August 21, 2007
VOGUE SHOPVOGUE : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: The home page of the new ShopVogue.TV from Vogue magazine. (Vogue)
Posted by Editors at 09:31 AM
August 20, 2007
Wal-Mart Offers Free Download of New Eagles Single 'How Long' With Pre-Order of Exclusive CD : GlobalGiants.com
Advance orders begin today on Walmart.com for Eagles' first album of new music in 28 years.
Photo: Eagles CD cover - Long Road Out of Eden. (Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.)
Today, August 20, Wal-Mart announced it will begin accepting advance orders for the Eagles' first studio album of new music in 28 years, "Long Road Out of Eden." Fans nationwide USA can now pre-order the album on Walmart.com and receive a free MP3 download of the new radio-released single How Long with purchase.
The "Long Road Out of Eden" CD, scheduled for an October release, will be sold exclusively at Wal-Mart and Sam's Club in the U.S. and Canada and through Walmart.com and Samsclub.com.
Photo: Eagles band members. (Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.)
The Eagles have sold more than 120 million albums worldwide, earning four #1 U.S. singles and four Grammy Awards. "Eagles: Their Greatest Hits 1971-1975" is the best-selling album of all time, exceeding sales of 29 million units. Eagles were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1998. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 08:43 AM
August 14, 2007
HARRIS CORPORATION INSTANT REPLAY SYSTEM : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Minnesota Vikings instant replay technician Lauri Karpinen examines an on-field play August 10, 2007 using the new high definition instant replay system installed by Harris Corporation. The National Football League last week became the first major sports league to use the new HD instant replay system, which provides referees with the sharpest images possible for determining questionable calls. Harris Corporation, a digital broadcast equipment pioneer, installed the equipment at 28 NFL stadiums for use during the 2007-08 season. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 03:29 AM
August 13, 2007
Barack Obama: GQ Hits the Road with the Presidential Candidate : GlobalGiants.com
"I'm in this to win, I want to win, and I think we will win. But I'm also going to emerge intact. I'm going to be Barack Obama and not some parody."
Photo: Senator Barack Obama is the first politician to be on the cover of GQ since presidential running mates Bill Clinton and Al Gore appeared in November 1992.
NEW YORK, Aug. 13 -- Senator Barack Obama is conducting a determined and closely watched bid for the Democratic presidential nomination. And yet the candidate remains a citizen, son, husband, and father. In an in-depth cover story for the September issue, GQ correspondent Ryan Lizza reports on Obama's campaign trail life and the successes and challenges he's experienced as a presidential candidate in 2007.
GQ is the leading men's general-interest magazine and part of Conde Nast Publications. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:05 PM
August 04, 2007
NIKE BEIJING STORE : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Nike athlete Liu Xiang, left, the world-record holder in the 110m hurdle and the first Chinese track-and-field athlete to win the a gold medal, and FC Barcelona's two-time FIFA Player of the Year Ronaldinho were on hand for the opening of Nike's Beijing flagship store, located at Wang Fu Jing in one of Beijing's premier shopping districts. (Nike) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 03:25 AM
August 03, 2007
Longines Royal International Horse Show (Hickstead, United Kingdom) : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Wim Schroeder on Eurocommerce Pennsylvania.
The Royal International Horse Show celebrates its prestigious centenary as the Swiss watchmaking brand Longines celebrates its own 175th anniversary and launches a new sports collection in the UK with the presentation of the new special Cavalier watch. Beezie Madden (USA) and Wim Schroder (Netherlands), winners of this stage of the Longines Award for Elegance, were given Longines evidenza watches to celebrate this auspicious occasion. The Longines Classic on Saturday, 28th of July was won by Irish rider, Marie Burke. The final competition on Sunday, the prestigious King George V Trophy, offered an all French podium and was won by Aymeric de Ponnat, with, an increased total prize money for this class this year of £45,000, and winners receiving watches from the traditional Longines Master Collection.
The Longines Press Award for Elegance was judged on Friday, 27th July during the Super League competition by a distinguished group of specialist equestrian journalists, including press from the Horse & Hound, Local Rider, the Daily Telegraph and the Independent newspaper. Riders were judged on their elegant attributes and awarded points determined by given criteria, including harmony between horse and mount, fluidity of movement, and overall turnout.
Longines also launched at this event its new watch designed specifically for horse riding enthusiasts: the “Instrument pour Cavalier”. This watch, which bears a tachymeter specially calibrated to enable the calculation of a horse’s speed, is part of the Longines Sport Collection which will be available in the UK this autumn. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 04:14 AM
Munter to Drive SMART Papers Car in Debut at Kentucky Speedway Aug. 11 : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: 200-MPH Woman: Leilani Munter, One of World's Top Female Race Car Drivers, Wins Indy Pro Series Lead Sponsorship from U.S. Papermaker SMART Papers.
SMART Papers announced August 1 that it is the lead sponsor of open-wheel race car driver Leilani Munter for her debut in the Indy Pro Series Aug. 11 at the Kentucky Speedway and again Sept. 9 at the Chicagoland Speedway. The Indy Pro Series is the pathway to the Indy 500, the world's preeminent open-wheel motorsport event. Munter, who drives at speeds topping 200 mph, bumper-to-bumper, was recently named as one of the world's top female race car drivers in 2007 by Sports Illustrated magazine. Munter's race car will prominently display the SMART Papers logo for both races, which will be broadcast on ESPN2. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:39 AM
July 29, 2007
Ford Escape Hybrid Sponsored BPM Magazine's Anniversary Party : GlobalGiants.com
Paris Hilton poses with the 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid at the 11th Anniversary BPM Party at the Avalon Hotel in Hollywood July 19, 2007. The Ford Escape Hybrid sponsored the party celebrating the magazine's environmental issue. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:50 PM
July 27, 2007
Manchester U Asian Tour 2007 : GlobalGiants.com
Luis Carlos Almeida da Cunha (L), known as Nani, of Manchester United, performs a somersault after scoring a goal during a friendly soccer game between Manchester United and Shenzhen Shangjingyin Football Club in Macau, southern China, Monday, 23 July 2007. Manchester United defeated Shenzhen Shangjingyin 6-0 in the third game of their Asian tour. (EyePress)
Posted by Editors at 08:13 AM
July 24, 2007
2007 Empressa World Chess Tournament in Montreal : GlobalGiants.com
Chess Grand Master Vassily Ivanchuk, number four in the world, participates at the 2007 Empresa World Chess Tournament in Montreal. (Photo Dimitri Papadopoulos/Quebec Press)
Posted by Editors at 12:54 PM
July 23, 2007
New Harry Potter Book on Sale : GlobalGiants.com
Shoppers pick up copies of "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows", the latest and final book in the series by JK Rowling at a Costco in Chicago. Photo Credit: Joe Tabacca/Sipa Press.
Posted by Editors at 01:51 PM
July 21, 2007
SUN MICROSYSTEMS, INC. & REUTERS : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Sun Microsystems Executive Vice President and Director of the Reuters Foundation Rosemary Martin pose in front of a screen displaying AlertNet's latest headlines.
SANTA CLARA, Calif.,-- Sun Microsystems, Inc. and the global news agency Reuters announced on July 19 that AlertNet, a humanitarian online news network (http://www.alertnet.org), will optimize its capabilities to provide information around global humanitarian initiatives and emergencies through new technology provided by Sun Microsystems. AlertNet is a project of the Reuters Foundation, the non-profit arm of the global news agency. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 10:08 AM
July 20, 2007
Crystal Gayle's Greatest Hits to Be Released August 28 by Capitol Nashville/EMI : GlobalGiants.com
HOLLYWOOD, Calif., July 20 -- A worldwide music star, Crystal Gayle has won audiences with her recordings, concerts and television performances for the last thirty years. 2007 marks the 30th anniversary of Gayle's chart-crossing smash, "Don't It Make My Brown Eyes Blue," recognized by ASCAP as one of the ten most often performed country songs of the 20th Century. On August 28, Capitol Nashville/EMI Music Catalog Marketing will release Crystal Gayle: Greatest Hits, a new 25-track collection of Gayle's top hits, including 21 Top 10s and 16 #1s. Three new Crystal Gayle ringtunes will also debut on August 28. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 06:26 AM
July 19, 2007
ALONG MOBILE TECHNOLOGIES INC. CELL PHONE NETWORK GAME : GlobalGiants.com
At the 5th China Digital Entertainment Expo & Conference (Chinajoy) in Shanghai, participants gather in front of ALONG Mobile Technologies Inc's exhibition station to inquire about ALONG's newly-developed cell phone network games. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:32 PM
July 16, 2007
'STAIRWAY' IN ROCK & ROLL HEAVEN : GlobalGiants.com
Hard Rock Park CEO, Steven Goodwin, surveys "Led Zepelin - The Ride" at the highest lift hill at the official topping off ceremony at Hard Rock Park, the world's first rock 'n' roll theme park in Myrtle Beach, SC, Fri., July 13, 2007. The Ride will tower more than 150 feet into the sky, serving as a landmark that will help travelers pinpoint Hard Rock Park whether arriving by air or land. Reaching speeds of 65 mph, the coaster will boast six inversions, the largest of which will be a 120-foot loop. The Signature Coaster required clearance from the Federal Aviation Administration. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 04:20 AM
2007 TOUR DE FRANCE : GlobalGiants.com
2007 Tour de France is in progress.
Posted by Editors at 04:06 AM
July 13, 2007
i-SING : GlobalGiants.com
New York -- i-Sing, the world's first interactive MP3-Karaoke player, is set for U.S. release. i-Sing allows users to sing along to their favorite tunes, listen to top hits, and record their own voices all at once. (Outrageous International)
Posted by Editors at 01:02 AM
July 12, 2007
DAIMLERCHRYSLER SOUL2SOULTOUR 2007 : GlobalGiants.com
During the Detroit stop of their Jeep Presents Soul2SoulTour 2007, country stars Tim McGraw and Faith Hill took possession of a customized Jeep Wrangler Unlimited while visiting Chrysler Headquarters on Wednesday, July 11, 2007, in Auburn Hills. This one-of-a-kind Wrangler Unlimited compliments the original 1978 Jeep that brought Tim and Faith together. (DaimlerChrysler, Jodi Tinson)
Posted by Editors at 06:27 AM
July 11, 2007
The Beatles : GlobalGiants.com
The Beatles (clockwise from top left: Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, George Harrison and John Lennon) are seen here in this 1963 picture from Mirrorpix. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:17 PM
July 09, 2007
Live Earth eclipses Live 8 and Live Aid as Biggest Musical Event Ever Staged : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Dave Grohl of the Foofighters at the Live Earth concert held at Wembley Stadium London, England. (WENN Photos)
In a global series of concerts featuring aboriginal dancing, imitation chimpanzee cries and a lot of reunited rock bands, musicians and celebrities called for fans to take action against global warming.
The concerts, with shows in London, Sydney, Tokyo, Kyoto, Shanghai, Hamburg, Johannesburg, Rio de Janeiro, were designed to raise awareness about global warming. Organizers described it as the biggest musical event ever staged, even larger than Live 8 or Live Aid. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 10:29 AM
Pamplona Running of the Bulls at the San Fermin Festival : GlobalGiants.com
Spain's largest fighting bulls lived up to their fearsome reputation, goring two and crushing at least seven people as thousands of daredevils sprinted down narrow streets Sunday in Pamplona's annual running of the bulls. (AFP)
The San Fermin festival dates back to the late 16th century but gained worldwide fame in Ernest Hemingway's 1926 novel "The Sun Also Rises." |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 08:04 AM
DaimlerChrysler's 'smart' is supporting The Live Earth concerts against global warming : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: smart provides the official VIP shuttle for the Live Earth concert.
Photo: Lily Cole, UK model at the Live Earth concert.
Photo: Live Earth, London.
Photo: Jasmin Wagner experienced the low emission smart fortwo.
The Live Earth concerts against global warming are offering life music for a period of 24 hours across eight cities and on all continents. From Bon Jovi and Genesis over Jennifer Lopez and Madonna to Shakira and The Police – more than 100 top international acts are mobilising against the threat of climate change. With smart, DaimlerChrysler is the only car manufacturer supporting the “Save Our Selves – SOS” initiative launched by Kevin Wall and Al Gore and is the official partner of all eight concerts. smart is accompanying the climate protection initiative with a range of activities and is providing the official shuttle service for the concerts. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 06:39 AM
July 08, 2007
NOKIA is Exploring China with Nokia Nseries : GlobalGiants.com
Nokia's "Project 95" is taking Peter Schindler - a seasoned traveler - on a 20,000-plus kilometer, Nokia-solely-sponsored, road-trip across China. Peter is equipped with various Nokia Nseries devices, most notably the Nokia N95. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 06:59 AM
Puma Urban Mobilty Bike : GlobalGiants.com
Puma's 8-Speed Urban Mobility Bike has smart features like the folding design and integrated lock system. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 06:53 AM
July 04, 2007
LAKLAND MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS : GlobalGiants.com
CHICAGO - Lakland Musical Instruments - Spinal Tap's Derek Smalls (aka Harry Shearer) shows off his custom Lakland "burning world" bass guitar to be unveiled at the July 7 Live Earth concert in London. Conceived by Shearer and created by Lakland in conjunction with artist Gary Weidner, the bass depicts an exploding world. (Lakland Musical Instruments)
Posted by Editors at 05:05 AM
July 03, 2007
Ellen Whitaker and Rolf-Göran Bengtsson win the Longines Press Award for Elegance : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Rolf-Göran Bengtsson from Sweden in action on Mac Kinley and winner of the Longines Press Award for Elegance at the CHIO Rotterdam in the Netherlands.
This weekend a jury of equestrian and sports journalists named the most elegant female and male riders at the CHIO Rotterdam. In the end, it was Ellen Whitaker (Great Britain), riding AK Locarno, and Rolf-Göran Bengtsson (Sweden), on Mac Kinley, who saw their elegance, charisma and performance rewarded. The prestigious Longines Grand Prix Port of Rotterdam was won by Laura Kraut (USA) on Anthem who ran a clear round in 39.85 seconds. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 03:26 AM
July 02, 2007
iPhone Sales Said to Have Hit Half-Million Mark in Opening Weekend : GlobalGiants.com
Opening weekend sales of iPhones may have reached 500,000, according to an analyst's estimate, as Apple's much anticipated product saw sales that lived up to and even exceeded its hype.
Piper Jaffray's Gene Munster released a report Sunday night estimating that the iPhone sales would reach that mark through the close of business Sunday. He had previously forecast first weekend sales of 200,000 of the device, which sells for either $499 or $599.
Photo Credit: Sipa Press
Posted by Editors at 11:21 AM
June 28, 2007
Nike Announces Partnership With Euroleague Basketball : GlobalGiants.com
HILVERSUM, Netherlands, June 28-- Nike and Euroleague Basketball have announced a new five-year partnership to make Nike the official basketball supplier for Euroleague competition. The union of the world's number one basketball brand with two of the best Pan-European basketball competitions is the latest demonstration of both organizations' commitment to growing the game in Europe.
The league's 24 teams and ULEB Cup´s 54 teams will be playing with the Nike 4005 Tournament Ball for the 2008 season, as well as a series of pre-season events, including the Euroleague China Tour in October. The 4005 Tournament ball will tip-off in its first official Euroleague play at the ULEB Summer League this weekend in Jesolo, Italy. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 03:45 AM
June 27, 2007
World No. 1 Ochoa Reaches Multi-Year Endorsement Agreement With PING : GlobalGiants.com
Lorena Ochoa, the world's number one ranked female golfer who has played PING golf equipment since she was 15 years old, has signed an endorsement agreement with the equipment manufacturer, PING Chairman & CEO John Solheim announced June 26. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 07:16 AM
TURNER CLASSIC MOVIES: SPIELBERG ON SPIELBERG Premieres on Monday, July 9 : GlobalGiants.com
In Turner Classic Movies' (TCM) new documentary SPIELBERG ON SPIELBERG, premiering Monday, July 9, at 8 p.m. (ET)/9 p.m. (PT), two-time Best Director Oscar(R) winner Steven Spielberg discusses his meteoric rise to success in Hollywood, as well as the motion pictures that took him there. The 90-minute special, which features exclusive and detailed interviews with arguably the most popular and influential director of his time, is produced by Richard Schickel, who created similar programs on Woody Allen and Martin Scorsese.
Turner Classic Movies, currently seen in more than 75 million homes, is a 24-hour cable network from Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., a Time Warner company. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 07:09 AM | Comments (0)
June 26, 2007
Paris Hilton Released From Jail after 3 Week Stay: GlobalGiants.com
Paris Hilton leaves the Los Angeles County Correctional Facility in Lynwood, California June 26, 2007. Hotel heiress Hilton, who commanded as much attention behind bars as on the Hollywood party scene, regained her freedom on Tuesday after serving three weeks in jail for violating probation in a drunk-driving case. (Reuters)
Posted by Editors at 10:48 AM | Comments (0)
June 20, 2007
PGA of America: July is Family Golf Month : GlobalGiants.com
Features Grammy Award winners Vince Gill and Amy Grant and daughter, Corrina as Spokesfamily.
PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla., June 19 -- Families across the USA are encouraged to play golf together during "July is Family Golf Month", a PGA Play Golf America program designed to provide a structured, yet casual opportunity for families to learn the game of golf together. Golfing enthusiasts and Grammy award winners Vince Gill and Amy Grant, along with their six-year-old daughter, Corrina Grant Gill, are the spokesfamily for the program.
The PGA of America is the world's largest working sports organization comprised of 28,000 men and women golf Professionals who are the recognized experts in growing, teaching and managing the game of golf while serving millions of people throughout its 41 PGA Sections nationwide. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 08:20 AM
June 19, 2007
POKEMON USA, INC. DIAMOND : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: With a decade under its belt, a new generation of kids are playing, watching, collecting and trading their Pokemon. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 07:10 AM
June 18, 2007
NAVIGON NAVIGATOR'S RUN ROAD RALLY -- ASHLEY VAN DYKE : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Model, rally driver and SPEED TV host, Ashley Van Dyke, samples the new NAVIGON 7100 device lent to each team in the inaugural Navigator's Run Road Rally kicking off today. Using the device - featuring a widescreen 4.3-inch display - teams navigate the shortest distance to each leg and hopefully their way to the $50,000 grand prize. Available for pre-ordernow on www.amazon.com , the NAVIGON 7100 hits select retailers' shelves across North America beginning late July. (NAVIGON) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:53 PM
The Gillette Young Guns Celebrity Race : GlobalGiants.com
Sam's Club Car to Be Featured During 'Fast Cars and Superstars -- The Gillette Young Guns Celebrity Race'.
Sam's Club Speeds into the Celebrity Track with Gabrielle Reece and John Cena Behind the Wheel.
Warehouse retail giant Sam's Club is getting into the fast lane of reality TV, sponsoring a racecar in "Fast Cars and Superstars -- The Gillette Young Guns Celebrity Race." The new ABC show is Gillette's first venture into reality television, pitting celebrities against each other in NASCAR-style racing, with a bit of tutoring from real racecar drivers. The Sam's Club Superstar drivers will be volleyball great and model Gabrielle Reece and World Wrestling Entertainment Champion John Cena.
Sam's Club is a division of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:40 PM
John Edwards on the July/August cover of Men's Vogue : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Presidential candidate John Edwards is working aggressively on his populist strategy for winning the South-a message that has been undermined by news of his $400 haircuts, his recently finished mansion outside of Chapel Hill, and the money he earned on speeches and as a hedge fund consultant prior to announcing his run. Even Edwards admits he has "probably not 100%" overcome the perception of himself as a Ken doll. For the July/August cover story, Men's Vogue writer Joe Hagan observes Edwards's own race to prove to America that the heartfelt message and the perfect messenger- articulate, telegenic and passionate-are one in the same. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:33 PM
June 17, 2007
BP-FORD INCREASES WRC LEAD AFTER CLAIMING 60TH WIN IN GREECE : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Ford claimed its 60th event win in the FIA World Rally Championship in Athens June 15 to extend its lead in both the drivers' and manufacturers' standings in the 2007 series. Marcus Grönholm and Timo Rautiainen won the four-day Acropolis Rally of Greece in a Ford Focus RS World Rally Car, their second straight win and third of the season. Team-mates Mikko Hirvonen and Jarmo Lehtinen finished fourth in another Focus RS. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 03:14 PM
June 15, 2007
MVP Tony Parker and Tim Duncan Lead Spurs to Fourth NBA Title : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Frenchman Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs holds the MVP trophy with teammate Tim Duncan (L) holding the NBA Championship Larry O'Brien trophy after leading the San Antonio Spurs to their fourth NBA title beating the Cleveland Cavaliers 14 June 2007 after Game Four of the NBA Finals at Quicken Loan Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. The Spurs won the game 83-82 to win the best-of-seven game series 4-0. (AFP)
Posted by Editors at 10:34 PM
June 14, 2007
Dublin Irish Festival Set to Celebrate 20th Anniversary August 3 - 5 : GlobalGiants.com
Celebrate the Sights, Sounds, Tastes and Experiences of All Things Irish.
Photo: Dublin, Ohio - Irish dancers entertain the spectators at the Dublin Irish Festival.
DUBLIN, Ohio -- The 20th annual Dublin Irish Festival, bringing together the best in Irish culture, entertainment, art and music, is expected to attract more than 100,000 visitors to the "emerald" city north of Columbus. Touted as the second largest Irish festival in the world, the Dublin Irish Festival presents the best Irish entertainers from Europe and North America. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 09:00 AM
DR. PEPPER BAND IN A BUBBLE CARTEL : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: The Sound of Freedom: Epic recording artists Cartel broke out of the Dr. Pepper Band in a Bubble to give fans a preview of the new songs they recorded over the past 20 days inside the Bubble.
Photo: Burst My Bubble: Epic recording artists Cartel performed songs from their second album which they recorded over the past 20 days as part of Dr. Pepper Band in a Bubble - a multi-media event and MTV music special.
|GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 04:21 AM
June 13, 2007
Justin Verlander Strikes out 12 in Tigers' First No Hitter Since 1984 : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: A seagull flies past Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Justin Verlander as he throws to the Milwaukee Brewers during the ninth inning of their Interleague MLB baseball game in Detroit, Michigan June 12, 2007. (REUTERS/Rebecca Cook)
Verlander struck out 12 and threw the Tigers' first no-hitter since 1984. The Tigers beat the Brewers 4-0. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:59 PM
June 10, 2007
ING DIRECT: FAMED DAREDEVIL FLIES 150 FEET OVER MOUNTAIN OF MONEY : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Kaptain Robbie Knievel, son of legendary daredevil "Evel" Knievel, soars 150 feet over a heaping mountain of money representing the $4.6 billion in interest ING DIRECT customers have earned since 2000. His big leap was part of the ING DIRECT Independence Ride 2007, a full-day event which took place in Wilmington, DE on Saturday, June 9th. In addition to the jump, the event included a 60-mile motorcycle ride with more than 1000 riders and a performance by the Steve Miller Band. The event raised $75,000 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. (Photo courtesy of ING DIRECT) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:38 PM
June 08, 2007
Bombardier Learjet 550k in Fort Worth, Texas : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Marco Andretti waits in his car during practice for the Bombardier Learjet 550k in Fort Worth, Texas, Thursday, June 7, 2007. (MCT) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:29 PM
June 07, 2007
NHL Stanley Cup -- Anaheim Ducks Win in Five : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Anaheim Ducks' Captain Scott Niedermayer raises the Stanley Cup after his team's win against the Ottawa Senators during Game 5 of the 2007 NHL Stanley Cup Finals in Anaheim June 6, 2007. (Reuters) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:46 AM
June 05, 2007
Volkswagen Desert Racing Team Makes Strong Factory Debut at 39th Tecate SCORE Baja 500 : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: A pair of Volkswagen Race Touareg 2 vehicles, from the automaker's acclaimed Dakar Rally Factory Team, claimed two top-20 finishes at the 39th Annual Tecate SCORE Baja 500 in Ensenada, Mexico. (Volkswagen of America, Inc.) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 06:48 AM
TURNER NETWORK TELEVISION -- THE CLOSER CAST : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Kyra Sedgwick and the cast of TNT's The Closer will participate in a live, interactive web cast on Thursday, June 7th at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT, hosted by TVGuide.com. (Turner Network Television, Andrew Eccles)
ATLANTA, June 4 -- Fans of TNT's THE CLOSER, ad-supported cable's #1 series of all time, will have a chance to ask questions of the series' cast members, including Golden Globe(R) winner Kyra Sedgwick, and find out what is in store for the upcoming third season when TVGuide.com hosts a special interactive Web cast live from the set on Thursday, June 7. Joining Sedgwick will be the series creator and executive producer James Duff as well as fellow cast members Jon Tenney, J.K. Simmons, Corey Reynolds, Robert Gossett, G.W. Bailey, Tony Denison, Raymond Cruz and Michael Paul Chan. Craig Tomashoff, TV Guide's Los Angeles bureau chief, will moderate the chat, which invites fans to send questions in via email and watch the cast live as they offer their insights on their characters, the show, the upcoming third season and the show's enormous popularity.
To join the live web cast, fans should go to the www.TVGuide.com homepage and click on the link. The web cast will also be simulcast on TNT.tv and CNN Pipeline. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 06:37 AM
June 01, 2007
2007 MotoGP - Le Mans, France : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Italy's Marco Melandri leads Australia's Casey Stoner during the first Free Practice session at Le Mans, France. Melandri leads the first day with a time of 135.319. (Cal Sport Media) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:50 PM
adidas and Right To Play Kick Off Red Ball Movement : GlobalGiants.com
Using The Power of Sport and Play to Create a Healthier and Safer World.
Photo: Zinedine Zidane and adidas partner with Right to Play to make the world a better place through sport. (adidas; Right to Play) |GlobalGiants.com|
International humanitarian organization, Right To Play and adidas have joined forces to bring the positive impact of sport and play to children in disadvantaged communities around the world. The centerpiece of the program is a limited edition mini red ball that goes on sale today at adidas stores worldwide and on adidas.com.
The mini ball is a world cup-style redesign of Right To Play's longstanding symbol and will retail for 10 dollars in the US. As a primary driver for the awareness initiative, adidas retail employees will act as Right To Play ambassadors and the stores will be transformed to showcase the work that Right To Play is doing in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. All proceeds from the sale of the mini ball will go to support Right to Play's projects around the world.
Additionally, legendary soccer phenom, Zinedine Zidane, who retired from international competition last year, is now devoting much of his time to working with children and will partner with the Adi Dassler Fund to be a key driver of the Right To Play initiative. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 04:28 AM
UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT HARRY POTTER : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Village of Hogsmeade - Fans of Harry Potter will have a chance to experience the magical village of Hogsmeade when "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter" opens at Universal's Islands of Adventure theme park. Warner Bros. and Universal Orlando Resort are partnering to create the world's first Harry Potter themed environment based on J.K. Rowling's books.
Photo Credit: (C) 2007 Universal Orlando. All rights reserved. HARRY POTTER: TM & C Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights (C) JKR. (s07).(Universal Orlando Resort) |GlobalGiants.com|
Photo: Hogwarts Castle - "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter" will be anchored by the most recognizable landmark in Harry Potter's world: Hogwarts castle. Fans will get the chance to experience some of their favorite locations both within Hogwarts and around the castle grounds when the new land opens at Universal's Islands of Adventure theme park.
Photo Credit: (C) 2007 Universal Orlando. All rights reserved. HARRY POTTER: TM & C Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights (C) JKR. (s07). (Universal Orlando Resort) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:32 AM | Comments (0)
May 30, 2007
Early Exits at Roland Garros for the American Men : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Andy Roddick of the U.S. reacts after losing a point to Russia's Igor Andreev in the first round of the French Open tennis tournament at Roland Garros in Paris May 29, 2007 (Reuters)
Roddick would go on to lose 3-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 to #125 Igor Andreev of Russia. Other American men didn't fare well either, going 0-8 on the day. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:52 PM
Apple Announces iTunes U on the iTunes Store : GlobalGiants.com
Free Content From Top Universities Now Available.
Photo: Apple(R) today announced the launch of iTunes(R) U, a dedicated area within the iTunes Store (www.itunes.com) featuring free content such as course lectures, language lessons, lab demonstrations, sports highlights and campus tours provided by top US colleges and universities. (Apple)
CUPERTINO, Calif., May 30 -- Apple(R) today announced the launch of iTunes(R) U, a dedicated area within the iTunes Store (www.itunes.com) featuring free content such as course lectures, language lessons, lab demonstrations, sports highlights and campus tours provided by top US colleges and universities including Stanford University, UC Berkeley, Duke University and MIT.
Created in collaboration with colleges and universities, iTunes U makes it easier than ever to extend learning, explore interests, learn more about a school and stay connected with an alma mater. Content from iTunes can be loaded onto an iPod(R) with just one click and experienced on-the-go, anytime, making learning from a lecture just as simple as enjoying music. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:23 PM | Comments (0)
May 29, 2007
Cannes Film Festival: Palme d'Or : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Romanian director Cristian Mungiu poses with his Palme d'Or after receiving the award for his film '4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days' at the filmfestival in Cannes, France, 27 May 2007. (DPA) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:08 PM
World Table Tennis Championships : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Ma Lin of China returns a ball to Leung Chu Yan of Hong Kong during their match on the fifth day of the World Table Tennis Championships in Zagreb, 25 May 2007. (AFP) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:55 PM
May 27, 2007
Patrick Dempsey With The 2007 Corvette Convertible : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Grey's Anatomy star Patrick Dempsey is photographed with the 2007 Corvette Convertible Indianapolis 500 Pace Car in Los Angeles, CA while taking a break from shooting a movie. Dempsey will drive the 2007 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible Pace Car at the 91st Indianapolis 500 on Sunday, May 27. This will be the 18th time a Chevy has paced the Indianapolis 500. (General Motors Racing Photo) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 06:06 AM
Longines Re-enters Tennis with Roland Garros 2007 : GlobalGiants.com
St-Imier (Switzerland) / Paris (France), 27th May 2007 – With its rich sporting heritage and elegant positioning, Longines finds its match in Roland Garros.
The Swiss watch brand Longines is the new official partner and timekeeper of the prestigious French Open of Roland Garros. This new partnership for its 175th anniversary in 2007 fits with the brand’s positioning: “Elegance is an Attitude” as well as its sporting heritage. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 04:10 AM
May 26, 2007
Dr Pepper Band in a Bubble : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: The Band in the Bubble: The five members of Cartel said farewell to fans before sealing themselves inside a giant bubble from May 24-June 12 to record the follow-up to their hit album CHROMA as part of Dr Pepper Band in a Bubble -- a multi-media event and MTV music special. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 04:35 AM
World Table Tennis Championships : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Ma Lin of China returns a ball to Leung Chu Yan of Hong Kong during their match on the fifth day of the World Table Tennis Championships in Zagreb, 25 May 2007. (AFP) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 04:32 AM
May 25, 2007
Jordin Sparks Arrives In A 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid: GlobalGiants.com
Photo: American Idol Season 6 winner, Jordin Sparks, arrives in a 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid, the official vehicle of the American Idol finale's red carpet. (05/25/07) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:12 PM
BMW PGA Championship at the Wentworth Club : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Michael Campbell of New Zealand hits out of a bunker during the Second Round of the BMW PGA Championship at The Wentworth Club on May 25, 2007 in Virginia Water, England. (Getty) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:48 PM
Jordin Sparks Is Your Newest American Idol : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: American Idol Season 6 winner Jordin Sparks, 17, from Glendale, AZ performing THIS IS MY NOW during the American Idol Season 6 Finale Show at the Kodak Theater in Hollywood, California, May 23, 2007. (Lester Cohen/WireImage) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 03:07 AM
May 24, 2007
Artist Clark Hulings NY Show : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: A hopeful buyer adds his name to the box for Clark Hulings' painting "Two Roses" at J.N. Bartfield Galleries' exhibit and sale of Hulings' one person show "Timeless Beauty: Pursuing Life's Textures".
NEW YORK -- The noted American master, Clark Hulings, opened his first one-person exhibition and sale in New York City in 40 years at J. N. Bartfield Galleries May 22 evening to an enthusiastic gathering of collectors who had traveled from throughout the US to try to acquire one of his recent paintings. It was Hulings' first one-person show since 1999 and everything sold immediately.
In an unprecedented procedure for the New York gallery, the paintings were offered at set price by draw from intent-to-purchase slips. Eager collectors filled boxes under the paintings with the slips, or submitted them absentee from California to Maine.
Of the collection of 37 oils created by Hulings over the past three years, fifteen will be auctioned at Morris & Whiteside Galleries on Hilton Head Island, SC, on Saturday evening, 2 June. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 03:00 AM
Louis Vuitton Cup : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Emirates Team New Zealand leads Spain's Desafio Espanol in the semi-finals of the Louis Vuitton Cup in Valencia, May 16, 2007. (AFP)
Posted by Editors at 02:54 AM
May 21, 2007
Milka Duno Qualifies for 91st Running of Indianapolis 500 : GlobalGiants.com
Venezuelan rookie makes history: first Latina, first time three women will race at Indy.
Photo: Milka Duno becomes historic third female for Indianapolis 500, first Latina in sporting event. (CITGO)
INDIANAPOLIS, May 21 -- Milka Duno, the newest driver and third female in the IndyCar Series, will start the 2007 Indianapolis 500 in the middle of the 10th row from the 29th starting position. Duno's run for the spot held the attention of fans as they watched the IndyCar Series rookie from Venezuela come back from a crash that took place on Friday, May 11th at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
"When I crashed, I felt so bad but everyone was very supportive including the team, the IndyCar Series, all the wonderful fans in Indianapolis, my sponsor CITGO and many of the other drivers," said Duno. "I am really grateful. We proved what a fantastic spirit there is in this team. Everyone worked so hard and we never stopped believing, and now we are in!" |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 04:27 AM
May 20, 2007
Imagine 2007 Fashion Show : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Robin Harris models a dress inspired by the 2008 Buick Enclave and designed by International Academy of Design & Technology student Anastasia Chatzka of Chesterfield, Michigan at the General Motors 2007 fashion show at Chicago's Union Station Thursday, May 17, 2007. (General Motors Photo/Aynsley Floyd) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 06:46 AM
May 18, 2007
METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER INC. STUDIO SHANGHAI : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Artist's rendition of MGM Studio World Shanghai, China. (Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc.) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:35 PM
May 17, 2007
LOUIS VUITTON HOSTS MY BLUEBERRY NIGHTS PARTY AT CANNES FESTIVAL : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: 17th May 2007. CANNES, France - Faye Dunaway, Wong Kar Wai, Ms Wong Kar Wai. (Louis Vuitton) |GlobalGiants.com|
Photo: 17th May 2007. CANNES, France - Jude Law, Norah Jones, Yves Carcelle, Ms Carcelle. (Louis Vuitton) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:25 PM
May 16, 2007
World's Largest Bubble-Shaped Recording Studio in New York City : GlobalGiants.com
Epic Recording Artists Cartel to Call Bubble Home for Almost a Month.
NEW YORK, May 16 -- Construction on a 55,000 pound, approximately 2,000-square-foot bubble - the future site for the Dr Pepper Band in a Bubble multimedia event and MTV music special - is wrapping up at Hudson River Park's Pier 54 in New York City. Construction is projected to be complete early next week on May 21. Epic recording artists Cartel, a five- member Atlanta-based band, will be sealed in the bubble from May 24 to June 12 to record the follow-up to their breakthrough debut album, CHROMA. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 03:13 PM
Nepalese Mountaneer Summits Mount Everest for a World Record 17th Time : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Nepalese mountaineer Appa Sherpa climbing. Appa, who goes by one name, broke his own world record May 16, 2007 by summitting Mount Everest, the world's highest peak, for a staggering seventeenth time. The mountaineers stayed at the summit of the 8,848-metre (29,198-foot) peak for around 15 minutes before beginning their descent, he said. Appa Sherpa is leading a team of seven "Super Sherpas" and one foreign climber who were scaling Everest to highlight the role of local mountain guides. (AFP) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:05 PM
Capitol/EMI: Blondie's Eat To The Beat Digitally Remastered for Deluxe CD/DVD Package : GlobalGiants.com
Companion Music Video Album Makes DVD Debut In Stores June 26, 2007.
HOLLYWOOD, Calif., May 15 -- Blondie's platinum-selling 1979 album, "Eat To The Beat" has been digitally remastered for a deluxe CD/DVD package to be released June 26 by Capitol/EMI. The collection presents for the first time on DVD the 12-track music video album the band created as a companion to the release, and the package includes liner notes by the album's producer, Mike Chapman. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 04:16 AM
Reader's Digest: 12-Year-Old Matthew Evans Wins Top Prize in National Word Power Challenge(SM) : GlobalGiants.com
New Mexico Whiz Kid has the Last Word in America's Premier Vocabulary Competition.
ORLANDO, Fla., May 15 -- Matthew Evans, a seventh-grader from Albuquerque, New Mexico, took the top prize today in the fifth annual Reader's Digest National Word Power Challenge, America's premier vocabulary competition. The 12-year-old student, who is home schooled, was crowned Word Power Champion by quizmaster Al Roker of NBC's Today Show, who hosted the National Championship at the Renaissance Orlando Resort at SeaWorld and Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida. A television special based on the national event airs on NBC stations this summer.
Hegira proved to be the magic word for Matthew, who chose the correct definition of the word - (a journey to a better place) - to win the national title and a $25,000 college scholarship from Reader's Digest. In contrast to a spelling bee that quizzes students on the spelling of words, the National Word Power Challenge tests students' understanding of what words mean. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 04:02 AM
May 15, 2007
Capitol/EMI to Release Entire Paul McCartney Solo Catalog Digitally for the First Time : GlobalGiants.com
HOLLYWOOD, Calif., May 15 -- EMI Music has retained Paul McCartney's solo catalog and is preparing a comprehensive re-launch, including new digital campaigns as well as physical re-releases. For the very first time, McCartney and Wings albums will be made available across all digital platforms. In the U.S., Capitol/EMI Music Catalog Marketing will oversee the physical and digital catalog initiatives.
Paul McCartney recently received the Album of the Year award at the Classical Brit Awards for his classical album 'Ecce Cor Meum.' |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 04:33 AM
May 14, 2007
EMI America Records to Release Steve Irwin's Final Documentary, Ocean's Deadliest, on DVD : GlobalGiants.com
Hosted by 'Crocodile Hunter' Steve Irwin and Philippe Cousteau.
HOLLYWOOD, Calif., May 14 -- On June 19, EMI America Records will release the late "Crocodile Hunter" Steve Irwin's final documentary, Ocean's Deadliest, on DVD. Steve Irwin is joined by explorer and adventurer Philippe Cousteau, grandson of the famous oceanographer Jacques Cousteau, as they explore the waters of the Great Barrier Reef, the northern Cape York Peninsular, and the Southern Ocean off South Australia. Cousteau, who was aboard Croc One with Irwin's crew when Irwin was killed by a stingray during an underwater shoot on September 6, 2006, narrates the 66-minute documentary.
For thousands of years, venomous snakes, saltwater crocodiles and giant sharks have patrolled the waters off of Australia. In Ocean's Deadliest, Irwin and Cousteau join many scientific experts who study these creatures as part of their vocation, learning the reason they have evolved with such dangerous defenses and how they fill an important role in the overall ecosystem that is vital to the ocean's survival.
Last September, the international community mourned the loss of animal expert and conservationist Steve Irwin. The world was stunned and the outpouring of condolences was immeasurable. Irwin's impact on conservation efforts worldwide will resonate for years to come. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:50 PM
23.55 km 'Viaduc' Race between Paris and Millau : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Competitors run across the Millau Viaduct during the "Viaduc" race of 23.55 km (14.54 miles) from Millau and back, southern France May 13, 2007. The Millau Viaduct is composed of seven slender soaring pillars and is the highest bridge in the world at 343 metres, creating a direct route between Paris and the Mediterranean coast. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:19 PM
May 11, 2007
Wembley Stadium: England Honors Bobby Moore with Statue in Wembley : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Detail of the Bobby Moore statue at Wembley Stadium on May 11, 2007 in Wembley, England. Artist Philip Jackson created the sculpture of the former England and West Ham captain. The statue of the 1966 world cup hero will be positioned to look down Olympic way, standing six metres in height and weighing approximately two tons. (Photo by Jamie McDonald/Getty Images) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 11:09 AM
May 10, 2007
San Francisco Ballet at 75 : GlobalGiants.com
America's Oldest Professional Ballet Company Celebrates Anniversary in 2008.
Photo: Yuan Yuan Tan and Damian Smith in a pas de deux from Wheeldon's After the Rain. (San Francisco Ballet, Erik Tomasson)
SAN FRANCISCO, May 10 -- San Francisco Ballet, America's oldest professional ballet company, announced plans for its 75th anniversary in 2008. Highlights include a festival of 10 world premieres by some of the world's top choreographers, appearances by three international ballet companies, a world premiere by San Francisco Ballet Artistic Director Helgi Tomasson and the Company premiere of Jerome Robbins' West Side Story Suite. Other major initiatives include a national telecast, a commemorative book/DVD and a four-city American Tour. The San Francisco Ballet School also celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2008. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:43 PM
Volkswagen to Compete in 39th Annual Tecate SCORE Baja 500 : GlobalGiants.com
Diesel powered Race Touareg 2's head to Mexico with American Mark Miller and South African Giniel de Villiers.
Photo: 2007 Dakar Rally Mark Miller/Ralph Pitchford (USA/RSA), Volkswagen Race Touareg 2. (Volkswagen of America, Inc.)
AUBURN HILLS, Mich., May 10 -- Volkswagen of America, Inc. has officially entered two Volkswagen Motorsport Dakar Rally vehicles in this year's running of the Tecate SCORE Baja 500, June 1-3, 2007. This will be the first race for the Race Touareg 2 vehicles in North America, and also marks the first ever Volkswagen factory racing entry in the legendary SCORE desert series racing. The Volkswagen team will feature an international cast of Volkswagen works drivers ready to tackle the challenging terrain of the Baja peninsula. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:25 PM
May 09, 2007
Sony Ericsson adds Light and Colour to its Global Range : GlobalGiants.com
London, UK – 8th May – Sony Ericsson announces two new phones that are borne out of their designers love for the materials and colours found in the natural world. The Sony Ericsson T650 fuses illumination effects with a stainless steel finish and scratch-proof mineral glass, whilst the S500, a slim slider phone, reveals desktop and menu themes that change over time.
Photo: Sony Ericsson T650.
The Sony Ericsson T650 is all about detail. The illumination effects on the keypad and the sides of the phone interact with animations on the screen. As these animations move across the display they set off waves of light around the keypad, which stand-out against the reflective stainless steel finish.
Photo: Sony Ericsson S500.
Effort has been made to bring design alive with the Sony Ericsson S500. The visuals on the desktop or phone menu can change automatically as the seasons pass or as day turns to night. Hidden illumination appears to highlight a certain event and the keypad glows with energy when the slim slider is opened.
Take shots with the 2.0 megapixel camera. Style with substance The S500 offers more than aesthetics. Add colour to your free time with a media player and expandable Memory Stick slot. So you choose what size of music library is right for you. You can even add a music accessory such as the Music Bluetooth™ Receiver MBR-100 and play your phone music direct through your home stereo. Play 3D games or access the Web browser for easy surfing on the move. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 07:15 AM
Nokia N77 : GlobalGiants.com
The Nokia N77 is an easy to use and stylishly mobile TV device. Features include a wide 2.4" screen with up to 16 million colors, high quality stereo sound, alerts when programs are starting, and a guide to view program information for up to seven days, browse TV channels, and purchase new channels. With Nokia Nseries products, consumers can use a single device to enjoy entertainment, access information and to capture and share pictures and videos, on the go at any time. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 07:05 AM
April 29, 2007
NEWSWEEK COVER MAY 7, 2007 : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: In the May 7 issue of Newsweek (on newsstands Monday, April 30): "God & War: How Chaplains and Soldiers Keep the Faith Under Fire." Newsweek talks to military chaplains and soldiers about the effect of serving in war on their spiritual foundation and their faith in general. Plus: the history of military chaplains; presidents, war and God; Barack Obama's quest for substance; al-Sadr's army splits into factions; Queen Elizabeth II's power; and pointers for a video resume. (NEWSWEEK) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:59 PM
EMI Music Signs Worldwide Catalog Partnership With Amy Grant : GlobalGiants.com
EMI CMG Label Group and EMI Music Catalog Marketing Team to Re-Release Grant's 30-year Catalog, Including New Catalog Titles.
Photo: EMI Music Signs Worldwide Catalog Partnership with Amy Grant: Global, long-term deal includes Grant's extensive 30 year catalog of recordings, which has sold more than 30 million units, as well as new catalog products.
EMI CMG Label Group's Sparrow label have signed a world-wide, long term deal with Amy Grant, which will include Grant's extensive 30 year catalog of recordings, which has sold more than 30 million units, as well as new catalog products. EMI will also have the option of working with Grant to issue new recordings in the future.
Initially, 17 titles of Amy Grant's catalog will be re-mastered and re-released in both physical and all digital formats on August 14th. EMI CMG Label Group and EMI Music Catalog Marketing will also partner with Grant to create a new Greatest Hits package with bonus material spanning her entire career scheduled for October release.
Amy Grant has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide, won six Grammy Awards and 21 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards. She is well known as the pioneering Christian singer whose success on mainstream radio opened doors for other Christian artists.
EMI Christian Music Group: Established in 1994, EMI CMG is the world's largest Christian music organization and includes EMI CMG Distribution and EMI CMG Publishing in addition to EMI CMG Label Group and EMI Gospel. It is part of EMI Music North America which is a part of EMI Group. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 03:16 AM
Rachael Ray Makes Sure the Prom Goes on After Tornado Destroys School : GlobalGiants.com
The Daytime TV Host Along With Actress and Musician Mandy Moore Help Create a Night to Remember for Enterprise High School Seniors.
Photo: Rachael Ray stands amidst the rubble after a deadly tornado destroyed Enterprise High School in Alabama killing eight students. An entire hour show dedicated to the students of Enterprise High School airs on "Rachael Ray" Monday April 30.
Syndicated daytime host Rachael Ray teamed up with school and government officials in Enterprise, Alabama to create a memorable prom for Enterprise High School students who last month suffered the loss of several classmates and the destruction of their school when a powerful tornado struck on March 1st, 2007. The efforts resulted in a poignant day filled with student-focused events and culminated with the prom later that evening. An entire show dedicated to the strength and courage of the residents of Enterprise, AL will air on "Rachael Ray" (check local listings) Monday April 30th with a second follow-up show on Tuesday May 8th. The entire show was shot on location over the course of two weeks.
The Rachael Ray team also coordinated generous contributions that made this event possible from major companies, including Delta Airlines, JCPenney, Sara Lee, Outback Steakhouse, 1-800-Flowers, Michaels Arts & Crafts Store, Home Depot, Meyer, Furi, Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Presto Frames, RSC Equipment Rental, Concrete Design and fashion brand Torrid.
RACHAEL RAY is produced by CBS Television Distribution in association with Harpo Productions, Scripps Networks and Watch Entertainment, and distributed by CBS Television Distribution. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 03:09 AM
April 26, 2007
Bentley/TIME Leadership Forum, April 25, 2007 : GlobalGiants.com
'We're Turning to a Time of Hope ... and Moving to a Time of Action'
WALTHAM, Mass., April 26 -- "We are in a time when great frustration is turning into a time of hope and we are also moving to a time of action," said keynote speaker Jeffrey D. Sachs, director of the Earth Institute at Columbia University, speaking at the standing-room-only Bentley College 2007 Leadership Forum, the third in an annual collaboration with TIME Magazine in Waltham, Massachusetts.
At one point, directing his remarks to the Tomorrow25 -- a group of high school students honored at the Forum as "leaders of tomorrow," Sachs said, "You're the ones who will have to fulfill some very deep hopes -- the hope to build a world without poverty, without hunger and without disease."
This year's Leadership Forum theme was, The Business of Healing our World. "We desperately want a world at peace," said Sachs, a world that is not lived with an "us versus them" mentality -- and "a world with a safe and sustainable environment."
Bentley is a national leader in business education located minutes from Boston. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:42 PM
AFC Champions League Action : GlobalGiants.com
Fans from Japan's Urawa Reds football team, shout support for their team against China's Shanghai Shenhua team during their Group E match of the AFC Champions league in Shanghai 25 April 2007. Chinese Super League side Shanghai Shenhua slumped out of the AFC Champions League after a dour goalless draw against Japan's 10-man Urawa Red Diamonds. (MARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 04:13 AM
April 25, 2007
America's Cup Underway in Spain : GlobalGiants.com
America's Cup challenger BMW Oracle Racing sails to win their Round Robin 1 Flight 1 race against United Internet Team Germany at the Louis Vuitton Cup in Valencia April 20, 2007. After four straight days of races being suspended due to lack of wind, the first race got underway on Friday. (Reuters) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 07:17 AM
April 24, 2007
Dr Pepper and Epic Recording Artist Cartel to Make Rock History : GlobalGiants.com
With Band in a Bubble Live Event and MTV Music Special.
Cartel Will Be Sealed in a See-Through Bubble in New York City for Almost a Month to Record Their Next Album.
Photo: Epic's explosive five-member band Cartel is the band in Dr Pepper Band in a Bubble this summer in New York City from May 24 through June 12. From left to right, the members of Cartel are Joseph Pepper - guitar; Kevin Sanders - drums; Will Pugh - vocals, guitar, piano, programming; Nic Hudson - guitar and Jeff Lett - bass. (Cadbury Schweppes Americas Beverages) |GlobalGiants.com|
Dr Pepper, MTV, and Epic recording artist Cartel are giving music fans more of what they want this summer ... a first-time, real-time look into the making of the band's newest album during Dr Pepper Band in a Bubble. In what is sure to be the most talked-about music event of the year, Cartel will be sealed inside a huge transparent bubble on Hudson River Park's Pier 54 in New York City from May 24 through June 12, and every move they make will be live for the world to see as they eat, breathe, sleep and record the follow-up to their breakthrough debut album, CHROMA. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 09:07 AM | Comments (0)
April 23, 2007
LG Mobile Phones Crowns Morgan Pozgar the LG National Texting Champion : GlobalGiants.com
First National Text Messaging Competition Concludes With a Fast and Furious Thumb Race in New York City.
Photo: LG Mobile Phones Crowns Morgan Pozgar the LG National Texting Champion.
SAN DIEGO, April 23 -- For the past month, LG Electronics MobileComm U.S.A., Inc. (LG Mobile Phones) focused on finding the fastest thumbs in the U.S. This exhilarating task lead them from the sunny skies of Hollywood to the skyscrapers of New York, where they concluded the first national text messaging competition, the LG National Texting Championship, on Saturday at the Roseland Ballroom in New York City. Although over 300 competitors thought their thumbs could out-text the best, 13-year-old Morgan Pozgar prevailed as the LG National Texting Champion. The Claysburg, Pennsylvania resident had an impressive text message speed of 42 seconds for a 151 character phrase, which earned her the title of LG National Texting Champion and $25,000 cash.
During this exciting afternoon of thumb exercises and speed-texting, these often overlooked appendages captured the spotlight as contestants battled each other for over $40,000 in cash and prizes. Contestants had the chance to test their texting capabilities based on speed and accuracy by battling it out on their QWERTY keypad mobile devices for money, fame and the LG National Texting Championship crown.
"I am so shocked right now. I send over 4,000 texts every month and can't believe that I actually won the whole competition," said Pozgar. "Now I want to go shopping."
Pozgar's winning phrase was, "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocios! Even though the sound of it is something quite atrocious. If you say it loud enough you'll always sound precocious."
Pozgar came to New York City with her mother Shannon and 15-year-old brother Kyle, who won a 50" plasma LG television in a consolation round. The family had never been to New York City and Shannon was shocked about how well both of her children did in the competition. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:58 PM | Comments (0)
Biography of Hillary Clinton by Carl Bernstein to be Published by Hutchinson This June : GlobalGiants.com
A WOMAN IN CHARGE: The Life of Hillary Rodham Clinton, written by award-winning journalist and best-selling author Carl Bernstein, will be published in June, it was announced today by Sonny Mehta, Chairman and Editor in Chief of the Knopf Publishing Group, US publisher of A WOMAN IN CHARGE. The book, a biography of Senator Clinton that covers her life up through her decision to run for president, will go on sale nationwide on June 19.
Bernstein, who shared a Pulitzer Prize with Bob Woodward for their reporting on Watergate for The Washington Post, has spent the last eight years working on this book. He interviewed more than two hundred people, including friends, colleagues, and adversaries of Hillary's, both on and off the record. The result is a nuanced and thorough look at her life to date.
Bernstein's reporting in A WOMAN IN CHARGE reveals Senator Clinton's complex relationship with her disciplinarian father, examines the early development of her deep religious feelings, and looks at her time at Wellesley and Yale Law School, where her political ideals took shape. It also looks at her courtship with Bill Clinton and the amazing dynamic of their marriage, during the most trying of circumstances and times; it shows the extent to which she was instrumental in the triumphs and troubles of her husband's governorship and presidency; and it untangles her relationship to Whitewater, Troopergate, and Travelgate. Finally, it details her successful run for Senate and remarkable rise to a dominant role in the Democratic party, and it sheds light on her own political brilliance and blind spots.
A WOMAN IN CHARGE will be published in the UK by Hutchinson, an imprint of the Random House Group. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:31 PM | Comments (0)
April 22, 2007
NINTENDO POKEMON : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Jack Smith, of Maplewood, NJ, arrived 18 hours early to be first in line to purchase Pokemon Diamond and Pokemon Pearl video games at Nintendo World store today in New York. Fans lined up to be among the first people in the United States to buy the latest Nintendo DS video games, which have already sold millions in Japan. (Nintendo, Diane Bondareff) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:53 PM | Comments (0)
April 20, 2007
Artists From All Over the World Share Their Interpretations of Love : GlobalGiants.com
Nordstrom Exhibit Celebrates Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.
Photo: Aki Sogabe, Grandpa, 2007. |GlobalGiants.com|
SEATTLE -- During the month of May, Nordstrom is bringing together the work of artists from all over the globe. From communities spanning Seattle to Tokyo and Santa Fe to San Diego, and with backgrounds as diverse as graphic design and ancient paper cutting, these artists are coming together with one common goal: to celebrate diversity and marry their art under the theme of love.
In celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, Nordstrom has selected a talented group of 17 Asian American artists to share their interpretations of love in an exhibit called Love Now. The exhibit will be displayed in select Nordstrom stores and online at Nordstrom.com throughout the month of May.
The Love Now exhibit celebrates both accomplished and up-and-coming Asian- American artists. Their award-winning art has appeared in magazines, books, board games, galleries and ad campaigns, and their biographies are as diverse as their techniques and media.
Nordstrom, Inc. is one of the leading fashion specialty retailers, with 155 U.S. stores located in 27 states. Nordstrom also operates 36 Faconnable boutiques in Europe. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 03:06 AM | Comments (0)
April 17, 2007
MEN'S VOGUE: ROGER FEDERER : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: ROGER FEDERER ON MAY/JUNE COVER OF MEN'S VOGUE. (Men's Vogue) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 06:47 AM | Comments (0)
COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY: 91st Annual Pulitzer Prizes in Journalism, Letters, Drama and Music : GlobalGiants.com
NEW YORK, April 17 -- The 91st annual Pulitzer Prizes in Journalism, Letters, Drama and Music, awarded on the recommendation of the Pulitzer Prize Board, were announced yesterday by Columbia University.
Founded in 1754 as King's College, Columbia University in the City of New York is the fifth oldest institution of higher learning in the United States and today is one of the world's leading academic and research institutions. |GlobalGiants.com|
The winners in each category, along with the names of the finalists in the competition, follow:
A. PRIZES IN JOURNALISM
1. PUBLIC SERVICE
For a distinguished example of meritorious public service by a newspaper through the use of its journalistic resources which, as well as reporting, may include editorials, cartoons, photographs, graphics and online material, a gold medal.
Awarded to The Wall Street Journal for its creative and comprehensive probe into backdated stock options for business executives that triggered investigations, the ouster of top officials and widespread change in corporate America.
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: The Birmingham (Ala.) News for the work of Brett Blackledge that exposed cronyism and corruption in the state's two-year college system, resulting in the dismissal of the chancellor and other corrective action (Moved by the Board to the Investigative Reporting category), and The Washington Post for its extensive examination of waste and abuse in the nation's farm subsidy system, prodding Congress to address the need for fundamental reform.
2. BREAKING NEWS REPORTING
For a distinguished example of local reporting of breaking news, presented in print or online or both, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to the Staff of The Oregonian, Portland, for its skillful and tenacious coverage of a family missing in the Oregon mountains, telling the tragic story both in print and online.
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: The Staff of The Courier-Journal, Louisville, Ky., for its clear and authoritative reporting on the crash of a Comair commuter jet that killed 49 people, and The Denver Post Staff for its compelling and notably human coverage of back-to-back blizzards that trapped travelers and paralyzed the region.
3. INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING
For a distinguished example of investigative reporting by an individual or team, presented as a single article or series, in print or in print and online, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to Brett Blackledge of The Birmingham (Ala.) News for his exposure of cronyism and corruption in the state's two-year college system, resulting in the dismissal of the chancellor and other corrective action. (Moved by the Board from the Public Service category.)
Nominated as finalists in this category were: Ken Armstrong, Justin Mayo and Steve Miletich of The Seattle Times for their series that exposed how the improper sealing of hundreds of lawsuits hid information vital to public safety, and resulted in remedial judicial steps; Michael J. Berens, Julia Sommerfeld and Carol Ostrom of The Seattle Times for their probe of sexual misconduct by health-care professionals that included creation of an extensive online database of offenders and caused a tightening of state regulation; and Lisa Chedekel and Matthew Kauffman of The Hartford Courant for their in-depth reports on suicide among American soldiers in Iraq, leading to congressional and military action to address mental health problems raised in the stories.
4. EXPLANATORY REPORTING
For a distinguished example of explanatory reporting that illuminates a significant and complex subject, demonstrating mastery of the subject, lucid writing and clear presentation, in print or in print and online, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to Kenneth R. Weiss, Usha Lee McFarling and Rick Loomis of the Los Angeles Times for their richly portrayed reports on the world's distressed oceans, telling the story in print and online, and stirring reaction among readers and officials.
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: Joanne Kimberlin and Bill Sizemore of The Virginian-Pilot, Norfolk, for their provocative examination of the United States' increasing reliance on private military personnel, and The New York Times Staff for its multi-faceted explanation of the growing menace of diabetes, especially among the poor and vulnerable, that elicited a range of public and private responses.
5. LOCAL REPORTING
For a distinguished example of local reporting that illuminates significant issues or concerns, in print or in print and online, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to Debbie Cenziper of The Miami Herald for reports on waste, favoritism and lack of oversight at the Miami housing agency that resulted in dismissals, investigations and prosecutions.
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: The Boston Globe Staff for its well documented exposure, in print and online, of unscrupulous debt collectors, causing two firms to close and prompting action by state officials, and Fred Schulte and June Arney of The Baltimore Sun for their reports, in print and online, about abuses under an archaic state law that threatened to turn hundreds out of their homes.
6. NATIONAL REPORTING
For a distinguished example of reporting on national affairs, in print or in print and online, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to Charlie Savage of The Boston Globe for his revelations that President Bush often used "signing statements" to assert his controversial right to bypass provisions of new laws.
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: Maurice Possley and Steve Mills of the Chicago Tribune for their investigation of a 1989 execution in Texas that strongly suggests an innocent man was killed by lethal injection, and Les Zaitz, Jeff Kosseff and Bryan Denson of The Oregonian, Portland, for their disclosure of mismanagement and other abuses in federally- subsidized programs for disabled workers, stirring congressional action.
7. INTERNATIONAL REPORTING
For a distinguished example of reporting on international affairs, in print or in print and online, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to The Wall Street Journal Staff for its sharply edged reports on the adverse impact of China's booming capitalism on conditions ranging from inequality to pollution.
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: The Los Angeles Times Staff for its courageous chronicling of Iraq's descent into what the newspaper labeled "civil war," and Anthony Shadid of The Washington Post for his vivid and insightful coverage of conflict in Lebanon that wove together frontline dispatches, personal history and analysis.
8. FEATURE WRITING
For a distinguished example of feature writing giving prime consideration to quality of writing, originality and concision, in print or in print and online, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to Andrea Elliott of The New York Times for her intimate, richly textured portrait of an immigrant imam striving to find his way and serve his faithful in America.
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: Christopher Goffard of the St. Petersburg Times for his fresh and compelling stories about a young public defender and his daily challenges, and Inara Verzemnieks of The Oregonian, Portland, for her witty and perceptive portfolio of features on an array of everyday topics.
9. COMMENTARY
For distinguished commentary, in print or in print and online, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to Cynthia Tucker of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution for her courageous, clear-headed columns that evince a strong sense of morality and persuasive knowledge of the community.
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: Ruth Marcus of The Washington Post for her intelligent and incisive commentary on a range of subjects, using a voice that can be serious or playful, and Joe Nocera of The New York Times for his piercing, authoritative columns on business, often spotlighting misdeeds and flaws in corporate culture.
10. CRITICISM
For distinguished criticism, in print or in print and online, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to Jonathan Gold of LA Weekly for his zestful, wide ranging restaurant reviews, expressing the delight of an erudite eater.
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: Christopher Knight of the Los Angeles Times for his pieces on art that reflect meticulous reporting, aesthetic judgment and authoritative voice, and Mark Swed of the Los Angeles Times for his passionate music criticism, marked by resonant writing and an ability to give life to the people behind a performance.
11. EDITORIAL WRITING
For distinguished editorial writing, the test of excellence being clearness of style, moral purpose, sound reasoning, and power to influence public opinion in what the writer conceives to be the right direction, in print or in print and online, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to the Editorial Board of the New York Daily News for its compassionate and compelling editorials on behalf of Ground Zero workers whose health problems were neglected by the city and the nation.
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: Jane Healy of The Orlando Sentinel for her persuasive heavily reported editorials on development projects that imperiled Florida's wetlands and wildlife, and Sebastian Mallaby of The Washington Post for his eloquent, rigorously researched editorials on rising inequality in America.
12. EDITORIAL CARTOONING
For a distinguished cartoon or portfolio of cartoons published during the year, characterized by originality, editorial effectiveness, quality of drawing and pictorial effect, in print or in print and online, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to Walt Handelsman of Newsday, Long Island, N.Y., for his stark, sophisticated cartoons and his impressive use of zany animation.
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: Nick Anderson of The Houston Chronicle for his pungent cartoons on an array of issues, and for his bold use of animation, and Mike Thompson of the Detroit Free Press for his compelling cartoons that rely on rich detail and deft caricature to make their point and for using animation to widen his impact.
13. BREAKING NEWS PHOTOGRAPHY
For a distinguished example of breaking news photography in black and white or color, which may consist of a photograph or photographs, a sequence or an album, in print or online or both, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to Oded Balilty of The Associated Press for his powerful photograph of a lone Jewish woman defying Israeli security forces as they remove illegal settlers in the West Bank.
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: The Associated Press Staff for its breathtaking images of brutal warfare between Israel and Hezbollah, and Michael Bryant of The Philadelphia Inquirer for his poignant photographs of the devastating injury to Barbaro, the famed racehorse.
14. FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHY
For a distinguished example of feature photography in black and white or color, which may consist of a photograph or photographs, a sequence or an album, in print or in print and online, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to Renee C. Byer of The Sacramento Bee for her intimate portrayal of a single mother and her young son as he loses his battle with cancer.
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: Mary F. Calvert of The Washington Times for her haunting depiction of sub-Sahara African women afflicted with fistula after childbirth, and Gary Coronado of The Palm Beach Post for his vivid images of Central Americans who, desperate to enter America illegally, risk their lives leaping on Mexican freight trains rumbling northward.
B. LETTERS AND DRAMA PRIZES
1. FICTION
For distinguished fiction by an American author, preferably dealing with American life, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to "The Road" by Cormac McCarthy (Alfred A. Knopf).
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: "After This" by Alice McDermott (Farrar, Straus and Giroux), and "The Echo Maker" by Richard Powers (Farrar, Straus and Giroux).
2. DRAMA
For a distinguished play by an American author, preferably original in its source and dealing with American life, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to "Rabbit Hole" by David Lindsay-Abaire
Nominated as finalists in this category were: "Orpheus X" by Rinde Eckert, "Bulrusher" by Eisa Davis, and "Elliot, a Soldier's Fugue" by Quiara Alegria Hudes.
3. HISTORY
For a distinguished book upon the history of the United States, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to "The Race Beat: The Press, the Civil Rights Struggle, and the Awakening of a Nation" by Gene Roberts and Hank Klibanoff (Alfred A. Knopf).
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: "Middle Passages: African American Journeys to Africa, 1787-2005" by James T. Campbell (The Penguin Press), and "Mayflower: A Story of Courage, Community, and War" by Nathaniel Philbrick (Viking).
4. BIOGRAPHY
For a distinguished biography or autobiography by an American author, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to "The Most Famous Man in America: The Biography of Henry Ward Beecher" by Debby Applegate (Doubleday).
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: "John Wilkes: The Scandalous Father of Civil Liberty" by Arthur H. Cash (Yale University Press), and "Andrew Carnegie" by David Nasaw (The Penguin Press).
5. POETRY
For a distinguished volume of original verse by an American author, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to "Native Guard" by Natasha Trethewey (Houghton Mifflin).
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: "The Republic of Poetry" by Martin Espada (W.W. Norton), and "Interrogation Palace: New & Selected Poems 1982-2004" by David Wojahn (University of Pittsburgh Press).
6. GENERAL NONFICTION
For a distinguished book of nonfiction by an American author that is not eligible for consideration in any other category, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to "The Looming Tower: Al-Qaeda and the Road to 9/11" by Lawrence Wright (Alfred A. Knopf).
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: "Crazy: A Father's Search Through America's Mental Health Madness" by Pete Earley (G.P. Putnam's Sons), and "Fiasco: The American Military Adventure in Iraq" by Thomas E. Ricks (The Penguin Press).
C. PRIZE IN MUSIC
For distinguished musical composition by an American that has had its first performance or recording in the United States during the year, Ten thousand dollars ($10,000).
Awarded to "Sound Grammar" by Ornette Coleman, recording released September 12, 2006.
Also nominated as finalists in this category were: "Grendel" by Elliot Goldenthal, premiered June 8, 2006 by the Los Angeles Opera at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, libretto by Julie Taymor and J.D. McClatchy, and "Astral Canticle" by Augusta Read Thomas, premiered June 1, 2006 by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (G. Schirmer, Inc.).
SPECIAL CITATIONS
A Special Citation to Ray Bradbury for his distinguished, prolific and deeply influential career as an unmatched author of science fiction and fantasy.
and
Posthumous Special Citation to composer John Coltrane for his masterful improvisation, supreme musicianship and iconic centrality to the history of jazz.
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
The 1980 Pulitzer Prize for Spot News Photography to Jahangir Razmi, an Iranian photographer, for his picture of a firing squad in Iran. (The picture was published anonymously around the world in 1979 but the identity of the photographer was unknown until revealed in December, 2006.)
The Pulitzer Prize Board made its recommendations for the 2007 prizes when it met at Columbia on April 12 and 13 and passed them to President Lee C. Bollinger. It announced that the awards would be presented at a luncheon on May 21 at Columbia University.
Thomas L. Friedman, Anders Gyllenhaal and Gregory L. Moore were re-elected to membership on the board.
The members of the Pulitzer Prize Board are:
President Bollinger; Danielle Allen, professor, Department of Classics and Political Science and the Committee on Social Thought, University of Chicago; Jim Amoss, editor, The New Orleans Times-Picayune; Amanda Bennett, executive editor/enterprise, Bloomberg News; Joann Byrd, former editor of the editorial page, Seattle Post- Intelligencer; Kathleen Carroll, senior vice president and executive editor, Associated Press; Thomas L. Friedman, columnist, The New York Times; Donald E. Graham, chairman, The Washington Post; Anders Gyllenhaal, executive editor, The Miami Herald; Jay T. Harris, director, The Center for the Study of Journalism and Democracy, University of Southern California; David M. Kennedy, Donald J. McLachlan professor of history, Stanford University; Nicholas Lemann, dean, Graduate School of Journalism, Columbia University; Ann Marie Lipinski, senior vice president and editor, Chicago Tribune; Gregory L. Moore, editor, The Denver Post; Richard Oppel, editor, Austin American-Statesman; Michael Pride, editor, Concord (N.H.) Monitor; Paul Steiger, managing editor, The Wall Street Journal (chair); Paul Tash, editor, CEO and chairman, St. Petersburg Times; and Sig Gissler, administrator of the Prizes. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 03:12 AM | Comments (0)
April 16, 2007
Van Morrison's The Best of Van Morrison, Volume 3 to Be Released June 19 by Manhattan/EMI : GlobalGiants.com
2-CD Collection Features 31 Tracks, Including Previously Unreleased Collaborations With Tom Jones and Bobby Bland.
HOLLYWOOD, Calif., April 16 -- Manhattan/EMI Music Catalog Marketing will release The Best of Van Morrison, Volume 3 on June 19. The new 2-CD collection, compiled by Morrison himself, offers a comprehensive overview of his later material. The set's 31 tracks include previously unreleased collaborations with Tom Jones and Bobby Bland, as well as duets with John Lee Hooker, B.B. King and Ray Charles. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:07 PM | Comments (0)
111th Running of the Boston Marathon: April 16th : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: The 111th running of the Boston Marathon is taking place today April 16. (Reuters Images) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 07:57 AM | Comments (0)
April 13, 2007
SILVER DOLLAR CITY -- THE GIANT SWING : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Mid-America's most acclaimed theme park Silver Dollar City debuts its newest thrill ride The Giant Swing, a $6 million ride that launches riders more than seven stories in the air -- and nearly upside down -- at roller- coaster speeds. The Giant Swing, opening at the 1880s-style theme park near Branson, Mo., is the first ride of its kind to be highly themed. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:38 PM | Comments (0)
April 12, 2007
The New York Times Adds to Its Delivery Fleet the First Medium-duty Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Dodge Sprinter plug-in hybrid for The New York Times delivery fleet. (Photo Credit: DaimlerChrysler) |GlobalGiants.com|
The New York Times has been selected to receive the first medium-duty plug-in hybrid vehicle on the East Coast of the United States, and the first of its kind in New York State, as part of a commercial fleet performance demonstration and technology evaluation process.
The van, a Dodge Sprinter plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), will be housed at The New York Times printing plant in College Point, Queens. It will be used to transport New York Times newspapers to The Times’s headquarters in midtown Manhattan, as well as to different locations in the New York City area. It will also travel to The Times’s plant in Edison, N.J.
The Dodge Sprinter plug-in hybrid was made available to The Times by a partnership between DaimlerChrysler, the New York Power Authority (NYPA), Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) and Con Edison. The partnership was created to test and evaluate plug-in hybrid technology in real world driving environments. DaimlerChrysler is the only automaker to test plug-in hybrid technology with customers within the United States. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:27 PM | Comments (0)
New SeaWorld Web Site to Feature Photographs and Reflections From Park Guests Past and Present: GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Baby Shamu performs at SeaWorld during a recent performance of "Believe." The photograph was submitted for SeaWorld's Web site redesign by park guests Steven Joshua Koontz and Daniella Koontz. (Busch Entertainment Corporation) |GlobalGiants.com|
ST. LOUIS -- SeaWorld is launching a new Web site and it needs your help. The Orlando, Fla., San Diego, Calif., and San Antonio, Texas marine life adventure parks have issued a call for photographs and reflections from park visitors that will form the backbone of the parks' new Web site.
According to Joseph A. Couceiro, Corporate Marketing Vice-President for SeaWorld's parent company, Busch Entertainment Corp., the strategy is intended to create a true interactive online experience for fans of SeaWorld and to engage them before and after their visit.
Photo: SeaWorld guest Daniella Koontz watches bottlenose dolphins with her daughter Lillian Ava in a photograph taken by Steven Joshua Koontz, the first guest photo accepted by SeaWorld as part of a Web site design that will feature photos and accounts from its guests. (Busch Entertainment Corporation) |GlobalGiants.com|
"By our reckoning something approaching a billion photographs have been taken by SeaWorld guests," he said, noting that the estimate excludes the thousands of cameras and SeaWorld photographs ruined in the infamous 'Splash Zone' at Shamu Stadium. "The history of these parks is in shoeboxes across America and around the world. There are remarkable photos of families enjoying SeaWorld in those boxes and we want them."
In addition to SeaWorld, Busch Entertainment Corporation operates Busch Gardens parks in Tampa, Fla. and Williamsburg, Va.; Discovery Cove in Orlando; Sesame Place in Langhorne, Pa. near Philadelphia; Adventure Island in Tampa; Water Country USA in Williamsburg. Aquatica, SeaWorld's water park, is under construction in Orlando and is scheduled to open next spring. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:25 AM | Comments (0)
April 11, 2007
Joshua Bell Awarded Avery Fisher Prize : GlobalGiants.com
Sony BMG Masterworks Releases the Essential Joshua Bell.
Photo: Violinist Joshua Bell receives the 2007 Avery Fisher Prize from actress Glenn Close in a ceremony Tuesday, April 10, at the Stanley Kaplan Penthouse at New York's Lincoln Center. As the prizewinner, Bell receives a $75,000 honorarium, with his name added to the list of past winners on a marble plaque in the lobby of Avery Fisher Hall.
NEW YORK, April 11 -- Violin virtuoso Joshua Bell was presented the 2007 Avery Fisher Prize by actress Glenn Close at the Stanley Kaplan Penthouse at New York's Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts on April 10. Paying tribute to Bell, who received a $75,000 honorarium and his name added to the list of past winners on a marble plaque installed at Avery Fisher Hall, were Nathan Leventhal, Chairman of the Avery Fisher Artist Program, Frank A. Bennack Jr., Chairman of Lincoln Center, Charles Avery Fisher and Nancy Fisher.
Just days before on April 3rd, SONY BMG Masterworks released "The Essential Joshua Bell," a two-disc collection of excerpts from the violinist's greatest recordings, bringing a new dimension to the critically acclaimed, best-selling "Essential" series that celebrates the greatest names in recorded music. Bell himself assisted in choosing the repertoire for this release, featuring his favorite tracks, making it the definitive Joshua Bell collection.
Grammy(R) Award winner Joshua Bell has been captivating audiences worldwide for over two decades since coming to national attention at age 14 with his highly acclaimed orchestral debut with Riccardo Muti and the Philadelphia Orchestra. Named Billboard Magazine's "2004 Classical Artist of the Year" and a Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame inductee, Joshua joined Sony Classical, a SONY BMG Masterworks label in 1996. His latest recording, "Voice of the Violin," debuted at #1 on the Billboard Charts, and his recording of the "Red Violin Concerto" will be released September 4th.
The prestigious Avery Fisher Prize is awarded for outstanding achievement and excellence in music. The late Mr. Fisher's devotion to music and performers was immortalized with a gift to Lincoln Center in 1974, establishing the Avery Fisher Artist Program.
RCA Red Seal, Sony Classical, deutsche harmonia mundi, Masterworks Broadway and Masterworks Jazz are labels of Sony BMG Masterworks. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 11:41 PM | Comments (0)
Celebrities Start Their Engines for a New ABC Television Reality Series, 'Fast Cars & Superstars -- Gillette Young Guns Celebrity Race' : GlobalGiants.com
Celebrities Learn from Pro Stock Car Drivers and Compete for the Checkered Flag.
Photo: While taking a breather between practice laps, Jewel chats with driving instructor Corey LaCosta during the taping of the new reality show, "Fast Cars and Superstars -- Gillette Young Guns Celebrity Race." Jewel, along with eleven other celebrity drivers, including Serena Williams and William Shatner, will partner with the Gillette Young Guns, six of stock car racing's most talented and popular drivers, to learn what it takes to win on the race track.
BOSTON, April 11 -- Celebrities including Jewel, Tony Hawk, Serena Williams and William Shatner are dreaming of life in the fast lane, as they race to the finish in the new reality show, "Fast Cars & Superstars -- Gillette Young Guns Celebrity Race," a 7-episode series to air on ABC prime time beginning Thursday, June 7. Twelve celebrity drivers will partner with the Gillette Young Guns -- six of stock car racing's most talented and popular drivers -- to learn what it takes to win on the race track.
The show will explore the interaction of top young stock car drivers with stars from the world of sports, music and entertainment, featuring drama and competition on and off the race track. In each episode, viewers will watch celebrities train with a Gillette Young Guns driver. The show will culminate in a one-hour finale where the celebrities will be coached from the pits by their Gillette Young Guns instructors, and compete against each other during a time-trial race. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:18 PM | Comments (0)
April 10, 2007
Reader's Digest Picks 'America's 100 Best' : GlobalGiants.com
A Celebration of the Best People, Places and Pleasures.
PLEASANTVILLE, N.Y., April 10 -- Where can you find the Best High-Tech High School? What bakery offers the Best Frosting Fix? Who has this country's Best Poker Face? After searching America for the best people, places, ideas and innovations, the editors of Reader's Digest celebrate the wonderful, wacky and truly remarkable in the magazine's May issue, the fourth annual "America's 100 Best," on newsstands April 17.
After speaking to hundreds of experts and ordinary folk, the editors tested, tasted and debated everything from the Best Gotta-Have-It Brownie to the Best Lasting Logo to the Best Athlete's Feat (Stephon Marbury's Starbury One basketball shoes). The resulting list covers the Arts, Business & Finance, Health, Food, Science & Technology, Society & Culture, Sports & Fitness, Transportation, Travel and more.
Reader's Digest reaches about 80 million readers worldwide each month. Reader's Digest is published in 21 languages and 50 editions worldwide. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 10:44 AM | Comments (0)
April 09, 2007
MGM CAST MEMBERS : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Cast members of MGM's upcoming movie Stargate: Continuum last week shot scenes on location in the bone chilling temperatures of the Arctic. Pictured (top left to right): Executive Producer John Smith, Director Martin Wood Pictured (bottom left to right): Stargate SG-1 Actors Richard Dean Anderson (General Jack O'Neill), Amanda Tapping (Lt. Col. Samantha Carter) and Ben Browder (Lt. Colonel Cameron Mitchell). |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:39 PM | Comments (0)
April 08, 2007
Ferrari's 60th Anniversary: New York Yankees Welcome Ferrari 60 Relay : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Ferrari's 60th anniversary celebrations continue as New York Yankees players Johnny Damon (left) and Bobby Abreu welcome Ferrari's newest model, the 599 GTB Fiorano, into Yankee Stadium. The Yankee teammates were presented with the Ferrari 60 Relay baton, which is being passed from country-to-country during a global relay event taking place on five continents and including more than 10,000 Ferrari owners and their cars.
NEW YORK, April 8 -- The celebrations for the 60th Anniversary of Ferrari continued yesterday as New York Yankees Manager Joe Torre welcomed Ferrari's latest model, the 599 GTB Fiorano, into Yankee Stadium. Torre was presented with the Ferrari 60 Relay baton which is being passed from country-to-country at events which are taking place on five continents around the globe this year.
The relay involves over 10,000 Ferrari owners and their cars of all ages. They act as symbolic "bearers" of a specially commissioned relay baton adorned with 60 badges symbolizing the most extraordinary events in the Marque's 60- year history.
The 599 GTB Fiorano which drove into Yankee Stadium was number 1492 in the Relay, symbolizing a link to the year in which the Americas were discovered.
The relay started in Abu Dhabi and made its way across the Middle East to Asia, Australia and Africa before arriving in the Americas, where events were held in Miami, Sao Paolo, Mexico City, San Francisco, Silicon Valley, Los Angeles, Toronto and Montreal. The relay will move next to all main European countries before arriving at the Ferrari factory in Maranello, Italy on June 23rd. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:07 AM | Comments (0)
April 07, 2007
Spotlight Live: Eat. Drink. Be Famous. : GlobalGiants.com
NYC's New Live Performance Venue Serves Up 'Fifteen Minutes of Fame'.
Photo: Natasha Bedingfield performs her hit song "Unwritten" at the opening party for Spotlight Live, a first-of-its-kind restaurant and live performance venue in Times Square.
NEW YORK -- Introducing Spotlight Live, an interactive dining and live performance venue in Times Square where guests walk in for dinner and walk out a star. Everyone wants their fifteen minutes of fame; Spotlight Live gives revelers the opportunity to perform in front of a live audience, backed by professional singers, as well as cut a track in a private recording booth. A JumboTron outside the restaurant broadcasts the performances in real time for those passing by in Times Square, and live and recorded performances stream online and air on demand TV to a worldwide audience.
Occupying 23,000 sq ft in the heart of New York City, the state-of-the-art venue features four floors of groundbreaking technology, developed exclusively for Spotlight Live. Guests get their shot in the spotlight, performing on one of the venue's two stages or cutting an album in a private recording booth. A behind-the-scenes green room helps guests prep for their performance, offering backstage advice from choreographers as well as professional hair and makeup artists. For those interested in keeping their performances private, Spotlight Live features a private party space for 100 guests.
Performers have a unique opportunity to take their star turn on television, thanks to an exclusive deal with Comcast, which will air performances on their video on demand service and broadcast select singers in real-time on the JumboTron outside the Times Square restaurant.
When guests enter, their photos are uploaded onto the interactive system, offering access to all guest profiles and enabling everyone to communicate with each other through the system's instant messaging service. Using the tableside touch-screen, guests will scroll through Spotlight Live's extensive song inventory and vote and post comments on performances. Large screen TVs will display voting results throughout the performances and also feature comments from viewers both at the venue and on the internet. Spotlight Live is located at 1604 Broadway in New York City. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 05:30 AM | Comments (0)
April 04, 2007
AIPAD Photography Show 07 : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Horst P. Horst, Lisa Fonssagrives' hands. New York, 1941; Courtesy Art + Commerce.
A focus of this spring's NYC art scene will be the 27th annual PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW 07, sponsored by AIPAD, The Association of International Photography Art Dealers.
THE PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW 07 will be open to the public APRIL 12-15, 2007, and held at the Park Avenue Armory at Park Avenue and 67th Street in New York City. Attendees of this exposition of fine art photography will have the chance to view works from more than 90 fine art photography exhibitors from around the world, including both contemporary and vintage works. THE PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW 07 is one of the most prominent photography events of the year. Curators and directors of major museums, discriminating collectors, and those new to collecting fine art photography, will have the opportunity to view the finest photographs drawn from the 165 year history of the medium. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 03:50 AM | Comments (0)
April 02, 2007
LG Mobile Phones Names Eli Tirosh the West Coast Texting Champion at the LG National Texting Championship : GlobalGiants.com
LG Mobile Phones Gets One Coast Closer in the Search for the Fastest US Texter.
Photo: LG Mobile Phones names Eli Tirosh the West Coast Texting Champion at the LG National Texting Championship.
SAN DIEGO, April 2 -- This past weekend, LG Electronics MobileComm U.S.A., Inc. (LG Mobile Phones) was focused on finding the fastest thumbs in the west at the first round of the LG National Texting Championship held at Paramount Studios in Hollywood. These stellar thumbs belong to 21-year-old Eli Tirosh of Los Angeles who was crowned the LG West Coast Texting Championship in front of a huge crowd of family, friends and competitors. Tirosh not only walked away with the prestigious title, she also earned $10,000 in cash and a trip to New York City to battle the LG East Coast Texting Champion on April 21 at the Roseland Ballroom for an additional $15,000 grand prize.
During Saturday's event, contestants had the chance to test their texting capabilities based on speed and accuracy. They competed against each other in front of a crowd of supporters, battling it out on their enV by LG QWERTY keypad mobile device for money, fame and the LG National Texting Championship crown.
For those that did not walk away with the west coast crown, there is still hope. The LG National Texting Championship will continue at the New York City event on April 21. Players at this event will compete for another $10,000 prize and the title of LG East Coast Texting Champion.
The LG National Championship will take place in New York on April 21, 2007 at the Roseland Ballroom were players will compete in pools and be asked to type phrases on their LG handsets exactly as they appear on the overhead LG plasma screens with no typos or abbreviations. The first player in each pool who sends an error-free message to the right contact will advance to the next round. Registration for the LG National Texting Championship is now open at www.LifeWithLG.com and is open on a first come, first serve basis.
LG Electronics, Inc. is the global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, home appliances and mobile communications, employing more than 72,000 people working in over 120 operations including 80 subsidiaries around the world. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 09:48 AM | Comments (0)
March 29, 2007
Virgin Records: Joss Stone Launches British Invasion of America : GlobalGiants.com
Introducing Joss Stone Debuts at Number 2 on Billboard Album Chart and Goes Top 10 in More Than 15 Countries.
British Soul Star's Introducing Joss Stone Is the Highest Chart Debut Ever for a Female British Artist in the SoundScan Era.
Photo: Joss Stone Debuts at # 2 on Billboard Charts. (Photo: Virgin Records, Paul Conroy)
NEW YORK -- With her album's Number 2 debut on Billboard's Top 200 Album chart this week, soul singer and songwriter Joss Stone leads a bona fide British chart invasion by female artists that includes KT Tunstall, Corinne Bailey Rae, Lily Allen, and Amy Winehouse. Introducing Joss Stone, the Grammy-winning star's third album, sold 118,000 copies in its first week, and is not only a personal best for Stone, but the highest-ever chart debut by a female artist from the U.K. since Billboard began deriving chart information from Nielsen SoundScan data in 1992. Worldwide, the album has gone Top 10 in more than 15 countries.
Introducing Joss Stone, which features special guests Common and Lauryn Hill, has received glowing reviews since its release by Virgin Records on March 20th.
Introducing Joss Stone was produced largely by Stone's main musical collaborator, Raphael Saadiq (The Roots, Macy Gray) and features lyrics written or co-written by Stone herself. "It's the first album that is truly me," the 19-year-old Devon, England, native says. "These are my words, and this is who I am as an artist." |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 07:02 AM | Comments (0)
Scholastic Releases Both Front and Back Covers of Highly Anticipated 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows' : GlobalGiants.com
NEW YORK -- Scholastic, the global children's publishing, education and media company has released both the front and back covers of the highly anticipated "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," J.K. Rowling's seventh and final Harry Potter book due in stores on July 21st at 12:01 a.m. Once again, the cover art was created by Mary GrandPre, the illustrator of all six previous U.S. editions of the Harry Potter books. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 06:54 AM | Comments (0)
March 27, 2007
Bindi Irwin Hosts New Series BINDI: THE JUNGLE GIRL on Discovery Kids Channel : GlobalGiants.com
Animal Planet Special MY DADDY THE CROC HUNTER Premiering Friday, June 8.
Photo: Terri and Bindi Irwin, Copyright Discovery Communications Inc/Best Picture Show 2007. (Discovery Kids Channel)
SILVER SPRING, Md., March 27 -- While most people know Bindi Irwin as The Crocodile Hunter's irrepressible daughter, those closest to her know that she deeply believed in her father's mission to protect wildlife. So in early 2006, Bindi and Steve Irwin began filming BINDI: THE JUNGLE GIRL to help get more children interested in wildlife conservation. Despite Steve's untimely death later that year, Bindi and her mom Terri, with the support of their family, friends and staff at Australia Zoo, decided to carry on Steve's legacy and finish filming the series.
Discovery Kids Channel has now announced that BINDI: THE JUNGLE GIRL premieres Saturday, June 9, at 5 PM ET/PT as a weekly series.
In BINDI: THE JUNGLE GIRL, Bindi introduces viewers to the wonderful world of wildlife from her cozy treehouse set high up in the rainforest. While interacting with a wide variety of animals from koalas to elephants to snakes, Bindi explains how all animals -- both cute and not-so-cute -- need to be respected and protected.
In addition, the night before Bindi's new series premieres on Discovery Kids Channel, Animal Planet presents MY DADDY THE CROC HUNTER, in which Bindi, with her mom's help, hosts her very first special and shares her personal look at growing up with her famous dad, The Crocodile Hunter. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 11:36 PM | Comments (0)
March 25, 2007
NEWSWEEK COVER : APRIL 2, 2007 ISSUE : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: The April 2 Special Issue of Newsweek (on newsstands March 26), "Voices of the Fallen," tells the story of the Iraq War in the words of America's dead. In letters, journals and e-mails, the war dead live on, their words testament to the realities of combat. With the bluntness of warriors facing mortal danger, they speak in voices alternately brave, fearful, cynical and tender. Theirs is the human story of war. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:32 PM | Comments (0)
March 24, 2007
Berlin Zoo: Polar Bear Cub Makes Debut : GlobalGiants.com
Polar bear cub 'Knut' drinks from a pond during the bear's first public presentation at the zoo in Berlin, Germany, Friday 23 March 2007. Hundreds of visitors and journalists attended the event. (Deutsch Presse Agentur) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 05:52 AM | Comments (0)
March 23, 2007
Milka Duno and CITGO Racing Join IndyCar Series With SAMAX Motorsport for 2007 Season : GlobalGiants.com
MIAMI, March 23 -- Milka Duno, the first woman in history to win a major international sportscar race in North America, and CITGO Racing, announced today at Homestead-Miami Speedway that they will compete in the 2007 IndyCar Series with SAMAX Motorsport. Duno will drive the No. 23 CITGO Racing/SAMAX Motorsport Dallara/Honda/Firestone in ten IndyCar Series events this season, including the 91st Indianapolis 500. She also plans to compete at Kansas, Texas, Iowa, Watkins Glen, Nashville, Mid Ohio, Michigan, Kentucky and Chicago.
CITGO, based in Houston, is a refiner, transporter and marketer of transportation fuels, lubricants, petrochemicals, refined waxes, asphalt and other industrial products. The company is owned by PDV America, Inc., an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Petroleos de Venezuela, S.A., the national oil company of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 03:03 PM | Comments (0)
Spanish Broadcasting Re-Launches LaMusica.com Entertainment Portal : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: (L-R) Gabriela Ordonez and Rene Solorio.
MIAMI, March 23 -- Spanish Broadcasting System ("SBS") (NASDAQ:SBSA) announced today important upgrades to its portfolio of Internet properties, including the re-launch of its leading entertainment portal www.lamusica.com, as well as the re-branding of all of the Company's radio station Web sites. These strategic initiatives are part of SBS's ongoing Internet strategy, and include sleek upgrades to the look and feel of the Company's Web sites that will serve to enhance the overall entertainment experience for SBS online users.
LaMusica.com is a leading destination for up-to-the-minute Hispanic news and entertainment information. As part of the Web site's re-launch, SBS has completely revamped the site's user interface, including new and improved Internet graphics and links, as well as an upgraded video player, all of which more closely represent the Web site's dynamic appeal. In-line with these upgrades, the Company has appointed former "Mira" magazine photo editor Gabriela Ordonez to head-up the photo department at LaMusica.com.
In addition, with content development lying at the core of the Company's Internet strategy, LaMusica.com has unveiled a new slate of online print, video and music content that more effectively leverages SBS's radio and TV programming and its deep pool of entertainment and news talent. In-line with this initiative, SBS has appointed journalist Rene Solorio to lead LaMusica.com's entertainment news division. Rene is a former editor of the American Publishing Group, and an experienced entertainment journalist in Mexico. In his new role, he will oversee the development of the site's news and entertainment content, while also serving as an editorial contributor to SBS's Miami television station, Mega TV Channel 22.
Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc. is the largest publicly traded Hispanic- controlled media and entertainment company in the United States. SBS owns and operates 20 radio stations located in the top Hispanic markets of New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, San Francisco and Puerto Rico, including the #1 Spanish-language radio station in America, WSKQ-FM in New York City. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:07 PM | Comments (0)
March 20, 2007
Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band End Tour with Sold Out : GlobalGiants.com
Shows at Detroit Rock City's Legendary Cobo Arena.
Photo: Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band accompanied by Olympia Entertainment representatives.
DETROIT, March 19 -- The City of Detroit proved yet again that it is home to the greatest rock and roll audiences in the world when Bob Seger & the Silver Bullet Band ended their 50-city tour Saturday, March 17. In front of a lively sold out crowd, Seger enjoyed a return to both his hometown and Cobo Arena. "It was another historic performance at the legendary Cobo Arena," said Bill Lee, Olympia Entertainment's Vice President of Sales and Marketing. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 10:09 AM | Comments (1)
Chris Cornell to Showcase 'Carry On' : GlobalGiants.com
Eleven-City North American Jaunt Offers Career Retrospective.
Photo: Chris Cornell. Photo by Max Vadukul.
LOS ANGELES, March 19 -- Fresh from the studio and eager to hit the road to promote the June 5th release of his upcoming album, Chris Cornell announced select US tour dates beginning on April 6 in Las Vegas, NV at the Vegas Grand Prix. For the first time onstage, Cornell will dig into the vault performing songs from his 13-album career including Soundgarden, Temple of the Dog and Audioslave, as well as premiering tracks from his upcoming release Carry On (Suretone/Interscope). |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 10:03 AM | Comments (0)
March 19, 2007
168 HOUR FILM PROJECT : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: DRIVEN TO DELIVER: (Los Angeles) Deejay-turned-director Frank "the freeway editor" Lozano gets chauffeured to and from his gigs by his line producer Arlene Sacco so he can squeeze in final editing on his "Walking High" documentary on the Compton youth flight school for the speed-filmmaking contest, the 168 Film Festival. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:33 PM | Comments (0)
America Watches East Tennessee Newlywed Win $2.5 Million Grand Prize Package During Live HGTV Dream Home Giveaway 2007 : GlobalGiants.com
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn., March 19 -- Always considered lucky when it comes to winning sweepstakes, 69-year-old Robert O'Neill was still surprised that the luck of the Irish was with him Sunday night when he learned that he was the winner of the 2007 HGTV Dream Home located in the Bridger's Cache Community of Winter Park, Colorado. O'Neill, who recently retired as Postmaster in Brandon, Florida, moved to upper East Tennessee to be closer to friends and family. He and his wife of six months were having dinner out with his son's family and friends when HGTV's Joan Steffend came out of the kitchen at a local restaurant bearing the news along with dessert. His surprise at receiving the news was broadcast around the country as part of HGTV Dream Home Giveaway 2007, a live television special that aired on Sunday, March 18, 2007.
O'Neill, whose name was drawn from more than 41 million entries, took home the grand-prize package with a retail value of $2.5 million. In addition to the fully furnished, custom-built Rocky Mountain home that features more than 3,000 square feet of flooring from Lumber Liquidators, the grand prize package includes a matching Doggy Dream Home, an all-new 2007 GMC Acadia and a $250,000 cash prize from LendingTree.com.
One of the most successful consumer promotions in cable TV history, the HGTV Dream Home Giveaway(SM) involves sponsorship from national advertisers including GMC Division, General Motors Corporation, Lumber Liquidators, The Iams Company, LendingTree(R), Inc., Bayer, BISSELL(R) Homecare, Inc., JELD- WEN, Inc., Moen Inc., The Sherwin-Williams Company, Staples, California Closet Company Inc., Ethan Allen, Sub-Zero Freezer Co., Inc. & Wolf Appliance Co and Hunter Fans.
HGTV, America's leader in home and lifestyle programming, is distributed to more than 91 million U.S. households and is one of cable's top-rated networks. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:41 AM | Comments (0)
March 18, 2007
PLATINUM STUDIOS: 'WORLD'S LARGEST COMIC BOOK' : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, of KISS, and Scott Mitchell Rosenberg (center), chairman of Platinum Studios, are presented with the Guinness World Records(TM) certificate of "World's Largest Comic Book" for KISS Comics Group's "KISS 4K DESTROYER EDITION" - unveiled at Wizard World Los Angeles. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:11 PM | Comments (0)
NEWSWEEK COVER: MARCH 26, 2007 ISSUE: GlobalGiants.com
Photo: In the March 26 issue of Newsweek (on newsstands Monday, March 19): "Exercise and The Brain." Newsweek examines the latest research and science that shows exercise can make you smarter. In addition to making your brain run more efficiently, there are clues that it can also stave off the beginnings of Alzheimer's, ADHD and other cognitive disorders. Also: what's next for Attorney General Gonzales and Iraq's Dora Farms, four years after the first U.S. strike. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:04 PM | Comments (0)
March 17, 2007
Disneyland Resort's Famed Pirates of the Caribbean Celebrates 40 Years of Swashbuckling Fun on March 18 : GlobalGiants.com
The Attraction That Inspired a Worldwide Movie Phenomenon Has Hosted Nearly 315,000,000 Guests.
ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Disneyland Resort will mark a 40-year milestone of swashbuckling adventure Sunday, March 18, when the classic Pirates of the Caribbean attraction celebrates its 40th anniversary.
PHOTO: NO ESCAPE -- In one of the most memorable scenes in 'Pirates of the Caribbean', a dog holds the keys, and the futures of some undesirables in his mouth. The classic moment was recreated in the film Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl. The landmark Disney attraction opened at Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif. on March 18, 1967.
In addition to entertaining several generations of would-be buccaneers, the original Disneyland Pirates of the Caribbean has inspired versions in other Disney theme parks as well as a worldwide movie phenomenon. The Sunday anniversary will be observed with in-park autograph signings by Walt Disney Imagineers involved in the creation of the attraction, and with the debut of some new collectible Pirates-themed items.
Nearly 315,000,000 Disneyland guests have experienced the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction since its 1967 opening. The ever-popular Disneyland icon, the last one created under the direct supervision of Walt Disney himself, launched a wave of pirate mania that has circled the globe. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 08:52 AM | Comments (0)
SeaWorld's New Killer Whale Show 'Believe' Wins 'Thea' Award : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: A SeaWorld trainer performs with Shamu in a recent performance of "Believe," the parks' award-winning new killer whale show.
ST. LOUIS, March 16 -- SeaWorld's "Believe," the most ambitious killer whale show in the parks' 42-year history, has been honored by TEA, a trade association for the themed attraction industry, with a Thea award for outstanding achievement in a live show. The award was presented in the association's 13th-annual gala in Anaheim, Calif.
"Believe" premiered in 2006 in SeaWorld parks in Orlando, Fla., San Diego, Calif., and San Antonio, Texas. The show, which combines new killer whale behaviors with elaborate set pieces, music, choreography and state-of-the-art multimedia, opened to rave reviews from SeaWorld guests.
SeaWorld is operated by Busch Entertainment Corporation, the family entertainment division of Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. BEC operates nine U.S. theme parks, including Busch Gardens Africa in Tampa, Fla., Busch Gardens Europe in Williamsburg, Va., Discovery Cove in Orlando, Sesame Place in Langhorne, Pa. near Philadelphia, Water Country USA in Williamsburg and Adventure Island in Tampa. BEC will open Aquatica, SeaWorld's water park, in Orlando in 2008. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 08:49 AM | Comments (0)
March 14, 2007
CHRYSLER 'DRIBBLE FOR A DODGE' : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Raymond Eisbrenner of Plymouth, Mich., (right) proved to have the best bouncing streak after 16 hours and 6 minutes in the "Dribble for a Dodge" contest at Morehouse College in Atlanta. Eisbrenner out bounced 25 other contestants, including Atlanta's Anthony Locke, to win a 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 Quad Cab with HEMI engine and two tickets to college basketball's championship game, which he gave to Locke. Dodge created its own brand of madness as it kicked off National Truck Month and "No Charge HEMI(R)" promotion with the basketball dribbling endurance contest. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:31 PM | Comments (0)
New Computer Game Simulates Global Conflicts : GlobalGiants.com
Strategy First Releases MAKING HISTORY(R): The Calm & The Storm.
MONTREAL -- Introducing what may be the first computer game with equal appeal for devoted gamers and the general public, Strategy First, a wholly owned subsidiary of Silver Star Holdings, Ltd. (NASDAQ:SSTR) , today announced the launch of "MAKING HISTORY: The Calm & The Storm."
MAKING HISTORY is a contest of economics, warfare and diplomacy, challenging players to maneuver through the largest mine field ever created: World War II.
The new multiplayer strategy game is now available at major retail outlets across the U.S. and Canada, including Best Buy, CompUSA, Game Stop and Electronics Boutique. MAKING HISTORY can also be purchased and downloaded at Steam (www.steampowered.com).
Using World War II as the playing field, MAKING HISTORY puts you in charge of real nations confronting annihilation or triumph, with the outcome depending on how you handle history. Skills challenged and honed during game play: International relations, industrial and workforce strategy, political acumen, military planning and action, national defense versus domestic programs, and much more. |GlobalGiants.com|
"MAKING HISTORY is a challenge of brain cells, not just bullets," says Dave McCool, CEO of Muzzy Lane Software. "Players can test new ideas about history, to see what could have happened if world leaders chose a different path. In reliving history you start to think about current global conflicts; being in charge of a nation, dealing with cause and effect on a worldwide scale. It's fun and incredibly eye-opening at the same time."
Over three years in development, MAKING HISTORY represents a new standard for computer games. The Artificial Intelligence in MAKING HISTORY is armed with detailed behavioral models of more than 80 nations playing out across 800 land and sea regions around the world.
Unlike other WWII games, players are not forced to choose sides with the Axis or the Allies. Alliances are shaped and shattered based on unique national interests. And each country is precisely modeled with its real-world economic and military strengths, political ideology, diplomatic tendencies, even its level of technical advancement. Within each country, the major regions feature accurate terrain, infrastructure, natural resources and industrial capabilities.
Operating MAKING HISTORY is smooth and simple thanks to an integrated control panel, a veritable heads-up display of dynamic maps, resources and action areas.
Posted by Editors at 09:31 AM | Comments (0)
March 13, 2007
The New York Times ''Win a Trip With Nick'' Essay Contest : GlobalGiants.com
Submissions Invited.
The objective -- increasing awareness of Africa among young people in the USA.
Photo: Africa: Tanzania: Black Headed Heron at Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
NEW YORK -- The New York Times has announced that today it will begin accepting submissions for the second "Win a Trip With Nick" essay contest. The contest was conceived of by Pulitzer Prize winner Nicholas D. Kristof, New York Times Op-Ed and TimesSelect columnist. The objective -- increasing awareness of Africa among young people. As he did in 2006, Mr. Kristof will choose one college or graduate student to accompany him on a reporting trip to Africa. This year, he will also select one middle- or high-school teacher to join the trip.
Any student 18 or older who is attending an American college, university or graduate school, and any teacher currently working in a middle or high school in the United States, is eligible to apply for TimesSelect's "Win a Trip With Nick." Interested individuals should visit www.nytimes.com/winatrip to submit an online application.
Also beginning on March 13, subscriptions to TimesSelect will be available for free to all registered college students and faculty with a .edu in their e-mail addresses. "We want students to have unfettered access to the full, rich content of The New York Times, especially the varied opinions expressed by the 22 columnists whose voices are heard through TimesSelect," said Vivian Schiller, senior vice president and general manager, NYTimes.com. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 06:43 AM | Comments (0)
March 11, 2007
FERRARI'S 60TH ANNIVERSARY KICK-OFF : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Toscan Bennett, of Ferrari North America, Inc. (right) and Ken Gorin, owner of THE COLLECTION in Coral Gables, showcase Ferrari's symbolic baton for the U.S. kick-off of a global relay event marking the brand's 60th anniversary. The uniquely designed baton will travel more than 14,000 miles, across four continents, during the 20-day relay event - more than 10,000 Ferrari owners globally will partake in the festivities. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:30 PM | Comments (0)
March 10, 2007
Former Presidents Bush and Clinton Honored at UNCF's 63rd Anniversary Dinner for Their Philanthropic Work : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: 1. Michael L. Lomax, Ph.D., President and CEO of UNCF, President William J. Clinton, Rex W. Tillerson, Chairman and CEO of ExxonMobil, Walter E. Massey, Ph.D., President of Morehouse College.
FAIRFAX, Va., March 10 -- "If you hear somebody worrying about the future of young African Americans," said Former President William J. Clinton tonight, "tell them to help someone go to college." Clinton's remarks were given as he accepted the United Negro College Fund's (UNCF) highest honor, the Frederick D. Patterson Award, on behalf of himself and President George H. W. Bush for their philanthropic efforts in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. The former presidents were presented with the award during UNCF's 63rd anniversary dinner, during which President Clinton delivered the acceptance speech. Since he was unable to attend the event, President Bush accepted his award via a pre-recorded video.
As the nation's oldest and most successful minority higher education assistance organization, the United Negro College Fund's mission is to provide financial support to its 39 member institutions and increase minority degree attainment by reducing financial barriers to college. UNCF institutions and other historically black colleges and universities are highly effective, awarding 25 percent of African American baccalaureate degrees. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 07:53 AM | Comments (0)
Madame Tussauds Immortalizes Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt, Jr. : GlobalGiants.com
Both NASCAR Stars Unveil Wax Figures During Grand Opening of Neon Garage at LVMS.
Photo: Dale Earnhardt, Jr. and Richard Petty stand with their life-sized wax figures following their unveiling today by Madame Tussauds Las Vegas at the new Neon Garage at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
LAS VEGAS -- Madame Tussauds Las Vegas immortalized Richard Petty, "The King" of NASCAR, and Dale Earnhardt, Jr., currently its most popular driver, in wax today in special ceremonies during the first public opening of the new Neon Garage at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
Madame Tussauds is an international wax attraction that offers the public the unique opportunity to "interact" with famous people. Madame Tussauds operates museums in London, Amsterdam, Hong Kong, Shanghai, New York and at The Venetian Resort - Hotel - Casino on "The Strip" in Las Vegas. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 07:45 AM | Comments (0)
March 08, 2007
CHRYSLER GROUP SPONSORING COUNTRY MUSIC -- TIM MCGRAW AND FAITH HILL : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Country Music reigning first couple Tim McGraw and Faith Hill stand with their 1978 Jeep(R) CJ-6 during a press conference yesterday at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville, Tenn., to announce their 2007 Soul2Soul Tour. The Jeep brand has signed on as the presenting sponsor of their 33-concert tour, which kicks off on June 6 in Omaha, Neb. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:18 PM | Comments (0)
Fall Out Boy Joins Virgin Mobile USA's 'First Dibs' Program With Exclusive Ringtones From Band's Latest Album, Infinity On High : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Fall Out Boy.
WARREN, N.J., March 8 -- Breakthrough American alternative rock/pop-punk/emo act Fall Out Boy is the latest band to join Virgin Mobile USA's exclusive "First Dibs" ringtone program. Virgin Mobile is teaming up with Island Records to offer its more than 4.6 million customers exclusive ringtone tracks from Fall Out Boy's latest album, Infinity on High, including "This Ain't A Scene, It's An Arms Race (I'm A Leading Man)," "The Take Over, The Break's Over (Rather Be A Widow Than A Divorcee)," "Hum Hallelujah (Hallelujah Chant)," and "Don't You Know Who You Think I Am? (Broken Down)." In addition, Virgin Mobile customers can download a variety of Fall Out Boy content including three additional ringtones from Infinity on High and catalog ringtones from their first Island release such as "Dance, Dance" and "Sugar We're Going Down."
Virgin Mobile USA operates on the Sprint Nationwide PCS network, and is a joint venture between Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Group and Sprint Nextel. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 11:08 AM | Comments (1)
The Beach Boys Present a New Career-Spanning Collection, 'The Warmth Of The Sun,' to be Released May 15 on CD and Digitally by Capitol/EMI : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: The Beach Boys - The Warmth Of The Sun - cover art.
HOLLYWOOD, Calif. -- The Beach Boys and Capitol/EMI Music Catalog Marketing have announced the May 15 release of "The Warmth Of The Sun," a new collection of 28 career-spanning tracks, hand-selected and sequenced by The Beach Boys themselves. "The Warmth Of The Sun" traces the iconic band's creative arc in a sunup to sundown musical journey that goes beyond the beach, presenting a broad view of the rich musical legacy of America's band. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:06 AM | Comments (1)
March 07, 2007
ABC Radio Networks En Espanol Partners With Thalia & The Mottola Co. to Launch 'The Conexion Thalia Radio Show' : GlobalGiants.com
Latin Superstar to Host Nationally Syndicated Radio Show.
Pontiac and Amtrak on Board as Inaugural National Sponsors.
Show Will Debut in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Miami.
Photo: Latin superstar, Thalia, to host nationally syndicated radio show on ABC Radio Networks en Espanol.
NEW YORK, March 6 -- ABC Radio Networks today announced an exclusive agreement with Thalia to produce and syndicate The Conexion Thalia Radio Show, a two-hour weekly radio program starring superstar Thalia premiering on March 17. The show will debut with an incredibly strong line-up of top rated stations in the nation's largest markets. The Conexion Thalia Radio Show continues ABC's commitment to its Hispanic initiative, ABC Radio Networks en Espanol, which includes Latin superstars and mega-brands such as Reggaeton sensation Daddy Yankee, Emmy award-winning broadcaster Maria Celeste Arraras and ESPN Deportes Radio.
The Conexion Thalia Radio Show will feature the Latin superstar in a fun and fast-paced lifestyle show in a format that allows Thalia to expound on fashion, gossip, and inside celebrity information as well as include informative segments on issues facing Latinos today. She will cover all the topics that appeal to an extremely wide demographic of l8-34 year old male and female Latinos and lovers of the culture.
Thalia began her career as a child star on Mexican television and in Mexican theatre. As a recording artist for EMI Music she has achieved superstar status, sold over 12 million CDs worldwide and been nominated for four Latin Grammy awards. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:59 AM | Comments (1)
CURVATION PROJECT CONFIDENCE WINNER SHELLY THOMAS : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Queen Latifah, left, congratulates Shelly Thomas, of South Euclid, Ohio, the winner of the second annual CURVATION(SM) PROJECT CONFIDENCE(SM) Awards on Tuesday, March 6, 2007 in New York. This is the culmination of a nationwide search to recognize women who project the power of confidence and encourage it in others, ultimately helping them live more fulfilling lives. Thomas was presented with a $10,000 grant for her non-profit InnerBeauty Foundation. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:48 AM | Comments (0)
March 06, 2007
BENETTON'S MAGAZINE: COLORS 70: Beijing Chronicles. : GlobalGiants.com
Monograph on the Chinese capital presented in the city.
Beijing, March 6th, 2007 -- In the run up to the 2008 Olympic Games, Beijing is undergoing a rapid transformation (as is the whole of China) from a city of ancient culture to a capitalism-driven megalopolis. The city is seen through the everyday stories of its inhabitants narrated by two of Fabrica’s young Chinese artists. Beijing is the protagonist of COLORS 70, the new issue presented today in the Chinese capital at a roundtable with Luciano Benetton; Marco Mueller, head of Fabrica Cinema and China expert; and Chinese film director Zhang Yuan.
Distributed in over 40 countries, published in three editions and four languages, Colors is a quarterly magazine read by young people around the world. Founded in 1991, from an idea of Luciano Benetton and Oliviero Toscani, and based on the conviction that diversity is positive and all cultures have the same value, today Colors is part of the publishing activities of Fabrica, Benetton’s communication research centre. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 08:20 AM | Comments (0)
March 04, 2007
NEWSWEEK COVER: MARCH 12, 2007 ISSUE : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: In the March 12 issue of Newsweek (on newsstands Monday, March 5): "The Real Rudy." Newsweek profiles Rudy Giuliani as he begins his 2008 presidential campaign, already ahead of other GOP candidates. He can be a man of strength and skill but can also be stubborn and abrasive. Plus: al-Sadr's disappearing act in Iraq; why Toyota beats GM; the greening of Wall Street; new worries about laporascopic surgery; museums fighting for their antiquities and what that organic food label means. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 11:03 PM | Comments (0)
FARGASON OUTDOOR TECHNOLOGIES TENT CHAIR : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: The innovative Fargason Outdoor Tent Chair is made for all power-sports enthusiasts - down to the last detail. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 10:54 AM | Comments (0)
March 03, 2007
'Dirty Jobs' Star Mike Rowe with 2007 Ford F150 : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Discovery Channel's "Dirty Jobs" star joins "Built Ford Tough" dream team: Mike Rowe, creator and star of Discovery Channel's highly rated show "Dirty Jobs" with is partnering with Ford as the newest F-Series truck spokesperson, beginning with new ads for the 2007 F-150 -- the most capable pickup in its class ever -- that air in early March 2007. Rowe joins Ford’s dream team of truck spokespeople and marketing alliances, including Toby Keith, NASCAR, Harley-Davidson™, the Home Depot and Cabela's. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 03:28 AM | Comments (0)
March 02, 2007
Dora the Explorer Invites Preschoolers to Reach for the Stars With Her New Friends : GlobalGiants.com
Tres Estrellas Exploradoras - on a Brand New Episode, 'Star Mountain,' Premiering Monday, March 12 on Nick Jr.
NEW YORK -- Dora the Explorer is reaching for the stars as Nick Jr. premieres a new half-hour episode of the international preschool phenomenon entitled "Star Mountain" on Monday, March 12. The new episode will teach viewers their numbers and colors in Spanish, as they journey along with Dora, Boots and the Tres Estrellas Exploradoras (Three Explorer Stars). Since its debut in 2000, Dora the Explorer was the top-rated preschool series on all of commercial TV for over five consecutive years and garnered the number two spot for 2006, second only to Nick Jr.'s number-one rated The Wonder Pets!
An international success, Dora the Explorer is broadcast all over the world, teaching the majority of her viewers English rather than Spanish. Syndicated to TV broadcasters in 125 markets and translated in 24 languages, Dora the Explorer is the number one rated show in France, Canada, Italy and Mexico and is a top 10 rated show in nearly every major broadcast market in the world including the UK and China.
Dora the Explorer is a play-along, animated adventure series starring Dora, a seven-year-old Latina heroine whose adventures take place in an imaginative, tropical world filled with jungles, beaches and rainforests. Dora explores her world just as preschoolers do everyday, and the show is designed to actively engage its audience in an interactive quest using a variety of learning techniques.
Nickelodeon, in its 27th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books, magazines and feature films. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 03:56 AM | Comments (0)
March 01, 2007
The 2007 Mercedes-Benz Bike Collection : GlobalGiants.com
Fascinating design and sophisticated technology.
Stuttgart, Feb 28, 2007 -- Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH heralds the 2007 season with three new bicycle models. Both the technical and the functional features of the brand-new ‘Fitness’ and ‘Trekking’ bikes have been designed to optimally meet the demands of ambitious hobby and leisure cyclists alike. Bold curves set special accents that underline the unique character of the Mercedes-Benz brand, and an ultra lightweight high-end racing bicycle with a carbon frame rounds off the new range of bicycles.
Elegant and comfortable: the 2007 ‘Fitness’ bikes:
"The ‘Fitness’ bicycles come in two versions, i.e. ‘Sport’ (for gents) and ‘Comfort’ (for ladies), and are captivating even at first glance thanks to their original, high-quality aluminium frame and the lightweight magnesium fork with its comfortable 80-millimetre stroke. The fork can be fixed in position in order to minimise tiring strokes whenever necessary as, for instance, during lengthy uphill climbs. The front end, which can be tilted by up to 60 degrees, and the Vario handlebar allow the ‘Fitness’ bicycles to be adjusted so as to be in complete harmony with body measurements – just like the seat of a Mercedes-Benz passenger car. The result: perfect ergonomics and a seating position that is equally comfortable for small and tall cyclists alike." |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 03:25 AM | Comments (0)
Omnibus Press Launches New Bob Dylan Book : GlobalGiants.com
Bob Dylan: Intimate Insights From Friends And Fellow Musicians Hits Stores June 2007.
NEW YORK, Feb. 28 -- Omnibus Press, a division of The Music Sales Group has announced the June 2007 release of Kathleen Mackay's new book, Bob Dylan: Intimate Insights From Friends And Fellow Musicians (ISBN 0.8256.7330.5, $22.95). The book will begin hitting bookstore shelves in early June.
"The new book is a unique oral history of a major musician who has played a significant role in America's cultural history for the last 40 years. Dylan's friends-from Pete Seeger to Bruce Springsteen to Rosanne Cash to Bono to Tom Petty-offer insight into the singer-songwriter's artistic genius and personality. His story is told by the musicians who were at his side during the rollicking changes and artistic breakthroughs of the '60s. Bob Dylan: Intimate Insights From Friends And Fellow Musicians provides a keen portrait of the friendships that helped shape important musicians whose voices influenced our society as a whole. Herein are insights not only into Dylan's elusive personality, but into the lives of the major musicians of our times."
Kathleen Mackay is a journalist and author who has written widely on arts and culture. Her articles have appeared in Time, People, Rolling Stone, The Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, and other publications.
Music Sales Group, founded in 1935 by the Wise family, is an international company with interests in four main areas of music publishing: Copyright ownership and promotion of standard and popular music, classical music, printed music, and book publishing. Book imprints include Omnibus Press, Schirmer Trade Books, Amsco, and others. The company maintains offices in New York, London, Sydney, Copenhagen, Madrid, Tokyo, and Paris. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:42 AM | Comments (0)
Consumer Reports Names Best Used Cars For Every Budget : GlobalGiants.com
Identifies Good Bets and Bad Bets to help guide used car buying decisions.
YONKERS, N.Y., Feb. 28 -- Consumer Reports 2007 April Auto Issue features the lists of the best and worst used vehicles for 10 model years, 1997 through 2006.
Reliable vehicles and Vehicles to avoid include all models that showed above- or below-average overall reliability in CR's 2006 Annual Car Reliability Survey, which drew responses on about 1.3 million vehicles. CR has found that improved reliability has made used cars more appealing and insurance rates tend to be less expensive.
CR Good Bets, which is derived from the Reliable vehicles list, features vehicles that have performed well in CR's road tests and have had several years of better-than-average reliability according to survey respondents. CR Good Bets includes vehicles from Acura, Buick, Chevrolet, Honda, Infiniti, Lexus, Lincoln, Mazda, Nissan, Pontiac, Scion, Subaru, and Toyota. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:16 AM | Comments (1)
MALL OF AMERICA AND NICKELODEON ANNOUNCE A PARTNERSHIP : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Mall of America(R) and Nickelodeon announced a partnership today. Under the new agreement, various Nickelodeon properties and characters will come to life in the first-ever Nickelodeon themed park, set to open in spring 2008. Nickelodeon characters pose for the camera, above, in their new home at Mall of America. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:07 AM
Paintings by Picasso stolen in Paris : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: The undated picture shows the Picasso painting 'Maya a la poupee', a 60 times 40 cm painting showing Picasso's daughter Maya. It is one of two art pieces that were stolen from a Picasso granddaughter in Paris, France. The estimated value of the works of the artist (1881-1973) amounts to 50 million euros. Photo: Cabinetlombar. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:03 AM | Comments (0)
February 28, 2007
CHRYSLER GROUP SNOWDOKU CHALLENGE : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Members of the University of Pennsylvania woman's swim team compete in the "Chrysler Aspen Snowdoku Challenge," Tuesday, Feb. 27, 2007, in New York's Bryant Park. The students beat out 5 other teams by solving a giant 30 by 30 foot sudoku puzzle, made out of 36,000 pounds of ice and snow, in 4 minutes 26 seconds to win a trip to Aspen, Colorado where they will have use of the all-new 2007 Chrysler Aspen, the brand's first sport utility vehicle. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:28 AM | Comments (0)
February 27, 2007
Standard Chartered Greatest Race on Earth (GROE) 2006/07 : GlobalGiants.com
US$1.5million up for grabs as the finale of The Greatest Race on Earth draws near.
Hong Kong hosts the final leg of The Greatest Race on Earth.
Hong Kong — Another strong men's and women's line-up has been announced for the fourth and final leg of The Standard Chartered Greatest Race on Earth (GROE) 2006/07, the Hong Kong Marathon, which will take place on 4 March. With teams separated by the tightest of margins after the previous races of the series in Nairobi, Singapore and Mumbai, the final marathon will determine how the largest prize pool in world athletics, US$1.5 million, is ultimately shared.
The Greatest Race on Earth (GROE) was created in 2004 - the first-ever virtual relay race across four marathons. The Main Team Challenge category is open to men and women over 18 years of age, of any nationality, with no restriction on the level of competence. Each team member will run in one marathon. Teams must nominate who will run in each full marathon before the start of the series, and the winning team will be the one whose athletes record the lowest aggregate time across the four marathons.
In 2005/06 the quality of the runners was world-class, with 24 male and 30 female GROE runners placing in the top 10 of each of the four marathons.
Building on the success of the first two series, Standard Chartered presents GROE for the third time. There are over 80 teams and 300 participants taking part. The race covers marathons in Nairobi, Singapore, Mumbai and Hong Kong, representing some of the most challenging environments in the world:
• The highest race at over 1,600 metres in Nairobi – 29 October 2006
• The island race around Singapore – 3 December 2006
• The historic race through Mumbai – 21 January 2007
• The harbour race across Hong Kong – 4 March 2007
|GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:44 AM | Comments (0)
Celsius(R) in 'Everybody Wins at the Oscars' Celebrity Gift Bags : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: DELRAY BEACH, Fla. -- Celsius Holdings, Inc.'s Celsius(R) calorie burning soda is part of the "Everybody Wins at the Oscars" Gift Bag given to non-winning nominees in the major Academy Awards categories including Best Actor/Actress, Best Supporting Actor/Actress, and Best Director. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:14 AM
79th Annual Academy Awards : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Helen Mirren in the press room during the 79th Annual Academy Awards, held at the Kodak Theatre in the Hollywood and Highland Center in Hollywood, CA, USA on February 25, 2007. Photo ABACAUSA. |GlobalGiants.com|
Photo: Hollywood - February 25: Forest Whitaker poses with his award for Best Actor and Jennifer Hudson poses with her award for Best Supporting Actress at the Governor's Ball after the 79th Annual Academy Awards at The Highlands on February 25, 2007 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:42 AM
February 26, 2007
"NIGHT BEFORE" FUNDRAISER RAISES MILLIONS : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Beverly Hills, Calif., Feb. 25 -- The Fifth Annual "Night Before" Fundraiser Raises Millions to Benefit the Motion Picture & Television Fund. The non-profit Motion Picture & Television Fund, headquartered in Woodland Hills, CA, was founded in 1921 to provide "relief" for those in the film industry who had fallen on hard times.
The roster of celebrities attending the Night Before benefit always encompasses some of the biggest stars of film, television, music and sports. This year it included: Leonardo DiCaprio, Clint Eastwood, Jodie Foster, Jennifer Aniston, Tom Hanks, Will Smith & Jada Pinkett Smith, Mark Wahlberg, Eddie Murphy, Steven Spielberg & Kate Capshaw, Eva Longoria, Ellen Pompeo, Peter O'Toole, Helen Mirren & Taylor Hackford, Tobey Maguire, Cameron Diaz, America Ferrera, Kate Winslet & Sam Mendes, Mary J. Blige, Hugh Jackman, Katherine Heigl, Sean Combs, T.R. Knight, Greg Kinnear, William Shatner, Jack Black, Jerry & Jessica Seinfeld, Fergie & Josh Duhamel, Kyra Sedgwick, Jackie Earl Haley, Kate Walsh, Ann Hathaway, Djimon Hounsou, Zach Braff, Sheryl Crow, James Blunt, Chloe Sevigny, Serena Williams, Matt Leinart, and many more.
|GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 07:17 AM
Academy Award Winner Reese Witherspoon : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Academy Award Winner Reese Witherspoon at the 2007 Academy Awards in Los Angeles. Wire Image. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 07:13 AM
Rachel Weisz at the 79th Annual Academy Awards : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Actress Rachel Weisz, wearing a Vera Wang gown with vintage Cartier jewelry, arrives at the 79th Annual Academy Awards in Hollywood, California, February 25, 2007. (REUTERS/Lucy Nicholson) |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 07:08 AM
February 25, 2007
The Diamond Information Center Hosted 2007 Oscar Nominees, Presenters and Other Celebrity Diamond Admirers at CELESTIAL - A Diamond Affair 2007 : GlobalGiants.com
Oscar Contenders Jackie Earle Haley, Jennifer Hudson, Keith Robinson, Milena Canonero, Noreen Dewulf, as well as Other Celebrities, Including Andie MacDowell, Annette Bening, Britney Snow, Cheryl Hines, Elizabeth Banks, Eva Pigford, Gael Garcia Bernal, Kate Walsh, Marcia Gay Harden, Mira Sorvino, Regina King, Roman Coppola, Russell Simmons, Serena Williams, Taryn Manning, Taye Diggs, Warren Beatty and Others Visited The Diamond Information Center's Africa-inspired Spa and Retreat at Soho House LA.
Photo: Mira Sorvino at CELESTIAL - A Diamond Affair.
LOS ANGELES, Feb. 24 -- The Diamond Information Center (DIC) hosted its annual pre-Oscar event, CELESTIAL - A Diamond Affair 2007, an exclusive invitation-only week-long celebration for 2007 Oscar nominees, presenters, diamond admirers and honorees at its world-class Africa-inspired diamond spa and retreat at Soho House LA on February 19 - 22.
Photo: Jennifer Hudson at CELESTIAL - A Diamond Affair.
"The week leading up to the Academy Awards has certainly proved to be another amazing and celebratory diamond season," said Sally Morrison, director of the Diamond Information Center. "The CELESTIAL -- A Diamond Affair not only gave 2007 Oscar nominees a unique opportunity to indulge in the spiritual aura of diamonds, but dedicated the week to highlight diamond pieces that are also giving something back to the people and communities where the majority of diamonds originate -- Africa."
Photo: Russell Simmons, Serena Williams and Eva Pigford at CELESTIAL - A Diamond Affair Tribute Tea for Simmons' Green Initiative.
More than $50 million of diamonds drew Hollywood's elite to the DIC's CELESTIAL - A Diamond Affair 2007 courtesy of renowned diamond jeweler, Fred Leighton who showcased an amazing private diamond collection. This selection of museum-quality diamonds featured exquisite pieces ranging from a French Crown Jewel to many original pieces showcased in this year's Oscar nominated films, such as the pink diamond hoops worn by Meryl Streep in "The Devil Wears Prada", to several diamond pieces featured in "Marie Antoinette." |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 07:34 AM | Comments (0)
February 23, 2007
Stuart Weitzman Announces Anika Noni Rose to Wear Diamond Dream Shoe to the 79th Annual Academy Awards(R) : GlobalGiants.com
Stuart Weitzman Diamond Dream Shoe Includes 1,420 Individual White Kwiat Diamonds Worth Half-Million Dollars.
PHOTO: STUART WEITZMAN HOLDINGS DREAM SHOE
LOS ANGELES, Feb. 23 -- Stuart Weitzman announced today that award-winning actress Anika Noni Rose, who co-starred in 2006's hit film Dreamgirls, will wear the Stuart Weitzman Diamond Dream Shoe to the 79th Annual Academy Awards(R). At the Awards, Noni Rose will perform "Patience" -- one of three Best Original Song nominations from the film.
PHOTO: Dreamgirl Anika Noni Rose will wear the Stuart Weitzman Diamond Dream Shoe to the 79th Annual Academy Awards(R).
The Diamond Dream Shoe, created exclusively for the actress, is a silver evening shoe with a stiletto heel, adorned with 1,420 individual brilliant cut Kwiat diamonds, weighing over 30 carats. The diamonds are set in platinum circles, inspired by Kwiat's timeless Circles Collection. The spectacular shoe is worth half a million dollars.
Stuart Weitzman Holdings LLC. is one of the leading global luxury fashion footwear and accessories brands. Key customers include stores such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Harrods. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:49 PM | Comments (0)
February 21, 2007
GM TEN Gala Event in Los Angeles : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Actress Katherine Heigl, dressed in Dolce & Gabbana, walks the runway with a Chevy Volt Electric Concept at the GM TEN fashion event Tuesday, February 20, 2007 in Los Angeles, California.
Photo: Actress Leah Remini, dressed in Ports, walks the runway with a DUB Saab 9-7x at the GM TEN fashion event Tuesday, February 20, 2007 in Los Angeles, California.
Photo: Emmy Rossum, dressed in Marchesa, walks the runway with a 2007 Corvette Z06 at the GM TEN fashion event Tuesday, February 20, 2007 in Los Angeles, California.
Photo: Roselyn Sanchez , dressed in Dolce & Gabbana, walks the runway with a 1954 Chevy Bel Air at the GM TEN fashion event Tuesday, February 20, 2007 in Los Angeles, California.
The event brings together the worlds of fashion, automotive design and entertainment under one roof. The "green machine" theme of the show features General Motors advanced technology vehicles, including many hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and hybrids. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:22 PM | Comments (0)
THE BRITANNIA BALL: Cunard Line Hosting Gala Fundraiser Aboard Queen Mary 2 to Benefit New York City Opera & Brooklyn Academy of Music : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Tony Award winner Patti LuPone will perform at The Britannia Ball to benefit New York City Opera and Brooklyn Academy of Music on May 24, 2007 aboard the Queen Mary 2.
NEW YORK, Feb. 20 -- On Thursday, May 24, 2007, Cunard Line will welcome guests from the New York City Opera (City Opera) and Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) aboard the company's flagship Queen Mary 2 for The Britannia Ball, a gala evening benefiting both cultural institutions. The ball will include: cocktails, dinner, dancing to Peter Duchin and his orchestra and a special performance by Tony Award(TM) winner Patti LuPone who will perform a special rendition of "The Lady with The Torch" in the ship's Royal Court Theater.
Cunard Line's President Carol Marlow commented, "As the most iconic British ocean liner company, Cunard Line has long been the travel choice for artists, politicians and celebrities. Since Queen Mary 2's launch, she has hosted such notables as Her Majesty The Queen, Senator Hillary Clinton, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, Lenny Kravitz, Uma Thurman, Angela Bassett, Rod Stewart and Carly Simon. The Britannia Ball reflects our company's enormous regard for artists and the performing arts institutions that create vibrant destinations throughout the world. We are honored to partner with City Opera and BAM, two organizations that embody the excitement and innovation of the arts in New York."
"The spectacular ship, legendary hospitality, the incomparable views of the New York harbor, and entertainment of the highest caliber are just some of the elements that will ensure that The Britannia Ball will be a one-of-a-kind, memorable event for all our guests," says Jane M. Gullong, Executive Director of New York City Opera. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:49 AM | Comments (0)
February 20, 2007
Josh Bernstein Joins Discovery Channel to Create World Premiere Series and Specials : GlobalGiants.com
Serves as Field Explorer and Executive Producer on Series and Specials Covering Anthropology, Archaeology, Environmental Issues and More.
Photo: Josh Bernstein riding a camel in front of the Giza Pyramids, Egypt.
PHOTO: SILVER SPRING, Md., Feb. 20 -- Discovery Communications announced today that explorer, author and wilderness educator Josh Bernstein will host and produce specials and series focusing on subjects from anthropology and archaeology to environmental issues, exclusively for the Discovery Channel. Bernstein, a passionate outdoorsman, global explorer, and award-winning television personality joins the network in April, as announced today by Jane Root, President and GM of Discovery Channel and Science Channel. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:45 PM | Comments (1)
WORLD PRESS PHOTO: 2nd Prize: General News : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: World Press Photo 2nd Prize General News: Jan Grarup, Denmark, Politiken/Newsweek: Darfur Refugees, Sudan-Chad Border, November 2006. (© World Press Photo)
WORLD PRESS PHOTO
Jacob Obrechtstraat 26
1071 KM AMSTERDAM
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (20) 676 609 6
Fax: +31 (20) 676 447 1
|GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 05:43 AM | Comments (0)
WORLD PRESS PHOTO: 2nd Prize: General News Stories : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: World Press Photo 2nd Prize General News Stories: Peter van Agtmael, USA, Polaris Images: Night Raids, Iraq, January-March 2006. (© World Press Photo)
WORLD PRESS PHOTO
Jacob Obrechtstraat 26
1071 KM AMSTERDAM
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (20) 676 609 6
Fax: +31 (20) 676 447 1
|GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 05:13 AM | Comments (0)
Beijing Olympic Competition To Use Parker Technology : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: PARKER HANNIFIN PROGATE SYSTEM: ProGate at the ready at the Taiyuan BMX Olympic training center, Taiyuan, China. Taiyuan BMX will use ProGate systems in a series of Asian international BMX events it has organized.
CLEVELAND, Feb. 19 -- A patented starting gate design that uses Parker technology is winning recognition throughout the world of BMX bicycle racing, including the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. The ProStuff(R) straight eight starting gate has been selected as the official start gate for Olympic BMX contests. The 2008 Olympics will be the first ever held in China and mark the debut of BMX bicycle racing as an Olympic event. Parker distributor, Barker Rockford, Inc., integrated Parker automation components to develop the patented system.
With annual sales exceeding $9 billion, Parker Hannifin (NYSE:PH) is the world's leading diversified manufacturer of motion and control technologies and systems, providing precision-engineered solutions for a wide variety of commercial, mobile, industrial and aerospace markets. The company employs more than 57,000 people in 43 countries around the world. |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:01 AM | Comments (0)
February 19, 2007
WORLD PRESS PHOTO: 3rd Prize: Portraits : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: World Press Photo: 3rd Prize: Portraits Singles: Damon Winter, USA, Los Angeles Times: Clint Eastwood. (© World Press Photo)
WORLD PRESS PHOTO
Jacob Obrechtstraat 26
1071 KM AMSTERDAM
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (20) 676 609 6
Fax: +31 (20) 676 447 1
|GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 12:13 PM | Comments (0)
WORLD PRESS PHOTO: 1st Prize: People in the News: GlobalGiants.com
Photo: World Press Photo 1st Prize People in the News Singles: Oded Balilty, Israel, The Associated Press: Settler woman struggles with Israeli security officer, Amona outpost, West Bank, 1 February 2006. (© World Press Photo)
WORLD PRESS PHOTO
Jacob Obrechtstraat 26
1071 KM AMSTERDAM
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (20) 676 609 6
Fax: +31 (20) 676 447 1
|GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 09:39 AM | Comments (0)
February 18, 2007
WORLD PRESS PHOTO: 1st Prize Nature Singles : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: World Press Photo 1st Prize Nature Singles: Michael Nichols, USA, National Geographic Magazine: Serval Cat, Zakouma National Park, Chad. (© World Press Photo)
WORLD PRESS PHOTO
Jacob Obrechtstraat 26
1071 KM AMSTERDAM
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (20) 676 609 6
Fax: +31 (20) 676 447 1
|GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:24 PM | Comments (0)
WORLD PRESS PHOTO: 1st Prize Sports Action Stories : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: World Press Photo 1st Prize Sports Action Stories: Peter Schols, The Netherlands, Dagblad De Limburger/GPD/Reuters: Zidane’s exit from World Cup final, Berlin, 9 July 2006. (© World Press Photo)
WORLD PRESS PHOTO
Jacob Obrechtstraat 26
1071 KM AMSTERDAM
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (20) 676 609 6
Fax: +31 (20) 676 447 1
|GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:17 PM | Comments (0)
WORLD PRESS PHOTO: 1st Prize Spot News Stories : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: WORLD PRESS PHOTO 1st Prize Spot News Stories: Davide Monteleone, Italy, Contrasto: Israeli bombings of Lebanon, July 2006. (© World Press Photo)
WORLD PRESS PHOTO
Jacob Obrechtstraat 26
1071 KM AMSTERDAM
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (20) 676 609 6
Fax: +31 (20) 676 447 1
|GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 08:09 AM | Comments (0)
GABRIELLE UNION AT MAGIC EIGHT BALL CHALLENGE : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Actress Gabrielle Union at the recent Zo & Magic Eight Ball Challenge presented by automotive leader Lincoln. The celebrity pool tournament, staged annually during NBA All Star week raises funds for the Alonzo Mourning Charities and the Magic Johnson Foundation. Union stars in the upcoming Tyler Perry film "Daddy's Little Girl". |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 04:13 AM | Comments (0)
WORLD PRESS PHOTO 2007: 1st Prize Spot News Singles : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: 1st Prize Spot News Singles: Akintunde Akinleye, Nigeria, Reuters: Man rinses soot from his face after oil pipeline explosion, Lagos, Nigeria, 26 December 2006. (© World Press Photo)
WORLD PRESS PHOTO
Jacob Obrechtstraat 26
1071 KM AMSTERDAM
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (20) 676 609 6
Fax: +31 (20) 676 447 1
|GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 02:54 AM | Comments (0)
2007 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Pace Car : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Baseball legend Cal Ripken Jr. settles into the 2007 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Pace Car at the Daytona International Speedway Saturday, February 17, 2007 in Daytona Beach, Florida. Ripken will drive the Corvette in the Daytona 500 NASCAR Nextel Cup race on Sunday. This is the 36th straight year that General Motors has provided the Official Pace Vehicle of the Daytona 500. (GM Racing Photo/Dorsey Patrick). |GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:42 AM | Comments (0)
February 16, 2007
WORLD PRESS PHOTO: US Photographer Spencer Platt wins Premier Award : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: World Press Photo of the Year 2006: Spencer Platt, USA, Getty Images: Young Lebanese drive through devastated neighborhood of South Beirut, 15 August 2006. (© World Press Photo)
The international jury of the 50th annual World Press Photo Contest selected a color image of the US photographer Spencer Platt of Getty Images as World Press Photo of the Year 2006.
The picture shows a group of young Lebanese driving through a South Beirut neighborhood devastated by Israeli bombings. The picture was taken on 15 August 2006, the first day of the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah when thousands of Lebanese started returning to their homes.
World Press Photo jury chair Michele McNally describes the winning image: “It’s a picture you can keep looking at. It has the complexity and contradiction of real life, amidst chaos. This photograph makes you look beyond the obvious.”
This year 4,460 professional photographers from 124 countries entered 78,083 images in the most prestigious annual international competition in press photography. The judging sessions took place in Amsterdam from 27 January to 8 February. The jury gave prizes in 10 theme categories to 58 photographers of 23 nationalities from: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Israel, Italy, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, Nigeria, Norway, Palestinian Territories, People’s Republic of China, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom and the USA.
Photo: 2nd prize Daily Life Singles: David Butow, USA, Redux Pictures for US News & World Report: Street Corner, New York. (© World Press Photo)
The 2007 jury:
Chair: Michele McNally (USA), assistant managing editor The New York Times
Members:
Peter Bialobrzeski (Germany), photographer Laif Photos & Reportagen
Philip Blenkinsop (Australia), photographer Agence Vu
Ruth Eichhorn (Germany), director of photography Geo
Adrian Evans (UK), director Panos Pictures
Maya Goded (Mexico), photographer Magnum Photos
Diego Goldberg (Argentina), photographer
Wen Huang (People's Republic of China), picture editor Xinhua News Agency
Alexander Joe (Zimbabwe), photographer Agence France-Presse
Jerry Lampen (the Netherlands), photographer Reuters
Jean-François Leroy (France), director Visa pour l'Image
Maria Mann (USA), photography consultant
Secretary: Stephen Mayes (UK), director image archive Art + Commerce Anthology
Spencer Platt, the author of the World Press Photo of the Year 2006, will receive his award and a cash prize of 10,000 euro at the awards ceremony in the Oude Kerk, Amsterdam, on Sunday 22 April 2007. In addition, Canon will donate Platt a Canon Pro SLR camera.
WORLD PRESS PHOTO
Jacob Obrechtstraat 26
1071 KM AMSTERDAM
The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (20) 676 609 6
Fax: +31 (20) 676 447 1
|GlobalGiants.com|
Posted by Editors at 01:54 PM | Comments (1)
February 15, 2007
Incredible 'Walking' Elephant to be sold at Red Baron Sale, February 17-18 : GlobalGiants.com
ATLANTA, Feb. 15 -- An enormous 'walking' mechanical elephant that was ridden by President Eisenhower at the 1952 Republican National Convention, plus a half-dozen rare vintage guitars - a 1959 Gibson Les Paul and five D-series Martins, collectively worth more than $1 million - will be sold the weekend of February 17-18 by Red Baron, the premier auction house in the Southeast.
The elephant - a colossus by any measure, at about 20 feet tall - was the brainchild of Frank Stuart, an English visionary and inventor who built three of the forward-propelled pachyderms in the years following World War II. One is permanently housed in a museum in Austria, one is in a private museum in Chicago, and the third (the one being sold) comes directly from the Stuart family.
The elephant 'walks' with the help of a four-cylinder, Chevy-powered engine and an elaborate network of hydraulics neatly tucked inside the body cavity. It literally skates along, at speeds of up to 20 mph, and has been featured over the years in publications like Popular Mechanics, Popular Science, Forbes and Architectural Digest Motoring. It has also been in numerous parades and festivals.
Its crowning achievement came in 1952, when Dwight Eisenhower rode it to the Republican National Convention, in front of a horde of reporters, cameras and well-wishers. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 04:15 AM
February 13, 2007
Time Warner Cable and The History Channel(R) Present a Special Screening of USS CONSTELLATION -- BATTLING FOR FREEDOM : GlobalGiants.com
By Invitation Only Screening included special Presentation to the African American Museum of Dallas.
IRVING, Texas, Feb. 13 -- Time Warner Cable and The History Channel(R) premiered the new History Channel documentary USS CONSTELLATION: BATTLING FOR FREEDOM, February 8th at the Angelika Film Center in Dallas to a select audience in honor of Black History Month.
Photo: The History Channel and Time Warner Cable Houston honor The African American Museum at the screening of USS Constellation: Battling for Freedom. L to R -- Antwan Edward, Time Warner Mead Rust, AETN, Jill Morgan, Time Warner, Gary Underwood, Time Warner, Dr. Harry J. Robinson, President and CEO African American Museum, Andy Chambers, Time Warner, Dr. Kim Gilmore, AETN, Joe Lengfellner, Time Warner, Elizabeth Manley, AETN, Cleo Thomas, Time Warner, Augustine Jalomo, Time Warner, Clem Maddox, Time Warner.
The program, which premiered to a national audience Saturday, February 10 at 7pm (CT) on The History Channel, explores the little-known story of the U.S. Navy's Africa squadron, dedicated to ending the slave trade stemming from the west coast of Africa, prior to the beginning of the Civil War.
Complete with historical accounts, interviews with experts and re-enactments, the film examines the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, which is believed to be responsible for the enslavement of more than 15 million Africans over its tragic four hundred year history.
The History Channel(R) is one of the leading cable television networks featuring compelling original, non-fiction specials and series that bring history to life in a powerful and entertaining manner across multiple platforms.
Time Warner Cable owns and manages cable systems serving 14.4 million subscribers in 33 states. Time Warner Cable is a subsidiary of Time Warner Inc. (NYSE:TWX) . [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 07:17 AM
February 12, 2007
SPACE WINNER : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Teresa de Onis, left, Aaron Coldiron, second to right, and former astronaut Commander John Herrington, right, award William Temple, second to left, a flight suit as the winner of the Vanishing Point contest, Monday, Feb. 12, 2007 in Burns Flat, Okla. William Temple wins a trip to space from Microsoft, AMD and Rocketplane as part of the Windows Vista launch.
[GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 12:59 PM
February 11, 2007
NEWSWEEK COVER FEBRUARY 19, 2007 ISSUE : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: The February 19 issue of Newsweek (on newsstands February 12), 'The Hidden War With Iran,' finds that although a shadowy war between the United States and Iran may already be unfolding on the chaotic battleground of Iraq, the recent history of diplomacy between the two nations offers a surprising degree of hope for détente. Plus, the 'real' John Edwards, how an astronaut snapped, the strange saga of Anna Nicole Smith and the boomer generation’s own brand of irreverent comedy. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 11:49 AM
February 10, 2007
Siemens AG Lifestyle -- Bluetooth Communicator : GlobalGiants.com
Munich: February 10, 2007 -- With the Siemens Gigaset ZX1 Bluetooth Communicator the user is able to listen to music and receive phone calls, anywhere in the home, without being attached to a phone or stereo. Users can listen to their favorite songs, up to 100 meters away. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 07:54 AM
February 09, 2007
CERTAINTEED AND JOE NEMECHEK'S NO. 13 CHEVROLET : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: CertainTeed Corporation, North America's leading manufacturer of interior and exterior building products, will be the primary sponsor on Joe Nemechek's No. 13 Chevrolet during the 2007 NASCAR Nextel Cup season. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 03:03 AM
February 07, 2007
ING Renault F1 Team Unveils the New R27 Racer : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: The ING Renault F1 Team roars into F1 with a spectacular Amsterdam launch of its R27 racer, aiming for continued on-track success. The ING Renault F1 Team nailed its new colours to the mast with the launch of the all-new R27 F1 car and a striking visual identity. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 09:39 AM
February 06, 2007
Los Angeles Times Announces Senior Editorial Appointments : GlobalGiants.com
Meredith Artley to Accelerate Integration of Print and Online Newsrooms.
Photo: Meredith Artley.
LOS ANGELES, Feb. 6 -- The Los Angeles Times Media Group today announced new editorial appointments to reinforce the company's print and Web integration strategy. Meredith Artley, Paris-based digital development director of the New York Times Co.'s International Herald Tribune (IHT) and former associate editor of NYTimes.com, will lead online newsroom and manage the day-to-day editorial operations in the newly created position of Executive Editor, latimes.com. She will oversee an expansion of the staff and redesign of the website as well as play a key role in integrating print and online resources. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 11:27 AM
EMI MANHATTAN RECORDS: RYLAND ANGEL : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: Ryland Angel: A New Face in Pop Classical. Temporarily leaving the world's opera stages behind, Ryland's self-titled debut for EMI/Manhattan Records showcases his pop sensibility -- Album release and PBS special 'Heavenly Voices' due in March 2007. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 12:54 AM
February 04, 2007
Goodyear and NASCAR Extend Agreement : GlobalGiants.com
Goodyear to Continue as Exclusive Tire Supplier into Next Decade.
PHOTO: In this photo provided by The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, Robert Keegan, Goodyear Chairman and CEO prepares to sign a contract extension for the company to continue as the exclusive tire used in NASCAR's top three racing series for the next five years. Looking on are Mike Helton, President of NASCAR and NASCAR driver Michael Waltrip. The announcement was made during Goodyear's annual dealer conference in Orlando, FL on February 3.
ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 3 -- The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NYSE:GT) and NASCAR jointly announced they have signed an extended agreement for Goodyear to continue as the exclusive tire used in NASCAR's top three racing series for the next five years. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 05:30 AM
February 03, 2007
Eyes of Business Are on Qatar as Gulf State Hosts the First Forbes CEO Middle East Forum : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: Steve Forbes with His Highness the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, who has pledged his patronage for the Forbes CEO Middle East Forum. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 10:57 AM
February 02, 2007
2007 GRAMMY Nominees CD Features 49th Annual Grammy Awards Nominees : GlobalGiants.com
NEW YORK, Feb. 1 -- The Recording Academy(R) teamed up with Sony BMG Music Entertainment to release the 2007 GRAMMY(R) Nominees CD, which celebrates many of the year's GRAMMY-nominated artists and songs.
Photo: 2007 Grammy Nominees CD.
Scanning at more than 77,000 units this week -- this year's compilation has started off very strong with a #1 debut on the Billboard Top Compilation Albums and a #4 debut on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart.
A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the CD will benefit the MusiCares Foundation(R) and the GRAMMY Foundation(R).
The disc contains many of the most widely recognized GRAMMY categories. The 23 tracks from the 2007 GRAMMY Nominees CD represent nominees from the Record Of The Year, Album Of The Year, Best New Artist, Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, Best Female Pop Vocal Performance and Best Pop Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocals categories. The CD is made possible by a special arrangement with all of the major music distribution companies and rotates distributors from year to year.
The 49th Annual GRAMMY Awards will be held on Feb. 11, 2007, at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles, and will be broadcast in high-definition TV and 5.1 surround sound on the CBS Television Network at 8 p.m. (ET/PT).
Established in 1957, the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences, Inc., also known as The Recording Academy, is an organization of musicians, producers, engineers and recording professionals dedicated to improving the quality of life and cultural condition for music and its makers. Internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards, The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education and human services programs. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 12:54 AM
January 25, 2007
The Annual Meeting 2007: COCA COLA SPECIAL: E. Neville Isdell, Godrej, Leape, Seabright : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: DAVOS, SWITZERLAND, 25 JANUARY 2007 - (fltr) E. Neville Isdell, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Coca-Cola Company, USA, Jamshyd N. Godrej, Chairman and Managing Director, Godrej & Boyce, India, Jim Leape, Director-General, WWF International, World Wide Fund for Nature, Switzerland, Jeff Seabright, Vice-President, Coca-Cola Company, USA, captured during a meeting at the Annual Meeting 2007 of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, January 25, 2007. (© World Economic Forum, Photo Remy Steinegger) [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 08:29 AM
'CNN Connects: Our Networked World': Caterina Fake : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: DAVOS, SWITZERLAND, 25 JANUARY 2007 - Caterina Fake, Founder, Flickr, USA captured during the session 'CNN Connects: Our Networked World' at the Annual Meeting 2007 of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, January 25, 2007. (© World Economic Forum) [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 08:22 AM
Rules for a Global Neighbourhood in a Multicultural World: Mohammad Khatami : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: DAVOS, SWITZERLAND, 25 JANUARY 2007 - Mohammad Khatami captured during the workspace session 'Rules for a Global Neighbourhood in a Multicultural World' at the Annual Meeting 2007 of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, January 25, 2007. (© World Economic Forum, Photo Remy Steineggerm) [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 08:02 AM
2007 Cadillac CTS-V race car for 2007 SCCA World Challenge : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: 2007 Cadillac CTS-V race car for 2007 SCCA World Challenge. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 04:39 AM
Read Across America - Actress Gwyneth Paltrow : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Actress Gwyneth Paltrow reads 'One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish' to local school children as part of the National Education Association's Read Across America program in Park City, Utah Wednesday, January 24, 2007. Saturn is a sponsor of Read Across America. Paltrow is in Park City at the film festival to promote her film, 'The Good Night,' written and directed by her brother, Jake Paltrow. (General Motors Photo/John F. Martin) [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 04:36 AM
World Economic Forum: Welcome to the Annual Meeting: Micheline Calmy-Rey : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: DAVOS, SWITZERLAND, 24 JANUARY 2007 - Micheline Calmy-Rey, President of the Swiss Confederation and Federal Councillor of Foreign Affairs, Switzerland, welcomes the participants at the Annual Meeting 2007 of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, January 24, 2007. (© World Economic Forum, Photo Severin Nowacki) [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 01:52 AM
World Economic Forum Focus Nightcap: Claudia Schiffer : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: DAVOS, SWITZERLAND, 24 JANUARY 2007 - German top model Claudia Schiffer poses for the photographers during the 'Focus Nightcap' at the Steigenberger Hotel Belvedere at the Annual Meeting 2007 of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, January 24, 2007. (© World Economic Forum, Photo by Monika Flueckiger) [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 01:24 AM
GOLDEN GLOBE AWARDS: DIAMOND INFORMATION CENTER RIGHT HAND RING : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: Jennifer Lopez proudly supports "Raise Your Right Hand Ring for Africa" at the 2007 Golden Globe Awards(R) by wearing a 30-carat yellow Diamond Right Hand Ring by Lorraine Schwartz. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 12:37 AM
January 24, 2007
World Economic Forum: 'Update 2007: Beyond Web 2.0 - From Content to Collective Knowledge?': John Markoff : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: DAVOS, SWITZERLAND, 24 JANUARY 2007 - John Markoff, Senior Writer, The New York Times, USA, captured during the session 'Update 2007: Beyond Web 2.0 - From Content to Collective Knowledge?' at the Annual Meeting 2007 of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, January 24, 2007. (© World Economic Forum, Photo by Annette Boutellier) [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 10:49 PM
World Economic Forum Opening Address: Angela Merkel : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: DAVOS, SWITZERLAND, 24 JANUARY 2007 - Angela Merkel, Federal Chancellor of Germany, speaks during the onpening address to the participants at the Annual Meeting 2007 of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, January 24, 2007. (© World Economic Forum, Photo Remy Steinegger) [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 10:32 PM
BLACK ENTERPRISE FEBRUARY COVER : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: In February's BLACK ENTERPRISE: Career-Empowering Tips from Top Women in Business. On the cover: "Career Makeovers That Work." Joi Gordon, CEO of Dress for Success Worldwide turns legions of disadvantaged women into polished professionals. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 10:05 PM
World Economic Forum: 'Update 2007: The Global Economy': Laura D. Tyson : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: DAVOS, SWITZERLAND, 24 JANUARY 2007 - Laura D. Tyson, Professor of Economics, University of California, Berkeley, USA, captured during the session 'Update 2007: The Global Economy' at the Annual Meeting 2007 of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, January 24, 2007. (© World Economic Forum, Photo by Remy Steinegger) [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 07:24 PM
World Economic Forum Opening Press Conference: GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: DAVOS, SWITZERLAND, 24 JANUARY 2007 - Sunil Bharti Mittal, Chairman and Group Managing Director, Bharti Enterprises, India, captured during the Opening Press Conference at the Annual Meeting 2007 of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, January 24, 2007. (© World Economic Forum, Photo by Benjamin Zurbriggen) [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 07:18 PM
NYTimes.com Launches ''Davos Diary'' : GlobalGiants.com
A New Special Section of DealBook Dedicated to the World Economic Forum.
Photo: DAVOS/SWITZERLAND, 23 JAN 2007 - The Set up of the welcome lounge at the middle entry floor at the Annual Meeting 2007 of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, January 23, 2007. (© World Economic Forum, Photo by Annette Boutellier)
NEW YORK -- Jan. 23, 2007 -- NYTimes.com introduced today "Davos Diary,"a special section of its DealBook blog (http://dealbook.blogs.nytimes.com/category/davos-2007/) dedicated exclusively to the World Economics Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland. The blog will feature up-to-date news and analysis about the conference by journalists from The New York Times and the International Herald Tribune based around the world. There will also be special coverage on IHT.com (www.iht.com/davos). In addition, the blog will include interviews and videos from Davos. "Davos Diary" will be updated early and often throughout the day and will run until Jan. 28.
"We're excited to launch this special section of DealBook dedicated to news and commentary," said Larry Ingrassia, business editor, The New York Times. "As always, DealBook will provide our readers with a unique and well-informed look at the people and events who shape economics and geopolitics. 'Davos Diary' also provides an opportunity for our readers to share their insights." [GlobalGiants.com]
Contributing journalists include:
From Davos:
• Liz Alderman, business editor, International Herald Tribune.
• Katrin Bennhold, correspondent, International Herald Tribune.
• Alan Cowell, London bureau chief, The New York Times.
• Carter Dougherty, business correspondent, International Herald Tribune.
• James Kanter, correspondent, International Herald Tribune.
• Mark Landler, Frankfurt bureau chief, The New York Times.
• Floyd Norris, financial columnist, The New York Times and International Herald Tribune.
• Andrew Ross Sorkin, mergers and acquisitions reporter, The New York Times.
• John Markoff, technology reporter, The New York Times.
From New York:
• Peter Edmonston, business reporter, The New York Times.
• Michael J. de la Merced, DealBook writer, The New York Times.
From Paris:
• Liza Klausmann, contributor writer, The New York Times. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 03:57 PM
January 23, 2007
EMI/Manhattan Records: Quebec Singer Giorgia Fumanti to Make U.S. Television Debut at NHL All-Star Game in Dallas : GlobalGiants.com
Italian-Born Beauty to Release Her U.S. Debut Album on March 6 2007.
Part of PBS Special 'Heavenly Voices' to Air in March.
Photo: Manhattan Records recording artist Giorgia Fumanti.
NEW YORK, Jan. 23 -- Quebec singer Giorgia Fumanti makes her U.S. TV debut when she performs the Canadian National Anthem at the NHL All-Star Game in Dallas on January 24th. "It is a huge honour for me, not only to represent my adopted home of Canada but also to perform at a major U.S. sporting event like the NHL All-Star Game," said Giorgia Fumanti. Originally from Italy, Giorgia has been living in Quebec where she recorded her upcoming album FROM MY HEART due out on EMI/Manhattan Records on March 6, 2007. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 07:02 PM
January 22, 2007
Grey's Anatomy Star Katherine Heigl At Film Festival : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Film and TV star Katherine Heigl catches a ride in a Saturn Outlook, Sunday, January 21, 2007, during the film festival in Park City, Utah. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 01:28 PM
January 21, 2007
NEWSWEEK COVER JANUARY 29, 2007 ISSUE : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: The January 29 issue of Newsweek (on newsstands January 22), "Hidden in Plain Sight," looks at Shawn Hornbeck's 2002 kidnapping, his life as an alleged captive and how he is adjusting after being reunited with his family. Plus: Bush's Maliki problem, the widening violence in Darfur, Michelle Obama's possible role in her husband's presidential campaign, climate change's disastrous affect on insurance rates, the annual Oscar Roundtable, "American Idol's" new mean streak and the new wisdom on kids and eating. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 06:05 PM
January 20, 2007
VICTORY MOTORCYCLES: V FOR VICTORY : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: NASCAR legends Richard, left and Kyle give the V for victory at the unveiling of the new Vision line of touring bikes at the International Motorcycle Show in New York City, Friday, January 19, 2007. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 04:37 PM
January 18, 2007
Tony Stewart at O'Reilly Chili Bowl Midget Nationals : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Two-time NASCAR Nextel Cup champion Tony Stewart wins the 50-lap O'Reilly Chili Bowl Midget Nationals championship event Saturday, January 13, 2007 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 12:23 PM
January 16, 2007
FORD RACING: BP-FORD STARTS NEW SEASON WITH PROVEN CHAMPIONSHIP PACKAGE : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: Ford Focus RS WRC 2007
Reigning world rally champion BP-Ford will launch the defence of its 2006 title on the legendary Rallye Monte Carlo (18 - 21 January) in France next week with a proven winning squad. The team which lifted the FIA World Rally Championship manufacturers' title will begin 2007 with the same core structure firmly in place.
The driver line-up of Marcus Grönholm and Timo Rautiainen and team-mates Mikko Hirvonen and Jarmo Lehtinen, who spurred the team to its most successful season ever with eight victories en route to the title, remains unchanged. The Focus RS WRC will also begin the new campaign in the same specification that it ended the 2006 season. However, development of the car continues and upgrades are expected as the season unfolds.
The Focus RS WRC will display a new color scheme for 2007 and a new team logo has been designed to take the team into the future. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 04:15 PM
January 06, 2007
NYSE OPENING BELL RUNG BY MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. NATIONAL MEMORIAL SUPPORTERS : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: Executives, supporters and sponsors of the Washington, DC Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial rang the NYSE Opening Bell to kick off the inaugural year of construction of the Washington, DC Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial. From left Kerry-Ann Powell, Memorial Foundation; Steven R. Gursky, Esq. Dreier LLP; Rod Gillum, Vice President, Corporate Responsibility and Diversity, GM; Richard Marshall, CFO, Memorial Foundation; John Thain, CEO, NYSE Exchange; Harry Johnson, President and CEO Memorial Foundation, Inc.; Gary Cowger, Global Group Vice President of General Motors; Russell Simmons (back with hat); Henry Schleiff, CEO, The Hallmark Channel; Richard S. Fuld, Jr., CEO, Lehman Brothers; Ron Parker (back), Senior Vice President Human Resources, PepsiCo., North America; Anne Erni, Chief Diversity Officer and Managing Director, Lehman Brothers; Guy Vickers, VP Community Relations, President Tommy Hilfiger Corporate Foundation; Amy George, VP Global Diversity and Inclusion, PepsiCo. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 07:13 PM
January 05, 2007
Robb Report Editors Name Bentley Continental GTC 2007 Car of the Year : GlobalGiants.com
Maybach 57S, Bugatti Veyron 16.4, Porsche 911 Turbo, and Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG Place in Top Five.
MALIBU, Calif., Jan. 5 -- The editors of Robb Report have selected the Bentley Continental GTC as the magazine's 2007 Car of the Year, citing "remarkable drivability, superb handling, a clean and well-executed design, and minimal performance concessions in the interest of open-air driving."
The award is presented annually to an automobile, formally introduced in the previous year, whose technical designs, styling, and performance position it as the world's preeminent sports or luxury car. The February issue of Robb Report, on stands January 23, announces the 2007 Car of the Year and offers automotive aficionados detailed analyses of each of the new models.
Robb Report editors and staff members, along with 41 car experts and enthusiasts, formed the panel of judges. They put 13 magnificent machines through two rigorous days of driving, rated them, and selected the one car they believed best combines elegance, style, and exquisite detailing with performance equal to the challenge of any mountain road or track.
Finalists in Robb Report's 2007 Car of the Year were: #13 Cadillac XLR-V; #12 Lotus Exige S; #11 Lamborghini Murcielago LP640; #10 Ford Shelby GT500; #9 Rolls-Royce Phantom EWB; #7 (tie) Jaguar XKR Convertible and BMW M6; #6 Audi S8; #5 Maybach 57S; #4 Bugatti Veyron 16.4; #3 Porsche 911 Turbo; and #2 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG.
Robb Report is the international authority on the luxury lifestyle. Each month, the magazine reports on issues and trends affecting the affluent market, with coverage of exclusive events and features on exceptional automobiles, motorcycles, aircraft, art, jewelry, watches, fashion, travel, homes, wines, spirits, and cigars. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 08:02 PM
January 03, 2007
NICKELODEON THE WONDER PETS : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Nickelodeon's The Wonder Pets! takes the top ratings spot for 2006 with preschoolers (kids 2-5).
Nickelodeon, now in its 27th year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books, magazines and feature films. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 09:03 PM
January 02, 2007
NEW YORKERS RING IN THE NEW YEAR : GlobalGiants.com
PHOTO: An image of revelers embracing at the stroke of midnight, as confetti rains down, is projected on the News Astrovision by Panasonic in New York's Times Square, Monday, January 1, 2007. More than 1 million revelers gathered in Times Square to ring in 2007 beneath a veil of 3.5 tons of confetti. (Feature Photo Service) [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 06:52 PM
Nokia New Year's Eve celebrates the start of 2007 in global style : GlobalGiants.com
World's largest New Year's Eve celebration draws more than 2 million music lovers to 5 "party capitals" of the world.
More than 150 million viewers tune into global TV and Internet broadcast.
Performances by The Black Eyed Peas, Scissor Sisters, Nelly Furtado, John Legend, Sugababes, Atomic Kitten, Ludacris, Rihanna, KT Tunstall, Sergio Mendes, among others.
Photo: Firework effects mesmerized the audience after countdown in Hong Kong
Espoo, Finland - On December 31st, Nokia New Year's Eve delivered on its promise to connect millions of people around the world through five spectacular events being held as part of the biggest New Year's party of 2006. Five party capitals -- Hong Kong, Mumbai, Berlin, Rio and New York -- all played their part to celebrate the beginning of 2007. Those in attendance at the live show, or watching the global broadcast on television or online saw some of the biggest names in music celebrating a truly unforgettable night.
Photo: Grammy-Award winning artist Nelly Furtado performs at Nokia New Year's Eve in Mumbai.
Nokia New Year's Eve began at Hong Kong's Ocean Terminal with Atomic Kitten topping the bill and making their first international appearance since splitting in 2004. They performed hits such as Whole Again and Tide Is High after an impressive roster of local stars including DJ Jamaster A, Eason Chan, Grasshopper, Hacken Lee, Joey Yung, Josie Ho, Jun Kung, Paul Wong, Soler and Twins entertained the crowd throughout the evening. Despite the massive Internet challenges created by the recent earthquake in Taiwan, Hong Kong music fans were also able to stream the live concert footage directly to their mobile thanks to a select group of local operators.
Photo: Nokia New Year's Eve party in Berlin.
Moving west, Mumbai's Andheri Stadium played host to a star-studded celebration that featured performances by Grammy Award-winning Nelly Furtado, Indian music maestro A.R. Rahman, and Bollywood superstars Priyanka Chopra, Shahid Kapoor, Koena Mitra, among others.
Photo: The Black Eyed Peas and Sergio Mendes at Nokia New Year's Eve party in Rio
The night rounded off in New York with performances from Rihanna, Ludacris and KT Tunstall appearing in "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve 2007". [GlobalGiants.com]
Furtado, a Canadian performing in India for the first time, captivated the crowd by singing two Hindi ballads, Kabhi Kabhi and Yeh Sama, in addition to her international hits Powerless, Maneater and I Am Like A Bird. Nokia New Year's Eve also marked the public debut of the first English language composition by Indian musical legend A.R. Rahman - Pray For Me, Brother - an anthem dedicated toward the eradication of world poverty. As the clock closed on midnight, Rahman, also known as the "Mozart from Madras", got the crowd into the party spirit with his all-time hit Humma Humma as well as his Oscar-nominated single Khalbali.
"Thank you Nokia for making this happen. I have wanted to come to India all my life," said Nelly Furtado after the show. "The crowd was amazing and it was so much fun to perform on the same bill as so many talented Indian artists."
Berlin's Brandenburg Gate was the largest Nokia New Year's Eve celebration with an estimated 1.2 million party-goers in attendance. In front of this massive audience, headline act Scissor Sisters played their hit singles I Don't Feel Like Dancin' and Comfortably Numb in a ninety-minute set that wowed the audience before a spectacular 10-minute pyrotechnics display erupted at midnight. Sugababes then took to the stage to carry on the party well in to the night.
"This will be the biggest audience we've ever played to so we were really excited! We love coming to Berlin simply because nobody parties harder and longer than the Berliners," said Ana Matronic from Scissor Sisters before they took the stage. "After the show we plan on having an excessively fun and ridiculous evening which we hope will set the tone for the rest of 2007! Happy New Year everyone!"
In Rio, Brazilians showed that a bit of rain would not stand in the way of an amazing night. More than one million people celebrated Nokia New Year's Eve in a nine hour concert on Ipanema beach. The crowd was treated to unforgettable performances by the Black Eyed Peas, John Legend and Brazilian music legend Sérgio Mendes as well as local artists Funk'n Lata and DJ Marlboro, amongst others.
The Black Eyed Peas played all of their hits including Where Is The Love? and Pump It as well as an unforgettable collaboration with Sérgio Mendes for the hit song Mas que Nada. Sergio Mendes was making his first Brazilian live performance for 28 years and treated the crowd to a host of hits from his country's musical history. Speaking after the show, Mendes said "This was a night of magic. Sharing my music with the Brazilian audience was emotional and unforgettable. This was without a doubt one of the happiest days in my life".
"With more than 2 million music lovers celebrating with us in person, and more than 150 million television and Internet viewers, Nokia New Year's Eve was certainly the biggest New Year's party of 2006," said Jo Harlow, Senior Vice President of Marketing for Nokia. "Nokia New Year's Eve clearly lived up to our mission of "Connecting People" and delivered on our promise of leveraging the power of television, the internet, live events and the world's most exciting music artists to get people talking, sharing and celebrating on one incredible night. Our thanks to the artists who performed -- and the millions of people who celebrated with us in person and around the world." [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 10:28 AM
January 01, 2007
AT&T and BellSouth Join to Create a Premier Global Communications Company : GlobalGiants.com
Deal Consolidates Ownership of Cingular Wireless.
BellSouth and Cingular Brand Transition to Begin Soon.
PHOTO: New Year, New Company -- Workers install the new AT&T logo at the former BellSouth Atlanta headquarters over the weekend. BellSouth and Cingular came together Friday to form a premier global communications company. (AT&T photo by Michael Pugh).
San Antonio, Texas, -- AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T) has closed its acquisition of BellSouth Corporation, creating a premier global communications company committed to driving convergence, continued innovation, and competition in the communications and entertainment market.
The transaction consolidates ownership and management of Cingular Wireless, the USA's leading provider of wireless voice and data services, and YELLOWPAGES.COM, a leading Internet Yellow Pages and local search site.
PHOTO: Wireless home networking lets families share their AT&T Yahoo! High Speed Internet connection.
AT&T will immediately start to implement a carefully planned integration process to converge the AT&T, BellSouth, and Cingular wireless and wireline Internet Protocol (IP) networks, combine product portfolios and integrate customer care capabilities. The new company will be able to accelerate the introduction of innovative broadband services, such as IP-based services, while expanding the reach of broadband access in remote and rural locations in the traditional BellSouth region.
PHOTO: A Cingular store employee demonstrates the simplicity of recording up to four programs simultaneously with AT&T U-verse TV. The red dots next to the program titles indicate that the program will be recorded.
With the merger complete, AT&T enhances its U.S. leadership position in broadband, wireless services, voice services for consumers and businesses, and data services to Fortune 1000 companies.
In the coming days, AT&T will launch extensive new advertising, which will begin the transition of the BellSouth brand name to AT&T. AT&T will re-brand Cingular through a co-branded transition, which is scheduled to start in 2007.
AT&T Inc. is a premier communications holding company in the United States and worldwide, with operating subsidiaries providing services under the AT&T brand. [GlobalGiants.com]
Posted by Editors at 02:47 AM
December 31, 2006
NEWSWEEK COVER: JANUARY 8, 2007 ISSUE
PHOTO: The January 8, 2007 issue of Newsweek (on newsstands Monday, January 1), "Gerald R. Ford, 1913-2006: From Watergate to Iraq, How An Accidental President Changed the Way We Live Now" includes a special report by presidential historian Michael Beschloss, tributes by George H.W. Bush, Henry Kissinger, Bill Clinton, Nancy Reagan, Dick Cheney and others and a historical analysis of Ford's presidency. Plus: Saddam Hussein-the death of a dictator and a look at the future of the Middle East.
Posted by Editors at 07:06 PM
December 28, 2006
PEOPLE MAGAZINE 'HALF THEIR SIZE' DOUBLE ISSUE
PHOTO: PEOPLE publishes "Half Their Size" - a double issue devoted to the inspirational weight loss of ordinary Americans who've struggled with - and succeeded at - taking off tremendous amounts of weight. Motivated by their kids, the mirror or a bad encounter with a seat belt, PEOPLE profiles five "Half Their Sizers" who dropped a collective 1,041 lbs. The issue takes a look at the diet and exercise plans that helped each person transform their bodies and their lives. PEOPLE Magazine hits newsstands Friday 12/29/2006.
Posted by Editors at 11:09 PM
JULIE ROBERTS PARTNERS WITH SCHWAN'S CONSUMER BRANDS
PHOTO: Award-winning country music star Julie Roberts is kicking off the New Year with an exclusive frozen food partnership with Schwan's Consumer Brands North America, Inc. Known for her deep, blues-soaked voice that poignantly captures the pain of the wronged and forgotten, Roberts has quickly become a favorite of fans and music critics alike. Her acclaimed second album, Men and Mascara, has brought accolades and critical acclaim far and wide.
Posted by Editors at 10:11 PM
December 24, 2006
The New York Times Arts & Leisure Weekend January 5 - 7
Added Participants -- Dance Legend Mikhail Baryshnikov and ''The Last King of Scotland'' Star Forest Whitaker.
TimesTalks Also Include J.J. Abrams, Augusten Burroughs, Miley Cyrus and Billy Ray Cyrus, Joan Didion, Renee Fleming, Richard Ford, Peter Gelb, Brice Marden, Thom Mayne, Frank McCourt, Jessica Molaskey, John Pizzarelli, Vanessa Redgrave, Martin Short, Rufus Wainwright, Kara Walker and Brian Williams.
NEW YORK--Dec., 2006 -- The New York Times has announced that dance legend Mikhail Baryshnikov and "Last King of Scotland" star Forest Whitaker are two of the recently added stars who will participate in The Times's Arts & Leisure Weekend. Arts & Leisure Weekend is The Times's annual signature event, a national and international celebration of art and culture to be held Jan. 5 - 7, 2007.
Photo: Last year's weekend celebration: Singing Act
In New York City, The Times will host a series of TimesTalks discussions featuring an array of arts luminaries in conversation with Times critics, reporters and editors. Along with Baryshnikov and Whitaker the roster of participants includes "Lost" creator J.J. Abrams; best-selling memoir authors Augusten Burroughs, Frank McCourt and Jeannette Walls; "Hannah Montana" stars Miley Cyrus and Billy Ray Cyrus; Pulitzer Prize-winning author Richard Ford; Metropolitan Opera impresario Peter Gelb with acclaimed soprano Renee Fleming; American abstract painter Brice Marden; Pritzker Prize-winning architect Thom Mayne; acclaimed jazz and cabaret recording artists Jessica Molaskey and John Pizzarelli; Academy Award(R) winner Vanessa Redgrave with celebrated author Joan Didion; Tony Award(R) winning actor/comedian Martin Short; singer/songwriter Rufus Wainwright; and "NBC Nightly News" anchor Brian Williams.
Photo: Last year's weekend celebration: Sopranos Women
Arts & Leisure Weekend will kick off Jan. 4 at Joe's Pub at The Public Theater with the launch of The Times's new "Emerging Artists" series. This exciting monthly live-performance series will feature established recording artists introducing some of today's freshest new musical talents.
TimesTalks take place at The Graduate Center, CUNY, Fifth Avenue and 34th Street.
Posted by Editors at 07:30 PM
December 23, 2006
Nokia New Year's Eve Celebrations from Around the World to be Webcast on MSN
Streaming videos of concerts featuring international artists, including the Black Eyed Peas, Scissor Sisters, Nelly Furtado among others.
Espoo, Finland, - Nokia has announced MSN as the exclusive online distributor of the highly anticipated Nokia New Year's Eve, a global music celebration which will take place in five party capitals of the world on December 31. Exclusive performances from international artists including the Black Eyed Peas, Scissor Sisters, Nelly Furtado, John Legend, and Atomic Kitten will be streamed live and on demand at no cost to viewers through a Nokia-branded experience at http://www.nokianewyearseve.com.
"Nokia New Year's Eve embodies our objective of connecting people to their passions. We expect this will be the biggest global New Year's Eve music celebration with more than 1.3 million expected to attend," says Jo Harlow, senior vice president, marketing for Nokia. "With MSN, we are greatly expanding the global reach of Nokia New Year's Eve. Now, music lovers around the globe can enjoy their favourite artists -- live, as they countdown the final seconds of 2006, or on demand when the moment strikes them."
Nokia New Year's Eve will bring viewers on a journey from east to west; starting in Hong Kong's Harbour City Ocean Terminal, followed by Mumbai's Andheri Stadium, the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Ipanema Beach in Rio de Janeiro and rounding off the night in New York. Each venue will feature a strong lineup of local and international musicians.
Posted by Editors at 10:15 PM
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden Helps U.S. Marine Plan Special Christmas Gift for His Family
Unique Gift Allows Family to Interact Online and Share a Special Moment Together.
COLUMBIA, S.C., Dec. 23 -- When Sergeant Ben Barron, a U.S. Marine currently stationed in Iraq, realized he would miss his daughter Alice's first Christmas, he contacted Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia, S.C. to request a unique Christmas gift for his family so that he could create a memorable holiday experience and help bridge the distance between them all.
Remembering his wife Elizabeth's fondness for penguins, Sgt. Barron contacted Riverbanks to see if the zoo's staff would allow his wife and daughter a special opportunity this Christmas to meet and interact one-on-one with the penguins living at the Zoo.
Upon receiving the message from Sgt. Barron, the staff at Riverbanks immediately went to work, and Elizabeth and Alice soon received a surprise package from Sgt. Barron inviting them to spend Friday, Dec. 22 at Riverbanks. The surprise package included an invitation to attend a behind-the-scenes tour of the penguin exhibit, and a surprise for Sgt. Barron - the opportunity to watch his family interact with the penguins through webcam.
Located in Columbia, S.C., Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is home to more than 2,000 magnificent and fascinating animals and one of the America's most beautiful and inspiring botanical gardens. The lush, 170-acre site features dynamic natural exhibits, scenic river views, spectacular valley overlooks and significant historical landmarks.
Posted by Editors at 09:08 PM
December 21, 2006
FORD’S NEW 2007 EDGE URBAN ADVERTISING: HIP-HOP STAR KELIS WILL ‘PUSH IT TO THE EDGE’
Grammy-nominated singer Kelis will star in a new urban marketing campaign to promote the all-new 2007 Ford Edge crossover.
Kelis creates a new song “Push it to the Edge” specifically for the campaign.
The Edge urban marketing campaign will begin airing on Dec. 20 with major radio, print, television and Internet outlets throughout the USA.
Photo: The Ford Edge is announced as a finalist for the North American Truck of the Year Award at the Detroit Economic Club meeting on Wednesday, December 13, 2006. The winners will be announced on January 7, 2007 at the North American International Auto Show.
DEARBORN, Mich. – The all-new 2007 Ford Edge goes into overdrive this week with an urban marketing campaign featuring Grammy-nominated singer Kelis. Consumers will hear the hip-hop artist “Push it to the Edge” with a new song about Ford’s bold crossover vehicle in ads that begin airing Dec. 20.
Kelis will kick off her new relationship with Ford on Dec. 18 in New York City at her husband’s, rap icon Nas’, black and white ball in New York City to celebrate the release of his new album, “Hip-Hop is Dead.” Ford will give partygoers a glimpse of the new advertising campaign created by The Uniworld Group - Detroit.
The five-passenger 2007 Ford Edge has a bold design with a stylish, functional and clever interior. Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures and distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents.
“With a bold style that breaks the rules, Kelis is the perfect spokesperson for the Edge urban marketing campaign,” said Jeri Ward, Ford Edge marketing manager. “Our target buyer can easily relate to Kelis’ sharp and sophisticated style.”
“I am an informed buyer who likes to shop around for what I like,” said Kelis. “I prefer bold designs and that’s what I see when I look at the Edge. I believe it was built to defy expectations and change people’s perceptions, two concepts that have helped me define who I am.”
On Dec. 20, the Edge campaign featuring Kelis will begin with a creative radio spot featuring the song that Kelis created specifically for the campaign titled, “Push it to the Edge.” The song flows with a strong hip-hop beat to the following lyrics:
So clean in my Edge
Steady headed to the spot
Speakers bump thump thump
All you hearin’ on the block
I live life loud
Cause that’s the only way to live it
I push it to the Edge
Never stop at the limit.
The spot also features a cameo introduction of Kelis by hip-hop DJ Funkmaster Flex. The spot will air on national syndicated radio shows like The Steve Harvey Morning Show and The Tom Joyner Morning Show. Kelis is scheduled to participate in various Edge sweepstakes giveaways on these shows beginning in February.
The Edge urban television commercial, titled “On the Edge,” stars Kelis and features the song. The ad opens with the Edge making a red carpet appearance in front of a captive paparazzi crowd. The photographers cannot keep their lens off the Edge as the optional panoramic Vista Roof™ slowly opens to reveal Kelis dressed to impress for a VIP event. The ad will begin airing in late December on major television networks throughout the USA.
The Kelis song and the new urban Edge campaign will be an integral part of Ford’s new urban Web site, www.fordurban.com. The Web site will begin in late December with a targeted focus toward Edge buyers and eventually extend to the entire Ford brand line-up of car, trucks, SUVs and crossovers.
Posted by Editors at 07:30 PM
BLACK ENTERPRISE JANUARY ISSUE
PHOTO: Young Entrepreneurs Pair Up for Profit, the Six Rules of Reinventing Your Career, and the Best Business Opportunities for 2007 Highlight January Issue of Black Enterprise.
Black Enterprise is the premier business and investment resource for African Americans. Since 1970, BE has provided essential business information and advice to professionals, corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and decision makers.
Posted by Editors at 12:38 PM
GM STYLE: Celebrities Carmen Electra and Mario Lopez Confirm Attendance
General Motors Announces North American Debut of Four Global Concepts.
Photo: Dancing With the Stars participant Stacy Keibler walks the runway alongside the Cadillac STS at the 5th annual General Motors ten fashion show that pairs the hottest names in entertainment with GM's pristine concept and production vehicles - all for a good cause. The GM TEN event, held Tuesday, February 28, 2006 in Hollywood, supports a variety of charities nationwide. (United States)
DETROIT – In addition to an array of classic GM Designs, including the 2006 Camaro Concept (an instant classic) and the 1951 Buick LeSabre Concept (an iconic classic), four global concepts never before seen in North America will “drive the runway” with celebrity guests including Carmen Electra and Mario Lopez during January’s GM Style.
The Holden EFIJY, Chevrolet T2X, Chevrolet WTCC and Opel Antara GTC will make North American debuts on Jan. 6, 2007, in a pavilion on the Detroit Riverfront and then featured in GM’s exhibit at the North American International Auto Show the following week. These four vehicles showcase GM Design’s creative talent from four of their 11 studios around the world.
"Collectively these concepts represent GM Design's global vitality, while capturing the spirit of the brands they represent,” said Ed Welburn, General Motors vice president of global Design. "Great design transcends borders, and these award-winning GM concept vehicles are proof of that."
Photo: General Motors European Design Director Bryan Nesbitt introduces the Opel Antara GTC concept at the Frankfurt International Motor Show in Frankfurt, Germany Monday, September 12, 2005. (General Motors/Olaf Gallas)
The four vehicles have arrived in Michigan from all corners of the world and are being primped for their Detroit debut along side some of Hollywood’s most notable stars.
Photo: Actress Carmen Electra poses for photographers in front of the Angel Flight America SAAB 9-7X at a celebration leading up to the New York Auto Show Monday, April 10, 2006 in New York. Saab Automobile USA unveiled the Saab Aero X concept to North America. (General Motors/Emile Wamsteker)
Carmen Electra and Mario Lopez have confirmed they will join previously announced Cheryl Hines, Vivica A. Fox, Petra Nemcova, Danny Masterson, and Rachel Zoe at GM Style.
The first-ever invitation only GM Style will showcase 17 GM vehicles paired with celebrities and the latest fashions. GM will construct a pavilion just east of the Renaissance Center on the Detroit Riverfront to host this salute to style. The pavilion, the first of its kind, will be longer than a football field, climate controlled and able to accommodate a runway for cars and stars.
Posted by Editors at 10:23 AM
December 20, 2006
Chevrolet to Power Tony Stewart Racing in 2007 and Beyond
Photo: Chevrolet will power and sponsor Tony Stewart Racing's entries in the United States Auto Club (USAC) and the World of Outlaws Sprint Series for three years beginning in 2007 it was announced Monday, December 11, 2006 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Speedway, Indiana. (General Motors/Ron McQueeney)
Posted by Editors at 06:45 PM
Live From Your Cingular Phone, It's Saturday Night!
For the First Time, NBC Universal, Broadway Video Entertainment and Cingular Wireless Bring America's Longest Running TV Comedy to the Small Screen.
NBC Universal and Broadway Video Entertainment Team Up to Offer Cingular Customers Exclusive Access to 'Saturday Night Live' Mobile Content on Their Wireless Phones.
NEW YORK and ATLANTA, Dec. 19 -- Cingular customers no longer have to wait until Saturday night to enjoy what is undoubtedly the most influential sketch comedy show of all time. NBC Universal, Broadway Video Entertainment, and Cingular Wireless today announced the launch of Saturday Night Live (SNL) Mobile on Cingular handsets, marking the first time SNL content has been made available on the mobile phone.
Photo: Saturday Night Live video shorts, from current and past seasons, now available exclusively on Cingular phones.
Cingular Video subscribers can enjoy exclusive mobile access to Saturday Night Live content, including video clips from classic and current episodes, as well as original material produced especially for the mobile screen. Cingular customers can also purchase and download a diverse collection of SNL- themed ringtones and graphics -- both from current and classic seasons.
Cingular Wireless is the largest wireless carrier in the United States. NBC has evolved into a diverse, international media company. In addition to the NBC Television Network and 14 NBC television stations, the company owns CNBC, operates MSNBC in partnership with Microsoft, and maintains interests in a number of programming services. Broadway Video Entertainment is one of New York's leading post-production services companies and a major independent producer of television and film entertainment.
Posted by Editors at 06:18 PM
Serena Williams and Sania Mirza will play at the Sony Ericsson International in Bangalore
India’s largest WTA Tour Event will be held from February 12 - 18, 2007 at KSLTA, Bangalore.
Bangalore, India – After a successful second year of tennis sponsorship, Sony Ericsson increases its commitment to the sport by tying up with the Karnataka State Lawn Tennis Association (KSLTA) to bring the Sony Ericsson International, a Sony Ericsson WTA (Women’s Tennis Association) Tour event, to Bangalore. With the title sponsorship of the tournament in India, Sony Ericsson aims to further popularise and promote the sport of tennis in India, as it has been doing worldwide through the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour. KSLTA is pleased to announce confirmed participation from Serena Williams and Sania Mirza for the tournament. This will be Serena’s first appearance in India and the talented player is set to enthral the Indian audience with her exciting power tennis.
Announced today at a press conference in Bangalore, Sony Ericsson International will sit alongside the company’s other tennis commitments: the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour, which culminates in the Sony Ericsson Championships in Madrid in November, the Tennis Masters Cup in Shanghai, also in November, and the Sony Ericsson Open in Miami, to debut in March 2007.
According to Serena Williams, “I am very excited to be playing in the Sony Ericsson International in Bangalore, especially for the first time. Tennis as a sport has become more and more popular in India, and I hope many fans of all ages will come out and see us play. I always look forward to visiting a new country and playing in new good tournaments.”
Speaking at the press conference, Sania Mirza said, “Sony Ericsson has had a major impact on the WTA Tour. It has helped to make the sport cooler and more accessible because of its links with music, film and fashion. As a result tennis has broadened its appeal to new audiences. I look forward to the newly created Sony Ericsson International next February, in my country.”
Sony Ericsson is the global title sponsor of the Women's Tennis Association, and works with the Association to promote the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour in over 80 cities during the year.
Posted by Editors at 01:31 PM
December 19, 2006
Bayer Advanced(TM) Red Carpet of Roses Float to Showcase a Record 50 Varieties of Roses
RALEIGH, N.C. and PASADENA, Calif., Dec. 19 -- Bayer Advanced(TM), one of the largest lawn and garden brands in the United States and creator of some of the most effective rose care products for consumers, will showcase a record 50 varieties of roses, including celebrity roses and the 2007 All-America Rose Selections winners, on its Red Carpet of Roses float in the 118th Rose Parade(R) in Pasadena, Calif., on Monday, January 1, 2007.
Photo: Marilyn Monroe Celebrity Rose will be showcased on the 2007 Bayer Advanced Red Carpet of Roses Float.
Beginning December 26, 2006, design experts and hundreds of volunteers from Phoenix Decorating, the largest Rose Parade float builder, will begin the weeklong process of decorating the Bayer Advanced Red Carpet of Roses float with natural materials, as well as live roses named after such celebrities as Betty Boop, Bing Crosby, Queen Elizabeth, Amy Grant, Barbra Streisand, Paul McCartney, Cary Grant, Chris Evert, Della Reese, Dolly Parton, George Burns, John F. Kennedy, Marilyn Monroe, Michelangelo, Pope John Paul II, Princess Diana, Ronald Reagan and even Santa Claus.
Bayer Advanced is a business group of Bayer CropScience LP and part of the Bayer AG family, a Fortune Global 500 company. The global headquarters of Bayer CropScience is located in Monheim, Germany.
Posted by Editors at 10:47 PM
Napster Announces Winners of Digital Music Awards
'2006 Napster Awards' Honor Artists and Songs Played Most by Subscribers.
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 19 -- Napster(TM) (NASDAQ:NAPS) , the pioneer of digital music, today announced the winners of the "2006 Napster Awards," the first awards to honor artists and songs for accomplishments in digital music. In contrast to other music industry awards, the Napster Awards are determined by the actual listening behavior of music fans who subscribe to Napster's industry-leading subscription service and play over one billion songs each year. Presented to the artists and songs that enjoyed the highest number of plays in the service between December 1, 2005 and November 30, 2006, the Napster Awards illustrate that there is a significant difference between the music that sells the most and the music that's played the most when fans are in an unlimited access music subscription environment.
Photo: 2006 Napster Award.
Each Napster Award recipient will receive an impressive trophy featuring the infamous Napster Kitty(R).
The 2006 Napster Award for "Most-Played Artist" went to singer-songwriter Jack Johnson, whose mellow acoustic grooves were a huge hit among Napster's half a million subscribers who played his music more than any other artist's. The Napster Award for "Most-Played Song" went to the pop/punk single "Dance, Dance" from Chicago's Fall Out Boy. Punctuating the difference between sales figures and subscriber plays, Jack Johnson, Napster's most played artist, was not recognized by the 2006 Billboard Music Awards which track sales and radio airplay and "Dance, Dance," Napster's most played song, was not among the top 10 tracks sold on iTunes in 2006.
"The Napster Awards provide insight into how music fans behave when they can listen to an enormous variety of music away from restrictive radio playlists, limited retail shelf space and 30-second clip, buck a track digital stores," said Chris Gorog, chairman and CEO of Napster. "When consumers are given unlimited access to music and are freed from having to pay for each individual song in order to hear it, it's interesting to see how this freedom changes what they want to actually listen to. We congratulate all of the 2006 Napster Award winners, and look forward to continuing to honor the music Napster subscribers enjoy playing the most."
Posted by Editors at 10:27 PM
December 17, 2006
NEWSWEEK COVER: DECEMBER 25, 2006 ISSUE
PHOTO: The December 25, 2006-January 1, 2007 issue of Newsweek (on newsstands Monday, December 18), "The Race is On" explores whether America is ready for a historic first in the White House in 2008: the first woman president or the first black president -- Sen. Hillary Clinton or Sen. Barack Obama. Plus: "Who's Next in 2007" looks at the up-and-comers from the worlds of politics, business, the arts, science and education most likely to be newsmakers in the coming year. (PRNewsFoto/NEWSWEEK)
Posted by Editors at 09:26 PM
December 16, 2006
Heavenly Star' By Genki Rockets Makes iTunes Debut
Q Entertainment Showcases Newly Formed Group to Game and Music Fans.
TOKYO, Dec. 15 -- Tokyo-based Q Entertainment, best known for its music and luminary action puzzle game series "Lumines(TM)," announced that their self-produced hit song "Heavenly Star" is now available for purchase at the iTunes Store US and Japan (http://www.itunes.com/), with other territories to follow. Fans can purchase the song for US$0.99 or 150 yen.
Performed by a new group called Genki Rockets and produced by Q Entertainment's own Tetsuya Mizuguchi, the song's catchy and uplifting tune combined with equally striking video has caught the attention of many gamers and was recently nominated Best Song at the 2006 Spike TV Video Game Awards. Genki Rockets is a hybrid group that consists of a few artists and will be collaborating with other artists in the future to bring new music and videos.
Formed in 2003, Tokyo-based Q ENTERTAINMENT, Inc. creates, produces, and consults in digital entertainment content across multiple game consoles, PC broadband and mobile units. It is best known for their critically acclaimed music and luminary action puzzle game series "Lumines," which was released worldwide in 2004/2005.
Posted by Editors at 06:47 PM
December 14, 2006
Smilebox and Hallmark Partner to Deliver Photo Expressions
REDMOND, Wash., Dec. 13 -- Smilebox, Inc., the photo expressions service, today announced a distribution and content partnership with Hallmark Cards, Inc. With the holidays quickly approaching, this partnership will enable customers to access an online catalog of seasonal e- cards, animated scrapbooks, slide shows and interactive postcards that can be customized with their own photos, messages, music and backgrounds. The new photo expressions service marks the first time that consumers can integrate their personal photos with Hallmark online content.
PHOTO: A popular holiday slideshow designed by Hallmark for the Smilebox service. Hoops & Yoyo, Hallmark's popular characters, throw snow balls which turn into the user's photos.
"Greeting cards, whether traditional paper or electronic, help fulfill an enduring need for people to maintain connections with one another," said Steve Ruschill, marketing technology manager at Hallmark. "Smilebox's digital services, combined with Hallmark's creative excellence, provide a new holiday greeting solution for family and friends."
The new photo expressions service, delivered via the Smilebox(TM) platform, utilizes a complete new line of creative content developed by Hallmark's creative staff of writers and designers. Much of the content is developed around popular Hallmark intellectual properties such as the Hoops & Yoyo characters.
The Hallmark Smilebox service is now live and can be downloaded free of charge at http://www.hallmark.com/smilebox. Consumers can email the basic version of a design to family and friends for free with a short ad, purchase the premium version for a one-time fee of $0.99 or $1.99, or subscribe to Club Smilebox for $4.99/month or $39.99/ year and get unlimited premium designs.
Posted by Editors at 02:37 PM
MANHATTAN RECORDS: EMI MUSIC MARKETING DIANA ROSS
Diana Ross Presents 'I Love You,' a New Studio Album.
NEW YORK, Dec. 13 -- For her new studio album, Diana Ross has drawn inspiration from romantic songs that have touched her heart through the years, and she has dedicated the album to this most powerful universal emotion: love. "I Love You," to be released by Manhattan/EMI in CD and deluxe CD/DVD packages and digitally on January 16, presents 14 songs personally selected for the album by Diana Ross in appreciation of their timeless, classic expressions of love and romance, including a brand new song, "I Love You" a gentle ballad that captures the emotion of romance.
PHOTO: Diana Ross "I Love You" cover art image; Manhattan Records/EMI Music Marketing.
Recorded at multiple studios in Southern California, New York and London, "I Love You" features soaring orchestral arrangements to accompany the broad range and sensitivity of Ms. Ross' vocals, one of the world's most cherished musical instruments. The best players and singers from Los Angeles, New York and London were involved with the new album, and Ms. Ross attended every session, from the initial demos to tracking, overdubs and mixing. "When I was in the studio, sharing these songs, I was filled with strong emotion," says Ms. Ross. "These songs, these singers, these musicians and all my fans are a gift of love to me."
The CD's package includes stunning photos by Herb Ritts, Randee St. Nicholas and Douglas Kirkland and a letter to fans from Ms. Ross, who executive produced "I Love You." The package also contains notes from the album's co-executive producer, Marylata E. Jacob, a Grammy-nominated music supervisor and producer whose professional relationship with Ms. Ross spans 22 years, Peter Asher, who produced nine of the album's tracks, and who has collaborated with Ms. Ross on many of her most cherished recordings, and the producer of five of the album's tracks, Steve Tyrell, has produced many recordings with Ms. Ross including "Big Bad Love" with Ray Charles, and in 2005 produced her duet with Rod Stewart, "I've Got A Crush On You," the lead single from Stewart's "Thanks For The Memory: The Great American Songbook I." "I Love You"'s deluxe edition adds a DVD with a photo gallery and an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the making of the new album.
Beginning and closing with Harry Nilsson's "Remember," the song that inspired Ms. Ross' vision for her new album, "I Love You" takes the listener on a vibrant journey through many of music's most timeless and recognizable affirmations of love. All of the songs chosen for the album are important and meaningful to Ms. Ross, from the sweet bounce of "More Today Than Yesterday," to the sultry allure of "I Want You," a song first recorded by Marvin Gaye that was co-written by Ms. Ross' brother, T-Boy Ross.
"We wanted to create the quintessential album to be played at celebrations of love and life: weddings, family gatherings, intimate moments," explains Marylata Jacob. "'I Love You' is Diana's personal offering to honor these celebrations of love, from the glance of your first true love, through the joy of children, and love everlasting."
Says Peter Asher, who returns to working with Diana having produced her 1991 hit album, "The Force Behind The Power," "I am proud that not only have Diana and I remained friends for 41 years, but that I have again been given the opportunity to work with her extraordinary voice in the studio. Her contribution in the studio was very significant, above and beyond her singing -- itself seemingly unchanged by the passing years in its emotional intensity and brilliance, yet having gained a certain wisdom and clarity that makes you believe every word she sings. On this record she tells us an eternal story, and does so with ineffable brilliance and accuracy."
The Songs:
"Remember" by Harry Nilsson inspired the album and its concept as Ms. Ross listened to it while reminiscing over her family's photo albums. Its dreaminess conjures up memories of love and present feelings. Ms. Ross feels a connection to Nilsson's work, as she has often performed songs from Nilsson's acclaimed musical, "The Point," in concert.
"More Today Than Yesterday" is a classic first performed by Spiral Starecase in the mid-1960s. Destined to be an audience favorite at Ms. Ross' concerts, the song is also one of her favorites. Ms. Ross' fun and bouncy new recording of the song is an inspired tribute to the joy of everlasting love.
"I Want You," first recorded by Marvin Gaye in 1974, was co-written by Ms. Ross' beloved brother, T-Boy Ross, with Leon Ware. Ms. Ross delivers a smoldering, sultry take on this track that honors the original while making it wholly her own.
"I Love You (That's All That Really Matters)" is a new original song, a gorgeous, heartfelt ballad. The writer, Fred White, has been touring with Ms. Ross as a back-up singer for six years. His experience of her live persona and vocal range inspired this song, written specifically with Ms. Ross in mind. Ms. Ross fell in love with the song, saying, "To be loved for who you are is the deepest expression of the purest love, wholly selfless and spiritual."
"What About Love" was written for Oprah Winfrey's stage production of "The Color Purple." The composers are Brenda Russell, Allee Willis and Stephen Bray. Ms. Ross' relationship with Brenda Russell and her great friendship with Oprah inspired Ross' interest in the soundtrack, and she selected this powerful and moving song of love.
"The Look of Love" -- Ms. Ross captures all of its romance and anticipation. This classic song was written by two of the finest song writers of all time, Hal David and Burt Bacharach.
"Lovely Day" has a groove and a simple lyric that has universal appeal. "This song makes me dance," Ms. Ross says. "Everyone wants a lovely day." Written by Bill Withers.
"Take My Breath Away" is the decade's quintessential love song. Ms. Ross adds her own signature style to it with her new recording. The original recording is by Berlin.
"Only You" -- A new version decidedly Ms. Ross. Growing up in Detroit, listening to records while slow dancing under a single source of light was as close to heaven as it could get for Diana Ross, her own personal experience of young love.
"To Be Loved" was written by the legendary Berry Gordy, Jr. and was originally recorded by Jackie Wilson in 1958. It is the ultimate declaration of love, and Ms. Ross deftly balances the emotion of the song's sensitive lyrics with an upbeat and boundless delivery.
"I Will" -- Paul McCartney's simplicity of lyric and song melody made it a welcomed song for the heart of "I Love You." Ms. Ross' sweet vocals and Peter Asher's long history with the Beatles brought a lovely perspective of range and depth to the new recording.
"This Magic Moment," originally recorded by the Drifters, is made brand new with Ms. Ross' rendition. With its calypso-leaning arrangement and backing vocals, Ms. Ross' new version really pops.
"You Are So Beautiful" -- The song was chosen for its universal message of love and kindness. "It reaches out and speaks not only to lovers, but to relationships of all kinds, mother to child, child to grandparent, sister to sister, friend to friend," says Ms. Ross.
"Always And Forever" was written by famed songwriter Rod Temperton and originally recorded by Heatwave. Ms. Ross brings her brilliant sensitivity and gorgeous vocal delivery to the timeless love song for a magical contemporary classic.
Closing the new album's romantic journey is a reprise of the song that started it all, "Remember."
Posted by Editors at 02:28 PM
GM's Hottest Designs and Entertainment's Big Names to Cruise a Runway on the Riverfront
GM Style Celebration.
Photo: General Motors Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner poses with the award-winning Camaro concept after announcing GM will build an all-new production version of the Chevrolet Camaro in August 2006 in Traverse City, Mich. The sport coupe will be nearly identical to this Camaro concept that was introduced at the North American International Auto Show earlier this year. Production will begin at the end of 2008 and the Camaro will go on sale in the first quarter of 2009. (General Motors Photo/John F. Martin) (United States)
DETROIT – Each January, the automotive world turns its attention to Detroit and the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS). This year, the worlds of fashion and celebrity will also look to Detroit when General Motors hosts a celebration of automotive design in the shadow of the company’s world headquarters to kick off NAIAS media activities.
Photo: 2007 Saturn Sky Red Line will be showcased at the North American International Auto Show 2007.
Named “GM Style,” an exclusive event is planned for Saturday, Jan. 6, 2007 . In addition to a number of famous GM vehicles -- some never before seen in North America -- GM is also inviting some of the hottest names in entertainment to join the vehicles for a walk – or drive – down the runway.
GM is finalizing the celebrity line-up. Currently confirmed are:
Cheryl Hines – Emmy-nominated actress from HBO’s hit comedy “Curb Your Enthusiasm”
Vivica A. Fox – Star of numerous films and television series, including the most-recent edition of “Dancing With The Stars”
Petra Nemcova – One of the world’s top supermodels and a regular in the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issues
Danny Masterson – Best-known for his role on “That 70’s Show,” Masterson will be the evening’s guest DJ
Rachel Zoe – This “stylist to the stars” will prep all the celebrities at GM Style.
“This event is a tribute to style and a celebration of GM’s design renaissance,” said Ed Welburn, global vice president, GM Design. “GM Style will bring Detroit a unique intersection of the worlds of fashion, automotive design and entertainment. Like Paris to the fashion industry and Los Angeles to entertainment, Detroit is the epicenter of auto design. GM's vehicles will take their rightful place on the runway along side some of today's top names in fashions and entertainment."
GM will construct a pavilion just east of the Renaissance Center on the Detroit River to host this salute to style. The pavilion, the first of its kind, will be longer than a football field, climate controlled and able to accommodate a runway for cars and stars.
“The GM Style event will be like none other at the North American International Auto Show,” said Mike Jackson, GM North America vice president, marketing and advertising. “Not to be eclipsed by the star power in the room, Style’s pristine fleet of GM vehicles will captivate the audience with the world debut of a concept vehicle.”
The first-ever GM Style will showcase 17 GM vehicles. Additional details on the event as well as a full list of vehicles will be unveiled at a later date. Confirmed already are:
2006 Camaro Concept – Unveiled to rave reviews from around the world last January, the award-winning Chevrolet Camaro Concept combines dramatic design and exciting performance. A thoroughly modern interpretation of the classic sport coupe, the Chevrolet Camaro Concept recaptures the spirit of one of the most popular sport coupes of all time and redefines the Camaro for new generations of fans.
1951 Buick LeSabre Concept -- One of the most famous concept cars of all time, the Buick LeSabre concept was designed under supervision of GM Design Icon Harley J. Earl. The car took styling cues from jet fighter planes, and Earl personally drove the car for years. Among a myriad of technologies revolutionary at the time, the LeSabre concept could raise its own convertible top if it began raining when the owner was away from the car. Under the watchful eye of Welburn, GM recently restored this automotive icon at their Design Center in Warren , Mich. , the same facility where the vehicle was created.
2006 Pontiac Solstice Weekend Club Racer Concept – A Detroit debut, GM Performance Division built the Solstice Weekend Club Racer concept to showcase how a racing version of the car might be configured. With a custom bronze paint job, power for the car comes from a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine rated at 325 horsepower.
2006 Saab Aero X Concept – Another Detroit debut, the Saab Aero X concept harnesses the power of Saab's aviation and Scandinavian roots to make a unique statement in performance car design. Saab Aero X adopts a cockpit canopy, just as you would see on a jet aircraft. It offers the Aero X pilot full 180 degree vision. The Aero X concept, powered by a 400 hp BioPower engine using 100 percent ethanol fuel, made its world premiere at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show and its North American debut at the 2006 New York Auto Show.
2007 Saturn Sky Red Line – After being unveiled at the 2006 New York Auto Show, the Saturn Sky Red Line went on to critical acclaim and is now reaching Saturn retailers. The Saturn Sky Red Line boasts one of the most powerful engines (260 hp/260 foot-pounds of torque) GM has ever produced based on its size (2L). Its 0 to 60 mph time is just over five seconds, and Edmunds.com called it “the most interesting blend of style and performance.”
Posted by Editors at 11:05 AM
December 12, 2006
The mystery 'PERFECT CRIME' celebrates its 8,000th Performance
Photo: "Perfect Crime" -- an "Urban Legend" (New York Times), "One of the Biggest hits Off-Broadway" (Fox) -- celebrates its 8,000th Performance. Pictured: Catherine Russell as Margaret Thorne Brent and David Butler as W. Harrison Brent. Russell who has played in all but four performances -- 4,700 consecutive -- will celebrate her 8,000th on Dec. 17, breaking multiple performance records. This murder-mystery plays in the Snapple Theater Center, New York's first corporate-sponsored Off-Broadway theater.
Posted by Editors at 06:56 PM
December 10, 2006
NEWSWEEK COVER: DECEMBER 18, 2006 ISSUE
PHOTO: The December 18 issue of Newsweek (on newsstands Monday, December 11), "The World Of The Nativity" looks at the first-century foundations of family values and how Jesus's influence changed them from broadening the definition of "family," to establishing celibacy as a cornerstone of faith. Plus: Bush's Iraq Dilemma; CNBC's new cool style; the NBA's new basketball; The Boomer Files Hall of Fame; Sylvester Stallone discusses "Rocky Balboa"; and David Ansen's holiday reviews and top 10 film picks for 2006. (PRNewsFoto/NEWSWEEK)
Posted by Editors at 07:00 PM
December 07, 2006
The Concession Golf Club & Residences
Golf Digest: Best New Private Course of the Year 2006.
BRADENTON, Fla., Dec. 6 -- Golf Digest magazine has named The Concession Golf Club and Residences "Best New Private Course of the Year 2006."
The Concession Golf Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus in association with Tony Jacklin, opened on January 23, 2006. This 18-hole par 72 course is set on 520 acres of ruggedly pristine land dotted with massive oaks and majestic pines. It totals 7470 yards from the tips of the back tees and runs three miles from tip to tip. A 23-acre practice area is one of the largest of its kind in the world. Meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout from the Northern Ohio sand that was trucked in for the bunkers which are hand- raked daily to the over $1 million dollars spent moving mature trees to strategic spots along the course. It is one of only two clubs in the country that has the Advanced Aer system under all 18 greens guaranteeing tournament- quality play conditions all year.
Posted by Editors at 06:28 PM
GHOST TOWN 'THE MOVIE'
PHOTO: Ghost Town "The Movie": Dean Teaster director/writer as "Digger the Undertaker", Bill McKinney as "Victor Burnett", Renee O'Connor as "Little Jack", and Anthony Hornus as "Captain Ketner". Copywrite 2006, Ghost Town "The Movie" L.L.C. Photo by Tammy Stephens Teaster.
Posted by Editors at 06:10 PM
December 06, 2006
Discovery Channel Announces Ground-Breaking 11-Part Television Event
PLANET EARTH, the Ultimate Portrait of our Planet in High-Definition.
Award-winning Actress and Conservationist Sigourney Weaver to Narrate.
SILVER SPRING, Md., Dec. 5 -- Award-winning actress and conservationist Sigourney Weaver joins Discovery Channel as narrator of the breathtaking look at our world, PLANET EARTH, premiering on the Discovery Channel on Sunday, March 25, 2007 at 8 PM ET/PT. PLANET EARTH will amaze viewers with never-before-seen animal behaviors, startling views of locations captured by cameras for the first time, and unprecedented high definition production techniques. More than five years in the making, PLANET EARTH redefines blue-chip natural history filmmaking and continues the Discovery mission of providing the highest quality programming in the world. PLANET EARTH airs on consecutive Sundays from March 25 through April 22, 2007.
PHOTO: Award-winning actress and conservationist Sigourney Weaver narrates Discovery Channel's epic high definition series PLANET EARTH, premiering Sun, March 25, 2007.
"The PLANET EARTH series is like a wonderful ride through our world," said Weaver. "Whatever fascinates you the most...whether it be caves or deep sea, deserts or mountains, you're in for such a treat. The camera work is so extraordinary and it's as if you're an animal living in that world...you become part of that world."
The series takes viewers from the mightiest mountain ranges to the deepest waters to the last true wilderness areas, all using cutting-edge filming methods such as the Cineflex heligimble aerial photography system, a highly stable camera attached to a helicopter that captures distant objects and creatures in close-up.
Spectacular animal scenes in PLANET EARTH include the first footage of the rarely seen snow leopard hunting in the Himalayas; lions hunting and killing elephants in the middle of the night; and the Blue Bird of Paradise performing a mating ritual, captured for the first time on film.
Bank of America is the presenting sponsor of the PLANET EARTH series.
Discovery Communications, Inc., is the leading global real-world media company. Discovery has grown from its core property, the Discovery Channel, first launched in the United States in 1985, to current global operations in 170 countries and territories.
70 camera operators spent over 2,000 days in the field visiting more than 200 locations to document nature's greatest spectacles. Locations filmed for the first time include the Gobi Desert covered in snow; unique access to the Arctic island of Kong Karls Land -- home to the world's highest densities of polar bears; and the first high-quality aerial sequences of Mount Everest.
Best known for her film roles, Sigourney Weaver is an active conservationist. She serves as honorary chair to the board of trustees of The Dian Fosse Gorilla Fund and recently drew international attention during a United Nations press conference on the threat to ocean habitat posed by deep sea trawling.
PLANET EARTH is produced for Discovery Channel by the BBC. Alastair Fothergill is the executive producer for the BBC. Maureen Lemire is the executive producer for Discovery Channel. Discovery Channel and the BBC also created the award-winning natural history series BLUE PLANET.
Posted by Editors at 06:42 PM
December 05, 2006
Business Traveler Magazine's 2006 Readers' Choice
Best in Business Travel Awards Announced.
Road Warriors Share Their Favorite Airlines, Hotels and Business Travel Companies.
NEW YORK, Dec. 4 -- Business Traveler magazine, the only U.S. publication devoted to the needs of the travel industry's most active customers, has just announced the winners of their 2006 Readers' Choice Best in Business Travel Survey. The highly coveted awards will be presented at a gala ceremony and dinner in New York on January 11, 2007. The gala also kicks-off Business Travelers' fundraising drive benefiting The Ronald McDonald House of New York, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving pediatric cancer patients and their families.
Now in its 18th year, the Readers' Choice Best in Business Travel Survey randomly samples the Business Traveler subscriber base, allowing the readers to recognize the companies who have made their business travels more enjoyable. Conducted by a third-party agency, the annual survey covers nearly 50 categories including "Best Overall Airline," "Best Business-Class Hotel," and "Best Luggage." The 2006 survey had a return rate of more than 33 percent.
Business Traveler is one of the world's leading business travel authorities. With nine editions worldwide, including 18 years covering the United States, Business Traveler, provides flight and hotel reviews, destination features and special interest stories including four-hour excursion guides, airline comparison reviews, airport security and travel trends.
"Logging an average 67 nights on the road and more than six-million round-trip flights a year, our readers know the hotels, airlines and travel products that best meet their needs," stated Rebecca Bishop, publisher. "We appreciate the time these globetrotting executives took to respond to our survey and we hope that the results will make global business travel more productive and efficient in the coming years."
The 2006 Readers' Choice Best in Business Travel Award Winners:
Best overall airline in the world: Singapore Airlines
Best airline for North American travel: Continental Airlines
Best airline for international travel: Singapore Airlines
Best business class in the world: Virgin Atlantic Airways
Best first class in the world: Emirates
Best premium economy class in the world: United Airlines
Best economy class in the world: Singapore Airlines
Best business class to Europe/Trans-Atlantic: British Airways
Best business class to Eastern Europe: Lufthansa
Best business class to Nordic Countries: Scandinavian Airlines (SAS)
Best business class to Mexico/Latin America: AeroMexico
Best business class to South America: LAN Airlines
Best business class to Canada: Air Canada
Best business class to Asia/Trans-Pacific: Korean Air
Best business class to the South Pacific/Australia/New Zealand: Air New Zealand
Best business class to the Middle East: Emirates
Best business class to Africa: South African Airways
Best low-cost carrier: Frontier Airlines
Best flight attendants in the U.S.: Continental Airlines
Best in-flight services in the U.S.: Continental Airlines
Best flight attendants in the world: Asiana Airlines
Best in-flight service in the world: Asiana Airlines
Best business class cuisine/menu: Singapore Airlines
Best airport lounge: Delta Air Lines
Best airline alliance: Star Alliance
Best frequent-flier program: Delta SkyMiles
Best airline Web site: Delta.com
Best airport in the world: Singapore Changi International Airport
Best airport in North America: Denver International Airport
Best hotel chain in the world: Marriott International
Best hotel chain in North America for business travel: Marriott
Best luxury hotel chain for business travel: Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
Best individual hotel in North America for business travel: The Peninsula Chicago
Best hotel Web site: Marriott.com
Best hotel rewards program in the world: Marriott Rewards
Best hotel chain in Latin America: Sheraton Latin America
Best hotel chain in Europe: Sofitel Hotels & Resorts
Best hotel chain in Eastern Europe: Hilton Hotels
Best hotel chain in the Middle East: Jumeirah
Best Web site for booking travel: Travelocity.com
Best credit card for business travelers: American Express
Best credit card rewards program: American Express Membership Rewards
Best car-rental company in North America: Hertz
Best wireless service provider in the world: Verizon Wireless
Best overall luggage for business travelers: Travelpro
Best carry-on luggage for business travelers: TUMI
Best international courier service: DHL
Best overnight courier service in North America: FedEx
Posted by Editors at 02:00 PM
CONSUMER REPORTS: JANUARY 2007 COVER
PHOTO: Cover of the January 2007 issue of Consumer Reports.
Posted by Editors at 01:55 PM
December 03, 2006
NEWSWEEK COVER: DECEMBER 11, 2006 ISSUE
PHOTO: The December 11 issue of Newsweek (on newsstands Monday, December 4), "Will Bush Listen?" looks at whether President Bush is likely to adopt the recommendations of the Baker-Hamilton Commission report and analyzes who in the administration will most likely urge him to do so. Plus: The latest "Health for Life" report on genetic testing, cutting-edge brain tumor treatments and a possible anti-aging molecule; "Dreamgirls" Jennifer Hudson speaks out, Russia's bullying behavior, Barbie's midlife crisis and an end-of-the-year tax guide.
Posted by Editors at 10:20 PM
December 02, 2006
SONY BMG 'THE COMPLETE MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET'
PHOTO: "The Complete Million Dollar Quartet" CD is in stores now. Source: SONY BMG. City: New York.
Posted by Editors at 07:29 PM
November 29, 2006
"ART OF THE OLYMPIANS" EXHIBIT VISITS NEW YORK
Photo: Al Oerter, four-time U.S. Olympic gold medalist and abstract artist, poses in front of the "Art of the Olympians" logo projected on the News Astrovision by Panasonic in New York's Times Square, Tuesday, November 28, 2006. Oerter, along with eight other athlete artists are in New York to help spotlight the "Art of the Olympians" traveling exhibit of sculpture, paintings, drawings, and photography by 14 Olympians representing 7 countries, and is showing at a variety of venues including the United Nations. Oerter won gold medals in the discus throw in '56, '60, '64, and '68. (Feature Photo Service)
Posted by Editors at 09:37 PM
November 27, 2006
Arthur Frommer to speak at Boston Globe Travel Show, March 23-25, 2007
BOSTON -- Nov. 27, 2006 -- Arthur Frommer, the foremost authority on budget travel, will join a host of esteemed speakers at the 2007 Boston Globe Travel Show, scheduled to be held March 23-25, 2007 at the Seaport World Trade Center in Boston.
Photo: Arthur Frommer's Budget Travel, November 2006 Issue.
Frommer will be joined by his daughter, travel expert Pauline Frommer. Pauline is carrying on the family legacy, creating her own new series of travel books designed to bring budget travel to a new generation. The Frommers will address the show's 9,000+ expected attendees on Saturday, March 24.
Photo: Frommer's Italy 2000
The 2nd Annual Boston Globe Travel Show will showcase travel destinations from around the world while highlighting both cultural exhibits and vacation activities. A diverse set of travel exhibitors and suppliers, representing every segment of the travel industry, will offer detailed information on trips to every region of the world.
In addition to the host of prominent speakers, The Boston Globe Travel Show will feature Destination Pavilions showcasing both overseas and domestic destinations and tourism boards. Vacation Experience Areas will offer samples of experiences a traveler could expect from destinations around the world, such as culinary tasting and cooking demonstrations, luxury spa treatments, activities such as golf swings and diving and kayaking pools, as well as original and indigenous music and dance from cultures around the world.
Posted by Editors at 10:12 PM
Jon Peter Lewis, American Idol Favorite, Releases Debut Album
LOS ANGELES, Calif., Nov. 27 -- Jon Peter Lewis, also known as "JPL" to his enthusiastic fans, has released his debut album, Stories From Hollywood. The rock and soulful pop record has been in the works for more than a year and includes all original music.
The collection of high-energy songs and intimate acoustic tracks showcases Jon's exceptional vocal range. Elton John has praised JPL for his superb singing voice, admiring his "great pitch and phrasing." The eagerly anticipated album features Jon's band that includes "some of the most talented musicians in the business," according to producer David Rolfe.
Jon was a top ten finalist on American Idol's third season. Simon Cowell hailed JPL as the "dark horse to win the competition," while Rolling Stone Magazine pegged him as a "pick to win." Following Jon's successful run on Idol and subsequent tour, he chose take the time to develop his own sound and unique style before releasing an album.
Jon and his band have been playing shows throughout the country, including performances at the world renowned Viper Room in Hollywood, California. Jon was invited to the 2006 CMJ Music Marathon in New York City, performing at Crash Mansion and joining the event as a panelist. He is a frequent guest of radio and television, most recently performing live on the worldwide morning show, Fox & Friends. Jon was also a presenter at the recent 2006 New Music Weekly Awards Show and is making final plans for a nationwide tour.
The aptly titled CD, Stories from Hollywood, reflects Jon's Hollywood experiences while revealing an impressive rock and roll side to him. "We expected JPL to rock us, but not with music this crisp and a backing band this hot," writes Jessica Venditto of AI Magazine. "The long wait was worth it."
Posted by Editors at 07:19 PM
November 26, 2006
NEWSWEEK COVER: DECEMBER 4, 2006 ISSUE
Photo: In the December 4 issue of Newsweek (on newsstands Monday, November 27): "The Most Dangerous Man in Iraq." Newsweek profiles Moqtada al-Sadr and reports on how he became the most powerful man in Iraq today. Plus: the last Neocon in the administration; the GOP and the Latino vote; Ellis Cose on racist rants and public apologies; 'lifestyle' malls; what's different in Microsoft's Office 2007; the rise in unmarried moms; a profile of entrepreneur and rapper Jay-Z, and HD-disks. (Newsweek)
Posted by Editors at 01:44 PM
November 25, 2006
PROFORM 20.0 CROSSTRAINER ELLIPTICAL
PHOTO: You have to workout to win! The ProForm(R) 20.0 CrossTrainer(TM) Elliptical is the first fitness equipment to fully integrate games and exercise equipment, enabling game play to be controlled by exercise intensity. ProForm's(R) FatBlocker(TM) game is shown in photo.
Posted by Editors at 04:54 PM
November 23, 2006
Arts & Leisure Weekend of The New York Times
Celebration of Art and Culture to be held January 5 - 7, 2007.
NEW YORK -- Sixth Annual Arts & Leisure Weekend of The New York Times has been announced to be held from January 5 to January 7, 2007. The Weekend is The Times's annual signature event, a national and international celebration of art and culture. It includes interviews by Times journalists with celebrated artists, and special offers at cultural institutions around the world. Advance tickets are available at www.ArtsAndLeisureWeekend.com.
The Times will have an Access Pass to many events hosted throughout the weekend. The Pass will be available for consumers in event program guides, published in The New York Times and posted on www.ArtsAndLeisureWeekend.com.
2007 Celebration Begins with the Launch of The Times's New "Emerging Artists" Series with Special Guest Host James Taylor; Concludes with a Gala TimesTalk Event to Benefit The Actors' Fund of America and MusiCares Featuring Pop Sensation Fergie... Augusten Burroughs, Miley Cyrus and Billy Ray Cyrus, Joan Didion, Renee Fleming, Richard Ford, Peter Gelb, David Hare, Brice Marden, Thom Mayne, Frank McCourt, Jessica Molaskey and John Pizzarelli, Julianne Moore, Dan Rather, Vanessa Redgrave, Martin Short, Rufus Wainwright and Brian Williams.
This year's sponsors for Arts & Leisure Weekend are Bloomingdale's, The Container Store, Cunard, Level Vodka and Palm; WCBS-TV is this year's media sponsor.
"We are looking forward with our sponsors to presenting the biggest, most exciting Arts & Leisure Weekend yet," said Alyse Myers, senior vice president and chief marketing officer, The New York Times Media Group.
In New York City, The Times will host a series of TimesTalks discussions featuring an array of arts luminaries in conversation with Times critics, reporters and editors. This year, headliners include "Lost" creator J.J. Abrams; best-selling memoir authors Augusten Burroughs, Frank McCourt and Jeannette Walls; "Hannah Montana" stars Miley Cyrus and Billy Ray Cyrus; Pulitzer Prize-winning author Richard Ford; Metropolitan Opera impresario Peter Gelb with acclaimed soprano Renee Fleming; award-winning playwright David Hare with Academy Award(R) nominee Julianne Moore; American abstract painter Brice Marden; Pritzker Prize-winning architect Thom Mayne; acclaimed jazz and cabaret recording artists Jessica Molaskey and John Pizzarelli; news anchor Dan Rather; Academy Award(R) winner Vanessa Redgrave with celebrated author Joan Didion; Tony Award(R) winning actor/comedian Martin Short; singer/songwriter Rufus Wainwright; and "NBC Nightly News" anchor Brian Williams.
Arts & Leisure Weekend will kick off Jan. 4 at Joe's Pub at The Public Theater with the launch of The Times's new "Emerging Artists" series. This exciting monthly live-performance series will feature established recording artists introducing some of today's freshest new musical talents. Grammy Award(R) winner James Taylor will serve as the special guest host on Jan. 4.
On Monday, Jan. 8, as a finale to the weekend, The Actors' Fund of America will kick off their 125th year with a special TimesTalk featuring pop sensation Fergie. Chief pop music critic Jon Pareles will host the interview and musical performance. Proceeds from this event will benefit The Actors' Fund of America and MusiCares.
Posted by Editors at 02:33 PM
November 20, 2006
Nokia announces New Year's Eve celebration in five party capitals of the world
"Five cities, One party".
The Black Eyed Peas and Scissor Sisters among several international artists to begin countdown to "Nokia New Year's Eve".
Espoo, Finland - On December 31st, Nokia will welcome the New Year in unique style - by connecting millions of music lovers from around the world as they count down the final minutes of 2006. Nokia New Year's Eve, a global music event stretching across four continents, will feature a number of international artists including The Black Eyed Peas and Scissor Sisters to entertain audiences at New Year's celebrations from Hong Kong to Rio de Janeiro. Those unable to attend in person can experience the party via television or the internet. To orchestrate this unique global celebration, Nokia has enlisted the services of Harvey Goldsmith CBE, the producer of Live Aid and Live8.
Photo: Black Eyed Peas - Monkey Business Album Cover
Photo: Scissor Sisters
Nokia New Year's Eve will travel from east to west, starting in Hong Kong's Ocean Terminal, followed by Mumbai's Andheri Stadium, the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Ipanema Beach in Rio de Janeiro and rounding off the night in New York.
Nokia New Year's Eve looks set to be the world's biggest New Year's party of 2006 with the five events expected to have a combined attendance of 1.3 million and an anticipated global television and Internet audience of 150 million.
Posted by Editors at 12:45 PM
November 17, 2006
Cingular Wireless and Island Def Jam Present an Invite-Only Jay-Z Concert
Jay-Z Set to Perform 7 Mini Cingular Sounds Live Concerts, in 7 Cities in Less Than 24 Hours.
ATLANTA -- On Saturday, November 18th, in celebration of the release of his new album, KINGDOM COME, Jay-Z will touch down in seven cities and perform 30 minute shows, all within 24 hours.
PHOTO: "Jay-Z Hangar Tour" hits 7 cities in less than 24 hours as part of the Cingular Sounds Live series.
Cingular Wireless, the nation's largest wireless carrier, and Island Def Jam Records have joined forces to bring one of the most unique music events of the year. The seven-city "Jay-Z Hangar Tour," as part of the Cingular Sounds Live concert series, will kick off in Atlanta at 6 am for the first of seven shows in less than 24 hours. Jay-Z will perform 30 minute sets in Atlanta, Philadelphia, DC, New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
Posted by Editors at 08:56 PM
NIKE LAUNCHES THE RONALDINHO SIGNATURE COLLECTION
Soccer Legend Ronaldinho to Unveil Global Signature Collection.
The Ronaldinho Signature Collection, Nike's first signature soccer compilation, reflects the legendary Brazilian's insight on and off the pitch in both footwear and equipment.
BARCELONA, Spain – Nike yesterday unveiled the new Ronaldinho signature collection to celebrate one of the best and most inspiring football players of all time. This collection is the result of a long-term collaboration between Nike and Ronaldinho which honours the player on and off the football pitch. Working with Ronaldinho to gain insights into his life, personality and the way he plays his game, Nike developed products to the player’s specifications.
Ronaldinho's signature collection is Nike's first signature line ever introduced with a soccer athlete, joining the ranks of Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods and LeBron James.
Posted by Editors at 03:08 PM
NAMM Launches Wanna Play? Program to Inspire More Americans to Play Music
Campaign Ambassador Gavin DeGraw Promotes Benefits of Music Making.
CARLSBAD, Calif. -- Playing a musical instrument can increase memory, reduce stress, lower blood pressure, build confidence and result in greater academic success. Americans will learn about the many social and health benefits of music making thanks to a new national campaign launched today by NAMM, the not-for-profit trade association for the international music products industry. Designed to inspire people to become active music makers, the Wanna Play? campaign will raise awareness and inspire people of all ages and talent to get involved in making music, from taking lessons to purchasing their first instrument or software.
PHOTO: Music artist Gavin DeGraw serves as ambassador for NAMM's "Wanna Play?" campaign.
The International Music Products Association, commonly called NAMM in reference to the organization's popular NAMM trade shows, is the not-for- profit association that unifies, leads and strengthens the $16 billion global musical instruments and products industry. NAMM's activities and programs are designed to promote music making to people of all ages. NAMM is comprised of approximately 9,000 Member companies. For more information about NAMM, visit www.namm.org.
"At age 5 or 85, everyone can benefit socially, mentally and physically from playing an instrument," said Joe Lamond, President and CEO of NAMM and a life-long drummer. "It's never too late to start, and playing an instrument is something that can last a lifetime."
Most people associate music making with fun or entertainment, but few know that playing music has been scientifically found to:
• exercise the brain
• inspire creativity
• increase productivity
• fight memory loss
• reduce stress
• lower blood pressure
• stave off depression
• enhance cognitive development in children
• build confidence
• create social connections/bonds
Not surprisingly, a number of musicians -- naturally passionate about the issue -- are joining NAMM in supporting the campaign.
"Music has been my airline ticket to a new world of possibilities," said Gavin DeGraw when asked what music means to him. For Gavin DeGraw, who broke onto the music scene with his hit "Chariot," the 29-year-old singer/songwriter/pianist/guitarist's passion is apparent.
DeGraw is reaching out to kids and adults alike as the first ambassador of the Wanna Play? campaign, convincing people to pursue -- or perhaps revisit -- their passion for playing an instrument. To view an interview with Gavin, visit this website: www.namm.org/initiatives/wanna_play/media-center .
Posted by Editors at 02:40 PM
November 15, 2006
Cisco and Athletics Announce Cisco Field
PHOTO: Oakland Athletics (A's) Owner and Managing Partner Lew Wolff, standing left, and Cisco President and CEO John Chambers, right, unveil the 'Cisco Field' logo, while Major League Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig sits, left, at an event Tuesday at Cisco headquarters in San Jose, Calif., to announce an agreement to build a baseball park in Fremont Calif. to serve as the new home of the A's. (Cisco photo by Scott Griggs)
Posted by Editors at 11:31 AM
November 14, 2006
Microsoft's New Zune Digital Media Player on Store Shelves Today
Wireless sharing poised to change the way people experience digital music.
SEATTLE, Nov. 14 -- Celebrating the U.S. launch of the new Zune(TM) digital media player and music service, Microsoft Corp. has worked with a number of cutting-edge artists to stage free concerts in public parks and plazas in urban centers across the country. At Westlake Park in downtown Seattle at the first of these Zune concerts, Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates took the stage to share his excitement for this next step Microsoft is taking in music and entertainment.
PHOTO: MICROSOFT ZUNE LAUNCH CONCERT: At a downtown Seattle concert to celebrate the launch of Zune, Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates invites Melanie Gray of Tacoma, Wash., on stage and gave her his Zune device. The event, which featured the band Secret Machines, was the first of six concerts across the U.S. marking the launch of Zune, the new digital music player from Microsoft. Zune will be on sale at retailers across the USA today, Nov. 14.
Zune is Microsoft's music and entertainment platform that provides an end- to-end solution for connected entertainment. The Zune experience includes a 30GB digital media player, the Zune Marketplace music service, and a foundation for an online community that will enable music fans to discover new music. Inspired by the vast and varied community of music fans, Zune focuses on helping emerging artists shape the digital canvas.
Gates outlined the Zune vision to create new ways for people to connect, discover and share music and entertainment experiences. He was joined onstage by John Richards, morning show host of popular community radio station KEXP, to showcase the new Zune-to-Zune wireless sharing feature. Richards wirelessly sent the inaugural song to Gates, who then surprised the crowd by giving away his Zune device to a member of the audience. Building on the "Hello from Seattle" greeting printed on the back of every Zune device, Richards created a playlist to celebrate Seattle music in honor of the Zune launch. The complete KEXP "Hello from Seattle" playlist will be available on Zune Marketplace for consumers to download.
"We wanted to bring Zune to life with a celebration of live music, shared between artists and fans across the country, and really make today all about embracing the social aspect of music," said Bryan Lee, corporate vice president of the Entertainment Business at Microsoft. "Zune is all about changing the game to make music more social, and at launch we are just scratching the surface of how wireless technology is going to enable social interaction in the future."
The Shows
The Seattle launch concert, which featured New York-based, three-piece rock band The Secret Machines, drew crowds to the heart of downtown Seattle and kicked off the first of six shows to take place across the country. Celebrating the style and energy of local music scenes in Atlanta, Chicago and Miami, T.I., Lupe Fiasco and Richie Spice with Morgan Heritage will also play free public concerts throughout the afternoon and evening. Today's celebration culminates with performances in New York and Los Angeles where hundreds of lucky fans will get to see the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Queens of the Stone Age at intimate venues. Post-show musings, images and video will be available at http://www.zune.net/ beginning this evening.
Industry Support
Working closely with industry partners, Zune is exploring new models for distributing and promoting music that benefit the artists as well as consumers. Through managed wireless sharing, Zune empowers consumers to promote and sample select tracks, in turn increasing exposure for artists. Zune logs the music that people have shared, making it easy to purchase their favorite songs the next time they connect their device to their computer.
"Music has always been experienced in a community, and through Zune, Microsoft is building a robust and unique digital music community platform that enables consumers to share, sample and download their favorite music," said Alex Zubillaga, executive vice president of Digital Strategy and Business Development at Warner Music Group. "Warner Music commends Microsoft on the launch of the Zune digital media player and Zune music store, and is proud to be a content partner of this important addition to the dynamic and growing digital music space."
Staffed by a team of music writers and editorial music programmers, Zune Marketplace helps customers discover and purchase new music and uncover old favorites. Zune Marketplace will feature music from major and independent labels and music publishers, including Artemis/V2 Records, BMG Music Publishing, Digital Music Group Inc., EMI Music, EMI Music Publishing, Independent Online Distribution Alliance (IODA), peermusic.com Inc., Sony BMG Music Entertainment, Sony/ATV Music Publishing, Sub Pop Records, SuperEgo Records, Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group, Warner/Chappell Music and many more. In addition, Zune Marketplace is working with leading editorial providers XLR8R, The FADER, and NME.
Posted by Editors at 12:24 PM
Molly: An American Girl on the Home Front
American Girl's third made-for-television movie.
MIDDLETON, Wis., Nov. 14 -- This fall, Molly McIntire(R), a lively, lovable, and patriotic heroine growing up on America's home front in 1944, takes center stage in American Girl's third made-for-television movie, Molly: An American Girl on the Home Front. The new film, based on the popular Molly book series, is set to air Sunday, November 26, at 8:00 p.m. EST/7:00 p.m. CST on Disney Channel. To further engage girls in Molly's world, American Girl(R) also introduced several new Molly movie-related items this September, including an 18-inch Emily doll, Molly's English friend and the newest doll to join its popular historical line of books, dolls, and accessories.
PHOTO: Maya Ritter and Molly Ringwald star in Molly: An American Girl on the Home Front airing Sunday, November 26 on Disney Channel.
American Girl, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Mattel, Inc. (NYSE:MAT) ( http://www.mattel.com/ ), world's leading toy company.
One of American Girl's original historical characters introduced in 1986, Molly has engaged millions of girls over the past twenty years with her stories of hope, heart, and sacrifice amidst the hardships of World War Two. Molly: An American Girl on the Home Front brings Molly's touching stories to life -- providing girls with a whole new way to explore the world of this popular character. In the film, Molly struggles to come to terms with the changes the war has brought to her family. But with the help of her new friend, Emily, an English girl who has come to live with the McIntires to escape the bombings in London, Molly learns the importance of getting along and pulling together -- just as her country has to do to win the war.
Produced by American Girl, Revolution Studios, and Red Om Films in association with Warner Bros. Television Production Inc., Molly: An American Girl on the Home Front stars up-and-coming actress Maya Ritter as Molly McIntire; Tory Green as Emily Bennett; and Molly Ringwald (The Big Time, Pretty in Pink) and David Aaron Baker (The Hoax, Melinda and Melinda) as Molly's parents, Helen and Dr. James McIntire. The Molly movie was directed by filmmaker Joyce Chopra (The Last Cowboy), and award-winning screenwriter Anna Sandor (Felicity: An American Girl Adventure) wrote the teleplay.
American Girl fans looking for more information about Molly: An American Girl on the Home Front can visit the Molly movie headquarters at http://americangirl.com/movie . The fun interactive site offers girls a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the Molly movie, as well as cast and character bios, a photo gallery, and Molly-related games and activities, and much more.
The Emily doll and book and other Molly movie-related products are available through the American Girl catalogue, at American Girl Place(R) Chicago, New York, or Los Angeles, or at americangirl.com . To request a free catalogue, call 1-800-845-0005.
Since American Girl's inception in 1986, American Girl, Inc. has devoted its entire business to celebrating the potential of girls ages 3 to 12. American Girl encourages girls to dream, to grow, to aspire, to create, and to imagine through a wide range of engaging and insightful books, age-appropriate and educational products, and unforgettable experiences. In meeting its mission with a vigilant eye toward quality and service, American Girl has earned the loyal following of millions of girls and the praise and trust of parents and educators.
Posted by Editors at 11:19 AM
November 13, 2006
Filmmakers Honored at the Behind the Camera Awards in Hollywood
Awards Saluted Artists in Film Making.
HOLLYWOOD, Nov. 13 -- Last night in Hollywood, Hamilton, the American watch brand, and Hollywood Life magazine held the Behind the Camera Awards which honored ten artists for their visual and emotional impact on the film industry. The awards were created to pay tribute to these filmmakers whose individual work contribute to the success of a movie, thus recognizing their creative ability to connect to the audience through the eyes, ears, and heart.
PHOTO: Sharon Stone and James Woods at the 4th Annual Hamilton Behind the Camera Awards.
Many celebrities were in attendance to present the awards and support their fellow filmmakers such as Sharon Stone, Greg Kinnear, Christina Applegate, Michael Pena, James Woods and Regina King.
Hamilton has had a long-standing relationship with the Hollywood community for over 50 years as its timepieces were selected by filmmakers to be featured in hundreds of movies. In grateful appreciation to costume designers for their inspiring work, Hamilton began to pay tribute to them in 2003, only concentrating on this category for three years in a row. This year, Hamilton, in partnership with Hollywood Life, has decided to also honor other categories to truly grasp the whole body of work done behind the screen.
The awards this year included the following categories and honorees:
TRUE GRIT DIRECTOR - Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris
"Little Miss Sunshine"
SUPER PRODUCER - Holly Wiersma "Bobby"
SCREENWRITER - Andrea Berloff "World Trade Center"
PRODUCTION DESIGNER - Dante Ferretti "Black Dahlia"
CINEMATOGRAPHER - Vilmos Zsigmond "Black Dahlia"
FILM EDITOR - Stephen Mirrione "Babel"
COSTUME DESIGNER - Sharen Davis "Dreamgirls"
PROPMASTER - Ty Teiger "Casino Royale"
MOVIE MARKETING NINJA - Tim Palen, Lion's Gate
INTERNATIONAL COSTUME & ART DIRECTOR - Tim Yip
STYLIST OF THE YEAR - Special award presented to Jessica Paster
"Last night's event was truly an amazing experience. Hamilton and our media partner, Hollywood Life, were so excited to witness the genuine emotion shown by each honoree while receiving their Behind the Camera Awards. They really deserve this acknowledgement, as their creativity and talent play a big role in the spirit and meaning of a film and its influence," said Patric Zingg, Hamilton U.S. General Manager.
Hollywood Life President and COO, John Evans added, "Hollywood Life is extremely pleased to have partnered with Hamilton in the creation of the Behind the Camera Awards. The event was truly a great success and we were pleased to honor such an illustrious group of individuals. The Behind the Camera Awards is a testament to the uniqueness of both brands and we look forward to continuing this partnership for years to come."
Posted by Editors at 10:00 PM
November 12, 2006
NEWSWEEK COVER: NOVEMBER 20, 2006 ISSUE
PHOTO: In the November 20 issue (on newsstands Monday, November 13), "Father Knows Best," Newsweek looks at whether the foreign policy team from George H.W. Bush's administration will be able to chart a new course in Iraq and save his son's presidency. Plus: The stars of the new majority party, Karl Rove's faulty election metrics, an interview with Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, why Sony's PlayStation 3 is sure to be a hit and the latest research on amniocentesis.
Posted by Editors at 10:53 PM
November 09, 2006
Adrianne Curry and NVIDIA Unveil World's First Real-Time Virtual Celebrity
Graphics Company and Hollywood Star Create Interactive Model.
HOLLYWOOD, Calif., -- In a move that is sure to send waves through Hollywood, model and television star Adrianne Curry and the worldwide leader in programmable graphics processor technologies, NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA) , have announced that they have teamed up to create the world's first real-time, virtual celebrity. This breakthrough, which is enabled by NVIDIA's new flagship graphics technology, will allow 'stars' to create and license detailed replicas of their likeness without ever having to make a physical appearance or take a photograph.
PHOTO: NVIDIA DIGITAL ADRIANNE
Virtual celebrity licensing will have a multitude of applications, including adapting celebrity characters into newly developed video games, virtual modeling and endorsements; digital appearances in film and television; and virtual hosting on Web sites or traditional broadcast media.
"I am honored to have been selected as the first celebrity for this project," said Adrianne Curry.
Adrianne Curry is the ideal choice for this venture as she is on the cutting-edge of this fresh, new trend in Hollywood. In addition to her successful modeling career, that has landed her on the pages of Maxim, Playboy, Sync and Marie Claire, to name a few, Adrianne is a bona fide television star with television credits that include some of the most successful reality TV shows including the CW's America's Next Top Model, VH1's hit series "The Surreal Life" and "My Fair Brady," amongst numerous other stints in television and film. Adrianne also runs one of the most popular blogs and online promotions in the industry.
"The uses for this technological breakthrough are truly endless," said Dan Vivoli, senior vice president of marketing at NVIDIA. "The digital Adrianne can demonstrate the same range of emotions, movements, and attitudes and appear just as lifelike as her living, breathing counterpart. It is simply a stunning transformation."
The virtual "Adrianne" celebrity will be introduced at the official NVIDIA launch event being held in San Jose, CA.
Posted by Editors at 01:08 PM
November 08, 2006
Nickelodeon's Go, Diego, Go!
Go, Diego, Go Live! The Great Jaguar Rescue Kicks Off February 2007; Will Travel to 50 Markets.
Ticket Sales Begin November 20.
NEW YORK -- Following the massive success of Dora the Explorer Live!, Nickelodeon and Live Nation plan to launch an all new family theatrical live tour in February 2007, based on top preschool series Go, Diego, Go!. The national tour, titled Go, Diego, Go Live! The Great Jaguar Rescue, will travel to approximately 50 markets in 2007, kicking off in Louisville, KY on February 1.
Tickets for the live tour go on-sale beginning November 20. Fans can visit http://www.nickjr.com/, to look for their local market tour date and find a link to buy tickets.
Go, Diego, Go!, features eight-year-old Diego, a bilingual animal rescuer and nature expert who has the ability to talk to animals. In each episode, flavored with Spanish words, Latin American music, folktales and traditions, Diego and his friends encourage kids to use scientific thinking and investigative strategies to help animals in trouble. Baby Jaguar is the animal closest to Diego's heart, and his youthful eagerness sometimes puts him in precarious situations.
Nickelodeon Recreation is one of the leading producers of top quality theatrical and touring shows for kids and their families.
Posted by Editors at 02:12 PM
November 07, 2006
DREAMGIRLS - Music From the Motion Picture
To Be Released by Music World Music/Sony Urban Music/Columbia/Sony Music Soundtrax on Tuesday, December 5.
Soundtrack Album From Highly Anticipated DreamWorks/Paramount Film, 'Dreamgirls,' Features an Incredible Line-Up Including Beyonce, Jamie Foxx, Eddie Murphy, Anika Noni Rose And Newcomer Jennifer Hudson.
HOUSTON, Nov. 6 -- Music World Entertainment announced today that Music World Music/Sony Urban Music/Columbia/Sony Music Soundtrax will release DREAMGIRLS -- Music From the Motion Picture, the official soundtrack album for the avidly awaited DreamWorks/Paramount film, "Dreamgirls," on Tuesday, December 5, 2006.
Twenty-five years after first bringing Broadway audiences to their feet, the Tony Award-winning musical sensation "Dreamgirls" comes to the big screen starring Academy Award(R) winner Jamie Foxx, Beyonce Knowles, Danny Glover, newcomer Jennifer Hudson, Tony Award winner Anika Noni Rose and Eddie Murphy.
The film, "Dreamgirls," opens nationwide in the USA on Monday, December 25, 2006.
"Music World Music is thrilled to release the soundtrack for such a popular classic as 'Dreamgirls,'" says an enthused Mathew Knowles, President and CEO of Music World Entertainment. "The artist line-up features today's brightest and most coveted award-winning superstars in the entertainment industry and we are confident this album will make record-breaking, chart-topping history!"
Set in the turbulent early 1960s to mid-70s, "Dreamgirls" follows the rise of a trio of women -- Effie (Hudson), Deena (Knowles) and Lorrell (Rose) -- who have formed a promising girl group called The Dreamettes. At a talent competition, they are discovered by an ambitious manager named Curtis Taylor, Jr. (Foxx), who offers them the opportunity of a lifetime: to become the back-up singers for headliner James "Thunder" Early (Murphy). Curtis gradually takes control of the girls' look and sound, eventually giving them their own shot in the spotlight as The Dreams. That spotlight, however, begins to narrow in on Deena, finally pushing the less attractive Effie out altogether. Although The Dreams become a crossover phenomenon, they soon realize that the cost of fame and fortune may be higher than they ever imagined.
In addition to numbers first heard in the original Broadway musical, DREAMGIRLS -- Music From the Motion Picture will premiere four new original songs including the first single "Listen" by Beyonce (scheduled for release on November 14, 2006) and "Love You I Do" by Jennifer Hudson. The second single slated for release from the soundtrack is "One Night Only" by Beyonce. Among the original classic tracks from the musical included on the soundtrack are "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" (Jennifer Hudson); "Dreamgirls" (Beyonce, Jennifer Hudson and Anika Noni Rose); "Steppin' to the Bad Side" (Jamie Foxx); "Fake Your Way to the Top" (Eddie Murphy, Beyonce, Jennifer Hudson and Anika Noni Rose); "Move (You're Steppin' on My Heart)" (Jennifer Hudson, Beyonce and Anika Noni Rose); "Family" (Jamie Foxx and Keith Robinson); "I Am Changing" (Jennifer Hudson); "Cadillac Car" (Eddie Murphy); "I Meant You No Harm" (Eddie Murphy); "Heavy" (Jennifer Hudson, Beyonce and Anika Noni Rose) and "Hard To Say Goodbye My Love" (Beyonce, Sharon Leal and Anika Noni Rose).
Music World Entertainment:
Music World Entertainment (MWE) is one of the world's leading entertainment and music conglomerates dedicated to bringing quality entertainment to the world. MWE worldwide business includes record labels, artist and producer management, staff producers, artist development, Master catalog series, Urbane Merchandise, investment and property holdings, including offices in Houston, Los Angeles, and New York with a London office opening in January 2007. MWE is the brainchild of President and CEO Mathew Knowles, the powerhouse management behind the success of Grammy Award-winners Beyonce and global phenomenon Destiny's Child, the most successful "girl group" in the history of pop music.
Music World Music (MWM) is one of the most successful music labels in the world with over 100 million records sold to date including releases by Destiny's Child, Beyonce, Solange Knowles, Michelle Williams, the "Roll Bounce" soundtrack and many more. Highly anticipated upcoming releases include the official soundtrack album from the "Dreamgirls" film, Kids Rap Radio, and the Music World Master Series.
Urbane Merchandise is the tour merchandise arm of MWE which has functioned as the tour merchandiser for tours for Jay Z, Destiny's Child, Nelly, Beyonce, R Kelly, and Chris Brown, among many others.
Sony Urban Music:
Established in 2003 as a division of the Sony Music Label Group U.S., Sony Urban Music is exclusively dedicated to nurturing and developing the world's foremost Urban talent on behalf of the company's U.S. labels and divisions, including Columbia Records Group and Epic Records. Sony Urban Music has been home to established superstars and emerging artists from the worlds of R&B, Soul, Rap and Hip-Hop including Beyonce, Bow Wow, Damani, DMX, John Legend, Nas, Omarion, Three 6 Mafia, and many more.
Columbia Records:
One of the oldest and most respected record labels in the world, Columbia Records traces its origins back to the late 1880s. The Columbia Records roster has boasted such superstars as Marc Anthony, Louis Armstrong, Tony Bennett, Beyonce, Mariah Carey, Cypress Hill, Miles Davis, Destiny's Child, Dixie Chicks, Bob Dylan, Duke Ellington, the Fugees, Jagged Edge, Ricky Martin, John Mayer, Nas, Bruce Springsteen, Train, Pete Yorn, and many more.
Posted by Editors at 06:39 PM
November 06, 2006
TRIDENT PERSONALITY POLL
Sweet or Sour? New Yorkers vote themselves Sweet.
PHOTO: Personality Poll: Hours before heading out to vote in the General Election, hundreds of New Yorkers voted themselves "sweet" or "sour" Monday in a "Sweet or Sour" election sponsored by Trident Green Apple Fusion flavor gum. Ballots were cast using actual pieces of Trident chewing gum. The poll was held to determine the flavor of the Big Apple and to encourage people to vote in the real election. New Yorkers voted themselves sweet, 1,069 (63%) to 619 (37%).
Posted by Editors at 06:18 PM
November 05, 2006
NEWSWEEK COVER: November 13, 2006 Issue
PHOTO: In the November 13 issue (on newsstands Monday, November 6) "The Politics of Jesus" Newsweek explores the emerging tensions within the evangelical movement between those who emphasize sexual morality and those who are looking more to poverty and global health. Also, guest essays by Michael Gerson and Sam Harris. Plus: A security breach at Los Alamos, Ellis Cose on Affirmative Action, Boomers and TV and a personal essay by Brian Williams, and David Ansen reviews 'Borat.'
Posted by Editors at 09:45 AM
November 04, 2006
The New York Times Announces "TimesSelect Free Access Week"
Opening TimesSelect to All Online Users.
November 6-12 Access Presented By Philips.
NEW YORK -- The New York Times has announced that it will invite all online visitors to experience TimesSelect content free of charge for one week. From November 6-12, every visitor to NYTimes.com will have access to TimesSelect columns, blogs, video and other online exclusives that are normally available only to TimesSelect members. TimesSelect Free Access Week is presented exclusively by Philips as part of its "Sense and Simplicity" national marketing campaign.
During November 6-12, all visitors to NYTimes.com will have free access to TimesSelect columnists, including: Harvey Araton, Dan Barry, David Brooks, Roger Cohen, Maureen Dowd, Thomas L. Friedman, Clyde Haberman, Bob Herbert, Nicholas D. Kristof, Paul Krugman, Verlyn Klinkenborg, Joseph Nocera, Floyd Norris, Frank Rich, Chris Suellentrop, John Tierney, George Vecsey, Judith Warner and others. Visitors can also enjoy TimesSelect exclusive videos, podcasts and guest blogs. A free collection of articles (listed below) from the Archive back to 1851 will also be available, although complete access to the full archive will be reserved for TimesSelect subscribers.
"TimesSelect Free Access Week makes one of the Web's richest resources available to all," said Vivian Schiller, senior vice president, general manager, NYTimes.com. "From the influential opinion of our award-winning Op-Ed columnists, such as Maureen Dowd and Nicholas. D. Kristof, to online-only columnists, such as Maira Kalman and Judith Warner, TimesSelect provides a world of viewpoints that encourage dialogue on today's most pressing matters."
"We believe strongly that visitors to TimesSelect during Philips's presentation of Free Access Week will share our vision that innovative products simplify life," said Eric Plaskonos, vice president, brand management, Philips Consumer Electronics.
Among the special features for users during TimesSelect Free Access Week:
• Q&A with TimesSelect columnists
Monday - Thomas L. Friedman
Tuesday - Joseph Nocera
Wednesday - Gail Collins
Thursday - Chris Suellentrop
Friday - Harvey Araton
• Midterm Madness: Election analysis by writers from both sides
of the political divide at
http://midtermmadness.blogs.nytimes.com
• From The Archive: a free collection of articles, including the
Confederate attack on Fort Sumter during the Civil War; the
opening of the Brooklyn Bridge; the report from Iwo Jima; the
Supreme Court school desegregation ruling of 1954; the
Beatles' first trip to America; and the boxing match between
Sonny Liston and Cassius Clay.
• The Best of TimesSelect: selections of memorable columns with
access to videos of TimesSelect columnists, including
discussions with Nicholas D. Kristof, David Brooks and Maureen
Dowd.
• Guest columnist Steven Johnson, writing on technology and
science.
• Maira Kalman's November illustrated column.
• Talking Points: a member of The New York Times editorial board
breaks down today's issues point by point to give readers a
deeper level of understanding. The recent feature, "7 Campaign
Ads Worth Watching" and other past installments will be
available.
Monthly and annual subscriptions to TimesSelect will be available for visitors who wish to continue their access beyond November 12. As always daily, weekly, weekend or Sunday home delivery subscribers to The New York Times can enroll in TimesSelect as part of their home delivery subscription price.
Since its launch in September 2005, TimesSelect has more than 551,000 subscribers, with 65% receiving TimesSelect as a benefit of their home-delivery subscriptions and 35% receiving it from online-only subscriptions.
Posted by Editors at 05:09 PM
November 03, 2006
Culture and Style in New York City: NYTimes.com is launching a New E-Mail - Urbanite
Melena Ryzik to Write the Newsletter.
PHOTO: New York City - Times Square at Night.
NEW YORK -- Nov. 3, 2006 -- NYTimes.com is launching today "Urbanite", a free daily e-mail offering the latest information on what to do, see, eat, drink and buy in New York City - from art exhibits and shopping - to dining out and nightlife. Urbanite will be sent to subscribers Monday through Friday by 8:15 a.m., in time to get a jump on planning the day. Subscribers may register for the newsletter at www.nytimes.com/urbanite.
PHOTO: New York City - Commuters in Silhouette
Melena Ryzik, a Brooklyn journalist who has covered culture and style in the city since 2001, will write Urbanite, infusing the newsletter with her distinctive voice and editorial viewpoint. Ariel Kaminer, editor of Arts & Leisure, will oversee the issue. Urbanite will bring The Times's rich mix of consumer journalism to the foreground, highlighting critics' picks, notable products and hip venues identified by hundreds of New York-based journalists at The Times and NYTimes.com. The e-mail also will call attention to Times blogs, podcasts and multimedia that can help readers experience life in the city to the fullest.
The New York Times Company (NYSE: NYT), a leading media company with 2005 revenues of $3.4 billion, includes The New York Times, the International Herald Tribune, The Boston Globe, 15 other daily newspapers, nine network-affiliated television stations, two New York City radio stations and 35 Web sites, including NYTimes.com, Boston.com and About.com. The Company's core purpose is to enhance society by creating, collecting and distributing high-quality news, information and entertainment.
Posted by Editors at 10:20 AM
October 29, 2006
NEWSWEEK COVER: November 6, 2006 Issue
PHOTO: In the November 6 issue of Newsweek (on newsstands Monday, October 30): "The road out of Iraq." Fareed Zakaria writes an essay on what needs to be done to end the U.S. intervention in Iraq and the role the Iraqi leadership needs to take. Plus: wedge issues that may play a part in the midterm elections; why Detroit's automakers need to overhaul their designs; successful prequel franchises in Hollywood and the best cookbooks of the year.
Posted by Editors at 06:04 AM
October 26, 2006
Sony Computer Entertainment America Rocks New Orleans at Voodoo Music(R) Experience
Music Lovers Get Hands on Upcoming PlayStation(R) Family of Products.
FOSTER CITY, Calif., Oct. 26 -- Sony Computer Entertainment America today announced that it will sponsor the eighth-annual Voodoo Music(R) Experience in New Orleans, Louisiana. The two-day event brings the hottest musical acts in the world to New Orleans' historic City Park on October 28th and 29th, 2006. Musical Acts include Red Hot Chili Peppers, Duran Duran, Wu-Tang Clan, The Flaming Lips and more. As part of the event, show-goers will go hands-on with upcoming PlayStation(R) products as the festival marks the first stop of the new "PlayStation Experience" -- a big-rig truck outfitted with a full line-up of playable games for PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system, and the highly anticipated PLAYSTATION(R)3 (PS3(TM)) system.
Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. continues to redefine the entertainment lifestyle with its PlayStation(R) and PS one(TM) game console, the PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, the PSP(R) (PlayStation(R)Portable) system and the upcoming, much-anticipated PLAYSTATION(R)3 system.
Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. markets the PlayStation family of products. It develops, publishes, markets and distributes software for the PS one game console, the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system and the PSP system for the North American market. Based in Foster City, Calif., Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc. serves as headquarters for all North American operations and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
Posted by Editors at 09:16 PM
Luny Tunes and Paris Hilton Celebrate Reign at Top of Billboard Charts of Mas Flow: Los Benjamins
LOS ANGELES, Oct. 26 -- Mega producers Luny Tunes invaded Los Angeles this week to celebrate their reign at the top of the Latin Billboard Charts with the release of their album Mas Flow: Los Benjamins. The duo was received in the West Coast by Paris Hilton and a slew of other celebrities including actors Page Kennedy (Weeds), Tia Mowry (Sister, Sister), and label mates Rigo Luna and Kuky who celebrated at the exclusive event well into the night.
PHOTO: Luny Tunes and Paris Hilton Celebrate Los Benjamins Record Release Party in Hollywood.
Mas Flow: Los Benjamins debuted at #1 on the Latin Billboard Charts and #30 on the Billboard 200 charts. Luny Tunes' hot reggaeton style gained them this past year the Latin Billboard Award for Best Producers of the Year.
The dynamic duo has worked with everyone from Reggaeton front men Don Omar and Daddy Yankee, to R&B diva Janet Jackson, and even Paris Hilton for whom they did the reggaeton remix for her single "Stars are Blind."
Posted by Editors at 08:17 PM
October 25, 2006
Black Enterprise Presents Its Annual Small Business Issue
Innovative Entrepreneurial Strategies and a Special Report the New Black Republicans Highlight November 2006 Issue.
NEW YORK, Oct. 25 -- Creating and growing a successful company in today's changing marketplace calls for innovative thinking. In the November 2006 Small Business issue, black enterprise (be) showcases thriving entrepreneurs who have applied modern strategies to grow-and in some cases create-additional streams of revenue. "Entrepreneurs should always be thinking of creative ways to generate profits if they want to sustain business growth," says be Small Business/Technology Editor James A. Johnson. "Some of those strategies-from self-publishing books to processing online orders 24 hours-a- day-require a higher degree of personal self-reliance than more traditional methods."
BLACK ENTERPRISE, your ultimate guide to financial empowerment, is the premier business and investment resource for African Americans. Since 1970, BE has provided essential business information and advice to professionals, corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and decision makers. The monthly publication provides 3.9 million readers with information on entrepreneurship, careers, and financial management. As the definitive source of information for and about African American business markets and leaders, BE is the authority for business news and trends.
Posted by Editors at 08:27 PM
October 24, 2006
Jon Bon Jovi Leads Advocacy Effort as 'Founding Ambassador' of Newly Created Habitat for Humanity Ambassador Program
Jon Bon Jovi has been named the first "Founding Ambassador" in Habitat for Humanity International's new Ambassador Program. The program's goal is to engage celebrities to bring heightened awareness to the worldwide-housing crisis and to Habitat's effort in providing safe, decent and affordable shelter. Bon Jovi is pictured with Habitat for Humanity International CEO Jonathan Reckford and former President Bill Clinton.
The program goal is to engage celebrities and entertainment industry leaders that can bring heightened awareness to the worldwide-housing crisis and to Habitat's effort in providing safe, decent and affordable shelter.
Musician, singer, songwriter and actor, Jon Bon Jovi is most recognizable as the voice for the band Bon Jovi. Since the group's formation in the early 1980s, Bon Jovi has sold more than 100 million records worldwide and at more than 2,700 shows in 47 countries more than 32 million fans have seen Bon Jovi in concert.
Habitat for Humanity International is an ecumenical Christian ministry that welcomes to its work all people dedicated to the cause of eliminating poverty housing. Since its founding in Americus, Ga., in 1976, Habitat has built more than 200,000 houses in nearly 100 countries, providing simple, decent and affordable shelter for more than 1 million people.
Posted by Editors at 07:02 PM
October 22, 2006
NEWSWEEK COVER: October 30, 2006
PHOTO: In the October 30 issue (on newsstands Monday, October 23) "Not Your Daddy's Democrats" Newsweek profiles Senate Democrat contender Harold Ford Jr., whose race-along with a few other key contests, could be the deciding factors in whether the Democrats take control of either house. Also, a look at what a Democratic Congress would be like. Plus: Wal-Mart's China policy, Nuke traffickers, the death squads of Sadr City, the new prime time, and Botox Confessions.
Posted by Editors at 06:04 AM
October 20, 2006
MOTEMA MUSIC PIANIST LYNNE ARRIALE
Bejazzling' Pianist Puts the Heart Back Into Jazz with Live CD/DVD Set and Award-Winning PBS-Aired Documentary.
NEW YORK, Oct. 19 -- Lithe and graceful, the elegant pianist closes her eyes, takes a deep breath, and whispers her story straight into our hearts while never uttering a word.
PHOTO: Pianist Lynne Arriale performs with her trio at Burghausen Jazz Week, April 2006. This critically acclaimed two-hour concert, filmed at one of Europe's oldest and most prestigious festivals, is the core program of Arriale's new CD/DVD set, now out on the Motema label in the U.S and on IN+OUT Records in Europe and the UK. Also on the DVD is the award-winning documentary "Lynne Arriale: Profile of a Performing Artist," seen on PBS stations in the US.
Arriale's music has the rare quality of attracting both seasoned jazz lovers and those who may not think they like jazz.
The New York Times counts Arriale "among the top pianists of the day," and the London Times says, "Arriale is putting the heart back into jazz." That music is now on sale at retail outlets in the U.S. and Europe and at http://www.motema.com/.
Posted by Editors at 01:34 PM
October 19, 2006
Avoid eBay Scams This Holiday Season
Authors Ed and Steve Klink reveal a dastardly cast of Scrooge-like characters who make eBay shopping a sorry experience.
HILLSDALE, N.J., Oct. 19 -- Think You've Found the Perfect Holiday gift on eBay? Better check twice! While many auctions take place without a hitch, most people have no idea how easy it is to get ripped off.
In a recent book, "Dawn of the eBay Deadbeats: True Tales of Treachery, Lies, and Fraud from the Dark Recesses of the World's Largest Online Auction Marketplace" authors Ed and Steve Klink reveal a dastardly cast of Scrooge-like characters who make eBay shopping a sorry experience.
Compiled from their eBay watchdog website, ebayersthatsuck.com, the book is packed with lurid stories of auction rip-offs: a woman whose wedding was tainted by moth-ridden tuxedoes, a collector duped out of a $16,000 vintage Spiderman comic, and the family-man trucker who lost a whopping $27,000 buying a rig that didn't exist. "It looks like the Grinch got a computer in his cave and is now selling on eBay," the authors say.
Steve Klink, a New Jersey police officer and his brother Ed, a New York City business writer, wrote Dawn of the eBay Deadbeats to tell the stories of these victims.
The Klink brothers offer these tips to help honest eBay users avoid getting ripped off:
• Be wary if the person requests only one form of payment
• Read carefully, some scams depend on a lengthy description that can be
deceptive.
• Never be put off for two weeks on a deal or you risk being unable to
stop the credit card transaction
• Don't use Western Union or MoneyGram when paying for auction purchases
• Ask yourself the following: Who is this person? Is there a sob story?
Does this money have to be sent immediately? Does this offer sound too
good to be true?
Dawn of the eBay Deadbeats ($12.95) is available on Amazon, eBay, through the authors' site, and in select bookstores.
Posted by Editors at 08:58 PM
Sanrio and Nickelodeon & Viacom Consumer Products Announce Creative Partnership to Launch Nickelodeon's Hit Property Blue's Clues in Japan
America's Favorite Puppy and Japan's Best Known Kitty Join Forces With an Innovative Co-Licensing Venture to Create Limited-Edition Blue's Clues and Hello Kitty Line.
Sanrio Named Master Licensee for Nickelodeon's Blue's Clues In Japan, as the Hit Series Continues to Celebrate a Decade of Success.
TOKYO and NEW YORK, Oct. 18 -- Nickelodeon and Viacom Consumer Products (NVCP), one of the world's leading licensing businesses and Sanrio, the world-renowned Japanese character licensing group, announced today a multi-faceted creative partnership that includes an exclusive co-licensing joint venture and master license agreement to develop Nickelodeon's hit property Blue's Clues in Japan.
The co-licensing deal, a creative and business first for any Nickelodeon property, will see the two companies bring together their famous characters, Blue the beloved puppy from the hit Nickelodeon preschool series Blue's Clues and global superstar Hello Kitty in a specially designed product line created specifically for tweens and young adults.
Blue's Clues is an award-winning, play-along, think-along, half-hour animated series. The show stars a live-action host and an energetic, bright blue puppy named Blue. In each episode, the host invites viewers into his computer-animated storybook world to help him and Blue solve the day's puzzles. Blues Clues can currently be seen on Nickelodeon Japan.
Hello Kitty is a twinkling-eyed cartoonish character which was invented and promoted by a Japanese company called Sanrio in 1974. Sanrio is famous for their adorable and cute cartoon characters, including Hello Kitty, Keroppi, Melody and more. This line of cute little characters soon attracted millions of people around the world. Hello Kitty is the most successful out of all the Sanrio characters.
Hello Kitty has produced different products all around the world, including wallets, watches, clothing, fabrics, Polaroid and digital cameras, portable CD players and stereos, handkerchiefs, stationery, cutlery, lunch boxes, puppets and more.
Sanrio's principal business activities include the design and sale of social communications gifts and greeting cards, the publication and distribution of books and magazines, character licensing and adaptation services, and others. Nickelodeon is the most widely distributed kids' network in the world and the only multimedia entertainment brand dedicated exclusively to them. First launched in the U.S. in 1979, Nickelodeon today consists of 34 channels, 20 branded program blocks, 7 mobile TV channels, 32 web sites and TurboNick, Nickelodeon's broadband video service in Australia, the US and UK.
The upcoming line is a wholly original concept based on Blue the dog and Hello Kitty the cat imaginatively adapted by Sanrio into Hello Kitty's familiar world and product range.
Further deepening their partnership in the market, NVCP has granted Sanrio the master license for Blue's Clues across all toys, apparel, packaged goods, home furnishings, stationery, gifts, accessories, consumer electronics, party supplies and sporting goods. Blue's Clues merchandise will roll out in Japan in Summer 2007.
"As a huge fan of Hello Kitty, it's exciting to forge a creative partnership with Sanrio to co-develop and manage Blue's Clues. It is also a significant step in the growth of our business in Japan and a tremendous opportunity to bring new creative dimensions to one of our most successful properties," said Leigh Anne Brodsky, President, Nickelodeon and Viacom Consumer Products. "Blue and Hello Kitty represent both Japanese and American creativity and licensing success. Bringing the characters together in this highly innovative product line will bring their popularity and charm to new audiences."
"We are delighted and excited to have this opportunity to further our partnership with a global media company like Viacom and Nickelodeon," said Akito Sasaki, Director and General Manager, Character and Licensing Division, Sanrio Company, Ltd. "With the marketing efforts planned for the Hello Kitty and Blue's Clues product line, we are well poised to establish Blue as one of the most beloved characters here in Japan."
"It is incredibly heartwarming that Blue has been invited to become part of Hello Kitty's fantastic world," said Traci Paige Johnson, Co-Creator, Executive Producer, Director of Design, Blue's Clues. "Hello Kitty was a tremendous inspiration in the creation of Blue's Clues and has been one of my favorite characters since childhood."
In June 2006, NVCP entered a multi-year agreement with Sanrio Far East Co., Ltd., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sanrio, to represent Nickelodeon's multi-billion dollar global franchises, SpongeBob SquarePants and Dora the Explorer and Comedy Central's South Park in Japan. SpongeBob SquarePants merchandise launched to select retailers in January 2006 and has already generated $20 million at retail.
Considered the gold standard in interactive preschool television, Blue's Clues has continued to prevail over the last 10 years as one of the top five preschool series on all of commercial television in the US. Recently celebrating its 10th Anniversary on air, Blue's Clues is currently syndicated to 120 countries and has been translated into 15 languages. Blue's Clues has earned $3.6 billion at retail since 1998, selling more than 25 million "Handy Dandy Notebooks" and 35 million books to date.
Blue's Clues was created by Traci Paige Johnson, Todd Kessler and Angela C. Santomero. Santomero serves as Executive Producer and Head Writer, and Johnson is Executive Producer and Director of Design. Jennifer Twomey also was Executive Producer and writer for the original series.
Hello Kitty has produced different products all around the world, including wallets, watches, clothing, fabrics, Polaroid and digital cameras, portable CD players and stereos, handkerchiefs, stationery, cutlery, lunch boxes, puppets and more.
Posted by Editors at 01:29 PM
WALT DISNEY WORLD 'TOP MOUSE' DROPPED BY THE SET OF 'THE VIEW'
PHOTO: Walt Disney World "Top Mouse" dropped by the set of "The View" to celebrate show co-host Rosie O'Donnell and "All My Children's " Susan Lucci's participation in the "ABC Super Soap Weekend," Nov. 11-12, 2006. Lucci will headline an exciting lineup of ABC's Daytime stars at Disney-MGM Studios with special guest appearances by O'Donnell. Throughout the weekend, fans will have the opportunity to interact with more than 30 stars from "All My Children," "One Life to Live" and "General Hospital."
Posted by Editors at 01:24 PM
October 17, 2006
Pure Digital Introduces World's First Camcorder to Enable Direct Uploads to Video Sharing Web Sites
Simple, Pocket-Sized Device Integrates with Google Video and Grouper Networks to Deliver True End-to-End Solution for Capturing and Sharing Home Video.
SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 16 -- Video sharing on the Internet is not just for the techno-savvy anymore, thanks to the new Pure Digital Point & Shoot Camcorder available the first week of November at retailers throughout USA for just $129.99. Through the company's new relationships with Google Video and Grouper Networks, the Pure Digital Point & Shoot Camcorder has taken sharing home videos online to a whole new level of simplicity and convenience. The camcorder has built-in software that enables users to connect directly to video sharing web sites, paving the way for everyone from moms to teens to share video easily -- privately or publicly -- on this popular new breed of sites.
Since its initial introduction, the pocket-sized, affordable Pure Digital Point & Shoot Camcorder has been heralded as revolutionary in its simplicity. Now, using the camcorder, consumers are able for the first time to go from shooting video to sharing it on Internet sharing sites in just three steps: shoot video with the touch of a button; plug the camcorder's built-in USB arm into a PC or Mac; and upload video directly to sharing web sites Google Video or Grouper Networks via on-board software. The software includes other convenient sharing options, such as one-step emailing, video greeting cards for a variety of special occasions, and custom-edited movie mixes.
Pure Digital Point & Shoot Camcorder users can choose to share their home movies exclusively with friends and family they invite to watch their video or post it publicly on the sites where it can be viewed by anyone around the world.
Posted by Editors at 11:45 AM
October 16, 2006
College Preparatory Workshops by The New York Times
Preparing for College: How to Navigate College Admissions and Financing.
Venues: Brooklyn, Queens and Long Island.
NEW YORK, Oct 16, 2006 -- The New York Times announced today that it will present a second series of college preparatory panel discussions this fall at key venues in Brooklyn, Queens and on Long Island. The Times conducted a similar series of workshops in April 2006. The new series, called "Preparing for College: How to Navigate College Admissions and Financing" and sponsored again by Astoria Federal Savings, will offer panels of college admissions and financing experts who will provide comprehensive information on the college admissions process, strategies for financing a college education and tips on money management for students. The panel will also discuss coping methods for stressed families contending with one of life's milestones - sending a child to college. Each panel will be moderated by a New York Times representative and will be free to the public.
"The New York Times believes strongly that a college education is an essential step for young people to take in building bright futures for themselves and our country," said Alyse Myers, senior vice president and chief marketing officer, The New York Times Media Group.
The four panel discussions will be held at the following schools:
• Wednesday, October 18, 7 p.m., Massapequa High School, Massapequa, Long Island
• Thursday, October 19, 7 p.m., Townsend Harris High School, Flushing, Queens
• Wednesday, October 25, 7 p.m., Huntington High School, Huntington, Long Island
• Thursday, November 9, 7 p.m., Edward R. Murrow High School, Brooklyn
"Through our Education First initiative, which promotes lifelong learning for people of all ages, we're pleased to be able to work closely with The New York Times and our education partners from Massapequa, Townsend Harris, Huntington and Edward R. Murrow High Schools to bring these hands-on workshops to the many communities we serve," said Brian Edwards, Senior Vice President and Director of Marketing, Astoria Federal Savings. "We invite parents, teens and other family members to attend the evening programs. It's a great opportunity to gain more knowledge about how to successfully prepare for higher education."
Information about specific events is available at www.nytimes-community.com. All events are free, but advance registration is requested.
Posted by Editors at 09:58 PM
October 15, 2006
NEWSWEEK COVER :: Special Report: North Korea
The October 23 issue of Newsweek, "Special Report: North Korea," looks at the secret history of how North Korea acquired nuclear capabilities and how its actions have changed the rules of the "nuclear club."
Plus..
• An interview with new UN Chief Ban Ki-Moon
• Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi's plans if the Democrats win back Congress
• The Iraq war and strained military marriages
• A new book on "Social Intelligence,"
• Annette Bening on "Running With Scissors"
• How to download your favorite TV shows.
Newsweek Investigation Looks at How North Korea Went Nuclear, Why Diplomacy Failed to Stop it and What Options Remain.
Includes: Terrible Human Costs on North Korea's Scientists...Pakistan's Role...Evidence That Bush Administration May Have Tried to Manipulate intelligence ...Why China Might Intervene.
Last week's nuclear test made North Korea the first new declared nuclear power in eight years, and undoubtedly the most unstable of the eight in the world today. The trail of events that led to this perilous moment had a great deal to do with years of misplaced pride and prejudice between Pyongyang and Washington, of deep misunderstanding and disastrous missed chances. In the October 23 Newsweek cover story (on newsstands Monday, October 16), "Special Report: North Korea," an international team of correspondents investigates how North Korea may have acquired its nuclear capabilities, why diplomacy failed to halt the program and what might still be done to avoid a conflict.
Posted by Editors at 08:42 PM
October 14, 2006
BusinessWeek Cover: The Best B-Schools of 2006
The cream of the crop, according to BusinessWeek’s 2006 ranking of full-time MBA programs.
In the cover story of its October 23, 2006 issue, BusinessWeek ranks the top MBA programs by measuring student and recruiter satisfaction.
What makes a great business school? It’s a combination of many things, including a great faculty; an overriding vision of what a business education should be; intelligent, engaged and motivated students; and effective career services that help students get the jobs they want and deserve. Every two years, BusinessWeek looks at the best B-schools and ranks them with the help of students, recruiters, and academic research.
"Of course, the MBA revival has as much to do with the ebb and flow of the economy as it does the ongoing reform efforts at the nation's B-schools. But many deans are grateful that the sturm und drang of recent years got them thinking about how to build a better manager. They recognize that a reassessment is long overdue and vital if the MBA is to remain relevant for the next generation of business leaders."
Posted by Editors at 04:34 PM
October 12, 2006
FORBES ANNOUNCES 200 BEST SMALL COMPANIES
Forbes Latest Issue: Cover Story
NutriSystem Chief Executive Named Entrepreneur of the Year.
New York, NY, October 12 (Forbes Inc. Corporate News Release) – Forbes has named NutriSystem, a direct channel marketer of weight-management programs, the #1 small company in America. New to the Forbes list this year, NutriSystem has seen a revenue increase from $28 million to $413 million and its profit skyrocket from $2.5 million to $55 million, since Chief Executive Michael Hagan took the helm in 2002. Forbes’ annual list of America’s Best Small Companies ranks companies based on sales and earnings growth, as well as their return on equity. To be included, a company’s sales must fall between $5-$750 million, with a share price above $5 as of September 29, 2006. Below is a ranking of this year’s Top Ten:
1. NutriSystem : Weight-management programs
2. Hansen Natural : Soft drinks and juices
3. optionsXpress Holdings : Online brokerage services
4. PetMed Express : Pet medication and health product delivery
5. Mannatech : Nutritional supplements and weight-management products
6. Travelzoo : Internet travel search engine
7. Citi Trends : Urban apparel and accessories
8. j2 Global Communications : Communications services for businesses and individuals
9. Middleby : Kitchen appliances
10. Ceradyne : Industrial ceramic products
Forbes is America's leading biweekly business magazine.
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:
• A Bull and Bear Debate over Gas and Oil Prices (p. 44) – While the Dow Jones booms, commodities like oil and gas swoon. Jim Rogers, the man who called the raw materials rise years ago, goes head to head with economist Stephen Roach, who believes China and housing slowdowns will cut prices.
• Fat City (p. 160) – American’s poor diets and inactivity are making diabetes the next sales bonanza. Currently there are 171 million people in the world with diabetes, with that number expected to jump to 366 million by 2030, creating a serious growth opportunity for the troubled pharmaceutical industry. Big Pharma has big plans; but will the promised safety advantages of these drugs hold up?
• Seeing is Believing (p. 123) – Venerable rock star Peter Gabriel is bringing attention to human rights abuses, the bulk of which goes unseen. Through his nonprofit, Witness, one of many human rights organizations using video to effect change, human rights violations are exposed through video, generating public attention, activism, and donations.
• I 4Got mY PasswRD (p. 90) – The Web-savvy user now has an average of 30 password-protected accounts. Brace yourself for a slew of new security measures on the Web, as password bloat worsens.
Posted by Editors at 06:00 PM
Cowboys & Indians Magazine Celebrates the Holidays With Paul Newman
DALLAS, Oct. 11 -- Cowboys & Indians Magazine, The Premier Magazine of The West's mega-huge, 300-plus page December issue, on sale October 23 celebrates the spirit of the Holidays with a look into the life of the legendary star and humanitarian, Paul Newman. Newman embodies the style and grace of old Hollywood while succeeding today with his philanthropic efforts.
Clark Gable and Marilyn Monroe were true celebrities back when Hollywood was the center of glamour. C&I revisits the set of the last film made by both Gable and Monroe. "The Misfits" became a transitional western after its release in the early 1960s and C&I's look at this important film has brought together incredible set photography featuring the work of Eve Arnold, Cornell Capa and Elliott Erwitt.
All this, plus a journey down the Texas Wine Trail, a look at Western films made in Europe and beyond, a visit to California's Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort, and a trip to France to see the horse and riders of the ranches of Provence and the Camargue, makes C&I's December issue the largest in its fourteen year history.
Posted by Editors at 04:06 PM
October 11, 2006
Nintendo's Touch Generations Portable Gaming Brand Sees Huge Growth
New Games Include a Dalmatian Puppy and 40+ Clubhouse Games.
REDMOND, Wash., Oct. 11 -- Nintendo's popular Touch Generations portable gaming brand includes Nintendo DS(TM) video games meant for anyone to pick up and play, regardless of their prior gaming experience. And that easy-to-use philosophy is translating into strong sales. Already, close to 3.5 million Touch Generations games have sold in the United States, demonstrating an expanding audience of consumers' desire for simple, fun games that don't take years of gaming experience to master.
One of the most popular Touch Generations games is Nintendogs(TM), an emotionally addictive, portable puppy-training program that took the world by storm last year and redefined the meaning of "video game." A limited-edition version of Nintendogs called Dalmatian & Friends hits stores Oct. 18. The game lets users adopt, train and care for a puppy chosen from one of the six starter breeds: Dalmatian, golden retriever, Yorkshire terrier, beagle, boxer and German shepherd. To date in the United States, the three versions of Nintendogs have sold more than 2.2 million units combined, ranking them atop the list of all-time Nintendo DS best sellers.
The worldwide innovator in the creation of interactive entertainment, Nintendo Co., Ltd., of Kyoto, Japan, manufactures and markets hardware and software for its Nintendo DS(TM), Game Boy(R) Advance and Nintendo GameCube(TM) systems, and upcoming Wii(TM) console. Since 1983, Nintendo has sold nearly 2.2 billion video games and more than 375 million hardware units globally, and has created industry icons like Mario(TM), Donkey Kong(R), Metroid(R), Zelda(TM) and Pokemon(R). A wholly owned subsidiary, Nintendo of America Inc., based in Redmond, Wash., serves as headquarters for Nintendo's operations in the Western Hemisphere. More information about Nintendo is available at the company's Web site www.nintendo.com.
Posted by Editors at 08:25 PM
Sir Elton John Among 12 Honorees to Receive Prestigious Disney Legends Award
Award Given by The Walt Disney Company to Those Who Have Made Significant Contributions to the Disney Legacy.
ABC News Anchor Peter Jennings to Receive Award Posthumously.
BURBANK, Calif. -- The Walt Disney Company is honoring legendary songwriter Sir Elton John, as well as 11 additional inductees, with the prestigious Disney Legends Award during a ceremony at The Walt Disney Company headquarters.
The 12 new Disney Legends include leaders in the fields of music, journalism, art, performance, engineering and business. Among them are:
• Renowned singer and songwriter Sir Elton John;
• ABC News anchor Peter Jennings;
• Actors Tommy Kirk and Kevin Corcoran (Old Yeller, The Shaggy Dog, Swiss Family Robinson, Mickey Mouse Club);
• Actors Tim Considine and David Stollery (The Adventures of Spin and Marty);
• Actress Ginny Tyler (Mickey Mouse Club)
• Disney and Pixar animation story artist Joe Ranft;
• Voice actor Paul Frees (Haunted Mansion, Ludwig Von Drake);
• Disney Imagineer Don Edgren (Disneyland, Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain);
• Animation background artist Al Dempster;
• Founder of Walt Disney Records, Jimmy Johnson
The Disney Legends Award was established in 1987 to honor the men and women who have made significant contributions to the Disney legacy. The first recipient of this prestigious distinction was actor Fred MacMurray (The Shaggy Dog, The Absent-Minded Professor, The Happiest Millionaire), and since that time 203 Disney Legends have been named, including this year's recipients. Among the past Disney Legends are Julie Andrews, Steve Martin, Dick Van Dyke, Annette Funicello, Dean Jones, Angela Lansbury, Fess Parker, Kurt Russell, Tim Allen, Hayley Mills, Phil Collins, Art Linkletter, Tim Conway, Sir Tim Rice, Howard Ashman and Alan Menken.
Posted by Editors at 12:56 PM
October 08, 2006
NEWSWEEK COVER: Off Message
Newsweek takes a behind-the-scenes look at the Mark Foley scandal.
In the October 16 issue "Off Message" (on newsstands Monday, October 9), Newsweek takes a behind-the-scenes look at the Mark Foley scandal and how it might cost the GOP the Congressional election. Plus: Ten hospitals that are solving major healthcare challenges, murder in Amish country, Iraqi death squads and the Internet, a look at the unwitting stars of the "Borat" movie and the best places to take your kids skiing.
NEWSWEEK POLL: Majority Of Americans-Including 29 Percent Of Republicans - Believe Dennis Hastert Tried to Cover Up Mark Foley Scandal; Fifty-Three Percent Want Democrats to Take Control of Congress in November.
More Americans Now Say Democrats Will Handle Moral Values, War on Terror Better Than Republicans.
Record Low 33-Percent Approval Rating for Bush; Majority Believe Administration Purposely Misled the Public to Build Support for Iraq War.
Posted by Editors at 03:40 PM
Harlequin Ginger Blossom(TM) Offered in Sony(R) Reader Bookstore
Harlequin Manga Available on Groundbreaking Technology.
TORONTO -- Harlequin Enterprises Limited (http://www.eharlequin.com/) has announced that their manga-format imprint, Harlequin Ginger Blossom(TM) (http://harlequingingerblossom.com/), is now a part of Sony's recent Sony(R) Reader launch.
Harlequin Ginger Blossom manga is available for download to the Reader through CONNECT(TM) eBooks (http://ebooks.connect.com/), Sony's online eBook store.
The Sony Reader allows active readers to carry as much as they want to read whether they are on the road or just going around the corner. The Reader's high-resolution electronic paper display allows Harlequin Ginger Blossom's beautiful graphics to be viewed in a sharp manner that rivals traditional paper and ink.
Harlequin has considerable experience with the manga format. Since 1998, under a licensing arrangement, Ohzora Publishing Company, a leading Japanese creator of manga titles for women, has successfully published manga versions of over 400 Harlequin titles in Japan.
Harlequin Enterprises Limited is the global leader in series romance and one of the world's leading publishers of women's fiction, with titles issued worldwide in 25 languages and sold in 94 international markets. The company produces over 115 titles monthly and publishes more than 1,300 authors from around the world. Harlequin Enterprises Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Torstar Corporation, a broadly based media company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TS.B). Harlequin's Web site is located at http://www.eharlequin.com/. Harlequin has offices in 18 countries, including Toronto, New York and London.
Posted by Editors at 08:27 AM
Shell Oil Company and Richard Childress Racing Announce Primary Sponsorship
Chase Contender Kevin Harvick Takes the Wheel of Legendary No. 29 Chevy for Shell and Pennzoil Beginning in 2007 in NASCAR Nextel Cup.
Shell Oil Company has announced the brand's return to NASCAR today through a multi-year primary sponsorship of Richard Childress Racing (RCR). Through the sponsorship both Shell and Pennzoil brands will be featured on the No. 29 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS to be driven by Kevin Harvick in the 2007 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup series.
Photo: John Hofmeister, President, Shell Oil Company (right), car owner Richard Childress (center) and driver Kevin Harvick (left) unveil the new No. 29 Shell Monte Carlo SS, which Harvick will drive in the 2007 NASCAR Nextel Cup Series.
The company's technological leadership and its innovative products have helped position Shell as the "preferred partner" both on and off the track for some of the auto industry's top companies including General Motors (GM), Ferrari and Audi.
Shell Oil Company is an affiliate of the Shell Group (NYSE:RDS.A) and (NYSE:RDS.B). Shell Oil Products US, a subsidiary of Shell Oil Company, is a leader in the refining, transportation and marketing of fuels, and has a network of approximately 6,000 Shellbranded gasoline stations in the western United States.
Pennzoil(R) is the #1-selling motor oil and one of the most trusted brands in America. Pennzoil is produced and marketed by Shell Lubricants. Shell lubricants companies are global leaders in lubricants and operate in approximately 120 countries worldwide.
Posted by Editors at 06:34 AM
October 07, 2006
Motorola Talkabout(R) Two-Way Radios
A Practical Gift Idea for the Active Outdoor Enthusiasts.
Motorola and Giant International deliver SX800 two-way radios to provide practical communication for the most active lifestyles.
ATLANTA, Oct. 6 -- It can be a challenge for active outdoor enthusiasts to stay connected in the great outdoors. From hiking expeditions and ski vacations to family outings, today's on-the-go consumers require communications products that are easy to use to keep them in touch with those that matter most. Motorola Talkabout SX800 two-way radios offer the convenience of communication at an affordable price.
The compact Motorola Talkabout SX800 two-way radios have the power to communicate in the great outdoors, on the slopes, at the park and even in remote locations not covered by cellular phones. With a range of up to 16 miles the radios provide active families and outdoor enthusiasts with the freedom of mobility in even the most demanding situations. Whether climbing a mountaintop or maneuvering a kayak downriver, hands-free communication is possible without removing the SX800 from the belt clip using the iVOX speech- activated feature.
Posted by Editors at 08:21 AM
October 06, 2006
Selecciones Magazine's First-Ever 'Generation Latino: Hispanic Teens Who Are Changing The World' Editorial Franchise Brought to Life
Top Talent On Hand to Celebrate Inaugural Event Including Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Alvarez, Univision's Giselle Blondet, Telemundo's Poncho de Anda, Despierta America's Ana Maria Canseco & Singer Shalim.
NEW YORK, Oct. 5 -- Selecciones, the world's best-selling Spanish-language magazine, celebrated its 35th anniversary yesterday with the introduction of its first-ever "Generation Latino: Hispanic Teens Who Are Changing the World" event. The pages of the magazine's October issue were brought to life at a special awards luncheon and media event at Bongo's Cuban Café in Miami honoring seven Hispanic teens for their talents, accomplishments and unsurpassed contributions to their communities. Today's most prominent newsmakers -- TV personalities, musicians, and political leaders -- were also on-hand to present each teen with an award and deliver their own personal stories of obstacles, successes and achievements.
The magazine conducted a nationwide search to find extraordinary Hispanic teens who are excelling in their chosen field including the arts, politics, medicine and technology. Seven teens were selected under the following categories: The Activist: Miguel Zazueta; The Innovator: Eletha Joy Flores; The Healer: Pamela Escobar; The Forecaster: Roque Cespedes; The Storyteller: Lucas Leyva; The Performer: Eva Martinez and The Contender: Seniesa Estrada.
Source: Reader's Digest
Posted by Editors at 09:28 AM
RealNetworks Launches Rhapsody 4.0 & Teams to Deliver First Rhapsody-Optimized MP3 Players
SanDisk Sansa e200R Rhapsody MP3 Players Now Available to Consumers.
SEATTLE, Oct. 5 -- RealNetworks(R) (NASDAQ:RNWK) , the global leader in digital media delivery, today announced the release of Rhapsody(R) 4.0, an enhanced version of its critically acclaimed Rhapsody digital music service. Rhapsody 4.0 breaks new ground in delivering a deeply personalized digital music experience that combines great new music discovery features, easy drag-and-drop, integrated support for groundbreaking Rhapsody- optimized MP3 players, a fresh interface, and unparalleled digital music player support. The new version of Rhapsody is available starting today via www.rhapsody.com.
The launch coincides with the retail availability of the first line of Rhapsody DNA-based MP3 players from SanDisk Corporation. The Sansa e200R Rhapsody players, available in capacities ranging from 2GB1 to 8GB, come equipped with over 30 hours of pre-loaded music that consumers can play right out of the box, including songs from hundreds of the world's most popular artists from EMI Music, SONYBMG Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group, and Warner Music Group.
The new Rhapsody enables consumers to access their own personalized celestial jukebox through the PC, portable MP3 players, and home devices based on the Rhapsody DNA platform. In addition to the new Sansa e200r Rhapsody player, the new Sonos 2.0 Digital Music System also supports Rhapsody DNA to deliver the celestial jukebox throughout the home.
Rhapsody is the market's leading unlimited access music service. With Rhapsody, fans can download or stream an unlimited amount of music from a vast, 2.5 million-song library of major and independent label music for a flat monthly fee. While, RealNetworks, Inc. is the leading creator of digital media services and software including Rhapsody(R), RealPlayer(R) 10, and casual PC and mobile games.
Posted by Editors at 07:46 AM
October 04, 2006
History.com, The History Channel(R) Multi-Media Web Site, Presents Live Webcast of 40 YEARS OF STAR TREK
The First-Ever Official Auction of Star Trek Contents Conducted by Christie's.
Live Three-Day Star Trek Extravaganza Takes Place Thursday, October 5 Through Saturday, October 7 Beginning at 10:00A.M. ET Each Day on History.com
NEW YORK -- History.com, the online extension of The History Channel, will present a live webcast of 40 YEARS OF STAR TREK: THE COLLECTION, the first-ever official auction of items from the five Star Trek television series and ten feature films on Thursday, October 5 through Saturday, October 7. The auction emanates from Christie's New York.
The multi-camera production will capture all the suspense and exhilaration of this live event that only STAR TREK can generate. The three-day auction will showcase 1000 lots from the entire CBS Paramount Television STAR TREK franchise including props, scenery, detailed models, and costumes from the television series and feature films. By logging onto the webcast, viewers will have the opportunity to see the once-in-a-lifetime event.
History.com, The History Channel multimedia site, is the premiere destination on the web for all things history. Centered around unique channels on history-related topics such as science and technology, exploration, the unexplained and more, users can immerse themselves in a subject through interactive timelines; videos; maps; games; podcasts and RSS feeds. The History Channel(R) is one of the leading cable television networks featuring compelling original, non-fiction specials and series that bring history to life in a powerful and entertaining manner across multiple platforms.
Posted by Editors at 03:34 PM
October 03, 2006
Napster Opens First Music Subscription Service in Japan
LOS ANGELES, Oct. 3 -- Napster (NASDAQ:NAPS) announced today that its award-winning digital music service is now available to music lovers across Japan, which is the largest music market in the world outside of the U.S. The new Napster Japan service is a product of the Company's joint venture with Tower Records Japan ("TRJ"), the leading music retailer in that country. The launch of Napster Japan marks the introduction of the digital music subscription model to Japanese consumers, who until now have only been able to experience digital music by paying for each track and album individually.
Napster Japan features a music catalog of nearly two million tracks spanning all genres from both major and independent record labels, including a library of local Japanese content and the largest collection of non-Japanese music available in the country. Tower Records Japan's extensive music resources and highly respected "voice" in the Japanese music industry have helped Napster Japan amass an abundance of significant editorial content and enables it to offer personalized recommendations and other powerful music discovery features specifically tailored to the Japanese market. The service also features a variety of community features, interactive, commercial-free radio stations, Napster playlists and other tools designed to enhance the digital music experience.
Napster, the pioneer of digital music, offers interactive music experience. Napster is headquartered in Los Angeles with offices in New York, London, Frankfurt and Tokyo.
Tower Records Japan Inc. is the number one music brand in Japan. With 108 stores located throughout the country generating approximately $700 million in annual sales, TRJ is the country's leading retailer of recorded music. TRJ also publishes leading music magazines that are circulated monthly to over 400,000 people and operates some of Japan's most popular music Web sites that attract approximately two million users per month.
Posted by Editors at 11:25 AM
October 02, 2006
NEWSWEEK COVER: The Price of Denial
Newsweek Presents Excerpt of Bob Woodward's Newest Book 'State of Denial'.
The October 9 issue of Newsweek (on newsstands Monday, October 2) "Bob Woodward: The Price of Denial" presents an extensive excerpt of Woodward's new book, "State of Denial," and looks at the Bush administration's reaction to criticism of its handling of the Iraq War. Plus, Congressman Mark Foley's resignation, a candid interview with Turkey's foreign minister, new obstacles to YouTube's success, why the fall TV season is full of cliffhanger series and how to ask your boss for a raise.
NEW YORK, Oct. 1 -- The publication of Bob Woodward's new book, "State of Denial: Bush at War, Part III," will most likely renew calls from Democrats and Republicans for Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld to resign. And a senior White House official, operating under the usual cover of anonymity, gave Newsweek a less than airtight guarantee of Rumsfeld's job security. The president, normally one to rely on his inner circle, has been consulting outsiders. The official did not say which ones, but it is known that Bush speaks on occasion to Henry Kissinger and to his father's former secretary of state, James A. Baker. The counsel of the outsiders, says this official, "so far has been that Rumsfeld should stay. But I can't predict the future."
In its October 9 cover story "The Price of Denial", Newsweek presents a special excerpt of Woodward's book. Assistant Managing Editor Evan Thomas and Senior White House Correspondent Richard Wolffe report on the potential fallout for President Bush and Rumsfeld and analyze the administration's response.
Web site: http://www.newsweek.msnbc.com
Entire cover story and excerpt can be read at http://www.newsweek.com
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15081915/site/newsweek/
Excerpt: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15075326/site/newsweek/
Posted by Editors at 08:44 PM
September 29, 2006
Sarah Brightman at Her Brightest
The World's Biggest-Selling Soprano of All Time Releases Handpicked Collection DIVA.
NEW YORK, Sept. 28 -- Best known for her breakout role in Andrew Lloyd Webber's PHANTOM OF THE OPERA, Sarah Brightman went on to become the biggest-selling soprano of all time, selling over 25 million records, 2 million DVDs and playing sold-out shows worldwide. A true crossover artist, she has been embraced by Classical, Broadway and Pop music fans around the world. Ms. Brightman was also instrumental in paving the way for other classical-crossover artists such as Andrea Bocelli, Josh Groban and Il Divo.
DIVA: The Singles Collection, is Sarah Brightman's seventh Angel/EMI album and is the most comprehensive release of her career, charting her musical accomplishments through 14 stellar tracks ranging from Phantom of the Opera (1986) to her worldwide smash hit "Time to Say Goodbye"-her duet with Andrea Bocelli. DIVA: The Singles Collection picks up where Ms. Brightman's platinum-selling 2001 release Classics left off and is the ideal introduction to the soprano's justly celebrated Broadway, Classical, Crossover and Pop performances.
DIVA: The Video Collection will be released simultaneously with DIVA: The Singles Collection and features music videos from the start of Ms. Brightman's performance career -- with the Thames TV dance troupe Hot Gossip and collaborations with Andrew Lloyd Webber -- to her innovative classical- crossover recordings. The DVD also features Sarah's personal narratives recalling each video as well as an internet component that allows fans to download bonus materials from her website including exclusive music, digital greetings and much more.
Posted by Editors at 11:09 AM
September 27, 2006
RealNetworks(R) Introduces RealTime News Reader and Screen Saver
Users Receive Breaking News, Finance, Entertainment, Fashion, Personal Tech or Any Other Topic of Interest Via Up-to-the-Minute Headlines and Images.
SAN DIEGO, Sept. 27 -- RealNetworks(R), Inc. (NASDAQ:RNWK) , the global leader in digital media delivery, is announcing today the beta launch of RealTime, a free desktop toolbar, news reader and screen saver that brings up-to-the-minute personalized information and images to the desktop. The program integrates with users' Web browsers allowing single-click subscription to favorite stocks, weather, personalized life-style information, news feeds and blogs with information delivered right back to the desktop.
The screen saver rotates through favorite headlines along with their accompanying photos or images. With one click, the user can read the story about a baseball pitcher, stock updates, information about the war in Iraq, a new salad recipe or the latest handheld device.
Real is teaming with the Associated Press, Reuters, Interactive Data, SmartMoney, Feedster and The Weather Channel Interactive to ensure RealTime users get the most current information available. RealTime provides editorial recommendations based on all of this data and allows users to personalize the product either from the RealTime Web site or as the consumer surfs the Web. When a user visits a favorite Web site, such as ESPN.com or Parenting.com, that person instantly sees whether that site has a feed. With a click of the mouse, the feed is added and the user can resume their work or playtime on the computer.
RealTime is available in its beta form at www.realtime.com. Additional features will be added as the product heads toward its official release in early 2007. Real invites users to comment on the product at http://blog.realtime.com/ .
RealNetworks, Inc. is the leading creator of digital media services and software including Rhapsody(TM), RealPlayer(R) 10, and casual PC and mobile games. RealNetworks has more than 2.2 million paid subscribers to its premium digital media http://www.real.com/ . Broadcasters, network operators, media companies and enterprises use RealNetworks' products and services to create and deliver digital media to PCs, mobile phones and consumer electronics devices.
Posted by Editors at 06:34 AM
September 25, 2006
Oprah & Friends - Debuts Today on XM Satellite Radio
New Channel Features Around-the-Clock Original Programming From Popular OPRAH Personalities.
CHICAGO and WASHINGTON, Sept. 25 -- Harpo Radio, Inc. and XM Satellite Radio have announced the highly anticipated "Oprah & Friends" channel debut today at 11:00 a.m. ET on XM Satellite Radio (XM 156), America's leading satellite radio service with more than seven million subscribers. The new channel features a broad range of caller-driven, original talk programming created and produced by Harpo Radio exclusively for XM Satellite Radio.
The programming on "Oprah & Friends" features a mix of celebrities and everyday people in conversation with the shows' hosts, as well as listeners, through call-ins and e-mails. Donald Trump, Julia Louis- Dreyfus, Annette Bening, Jon Bon Jovi, Nora Ephron, Carnie Wilson, Norman Lear, The New York Times' columnist Thomas Friedman, former presidential candidate Sen. Dennis Kucinich, and others are among those scheduled to appear on "Oprah & Friends" during the first few weeks of broadcast.
Harpo Productions, Inc. produces the number one rated, award-winning "The Oprah Winfrey Show," creates and develops original TV programming, and operates Oprah.com, a premier women's lifestyle website.
XM (NASDAQ:XMSR) is America's number one satellite radio company with more than 7 million subscribers. Broadcasting live daily from studios in Washington, DC, New York City, the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Toronto and Montreal.
With a wide variety of daily and weekly shows hosted by popular personalities from "The Oprah Winfrey Show" and O, The Oprah Magazine, "Oprah & Friends" features around-the-clock programming on topics ranging from nutrition, fitness and health to self improvement, home decor and current events. Show hosts include legendary poet and bestselling author Dr. Maya Angelou; interior design expert Nate Berkus; financial coach and money expert Jean Chatzky; renowned exercise physiologist and fitness expert Bob Greene; O, The Oprah Magazine Editor-At-Large Gayle King; noted cardiologist and award- winning author Dr. Mehmet Oz; distinguished psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Robin Smith; and spiritual teacher and internationally acclaimed author and lecturer Marianne Williamson.
"For me, being a part of XM Radio is a full-circle moment because I started out in radio when I was 16 years old and now I'm able to share the airwaves with my friends," said Oprah.
"XM's more than seven million subscribers will now benefit from Oprah Winfrey's unparalleled track record of creating programming that entertains, informs and inspires," said Hugh Panero, CEO, XM Satellite Radio. "The shows heard on the 'Oprah & Friends' channel reflect XM and Harpo's shared commitment to engaging audiences by creating personal connections with listeners."
Among the original shows included in the lineup for the "Oprah & Friends" channel debut on XM:
"The Oprah and Gayle Show" -- Oprah Winfrey and Gayle King provide a fly-
on-the-wall glimpse into their great friendship as they talk about
everything from the latest news to daily gossip in this "reality radio"
show.
"The Gayle King Show" -- King offers her unique perspective on an array of
topics ranging from current events and cultural trends to politics as well
as compelling daily interviews with celebrities and notable public
figures.
"The Dr. Robin Show" -- Through call-ins and interviews with guest
experts, Dr. Robin Smith helps listeners learn how to strip away emotional
barriers so that they can experience more fulfilling and enriching
relationships.
"The Jean Chatzky Show" -- Offering life-changing financial pointers that
help lower debt and find financial security, Chatzky welcomes guest
experts and takes calls from listeners.
"The Dr. Oz Show" -- Dr. Oz engages callers with discussions on healing
techniques, preventative medicine and the latest in health news so that
listeners can make well-informed decisions about their health.
"The Bob Greene Show" -- Greene takes his best-selling fitness
philosophies directly to XM listeners by providing them with advice,
emotional support, and guidance on their road to better health.
"The Marianne Williamson Show" -- Williamson shares her spiritual wisdom
with XM listeners as she explores how current social and political issues
may affect our lives, and how we can all be part of a solution in a world
weighed down by troubles.
"The Dr. Maya Angelou Show" -- The legendary Dr. Maya Angelou takes on
issues spanning race, sex, age, and religion with famous, infamous and
everyday people. She shares her remarkable wisdom and inspires listeners
as they search for their own true voices.
"The Nate Berkus Show" -- America's most sought-after designer takes
listeners' questions on home decor and style and helps them create living
spaces that reflect their personal tastes and lifestyles.
"Oprah & Friends Sampler" -- Providing daily highlights, listeners will
have a chance to "sample" all the programming offered on the "Oprah &
Friends" channel.
"Weekend Encore" -- This weekly compilation of the highlights and
memorable conversations from each show on "Oprah & Friends" gives busy XM
listeners an opportunity to catch up with their favorite "Friends" every
weekend.
Complete programming information, including show descriptions, air dates and times, is available online at http://www.xmradio.com/oprah and http://www.oprah.com/xm.
Posted by Editors at 02:44 PM
September 24, 2006
Trump Magazine Going Public
Party at Trump Tower.
NEW YORK, Sept. 24 -- Premiere Publishing Group, Inc. (PPG), with its wholly owned subsidiaries Sobe Life, LLC Publisher of Trump Magazine and Poker Life Magazine have announced that on September 20, 2006 PPG CEO, Michael Jacobson, Donald J. Trump, and Ivanka Trump hosted the "Trump Magazine Going Public Celebration" for two hundred invited guests.
Attendees included executives from the Trump Organization, Rolls Royce, Daniel Mink Watches, Sector Watches, Trump Mortgage, and members of the press: NY Post, Daily News, Access Hollywood, Inside Edition, and many more.
Trump magazine's current cover features Ivanka Trump, Donald Trump's daughter, available on news-stands now.
Mr. Trump will appear on Trump Magazine's national fall Issue cover releasing nationally on news-stands October 10, 2006.
Posted by Editors at 10:52 AM
September 23, 2006
The New York Times's New Headquarters: Space for Public Use
The Times Center - opening in September 2007.
The New York Times has just announced that The Times Center will open to the public in September 2007. The Times Center is a part of The Times's new headquarters designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano.
Located in the heart of Times Square on West 41st Street between Seventh and Eighth Avenues, The Times Center will include two major spaces: The Stage and The Hall. Both will serve an array of cultural offerings and will be available for rent for public and private events.
"We are thrilled to have such a beautiful, new home for our many TimesTalks and other New York Times events," said Alyse Myers, senior vice president and chief marketing officer, The New York Times Media Group. "But we are equally delighted to offer a state-of-the-art facility that will change the cultural landscape of New York City once it becomes fully utilized by the city's nonprofit and cultural communities, our advertisers and the general public. It's owned by The Times, but we want people to recognize The Times Center for what it is: a New York institution that is open to everyone."
The Stage features a 378-seat auditorium and a stage that measures 40 feet by 10 feet and can expand by another 10 feet. It is appropriate for lectures, small concerts, film screenings, readings, award programs, debates, seminars, product launches and more. The Stage includes wireless Internet feeds for meetings and distance-learning events as well as greenrooms, dressing rooms and production office facilities.
The Hall, the other component of The Times Center located directly below The Stage, can accommodate 400 people for banquets and as many as 700 for receptions. It is also appropriate for trade shows, exhibitions, lectures and meetings.
The Stage and The Hall are available for rent beginning in September 2007 and are currently accepting reservations. Information on renting can be found at www.thetimescenter.com or by calling the booking line at (212) 556-4300.
Posted by Editors at 07:01 AM
September 22, 2006
LG Electronics Heats Up 'Rachael Ray' Show As Exclusive Provider of Flat Panel Displays
LG Plasma and LCD HDTVs Adorn Interactive Set and Back-Stage Venues.
LG Electronics has teamed with the new television show "Rachael Ray", where it would be the exclusive provider of flat panel displays. The show is hosted by iconic Food Network television show host - Rachael Ray.
On the new program, viewers experience "The Rachael Ray Way" against a backdrop of 20 LG high-definition plasma and LCD displays, ranging from 27-inch LCD HDTVs to 50-inch plasma HDTVs, which have been integrated throughout the studio.
In addition to outfitting the dramatic set for the dynamic show, LG provides flat-panel displays for the green rooms and dressing rooms to complement the modern, fresh feel of Rachael Ray's full-of-life style.
An hour-long, daily talk show from King World and Oprah Winfrey's Harpo Productions, "Rachael Ray" engages viewers and in-studio audiences with a personal, hands-on, celebratory approach to life the Rachael Ray way.
While Ms. Ray will continue to heat up the kitchen with her creative signature dishes, she will also take her audience beyond the realm of food to explore all facets of life and good living, no boundaries, no guidelines and no topics untouched.
Rachael's goal is to have viewers discover something new when watching her show, learn something fun and realize that life just doesn't have to be that hard because everybody needs a little R and R.
LG Electronics USA, Inc., (LGEUS) is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics, Inc., a $45-billion global force in consumer electronics and mobile communications.
Posted by Editors at 02:09 PM
National Geographic: Wollemi Pine
National Geographic Presents - Botanical Find of Century.
Living Fossil Wollemi Pine Available for First Time in North America.
This dinosaur-era tree that was believed to have been extinct for 2 million years will be available for a limited time to U.S. residents who can help ensure its survival. National Geographic is introducing the Wollemi Pine, which was discovered in Australia's Blue Mountains by New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service Officer David Noble. Fewer than 100 of the trees exist in the wild, which has prompted extensive efforts to propagate the species.
Founded in 1888, the National Geographic Society is one of the largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations in the world and reaches more than 350 million people worldwide each month. National Geographic has funded more than 8,000 scientific research projects and supports an education program combating geographic illiteracy.
Posted by Editors at 06:43 AM
September 20, 2006
CAPITOL RECORDS: BOB SEGER
Bob Seger's long awaited album, "Face The Promise" is available everywhere today. A copy can be picked up at local record stores, or purchased on iTunes.
According to CAPITOL RECORDS, "There is a signature richness and power to the music that Bob Seger has been making for four decades, and as succeeding generations have discovered those qualities, his reputation as an artist and songwriter has only grown. His work represents the honest best of what rock & roll can be. It’s passionate, unpretentious, uplifting and true to itself and its audience. Perhaps most of all it is distinctly American, a plainspoken testament to the dignity, hopes and aspirations of ordinary working people. In a time as obsessed with glamour, celebrity, fame and materialism as ours, his songs remain a bracing tonic, an emblem of the belief that everyone’s life is a worthy subject of art. "
Posted by Editors at 05:31 PM
September 19, 2006
Newest Video Game in Nintendo's Popular Pokemon Series
Pokemon Mystery Dungeon:
Red Rescue Team for Game Boy Advance SP, the newest video game in Nintendo's popular Pokemon series, for the first time lets players actually become Pokemon. The game will be available on Sept. 20.
The worldwide innovator in the creation of interactive entertainment, Nintendo Co., Ltd., of Kyoto, Japan, manufactures and markets hardware and software for its Nintendo DS(TM), Game Boy(R) Advance and Nintendo GameCube(TM) systems, and upcoming Wii(TM) console. Since 1983, Nintendo has sold nearly 2.2 billion video games and more than 375 million hardware units globally, and has created industry icons like Mario(TM), Donkey Kong(R), Metroid(R), Zelda(TM) and Pokemon(R). A wholly owned subsidiary, Nintendo of America Inc., based in Redmond, Wash., serves as headquarters for Nintendo's operations in the Western Hemisphere.
Posted by Editors at 03:09 PM
September 18, 2006
Word Records: Amy Grant To Release First Live CD and DVD Recording in 25 Years
"Time Again...Amy Grant Live" on September 26th.
Grant to Be Honored with Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame on September 19th.
After selling over 25 million albums worldwide, winning numerous GRAMMY(R) Awards and countless other career milestones, Amy Grant is releasing her first live recording in 25 years with "TIME AGAIN...AMY GRANT LIVE" on September 26th. In anticipation of this release and in celebration of her illustrious career, Grant will be honored with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on September 19th. She is the first artist with roots in Contemporary Christian Music to receive such an honor.
The Word Records Amy Grant project offers Christian and mainstream hits from the past 25 years including "Lead Me On," "Good For Me," "Stay For A While," "Simple Things," "Saved By Love," "Out In The Open," "In A Little While," "Thy Word," "Father's Eyes," El Shaddai," "Oh How The Years Go By," "Baby Baby," "Eye To Eye," "Ask Me," "After The Fire," "Carry You," "Believe," "Every Heartbeat" and "If These Walls Could Speak." The CD additionally features a new studio recording of "In A Little While" and bonus material on the DVD includes behind the scenes/making-of footage, song-by-song descriptions, breakfast with Amy's fan club, "fan cam" footage, "hanging with the band" and more.
Word Records is a part of Word Label Group, a division of Word Entertainment, a Warner/Curb company. The Word Label Group leads the industry with over fifty years of music-making history.
Posted by Editors at 08:14 AM
NEWSWEEK COVER: SEPTEMBER 25, 2006 ISSUE
In the September 25 issue (on newsstands Monday, September 18) "Women & Leadership: The Next Generation," Newsweek looks at the next generation of leaders and talks to some of America's most dynamic pioneers as part of Newsweek's ongoing leadership series and the second installment focusing on women. Plus: The Dems' 'Entourage,' an exclusive inspection of Baghdad's most dangerous neighborhood, Bush on torture, the Pope and Islam, abused spouses target a controversial custody strategy and baby boomers and classic cars.
Posted by Editors at 06:09 AM
September 17, 2006
The New York Times Launches Brand Campaign
Campaign Created In-House with Emphasis on the Depth of NYT Journalism.
THESE TIMES DEMAND THE TIMES.
The New York Times has announced its new branding campaign, "These Times Demand The Times", focusing on the high-quality journalism produced by the Times reporters in print and online.
The campaign will launch to coincide with the new fall television season. A 30- and 60- second TV commercial will illustrate, in reverse, the unfolding story of how news is reported, beginning with the finished paper in the reader's hands and working backwards to the reporter on the ground. The spots can be viewed at TheseTimesDemandTheTimes.com, a microsite specially created for the campaign. Other ads will highlight the path of several reporters, editors and columnists with vignettes of their personal stories and how they work as journalists. A special 24-page insert in the paper as well as radio, video and banners online, and targeted marketing on Yahoo! will also convey the message.
The campaign launch includes high-profile TV spots that are planned to air during the "Today Show," "Good Morning America," "20/20" and "Nightline," and during season premieres of "Lost," "The Office," "Boston Legal," "Grey's Anatomy," and "Law and Order." Sixty-second radio spots will air on local radio. There will be online banners posted at NYTimes.com, IHT.com and About.com, and extensive positioning in the trades including a four-page consecutive insertion in AdAge.
"In these incredibly exciting, technologically fast-paced times, consumers and advertisers more than ever are searching for a trusted brand that reports the news with authority, accuracy and clarity," said Alyse Myers, senior vice president and chief marketing officer, The New York Times Media Group. "Our new campaign speaks directly to these issues: these times absolutely demand The Times."
Posted by Editors at 02:08 PM
September 16, 2006
Former Presidents George H. W. Bush and William Jefferson Clinton Contribute Forewords in New Reader's Digest Book
For America: Simple Things Each of Us Can Do to Make Our Country Better by Sacha Zimmerman.
Despite challenges in the Middle East, the war on terrorism and steep gas prices, America remains a resilient and optimistic nation. Reader's Digest today announced plans to publish a collection of simple yet empowering actions every American can take to continue to make America a better place. For America: Simple Things Each of Us Can Do to Make Our Country Better, by Sacha Zimmerman, will be available wherever books are sold on October 19, 2006 (http://www.rd.com/foramerica).
For America contains forewords written by Former Presidents George H. W. Bush and William Jefferson Clinton.
Written by Reader's Digest Washington Bureau Senior Editor Sacha Zimmerman, For America will be released in conjunction with an editorial event in the October issue of Reader's Digest magazine titled "America 2.0: The Upgrade."
For America is a powerful, motivational book organized into eight broad themes such as Ending Hatred, Influencing Leadership, and Improving Communities. Each section includes 10 to 20 simple deeds that people can do immediately for the benefit of their families, their communities, and America as a whole.
An elegant, gift-sized (5 1/4" x 7 1/4") 208-page hard-cover book with an embossed cloth cover and cream ragged-edged pages, For America is priced at $15.00 (ISBN: 0-7621-0829-0).
The Reader's Digest Association, Inc. is a global publisher and direct marketer of products that inform, enrich, entertain and inspire people of all ages and cultures around the world. Global headquarters are located at Pleasantville, New York. The company's main Web site is at www.rd.com.
Posted by Editors at 08:58 AM
September 15, 2006
Lucky Race Fan Earns Spot as Honorary Grand Marshal for the Bank of America 500 at Lowe's Motor Speedway
Bank of America to provide fans with greater access to the sport and to personal banking with inaugural race sponsorship.
Past champions of the October race to be honored during pre-race program.
Racing fan and Columbus, North Carolina resident Mickey Jackson, and five-year-old son, Kalob, earned the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to deliver the 'gentlemen, start your engines' command live at this year's Bank of America 500. Bank of America today announced Mickey as the winner of the Bank of America 500 Honorary Grand Marshal contest, a consumer promotion supporting the company's title sponsorship of the October 14 race at Lowe's Motor Speedway.
For winning the contest, Mickey earns the title of "Honorary Grand Marshal" of the Bank of America 500 and the opportunity to deliver the race- start command, a VIP experience on race day for him and a guest, including pit passes, seats in Bank of America's newly created, exclusive fan section in the fourth turn terrace at Lowe's that provides access to a private food court, food and beverage vouchers - and a gift pack of Bank of America 500 racing merchandise.
"Never in my life did I think I would have the chance to start a NASCAR race under the lights at Lowe's Motor Speedway," said Mickey Jackson, a carpenter from Columbus, NC. "Standing before thousands of passionate fans and an even larger national television audience to start the Bank of America 500 is any racing fan's dream come true."
Bank of America is one of the world's largest financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle market businesses and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management and other financial and risk-management products and services.
Posted by Editors at 05:33 AM
September 14, 2006
Chevy - Year in Country Music : Calendar 2007
Gretchen Wilson, who was nominated this week for "Female Vocalist of the Year" for the 40th annual Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, is pictured in the 3rd annual "Chevy - Year in Country Music" calendar, available this October. Wilson is pictured with the all-new Chevy Silverado, coming this fall. This is the first released image from the 2007 "Chevy - Year in Country Music" calendar.
Posted by Editors at 08:39 AM
September 08, 2006
MGM Expands Worldwide Television Distribution Group
Studio to Launch Sales Campaign for 'Casino Royale' and 'Rocky Balboa' as Well as Movie Franchises 'Legally Blonde,' 'WarGames,' 'Species' and 'Into The Blue'.
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. (MGM) is reinvigorating its worldwide television distribution operation, hiring senior management and bringing a number of new high profile programs to buyers around the globe.
Adding fuel to its distribution pipeline, MGM Worldwide Television Distribution Group will handle the international television sales for "Casino Royale" the new James Bond movie starring Daniel Craig, and "Rocky Balboa," the sixth and final Rocky movie starring Sylvester Stallone. Leveraging proven properties within the massive MGM library, the MGM Worldwide Television Distribution Group will launch a worldwide sales campaign.
In addition to its new program offerings, the MGM Worldwide Television Distribution Group will continue to handle distribution of over 4,000 movie titles and 10,000 television series that make up the MGM library, the world's largest modern filmed and television library. Among the key television properties featured in the MGM catalogue are "Stargate SG-1," the sci-fi series that is celebrating its record-setting 200th episode on the Sci-Fi Channel, and the immensely popular drama series "The L Word," which airs on Showtime in the U.S.
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 4,000 titles. Operating units include Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc., Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., United Artists Films Inc., MGM Television Entertainment Inc., MGM Networks Inc., MGM Distribution Co., MGM International Television Distribution Inc., Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Home Entertainment LLC, MGM ON STAGE, MGM Music, MGM Consumer Products and MGM Interactive. In addition, MGM has ownership interests in international TV channels reaching nearly 110 countries.
Posted by Editors at 06:22 AM
September 06, 2006
Nickelodeon Enters New Multi-Year Licensing Agreements
Borton & Sons, Reichel Foods and Seapoint Farms to Introduce Fruits and Vegetables Featuring Popular Nickelodeon Characters.
New Dora the Explorer, Avatar and The Backyardigans Products Including Edamame (dish of green soybeans), Apples, Pears, and Cherries Set to Hit Grocer's Shelves in the USA.
Nickelodeon has announced Dora the Explorer and SpongeBob SquarePants branded organic Edamame as part of its expanded character licensing program focused on fresh and packaged fruits and vegetables. Nickelodeon also announced that it has licensed several of its most popular TV characters -- including SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, Avatar: The Last Airbender, The Backyardigans and Blue's Clues -- to an expanded roster of distributors that will begin introducing fruit and vegetable products including pears, apples and cherries with the Nickelodeon characters in supermarkets, beginning in September. The agreements are based on the success of the innovative licensing initiative launched by Nickelodeon in 2005 to encourage healthier diet and lifestyle choices for kids.
Using its characters to entice kids to try healthy food alternatives is just one of the ways Nickelodeon has been working to encourage healthy, balanced lifestyles for kids.
Nickelodeon is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books, magazines and feature films. Nickelodeon's U.S. television network is seen in 90 million households and has been the number- one-rated basic cable network for eleven consecutive years. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc.
Posted by Editors at 10:51 AM
September 05, 2006
iLounge.com Releases Updated, Expanded Free iPod Book 2.2 for Download
Acclaimed Book Now Updated and Expanded by World's Leading iPod and iTunes Web Site.
Need some light weekend reading? If you own Apple Computer's iPod or are thinking of buying one, The Free iPod Book 2.2 from iLounge.com is a must-read -- an eye-popping guide to All Things iPod, iTunes, and beyond.
Freshly expanded from its acclaimed prior edition, recently recommended by The Wall Street Journal's Walter Mossberg as "the free manual on getting the most from your iPod," the free iPod Book 2.2 is the industry's leading publication on iPods, accessories, iTunes, and more. Now featuring over 200 pages and nearly 1,000 ratings of iPods and accessories, the Book 2.2 has been updated to cover every iPod subject of possible interest, organized in easy-to-digest, beautifully designed sections. And amazingly, the new edition is available today as a free PDF-format download from the iLounge.com web site -- no strings attached.
In addition to updates to its prior 100-plus iPod tips, this edition includes timely new guides to Apple's recently released Nike Sport Kit, iPod U2 Special Edition, and iPod troubleshooting, all presented within larger sections, such as iPods At The Gym, Buying a New iPod, and Maintaining and Repairing Your iPod. A special section called Gifting to iPod Fans will help you choose top gifts at any price level, while a section on Selling Your iPod will help you get a fair price for your old hardware.
Tired of cheap, me-too add-ons? The Book 2.2 spotlights new, high-end accessories, including the retrofitting of a $50,000 2006 Porsche Boxster with a $3,000 iPod video-ready kit, and over-$1,000 speaker systems from Geneva Lab. It also helps you find the best speakers, headphones, and iPod protectors -- no matter what your budget or fashion sensibilities. Whether you're looking for help with Apple's iTunes software, trying to pull music off of your iPod, attempting to create iPod-ready videos, or interested in cool non-iPod gadgets, the new Book has plenty to offer.
The Free iPod Book 2.2 can be downloaded today from http://www.ilounge.com/library, alongside earlier iLounge Buyers' Guides and Books dealing with older model iPods and their accessories.
Headquartered in Irvine, California, The Media LLC's iLounge is the world's leading resource of iPod information, not affiliated with or owned by Apple Computer or any other vendor of iPod accessories or services.
Posted by Editors at 06:22 AM
September 03, 2006
Toshiba Premieres New V Series Portable Media Player
Toshiba's gigabeat V Series boasts a large viewing LCD screen and up to 8 hours of continuous video playback.
Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C., ("Toshiba") has announced the new MEV30K V Series portable media player -- the latest addition to its gigabeat line. Adding to the already popular gigabeat S Series portable media players, the V Series features a larger viewing screen and extended battery life for the ultimate portable video experience.
The new V Series features a beautiful 3.5" (diagonally measured) TFT LCD display with 320 x 240 resolution for a superb video on the go experience. With up to 8 hours of video playback capability, the V Series is a perfect companion on any trip as it allows users to watch a full movie or even three. With a 30GB(2) internal hard disk drive, there is room for all kinds of content. The unit supports Windows Media(R) Video 9 and 10 allowing for videos to be transferred from a Windows based PC right onto the player utilizing Windows Media Player 10.
Aside from handling video in style, the gigabeat V Series is also a great audio player. The rechargeable Lithium ion battery provides consumers with up to 25 hours of continuous music playback. The V series supports MP3, WMA, WMA Lossless and WAV audio files and is also compatible with Windows DRM 9 and 10, allowing for music purchase or subscription through services such as Napster(R), eMusicsm and RealNetworks(R) Rhapsody(R). Consumers can also transfer all of their music to the gigabeat through Windows Media Player 10.
Toshiba America Consumer Products, L.L.C. is a limited liability company, owned by Toshiba America, Inc., a subsidiary of Toshiba Corporation, a world leader in high technology products with subsidiaries worldwide.
Posted by Editors at 04:36 AM
September 01, 2006
COCA-COLA & APPLE TEAM UP ON MAJOR MUSIC PROMOTIONS IN EUROPE
Promotion Includes Give Away of 70 Million Songs from the iTunes Music Store in the UK & Thousands of iPods in Germany.
Coca-Cola and Apple have announced a music partnership in Europe that includes major promotions in the UK and Germany and the launch of a new Coke branded music website across Europe, including the GB, Germany, Austria and Switzerland. As part of the promotion, Coke and Apple will be giving away 70 million free songs from the iTunes Music Store in the UK and thousands of iPods in Germany.
The new www.Coca-Cola.com/music website is a Coke branded music destination that features iTunes integration throughout. It will provide fans with links to music and information focused on giving fresh talent new exposure. In the UK, Germany, Austria and Switzerland, unsigned artists will have a venue to upload songs and get broad exposure on the site through artist highlights, European podcasts available on iTunes, and invitations to play at Coke sponsored European festivals.
"We're excited to announce this partnership with Apple," said Dominique Reiniche, president of Coca-Cola European Union Group. "Together we are creating a unique and exciting platform that gives young people a voice and allows them to refresh their music experience every day."
"iTunes has sold more than 200 million songs in Europe with 150 million songs sold in just the past year," said Eddy Cue, Apple's vice president of iTunes. "We're thrilled to work with Coca-Cola to expand the reach of iTunes and bring more great music to European fans."
In the UK, 70 million song codes will be in promotional packs of Coca-Cola and Diet Coke, which will be redeemable for a free song from the iTunes Music Store. Through www.Coca-Cola.com/music, participants will be able to access iTunes and redeem their codes. Participants enter the code found on the Coca-Cola promotional label and choose any 79 pence single song from iTunes' vast catalogue of over three million songs. The Coca-Cola iTunes promotion will run for six weeks, with a 5 song limit per person.
In September, Coke will be giving away an iPod and 50 songs from iTunes every hour for 8 weeks in Germany at (www.coca-cola.de). Coke customers there will be able to exchange their Coke Fridge loyalty coins into free songs from iTunes. Promotions in additional countries across Europe will be rolling out in the coming months.
With Apple's legendary ease of use, pioneering features such as integrated video and podcasting support, iMix playlist sharing, seamless integration with iPod and groundbreaking personal use rights, the iTunes Music Store is the best way for Mac and PC users to legally discover, purchase and download music and videos online. The iTunes Music Store features a selection of over 2,500 music videos, Pixar short films, and more than three million songs from the major music companies and over 1,000 independent labels.
Posted by Editors at 12:07 PM
August 25, 2006
Despite Planetary Downgrade, Pluto is Still Disney's 'Dog Star'
Pluto takes a spin on the Astro Orbiter attraction at the Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom in Florida the same day scientists announced that, astronomically speaking, Pluto would no longer be classified as a planet.
BURBANK, Calif., Aug. 24 -- In reaction to news today that Pluto was demoted to the status of "dwarf planet," the Seven Dwarfs issued their own short statement:
"Although we think it's DOPEY that Pluto has been downgraded to a dwarf planet, which has made some people GRUMPY and others just SLEEPY, we are not BASHFUL in saying we would be HAPPY if Disney's Pluto would join us as an eighth dwarf. We think this is just what the DOC ordered and is nothing to SNEEZE at."
As Mickey Mouse's faithful companion, Pluto made his debut in 1930 -- the same year that scientists discovered what they believed was a ninth planet.
Said a white-gloved, yellow-shoed source close to Disney's top dog, "I think the whole thing is goofy. Pluto has never been interested in astronomy before, other than maybe an occasional howl at the moon."
Posted by Editors at 07:58 AM
August 24, 2006
Sony Pictures Entertainment Acquires Grouper
Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) has acquired Grouper, the fast-growing user-generated video site on the Internet, it was announced today.
Grouper.com, which is the second largest independent video community, enables its members to watch, share and create video on the Web. Under the terms of the $65 million deal, the Sausalito-based company will retain its current management, working closely with a team at Sony Pictures.
Grouper Networks enables its members to watch, share and create video on the Web, desktop and connected devices and continues to be the leading innovator in the user-generated video space. Members can browse videos on Grouper.com and post them to a wide variety of third party Web sites directly from Grouper.
Sony Pictures Entertainment has been a longtime leader in the arena of digital entertainment. It was one of the first studios in the DVD business and the first to sell television shows online and movies for mobile devices. SPE is also one of the pioneers in digital downloading, with more than 100 of its movies available for purchase on several internet sites. Sony Pictures also includes Sony Online Entertainment, a worldwide leader in massively multiplayer online games, with hundreds of thousands of subscribers around the globe.
Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America (SCA), a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. SPE's global operations encompass motion picture production and distribution; television production and distribution; digital content creation and distribution; worldwide channel investments; home entertainment acquisition and distribution, operation of studio facilities; development of new entertainment products, services and technologies; and distribution of filmed entertainment in 67 countries.
Posted by Editors at 08:57 AM
August 19, 2006
Maria Sharapova Dispels 'Pretty Girl' Image in First Solo Nike Campaign
Tennis Greats John & Patrick McEnroe, Mary Joe Fernandez Featured.
With the final tennis slam of the year beginning August 28, Nike (NYSE:NKE) unveils its first television commercial spotlighting Maria Sharapova. Maria is currently ranked No. 4 in the world and she has just won her 12th career title following her victory at the recent Acura Tennis Classic.
The campaign leads with an advertising spot that playfully communicates the message that beneath Maria's beautiful, feminine exterior lives the intense competitive appetite of one of the top athletes in the world.
The ad features Maria during her pre-game routine as she travels from her hotel to center court, passing hotel bellmen, fans and other players -- all as they are singing "I Feel Pretty." Through this procession, she remains focused on the upcoming match. As she enters Arthur Ashe stadium, the crowd is singing as the song reaches a crescendo. She hits an explosive shot, letting out one of her famous grunts, silencing the audience.
The campaign premieres on Sunday, August 20th during the Teen Choice Awards on the Fox Network.
Maria Sharapova's first grand slam victory came at the age of 17 when she triumphed during an exciting final at the 2004 Wimbledon Championships. Soon after Wimbledon, she became the first Russian woman to be ranked No. 1 in the world.
Based near Beaverton, Oregon, NIKE is the world's leading designer, marketer and distributor of authentic athletic footwear, apparel, equipment and accessories for a wide variety of sports and fitness activities.
"I'm excited about this ad because not only is Nike drawing attention to women's tennis, but there's also an empowering message for female athletes that it's okay to be fierce and competitive on the court and still have a feminine side off court," said Sharapova.
"Nike has a long history of celebrating the 'beauty' of sport in many different ways," said Adam Roth, Nike's Director of Advertising. "In Maria's case, true beauty lies in her intensity, her athleticism and her competitive spirit. This campaign has some well-intentioned fun with the idea that it's a big mistake to underestimate Maria, or any other talented, hard-working female athlete."
In the ad, Maria will debut her Nike performance tennis dress for New York. However, the performance dress worn in the ad is just one half of her unique look for the New York slam. In a new twist, for the first time, Maria will unveil a separate, custom made performance dress for her evening matches in New York as well.
The commercial features appearances by tennis Hall of Fame inductee John McEnroe, his brother and captain of the 2004 U.S. Men's Olympic tennis team, Patrick McEnroe, and two-time tennis Olympic gold medalist Mary Joe Fernandez.
Posted by Editors at 09:17 AM
August 14, 2006
Newsweek/Kaplan How to Get into College Guide
Elite Schools Booming, Providing Excellent Education Outside of Ivy League Circle.
Newsweek's 'New Ivies' Include Boston College, Carnegie-Mellon, NYU, Colgate and Emory.
A generation ago, elite schools were a clearly defined group: the eight schools in the Ivy League along with such academic powerhouses as Stanford, the University of Chicago, MIT and Caltech. But, as Senior Editor Barbara Kantrowitz and Chicago Correspondent Karen Springen report in the current issue of Newsweek, the number of world-class schools has skyrocketed in the past few decades along with the booming number of college-bound students. The demand for an excellent education has created an ever-expanding supply of big and small campuses that provide great academics and first-rate faculties.
In the annual Newsweek/Kaplan "How to Get Into College" Guide, Newsweek lists 25 "New Ivies"-schools that are the beneficiaries of the boom in top students. They were selected based on admissions statistics and interviews with administrators, faculty, students and alumni. In some cases, admissions directors have also provided examples of "overlap" schools-rivals for applicants to the colleges on the list.
The schools on the list:
Boston College - Chestnut Hill, Mass.
Bowdoin College -Brunswick, Maine
Carnegie Mellon-Pittsburgh, Pa.
Harvey Mudd and Pomona Colleges - Claremont, Calif.
Colby College - Waterville, Maine
Colgate University-Hamilton,