone Room Deluxe and Your Navigator Deluxe. Customers can also easily access Google services like Gmail, Google Maps and Google Talk instant messaging, and synch their Google calendars and contacts.

Combining the Android platform with a blazing-fast 1GHz Qualcomm® Snapdragon(TM) processor offers a true mobile computing experience.  HTC Desire delivers a fast wireless experience on U.S. Cellular's 3G network, allowing customers to quickly download applications and music, browse the Internet and share pictures and videos.

The Android TM 2.1 platform offers many of the same familiar Google services found on the desktop, and a growing Android Marketplace (TM) of more than 70,000 applications for customers to personalize their phones.  The market recently crossed the one billion download mark, according to analytics provider AndroLib.com.  More than 60 percent of the applications are free. To personalize the entire experience, customers can customize HTC Desire by arranging the content in the seven-panel homepage anyway they want, whether it's for building unique scenes for work, travel or play.

"We believe that it's okay to expect more from your wireless company and with Android, you can expect much more from your phone than ever before," Perez said.

About U.S. Cellular

The 9,000 associates of U.S. Cellular believe a wireless phone enhances people's lives and a wireless company should be in the business of bringing people together. U.S. Cellular has a wide range of monthly plans, including those with unlimited nationwide calling, unlimited free incoming calls and options to prepay. The company has a growing catalog of phones like the BlackBerry® Tour, the touch-screen LG Tritan and HTC Touch Pro 2 and the Android-powered Samsung Acclaim, which offer e-mail and Web access. Those features are delivered 10 times faster over U.S. Cellular's 3G Mobile Broadband network. U.S. Cellular believes in the power of the community and has made a commitment to invest more than $4.5 million in teachers and schools during 2009 and 2010. Based in Chicago, the company is the nation's sixth-largest wireless carrier, serving 6.2 million customers across the country. To learn more about the company visit one of its retail stores or uscellular.com.  You can also check out U.S. Cellular on Facebook.

Source: U.S. Cellular
   

CONTACT:  Steve Carlson of U.S. Cellular, +1-312-217-0606,
steve.carlson@uscellular.com

Web Site:  http://www.uscellular.com/

World Cyber Games Announces Cast for Season 2 of WCG Ultimate Gamer on Syfy

NEW YORK, Aug. 11 -- The World Cyber Games Inc. (WCG) unveiled the dynamic cast for the second season of WCG Ultimate Gamer today, in preparation for the show's return to Syfy on August 19th at 11 pm ET/PT. WCG Ultimate Gamer combines reality-TV drama, head-to-head competitive gaming and thrilling real-world challenges based on some of the most popular videogames of all time. The WCG, the organizer of the world's largest international video game competition and festival, partnered with the global technology leader Samsung and veteran reality-TV producers to make this second season even bigger, with larger-than-life contestants, last-minute victories and epic showdowns in front of audiences of screaming fans.  Over eight weeks, the final two players who perform the best in multiple games and in real world challenges will face off for the title of WCG Ultimate Gamer LIVE at the WCG Grand Final, airing October 7th on Syfy.

  (Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100811/CG48521)

  (Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100811/CG48521)

  This season, the WCG Ultimate Gamer Season 2 Cast includes:

              --Yazan Ammari, Granada Hills, CA - Sometimes called
              "The Clown," Yaz can be the best friend of his fellow
              competitors, or their worst enemy as he laughs his way
  Who:        to the top.
              --Vanessa Arteaga, Modesto, CA - Vanessa burst onto
              the professional gaming scene and made an immediate
              impact with her superior skills, model looks and
              attitude. Vanessa is generally a nice girl, but if you
              make her angry, watch out, because there could be an
              explosion!
              --Ryan Burnett, Portland, OR - From the Northwest,
              Ryan was kicked out of the house at 13; he credits
              video games for 'saving his life' and propelling him
              to be the biggest gamer in Oregon...but can he be the
              best of the best?
              -- Sebastian Burton, Stamford, CT - "Chosen1" Is a
              trash-talker who aims to dominate the gaming world.
              Even though he has a tough exterior, he will give you
              the shirt off his back if you need it.
              --Katherine Gunn, Lancaster, CA - "Kat" is a natural
              born talent in gaming as she was raised in a gaming
              family. With the pedigree, don't underestimate her
              skills and passion to work her way to the top just
              because she is a girl gamer.
              -- Michael LaBelle, Houston, TX - The resident jock
              of the cast, Michael is known for his specialty in
              sports games and his self-proclaimed way with the
              ladies.
              -- Faye Mata, Kenosha, WI - This pre-med student
              says that drama just seems to follow her wherever she
              goes. Faye doesn't let the haters - especially other
              females - bother her as she works to smash the
              competition.
              -- AJ Mazur, Shelton, CT - Don't be fooled by this
              self-described 'typical dorky gamer.' AJ is a fierce
              competitor and is currently up for a "Rock Band" World
              record.
              --Caesar Noreiga, Parlin, NJ - "Mr. Suave" is Jersey
              born, but spends his time perfecting his skills on a
              wide range of games instead of working on his tan - as
              a result, he's raked up several top tournament
              finishes in the process.
              --Jacob "Jake" Pfister, Kent, OH - This passionate
              gamer rallied online and offline supporters to win his
              way onto the show as the 12th contestant. Jake hates
              being worse than someone at anything, which drives him
              to prove he's the best gamer.
              --Rachel Quirico, Branchburg, NJ - Rachel knows she is
              cute but she is more than a pretty face as she is well
              known throughout the professional community for her
              gaming skills and blazing confidence -she's
              relentless on girl and guy gamers alike.
              -- Justin Wong, New York City, NY - "JWong" is known
              as the best "Street Fighter" player in the United
              States. A force to be feared, he supports his parents
              by gaming, though they are unaware of his profession.
              Can Justin conquer WCG Ultimate Gamer using his self-
              proclaimed "Justin Wong Factor?"

              Comprehensive information about the cast and show is
              now available at the newly relaunched Web experience,
              http://www.WCGUltimateGamer.com.

              In WCG Ultimate Gamer, a dozen top gamers from around
              the country are invited to a posh loft space to live
              and battle together in a series of competitions that
              take them "beyond the game." From real-life
              challenges inspired by top-selling games to head-to-
              head elimination matches before hundreds of screaming
              spectators, the last gamer standing will have survived
              gaming's ultimate test and will be dubbed the best
              all-around gamer in the US, taking home $100k, the
              ultimate Samsung Electronics prize package,
              Alienware's high-performing gaming desktop, the
              Aurora, and the chance to be the face of World Cyber
              Games, representing the WCG at events around the
  What:       world.

  When:      Thursdays, 11 pm ET/PT beginning on August 19

             Syfy (check local listings)

  About World Cyber Games (WCG)

World Cyber Games Inc. (WCG) is the organizer of the largest global video game tournament and festival, celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2010. With a yearlong competition spanning online, regional and national qualifying matches, elite gamers ascend to represent their countries at the WCG Grand Final, a thrilling high-pressure challenge to crown the world's best gamers. More than 1.6 million players from 65 countries competed for a spot in the WCG 2009 Grand Final in China. Entertainment capital Los Angeles will host this exciting competition in 2010 from September 30 to October 3. To showcase the passion and competitive spirit of gamers, WCG also produces the hit reality show WCG Ultimate Gamer, which premieres a second season in August.  For more information visit http://www.wcg.com/.

About Samsung Electronics America, Inc.

Samsung Electronics America, Inc. (SEA), based in Ridgefield Park, NJ, is a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. The company markets a broad range of award-winning consumer electronics, information systems, and home appliance products, as well as oversees all of Samsung's North American operations including Samsung Telecommunications America, LP, Samsung Semiconductor Inc., Samsung Electronics Canada, Inc. and Samsung Electronics Mexico, Inc. As a result of its commitment to innovation and unique design, the Samsung organization is one of the most decorated brands in the electronics industry. The company was ranked #19 in BusinessWeek/Interbrand "100 Best Global Brands," and named as one of Fast Company's "50 Most Innovative Companies of 2010."

About Syfy

Syfy is a media destination for imagination-based entertainment. With year round acclaimed original series, events, blockbuster movies, classic science fiction and fantasy programming, a dynamic Web site (http://www.Syfy.com), and a portfolio of adjacent business (Syfy Ventures), Syfy is a passport to limitless possibilities. Originally launched in 1992 as SCI FI Channel, and currently in more than 96 million homes, Syfy is a network of NBC Universal, one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies. (Syfy. Imagine greater.)

  Media Contacts:

  For WCG
  Brian Kemp
  212-642-7783
  Brian.Kemp@Edelman.com

  For Syfy
  --------
  Erica Rubin
  212-413-6934
  Erica.Rubin@nbcuni.com

Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100811/CG48521
AP Archive:  http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN12
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100811/CG48521
Source: World Cyber Games Inc.
   

CONTACT:  Brian Kemp, +1-212-642-7783, Brian.Kemp@Edelman.com, for WCG;
or Erica Rubin, +1-212-413-6934, Erica.Rubin@nbcuni.com, for Syfy

Web Site:  http://www.wcgultimategamer.com/
http://www.syfy.com/

James Allen Engagement Rings Facebook Application

NEW YORK, Aug. 11 -- Recently, JamesAllen.com introduced a one-of-a-kind Facebook application that makes finding the perfect diamond engagement ring easier than ever.

James Allen's 'Which Diamond Engagement Ring' Facebook application lets you engage your friends in a fun, interactive and useful way. Invite your Facebook friends to participate by sending them a poll featuring up to five different diamond rings to vote and comment on. With a simple drag and drop interface, friends can rate your selection of engagement rings, share their opinions and help you decide 'Which Diamond Engagement Ring' to consider.

The engagement ring Facebook application is one of the many new surprises James Allen recently unveiled. Their new site features exciting user interface improvements that make browsing for loose diamonds, diamond pendants and diamond studs intuitive and direct. Thanks to James Allen's unparalleled technology, you can design your own engagement ring with no hassle. Their revolutionary 3HD Player(TM) lets you view most diamond rings, diamond pendants, diamond studs and wedding rings on the site in an authentic three-dimensional view.

Their unique Virtual loupe(TM) lets you view real diamond photos of most loose diamonds on the site at the same magnification a jeweler does.

"Come to James Allen and enjoy the discount, convenience and money-back guarantee of shopping for diamond rings online," says Victoria Feder, Marketing Director at JamesAllen.com. "With the new innovations on our site, finding the perfect diamond engagement ring is a cinch. We only offer the very best certified diamonds - each comes with a certificate from the American Gem Society (AGS) or Gemological Institute of America (GIA)."

"Loose diamonds, wedding rings, high quality engagement rings, diamond pendants, diamond studs, design your own - whatever you're looking for, James Allen offers the best for less. We understand that every customer has different preferences - that's why we redesigned our site and continue to offer the best customer service in the business."

  For details, please see http://www.jamesallen.com/.

  *(IMAGE 72dpi: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/10-0811-jallenfbook_72dpi.jpg)

  *(Image Caption: James Allen Engagement Ring Facebook Application.)

This release was issued on behalf of the above organization by Send2Press(R), a unit of Neotrope(R). http://www.send2press.com/

Source: JamesAllen.com
   

CONTACT:  David Berkovits of JamesAllen.com, 1-877-826-9866,
marketing@JamesAllen.com

Web Site:  http://www.jamesallen.com/

Music Legend DMC Judging Social Media Driven Playlist Contest to Support New Single

Send DMC Your Top 10 Hip Hop Songs for a Chance to Win Limited Edition iPod from Tekserve

NEW YORK, Aug. 11 -- Twenty-time Platinum selling recording artist and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Darryl "DMC" McDaniels, co-founder of the legendary hip hop group Run-DMC, has teamed up with Tekserve, New York's largest independent Apple specialist, to create a user-submitted playlist contest at tekserve.com/audiovideo. DMC has posted a 10-song playlist there featuring his all-time favorite hip hop songs, and would like fans to do the same.

"What's exciting about this contest for me is the opportunity to see what other people are playing and listening to," DMC says in a blog post on the site. "This is something that we can do together and everyone involved can learn a little something about everyone else."

The participant who sends in the 10-song hip hop playlist that DMC likes the most will win a limited edition 160GB Apple iPod classic, engraved with DMC's signature and with a written message from the music legend himself.

The contest also provides an opportunity to music fans to post the playlists they're proud of, and share them with like-minded listeners.

DMC's new single, "I Got More Songs Than You Do," from his upcoming new album Block Music, was inspired by the iPod's role as a 21st century boombox. DMC conceived of the contest as a way to connect with his fans and find out what they are listening to. The video for the single was shot entirely at Tekserve, where DMC has been a long-time customer and friend.

Contest prizes are provided by Tekserve, which is also hosting the site, managing the contest and providing additional content for the blog.

  Contact:
  Greg Wasserstrom
  212 929 3645 x423
  gregw@tekserve.com

Source: Tekserve
   

CONTACT:  Greg Wasserstrom, +1-212-929-3645 x423, gregw@tekserve.com

Web Site:  http://tekserve.com/audiovideo

Chegg.com Introduces Two New Ways for College Students to Easily Rent Their Textbooks

Chegg Launches New iPhone Application and Powered by Chegg® Rental Stands in Campus Bookstores Nationwide

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Aug. 11 -- Chegg.com, the number one online textbook rental company, today announced the launch of a mobile application that allows students to search books, compare prices and rent right from an iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad. In addition, the company announced an on-campus textbook rental program called Powered by Chegg®, which allows students on select campuses to rent textbooks directly from their college bookstore.

  (Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100811/NY48697-a )
  (Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100811/NY48697-a )
  (Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100811/NY48697-b )
  (Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100811/NY48697-b )

"These are difficult economic times and anything we can do to make it easier for students to get the books they need and for less, is a good thing," said Dan Rosensweig, President and CEO of Chegg.com. "Now students can get them at the bookstore, off their mobile device or their laptop."

Consumer Mobile Experience

Chegg's app provides the same ease and convenience of searching for and renting textbooks from Chegg.com but on an iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad. Available through Apple's App store, the free app allows students to:

  --  Easily search for textbooks by title, author or ISBN, or by simply
      scanning the barcode.
  --  Instantly compare Chegg's rental price to retail and in-store prices.
  --  Rent textbooks directly from an iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad.
  --  Extend or purchase their rentals.
  --  Track the shipping status of books in transit.
  --  Find the nearest UPS locations to make returning their rental quick
      and easy.

Download Chegg's app and enter the coupon code MOBILE by August 31, 2010 to get 10 percent off your rental!

  For additional information on Chegg Mobile, visit http://www.chegg.com/mobile.

  On-Campus Rental Program

Launched on colleges including the University of Arizona, CSU Chico, CSU Fresno, Fullerton College, CSU Long Beach, CSU San Marcos, University of Nevada-Reno and Villanova University, the Powered by Chegg® pilot program brings Chegg's online textbook rental experience to the bookstore. Through the rental stand, students can rent textbooks at Chegg's low rental prices and have them shipped directly to the bookstore or a preferred location. When the term is up, students can simply return their textbooks to the bookstore or any UPS location.

Powered by Chegg® provides numerous benefits to bookstores as well, including access to Chegg's inventory of millions of textbooks, and some of the most competitive commissions and rental solutions in the market. The program offers an easy-to-use merchant management system to view and track order summaries, earning reports, incoming and outgoing packages, customer information, and much more.

In an initial test in January 2010, Chegg partnered with California State University, Fresno to provide students with textbook rentals through its full-service rental stand. With three rental stands placed in high trafficked areas, the bookstore experienced 600 percent growth in customers compared with its August 2009 buying season.

"We knew that we had to offer a rental model and after a few attempts at trying to do it on our own, we realized that Chegg was the expert and we didn't need to reinvent the wheel," said Ron Durham, Kennel Bookstore Director at Fresno State. "We are extremely pleased with our bookstore's growth, and the response from students has been fantastic."

For additional information on the Powered by Chegg program, visit http://www.chegg.com/bookstores.

About Chegg.com

Founded in July 2007, Chegg.com is the number one online textbook rental company that has saved students on more than 6,400 campuses nationwide in excess of $230 million. Chegg.com offers students access to a growing catalog of more than 4.2 million titles, a variety of shipping options and free returns. As a part of the company's on-going environmental efforts, they plant a tree every time a student rents from Chegg.com through a partnership with American Forests' Global ReLeaf program. The company has grown into a respected and trusted brand used by college students and was recently named to the Wall Street Journal's Next Big Thing: Top 50 Venture-Backed Companies. For more information, visit http://www.chegg.com.

Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100811/NY48697-a
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100811/NY48697-b
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network:  PRN3, PRN5
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100811/NY48697-a
http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100811/NY48697-b
Source: Chegg.com
   

CONTACT:  Tina Couch, VP of Public Relations, Chegg.com, +1-408-855-5760,
tina@chegg.com

Web Site:  http://www.chegg.com/

SongCircle(sm) Launches 5th Annual Songwriting Contest

Over $25,000 in cash & prizes including a recording, publishing, and label services contract with SongCircle/EMI

NEW YORK, Aug. 11 -- Newly launched independent music development and A&R community SongCircle Music (formerly The New York Songwriters' Circle) today announced it is accepting entries for its fifth annual songwriting contest.  The SongCircle's contest has quickly become a hotbed for discovering aspiring artists and has helped launch the careers of previous grand prize winners Kate Voegele (Interscope), Company Of Thieves (Wind-Up/Sony), Mieka Pauley, and Reed Waddle.In 2010, contestants will compete for over $25,000 in cash and prizes for the best original songs which includes a recording, publishing and full label services joint venture agreement with SongCircle Music distributed by EMI, cash awards up to $10,000, guitars from Gibson and Martin, studio sessions with a top record producers, and more.  The songs will be judged based on structure, melody, lyrics, uniqueness and performance/presentation.  The "top 12" finalists will be invited to perform live in front of a panel of music industry judges from major publishers, booking agents, record companies, producers, and media executives at the City Winery in New York City on November 18 and 19th.The contest is open to all premium level members of the SongCircle community, except where prohibited by law.  Premium members can enter songs for free as a feature of their paid memberships.  SongCircleMusic.com offers two premium level memberships as well as a free membership that is open to all; however, free members may not enter any songs in the Contest.About SongCircle(sm):  Different from any of its competitors, SongCircle Music is a hybrid online and offline community that offers musicians the opportunity to perform at live showcases in major U.S. cities, expose music through our unique SongCircle chart ranking and multi-media system to garner attention of industry executives and mass targeted audience, attend SongCircle's music educational events, network online, and utilize marketing tools to help build an audience and fanbase.The newly expanded and remodeled company's online platform also acts as a virtual "farm team" to identify and direct the best aspiring artists through the unique SongCircle(sm) music charts.  Through its live showcases, SongCircle(sm) has helped launch the careers of notable artists such as Kate Voegele, Company of Thieves, Norah Jones, Jesse Harris, Lisa Loeb, Vanessa Carlton and Gavin DeGraw.Led by Tina Shafer for over 20 years, SongCircle Music (formerly the New York Songwriters' Circle) has been producing and directing semi-monthly shows at the legendary Bitter End club in New York City's West Village and is one of the most popular music events in New York City, attracting not only the best up and coming songwriting and performing talent from around the world, it is also becoming a beacon for top music industry executives looking to discover "the next big thing."

For more information and contact visit:  http://www.songcirclemusic.com/

Contest is subject to official rules available and is void where prohibited.  http://www.songcirclemusic.com/#/contest/terms/

Source: SongCircle
   

CONTACT:  Tom Gibson, GIBSON Communications, LLC, W - +1-201-476-0322, C
- +1-201-264-3646, tom.gibsoncommunications@gmail.com

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

IBS Group Member Expands Global Footprint With UK Development Facility Opening in Cooperation With Avaya

LONDON and MOSCOW, August 11, 2010--     Luxoft Company, member of IBS Group Holding Ltd (IBSG.DE, IBSG.F), a
leading global provider of advanced application and product development
services, today announced the opening of its technical development centre in
the UK. The new facility, located in Welwyn Garden City, near London, is a
significant investment in the company's growth strategy and further expansion
of its global delivery capabilities.

    The Luxoft Development Centre has been set up to provide product
realisation services for large telecom equipment vendors. One of Luxoft's
major partners, Avaya, will help kick off the opening of the development
centre by continuing its relationship with Luxoft at the U.K. facility,
jointly working on the development of Avaya's IP Office product range.

    Jayesh Govindarajan, Senior Director of Engineering, Avaya Inc. commented
on the opening of new centre: "We are pleased to be working with Luxoft's new
development centre to continue our development relationship. We have been
impressed with Luxoft's willingness to work with us in cost effectively
crafting specific co-development solutions."

    Luxoft's Centre opens with a team of 33 highly skilled engineers, with
capacity for growth. With a larger presence in the U.K., Luxoft will be able
to better serve existing U.K-based customers such as Deutsche Bank, UBS and
Areva, as well as establish new partnerships in the region. The full
portfolio of services to be provided by the development centre include:
software engineering, complete product development, detailed trouble shooting
of equipment, as well as customer support services and account management for
UK-based customers.

    Luxoft's Welwyn Garden City Development Centre compliments Luxoft's
current delivery sites located in Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia, enabling
the company to offer blended onshore / offshore delivery capabilities to
deliver highly skilled innovations and developments, cost effectively and
with a customer-centric approach.

    "The opening of the U.K. development centre demonstrates our continued
commitment to providing our European and U.S. customers with engineering
development and outsourced customer support services to manage the complete
product lifecycle from ideation through sustaining engineering and first line
customer support," said Vasily Suvorov, vice president of technology strategy
at Luxoft.

    About Luxoft

    Luxoft, a member of the IBS Group is an emerging global leader in
application and product engineering outsourcing services for enterprise IT
organizations and software vendors. Luxoft builds lasting partnerships with
its clients, such as Boeing, IBM, Harman, Avaya, Areva, Sabre and other
global leaders, based on the culture of engineering excellence, innovation,
and deep domain expertise. Luxoft offers global delivery capability through
its network of state-of-the-art delivery centers in North America, Central &
Eastern Europe, and Asia. Luxoft`s customers benefit from the right mix of
technology skills, industry knowledge, best-of-breed processes and
methodologies, and a choice of engagement models.

    Luxoft has been awarded the #1 position in the "Emerging European
Markets" category of the 2009 "Global Services 100" list. Company is also a
recipient of the Applied Innovation Award from the IAOP and Wipro, ITAA and
Forbes (together with Deutsche Bank).

    Gamid Kostoev, GKostoev@IBS.RU, +7-495-967-8000

Source: IBS Group Holding Ltd

Gamid Kostoev, GKostoev@IBS.RU, +7-495-967-8000

Did You Know? Verizon Wireless Has a Program for Occasional Global Travelers, Too

BASKING RIDGE, N.J., Aug. 11 -- Wireless connectivity isn't just for travelers making frequent trips abroad.  Verizon Wireless customers taking their first international vacation or travelers who make occasional treks overseas can stay connected while away, too.

The Verizon Wireless Global Travel Program lends customers global-capable feature phones, smartphones or data cards for their laptops for the duration of their travels.  There are no daily rental fees or security deposits.

Customers keep their regular phone numbers and can transfer their contact lists using Backup Assistant(SM).  All global calling, text and data charges are applied directly to their Verizon Wireless bills.

Customers using Verizon Wireless global-capable phones and smartphones can enjoy wireless voice service in more than 220 countries and data in more than 200 countries, with more than 115 offering 3G speeds.  In addition, contract customers heading to 40 destinations outside of the United States can use any Verizon Wireless phone to stay connected.  All international travelers can access U.S.-based customer support 24 hours a day using a dedicated global roaming support number.  Learn more at http://www.verizonwireless.com/global.

With the nation's largest and most reliable wireless network, a wide variety of smartphones and other wireless devices, and award-winning customer service, Verizon Wireless is a leader in customer satisfaction.  In 21 of the last 23 quarters, Verizon Wireless has led the industry with the lowest customer turnover rate among major U.S. wireless companies.  Learn more at http://aboutus.vzw.com/customersatisfaction/index.html.

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable and largest wireless voice and 3G data network, serving more than 92 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 79,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ)(NASDAQ: VZ) and Vodafone (NASDAQ:VOD). For more information, visit http://www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at http://www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

Source: Verizon Wireless
   

CONTACT:  Tom Pica, Verizon Wireless, +1-908-559-7516,
Thomas.Pica@verizonwireless.com

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

Company News On-Call:  http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/094251.html

Expedia.com Welcomes Hilton Worldwide into the Green Hotel Program

LightStay Platform Now Included in Expedia Listing of Eco-Friendly Hotels

BELLEVUE, Wash., Aug. 11 -- Expedia.com®, the world's leading online travel agency, announced today that a first wave of 300-plus properties using LightStay(TM) within the Hilton Worldwide portfolio of hotel brands will be added to the Expedia.com Green Hotel Program. LightStay is Hilton Worldwide's proprietary sustainability measurement system, on par with many of the best-in-class systems globally. With the addition of these hotels, the Expedia.com Green Hotel program now includes more than 2,000 hotels, giving Expedia.com one of the most comprehensive selections of eco-friendly travel options among all online travel agencies.

"Expedia.com is committed to helping travelers find the broadest range of 'green' properties in the industry," said Tim MacDonald, senior vice president and general manager, Expedia.com. "The inclusion of Hilton Worldwide's brands, that use the LightStay system, in Expedia.com's Green Hotel Program helps fulfill that commitment."

LightStay is Hilton Worldwide's proprietary system developed to calculate and analyze environmental impact of its properties. The system measures energy and water use and waste and carbon output at the company's hotels around the globe. It specifically analyzes performance across 200 operational practices, such as housekeeping, paper product usage, food waste, chemical storage, air quality and transportation. By December 31, 2011, all of the more than 3,600 properties within Hilton Worldwide's global portfolio of brands will use LightStay.

"We are proud to become members of Expedia.com's Green Hotel Program. Operating our properties globally in a responsible and sustainable manner is a priority for our company and a central part of how we do business," said Paul Brown, President, Global Brands & Commercial Services, Hilton Worldwide. "By integrating sustainability performance as a brand standard, evaluated on the same level as service, Hilton Worldwide has become the first major multi-brand company in the hospitality industry to require property-level measurement of sustainability."

To confirm the effective implementation and validity of LightStay, Hilton Worldwide commissioned KEMA-Registered Quality, Inc., a management systems assessment and certification company, to perform a series of third-party audits of LightStay. The extensive audit revealed that LightStay is a best-in-class system for measuring and analyzing sustainability performance data at hotel properties.

The Expedia.com Green Hotel Program launched in April 2008 and now features more than 2,000 supply partners and more than 80 green certification programs. Travelers who are interested in the Expedia.com eco-friendly travel options can now book at any one of the thousands of green-certified properties listed on Expedia.com including the recently added properties within the Hilton Worldwide portfolio of hotel brands.

Expedia.com customers booking accommodations can save big when booking eco-friendly hotels as a package through Expedia.com. And as always, there are no flight booking fees, nor Expedia® change or cancel fees when booking through Expedia.com.

For more information on Expedia.com's new eco-friendly travel options, visit http://www.expedia.com/green.  To learn more about Hilton Worldwide's LightStay, visit http://www.hiltonworldwide.com.

About Expedia.com

Expedia.com is the world's leading online travel site, helping millions of travelers per month easily plan and book travel. Expedia.com (http://www.expedia.com/, 1-800-EXPEDIA) aims to provide personalized service, the latest technology and the widest selection of vacation packages, flights, hotels, rental cars, cruises and in-destination activities, attractions, and services. With the Expedia Best Price Guarantee, Expedia.com promises to offer to its customers the best rates available online for all types of travel. Expedia.com is an operating company of Expedia, Inc. (NASDAQ:EXPE).

Expedia and Expedia.com are trademarks or registered trademarks of Expedia, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. Other logos or product and company names mentioned herein may be the property of their respective owners. © 2010 Expedia, Inc. All rights reserved. CST: 2029030-50 SOURCE: Expedia, Inc.

About Hilton Worldwide

Hilton Worldwide is the leading global hospitality company, spanning the lodging sector from luxurious full-service hotels and resorts to extended-stay suites and mid-priced hotels.  For 91 years, Hilton Worldwide has been offering business and leisure travelers the finest in accommodations, service, amenities and value.  The company is dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences across its global brands.  Its brands are comprised of more than 3,600 hotels and 592,000 rooms in 81 countries and include Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Hilton, Doubletree, Embassy Suites Hotels, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton Hotels, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Home2 Suites by Hilton and Hilton Grand Vacations.  The company also manages the world-class guest reward program Hilton HHonors®.

For more information about the company, please visit http://www.hiltonworldwide.com.

Source: Expedia.com
   

CONTACT:  Adam Anderson, Expedia.com, +1-425-679-7760,
adaanderson@expedia.com; Scott Carman, Hilton Worldwide, +1-703-883-5803,
scott.carman@hilton.com

Web Site:  http://www.expedia.com/

Wacom Pen Pressure Sensitivity Debuts on deviantART.com Web-based Drawing Application

VANCOUVER, Wash., Aug. 11 -- DeviantART.com, with plug-in support from Wacom®, introduced this week a Web-based drawing tool for artists, featuring pen pressure sensitivity, layer capabilities and multiple brush options.  The drawing tool, named deviantART Muro, is developed in HTML5 and offers Wacom pen tablet and interactive pen display users a natural and intuitive way to draw, paint and express their creativity within the deviantART community.

Providing superior function, speed and flexibility compared to other Web-based drawing applications, deviantART Muro is offered free to all members of deviantART and its launch virtually ensures its immediate adoption by millions of artists worldwide.  "DeviantART Muro takes an important step forward for the arts community by integrating pressure sensitivity on the Web," said Scott Rawlings, vice president of marketing for Wacom.  "Now, any Wacom pen user on deviantART can create art and even interact with art in the community, opening the door to an exciting new world of creative exploration and collaboration."

Wacom provides a wealth of pen tablet and interactive pen display options for the serious and professional artist.  Its Intuos®4 desktop pen tablet, available in four sizes, delivers 2048 levels of pressure sensitivity in an elegant and ergonomic design.  And its Cintiq® 12WX and 21UX interactive pen displays provide the ultimate and most natural way to work by engaging with art and design directly on screen with Wacom's battery-free, cordless and pressure-sensitive pen.

"DeviantART Muro is pure fun for anyone," said deviantART's co-founder and CEO, Angelo Sotira.  "But it's also a highly sophisticated application that will meet and exceed the needs of professionals in the arts.  DeviantART Muro offers the best brushes for pressure sensitivity on the web and because of its design we can continually expand the tool's features and functions in response to user comments or to new devices -- almost on the fly."

About Wacom

Wacom's vision to bring people and technology closer together through natural interface technologies has made it the world's leading manufacturer of pen tablets, interactive pen displays, and digital interface solutions. The advanced technology of Wacom's intuitive input devices has been used to create some of the most exciting digital art, films, special effects, fashion and designs around the world and provides business and home users with leading interface technology for personalized expression.

About deviantART

DeviantART was created to entertain, inspire, and empower the artist in all of us. Founded in August 2000, deviantART is the largest social network for artists and art enthusiasts. A platform that allows emerging and established artists to exhibit, promote and sell their works, deviantART offers a vibrant community that receives over 100,000 daily uploads of original art, ranging from traditional works to digital art, film, literature and beyond.

  For more information, please contact:

  Douglas A. Little
  Public Relations Manager
  Wacom Technology Services Corp.
  360-896-9833 x174
  douglas.little@wacom.com

Source: Wacom
   

CONTACT:  Douglas A. Little, Public Relations Manager, Wacom Technology
Services Corp., +1-360-896-9833, ext. 174, douglas.little@wacom.com

Web Site:  http://www.wacom.com/

Discover Financial Services and Firethorn Announce Upcoming Launch of SWAGG

ATLANTA and RIVERWOODS, Ill., Aug. 11 -- Leading mobile commerce solutions provider Firethorn Holdings, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ:QCOM), and Discover Financial Services (NYSE:DFS) today announced their collaboration on Firethorn's soon to be released SWAGG(SM) mobile gift card application.  Under their exclusive agreement, Discover Network will provide core processing services for payment transactions when the SWAGG service is utilized at a growing list of leading national retail merchants across the United States.

SWAGG is Firethorn's direct-to-consumer mobile commerce offering with "smart" technology that allows consumers to purchase, personalize and exchange gift cards directly from their mobile device.  SWAGG will also provide consumers mobile access to account information and targeted offers.  SWAGG 's technology will change the way consumers transact with their favorite brands by enabling smart, efficient and rewarding transactions on the go.

"Our collaboration with Discover secures the backbone of our upcoming launch of SWAGG," said Rocco Fabiano, president, Firethorn Holdings.  "SWAGG will simplify how consumers transact and the Discover Network will seamlessly manage the payment system within their expansive network of merchants."

"SWAGG is developing innovative functionality in the area of mobile commerce today," said Farhan Ahmad, general manager of prepaid and emerging payments, Discover.  "This, coupled with Discover Network's flexibility and innovative loyalty and usage programs, provides merchants with the opportunity to promote their brands to millions of consumers like never before, straight from the convenience of a mobile device."

Firethorn is actively working with merchants toward launching SWAGG in time for the 2010 holiday shopping season.

About Firethorn Holdings, LLC

Firethorn Holdings, LLC is a crucial link in the mobile commerce ecosystem.  With its mobile domain expertise, Firethorn is creating a fresh and exciting mobile revenue channel that will bridge relationships among consumers, retailers, wireless carriers and financial institutions. Firethorn's innovative technology creates easily accessible, branded and personalized mobile commerce channels that give consumers access to their accounts, offers and transactions while on the go.  For more information about Firethorn, visit http://www.firethorn.com.

SWAGG enables smart, efficient and rewarding transactions on the go.  SWAGG allows users to purchase, share and exchange gift cards, receive and redeem offers, view loyalty card points or balances, share content and more - straight from the convenience of a mobile device.  SWAGG will be available in time for the 2010 holiday season.  For more information on SWAGG, visit http://www.swagg.com

About Discover

Discover Financial Services (NYSE:DFS) is a direct banking and payment services company with one of the most recognized brands in U.S. financial services.  Since its inception in 1986, the company has become one of the largest card issuers in the United States.  The company operates the Discover card, America's cash rewards pioneer, and offers personal and student loans, online savings accounts, certificates of deposit and money market accounts through its Discover Bank subsidiary.  Its payment businesses consist of Discover Network, with millions of merchant and cash access locations; PULSE, one of the nation's leading ATM/debit networks; and Diners Club International, a global payments network with acceptance in more than 185 countries and territories.  For more information, visit http://www.discoverfinancial.com.

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

  Firethorn Contacts:
  Andy McGowan, Firethorn Holdings, LLC
  Phone:  1-678-507-2612
  Email:  amcgowan@qualcomm.com

  Emily Kilpatrick, Qualcomm Corporate Communications
  Phone:  1-858-845-5959
  Email:  corpcomm@qualcomm.com

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

  Discover Contact:
  Mai Lee Ua, Discover Financial Services
  Phone:  1-224-405-3082
  Email:  maileeua@discover.com

Source: Firethorn Holdings, LLC; Qualcomm Incorporated; Discover Financial
Services
   

CONTACT:  Andy McGowan of Firethorn Holdings, LLC, +1-678-507-2612,
amcgowan@qualcomm.com; or Emily Kilpatrick, Qualcomm Corporate Communications,
+1-858-845-5959, corpcomm@qualcomm.com, or Warren Kneeshaw, Qualcomm Investor
Relations, +1-858-658-4813, ir@qualcomm.com, both of Qualcomm Incorporated; or
Mai Lee Ua of Discover Financial Services, +1-224-405-3082,
maileeua@discover.com

Web Site:  http://www.firethornmobile.com/
http://www.swagg.com/
http://www.discoverfinancial.com/

A New Silk Road - Abizark Steps into Silk Industry by Operating Inetsilk.com

NEW YORK, Aug 11 -- Recently, a new online store operated by Abizark, http://www.inetsilk.com/ , was opened, mainly providing genuine silk products for retail and small scale wholesale. It offers the perfect experience of convenient online shopping, including safe online payment, fast global express service, etc.

http://www.inetsilk.com is an online silk products store, whose main products cover a wide range of silk scarves, wool and cashmere scarves, silk pajamas, etc. In order to meet the changing marketing needs, Inetsilk.com releases 30 to 50 new styles of scarves every quarter, whose materials are selected from pure silk, cotton and wool. Now various promotional sales are being carried out, for instance, for any purchase over $200, customers will get another free silk scarf as a gift. What's more, several silk scarves are on sale for only $19.99.

During Oct 27th-30th, 2010, Inetsilk.com will be attending China Sourcing Fair FA (Fashion Accessories) held at the AsiaWorld-Expo in HK. Their booth number is 2L28. Actually, Inetsilk.com already attended China Sourcing Fair FA in January 2010, where they met over 160 clients from Europe, USA, Mid West and South Asia.

"It might be a new silk road from the oriental world to the west," Colin David, the marketing manager of Abizark.com said. "It's not simple business cooperation but also a channel to express the oriental sense of beauty to the western part of the world. As we know, the ancient Silk Road is no longer the only way that connects east and west; what we are doing now is exactly creating a new silk road - safe, fast, and convenient. The silk scarves are the symbols of Chinese art and culture. We have the responsibility to protect it, and the best protection is to bring them in front of the world."

The quality of products on Inetsilk.com must be guaranteed and Colin has much confidence in that. "We know what really matters. Before putting an item on the shelf, all products have gone through almost a hundred tests - we are not exaggerating. From the purchase of materials to the packaging of products, no blemish is allowed to exist. Our customers in Japan, Europe and North America have already proved that."

After all, online stores with just qualified products are not enough, good faith and considerate service are also essential facts that decide whether they will succeed or not. Ancient China was famous for its silk products, and will the new Silk Road continue its grace and glamour?

About Inetsilk.com

As one of the most promising online stores operated by BizArk, http://www.inetsilk.com/ brings not only stylish silk products but also perfect service and marvelous shopping experience to customers everywhere (both retail and small scale wholesale are accepted). Besides, if customers have any personalized needs, Inetsilk.com will also make the best effort to fulfill them with its extraordinary tailoring.

About BizArk Service Ltd.

BizArk is an international trading company that provides all-in-one E-commerce solutions & services for online stores, specializing in website construction, network marketing, website monitoring & security as well as support service. http://www.abizark.com/index.html .

  For more information, please contact:

   Shirley
   Tel:   +1-718-880-7850
   Email: service@inetsilk.com

   Or through Live Chat on http://www.inetsilk.com/

Source: BizArk Service Ltd.
   

CONTACT: Shirley, +1-718-880-7850, service@inetsilk.com

Web site: http://www.abizark.com/index.html
http://www.inetsilk.com/

Pikos Implant Institute Moves to the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa; World-Renowned Tampa Bay Oral Maxillofacial Surgeon Unveils New Website, Logo

Dr. Pikos is celebrating "20 Years of Surgical Education", unveiling two new websites (http://www.PikosImplantInstitute.com and http://www.DrMichaelAPikos.com), new logo and new seminar location - the world famous Safety Harbor Resort & Spa.

PALM HARBOR, Fla., Aug. 11 -- World-renowned oral surgeon and educator Michael A. Pikos, DDS, (http://www.DrMichaelAPIkos.com) has chosen Safety Harbor Resort and Spa as the new home for The Pikos Implant Institute.

"We are very pleased to partner with the Safety Harbor Resort and Spa. This luxury resort and world class spa located on the shores of Tampa Bay will provide our course attendees with all the amenities of a first class hotel," Dr. Pikos said in his announcement.

In addition to the Safety Harbor location, Dr. Pikos is celebrating "20 Years of Surgical Education" unveiling new websites (http://www.PikosImplantInstitute.com and http://www.DrMichaelAPikos.com) and a new logo.

The logo features a series of soft lines representing the threads of a dental implant, symbolic of the industry. Dental implants are titanium screws that are placed into the jaw bones and serve as root replacements for missing teeth. A crown is then screwed into the implant, typically done by a restorative dentist.

Dr. Pikos and his partners have had office locations in Palm Harbor, Trinity and Spring Hill since 1983. He has personally trained more than 2300 clinicians from all 50 states and 32 countries since 1990 at his Palm Harbor-based Institute.

In addition, he has performed thousands of surgical procedures including more than 13,000 dental implants. He is an innovator and has introduced various techniques in advancing dental implantology over the years.

With the new dental implant procedures shown to provide advances over the more commonly accepted bridges and false teeth, Dr. Pikos devotes his attention to implant reconstruction in order to give people with missing teeth better quality of life.

Research has shown people with missing teeth suffer from emotional, psychological and health damage while dental implants return the ability to chew and give people a reason to smile and show their teeth. When people lose teeth, they often decline into eating soft food. In addition, nutrition is often compromised.

"Implants allow our patients to eat their food more efficiently, thus improving both their quality of life and their self image."

For information, contact: Alison Thiede 727-781-0491 or Barry Carroll 727.742.6778.

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

Source: Pikos Implant Institute
   

CONTACT:  Barry Carroll, +1-813-689-6005, Barry@Exclaimit.com, for Pikos
Implant Institute

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

SIM Partners Announces Mobile Application Capabilities

Interactive Marketing Agency and eBrains Jointly Launch destinationM(TM) Mobile Solution for Travel Destination Marketers

CHICAGO, Aug. 11 -- SIM Partners, a full-service interactive marketing agency with deep expertise in developing innovative, ROI-driven solutions that help Fortune 1000 companies acquire customers, today announced its Mobile Application capabilities with the successful launch of its first mobile venture, destinationM(TM).

Jointly owned by SIM Partners and eBrains Inc., a Mclean, VA-based leader in online marketing in travel and tourism, destinationM(TM) is an integrated mobile marketing platform for travel destinations and states.  http://www.destinationM.com  These partners have created measurable online marketing solutions for counties, states and other destinations, and more than 1,700 hotel properties and attractions throughout the country.

SIM Partners has extensive roots in the travel industry and more than a decade of experience helping leading companies in travel, financial services, retail, restaurant, home services and other industries increase their marketing ROI through mobile marketing, search engine marketing and social media strategies.

SIM designs customized apps for brands and enterprises that want to increase their marketing ROI and communicate with customers wherever they go. The agency specializes in apps that engage users with comprehensive content and rich functionality and provide real-time tracking and reporting features for better decision-making and results. Capabilities include exclusive mobile offers and online/offline advertising support. http://simpartners.com/products/mobile-applications.asp

In July, destinationM(TM) successfully launched Visit Fairfax, a comprehensive mobile travel guide created for Fairfax County, Va., that enables Fairfax and its industry partners to provide promotional incentives, maps and directions to thousands of attractions, events, accommodations and restaurants.  The app provides descriptions, pictures, videos, ratings and reviews for popular destinations throughout Northern Virginia.

"The explosion of mobile technologies and smart phone adoption brings unlimited potential for connecting with consumers in new and cost-effective ways," said Jon Schepke, President of SIM Partners.

Industry studies predict that in three years, 150 million consumers will adopt mobile as an interactive communications medium, Schepke noted.

"At SIM Partners, we understand the marketing challenges in this fast-evolving technology landscape. We know what brands and consumers are looking for from mobile apps. And we are dedicated to delivering apps with the right content and services so consumers will want to use them again and again," Schepke said. "Whether your brand is looking for a stand-alone app or wants to utilize mobile in an integrated marketing strategy, SIM Partners can design a customized solution to fit your needs."

About SIM Partners

Strategic Internet Marketing Partners (SIM Partners), based in Chicago, IL, is a full service, interactive marketing agency specializing in innovative, ROI-driven solutions that help Fortune 1000 companies cost-efficiently acquire customers through the use of mobile marketing, search engine marketing  and social media strategies. Our integrated and comprehensive marketing solutions are used by leading companies in the travel, home services, retail, B2B, real estate, financial services and restaurant industries. Our proprietary technology platforms are designed to help clients achieve their digital marketing goals with minimal internal resources. Our offerings include SIM Partners' Local Search Platform, our Text Messaging and Mobile Marketing Platform, mobile application development for smart phones (including iPhone and Android), and our Ask-an-Expert social media application. For more information, visit http://www.simpartners.com.

Source: SIM Partners
   

CONTACT:  Carol Jouzaitis of SIM Partners, +1-312-342-7304,
cjouzaitis@simpartners.com

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