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International Entertainment News

Sunday, January 31, 2010

Diamonds Hit a High Note at the 2010 Grammy Awards

Diamonds Hit a High Note at the 2010 Grammy Awards

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- DIAMONDS were the top choice of America's most talented musicians at the 52nd Grammy Awards. The artists were outfitted in diamonds across the board for the music industry's biggest night.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100118/NY39143LOGO )

Diamond jewelry made a harmonious pairing with the musical fashions at tonight's Grammy red carpet. From the always on-cue diamond studs to major show stopping diamond pendant earrings and bracelets, diamonds were the dazzling opening act. Pink showed her glamorous side in $2.5 million worth of diamonds including diamond pendant earrings, a diamond pin in her hair, stacked diamond line bracelets, a diamond pave ball ring and diamond deco ring all from Neil Lane. Multiple Grammy winner Taylor Swift's star quality was on full display in twelve carat diamond pendant earrings custom made by Lorraine Schwartz and Ofira. Katy Perry's diamond skull earrings from Dijan were the perfect marriage of rocks and rock star. Nicole Kidman in antique diamond cluster earrings from Fred Leighton was the picture of classic sophistication. And Beyonce was stunning in diamond and yellow gold pave pendant earrings and diamond and yellow gold flower rings from Lorraine Schwartz.

THE BRILLIANCE OF DIAMONDS WAS SHOWCASED IN THE EVENING'S TOP DIAMOND TRENDS featured at the 52nd Grammy Awards. The top diamond trends included:

   Impressive Diamond Earrings    --  Alfre Woodard - Loree Rodkin - Long Pave Diamond Earrings   --  Anthony Hamilton - Diamond in the Rough - Rough Black Diamond Stud       Earrings   --  Beyonce - Lorraine Schwartz - Diamond and Yellow Gold Pave Pendant       Earrings   --  Britney Spears - Penny Preville - Emerald-Shape Pave Earrings   --  Carrie Ann Inaba - Neil Lane - Rose-Cut Diamond Pendant Earrings   --  Celine Dion - Lorraine Schwartz - Diamond Stud Earrings   --  Chantel Christie - Diamond Stud Earrings   --  Chrissy Tiegan - Diamond in the Rough - Rough Diamond "Champagne       Bubbles" Earrings   --  Ciara - Cartier - Diamond and White Gold Stud Earrings   --  Colbie Caillat - Martin Katz - Cognac Pave Diamond Drop Earrings in       Yellow Gold   --  Flo Rida - Diamond Stud Earrings   --  Heidi Klum - Lorraine Schwartz - Pear-Shape Diamond Earrings   --  Jennifer Hudson - Diamond Stud Earrings   --  Jennifer Nettles - Kimberly McDonald - Diamond and Geode Earrings   --  Kara DioGuardi - Diamond Stud Earrings   --  Kathy Griffin - Diamond Stud Earrings   --  Katy Perry - Dijan - Diamond Skull Earrings   --  Keri Hilson - Neil Lane - Diamond Stud Earrings, 6 carats   --  Lauren Sanchez - Diamond Hoop Earrings   --  Lea Michele - Lorraine Schwartz - Diamond Chandelier Earrings   --  LL Cool J - Diamond Stud Earrings   --  Mary J. Blige - Lorraine Schwartz - Pave Diamond Drop Earrings   --  Mya - Diamond Chandelier Earrings   --  Nicole Kidman - Fred Leighton - Antique Diamond and Black Enamel       Cluster Earrings   --  *Pink - Neil Lane - Diamond Pendant Drop Earrings; 30 carats   --  Rihanna - Neil Lane - Diamond Flower Cluster Stud Earrings   --  Shaila Durcal - Diamond Stud Earrings   --  Sheryl Crow - Ofira - Diamond and Yellow Gold Pendant Earrings   --  Smokey Robinson - Diamond Stud Earrings   --  Tarsha Hamilton - Diamond in the Rough - Rough Diamond "Sodwana"       Earrings, 29.98 carats   --  *Taylor Swift - Lorraine Schwartz/Ofira - Custom-Made Lorraine       Schwartz and Ofira Diamond Earrings, 12 carats     Sparkling Diamond Bracelets    --  Alfre Woodard - Loree Rodkin - Diamond Pave Bracelet   --  Carrie Ann Inaba - Neil Lane - Diamond Bangle Bracelet   --  Chrissy Tiegan - Diamond in the Rough - Rough Diamond "Sodwana" Cuff,       33.44 carats; "Orielle" Bangels, 17.52 carats   --  Fergie - Kwiat - Diamond and Yellow Gold Cuff Bracelet   --  Jennifer Lopez - Lorraine Schwartz - Diamond Cuff Bracelets and       Diamond Bangle Bracelets   --  Jennifer Nettles - Kimberly McDonald - Diamond and Geode Cuff       Bracelets   --  Kaley Cuoco - Diamond Bangle Bracelets   --  Kara DioGuardi - Diamond and Yellow Gold Bracelet   --  Lea Michele - Lorraine Schwartz - Diamond Bangle Bracelets   --  Mary J. Blige - Lorraine Schwartz - Diamond Cuff Bracelet   --  Mya - Diamond Mesh Bracelet   --  *Pink - Neil Lane - Stacked Diamond Tennis Bracelets   --  Rihanna - Neil Lane - Diamond Bracelet   --  Tarsha Hamilton - Diamond in the Rough - Rough Diamond "Astra" Bangle       Bracelets; over 54 carats     Brilliant Diamond Rings    --  Alfre Woodard - Loree Rodkin - Pave Diamond Webb Ring   --  Beyonce - Lorraine Schwartz - Diamond and Yellow Gold Flower Rings   --  Carrie Ann Inaba - Neil Lane - Pave Diamond Ring in Yellow Gold   --  Celine Dion - Lorraine Schwartz - Diamond Leaf Ring   --  Ciara - Cartier - Diamond and White Gold Scroll Cocktail Ring   --  Coco Rocha - Everlon Diamond Knot Collection - Everlon Diamond Knot       Rings in Yellow Gold   --  Heidi Klum - Lorraine Schwartz - Diamond Butterfly Ring; Diamond       Briolette Ring   --  Kaley Cuoco - Diamond Cocktail Ring   --  Kara DioGuardi - Diamond Cocktail Ring   --  Keri Hilson - Neil Lane - Diamond Cluster Ring   --  Lea Michele - Lorraine Schwartz - Two Diamond Cocktail Rings   --  Marisa Miller - Neil Lane - Pave Diamond Ring   --  *Pink - Neil Lane - Diamond Pave Ball Ring, Diamond Deco Ring   --  Rihanna - Diamond in the Rough - Rough Diamond Rings     The following celebrities wore DIAMONDS to the 52nd Annual Grammy Awards:    --  Alfre Woodard - Loree Rodkin - Diamond Pave Bracelet, Long Pave       Diamond Earrings, Pave Diamond Webb Ring   --  Anthony Hamilton - Diamond in the Rough - Rough Black Diamond Stud       Earrings, Rough Black and White Diamond Cufflinks, 7.62 carats   --  Beyonce - Lorraine Schwartz - Diamond and Yellow Gold Pave Pendant       Earrings, Diamond and Yellow Gold Flower Rings   --  Britney Spears - Penny Preville - Emerald-Shape Pave Earrings   --  Carrie Ann Inaba - Neil Lane - Diamond Bangle Bracelet, Rose-Cut       Diamond Pendant Earrings, Pave Diamond Ring in Yellow Gold   --  Celine Dion - Lorraine Schwartz - Diamond Pendant Necklace, Diamond       Stud Earrings, Diamond Leaf Ring   --  Chantel Christie - Diamond Stud Earrings   --  Chrissy Tiegan - Diamond in the Rough - Rough Diamond "Sodwana" Cuff,       33.44 carats, Rough Diamond "Orielle" Bangels, 17.52 carats, Rough       Diamond "Champagne Bubbles" Earrings   --  Ciara - Cartier - Diamond and White Gold Scroll Cocktail Ring and       Diamond and White Gold Stud Earrings   --  Coco Rocha - Neil Lane/Everlon - Rose-Cut Diamond Bibb Necklace in       Yellow Gold (Neil Lane), Everlon Diamond Knot Rings in Yellow Gold   --  Colbie Caillat - Martin Katz - Cognac Pave Diamond Drop Earrings in       Yellow Gold   --  Fergie - Kwiat - Diamond and Yellow Gold Cuff Bracelet   --  Flo Rida - Diamond Stud Earrings   --  Heidi Klum - Lorraine Schwartz - Pear-Shape Diamond Earrings, Diamond       Butterfly Ring; Diamond Briolette Ring   --  Jennifer Hudson - Diamond Stud Earrings   --  Jennifer Lopez - Lorraine Schwartz - Diamond Cuff Bracelets and       Diamond Bangle Bracelets   --  Jennifer Nettles - Kimberly McDonald - Diamond and Geode Cuff       Bracelets, Diamond and Geode Earrings   --  Kaley Cuoco - Diamond Bangle Bracelets, Diamond Cocktail Ring   --  Kara DioGuardi - Diamond and Yellow Gold Bracelet, Diamond Stud       Earrings, Diamond Cocktail Ring   --  Kathy Griffin - Diamond Stud Earrings   --  Katy Perry - Dijan - Diamond Skull Earrings   --  Keri Hilson - Neil Lane - Diamond Stud Earrings, 6 carats, Diamond       Cluster Ring   --  Lauren Sanchez - Diamond Hoop Earrings, Diamond Flower Brooch   --  Lea Michele - Lorraine Schwartz - Diamond Bangle Bracelets, Diamond       Chandelier Earrings, Two Diamond Cocktail Rings   --  LL Cool J - Diamond Stud Earrings   --  Marisa Miller - Neil Lane - Pave Diamond Bibb Necklace, Pave Diamond       Ring   --  Mary J. Blige - Lorraine Schwartz - Diamond Cuff Bracelet, Pave       Diamond Drop Earrings   --  Mya - Diamond Mesh Bracelet, Diamond Chandelier Earrings   --  Nicole Kidman - Fred Leighton - Antique Diamond and Black Enamel       Cluster Earrings   --  *Pink - Neil Lane - Stacked Diamond Tennis Bracelets, Diamond Pendant       Drop Earrings, 30 carats; Diamond Pave Ball Ring, Diamond Deco Ring,       Diamond Starburst Hair Pin   --  Rihanna - Neil Lane/Diamond in the Rough - Diamond Bracelet (Neil       Lane), Diamond Flower Cluster Stud Earrings (Neil Lane), Rough Diamond       Rings (Diamond in the Rough)   --  Shaila Durcal - Diamond Stud Earrings   --  Sheryl Crow - Ofira - Diamond and Yellow Gold Pendant Earrings   --  Smokey Robinson - Diamond Cross Pendant, Diamond Stud Earrings,       Diamond Shirt Studs   --  Tarsha Hamilton - Diamond in the Rough - Rough Diamond "Astra" Bangle       Bracelets, over 54 carats; Rough Diamond "Sodwana" Earrings, 29.98       carats   --  *Taylor Swift - Lorraine Schwartz/Ofira - Custom-Made Lorraine       Schwartz and Ofira Diamond Earrings, 12 carats    

*The Diamond Information Center (DIC) has purchased the rights to red carpet diamond photos to be used for editorial purposes.

For detailed descriptions and jeweler information, please see credit chart sent separately from this release.

First Call Analyst:
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Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100118/NY39143LOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: Diamond Information Center

CONTACT: General information: Francesca Ferrante, +1-917-293-6021,
Francesca.Ferrante@jwt.com, or Diamond trend information and quotes: Jamie
Cadwell, +1-917-213-9513, Jamie.Cadwell@jwt.com, or Diamond credit
information: Lauren Chase, +1-646-744-9144, Lauren.Chase@jwt.com, all of DIC

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

HBO 'TEMPLE GRANDIN' Premiere Cancelled

HBO 'TEMPLE GRANDIN' Premiere Cancelled

Due to the severe winter weather forecast for the Triangle area and throughout the state this weekend, the event has been cancelled as the primary concern is the safety of invited guests. Interview opportunities and clip reels are still available. Please contact: Valerie Harris, valerie@kinseygrouppr.com, 404.966.2445

HBO FILMS, TIME WARNER CABLE, AND THE AUTISM SOCIETY OF NORTH CAROLINA TO HOST NORTH CAROLINA PREMIERE OF "TEMPLE GRANDIN" ON MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1 AT THE FRIDAY CENTER FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION ON THE CAMPUS OF UNC-CHAPEL HILL

Film stars Golden Globe(r)-winner Claire Danes; Tells extraordinary story of Temple Grandin -- best-selling author, animal scientist and autism advocate

What: HBO Films and Time Warner Cable have partnered with The Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) to host the invitation-only North Carolina premiere of HBO Films' TEMPLE GRANDIN.

Highlighted by a transformative performance by Claire Danes, TEMPLE GRANDIN is a fascinating chronicle of one woman's extraordinary life journey, tracing Grandin's struggles as a terrified autistic teenager who evolved, with the help of her mother, aunt and academic mentors, into a celebrated academic whose interest in animals, particularly cows and other livestock, transformed the way cattle ranches are designed and managed. Grandin's unique ability to empathize with the animals she studied led her to devise much more efficient, and humane, ways for the cattle industry to manage their animals, even as they were being led to slaughter.

   When:       Monday, February 1, 2010    6:00 p.m.  Reception: Atrium Center    7:00 p.m.  Screening: Grumman Auditorium     Where:      The William and Ida Friday Center for Continuing Education    University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill    100 Friday Center Drive, Chapel Hill, NC   

Media requests should be directed to: Valerie Harris, HBO, (404) 966-2445 or valerie@kinseygrouppr.com

   *Clip reels are available for broadcast media.    http://www.hbo.com    /PRNewswire - Jan. 30/  

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: HBO

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Rentrak Announces Box Office Numbers for Weekend of January 29, 2010

Rentrak Announces Box Office Numbers for Weekend of January 29, 2010

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Rentrak Corporation (NASDAQ:RENT) , today announced the weekend theatrical box office numbers for the weekend period of January 29 through January 31, 2010 according to the company's Box Office Essentials(TM) theatrical box office data collection and analytical service.

The twelve estimated top producing motion pictures for the weekend, per data collected as of Sunday, January 31, 2010 include:

                                          Weekend   Rank   Title           Distributor      Gross       Cume       Locations   -----------------------------------------------------------------------                               1  Avatar           20th Century Fox $30,000,000  $594,472,387   3074   ---  ------           -------------    -----------  ------------   ----     2  Edge Of Darkness Warner Bros.     $17,120,000   $17,120,000   3066   ---  ---------------- ------------     -----------   -----------   ----     3  When In Rome     Disney           $12,065,000   $12,065,000   2456   ---  ------------     ------           -----------   -----------   ----     4  Tooth Fairy      20th Century Fox $10,000,000   $26,106,278   3345   ---  -----------      -------------   -----------   -----------   ----     5  The Book Of Eli  Warner Bros.      $8,770,000   $74,373,479   3075   ---  ---------------  ------------      ----------   -----------   ----     6  Legion           Sony              $6,800,000   $28,646,411   2476   ---  ------           ----              ----------   -----------   ----     7  The Lovely Bones Paramount         $4,735,000   $38,013,910   2638   ---  ---------------- ---------         ----------   -----------   ----     8  Sherlock Holmes  Warner Bros.      $4,510,000  $197,596,178   2250   ---  ---------------  ------------      ----------  ------------   ----        Alvin And The         Chipmunks: The         9   Squeakquel      20th Century Fox  $4,000,000  $209,297,861   2526   ---  --------------   -------------     ----------  ------------   ----    10  It's Complicated Universal         $3,720,400  $104,027,220   2096   ---  ---------------- ---------         ----------  ------------   ----    11  The Blind Side   Warner Bros.      $3,020,000  $237,913,488   1751   ---  --------------   ------------      ----------  ------------   ----    12  Up In The Air    Paramount         $2,700,000   $73,172,517   1430   ---  -------------    ---------         ----------   -----------   ----   Weekend of 1/29/10 to 1/31/10     

(C) Rentrak Corporation 2010 -Content in Rentrak Theatrical box office updates is produced and/or compiled by Rentrak Corporation and its Box Office Essentials® theatrical box office data collection and analytical service, and is covered by provisions of the Copyright Act. The material presented herein is intended to be available for public use. You may reproduce the content of the box office updates in any format or medium without first obtaining permission, subject to the following requirements: (1) the material must be reproduced accurately; and (2) any publication or issuance of any part of the material to others must acknowledge Rentrak Corporation as the source of the material.

About Box Office Essentials

Box Office Essentials provides each studio with password-protected, real-time, web browser-based and 24/7 access to data pertaining specifically to their movie release titles. A sophisticated toolset allows studio distribution executives to view and analyze the information at different levels of detail and across a multitude of attributes (by theatre circuit, DMA, time zone, etc.), enhancing their ability to make faster, and better informed decisions. Additional features include online school calendars (K-12 and college), interactive release schedule and 24-hour subscriber support.

About Rentrak Corporation

Rentrak Corporation (NASDAQ:RENT) is a global digital media measurement and research company, serving the most recognizable companies in the entertainment industry. With a reach across numerous platforms including box office, home entertainment, on-demand and linear television, broadband and mobile, Rentrak is headquartered in Portland, Oregon, with additional offices in Los Angeles, New York City and Miami/ Ft. Lauderdale. For more information on any of Rentrak's services, please visit www.rentrak.com.

   Contacts: Rogers & Cowan for Rentrak    Corporation   Sallie Olmsted                                 Amanda Bartz   (310) 854-8124                                 (310) 854-8151   solmsted@rogersandcowan.com                    abartz@rogersandcowan.com  

First Call Analyst:
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Source: Rentrak Corporation

CONTACT: Rogers & Cowan for Rentrak Corporation, Sallie Olmsted,
+1-310-854-8124, solmsted@rogersandcowan.com, or Amanda Bartz,
+1-310-854-8151, abartz@rogersandcowan.com

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Teen Pop Star and Youth Activist Chantel 'Chani' Christie, Winner of the 2009 Pop Artist of the Year Award, Set to Release Her Much Anticipated New Single 'Gimme Love' Via Jean Rah Fya Records

Teen Pop Star and Youth Activist Chantel 'Chani' Christie, Winner of the 2009 Pop Artist of the Year Award, Set to Release Her Much Anticipated New Single 'Gimme Love' Via Jean Rah Fya Records

Christie Will Attend the 2010 Grammy Awards and Donate Proceeds from Her New Single to Haiti Earthquake Survivors and Rebuilding

HOLLYWOOD, Calif., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Teen pop star Chantel "Chani" Christie is set to release her new, much anticipated single "Gimme Love" via Jean Rah Fya Records and has also been announced to attend this year's Grammy Awards on Sunday, January 31, 2010, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

"To be going to the Grammy Awards is a huge honor, and to be able to donate the proceeds to help the victims of the Haiti devastation means the world to me," states Chani.

Chani, hot on the heels of her being signed to L.A. Talent Agency, took home the "Pop Artist of the Year" award at the 19th Annual Los Angeles Music Awards on November 12, 2009. Chani also walked the red carpet at the 2009 American Music Awards. She was highly photographed due to her high fashion, over-the-top outfit by Clothing Company BEBE and also garnered much attention at the AMAs for her work with youth and Ambassadorship as the United States Youth Ambassador on HIV/AIDS Awareness.

Also selected by the 2009 NAACP Theatre Awards, Chani was a presenter with her father, NBA Legend Doug Christie. The 16-year-old multitalented entertainer was also tapped to participate in the "Girls Are Not for Sale" mega campaign which brought awareness to the trafficking of young American girls. The campaign was spearheaded by recording artist SINEAD O'CONNOR who recorded the duet "This is To Mother You" which featured Grammy award winning recording artist/producer MARY J. BLIGE.

About Chantel "Chani" Christie: Sixteen year old Chantel "Chani" Christie is the United States Youth Ambassador for HIV/AIDS Awareness, a bestselling author, fashion model, and actress. "Chani," recently awarded the 2009 Martin Luther King Jr. Excellence in Hip-Hop Award, is currently starring in her new hit reality web series titled 'Chani's Story' and writing her second book, A Girl Has to Look Good! A beauty, fashion and lifestyle Guide. Chani, currently a junior in high school, has a passion to lead the youth worldwide by educating them through her music and books.

   For More Information:   www.chantelchristie.com   www.girlsarenotforsale.org  

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Jean Rah Fya Records

CONTACT: Laura Wright of Avid Exposure, +1-310-358-9232,
PR@avidexposure.com, for Jean Rah Fya Records

Web Site: http://www.chantelchristie.com/
http://www.girlsarenotforsale.org/


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Saturday, January 30, 2010

Miss America Crowned in Las Vegas

Miss America Crowned in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Miss Virginia Caressa Cameron from Fredericksburg, VA was crowned Miss America 2010 Saturday night at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. The final night of the Miss America Pageant was broadcast live from Las Vegas on TLC and hosted by Mario Lopez and TLC's Clinton Kelly.

Caressa's triumphant walk across the stage was just the beginning of a journey that will take her to every corner of the country during her year of service as Miss America 2010. She will travel approximately 20,000 miles each month speaking to audiences about her personal platform of "Real Talk: Aids in America," and acting as the official National Goodwill Ambassador for Children's Miracle Network. Children's Miracle Network, a non-profit organization dedicated to saving and improving the lives of children by raising funds for children's hospitals, is the national platform partner of the Miss America Organization.

As Miss America 2010, Caressa will have her entire wardrobe provided by Joseph Ribkoff International Clothing and shoe wardrobe provided by DSW Warehouse. She will also be provided with skincare and cosmetics by Artistry Cosmetics exclusively from Amway Global. In addition, Caressa will help support the Miss America Organization's efforts to go green by being the official spokesperson for Nature's Bottles.

Caressa is a student at Virginia Commonwealth University with a major in Broadcast Communications. Her scholastic ambition is to obtain a master's degree in Mass Communications and she ultimately hopes to become an anchor for a television news station. Along with the title of Miss America 2010, Caressa won a $50,000 scholarship, sponsored by Amway Global, to continue her education. For the talent portion of the competition, Caressa sang "Listen," from the movie, Dreamgirls.

The first runner-up was Miss California Kristy Cavinder who earned a $25,000 scholarship. Her talent performance was ballet en pointe and her personal platform is the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

Second runner-up honors and a $20,000 scholarship were awarded to Miss Tennessee Stefanie Wittler. Her talent was vocal, and her personal platform is Ronald McDonald House Charities.

As the world's largest provider of scholarship assistance for young women and one of the nation's leading achievement programs, the Miss America Organization last year made available more than $45 million in cash and scholarship assistance. The Miss America Organization provides young women with a vehicle to further their personal and professional goals and instills a spirit of community service through a variety of nationwide community-based programs.

Additional information about the Miss America Organization can be found at www.MissAmerica.org.

For up-to-the-minute competition news and information, as well as downloadable high-resolution images of Miss America 2010 Caressa Cameron and the 2009 contestants, visit the 24-hour online pressroom at www.MissAmericaPressRoom.com.

To download photos of tonight's crowning moment, go to www.missamerica.org.

About the Miss America Organization

The Miss America Organization is one of the nation's leading achievement programs and the world's largest provider of scholarship assistance for young women. Last year, the Miss America Organization and its state and local affiliates made available more than $45 million in scholarship assistance. For more information, visit www.missamerica.org.

About TLC

TLC's innovative docu-series and reality-based programming include favorites Jon & Kate Plus 8, Little People, Big World, What Not to Wear, 18 Kids and Counting, Say Yes to the Dress, and LA Ink. TLC added to its menu of programming with Cake Boss and Ultimate Cake Off, and continues to expand into the food genre. TLC's daytime lineup includes the Emmy Award-winning A Baby Story. The channel is available in more than 98 million homes in the US, nearly 8 million homes in Canada and through the website at www.tlc.com. TLC is part of Discovery Communications (NASDAQ:DISCA) (NASDAQ:DISCB) (NASDAQ:DISCK) , the world's number one nonfiction media company reaching more than 1.5 billion cumulative subscribers in over 170 countries.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Miss America Organization

CONTACT: Sharon Pearce of the Miss America Organization, +1-609-653-8700
ext. 117, sharon@missamerica.org

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

HBO 'TEMPLE GRANDIN' Premiere Cancelled

HBO 'TEMPLE GRANDIN' Premiere Cancelled

Due to the severe winter weather forecast for the Triangle area and throughout the state this weekend, the event has been cancelled as the primary concern is the safety of invited guests. Interview opportunities and clip reels are still available. Please contact: Valerie Harris, valerie@kinseygrouppr.com, 404.966.2445

HBO FILMS, TIME WARNER CABLE, AND THE AUTISM SOCIETY OF NORTH CAROLINA TO HOST NORTH CAROLINA PREMIERE OF "TEMPLE GRANDIN" ON MONDAY, FEBRUARY 1 AT THE FRIDAY CENTER FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION ON THE CAMPUS OF UNC-CHAPEL HILL

Film stars Golden Globe(r)-winner Claire Danes; Tells extraordinary story of Temple Grandin -- best-selling author, animal scientist and autism advocate

What: HBO Films and Time Warner Cable have partnered with The Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) to host the invitation-only North Carolina premiere of HBO Films' TEMPLE GRANDIN.

Highlighted by a transformative performance by Claire Danes, TEMPLE GRANDIN is a fascinating chronicle of one woman's extraordinary life journey, tracing Grandin's struggles as a terrified autistic teenager who evolved, with the help of her mother, aunt and academic mentors, into a celebrated academic whose interest in animals, particularly cows and other livestock, transformed the way cattle ranches are designed and managed. Grandin's unique ability to empathize with the animals she studied led her to devise much more efficient, and humane, ways for the cattle industry to manage their animals, even as they were being led to slaughter.

   When:       Monday, February 1, 2010    6:00 p.m.  Reception: Atrium Center    7:00 p.m.  Screening: Grumman Auditorium     Where:      The William and Ida Friday Center for Continuing Education    University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill    100 Friday Center Drive, Chapel Hill, NC   

Media requests should be directed to: Valerie Harris, HBO, (404) 966-2445 or valerie@kinseygrouppr.com

   *Clip reels are available for broadcast media.    http://www.hbo.com    /PRNewswire - Jan. 30/  

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: HBO

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Friday, January 29, 2010

PR Experts to Host Panel Exploring MTV's 'Jersey Shore' and Its Impact on New Jersey's Reputation

PR Experts to Host Panel Exploring MTV's 'Jersey Shore' and Its Impact on New Jersey's Reputation

PRSA NJ to Host Panel Discussion on February 3rd

SOUTH ORANGE, N.J., Jan. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- The New Jersey Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA NJ), presents a forum about the pop culture phenomenon, media whirlwind, and effects on New Jersey's reputation that surround MTV's "Jersey Shore" television program. The breakfast and forum, targeted to communications professionals, is Wednesday, February 3, from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at Seton Hall University in the Chancellor Suite, bottom floor of the University Center, 400 South Orange Avenue in South Orange, New Jersey.

In the short time since it first debuted, MTV's reality show "Jersey Shore" has generated a groundswell of publicity, ratings and controversy. According to a recent Associated Press article, "Jersey Shore" has become the top prime-time show for viewers in the 12 to 34 age group on Thursdays.

"The forum will debate the impact that the show will have, both short term and long term, on the reputation of the Garden State," said Ken Hunter, President of the PRSA NJ Chapter. "Creating and protecting a highly regarded reputation is just as important for a state as it is for any company. This forum, which features an array of top media experts that have reported on the show and key influencers within the state, will provide a candid look at the effect that a show like MTV's 'Jersey Shore' can have in shaping perceptions."

The panelists will include Neil Genzlinger, New York Times reporter; Mark Dilonno, Star-Ledger columnist; Jason Chupick, PR Newser; New Jersey State Senator Anthony Bucco; Michael Genevrino, Director of the New Jersey Italian American Heritage Commission; and Alicia Vitarelli, of News 12 NJ, who will serve as the panel moderator.

The event will examine why "Jersey Shore" has been a source of controversy and media attention, what impact the show will have on New Jersey's reputation, if MTV's decision to create "Jersey Shore" was an intriguing marketing ploy or sensationalized stereotyping, and what the show's popularity says about the state of media and entertainment in 2010.

The cost of the event is $25 for PRSA NJ members, $35 for non-members, and free for students. Registration is required and can be done at www.prsanj.org.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: PRSA NJ

CONTACT: Ann Fody, PRSA NJ Executive Director, +1-732-291-0168,
fodyassociates@comcast.net

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

NBC 5 Chicago and eVoter Announce Partnership to Link Voters to Election Day Information

NBC 5 Chicago and eVoter Announce Partnership to Link Voters to Election Day Information

NBC 5 Chicago debuts online service

CHICAGO, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- NBC 5 Chicago and eVoter (www.evoter.com) today announced a partnership that connects Chicagoland voters to polling place locations, election information, candidate profiles and endorsements prior to Election Day.

eVoter is the first website where voters and candidates connect. The non-partisan website allows voters to directly interact with candidates and access accurate, up-to-date information to make informed decisions on Election Day. From statewide races like Governor and U.S. Senator all the way down to local county and municipal races, eVoter provides voters with a list of every candidate on their ballot.

Illinois, which has the nation's first primary election on February 2, is the first state where eVoter is available. NBC 5 Chicago now offers an online web tool that directs voters to their personalized ballot information powered by eVoter as part of their comprehensive online election coverage at: http://www.nbcchicago.com/news/politics/Chicago-Elections-2010.html

"We're pleased to announce this partnership with one of Chicago's local news leaders," said Adam Kravitz, CEO of Political Technologies LLC, owners and operators of eVoter. "Adding a broadcast media partner marks an important milestone in the expansion of eVoter, and this step will ultimately allow us to reach even more voters in the Chicago area."

"Our partnership with eVoter provides a great service for voters and candidates," said Frank Whittaker, Station Manager and VP of News, NBC 5 Chicago. "Voters can log on to find their polling place, and see exactly what their ballot will look like on Tuesday."

In addition to interacting with candidates, eVoter allows voters to locate their polling place, generate and print a customized ballot, access an absentee ballot, look up endorsements from registered organizations, and donate to campaigns. Candidates can purchase and customize an online profile on eVoter, and registered organizations can publicize their endorsements to voters at a low cost.

Candidates or endorsing organizations that are interested in creating a profile should visit http://www.nbcchicago.com/news/politics/Chicago-Elections-2010.html and click on "Visit eVoter.com" in the eVoter search box or call (866) 976-0555.

ABOUT EVOTER

eVoter is the unbiased, non-partisan election information site where voters can generate a personalized sample ballot instantly, view candidate profiles, make contributions, view organizational endorsements, find polling places, request absentee ballot applications, and more. Owned and operated by Florida-based Political Technologies LLC (www.politicaltechnologies.com), eVoter is designed with the goal of providing voters with concise unbiased information on every candidate and measure on their ballot. With 7000+ Illinois Primary Election Candidates listed and 11,000+ polling places, eVoter is the destination for 2010 Illinois Primary Election information.

ABOUT NBC 5 (WMAQ-TV)

NBC5 (WMAQ) is the owned and operated NBC station in Chicago. On October 8, 1948, the station, then called WNBQ-TV, transmitted its first telecast from the Merchandise Mart--the third game of the Indians-Braves World Series in Cleveland, Ohio. The station's current call letters, WMAQ-TV, were established in 1964. During NBC5 Chicago's rich history, the station pioneered a number of television "firsts." On April 15, 1956, NBC5 became the world's first all-color station. In September of 1986, NBC5 became the first Chicago commercial station to broadcast in stereo. In 1989, NBC5 was the first Chicago station to present closed captioning of all local newscasts and in 2004 was the first television station to launch a street side studio at 401 N. Michigan Avenue, Studio 5. Currently, NBC5 airs 30 hours of local news per week in HD. NBC5 News has over 30 reporters and anchors covering the Chicago area. NBC5 News covers local news on-air and online at nbcchicago.com

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: eVoter

CONTACT: Jillian Yodice of Jasculca/Terman and Associates,
+1-312-573-5512, jillian_yodice@jtpr.com, for eVoter; or Toni Falvo of NBC 5
Chicago, +1-312-836-5532, toni.falvo@nbcuni.com

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Epic Film Merits Epic Marketing - Virtual Images Produces Ultra 3-D Movie Posters for 20th Century Fox's 'Avatar'

Epic Film Merits Epic Marketing - Virtual Images Produces Ultra 3-D Movie Posters for 20th Century Fox's 'Avatar'

REDLANDS, Calif., Jan. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Avatar, director James Cameron's epic motion picture, is being touted as a breakthrough in filmmaking technology for revolutionizing the way 3-D movies are made. But Avatar's influence is being felt far beyond the theater as the movie is also driving a revolution in the way 3-D movies are being promoted.

The producers of Avatar wanted movie posters that reflected the breakthrough 3-D experience they delivered in the theater - that's why they turned to the team at Virtual Images. The latest 3-D marketing revolution came in the form of 3-D movie posters that have unimaginable depth and clarity. The Ultra-3D Avatar posters were produced on new lenses utilizing a unique technology developed by Virtual Images.

"When studios want to make an impact and draw viewers to the theater, they rely on our 3-D artists and expertise to translate a creative vision from 3-D film to 3-D print," said Dave Corey, general manager of Virtual Images. "3-D is a storytelling medium that connects with movie-goers and expands the 3-D experience beyond the theater."

Virtual Images worked with 20th Century Fox to produce nearly 2,000 Ultra-3D movie posters located in theaters and high-traffic venues throughout the United States and internationally. The posters were launched just in time for Avatar day on August 21, 2009, helping to create substantial buzz for the most anticipated 3-D movie of 2009.

With more than 15 years experience connecting a brand's message to 3-D, Virtual Images has helped to promote some of the highest-grossing movie titles such as Transformers, Batman, Star Trek, Harry Potter, Ice Age and Iron Man.

   Image: http://www.ereleases.com/pr/2010-Virtual-Images-Avatar.jpg    About Virtual Images, Inc   

Virtual Images, an IGH Solutions Company, headquartered in Redlands, California, is the leading provider of 3-D marketing products. Their patented software and advanced production equipment ensure the most dynamic 3-D imagery. With expert designers and leading 3-D artists in-house, Virtual Images helps entertainment marketers, publishers, and advertising agencies break through the clutter using 3-D technologies to engage consumers. For more information, visit their website at: http://www.viu.com/

   Media Contact:    Tessa Boettner   Marketing Manager   tmboettner@ighsolutions.com   651.288.8478    http://www.ighsolutions.com/   http://www.viu.com/     

This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com/.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Virtual Images, Inc

CONTACT: Tessa Boettner, Marketing Manager, +1-651-288-8478,
tmboettner@ighsolutions.com

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Census Bureau and Gov. Crist Launch 2010 Census in Schools Program in North Miami, Fla.

Census Bureau and Gov. Crist Launch 2010 Census in Schools Program in North Miami, Fla.

WASHINGTON, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The following is being issued by the U.S. Census Bureau:

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090226/CENSUSLOGO)

What: Florida Gov. Charlie Crist and North Miami Mayor Andre Pierre will launch the 2010 Census in Schools program at North Miami Senior High School. Elementary and middle schools will also take part in the event.

The program will be highlighted by visits from Sesame Street characters Walkaround Count von Count (The Count) and Rosita.

Census in Schools gives schools a wide range of free, optional, standards-based lesson plans on subjects related to the census, ranging from math to social studies. The program is designed for students in kindergarten through 12th grade and will be made available to more than 120,000 schools and 56 million students nationwide.

   When:  Tuesday, Feb. 2, 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (EST)    Who:   Charlie Crist, governor, Florida          Andre Pierre, mayor, North Miami           Renee Jefferson-Copeland, chief, Census in Schools, U.S. Census           Bureau    Where: North Miami Senior High School          13110 NE, 8 Avenue          North Miami, FL 33161    

Editor's note: News releases, reports and data tables are available on the Census Bureau's home page. Go to <http://www.census.gov/> and click on "Releases."

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090226/CENSUSLOGO
PRN Photo Desk photodesk@prnewswire.com

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

CONTACT: Pam Page Bellis, Atlanta Regional Census Center,
+1-941-586-7182/mobile, Pamela.M.Page.Bellis@census.gov

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Audi 'Truth in Motion' Documentary Available as Free Download on the iTunes Store

Audi 'Truth in Motion' Documentary Available as Free Download on the iTunes Store

- The film documents the U.S. Ski Team's preparations for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver - Availability on iTunes follows NBC premiere at 8 pm EST this Saturday - This is the second documentary produced by Audi made available for free download on iTunes

HERNDON, Va., Jan. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- The Audi-commissioned documentary "Truth in Motion: The U.S. Ski Team's Road to Vancouver" will air this Saturday night on NBC in anticipation of the 2010 Winter Olympic games. Following its prime-time TV debut Saturday night, the film will be available as a free download, exclusively on the iTunes Store (www.itunes.com).

"Truth in Motion: The U.S. Ski Team's Road to Vancouver" will be available on iTunes in stunning HD and SD versions. Olympics and sports enthusiasts alike will be able to enjoy the documentary on their Mac or PC, iPhone, iPod with video and on a TV with Apple TV.

Much like its popular predecessor, "Truth in 24" which Audi developed with NFL Films last Spring, "Truth in Motion" provides a uniquely intimate look at a sport that pushes the human limits of endurance and determination. The U.S. Ski team allowed filmmakers to capture powerful, and otherwise unseen, moments in which the athletes chased their dreams of making it to Vancouver - at whatever cost necessary.

As part of its continued support of the U.S. Ski Team, Audi of America has commissioned a documentary film, "Truth in Motion: The U.S. Ski Team's Road to Vancouver", which tells the unique stories of these elite American athletes as they prepare for the competition of their lives - the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

The filmmaking approach used by award-winning director Brett Morgen was state-of-the-art, including special camera techniques like ultra slow-motion shots. This creates the effect of, quite literally, making time stand still and showcasing the remarkable technique the skiers apply in matters of milliseconds.

Audi is a sponsor of the U.S. Ski Team and the film, according to Audi of America Chief Marketing Officer Scott Keogh provided a chance to chronicle the technology, innovation and willpower that define both Audi and the U.S. Ski Team.

"Behind every Olympic athlete are years of grueling preparation, heartbreak and triumph and we couldn't be more honored that the U.S. Ski team allowed us to share that side of the experience with the world," said Scott Keogh, Chief Marketing Officer at Audi of America. "By creating this film, we had the unique opportunity to share a powerful story that otherwise might not have been told."

The Audi "Truth in Motion: The U.S. Ski Team's Road to Vancouver" will be available after the broadcast on the iTunes Store at: itunes.com/truthinmotion.

ABOUT AUDI

Audi of America Inc. and its 270 dealers offer a full line of German-engineered luxury vehicles. The Audi lineup is one of the freshest in the industry with 23 models, including 12 models launched during model years 2008 and 2009. Audi is among the most successful luxury automotive brands globally. In selling one million vehicles worldwide in 2008, AUDI AG recorded its 13th consecutive record year for sales growth. Visit www.audiusa.com or www.audiusanews.com for more information regarding Audi vehicle and business issues.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Audi of America, Inc.

CONTACT: Jeff Kuhlman, +1-703-364-7423, Mob.: +1-248-622-3703,
jeff.kuhlman@audi.com, or Brad Stertz, +1-703-364-7440, Mob.: +1-703-344-1320,
brad.stertz@audi.com, both of Audi of America Inc.

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

USA Network & Westminster Brings Everyone's Best Friend Back to Madison Square Garden

USA Network & Westminster Brings Everyone's Best Friend Back to Madison Square Garden

Best in Show to be Crowned at 134th WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB DOG SHOW Presented by Pedigree®, Live on USA Network February 15 and 16 at 8/7c MSNBC's Tamron Hall Replaces Mario Lopez as Co-Host

NEW YORK, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- USA Network announced today that MSNBC's Tamron Hall will replace Mario Lopez as the co-host of the 134th WESTMINSTER KENNEL CLUB DOG SHOW, presented by Pedigree. Hall will be co-hosting the event with David Frei in his 21st consecutive year with the show. Also joining the team again this year will be NBC Sports' Tiffany Simons as a sideline reporter. On Monday, February 15, USA will air the first hour of the show at 8pm and will then switch over to CNBC for the 9-11pm ET/PT portion of the broadcast. On Tuesday, February 16, USA will air all three hours, including the crowning of the 2010 Best in Show, from 8-11pm ET/PT.

Lopez, who is stepping down, explains, "It saddens me to say I will not be able to co-host this year's Westminster Kennel Club dog show, due to unforeseen scheduling conflicts. I wish Tamron, David and all the dogs the best of luck. I will be cheering you all on from LA."

"I've been a dog lover my entire life," says Hall. "I currently have two furry 'best friends' in my family, and I can't wait for the show. I'm honored to be given the opportunity to join this team."

Hall anchors MSNBC Live weekday mornings and co-anchors weekday afternoons from 3-4pm ET. Hall can also be seen on NBC News as a fill-in correspondent and newsreader for "The Today Show" and "Weekend Today." In addition, Hall served as co-host of a 2009 "Dateline" series titled "You Might Be Rich." Prior to joining MSNBC in July 2007, Hall spent 10 years at WFLD in Chicago, where she held a number of positions including general assignment reporter, consumer reporter, and most recently, host of the three-hour "Fox News in the Morning" program. She also anchored the weekday mornings and served as a noon anchor. While at WFLD, Hall covered several breaking news stories including one of Amtrak's most devastating accidents in Illinois, and she secured a one-on-one interview with then-Sen. Barack Obama shortly before he announced his run for the presidency. Hall was nominated for an Emmy for her consumer report segment, "The Bottom Line," which she launched in 1999. Before joining WFLD, Hall spent four years as a general assignment reporter at KTVT in Dallas. She began her broadcasting career at KBTX in Bryan, Texas, as a general assignment reporter.

This year also introduces three newly recognized breeds to the main event. The Irish Red and White Setter joins the Sporting Group; the Norwegian Buhund and the Pyrenean Shepherd debut in the Herding Group. Despite its name, the Irish Red and White Setter is a distinct breed, not just a different colored version of the Irish Setter. Bred primarily for the field, they are strong, powerful and athletic, with a keen and intelligent attitude. Once the cherished companion of Vikings, the Norwegian Buhund is a versatile farm dog from Norway that herds livestock, guards property and has been used for hunting game. The Pyrenean Shepherd is also known by its French name, Berger des Pyrenees, but fanciers of the breed in America often shorten his name to "Pyr shep."

Entries for the 2010 show totals 2,500 dogs, representing 48 states, the District of Columbia and at least eight foreign countries. The largest entries hail from California (251) and New York (224).

The highest breed entered this year came from the Australian Shepherds with 44; other large entries include Rhodesian Ridgebacks (43), Labrador Retrievers (42), Golden Retrievers (40), Pugs (36), French Bulldogs (36) and German Shorthaired Pointers (36).

There are also 120 entries in Junior Showmanship, where young handlers ages 9-18 compete based only on their handling abilities with their dogs.

This year's Best in Show will be judged by Mr. Elliott Weiss of Eagle, Idaho. He heads a panel of 41 judges from 18 states.

The Westminster Kennel Club is America's oldest organization dedicated to the sport of purebred dogs. Established in 1877, Westminster's influence has been felt for more than a century through its famous all breed, benched dog show held every year at New York's Madison Square Garden. The show is America's second longest continuously held sporting event, behind only the Kentucky Derby. For additional information, log on to www.westminsterkennelclub.org.

USA Network is the #1 network in all of basic cable and is seen in over 98.5 million U.S. homes. A division of NBC Universal, USA is the cable television leader in original series and home to the best in blockbuster theatrical films, acquired television series and entertainment events. The award-winning USA website is located at www.usanetwork.com. Characters Welcome.

USA Network is a program service of NBC Universal Cable a division 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.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: USA Network

CONTACT: Amanda Cary, +1-212-664-8993, amanda.cary@nbcuni.com; Alysia
Sands, +1-212-664-2902, alysia.sands@nbcuni.com

Web Site: http://www.usanetwork.com/
http://www.westminsterkennelclub.org/


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

No Future for Non-copyrighted Content

No Future for Non-copyrighted Content

Ku6.com Garners 70% of Hit Drama Market, Youku.com Sued on Suspicion of Piracy

BEIJING, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- China's renowned video website, Ku6.com, held a news conference in Beijing this morning, announcing that it had begun to clean up locally produced video content and indicated that it would spare no effort in realizing comprehensive legalization. Prior to this, Ku6.com had already deleted all non-copyrighted European and American video content uploaded by netizens.

At the news conference, Ku6.com also announced that is believes Youku.com has pirated more than 40 dramas for which Ku6.com had exclusive copyright. As regards to Youku.com, recent negotiations having failed between the two parties, therefore Ku6.com has moved forward with the filing of a lawsuit against Youku.com at the Beijing Haidian District People's Court.

At the news conference, Ku6.com's Senior Vice President Hao Zhizhong said that simultaneous to deleting illegal content, Ku6.com has also actively cooperated in collaborating on copyrighted content. He revealed that as of now, Ku6.com has already purchased almost all of the hit dramas produced locally to be broadcast in 2010. In particular, Ku6.com has exclusive broadcasting rights for 70% of the top hit dramas among video sharing websites. Hao Zhizhong said that copyright issues have become an obstacle, restraining further development of video websites and have become a serious threat to the industry's health. As such, how to effectively resolve and protect video copyrights are unavoidable issues that video websites must confront. It is precisely because Ku6.com is aware of this point that it actively sought to resolve such issues, formally cleaning up locally produced video content uploaded by netizens. It has completed the cleaning up and deletion of content for more than 5,000 episodes and expects to complete the clean-up in April of this year. This follows Ku6.com's earlier public announcement of a clean-up of European and American dramas uploaded by netizens, and was another significant measure that shook the industry.

While taking the initiative to clean up content, Ku6.com has also actively embarked on copyright cooperation and has reached cooperative agreements with nearly 100 producers and copyright parties to purchase almost all locally produced hit dramas to be broadcast in 2010 at a large expense. To ensure the differentiated viewing experience of netizens, it has exclusive broadcasting rights for 70% of top hit dramas amongst video sharing websites. These exclusively procured dramas include dozens of the most popular locally produced hit dramas of 2010 such as Dream of the Red Chamber -- new version, Cangqiong zhi mao, Groundbreakers, Gong and Drum Alley, and To Southeast Asia.

Simultaneous to taking the initiative to clean up illegal content and cooperating actively, Ku6.com also resolutely supported anti-piracy and protecting copyright at the news conference, announcing that it had officially filed lawsuits for piracy broadcasting of dozens of dramas for which Ku6.com had exclusive copyright. Ku6.com regretfully indicated that after repeated disputes in 2009, the issue of holding copyright in contempt remains at this stage, and taking legal action against video website peers violating industry standards was the only way.

Hao Zhizhong indicated that healthy development of an industry or sector is built on the reasonable and legal foundations; conduct disrespectful of the law would not be protected by the law. As of the 22nd, Youku.com stands accused of pirating more than 40 dramas for which Ku6.com has exclusive copyright, and it has also sold to advertising customers video productions that are without copyright. Youku.com's perceived actions of piracy have left Ku6.com with no choice but to take legal action against the former at the Beijing Haidian District People's Court.

Hao Zhizhong said that the objective of these measures lies in Ku6.com having once faced similar historical problems. It is currently still in the process of cleaning up content and resolving historic copyright issues but Ku6.com has not avoided these issues, but has faced them courageously, and is taking great strides towards the legal camp. As such, in the current exercise of protecting its rights, Ku6.com, while protecting its proprietary rights, also hopes that its industry peers would see the future development trends in online video legalization and jointly undertake an upgrading of the model, moving towards the path of legalization together. In terms of website brand building and basic rights of advertising customers, disrespecting copyright results in only ephemeral benefits. This type of conduct would bring out inestimable loss to the enterprise and the industry. Ku6.com strongly urges others to emulate the positive and responsible act of Ku6.com, proactively take the initiative to clean up and delete international and local video content with copyright issues and to join the legal camp.

Moving into 2010, video websites' attitudes towards copyright has moved from one of avoidance to one of active handling, from clean-up to protection. This gradual process reflects the change in the copyright awareness of "quality" of video websites. This time round, Ku6.com's spending of a considerable sum in procuring a large number of hit dramas, and in addressing the issue with Youku.com, not only positively advances the circulation of the market's copyright of original products but also puts forward a resolution plan for the protection of rights for resolving copyright issues that have long plagued cultural innovation in China. It aims to build an industry standard on the basis of respecting the law, and to resolve issues in a reasonable manner.

Finally, Ku6.com believes that these lawsuits are not only a legal action, but also a call for responsibility. Ku6.com also confirms that out-of-court negotiations are their preferred method of settling such disputes, but that these can only happen if others are deemed to be working towards a fair conclusion and are working with the same level of responsibility as Ku6.com.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Ku6.com

CONTACT: York, +86-136-0139-0567


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

New Musical 'Cell Side Story' Puts Science on Stage

New Musical 'Cell Side Story' Puts Science on Stage

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C., Jan. 29 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Meet Kenny Twist and the DNA girl. They are the stars of a new animated film, "Cell Side Story," developed by students at Atkins Academic and Technology High School in cooperation with Wake Forest University and other community partners.

"Cell Side Story" is a love story featuring male and female animated characters that dramatize what happens within cells. Kenny Twist represents kinesin, a motor protein found within cells. The DNA girl is DNA, the nucleic acid that tells the cells what to do. The musical video is designed to teach the basics of biotechnology.

"It tells the story of what happens inside a cell," said Jesus Sandoval, an Atkins senior. "And we're telling it in a 'High School Musical' kind of way to catch kids' attention."

The three-minute animated film had its first public screening at Wake Forest Jan. 20. Atkins students who worked on the project shared the film with students in a biophysics class co-taught by Dany Kim Shapiro, professor of physics, and Jed Macosko, assistant professor of physics and director of the animated film project.

The video helps students envision "inner space" in a cell. "Through the magic of computer animation, the audience will fly from the outside of the body into a hair follicle, down into a cell, and land at a location where the students' chosen molecular machines are performing their functions," Macosko explained.

Atkins students designed the characters, animated characters using computer technology, helped design background scenes, sang lyrics, translated the lyrics for the Spanish version of the video, and created the artwork that was photographed for the DVD menus.

"This has the potential to be a trend-setting catalyst for how biotechnology is viewed by young people everywhere," Macosko said. "We hope this leads many of them to consider training for careers in biotechnology, a field with a need for more trained workers. We're entering a great new age where the cell as a factory will be like when Ford mastered the assembly line."

The video will be made available to high school students across North Carolina to help teach them how biotechnology harnesses cellular machinery to cure diseases, detect biohazards and manufacture new materials.

Rodney Bass, the principal of computer technology at Atkins, said the project "has been a great partnership."

Atkins was the ideal partner, Macosko said. They had students with good ideas and great facilities with access to 3-D Studio Max to create animations, he said.

Tevin Withers, a senior at Atkins, designed several characters and animated DNA girl as she reacts to seeing Kenny Twist for the first time. "Seeing the characters coming to life on screen was so cool," he said.

"I want to be a graphic designer, but I've also wanted to do concept art for movies or animations and this is basically doing that right now. Not a lot of teenagers have that type of experience when they're in high school." Last summer, Withers had an internship with Dennis Nikolaidis, a professional animator with Animusing Productions who collaborated on the video and mentored the Atkins students.

Macosko developed the project idea through his work advising a group of Wake Forest student entrepreneurs, who, after taking his freshman seminar on biotechnology, formed a company called BioBotz. The company's goal is to produce education games, cartoons, toys and storybooks aimed at getting children interested in biotechnology. Some of the students from the original Wake Forest BioBotz team helped the Atkins students construct a detailed encyclopedia of the molecules shown in their film.

The initiative is a joint project with local educators, scientists and animators from Wake Forest's department of physics, the Center for Biomolecular Imaging of Wake Forest University Health Sciences, the Center for Design Innovation, and faculty and students from 3-D animation programs at Winston-Salem State University, the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and Forsyth Tech. It is part of a three-year project, "Visualizing Biotechnology in Four Dimensions: Hands-on Learning in High School," funded by an Education Enhancement Grant from the North Carolina Biotechnology Center.

This news release was issued on behalf of Newswise(TM). For more information, visit http://www.newswise.com/.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Wake Forest University

CONTACT: Kerry M. King of Wake Forest University, +1-336-758-5237,
kingkm@wfu.edu

Web Site: http://www.wfu.edu/


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Winning Strategies Announces National 'FREEZE THE BUDGET NOW' Initiative

Winning Strategies Announces National 'FREEZE THE BUDGET NOW' Initiative

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi Joins Calls to Freeze Entire Budget

HOUSTON, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Winning Strategies Senior Editor Tim Connolly announced today a new national initiative for voters of all parties to email, write or call President Obama, Speaker Pelosi, Senator Harry Reid or their own Senator or Congressman with one single request---FREEZE THE BUDGET NOW! In his post President Obama State of the Union message, Tim Connolly reveals his plan to "Rebuild America into an Economic Powerhouse" and details the specific steps needed for reigniting America as an economic superpower. FREEZE THE BUDGET NOW is the critical first step in a five year plan to generate surpluses in the federal budget. The entire plan can be seen at www.winningstrategies.net. TrimTabs Investment Research www.trimtabs.com Charles Biderman will appear on Winning Strategies today at 10:00 a.m. ET. We will also discuss Supreme Court Justice Alito's whispered comment caught on camera "Not true" after the Presidents blast of the Supreme Court's recent free speech ruling, followed by a standing ovation from democrats made during his speech. All this will be discussed live on Tim Connolly's Winning Strategies radio show today from 9:00-11:00 am ET. Call in live and toll free with questions at 800-336-2225, listen live at www.winningstrategies.net or email during the show to talk@winningstrategies.net. For more information on Winning Strategies, go to www.winningstrategies.net.

About Winning Strategies

Tim Connolly's Winning Strategies (www.winningstrategies.net), formerly known as Corporate Strategies, is a network of financial news resources that provides you with the Low-Risk, High-Reward Strategies for Success necessary to succeed in today's fast-changing, competitive investment and business environment. Tim has interviewed many national experts and thought leaders including former SEC Chairman Arthur Levitt, CNBC's Mad Money's Jim Cramer, Fast Money's Guy Adamo, billion dollar money managers Ken Fisher and Mario Gabelli, U.S. Senator and former Presidential candidate John McCain, Enterprise Products Chairman and CEO Dan Duncan, FOX-TV commentator Tobin Smith and First Lady of Wall Street Muriel "Mickey" Siebert, the first woman to be granted a seat on the New York Stock Exchange, among many others.

Winning Strategies shares the latest news, information, analysis and market intelligence with you through a unique and powerful combination of approaches including:

   --  Tim Connolly's Winning Strategies Business Talk Show   --  Winning Strategies Newsletters and Strategic Intelligence Updates   --  Winning Strategies Video Updates   --  Winning Strategies Subscriber Emails, Blogs and Twitter updates  

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: Winning Strategies

CONTACT: For more information on booking of interviews, call Marcy
Dorotik at +1-713-621-2737 or email marcy@winningstrategies.net.

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Spike TV Partners With Thom Beers' Original Productions to Develop Network's First Late Night Series

Spike TV Partners With Thom Beers' Original Productions to Develop Network's First Late Night Series

Half-Hour Show To Feature Talk, Comedy And "Manformation" Network Also Orders Third Season Of Original's Hit Series, "1000 Ways To Die"

NEW YORK, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- With the late-night wars in full swing, it only makes sense that Spike TV, a network for guys, would jump into the ring. Spike TV is partnering with Thom Beers, Philip Segal and Original Productions, a FremantleMedia Company ("1000 Ways to Die," "Deadliest Catch," "Ice Road Truckers), to develop a weekly half-hour series that will be a combination of talk and comedy with a focus on "manformation" for the true guys' guy, it was jointly announced today by Sharon Levy, senior vice president, original programming for Spike TV, and Thom Beers, CEO of Original Productions.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060322/NYW096LOGO )

Instead of a typical movie star plugging an upcoming project, this Spike TV series will showcase interesting guests from all walks of life who find themselves in extraordinary situations, such as a convenience store clerk who defended himself against would-be criminals, or a former stock broker who quit his job to join the Green Berets in Afghanistan. The show will have two hosts and various correspondents and the network is currently scouring the country to cast the series pilot with the right fresh face and regular guy-image. Additional details will be announced at a later date.

George "Maddox" Ouzounian, author of the #2 NY Times Best-Seller The Alphabet of Manliness and I Am Better Than Your Kids (announced, Simon & Schuster in 2009), and Dax Herrera (a/k/a Dick Masterson), author of Man Points and Men Are Better Than Women (Simon & Schuster) are attached to the project. Ouzounian and Herrera were introduced to Original Productions by Justin Killion, vice president of development for Original Productions.

"This won't be your typical late night series with typical celebrity chit-chat," said Levy. "This show will come with that distinctive and irreverent Spike voice and point-of-view our viewers have come to expect from us. We are looking to provide our young male audience with water cooler chatter for the next day."

"Guys crave to be informed and entertained in an authentic voice," said Beers. "There are lots of options in late night right now, but none directly tailor-made to the hard-to-reach young male audience as our show will be."

Spike TV has also ordered a third season of Original's "1,000 Ways to Die," the second highest-rated original series in the history of the network. Season-to-date, the current second season of "1000 Ways To Die" (airing at 10:00pm ET/PT on Wednesdays) is averaging 1.6 million viewers with a 1.3 rating in Men 18-24.

Digitally, "1000 Ways to Die" ranked as a top 5 original show on Spike.com in December 2009. The show's average weekly online audience has increased 84% year-to-year. Also in December, the series was the most-watched show on Spike TV's Video-on-Demand.

"1000 Ways to Die" showcases some of the most outrageously true stories about those who succumbed to the grim reaper in the most unorthodox of styles. Each case takes viewers through a fast-paced full reenactment, interlaced with dramatic witness testimonials, fun historical tidbits, scientific expert explanations and vibrant CGI effects reminiscent of classic comic books. Playing off the commonly misconceived notion, "that could never happen to me," "1000 Ways to Die" works to dispel that myth in a tongue-in-cheek fashion, highlighting the comedic irony in all the crazy ways people can get themselves killed.

Acclaimed producers Thom Beers and Philip Segal of Original Productions serve as executive producers for "1000 Ways to Die." Tom McMahon serves as co-executive producer. Levy is Spike TV's senior vice president of original series and Tim Duffy is vice president of original programming for Spike TV

Spike TV is available in 98.6 million homes and is a division of MTV Networks. A unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA) (NYSE:VIA.B) , MTV Networks is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. Spike TV's Internet address is www.spike.com and for up-to-the-minute and archival press information and photographs, visit Spike TV's press site at http://www.spike.com/press.

Original Productions, a FremantleMedia Company

Founded by Thom Beers, Original Productions produces authentic non-fiction programming featuring everyday heroes in extraordinary situations. Beers' steadfast focus on top-notch storytelling with engaging personalities in high risk circumstances has produced more than 1,000 hours of original programming since the company's inception. In February 2009, a majority stake in the 12 year-old-company was purchased by FremantleMedia, one of the leading creators and producers of worldwide entertainment brands. www.originalproductions.com/ www.fremantlemedia.com.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060322/NYW096LOGO

Source: Spike TV

CONTACT: David Schwarz, Spike TV, +1-212-767-8639, Maggie Nye, or
Elizabeth Vendely, for Original Productions, +1-818-783-3707

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


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

Playboy's Super Saturday Night Party Returns to Pro Football's Most Important Weekend of the Year

Playboy's Super Saturday Night Party Returns to Pro Football's Most Important Weekend of the Year

Exclusive Event Serves as Official The Black Eyed Peas After Party, Presented by BACARDI(R) at Sagamore Hotel

CHICAGO, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Playboy's legendary Super Saturday Night party is returning, and promises to be one of the hottest tickets in town during Miami's highly-anticipated Super Bowl weekend. Consistently ranked one of the best parties of the weekend, the Playboy event will be held at South Beach's Sagamore Hotel on Saturday, February 6, 2010, beginning at 9:00 p.m. The exclusive event, presented by BACARDI®, will be hosted by members of The Black Eyed Peas and will serve as the Grammy-winning artists' official after party, following their concert performance at the American Airlines Arena that evening.

Celebrities, athletes and VIP guests will mingle with a bevy of Playboy Playmates and Playboy Club Bunnies as they dance the night away to music from three of S.K.A.M. Artist management's biggest names--DJ Reach, DJ Sky Nellar and DJ Ross One. This event marks the beginning of a year-long celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Playboy Club. The party will blend five decades of sexy sophistication as guests travel through Playboy Club history, and experience vintage and contemporary elements of the world's most famous nightlife venue. Additional event partners include MINI USA, Playboy Cigars, and American Media Inc, the new publishing partner for Playboy magazine. Premium BACARDI® cocktails will be served throughout the night.

Sagamore, The Art Hotel, Miami Beach's premier boutique oceanfront resort, serves as the ideal venue for this iconic event, providing visitors with crisp minimalist aesthetics that serve as a backdrop for innovative cuisine and contemporary art. The hotel's interior and exterior grounds are distinguished by its collection of works by recognized and emerging artists from around the world.

Adding to the excitement in Miami, Playboy Golf will bring the first-ever Playboy Golf Super Scramble to South Florida during the week of the big game. The golf tournament will take place at the renowned Woodmont Country Club in Tamarac, FL (near Ft. Lauderdale) on Thursday, February 4, with a Playboy Golf VIP Players Party to take place on Wednesday, February 3.

Playboy last held its Super Saturday Night event in 2008 during Phoenix's Super Bowl weekend. Celebrities and athletes in attendance at the "Playboy's Desert Oasis and Resort" themed-party included Common, Alyssa Milano, Bradley Cooper, Danica Patrick, Tiki Barber, Lauren Conrad, Matt Dillon, Nick Cannon, and Hugh Hefner, along with Holly Madison, Bridget Marquardt and Kendra Wilkinson.

ABOUT PLAYBOY ENTERPRISES, INC.

Playboy is one of the most recognized and popular consumer brands in the world. Playboy Enterprises, Inc. is a media and lifestyle company that markets the brand through a wide range of media properties and licensing initiatives. The company publishes Playboy magazine in the United States and abroad and creates content for distribution via television networks, websites, mobile platforms and radio. Through licensing agreements, the Playboy brand appears on a wide range of consumer products in more than 150 countries as well as retail stores and entertainment venues.

ABOUT SAGAMORE, THE ART HOTEL

South Beach Post Modern meets world-class contemporary art in the imaginative and sexy 93-suite Sagamore, The Art Hotel. Providing visitors with crisp minimalist aesthetics that serve as a backdrop for innovative cuisine and contemporary art, the hotel's interior and exterior grounds are distinguished by its collection of works by recognized and emerging artists from around the world - a gallery in its own right. The art collection, known as the Sagamore Collection, is around every corner of this luxury boutique hotel featuring works of contemporary art, including painting, works on paper, photography, mixed media, sculpture and video art by recognized, emerging and world-renowned artists. The Collection has evolved over the past 20 years and includes works by many artists from this country, as well as artists from Germany, France, Italy, Sweden, Norway, Israel, South Africa, the United Kingdom, China, and other countries around the world. Both an enlightening and romantic stay, the Sagamore offers romantic and private rooms including the 2 story bungalows featuring balconies overlooking the pool area and video art garden, state of the art kitchens, contemporary living rooms, and a private garden with sliding glass doors on the lower level; and the Penthouse - a 1500 sq. ft. 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom suite with marble floors, private elevator access, and 1600 sq. ft. rooftop terrace that overlooks the ocean. For additional information or reservations, please call 877.242.6673 or visit www.sagamorehotel.com.

About BACARDI® Rums

In 1862, in the city of Santiago de Cuba, BACARDI® revolutionized the spirits industry when founder Don Facundo Bacardi began producing his remarkable light-bodied, smooth rum - BACARDI®, the world's favorite premium rum brand. Today, BACARDI® Rum is produced in Puerto Rico, following the production legacy set forth by Don Facundo - crafted in a five step distillation process, aged in American white oak barrels, and filtered five times for unparalleled quality and smoothness.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact: theresah@playboy.com

Source: Playboy Enterprises, Inc.

CONTACT: Theresa Hennessey of Playboy Enterprises, Inc.,
+1-312-373-2444, theresah@playboy.com


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

3D Eye Solutions, Inc. Signs License Agreement with Artfest International, Inc. Bringing 3-D Technology to Fine Arts and Sports Memorabilia Industry

3D Eye Solutions, Inc. Signs License Agreement with Artfest International, Inc. Bringing 3-D Technology to Fine Arts and Sports Memorabilia Industry

3D Eye Solution's Cutting-Edge Technology to be Showcased at Art Fest Expo Center in Dallas

LONGWOOD, Fla., Jan. 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- 3D Eye Solutions, Inc. (Pink Sheets: TDEY) is pleased to announce that the Company has signed a license agreement with Artfest International, Inc. (BULLETIN BOARD: ARTS) , which will enable 3D Eye to enter into the multi-billion dollar fine art and sports collectibles and memorabilia market. Artfest International will be installing 3D Eye Solution's proprietary 3D "without" glasses display at its 52,000 square foot state of the art expo center in Dallas, Texas. Artfest International will now be able to convert and display its world-renowned artists' fine art, sports memorabilia, and athletes' collectibles in 3D. One of the first series under the Artfest label to be converted into 3D will be "Rhupert!"

Artfest International's relationship with 3D Eye will play a key factor as the company continues to integrate new technologies into the art world. According to a report by the U.S. Display consortium, the 3-D display market is expected to grow to above $300 Million by 2011 (http://www.usdc.org/resources/downloads/3D_Report_2007.pdf). The 3D industry is also transcending into other artistic areas such as movies and music. Box office receipts through last weekend in the United States alone of James Cameron's "Avatar" grossed over $550 Million, with 75 percent of the receipts coming from 3D theaters, according to Digital Journal.com.

3D Eye Solutions recently announced that the Company's 3-D conversion for Michael Jackson's "Earth Song" will be featured this weekend at the 52nd Annual GRAMMY Awards show as part of a special tribute planned in honor of Michael Jackson. The show will air live from the Staples Center in Los Angeles on CBS from 8:00 - 11:30 pm, this Sunday January 31. The GRAMMY Awards are telecast annually to an international audience of over 2 billion in 180 countries. This special segment represents a GRAMMY technical breakthrough in that it will be the first time a major awards show will have portions of its program broadcast in 3-D. In order for viewers to enjoy this unique 3-D TV experience at home, CBS and Target have collaborated to provide millions of free 3-D GRAMMY Glasses. Through Sunday, Jan. 31, Target stores nationwide will exclusively offer these 3-D GRAMMY Glasses so that fans have the opportunity to see the film.

"We are excited about the relationship we have developed with 3D Eye Solutions. Artfest International is always looking for ways to integrate the latest cutting edge technology with art and 3D Eye's conversion technology will bring the art world into a whole new light," stated Edward Vakser, CEO of Artfest International, Inc.

"The relationship with Artfest shows how our proprietary 3-D conversion technology can have an impact on various vertical markets. Whether it is the music industry and the work we did with the 'Earth Song' for Michael Jackson, or fine art and sports collectibles, 3-D has a number of applications and is the new medium for the 21st century," stated Mike Gibilisco, CEO of 3D Eye Solutions, Inc.

About Artfest International, Inc.

Artfest International, Inc. brings together artists, investors, decorators, designers, private collectors and art galleries. Artfest International's corporate site is www.artfestinternational.com. Artfest's subsidiaries are Art Channel, Inc. (www.artchannel.tv), and Art Channel Galleries, Inc. (www.ArtChannelGalleries.com), offering the most exciting product and rewards program in the history of direct sales marketing.

About 3D Eye Solutions, Inc.:

3D Eye Solutions, Inc. is a service provider and integrator for the 3D Stereo and Auto-stereo media industry that covers a wide range of markets. 3D Eye Solutions, Inc. produces and processes media content for corporate, venues, and trade show events. The Company also provides turnkey systems and converts existing media to enable end users to showcase properties in multi-view format. For more information, please visit the Company's Web site: www.3deyesolutions.com.

Safe Harbor: Statements regarding financial matters in this press release other than historical facts are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company intends that such statements about the Company's future expectations, including future revenues and earnings, technology efficacy and all other forward-looking statements be subject to the safe harbors created thereby. The Company is a development stage company who continues to be dependent upon outside capital to sustain its existence. Since these statements (future operational results and sales) involve risks and uncertainties and are subject to change at any time, the Company's actual results may differ materially from expected results.

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: 3D Eye Solutions, Inc.

CONTACT: Investor Relations, 3D Eye Solutions, Inc., +1-519-381-3347; or
Investor Relations, Artfest International, Inc., +1-407-389-5900

Web Site: http://www.3deyesolutions.com/


Profile: International Entertainment

International Entertainment News

China Digital TV Announces Strategic Investment in OpenV

China Digital TV Announces Strategic Investment in OpenV

BEIJING, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- China Digital TV Holding Co., Ltd. (NYSE:STV) ("China Digital TV"), the leading provider of conditional access systems to China's expanding digital television market, today announced that it has made a joint investment in OpenV China Holdings Company ("OpenV"), a leading Chinese online video company, alongside one of OpenV's existing shareholders.

Subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions, the aggregate amount of China Digital TV's investment will be up to US$14.5 million, consisting of consideration for an initial equity investment, a convertible loan to OpenV and consideration payable upon the potential exercise of a warrant to purchase additional shares of OpenV. Assuming the full conversion of the convertible loan into OpenV's shares and the full exercise of the warrant, China Digital TV's equity interest in OpenV would be approximately 25% to 31%, subject to certain performance adjustment mechanisms. China Digital TV has the right to appoint two directors to OpenV's seven-member board of directors.

The aggregate amount of the investment from both investors will be up to US$17 million in cash.

Founded in 2006, OpenV's interactive web TV platform employs advanced online video technology to provide users with personalized video content services. OpenV currently has entered into cooperation agreements with more than 40 of China's TV stations, including six strategic content partners, namely, CCTV, Beijing TV, Shanghai Media Group, Phoenix TV, Hunan TV and China Entertainment TV. OpenV offers 578 online TV channels and owns millions of hours of licensed video content. As of the end of 2009, OpenV's daily average traffic reached more than 55 million page views, 40 million video views and 8 million unique visitors.

"We are very pleased to partner with OpenV, a leader in providing high quality, licensed video content to audiences in China," said Mr. Jianhua Zhu, chairman and chief executive officer of China Digital TV. "We have been very impressed with OpenV's ability to develop proprietary online video technology, create a superior user experience and expand its partnership with domestic content owners over the past few years. Through this cooperation, we look forward to leveraging China Digital TV's content protection and terminal device technology, as well as our close relationships with cable operator customers across the country, to provide high-quality video programs to Chinese audiences across a variety of platforms."

Mr. Zhu added, "This investment is in line with China Digital TV's long term strategy to create and market products that allow consumers to conveniently access high quality content anywhere, anytime. As the trend towards network convergence in China continues to accelerate, we expect to see the benefits of this cooperation as well as exciting opportunities to provide consumers with new ways to access high-quality video content."

"We are delighted to enter into this strategic partnership with China Digital TV," said Mr. Yanpeng Chen, OpenV's chief executive officer. "OpenV has always been committed to providing comprehensive and user-friendly online video services to web users and was the first player in China to promote high-resolution online videos in the industry. The cooperation with China Digital TV brings us a powerful partner in the digital TV industry and I believe our alliance will open an exciting new era in China's online video industry."

Safe Harbor Statements

This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such forward-looking statements are made under the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.

These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "may," "should" and similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements include, without limitation and comments by management in this announcement about trends in the CA systems, digital television, cable television and related industries in the PRC and China Digital TV's strategic and operational plans and future market positions. China Digital TV may also make forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about China Digital TV's beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from projections contained or implied in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: competition in the CA systems, digital television, cable television and related industries in the PRC and the impact of such competition on prices, our ability to implement our business strategies, changes in technology, the structure of the cable television industry or television viewer preferences, changes in PRC laws, regulations or policies with respect to the CA systems, digital television, cable television and related industries, including the extent of non-PRC companies' participation in such industries, and changes in political, economic, legal and social conditions in the PRC, including the government's policies with respect to economic growth, foreign exchange and foreign investment.

Further information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties is included in our annual report on Form 20-F and other documents filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. China Digital TV does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this press release.

About China Digital TV

Founded in 2004, China Digital TV is the leading provider of conditional access ("CA") systems to China's rapidly growing digital television market. CA systems enable television network operators to manage the delivery of customized content and services to their subscribers. China Digital TV conducts substantially all of its business through its subsidiaries, Beijing Super TV Co., Ltd. and Beijing Novel-Super Media Investment Co., Ltd, and its affiliate, Beijing Novel-Super Digital TV Technology Co., Ltd.

About OpenV

Founded in 2006, OpenV is a leading Chinese online video company, providing personalized video content services and an interactive web TV platform. OpenV partners with more than 40 of China's TV stations, including six strategic content partners, namely, CCTV, Beijing TV, Shanghai Media Group, Phoenix TV, Hunan TV, and China Entertainment TV. OpenV offers 578 online TV channels and owns millions of hours of licensed video content. For more information please go to the company website at www.openv.com.

   For investor and media inquiries, please contact:    In China:   Eric Yuan   China Digital TV   Tel:   +86.10.8279.0021   Email: ir@chinadtv.cn    In the US:   Kate Tellier   Brunswick Group LLC   Tel:   +1.212.706.7879   Email: ktellier@brunswickgroup.com  

First Call Analyst:
FCMN Contact:

Source: China Digital TV Holding Co., Ltd.

CONTACT: In China: Eric Yuan of China Digital TV, +86-10-8279-0021, or
ir@chinadtv.cn; In the US: Kate Tellier of Brunswick Group LLC,
+1-212-706-7879, or ktellier@brunswickgroup.com, for China Digital TV

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


Profile: International Entertainment