Paul Korda . com - The Web Home of Paul Korda, singer, musician & song-writer.

International Entertainment News

Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Time Warner Cable, Viacom Reach Agreement in Principle

Time Warner Cable, Viacom Reach Agreement in Principle

Networks Will Continue to Be Available On All Time Warner Cable Systems

NEW YORK, Jan. 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Time Warner Cable (NYSE:TWC) and Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:and) (NYSE:VIA.B) jointly announced this morning that they have reached an agreement in principle to renew carriage for Viacom's MTV Networks. The companies expect to finalize the details of the agreement over the next several days.

Glenn Britt, President and CEO of Time Warner Cable said, "We are pleased that our customers will continue to be able to watch the programming they enjoy on MTV Networks. We are sorry they had to endure a day of public disagreement as we worked through this negotiation."

Philippe Dauman, President and CEO of Viacom said, "We've been partners with Time Warner Cable for a long time, and we're happy to be renewing that partnership for the benefit of their customers and our loyal viewers. It's gratifying that we could reach an agreement that benefits not only our audiences but that is also in the best interest of both of our companies."

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Viacom

CONTACT: Alex Dudley of Time Warner Cable, +1-917-886-8053,
alex.dudley@twcable.com; or Carl Folta, +1-917-992-7690,
carl.folta@viacom.com, or Kelly McAndrew, +1-646-725-7428,
kelly.mcandrew@viacom.com, both of Viacom; or Carole Robinson,
+1-917-860-5891, Carole.robinson@mtv.com, or Mark Jafar, +1-646-239-6530,
Mark.jafar@mtvstaff.com, both of MTV Networks


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

WADL-TV 38 Mayoral Debate Round 2 Will Be Broadcast Live Wednesday January 7th 2009 8:00PM: WJR The Detroit News, and The Detroit Free Press Will Serve as Panel

WADL-TV 38 Mayoral Debate Round 2 Will Be Broadcast Live Wednesday January 7th 2009 8:00PM: WJR The Detroit News, and The Detroit Free Press Will Serve as Panel

WADL Stays True to Candidate Fairness and Format in Upcoming Mayoral Debate

CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich., Dec. 31 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The second in a series of highly talked about Debates takes place Wednesday January 7th 2009 8:00PM.

WADL TV 38 has remained true to its promise to give all candidates who want the opportunity a forum to debate. The Candidates for round 2 of one of Detroit's most talked about elections are as follows, D. Etta Wilcoxon, Coleman Young II, Stanley Christmas and Rev. Nicholas Hood III.

Previously invited to debate in this round was Sharon McPhail. In an unexpected turn of events Mayoral candidate Sharon McPhail refused to debate with candidates that were randomly selected after she did not rank in the top four.

The panel will include Nolan Finley, Editorial Editor for the Detroit News, Stephen Henderson, Editorial Editor for The Detroit Free Press, and Moderator Dayna Clark, News Anchor WJR News Talk Radio.

WADL stands by the position of fair forum for all candidates

For further information, contact Denise Dody Johnson, Marketing Director and Director of Public Relations, 586-790-3838, dody@wadldetroit.com.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: WADL-TV 38

CONTACT: Denise Dody Johnson, Marketing Director and Director of Public
Relations, WADL-TV 38, +1-586-790-3838, dody@wadldetroit.com

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Scopus Announces Special Meeting of Shareholders

Scopus Announces Special Meeting of Shareholders

TEL AVIV, Israel, Dec. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Scopus Video Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ:SCOP) , a provider of digital video networking products, today announced that a Special Meeting of Shareholders will be held on Friday, February 6, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. (Israel time), to consider and vote upon a proposal to adopt and approve the previously announced merger agreement, dated as of December 22, 2008, by and among Harmonic Inc., a Delaware corporation, Sunrise Acquisition Ltd., an Israeli company and a wholly owned subsidiary of Harmonic, and Scopus, and the transactions contemplated thereby, including the merger of Sunrise Acquisition Ltd. with and into Scopus.

The affirmative vote of at least a majority of the votes of the shareholders present and voting at the meeting, in person or by proxy, excluding abstentions, is required to constitute approval of the proposal.

The Scopus shareholders of record at the close of business on January 6, 2009, will be entitled to notice of the special general meeting and to vote on the proposal. The special general meeting will be held at the offices of the Company, 10 Ha'amal Street, Park-Afek, Rosh-Ha'ayin 48092, Israel.

Scopus will mail to its shareholders of record a proxy statement describing the matters to be voted upon at the special general meeting, along with a proxy card enabling them to indicate their vote. The Company will also furnish the proxy statement to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on Form 6-K.

About Scopus Video Networks

Scopus Video Networks (NASDAQ:SCOP) develops, markets and supports digital video networking solutions that enable network operators to offer advanced video services to their subscribers. Scopus' solutions support digital television, HDTV, live event coverage and content distribution.

Scopus' comprehensive digital video networking solution offer intelligent video gateways, encoders, decoders and network management products. Scopus' solutions are designed to allow network operators to increase service revenues, improve customer retention and minimize capital and operating expenses.

Scopus' customers include satellite, cable and terrestrial operators, broadcasters and telecom service providers. Scopus' products are used by hundreds of network operators worldwide.

   For more information visit: www.scopus.net     Company Contact:                   Investor Relations Contact   Moshe Eisenberg                    Ehud Helft / Kenny Green   Chief Financial Officer            GK Investor Relations   Tel: +972-3-900 7100               Tel: (US) 1 646 201 9246   Moshee@scopus.net                  info@gkir.com  

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Scopus Video Networks Ltd.

CONTACT: Company Contact: Moshe Eisenberg, Chief Financial Officer of
Scopus Video Networks Ltd., +972-3-900-7100, Moshee@scopus.net; or Investor
Relations Contact: Ehud Helft or Kenny Green of GK Investor Relations,
+1-646-201-9246, info@gkir.com

Web site: http://www.scopus.net/


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Inglourious Basterds Will Open Nationwide on August 21, 2009

Inglourious Basterds Will Open Nationwide on August 21, 2009

NEW YORK, Dec. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- The Weinstein Company (TWC) and Universal Pictures announced today that Academy Award-winning director Quentin Tarantino's World War II epic, Inglourious Basterds, starring Brad Pitt, will open domestically August 21, 2009. The announcement was made by Harvey Weinstein, co-chairman of TWC and David Linde, co-chairman of Universal Pictures who are partners in the film. TWC and Universal are co-financing and co-presenting the film with TWC handling domestic distribution and Universal handling international distribution. International release dates will be announced shortly.

   (Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20081231/NYW024 )    About The Weinstein Company  

The Weinstein Company (TWC) was created by Bob and Harvey Weinstein, the brothers who founded Miramax Films Corporation in 1979. TWC is a multi-media company that officially launched on October 1, 2005. Dimension Films, the genre label that was founded in 1993 by Bob Weinstein, is also included under the TWC banner.

During the Weinsteins' tenure at Miramax Films the company released some of the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful independent feature films which received 249 Academy Award(R) nominations and won 60 Oscars(R), have generated billions of dollars in worldwide box office receipts and billions more in home video sales. In its history, Dimension Films has released some of the most successful franchises including Scream, Spy Kids, and Scary Movie.

About Universal Pictures

Universal Pictures is a division of Universal Studios (www.universalstudios.com). Universal Studios is part of NBC Universal, one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production and marketing of entertainment, news and information to a global audience. Formed in May 2004 through the combining of NBC and Vivendi Universal Entertainment, NBC Universal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group and world-renowned theme parks. NBC Universal is 80% owned by General Electric, with 20% controlled by Vivendi.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20081231/NYW024
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN1
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: The Weinstein Company

CONTACT: Emily Feingold, Emily.Feingold@weinsteinco.com, +1-646-862-
3824, or Dani Weinstein, Dani.Weinstein@weinsteinco.com, +1-646-862-3808, both
of The Weinstein Company


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Statement From Viacom Regarding Renewal Negotiations With Time Warner Cable

Statement From Viacom Regarding Renewal Negotiations With Time Warner Cable

NEW YORK, Dec. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Time Warner Cable's continued rhetoric and posturing is disappointing and unproductive. We have made it clear that we welcome a credible and meaningful discussion that respects our viewers and the value our programming brings to Time Warner Cable. We remain ready and willing to engage. It's time for serious talk - before the viewers become the victims.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Viacom

CONTACT: Kelly McAndrew, +1-212-846-7455, +1-646-725-7428,
kelly.mcandrew@viacom.com, or Jeremy Zweig, +1-212-846-7503, +1-212-243-4724,
jeremy.zweig@viacom.com, or Susie Arons, +1-212-843-8033, +1-917-751-1776, all
of Viacom; or Carole Robinson, +1-212-846-8760, +1-917-860-5891,
carole.robinson@mtvstaff.com, or Mark Jafar, +1-212-846-8961, +1-646-239-6530,
mark.jafar@mtvstaff.com, all of MTV Networks


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Arbitron Commercializes the Portable People Meter Radio Ratings Service in Four New Local Markets

Arbitron Commercializes the Portable People Meter Radio Ratings Service in Four New Local Markets

Dallas-Ft. Worth, Atlanta, Washington DC and Detroit bring total of electronically measured radio markets to fourteen

NEW YORK, Dec. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Arbitron Inc. (NYSE:ARB) announced today that it has commercialized its Portable People Meter(TM) radio ratings service in four new local markets.

Arbitron has released radio audience estimates for the December 2008 PPM(TM) survey month (November 21-December 17) to its subscribers in Dallas-Ft. Worth, Atlanta, Washington DC and Detroit.

Effective today, the PPM radio audience estimates for these markets should be used as the basis for buy/sell transactions of radio commercial time among subscribing stations, agencies and advertisers. In addition, audience estimates from the October and November PPM survey months, which Arbitron had previously released as "pre-currency" information, are now designated as "currency" data. The Summer 2008 diary-based radio audience report (June 26-September 17) is no longer deemed "currency" for buy/sell transactions.

PPM audience estimates are now the buy/sell "currency" in 14 local markets: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas-Ft. Worth, Houston, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Washington DC, Detroit, Nassau-Suffolk, Middlesex-Somerset-Union, Riverside-San Bernardino and San Jose. These markets account for 51.7 percent of the estimated radio station revenue in the top 50 radio markets.

In April 2009, Arbitron plans to commercialize the PPM radio ratings service in Boston with the release of the March PPM survey report (March 5-April 1.)

About the Portable People Meter

The Arbitron Portable People Meter service uses a passive audience measurement device -- about the size of a small cell phone -- to track consumer exposure to media and entertainment, including broadcast, cable and satellite television; terrestrial, satellite and online radio as well as cinema advertising and many types of place-based electronic media. Carried throughout the day by randomly selected survey participants, the PPM device can track when and where they watch television, listen to radio as well as how they interact with other forms of media and entertainment.

The PPM detects inaudible codes embedded in the audio portion of media and entertainment content delivered by broadcasters, content providers and distributors. At the end of the day, the meter is placed in a docking station that extracts the codes and sends them to a central computer. The PPM is equipped with a motion sensor, a patented quality control feature unique to the system, which allows Arbitron to confirm the compliance of the PPM survey participants every day.

About Arbitron

Arbitron Inc. (NYSE:ARB) is a media and marketing research firm serving the media -- radio, television, cable, online radio and out-of-home -- as well as advertisers and advertising agencies in the United States. Arbitron's core businesses are measuring network and local market radio audiences across the United States; surveying the retail, media and product patterns of local market consumers; and providing application software used for analyzing media audience and marketing information data. The company has developed the Portable People Meter, a new technology for media and marketing research.

Through its Scarborough Research joint venture with The Nielsen Company, Arbitron provides additional media and marketing research services to the broadcast television, newspaper and online industries.

Arbitron's marketing and business units are supported by a world-renowned research and technology organization located in Columbia, Maryland. Arbitron's executive offices are located in New York City.

   Portable People Meter(TM) and PPM(TM) are marks of Arbitron Inc.    Arbitron Forward-Looking Statements  

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The statements regarding Arbitron Inc. and its subsidiaries in this document that are not historical in nature, particularly those that utilize terminology such as "may," "will," "should," "likely," "expects," "anticipates," "estimates," "believes," or "plans," or comparable terminology, are forward-looking statements based on current expectations about future events, which we have derived from information currently available to us. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause our results to be materially different from results implied in such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, in no particular order, whether we will be able to:

   --  successfully implement the commercialization of our Portable People       Meter(TM) service;   --  successfully maintain industry usage of our services in light of       governmental regulation, legislation, litigation, activism or adverse       public relations efforts prompted by various industry groups and       market segments;   --  successfully design, recruit and maintain PPM panels that       appropriately balance research quality, panel size and operational       cost;   --  compete with companies that may have financial, marketing, sales,       technical, or other advantages over us;   --  complete the Media Rating Council ("MRC") audits of our local market       PPM ratings services in a timely manner and successfully obtain and/or       maintain MRC accreditation for our audience measurement business;   --  renew contracts with large customers as they expire;   --  successfully execute our business strategies, including entering into       potential acquisition, joint-venture or other material third-party       agreements;   --  effectively manage the impact, if any, of any further ownership shifts       in the radio and advertising agency industries;   --  respond to rapidly changing technological needs of our customer base,       including creating new proprietary software systems and new customer       products and services that meet these needs in a timely manner;   --  successfully manage the impact on our business of any economic       downturn, generally, and in the advertising market, in particular;   --  successfully manage the impact on costs of data collection due to       lower respondent cooperation in surveys, privacy concerns, consumer       trends, technology changes and/or government regulations; and   --  successfully develop and implement technology solutions to measure new       forms of audio content and delivery, multimedia and advertising in an       increasingly competitive environment.    

There are a number of additional important factors that could cause actual events or our actual results to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, the risk factors set forth in the caption "ITEM 1A. -- RISK FACTORS" in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2008, and elsewhere, and any subsequent periodic or current reports filed by us with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

In addition, any forward-looking statements contained in this document represent our estimates only as of the date hereof, and should not be relied upon as representing our estimates as of any subsequent date. While we may elect to update forward-looking statements at some point in the future, we specifically disclaim any obligation to do so, even if our estimates change.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Arbitron Inc.

CONTACT: Thom Mocarsky of Arbitron Inc., +1-410-312-8239,
thom.mocarsky@arbitron.com

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Comcast Launches MLB Network in New England

Comcast Launches MLB Network in New England

Network Set to Deliver In-Depth Baseball Coverage, Including Games, Analysis and Events

Launch Brings Popular Baseball Reporter Hazel Mae Back to TV Sets in Red Sox Nation

BURLINGTON, Vt., Dec. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Comcast, the nation's leading provider of entertainment, information and communications, today announced that it has added MLB Network to its digital cable lineup in New England, enabling baseball fans to follow America's national pastime year-round, from the so-called "hot stove" of off-season trading action through the post-season every year.

The brand-new MLB Network, which is debuting on January 1 to more than 50 million homes nationwide, offers baseball fans a full menu of year-round baseball news and entertainment, from pre-season deal-making to spring training to live game coverage to daily analysis of the league and its teams. In its inaugural year, the channel will offer more than 1,400 hours of live programming, including at least 26 of baseball's best match-ups.

Of special interest to New England sports fans, the launch will also bring former NESN reporter Hazel Mae back to television in New England. Mae will report for the MLB Network programs Hot Stove, the live nightly off-season studio show featuring news, reports and analysis of the moves various teams make and the planning in preparation for the upcoming season, and MLB Tonight, the network's premiere live in-season studio show that will air each night.

"We are excited to add even more programming to our industry-leading sports lineup as part of our commitment to provide fans with a fantastic baseball viewing experience," said Doug Guthrie, Vice President of Comcast's Western New England Region. "Given the year-round wealth of breaking news that really is unique to Major League Baseball and the incredibly high interest in baseball here in New England, fans are sure to embrace MLB Network's in-depth programming."

"We are thrilled to be launching MLB Network on Comcast systems in New England," said Tony Petitti, MLB Network President and CEO. "MLB Network will offer baseball fans an insider's perspective on the sport that has never been seen before. This launch further expands on our ability to bring the ultimate coverage of the national pastime to fans on a 24/7 basis."

MLB Network is the latest addition to the Comcast digital cable service, which features hundreds of channels along with more than 10,000 On Demand programs over the course of a month -- the vast majority for no additional charge -- including over 1,000 High Definition viewing choices at any time.

For more information about Comcast Digital Cable, please call 1-800-COMCAST or visit www.comcast.com.

About MLB Network

Launched in approximately 50 million cable and satellite homes on January 1, 2009, MLB Network is the largest and most successful debut in cable television history, exceeding any other cable television network launch by approximately 20 million. With live games, original programming, highlights, classic games, and coverage of baseball events, MLB Network will be the ultimate television destination for baseball fans.

About Comcast Corporation

Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA) (NASDAQ:CMCSK) (www.comcast.com) is the nation's leading provider of entertainment, information and communication products and services. With 24.4 million cable customers, 14.7 million high-speed Internet customers and 6.1 million Comcast Digital Voice customers, Comcast is principally involved in the development, management and operation of broadband cable systems and in the delivery of programming content.

Comcast's content networks and investments include E! Entertainment Television, Style Network, Golf Channel, VERSUS, G4, PBS KIDS Sprout, TV One, ten Comcast SportsNet networks and Comcast Interactive Media, which develops and operates Comcast's Internet businesses, including Comcast.net (www.comcast.net). Comcast also has a majority ownership in Comcast-Spectacor, whose major holdings include the Philadelphia Flyers NHL hockey team, the Philadelphia 76ers NBA basketball team and two large multipurpose arenas in Philadelphia.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Comcast Cable

CONTACT: Jim Hughes, +1-617-279-7712, jim_hughes@cable.comcast.com, or
Laura Brubaker, +1-860-505-3445, laura_brubaker@cable.comcast.com, both of
Comcast Cable

Web site: http://www.comcast.net/
http://www.comcast.com/


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Comcast Launches MLB Network in New England

Comcast Launches MLB Network in New England

Network Set to Deliver In-Depth Baseball Coverage, Including Games, Analysis and Events

Launch Brings Popular Baseball Reporter Hazel Mae Back to TV Sets in Red Sox Nation

BOSTON, Dec. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Comcast, the nation's leading provider of entertainment, information and communications, today announced that it has added MLB Network to its digital cable lineup in New England, enabling baseball fans to follow America's national pastime year-round, from the so-called "hot stove" of off-season trading action through the post-season every year.

The brand-new MLB Network, which is debuting on January 1 to more than 50 million homes nationwide, offers baseball fans a full menu of year-round baseball news and entertainment, from pre-season deal-making to spring training to live game coverage to daily analysis of the league and its teams. In its inaugural year, the channel will offer more than 1,400 hours of live programming, including at least 26 of baseball's best match-ups.

Of special interest to New England sports fans, the launch will also bring former NESN reporter Hazel Mae back to television in New England. Mae will report for the MLB Network programs Hot Stove, the live nightly off-season studio show featuring news, reports and analysis of the moves various teams make and the planning in preparation for the upcoming season, and MLB Tonight, the network's premiere live in-season studio show that will air each night.

"We are excited to add even more programming to our industry-leading sports lineup as part of our commitment to provide fans with a fantastic baseball viewing experience," said Steve Hackley, Senior Vice President of Comcast's Greater Boston Region. "Given the year-round wealth of breaking news that really is unique to Major League Baseball and the incredibly high interest in baseball here in New England, fans are sure to embrace MLB Network's in-depth programming."

"We are thrilled to be launching MLB Network on Comcast systems in New England," said Tony Petitti, MLB Network President and CEO. "MLB Network will offer baseball fans an insider's perspective on the sport that has never been seen before. This launch further expands on our ability to bring the ultimate coverage of the national pastime to fans on a 24/7 basis."

MLB Network is the latest addition to the Comcast digital cable service, which features hundreds of channels along with more than 10,000 On Demand programs over the course of a month -- the vast majority for no additional charge -- including over 1,000 High Definition viewing choices at any time.

For more information about Comcast Digital Cable, please call 1-800-COMCAST or visit www.comcast.com.

About MLB Network

Launched in approximately 50 million cable and satellite homes on January 1, 2009, MLB Network is the largest and most successful debut in cable television history, exceeding any other cable television network launch by approximately 20 million. With live games, original programming, highlights, classic games, and coverage of baseball events, MLB Network will be the ultimate television destination for baseball fans.

About Comcast Corporation

Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:CMCSA) (NASDAQ:CMCSK) (www.comcast.com) is the nation's leading provider of entertainment, information and communication products and services. With 24.4 million cable customers, 14.7 million high- speed Internet customers and 6.1 million Comcast Digital Voice customers, Comcast is principally involved in the development, management and operation of broadband cable systems and in the delivery of programming content.

Comcast's content networks and investments include E! Entertainment Television, Style Network, Golf Channel, VERSUS, G4, PBS KIDS Sprout, TV One, ten Comcast SportsNet networks and Comcast Interactive Media, which develops and operates Comcast's Internet businesses, including Comcast.net (www.comcast.net). Comcast also has a majority ownership in Comcast-Spectacor, whose major holdings include the Philadelphia Flyers NHL hockey team, the Philadelphia 76ers NBA basketball team and two large multipurpose arenas in Philadelphia.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Comcast Corporation

CONTACT: Jim Hughes of Comcast Corporation, +1-617-279-7712,
jim_hughes@cable.comcast.com

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

DISH Network(R) Expands 1080p Movie Lineup

DISH Network(R) Expands 1080p Movie Lineup

'The Dark Knight' is Available on DISH On Demand

ENGLEWOOD, Colo., Dec. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- DISH Network Corporation (NASDAQ:DISH) today announced it is expanding its list of 1080p high definition programming options to include "The Dark Knight" available now for $6.99 per purchase.

Consumers can sign up for the best high definition programming and service in the satellite industry with DISH Network's TurboHD programming packages, the only all-HD packages on the market, starting at $24.99 per month. TurboHD is available in three separate tiers and includes special "turbo-charged" features and benefits. Current DISH Network customers looking to add the satellite industry's best high definition experience can get a "turbo-charged" HD package for as little as $10 more per month.

For more information about DISH Network's 1080p programming, high definition channels and TurboHD system and packages, visit www.dishnetwork.com or call 1-800-333-DISH (3474).

The Dark Knight comes from Academy Award(R) nominated filmmaker Christopher Nolan (Batman Begins, The Prestige, Memento), and features commanding performances from Christian Bale (Batman Begins, 3:10 to Yuma, The Prestige), Academy Award(R) Winner Michael Caine (The Cider House Rules, Children of Men), Academy Award(R) Nominee Heath Ledger (Brokeback Mountain), Gary Oldman (Hannibal, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix), Aaron Eckhart (Thank You For Smoking, No Reservations), Maggie Gyllenhaal (Stranger Than Fiction, World Trade Center) and Academy Award(R) Winner Morgan Freeman (Million Dollar Baby, Wanted).

About DISH Network Corporation

DISH Network Corporation (NASDAQ:DISH) , the nation's third largest pay-TV provider and the leader in digital television, provides approximately 13.78 million satellite TV customers as of Sept. 30, 2008 with industry-leading customer satisfaction which has surpassed major cable TV providers for eight consecutive years. DISH Network also provides customers with award-winning HD and DVR technology including the ViP(R)722 HD DVR, which received the Editors' Choice awards from both CNET and PC Magazine. In addition, subscribers enjoy access to hundreds of video and audio channels, the most International channels in the U.S., industry-leading Interactive TV applications, Latino programming, and the best sports and movies in HD. DISH Network offers a variety of package and price options including the lowest all-digital price in America, the DishDVR Advantage Package, high-speed Internet service, and a free upgrade to the best HD DVR in the industry. DISH Network is included in the Nasdaq-100 Index (NDX) and is a Fortune 300 company. Visit www.dishnetwork.com or call 1-800-333-DISH (3474) for more information.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact: parker.mcconachie@dishnetwork.com

Source: DISH Network Corporation

CONTACT: Parker McConachie of DISH Network Corporation, +1-720-514-5351,
press@echostar.com

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

'Sharing Miracles' Television Program to Feature Country Music Superstar and Grammy Winner Naomi Judd

'Sharing Miracles' Television Program to Feature Country Music Superstar and Grammy Winner Naomi Judd

WASHINGTON, Dec. 31 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Each Sunday throughout January, Sharing Miracles, a 30-minute public affairs television program that tells the compelling and inspirational stories of real patients, will feature country music superstar and six-time Grammy Award winner Naomi Judd. Sharing Miracles now airs on more than 235 television stations across the United States.

Judd, one-half of the celebrated mother-daughter country music duo, "The Judds," tells the incredible story of her journey from being a hard-working waitress and single mother with two children to being a world-wide music star. Daughters Wynonna -- herself now a successful solo musician -- and two-time Golden Globe-nominated actress Ashley Judd are also highlighted in the show.

All told, The Judds had 20 top-ten hits, including 15 that reached number one on the charts. This led to six Grammy awards, nine Country Music Association Awards and eight Billboard Music Awards. They have sold more than 20 million record albums worldwide, with six albums being certified platinum.

The resilience that drove Judd throughout her life quite possibly saved her life in 1990, when she was diagnosed with Hepatitis C. As she says in this month's episode, "Wynonna and I were cruising through life with the top down, with sold-out coliseums, number-one singles, multi-platinum albums, and six Grammy awards. Our lives had surpassed anybody's wildest expectations."

Yet soon, the disease -- which she likely contracted when accidentally stuck by a needle in her earlier career as an intensive care-unit nurse -- crippled her. "I was terribly sick. I barely knew who I was, where I was," she says. "You're not really in pain, but you just want to give up because you can't imagine living like this every day. And unfortunately, my doctors didn't give me any hope. In fact, one doctor told me I had three years to live."

Judd credits her strong spirit, as well as her daughters, for inspiring her to overcome the often-fatal disease. "I thought, I'm going to live to help research, so we can find a vaccine, so we can find a cure, and so that people understand that when they have these experiences, it's a chance to reevaluate their whole lives."

Joining Judd in her fight to find a cure are scientists at America's pharmaceutical research companies, which currently have 388 potential new medicines in development to fight infectious diseases, such as Hepatitis C.

Speaking on this month's episode about the development of those potential new medicines is Schering-Plough scientist Dr. Janice Albrecht, who says, "There are some very exciting new medications that are being looked at. This is an era where there is a multitude of new drugs that are being added onto the standard therapy in the hopes that we can increase the number of patients that we can cure."

Previous episodes of Sharing Miracles have featured Academy Award-winning actress Marcia Gay Harden, a breast cancer advocate; Emmy Award-winning actor Joey Pantoliano, who suffers from clinical depression; Super Bowl Champion and former Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jerome Bettis, who has asthma; Olympic gold medal winners Mark Spitz (high cholesterol), Bruce Jenner (attention deficit disorder), and Greg Louganis (HIV); syndicated television talk show host Montel Williams, who suffers from multiple sclerosis; actor and Leave It To Beaver star Jerry Mathers, who is affected by diabetes; pop icon and Broadway star Deborah Gibson, who has suffered from devastating anxiety attacks; Pro Football Hall-of-Famer Len Dawson, who survived prostate cancer; and North Carolina State University women's basketball coach Kay Yow, a breast cancer survivor. February's Sharing Miracles will feature four-time Emmy Award nominee and former star of Family Ties Meredith Baxter, who works tirelessly as a breast cancer advocate after successfully battling the disease herself.

The new episode debuts January 4. Sharing Miracles airs on Sunday mornings on the following network-affiliated stations:

   * WDCA-TV (MyTV), Washington, DC, 9 am-9:30 am   * WPHL-TV (MyTV), Philadelphia, PA, 11 am-11:30 am   * WUTB-TV (MyTV), Baltimore, MD, 9 am-9:30   * WXIN-TV (FOX), Indianapolis, IN, 11:30 am-12 noon   * KABB-TV (FOX), San Antonio, TX, 8 am-8:30 am   * WNAB-TV (CW), Nashville, TN, 10-10:30 am   * WCTX-TV (MyTV), Hartford/New Haven, CT, 9-9:30 am   * WRAZ-TV (FOX), Raleigh, NC, 7:30 am-8 am   * WSYX-TV (ABC), Columbus, OH, 7:30 am-8 am   * KTXL-TV (FOX), Sacramento/Stockton/Modesto, CA, 6:30 am-7 am   * WWL-TV (CBS), New Orleans, LA, 7:30 am-8 am   * WTWC-TV (NBC), Tallahassee, FL, 10 am-10:30 am   * WCIA-TV (CBS), Springfield/Champaign/Urbana/Decatur, IL, 10:30 am-11 am   * WBRZ-TV (ABC), Baton Rouge, LA, 11 am-11:30 am   * KTKA-TV (ABC), Topeka, KS, 8:30 am-9 am   * WRLH-TV (FOX), Richmond, VA, 10 am-10:30 am   * WNAC-TV (FOX), Providence, RI, 10:30 am-11 am   * WHTM-TV (ABC), Harrisburg, PA, 11 am-11:30 am   * WNCF-TV (ABC), Montgomery, AL, 9:30 am-10 am   * WLAJ-TV (ABC), Lansing, MI, 11 am-11:30 am   * WACH-TV (FOX), Columbia, SC, 11 am-11:30 am   * WAPT-TV (ABC), Jackson, MS, 9 am-9:30 am   * WOWK-TV (CBS), Charleston/Huntington, WV, 11:30 am-12 non   * WMTW-TV (ABC), Portland/Augusta, ME, 11:30 am-12 noon   * KHBB-TV (ABC), Helena, MT, 10 am-10:30 am   * WMBD-TV (CBS), Peoria, IL, 10 am-10:30 am   * WOI-TV (ABC), Des Moines, IA, 6:30 am-7 am   * WHBF-TV (CBS), Rock Island, IL/Davenport, IA, 10 am-10:30 am   * KLRT-TV (FOX), Little Rock, AR, 9:30 am-10 am   * KDLT-TV (NBC), Sioux Falls, SD, 9 am-9:30 am   * KBMY-TV (ABC), Minot/Bismarck, ND, 9 am-9:30 am   * KLKN-TV (ABC), Lincoln, NE, 10:30 am-11 am   * KFBB-TV (ABC), Great Falls, MT, 10 am-10:30 am   * KDEV-TV (ABC), Cheyenne, WY, 7:30 am-8:00 am   * WTOV-TV (ABC), Rockford, IL, 10:30 am-10 am   * KGEM-TV (NBC), Quincy, IL, 11 am-11:30 am  

* WSIL-TV (ABC), Carbondale, IL/Paducah, KY/Cape Girardeau, MO, 10:30 am-11 am.

The show also airs on 201 community broadcast stations across the country. For free DVDs of Sharing Miracles, please contact the PhRMA press line at 202-835-3460 or go to www.sharingmiracles.com.

Community stations airing Sharing Miracles are located in the following cities: Anchorage, AK; Decatur, AL; Harrison, AR; Mountain Home, AR; Casa Grande, AZ; Chino Valley, AZ; Claremont, CA; Compton, CA; Del Mar, CA; Gilroy, CA; Hayward, CA; Pasadena, CA; Petaluma, CA; Sacramento, CA; San Andreas, CA; San Francisco, CA; Santa Barbara, CA; Aurora, CO; Golden, CO; Longmont, CO; Thornton, CO; Bridgeport, CT; Hamden, CT; Hartford, CT; Madison, CT; North Haven, CT; Plainville, CT; Simsbury, CT; Brooksville, FL; Fort Lauderdale, FL; Tampa, FL; Palm Coast, FL; Atlanta, GA; Douglasville, GA; Fort Oglethorpe, GA; Hilo, HI; Des Moines, IA; Mount Vernon, IA; Olin, IA; Muscatine, IA; Mountain Home, ID; Pocatello, ID; Addison, IL; Aurora, IL; Batavia, IL; Glen Ellyn, IL; Lake Forest, IL; Naperville, IL; Romeoville, IL; Urbana, IL; Bloomington, IN; Fort Wayne, IN; Lawrence, KS; Covington, KY; Highland Heights, KY; Bossier City, LA; Houma, LA; Lafayette, LA; New Orleans, LA; Amherst, MA; Arlington, MA; Boston, MA; Brookline, MA; Carver, MA; Chelmsford, MA; Dracut, MA; East Longmeadow, MA; Easthampton, MA; Foxboro, MA; Holden, MA; Hopkinton, MA; Leominster, MA; Lexington, MA; Longmeadow, MA; Lynn, MA; Marion, MA; Marshfield, MA; Sandwich, MA; Worcester, MA; Easton, MD; Greenbelt, MD; Largo, MD; Bridgton, ME; Brunswick, ME; Madison, ME; Mexico, ME; Ann Arbor, MI; Cadillac, MI; Farmington Hills, MI; Holland, MI; Kalamazoo, MI; Lake Orion, MI; Manistee, MI; Portage, MI; Romeo, MI; Waterford, MI; Wyandotte, MI; Blaine, MN; Bloomington, MN; Champlin, MN; Coon Rapids, MN; Duluth, MN; Fergus Falls, MN; Hibbing, MN; Hutchinson, MN; Minneapolis, MN; Rosemont, MN; Spring Park, MN; Stillwater, MN; White Bear Lake, MN; Columbia, MO; Hillsboro, MS; Vicksburg, MS; Helena, MT; Albemarle, NC; Knightdale, NC; Fargo, ND; Hastings, NE; Omaha, NE; Claremont, NH; Derry, NH; Durham, NH; Londonderry, NH; Manchester, NH; North Conway, NH; Wolfeboro, NH; Metuchen, NJ; Princeton, NJ; Statewide, NJ; Albuquerque, NM; Los Alamos, NM; Santa Fe, NM; Taos, NM; Minden, NV; Chappaqua, NY; Fairport, NY; Staten Island, NY; Tivoli, NY; Webster, NY; Athens, OH; Cincinnati, OH; Defiance, OH; Fairborn, OH; Hudson; OH; Macedonia, OH; Norwood, OH; Troy, OH; Perry, OK; Oregon City, OR; Silverton, OR; Ardmore, PA; Berwyn, PA; Gettysburg, PA; McMurray, PA; Moon Township, PA; Pottstown, PA; Reading, PA; Wayne, PA; York, PA; Germantown, TN; Murfreesboro, TN; College Station, TX; Denton, TX; Houston, TX; Cedar City, UT; Logan, UT; Blacksburg, VA; Herndon, VA; Barre, VT; Bellow Falls, VT; Bristol, VT; Burlington, VT; Hyde Park, VT; Manchester Center, VT; Middlebury, VT; Newport, VT; Springfield, VT; Waitsfield, VT; White River Junction, VT; Bainbridge Island, WA; Bremerton, WA; Ellensburg, WA; Kent, WA; Longview, WA; Port Townsend, WA; Seattle, WA; Toppenish, WA; Dodgeville, WI; Hartford, WI; Janesville, WI; Lake Mills, WI; Madison, WI; Muskego, WI; New London, WI; Reedsburg, WI; River Falls, WI; Superior, WI; Waterloo, WI; Whitehall, WI; and Wisconsin Rapids, WI.

The show's corresponding Web site, www.sharingmiracles.com, is an interactive forum for people to relate their own personal stories of hope and survival. Every patient's battle is unique, but the collective power of shared experiences can offer great help and courage to others who are fighting for their lives.

The Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA) helps uninsured and financially-struggling patients access information on programs that provide prescription medicines for free or nearly free. To find out if they may qualify for help, patients should call toll-free 1-888-4PPA-NOW to speak with a trained specialist or visit www.pparx.org.

The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) represents the country's leading pharmaceutical research and biotechnology companies, which are devoted to inventing medicines that allow patients to live longer, healthier, and more productive lives. PhRMA companies are leading the way in the search for new cures. PhRMA members alone invested an estimated $44.5 billion in 2007 in discovering and developing new medicines. Industry-wide research and investment reached a record $58.8 billion in 2007.

PhRMA Internet Address: http://www.phrma.org/

For information on stories of hope and survival, visit: http://sharingmiracles.com/

For information on how innovative medicines save lives, visit: http://www.innovation.org/

For information on the Partnership for Prescription Assistance, visit: http://www.pparx.org/

For information on the danger of imported drugs, visit: http://www.buysafedrugs.info/

CONTACT: Kate Michael of Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, +1-202-835-3460

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America

CONTACT: Kate Michael of Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of
America, +1-202-835-3460

Web Site: http://www.phrma.org/
http://www.sharingmiracles.com/


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

TiVo to Present at Citi's 19th Annual Entertainment, Media, and Telecommunications Conference

TiVo to Present at Citi's 19th Annual Entertainment, Media, and Telecommunications Conference

ALVISO, Calif., Dec. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- TiVo Inc. (NASDAQ: TIVO) , the creator of and a leader in television services for digital video recorders (DVRs), today announced that it will present at Citi's 19th Annual Entertainment, Media, & Telecommunications Conference on January 7, 2009. The webcast of the presentation will be available on the Investor Relations section of the TiVo website at http://investor.tivo.com/ under the events calendar tab.

   Conference Details:   Citi's 19th Annual Entertainment, Media, and Telecommunications Conference   Phoenix, AZ   Wednesday, January 7, 2009   10:30 AM MT   Tom Rogers, CEO and President    About TiVo Inc.  

Founded in 1997, TiVo (NASDAQ:TIVO) (NASDAQ:-) (NASDAQ:News) pioneered a brand new category of products with the development of the first commercially available digital video recorder (DVR). Sold through leading consumer electronic retailers and our website, TiVo has developed a brand which resonates boldly with consumers as providing a superior television experience. Through agreements with leading satellite and cable providers, TiVo also integrates its DVR service features into the set-top boxes of mass distributors. TiVo's DVR functionality and ease of use, with such features as Season Pass(TM) recordings and WishList(R) searches and TiVo KidZone, have elevated its popularity among consumers and have created a whole new way for viewers to watch television. With a continued investment in its patented technologies, TiVo is revolutionizing the way consumers watch and access home entertainment. Rapidly becoming the focal point of the digital living room, TiVo's DVR is at the center of experiencing new forms of content on the TV, such as broadband delivered video, music and photos. With innovative features, such as TiVoToGo(TM) transfers and online scheduling, TiVo is expanding the notion of consumers experiencing "TiVo, TV your way. (R)" The TiVo(R) service is also at the forefront of providing innovative marketing solutions for the television industry, including a unique platform for advertisers and audience research measurement.

TiVo, 'TiVo, TV your way.', Season Pass, WishList, TiVoToGo, Stop||Watch, Power||Watch, and the TiVo Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of TiVo Inc. or its subsidiaries worldwide. (C) 2008 TiVo Inc. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact: MLopes@sloanepr.com

Source: TiVo Inc.

CONTACT: Investor Relations, Derrick Nueman of TiVo Inc.,
+1-408-519-9677, ir@tivo.com; or Media Relations, Michael Boccio of Sloane &
Company, +1-212-446-1867, mboccio@sloanepr.com, for TiVo Inc.

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Trans World Entertainment to Host Holiday Sales Conference Call

Trans World Entertainment to Host Holiday Sales Conference Call

ALBANY, N.Y., Dec. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Trans World Entertainment Corporation (NASDAQ:TWMC) announced today that it will host a teleconference call for members of the financial community on Wednesday, January 7, 2009 at 10:00 AM ET to discuss its press release regarding its holiday sales results, which will be issued on the same day before the market opens. This call will be simultaneously webcast at the Company's website, www.twec.com.

Trans World Entertainment is a leading specialty retailer of entertainment software, including music, video and video games and related products. The Company operates retail stores in the United States, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, primarily under the names f.y.e. for your entertainment and Suncoast and on the web at www.fye.com, www.wherehouse.com, www.secondspin.com, www.samgoody.com and www.suncoast.com.

Certain statements in this release set forth management's intentions, plans, beliefs, expectations or predictions of the future based on current facts and analyses. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated in such statements. Additional information on factors that may affect the business and financial results of the Company can be found in filings of the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Trans World Entertainment

CONTACT: John J. Sullivan EVP, Chief Financial Officer, Trans World
Entertainment, +1-518-452-1242; Marilynn Meek, +1-212-827-3773,
mmeek@frbir.com, of Financial Relations Board for Trans World Entertainment

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Statement from Viacom

Statement from Viacom

NEW YORK, Dec. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The move by Time Warner Cable to force such channels as Nickelodeon, COMEDY CENTRAL and MTV off the air is another example of a cable company overreaching for profit at the expense of its viewers.

The renewal we are seeking is reasonable and modest relative to the profits TWC enjoys from our networks. We have asked for an increase of less than 25 cents per month, per subscriber, which adds up to less than a penny per day for all 19 of MTV Networks' channels.

We make this request because TWC has so greatly undervalued our channels for so long. Americans spend more than 20% of their TV viewing time watching our networks, yet our fees amount to less than 2.5% of what Time Warner generates from their average customer.

Throughout the country, we have negotiated equitable license agreement renewals, or are in the final stages of renewals, with virtually every cable and satellite carrier. Nevertheless, Time Warner Cable has dismissed our efforts at a fair compromise and has effectively chosen to deny its customers some of the most popular TV shows on the air.

As a result, we are sorry to say that for Time Warner Cable customers our networks will go dark as of 12:01 on January 1st, denying Time Warner customers shows like Dora the Explorer, SpongeBob SquarePants, The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, The Colbert Report, and The Hills.

Ultimately, however, if Nickelodeon, COMEDY CENTRAL, MTV and the rest of our programming is discontinued -- over less than a penny per day -- we believe viewers will see this behavior by their cable company as outrageous. Time Warner Cable subscribers who are being handed a January 1st $3 monthly increase in Raleigh, Orange County, Los Angeles, and New York City are simultaneously facing the removal of beloved shows across 19 channels.

We find it a shame that Time Warner Cable remains unreasonable at this time. We hope its leadership will have a change of heart and will seek to negotiate a fair renewal agreement.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Viacom

CONTACT: Kelly McAndrew, +1-212-846-7455, +1-646-725-7428,
kelly.mcandrew@viacom.com, or Jeremy Zweig, +1-212-846-7503, +1-212-243-4724,
jeremy.zweig@viacom.com, or Susie Arons, +1-212-843-8033, +1-917-751-1776, all
of Viacom; or Carole Robinson, +1-212-846-8760, +-917-860-5891,
carole.robinson@mtvstaff.com, or Mark Jafar, +1-212-846-8961, +1-646-239-6530,
mark.jafar@mtvstaff.com, all for Viacom


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

BART Supports WADL TV38 Management in Dispute with Blair Petry Media

BART Supports WADL TV38 Management in Dispute with Blair Petry Media

BART (Blacks in Advertising Radio and Television) has been made aware that the well known Blair Petry Media rep firm may have practices that are not industry standards when it comes to urban programming

DETROIT, Dec. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- BART members, which include minorities from all facets of broadcast media, were made aware of a pending lawsuit that involves one of the largest rep firms in New York and the only TV station in the US that markets itself as an "Urban TV Station".

For years, radio and television stations which target African Americans and minorities have endured unspoken discrimination as it relates to national media buys. In the 90's media sales associates were made aware of the NUD (Non Urban Dictate) policy. This policy was implemented by many companies placing large media buys throughout the year that did not want to spend money in urban focused broadcasting. Blair Petry Media and its former CEO Earl Jones, have placed a different spin on servicing minority broadcasters by requesting that WADL TV38 provide them with 1.5 million dollars upfront to ensure the station get a fair share of national dollars placed.

"It is incredible that we have a topflight staff, beautiful state-of-the- art facility, top-shelf management, African American President, African American Marketing Director, cutting-edge branding and we have been duped out of 1.5 million dollars," states Denise Dody Johnson, Marketing Director of WADL TV38.

"Blair Petry should settle this with a expeditious refund," states Jo Ann Thompson, Media Director for BART.

"The suggestion from the broadcast community, and several grass roots organizations, is to monitor this situation closely. The station is entitled to be reimbursed for non performance in an expeditious manner. It is suggested that other broadcasters take an in-depth look at not only how they are serviced by the agency, but their return on investment."

   For background information:   http://www.macombdaily.com/articles/2008/12/10/news/srv0000004246589.txt     Blacks in Advertising Radio and Television International   30045 Summit Drive   Suite #105   Farmington Hills MI 48334    Media Director Jo Ann Thompson   BART contact email: bartinternationalmedia@gmail.com  

Source: Blacks in Advertising Radio and Television International

CONTACT: Jo Ann Thompson, Media Director for BART,
bartinternationalmedia@gmail.com


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Starz Entertainment's Hot Items List

Starz Entertainment's Hot Items List

    January 3-21    http://starz.mediaroom.com/   (All times listed are ET/PT.)    

'CRASH' MARATHON/FINALE, CROSS-DRESSING SPECIAL, THE RAZZIE AWARDS & KEVIN JAMES?

January 3 - 9 - Starz - "Crash" Catch up week leading to Season Finale

As the New Year begins, catch up and watch the season-ending cliffhanger of Starz' new original drama series "Crash."

   Saturday, January 3 - 9:00 p.m. - episodes 109, 110, 111, 112   Sunday, January 4 - 11:00 p.m. - episodes 101, 102, 103   Monday, January 5 - 11:00 p.m. - episodes 104, 105, 106   Tuesday, January 6 - 11:00 p.m. - episodes 107, 108   Wednesday, January 7 - 11:00 p.m. - episodes 109, 110   Thursday, January 8 - 11:00 p.m. - episodes 111, 112   Season Finale - Friday, January 9 - 10:00 p.m. - episode 113   

Can Ben Cendars (Dennis Hopper) stay clean and take back his music company? Will Eddie Choi (Brian Tee) be able to escape his past as a gangbanger? Can Kenny (Ross McCall) keep it in his pants long enough to save his marriage? Will Christine (Clare Carey) have to leave her Brentwood life behind? Can Axel (Nick Tarabay) continue to play both sides of the law?

Thursday, January 15 - Starz 8:00 p.m. - Kevin James Presents...

Actor Kevin James hosts a marathon of three of his favorite Starz' movies, Reign Over Me, Jerry Maguire and Swingers. He'll also give us a sneak peek at his new film Paul Blart Mall Cop.

Tuesday, January 20 - Starz 10:00 p.m. - "Starz Inside: Ladies or Gentlemen"

The Starz Originals' Starz Inside: Ladies or Gentlemen, delves into men playing women and women playing men. Some of the most daring cross-dressing performances in Hollywood history are showcased in this installment. Films such as Tootsie, Some Like it Hot, Ed Wood, Psycho, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Hairspray, Shakespeare in Love and others are explored. The special, hosted by RuPaul and Executive Produced by John Landis, premieres on Tuesday, January 20 at 10 p.m.

Saturday, January 21 - Encore "...And the Razzie(R) Goes To..."

For all your guilty pleasures, enjoy "Razzie Award Winners" on Encore. ...And the Razzie goes to - hosted by Finesse Mitchell is a marathon of truly awful films in honor of the Razzie Awards, stacked January 21, the same day the Razzie nominations are announced. See "masterfeces" such as Encino Man, I Know Who Killed Me, Striptease and Shanghai Surprise.

   --  Encino Man at 12:30 p.m. - (Sean Astin, Brendan Fraser, Pauly Shore)   --  Shining Through at 2 p.m. - (Michael Douglas, Melanie Griffith, Liam       Neeson)   --  Rhinestone at 4:20 p.m. - (Sylvester Stallone, Dolly Parton, Richard       Farnsworth)   --  Shanghai Surprise at 6:20 p.m. - (Sean Penn, Madonna)   --  I Know Who Killed Me at 8 p.m. - (Lindsay Lohan, Julia Ormond, Neal       McDonough)   --  Battlefield Earth at 9:50 p.m. - (John Travolta, Barry Pepper, Forest       Whitaker)   --  Striptease at 11:50 p.m. - (Demi Moore, Armand Assante, Ving Rhames)     Click here for information about what's airing on Starz On Demand.     Contact:   Steve Waldo Belgard   (720) 852-5843   steve.belgard@starz.com  

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Starz Entertainment, LLC

CONTACT: Steve Waldo Belgard of Starz Entertainment, LLC,
+1-720-852-5843, steve.belgard@starz.com

Web Site: http://starz.mediaroom.com/


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Berman Urges Azerbaijan to Rescind Decision on U.S., British Broadcasting

Berman Urges Azerbaijan to Rescind Decision on U.S., British Broadcasting

VAN NUYS, Calif., Dec. 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Congressman Howard L. Berman (D-CA), chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement today in response to the decision by Azerbaijan's government to take several foreign broadcasters off the air:

"Free media are essential to any society that values liberty. Radio Liberty, the Voice of America and the BBC should remain on the air to serve listeners in Azerbaijan with unfettered access to information and a variety of viewpoints. Depriving listeners of these services is a violation of the right to free expression that will constrain debate in Azerbaijan, undermining its commitment to democracy in the eyes of the world. The government of Azerbaijan should rescind its decision to block these broadcasts."

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: House Committee on Foreign Affairs

CONTACT: Lynne Weil of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs,
+1-202-225-5021


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

The HDNet Concert Series Kicks Off 2009 With 'Bon Jovi - Live From Nokia Theatre in Times Square'

The HDNet Concert Series Kicks Off 2009 With 'Bon Jovi - Live From Nokia Theatre in Times Square'

New Jersey rock legends premiere on HDNet at midnight ET, Wednesday, December 31 with a special encore presentation at midnight PT

DALLAS, Dec. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- The HDNet Concert series rings in the New Year tomorrow night with "Bon Jovi - Live from Nokia Theatre in Times Square." The concert premieres at midnight ET, with a special encore at 3:00 a.m. ET - just when the New Year arrives on the West Coast.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080324/HDNETLOGO)

The concert airs as part of the "Best of HDNet Concert Series Marathon" featuring twenty-four hours of concerts beginning at 8:00 p.m. ET New Year's Eve and ending at 8:00 p.m. ET New Year's Day.

Bon Jovi was the first band to perform at the Nokia Theatre Times Square, celebrating the release of the "Have A Nice Day" album. The band's career has spanned more than twenty years with albums such as "Slippery When Wet," "New Jersey," and "Crush."

"Have A Nice Day," the band's ninth studio album, topped the charts around the world, and gave the band its career-best first week sales of over 202,000 albums.

Bon Jovi also became the first rock 'n roll band to have a number one hit on Billboard's Hot Country chart with the song, "Who Says You Can't Go Home." The song also won a Grammy Award for "Best Country Collaboration with Vocals."

The band, helmed by charismatic lead singer, Jon Bon Jovi, also features guitarist Richie Sambora, keyboardist David Bryan, and drummer Tico Torres performing their hits "You Give Love a Bad Name," "Livin' on a Prayer," "It's My Life," and "Wanted Dead or Alive" for a capacity crowd at the Nokia Theatre.

While still a theatre setting, the Nokia delivers the feel of a club because of the multiple balconies that hug the stage, allowing more patrons close to the stage than at conventional theaters.

Don't miss these legends of rock in this intimate setting! "Bon Jovi - Live from Nokia Theatre Times Square" premieres on HDNet tomorrow, December 31 at midnight ET with an encore at 3:00 a.m. ET/12:00 a.m. PT.

About HDNet

HDNet (www.hd.net) provides viewers with the best in original comedy, drama, news, sports and music programming.

HDNet is your exclusive, high definition home for popular, critically acclaimed original programming, including television's only HD news feature programs "HDNet World Report," the Emmy Award winning "Dan Rather Reports," featuring legendary journalist Dan Rather and "NASA on HDNet" (presenting live shuttle launches through 2010). HDNet presents championship sports coverage featuring Major League Soccer, the NASCAR Camping World Series, NASCAR Sprint Cup re-broadcasts, and premiere Mixed Martial Arts from "HDNet Fights;" behind-the-scenes sports news with "Inside MMA;" groundbreaking music programming with the HDNet Concert Series featuring leading artists and bands including Coldplay, Gwen Stefani, John Mayer and more; and entertaining and irreverent lifestyle programming including "Deadline!," "Art Mann Presents," and "Get Out!" HDNet is also the exclusive high definition home to critically acclaimed and award winning programs such as the Emmy Award winning "Arrested Development," "The Black Donnellys," "Dead Like Me," "Smallville" and the hit series "Torchwood."

HDNet Movies features a wide selection of major studio theatrical releases - all uncut, unedited, and appearing in their original aspect ratio so that HDNet Movies viewers get the best possible home theater experience.

Only HDNet Movies' exclusive Sneak Previews bring feature films to viewers before they premiere in theaters! Some of the HDNet Movies Sneak Previews have included the Academy Award nominated "Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room," Toronto Film Festival nominee "The War Within," and "Bubble," the first of six movies by acclaimed director Steven Soderbergh and produced exclusively for HDNet Films. Other featured films include "Cashback," written and produced by Sean Ellis, "Broken English," from Zoe Cassavetes, starring Gena Rowlands, Parker Posey, Drea de Matteo and Griffin Dunne, the critically acclaimed "Redacted" directed by Brian De Palma, "Flawless," starring Michael Caine and Demi Moore, "Quid Pro Quo," starring Nick Stahl and Vera Farmiga, "Finding Amanda," starring Matthew Broderick and Brittany Snow, "Red," starring Brian Cox and most recently "Humboldt County," starring Fairuza Balk, Peter Bogdanovich and Frances Conroy and "Special," starring Michael Rapaport. Upcoming Sneak Previews include "Great Buck Howard," starring Colin Hanks, John Malkovich and Tom Hanks, and "Harlem Aria," starring Damon Wayans.

Launched in 2001 by Mark Cuban and General Manager Philip Garvin, the HDNet networks are available on AT&T, Bright House Networks, Charter Communications, Comcast, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Insight, Mediacom, Time Warner Cable, Verizon and more than 40 NCTC cable affiliate companies. For more information visit www.hd.net.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080324/HDNETLOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: HDNet

CONTACT: Colette Carey of HDNet, +1-303-542-5576

Web Site: http://www.hd.net/


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Outdoor Channel Premieres Ten New Series in Q1

Outdoor Channel Premieres Ten New Series in Q1

Leading Outdoor Network Kicks off the New Year with the Launch of New Hunting, Fishing, Shooting and Self Defense Programming

TEMECULA, Calif., Dec. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Outdoor Channel, America's Leader in Outdoor TV, is kicking off 2009 with the launch of ten new programming series and returning favorites, featuring a mix of the network's most popular genres. Aimed at its core audience of outdoor enthusiasts, Outdoor Channel's new shows offer the best of the lifestyle of hunting, fishing, shooting and self defense.

"Outdoor Channel is focused on delivering more of what our viewers love, and that's why we are bringing back some of our most popular talent, like Michael Waddell and Michael Bane, to host new and different series," said Tom Hornish, COO at Outdoor Channel. "These high-quality shows offer something for every outdoor enthusiast and will strengthen our unique and popular themed programming blocks."

   Outdoor Channel's first quarter 2009 premieres include:    The Best Defense   Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. ET  

Hosted by outdoor industry expert and author, Michael Bane, this exciting new show teaches self defense through knowledge, preparation and awareness for men and women alike. Bane will offer viewers insight and practical tips for self defense in everyday situations.

   Impossible Shots   Wednesdays at 10:30 p.m. ET  

Expanding upon the popular segments from Shooting USA, Impossible Shots becomes a whole new show in 2009. Featuring a half-hour of entertainment and amazement, Impossible Shots showcases the world's best professional exhibition shooters performing shots that would be impossible for anyone else.

   Beyond the Hunt   Thursdays at 8:30 p.m. ET  

Join husband and wife team Rick & Julie Kreuter as they focus on the personal adventures that making hunting a memorable experience.

   Monster Fish   Fridays at 8:30 p.m. ET  

Monster Fish is a half-hour trek around the globe in search of the biggest and "baddest" aquatic creatures on the planet. Cameras capture "America's Sportsman" Trevor Gowdy and famed international angler Dennis Braid as they reel in the largest freshwater and saltwater species ever shot in HD. Gowdy and Braid will catch the kinds of fish that simply wouldn't fit on most trophy walls.

   Bill Dance Saltwater   Fridays at 10:30 p.m. ET  

Saltwater angling is booming. And Bill Dance is bringing his educational format to saltwater fishermen in Bill Dance Saltwater. With each episode, viewers will find Bill partnered with a noted saltwater expert specializing in the week's target catch.

   Bass Edge   Saturdays at 2:30 p.m. ET  

Bass Edge is a state-of-the-art high-definition fishing program aimed at teaching the fundamentals of bass fishing in a graphic, easy-to-follow format. Join host Aaron Martin and a top bass fishing professional as they teach viewers of all skill levels the fundamentals and finer points of bass fishing.

   The Best of the West   Saturdays at 8:30 p.m. ET  

Hosted by Dan Miller, The Best of the West brings a whole new level of exciting western big game hunting action to television. Many of the hunts on The Best of the West will feature stars from the Professional Bull Riders Association (PBR) and the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), as hunting is an integral part of the Western lifestyle.

   The Crush with Lee & Tiffany   Sundays at 7:30 p.m. ET  

Iconic married couple, Lee and Tiffany Lakosky, will star in the new reality-based outdoor program, which shows the good, the bad and the ugly of a not-so-typical hunting season.

   Bone Collector   Sundays at 9:30 p.m. ET  

What makes a Bone Collector? They are the hunters that have the passion to go to the ends of the earth in pursuit of the basic hunter instinct that was instilled at birth. Hosts Michael Waddell, Nick Mundt and Travis Turner will document the culture of the hunter, traversing the globe and showing the true passion and drive of hunters from all walks of life and every corner of the world.

   SHE's Beyond the Lodge   Sundays at 10:00 p.m. ET  

Hunting's popularity has exploded - especially among women. SHE's Beyond the Lodge follows the adventures of Pam Zaitz, Kandi Kisky, Vicki Cianciarulo and Brenda Potts on exciting big game hunts in domestic and international locations.

About Outdoor Channel

Outdoor Channel is America's Leader in Outdoor TV, offering programming that captures the excitement of hunting, fishing, shooting, off-road motorsports, adventure and the Western lifestyle. The network can be viewed on multiple platforms including high definition, video-on-demand, as well as on a dynamic new website. Outdoor Channel is a wholly owned subsidiary of Outdoor Channel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ GM: OUTD). For more information about Outdoor Channel, please visit www.outdoorchannel.com.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Outdoor Channel

CONTACT: Angela Hein of Bob Gold & Associates, Inc., +1-310-784-1040,
angela@bobgoldpr.com, for Outdoor Channel

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Chefs to Delight Culinary Senses at 2009 Pennsylvania Farm Show

Chefs to Delight Culinary Senses at 2009 Pennsylvania Farm Show

Celebrity Chefs to Participate in PA Preferred Cooking Demonstrations; PA Preferred Best Chef of Pennsylvania Winner to be Named

HARRISBURG, Pa., Dec. 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Popular chefs from the Food Network and Pennsylvania restaurants will show visitors at the 2009 Pennsylvania Farm Show how to create culinary masterpieces from locally produced ingredients through live cooking demonstrations and competitions.

"Pennsylvania is a microcosm of the nation, with a variety of commodities produced throughout our diverse state," said Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff. "Our locally produced dairy products, fruit, meat and vegetables are ideal for use in professional and home kitchens to create great tasting, nutritious dishes. The PA Preferred Culinary Connection Stage is a great place to observe renowned chefs doing incredible things with commodities produced close to home."

The PA Preferred Culinary Connection Stage, located in the main hall, will feature demonstrations by chefs Chris Cognac, the Food Network's "Hungry Detective;" Richard Blais, star of Bravo's third season of "Top Chef" and "Iron Chef America" contestant; and Louisa Chu, guest on "Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations" and star of "Gourmet's Diary of a Foodie" on PBS.

Chefs from local restaurants, cooking schools and companies across Pennsylvania will take the PA Preferred Culinary Connection Stage each hour throughout the week.

Starting at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 15, on the PA Preferred Culinary Connection Stage, four regional champions will compete in head-to-head cooking trials using Pennsylvania foods. Similar to the famous "Iron Chef" competitions, participants will not be told in advance the ingredients they must use during the competition.

The winner of the regional champions' competition will compete for the title of Pennsylvania's Best Chef against 2008 reigning champion Drew Wandishin, executive chef of Top of the 80's in West Hazelton, Luzerne County, at 5 p.m. on the PA Preferred Culinary Connection Stage.

The winners of the four regional contests vying for the "Best Chef" title are:

   --  Shaun Alcorn, chef and owner of Bella Cucina in Franklin, Venango       County   --  David Ansill, chef and owner of Ansill Food + Wine, Philadelphia   --  Michael Collier, executive chef at The Hershey Country Club, Hershey,       Dauphin County   --  Bill Sell, executive chef at the Altoona Hotel - An American Bistro,       Altoona, Blair County    

For a complete schedule of PA Preferred culinary events, and biographies and photos of the chefs, visit www.papreferred.com and click on "PA Preferred Culinary Connection."

The Pennsylvania Farm Show is the largest indoor agricultural event in the nation, featuring nearly 6,000 animals, 10,000 competitive exhibits and 270 commercial exhibitors. The eight-day show is Jan. 10-17, at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex & Expo Center in Harrisburg. Admission is free and parking is $8. For more information, including a complete list of the 18 learning stations, visit www.farmshow.state.pa.us.

NOTE TO EDITORS: To receive news releases, media advisories and story ideas, subscribe to the Farm Show Media Service at www.farmshow.state.pa.us (click on Media).

   CONTACT:   Nicole L. C. Bucher   (717) 787-5085  

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture

CONTACT: Nicole L. C. Bucher of the Pennsylvania Department of
Agriculture, +1-717-787-5085

Web Site: http://www.agriculture.state.pa.us/
http://www.farmshow.state.pa.us/
http://www.papreferred.com/


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Photos: Food Network Host Robin Miller and Tyson Foods(R) Ease Family Dinner Preparation With Tips for Making Lighter, Budget-Friendly Versions of Favorite Wintertime Dishes in Half the Time

Photos: Food Network Host Robin Miller and Tyson Foods(R) Ease Family Dinner Preparation With Tips for Making Lighter, Budget-Friendly Versions of Favorite Wintertime Dishes in Half the Time

SPRINGDALE, Ark., Dec. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- With 30 percent of today's families choosing to eat at home more often*, Food Network host Robin Miller and Tyson Foods have teamed up to provide strategies and shortcuts to help home cooks create fast, light and budget-friendly meals perfect for winter that will warm families from the inside out.

To view the Multimedia News Release, go to: http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/tyson/36225/

"As a busy mom of a very busy family, I know how challenging it can be to prepare family-favorite wintertime meals without spending hours in the kitchen," said Robin Miller, chef and host of Food Network's Quick Fix Meals with Robin Miller. "But with simple planning and the help of the recipe-ready protein line of Tyson(R) Fully Cooked Chicken Strips and Tyson(R) Fully Cooked Steak Strips, home cooks can put lighter versions of their family's dinnertime favorites on the table in roughly half the time."

Available frozen, refrigerated or shelf-stable and in a variety of flavors and seasonings, Tyson(R) Fully Cooked Chicken and Steak Strips can go right into favorite wintertime recipes, like Chicken Cacciatore and Chicken Parmesan Casserole, helping to dramatically cut down on preparation time. And because they are not breaded and are an excellent source of lean protein, they can be a key tool when combined with other strategies and seasonal ingredients to create lighter versions of favorite dishes that also go light on the pocketbook.

Following are just a few of Robin Miller's simple dinnertime shortcuts and tips to help busy families put deliciously light, budget-friendly meals on the table in no time:

   --  Bank a Batch: Stock items in your freezer or refrigerator "bank" to       withdraw as necessary to help you during the busiest of days. When       you're making a dish, cook double the servings and stash the rest in       your freezer or fridge for another day. When you're starved for time       and you're family is just starved, you can pull out your dinner of       choice, pop it in the microwave and put a quick and delicious dish on       the table.   --  Swap This for That: Ease your mind about the meals you serve to your       family by swapping out unhealthy ingredients for lighter,       better-for-you options. When making a classic dish like a Chicken       Parmesan Casserole, swap out regular cheese and pasta sauce for part       skim mozzarella and low-sodium marinara sauce. Use lean, non-breaded       Tyson(R) Fully Cooked Grilled Chicken Breast Strips, and put the       entire meal over a bed of whole-wheat pasta versus regular spaghetti.       Not only will you be serving a lighter, more nutritious meal, but it       will still taste like the classic dish your family has grown to love!   --  Stick to the List: Create and stick to a detailed grocery list that       will make your shopping trip more efficient and help you avoid impulse       purchases. Divide your list into organized sections (e.g., pantry       items and snack foods, fruits and veggies, frozen items, etc.) and       check off each item as it goes in your cart. Try sticking to only       what's on your list to help keep your grocery bill low, but don't let       it prevent you from trying new food items that may help you save time       in the kitchen.   

"Generations of families have looked to the Tyson brand for high-quality chicken and beef, and it's increasingly important that our protein options can be prepared quickly and easily by today's busy families," said Dave Hogberg, senior vice president of consumer products for Tyson Foods, Inc. "We're thrilled to be working with Robin Miller. Her expertise, tips and recipes, combined with our Tyson(R) Fully Cooked Chicken and Steak Strips, create the perfect pairing for fast, home cooked dinnertime solutions."

   About Tyson(R) Fully Cooked Chicken and Steak Strips   --  Available in your grocer's frozen meat aisle, Tyson(R) Fully Cooked       Chicken and Beef Strips can be stocked in your freezer for quick       dishes during any week night.   --  Available in your grocer's refrigerated meat/deli section, Tyson(R)       Fully Cooked Chicken and Steak Strips are ready in minutes, cutting       your preparation time roughly in half.   --  Available in your grocer's canned meat aisle, Tyson(R) Fully Cooked       Premium Chunk Chicken is s great tasting chicken ready when you are at       a great value.   

For more information on Tyson(R) Fully Cooked Chicken and Steak Strips and other recipe-ready ingredients, or to learn more about Robin Miller's tips for quick, light and budget-friendly meals, please visit www.tyson.com.

About Tyson Foods, Inc.

Tyson Foods, Inc. (NYSE:TSN) , founded in 1935 with headquarters in Springdale, Arkansas, is the world's largest processor and marketer of chicken, beef, and pork, the second-largest food production company in the Fortune 500 and a member of the S&P 500. The company produces a wide variety of protein-based and prepared food products and is the recognized market leader in the retail and foodservice markets it serves. Tyson provides products and service to customers throughout the United States and more than 90 countries. The company has approximately 107,000 Team Members employed at more than 300 facilities and offices in the United States and around the world. Through its Core Values, Code of Conduct and Team Member Bill of Rights, Tyson strives to operate with integrity and trust and is committed to creating value for its shareholders, customers and Team Members. The company also strives to be faith-friendly, provide a safe work environment and serve as stewards of the animals, land and environment entrusted to it.

   *Supermarket News 2008 Study: Consumers Increasingly Eating at Home    Press Contacts:     Gary Mickelson   Tyson Foods, Inc.   479-290-6111   gary.mickelson@tyson.com   Jamie Zimmerman   GolinHarris for Tyson Foods, Inc.   312-729-4351   jzimmerman@golinharris.com  

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact: jzimmerman@golinharris.com

Video: http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/tyson/36225/

Source: Tyson Foods, Inc.

CONTACT: Gary Mickelson of Tyson Foods, Inc., +1-479-290-6111,
gary.mickelson@tyson.com; or Jamie Zimmerman of GolinHarris for Tyson Foods,
Inc., +1-312-729-4351, jzimmerman@golinharris.com

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Jimmy W. Hayes Named Chief Executive Officer of Cox Enterprises

Jimmy W. Hayes Named Chief Executive Officer of Cox Enterprises

James C. Kennedy Remains Chairman

ATLANTA, Dec. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- James C. Kennedy announced today that Jimmy W. Hayes has been promoted to Chief Executive Officer effective January 1, 2009. Kennedy will remain Chairman of the company and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070925/CLTU013LOGO-b )

As chief executive, Hayes will provide oversight to Cox Communications, Manheim Auctions, Cox Media Group and Cox Auto Trader and several corporate headquarters groups, including financial operations, human resources, administration and business development. He also serves as a member on the Board of Directors of Cox Enterprises, Inc. and of Cox Radio, Inc.

"I have been the CEO of Cox Enterprises for 20 years and I feel that is long enough," said Kennedy. "Jimmy Hayes has earned the opportunity to be Chief Executive Officer of this company and in these difficult times, Jimmy's skills and experience are perfectly suited for the job. As Chairman of the Board, I am not going anywhere. I will still be around to provide Jimmy all the support that I can."

Hayes joined Cox Enterprises after having spent 16 years of his career in various leadership roles at Cox Communications, Inc., last serving as its executive vice president of finance and chief financial officer. Hayes began his career at Cox in 1980, and in 1982 was named a corporate officer. He earned bachelor's and master's degrees in accounting from the University of Georgia and in 1989 completed the Program for Management Development at the Harvard Business School. In 2005, Hayes was recognized as one of the media industry's best CFOs by Institutional Investor magazine.

Hayes serves on the Board of Directors of the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum in Savannah, Georgia and is actively involved in Angel Flight of Georgia, an organization of volunteer pilots dedicated to providing air transportation to those with medical needs that can't be filled locally.

Cox Enterprises, Inc. ( http://www.coxenterprises.com/ )

Cox Enterprises is one of the nation's leading media companies and providers of automotive services, with revenues in excess of $15 billion and more than 78,000 employees. Major operating subsidiaries include Cox Communications, Inc. (cable television distribution, telephone, high-speed Internet access, commercial telecommunications, advertising solutions and Travel Channel); Cox Newspapers, Inc. (newspapers, local and national direct mail advertising); Cox Television (television and television sales rep firms); Cox Radio, Inc. ([NYSE: CXR] broadcast radio stations and interactive Web sites); Manheim, Inc. (vehicle auctions, repair and certification services and web-based technology products) and Cox Auto Trader (automotive publications and a majority stake in AutoTrader.com).

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070925/CLTU013LOGO-b
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: Cox Enterprises, Inc.

CONTACT: Bobby Amirshahi, Cox Enterprises, Inc., +1-678-645-4518,
bobby.amirshahi@coxinc.com

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Michigan Housing Authority Announces Release of Cable Show 'House Michigan!'

Michigan Housing Authority Announces Release of Cable Show 'House Michigan!'

The Housing Industry in '08 - What Needs to Happen in '09

LANSING, Mich., Dec. 30 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Executive Director Keith Molin of the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) announced today that the latest edition of MSHDA's new cable program, House Michigan!, will begin airing this week on cable stations throughout the state. Guests of this month's program will discuss the impact of the sagging national economy in 2008 on the housing industry and what needs to be done to make 2009 a step on the road to recovery for Michigan. Joining Molin are MSHDA Deputy Director Burney Johnson, Michigan Housing Council President Sheldon Winkelman, and Dennis Varian, president of Associated Management Company.

"In this edition of House Michigan! Deputy Director Burney Johnson and I will be discussing the housing industry in Michigan with two of MSHDA's most powerful affordable housing partners as we continue telling the MSHDA story and how it relates to helping Michigan's economy regain its superior stature." Molin said. "The Michigan Housing Council is the longest-serving association of affordable housing professionals in the country and the Associated Management Company has been serving the housing needs of Michigan seniors and families for more than 30 years."

House Michigan! is produced monthly, and programming provides practical information for Michigan residents regarding homeownership, affordable rental housing, ending homelessness and creating vibrant cities and neighborhoods.

Molin hosts the program and interviews invited guests, including MSHDA staff who administer Authority programs and outside partners who participate in MSHDA related initiatives.

House Michigan! has been released to more than 80 cable stations statewide and is expected to run multiple times throughout each month. New shows will be produced monthly. Check local listings for air dates and times.

MSHDA's vision in the 21st century is to improve the quality of life for all Michigan residents and create vibrant communities by focusing on providing safe, affordable housing through homeownership and rental programs; ending homelessness; and revitalizing neighborhoods and downtowns. MSHDA's loans and operating expenses are financed through the sale of tax-exempt and taxable bonds and notes to private investors, not from state tax revenues. For information on this and other MSHDA programs, visit the Web site at www.michigan.gov/mshda.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Michigan State Housing Development Authority

CONTACT: Mary Lou Keenon of Michigan State Housing Development
Authority, +1-517-373-0011

Web Site: http://www.michigan.gov/mshda


Profile: International Entertainment