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42 Million Americans Listen to Radio Every Week

2009-04-24T14:08:00.000-05:00

Friday, April 24, 2009

42 Million Americans Listen to Radio Weekly on Digital Audio Platforms

The latest study by Arbitron and Edison Research shows continued growth in usage and ownership of various forms of digital audio platforms, including online radio, iPod/MP3 players, and podcasting. The weekly online radio audience increased significantly in the past year to 17% of the U.S. population age 12 and older; up from 13% in 2008. On a weekly basis, online radio reaches 20% of 25-to-54 year-olds; up from 15% in 2008.

Bill Rose, senior vice president of marketing, Arbitron Inc., says "The sharp growth in weekly usage of Online radio... provides compelling evidence that radio's digital platforms may be reaching critical mass. We are... seeing encoded streams of AM/FM broadcasts with significant audience in local markets."

Key findings from The Infinite Dial 2009: Radio's Digital Platforms, include:

More than one in five radio listeners (21%) say AM/FM radio has a big impact on their lives; ranking second only to owners of the Apple iPhone in particular (23%) and cell phone owners in general (47%) as the audio platform/device that has a big impact on people's lives.

Online radio listeners are more likely to be upscale, well-educated and employed full time;

- 54% of weekly online radio listeners are employed full-time (compared to 43% among persons 12 and older);
- 16% of weekly online radio listeners live in homes with an annual income greater than $100,000 (vs. 10% among persons 12 and older);
- 37% of weekly online radio listeners have a college degree or higher education level (vs. 29% among persons 12 and older).

Weekly online video viewing among persons age 12 and older is up significantly in the past year, from 18% in 2008 to 27% (approximately 69 million) in 2009.

- 34% of persons age 12 and older report having a profile on Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn, or any other social networking Web site, up from - 24% in 2008
- 63% of teens age 12-to-17 report having a profile on these social networking sites
- 64% 18-to-24 year-olds have a profile on these social networking sites.

iPod/portable MP3 player ownership and iPod use continues to grow dramatically.

- 42% of persons age 12 and older own an iPod or other brand of portable MP3 player

- 64% of 18-to-24 year-olds own a digital audio player

- 32% of teens age 12-to-17 and persons 18-to-24 are spending less time with over-the-air radio specifically due to time spent with iPod/other portable MP3 players

- 22% of Americans age 12 and older have ever listened to an audio podcast

- 11% (27 million) reported having listened to an audio podcast in the past month in 2009

Tom Webster, vice president of strategy and marketing, Edison Research, concludes that "... consumer use of new digital platforms... is becoming nearly ubiquitous... a window of opportunity for radio to... spread its content across the expanding choices consumers use to control their media experience."

The complete study, The Infinite Dial 2009: Radio's Digital Platforms, may be downloaded free of charge via the Arbitron and Edison Research Web sites linked here.

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We use the term research in the broadest possible sense. We do not perform an audit, nor do we analyze the data for accuracy or reliability. Our intention is to inform you of the existence of research materials and so we present reports as they are presented to us. The only requirements we impose are that they are potentially useful and relevant to our readers and that they pass the rudimentary test of relying on acceptable industry standards. We explicitly do not take responsibility for the findings. Please be aware of this and check the source for yourself if you intend to rely on any of the data we present.

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Network of Audio, Film and Multimedia Education Centers to Feature Bryan-Michael Cox

2008-12-21T23:31:00.000-06:00

Bryan-Michael Cox Partners with SAE Institute to Develop Custom Music Production Workshops for Students

Media education institution taps famed music producer to lecture in six-month music production series. Hosted in SAE Institute - Atlanta, the series will be streamed to SAE campuses worldwide.

Atlanta, GA, December 17, 2008 -- SAE Institute continues its establishment of ongoing industry partnerships by announcing its newest with Grammy-winning producer, Bryan-Michael Cox. SAE working side-by-side with Cox, have developed a six-month workshop series in which Cox will serve as the primary guest lecturer during the Spring 2009 Semester.. The Bryan-Michael Cox production workshop series will guide students through a professional producer's journey from the beginning stages of developing a music track to selecting the right publishing deal and management.

Bryan-Michael Cox will be joined by a cadre of his industry colleagues to lead select workshops. To date, Cox has pegged special guests including Grammy-winning producer DJ Toomp and songwriters Kendrick Dean and Kandi Burrus to provide students with a comprehensive prospectus of music production techniques.

"This is a great opportunity to nurture many future music producers and engineers," says Cox with enthusiasm. "By teaming up with SAE with their state of the art facilities and distinctive approach to learning, I am further expanding my passion for music through education, its my way of giving back."

SAE Institute will extend the opportunity throughout its extensive network of over 50 campuses. The hour-long workshops on SAE's Atlanta Campus will be simulcast via the internet to select SAE campuses. SAE, noted for being a leading institution in the field of audio engineering and creative media sectors, historically prides itself with a "hands-on" curriculum. With over fifty campuses worldwide, SAE has produced scores of dynamic music engineers and related professionals for over 30 years.

"It's inspiring for future music makers to have one on one interactions with the people making the music they listen to every day." explains Chris Davie, Director of SAE Institute Atlanta, "SAE's partnership with Bryan-Michael and his colleagues is an enormous opportunity for our students to experience their production processes from start to finish."

The workshops will include a detailed course outline of live studio sessions, songwriting techniques, producer and artist relations, management and music publishing. The lectures are directly aligned with SAE's Diploma in Audio Engineering and Music Business curriculum.

About Bryan Michael Cox
Bryan-Michael Cox is a hit maker, who has written and produced songs for what reads like a who's who of the music industry. In just a short period of time, he has afforded his expertise to Usher, Fantasia, Toni Braxton, Tamia, Ron Isley, Monica, Mario, Marques Houston, Making the Band 4, Lloyd, Lil' Mo, Joe, Jermaine Dupri, Jagged Edge, Ginuwine, Faith Evans, Kelly Rowland, Danity Kane, Destiny's Child, Chris Brown, Brian McKnight, Brandy, Bow Wow, Fantasia, Bobby Valentino, B5, Baby of Cash Money, Algebra, Aaliyah, Amerie, 112 among many others.

Notably, Cox has written and produced chart topping songs for powerhouse artists like Mary J. Blige, Mariah Carey and Usher. And for his work with these icons, he scored his highest accolades to date: a Grammy Award for Best R&B song - "Be Without You" (songwriter award) in 2007, a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary R&B Album - The Emancipation of MiMi (producer award) in 2005 and a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary R&B Album - Confessions (producer award) in 2004.

About SAE
Headquartered in Oxford, England, SAE Institute is the world's first and largest network of audio, film and multimedia education and training centers. SAE is affiliated with Middlesex University (England), Southern Cross University (Australia) and Southern Institute of Technology (New Zealand). The Institute operates over 50 campuses in more than 24 countries on four continents. It offers diploma and full degree programs in audio, multimedia, digital filmmaking, animation and gaming. SAE is part of the SAE Technology Group, which also owns and operates Studios 301 (with locations in Sydney and Byron Bay, Australia, Cologne, Germany, Studios 301 is a collective group of state-of-the-art recording and mastering facilities), the Computer Graphics College and QANTM.

Contact Information
SAE Institute of Technology
Paul W. Hughes
415-344-0886
paulh@sae.edu
www.sae.edu

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Information On Burning or Making Copies of CD-ROM Discs

2008-10-12T22:46:00.000-05:00

Information On Burning or Making Copies of CD-ROM Discs

This article describe the two main processes of reproducing CDs, CD replication and CD duplication, to inform users what the best options are to make personal or business copies.

There a couple of common terms that are used to describe the process of reproducing or making copies of CDs, CD replication and CD duplication. Each has its pros and cons. But first, a quick discussion on the difference between the two cd manufacturing processes.

CD duplication is a process where data from one CD is burned or recorded onto another CD. In other words, data such as MP3 files, video files, or Word documents can be easily added or changed if a CDR is used. This can be done from any personal computer or laptop computer hardware using CD burning software.

However, the process of CD duplication is slower, as only one CD can be duplicated at a one time unless a number of CD burners are used. In addition, data may be damaged during the burning process if the computer cannot maintain a constant flow of data. If you run into this problem you may need to contact technical support for help. The cost of duplicating a CD at home is also higher. Therefore, CD duplication is usually reserved for home use, where only a few CDs are duplicated at any one time, usually for personal use. Some companies also provide bulk burning process, where a number of CD burners are used, but runs are normally less than 500 copies.

If your intention is to reproduce CDs in bulk, CD duplication becomes cumbersome, unreliable, and costly. For example, you may need to reproduce 500 copies of a music original CD to be given away as gifts or to be sold at some event, and if you think you will later require more copies, you may wish to consider engaging CD replication services.

CD replication is a data reproduction process that is used by professionals. This process is much more sophisticated, and involves the use of industrial strength machines. The CDs are created as the process takes place. These machines do not come cheap, so they are not commonly seen by the layman. Professional CD replication service providers can offer cheap and reliable CD reproduction services using these machines. The end result is that the reproduced CDs are an exact match of the master CD.

When the CDs are completed, they look like ordinary blank CDs. Impressive artwork can be added to these CDs using different methods. Professional service providers like to use CD silk screening because this process produces highly detailed artwork that no other process can create. This process is similar to the one used for printing T-shirts.

The silk screening process uses thick ink that is almost a hundred percent opaque. This is high quality ink with texture that is very similar to oil based paints. As a result, you can expect to see highly vibrant colors when your CD labels are printed using silk screening. For best results, try to avoid printing pictures with images that are too tiny. Logos and simple looking artwork make the perfect artwork for CD labels.

In summary, the CD reproduction process you choose will depend on your needs. If you only need to burn a few CDs, you can easily do this at home using CD duplication. For label printing, you can buy your own CD labels and print them out on any ink jet or laser jet printer. Keep in mind that you may need to get a computer memory upgrade to make good quality copies.

However, if you need to reproduce CDs in high volume, you are better off hiring the professionals and use cheap CD replication and silk screening techniques to create high quality copies for you at a much lower cost.

About the Author:
Chris Nielsen is an Internet consultant based in Minneapolis, Minnesota who writes about technology issues and recommends services like CD Duplication and CD Silkscreening media products available from MediaXpress.

Full Color Self Published Books

2008-10-04T15:31:00.000-05:00

Xlibris Announces the Addition of Landscape Format for Full Color Self Published Books

Xlibris' new printing facility enables them to add landscape format to their options for full-color book publishing services.

Philadelphia, PA, October 02, 2008 -- Xlibris, the self-publishing industry leader, has announced the addition of a new format for books published in full-color. With the most comprehensive range of full-color publishing services available on the market today, this latest addition has given them an additional edge over the competition.

Xlibris was the first print on demand publisher to offer full-color book publishing, and continues their tradition of being a pioneer in the industry with this latest offering. Now with six publishing packages to choose from, all specifically designed for full-color books, and three different book formats, no one can question their dominance of the industry.

The new landscape format is 11.5" wide and 9.2" high, and is available in both paperback and case-bound (hardback) formats. This is in addition to the existing formats of 8.5" by 8.5" and the portrait orientation of 8.5" wide by 11" high.

More information about Xlibris' Full-Color Publishing Packages can be found at www.xlibris.com. The Xlibris Customer Service Hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by phone at 1-888-795-4274, or e-mail at publishtoday@xlibris.com.

About Xlibris
Xlibris was founded in 1997 and, as the leading publishing services provider for authors, has helped to publish more than 20,000 titles. Xlibris is based in Philadelphia, PA and provides authors with direct and personal access to quality publication in hardcover, trade paperback, custom leather-bound, and full-color formats.

For more information, please visit www.xlibris.com, e-mail pressrelease@xlibris.com or call at 1-888-795-4247, to receive a free publishing guide.

Contact Information
Xlibris Corporation
Michael McCain
1-888-795-4274 ext 7111
pressrelease@xlibris.com
www.xlibris.com
International Plaza II, Suite 410

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Hype Radio Network Adds New Programming

2008-09-27T23:22:00.000-05:00

Digital Hype Radio Network Announces 2008 Fall Line Up

Digital Hype Radio Network adds new programming to radio schedule line up this fall.

Pensacola, FL, September 27, 2008 -- The Digital Hype Radio Network is excited to announced the 2008 premiere radio shows "The Big Bang", "Blast", "Neo Soul Sundays", "Neo Soul Sessions", "Top 40 Hitz Countdown", and the Award winning Five Minute News Update provided by USA Radio Network. The Digital Hype Radio Network will kick off its premiere party with the re-launch of its originally produced entertainment news update segment "Blast" formally Hypecast countdown. The new fall line up will kick off October 6th with the season premier of "Blast" followed by the premiere of "Neo Soul Sundays" on October 12th along with it's weekday spin off Neo Soul Sessions on October 13th and the new highly anticipated show "The Big Bang" on November 3rd. The Big Bang weekly radio program features radio DJ veteran Element a renowned favorite with Texas Radio listeners, he now joins Digital Hype Radio Network with his brand of smooth showmanship and great urban delivery is guaranteed to light up desktops and airwaves in 2008. "The Big Bang" will target younger audiences with positive, motivating and encouraging programming devoted to culture and life styles of Generation Y listeners. DJ Element listeners will be indulged with new music and Hip Hop along with celebrity guest's interviews, comedy and topics ranging from today's news headlines, music, movies, and everyday reality that unexpectedly turns into hilarious on air situations.

The Big Bang now joins popular broadcast "The Hype", and "Blast" which features radio personality Diva J and DJ Digga on Digital Hype Radio. Produced by Team Media Creations Studios and distributed by Media Merchandising Corporation, "The Hype", "Blast", "The Big Bang", and "Neo Soul Sessions" presents Generation Y listeners with today's top music, talk and comedy at its best can be heard weekly on Digital Hype Radio at www.digitalhypeonline.com on Digital Hype Live America's Generation Y entertainment network.

Digital Hype Radio is a trademark of Digital Hype Media a division of Pensacola, Florida based multimedia studio Team Media Creations Studios and parent company Media Merchandising Corporation. Digital Hype Media is the premier developer of interactive entertainment designed for today's youth and broadband distribution services of video, audio and wireless mobile content via the internet and other emerging broadcast media platforms.

Contact:
Rodney Williams
850 417-7903
info@digitalhypeonline.com
www.digitalhypeonline.com

Contact Information
Digital Hype Media
Terrance Henderson
850-417-7903
info@digitalhypeonline.com
www.digitalhypeonline.com

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New Service Provides Info About Songs You Hear On The Radio

2008-09-24T13:18:00.000-05:00

Nabbit Debuts on CBS Radio in Minneapolis

104.1 JackFM, 102.9 LiteFM and WCCO 830 AM begin promoting Nabbit.

Eagan, MN., May 13 - Jump Technologies, Inc (JumpTechT) announced today a new partnership with CBS radio. CBS will promote Nabbit on 104.1 JackFM, 102.9 LiteFM and WCCO 830 AM as well as offer the Nabbit AdsT service to their advertisers.

Nabbit Ads is the only service that allows advertisers to combine broadcast, mobile, online and direct response advertising into one integrated advertising campaign. Using Nabbit Ads, an advertiser can run an ad on the radio offering to send a coupon to the mobile phone of listeners who Nabb their radio ad. At the same time, Nabbit will place an online ad in the listener's personal web account found at Nabbit.com. This ad can be personalized based on the listener's demographics, insuring that they see a message that is relevant to them.

Nabbit makes radio interactive by allowing listeners to Nabb any song or ad they hear by pressing a single button on their mobile phone. Nabbed songs can be downloaded into the listener's favorite music library such as iTunes, Napster, AmazonMP3 or Wal-Mart Music. They can also look up concert information and song lyrics, and download ringtones. Listeners can also Nabb ads that they hear on air and be connected with special offers and promotions offered by Nabbit advertisers.

Advertisers will benefit from increased sales that result from consumers hearing their message through multiple integrated mediums. They will maximize their advertising dollars by getting the reach of radio and all of the accountability of the Internet.

"The advertising industry continues to change" says John Freund, President and CEO of JumpTech. "Nabbit Ads is the first platform that brings all advertising mediums together into one single campaign source. At the same time we offer listeners a new way to create playlists and an easy way to act on advertising that interests them when they hear it on the radio."

"CBS is embracing new technologies that benefit our listeners and our advertisers" says Mary Niemeyer, Vice President and General Manager of CBS Radio in Minneapolis. "CBS has demonstrated our commitment to the Internet with our recent partnership with AOL. Nabbit offers our advertisers a unique ability to leverage multiple advertising platforms while at the same time benefiting our listeners by making our stations interactive. We look forward to new relationship with Nabbit."
About JumpTech

Eagan, Minn. based Jump Technologies, Inc. (JumpTech) is a leading innovator of solutions that simplify the on-line shopping experience for consumers. JumpTech's flagship product, JumpCart, is a business-to-business application used by thousands of companies every day to order goods and services from their favorite suppliers. Nabbit is the first consumer application built on top of the JumpCart platform, providing advertisers with the only service available today for creating integrated marketing campaigns that feature broadcast, online, mobile and direct response advertising. For more information visit www.nabbit.com, call 651-287-6001 or email info@jumptech.com

JumpTech, Nabbit and Nabb are registered trademarks of Jump Technologies, Inc. All other trademarks herein are the property of their respective owners.

Internet Radio Offers Local Independent Music

2008-09-13T15:56:00.000-05:00

Local Independent Music Finds Home on Internet Radio

Internet Broadcasting Group and Affordable Sound Join Forces to Form Affordable Sound Radio Online.

Austin, TX, September 13, 2008 -- Local musicians unable to get airplay on Austin's commercially owned radio stations will find respite in Affordable Sound Radio Online, launching September 1, 2008. The radio station which will be available online at AffordableSound.FM, will specialize in playing artists that aren't heard on any other station.

While commercial radio is losing revenue and listenership every quarter, internet radio is growing at exponential rates. Internet Broadcasting Group and Affordable Sound will work together to create a station that is "thoroughly listenable, engaging and entertaining," said Affordable Sound co-owner Mike Marquardt. Affordable Sounds specializes in high volume CD duplication, artist posters and collateral and music distribution. The company which has traditionally provided artists with exposure through compilation CD's and events, sees internet radio as a new and highly viable venue to promote local artists.

"People continue to seek a place to hear new artists. Not just what record companies want them to hear, but independent artists who are talented, progressive and interesting," commented Internet Broadcasting Group vice-president Mark Lassoff.

The AffordableSound.FM Station will feature traditional music programming with fewer commercials and promotions than are found in commercial FM stations. Since the cost structure of operating a radio station on the internet is hundreds of thousands of dollars lower than operating a terrestrial station, there is less need to sell commercial advertising time.

Musicians who want their music to have exposure on the station will be able to submit their songs to Affordable Sound through their web site. Also, clients who utilize Affordable Sound for their traditional CD Duplication services will have their music included in the radio station's rotation.

Affordable sound co-owners, Mike Marquardt and Will Evans will also host a weekly "Top 10" style show which will be broadcast throughout the week as well as made available as on-demand programming. The Top 10 program will be available through the AffordableSound.FM web site as well as Apple iTunesT.

"It's rough for independent artists," said Marquardt, "Hopefully this station will make it just a little bit easier for them to get them heard. I think people will really enjoy listening too."

Contact Information
Internet Broadcasting Group
Mark Lassoff
512-485-9505
pr@nlimediagroup.com
http://www.internetbroadcastinggroup.com

Recording Artist Karlina Covington's CD Sales Benefit Youth Center

2008-08-18T23:26:00.000-05:00

Local Independent Female Recording Artist Karlina Covington Croons for the Community

Cnotes Records Recording Artist Karlina Covington is helping to empower our youth by releasing a new cd where a % of the proceeds will benefit the Eugene Bowman Center in San Diego, CA

Jul 27, 2008 - Cnotes Records Recording Artist Karlina Covington is crooning for our community and helping to empower our youth by releasing a new cd where a percentage of the proceeds will benefit the Eugene Bowman Economic Empowerment Center in San Diego California (http://www.empowering-youth.org/) headed by Lorraine Bowman and Lauren Town.

Based in North Hollywood, California, the record label she is signed to, Cnotes Records (www.cnotesrecords.com) is dedicated to helping our community by not only by contributing currency, but time and education via entertainment or "edutainment" as well. Cnotes Records CEO, Cedric Buard says, "by helping our community we help our world, and Cnotes Records vows to help our world."

Karlina believes that by helping and educating our youth, we can build a better future for us all. Her release "Make Me High" is mostly an R&B/Pop release, but also features strong blues, rock and smooth jazz genre hits in the mind of Alicia Keys, Pink, Aliyah, and Janet Jackson, including an undeniable original sound. The 1st single "See You Again" is already gaining high exposure on the independent charts, and has won over 6 reviewer awards, including "Track of the Day" on a popular Internet site. You can listen to her latest single and more for FREE by visiting www.cnotesrecords.com

Karlina's CD Release party is planned for Saturday, August 30, 2008 (North Hollywood)
Make Me High Anticipated Release date: September 2, 2008 (Available online and via Cnotes Records)
Benefiting our community by providing high quality edutainment.

About the company:

Cnotes Records has been in business in the North Hollywood area since 2007, and has vowed from the beginning to help the community in which they do business and live. This is their 6th independent release and the first in which a percentage of the proceeds will benefit a non-profit organization. They serve the entertainment and small business industry and provide an abundance of products and services to help your business succeed. Visit www.cnotesrecords.com for more information.

Contact:
Cedric Buard
Cnotes Records
818.913.4854
www.cnotesrecords.com

For more information:
Keywords: Cnote,Cnotes,Records,Karlina,Covington,Cedric,Buard

Contact us: 5625 Satsuma Avenue North Hollywood, California 91601 8189134854 www.cnotesrecords.com info@cnotesrecords.com

Spending For Music Sponsorship Up In 2008

2008-08-04T23:46:00.000-05:00

Music Sponsorship Spending To Total $1.04 Billion In 2008

North American-based companies will spend an estimated $1.04 billion to sponsor music venues, festivals and tours this year, a four percent increase from $1 billion in '07, according to IEG Sponsorship Report, the world's leading authority on sponsorship.

Chicago, IL - April 14 -- North American-based companies will spend an estimated $1.04 billion to sponsor music venues, festivals and tours this year, a four percent increase from $1 billion in '07, according to IEG Sponsorship Report, the world's leading authority on sponsorship.

Among developments in the world of live music sponsorship are new efforts to create bundled offerings for sponsors that in the past may have been satisfied with one-off concert, venue or event deals.

Such a strategy has been adopted by Live Nation, Inc. and other players in the music space. For example, The Festival Network, LLC -- owner of the Dunkin' Donuts Newport Folk Festival, JVC Jazz Festivals and other national and international music events -- plans to model its sponsorship packages after the worldwide Olympic TOP sponsorship program.

Citigroup Inc.'s Citi Cards unit in February announced a multiyear deal with Live Nation that is reportedly valued at close to $100 million. The deal includes access to Live Nation tours -- including presenting sponsorship of The Police's current tour -- as well as pre-sale ticket offers, VIP hospitality, the opportunity for venue naming rights and other benefits.

"The shift away from one-off deals in favor of bundled packages by some of the industry's major venue and festival owners should lead to significantly larger deals than the music industry has seen in the past," said William Chipps, IEG Sponsorship Report's senior editor.

Spending on live music also reflects a spate of new regional and national music festivals, all of which are actively marketing partnerships. They include Michigan's Rothbury Festival, New Jersey's All Points West Music & Arts Festival and the touring Rockstar Energy Mayhem Festival.

The live music industry also has benefited from new spending by categories and companies not traditionally involved in music.

Case in point: Shoe marketer Crocs, Inc. this year signed new deals with roughly 30 music festivals and venues including Milwaukee's Summerfest, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival presented by Shell, Seattle's Bumbershoot and Manchester, Tenn.'s Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival. Additionally, Hankook Tire America Corp. late last year announced a partnership with Eyeball Records, around which it is supplying tires for vehicles driven by the label's touring bands in exchange for exposure on the company's Web site and bands' MySpace pages.

Even companies that have long supported music are moving into new areas within the medium. For example, Toyota Motor Sales USA's Scion brand is adding heavy metal to a sponsorship portfolio that has traditionally centered around DJ performances and other urban-centric events.

"The live music industry is seeing more interest from both established companies and smaller, more niche players, all of whom are aligning with music to gain a point of differentiation," Chipps said.

Active categories sponsoring music include airlines, apparel, auto, beer, cable, computer storage makers, energy drinks, insurance, soft drinks and wireless telecommunications.

Other recent deals include Lexus' presenting sponsorship of Alicia Keys' tour; Kia Motor America's sponsorship of the Vans Warped Tour; Champion apparel's tie with Lenny Kravtiz's recent outing; and Time Warner Cable's title of Raleigh, N.C.'s Walnut Creek Amphitheatre.

About IEG, LLC
IEG is the world's leading provider of independent research, consulting, training and analysis on sponsorship. Founded in 1981, IEG provides corporations and properties with the strategies and tools to harness the sales and marketing power of sports, arts, entertainment and cause marketing.

IEG offers services that include sponsorship consulting, competitive intelligence and valuation. IEG also publishes IEG Sponsorship Report, the international biweekly newsletter on sponsorship; the IEG Sponsorship Sourcebook, the definitive guide to sponsors, properties and agencies; and other industry publications and sources.

IEG also is the leader in sponsorship training. Its internationally renowned Sponsorship Conference, now in its 26th year, attracts a capacity crowd of delegates each year. Through its conferences, seminars and webinars, IEG has trained more than 45,000 sponsorship executives worldwide.

For more information about IEG and the sponsorship industry, please visit www.sponsorship.com or call 800/834-4850 (outside the U.S. and Canada, 312/944-1727).

Press Contact: William Chipps
Company Name: IEG, LLC
Phone: 312-944-1727
Website: www.sponsorship.com

World's First Musical Instrument Search Engine

2008-07-24T19:48:00.000-05:00

JamLoop.com Launches World's First Musical Instrument Search Engine

Proprietary technology aggregates new and used listings for musicians

Pleasant Hill, CA - March 11 -- JamLoop (http://www.JamLoop.com) announced today the beta launch of its search engine for finding new and used musical instruments and equipment. On a daily basis, the search service aggregates over 250,000 musical gear listings from across the web and makes them available to musicians through a simple keyword search box, resulting in an easier and more comprehensive search experience for users.

"JamLoop offers musicians a new way to shop for musical gear online," says JamLoop Director of Marketing, Liz Kuykendall. "Historically, there are lots of places that musicians look to find that unique Les Paul used guitar, that Fender Twin Reverb amplifier, a matched pair of Shure microphones, etc.: From newspaper classifieds to eBay, Craigslist and retail websites like Musician's Friend, there are so many relevant options but they all take time. JamLoop replaces a highly-fragmented, clunky search experience with a much more efficient and intuitive one. We give users a single destination to find most of what's available on the market today."

JamLoop's proprietary content indexing and fuzzy search technology simplifies the search process for users by adding classification structure to used gear listings and finding matches even for misspelled text. It also layers geo-coding and mapping information onto listings so that users can search for items locally.

"The secondary market for used musical instruments is extremely vibrant and JamLoop does a fantastic job of bringing together all of those vintage pieces into a single search experience; it's a huge time saver," said Chris Rigatuso, avid guitar collector and CEO of Skyfollow, a media production company. "What I really like though is the way that JamLoop lets me compare used and new equipment simultaneously using price and location filters. I'm often indifferent as to whether an item is used or new, I'm just looking for the best deal. There's no other service for musicians on the web that does this so comprehensively," continued Rigatuso.

About JamLoop
JamLoop (http://www.JamLoop.com) is the world's first shopping engine for finding new and used musical instruments and equipment. By aggregating musical gear listings from hundreds of local and national sellers, JamLoop is a one-stop destination for musicians looking to find the best deals on musical gear.

For more information, please contact:
Liz Kuykendall
Director of Marketing
JamLoop
Email: email protected from spam bots
Phone: (925) 300-6170
www.JamLoop.com

Press Contact: Liz Kuykendall
Company Name: JamLoop
Phone: 925-300-6170
Website: www.JamLoop.com

All-Time Top Rated Documentary on IMDB is Heima

2008-06-27T21:11:00.000-05:00

''Heima'' Rated Top All-Time Documentary on IMDB

LOS ANGELES-- June 27, 2008 --Heima, the 2007 documentary film that chronicles a tour by Icelandic group Sigur Ros, has been named the number-one documentary of all time by widely respected movie industry source IMDB. Alan Calzatti, director of Musicians Institute's Music Video-Film-Television program, served as Director of Photography on the location shoot (widely praised for its stunning visuals) and the group later completed post-production on the film in MI's studios.

Since opening its doors in 1977, Musicians Institute (www.mi.edu) has primed over 20,000 musicians, producers, engineers, vocalists, and industry professionals for successful careers in every genre of contemporary music. Located just blocks from the Capitol Records tower, MI has an incredible history of innovation dating back to its origins in 1977 as the Guitar Institute of Technology (GIT), which broke new ground as a performance-based contemporary music school taught by working professionals. Within a few years, GIT was joined by bass and drum programs to form Musicians Institute and the evolution has continued to this day with degree and certificate programs for career-minded guitarists, bassists, drummers, vocalists, keyboardists, recording engineers, independent producers, guitar makers, music business professionals and filmmakers.

Contacts

Luck Media & Marketing, Inc.
James Levesque, 818-760-8077

Rent & Rip Program for Personal CD Collections

2008-06-11T15:34:00.000-05:00

Announcing Primera's New ''Rent & Rip'' Program for Apple® iTunes® or Windows Media Player

PLYMOUTH, Minn.-- June 11, 2008 --Primera Technology, Inc., the world's leading developer and manufacturer of CD, DVD, and Blu-ray disc duplication and printing equipment, has unveiled its new Rent & Rip Program for Personal CD Collections.

Under the terms of the program, customers can rent a Primera Bravo SE(a) Disc Publisher along with the company's PTRip software for just $299 per week. The Bravo SE's built-in robotics will load personal music CDs into the unit and rip tracks into Apple iTunes or Windows Media Player - automatically and "hands-free." Round-trip transportation is included in the rental fee.

"By loading up their CDs and walking away, users will discover a way to bring new life to any CD collection, whether it is at home, work, or at a house of worship," said Mark D. Strobel, Primera's Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "Sending 1,000 CDs to a service could easily cost $1,000 before shipping costs. For just $299, our Rent & Rip Program lets you do the same thing yourself - without the risk of sending away your valuable CD collection."

The program is simple to use and requires just three steps:

1. Place CDs into a Bravo SE Disc Publisher's input bin,

2. Launch PTRip,

3. Click "Load to iTunes" or "Load to Windows Media Player."

The process repeats until all CDs in the input bin are processed. Simply remove the ripped discs from the output bin, reload the input bin and click the Import button again to continue.

Primera's Rent and Rip Program is available now at the company's main website: www.primera.com.

About Primera Technology

Headquartered in Plymouth, Minnesota, Primera Technology, Inc. is the world's leading developer and manufacturer of CD/DVD/BD duplication and printing equipment. Primera is known for its award-winning Bravo line of CD/DVD/BD publishers including the world's best-selling Bravo SE, Bravo II, BravoPro and Bravo XR-Series Disc Publishers (Disc Publisher SE, II, Pro and XR-Series in Europe and Scandinavia).

(a)The ripping hardware for the Bravo SE Rent & Rip Program is specifically designed for only ripping.

More information about Primera, its history and products is available on the Internet at www.primera.com or by calling 1-800-797-2772 (USA and Canada). Outside of the USA and Canada, call (763) 475-6676 or FAX (763) 475-6677. E-mail to sales@primera.com. In Europe and Scandinavia, contact Primera EUROPE in Germany by phone at +49-(0) 611-92777-0, by FAX at +49-(0) 611-92777-50 or by e-mail at sales@primeraeurope.de. In Asia Pacific, contact Primera Asia Pacific by phone at +852-3014-7827 or by email at sales@primera-ap.com.

Notes to Editors: PTRip is a trademark and Bravo and Primera are registered trademarks of Primera Technology, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective companies.

Contacts

Primera Technology, Inc.
Alison Traxler, 763-475-6676, Ext. 210
Fax: 763-475-6677
E-mail: atraxler@primera.com
www: www.primera.com
Sales Info: 800-797-2772

Cosmopolitan Magazine

2008-05-30T15:46:00.001-05:00

Cosmopolitan

by Phyllis Fine , Friday, May 30, 2008

THE FRENULUM, THE RAPHE, the ticki-bicki -- one of these is NOT an area on a man's body that can be stimulated for extra-credit "erotic excitement," according to the June issue of Cosmopolitan. Can you guess which it is?

So, yeah, Cosmo lives up to its reputation for providing explicit, sex-manual-worthy tidbits. Some seem potentially useful. Take the tips to focus on overlooked parts of the obvious male erogenous zones, like those areas named above (OK, not the tiki-biki). But others veer toward the absurd. Though, hmm... If I was at work, and I took the suggestion to insert a small, portable vibrator activated by ringtones, I'd get MUCH less irritated when a co-worker's unanswered cell played endless repetitions of the "Twilight Zone" theme.

Still, it's only in the sexual arena that Cosmo goes off the beaten track with unfamiliar vocabulary. In its other field of expertise, relationships, advice is dumbed-down and unsophisticated. Take "The Secret Girlfriend Weapon," which aims to put to practical use a study that "focusing on each other's good qualities" is key to a long-lasting love connection. Here 's the Cosmo-speak version: "Whatever your dude does that makes you crazy, find the silver lining. He's sloppy?.. So he'll probably let you make decisions like how to decorate the apartment. Niice."

The constant "dude" and "chick" references throughout the mag make me feel as if I'm trapped simultaneously in '90s and '60s time-warps. They drag the prose down to the level of the many pieces of reader-generated content, like "Bitch It Out" and "Guy Confessions" -- anecdotes about being caught in the (sexual) act, being hit in the balls during sports, etc. "I have a friend who comes over to eat my food and then leaves behind dirty dishes...." begins another fascinating entry. It's all very high school blogish.

The professionally written pieces do provide some flashes of insight and wit, like a great cavewoman-type dance invite I wish I'd had the chutzpah to try back in my single days: "You, Me. Dance floor. Now." "How To Snoop On Your Man" offers the obvious (examine every single thing he owns), except for the innovative tip to sniff a man's gym clothes: "They should be smelly. If not, where was he?"

If you're looking for genuine journalism, though, there's little beyond "How A Date Rapist Works," a well-written piece that clearly spells out how to avoid being a victim.

I haven't read Cosmo regularly since Helen Gurley Brown was editor (she stepped down more than 10 years ago). Sure, it could be annoyingly cutesy, and men were topic No. 1 then as now. But remember that old ad campaign from the Brown days: "If you want to find me, you'll catch me reading Cosmopolitan"? (Or words to that effect -- I couldn't find examples of the real copy. If anybody has, then I'd love to hear from you.) The women in those ads seemed a helluva lot more well-rounded than today's presumed reader -- didn't they mention interests like sky-diving?

On the day that the "Sex In The City"movie premieres, I'm wondering if (the younger) Carrie Bradshaw's columns would fit inside this incarnation of Cosmo. Or would her thoughtful explorations of relationship issues be considered too, oh, intellectual for the present target reader? If so, then -- dude, how sad is that?

MAG STATS

Published by: Hearst
Frequency: Monthly
Web site

Post your response to the public Magazine Rack blog.
See what others are saying on the Magazine Rack blog.

Phyllis Fine is columns editor for MediaPost.

Magazine Rack for Friday, May 30, 2008:
http://blogs.mediapost.com/magazine_rack/?p=500

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Pioneering Effect Marketing Firm Promotes Social Action, Drives Results Through Brands, Music, and Special Events

2008-05-29T13:37:00.000-05:00

MusicMatters Creates Ultimate Green Experience for Jack Johnson's 2008 World Tour; Pioneering Effect Marketing Firm Promotes Social Action, Drives Results Through Brands, Music and Special Events

Going Beyond the Green Standard for Nearly Two Decades

MINNEAPOLIS-- May 29, 2008 --From the first Concert for the Environment in the '90s to the latest Jack Johnson world tour - to significantly boosting revenues for an array of organic brands like Ben & Jerry's, Stonyfield and CLIF Bar - MusicMatters is proving that green experiences generate dramatic results. The Minneapolis-based company creates strategic partnerships, innovative, action-oriented campaigns and memorable experiential online and onsite activities to raise awareness about critical environmental issues that move millions to take action. (See Media Kit case studies). In many ways, the Johnson tour, like the company's work for recording artists that range from Gomez and the John Butler Trio to the Dave Matthews Band, The Police and others, is a culmination of everything it's done for almost two decades and a preview of what's possible in the future.

As campaign director for Billboard magazine's number one green artist, Jack Johnson, and his highly anticipated 2008 World Tour, MusicMatters has helped create the green infrastructure and experiential branding components that are making the tour an unqualified success. The tour kicked off in Australia and Japan last month and is set to rock the U.S., Canada and Europe beginning in mid-June. Johnson, whose new Brushfire release Sleep Through the Static is already a number one hit, is passionately committed to greening every aspect of this tour in order to minimize environmental impact. To get there, Johnson and his team worked with MusicMatters to create a low environmental impact tour that generates high environmental awareness and action.

"Jack Johnson's music and sustainable lifestyle inspire fans worldwide. This tour is all about music, but it's also a profoundly powerful vehicle for change. This tour is a first-of-its-kind in many ways and fans will experience on a very visceral level how much fun they can have while doing good," says Michael Martin, founder and Prez of MusicMatters.

MusicMatters has worked with Johnson to ensure that this tour is as green as possible. This includes fueling tour vehicles with biodiesel, offsetting 100% of tour carbon emissions, offering fans the chance to offset their carbon footprint from traveling to and from shows, offering eco-friendly tour merchandise, refillable water bottles and working with venues to reduce waste and recycle. MusicMatters has also helped to create the All At Once partnership with non-profits worldwide. This new interactive community empowers fans to take action toward a healthier community and planet. "Based on the concept that individual action, multiplied by millions, creates global change, the tour will set the new 'green standard' in the industry and encourage established superstar acts and emerging artists to adopt similar campaigns for their tours," according to Martin.

"Michael Martin is a true green pioneer," says Johnson. "He not only understands how to merge music with message, he has brilliance for creating strategies and experiences that move audiences to action. Plus, he and his team bring an authenticity to events that fans appreciate. I consider him an integral part of my team."

MusicMatters Helps Deliver the Architecture for Jack Johnson Tour and Others

The company has been providing the campaign architecture for green tours and events for almost two decades. At the center of the Johnson tour is a first-of-its-kind platform - a worldwide community to bring about environmental change. Read more about it at this link: www.musicmatters.net/press/20080528

About MusicMatters

For nearly two decades MusicMatters has made headlines, effected policy change and delivered bottom line results to scores of values-based businesses.

Pioneering a revolutionary process called Effect MarketingT, MusicMatters, through campaigns and strategy development, reaches millions of consumers each year and inspires them to take action. In addition, MusicMatters creates street and retail events to build and drive awareness and sales. The firm is the country's leading live marketing agency for the organic and natural industry.

Clients include Annie's Inc., Jack Johnson, Organic Valley Family of Farms, The Police, Stonyfield Farm, Dave Matthews Band, Earthbound Farm, Horizon Organic, CLIF Bar, Nature's Path, Santa Cruz Organic and more.

The Minneapolis-based firm with a staff of 20 is nationally recognized for the unique, powerful and entertaining brand experiences they create. (See Company Backgrounders in the Media Kit, MUSICMATTER'S GREATEST HITS/SOCIAL CHANGE INVENTIONS on the company's website).

For more information - or to interview Michael Martin - please contact Martin Keller at Media Savant Communications Co., 612-729-8585, mkeller@mediasavantcom.com

Contacts

Media Savant Communications Co.
Martin Keller, 612-729-8585
mkeller@mediasavantcom.com

Death Note Anime Series Download Agreement Reached

2008-05-20T10:45:00.001-05:00

VIZ MEDIA SECURES LANDMARK AGREEMENT TO MAKE DEATH NOTE ANIME SERIES AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD

Innovative Agreement Will Provide Episodes On A Download To Own/Rent Basis Soon After They Air In Japan

San Francisco, CA, January 10 - VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), one of the entertainment industry's most innovative and comprehensive publishing, animation and licensing companies, has announced that it has licensed from Nippon Television Network Corporation (NTV) the Download to Own (DTO) and Download to Rent (DTR) rights for the United States for the smash hit DEATH NOTE anime series, currently airing in Japan.

The deal is significant because it marks the first time a well known Japanese anime property will be made legally available to domestic audiences for download to own while the title still airs on Japanese television. VIZ Media will seek to make the series available to consumers through a number of online providers in order to reach the widest audience possible.

DEATH NOTE, based on the Shueisha manga series of the same name, is currently one of the hottest anime titles in Japan. Published in North America by VIZ Media, it depicts the adventures of Light Yagami, an ace student with great prospects but who is bored out of his mind. All of that changes when he finds the Death Note, a notebook dropped by a rogue Shinigami death god. Any human whose name is written in the notebook dies, and now Light has vowed to use the power of the Death Note to rid the world of evil. But when criminals begin dropping dead, the authorities send the legendary detective L to investigate, and he is soon hot on the trail of Light, who must now reevaluate his one noble goal.

"We are pleased to team with a leading anime and manga company like VIZ Media to bring the DEATH NOTE anime series to eager fans in the United States digitally," states NTV Spokesperson. "VIZ Media understands how the Internet can be used to distribute content. With a built-in fan base already generated by the popularity of the DEATH NOTE manga series, we are looking forward to the success of this innovative partnership."

"With Shueisha's support and the agreement with NTV to bring DEATH NOTE to the American market, we will establish a new benchmark for bringing our audience the content they want when they want it," says Daniel Marks, Senior Vice President, Strategy & Business Development, VIZ Media. "The success of the DEATH NOTE manga has created tremendous anticipation for its anime counterpart and we are committed to delivering the best content through a variety of platforms to our tech savvy fan base."

About VIZ Media, LLC

Headquartered in San Francisco, CA, VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), is one of the most comprehensive and innovative companies in the field of manga (graphic novel) publishing, animation and entertainment licensing of Japanese content. Owned by three of Japan's largest creators and licensors of manga and animation, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan Production Co., Ltd. (ShoPro Japan), VIZ Media is a leader in the publishing and distribution of Japanese manga for English speaking audiences in North America and a global licensor of Japanese manga and animation. The company offers an integrated product line including, magazines such as SHONEN JUMP and SHOJO BEAT, graphic novels, videos, DVDs, audio soundtracks and develops and markets animated entertainment from initial production, television placement and distribution, to merchandise licensing and promotions for audiences and consumers of all ages.

Contact VIZ Media at 295 Bay Street, San Francisco, CA 94133; Phone (415) 546-7073; Fax (415) 546-7086; and web site at www.viz.com.

V.I.P. Trip to London Contest for Affiliates Announceed

2008-04-30T15:56:00.001-05:00

PokerAffiliatePrograms.com Announces V.I.P. Contest for Affiliates to Win an All Inclusive Trip to 2008 CAP Euro in London

Poker and casino webmasters are already familiar with the most popular affiliate convention, CAP Euro which takes place this January in London. Today PokerAffiliatePrograms.com has announced a contest where affiliates will be able to win an all inclusive V.I.P. trip to the largest casino/poker convention ever.

December 23 -- Greg Powell and Jeremy Enke are excited to announce the PAP V.I.P. Affiliate Challenge. Sponsored by one of the leading poker affiliate programs, Chipleader.com, this promotion is going to award one lucky affiliate the trip of a lifetime. This is the opportunity many aspiring webmasters have been looking to become involved in ever since the last CAP show in Barcelona.

The winner of this V.I.P. Challenge will be awarded the following:

    Free roundtrip airfare to CAP Euro
    Paid Hotel at the Olympia - Jan. 24th - 28th
    A killer dinner and night on the town courtesy of PAP
    Free Entry to CanAffco Boot Camp during CAP Euro
    Entry to the prestigious 2008 CAP Awards Dinner

Any poker or casino affiliate is eligible to win this trip. To win, affiliates simply need to post on their websites or blogs why they are the most deserving affiliate of winning this free trip. More information on this exciting promotion can be found here, PAP V.I.P. Challenge.

On January 1st, the judges for this contest will choose (3) semi-finalists. The final winner will be chosen and announced on January 4th.

In a phone interview with Greg Powell, general manager of PokerAffiliatePrograms.com, he stated, "In the coming days PAP we will be making an announcement that will be THE most exciting announcement in the poker affiliate world this year. Launching this promotion will be a great lead in to many of the exciting things to come. We are looking forward to seeing all the creative entries that this promotion will undoubtedly bring."

For more information and to submit your entry into the PokerAffiliatePrograms.com V.I.P. Challenge, please visit the official website at PAP V.I.P. Challenge

Press Contact: Greg Powell
Company Name: Affiliate Programs
Phone: 714-596-9000
Website: http://www.pokeraffiliateprograms.com/

Entertainment Giant Reaches Out to Latino Consumers

2008-04-26T12:10:00.001-05:00

Online Entertainment Giant Bodog Reaches Out to Latino Consumers

Online gaming and entertainment leader Bodog Entertainment announces new services for Latino consumers, including a full-service customer service line in Spanish and plans to have a fully functioning Spanish-language gaming site.

St. John's, Antigua - October 25, 2007 -- Online gaming and entertainment leader Bodog Entertainment is pleased to announce new services for Latino consumers, including a full-service customer service line in Spanish, available today, and plans to have a fully-functioning Spanish-language gaming site.

"Bodog Entertainment has always been a leader in providing our customers with the highest quality service, in our industry and beyond," said Calvin Ayre, billionaire entertainment mogul and Bodog founder. He added, "We are excited to expand our service to include in-language customer service to our Latino customers. We value their business, and I am sure that our world-renown service will exceed each caller's expectations on every single call."

Since Bodog Entertainment's customer service call center was based in Costa Rica for 10 years, it is a natural progression for the company to expand their call center service to Latino consumers who wish to receive service in Spanish. Customers will be greeted by a prompt in the beginning of the call that will allow the caller to continue in Spanish and speak to a representative. This Spanish language call center is operated under agreement with the Morris Mohawk Gaming Group who operate the Bodog brand in North America.

The entertainment giant recognizes the value of their Latino customers and has plans to develop capabilities to access all of Bodog's entertainment features online. In the meantime, players wishing to join Bodog in Spanish can call 1-866-205-3353, and a customer service representative will walk them through the steps of registering by phone completely in Spanish, or these instructions can also be accessed directly at http://www.bodoglife.com/promotions/spanish/cs/. As Bodog expands their in language capabilities, players can expect the same stellar customer service and, eventually, the same world-class gaming options, all in Spanish.

Bodog Entertainment proudly offers a host of entertainment properties, including: the production of a mixed martial arts competition television series, Bodog Fight and poker series, Calvin Ayre Sharks & Fools; a free play fantasy sports site, Bodog Fantasy; an international record label; an international band-search competition; a publishing division, with an online magazine and a blog; and, of course, it's market-leading, world famous gaming property at BodogLife.com. Bodog Entertainment aims to introduce new and compelling content to each of its properties, making them more culturally relevant to their valued Latino consumer. As in every other aspect of business, Bodog Entertainment's goal is to raise the bar for Latino entertainment and customer service, becoming a one-stop source of entertainment for Latinos everywhere.

About Bodog
Bodog, with its head office located in Antigua, is licensed in the United Kingdom, Antigua. Bodog Entertainment Founder Calvin Ayre, recognized as a world authority on branding in digital entertainment, was featured on the cover of Forbes magazine's best-selling 2006 "Billionaires" issue. Bodog offers a host of entertainment services, comprising: online gaming which includes Poker, Casino and a host of other gaming products; an international record label, Bodog Music; a million-dollar band search competition and accompanying TV series, Bodog Battle; a publishing division (with an online magazine, Bodog Nation, and blog, Bodog Beat; and an international television division, Bodog TV which produces reality series, such as Bodog Fight and Calvin Ayre Wild Card Poker. For more information, contact Media Relations at email protected from spam bots. BODOG is a registered trademark. The Bodog brand is operated for gaming in North America by Morris Mohawk Gaming Group under License.

Press Contact: TALIA RODRIGUEZ-SHAKUR
Company Name: STREETROPICAL MEDIA
Phone: 323-644-0606
Website: www.bodoglife.com

High School Students Earn Tuition-Free College Credit

2008-04-21T13:36:00.001-05:00

Minnesota Virtual High School Students Earn College Credit Tuition-Free Through DeVry University

Full-Time Students Also Eligible for School-Supplied Laptop, Internet Allowance

MINNEAPOLIS--April 21, 2008--Minnesota Virtual High School students are now eligible to participate in the Passport2College program offered through DeVry University, one of the largest degree-granting higher education systems in North America. This unique program allows full-time juniors and seniors who meet residency and GPA requirements to take up to two college credit classes tuition-free through DeVry University, which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association.

"The Passport2College program creates a clear pathway to college by giving students the opportunity to take online college classes at no charge while still in high school," said Minnesota Transitions Charter School Superintendent Tony Scallon.

And beginning with the 2008-09 school year, Minnesota Virtual High School will provide a laptop and an Internet stipend to all new full-time students. Existing full-time students will be able to take advantage of the offer when they re-enroll for the fall semester. Minnesota Virtual High School is made possible by a partnership between Minnesota Transitions Charter School of Minneapolis and online learning leader Advanced Academics, Inc.

"Providing students a school-issued laptop and Internet stipend ensures that all students interested in learning online have the equipment they need to succeed," said Jeff Elliott, president of Advanced Academics. "These enhancements to an already strong program make online education an even more appealing way for Minnesota students to earn their high school diploma."

Minnesota Virtual High School is a free online public high school that offers full and part-time education for state residents in grades 7-12. The program is a flexible, high quality option for students who are looking for an alternative to the traditional school environment.

Students earn their high school diploma, issued by a local Minnesota school district, in a personalized program featuring one-on-one access to Minnesota-certified teachers, 24/7 student support, and full high school curriculum including electives and advanced placement courses. Minnesota Virtual High School students are able to participate in sports and other activities through Minnesota Transitions Charter School. For more information, please visit www.MinnesotaVirtualHighSchool.com

About Advanced Academics

Advanced Academics, a leader in the field of online learning, partners with schools and districts in more than 30 states across the country to offer a customizable online solution that uniquely serves each customer. Advanced Academics' program has proven to be extremely successful in providing flexible learning opportunities for students in grades 7 through 12 and increasing overall student academic performance. The program offers comprehensive middle and high school courses, highly-qualified, certified teachers, and a web-based learning management system that enhances student learning. A subsidiary of DeVry Inc. (NYSE:DV), Advanced Academics is accredited by The Commission of International and Trans-Regional Accreditation (CITA) and the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA). For more information, visit www.advancedacademics.com and www.advancedacademics.net.

Contacts

Advanced Academics
Meg Martin, 405-397-6156

Latest Music Phone From Motorola Rocks Out

2008-04-17T19:42:00.001-05:00

Rock Out and Look Good with the Stylish New MOTO U9: The Latest Music Phone from Motorola

The sensuous and smart design of the new MOTO U9 combines Motorola's iconic style with the best mobile music experience.

Libertyville, IL - October 16, 2007 -- Motorola, Inc. is showing off the stylish side of music with the introduction of MOTO U9. Through unique advancements in mobile entertainment technology, U9 makes music a multi-sensory experience and lets consumers rock out and look good - with an elegant form factor, Stereo Bluetooth®, CrystalTalk Technology, external touch sensitive music controls and floating for the latest mobile music experience, and animated screensavers that appear on the external display.

MOTO U9 delivers cutting edge mobile music capabilities:

-- Easy transition from phone to music and back again, MOTO U9 allows one-touch access to your library and pauses music as calls come through.
-- Microsoft Windows Media® Player 11 makes the U9 ready to rock as soon as it's out of the box, with simple synching and automatic recognition of the device.
-- Integrated music player supports multiple audio files: Windows® WMAv10 plus Janus DRM, MP3, AAC, AAC+, AAC+ enhanced.
-- Ability to download the latest music hits from more than 200 music stores onto the device from a PC using USB 2.0 for speedy transfers and data access. (1,2)

Additional in-demand features round out a complete mobile experience:

-- Up to 25MB of on-board user memory (3) and an optional microSD memory card enables storage of 4GB of music, pictures and other media.
-- Innovative CrystalTalk technology for better call clarity
-- Stereo Bluetooth wireless technology enables users to enjoy a wireless mobile stereo experience (4).
-- Advanced "speaker independent" voice recognition dialing and talking phone features take "hands free" to the next level.
-- A 2.0 megapixel with 8x zoom camera, multi-shot feature, video capture and playback, and light and landscape viewfinder delivers quality, printable (5) and sharable images.
-- Impressive messaging capabilities via MMS, SMS, WVIM, Push Email.

"MOTO U9 combines the surprising with the familiar, the latest in premium design and inventive controls with the next popular spin on Motorola's classic clamshell design to deliver the most stylish and dynamic mobile music experience," said Rob Shaddock, senior vice president of Feature and Mass Market Phones, Mobile Devices, Motorola. "MOTO U9 embodies the stylish side of Motorola's music-enabled devices, further building on our strong portfolio of products for a diverse global audience."

Seamless, small and light weight, the curvaceous U9 has been designed to fit perfectly in the pocket or hand. Its metallic gloss finish comes to life with animated screen savers that appear to "float" across the borderless external display. The external display is not just for show, however, as touch sensitive, digital keys let users control their music player from the outside.

Additional Capabilities
Delivering on its commitment to provide the world's most compelling mobile music experience, Motorola has also created an ecosystem of additional products, accessories and services that make it easy to access, download and enjoy a wide array of digital music.

Through an exclusive arrangement with recording artist Fergie, in select markets Motorola will provide exclusive content on the phone, promotional activities, and TV and print campaigns.

"Fergie is a GRAMMY Award-winning, multi-platinum superstar artist as well as a woman on the cutting edge of modern style. She is the perfect icon to help us communicate to consumers that style and music are integral to people as a way to express themselves -- and that MOTO U9 embodies those qualities," said Joni Christensen, director of Global Music Marketing, Mobile Devices, Motorola. More information about these promotions will be available soon.

For more information, please visit http://direct.motorola.com/hellomoto/motoU9.

Availability
MOTO U9 is expected to be available for purchase in fourth quarter of 2007 in Asia, Latin America and Europe. For specific regional availability and pricing, contact your local Motorola representative.

About Motorola:
Motorola is known around the world for innovation and leadership in wireless and broadband communications. Inspired by our vision of seamless mobility, the people of Motorola are committed to helping you connect simply and seamlessly to the people, information and entertainment that you want and need. We do this by designing and delivering "must have" products, "must do" experiences and powerful networks -- along with a full complement of support services. A Fortune 100 company with global presence and impact, Motorola had sales of US $42.8 billion in 2006. For more information about our company, our people and our innovations, please visit http://www.motorola.com.

Certain mobile phone features may not be activated by your service provider, and/or their network settings may limit the feature's functionality. Contact your service provider for details. All features, functionality and other product specifications are subject to change without notice or obligation.

(1) Network and/or SIM card dependent feature, not available in all areas. Airtime, data charges, and/or additional charges may apply.
(2) The unauthorized copying of copyrighted materials is contrary to the provisions of the Copyright Laws of the United States and other countries. This device is intended solely for copying non-copyrighted materials, materials in which you own the copyright, or materials which you are authorized or legally permitted to copy. If you are uncertain about your right to copy any material, please contact your legal advisor.
(3) Available user memory varies due to the configuration of the phone, which varies by service provider.
(4) This device supports Bluetooth A2DP and AVRCP profiles. In order for Bluetooth devices to communicate with one another, they must utilize the same Bluetooth profile. To determine the profiles supported by other Motorola devices, visit www.hellomoto.com/bluetooth. For other devices, contact their respective manufacturer.
Certain Bluetooth features including those listed may not be supported by all compatible Bluetooth-enabled devices, and/or the functionality of such features may be limited in certain devices, or by certain wireless carriers. Contact your wireless carrier about feature availability and functionality.
(5) Optional printer required

MOTOROLA and the Stylized M Logo are registered in the US Patent & Trademark Office. The Bluetooth trademarks are owned by their proprietor and used by Motorola, Inc. under license. Microsoft and Windows Media are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. All other product or service names are the property of their respective owners. © Motorola, Inc. 2007. All rights reserved.

Press Contact: Haley Boruszak
Company Name: Motorola
Phone: 212-453-2405
Website: http://direct.motorola.com/hellomoto/motoU9

Music Portal Puts Musicians in Control

2008-04-08T20:53:00.000-05:00

Finally - A Music Portal That Works for The Artist Noisy Planet Shuns Industry Greed, Failures by Putting Musicians in Control

Noisy Planet is announcing the release of its Artist Control Room -- a one-stop-shop for musicians and bands of all genres and professional levels. Member musicians and bands will have affordable access to a host of music industry services that they use most. The new services supplement Noisy Planet's existing MP3 hosting and singe-song download service.

Reno, Nevada - March 31, 2008 -- Kevin Petersen, President of the all-inclusive music portal www.noisyplanet.net and himself a working music artist, pulls no punches in his views on the track record of major music labels. As the once all-powerful labels drop artists and lay-off employees left and right, Petersen proudly offers what he says is "a better way for working musicians to take practical steps to get to the next level."

"The traditional label model has established a long history of distrust in the industry, and we're here to break that mold and build something better," he says, speaking of Noisy Planet's new Artist Control Room. "We don't guarantee stardom, but we do guarantee that if you want to take a few steps forward, we can help you manage the business of your music and hopefully inspire you to create more art in the process."

To that end, Noisy Planet-the one-stop-shop for musicians and bands of all genres and professional levels-is proud to unveil Noisy Planet's Artist Control Room.

Member musicians and bands will have affordable access to a host of music industry services that were once only available to major label music acts.

Artist Control Room services include:
* Biography writing - Press releases, biographies and reviews by a pro journalist
* Short-run CD Duplication - CD design, printing and duplication with no minimum order
* Song Critique - Professional 5-point critique by music industry insiders
* Music Licensing - Showcase your songs for use in film, TV and advertising
* Music Clearing - Secure the right to perform and sell your cover songs
* Standard Printing - Flyers, press kits, business cards, t-shirts and more at great rates
* Booking Agency - Pick venues you want to play and we help you land the gig

These affordable Noisy Planet services are offered in addition to its existing service of MP3 hosting with paid downloads, MP3 file conversion and quarterly artist royalties.

"Whatever your music goal, Noisy Planet is on your side," Petersen says. "We help those working Americans with rock star dreams by bringing the industry to you. The Internet has made new tools available to artists, and they don't have to go it alone anymore."

To learn more about Noisy Planet, visit www.noisyplanet.net, or call Kevin Petersen at 775-825-3886.

Enjoy our planet! You set the trends.

Press Contact: KEVIN PETERSEN
Company Name: Noisy Planet Inc
Phone: 775-825-3886
Website: www.noisyplanet.net

Minneapolis Media Player Rocks West Coast Giants

2008-02-21T16:31:00.000-06:00

Seattle and Cupertino Have Media Player Competition from Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS - February 21, 2008 - J. River technology is behind yet another multiple launch of branded digital media stores, extending the company's position as the dominant independent media player. New stores include TDS Telecom, Charter Media, and HickoryTech.

J. River already provides players for Televisa, Time Warner and over a dozen others. Collectively, these companies have more than 50 million paid customers, who are outside the Microsoft and Apple camps, and ready to buy digital content by download or subscription service.

"We have helped more companies build their digital offering than any other player software company," said Jim Hillegass, J. River's CEO. "There is a growing trend for major companies to engage the clout of their own brands to deliver leading edge digital music, movie, and TV services."

J. River has succeeded in giving these corporations the tools to build an interactive, sticky channel to their customers. Not only do they deliver the latest digital store technology, they supply the most open and comprehensive device integration, giving the customer choice in their use of devices ranging from iPods and PlaysForSure devices, to cell phones and media receivers.

J. River is the premier B2B provider of branded media players to the industry with more than twenty branded media players delivered.

J. River's complete list of partners:

http://www.jrmediacenter.com/partnerplayers.html

About J. River

J. River builds digital delivery solutions for corporate partners. This includes streaming, downloading, subscriptions of audio and video content, handheld device support and DRM. For more information about J. River's media products, visit www.jrmediacenter.com.

Contact e-mail music@jriver.com, or call 612.677.8200.

J. River MEDIA CENTER, J. River MEDIA JUKEBOX and J. River MUSIC EXCHANGE are trademarks of J. River, Inc.
Contacts

J. River, Inc.
Peter Sohal, 612-677-8200 x248
peter@jriver.com

China Needs Japanese Music Therapy

2007-12-26T17:30:00.000-06:00

Japanese Music Therapy Laboratory Receives USD $35,000,000 Order From China

Sakura Health has accepted an initial order for 5,000 acoustic beds and chairs and 8,000 pillows from a division of the Shanghai Paradise Corporation.

Sydney, Australia (PRWEB) July 12, 2007 -- Japanese music therapy laboratory receives USD $35,000,000 order from China.

Sakura Health has accepted an initial order for 5,000 acoustic beds and chairs and 8,000 pillows from a division of the Shanghai Paradise Corporation.

Spokesperson for the group in Japan, Naoya Yoshikawa, advised that the order was only an initial order and they hoped to receive further orders over the next 12 months of similar size. It is certainly pleasing to receive a substantial order from such a prestige organization.

Smart Ventures, a major shareholder and investor in Sakura Health, was pleased with the order and advised they would be looking to associated finance groups to assist Sakura Health with funding such a sizeable order.

The order is for immediate supply and Smart Ventures will be assisting the manufacturing arm with the sourcing of material, labor and finance to fulfill the order. A spokesperson for the group advises the Health benefits of the technology are enormous. "The Music Therapy system enables patients to realize the true health benefits and longevity of life by increasing their body heat and blood circulation from the inside. It proves The founder and investor of the system is truly a unique and wonderful man."

The spokesperson advises that the system warms the blood and activates the organs, allowing your own system to rejuvenate your heart, heal the mind, and allow for a long and healthy life. For centuries many people have known the benefits of music to heal the body and mind. We believe this is the first time such a large order for a music therapy device has ever been received.

Sakura Health currently distributes its products through the Music Therapy Society in Japan and is expanding daily throughout the world.

For further information contact

Sakura Health Investor Relations
Smart Ventures (A Division of Community Financial Services Group)
Phone +61 2 9420 2070
Email info @ smartventures.com.au

Press Contact: BRETT GOLDSWORTHY
Company Name: Sakura Health
Phone: +61294202070
Website: www.smartventures.com.au

Teen Fashion Games at Fashion Fantasy

2007-12-13T01:23:00.001-06:00

Teen Fashion Games Launch at Fashion Fantasy Game.com

Finally, a real fashion game site for tween and teen girls. At www.fashionfantasygame.com, girls sign up as a shopper, fashion designer or store owner and express themselves creatively while connecting with friends in a safe environment. Kids will have a blast with Fashion Fantasy Game's real-life economy as they learn about business, practice decision-making skills and gain self-confidence. It's a new virtual world and online social network for tween and teen fashionistas.

New York, NY (PRWEB) December 12, 2007 -- A safe place to play teen fashion games has launched at www.fashionfantasygame.com, an online social network for young fashionistas created by the R. Lilly Tuckerwear Company. This is the first online game that teaches business to tweens and teens through a fashion fantasy world where they can design and sell girls clothes or own a chic clothing store. The game is packed with captivating graphics and multiple levels of play. With a focus on teen fashion, creativity and self-expression, it's everything that young girls are craving. It's a perfect gift for the holidays. This virtual world is the next level of play that began with the Style Girls social network on the R. Lilly Tuckerwear site.

According to the latest EMarketer Study entitled 'Kids and Teens Online: Virtual Worlds Open New Universe,' by 2011 more than half of the kids and teens in the US will be playing in online virtual worlds. These worlds have experienced tremendous growth over the past year, according to comScore Media Metrix. The Fashion Fantasy Game.com is exactly what kids are demanding now.

This virtual world is based in a game where players enjoy the thrill of competition and stay engaged with a constantly changing game. The tools for success are creativity, smart financial planning, advertising and marketing, just like in the real world of business. At www.fashionfantasygame.com, teen fashion game rankings are determined by other players and strategic competitions and challenges impact awareness. Best of all, the site is strictly monitored for safety. And through game play kids may develop skills and confidence that will contribute to their self esteem at this fragile age.

Players board the R. Lilly Jet and fly to the city of their choice to start their adventure. Each player along with an iconic side-kick begins with a bank account of Fashion Buckz (FBz's), the unique currency of the game, and immediately starts to make important decisions that shape their businesses - what "real" neighborhood should they select for their real estate purchase, what designs do they think will be the most saleable, how many goods should they manufacture or purchase and what actions and decisions will bring them the most recognition from their peers. Players create, promote and sell their products through their own stores or their designer showrooms and are able to earn money and build their businesses. These players connect and share ideas, participate in special on-going contests and live events, go on virtual 'shopping sprees,' have fashion shows, create their own ad campaigns and go to the R. Lilly Cafe to catch up on the news that is important to them.

Founder and creator Nancy Ganz has a successful background in the real world of business, having developed the Body Slimmers by Nancy Ganz line of shape wear which she sold to Warnaco in 1996. "The idea behind this fashion game is to give girls a sense of accomplishment and a way to feel good about themselves, from the inside out," says Ganz. Named after her own daughter, R. Lilly Tuckerwear and the Fashion Fantasy Game.com were inspired by watching the game play and interaction of young girls through the sensitivity of a mother who understands the emotional needs of this age group. Nancy understood that there was a need and a market for a site to provide fashion games to young women.

For additional information on this latest virtual teen fashion world and R. Lilly Tuckerwear's fashion games, contact Nancy J. Hodin at Hodin @ rlillytuckerwear.com, or visit http://www.fashionfantasygame.com

R. Lilly Tuckerwear.com and The Fashion Fantasy Game.com are safe and secure websites geared to girls 8-16, focused on peer-to-peer communications, confidence-building and learning. R. Lilly Tuckerwear. com is also the ecommerce site for a unique line of girls shape wear designed by Nancy Ganz that specifically addresses the body image challenges of young girls during these transitional years. The Fashion Fantasy Game.com is a virtual world and social network that teaches girls about business while providing entertainment through fashion games.

Press Contact: Nancy Hodin
Company Name: R Lilly Tuckerwear Inc.
Phone: 6464159435
Website: www.fashionfantasygame.com

Music Download Site Offers 1 Million Songs

2007-12-13T00:26:00.001-06:00

SpiralFrog Music Experience Offers 1 Million Songs

Free, legal music discovery and download site expands library

(PRWEB) December 13, 2007 -- SpiralFrog, Inc. (www.spiralfrog.com), the free, ad-supported Web-based music service, now offers 1 million tracks for free and legal downloading.

Since its launch, SpiralFrog has been adding content weekly, increasing its music offerings by 25 percent in just the past two and a half months, bringing the total number of tracks to 1 million.
The new additions build on SpiralFrog's intent to provide a comprehensive music experience that already allows music fans to get over 3,500 music videos, music news, artist bios, reviews, discographies and album art, among other rich content features.
SpiralFrog lets users download a Facebook widget that lets them track the most popular downloads on the site.
SpiralFrog's agreements with publishers and labels, including many of the leading independent labels, give the service the largest library of free, legal and downloadable music tracks and videos available in North America.

www.SpiralFrog.com

Quote:
Attribute to Joe Mohen, founder and chairman of SpiralFrog
"We are constantly adding new content and features to the site. Music fans want to be able to update and expand their music library on a continual basis and with our ever-expanding library and popular site features such as 'Buzz of the Day' and 'New Releases,' we're making it easier than ever to discover and catalog new music."

Contact:
Please contact Jocelyn Johnson jjohnson @ gravitas-pr.com or Brian Posnanski bposnanski @ gravitas-pr.com to arrange an interview and/or for additional quotes.

About SpiralFrog
Headquartered in New York, SpiralFrog (www.spiralfrog.com) is a Web-based advertising-supported music experience that combines music discovery tools with free and legal downloads of audio and video content licensed directly from the catalogs of the world's leading music owners. SpiralFrog offers music-lovers a compelling alternative to illicit file-sharing and pirate sites, with a secure environment for them to satisfy their unyielding passion and thirst for music and entertainment information at no cost except for their time and attention.

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the "Act"). In particular, when used in the preceding discussion, the words "plan," "confident that," "believe," "scheduled," "expect," or "intend to," and similar conditional expressions are intended to identify forward looking statements within the meaning of the Act and are subject to the safe harbor created by the Act. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and actual results could differ materially from those expressed in any of the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, market conditions, general acceptance of SpiralFrog's products and website, competitive factors, timing, and other risks described in the Company's SEC reports and filings.

Press Contact: Jocelyn Johnson
Company Name: SpiralFrog
Phone: 917-406-5886
Website: www.spiralfrog.com

Online Casino Review Site Makes It Easy

2007-10-06T12:01:00.000-05:00

Online Casino Bluebook - Site Review

The first thing you'll notice when you visit Online Casino Bluebook is it's lack of flash and fancy design. This is not your normal over-designed casino sites that makes you feel like you are surrounded by hundreds of blinking, beeping slot machines. No, this is a real review site written by real people. The site has been around since 2000, which has to make it one of the oldest and best established.

The home page doesn't waste any time and shows you right away what their top 10 Online Casinos are. The day that I visited the following sites were listed in this order:

1      Inter Casino
2       Golden Casino
3       Vegas Palms Casino
4       Platinum Play
5       Royal Vegas
6       Slot Land Casino
7       Super Slots
8       English Harbor
9       Bodog Casino
10      Riverbelle Casino

You'll have to visit the OnlineCasinoBlueBook.com site to read the detailed reviews, but I was surprised to see that these online casinos offer a Welcome bonus that ranges from $100 to $1,200! It's not hard to see why Inter Casino gets the top pick with a bonus of over $1,000! I could spend a lot of time gambling with that stake in my account...!

Unlike other review sites, Online Casino Bluebook has an email address right under the top 10 casino list. You can email them with your questions of if you need help choosing the best casino for your gaming.

The site also has top picks for the following categories of gambling sites: No Deposit Casinos, Online Casinos, Bingo Halls, Poker Rooms, and Sports Book Sites. Again, the amount of bonus money varies, but these lists make it very easy to decide which ones to try first.

I discovered they provide information on casino game strategy or instructions on how to play online casino games like Baccarat, Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Poker, Slots, and Video Poker. If you have not tried any of these popular games, this is a great way to get started, or just to review the ways the games can be played to see if it's something you will like.

If you are interested in Casino News, Online Casino Bluebook also provides that as well and has a news archive that goes back several years. So if you need to find out the latest happenings in the Casino Gaming Industry, or do some research to find out past news and events you can do that in one spot.

The last resource I looked at was Online Casino Bluebook's Casino Directory. This was a little disappointing in that there was a number of entries to Poker sites, Online Casinos, Gambling sites, Free Casinos, Virtual Casinos, and much more, but not all of the links worked. I think I happened to visit in the middle of some house cleaning or reorganization from the way it looked. I know that good directories can take a lot of time and work to build and they need someone to go through and make edits and updates from time to time. I look forward to when this resource has been updated and is fully functional again.

So that's my review of the Online Casino Bluebook Casino Review site. I'd easily rate this site an "A" because of the low amount of distracting advertising and large amount of content and detailed site reviews.

Chris Nielsen is an Internet consultant and owner of many web sites including Casino-Magazine.us and over 30 blogs. He has no free time and can be reached by visiting his company's site at http://www.NielsenTech.com.