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International Entertainment News

Thursday, January 27, 2005

New Frontier Media Signs Agreement With Brickhouse Mobile

New Frontier Media Signs Agreement With Brickhouse Mobile BOULDER, Colo., Jan. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- New Frontier Media, Inc. (NASDAQ:NOOF), a leader in the electronic distribution of adult entertainment, announced today that its wholly owned subsidiary, TEN, has signed a five-year agreement with Brickhouse Mobile ("Brickhouse") to develop and distribute TEN branded mobile phone content worldwide. This new offering will compliment TEN's pay-per-view, video-on- demand and subscription TV networks, which are currently available in over 75 million households in the U.S. Under the terms of the deal, Brickhouse will develop TEN's complete mobile strategy and product offerings on a category- exclusive basis for TEN, and TEN will designate Brickhouse as its exclusive developer and promoter of wireless applications. The TEN*Wireless(TM) offerings will feature adult videos, celebrity voice tones, and sexy wallpapers, as well as casino and action games with celebrity talent. The content will be available for sale this spring via websites, WAP sites, JAVA applications, and BREW applications in both U.S. and international markets. TEN and Brickhouse are committed to working with industry associations, carriers and governmental organizations to insure that all the content available through these offerings complies with current U.S. and international market standards. "We are extremely excited about the opportunity to promote and distribute our extensive library to the wireless market. The Brickhouse team has successfully promoted mainstream branded content around the world, and we intend to fully leverage their experience as well as their relationships with the major carriers," said Ken Boenish, President of TEN. "This is yet another example of how we are focused on using our existing content and state-of-the-art technical infrastructure to take advantage of new distribution opportunities and generate incremental revenue for the company," Mr. Boenish added. This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections made by management. The Company intends for the forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements. Words such as "anticipates," "expects," "intends," "plans," "believes," "seeks," "estimates," or variations of such words are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. All statements in this release about the future outlook related to New Frontier Media and statements related to our ability to leverage our existing content and state-of-the art technical infrastructure to take advantage of new distribution opportunities and generate incremental revenue for the company, and the outcome of any contingencies are forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth or implied by any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements made in this press release are made as of the date hereof, and the company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements included in this news release whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Please refer to the Company's Form 10-K and other filings with the SEC for additional information regarding risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, the risk factors listed from time to time in such SEC reports. Copies of these filings are available through the SEC's electronic data gathering analysis and retrieval system (EDGAR) at www.sec.gov. ABOUT BRICKHOUSE MOBILE Brickhouse Mobile is lead by a veteran management team with over 20 years' experience in the mobile media industry. Brickhouse Mobile exclusively serves the needs of the emerging adult entertainment mobile content space, enabling adult brands to develop a comprehensive mobile strategy, including content sales, promotional programs, and marketing campaigns. For more information on Brickhouse Mobile please contact Ed Baran Publicity at (213) 482-4696 or visit Brickhouse's website at www.brickhousemobile.com. ABOUT NEW FRONTIER MEDIA, INC. New Frontier Media, Inc. is a leading distributor of adult entertainment via electronic platforms. The Company delivers the most extensive lineup of quality programming over the broadest range of electronic means including cable, satellite, broadband and video-on-demand. The Erotic Networks(TM), the umbrella brand for New Frontier Media's subscription and pay television subsidiary, provides pay-per-view, video-on-demand, and subscription TV networks and services to over 75 million cable, DBS (direct broadcast satellite) and C-band households throughout North America. The Erotic Networks(TM) include Pleasure(TM), TEN(TM), TEN*Clips(TM), TEN*Xtsy(TM), TEN*Blue(TM), TEN*Blox(TM), TEN*Max(TM) and TEN*On Demand(TM). These networks and services represent the widest variety of editing standards available and are programmed without duplication to offer the most extensive selection of adult network programming under a single corporate umbrella. For more information about New Frontier Media, Inc. contact Karyn Miller, Chief Financial Officer, at (303) 444-0900, extension 102, and please visit our web site at www.noof.com. Source: New Frontier Media, Inc. CONTACT: Karyn L. Miller, Chief Financial Officer of New Frontier Media, Inc., +1-303-444-0900, ext. 102, kmiller@noof.com; or Ed Baran Publicity, +1-213-482-4696, for Brickhouse Mobile Web site: http://www.brickhousemobile.com/ Web site: http://www.noof.com/ ------- Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Novellus Systems Reports Fourth Quarter and Year-End Results

Novellus Systems Reports Fourth Quarter and Year-End Results SAN JOSE, Calif., Jan. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Novellus Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:NVLS) today reported net sales and results of operations for its fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2004. Net sales for the fourth quarter were $340.3 million, down 18.2 percent from $415.9 million in the third quarter 2004 and up 50.2 percent from net sales of $226.5 million for the fourth quarter 2003. Net income for the quarter was $37.5 million or $0.27 per diluted share, down $27.1 million or 42.0 percent from the third quarter 2004 net income of $64.7 million or $0.45 per diluted share. Net income for the fourth quarter increased by 259.1 percent from the fourth quarter net income of $10.5 million or $0.07 per diluted share in the prior year. The fourth quarter results include restructuring and other charges of $2.4 million. Without these charges, net income would have been $39.2 million, or $0.28 per diluted share. The third quarter 2004 results included a cash receipt of $8.0 million, and the reversal of $8.1 million in previously accrued royalty payments, as a result of the settlement of litigation with Applied Materials, Inc. The third quarter 2004 results also included a pre-tax charge of $2.9 million related to the settlement of litigation with Semitool, Inc. and the reversal of a previously recorded restructuring accrual of $0.9 million. Without these net benefits, third quarter 2004 net income would have been $54.7 million, or $0.38 per diluted share. The fourth quarter 2003 results do not include any unusual charges or benefits. Net sales for the fiscal year 2004 were $1.4 billion, up 46.7 percent from $925.1 million in fiscal year 2003. Net income for the year was $156.7 million, or $1.06 per diluted share, compared with the fiscal year 2003 net loss of $67.8 million, or $0.45 per diluted share. The fiscal year 2004 results include net restructuring and other charges of $1.5 million, acquired in-process research and development write-offs of $6.1 million, net recovery from legal settlements of $2.6 million and the reversal of previously accrued royalty payments of $8.1 million. Without these charges and benefits, net income for fiscal year 2004 would have been $156.3 million, or $1.06 per diluted share. In comparison, the fiscal year 2003 net loss of $67.8 million includes restructuring and other charges of $62.5 million and a non-cash charge of $62.8 million, net of tax, recorded as a cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle to consolidate properties previously accounted for as synthetic leases. Without these charges, net income for fiscal year 2003 would have been $35.9 million, or $0.23 per diluted share. Shipments of $335.1 million in the fourth quarter represent a decrease of $47.2 million or 12.3 percent from $382.2 million reported in the third quarter 2004. Deferred revenue at the end of the quarter was $140.8 million, a decrease of $6.6 million or 4.5 percent from $147.4 million at the end of the third quarter 2004. The financial measures, which present net income excluding unusual charges and benefits and revenue on a shipments basis, are not in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). The Company believes that these non-GAAP financial measures provide further insight into the results of ongoing operations and enhance the comparability of those results to results in prior periods because they assist shareholder understanding of the effects of unusual charges and benefits on the quarter's and the year's results and allow comparability to revenue recognition on a shipments basis. Cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and short-term investments as of December 31, 2004 were $759.7 million, an increase of $71.7 million or 10.4 percent from the third quarter 2004 ending balance of $688.0 million. "Fourth quarter bookings came in slightly better than the $325 - $330 million that we communicated in our last mid-quarter update. Still, we continue to contend with a choppy bookings environment, a trend that began back in September. While we believe the worst is behind us, many of our customers are dealing with declining utilization rates," said Richard S. Hill, chairman and chief executive officer of Novellus Systems, Inc. "This near term uncertainty, however, should not cloud the progress we've made on our product portfolio. Specifically, we are pleased with our improved position within the PVD product category." "Safe Harbor" Statement Under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: The statements regarding the Company's (i) belief that the worst is behind it with regard to bookings, (ii) progress on its product portfolio, and (iii) satisfaction with its improved position within the PVD product category, as well as other matters discussed in this news release that are not purely historical data, are forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, inaccurate assessment of future demand for the Company's products, unanticipated technical difficulties with new products, competitor introduction of superior PVD products that take market share from the Company's products, and other risks indicated in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Actual results could differ materially. We assume no obligation to update this information. For more details, please refer to our SEC filings, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003, our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 27, 2004, June 26, 2004 and September 25, 2004, and our Current Reports on Form 8-K filed July 12, 2004, September 10, 2004, September 24, 2004, December 2, 2004 and December 15, 2004. About Novellus: Novellus Systems, Inc., an S&P 500 company, manufactures, markets and services advanced deposition, surface preparation and chemical mechanical planarization equipment for today's advanced integrated circuits. Our products are designed for high-volume production of advanced, leading-edge semiconductor devices at the lowest possible cost. Headquartered in San Jose, Calif., with subsidiaries throughout the United States, as well as in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Ireland, Italy, Israel, India, China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore and Taiwan, we are a publicly traded company on the Nasdaq stock exchange and a component of the Nasdaq-100 Index(R). Additional information about Novellus is available on our home page at www.novellus.com. NOVELLUS SYSTEMS, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (In thousands, except per share amounts) Three Months Ended Year Ended (Unaudited) Dec. 31 Sept. 25 Dec. 31 Dec. 31 Dec. 31 2004 2004 2003 2004 2003 Net sales $340,272 $415,935 $226,511 $1,357,288 $925,070 Cost of sales 170,538 214,824 120,424 692,158 545,070 Gross profit 169,734 201,111 106,087 665,130 380,000 % 49.9% 48.4% 46.8% 49.0% 41.1% Operating expenses: Selling, general and administrative 55,439 49,585 38,422 194,652 165,618 Research and development 61,453 68,202 54,064 252,083 227,439 Restructuring and other charges (benefits) 2,407 (923) -- 1,484 15,838 Acquired in-process research and development -- -- -- 6,124 -- Legal settlement -- 2,900 -- 5,400 2,691 Total operating expenses 119,299 119,764 92,486 459,743 411,586 % 35.1% 28.8% 40.8% 33.9% 44.5% Income (loss) from operations 50,435 81,347 13,601 205,387 (31,586) % 14.8% 19.6% 6.0% 15.1% -3.4% Other income, net 2,433 9,726 2,356 17,804 16,266 Income (loss) before income taxes and cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle 52,868 91,073 15,957 223,191 (15,320) Provision (benefit) for income taxes 15,332 26,411 5,505 66,501 (10,286) Income (loss) before cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle 37,536 64,662 10,452 156,690 (5,034) Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle, net of tax -- -- -- -- (62,780) Net income (loss) $37,536 $64,662 $10,452 $156,690 $(67,814) Net income (loss) per share: Basic Income (loss) before cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle $0.27 $0.45 $0.07 $1.07 $(0.03) Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle, net of tax -- -- -- -- (0.42) Basic net income (loss) per share $0.27 $0.45 $0.07 $1.07 $(0.45) Diluted Income (loss) before cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle $0.27 $0.45 $0.07 $1.06 $(0.03) Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle, net of tax -- -- -- -- (0.42) Diluted net income (loss) per share $0.27 $0.45 $0.07 $1.06 $(0.45) Shares used in basic per share calculation 139,466 142,333 152,057 145,956 150,680 Shares used in diluted per share calculation 140,687 143,574 156,580 147,937 150,680 NOVELLUS SYSTEMS, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (EXCLUDING CERTAIN UNUSUAL (CHARGES) BENEFITS)(1) (In thousands, except per share amounts) (Unaudited) Three Months Ended Year Ended Dec. 31 Sept. 25 Dec. 31 Dec. 31 Dec. 31 2004 2004 2003 2004 2003 Net sales $340,272 $415,935 $226,511 $1,357,288 $925,070 Cost of sales 170,538 214,824 120,424 692,158 501,118 Gross profit 169,734 201,111 106,087 665,130 423,952 % 49.9% 48.4% 46.8% 49.0% 45.8% Operating expenses: Selling, general and administrative 55,439 57,661 38,422 202,728 165,618 Research and development 61,453 68,202 54,064 252,083 227,439 Total operating expenses 116,892 125,863 92,486 454,811 393,057 % 34.4% 30.3% 40.8% 33.5% 42.5% Income from operations 52,842 75,248 13,601 210,319 30,895 % 15.5% 18.1% 6.0% 15.5% 3.3% Other income, net 2,433 1,726 2,356 9,804 16,266 Income before income taxes 55,275 76,974 15,957 220,123 47,161 Provision for income taxes 16,030 22,322 5,505 63,835 11,270 Net income $39,245 $54,652 $10,452 $156,288 $35,891 Net income per share: Basic net income per share $0.28 $0.38 $0.07 $1.07 $0.24 Diluted net income per share $0.28 $0.38 $0.07 $1.06 $0.23 Shares used in basic per share calculation 139,466 142,333 152,057 145,956 150,680 Shares used in diluted per share calculation 140,687 143,574 156,580 147,937 154,324 A reconciliation of our net income excluding certain unusual charges and benefits to our net income (loss) under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America is presented below: Net income excluding unusual (charges) and benefits $39,245 $54,652 $10,452 $156,288 $35,891 Unusual (charges) and benefits: Inventory write-down -- -- -- -- (43,952) Reversal of liability in connection with Applied Materials settlement (included in SG&A) -- 8,076 -- 8,076 -- Restructuring and other (charges) benefits (2,407) 923 -- (1,484) (15,838) Acquired in-process research and development -- -- -- (6,124) -- Legal settlement -- (2,900) -- (5,400) (2,691) Cash receipt from Applied Materials settlement (included in Other income, net) -- 8,000 -- 8,000 -- Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle -- -- -- -- (62,780) Total (charges) and benefits (2,407) 14,099 -- 3,068 (125,261) Adjustments on provision for income taxes 698 (4,089) -- (2,666) 21,556 Net income (loss) $37,536 $64,662 $10,452 $156,690 $(67,814) (1) The condensed consolidated statements of operations (excluding certain unusual charges and benefits) are intended to present our operating results, excluding certain unusual charges, benefits and related adjustments on provisions for income taxes. These condensed consolidated statements of operations are not in accordance with or an alternative for accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and may be different from similar measures used by other companies. NOVELLUS SYSTEMS, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (In thousands) December 31 December 31 2004 2003 (Unaudited) * ASSETS Current assets: Cash and short-term investments $583,021 $1,002,132 Accounts receivable, net 395,522 231,760 Inventories 261,046 199,100 Deferred taxes and other current assets 129,735 138,996 Total current assets 1,369,324 1,571,988 Property and equipment, net 476,492 506,567 Restricted cash 176,708 2,861 Goodwill 278,972 173,267 Intangible and other assets 100,336 84,217 Total assets $2,401,832 $2,338,900 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $242,037 $150,945 Deferred profit 71,216 46,821 Income taxes payable 14,691 10,293 Current obligations under lines of credit 3,103 13,023 Total current liabilities 331,047 221,082 Long-term debt 161,103 -- Other liabilities 47,848 45,958 Total liabilities 539,998 267,040 Shareholders' equity: Common stock 1,456,670 1,565,926 Retained earnings and accumulated other comprehensive income 405,164 505,934 Total shareholders' equity 1,861,834 2,071,860 Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $2,401,832 $2,338,900 * The December 31, 2003 condensed consolidated balance sheet was derived from our audited consolidated financial statements. Source: Novellus Systems, Inc. CONTACT: Kevin S. Royal, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, or Matthew Grech, Vice President, Investment and Investor Relations, both of Novellus Systems, Inc., +1-408-943-9700 Web site: http://www.novellus.com/ ------- Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Catapult Communications Reports Strong Revenue Growth in First Quarter Fiscal 2005

Catapult Communications Reports Strong Revenue Growth in First Quarter Fiscal 2005 MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Jan. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Catapult Communications Corporation (NASDAQ:CATT) today reported revenues and net income for its first fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2004. Total revenues for the quarter were $15.9 million, an increase of 44% over revenues of $11.0 million reported for the comparable quarter a year ago. Net income for the first fiscal quarter was $3.8 million, a 317% increase over net income of $0.9 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2004. Gross profit margin was 86%, three percentage points higher than in the first quarter of fiscal 2004 due primarily to economies of scale in the cost of both products and services. Diluted earnings per share were $0.25, a 257% increase from $0.07 in the first quarter of fiscal 2004. "I am extremely pleased to report that every one of our major regions met or exceeded its orders target in the first quarter of this fiscal year. As a result, our overall revenue, earnings, and cash flow all surpassed our initial expectations and we enter the March quarter with a significantly stronger backlog than usual," said Dr. Richard A. Karp, Chairman and CEO. BUSINESS OUTLOOK "The March quarter is normally less predictable for us due to the back-end loaded nature of Japanese fiscal year-end spending. However, this year there is more likelihood that year-over-year growth will occur due to the higher than usual backlog entering the quarter. As a result, I currently expect that revenue in the second quarter of fiscal 2005 will be $18.9 million and net income per diluted share will be $0.34," added Karp. Catapult Communications will be discussing its first quarter results on a conference call today, beginning at 5:15 p.m. Eastern/2:15 p.m. Pacific. Please dial 800-299-9630 to access the conference call. International and local participants can dial 617-786-2904. Please reference Catapult Communications or reservation number 25825201. The conference call will also be available on the Internet from the Investor section of the Company's website. A replay of this teleconference will be available on the Company's website for one year following the conference call. A digital recording will also be available by telephone one hour after the completion of the conference call through midnight on February 3, 2005. To access the replay, please dial 888-286-8010 or 617-801-6888 and enter reservation number 60700568. ABOUT CATAPULT Catapult Communications is a leading supplier of advanced digital telecom test systems to global equipment manufacturers and service providers. The Catapult DCT2000(R) and MGTS(R) systems deliver superior high-end test solutions for hundreds of protocols and variants, spanning 3G, VoIP, GPRS, SS7, Intelligent Network, ATM, ISDN and other network environments. Catapult is headquartered at 160 South Whisman Road, Mountain View, CA. 94041. Tel: 650-960-1025. International offices are located in the U.K., Germany, France, Finland, Canada, Japan, China and Australia. FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS The statement in this press release regarding the Company's expected revenues and net income for its second fiscal quarter is a forward-looking statement. This statement is subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those forecasted. Such risks include the Company's dependence on a limited number of customers and the resulting effect of delays or cancellations by such customers of their orders; inability by the Company to meet its production and/or product development schedules; the demand for telecommunications equipment in general, and, in particular, for software-based telecommunications test systems; and new and enhanced product offerings by competitors. For other factors that may cause actual results to differ from those projected, please refer to the Company's Form 10-K, Forms 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. For Investor Relations Contact: Investor Relations 650-314-1000 ir@catapult.com Catapult Communications Corporation CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (In thousands, except per share data) (unaudited) For the three months ended December 31, 2004 2003 Revenues: Products $12,373 $8,421 Services 3,498 2,628 Total revenues 15,871 11,049 Cost of revenues: Products 1,242 1,001 Services 821 720 Amortization of purchased technology 171 171 Total cost of revenues 2,234 1,892 Gross profit 13,637 9,157 Operating expenses: Research and development 2,971 2,652 Sales and marketing 4,703 3,950 General and administrative 1,906 1,676 Total operating expenses 9,580 8,278 Operating income 4,057 879 Interest income 224 194 Interest expense -- (88) Other income 7 104 Income before income taxes 4,288 1,089 Provision for income taxes 475 174 Net income $3,813 $915 Net income per share: Basic $0.26 $0.07 Diluted 0.25 0.07 Shares used in per share calculation: Basic 14,600 12,904 Diluted 15,147 13,196 Catapult Communications Corporation CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (In thousands) (Unaudited) December 31, September 30, 2004 2004 ASSETS Current Assets: Cash and cash equivalents $42,513 $18,320 Short-term investments 14,464 34,350 Accounts receivable, net 14,805 10,110 Inventory 2,617 2,380 Other current assets 2,249 2,623 Total current assets 76,648 67,783 Property and equipment, net 2,384 2,640 Goodwill and other intangibles 54,211 54,466 Other assets 3,322 3,382 Total assets $136,565 $128,271 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Current Liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $6,940 $7,048 Deferred revenue - current portion 8,177 5,388 Total current liabilities 15,117 12,436 Deferred revenue - long-term portion 304 70 Total liabilities 15,421 12,506 Total stockholders' equity 121,144 115,765 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $136,565 $128,271 Source: Catapult Communications Corporation CONTACT: Leigh Salvo, Investor Relations, +1-650-314-1000, or ir@catapult.com, for Catapult Communications Corporation Web site: http://www.catapult.com/ ------- Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

DESIGN FOR A CAUSE: Bay Area Nonprofits Invited to Apply for Design Services From The Art Institute of California - San Francisco

DESIGN FOR A CAUSE: Bay Area Nonprofits Invited to Apply for Design Services From The Art Institute of California - San Francisco Design Students Working on Pro-Bono Campaigns SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Bay Area nonprofit groups in need of new graphics, web sites, marketing pieces or other design work now have a new place to turn, thanks to students in San Francisco. Design classes at The Art Institute of California - San Francisco ( http://www.aicasf.aii.edu/ ) are now accepting applications for pro-bono design services provided by students. The design services for accepted projects will be provided at no charge through the school's Community Arts Resource Exchange (C.A.R.E.) program, which gives students opportunities to apply their design skills to projects that support the community. The school is accepting projects for its upcoming Spring and Summer quarters. Nonprofit groups may apply for assistance with logo development, poster and brochure design, identity campaigns, flyers, advertising, postcards and other marketing collateral material, as well as multimedia and web design projects. Through this community service initiative, students make a positive impact on their local community by contributing their creative skills in art and design. Nonprofits benefit by receiving pro-bono work from up-and-coming visual and multimedia designers. To apply, representatives from nonprofit groups must fill out a C.A.R.E. Project Request Form, available online at http://www.aicasf.aii.edu/news.asp . The form also is available from Dan Soine, Director of Public Relations, The Art Institute of California - San Francisco, 1170 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102, tel. 415-276-1030 or by e-mail at dsoine@aii.edu. The school reviews requests to determine feasibility and whether they will match with upcoming class projects. Students at the school have worked on a design projects for a variety of groups including Reef Protection International, Saving Tails, Defender of Dogs, Tenderloin Neighborhood Development Corp., the Latin film festival Cine Accion, Carnaval San Francisco and Friends of the Urban Forest. The Art Institute of California - San Francisco, located at 1170 Market Street (at 8th) in San Francisco's Civic Center, attracts a diverse mix of students from throughout the Bay Area and the world. The school offers career- focused degree programs in Advertising, Graphic Design, Media Arts & Animation, Game Art & Design, Visual & Game Programming, Interactive Media Design, Fashion Design, Fashion Marketing & Management, and Interior Design. For more information, visit www.aicasf.aii.edu or call 415-865-0198. The Art Institute of California - San Francisco is one of The Art Institutes ( http://www.artinstitutes.edu/ ), with 31 education institutions located throughout North America, providing an important source of design, media arts, fashion and culinary professionals. The parent company of The Art Institutes, Education Management Corporation ( http://www.edmc.com/ ) is among the largest providers of private post-secondary education in North America, based on student enrollment and revenue. Student enrollment exceeded 66,000 as of fall 2004. EDMC has 70 primary campus locations in 24 states and two Canadian provinces. EDMC's education institutions offer a broad range of academic programs concentrated in the media arts, design, fashion, culinary arts, behavioral sciences, health sciences, education, information technology and business fields, culminating in the award of associate's through doctoral degrees. EDMC has provided career-oriented education for over 40 years. Source: The Art Institute of California - San Francisco CONTACT: Dan Soine, Director of Public Relations of The Art Institute of California - San Francisco, +1-415-276-1030, or dsoine@aii.edu Web site: http://www.aicasf.aii.edu/ http://www.aicasf.aii.edu/news.asp http://www.artinstitutes.edu/ http://www.edmc.com/ ------- Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Stratex Networks Announces Third Quarter Fiscal 2005 Financial Results

Stratex Networks Announces Third Quarter Fiscal 2005 Financial Results SAN JOSE, Calif., Jan. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Stratex Networks, Inc. (NASDAQ:STXN), a leading provider of wireless transmission solutions, today reported financial results for the third quarter of fiscal year 2005, ended December 31, 2004. Net sales in the third quarter of fiscal 2005 were $49.5 million, up 23 percent compared with $40.3 million in the year ago period. In accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), the net loss in the third quarter of fiscal 2005 was $17.9 million, or a loss per share of $0.19, based on 94.7 million shares outstanding. This compares to a GAAP net loss of $9.9 million, or $0.12 per share in the third quarter of fiscal 2004 based on 83.8 million shares outstanding. On a non-GAAP basis, the net loss in the third quarter of fiscal 2005 was $7.9 million or $0.08 per share. The non-GAAP net loss excludes charges totaling $10.0 million associated with severance, the write-off of certain inventory and fixed assets, accruals related to vacated facilities and related charges as a result of the restructuring announced in December. Stratex Networks recorded $54.4 million in new orders during the third fiscal quarter, including more than $22 million of orders for the new Eclipse(TM) product line, representing an 83 percent sequential increase in Eclipse orders. The backlog for all product lines totaled $58.9 million as of December 31, 2004. "We are pleased with the continued rollout of Eclipse, our innovative wireless platform, and especially with the strong orders for Eclipse, which we expect will help drive the sales ramp for next quarter and beyond. We are also pleased with the continuation of gross margin improvements resulting from Eclipse," said Chuck Kissner, Chairman and CEO of Stratex Networks, Inc. "We remain on schedule to introduce our new, lower-cost version of Eclipse in our fiscal fourth quarter ending in March. This new product offering will expand our sales opportunities by enabling additional penetration of Eclipse into the lower speed portion of the wireless transmission market. "In December, as announced, we implemented a significant streamlining of our infrastructure, and expect to realize annualized savings of between $7 million and $8 million by mid-2005. We believe this reduced cost structure, combined with the continued successful ramp of Eclipse, will help us reach our financial goals." Conference Call Stratex Networks management will hold a conference call to discuss the company's financial results today, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Those wishing to join should dial 303-262-2130 (password: Stratex) at approximately 4:50 p.m. A replay of the call will be available starting one hour after the completion of the call until January 30, 2005. To access the replay, dial 303-590-3000 (pass code: 11021239 #). A live and an archived webcast of the conference call will also be available via the company's Web site at www.stratexnet.com About Stratex Networks With headquarters in San Jose, California, Stratex Networks, Inc. is one of the world's leading providers of high-speed wireless transmission solutions. Since it was founded in 1984, Stratex Networks has achieved international recognition for quality, innovation, and technical superiority in delivering data, voice, and video communication systems, including comprehensive service and support. Stratex Networks, with its broad product offering and worldwide sales and support organization, is strategically positioned to serve its customers' needs in wireless high-capacity transmission technology. Additional information is available at www.stratexnet.com . Use of Non-GAAP Financial Information To supplement the company's consolidated financial statements presented in accordance with GAAP, Stratex Networks, Inc. uses non-GAAP measures of certain components of financial performance, including operating income (loss), net income (loss) and per share data, which are adjusted from results based on GAAP to exclude certain expenses, gains and losses. These non-GAAP measures are provided to enhance investors' overall understanding of the company's current financial performance and the company's prospects for the future. Specifically, the company believes the non-GAAP results provide useful information to both management and investors by excluding certain expenses, gains and losses that may not be indicative of its core operating results. These measures should be considered in addition to results prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, but should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, GAAP results. These non-GAAP measures included in this press release have been reconciled to the nearest GAAP measure. Safe Harbor Statement This press release contains statements that qualify as "forward-looking statements" under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements relating to the Company's expectations regarding the continued rollout, orders and future sales and revenues resulting from, Eclipse; revenues and gross margins including gross margin improvements resulting from Eclipse; expected timing of the introduction of the Company's new, lower-cost version of Eclipse; the expectation that the new, lower-cost version of Eclipse will expand the Company's sales opportunities; the expectation that as a result of efforts to streamline the Company's infrastructure, the Company will realize annualized savings of between $7 million and $8 million by mid-2005; and the Company's future financial performance. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and the Company assumes no obligation to update this information. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of significant risks and uncertainties including unexpected delays in the schedule for shipments of Eclipse, negative trends in the general economic condition of the worldwide economy, order cancellations, postponements in product deliveries resulting in delayed revenue recognition, increased competition, downward pressures on the price of the Company's products and services and the introduction of competing products and technologies. In addition, orders and backlog are not necessarily indicative of revenue in any future period. For a further discussion of these and other factors that impact the Company's business in general, see the information provided under the heading "Factors That May Affect Future Financial Results" in the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2004, on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (in thousands) (unaudited) December 31, March 31, 2004 2004 Assets Cash and short-term investments $52,344 $49,963 Accounts receivable, net 40,945 34,295 Inventories 36,340 33,101 Other current assets 11,157 10,932 Total current assets 140,786 128,291 Property & equipment, net 29,744 31,175 Other assets 1,042 3,778 Total assets $171,572 $163,244 Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Accounts payable $31,030 $40,033 Short-term debt 6,250 -- Other current liabilities 27,020 21,718 Total current liabilities 64,300 61,751 Long-term debt 15,104 -- Other long-term liabilities 19,692 20,311 Total liabilities 99,096 82,062 Stockholders' equity 72,476 81,182 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $171,572 $163,244 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (in thousands, except per share amounts) (unaudited) Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended December 31, December 31, 2004 2003 2004 2003 Net sales $49,519 $40,250 $139,175 $113,099 Cost of sales 39,434 34,151 113,736 92,591 Inventory valuation charges 2,581 -- 2,581 -- Gross profit 7,504 6,099 22,858 20,508 Operating expenses: Research and development 4,363 4,396 12,915 12,264 Selling, general and administrative 12,219 10,873 32,105 31,318 Amortization of intangible assets 791 407 1,581 407 Restructuring and other charges (credit) 7,423 -- 7,147 (3,550) Total operating expenses 24,796 15,676 53,748 40,439 Operating loss (17,292) (9,577) (30,890) (19,931) Other income (expense) (523) (196) (1,333) (7) Loss before income taxes (17,815) (9,773) (32,223) (19,938) Provision for income taxes 119 128 473 340 Net loss $(17,934) $(9,901) $(32,696) $(20,278) Basic and diluted net loss per share ($0.19) ($0.12) ($0.37) ($0.24) Basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding 94,706 83,801 87,933 83,151 UNAUDITED NON-GAAP CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (in thousands, except share and per share amounts) Three Months Ended Three Months Ended December 31, 2004 December 31, 2003 GAAP Adjust- Non- GAAP Adjust- Non- (As ments GAAP (As ments GAAP Reported) Reported) Net sales $49,519 $49,519 $40,250 $40,250 Cost of sales 39,434 39,434 34,151 34,151 Inventory Valuation Charges 2,581 (2,581) -- -- -- Gross profit 7,504 2,581 10,085 6,099 6,099 Operating expenses: Research and development 4,363 4,363 4,396 4,396 Selling, general and administrative 12,219 12,219 10,873 10,873 Amortization of Intangible assets 791 791 407 407 Restructuring charges 7,423 (7,423) -- -- -- Total operating expenses 24,796 (7,423) 17,373 15,676 15,676 Operating loss (17,292) 10,004 (7,288) (9,577) (9,577) Other income (expense) (523) (523) (196) (196) Loss before income taxes (17,815) 10,004 (7,811) (9,773) (9,773) Provision for income taxes 119 119 128 128 Net loss $(17,934) 10,004 $(7,930) $(9,901) $(9,901) Basic and diluted loss per share ($0.19) ($0.08) ($0.12) ($0.12) Basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding 94,706 94,706 83,801 83,801 The above non-GAAP amounts have been adjusted to eliminate restructuring charges for severance, write-off of certain inventory and fixed assets, accruals related to vacated facilities and related charges. To supplement the company's consolidated financial statements presented in accordance with GAAP, Stratex Networks, Inc. uses non-GAAP measures of certain components of financial performance, including operating income (loss), net income (loss) and per share data, which are adjusted from results based on GAAP to exclude certain expenses, gains and losses. These non-GAAP measures are provided to enhance investors' overall understanding of the company's current financial performance and the company's prospects for the future. Specifically, the company believes the non-GAAP results provide useful information to both management and investors by excluding certain expenses, gains and losses that may not be indicative of its core operating results. These measures should be considered in addition to results prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, but should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, GAAP results. These non-GAAP measures included in this press release have been reconciled to the nearest GAAP measure. UNAUDITED NON-GAAP CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (in thousands, except share and per share amounts) Nine Months Ended Nine Months Ended December 31, 2004 December 31, 2003 GAAP Adjust- Non- GAAP Adjust- Non- (As ments GAAP (As ments GAAP Reported) Reported) Net sales $139,175 $139,175 $113,099 $113,099 Cost of sales 113,736 113,736 92,591 92,591 Inventory Valuation Charges 2,581 (2,581) -- -- -- Gross profit 22,858 2,581 25,439 20,508 20,508 Operating expenses: Research and development 12,915 12,915 12,264 12,264 Selling, general and administrative 32,105 32,105 31,318 31,318 Amortization of Intangible assets 1,581 1,581 407 407 Restructuring charges 7,147 (7,147) -- (3,550) 3,550 -- Total operating expenses 53,748 (7,147) 46,601 40,439 3,550 43,989 Operating loss (30,890) 9,728 (21,162) (19,931) (3,550)(23,481) Other income (expense) (1,333) (1,333) (7) (7) Loss before income taxes (32,223) 9,728 (22,495) (19,938) (3,550)(23,488) Provision for income taxes 473 473 340 340 Net loss $(32,696) 9,728 $(22,968) $(20,278) $(23,828) Basic and diluted loss per share ($0.37) ($0.26) ($0.24) ($0.29) Basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding 87,933 87,933 83,151 83,151 The above non-GAAP amounts for the nine months ended December 31, 2004 have been adjusted to eliminate restructuring charges for severance, write-off of certain inventory and fixed assets, accruals related to vacated facilities and related charges. The above non-GAAP amounts for the nine months ended December 31, 2003 have been adjusted to reflect reserves related to an accrual for legal claims. To supplement the company's consolidated financial statements presented in accordance with GAAP, Stratex Networks, Inc. uses non-GAAP measures of certain components of financial performance, including operating income (loss), net income (loss) and per share data, which are adjusted from results based on GAAP to exclude certain expenses, gains and losses. These non-GAAP measures are provided to enhance investors' overall understanding of the company's current financial performance and the company's prospects for the future. Specifically, the company believes the non-GAAP results provide useful information to both management and investors by excluding certain expenses, gains and losses that may not be indicative of its core operating results. These measures should be considered in addition to results prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, but should not be considered a substitute for, or superior to, GAAP results. These non-GAAP measures included in this press release have been reconciled to the nearest GAAP measure. Source: Stratex Networks, Inc. CONTACT: Mary McGowan of Summit IR Group Inc., +1-408-404-5401, or mary@summitirgroup.com, for Stratex Networks, Inc. Web site: http://www.stratexnet.com/ ------- Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

WebMD Announces 2005 Financial Guidance

WebMD Announces 2005 Financial Guidance ELMWOOD PARK, N.J., Jan. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- WebMD Corporation (NASDAQ:HLTH) announced today that it expects consolidated revenue for 2005 to be between $1.220 billion and $1.260 billion. Income before taxes, non-cash and other items for 2005 is expected to be between $155 million and $173 million, or $0.46 to $0.52 per share. Net income for 2005 is expected to be between $51 million and $61 million, or $0.15 to $0.18 per share. The Company will hold a conference call today at 4:45 pm eastern to discuss this guidance. The call can be accessed at http://www.webmd.com/ (in the About WebMD section). A replay of the audio webcast will be available at the same web address. In addition, a summary of this guidance is being furnished to the SEC today as Exhibit 99.2 to a Form 8-K, which also describes certain background assumptions reflected in the guidance. WebMD also announced today that Andrew Corbin, who is and will continue to be the Chief Financial Officer of WebMD Corporation, has been named interim President of WebMD Practice Services, the Company's physician administrative, financial and clinical software services business. Mr. Corbin replaces Tom Stampiglia who has served as President of WebMD Practice Services since April 2003. A search for a permanent replacement is underway. Kevin Cameron, CEO of WebMD Corporation, said, "I am enthusiastic about the year ahead of us and the expanded offerings we are delivering to an increasingly diverse customer base of healthcare payers, providers and consumers. I look forward to accelerating progress on our key initiatives and delivering value for customers and shareholders." ABOUT WEBMD WebMD Corporation provides services that help physicians, consumers, providers and health plans navigate the complexity of the healthcare system. Our products and services streamline administrative and clinical processes, promote efficiency and reduce costs by facilitating information exchange, communication and electronic transactions between healthcare participants. WebMD Health is a leading provider of online information, educational services and communities for physicians and consumers. WebMD Practice Services is a leading provider of administrative, financial and clinical software and related services to the nation's medical practices. WebMD Business Services is a leader in payer and healthcare provider transaction processing and reimbursement cycle management services. Porex is a developer, manufacturer and distributor of proprietary porous plastic products and components used in healthcare, industrial and consumer applications. All statements contained in this press release, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements, including those regarding WebMD's guidance on future financial results and other projections or measures of future performance; and the amount and timing of the benefits expected from strategic initiatives and acquisitions or from deployment of new or updated technologies, products, services or applications and other potential sources of additional revenue. These statements are based on WebMD's current plans and expectations and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual future events or results to be different than those described in or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include those relating to: market acceptance of WebMD's products and services; operational difficulties relating to combining acquired companies and businesses; WebMD's ability to form and maintain mutually beneficial relationships with customers and strategic partners; changes in economic, political or regulatory conditions or other trends affecting the healthcare, Internet, information technology and plastics industries, including matters relating to the manner and timing of implementation of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) and the healthcare industry's responses; and the ability of WebMD to attract and retain qualified personnel. Further information about these matters can be found in WebMD's Securities and Exchange Commission filings. WebMD expressly disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements. This press release includes forward-looking financial measures in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, or GAAP, as well as non-GAAP forward-looking financial measures. The non-GAAP financial measures include: WebMD's income before taxes, non-cash and other items; and related per share amounts. WebMD believes that the above non-GAAP measures, and changes in those measures, are meaningful indicators of WebMD's performance and provide additional information that WebMD management finds useful in evaluating such performance and in planning for future periods. Accordingly, WebMD believes that such additional information may be useful to investors. The non-GAAP financial measures should be viewed as supplemental to, and not as an alternative for, the GAAP financial measures. WebMD is filing a Current Report on Form 8-K today containing this press release. Exhibit 99.2 to that Current Report includes a reconciliation of the forward-looking non-GAAP financial information to forward-looking GAAP financial information. Source: WebMD Corporation CONTACT: Investors, Risa Fisher, +1-201-414-2002, rfisher@webmd.net, or Media, Jennifer Meyer, +1-212-624-3912, jmeyer@webmd.net, both of WebMD Corporation Web site: http://www.webmd.com/ ------- Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

The Sweetest Thing: TicketsNow.com Helps U2 Fans

The Sweetest Thing: TicketsNow.com Helps U2 Fans Web Site Offers $40 Discount on Tickets to U2.com Members CHICAGO, Jan. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Around the world, members of U2's fan club were thwarted in their efforts Tuesday to buy Vertigo tour concert tickets -- despite paying a $40 subscription fee to http://www.u2.com/ to have access to pre-sale tickets. In response, TicketsNow.com, the world's largest and most secure online marketplace for premium event seating, is offering U2.com members a $40 discount on any U2 ticket order placed through http://www.ticketsnow.com/ . "Our goal has always been to provide loyal fans with ultimate concert experiences," said Mike Domek, president of TicketsNow. "That's why we are helping U2 fan club members by discounting their ticket order by $40 -- essentially enabling them to recoup the amount they've already paid to U2.com for tickets they didn't get." To redeem this offer, U2.com members simply go to the TicketsNow.com home page and click on the area that reads: "Fan Club Members" The offer is good until Feb. 13, 2005. Offering a comprehensive and completely secure database of secondary event tickets to fans closed out of box office sales, TicketsNow cautions against buying U2 tickets from unknown private parties and even some Internet sites. Unlike other online ticket marketplaces, every seat sold on TicketsNow.com is legitimate and guaranteed for delivery. Only TicketsNow prescreens every seller before they are allowed to list tickets on the site to certify that all tickets are authentic. About TicketsNow.com Established in 1999, TicketsNow.com is the world's largest and most secure marketplace for premium event seating and tickets. More than 90% of all professional ticket agencies that list, buy, and sell secondary event tickets online license and utilize software developed by TicketsNow-creating the most comprehensive database of secondary event tickets in the world. Named to the Inc. 500 index of the fastest-growing privately held companies in the U.S., TicketsNow is the Official Premium Ticket Partner of USA TODAY, a member of the Better Business Bureau, and a founding member of the NATB, which was organized to promote the highest level of ethics in the secondary ticketing marketplace. For more information, visit http://www.ticketsnow.com/ . Contact: Kate Fettig Zeno Group for TicketsNow.com 312.396.9724 kate.fettig@zenogroup.com Jennifer Swanson TicketsNow.com 815.444.4923 jswanson@TicketsNow.com Source: TicketsNow.com CONTACT: Kate Fettig of Zeno Group for TicketsNow.com, +1-312-396-9724, kate.fettig@zenogroup.com , or Jennifer Swanson of TicketsNow.com, +1-815-444-4923, jswanson@TicketsNow.com Web site: http://www.ticketsnow.com/ http://www.u2.com/ ------- Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Multimedia News Release - Lay's, America's Favorite Potato Chip, Returns to the Super Bowl With Ad Featuring MC Hammer

Multimedia News Release - Lay's, America's Favorite Potato Chip, Returns to the Super Bowl With Ad Featuring MC Hammer Super Bowl Ad Created by Spike DDB and Directed by Spike Lee PLANO, Texas, Jan. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Lay's potato chips is delivering 30 seconds of star power during Super Bowl XXXIX, as a new spot directed by Spike Lee and starring MC Hammer will air during the second quarter of the big game. The new commercial marks the second consecutive Super Bowl for Lay's, America's favorite potato chip. To view the Multimedia News Release, go to: http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/frito-lay/21123/ The Lay's ad, entitled "Fence," tells the classic story of the grumpy neighbor who won't return the kids' ball after it lands in his yard. Only after a bag of Lay's potato chips is thrown over the fence does the neighbor return the ball. Moved by the irresistibility of Lay's, the neighbor throws back other items that have been missing for years. Along with the kids' dog "Scruffy" and their dad's 1972 Chevy Impala, is 80s throw back MC Hammer -- a surprise to the kids who are a bit young to recognize this "blast from the past." "What could be more classic than kids playing ball in the yard, an old Chevy and Lay's potato chips, not to mention MC Hammer," said Lora DeVuono, vice president advertising, Frito-Lay North America. "The Lay's ad and the Super Bowl bring together the fun ... that can't be touched." Spike Lee, Chairman and Chief Creative Officer for SpikeDDB said, "We had a lot of fun shooting the ad, especially with Hammer and we're very proud of the result. This commercial delivers the humor people expect in the Super Bowl while bringing home the appeal of Lay's." This will mark the 11th year that FLNA has advertised in the big game. The complete Lay's ad, with special behind-the-scenes video, will be available at http://www.lays.com/ after the Super Bowl. SpikeDDB is a full-service advertising agency focused on building brands against urban-minded consumers. The agency is a partnership formed by famed film director Spike Lee and DDB Worldwide Communications Group. Frito-Lay North America is the convenient foods division of PepsiCo, which is headquartered in Purchase, NY. In addition to Frito-Lay, PepsiCo divisions include Pepsi-Cola, Quaker Foods, Gatorade and Tropicana. Video: http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/frito-lay/21123 Source: Frito-Lay North America CONTACT: Jared Dougherty of Frito-Lay North America, +1-972-334-2044 Web site: http://www.lays.com/ ------- Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

'Let Your Style Take Shape' for Teachers Nationwide

'Let Your Style Take Shape' for Teachers Nationwide VSA arts and Lifetime Learning Systems(R), Inc. Partner to Help Students Improve Math Skills Through the Arts WASHINGTON, Jan. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- VSA arts, and Lifetime Learning Systems, Inc. today announced a new education program designed to help students in grades five through eight improve their math skills through the arts. The program -- Let Your Style Take Shape -- is now available free to classrooms nationwide. VSA arts is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to the participation of people with disabilities in the arts; and Lifetime Learning Systems, Inc. is a leader in the development of unique educational programs. Let Your Style Take Shape provides suggestions for creating inclusive educational environments and cross-curricular lessons that meet national standards for both math and the visual arts. "Through the arts, children develop critical cognitive, literacy, and social skills that excite them about learning and lay the foundation for academic and professional success," said Soula Antoniou, president of VSA arts. "This new education program includes teaching strategies and lesson plans designed to encourage math, art, and special education teachers to use the arts as a teaching strategy in order to reach students with varied learning styles and abilities." Let Your Style Take Shape introduces students to successful visual artist and art teacher, Kong Ho, his work and his disability. As a result of polio, Ho uses heavy leg braces for walking. The images in Ho's artwork are influenced by his interest in patterns found through math and science. His unique integration of art and math inspired VSA arts and Lifetime Learning Systems to develop the education program. Through the lesson plans, students can use Ho's artwork to further explore the many places math can be found in nature and use this knowledge to create their own designs. "We believe this curriculum will help middle school students build their confidence in their math skills, plus look at math in a different way," said Katy Dobbs, editorial director for Lifetime Learning Systems, Inc., a division of Weekly Reader. The Let Your Style Take Shape education program includes a four-page teacher's guide, four reproducible student activities, a wall poster, a program evaluation form, and an educator's reply card. For more information about Let Your Style Take Shape, and to download a free copy of the teacher's guide, please visit http://www.vsarts.org/. About WRC Consumer and Custom Publishing Group WRC Consumer and Custom Publishing Group includes the custom educational publishing company Lifetime Learning Systems(R) (Lifetime). Lifetime is the recognized leader in developing unique educational programs customized for sponsors such as corporations, nonprofit associations and government agencies that want to cost effectively reach target audiences through established channels. WRC Consumer and Custom Publishing Group is part of WRC Media Inc., a leading publishing and media company that creates and distributes innovative supplementary education materials for the school, library, and home markets. In addition to WRC Consumer and Custom Publishing Group, WRC Media's operating companies include AGS Publishing, CompassLearning(R), Weekly Reader Corporation, and World Almanac Education Group, Inc., which together market some of the best-known brands in educational publishing. About VSA arts Founded in 1974, VSA arts is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to the participation of people with disabilities in the arts. A leader in arts based teaching and learning, VSA arts' programs support key national education goals: literacy and school readiness, teacher training, and parental involvement in education. Working through a network of affiliates nationwide and in more than 60 countries, VSA arts' programs focus on engaging students in the arts by helping teachers create more inclusive learning experiences for students of all abilities; empowering artists with disabilities by encouraging their career paths; and supporting arts access by promoting complete access to community cultural facilities and activities for people with disabilities. VSA arts is the creator of Start with the Arts(C), a comprehensive early childhood learning resource for classrooms that encourages the development of literacy and school readiness skills; Express Diversity!(C), a program of instructional materials for increasing disability awareness through the arts; and the VSA arts Institute, professional development training for teachers, teaching artists, and arts administrators offering arts based teaching strategies to include students with disabilities. To learn more about VSA arts, please visit http://www.vsarts.org/ Source: VSA arts CONTACT: Sue Kennedy of VSA arts, +1-202-742-3851, +1-202-628-2800, or suek@vsarts.org Web site: http://www.vsarts.org/ ------- Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Couples Hire a New Kind of 'Matchmaker'

Couples Hire a New Kind of 'Matchmaker' SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Engaged couples are turning to a San Francisco business for help in finding a photographer for their wedding. Founder Natalie Sousa launched the Webster Hill Photography Agency (www.websterhill.com) after years as a professional photographer. "Brides are so nervous about picking the right person, and picking the right style, and picking the right package. There's a lot to consider. We want to help our clients find a great photographer and walk them through the entire process, so they can just relax and enjoy themselves." *(Logo: http://send2press.com/mediadrome/logo-webster_72dpi.jpg) Sousa and her team help clients select professional photographers and handle all the billing, printing and customer service. The fact that the extra service is completely free usually catches new clients by surprise, according to Sousa. "A client called yesterday, after receiving one of our brochures, and said she just wanted to thank us for even having this service available. We get that 3 or 4 times a week. The company finds its profits from negotiated package rates with photographers and vendors, similar to travel or real estate agencies." Webster Hill is the region's first brokerage service for wedding photography and offers the only money-back guarantee in an industry dominated by mom and pop shops. For Sousa, this is more than just a marketing pitch; "If you were shopping for a home, you wouldn't want to drive around for days hoping to find something for sale. You want someone to guide you through it. When you do all your own legwork and try to hire a lone photographer the risk is on you, the customer. With a photography agency, we do the legwork, take on all the risk and make sure the customer is happy." The business model was a big hit at a recent San Francisco bridal fair, with both clients and photographers flocking to the Webster Hill booth. "Photographers don't really see us as competition," added Souaa, "because they understand we want to help both sides make a good match." Visit http://www.websterhill.com/ for more information on Webster Hill. This release was issued on behalf of the above organization by Send2Press(TM), a unit of Neotrope(R). http://www.send2press.com/ Source: Webster Hill Photography Agency CONTACT: Nelson Rodriguez of Webster Hill Photography Agency, +1-866-977-5300, nrodriguez@websterhill.com Web site: http://www.websterhill.com/ Web site: http://www.send2press.com/ NOTE TO EDITORS: Interviews and print-ready logos available on request. Plain text copy of release, http://www.Send2Press.com/mediadrome/2005-01-0127-001.txt ------- Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Media invitation - CGI's annual general meeting

Media invitation - CGI's annual general meeting MONTREAL, Jan. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- CGI Group Inc. (CGI) (NYSE: GIB; TSX: GIB.SV.A), is pleased to invite members of the media to its Annual General Meeting on Tuesday, February 1, 2005. The event will be followed by a press conference whereby Serge Godin, chairman & CEO, Andre Imbeau, executive vice-president & CFO, Paule Dore, executive vice president & chief corporate officer and Michael Roach, president and COO will be available for questions. For those who are unable to attend in person, the Company will simultaneously webcast the meeting, which will be followed by a management presentation, in a live video format from its website at www.cgi.com . When: Tuesday, February 1, 2005 at 11 a.m. (ET) Where: Hilton Montreal Bonaventure Hotel, 900 de la Gauchetiere in Salon St-Lambert Press conference: Immediately following the event in Salon St-Pierre About CGI Founded in 1976, CGI is among the largest independent information technology and business process services firms in North America. CGI and its affiliated companies employ approximately 25,000 professionals. CGI provides end-to-end IT and business process services to clients worldwide from offices in Canada, the United States, Europe, Asia Pacific as well as from centers of excellence in Canada, the US, Europe and India. CGI's annualized revenue run-rate is currently CDN$3.8 billion (US$3.2 billion) and at September 30, 2004, CGI's order backlog was CDN$13.0 billion (US$10.8 billion). CGI's shares are listed on the TSX (GIB.SV.A) and the NYSE (GIB) and are included in the S&P/TSX Composite Index as well as the S&P/TSX Capped Information Technology and MidCap Indices. Website: www.cgi.com . Source: CGI GROUP INC. CONTACT: Eileen Murphy, Director, media relations, (514) 841-3430; Archived images on this organization are available through CNW E-Pix at http://www.newswire.ca/. Images are free to members of The Canadian Press. ------- Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

WEGENER Announces Appointment of Ned Mountain as President of Wegener Communications

WEGENER Announces Appointment of Ned Mountain as President of Wegener Communications DULUTH, Ga., Jan. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- WEGENER Corporation (NASDAQ:WGNR), a leading provider of television, audio and data distribution networks worldwide, today announced that Ned L. Mountain has been appointed President and Chief Operating Officer of the Corporation's operating subsidiary, Wegener Communications, Inc. (WCI). Mr. Mountain will assume responsibility for all functional areas of the organization and begin his new role immediately. He succeeds Robert A. Placek, who will continue in his position as Chief Executive Officer of both WEGENER Corporation and WCI and will remain actively involved in company operations. "Ned Mountain's industry experience, supported by a strong executive team, makes him uniquely qualified to manage WCI's strategic direction and operations," stated Robert Placek. "Prior to joining the executive ranks, Mr. Mountain held many marketing and sales positions at WCI during his long tenure of over 20 years. In his new role, he will be focusing on restoring shareholder confidence in the company." "My top priorities are to establish consistent execution in meeting and exceeding our financial projections, and continue delivering quality products to our customers. These are key to the realization of our long-term goals of profitable growth and increased value for our shareholders," stated Ned Mountain. ABOUT WEGENER CORPORATION WEGENER is an international provider of digital solutions for IP data, video and audio networks. Applications include IP data delivery, broadcast television, cable television, radio networks, business television, distance education, business music and financial information distribution. COMPEL, WEGENER's patented network control system, provides networks with unparalleled ability to regionalize programming and commercials. COMPEL network control capability is integrated into WEGENER digital satellite receivers. WEGENER can be reached at +1.770.814.4000 or on the World Wide Web at www.wegener.com . COMPEL, MEDIAPLAN, ENVOY, UNITY, and iPUMP are trademarks of WEGENER Communications, Inc. All Rights Reserved. This news release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and the Company intends that such forward- looking statements are subject to the safe harbors created thereby. Forward- looking statements may be identified by words such as "believes," "expects," "projects," "plans," "anticipates," and similar expressions, and include, for example, statements relating to expectations regarding future sales, income and cash flows. Forward-looking statements are based upon the Company's current expectations and assumptions, which are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to: customer acceptance and effectiveness of recently introduced products, development of additional business for the Company's digital video and audio transmission product lines, effectiveness of the sales organization, the successful development and introduction of new products in the future, delays in the conversion by private and broadcast networks to next generation digital broadcast equipment, acceptance by various networks of standards for digital broadcasting, general market conditions which may not improve during fiscal year 2005 and beyond, and success of the Company's research and development efforts aimed at developing new products. Discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties are provided in detail in the Company's periodic filings with the SEC, including the Company's most recent Form 10-K. Since these statements involve risks and uncertainties and are subject to change at any time, the Company's actual results could differ materially from expected results. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date the statement was made. The Company does not undertake and specifically disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements. Source: WEGENER Corporation CONTACT: C. Troy Woodbury, Jr., Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of WEGENER Corporation, +1-770-814-4000, or Fax, +1-770-623-9648, or info@wegener.com Web site: http://www.wegener.com/ ------- Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Alpha Spacecom Inc. Retains Public Communications Co. for Financial & Public Relations

Alpha Spacecom Inc. Retains Public Communications Co. for Financial & Public Relations HONG KONG and LOS ANGELES, Jan. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Alpha Spacecom, Inc. (BULLETIN BOARD: ASPC) , a China-based Company in process of converting movie theaters and multi-cinema complexes to digital projection, announced today the retention of Public Communications Company (PCC), a Beverly Hills-based financial and consumer public relations company to expand visibility and awareness in the business, consumer and financial media markets of Alpha Spacecom Inc.'s unique business activities, and to communicate with the Company's growing shareholder base. The announcement was made today by Terence Sien, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Alpha Spacecom, in Hong Kong, and Michael Selsman, PCC principal. Chairman Sien noted that "Alpha Spacecom's leading role in converting China's large theatrical film exhibition venue base to digital mode and involvement in the satellite distribution of entertainment media, including film, theater, live music and sporting events necessitates communication to the international business community, as well as our shareholders. The engagement of Public Communications Company, which has experience in representing entertainment organizations involved in global transactions, is an essential asset to our Company." According to China Digital Film Company, China will overtake the United States in the number of digital theatres by the end of 2005, with the number of digital cinemas in China expected to reach 1,000 within a few years. "The globalization of trade and technological advances has created an exceptional opportunity for Alpha Spacecom," Michael Selsman, principal of PCC said. "Linked commerce defines global finance. We consider the opportunity for PCC to be associated with ASPC a strong challenge and a gateway into the multi-billion dollar worldwide entertainment industry. About Alpha Spacecom, Inc. Alpha Spacecom, Inc. is a registered United States (Colorado) corporation traded on the OTC Bulletin Board (ASPC.OB). Alpha Spacecom is engaged in the research and development of technology and systems conversions related to the reconstruction and digital conversion of movie theaters and multi-cinema complexes and the satellite distribution of entertainment media (film, theater, live music and sporting events) in China. (www.alphaspacecom.com). About Public Communications Co. Public Communications Co. specializes in financial and investor relations, governmental and charitable affairs, emerging technologies, entertainment, bio-tech, health care, real estate, sports marketing and media training. The Company's staff works with CEOs to bring their company's stories to the financial and consumer media in a material manner. To learn more about Public Communications, please visit its website at www.publiccommunications.biz or call 310-553-5732. Except for historical information contained herein, the matters set forth in this press release, such as statements relating to the Company's ability to drive technological developments and the acceptance and timing of product introductions, are forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties, including timely development and acceptance of new products, the impact of competitive products and pricing, the timely development and release of products by suppliers, and other risks detailed in the Company's Registration Statement filed with the SEC. John Santoyo Investor Relations Phone: +1-213-426-3206 Fax: +1-213-426-3250 info@alphaspacecom.com Source: Alpha Spacecom, Inc. CONTACT: investor relations, John Santoyo, +1-213-426-3206, or fax, +1-213-426-3250, info@alphaspacecom.com Web site: http://www.alphaspacecom.com/ ------- Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Network Equipment Technologies, Inc. to Present at the Brean Murray & Co. Annual Institutional Investor Conference

Network Equipment Technologies, Inc. to Present at the Brean Murray & Co. Annual Institutional Investor Conference FREMONT, Calif., Jan. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Network Equipment Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:NWK), today announced that president and CEO Hubert "Bert" Whyte will be presenting at the Brean Murray & Co. Annual Institutional Investor Conference on Wednesday, February 2, 2005 at 5:00 p.m. EST. The conference will be held at The New York Palace Hotel, New York, NY. A link to the live web cast and recording of net.com's presentation will be available on the Company's website at http://ir.net.com/. The recording of net.com's presentation will be available approximately one hour after the live presentation, or 6:30 p.m. EST. About net.com Network Equipment Technologies, Inc., doing business as net.com, develops and delivers platforms for broadband, Internet telephony, and multiservice networks. An architect of the networking industry, net.com has been supplying service providers, governments and enterprises around the world with bulletproof networking technology for more than 20 years. net performance. net results. net.com. Source: Network Equipment Technologies, Inc. CONTACT: Brenda Ropoulos, Director of Corporate Relations of Network Equipment Technologies, Inc., +1-510-574-2508 or brenda_ropoulos@net.com Web site: http://www.net.com/ ------- Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Coming Up on VH1 January 28 - February 3, 2005

Coming Up on VH1 January 28 - February 3, 2005 NEW YORK, Jan. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Coming up on VH1 ... On Friday, January 28 "Best Week Ever" This week's pop culture roundup includes the Oscar nominations, J. Lo's new video, the end of the Gay trend and how to sound like you watch TV's most popular shows Desperate Housewives and 24. (Premieres at 11:00 p.m.) http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/best_week_ever/series.jhtml On Saturday, January 29 "Michael Jackson's Secret Childhood" No matter the outcome of Michael Jackson's trial on child molestation charges, the gap between how the world views Michael and how he sees himself has never been wider. In this special, VH1 News explains how the beloved child entertainer has become such a bizarre public figure. In "Michael Jackson's Secret Childhood," VH1 News examines the singer's upbringing and uncovers a life filled with abuse, hard labor, relentless ambition, and a conflict between his religious upbringing and his growing fame. In exclusive interviews, viewers are introduced to Michael's first young friend the child actor Rodney Allen Rippey, Tatiana Thumbtzen, Michael's co-star from "The Way you Make Me Feel" video, who tells her tale of unrequited love for the shy pop star, and Teresa J. Gonsalves, a childhood pen pal who witnessed a side of Michael very few had the privilege to see. (Premieres at 9:00 p.m.) http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/vh1_news_presents/82010/episode.jhtml On Sunday, January 30 "Surreal Life -- Season 4" The cast returns from camping and discovers the mansion has been turned into a spa -- albeit one run by a man with a questionable approach to issues of personal space. After they've had their chakras stroked, everyone, except Verne, decides to celebrate Chris's birthday with an impromptu visit to a strip club. And, in a surprise midnight revelation, Adrianne spills the beans to Brat about her crush on Mr. Brady. Will he reciprocate ... ? (Premieres at 9:00 p.m.) http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/the_surreal_life_4/series.jhtml "Strange Love" Our lovebirds wake up in Como. Brigitte is feeling guilty about last night's tryst. Flav feels her unease and coaxes her to take a bubble bath. Flav tries to be romantic but blows it when he kicks over a glass of wine and then goes ballistic on the chambermaid when she tries to clean up after him. They tour a vineyard and stomp grapes and take a ferry to Bellagio where they have a romantic dinner. They have a long conversation and finally Brigitte agrees to go to New York with Fuffy-Fuffy. (Premieres at 9:30 p.m.) http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/strange_love/series.jhtml "Celebrity Fit Club" A twist turns teammate against teammate as the groups are forced to trade a member of their team to the other side. We delve farther into the personal lives of the celebrities and learn that the new diet is causing one of them to have horrible gas. The celebrities endure a demanding regime of physical training circuits, but then learn proper relaxation techniques from Fit Club's resident expert. Their relaxation training is put to the test in a stress challenge to see which team remains calm under fire. (Premieres at 10:00 p.m.) http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/celebrity_fit_club/series.jhtml *all times ET/PT Contacts: Michelle Clark/VH1 Ariana Urbont/MTVN 212-846-5576 310-752-8079 Monday, January 31 "All Access: Embarrassing Moments" "All Access: Embarrassing Moments" celebrates the moments in 2004 when embarrassing things happened to the celebrities we love. We'll take a look at how these moments happened, why they happened and how the victims recovered and maintained their careers. (Premieres at 10:00 p.m.) http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/vh1_all_access/88853/episode.jhtml Tuesday, February 1 "Black in the Day -- The 80s: Color TV" "Black in the Day: the 80s" is a three-hour series exploring and celebrating the achievements and advancements of African-Americans in pop culture during the 1980's. From historical breakthroughs in film and television, to the birth of a new genre of music, 80's black pop culture forever changed the entire landscape of American popular culture. Hour 1, "Color TV," uncovers the changing face of African Americans on television. (Premieres at 9:00 p.m.) http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/black_in_the_day/series.jhtml Wednesday, February 2 "Black in the Day -- The 80s: Def Jams" From the unmitigated success of Michael Jackson's "Thriller" to the rise of a new generation of Black pop stars like Whitney, Tina, Lionel, and Janet, to the ascendancy of rap and hip hop culture, the 80's was the decade when black musicians reinvented themselves, and made inroads into mainstream white culture like never before. (Premieres at 9:00 p.m.) http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/black_in_the_day/series.jhtml Thursday, February 3 "Black in the Day-The 80s: Color In Film" On the heels of the 70's Blaxploitation era, major studios continued to give a limited view of African-American life in motion pictures. "Color in Film" examines whether African Americans in the films of the 80's transcended or perpetuated existing stereotypes. (Premieres at 9:00 p.m.) http://www.vh1.com/shows/dyn/black_in_the_day/series.jhtml ON VH1 CLASSIC: Throughout the month of February VH1 Classic celebrates Black History Month with an all-new "VH1 Classic In Concert: Soul to Soul," premiering on Friday, February 4 at 9:00 PM. This benefit concert was shot in Africa in 1971 and features legendary artists including Wilson Pickett, Ike and Tina Turner, Santana and The Staples Singers among many others. http://www.vh1classic.com/ ON VH1 SOUL: Music & fashion merge in this VH1 Soul "UltraSuede" special spotlighting Suede Magazine's -- Ultimate Top 40 List of "intensifiers and influencers of fashion". Premiering this Sunday, January 30th from 12noon - 2pm to kick off to Fashion Week in NYC. http://www.vh1soul.com/ Source: VH1 CONTACT: Michelle Clark of VH1, +1-212-846-5576; or Ariana Urbont of MTVN, +1-310-752-8079, both for VH1 Web site: http://www.vh1.com/ ------- Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

HHS Proposes New Medicare E-Prescribing Rules Process Will Improve Quality, Accuracy

HHS Proposes New Medicare E-Prescribing Rules Process Will Improve Quality, Accuracy WASHINGTON, Jan. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt today announced new proposed regulations that will support electronic prescriptions for Medicare when the prescription drug benefit takes effect in January 2006. "These proposed e-prescription rules would set standards to help Medicare, physicians and pharmacies take advantage of new technology that can improve the health care of seniors and persons with disabilities," Secretary Leavitt said. "We are committed to widespread use of e-prescribing as quickly as possible," said Mark B. McClellan, M.D., Ph.D., administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). "In issuing these proposed rules today, seven months ahead of the deadline set by the Medicare Modernization Act (MMA), we are laying the foundation for having major e-prescribing standards in place when the Medicare drug benefit begins." The proposed e-prescribing regulations will adopt standards for: * Transactions between prescribers and dispensers for new prescriptions, prescription refill request and response, prescription change request and response, prescription cancellation request and response, and related messaging and administrative transactions. * Eligibility and benefits inquiries and responses between drug prescribers and prescription drug plans. * Eligibility and benefits inquiries and responses between dispensers and Part D sponsors. * Formulary and benefit coverage information, including information on the availability of lower cost, therapeutically appropriate alternative drugs, if certain characteristics are met. CMS proposes to make the compliance date for these foundation standards Jan. 1, 2006, so they will be ready for immediate use when the Medicare drug benefit begins. Additional electronic information can be used in conjunction with these foundation standards, to provide more support for using drugs safely and effectively. "These standards reflect consensus by stakeholders through the National Committee on Vital and Health Statistics to get there quickly," said Dr. McClellan. "This kind of public-private collaboration is the most effective way for Medicare to help lead the way to an effective electronic health care system. We're going to take further collaborative steps to enhance our support for e-prescribing as quickly as possible." The MMA called upon the National Committee on Vital and Health Statistics (NCVHS) to develop recommendations for uniform standards for e-prescribing to promote patient safety and quality health care. From March to September 2004, NCVHS heard testimony from 65 witnesses and other industry experts including all stakeholder groups identified in the MMA, as well as e-prescribing networks, demonstration projects, software developers, and consumer advocacy organizations. Today's proposed e-prescribing foundation standards are based on NCVHS' recommendations to the Secretary. More information on NCVHS, its deliberations and recommendations on e-prescribing can be found at the NCVHS Web site at http://ncvhs.hhs.gov/. The proposed regulations, which are now available for public comment, are an important part of the MMA, signed into law by President Bush on Dec. 8, 2003. As part of the MMA, Medicare will require drug plans participating in the new prescription drug benefit to support electronic prescribing but it will be voluntary for physicians and pharmacies. Additional standards will be tested through a pilot project and recommended for adoption in a final rule to be issued no later than April 1, 2008, and which will take effect no later than one year from the date the standards are issued. Participation by physicians in e-prescribing will be optional, but the establishment of standards and steps to encourage the adoption of effective e-prescribing programs will make e-prescribing more attractive. The MMA calls for a pilot project to test e-prescribing standards for which there is not adequate industry experience before their adoption by CMS. CMS soon will be soliciting applications from physicians, physician groups, hospitals, prescription drug plan sponsors, Medicare Advantage organizations, pharmacies, and other appropriate entities to participate in pilots to test new or emerging standards and other aspects of e-prescribing implementations. These standards could provide for transmission of medical history, alerts to adverse drug interactions, and suggestions for lower-cost, therapeutically equivalent alternative medications. Electronic prescribing, or "e-prescribing," enables a physician to transmit a prescription electronically to the patient's choice of pharmacy. It also enables physicians and pharmacies to obtain from drug plans information about the patient's eligibility and medication history. Having access to this information at the point of care makes writing, filling and receiving prescriptions quicker and easier, and it also makes it possible for physicians and pharmacies to make informed decisions about appropriate and lower-cost therapeutically-equivalent alternative medications. E-prescribing can improve patient safety and reduce avoidable health care costs by decreasing prescription errors due to hard-to-read physician handwriting and by automating the process of checking for drug interactions and allergies. E-prescribing can also help make sure that patients and health professionals have the best and latest medical information at hand when they make important decisions about choosing medicines, and enabling beneficiaries to get the most benefits at the lowest cost. Standards for communicating and interpreting health data are essential for obtaining greater benefits of e-prescribing. The current lack of common standards is a barrier to the use of health information technology, including e-prescribing. Adoption of e-prescribing standards by Medicare is expected to spur the use of e-prescribing throughout the nation's health care system. The proposed rule will be published in the Feb. 4 Federal Register. Public comments will be accepted through April 5, 2005. Note: For more information, visit the CMS Web site at: http://www.cms.hhs.gov/. All HHS press releases, fact sheets and other press materials are available at http://www.hhs.gov/news. Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services CONTACT: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Media Affairs, +1-202-690-6145 Web site: http://www.hhs.gov/ http://ncvhs.hhs.gov/ http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ http://www.hhs.gov/news ------- Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

City of New Orleans Launches High-Tech Assault on Crime

City of New Orleans Launches High-Tech Assault on Crime Cutting-Edge Sony Network Cameras Become Virtual Top Cops PARK RIDGE, N.J., Jan. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- The City of New Orleans is employing a new, high-tech approach to fighting crime by deploying a network of IP-based cameras citywide to provide infrastructure protection and increased crime fighting capability. (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050127/SFTH070-ahttp://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050127/SFTH070-b ) When conceiving ideas for a solution to fight crime and boost security for the City, officials tapped into many different technologies, selecting Sony Electronics' SNC-RZ30N cameras as the "eyes" of the system, and then incorporating the latest in networking, wireless communications, telecommunications and fiber optics. "Leveraging cutting-edge technology to find creative, cost effective solutions has been a top priority in my administration," said Mayor C. Ray Nagin. "With this system in place, it will be like virtual police patrolling our streets, deterring and fighting crime." The Sony cameras are configured into systems that are mounted high on power poles above city streets, and have the power to pan, tilt and zoom to help police identify and apprehend criminals. Many of these cameras are currently watching over crime "hot spots" throughout the Sixth Police District in New Orleans. These powerful IP cameras can read a license plate from hundreds of feet away, and feature remote-controlled pan/tilt/zoom, a 25X optical zoom lens, day/night and wireless capabilities. Images captured on the street are digitized and sent via the city's network to a main server archive for Internet-based monitoring from any location -- whether it's police headquarters or a patrol vehicle. "Camera technology from Sony has continued to advance to provide amazingly clear, crisp, quality images," said Phil Whitebloom, director of Business Development for Government and Education for Sony Electronics Inc. "Those advances coupled with high-quality Internet and broadband capabilities make for a surveillance system which allows law enforcement to see detail that could never be seen before." The New Orleans surveillance camera project is expected to be fully deployed by the end of the year, and will be one of the largest in the country. Cameras "Walk a Beat" With their pan/tilt/zoom capability, the SNC-RZ30N cameras can be programmed to, in effect, walk a beat just like a police officer walks a beat on the street. The camera can be programmed to capture wide angle shots down a street or to capture close-up shots of people and vehicles. They can even zoom in to deliver crisp, clear images of vehicle license plates. "The surveillance cameras are virtual police officers out on the street corners in high-crime areas," said Detective Mike Carambat of the New Orleans Police Department. "When we investigate a crime captured by the surveillance cameras, those cameras become a cop who has already done a greater part of the investigation," According to Detective Carambat, another advantage of the Sony cameras is that the clear images captured by these cameras make the perfect witness, providing identification-quality images that will hold up as evidence in court. "One of the greatest challenges in police work is getting victims and witnesses to cooperate with an investigation all the way through to prosecution," said Carambat. "These surveillance cameras give us the perfect witness -- a witness that will never tell a lie, has total recall and will always cooperate with the police throughout the investigation and prosecution." New Technologies Make It Possible Recent advancements in the types of technologies used in this solution are what made it possible for the City of New Orleans to deploy this ambitious and innovative citywide security project. "The technology has evolved to a point where we can now implement these kinds of programs," said Ellen Dollacker, Certified Protection Professional. "In the past, stringing cable and power to each camera was very cumbersome. Now we can transmit the video and the protocol to the camera wirelessly, which makes this technology the future in surveillance and homeland security, and is really what is driving the trend in municipal security." According to City officials, the network cameras were a key factor in ensuring that the City could capture and transmit identification-quality images to help fight crime. Wireless technologies allow officers to monitor the cameras from police vehicles and off-site locations. "The advanced multi purpose technology of these cameras brings New Orleans both defense in depth for high priority hard and soft homeland security targets along with a huge increase in crime reduction capability," said Colonel Terry Ebbert Director of Homeland Security for the City of New Orleans. "Our ability to protect citizens and structures just received an unbelievable boost." Collaboration Key to Successful Implementation The New Orleans security camera initiative brought together a range of technologies and companies to make the project work. "The most important aspect of this project was the integration of several different technologies," said Greg Meffert, chief technology officer for the City of New Orleans. "We brought together the wireless technology, the IP camera technology and the digital video recorders to create a unique, citywide security system." Southern Electronics, the project's general contractor, put together a team of technology partners to deploy the system. "There were basically three technologies that we had to integrate in this project. The first was finding a camera that had the ability to communicate from an IP standpoint on an Ethernet network. The second was getting the cameras mounted on a light pole powered by the public power grid. And the third was finding a network and the capability of bringing those camera images back to the district stations," said Iggie Perrin, president of Southern Electronics and project coordinator. In addition to the Sony IP cameras, Southern Electronics and the City of New Orleans selected Active Solutions to design the networks and housing that would make it possible for the cameras to be installed on power poles and connected directly to the power grid, and Bellwhether Technologies, Verge Wireless and Robinson Industries to provide the communications components of the project. Community Involvement Helps Support the Project Another unique aspect of the New Orleans citywide security project is its adopt-a-camera program. The city has set up a Web site (www.iseecrime.com) which allows citizen groups, neighborhood organizations, businesses, churches and other community organizations to adopt a camera. The program allows organizations to pay for a camera and place that camera in a location of their choice. This initiative establishes a partnership with community groups to help fund the program and broaden the city's security canopy by increasing the number of cameras rolled out under this program. Nationwide Trend New Orleans has one of the largest and most technologically advanced surveillance programs and is on the leading edge of a growing national trend for using technology to help fight crime. Other municipalities, ranging from Chicago to smaller towns like Arlington, Texas, have also implemented or are implementing similar surveillance camera programs for crime fighting and homeland security support. "The federal government and the Department of Homeland Security make grants to cities for security projects, and we are definitely seeing a trend toward using these grants to fund projects in the area of IP monitoring and security," said Whitebloom. Contact: Anne Carlantone Sony Electronics Inc. 201-930-6342 anne.carlantone@am.sony.com Colleen Cavanaugh The Hoffman Agency 770-448-2661 ccavanaugh@hoffman.com Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050127/SFTH070-a http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050127/SFTH070-b AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN5, PRN6 PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com Source: Sony Electronics Inc. CONTACT: Anne Carlantone of Sony Electronics Inc., +1-201-930-6342, or anne.carlantone@am.sony.com; or Colleen Cavanaugh of The Hoffman Agency, +1-770-448-2661, or ccavanaugh@hoffman.com, for Sony Electronics Inc. ------- Profile: International Entertainment