Lady Gaga Testifies at Harvard on Behalf of Born This Way Foundation

Lady Gaga Testifies at Harvard on Behalf of Born This Way Foundation

Pop icon stands before distinguished panel including Oprah Winfrey, Deepak Chopra, Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, Alyssa Rodemeyer, Professor Charles Ogletree, Dr. Susan M. Swearer and David Burtka

Lady Gaga and MacArthur Foundation pledge millions to help empower youth and inspire bravery "online, on-the-road and down the street"

BOSTON, Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Today at Harvard University, Lady Gaga and her mother, Cynthia Germanotta, officially unveiled Born This Way Foundation (BTWF), a new non-profit charitable organization, before a crowd of policy makers, non-profit organizations, foundation leaders, students and youth at the Harvard Graduate School of Education's Askwith Forum.

The day opened with Oprah interviewing Lady Gaga about her commitment to empowering youth before a packed audience at Sanders Theatre. Lady Gaga then took the stand in a mock trial to testify before a panel of expert "judges" about what she hopes to accomplish with BTWF. Panelists included Deepak Chopra, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, Kathleen Sebelius, sister of Jamey Rodemeyer Alyssa Rodemeyer, Harvard Law Professor Charles Ogletree, Psychologist Susan M. Swearer and E! News correspondent and LGBT parent and spouse David Burtka.

"The culture of love is not going to change overnight but youth are the answer to creating a braver, kinder world," said Lady Gaga. "This might be one of the best days of my life."

BTWF will address issues like self-confidence, well-being, anti-bullying, mentoring and career development through research, education and advocacy. BTWF will create an environment that allows youth to safely express their individuality and one that provides them with the skills needed to encourage self-expression and promote civic engagement, and the resources and opportunities needed to implement solutions whether it be "online, on-the-road, or down the street." With a focus on digital mobilization to create positive change, BTWF will lead youth into a braver new society where each individual is accepted and loved as the person they were born to be.

The Born This Way Foundation also announced today that Lady Gaga has made a $1.2 million personal contribution to BTWF, dedicating $200,000 to cover the foundation's overhead costs. Barneys New York has raised more than $750,000 for the foundation through product sales from Gaga's 2011 Holiday Workshop, and has donated an additional $100,000. The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation is also committing $1 million in support, with $500,000 going to the Berkman Center for Internet & Society at Harvard to lead research efforts, and the remaining $500,000 directly allocated to BTWF to support online and on-the-road efforts to engage young people in civic life and deter bullying.

"Like everything my daughter has done, this is a grassroots initiative asking for the response of the community to help build this movement and shape it," said Cynthia Germanotta. "Therefore a safe and trusted online community will allow users to share stories about themselves and their lives. Supporters can draw courage from the words of others as they explore Born This Way Foundation's online community."

The John D. & Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, The California Endowment and Harvard's Berkman Center for Internet & Society are partnering with BTWF to explore the best ways to reach youth and create a new culture of kindness, bravery, acceptance and empowerment.

"MacArthur's partnership with the Born This Way Foundation will apply what we have learned about the power and potential of digital media to reach and engage millions of young people," said Connie Yowell, MacArthur's Director of Education. "In classrooms and communities, online and even on-the-road, this effort will enable teachers, parents, students, and communities each do their part to promote positive civic and online participation."

To engage youth on-the-road, the Born Brave Bus, with design assistance provided by the innovative youth from YOUmedia's teen library space, will travel the country to serve as a place where kids can go to feel connected and learn about civic engagement opportunities. The bus, along with onsite mentors, will also accompany Lady Gaga's next North American concert tour, providing additional resources and a safe space to convene.

"A thorough review of decades of academic research has inspired this strategy and over the next several months, we will be rolling out programs based on that data," said Dr. David Washington, Sr. Advisor to Lady Gaga & BTWF for Philanthropy & Policy. "BTWF has brought together renowned researchers, practitioners and youth organizations and is committed to leveraging this brain trust in order to make a significant difference."

Visit www.bornthiswayfoundation.org and join the youth-powered movement to build a braver, kinder world.

About Born This Way Foundation

Led by Lady Gaga and her mother Cynthia Germanotta, Born This Way Foundation was founded in 2011 to foster a more accepting society. The Foundation is dedicated to creating a safe community where individuality is celebrated by connecting youth with the skills, resources and opportunities they need to build a braver, kinder world. BTWF, a non-profit charitable organization, will address issues like self-confidence, well-being, anti-bullying, mentoring and career development through research, education and advocacy. Please Visit www.bornthiswayfoundation.org and join the youth-powered movement to build a braver, kinder world.

About The John D. & Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation

The MacArthur Foundation supports creative people and effective institutions committed to building a more just, verdant, and peaceful world. MacArthur's $85 million digital media and learning initiative aims to determine how digital media are changing the way young people learn, play, socialize and participate in civic life. Answers are critical to education and other social institutions that must meet the needs of this and future generations. More information is at www.macfound.org/learning.

About The California Endowment To Empower Youth

The California Endowment, a private, statewide health foundation, was established in 1996 to expand access to affordable, quality health care for underserved individuals and communities, and to promote fundamental improvements in the health status of all Californians. The Endowment challenges the conventional wisdom that medical settings and individual choices are solely responsible for people's health. The Endowment believes that health happens in neighborhoods, schools, and with prevention. And as such, the Endowment has embarked on a ten-year campaign to improve the health of young people residing in vulnerable, at-risk communities through stronger and innovative prevention approaches. For more information, visit The California Endowment's homepage at www.calendow.org.

About Harvard's Berkman Center for Internet & Society

The Berkman Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University is a research program founded to explore cyberspace, share in its study, and help pioneer its development. Founded in 1997, through a generous gift from Jack N. and Lillian R. Berkman, the Center is home to an ever-growing community of faculty, fellows, staff, and affiliates working on projects that span the broad range of intersections between cyberspace, technology, and society. More information can be found at http://cyber.law.harvard.edu.

About the Harvard Graduate School of Education

Since its founding in 1920, the Harvard Graduate School of Education has been training leaders to transform education in the United States and around the globe. Today, our faculty, students, and alumni are studying and solving the most critical challenges facing education: student assessment, the achievement gap, and teacher effectiveness, to name just a few. Through the Ed School's 13 master's programs, two doctoral programs, and extensive executive education programs, the HGSE community is pushing the frontiers of education, and the effects of our entrepreneurship are improving the world. More information can be found at www.gse.harvard.edu.

Media Contacts:
Amanda Silverman
42West
Amanda.Silverman@42West.net
(212)744-3683

Sarah Rothman
42West
Sarah.Rothman@42West.net
(646)254-6030

SOURCE Lady Gaga / The Born This Way Foundation

Lady Gaga / The Born This Way Foundation

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

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7 ACTION NEWS Sports Director Don Shane Announces His Retirement

7 ACTION NEWS Sports Director Don Shane Announces His Retirement

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- After more than 38 years interviewing sports celebrities and covering every major sporting event from the Super Bowl to the NBA finals, 7 ACTION NEWS Sports Director Don Shane will retire from WXYZ in March.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110602/CL13539LOGO )

Before joining WXYZ-TV in 1989, Shane worked at WBZ-TV in Boston, WMAQ-TV in Chicago and WDIV-TV in Detroit. He has received numerous awards for his reporting including 23 Michigan Emmy Awards, a "Best Sports Anchor" honor, the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Silver Circle Award, as well as awards from the Michigan Association of Broadcasters and the Associated Press. During his sports career in Detroit, he also served as the play-by-play announcer for Michigan State University, the University of Michigan, and the Detroit Pistons.

"WXYZ has been incredibly blessed to have someone of Don's stature and talents representing Channel 7 for all these years," said Ed Fernandez, VP and General Manager of WXYZ. "In the best sports town in the country, his unique, easy-going style and the joyful enthusiasm he brought to the job everyday will be missed."

Shane is the longest running sports director in Detroit television. During his career at WXYZ, Shane covered three Pistons Championships, four Red Wings Stanley Cup Championships, a Ryder Cup, the Tiger's run at the World Series in 2006 and the Super Bowl in Detroit.

"The viewers have been wonderful to me from the moment I arrived in this city. I've been really blessed. The things I've been able to see and do have far exceeded my expectations," said Shane. "I've had the opportunity to get to know incredible coaches, athletes and fans. I've had the privilege to work with coaches like Bo Schembechler, Chuck Daly, Sparky Anderson...the greatest of the great...icons in their sports. I've been lucky to be at some of the greatest sports events in the country...the Rose Bowl when Michigan won the title and at Indy when MSU won the NCAA Championships."

Shane says sports reporting in Detroit is unique because there isn't a fan base anywhere in the country like the one here in Detroit that supports its teams win or lose. And he admits it's going to be tough to be a spectator at the events he covered for so many years.

"I'm going to miss being at the huge events, but I'm looking forward to seeing my kids more than once or twice a year and travelling with my wife who has put up with my schedule all these years."

Shane will celebrate his last day on the air at WXYZ-TV on Tuesday, March 20th.

The E.W. Scripps Company is a diverse, 133-year-old media enterprise with interests in television stations, newspapers and local news and information Web sites. The company's portfolio of locally focused media properties includes: 19 TV stations(10 ABC affiliates, three NBC affiliates, five Azteca America affiliates and one independent); daily and community newspapers in 13 markets, and the Washington, D.C.-based Scripps Media Center, home of the Scripps Howard News Service.For a full listing of Scripps media companies and their associated Web sites, visit http://www.Scripps.com/.

SOURCE WXYZ-TV

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110602/CL13539LOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
WXYZ-TV

CONTACT: CONTACT: Sandra McPhee, +1-248-827-9300

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

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A Dreamer's Dream: A Journey Into Black History and Future With Tyrese Gibson, Jill Scott and Blair Underwood

A Dreamer's Dream: A Journey Into Black History and Future With Tyrese Gibson, Jill Scott and Blair Underwood

Tyrese Gibson Celebrates Black History Month with Jill Scott and Blair Underwood in Historical Tribute

"'A Dreamer's Dream' is a work of spiritual and artistic genius. Keep listening to your inner voice. God has blessed you with an amazing sensitivity," says Ambassador Andrew Young. "You make us all proud."

NEW YORK, Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- In a world of tragedy and triumph, actor/musician Tyrese Gibson takes the ultimate leap of faith with A Dreamer's Dream. "This was a God sent vision, an idea and I was obedient and moved on it," says Tyrese Gibson. "I hope the messages in this tribute is embraced and received around the world."

A Dreamer's Dream comes on the heels of Black History Month and at the dawn of the anniversary of Dr. King's assassination in Memphis, TN. A Dreamer's Dream poses the ultimate questions of responsibility and accountability. Produced and directed by Tyrese Gibson and co-written with Monique N. Matthews, A Dreamer's Dream tells the tale of a man at the crossroads of life. At his wits end, he reaches out for answers only to be graced with the presence of the ultimate dreamer Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his wife, Coretta Scott King who proposes answers to some of the many plights which most Americans face today.

In addition to Tyrese Gibson, A Dreamer's Dream features two-time Emmy nominated actor Blair Underwood, as a man in a state of pain and rage, begs to ask the question which many of us ask every day: "What are my next steps?," asks a troubled Blair. "This exploration into the possible thoughts and feelings of Dr. Martin Luther King and our world today, is unforgettable!" says Blair. "I'm honored to have been asked to participate."

"This video moved me and educated me. I am so grateful to Tyrese for asking me to be part of such an inspirational project," says Grammy winner and actress Jill Scott who voices the role Coretta Scott King. "Dr. King's vision has NOT been forgotten. Watching this touching video will remind us all that there is much to be done within ourselves."

A Dreamer's Dream asks the question as to where would we be today had Dr. King lived? What kind of society would we be had Dr. King's dream been fulfilled? A Dreamer's Dream forces one to recognize the role that s/he plays in today's often tumultuous world.

"This was not an opportunity, it was a responsibility. We are amongst a lost generation looking for inspiration and a sense of direction. My love and prayers will continue for the King family and all of the civil rights leaders who sacrificed everything to get us to where we are today," says Tyrese. A Dreamer's Dream is available through social networks:

Vimeo:
http://t.co/FueThEwp

YouTube:
http://t.co/t0kcy8D

For more information on A Dreamer's Dream and Tyrese Gibson please contact Biff Warren or Joe Wiggins at (347) 359.6930 or via email at publicity@mbkentertainment.com

SOURCE MBK Entertainment

MBK Entertainment

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Autometrics Pulse(TM) 2012 Super Bowl Advertising Effectiveness Report Reveals Key Insights for Automotive Advertisers

Autometrics Pulse(TM) 2012 Super Bowl Advertising Effectiveness Report Reveals Key Insights for Automotive Advertisers

- Recently launched Chevrolet Sonic and Fiat 500 were among the biggest winners

- The third quarter saw the largest number of new car Prospects, with the peak being at 8:51pm EST shortly after the Seinfeld/Leno Acura commercial

- A major beneficiary was a model that wasn't specifically even advertised, the Acura ZDX

- Comedy works; high profile personalities do make a difference

BIRMINGHAM, Mich., Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Autometrics is the leading provider of automotive demand-centric, analytical data that enables its clients to track sales demand, media effectiveness and demographic trends at national, regional and market levels. Autometrics announces the results and analysis of its annual Autometrics Pulse(TM) Advertising Effectiveness Report, which measures the effectiveness of automotive advertising that aired during the 2012 Super Bowl. The full report is available for purchase from the autometrics.com website.

Autometrics Pulse monitored the effectiveness of those automotive commercials which aired on the day of the Super Bowl, and for the weeks following Game day. Data is collected from over 100 third party automotive sites and provides a daily census on new car purchase intent, typically from over 500,000 Prospects a day. A Prospect is defined as a person who initiates contact with a local dealer for a price quote.

"Once again, Autometrics Pulse revealed some very interesting consumer behavior based upon the commercials which aired during the Super Bowl," said Stephen Shaw, CEO of Autometrics. "This year's crop of advertisements generated some of the most significant changes in sales demand in recent Super Bowl history. Consumers made their preferences known by initiating the dealer quote process, and Autometrics Pulse captured that sentiment, minute by minute."

The "Halo Effect": Acura models are big winners, despite the NSX not being available until 2015

One of the most interesting twists to this year's Game was the Acura NSX, a vehicle that was advertised but not yet available, yet successfully drove a large increase in sales demand for other Acura models. In particular, in the 10 minutes after the future model Acura NSX "Seinfeld/Leno" ad aired, ZDX demand rocketed. Even a week after the Game, sales demand for the ZDX was still almost 50% higher than its January average. All Acura models benefited, both on Game day and sustained thereafter, making this brand ad one of the most successful commercials of the evening, not only in terms of creative impact, but more importantly, in terms of sales demand for the brand and its models.

Referencing a competitor

The controversial Silverado "2012 Mayan Prediction" ad that referenced Ford trucks, presented an opportunity to contrast the impact on sales demand for the two models referenced.

Would Ford benefit from the ad? In short, there is no evidence that the F-150 benefited from Chevrolet's direct remark "Dave drove a Ford". The Silverado 1500 had been enjoying its highest sales demand relative to the Ford F-150 since Pulse data was launched in 2008, with its all-time high occurring the week prior to the Super Bowl, when it generated over 40% more Prospects than the F-150. The Silverado commercial saw interest in the pickup truck increase by 73% within 10 minutes of the ad airing, and while its share did decline in the days after the Game from the high of the prior week, it still generated one of its best ever performances when compared to any time in the past three years.

Awareness: The impact of advertising new model names can be dramatic

The Chevrolet Sonic benefited from three Super Bowl ads and a coordinated campaign in the days afterwards, including advertising during the Grammy Awards. This sustained approach succeeded in driving strong interest on Game Day, and moving Sonic's share of the Small Car Segment to over 6% a week after the Game, from 3.5% prior to the Game.

Similarly, Fiat 500, in its endeavor to establish itself as a new brand and model, drove one of the highest increases in sales demand of any model advertised with its "Seduction" ad (from an historic average of 19% of the low volume Mini Car Segment, to 46% on Game Day and sustaining at 36% for the week thereafter).

Humorous ads using high profile personalities (and dogs) catch attention

Not only was the humorous Acura commercial highly effective, but the Honda CR-V also benefited from its homage to Matthew Broderick's iconic 1980's film, "Ferris Bueller's Day Off", lifting sales demand from an already buoyant post launch level, to even higher ranks. The decision to release the CR-V ad prior to the Game, resulted in a boost in sales demand on February 3rd, reaching a peak of 21% of the Compact SUV Crossover Segment on Game Day, up from 14% average during January 2012.

Under pressure to deliver a strong follow-up to last year's "The Force" ad, the Volkswagen Beetle's "The Dog Strikes Back" confirms how well humorous ads resonate with viewers, especially if a teaser campaign drives interest before the Game. The ad resulted in both an early and sustained boost in sales demand (from 2.6% during January to 3.9% of the Compact Car Segment on the day after the Game and sustained at around 3.6% thereafter), proving again that children and dogs can be very effective advertising icons!

Brand and model ads can work well together

Hyundai chose to run five commercials, four model ads and one for the brand. All of these ads were among the most successful on the evening. The brand ad was second only to the Acura commercial, while the "Fast Acting" (Genesis R), "Think Fast" (Genesis Coupe) and "Cheetah" (Veloster) ads were all in the top six of model ads aired, in terms of immediate increase in sales demand.

Brand building at Halftime, the Clint Eastwood way!

Chrysler Group adopted a different tactic this year, with its iconic Clint Eastwood "Halftime in America" commercial airing at the end of the Halftime Show, concentrating on corporate mission and brand-building messages. This commercial clearly generated considerable interest and awareness, although without a specific model referenced, there was only a modest increase in sales demand for selected Chrysler Group vehicles.

Rock stars and models - a winning combination

The much anticipated Kia Optima commercial, "A Dream Car, For Real Life", was bound to resonate well with the target audience of male sports fans. In fact, in the ten minutes following its airing, the Optima accounted for almost a quarter of all automotive Prospects tracked by Autometrics Pulse. The model continued to enjoy strong sales demand, trending upwards over the subsequent 7 days, to a peak of 19.8% of the Mid-Size Car Segment on February 12th.

Timing of ads during the event

In terms of the timing of commercials during the actual event, the highest number of active automotive prospects occurred at 8:51pm EST, shortly after the Acura commercial aired. Overall, the third quarter generated 1,896 Prospects per Minute (PPM) across all makes and models, followed closely by the 4th Quarter with 1,856 PPM, Half-time with 1,492 PPM, the Post-game with 1,489 PPM, the Pre-game with 1,414 PPM, 2nd Quarter with 1,405 PPM and finally the 1st Quarter with 1,331 PPM.

According to Stephen Shaw, "Interestingly for the 2012 Super Bowl, Pre and Post Game commercials may have had more power than some of those that aired during the early part of the Game itself."

About the Autometrics Pulse Super Bowl Advertising Effectiveness Report

The full Autometrics Pulse Advertising Effectiveness Report provides tracking and analysis of the effectiveness of each commercial aired during the Super Bowl, with competitive and benchmark comparisons, and measures the sustainability of sales demand for the week thereafter. The full report is available for purchase from the autometrics.com website.

About Autometrics Pulse(TM)

Autometrics Pulse(TM) is the first predictive sales demand indicator for new vehicle sales. It is a revolutionary product that enables "real-time" forward looking decisions via the recording and analysis of "Prospects", who actively start the process of contacting a dealer for a price quote across over 100 third party sites.

Pulse data has been proven to be highly predictive of future retail sales. Increases in "sales demand", as recorded by Pulse, translate into increases in sales in the weeks ahead, with approximately 75% of sales taking place within a 12 week period.

Pulse collects data from over 500,000 Prospects on a typical day, down to zip code level, enabling the tracking of demand trends at a national, regional and market level.

About Autometrics

Autometrics provides demand-centric data to enable clients to better track such issues as customer demand, media effectiveness, sales forecasting at national/regional levels, demographic trends and inventory management.

The primary focus is the US automotive sector, where it has worked with leading OEMs since 2004. It launched the patent pending Pulse(TM) product in 2009 and Response(TM) in 2010, after several years of research and development. The company has offices in Detroit and Los Angeles. For more information, please visit www.autometrics.com.

Contact Information
Stephen Shaw, +1 248 930 9450, stephen.shaw@autometrics.com

SOURCE Autometrics

Autometrics

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

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Chevrolet, Chrysler Super Bowl Ads Scored; Honda, Lexus Ads Didn't; CarWoo! MarketPlace Analysis Reveals Behavioral Effects of Super Bowl Commercials

Chevrolet, Chrysler Super Bowl Ads Scored; Honda, Lexus Ads Didn't; CarWoo! MarketPlace Analysis Reveals Behavioral Effects of Super Bowl Commercials

From Jerry Seinfield and Jay Leno to Clint Eastwood and Motley Crue, Automakers Tapped Into Pop Culture, Patriotism and Rock n' Roll!

BURLINGAME, Calif., Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- As weeks have passed since the automakers ran their Super Bowl commercials around the world, it is only now possible to know whether the ads worked to actually change consumer behavior. The advertising pundits have had their turn to assess the spots, but CarWoo!'s infographic of the effects of 2012 Super Bowl ads demonstrates that some automakers' commercials resulted in more immediate attention from in-market buyers than others. All of the data was based on new car configurations in the CarWoo! MarketPlace in the days and weeks preceding and following the Big Game.

Did the commercials change the behavior of car buyers online? Did celebrities and patriotism and rock n' roll succeed in getting people to shop differently?

In the downloadable infographic, found at carwoo.com/superbowl, CarWoo! presents the Super Bowl Commercial Winners and Losers. These advertisers saw more searches during, and after, the Super Bowl, compared to the industry average for that time:

61% Chevrolet
26% Chrysler
25% Toyota
20% Kia
9% Hyundai
6% Cadillac

Methodology Note:

"Since CarWoo! is currently a U.S.-only service, and our buyers are typically within four days of committing to a car, our marketplace is the perfect spot to test consumer reactions," said CarWoo! CEO, Tommy McClung. "Some makes, and even some specific models, saw huge jumps in buyer interest right away. Other ads may have more long-term effects, but it's clear which manufacturers won the interest of current buyers." Tens of thousands of in-market buyer choices were analyzed from The CarWoo! MarketPlace, tracking consumer interest in automakers who advertised against those who did not advertise.

Chevrolet Takes the Prize With 61% Increase: Volt is the Exception

Among the makes who saw a greater lift in interest than the control were Chevrolet, with a 61% lift, followed by Chrysler, Toyota, Kia, Hyundai and Cadillac. The Chevrolet Sonic is an example of one car that made out well after the Super Bowl. Buyer interest in the Sonic increased by 292% after the Super Bowl, compared with non-advertised Chevrolet models. Its commercial featured a montage of Sonic "firsts," such as "first skydive," "first kickflip," and "first music video."

Other advertised Chevrolets saw some lift, including the Camaro at 163% and the Silverado at 76%. The Volt's Alien commercial failed to scare up enough interest in the sales-declining, plug-in hybrid, and the model saw no increase at all.

Honda, CR-V and Matthew Broderick Didn't Show Up to Class

Other models didn't see anything close to the Sonic's 292% surge in interest. Not only did the Honda brand not have an increase in interest after the Super Bowl, but the CR-V, featured with Matthew Broderick in Honda's Ferris Beuller Reprisal spot, didn't see a rise in interest compared with other Honda models.

Clint Eastwood's Patriotic Coup?

With all the heavy watercooler buzz, Clint Eastwood's "Half Time in America" spot gave Chrysler a second place position after Chevrolet, in terms of generating consumer interest. Presented as a quasi-Public Service Announcement, the spot was more nostalgic, patriotic and just plain feel-good.

Ford Catches a Free Pass; Competitor's Ad Sends Customers to F-Series Interest

In a Chevrolet backfire, Ford was bashed in the Silverado's "Apocalypse" ad, but the Ford F-series saw a 37% lift in interest after the Super Bowl. "In this case, it seems that the competitor's jab slightly improved F-Series sales," McClung said. "Ford should be ecstatic. They spent no money and saw an increase; some of their competitors spent millions on ads and celebrities and saw no immediate returns."

Summary: Hits, Misses and Backfires

With these hits and misses, it's not always clear that 3.5 million dollars in Super Bowl ad money will translate into mass consumer interest. We've also seen that not all Celebrities can move the needle for automakers and that Celebrity Endorsement by no means insures success on the world's biggest advertising stage. At the end of the day, Seinfeld just didn't succeed in reminding us of the better financial times of the 1980-1990s. It's also true that pop culture references can fall flat: The Ferris Beuller 1980s nostalgia spot didn't move the needle. Patriotism proved to have an emotional effect with Clint Eastwood's call to national pride. And, finally, sometimes, your competitor's commercials may actually lift your own sales. With Super Bowl ad rates creeping up next year, automakers should keep some of these lessons in mind.

About CarWoo!

CarWoo! provides the online MarketPlace where buyers get great deals with no games and dealers are able sell cars online using their own unique approaches with a full understanding of the buyers through the CarWoo! transparent MarketPlace. Buyers remain anonymous, get great market prices, save a ton of time and dealers are ensured buyers who purchase within 3.5 days 80% of the time. As seen on The Today Show, CNN Money and other leading national media outlets, CarWoo! is the only true online MarketPlace for car buyers and sellers. CarWoo! was founded in 2008 by serial entrepreneurs, Tommy McClung, Erik Landerholm and Michael Young. With early funding by Y Combinator, CarWoo! is based in Burlingame, CA and is now funded by Blumberg Capital, Comcast Ventures and InterWest Partners, and others. Find us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/carwoo and on Twitter at twitter.com/carwoo.

www.CarWoo.com

SOURCE CarWoo!

CarWoo!

CONTACT: Darren Shuster, +1-818-744-1851, darren@popculturepr.com, or Phil Yeh, phil@carwoo.com, both of CarWoo!

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

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Cooper Industries' Donated Products Part of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition Renovation in Columbus, Ohio

Cooper Industries' Donated Products Part of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition Renovation in Columbus, Ohio

Cooper Lighting and Cooper B-Line Provide Innovative, Green Solutions for Renovation

DUBLIN, Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Cooper Industries plc (NYSE: CBE), a global provider of electrical solutions, recently took part in a community center renovation and the construction of the Rhodes home in Columbus, Ohio, for the ABC hit show, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. Designed to provide both with new, improved spaces featuring eco-friendly solutions, Cooper Lighting and Cooper B-Line products proved to be an ideal fit.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120229/DA62158)

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20101214/MM17721LOGO)

To provide general and accent lighting throughout the home, the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition team installed Cooper Lighting's high-quality Halo 4-inch LED and 6-inch recessed downlights. The Halo LED downlights consume over 75 percent less energy than traditional 65-watt incandescent fixtures and are designed to last more than 50,000 hours or 20 years when used six hours a day. Featuring a warm color temperature of 3000K in the Rhodes home, Halo also offers additional color temperatures of 2700K, 3500K and 4000K to satisfy every home lighting need.

In addition to building a new home, the show also set its sights on the renovation of a nearby community center. Going green, the center's new solar system features panels housed on Cooper B-Line's ARISTA Monolithic racking system. Designed for quick and easy installation, it fit perfectly into the show's tight production schedule. The product, securing more than 12kW of solar modules, features a limited number of pre-assembled components to offer installers both a time and cost savings. It is ideal for both portrait and landscape mounting, accommodates virtually any type and size of solar panel and includes pre-assembled ballast strips with many alternatives including a positively tied option. For added efficiency, it also includes Cooper B-Line's DURA-BLOK(TM) supports constructed from 100 percent recycled rubber.

"As past supporters of the show, we were thrilled to provide our efficient solutions to a family and community so deserving of these major renovations," said Cooper Industries Chairmen and CEO Kirk S. Hachigian. "Through the use of our products we hope that others watching this amazing renovation come to recognize the many efficient solutions available and the benefits of choosing energy-efficient products."

To learn more about the products used by the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition crew, visit the Cooper Industries site at www.cooperindustries.com.

About Cooper Industries
Cooper Industries plc (NYSE: CBE) is a global electrical products manufacturer with 2011 revenues of $5.4 billion. Founded in 1833 Cooper's sustained success is attributable to a constant focus on innovation and evolving business practices, while maintaining the highest ethical standards and meeting customer needs. The Company has seven operating divisions with leading market positions and world-class products and brands, including Bussmann electrical and electronic fuses; Crouse-Hinds and CEAG explosion-proof electrical equipment; Halo and Metalux lighting fixtures; and Kyle and McGraw-Edison power systems products. With this broad range of products, Cooper is uniquely positioned for several long-term growth trends including the global infrastructure build-out, the need to improve the reliability and productivity of the electric grid, the demand for higher energy-efficient products and the need for improved electrical safety. In 2011 fifty-nine percent of total sales were to customers in the industrial and utility end-markets and forty percent of total sales were to customers outside the United States. Cooper has manufacturing facilities in 23 countries as of 2011. For more information, visit the website at www.cooperindustries.com.

About ABC-TV's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition"
The Emmy award winning reality program "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," now in its 9th season, is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. It's executive-produced by Brady Connell and George Verschoor. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol

Contact: Mike Petrasek
(412) 394-6611
michael.petrasek@bm.com

SOURCE Cooper Industries plc

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120229/DA62158
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20101214/MM17721LOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Cooper Industries plc

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

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Hannover House Harvests Catalog Sales With Multipack Offerings

Hannover House Harvests Catalog Sales With Multipack Offerings

NEW YORK, Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Hannover House, Inc., the newly rebranded entertainment distributor formerly known as Target Development Group, Inc. (Pinksheets: TDGI), is embarking on an aggressive campaign to maximize revenues from the company's home video library with the launch of multipack DVDs this summer. Beginning in June, the company will release genre-specific title assortments, priced for the WalMart and Best Buy budget bins, which have grown in recent years to dominate DVD unit sales levels.

Initial multipack offerings include "Family Movie Night" (four, full-length family features), "Jules Verne Classics" (three full-length animated features) and the "Martial Arts Marathon" (eight full-length features plus a feature documentary). Hannover House expects these items to be sold at retail for about $5, despite the suggested retail price listing of $9.95.

"Hannover House pioneered the multipack-budget bin business back in 2004," said Eric Parkinson, C.E.O. "Our martial arts multipacks sold over 600,000 units through WalMart, and set new standards for assortments. Now, with these initial three title groupings and our upcoming slate, we hope to become a dominant player once again in this highly lucrative area of catalog marketing."

The Family Movie Night pack includes "Grand Champion", "Savage Land", "Come Away Home" and "Animal Clinic." The Jules Verne Classics pack includes "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea", "Around the World in 80 Days" and "Journey to the Center of the Earth." The Martial Arts Marathon pack includes the Hannover House original production of "Samurai: The Last Warrior" along with the full-length features, "Fist of Fear", "Screaming Ninja", "Rage of the Master", "Snake Crane Secret", "Legend of the Eight Samurai", "Street Fighter", "Bruce Lee: The Man, The Myth" and "Kung Fu Punch of Death."

"These multi-packs will offer consumers the opportunity to purchase DVD assortments containing three, four or nine programs for only $5, which we believe is a terrific value," Parkinson continued. "WalMart and Best Buy have been moving tonnage of budget priced DVDs and the multipacks are an even better value. Existing retail sales trends suggest that these thematic assortments will generate revenues in excess of our library forecasts, so it's a very exciting opportunity."

Other thematic multipacks in the works include assortments of horror titles, westerns, Spanish-titles and dramas. Hannover plans to stagger the release of future multipacks to minimize the risk of dilution from titles with ongoing sales.

Press and Media: For more information contact Lauren Sterling, 479-751-4500, Lauren@HannoverHouse.com

SOURCE Hannover House, Inc.

Hannover House, Inc.

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Reality Rally Will Bring Over 80 Reality Stars From 27 Different Shows to Temecula, California on April 13th -15th!

Reality Rally Will Bring Over 80 Reality Stars From 27 Different Shows to Temecula, California on April 13th -15th!

TEMECULA, Calif., Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Reality Rally returns to Temecula Valley April 13th-15th, 2012, and online registration at www.realityrally.com is in full swing for the opportunity to be a part of this amazing Fun for Funds weekend.

Reality Rally is a four hour "Amazing Race" kind of game, where teams will be walking (or running) throughout Temecula's Old Town in a competition involving crazy activities and fun challenges for all ability levels. Teams consist of three members of the general public and a Reality Star added to make a team of four. Registration is $90.00 per participant until April 8th or when all teams are filled, whichever comes first.

"I thought my excitement could never be matched when I made it on Survivor after eight years of trying. I am equally, if not more, excited to bring back the second year of Reality Rally, which after last year's success is being touted as the Premier Reality Fundraising event in the nation," says event founder Gillian Larson, who was a contestant on Survivor: Gabon.

Over 80 reality stars have committed to donate their time and fund raise a minimum of $400 (the average cost of a mammogram) to qualify to participate in this year's Reality Rally Temecula Valley including: Richard Hatch (Winner of the first Survivor and participant in Survivor: All-Stars), Dawn Meehan (Survivor: South Pacific), Papa Bear Caruso (Survivor: South Pacific), Adam Poch (Big Brother), Elise Wims (Hell's Kitchen) and many others.

The weekend starts with a Reality-Am golf tournament on Friday, April 13th at The Legends at Temeku Hills Golf Club, a Celebrity Reception at Wilson Creek Winery on Friday evening, autograph signings on Saturday morning, the Rally is from 12-4 on Saturday, the Red Carpet Extravaganza will be at Monte De Oro on Saturday night, and the weekend will finish off with a Breakfast with the stars on Sunday morning. A full weekend of fun for the entire family! All ticket and information can be found at www.realityrally.com.

All net proceeds from Reality Rally will go to benefit Michelle's Place which was founded in 2001 by Marilyn and Bill Watson, parents of Michelle Watson. For more information regarding Michelle's Place please visit www.michellesplace.org.

Contact: Judy Zulfiqar
RKR Marketing & Advertising
Organization: Reality Rally
Phone: 951-694-4400
Judy@rkrmarketing.com

SOURCE Reality Rally

Reality Rally

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

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Prescriptive Music Announces 40 Percent Growth Surge Over Past 12 Months

Prescriptive Music Announces 40 Percent Growth Surge Over Past 12 Months

Nation's fastest growing music branding firm adds hundreds of leading hotels, restaurants and retail clients; its music heard by 4.7 million people daily

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Prescriptive Music, the nation's fastest growing music sensory branding firm, today announced a 40 percent growth in sales over the past year, marking three consecutive years of rapid growth. The company added hundreds of new clients from leading national and international hotel, restaurant and retail brands. Its innovative music programs reached the ears of 4.7 million people daily across the globe.

Prescriptive Music increased its worldwide footprint through expansion to China, Macau, The Maldives, United Arab Emirates and Ireland. Key new clients include: The Fairmont Peace Hotel in Shanghai; One&Only's The Palm Dubai; Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi; sbe Entertainment Group in Los Angeles; Umami Burger, the innovative Los Angeles-based burger chain expanding nationwide; and Giggle, the stylish baby store chain found in some of the nation's trendiest neighborhoods.

"Much of our growth is attributed to our unique offering of customized music programming and individual white glove service for clients, whether they are one of the world's leading hotels or a local independent restaurant," said Allen Klevens, founder and chief operating officer, Prescriptive Music. "As the hospitality industry continues its strong rebound, we have seen a surge in client growth, companies wanting to differentiate themselves from their competitors by using innovative music branding."

Restaurants have been the company's largest growth area, accounting for one-third of Prescriptive Music's business in the past year. One of the company's largest restaurant clients is Cheesecake Factory, the nationwide restaurant chain. Prescriptive Music began working with Cheesecake Factory to revamp their music program and create an inviting, laidback and eclectic vibe.

"We worked closely with Prescriptive Music to create a music vibe that matches our restaurants' inviting atmosphere for guests of all ages," said David Overton, chief executive officer, The Cheesecake Factory. "Our carefully chosen playlists are an essential part of delivering an experience that reaches all five of our guests' senses and makes them feel at home."

Launched in 1999, Prescriptive Music has carved out a music sensory branding niche within the hospitality industry of offering customized music programming, private label CDs and additional audio services. The customized music programs are all controlled virtually at Prescriptive Music's headquarters, but can be viewed by clients through an online portal. Different playlists can be created for different areas of a business and can change throughout the day to reflect the crowd and desired vibe. Each client works closely with one of Prescriptive Music's expert music programmers for consultation and to easily make adjustments to the playlists at any time.

For more information on Prescriptive Music, please visit www.prescriptivemusic.com.

About Prescriptive Music
Prescriptive Music is the nation's fastest growing music sensory branding firm. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, the company has helped pioneer the increasingly popular use of 'sensory branding' - leveraging the emotional and powerful effect of customized music to build customer loyalty and brand differentiation. Prescriptive Music works with major hotels, restaurants, spas, retailers and destinations to develop personalized music branding systems that help them attract and retain customers. Through music consulting, customized 'music vibe' programs, private-label CDs and customized music download stores, the company connects brands with consumers on a meaningful and enduring level.

Prescriptive Music has been called upon by some of the most recognized names in the hospitality and retail industry including: Marriott, Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton, Intercontinental Hotels, SBE, Harrah's, MGM Mirage, Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group, Cheesecake Factory, California Pizza Kitchen, Canyon Ranch and Giggle.

SOURCE Prescriptive Music

Prescriptive Music

CONTACT: Melissa Barto of JCUTLER media group, +1-323-969-9904, Melissa@jcutlermedia.com, for Prescriptive Music

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

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Dick Lugar Continues Smear Campaign with Newest Attack Ad

Dick Lugar Continues Smear Campaign with Newest Attack Ad

Senator grossly distorts Mourdock's record; casts doubt on Daniels, Skillman

INDIANAPOLIS, Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Indiana State Treasurer Richard Mourdock, U.S. Senate Candidate in the Republican Primary on May 8th, denounced the continued smear campaign by six-term incumbent Senator Dick Lugar on his record as State Treasurer. The Mourdock campaign also announced a new statewide TV and radio ad that will set the record straight.

"In 1996 when he ran for President, Senator Lugar ran ads in Iowa stating that he wouldn't run a negative ad. This shows how much 36 years in Washington, D.C., can change anyone. Now, in order to distract voters from recent revelations that he no longer lives in Indiana, Senator Lugar is running a shameless ad which distorts the truth and slanders the hard working state employees in the State Treasurer's Office," said Treasurer Mourdock.

Indiana voters can see Lugar's 1996 ad for themselves at http://bit.ly/Ac9Xyv.

Lugar's new ad now stoops even further by distorting Richard Mourdock's attendance record on various state boards. Using footage clearly not taken of an Indiana state government meeting, the ad suggests that the State Treasurer's chair at such meetings is empty.

The truth: Since Richard Mourdock took office as State Treasurer in 2007, his office has attended more than 99% of all such board meetings.

"In addition to managing a $7 billion investment portfolio for the state, the State Treasurer or his appointees sit on 13 boards and commissions, some of which meet at the same time. Just like Governor Daniels and Lt. Governor Skillman, when Treasurer Mourdock cannot attend a meeting personally, he designates a member of his senior staff to attend in his place," said Mourdock Campaign Manager Jim Holden.

In fact, one board singled out by the Lugar ad, the State Board of Finance, meets for about 5 minutes once a month. When Treasurer Mourdock can't attend, he sends a senior staff member with full voting powers to attend on his behalf. Governor Daniels is also a member of the Board of Finance. For every single meeting since 2007, Governor Daniels has chosen to send a senior aide rather than attend personally.

"Does this mean that Dick Lugar is accusing Governor Daniels of not showing up for work?" said Holden.

Another board cited by the Lugar ad, the Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority, is Chaired by Lt. Governor Skillman, who also does not attend the majority of meetings personally, but designates a staff member to Chair most of the meetings.

Finally, the ad also mentions that the State Police Pension Advisory Board, which Richard Mourdock is not even a voting member of! This board mostly makes disability payments and other personnel decisions about individual state troopers. Mourdock is the Trustee of the State Police Pension Trust, which by the way earned over 19% return on its investments last year and was nominated for a national award as Small Pension Fund of the Year by Money Management Intelligence.

"It's a shame that Senator Lugar feels it necessary to smear Richard Mourdock's excellent record as State Treasurer. Under Richard's leadership, the State Treasurer's Office has generated over $1.3 billion in investment income since 2007. That's $1.3 billion that won't come out of taxpayers' pockets in the form of higher taxes. He's revamped the State's 529 College Saving Plan resulting in an 800% increase in Hoosiers saving for college. He's done all of this with one of the smallest state treasurer staffs in the nation, while at the same time returning an average of over 10% of his budget back to the Treasury each year," said Holden

In response to Lugar's latest attack, Hoosiers for Richard Mourdock will be airing "Slinging."

Slinging TV:30

TV Sourcing
(Splat!)
Talk
about
slinging
mud.
Dick
Lugar's
latest
attack
on
Richard
Mourdock
isn't
true.
Period.
Mourdock's
office meetings
has
a
ninety-
nine
percent
attendance
rate
at
board
Ninety- "Record as Indiana's State Treasurer," www.RichardMourdock.com.
nine
percent.
If
Senator admits
Lugar he
was hasn't
in lived
Indiana here
more, for
he'd thirty-
know five
that. years.
He
Out
of
touch...
on
earmarks, Vote #8, S. Amdt. 1472 to S. Amdt. 1470 to S. 2038, 02/02/2012.
Obama's
judges, Vote #262, PN506, 8/06/2009.
Vote #107, PN67, 03/19/2009.
Even "Sen. Lugar defends Indiana residency," USA Today, 2/21/12.
amnesty. Vote #625, HR5281, 12/18/2010.
Yes
indeed,
"Obama's
Favorite
Republican." MSNBC, 10/17/2008.
I'm
Richard
Mourdock,
and
I
approve
this
message

Paid for by Hoosiers for Richard Mourdock, Inc.

SOURCE Hoosiers for Richard Mourdock, Inc.

Hoosiers for Richard Mourdock, Inc.

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

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Only One Name Defines the Ultimate Hero ... Only One Format Delivers the Ultimate Experience ... Indiana Jones Blu-ray Collection

Only One Name Defines the Ultimate Hero ... Only One Format Delivers the Ultimate Experience ... Indiana Jones Blu-ray Collection

For The First Time Ever, The Complete Indiana Jones Film Collection Comes To Blu-ray!

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The man with the hat is back - and looking better than ever! The world's favorite globe-trotting archaeologist is, at long last, embarking on his greatest adventure - when The Complete Indiana Jones Blu-ray Collection comes to Blu-ray Disc from Lucasfilm Ltd. and Paramount Home Media Distribution. The Complete Indiana Jones Blu-ray Collection will be excavated in the fall of 2012 and will include all four of Indy's thrilling adventures, using the highest possible high definition picture and audio presentation - along with a "best of" collection of documentaries, interviews, featurettes and a few new surprises.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120229/LA61727)

About Paramount Home Media Distribution

Paramount Home Media Distribution (PHMD) is part of Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment. PPC is a unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB), a leading content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital entertainment brands. The PHMD division oversees PPC's home entertainment, digital and television distribution activities worldwide. The division is responsible for the sales, marketing and distribution of home entertainment content on behalf of Paramount Pictures, Paramount Animation, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, Insurge Pictures, MTV, Nickelodeon, Comedy Central, CBS and PBS and for providing home entertainment fulfillment services for DreamWorks Animation Home Entertainment. PHMD additionally manages global licensing of studio content and distribution across worldwide digital and television distribution platforms including online, mobile and portable devices and emerging technologies.

Lucasfilm, Indiana Jones(TM) and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. TM & © Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved. All other trademarks and trade names are properties of their respective owners.

SOURCE Paramount Home Media Distribution

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120229/LA61727
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Paramount Home Media Distribution

CONTACT: Chris Argyropoulos, +1-415-623-1018, chris.argyropoulos@lucasfilm.com, or Brenda Ciccone, +1-323-956-8091, brenda_ciccone@paramount.com, both of Lucasfilm Ltd. Paramount Home Media Distribution

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2012 Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival of Greater Philadelphia March 23 - April 21

2012 Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival of Greater Philadelphia March 23 - April 21

PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- What's noisy, delicious, dramatic, playful, inspiring, thought provoking, and pink and white all over? It's Philadelphia's own Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival, celebrating its fifteenth year this spring, from March 23 to April 21. The Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia presents events for all ages, many of them free, throughout the region -- from Center City to the Main Line, King of Prussia to Fairmount Park.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120229/PH61966-a)

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120229/PH61966-b)

As the nation celebrates the centennial of Japan's gift of cherry blossom trees blooming on the Mall in Washington D.C., here in Philadelphia attendees can:

-- Kick off the Festival by attending the sparkling Blossom Bash at the
Hyatt at the Bellevue, on March 23rd.
-- Be inspired by the transcendence of dance and the power of Taiko
drumming.
-- Taste the varied flavors of Japan (at a 20% discount!) during Dine Out
Japan, April 15 - 19.
-- Experience the drama of Kabuki dance and the antics of Kyogen comedy.
-- Learn how to wear a kimono, write your name in Japanese calligraphy,
arrange flowers in the ikebana tradition, or create tiny origami
masterpieces during Japanese Culture Week at Liberty Place, April 9 -
13.
-- Run under a canopy of flowering trees at the Cherry Blossom 5K.
-- Introduce the whole family to everything from Japanese music and crafts,
to fashion, food, martial arts and even a Prettiest Pets in Pink Contest
at Sakura Sunday, April 15, in Fairmount Park.
A complete listing of events, including storytelling at local libraries, movie screenings, and a special food tasting day at Maido! in Narberth, is available online at http://www.subarucherryblossom.org, and event information is available by calling 215-790-3810.

The Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival of Greater Philadelphia, a project of the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia, encourages better understanding of the cultural, social, and educational customs of Japan and the United States. The Festival builds on the JASGP commitment to plant and maintain cherry trees in local parks. To date, the JASGP has planted more than 1,000 cherry trees across the city, supplementing the 1,600 trees presented by the Japanese government as a gesture of friendship in 1926.

SOURCE Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120229/PH61966-a
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120229/PH61966-b
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia

CONTACT: CONTACT: Luise Moskowitz, SteegeThomson Communications, +1-215-747-7700, lmoskowitz@steegethomson.com; Aaron Dilliplane, Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia, +1-215-790-3810, aaron@japanphilly.org

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

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Jon Bon Jovi and Tiger Woods Reunite in Las Vegas to Celebrate Tiger Jam 2012

Jon Bon Jovi and Tiger Woods Reunite in Las Vegas to Celebrate Tiger Jam 2012

LAS VEGAS, Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On Saturday, April 28, internationally acclaimed rock 'n' roll front man Jon Bon Jovi will take the stage at Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas to headline Tiger Jam 2012, a charity concert hosted by Tiger Woods, benefiting the Tiger Woods Foundation. Continuing Tiger Jam's tradition of unforgettable concerts, Jon Bon Jovi and friends will provide fans with a spectacular performance, while helping to raise money for the college-access programs of the Foundation. Singer David Cook, who rose to fame after winning the seventh season of American Idol, will open for Jon Bon Joviat Tiger Jam.

"It's truly an honor to have Jon headline Tiger Jam," event host Woods said. "Over the years he's never hesitated to lend his time and talents to my Foundation and I'm so grateful for that."

Jon and Tiger have a long philanthropic history that dates back to 2003 when Bon Jovi first performed at Tiger Jam. Bon Jovi played Tiger Jam again in 2007 and now this year Jon Bon Jovi and friends will perform at the Mandalay Bay Events Center for the first time. Jon has also been supportive of the AT&T National while it was held in Philadelphia. The Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation was a tournament beneficiary in 2010 and 2011.

Tiger Jam 2012 will include a VIP reception at House of Blues featuring gourmet fare and exclusive live and silent auctions filled with one-of-a-kind luxury items. Following the reception, the celebration will progress to the Mandalay Bay Events Center, where Woods will introduce Jon Bon Jovi and friends as they take the stage to deliver a rocking performance to Tiger Jammers.

Concert tickets starting at $70, not including applicable service charges, go on sale Saturday, March 3 at 10 a.m., and will be available at Ticketmaster locations (select Smith's Food and Drug Centers and Ritmo Latino). Tickets are limited to 8 per person. To charge by phone with a major credit card, call Mandalay Bay at (877) 632-7400 or Ticketmaster at (800) 745-3000. Tickets are also available at www.mandalaybay.com or www.ticketmaster.com. For more information on Tiger Jam Sponsorship opportunities or to attend the dinner, call (949)725-3003.

SOURCE Tiger Woods Foundation

Tiger Woods Foundation

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

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WNEU Telemundo Boston Kicks-off La Feria de La Familia Season on Sunday

WNEU Telemundo Boston Kicks-off La Feria de La Familia Season on Sunday

Free, family event features information, services and entertainment with Telemundo celebrity Cynthia Olavarría

BOSTON, Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- WNEU Telemundo Boston is hosting the first in a series of three La Feria de la Familia events in 2012. This weekend's event will be held on Sunday, March 4 at the South Shore Plaza in Braintree, MA, and includes a wide variety of musical and television artists, as well as free information on education, health, and other family-focused topics. The event is designed to provide information, services and entertainment in a festive, family atmosphere, completely free to the public.

The emcee of the event, Veronica Robles, from the local show Orale con Veronica, will lead the day's activities. She will also introduce personalities including Omar Cabrera and Johnny Peguero from the Telemundo Boston show, El Reporte de los Red Sox, as well as Wally, the beloved mascot of the Boston Red Sox. She will be accompanied by the New England Revolution Girls and the team's mascot, Slyde who will giveaway gifts and prizes, and interact with the audience. Dr. Marisela Marrero, host of Un Minuto de Salud, will also be present to share her medical expertise with attendees.

The event will include performances by local artists Alexander and DnE la Melodia, a group of brothers that perform bachata, merengue, and pop music. The audience will enjoy a ZUMBA demonstration, as well as the opportunity to get in shape with Veronica Robles' new health initiative, La Movida.

A highlight of the event will be the participation of Telemundo celebrity, Cynthia Olavarría. Ms. Olavarria has starred in recent novela hits Mi Corazon Insiste and Alguien Te Mira. She was crowned Miss Puerto Rico in 2005 and was the first runner-up in the Miss Universe pageant that year.

As part of the 2012 Series, Telemundo Boston will hold additional La Feria de la Familia events in June and September at different venues across the state. Additionally, Telemundo Hartford/Springfield will host its 7th annual La Feria in September and Telemundo Providence will have its first annual event in November.

Over the years, La Feria has established itself as a dynamic and powerful forum. Connecting businesses to the Hispanic community, showcasing products and strengthening brands, La Feria is an interactive expo of exceptional quality, guaranteed to inform, empower and entertain.

For additional information on La Feria de la Familia visit holaciudad.com.

WNEU Telemundo Boston is managed by ZGS Communications, a Hispanic-owned media company headquartered in Arlington, Virginia that owns or operates thirteen Spanish-language television stations, representing the largest group of independent stations affiliated with the Telemundo television network. WNEU prides itself on its commitment to service, local programming, and the celebration of Hispanic heritage. Telemundo, a U.S. Spanish-language television network is the essential entertainment, news, and sports source for Hispanics and a leading international player in the entertainment industry with presence in more than 100 countries worldwide. Broadcasting unique national and local programming for the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. population, Telemundo reaches 94% of U.S. Hispanic viewers in 210 markets. Visit WNEU on holaciudad.com, a Spanish language web portal which features local news, community information and resources, and city guides.

SOURCE Telemundo Boston

Telemundo Boston

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Profile: intent

Spike TV to Premiere First Ever Live Auction Event Wednesday, March 21 at 9:00 pm

Spike TV to Premiere First Ever Live Auction Event Wednesday, March 21 at 9:00 pm

Mike Catherwood Hosts One Hour Live Broadcast From A High-End Auction In Los Angeles

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Spike TV raises the stakes as for the first time ever the networks highest-rated non-scripted original series "Auction Hunters" premieres a special, one hour LIVE auction event. Showcasing two of the best prospectors in the business, Allen Haff and Ton Jones, the episode will broadcast LIVE from an exclusive storage auction in Los Angeles. Hosted by "Loveline" co-host and former "Dancing with the Stars" contestant Mike Catherwood, "Auction Hunters: Live" premieres Wednesday, March 21 at 9:00 PM, ET, immediately followed by the series premiere of "American Digger."

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110419/NY85419LOGO )

"Auction Hunters: Live" follows Haff and Jones at a white-glove only auction in Los Angeles, as the duo is challenged to condense a week's worth of work into one hour of LIVE television. Haff and Jones will have to hurry to buy a unit, dig through it, and select a few items to present for sale to the assembled group of on-set experts. The pressure is on as this rare auction could potentially lead to their biggest payday or greatest loss to date. With the cameras rolling and the stakes higher than ever, Spike's "Auction Hunters" are primed for the ultimate challenge.

"Auction Hunters: Live" kicks-off season three of the series on its new day and time Wednesday, March 28 (9:00 PM, ET/PT) with back-to-back episodes filmed in Alaska. Additional locations for the new season include New Orleans, Washington D.C., New York City, Honolulu, Denver and Los Angeles.

"Auction Hunters" is produced by Gurney Productions and executive produced by Scott Gurney and Deirdre Gurney. Sharon Levy is Spike TV's Executive Vice President, Original Series, Tim Duffy is Senior Vice President of Original Programming for Spike TV, and Jeff Savaiano serves as the Executive in Charge of Production.

About "Auction Hunters"
Every year in America, 50,000 storage facilities hold auctions for abandoned storage units and, at these auctions, over $1 billion worth of goods changes hands. Each unit has the potential to be a goldmine or a bust for those who make their living hunting unclaimed property. "Auction Hunters" cuts the lock and opens the door into the high stakes, financial risks and potential rewards where the right purchase can bring in serious cash. The series follows Haff and Jones in their quest to win auctions, dig for abandoned historical treasure and sell them for a profit.

About Spike TV
Spike TV is available in 99.8 million homes and is a division of Viacom Media Networks. A unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB), Viacom Media 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. Follow us on Twitter @spiketvpr for the latest in breaking news updates, behind-the-scenes information and photos.

SOURCE Spike TV

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110419/NY85419LOGO
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Spike TV

CONTACT: Kevin Sornatale, +1-310-407-4745, kevin.sornatale@spike.com or; Shana Tepper, +1-212-767-4275, shana.tepper@mtvstaff.com

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

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COMEDY CENTRAL® and Running Press Form Joint Publishing Program

COMEDY CENTRAL® and Running Press Form Joint Publishing Program

First Title To Be A Holiday-Themed Novelty Book By Denis Leary

NEW YORK, Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- In a continuing effort to achieve utter and total comedy domination, COMEDY CENTRAL has joined with Running Press, a member of the Perseus Books Group, to form a joint publishing program, it was announced today by Michele Ganeless, President, COMEDY CENTRAL and Christopher Navratil, Publisher of Running Press. The joint publishing relationship, which builds on established and developing brands of the cable network, will release its first title, a holiday-themed novelty book from Denis Leary, in October 2012. Mitch Fried, Executive Vice President, Enterprises, will oversee the program for COMEDY CENTRAL.

"Success today means reaching our fans on all different platforms. This publishing relationship is another example of the kind of extension that keeps COMEDY CENTRAL the #1 brand in comedy," said Ganeless.

Navratil said, "We are excited to be working with Michele and her team at COMEDY CENTRAL." He added, "This new relationship is the perfect fit for our list, humor is one of our core categories and being able to tap into COMEDY CENTRAL's talent and marketing will offer us a fantastic opportunity to publish a wide variety of branded titles in multiple formats."

"A publishing program is a natural brand extension for COMEDY CENTRAL and becomes another means of comedic expression that we can offer to our talent, including series, specials, DVDs, CDs and tours," said Fried. "Our history of success gives us unprecedented access and opportunity to talent and we're very excited that the first title will come from our long-time friend, Denis Leary."

Added Leary, "I am truly delighted to be in business with Running Press and deliver a funny Christmas book based on a special I did for COMEDY CENTRAL seven-and-a-half years ago. Sorry for the delay but I was a tad busy with 'Rescue Me,' two teenaged kids, two Red Sox World Series victories, the 17th Boston Celtic NBA championship, the Bruins winning the Stanley Cup and online porn. Mostly the porn."

Titles within the COMEDY CENTRAL publishing program will focus on both new material from top and developing comedians as well as existing series/franchises within the brand offering a wide variety of books within the humor category. The unique partnership will also have the advantage of being supported by COMEDY CENTRAL's full 360 degree marketing effort for the brand, including on-air, digital media, mobile, video on demand, consumer products, live tours, and retail integration. The first title will be a holiday-themed novelty book from Denis Leary which will be published in October 2012 to tie-in with a TV special on the channel. Additional details on this title and forthcoming titles will be announced by Running Press and COMEDY CENTRAL in the near future.

About Running Press

Running Press creates more than 175 new titles a year under three imprints: Running Press, Running Press Miniature Editions(TM), Running Press Kids. It is a member of The Perseus Books Group, an independent company committed to enabling independent publishers to reach their potential whether those publishers are Perseus-owned, joint ventures or owned by third parties. Member publishing programs include Avalon Travel, Basic Books, Basic Civitas, Da Capo, Lifelong Books, Running Press, Seal Press, Vanguard Press and Westview Press, as well as partnerships with PublicAffairs and Nation Books. Through Consortium, Perseus Distribution and Publishers Group West, the Perseus Books Group is also the leading provider of sales, marketing and distribution services to independent publishers.

About COMEDY CENTRAL

Available in 99 million homes nationwide, COMEDY CENTRAL (www.comedycentral.com), the only all-comedy network, is owned by, and is a registered trademark of, Comedy Partners, a wholly-owned unit of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA and VIAB). For up-to-the-minute and archival press information and photographs visit Press Central, COMEDY CENTRAL's press web site at www.comedycentral.com/press and follow us on Twitter @ComedyCentralPR for the latest in breaking news updates, behind-the-scenes information and photos.

SOURCE COMEDY CENTRAL Corporate Communications

COMEDY CENTRAL Corporate Communications

CONTACT: Steve Albani, +1-212-767-8695, steve.albani@cc.com; Craig Herman, +1-215-567-5370, Craig.Herman@PerseusBooks.com

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

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Nation's Premier Family Preservation and Adoption Agency Develops Partnership With Catelynn & Tyler of MTV's "16 and Pregnant" Fame

Nation's Premier Family Preservation and Adoption Agency Develops Partnership With Catelynn & Tyler of MTV's "16 and Pregnant" Fame

Bethany Christian Services' Works with Popular Couple to Raise Awareness for Pregnancy Counseling

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Bethany Christian Services, the nation's premier family preservation and adoption agency, announces a partnership between the organization and Catelynn Lowell and Tyler Baltierra, the popular couple from the first season of MTV's runaway hit show, "16 and Pregnant." The focus of the partnership is to raise public awareness to the benefits of pregnancy counseling and adoption.

Well before Catelynn and Tyler were introduced to "16 and Pregnant" producers, the couple approached Bethany Christian Services for professional support surrounding their unplanned pregnancy. While the couple was in love and expected to be together forever - they recently announced their engagement to wed - they were young, in high school and unprepared to raise a child. As a result, they sought counsel on their options before making the decision they determined was best for them and their daughter - developing an adoption plan.

The couple's touching experience, as seen by millions across the country, was well documented and cast a national spotlight on the personal challenges and difficult decisions surrounding unexpected pregnancy. For more than 65 years, Bethany Christian Services has assisted women with unplanned pregnancies, serving more than 71,000 women in that time. In an effort to reach young couples facing unexpected pregnancies in order to educate them on pregnancy options ­- despite declines in rates of teen pregnancy in the U.S., recent reports indicate that nearly 750,000 teens become pregnant each year - Bethany has enlisted Catelynn and Tyler to participate in a national campaign featuring media interviews, online chats and college campus speaking engagements, among other initiatives.

"Placing our daughter Carly for adoption was the hardest thing we will ever do," said Tyler, "but as parents we made the sacrifice of not raising her and being with her all the time to only better her life by giving her to a Christian family who has longed and waited for a child of their own. We've seen firsthand the value in working with a pregnancy counselor. We received tremendous support from Dawn at Bethany during our pregnancy, and we want to make sure others in similar situations know what resources are available to them."

Bethany Christian Services, Catelynn and Tyler will launch their partnership with an online chat. The chat will be hosted in the group,"Chat with Catelynn and Tyler,"on Facebook, Wednesday, March 7th at 8 p.m. A link to the chat will be posted on Monday, and can be found on the agency's Facebook page - www.facebook.com/bethanyfans.

To learn more about Bethany's family preservation and adoption services, view the following birthparents video featuring Catelynn and Tyler at http://vimeo.com/36150741, or visit www.bethany.org for more information.

SOURCE Bethany Christian Services

Bethany Christian Services

CONTACT: CONTACT: Joe DiBenedetto, Lambert Edwards, +1-616-233-0500, jdibenedetto@lambert-edwards.com

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

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AccuStream Research: Internet Music Radio and Track Play Hours Climb 50.5% in '11; Revenues Jump 64.3%

AccuStream Research: Internet Music Radio and Track Play Hours Climb 50.5% in '11; Revenues Jump 64.3%

SEASIDE, Calif., Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Internet music radio and track play listening hours rose 50.5% in 2011 to over 1.3 billion monthly, while monetization initiatives (advertising and subscription) advanced 64.3%, according to a sector analytics report issued by AccuStream Research.

The report, Internet Music Radio and Track Play Growth 2012 - 2014: Listening and Monetization Analysis, details how the market's forward momentum accelerated in 2010, delivered strong results in 2011 which continue unabated in 2012.

For the first time, sector revenue growth outpaced that of radio and track play listening hours. The sector achieved $293.7 million in gross media spend (all format executions, including audio, video and display), with another $171.7 million in subscription revenue. The total market is forecast to rise 78% in 2012.

Audio inventory expansion to 6.2 billion avails per month in 2012 is projected, driven in part by Pandora's increasing focus on the in-stream audio format. Prior to 2011, Pandora allocated less than one minute of audio advertising inventory per listening hour.

Combined with an in-house sales force selling into top local DMAs where terrestrial broadcast radio advertising has historically been bought, the audio format is moving to the forefront of the programmer's monetization initiatives.

Audio fill rates are forecast to improve to 60% in 2012 across the entire market sector, with an average equivalent CPM (eCPM) of $6.80, according to the report. Pricing, inventory by format, fill rates and market share trends by media execution are included in this report.

The importance of mobile listening corresponds with escalating cross device audio placements, expected to capture increasing format share.

The mobile component to music and track play hours rose by 222% in 2011, accounting for 41% of the total, a strikingly positive audience reach and listening catalyst.

In 2012, for example, non-PC listening on Pandora's service is now 70% of the total, and 50% of Slacker is mobile.

In-depth Q & A's with the sector's leading programmers and rep firms are an important contextual component to this analytics report.

AccuStream Research (http://www.accustreamresearch.com) produces business planning and targeted investment reports spanning digital video, audio, media subscription stores, video advertising, video advertising networks and exchanges, mobile advertising networks, video ad serving platforms, CDN and integrated media optimization solutions.

SOURCE AccuStream Research

AccuStream Research

CONTACT: +1-831-394-1490, ppalumbo@accustreamresearch.com

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

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Popular Latina Music Star Graciela Beltran Sues EMI Music, Inc. Over Royalties: Brings Class Action Through Her Attorneys

Popular Latina Music Star Graciela Beltran Sues EMI Music, Inc. Over Royalties: Brings Class Action Through Her Attorneys

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Popular Latina music star Graciela Beltran, by and through her attorneys at Audet & Partners, LLP, a San Francisco, California-based trial law firm, and the Law Offices of Lopez & Associates, has filed a class action complaint (Case # CV121002) in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California against EMI Music, Inc. The case arises out of the alleged failure of EMI to pay the full royalty rates to artists such as Ms. Beltran on revenue generated from the licensing of digital downloads and/or ringtones.

"From the information we have received, it appears EMI has failed to pay Ms. Beltran and its other artists the amount owed on the licensing of songs for digital downloads and ringtones," stated Beltran's attorney Joshua C. Ezrin of Audet & Partners, LLP. "Graciela Beltran is bringing this action to ensure all artists are properly paid for their work."

Graciela Beltran known as "La Reina Del Pueblo," is from Costa Rica, a small town in the Mexican state of Sinaloa, and she emigrated to the United States as a young child. She started her career at a very young age as well, performing first for her neighbors, then at restaurants and fiestas. In the intervening years, she has performed at the White House, toured extensively, been featured in numerous television and film appearances, and her compilation album with Selena, entitled Las Reinas Del Pueblo, has sold 5 million copies worldwide.

Audet & Partners, LLP, is a San Francisco Bay Area based law firm. The law firm represents individuals, governmental entities, small businesses and shareholders in a wide variety of cases, including product liability, tort, negligence, consumer privacy, intellectual property, securities, insider trading, antitrust, environmental, whistle blower, aviation and employment cases. The founding partner, attorney William M. Audet, has served as court-approved lead counsel in dozens of federal and state cases throughout the United States.

Contact:

Joshua C. Ezrin, Esq.
Phone: 415.568.2555
Email: jezrin@audetlaw.com

Anthony R. Lopez
Phone: 310.276.4700
Email: alopez@musicatty.com

SOURCE Audet & Partners, LLP

Audet & Partners, LLP

Web Site: http://audetlaw.com/

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Profile: intent

Singer-Songwriter Skip Friel Releases Third Album, Passage, May 5

Singer-Songwriter Skip Friel Releases Third Album, Passage, May 5

-Album weaves introspective lyrics with textured acoustic instrumentation for a delightful journey-

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va., Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Part of what makes indie-Americana music persistently relevant is the clarity with which it relays complex emotions through lyrics and stories. The really great songs reveal enduring, often startling truths about humanity and personal transformation. Skip Friel's new album, Passage, continues in this context and asks the listener to go beyond the surface of themes such as love, loss and longing.

To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/singer-songwriter-skip-friel-releases-third-album-passage-may-5-140722363.html

The musical journey begins with 'Another Island,' a spectacular retelling of a family story that pays homage to one of Friel's ancestors -­- a broken-hearted 19(th) century Irish immigrant arriving in New York Harbor who discovers the restorative powers of self-reliance and new love. In listening to the album as a compilation, one gets the sense that survival and personal growth gain momentum through generations in songs such as 'Transcending,' a modern-day story tracing the birth, extraordinary life, and death of a woman who far exceeded limited expectations placed upon her. "After the recording process was complete, I noticed a commonality running through the music," explains Friel. "Each song is about transitioning, growth, and passages of renewal through time."

Percussionist Bob Simmons notes, "Passage speaks of the pathos of life, but at the same time offers inspiration and hope to 'everyman.' The album asks the mind to reflect, the soul to feel, and the heart to love."

Deeply introspective, the songs comprising Passage also are intricately woven with threads of soulful roots instrumentation. Backed by soaring melodies of veteran Grand Ole Opry fiddler Charlie Austin, bright mandolins, and lush acoustic guitars, Friel's vocals are made of emotion. "These are great songs," said Austin. "I'm very excited to be part of this project."

Passage is the follow-up to Friel's solo award-winning album, Twilight Red Sky. The Virginia-based singer-songwriter performs an eclectic mix of original music with his band, the Resonators.

Produced by New Moon Music, the album was recorded and mixed by Randy Friel at Clay Garden Studios in Norfolk, VA and Scullville Studios of Scullville, NJ. Randy founded New Moon Music, an independent label specializing in blues and roots music. Clients include such greats as Levon Helm, Bruce Springsteen, Deborah Coleman, and the Dixie Hummingbirds. Tony Mascara of The Audio Lab in Millville, NJ mastered Passage.

Passage artists are: Charlie Austin, Julie Clark, Rosie Eberwine, Randy Friel, Fred Kovner, Gary Krebs, Cindy McNellis, Bob Rankin, Rich Ridolfino, Anna Lee Scully, Charlie Shugarman, Bob Simmons, and Martin Somers. The CD cover features original graphic art by Bart Morris of Morris Design and photography by Kathy Keeney, both of Norfolk, VA.

CD Release
Available May 5 on CD Baby, iTunes, Amazon MP3 & www.skipfriel.com

Media Pre-Release
MP3 files in this press release may be downloaded immediately for airplay. Additional songs available upon request.

Event
A CD release event is scheduled for 9:30 p.m., May 5, at Taphouse Grill in Ghent, Norfolk, VA.

SOURCE Skip Friel Music

Video:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/singer-songwriter-skip-friel-releases-third-album-passage-may-5-140722363.html
Skip Friel Music

CONTACT: Sherry Lee, +1-757-748-9416, sherrylee@skipfriel.com

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

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Profile: intent

John Mayer's New Album "Born and Raised" to be Released on May 22

John Mayer's New Album "Born and Raised" to be Released on May 22

"Shadow Days" Single Available On iTunes Tuesday, March 6

NEW YORK, Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Columbia Records is pleased to announce that Born and Raised, the next album from Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and musician John Mayer, will be released on May 22. The first single, "Shadow Days," will be out on March 6 and available on iTunes.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120229/NY61699 )

Mayer produced Born and Raised with Don Was, who's worked on albums for acts such as the Rolling Stones, B.B. King and Bonnie Raitt. Rock legends David Crosby and Graham Nash provide vocals on the album's title song. Musicians joining Mayer on the album and on the road include highly-regarded keyboardist/pianist Chuck Leavell--who has worked with the Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton and The Allman Brothers Band--as well as previous collaborators Sean Hurley on bass and Aaron Sterling on drums. Jim Keltner makes a special appearance on drums on "Something Like Olivia." Rounding out the touring band are David Ryan Harris on guitar and vocals, Doug Pettibone on guitar and Michito Sanchez on percussion.

Columbia Records recently announced that Mayer will do an 18-date spring tour that kicks off April 9 in Bloomington, IN. Stops on the tour include Detroit, Providence, Buffalo, Memphis, Kansas City, Las Vegas and Phoenix. He will also be performing at South By Southwest in Austin on March 17, and the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival on April 29.

Mayer's previous albums--Room for Squares, Heavier Things, Continuum and Battle Studies--have sold more than 12 million copies combined. He has been honored with seven Grammy Awards and an additional 11 nominations. He has also been included in Time Magazine's annual Time 100 list of the most influential contemporary thinkers, leaders, artists and entertainers, and twice been featured on the cover of Rolling Stone Magazine's annual "Guitar" issue.

John Mayer -- Born and Raised -- produced by John Mayer and Don Was

1. Queen of California
2. The Age of Worry
3. Shadow Days
4. Speak for Me
5. Something Like Olivia
6. Born & Raised
7. If I Ever Get Around To Living
8. Love is a Verb
9. Walt Grace's Submarine Test, January 1967
10. Whiskey, Whiskey, Whiskey
11. A Face To Call Home
12. Born & Raised (Reprise)
SOURCE Columbia Records

Photo:http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120229/NY61699
http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Columbia Records

CONTACT: CONTACT: Fran DeFeo, Senior Vice President/Media, Columbia Records, +1-212-833-5784, Fran.defeo@sonymusic.com

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Profile: intent

Relaxation Drink Maker BeBevCo Finalizes Deal for KOMA UNWIND to be Gifted to 60 Celebrities Backstage at Wendy Williams Show

Relaxation Drink Maker BeBevCo Finalizes Deal for KOMA UNWIND to be Gifted to 60 Celebrities Backstage at Wendy Williams Show

Gifting to extend from March 15 to the Season Ending Episode in June

STATESVILLE, N.C., Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Bebida Beverage Company (OTC markets: BBDA) (BeBevCo) a developer, manufacturer and marketer of relaxation and energy drinks announced today Koma Unwind Relaxation Drink will be part of gift packages for 60 celebrities including Ms. Williams on The Wendy Williams Show in New York City between March 15 and the season ending show in June. Additionally, The Wendy Williams Show website will be hosting a gift bag giveaway under their "Free Stuff" section, where the brand will be mentioned, along with a photo of the entire gift bag.

About The Wendy Williams Show

Mother, wife and best-selling author Wendy Williams burst onto the national talk show scene in July 2009 with the launch of the syndicated weekday program, "The Wendy Williams Show." Called a "breakthrough in daytime" by The New York Times, "The Wendy Williams Show," which airs in 52 countries, and is now in its third season, has just been renewed on Fox through 2014.

"This coincides nicely with our rollout of Koma Unwind in New York City and the surrounding area," said Brian Weber, CEO of BeBevCo. "In a lot of ways, New York may be the most stressed out city in the world. Koma Unwind is coming to the rescue for New York City to give people the gift of relaxation and a better night's sleep. What better to have our products all over the city and get exposure on the Wendy Williams Show?"

About BeBevCo

BeBevCo (Bebida Beverage Company) develops, manufactures and markets beverages including relaxation drinks Koma Unwind "Chillaxation" Drink(TM), Koma Unwind Sugar-free "Chillaxation" Drink(TM) and Koma Unwind "Chillaxation" Shot(TM) as well as Potencia Energy Drink, Potencia "BLAST" energy shot, Relax 5 shots and Piranha Water.

Safe Harbor Statement

Except for historic information contained in this release, the statements in this news release are forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to the Safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause a company's actual results in the future to differ materially from forecasted results. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, the company's ability to attract qualified management, raise sufficient capital to execute its business plan, and effectively compete against similar companies.

Contact: (704) 660-0226 extension 5
Investorrelations@bebevco.com
www.BeBevCo.com
www.Relaxfive.com

SOURCE Bebida Beverage Company

Bebida Beverage Company

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

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Profile: intent

Oprah Winfrey Interviews Sufi Teacher and Author, Llewellyn Vaughan-Lee, Super Soul Sunday -- March 4, 11AM ET/PT

Oprah Winfrey Interviews Sufi Teacher and Author, Llewellyn Vaughan-Lee, Super Soul Sunday -- March 4, 11AM ET/PT

Vaughan-Lee Offers Teachings on Sufism, Mysticism, Consciousness of Oneness and Spiritual Ecology, Announces a New Book -- Prayer of the Heart in Christian and Sufi Mysticism

SAN RAFAEL, Calif., Feb. 29, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Sufi teacher and author Llewellyn Vaughan-Lee, Ph.D., is featured in the Super Soul Sunday episode "Open Your Heart" on OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network. He joins Oprah for an "Under the Oaks" interview that takes place in the quiet California beauty of Oprah's own backyard where they talk of Sufism, the ancient wisdom of the heart; love; longing; the search for something real and the source of true happiness.

Oprah preview: http://www.oprah.com/own-supersoulsunday/blogs/What-is-Sufism

Vaughan-Lee is the author of over 20 books on Sufism, dreamwork & Jungian Psychology, and mysticism. He has also been featured in several films (One the Movie, Wake Up and the Global Spirit series). Since 2000 the focus of his writing and teaching has been on spiritual responsibility in our present time of transition, and an awakening global consciousness of oneness. More recently he has written about the feminine, the anima mundi (world soul), and spiritual ecology, including several articles published by Huffington Post.

Spiritual ecology, his latest urgent focus, is an exploration of the spiritual dimension of our present ecological crisis. He stresses that this is the great unnoticed tragedy of our present time. We can no longer afford to see the environment as something separate or outside of us. We need an awareness of oneness, of unity, that we are all interconnected and part of one sacred whole. Only when we awaken to this awareness of sacred unity can we begin the work of healing the ecosystem. We need to return to an awareness of the sacred within creation and within life.

This emerging subject, which is now beginning to draw attention from a number of spiritual leaders, such as Thich Naht Hanh, stresses that we need a spiritual approach to solve our ecological crisis. We may be aware that we are at the "eleventh hour" of a global ecological situation of species depletion and catastrophic climate change, but we are less aware of the inner spiritual crisis that underlies this outer crisis. This, Vaughan-Lee says, needs our urgent attention and recognition.

The Great Unspoken Tragedy of the Present Time (1.5)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELuzHkE2lkA
http://vimeo.com/34688707

New Book: Prayer of the Heart

Prayer of the Heart in Christian and Sufi Mysticism brings these two traditions together, giving insight into the inner life of prayer to which they both belong. Vaughan-Lee draws on Christian and Sufi sources as well as from his own experience. He focuses on how the power of prayer born of need and longing can take one deep within the heart into real communion with God.

This Interspiritual book explores the mystical roots of these two traditions, and their underlying similarities. As Richard Rohr writes: "As we recover more and more of these ancient contemplative traditions, we are finding immense similarities in goal, practice, and effects ... Vaughan-Lee makes this sacred journey both clear and inviting."

Prayer of the Heart also includes an important chapter on how to pray for the earth in its present time of great need. This is a book that will benefit any practitioner of prayer, anyone who is drawn to discover a relationship with God within the heart. It will be available in May 2012.

For additional information on Llewellyn Vaughan-Lee and his extensive work, please visit: www.goldensufi.org or
http://www.workingwithoneness.org
http://goldensufi.org/press_page.html

Contact:

Megan McFeely
Mmcfeely@earthlink.net
415 609 8707

This press release was issued through eReleases(R). For more information, visit eReleases Press Release Distribution at http://www.ereleases.com.

SOURCE Llewellyn Vaughan-Lee

Llewellyn Vaughan-Lee

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

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Profile: intent