/C O R R E C T I O N -- Palms Casino Resort/

/C O R R E C T I O N -- Palms Casino Resort/

In the media advisory, Feed Request for Tuesday, Jan 1st: New Year's Eve at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, issued earlier today by Palms Casino Resort over PR Newswire, we are advised by the company that the last paragraph, last sentence, should read "Kayne West will be performing live at the Pearl Concert Theater and there will be footage available" rather than "Kayne West will be performing live at the Pearl Concert Theater but there will be no footage available" as originally issued.

PRNewswire -- Dec. 31
First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Palms Casino Resort

Web site: http://www.palms.com/

---

Profile: International Entertainment

P Phone Reports Financial Results for the Six Month Period Ended September 30, 2007

P Phone Reports Financial Results for the Six Month Period Ended September 30, 2007

BEIJING, Dec. 31 /Xinhua-PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- P Phone, Inc. (a.k.a. Asia Premium Television Group, Inc.) (BULLETIN BOARD: ATVG) ("P Phone") a China-based marketing and ad sales company, today reported its financial results for the six month period ended September 30, 2007. This period was a transition period for the company as a result of its recent change of fiscal year end from March 31 to September 30.

For the six-month transition period ended September 30, 2007, P Phone reported revenue of US$28,348,347, of which 99.5% or US$28,206,605 was generated by the Company's media buying operations and 0.5% or US$141,742 was generated by its brand consulting operations. P Phone's gross profit for the transition period was US$1,890,364 before all consulting, general and administrative, depreciation and amortization, and other expenses. After these operating expenses and other income for the six-month transition period, the Company reported net income of US$455,082 or US$0.20 per outstanding share.

For more detailed information on P Phone's results of operations, please refer to the Company's Form 10-K filing for the transition period ended September 30, 2007. This can be found at www.sec.gov.

Mr. Li Li, Chairman of the Company commented, "We have had two more profitable quarters [from April 1 to September 30, 2007], which will provide a solid base for expansion in 2008. In the coming year, we plan to enhance our existing marketing and sales operations by expanding into China's mobile sector with our proprietary P Phone mobile media and payment solution. To support our expansion, we will divest our low-margin media-buying business and use the proceeds to continue to acquire mobile-related technology and assets. We believe this is the right path to achieving scalable, long-term profits for the Company in China's marketing and advertising industry."

P Phone has already begun to implement its mobile strategy. It has entered into agreements with other parties to acquire key mobile technology and assets. It has also changed its name from "Asia Premium Television Group, Inc." to "P Phone, Inc." in order to better reflect its enhanced mobile business strategy.

   Recent Highlights   * The Company entered into an agreement with the China Mobile and     Communications Association ("CMCA"), China's leading association of     Telcos and Telco-affiliated manufacturers and distributors, to acquire     100% of the P Phone Project (the "P" in "P Phone" stands for     personalization and payment). The P Phone project is a business venture     that is developing a mobile-based solution ("P Phone") that will enable     personal media and mobile payment on cell phones in Mainland China. The     aggregate consideration for the acquisition is US$2.8 million. It will     be satisfied through the issuance of 700,000 shares of P Phone (ATVG)     common stock, valued at US$4 per share. The acquisition of the P Phone     project brings to the Company the support of the China Mobile and     Communications Association and its various Telco members.   * The Company entered into agreement with Her Village Limited, China's     leading producer and distributor of women's-interest media content, to     acquire PIMIE ("Personal Intelligent Mobile Internet Engine") mobile     phone technology. The consideration for the acquisition is US$1.2     million to be satisfied through the issuance of 300,000 new shares of     the Company's common stock valued at US$4 per share. PIMIE technology     has the ability to intelligently learn a person's mobile web-browsing     behavior and then deliver pre-loaded content, search results and ads     based on this behavior. It will serve as the basis of the Company's     future personal media and content services.   * The Company entered into an agreement with Bobo Media, Ltd, a youth     media company based in Beijing, to acquire certain media content for     future mobile distribution. The content adds to the Company's media     content pool, which is being built up for future enhancement of the P     Phone personal media service. The consideration for the acquisition is     US$400,000 to be satisfied through the issuance of 100,000 new shares of     the Company, valued at a price of US$4 per share.   

Mr. Li, Chairman of the Company, further commented, "As each of these agreements shows, we have made considerable progress in implementing our mobile business strategy over the past few months. We have already secured the core assets of our P Phone mobile solution and are now in the process of negotiating deals to roll it out in select, high-growth provinces. With the launch of P Phone and our mobile operations, we expect a strong year of growth in 2008. We thank our shareholders for their ongoing support and will keep the investment community updated as we continue to execute our plan."

About P Phone, Inc. (a.k.a. Asia Premium Television Group, Inc.)

P Phone Inc. was incorporated in Nevada in 1989 and is operating in China. The Company's principal executive offices are located at Suite 602, 2 North Tuanjiehu Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100026, People's Republic Of China: the telephone number is (8610) 6582-7900.

This press release includes statements that may constitute 'forward- looking' statements, usually containing the word 'believe,' 'estimate,' 'project,' 'expect,' 'plan,' 'anticipate' or similar expressions. Forward- looking statements inherently involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. Factors that would cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, continued acceptance of P Phone's (a.k.a. Asia Premium Television Group, Inc.'s) products and services in the marketplace, competitive factors and changes in regulatory environments. These and other risks relating to P Phone's business are set forth in P Phone's Transition Report on Form 10-K for the period ended September 30, 2007 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 31, 2007, and other reports filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. By making these forward-looking statements, P Phone disclaims any obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release.

First Call Analyst:

Source: P Phone, Inc.

CONTACT: Emilie Deng, Corporate Affair Manager of Asia Premium
Television Group, Inc., +86-10-8518-9669, ext. 8030, or fax, +86-10-8518-1580,
orlifan.deng@smihg.com

---

Profile: International Entertainment

National Press Club Kicks Off Centennial with Premiere of Documentary

National Press Club Kicks Off Centennial with Premiere of Documentary

WASHINGTON, Dec. 31 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Press Club, America's oldest and most prestigious journalism organization, will premiere its 100th anniversary documentary, "The National Press Club at 100: A Century of Headlines," at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 4, 2008, in the National Press Club ballroom.

And after the film's premiere, the Club will present a panel discussion featuring Press Club veterans such as Helen Thomas, Jack Germond and NPC President Emeritus John Cosgrove. These veteran D.C. journalists will swap stories and reflect on the club's colorful history.

The premiere and forum are the first in a series of events celebrating the Club's 100 years of service to the journalism community.

Since its founding in 1908, the National Press Club has been a host to history. "NPC at 100 - a Century of Headlines" tells this story through the voices that made it happen, such as Walter Cronkite -- the first recipient of the Club's Fourth Estate Award for distinguished journalism -- Helen Thomas, Austin Kiplinger and Simeon Booker. Also featured in the program are Bob Schieffer, Bob Woodward, Jim Lehrer, Liz Carpenter, Ben Bradlee, Tom Brokaw and Tim Russert.

"'NPC at 100 -- a Century of Headlines' tells a great story that's never been told via video before," said NPC President Jerry Zremski. "So much history has happened here at the National Press Club: so many famous people -- from Harry Truman to Nikita Khrushchev, from Elizabeth Taylor to the Dalai Lama -- have appeared here. Yet at the same time, the Club has been at the front lines of the great changes in American society and journalism in the past century. Our new documentary tells those parallel stories in a compelling way that gives the Club its due as a great Washington institution."

The documentary was produced by Auteur Productions, Ltd. The two principals of the organization, Gerald Krell and Meyer Odze, have garnered many international awards for a wide range of documentaries, public affairs, and educational programs.

As it approaches its centennial year, the National Press Club continues its tradition as the center of news and information in Washington. Widely recognized for the National Press Club speakers series; the Club is the foremost venue for press conferences in D.C. While still a meeting place for journalists and news sources, the club has positioned itself as a full-service facility for the researching, reporting, and dissemination of news, with its state-of-the-art Broadcast Operations Center and an expanding array of training programs to serve the Club's 3,500 members in Washington and worldwide.

Tickets for the The National Press Club at 100: a Century of Headlines documentary premiere can be reserved by calling (202) 662 - 7501 or by email at reservations@press.org. There is no charge for the screening.

For more information about the National Press Club, please visit our website at www.press.org.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: National Press Club

CONTACT: Melinda Cooke of the National Press Club, +1-202-662-7516,
mcooke@press.org

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

---

Profile: International Entertainment

Feed Request for Tuesday, Jan 1st: New Year's Eve at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas

Feed Request for Tuesday, Jan 1st: New Year's Eve at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas

    WHAT:     B-roll of New Year's Eve Weekend at the Palms Casino Resort to              include:             Jay Z Performing live at the Pearl Concert Theater inside the              Palms Casino Resort on Sat 12/29.             B-roll of Beyonce             Jamie Pressley & DJ Eric Cubeechee hosts at Moon Nightclub             Dave Navarro & DJ Skribble live performance at Rain Nightclub    DETAILS:  B-roll will be available on the morning of Tuesday, Jan 1st via              satellite feeds at the following coordinates:             Time #1:  0700 - 0715 ET (4:00a - 4:15a PT)             Time #2:  1000 - 1015 ET   (7:00a - 7:15a PT)             Transponder (Galaxy 10K-24)             Downlink Freq: 12180.0 Horizontal    

If you have any problems taking in the feed please call 702-216-1255 ONLY on the day of the feed.

For media information please contact Larry Fink at 702-249-8586. Kayne West will be performing live at the Pearl Concert Theater but there will be no footage available.

PRNewswire -- Dec. 31
First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Palms Casino Resort

Web site: http://www.palms.com/

---

Profile: International Entertainment

Presidential Election Channel 'POTUS '08' on XM Radio to Broadcast Nationwide from Iowa and New Hampshire

Presidential Election Channel 'POTUS '08' on XM Radio to Broadcast Nationwide from Iowa and New Hampshire

WASHINGTON, Dec. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The 24-hour presidential election channel "POTUS '08" on XM Satellite Radio will broadcast live and nationwide from Iowa and New Hampshire in January as the first voters cast their ballots to determine the next commander-in-chief.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070313/XMLOGO )

"POTUS" is a term used by government officials for President of the United States, and "POTUS '08" is the nation's first and only radio channel dedicated to the presidential race all day, every day.

"POTUS '08" will broadcast from Des Moines at the Polk County convention complex on Jan. 3 as Iowans gather for the Democratic and Republican caucuses.

Then the POTUS team will be live from Manchester, N.H., for a primary preview on Jan. 7, primary day on Jan. 8, and a post-primary wrap-up on Jan. 9 from the Expo Center of New Hampshire. XM will broadcast from multiple locations in the two states, including the C-SPAN Campaign 2008 Bus.

"There has never been a national radio channel devoted to a presidential campaign 24 hours a day," said Scott Walterman, POTUS on-air host and XM senior director of news programming. "When the idea first came up, I said, 'This is insane.' But the channel has turned out to be remarkably compelling.

I think that's partly because this is a remarkable campaign, with no incumbent president or vice president on the ballot, and voters who are incredibly engaged in the process. Our team is on the ground in Iowa and New Hampshire, as well as our home studio here in the nation's capital."

"POTUS '08" is heard from coast to coast on XM channel 130. As a public service, XM is broadcasting the channel for free to all XM radios. Web users can listen to "POTUS '08" for free for two weeks by signing up for a free trial at www.xmradio.com/potus

"POTUS '08" airs radio shows produced by XM and a broad variety of content partners, including C-SPAN, the Washington Post, National Journal, Slate, the polling group Zogby International, the political blog network Pajamas Media, and the TV networks CNN, ABC, and FOX News.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: Video, contact information and more available at: http://www.prnewswire.com/broadcast/31120/consumer.html

About XM

XM (NASDAQ:XMSR) is America's number one satellite radio company with more than 8.5 million subscribers. Broadcasting live daily from studios in Washington, DC, New York City, Chicago, the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Toronto and Montreal, XM's 2007 lineup includes more than 170 digital channels of choice from coast to coast: commercial-free music, premier sports, news, talk radio, comedy, children's and entertainment programming; and the most advanced traffic and weather information.

XM, the leader in satellite-delivered entertainment and data services for the automobile market through partnerships with General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, Porsche, Ferrari, Subaru, Suzuki and Toyota is available in 140 different vehicle models for 2007. XM's industry-leading products are available at consumer electronics retailers nationwide. For more information about XM hardware, programming and partnerships, please visit http://www.xmradio.com/.

Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements in this press release include demand for XM Satellite Radio's service, the Company's dependence on technology and third party vendors, its potential need for additional financing, as well as other risks described in XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc.'s Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on 3-1-07. Copies of the filing are available upon request from XM Radio's Investor Relations Department. All programming is subject to change.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact: david.butler@xmradio.com

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070313/XMLOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: XM

CONTACT: David Butler of XM Satellite Radio, +1-202-380-4317,
david.butler@xmradio.com

Web site: http://www.xmradio.com/potus
http://www.xmradio.com/

---

Profile: International Entertainment

Consolidated Communications Completes Acquisition of North Pittsburgh Systems, Inc. and Plans First Quarter 2008 Launch of IPTV Service in Pennsylvania

Consolidated Communications Completes Acquisition of North Pittsburgh Systems, Inc. and Plans First Quarter 2008 Launch of IPTV Service in Pennsylvania

MATTOON, Ill., Dec. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Consolidated Communications Holdings, Inc. ("Consolidated") (NASDAQ:CNSL) announced today that it has completed the previously announced acquisition of North Pittsburgh Systems, Inc. ("North Pittsburgh") (NASDAQ:NPSI) , for approximately $362.6 million, based upon the closing price of Consolidated's common stock on December 28, 2007. The acquired company will operate in Pennsylvania under the Consolidated Communications brand name.

"We are excited to complete this transaction and are looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead," said Bob Currey, Consolidated's President and Chief Executive Officer. "We have said from the start that North Pittsburgh has a strong network that, when coupled with Consolidated's back office platforms and technical experience, can be leveraged to roll out enhanced broadband services. We plan to launch our IPTV product in the North Pittsburgh area in the first quarter of 2008 and expect to pass approximately 12,000 homes at that time. By the end of 2008, we anticipate passing a total of approximately 34,000 homes."

The merger agreement provided that North Pittsburgh shareholders could elect to receive either $25.00 in cash, without interest, or 1.1061947 shares of Consolidated common stock for each share of North Pittsburgh common stock, subject to proration so that 80 percent of the North Pittsburgh shares are exchanged for cash and 20 percent are exchanged for stock. Consolidated also announced the preliminary results of elections made by North Pittsburgh shareholders and the preliminary effect of proration. Of the 15,005,000 shares of North Pittsburgh common stock outstanding immediately prior to closing the merger, approximately:

   -- 13,378,590 shares, or 89.2 percent, elected to receive cash;   -- 1,361,806 shares, or 9.1 percent, elected to receive stock;   -- 264,604 shares, or 1.8 percent, did not make an effective election.    

As a result, on a preliminary basis, North Pittsburgh shares as to which a stock election was made will receive Consolidated common stock; North Pittsburgh shares as to which a cash election was made will receive cash for approximately 89.73 percent of those shares and Consolidated common stock for the remainder; and shares with respect to which no effective election was made will receive Consolidated common stock. Consolidated will not issue any fractional shares of stock and, instead, each North Pittsburgh shareholder immediately prior to the merger who would otherwise be entitled to a fractional share of Consolidated common stock (based on the total stock consideration into which the holder's North Pittsburgh shares have been converted in the merger) will receive an amount in cash equal to $18.53 multiplied by the fractional share interest to which the shareholder would otherwise be entitled.

About Consolidated

Consolidated Communications Holdings, Inc. is an established rural local exchange company providing voice, data and video services to residential and business customers in Illinois, Texas and Pennsylvania. Each of the operating companies has been operating in its local market for over 100 years. With approximately 286,500 ILEC access lines, 67,802 Competitive Local Exchange Carrier (CLEC) access line equivalents (including 42,317 access lines and 2,286 DSL subscribers), 79,400 DSL subscribers across all subsidiaries, and 11,100 IPTV subscribers, Consolidated Communications offers a wide range of telecommunications services, including local and long distance service, custom calling features, private line services, high-speed Internet access, digital TV, carrier access services, and directory publishing. Consolidated Communications is the 12th largest local telephone company in the United States.

Forward-Looking Statements

Any statements other than statements of historical facts, including statements about management's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements and should be evaluated as such. These statements are made on the basis of management's views and assumptions regarding future events and business performance. Words such as "estimate," "believe," "anticipate," "expect," and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements (including oral representations) involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such statements. These risks and uncertainties include the ability of Consolidated Communications Holdings, Inc. (the "Company") to successfully integrate the operations of North Pittsburgh Systems, Inc. ("North Pittsburgh") and realize the synergies from the acquisition, as well as a number of other factors related to the businesses of the Company and North Pittsburgh, including various risks to stockholders of not receiving dividends and risks to the Company's ability to pursue growth opportunities if the Company continues to pay dividends according to the current dividend policy; various risks to the price and volatility of the Company's common stock; the substantial amount of debt and the Company's ability to incur additional debt in the future; the Company's need for a significant amount of cash to service and repay the debt and to pay dividends on the Company's common stock; restrictions contained in the Company's debt agreements that limit the discretion of management in operating the business; the ability to refinance the existing debt as necessary; regulatory changes, rapid development and introduction of new technologies and intense competition in the telecommunications industry; risks associated with the Company's possible pursuit of acquisitions; economic conditions in the Company's and North Pittsburgh's service areas in Illinois, Texas and Pennsylvania; system failures; losses of large customers or government contracts; risks associated with the rights-of-way for the network; disruptions in the relationship with third party vendors; losses of key management personnel and the inability to attract and retain highly qualified management and personnel in the future; changes in the extensive governmental legislation and regulations governing telecommunications providers and the provision of telecommunications services; telecommunications carriers disputing and/or avoiding their obligations to pay network access charges for use of the Company's network; high costs of regulatory compliance; the competitive impact of legislation and regulatory changes in the telecommunications industry; and liability and compliance costs regarding environmental regulations. These and other risks and uncertainties are discussed in more detail in the Company's and North Pittsburgh's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including their respective reports on Form 10-K and Form 10-Q.

Many of these risks are beyond management's ability to control or predict. All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on behalf of the Company are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements and risk factors contained in this communication and the Company's and North Pittsburgh's respective filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Because of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Furthermore, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Except as required under the federal securities laws or the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, we do not undertake any obligation to update or review any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Consolidated Communications Holdings, Inc.

CONTACT: Stephen Jones, Vice President - Investor Relations, of
Consolidated Communications Holdings, Inc., +1-217-258-9522,
investor.relations@consolidated.com; or Investor Relations, Kirsten Chapman or
Dahlia Bailey, dbailey@lhai.com, both of Lippert | Heilshorn & Associates,
+1-415-433-3777, for Consolidated Communications Holdings, Inc.

Web site: http://www.consolidated.com/

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Profile: International Entertainment

Presidential Candidate Mike Huckabee to be Guest on NBC's 'Meet The Press' on Sunday, Dec. 30, 2007

Presidential Candidate Mike Huckabee to be Guest on NBC's 'Meet The Press' on Sunday, Dec. 30, 2007

LITTLE ROCK, Ark., Dec. 29 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Former Arkansas Governor and Presidential Candidate Mike Huckabee will be an exclusive guest on NBC's "Meet the Press" with moderator Tim Russert on Sunday, December 30, 2007, it was announced today.

The interview is a part of the program's "Meet the Candidates" series. It will be broadcast from Des Moines, Iowa on Sunday morning. (Check local listings.)

Paid for by Huckabee for President Inc.

www.mikehuckabee.com

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Huckabee for President Inc.

CONTACT: Alice Stewart, +1-501-324-2008, for Huckabee for President
Inc.

Web site: http://www.mikehuckabee.com/

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Profile: International Entertainment

Grand Opening of Jay-Z's 40/40 Club in Las Vegas

Grand Opening of Jay-Z's 40/40 Club in Las Vegas

                **TIP SHEET - SATELLITE COORDINATES INCLUDED**    WHAT:   Grand opening of THE 40/40 CLUB LAS VEGAS located inside The Palazzo. The   Grand Opening will take place on December 30, 2007 and footage will cover   red carpet interviews and interior shots.    WHO:   Confirmed celebrity attendees include (additional confirmations could be   included on footage):   Jay-Z**Beyonce**Alex Rodriguez**Mariah Carey**Rhianna**Anthony   Anderson**Serena Williams**Anthony Munoz**Amare Stoudemire**Barry   Bonds**Big Boi**Caridee English**Carmelo Anthony**Ciara**Darryl "DMC"   McDaniels**Dr. J**Gnarls Barkley**Grant Hill**Gwyneth Paltrow**Hype   Williams**Jalen Rose**Jamie Foxx**Johnny Gill**Judge Greg Mathis**Lebron   James**Magic Johnson**Michael Jackson**Mos Def**Ne-Yo**Talib Kweli**   The-Dream**Timbaland**Will.I.Am**Roger Huerta**Forrest Griffin**    SATELLITE INFO:   B-roll will be available via Satellite on Monday, December 31 at Noon   PST/ 3:00 p.m. EST via the following coordinates:   Date: Monday, December 31, 2007   Time #1:  1500 - 1530 ET (12:00p - 12:30p PST)   Coordinates: Galaxy 17 Transponder 10, ku-Band Analog   Downlink Freq: 11900 (V)   Contact for any trouble receiving: Kevin Ross, 702-278-8271    About 40/40 Club:  

The 40/40 Club, named after one of sport's most prestigious achievements -- 40 home runs and 40 stolen bases in the same season, combines a multi-level ultra sports bar with a chic lounge all under the direction of hip-hop mogul Jay-Z. Providing the ultimate in sports and entertainment, the 40/40 Club will feature an eclectic menu including The Picnic (fried deviled eggs and southern-fried chicken sticks with the special 40/40 sauce), signature 40/40 burgers, and wings amongst other items. The sports memorabilia amidst the lavish gold and platinum decor will serve as the perfect backdrop for the ultra luxurious sports bar. For more information visit http://www.the4040club.com/.

   For media information, please contact:   Alissa Kelly 702-612-7870   Ron Berkowitz 917-887-6277   Rachel Krupa 646-696-9850  

PRNewswire -- Dec. 28
First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:
Website: http://www.the4040club.com

Source: The 40/40 Club

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Profile: International Entertainment

65 New England Domestic Violence Shelters Benefit from Verizon Wireless 'Kids In Need Holiday Drive'

65 New England Domestic Violence Shelters Benefit from Verizon Wireless 'Kids In Need Holiday Drive'

7th Annual Collection Makes Holidays A Bit Brighter For Youngest Victims of Domestic Violence

BOSTON, Dec. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon Wireless employees, customers, and community members donated new, unwrapped toys, games and books at Verizon Wireless stores throughout New England as part of the 7th annual Kids In Need Holiday Drive. Each Verizon Wireless store 'adopted' a local domestic violence shelter to which it donated collected items. At the end of the drive, the donations were distributed to 65 domestic violence shelters based in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont.

"The support our customers and employees give to this drive is incredible," said Ken Dixon, president of Verizon Wireless New England. "Domestic violence prevention and awareness is our main community focus and The Kids In Need Holiday Drive is critical because it directly benefits children living in local domestic violence shelters."

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority's South Station managed by Equity Office once again teamed with Verizon Wireless to make it easy for commuters to donate at its terminal in Boston.

Generosity from community members was equaled by New England television and radio stations who partnered with Verizon Wireless to increase awareness of the Kids In Need Holiday Drive. Participating stations included FOX25 and WROR (105.7 FM) in Massachusetts, FOX61 in Connecticut, and FOX23 in Maine.

The 7th Annual Kids in Need Holiday Drive was organized as part of the company's continued support of domestic violence survivors and their families. The Verizon Wireless HopeLine program focuses on putting wireless products and services to work to assist survivors of domestic violence. Through a phone- recycling program, no-longer-used wireless phones (any carrier, any type of phone) are turned into useable phones and financial donations for shelters and domestic abuse programs nationwide. No-longer-used wireless phones may be recycled year round at any Verizon Wireless store.

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable wireless voice and data network, serving 63.7 million customers. The largest U.S. wireless company and largest wireless data provider, based on revenues, Verizon Wireless is headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 68,000 employees nationwide. The company is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). Find more information on the Web at http://www.verizonwireless.com/. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at http://www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Verizon Wireless

CONTACT: Michael Murphy of Verizon Wireless, +1-781-932-1213,
Michael.murphy@verizonwireless.com, or David Thomson of Thomson
Communications, +1-978-808-7700, David@thomsoncommunications.com

Web site: http://www.verizonwireless.com/
http://www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia

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Profile: International Entertainment

SIRIUS Satellite Radio will Ring in the New Year With 13 Exclusive Live Concert Broadcasts From Across the US

SIRIUS Satellite Radio will Ring in the New Year With 13 Exclusive Live Concert Broadcasts From Across the US

Live performances for New Year's Eve 2008 will include Velvet Revolver, 3 Doors Down, Patti Smith, The English Beat, Chubby Checker, Southside Johnny and many others

SIRIUS will also broadcast classic New Year's Eve concert recordings from Bruce Springsteen, Jimmy Buffett, Grateful Dead, and Frank Sinatra

NEW YORK, Dec. 28 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SIRIUS Satellite Radio (NASDAQ:SIRI) announced today that it will celebrate the New Year with 13 exclusive live concert broadcasts from locations across the US featuring some of the world's biggest artists.

   (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/19991118/NYTH125 )    The line-up is as follows:    VELVET REVOLVER   The Grammy(R) winning hard rock supergroup perform LIVE from the   Hammerstein Ballroom in New York, NY   (Octane, channel 20 -- January 1 at 12 am ET/ December 31 at 9 pm PT)    3 DOORS DOWN   The American post-grunge band perform LIVE from at the Hard Rock in Las   Vegas, NV   (The Pulse channel 9 -- January 1 beginning at 3 am ET/ 12 am PT)    PATTI SMITH   The pre-eminent American poet and songwriter performs LIVE from the Bowery   Ballroom in New York, NY   (SIRIUS Disorder channel 70 -- December 31 beginning at 10 pm ET/ 7 pm PT)    THE ENGLISH BEAT   Punk and Ska revival pioneers perform LIVE from the Malibu Inn in Malibu,   CA   (1st Wave, channel 22 -- January 1st at 2 am ET/ December 31 at 11 pm PT)    CHUBBY CHECKER   Rock and Roll pioneer performs LIVE from the Choctaw Casino in Durant, OK   (60's Vibrations, channel 6 -- December 31 beginning at 11:30 pm ET/ 8:30   pm PT)    SOUTHSIDE JOHNNY   Jersey's famed band perform LIVE from the Count Basie Theater in Red Bank,   NJ   (E Street Radio, channel 10 -- December 31 at 10 pm ET/ 7 pm PT)    EVANS BLUE   The hard rock quintet perform LIVE from The Meridian in Houston, TX   (Octane, channel 20 -- January 1 at 1 am ET/ December 31 at 10 pm PT)    THE BANGLES   The 80s all female pop band perform LIVE from Fremont Street in Las Vegas,   NV   (Big 80s, channel 8 -- January 1 at 12 am ET/ December 31 at 9 pm PT)    CROSS CANADIAN RAGWEED   Performance from alternative country rock band broadcast LIVE from the   House of Blues in Dallas, TX   (Outlaw Country, channel 63 -- January 1 at 12:15 am ET/ December 31 at   9:15 pm PT)    CRYSTAL METHOD   Los Angeles' dance-based electronic duo perform LIVE from Ruby Skye in San   Francisco, CA   (Boombox, channel 34 -- January 1 beginning at 3 am ET/ 12 am PT)    DJ BORRIS   Famed DJ performs LIVE from Pacha in New York, NY   (Area 33, channel 33 -- January 1 at 12 am ET/ December 31 at 9 pm PT)    DEL MCCOURY BAND   Grammy(R) winning bluegrass band performs LIVE from Ryman Auditorium in   Nashville, TN   (Bluegrass, channel 65 -- December 31 at 10:30 pm ET/ 7:30 pm PT)    WIDESPREAD PANIC   Southern rock band performs LIVE from the Philips Arena in Atlanta, GA   (Jam_On, channel 17 -- December 31 at 9 pm ET/ 6 pm PT)   

Beyond the live performances, SIRIUS will also air classic New Year's Eve concert recordings from some of the world's greatest artists. Springsteen fans can hear Bruce Springsteen and the E Street band's concert recorded in their home state of New Jersey in 1977 on E Street Radio channel 10 at 12 am ET/ 9 pm PT. Other great performances will include the Grateful Dead's 1990 New Year's Eve concert recorded in Oakland, CA on the Grateful Dead Channel 32 at 6:40 pm ET / 9:40 pm PT; and Jimmy Buffett's 1999 'Millennium Show" recorded in Hollywood, CA on Radio Margaritaville channel 31 at 11 pm ET/ 8 pm PT.

In addition, listeners can hear classic New Year's performances from "The King" and "The Chairman." Beginning at 8 pm ET / 5 pm PT, Elvis Radio will broadcast a triple play of Elvis concerts, including Elvis' 1976 New Year's Eve performance in Pittsburgh, PA. On Siriusly Sinatra channel 75 at 11 pm ET/ 8 pm and 11 pm PT, listeners will hear Frank Sinatra's 1986 concert recorded at the Golden Nugget in Las Vegas, NV.

Various SIRIUS music channels will also broadcast year-end countdowns of the top albums and songs of 2007. For a complete schedule, please visit www.sirius.com.

About SIRIUS

SIRIUS, "The Best Radio on Radio," delivers more than 130 channels of the best programming in all of radio. SIRIUS is the original and only home of 100% commercial free music channels in satellite radio, offering 69 music channels. SIRIUS also delivers 65 channels of sports, news, talk, entertainment, traffic, weather and data. SIRIUS is the Official Satellite Radio Partner of the NFL, NASCAR and NBA, and broadcasts live play-by-play games of the NFL and NBA, as well as live NASCAR races. All SIRIUS programming is available for a monthly subscription fee of only $12.95.

SIRIUS Internet Radio (SIR) is a CD-quality, Internet-only version of the SIRIUS radio service, without the use of a radio, for the monthly subscription fee of $12.95. SIR delivers more than 80 channels of talk, entertainment, sports, and 100% commercial free music.

SIRIUS Backseat TV(TM) is the first ever live in-vehicle rear seat entertainment featuring three channels of children's TV programming, including Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network, for the subscription fee of $6.99 plus applicable audio subscription fee.

SIRIUS products for the car, truck, home, RV and boat are available in more than 20,000 retail locations, including Best Buy, Circuit City, Crutchfield, Costco, Target, Wal-Mart, Sam's Club, RadioShack and at shop.sirius.com.

SIRIUS radios are offered in vehicles from Audi, Bentley, BMW, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Infiniti, Jaguar, Jeep(R), Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mercury, Maybach, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Rolls Royce, Scion, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Volvo. Hertz also offers SIRIUS in its rental cars at major locations around the country.

Click on www.sirius.com to listen to SIRIUS live, or to purchase a SIRIUS radio and subscription.

Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance with respect to SIRIUS Satellite Radio Inc. are not historical facts and may be forward-looking and, accordingly, such statements involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Accordingly, any such statements are qualified in their entirety by reference to the factors discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Among the significant factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed are: our pending merger with XM Satellite Radio Holdings, Inc. ("XM"), including related uncertainties and risks and the impact on our business if the merger is not completed; any events which affect the useful life of our satellites; our dependence upon third parties, including manufacturers of SIRIUS radios, retailers, automakers and programming providers; and our competitive position versus other audio entertainment providers.

   P-SIRI    MEDIA CONTACT:   Neel Khairzada   SIRIUS   212-584-5243   nkhairzada@siriusradio.com  

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact: NKhairzada@siriusradio.com

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/19991118/NYTH125
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: SIRIUS Satellite Radio

CONTACT: Neel Khairzada of SIRIUS, +1-212-584-5243,
nkhairzada@siriusradio.com

Web site: http://www.sirius.com/

---

Profile: International Entertainment

28th Annual New Year's Eve 'Toast of the Nation' Program Features Broadcast in Full Neural-THX(R) Surround

28th Annual New Year's Eve 'Toast of the Nation' Program Features Broadcast in Full Neural-THX(R) Surround

NPR MUSIC AND WBGO/JAZZ 88.3FM MUSIC SPECIAL TO AIR NATIONALLY AND STREAM LIVE ONLINE

KIRKLAND, Wash. and SAN RAFAEL, Calif., Dec. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Neural Audio Corporation, a market leader in developing advanced audio and surround sound technologies, and THX Ltd., the leading provider of technologies, certification programs and quality assurance standards for the entertainment industry, announced today that Toast of the Nation, the annual nine-hour New Year's Eve music special produced by NPR Music and WBGO/Jazz88.3 FM in Newark, NJ, will be broadcast in 5.1 Neural-THX(R) Surround.

"Toast of the Nation is the premier audio-only live New Year's Eve event reaching one of the largest audiences worldwide for more than 25 years," said Geir R Skaaden, Neural Audio's CEO. "Once again, it is great to work with NPR, WBGO and our home entertainment system partners to broadcast and stream world-class talent to public radio's large listener base."

Toast of the Nation will be presented live from the new Yoshi's Jazz Club in San Francisco and will feature other live performances from across the U.S., including New York, Minneapolis and Boston. Host Rhonda Hamilton, of WBGO's Midday Jazz, will anchor the nine-hour event to an audience of millions in more than 140 countries. The event will feature music from artists such as: pianist Danilo Perez and His Big Band; the great Patti Austin; Trio de Paz and pianist Kenny Barron; Nachito Herrera and the Steele Family Singers; sextet Convergence; and sensational young singer Ledisi with the Count Basie Orchestra.

Toast of the Nation will be broadcast on NPR Member stations nationwide from 8:00PM-5:00AM (ET); many stations will also offer the program on their websites as live streaming audio, as well as on http://www.npr.org/ It will also air on NPR Worldwide; NPR Berlin FM channel; Radio Netherlands in Amsterdam; American Forces Network; and Voice of America in Latin America.

Neural-THX Surround is now found in more than 70 percent of new AV receivers from companies such as Sony, Yamaha, Pioneer, Onkyo, Denon, Marantz, Integra, Inkel and Sherwood. The technology delivers surround radio broadcasts to an audience of more than 11 million through XM Satellite Radio and the Classical Public Radio Network (CPRN). More than 200 TV stations in four countries, including affiliates of all US major networks, use Neural-THX Surround within their transport and distribution infrastructure, helping to make surround broadcast a reality. Through Neural Music Direct, Neural-THX Surround is leading the way for Internet music streaming in full surround sound directly to Internet-ready AV receivers and radios worldwide.

About THX LTD.

Born out of George Lucas' vision to improve the movie-going experience, THX is a driving force in cinema, post-production, car audio and home entertainment. THX is dedicated to developing new ways to make the creation, delivery and presentation of entertainment content more efficient, more powerful and more enjoyable. Today, the world's premier commercial cinemas, post-production studios, car audio systems and home entertainment products incorporate THX technologies and have achieved the coveted THX Certified status. For more information, visit http://www.thx.com/.

About Neural Audio Corporation

Neural Audio, through its Neural-THX(R) Surround technology and unique audio optimization technologies, has become the key enabler in the delivery of high quality content for the TV, radio, game, Internet, home theatre and mobile markets. Key broadcast partners and customers such as XM Satellite Radio, Yamaha Corporation, Sony Corporation, Pioneer Electronics, Onkyo Corporation, Denon Electronics, Marantz America, Inkel, Sherwood and Harris Corporation have adopted Neural Audio's technologies to provide the best quality audio available today to their customers. For more information, please visit http://www.neuralaudio.com/, or http://www.neuralsurround.com/.

About NPR Music

Toast of the Nation is the capstone of NPR Music's holiday offerings, available on-air and online at the new NPR Music multimedia website: http://www.npr.org/music/ The newly-relaunched website includes broadcast and original-to-online content from NPR and 12 NPR Member stations, including WBGO. The NPR Music site offers interviews, lives performances, artists index, reviews, blogs and other features for fans of rock, jazz, classical, urban, folk and world music.

Neural Surround(TM) is a trademark owned by Neural Audio Corporation, THX is a trademark of THX Ltd., which may be registered in some jurisdictions. All rights reserved.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: THX Ltd.

CONTACT: Jackie Broo, Communications Manager, +1-425-814-3200, ext. 116,
cell, +1-513-304-9514, jackie@neuralaudio.com, or Dakx Turcotte, Director,
Marketing and Business Development, +1-425-814-3200, ext. 135, cell,
+1-206-499-5855, dakx@neuralaudio.com, both of Neural Audio Corporation; or
Graham McKenna, PR Manager of THX Ltd., +1-415-492-3946, gmckenna@thx.com; or
Sunok Pak, PR Manager of Hill & Knowlton, +1-415-281-7129, cell,
+1-415-999-4646, sunok.pak@hillandknowlton.com, for THX, Ltd.; or Anna
Christopher, Manager, Media Relations of NPR, +1-202-513-2304,
achristopher@npr.org

Web site: http://www.thx.com/
http://www.npr.org/
http://www.neuralsurround.com/
http://www.neuralaudio.com/

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Profile: International Entertainment

'Farewell My Concubine' Opera Announces January 2008 U.S. Debut

'Farewell My Concubine' Opera Announces January 2008 U.S. Debut

China National Opera House Presents First Western-Style Production of Classic Chinese Love Story

DALLAS, Dec. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- The Chinese American Inter-Cultural Exchange Foundation (CAICE Foundation) is proud to announce the U.S. debut of the first Western-style interpretation of the classic Chinese opera, "Farewell My Concubine." This production is the first performance of the newly-scored opera, one of the rare times that an original Chinese opera will be performed in the U.S. by a Chinese cast and sung in Mandarin. This tour also marks the inaugural appearance of China National Opera House, one of China's premier arts groups, in the United States.

The six-city tour kicks off January 11th in San Francisco followed by Pasadena, Washington, D.C., New York, Houston and Dallas.

The heart and soul behind this Western-style production of "Farewell My Concubine" is internationally-renowned Chinese composer and conductor Xiao Bai. For the past 18 years, Xiao Bai labored to score a Western version of the traditional Chinese story, with the dream of one day presenting his opera to an international audience.

With the support of Emily Kuo Vong and CAICE Foundation, a Dallas-based non-profit organization promoting cultural exchange and understanding between China and the U.S. through the arts, Xiao Bai and the China National Opera House are presenting, for the first time, the Western interpretation of "Farewell My Concubine" outside of China.

Kuo Vong is staging this Western interpretation of "Farewell My Concubine" as a tribute to her musical mentor, Xiao Bai. A graduate of the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, Kuo Vong is a professional musician and conductor in China and the United States. She founded the Dallas Li Sheng Ladies Choir in 2004.

"Xiao Bai and I both believe that culture knows no political, geographic or social barriers," says Kuo Vong, chairman of CAICE Foundation. "Through CAICE Foundation, I hope to introduce to Americans a deep and well-respected appreciation of China's rich cultural legacy. Bringing the China National Opera and this production of "Farewell My Concubine" to America is the first step in bringing together cultural enthusiasts and opera lovers from both sides of the Pacific."

To Westernize the opera, Xiao Bai worked with famed librettist Wang Jian. Together, the two artists developed a new "Western-style" production distinct from traditional "Beijing-style" opera (incorporating instrumental music, vocal performance, pantomime, dance and acrobatics). This version of "Farewell My Concubine" captures the framework of a classic Italian opera, but is sung entirely in Mandarin with English subtitles.

"Farewell My Concubine" is based on real events and characters from over 2,200 years ago in China. Set at the end of the Qin dynasty, the love story revolves around the heroic warrior, Xiang Yu, and his beloved concubine, Yu Ji. The story remains very popular today, and almost everyone in present-day China is familiar with its theme, characters and ill-fated romance.

The well-known Chinese love story is also the inspiration for a play, a novel and a 1993 Oscar-nominated movie.

The new, Westernized production of "Farewell My Concubine" staged its world premiere in Beijing in October 2007, and will be performing in six cities across the United States in 2008:

   --  January 11, 12 and 13 -- War Memorial Opera House, San Francisco, CA   --  January 19, 20 -- The Pasadena Civic, Pasadena, CA   --  January 25 -- DAR Constitution Hall, Washington, D.C.*   --  January 27 -- Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center, New York, NY*   --  January 30, 31 -- The Cullen Theater at the Wortham Center, Houston,       TX*   --  February 5, 6 -- Eisemann Center, Dallas, TX   *  Concert-style production    

Visit http://www.farewellmyconcubineusa.com/ for additional performance details and ticket information.

About the Chinese American Inter-Cultural Exchange Foundation

The Chinese American Inter-Cultural Exchange Foundation is a Dallas-based non-profit organization promoting cultural exchange and understanding between China and the U.S. through the arts. Established in April 2007, CAICE Foundation aims to bring quality Chinese cultural performances to the United States and, in return, introduce American and Western-style performance art to China. Partnering with the China National Opera for its inaugural project, CAICE Foundation is presenting the reinvented classic Chinese story "Farewell My Concubine" to American audiences for the very first time. The Western- style opera will be making its U.S. debut on January 11, 2008 in San Francisco, followed by performances in Pasadena, Washington D.C., New York, Houston and Dallas. For more information, please visit http://www.farewellmyconcubineusa.com/

Interviews, photos and excerpts from opera available

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: The Chinese American Inter-Cultural Exchange Foundation

CONTACT: Eelynn Sim, +1-415-274-7917, esim@golinharris.com, for The
Chinese American Inter-Cultural Exchange Foundation

Web site: http://www.farewellmyconcubineusa.com/

---

Profile: International Entertainment

Danielle Heikkila, 10 Year Old Aspiring Singer, Makes Her Debut on YouTube with Very Favorable Reviews

Danielle Heikkila, 10 Year Old Aspiring Singer, Makes Her Debut on YouTube with Very Favorable Reviews

MINNEAPOLIS, Dec. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Danielle began her passion for singing at the very young age of 2 years old. You would find her frequently entertaining family members and guests of her home with various songs. Danielle has recently gone through some intense training in business in the last year and is taking a proactive approach to honing her skills.

"Danielle is constantly singing. Recently I overheard her sing a song by Kelly Clarkson entitled 'Because of You'. I grabbed my camera and asked her to sing it again. I recorded her and placed the video on YouTube for family and friends to see. Little did I know that so many would email and say what a beautiful and powerful voice she has," stated Danielle's mother, Renae.

Danielle's goal is to audition for American Idol one day and go on to a career in music.

"Danielle has vision and tenacity that will definitely assist her in becoming successful in whatever she chooses to do. It's been amazing listening as her voice continues to mature," stated her proud aunt, Amanda Butler.

Danielle's amateur video was placed on her new blog and posted to YouTube for all to see. Her mother is requesting all to post a comment of encouragement for Danielle on her blog or YouTube.

Look for more from Danielle on her new blog: www.danielleheikkila.blogspot.com.

   Press Release Contact Information:   Renae Heikkila   Manager   Freedom Choice Int'l Inc.   888-805-3394   rheikkila@comcast.net   

This release was issued through WebWire(R). For more information visit http://www.webwire.com/.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Freedom Choice Int'l Inc.

CONTACT: Renae Heikkila, Manager of Freedom Choice Int'l Inc.,
888-805-3394, rheikkila@comcast.net

Web site: http://www.danielleheikkila.blogspot.com/

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Profile: International Entertainment

Paul Rodgers' NYE Webcast; Sponsorships to be Auctioned on eBay to Benefit the Equilibrium Institute: Auction Closes 12/29/2007

Paul Rodgers' NYE Webcast; Sponsorships to be Auctioned on eBay to Benefit the Equilibrium Institute: Auction Closes 12/29/2007

EQ.TV Hosts Free New Year's Webcast Of Paul Rodgers, Sponsorships to Benefit Equilibrium Institute - Live From Reno, NV

ASHLAND, Ore., Dec. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- True to its model of harnessing entertainment as fuel for a rapid transition to a sustainable world, www.EQ.TV will be hosting a free live New Years Eve broadcast of platinum-selling Paul Rodgers.

Event coverage begins at 3pm PST, with the live performance beginning at approximately 9:30pm, PST. In addition to the live concert performance during the 10 hour webcast, EQ.TV will also be showing never before broadcast clips from the DVD, Paul Rodgers "Live In Glasgow," and exclusive, never before seen footage of the Page and Plant 1995 World Tour. There will be other surprises as well.

Paul Rodgers' rock and roll career has been extremely prolific, having been the lead singer for the world-renowned bands Free (1968-1973), Bad Company (1974-1982), and The Firm (with Jimmy Page, 1984-1986.), then continuing on to earn a Grammy nomination for his solo 1993 release, "Muddy Water Blues." With a soulful, bluesy voice that is stronger than ever, Rodgers will rock in the New Year with his many hits, including "All Right Now," and "Can't Get Enough." He will also play fresh material from his newest CD/DVD, "Live In Glasgow."

EQ.TV is partnering with Ustream.tv to deliver this groundbreaking, marathon Rock and Roll webcast event!

Sponsorships are still available due to the last-minute nature of this announcement. EQ TV is offering the webcast sponsorships through eBay to raise money for its sister organization, the Equilibrium Institute, a nonprofit (501c3) dedicated to developing and supporting global sustainability. EQ.TV gives a full 33% of all profits to the Institute. According to Chris Byrne, Director of Operations for EQ.TV: "This is a win-win opportunity for all parties. Sponsors can reach a diverse and dedicated international fanbase, EQ.TV raises awareness and funding for supporting green and socially responsible projects, and fans of Rock and Roll can participate in a groundbreaking, marathon webcast featuring one of Rock and Roll's greatest performers." Links to the sponsorship auctions are available at http://eq.tv/watch/paulrodgers.

About EQ.TV

EQ.TV harnesses entertainment to fuel a rapid transition to a sustainable world. EQ.TV dedicates 33% of proceeds to the Equilibrium Institute, a non- profit organization dedicated to funding and documenting regional sustainability initiatives. In addition to media content (http://www.eq.tv/watch), EQ.TV is also home to EQ Connect (http://www.eq.tv/connect), a social network for people who are passionate about music and sustainability.

About Paul Rodgers:

Paul Rodgers' passion is writing and performing music. For a man who prefers to keep a low profile he has left his indelible mark on the music world.

   -- Platinum selling Singer, Songwriter &; Self-taught      Multi-instrumentalist   -- Written, Recorded, Produced and Released 28 albums since 1968   -- Sold over 90 million records   -- Formed and Led 3 bands to worldwide success: Free, Bad Company, &;      The Firm   -- Grammy Nominated Solo Career   -- Has Recorded/Performed with Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck, Brain May,      David Gilmour, Buddy Guy, Joe Walsh, Slash, Nils Lofgren,      Charlie Watts, Bryan Adams, Motown's Sam Moore &; The Four Tops,      and others.    

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

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Equilibrium Media

CONTACT: Aaren Glover of Equilibrium Media, +1-541-210-8495, fax,
+1-541-488-8897, aaren@eq.tv

Web site: http://www.eq.tv/
http://www.paulrodgers.com/

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Profile: International Entertainment

BLOCKBUSTER(R) Stores Open Through New Year's Holiday

BLOCKBUSTER(R) Stores Open Through New Year's Holiday

             Movies Offer Alternative To Going Out On New Year's    WHAT:         For those celebrating New Year's Eve at home, movies provide                 a way to pass the time until midnight -- and 2008 -- arrive.                  Thousands of U.S. corporate BLOCKBUSTER(R) stores will be                 open on New Year's Eve to help make sure at-home                 celebrations stay lively through the arrival of 2008.                  New Year's and New Year's Day are two of the retailer's                 busiest days of the year.    WHEN:         Monday, Dec. 31 (New Year's Eve)     10 a.m. to 10 p.m.                  Tuesday, Jan. 1 (New Year's Day)     10 a.m. to midnight                  PLEASE NOTE:  While most U.S. BLOCKBUSTER stores will adhere                 to this schedule, holiday hours are determined locally and                 may vary by store.    WHERE:        All major U.S. media markets.  Media may contact                 Blockbuster Inc. at (214) 854-3190 to find a store in their                 area.    VISUALS:      Consumers renting current must-see DVDs like "The Bourne                 Ultimatum," "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End" and                 "The Nanny Diaries."    CONTACT:      Please contact BLOCKBUSTER at (214) 854-3190 to arrange                 interviews and filming at a store in your area.  

PRNewswire -- Dec. 28
First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Blockbuster Inc.

Web site: http://www.blockbuster.com/

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Profile: International Entertainment

Go Beyond Gaming and Play All Your Music on Your Wii

Go Beyond Gaming and Play All Your Music on Your Wii

- MP3tunes Announces Custom Technology for Wii, Plus More Music for New Year's -

SAN DIEGO, Dec. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- The thousands and thousands of people who were lucky enough to unwrap a new Nintendo Wii this holiday season can now play all their digital music through the gaming device with new technology from MP3tunes -- http://www.mp3tunes.com/. Developed by Rodney Powers for MP3tunes, owners of the Wii can now use the device's controller to wirelessly stream their personal music collections from their own Music Lockers. Music stored in MP3tunes Music Lockers can also be played on the Sony PlayStation 3, Windows Mobile devices, a variety of Internet radios and more, thanks to the MP3tunes open API (Application Programming Interface).

"The Wii is the latest popular gaming device that, with MP3tunes' technology, actually becomes a home stereo system," commented Michael Robertson, CEO of MP3tunes. "Consumers shouldn't be limited in where or how they enjoy their personal music collections, and we will continue to announce new ways MP3tunes is fulfilling its vision of giving people access to all of their music, anywhere they go." For more details and set-up instructions for the Wii, PS3 and other devices, visit http://www.mp3tunes.com/wii. To sign-up for a free MP3tunes Music Locker visit http://www.mp3tunes.com/signup.

MP3tunes is offering free playlists to sideload to the Music Locker for immediate access on the Wii and other devices. "To demonstrate how simple it is to add playlists to a Locker, we've created, in partnership with CDBaby, a terrific New Year's Eve music set for our customers," commented Emily Richards, President of MP3tunes. "With just one click, this New Year's playlist is sideloaded to your Music Locker for access on dozens of devices -- with no listening limits." Sideload the playlist to your MP3tunes Locker at http://www.mp3tunes.com/ .

About MP3tunes:

MP3tunes is a Music Service Provider (MSP) with a digital Music Locker delivering online storage and unlimited listening, coupled with specialized applications for streaming optimization. MP3tunes gives users a simple and secure way to sync personal music collections to a private and secure online Music Locker and listen through any web browser, along with a growing number of cutting-edge home entertainment and mobile devices, including the Nintendo Wii and Sony PlayStation 3, via its open Music API (Application Programming Interface). The company was started in 2005 by Michael Robertson, the original founder of MP3.com. For more information, please visit http://www.mp3tunes.com/.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: MP3tunes

CONTACT: Dianne Gleason of Enfuego Strategic Communications,
+1-303-381-2571, dianne@enfuegosc.com, for MP3tunes

Web site: http://www.mp3tunes.com/

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Profile: International Entertainment

Kenwood Vineyards Lounge to Debut at 40/40 Club Las Vegas

Kenwood Vineyards Lounge to Debut at 40/40 Club Las Vegas

KENWOOD (SONOMA VALLEY), Calif., Dec. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Kenwood Vineyards is set to light up Las Vegas on December 30, 2007, when hip-hop mogul Jay-Z's 40/40 Club opens at The Palazzo, the spectacular new world-class resort on the Las Vegas Strip. Kenwood Vineyards will sponsor the star-studded Grand Opening gala at 40/40 Club Las Vegas that evening, an event that includes the debut of the winery's namesake VIP room at the Club -- the Kenwood Vineyards Lounge.

The new $20 million 40/40 Club Las Vegas is the third location of Jay-Z's renowned upscale sports bar and lounge, following in the footsteps of his highly successful 40/40 Clubs in New York and Atlantic City. The multi-level venue features 85 plasma screen televisions, five bars serving "top-shelf" wines and libations, and leather couch seating for ultimate sports enjoyment, plus a luxurious dining area offering all-American fare with a Latin accent and five VIP rooms -- including the Kenwood Vineyards Lounge -- for private events.

The Kenwood Vineyards-sponsored 40/40 Club Las Vegas Grand Opening gala will be an opulent affair. A throng of "A-List" celebrities will walk the red carpet in front of fans and the press before heading inside for an evening to include a welcome and ceremonial ribbon-cutting by Jay-Z, dancing to live celebrity DJs and a midnight toast. A one-hour television special, "Live on the Red Carpet at the 40/40 Club Las Vegas Grand Opening," is scheduled to air on "Extra" and "E!".

The Kenwood Vineyards Lounge promises to be the most popular VIP room at 40/40 Club Las Vegas. Literally a "club within a club," the intimate Kenwood Vineyards Lounge -- which can accommodate only 70 guests -- blends wine country accents with leather wrap around couches, hardwood floors, wood paneled walls, a sunken living room and an 8-foot pool table. This private space also is equipped with two 65-inch plasma screen televisions, an independent sound system, wireless internet access, Xbox, Playstation, chess boards and a complementary Ms. Pacman arcade game. One of the Kenwood Vineyard Lounge's most distinctive amenities is a private outdoor terrace, with views of the famed Las Vegas Strip and the Las Vegas fireworks. Befitting a private, "by reservation only" lounge, VIP servers assigned exclusively to the Kenwood Vineyards Lounge will take care of guests' food and beverage needs. A superb selection of premium Kenwood Vineyards Sonoma County wines will be available in the Kenwood Vineyards Lounge by the glass and by the bottle.

The new club is located in The Palazzo, a 50-floor all-suites hotel-casino-resort that takes Las Vegas luxury, sophistication and contemporary chic to new heights. Situated adjacent to The Venetian and across the street from the Wynn Las Vegas, the Palazzo is situated at the center of Las Vegas excitement. The Palazzo is scheduled to open on December 20, 2007.

Established in 1970 in the Sonoma Valley, Kenwood Vineyards produces premium wines that showcase Sonoma County's world class vineyards.

Celebrate responsibly.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Kenwood Vineyards

CONTACT: Margie Healy, +1-707-824-7715, mhealy@korbel.com, for Kenwood
Vineyards

Web site: http://www.kenwoodvineyards.com/

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Profile: International Entertainment

Table Mountain Casino Presents Stage and Screen Legend, Liza Minnelli

Table Mountain Casino Presents Stage and Screen Legend, Liza Minnelli

FRIANT, Calif., Dec. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Table Mountain Casino presents Liza Minnelli, live on stage in the Table Mountain Casino Event Center, Wednesday, January 16th.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20061128/SFTU147LOGO)

Liza Minnelli began performing at the age of three and hasn't stopped since. An icon of stage and screen, she has won virtually every award possible, including three Tonys, an Oscar, two Golden Globes and an Emmy. Just hearing the name "Liza" instantly brings to mind images of the exuberant, long-legged and long-lashed star, whose throaty laugh is instantly recognizable. Her stage presence as a legendary performer is immediately evident in Liza's performance of trademark songs from the musicals, "New York, New York" and "Cabaret."

She began her career at a very early age, co-starring with her mother in the movie "In the Good Old Summertime" in 1949. At the age of 10, Liza hosted the first-ever TV broadcast of "The Wizard of Oz," reaching a viewing audience of about 45 million people.

In 1972, her movie career peaked when she played Sally Bowles in "Cabaret." The film won eight Oscars, including Best Actress for Liza. The role also earned her a Golden Globe and a British Film Academy Award. The unqualified success of "Cabaret" put Liza on the covers of Time and Newsweek in the same week.

Liza also starred in the first concert ever filmed live for television in 1972. "Liza with a Z" produced a Top 20 album and won the Emmy for Outstanding Single Program. It will be re-released soon as a DVD.

Liza continues her extraordinary music career with ongoing concert tours in the U.S. and Europe, as well as recording a new album.

"We are proud and honored to continue Table Mountain Casino's tradition of presenting music legends, such as Tony Bennett, B.B. King and now Liza Minnelli to the Central Valley," says John Mayewski, President and CEO of Table Mountain Casino. "This spectacular concert will be another quality Entertainment Experience to remember for years to come."

Ticket Prices: $65 VIP, $55 Reserved, $45 General Admission (Members of The Club save $5, Platinum Players save $10). Must be 18 years or older to attend. No refunds, cameras or videos. Tickets are on sale now at the Main Casino Cage and tmcasino.com.

Table Mountain Casino is owned and operated by the Table Mountain Rancheria Band of Indians who actively support many Community-based agencies and non-profit organizations serving residents of the Greater Fresno area and the regional San Joaquin Valley community. To learn more about Table Mountain Casino, its community service programs and current promotions, please visit tmcasino.com.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20061128/SFTU147LOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: Table Mountain Casino

CONTACT: John Mayewski, President & CEO, or Dan Casas, Legal Counsel, or
Kathy Driscoll, Public Relations, kdriscoll@tmcasino.com, all of Table
Mountain Casino, +1-559-822-7777

Web site: http://www.tmcasino.com/

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Profile: International Entertainment

Driven by Music, MTV.com, VH1.com and CMT.com Deliver 1.2 Billion Video Streams in 2007

Driven by Music, MTV.com, VH1.com and CMT.com Deliver 1.2 Billion Video Streams in 2007

Women Ruled, Country Crossed Over and VMA Artists Rocked in MTV Networks Music Group's Top 30 Most-Streamed Music Videos of 2007

NEW YORK, Dec. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Driven by music, MTV.com, VH1.com and CMT.com video streams topped more than 1.2 billion in 2007, 30 percent more than 2006 -- an all-time record for the collective brands within MTV Networks' Music Group, which now attracts nearly 30 million unique visitors every month. Music videos accounted for nearly half of the streams, as viewers sought out their favorite artists and discovered new ones from a cross-section of genres, including pop and hip hop, country and rock. Music videos also drove MTV Mobile, VH1 Mobile and CMT Mobile into triple-digit growth in 2007. In fact, music videos accounted for every single one of the top 10 most-streamed videos on the three services.

"Music was at the core of everything we did in 2007," said Van Toffler, President of MTV Networks' Music Group. "And, once again, MTV, VH1 and CMT produced the year's most memorable events in music."

In the first-ever ranking of the 30 most-popular music videos streamed on MTV.com, VH1.com and CMT.com, women ruled, country crossed over and VMA artists tore it up in 2007. Female acts dominated the year-end chart, accounting for eight of the Top 10 songs. Britney Spears took the trophy for the most-streamed video with her live performance of "Gimme More" during the 2007 Video Music Awards. Avril Lavigne came in second with "Girlfriend" and Rihanna, another VMA performer, came in third with "Umbrella." Fergie placed three singles in the Top 10 alone -- "Glamorous" (#4), "Big Girls Don't Cry" (#5) and "Fergalicious" (#7) -- and was the artist with the most appearances on the chart.

New artists like Paramore -- a band that gained notoriety through MTV's 52/52 initiative -- stormed this year's chart with "Misery Business" at #22. The Plain White T's, which earned the "Breaking Woodie" at the 2006 mtvU Woodie Awards, lived up to the their expectations in 2007, claiming the #27 spot with their smash "Hey There Delilah." And throughout the year, VH1's "You Oughta Know" franchise made artists such as Feist and Colbie Caillat household names.

The year's biggest crossover hit belonged to Carrie Underwood, a fixture on CMT. Her signature smash, "Before He Cheats," landed at #15.

MTV's VMAs, VH1's Hip Hop Honors and CMT's Music Awards inspired viewers to go online and see their favorite artists. At MTV's VMA's Chris Brown solidified his place in music with Michael Jackson-esque moves. VH1's Hip Hop Honors, the most important event in the hip-hop community, this year celebrated the works of Snoop Dogg, WHODINI, Missy Elliot and others. And CMT's Music Awards saw Sugarland and Bon Jovi deliver stirring performances.

On Mobile

Soulja Boy's "Crank Dat (Soulja Boy)" was the most-streamed video on both MTV Mobile and VH1 Mobile. Sugarland's "Stay," which the group performed live during the CMT Music Awards, clinched the top spot on CMT Mobile. MTV Mobile streams grew 90 percent over 2006, while VH1 streams grew by 100 percent and CMT recorded a 252 percent surge.

Curated music programming also performed well. MTV Mobile's most-viewed show content was the original made-for-mobile series, Dances From the Hood. VH1 launched "Pop Up Mobile to Go," a made-for-mobile version of the hugely popular VH1 series, featuring music videos from Janet Jackson, the Beastie Boys, Rihanna, Black Eyed Peas and Nelly. And MTV Tr3s Mobile, introduced this year, has grown 65 percent every month since March, making it the fastest- growing mobile brand ever in the MTVN portfolio.

Throughout the year, MTV, VH1 and CMT also introduced new experiences to drive deeper engagement with music.

    -- At MTV.com, viewers used the new Video Remixer to create more than       8,200 remixes of Britney Spears' latest single, "Piece of Me."       Throughout the year, viewers could also remix videos from Kelly       Clarkson, Common, Nelly Furtado and Paramore.     -- MTVN in 2007 also was the first media/entertainment company to begin       threading lyrics throughout its programming on all platforms,       beginning with MTV.com. Viewers who search for lyrics on MTV.com,       VH1.com, or CMT.com will get the full lyrics, as well as links to       music videos, links to purchase the song, and comprehensive artist       information, such as bios and discographies.     -- VH1Classic.com, which re-launched in May with an on-demand library of       thousands of classic music videos, has seen time spent surge by 30       percent. VH1Classic.com was just one of a dozen new vertical Web sites       and blogs launched by the Music Group in 2007.   

Here are the top 30 most-streamed videos across MTVN Music Group's MTV.com, VH1.com and CMT.com.

   Position     Song Title              Artist              Label   1.           Gimme More (Live)       Britney Spears      BMG   2.           Girlfriend              Avril Lavigne       BMG   3.           Umbrella                Rihanna             Universal   4.           Glamorous               Fergie              Universal   5.           Big Girls Don't Cry     Fergie              Universal   6.           This Ain't a Scene,                 It's an Arms Race      Fall Out Boy        Universal   7.           Fergalicious            Fergie              Universal   8.           The Sweet Escape        Gwen Stefani        Universal   9.           Candyman                Christina Aguilera  BMG   10.          Don't Matter            Akon                Universal   11.          Makes Me Wonder         Maroon 5            Universal   12.          What I've Done          Linkin Park         Warner   13.          Wall to Wall/                 Billie Jean/                 Umbrella/                 Kiss Kiss Medley                 (Live)                 Chris Brown         Sony   14.          Rockstar                Nickelback          Warner   15.          Before He Cheats        Carrie Underwood    BMG   16.          Lipgloss (No Music)     Lil Mama            BMG   17.          Say It Right            Nelly Furtado       Universal   18.          Never Again             Kelly Clarkson      BMG   19.          It's Not Over           Daughtry            BMG   20.          Famous Last Words       My Chemical Romance Warner   21.          Beautiful Liar          Beyonce             Sony   22.          Misery Business         Paramore            Independent Label   23.          When You're Gone        Avril Lavigne       BMG   24.          The Way I Are           Timbaland           Universal   25.          Kiss Kiss               Chris Brown         Sony   26.          Crank That (Soulja Boy) Soulja Boy          Universal   27.          Hey There Delilah       Plain White T's     Independent Label   28.          No One                  Alicia Keys         Sony   29.          Stronger                Kanye West          Universal   30.          Get Me Bodied           Beyonce             Sony   

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 145 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services -- MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN/THE N, VH1 CLASSIC, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 300 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

Source: MTV

CONTACT: Matthew Hutchison of MTV Networks' Music Group,
+1-202-997-1164, Matthew.Hutchison@MTVstaff.com

Web site: http://www.mtv.com/
http://vh1.com/
http://cmt.com/
http://vh1classic.com/

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Profile: International Entertainment

WeatherBill Publishes Study Identifying the Impact of Weather on Film Box Office Revenue

WeatherBill Publishes Study Identifying the Impact of Weather on Film Box Office Revenue

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., Dec. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- WeatherBill (www.weatherbill.com), the world's only online service that allows businesses to protect revenue and control costs from the impact of bad weather, today announced the release of a new study analyzing the impact of weather on film box office revenue. The study found that top ten box office films earn significantly less -- up to a third lower -- on warmer weekends than on average or dry ones. The full study can be downloaded at http://www.weatherbill.com/reports/boxofficeweather and a summary is available at http://www.weatherbill.com/reports/boxofficeweather-summary.

"Historically, the concept of weather motivating or deterring filmgoers was based on speculation and anecdote," said David Friedberg, founder and CEO of WeatherBill. "It's remarkable that such a weather-sensitive industry hasn't had a publicly available fact-based weather study. We believe it's important for the film industry to understand the impact of weather on revenue as a first step in managing weather risk and protecting profits."

WeatherBill analyzed nearly ten years of United Kingdom box office data to identify the effect of weather on revenue from each weekend's ten top-grossing films. Both temperature and precipitation can negatively impact box office revenue. While the top grossing film brings in about 9% less on a warm or dry weekend, films grossing in the 8th-10th spots bring in over 30% less on a warm weekend. Time of year also played a role in how temperature and precipitation affected revenue. Summer months turned out to be particularly susceptible to the impact of weather.

2007 was the wettest summer in the UK since records began in 1914, and August was the coldest in more than a decade. Film industry experts speculate that audiences were motivated to seek indoor entertainment because of the summer's record-setting inclement weather resulting in record admissions of 50.8 million viewers, a 40-year high, according to box office figures. This study confirms that speculation, and although United Kingdom climate is infamous for cold and wet weather, dry and warm weekends occur with enough frequency to significantly impact revenue. The identifiable and measurable impact demonstrated in the study can be translated to US box office regions with relatively uniform weather.

"Clearly, warm and dry weather negatively impacts box office revenue, and with enough frequency and severity to warrant a new approach to managing that weather risk," said Friedberg. "WeatherBill is designed to be easy and affordable for all kinds of businesses, including film studios, production houses, vendors, and theater owners. WeatherBill is readily available to help these businesses manage weather risk with a simple, customizable, and affordable solution."

WeatherBill, Inc. (www.weatherbill.com) provides the only online service that allows businesses to protect revenue and control costs from the impact of bad weather. Founded by CEO David Friedberg and CTO Siraj Khaliq, former members of the Google team, WeatherBill is funded by New Enterprise Associates, Index Ventures, and Allen & Company and is backed by Nephila Capital, one of the world's largest weather risk and catastrophe reinsurance fund managers.

Source: WeatherBill, Inc.

CONTACT: Regina Sinsky of WeatherBill, Inc., +1-415-762-4378,
regina@weatherbill.com

Web site: http://www.weatherbill.com/
http://www.weatherbill.com/reports/boxofficeweather
http://www.weatherbill.com/reports/boxofficeweather-summary

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Profile: International Entertainment

Shopping Channel HSN Agrees to Pay $875,000 Civil Penalty

Shopping Channel HSN Agrees to Pay $875,000 Civil Penalty

WASHINGTON, Dec. 27 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced today that HSN LP (previously known as Home Shopping Network), of St. Petersburg, Fla., has agreed to pay a civil penalty of $875,000. The civil penalty settles allegations that HSN LP failed to report in a timely manner, as required by federal law, serious injuries and hazards with the Welbilt Electronic Pressure Cookers.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030904/USCSCLOGO )

CPSC alleged that from September 2001 through about October 2004, HSN received at least 25 reports from consumers indicating that the pressure cookers contained a defect that could create a substantial product hazard or that the pressure cookers created an unreasonable risk of serious injury. CPSC alleged that HSN failed to immediately report this information as required by federal law. HSN LP finally reported information to CPSC in February 2005. In June and October 2005, these pressure cookers were the subject of a recall.

Under the Consumer Product Safety Act, manufacturers, distributors and retailers are required to immediately report to CPSC information about products that could create a substantial risk of injury to the public or that create an unreasonable risk of serious injury or death.

In agreeing to settle this matter, HSN denied CPSC's allegations that it violated the CPSA.

   Photo at http://www.cpsc.gov/.    CPSC Hotline: (800) 638-2772   CPSC Media Contact: Scott Wolfson, (301) 504-7908  

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030904/USCSCLOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission

CONTACT: CPSC Media Contact: Scott Wolfson, +1-301-504-7908

Web Site: http://www.cpsc.gov/

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Profile: International Entertainment

Legendary American Soprano Kathleen Battle and Superstar Chinese Pianist Lang Lang to Perform at International Opening of China's National Centre for the Performing Arts

Legendary American Soprano Kathleen Battle and Superstar Chinese Pianist Lang Lang to Perform at International Opening of China's National Centre for the Performing Arts

Classical Music Luminaries Battle and Lang Lang to Appear at Prestigious New Year's Eve/Day Gala With China National Symphony Orchestra Conducted by Acclaimed Maestro Seiji Ozawa

NEW YORK, Dec. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Two of classical music's most beloved and acclaimed superstars, American soprano Kathleen Battle and Chinese pianist Lang Lang, will perform at the international opening of The National Centre for the Performing Arts, Beijing's brand-new state-of-the-art performing arts center. Both artists will appear in special gala performances on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day with the China National Symphony Orchestra led by the highly sought-after Japanese conductor Seiji Ozawa, who is currently the music director of the Vienna State Opera, and featuring an appearance by Russia's leading violinist Vadim Repin.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071106/NYTU044 )

Taking place December 31st, 2007, at 8 pm and January 1st, 2008, at 7:30 pm, the gala performances celebrate the eagerly anticipated international opening of the National Centre for the Performing Arts. Located in central Beijing, adjacent to the Great Hall of the People and Tiananmen Square, the Centre is the new Chinese focus for the performing arts and an important foundation for the creative cultural scene in China.

The international launch of China's foremost cultural center is significant, coming as it does on the cusp of the year that Beijing hosts the Olympic Summer Games. In 2008, all eyes will be on Lang Lang, who, serving as a cultural ambassador for his country, will tour the world in support of his eighth album, Beethoven: Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 4, which was released by Deutsche Grammophon in May 2007 and immediately topped Billboard's Classical Albums chart. The album has earned 25-year-old Lang Lang, whom the New York Times has praised as "the hottest artist on the classical music planet," a 2008 Grammy Award nomination for Best Instrumental Soloist.

Kathleen Battle's performances in China will also mark the beginning of a major year for the five-time Grammy-winning opera singer, who is a favored soloist with the world's most esteemed conductors and orchestras. In spring 2008, Battle will return to New York City's Carnegie Hall for her first recital there in many years. In 1991, Battle made her Carnegie Hall solo recital debut as part of the famed concert hall's 100th anniversary season. A celebrated recording of her performance received a Grammy Award. An American treasure, Battle has earned countless accolades for her luminous voice called "without qualification, one of the very few most beautiful in the world" by The Washington Post.

                   For more information, please contact:                 Pamela Murphy at Align Entertainment Group                            Office 646.596.8700                             Cell 917.498.0802                             pamela@aligneg.com  

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071106/NYTU044
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: National Centre for the Performing Arts

CONTACT: Pamela Murphy of Align Entertainment Group for National Centre
for the Performing Arts, Office, +1-646-596-8700, or Cell, +1-917-498-0802,
pamela@aligneg.com

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Profile: International Entertainment