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International Entertainment News

Tuesday, January 31, 2006

MGM'S 'Capote' Honored With 5 Oscar(R) Nominations

MGM'S 'Capote' Honored With 5 Oscar(R) Nominations

Biopic in Oscar(R) Contention in All Major Categories

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- They're dancing up and down the halls at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) and United Artists over the just announced Academy Award(R) nominations and the industry's recognition of "Capote." As the turnaround at MGM continues to pick up momentum, "Capote" was honored with five nominations as the official contenders for the 78th Annual Academy Awards(R) were announced by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences President Sid Ganis and Oscar(R)-winner Mira Sorvino.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20011119/MGMLOGO)

A United Artists production and distributed by Sony Pictures Classics and a presentation of an A-Line Pictures, Cooper's Town Productions, Infinity Media production, "Capote" is nominated as one of the Best Films of the year. In addition to its Best Film nomination, the membership of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences also bestowed nominations on the film's lead actor (Philip Seymour Hoffman), supporting actress (Catherine Keener), director (Bennett Miller) and its adapted screenplay (Dan Futterman).

Fresh from his Golden Globe(R) win for actor in a dramatic film role, Hoffman's performance has already earned awards from the LA Film Critics, the New York Film Critics and the Hollywood Foreign Press Association(R) with the aforementioned Golden Globe(R) win, among others. The LA Film Critics cited Hoffman for bringing a striking dedication, passion, intelligence and complexity to the role of Truman Capote.

Harry E. Sloan, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of MGM stated: "United Artists is proud to have made this movie. When the project was brought to UA's creative team, they immediately recognized the movie's potential to strike a chord with audiences. The passion of the cast and crew only intensified during the production, validating that 'Capote' was going to be a standout film. We join the industry in recognizing the amazing contributions of the cast and filmmakers of 'Capote' and are extremely proud of the film's association with MGM as we begin this new chapter in our history."

"Capote" covers the six year period when author Truman Capote, assisted by his friend Harper Lee, unearthed the secrets of a small Kansas community in dissecting the murder of a local family. Clifton Collins Jr. ("Life of the Party," "Traffic") takes on the role of Perry Smith, one of the accused killers with whom Capote develops a close relationship. The end result is a classic piece of American literature, In Cold Blood, which revealed America's violent heart and signaled the ultimate destruction of a literary genius.

About Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc.

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc. is actively engaged in the worldwide production and distribution of motion pictures, television programming, home video, interactive media, music, and licensed merchandise. The company owns the world's largest library of modern films, comprising around 4,000 titles. Operating units including Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures Inc., United Artists Films Inc., MGM Television Entertainment Inc, MGM Networks Inc., MGM Distribution Co., MGM International Television Distribution Inc., Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Home Entertainment LLC, MGM on Stage, MGM Music, MGM Consumer Products and MGM Interactive. In addition, MGM has ownership interests in international TV channels reaching nearly 110 countries. MGM ownership is currently as follows: Providence Equity Partners (29%), Texas Pacific Group (21%), Sony (20%), Comcast (20%), DLJ Merchant Banking Partners (7%) and Quadrangle Group (3%). For more information, visit www.mgm.com.

CONTACT: Jeff Pryor/Priority Public Relations USA
t. 818-338-3555; e. jeff@prioritypr.net

Marylou Johnston/Priority Public Relations EUROPE
t. 011 33 6 8777 4989; Marylou@prioritypr.net

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20011119/MGMLOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc.

CONTACT: Jeff Pryor of Priority Public Relations USA, +1-818-338-3555,
jeff@prioritypr.net, for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc.; or Marylou Johnston of
Priority Public Relations EUROPE, +011 33 6 8777 4989, Marylou@prioritypr.net,
for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc.

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

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International Entertainment News

Adelphia Welcomes FTC Anti-Trust Decision on Sale to Time Warner and Comcast

Adelphia Welcomes FTC Anti-Trust Decision on Sale to Time Warner and Comcast

Decision Marks Significant Step Forward Toward Closing of Sale; Parties Await FCC Decision

GREENWOOD VILLAGE, Colo., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Adelphia Communications Corporation , the fifth largest cable TV company in the U.S., today welcomed as an "important step forward" the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) decision to close its anti-trust investigation into the proposed sale of Adelphia's assets to Time Warner and Comcast.

"This important step forward satisfied a required condition to the closing of our sale transaction with Time Warner and Comcast," said Bill Schleyer, chairman and CEO of Adelphia. "The timely closure of this sale is in the best interests of our creditors, customers and employees. In addition to the remaining local government approvals that have not yet been obtained, the focus of our attention now turns to the FCC, where we hope for a prompt ruling that this sale is in the public interest."

The FTC staff examined the proposed sale under provisions of the so-called "Hart-Scott-Rodino" or "HSR Act" and chose to take no additional action, satisfying a major condition to the closing of the transactions.

"As we work through this complex process and the equally multifaceted case of our bankruptcy, we remain mindful of our obligation to create the greatest possible value for our bankruptcy constituencies and our expectation to close this sale by the end of the second quarter," added Schleyer.

About Adelphia

Adelphia Communications Corporation is the fifth-largest cable television company in the country. It serves customers in 31 states and offers analog and digital video services, high-speed Internet access and other advanced services over Adelphia's broadband networks.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This report includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements regarding the Company's and its subsidiaries' and affiliates' expected future financial position, results of operations, cash flows, sale of the Company, settlements with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York (the "U.S. Attorney"), restructuring and financing plans, expected emergence from bankruptcy, business strategy, budgets, projected costs, capital expenditures, network upgrades, products and services, competitive positions, growth opportunities, plans and objectives of management for future operations, as well as statements that include words such as "anticipate," "if," "believe," "plan," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "could," "should," "will," and other similar expressions are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and readers must recognize that actual results may differ materially from the Company's expectations. The Company does not undertake a duty to update such forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include whether the proposed sale of the Company's assets to Time Warner NY Cable LLC and Comcast Corporation is approved and consummated, whether the transactions contemplated by the proposed settlements with the SEC and the U.S. Attorney and any other agreements needed to effect those transactions are consummated, the Company's pending bankruptcy proceeding, results of litigation against the Company, results and impacts of the proposed sale of the Company's assets, the effects of government regulation including the actions of local cable franchising authorities, the availability of financing, actions of the Company's competitors, pricing and availability of programming, equipment, supplies and other inputs, the Company's ability to upgrade its broadband network, technological developments, changes in general economic conditions, and those discussed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004. Many of these factors are outside of the Company's control.

Source: Adelphia Communications Corporation

CONTACT: Media, Paul Jacobson, +1-303-268-6426, or Investor Relations,
Mark Spiecker, +1-303-268-6304, both of Adelphia Communications Corporation

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

Company News On-Call: http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/010150.html

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International Entertainment News

MTV World to Showcase Korean Pop Superstar Rain With Its First Ever Live Music Production, 'MTV Presents: Rain - Live In New York'

MTV World to Showcase Korean Pop Superstar Rain With Its First Ever Live Music Production, 'MTV Presents: Rain - Live In New York'

SuChin Pak to Host Special Offering Fans an Exclusive Live Performance and Opportunity to Meet the Headline-Grabbing Artist

NEW YORK, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- MTV World today announced plans to produce an exclusive live performance special featuring Korean pop superstar Rain on Friday, February 3 at MTV's Studios in Times Square. "MTV Presents: Rain - Live In New York" will provide the explosive superstar his first US opportunity to perform for and meet with his fans up close and personal, and the production also marks the first live music production for MTV World. MTV World operates television networks designed to super-serve ethnic populations in the United States, with Chinese-American focused MTV Chi and South-Asian- centric MTV Desi available on DIRECTV and MTV K, a 24-hour music channel catering to Korean-Americans, scheduled to launch later this year.

MTV News' SuChin Pak will host the special, talking to Rain about his music, his rising star throughout Asia, his plans to break in the United States and offering fans the chance to ask questions during the special. Rain and his four dancers will perform exclusively for MTV World's cameras, and meet his fans in the studio audience during a question and answer period. "MTV Presents: Rain -- Live in New York" will air live on 44-1/2, the world's largest HDTV screen located across the street from MTV's studios in New York City's Times Square, from 2:00pm to 3:30pm (ET), on MTV K during its launch week and on MTV Chi in March.

"Having an artist like Rain perform in an exclusive setting such as this marks an important milestone for MTV World," said Nusrat Durrani, Sr. Vice President and General Manager, MTV World. "Not only does it allow us unfettered access to one of the fasting rising stars on the planet, but it also furthers our commitment to breaking artists for US audiences."

Pop impresario and label manager J.Y. Park in conjunction with Dreamville Entertainment and Rainstone Live are bringing Rain -- also known to his fans as 'Bi', which means 'rain' in Korean -- to America for two concert dates at Madison Square Garden. The record label JYP has granted MTV World exclusive and unparalleled access to the artist, as MTV crews follow him as he prepares for one of the biggest performances of his life. During the shoot of "Hangin' With Rain," MTV will be behind the scenes and with Rain every step of the way as he prepares for his Madison Square Garden concerts and MTV performance, allowing fans to see first hand preparation and motivations that drive the immensely successful artist. "Hangin' With Rain" will also be showcased during the launch week of MTV K and will air on MTV Chi in March.

"It's great to see an Asian superstar like Rain not only sell out two nights at Madison Square Garden, but also receive such a positive welcome from American media and the general public," said Woo Seok Rhee, CEO of Rainstone Live, and concert and music production company focused on bringing Asian artists to the U.S.

Rain is a big favorite among MTV's international audiences, having received the 'triple crown' of 2005 when he was awarded Best Korean Artist honors at all three Asian MTV award shows: the MTV Asia Awards, the MTV CCTV Mandarin Music Honors and the MTV Video Music Awards Japan. His most recent album, "It's Raining," has enjoyed success in Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, China, Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand, having sold more than 1 million copies to date. He also stars in the Korean popular television drama "Full House" and was named Best Actor at the Korean Broadcasting System Awards.

Tickets to the exclusive live performance special "MTV Presents: Rain - Live In New York" are available on a limited basis on the MTV Chi website (http://www.mtvchi.com/).

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA)(NYSE:VIA.B), is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 100 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services - MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 95 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

Source: MTV Networks

CONTACT: Todd Phillips, +1-212-258-7004, todd.phillips@mtvnmix.com; or
Melissa Barreto, +1-212-846-7226, melissa.barreto@mtvstaff.com, both of MTV

Web site: http://www.mtv.com/
http://www.mtvchi.com/

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International Entertainment News

Three 6 Mafia Make Academy Award History As First African-American Hip-Hop Ensemble to Receive a 'Best Original Song' Oscar Nomination

Three 6 Mafia Make Academy Award History As First African-American Hip-Hop Ensemble to Receive a 'Best Original Song' Oscar Nomination

Uncompromising Underground Hardcore Rap Group Storms The Mainstream As 'It's Hard Out Here For A Pimp,' from the film 'Hustle & Flow,' Is Nominated For Best Achievement In Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original Song) Oscar

NEW YORK, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences revealed the nominees for the 78th Annual Academy Awards earlier today notably honoring Three 6 Mafia, the Dirty South's most uncompromising hip-hop ensemble, with a nomination in the Best Achievement In Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original Song) category.

Three 6 Mafia's track, "It's Hard Out Here For A Pimp," from the highly-acclaimed hip-hop drama "Hustle & Flow" (which won the Audience Award at Sundance), paints an unflinching and indelible picture of the gritty world of grass-roots hip-hop, mirroring in music the blistering inner-city turmoil portrayed in the film. "It's Hard Out Here For A Pimp" features music and lyric by Jordan (Juicy J) Houston, Cedric (Crunchy Black) Coleman and Paul (DJ Paul) Beauregard (aka Three 6 Mafia).

Written and directed by Craig Brewer, "Hustle & Flow" (Paramount Classics, MTV Films and New Deal Entertainment) presents a tough and honest look at the hip-hop underground of Memphis, Tennessee, the birthplace of Three 6 Mafia.

The Academy Award nomination is the latest in a series of triumphs for Three 6 Mafia, who've just become the first African-American rap group in history to be nominated for a Best Song Oscar trophy. It's also a major victory for hip-hop itself as the groundbreaking art form, as represented by Three 6 Mafia, breaks out of the underground and achieves bona fide recognition from the entertainment mainstream. The Three 6 Mafia nomination marks the second time in Oscar history that a hip-hop act has been honored with a Best Song nomination by the Academy. The first was Eminem for "8 Mile" in 2002 (he won).

The latest Three 6 Mafia single, "Poppin' My Collar," featuring Project Pat, is currently in rotation at MTV2 and BET and is the #3 Most Watched Video on MTV2.com. The track, which was a "New Joint" on "106th and Park" on January 26, is currently the #2 Most Added record at Urban Mainstream radio.

The group has several upcoming television appearances scheduled including an episode of MTV "Cribs" (airing Wednesday, February 1) and an MTV "Wild N Out" performance of "Poppin' My Collar" (airing Thursday, February 2). Three 6 Mafia will be featured on MTV's "Jamie Kennedy Show" this spring.

The group's last single, "Stay Fly" is a platinum certified digital single and is currently #2 on the Top 40 Mainstream chart, #19 Top 40 Rhythm and a Top 5 single at Urban Mainstream.

More than 1.5 million Three 6 Mafia ringtones have been sold to-date.

Last October, Most Known Unknown, the latest album from Three 6 Mafia, entered the Billboard Top 200 album sales chart at #3 while also debuting at #1 on both the R&B Album Sales and the Rap Album Sales charts. The album has been certified gold and is rapidly approaching platinum.

Most Known Unknown once again upped the ante on Three 6 Mafia, whose previous album, the RIAA Gold-certified Da Unbreakables, debuted at #4 on the Top 200 in 2003 and the Rap album sales chart at #1. Da Unbreakables became the #1 best-selling album in Birmingham, Chattanooga, Jackson, Knoxville, Little Rock, Memphis, Mobile, Nashville, and Paducah.

Garnering a cult-like following since their humble beginnings peddling TDK mix tapes, the Memphis, Tennessee-based Three 6 Mafia personify the essence of Down South Hip-Hop. With an ever-growing string of gold and platinum accomplishments, the group has never lost its core connection to the pulse of the underground. Three 6 Mafia has had a series of successful recordings dating back to 1995 and the group's initial releases: the first independent release, Smoked Out, Loced Out, the first full-length album, Mystic Stylez (which sold more than 200,000 copies), and the Live By Your Rep EP.

Three 6 Mafia scored its first major label success in 1997 with Chapter 2: World Domination (Relativity), which sold over 800,000 copies. The group claimed gold status on the destructive lead single, "Tear Da Club Up." Even more success came with the follow-up album, When The Smoke Clears, in 2000. That album debuted at #6 on Billboard's Top 200 album sales chart, and has sold well over one million copies. As if musical success wasn't enough, the group moved into the video realm, releasing the Choices DVD and Choices soundtrack album in 2001. The Choices DVD has sold more than 100,000 units (which is platinum status for home DVDs/videos). A well-received follow-up DVD, Choices II: The Set-Up, was released in March 2005.

http://www.sonymusic.com/artists/Three6Mafia/

Source: Hypnotize Minds/Sony Urban Music/Columbia Records

CONTACT: Tony Ferguson, Sony Urban Music, New York, +1-212-833-4595,
Tony.Ferguson@sonybmg.com

Web site: http://www.columbiarecords.com/
http://www.sonymusic.com/artists/Three6Mafia

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International Entertainment News

MTV Films Celebrates Three Academy Award(R) Nominations

MTV Films Celebrates Three Academy Award(R) Nominations

Today's Nominations for 'Hustle & Flow' and 'Murderball' Include Best Actor, Best Original Song and Best Documentary Feature

NEW YORK and LOS ANGELES, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- MTV Films has enjoyed success with the critically acclaimed acquisition "Hustle & Flow," winner of the Audience Award at the 2005 Sundance Film Festival, and also released the documentary "Murderball," winner of the Documentary Competition Audience Award at the same festival. Today, both of these films were nominated for Academy Awards(R).

MTV Films' Executive Vice President David Gale today congratulated the Academy Award nominees by saying, "When we saw 'Murderball' and 'Hustle & Flow' at Sundance, we loved their unconventional subject matter and each filmmakers' distinct voice. We knew they would have a perfect home at MTV Films and are ecstatic that the Academy has recognized them."

"Hustle & Flow" garnered Terrence Howard a Best Actor nod and the films track "It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp" with music and lyrics by Jordan Houston, Cedric Coleman and Paul Beauregard was nominated for Best Original Song.

The critically-acclaimed documentary "Murderball," a film about tough, highly competitive rugby players, was nominated in the Best Feature Documentary category. THINKFilm, aware of MTV's passionate interest in the project after its screening at Sundance, recognized that Murderball's audience would only be expanded by a partnership with MTV, a preeminent brand for America's teenagers and young adults. This is the second year in a row the Academy has acknowledged a project from MTV Films in this category, with a 2005 nod given to "Tupac: Resurrection."

MTV Films are released in conjunction with Paramount Pictures.

MTV Networks, a unit of Viacom (NYSE:VIA)(NYSE:VIA.B), is one of the world's leading creators of programming and content across all media platforms. MTV Networks, with more than 100 channels worldwide, owns and operates the following television programming services -- MTV: MUSIC TELEVISION, MTV2, VH1, mtvU, NICKELODEON, NICK at NITE, COMEDY CENTRAL, TV LAND, SPIKE TV, CMT, NOGGIN, VH1 CLASSIC, LOGO, MTVN INTERNATIONAL and THE DIGITAL SUITE FROM MTV NETWORKS, a package of 13 digital services, all of these networks trademarks of MTV Networks. MTV Networks connects with its audiences through its robust consumer products businesses and its more than 95 interactive properties worldwide, including online, broadband, wireless and interactive television services and also has licensing agreements, joint ventures, and syndication deals whereby all of its programming services can be seen worldwide.

Source: MTV Networks

CONTACT: Todd Phillips of MTV, +1-212-258-7004

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

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International Entertainment News

Accomplished TV Host Karyn Bryant Joins SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Announce Team

Accomplished TV Host Karyn Bryant Joins SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Announce Team

Bryant Joins Boxing Veterans Steve Albert, Al Bernstein & Jim Gray on February 4 & March 4 Telecasts

NEW YORK, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Former CNN Headline News anchor Karyn Bryant has joined the SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING announce team as a reporter and correspondent for the February 4 and March 4 telecasts, it was announced today by Ken Hershman, general manager of Showtime Sports & Event Programming.

The talented and versatile Bryant is expected to bring a unique perspective to the boxing series now in its 20th year. She will serve alongside blow-by-blow veteran Steve Albert, respected analysts Al Bernstein and the Emmy Award-winning reporter Jim Gray.

"I am approaching this as a lifetime fight fan," said Bryant. "I grew up watching boxing on television with my father and I have a great deal of respect for the commitment that fighters have to make. I know that ringside, when two guys are in the thick of it, you can really feel that commitment. That is probably what I am looking forward to the most."

A graduate of Brown University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and sociology, Bryant has an extensive on-camera resume. At CNN, she anchored the entertainment program "Showbiz Tonight," live, five nights per week, for nearly a year. Bryant also has hosted, reported and anchored programs for NBC, TNT and MTV at high-profile events including the Super Bowl and the Academy Awards.

"We are thrilled to have Karyn join our announce team," said SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING Executive Producer David Dinkins. "If you have seen Karyn on camera even once, you know that she will bring a unique energy and a magnetic personality to our telecasts."

As a long-time entertainment television journalist, Bryant will compliment the work of Albert, Bernstein and Gray by delivering a "fan's perspective" to viewers. Bryant grew up in the Boston area and developed a deep-seeded passion for sports, the Red Sox and Patriots in particular.

"The role of the announce team in conveying the live experience is so crucial in sports television," added Bryant. "I know Steve, Al and Jim are among the most respected ringside teams in the business. I expect to learn a lot from them.

"And I cannot wait to ruin a designer blouse with the blood and sweat of a warrior during a post-fight interview."

On Feb. 4, former two-time World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight champion Jose Luis Castillo will face world-ranked Rolando Reyes in the 12-round main event at El Paso, Texas. On March 4 at Manchester, England, undefeated, hard- hitting super middleweight world champions Jeff "Left Hook'' Lacy (International Boxing Federation) and Joe Calzaghe (World Boxing Organization) will meet in a highly-anticipated showdown for the unified 168-pound world title.

SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING celebrates 20 years of hard-hitting, explosive programming in 2006. On March 10, 1986, SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING was born when "Marvelous" Marvin Hagler defeated John "The Beast" Mugabi in a spectacular and unforgettable 11th-round knockout in Las Vegas. Since that time, the network has aired some of the most historic and significant events in the sport including both Holyfield-Tyson bouts.

Always at the forefront of boxing, SHOWTIME has set itself apart by telecasting "great fights, no rights" on the first Saturday of every month. SHOWTIME is the first network to regularly deliver live boxing in High Definition. In addition, SHOWTIME continues to be a pioneer in sports television with a number of interactive features across multiple platforms making SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING telecasts the most enjoyable, immersive viewing experience for the boxing audience.

For information on SHOWTIME CHAMPIONSHIP BOXING and "ShoBox: The New Generation" telecasts, including complete fighter bios and records, related stories and more, please go the SHOWTIME website at http://www.sho.com/boxing

Source: SHOWTIME

CONTACT: Chris DeBlasio, +1-212-708-1633, or Minerva Martinez,
+1-212-708-3276, or Ivy Moon, +1-212-708-7319, all of Showtime Networks Inc.;
or Dan Clavadetscher, +1-818-344-6195, ext. 106, or John Beyrooty,
+1-818-344-6195, ext. 109, both of Brener Zwikel, for Showtime

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

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International Entertainment News

Prominent New Orleans Auto Dealer Criticizes Corps of Engineers and Area Officials on Television in the Wake of Katrina

Prominent New Orleans Auto Dealer Criticizes Corps of Engineers and Area Officials on Television in the Wake of Katrina

NEW ORLEANS, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Prominent business leader and civic activist Ronnie Lamarque launches a prime time television special in New Orleans this Tuesday night.

The half hour show chronicles his childhood and rise to success in the automotive industry by establishing one of the largest auto dealer groups in the entire United States during his thirty-five year career. The program, which started production before Katrina, has since been revised with the addition of his own personal commentaries about the post storm 'State of New Orleans'.

Lamarque grew up in Arabi, Louisiana adjacent to the highly publicized lower 9th Ward area that was devastated by the hurricane. He attended several public schools in St. Bernard Parish where his father was employed as a school custodian.

A self-described graduate of the 'college of hard knocks', Lamarque says the program was originally produced as a corporate video profile for his companies, however it was changed later to incorporate the affects of the storm on the community. "The new Katrina commentaries are the 'voice of the people' and small businesses who would otherwise not be heard," says Lamarque. An outspoken critic of the city's past and present administrations, the car dealer makes some powerful statements about the area's deteriorating condition.

Particularly, he harshly criticizes the Corp of Engineers and grades the city's political leadership. "The people of New Orleans are putting all levels of government 'on notice' that it's not business as usual. The Louisiana hayride is over," says Lamarque. He further said he is an 'independent voice' because he doesn't sit on any reconstruction boards or blue ribbon committees. He will monitor the situation to determine if more editorials are warranted or possibly seek political office. Many of Lamarque's retail stores and properties were impacted by the storm and remain closed today. He says he has a vested interest in the community not only for the livelihood of his businesses, but is looking out for his 8 year old son's future in the new New Orleans. He and his family reside in Orleans Parish.

The program is running Tuesday night, January 31st, on WGNO-TV ABC 26 at 7:00 p.m. CST and is scheduled to run several more times in the coming weeks in New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Vince Marinello, a noted local sportscaster and radio talk show personality is the host.

For more information contact:

Mark Bonner
President
504-712-5020 (office)
504-289-3673 (cell)
markbonner@lamarque.com

Laura Orazio
Executive Assistant
504-712-5052 (office)
504-214-7846 (cell)
lauraorazio@lamarque.com

Source: Ronnie Lamarque

CONTACT: Mark Bonner, President, +1-504-712-5020, or cell,
+1-504-289-3673, or markbonner@lamarque.com , or Laura Orazio, Executive
Assistant, +1-504-712-5052, or cell, +1-504-214-7846, or
lauraorazio@lamarque.com , both for Ronnie Lamarque

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International Entertainment News

WORLDSPACE(R) Launches Two New Channels on Satellite Radio Network

WORLDSPACE(R) Launches Two New Channels on Satellite Radio Network

Jacaranda and East Coast Radio Add Authentic South African Flavor to Line Up

SILVER SPRING, Md., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- WORLDSPACE Satellite Radio (NASDAQ:WRSP), one of the world leaders in satellite-based digital radio services, today announced that it has launched two new channels on its satellite radio network. The channels, East Coast Radio and Jacaranda, are available on the company's AfriStar(TM) satellite and are accessible to subscribers across southern Africa.

Jacaranda (channel 25), a leading South African brand, is predominately a music station that broadcasts in both English and Afrikaans and is aimed at a mature, sophisticated audience. East Coast Radio (channel 26) targets its commercial music service to a cross-cultural audience and focuses heavily on regional news and sports. Both channels are now available to a potential audience of more than 500 million listeners in a satellite footprint that covers 26 countries.

"With the addition of Jacaranda and East Coast Radio, WORLDSPACE is delivering a voice from home for South African expatriates and is providing authentic programming for the region's entire subscriber base," said Billy Sabatini, vice president of content, WORLDSPACE. "We are confident that the new channels will be well received by our listeners and will not only enhance existing service, but also help us attract new subscribers."

About Jacaranda

Jacaranda focuses on soothing adult contemporary music. Listeners are mature and family-oriented, knowing where they're going in life and how they're going to get there. Jacaranda's audience is also cosmopolitan, cutting across cultural divides.

About East Coast Radio

Under the management of Kagiso Media, East Coast Radio (ECR) is a dynamic multi-cultural music station, targeted at all races. ECR plays an adult Top 40/contemporary mix, featuring the best music from the 80s to today.

About WORLDSPACE(R)

WORLDSPACE, Inc. (NASDAQ:WRSP) is the world's only global media and entertainment company positioned to offer a satellite radio experience to consumers in more than 130 countries with five billion people, driving 300 million cars. WORLDSPACE delivers the latest tunes, trends and information from around the world and around the corner. WORLDSPACE subscribers benefit from a unique combination of local programming, original WORLDSPACE content and content from leading brands around the globe including the BBC, CNN, Virgin Radio UK, NDTV and RFI. The WORLDSPACE satellites cover two-thirds of the globe with six beams. Each beam is capable of delivering up to 80 channels of high quality digital audio and multimedia programming directly to WORLDSPACE Satellite Radios anytime and virtually anywhere in its coverage area. WORLDSPACE is a pioneer of satellite-based digital radio services (DARS) and was instrumental in the development of the technology infrastructure used today by XM Satellite Radio. For more information, please visit http://www.worldspace.com/.

Source: WORLDSPACE, Inc.

CONTACT: Judith Pryor of WorldSpace, +1-301-960-1242,
jpryor@worldspace.com; or Dacrie Brooks of Brodeur, +1-202-775-2646,
dbrooks@brodeur.com, for WORLDSPACE, Inc.

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

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International Entertainment News

Ashley Stewart Celebrates Black History Month by Partnering with the Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund

Ashley Stewart Celebrates Black History Month by Partnering with the Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund

SECAUCUS, N.J., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Ashley Stewart is celebrating Black History Month with a unique cd promotion that benefits education. During the month of February, Ashley Stewart is donating 100% of the profits from the sale of its cd to the Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund. The cd is entitled a Tribute to Great Women of Style. The donation will be used to create scholarships for African-American women pursuing a degree in fashion design, retail management, merchandising or marketing.

"We wanted to celebrate Black History Month in a unique way," said Ashley Stewart's Vice President and General Merchandise Manager, Marla Minns. "Through our Tribute cd, we are able to share the greatness of 12 icons who redefined not only music, but also style. And, all the profits from this cd will help educate our next generation of great women."

Customers can purchase the Tribute to Great Women of Style cd at any Ashley Stewart location nationwide. The cd retails for $12.00 and are $10.00 with any Ashley Stewart purchase. Artists on the cd include: Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, Dorothy Dandridge, Dinah Washington, Etta Jones, Etta James, Diana Ross, Gladys Knight, Shirley Horn, Patti Labelle and Mavis Staples.

For more information, please visit http://www.ashleystewart.com/ or http://www.thurgoodmarshallfund.org/

Ashley Stewart

Since 1991, Ashley Stewart has continued to provide great styles and accessories for fashion-forward full-figured women. Known for stylish and great-priced apparel Ashley Stewart's clothing reflects its customers' inner-confidence. With 170 stores (and counting) located in urban areas from New York to Los Angeles, Ashley Stewart is the premier destination for Great Women of Style.

Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund

The Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund (TMSF) was established in 1987 to carry on Justice Marshall's legacy of equal access to higher education by supporting exceptional merit scholars attending America's Public Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The Office for the Advancement of Public Black Colleges (OAPBC) created TMSF with Justice Marshall's support. [OAPBC is an information and advocacy unit of the National Association of State Universities and Land-Grant Colleges (NASULGC) in cooperation with the American Association of State Colleges and Universities.] Today, 47 schools are members of the TMSF, including many of the nation's largest and most prestigious institutions of higher education. (All TMSF information taken from http://www.thurgoodmarshallfund.org/)

Contact:
Charell Charleston
Public Relations Manager
(201) 319-9093 ext. 2780
ccharleston@urbanbrands.com

Source: Ashley Stewart

CONTACT: Charell Charleston, Public Relations Manager, +1-201-319-9093
ext. 2780, ccharleston@urbanbrands.com, for Ashley Stewart

Web site: http://www.ashleystewart.com/
http://www.thurgoodmarshallfund.org/

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International Entertainment News

Dottie Peoples and Rizen Perform at Ashley Stewart's Tribute to Gospel Music Festival on Saturday, February 4

Dottie Peoples and Rizen Perform at Ashley Stewart's Tribute to Gospel Music Festival on Saturday, February 4

SECAUCUS, N.J., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Gospel sensation Dottie Peoples and the highly acclaimed gospel group Rizen will take center stage at Ashley Stewart's Tribute to Gospel Music Festival on Saturday, February 4 at the Northland Shopping Center in Detroit. Ashley Stewart is the leading fashion retailer for full-figured African-American women. This celebratory event will pay homage to the positive impact gospel music has on the African American community.

"There is an uplifting power contained with gospel music," said Ashley Stewart's Vice President and General Merchandise Manager, Marla Minns." It plays such an important role in many of our lives. This festival is a way for us to give something positive to our customers and expose others to the positive spirit of our communities."

The 12-5:30 p.m. free gospel event is open to the public. Dottie Peoples will perform live and sign autographs between 1:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Rizen takes the stage at 4:00 p.m. and will sign autographs until 5:30. The Mix 92.3 team will also be onsite giving away promotional items to the crowd and adding to the festivities.

Radio personality Tracey McCatskill from Mix 92.3 will make a guest appearance and broadcast live from the gospel festival. The event will also feature an incredible Spring fashion show, raffle prizes, giveaways and music provided by DJ Kim James. Local Detroit gospel singers will also be onsite, adding excitement to the event.

Ashley Stewart

Since 1991, Ashley Stewart has continued to provide great styles and accessories for fashion-forward full-figured women. Known for stylish and great-priced apparel Ashley Stewart's clothing reflects its customers' inner-confidence. With 170 stores (and counting) located in urban areas from New York to Los Angeles, Ashley Stewart is the premier destination for Great Women of Style.

Ashley Stewart @ Northland Center
Tribute to Gospel Music Festival
Saturday, February 4 from 12-5:30 P.M.
21500 North Western
Southfield, MI 48075
(248) 443-2547

Contact:
Charell Charleston
Public Relations Manager
(201) 319-9093 ext. 2780
ccharleston@urbanbrands.com

Source: Ashley Stewart

CONTACT: Charell Charleston, Public Relations Manager of Urban Brands,
Inc., +1-201-319-9093 ext. 2780, ccharleston@urbanbrands.com, for Ashley
Stewart

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

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International Entertainment News

George Clooney Gets His Record Making Oscar News This Morning While Watching Giuliana DePandi on E! Then Dashes Off to Make a Coffee Commercial?

George Clooney Gets His Record Making Oscar News This Morning While Watching Giuliana DePandi on E! Then Dashes Off to Make a Coffee Commercial?

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Actor, director and writer extradonaire George Clooney found out about his unprecedented three Oscar nominations this morning while watching E!'s 2006 Oscar Nomination Special. When pressed that he was telling the truth, he told Giuliana DePandi he was watching the E! Oscar Nomination show and definitely heard the news there, "swear to God."

George Clooney picked up three nominations this morning: Supporting Actor for his role as a steadfast CIA undercover agent in "Syriana" and Best Director and Co-Writer for "Good Night And Good Luck". It was the first time ever that a contender was honored with acting and directing nominations for two different movies.

The first official call he received this morning was from his dad, he told Giuliana. And when asked where he was heading next, he told her he was on his way to shoot a coffee commercial "to pay for the last couple of years."

For more of Clooney's Oscar feedback and all the Oscar scoop, tune in tonight (Tuesday, January 31) for "E! News" premiering at 7:00PM ET/PT.

About E! Networks

Based in Los Angeles, E! Networks is the world's largest producer and distributor of entertainment news and lifestyle-related programming. The company operates E! Entertainment Television, the 24-hour network with programming dedicated to the world of entertainment; The Style Network, the destination for women 18-49 with a passion for the best in relatable and inspiring lifestyle programming, and E! Online, located at Eonline.com. E! is currently available to 87 million cable and direct broadcast satellite subscribers in the U.S. The Style Network currently counts 42 million subscribers. Internationally, E! programming can be seen in more than 120 countries worldwide, reaching 600 million homes. In addition to its ventures for locally programmed E! branded channels outside the U.S., the company operates the E! International Network, a 24-hour English language global entertainment channel available via satellite in Europe, Africa, Asia Pacific and the Middle East.

Source: E! Entertainment Television

CONTACT: Elizabeth Johnson of E! Entertainment Television,
+1-323-954-2515, ejohnson@eentertainment.com

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International Entertainment News

Philadelphia Area Native Jamison Uhler Joins the NBC 10 News Team

Philadelphia Area Native Jamison Uhler Joins the NBC 10 News Team

BALA CYNWYD, Pa., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Jamison Uhler joins NBC 10's News Team as a general assignment reporter - effective immediately. The announcement was made by News Vice President Chris Blackman.

Uhler joins NBC 10 News from WFTV in Orlando, Florida, where he was the lead reporter on the number one rated 11PM newscast. During his time at WFTV, he covered some of the biggest national stories of 2004, including Hurricane Frances and the Terri Schiavo vigil. Prior to working in the Sunshine State, Uhler was a reporter and substitute anchor at KJRH-TV in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Uhler began his on-air television career as a reporter and substitute anchor at Cable 12 News in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Before going to Minnesota, he worked as a production assistant at WTXF-TV in Philadelphia.

Uhler, who describes himself as an enterprising storyteller, has been widely recognized for his hard work, earning accolades for excellence in reporting. In 2000, he received two Minnesota Associated Press awards for Investigative and Feature Reporting. Uhler was also nominated for three Minnesota NATAS Emmys in 2001, winning two for Hard News Feature and News Feature.

A native of Media, Pennsylvania, Uhler graduated from Penncrest High School, where he was a starting quarterback on the varsity football team.

Uhler graduated from Arizona State University's Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication where he received a B.A. in Broadcast Journalism and Business.

Uhler is thrilled to return home. He and his fiancee Rebecca plan to reside in the Philadelphia area.

Source: NBC 10

CONTACT: Eva Blackwell of NBC 10, +1-610-668-5790, or fax,
+1-610-668-7059, or cell, +1-610-209-1608, or eva.blackwell@nbcuni.com

Web site: http://www.nbc10.com/

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International Entertainment News

GSN Presents a Tribute to MATCH GAMES' Beloved Panelists Brett Somers and Charles Nelson Reilly

GSN Presents a Tribute to MATCH GAMES' Beloved Panelists Brett Somers and Charles Nelson Reilly

Panelists Match-Off on Their Best MATCH GAME Episodes During the Week of February 20th on GSN

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- GSN will feature Brett Somers and Charles Nelson Reilly at their most outrageous, most argumentative, most bitingly sarcastic, and funniest on "The Best of Brett & Charles" during MATCH GAME "That '70s Hour" the week of February 20 at 11:00 PM and 11:30 PM ET/PT.

Brett Somers and Charles Nelson Reilly became staples on MATCH GAME in the mid-70s with their eccentric, yet compelling personalities. What started as a guest appearance for Somers with her husband, Jack Klugman (Odd Couple), surprisingly turned into a regular spot. Her whit cemented a perfect mix of panelists on the new show.

Reilly, a theatre actor turned game show regular, made the fireworks really fly with his quick come-backs and quirky sensibilities. Somers and Reilly became cult-icons of the much loved game show and now can be seen at their best on GSN.

Below is the schedule for MATCH GAME "The Best of Brett and Charles" and original episodes air dates.

Date Original Date Description
Monday 2/20 11:00 PM 1976 Charles disgusted by Brett's
bad answer, gets a large
trash can, crumbles and
throws away her answer.

Monday 2/20 11:30 PM 1978 Brett and Charles get into
such a bad fight that Gene
separates them, moving
Charles to the bottom row.

Tuesday 2/21 11:00 PM 1975 Charles is dropped onto the
set by a harness. The reason
is if he can be flown in,
Brett can be flown out.

Tuesday 2/21 11:30 PM 1974 Charles holds a "Bad Taste"
card over Brett's head.

Wednesday 2/22 11:00 PM 1975 Charles gives Brett the
"Worst Answer Ever Heard
Award."

Wednesday 2/22 11:30 PM 1974 Charles is late because he is
getting his hair glued on.

Thursday 2/23 11:00 PM 1975 Panelist asks Brett and
Charles about their alleged
affair.

Thursday 2/23 11:30 PM 1976 Charles and Brett are dressed
in Western clothing and talk
with Texas accents.

Friday 2/24 11:00 PM 1974 Charles and Brett shimmy
dance when "sex" is
mentioned.

Friday 2/24 11:30 PM 1976 Brett and Charles argue like
school-children.

GSN, the Network for Games, is the only U.S. television network dedicated to game-related programming. The network features game shows, reality series, documentaries and casino games. As the industry leader in interactivity, GSN has allowed viewers to play-along with on-air programming via their computers and GSN.com since 2002. Reaching more than 57 million Nielsen homes, GSN is distributed in the U.S. through all major cable systems and satellite providers. The network is jointly owned by Sony Pictures Entertainment and Liberty Media Corporation. For further media information, visit GSN's press website at corp.gsn.com.

Source: GSN

CONTACT: Jessica Hasson of GSN, +1-310-255-6934, jhasson@gsn.com

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

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International Entertainment News

Blondie Announces Release of Greatest Hits - Sound & Vision, Featuring Brand New Mash-Up With The Doors

Blondie Announces Release of Greatest Hits - Sound & Vision, Featuring Brand New Mash-Up With The Doors

Iconic Rock Band Turns Out New CD/DVD Package on the Eve of Their Induction Into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

NEW YORK, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Blondie defies definition. The legendary band is a little bit punk, a little bit reggae, a little bit rock, a little bit new wave, a little bit pop, a little bit hip-hop and a lot of downtown attitude. Already gold in Europe, Blondie: Greatest Hits - Sound & Vision will be released March 7 by Capitol/EMI Music Catalog Marketing, one week before the band's induction into the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame. The new CD/DVD package contains 20 audio tracks and 16 video clips, including the band's biggest hits and previously unreleased remixes. "Rapture Riders," a mash-up of the band's "Rapture" with The Doors' "Riders on the Storm" and its accompanying UK music video make their release debut on the new collection.

"When I was starting out as a singer and songwriter, I was hugely influenced by Debbie Harry," Madonna told a U.K. reporter. "I thought she was the coolest chick in the universe."

Blondie's influence on today's artists is undeniable. Debbie Harry and Blondie have been a major influence on superstars like Madonna, Garbage's Shirley Manson and R.E.M.'s Michael Stipe, among many others. They were one of the first groups to emerge from New York's new wave/punk renaissance with an album (1976's Blondie), the first to chart a #1 single, a revolutionary blend of punk and disco ("Heart of Glass") and the first to top the charts with both a rap song (1981's "Rapture") and a reggae tune ("The Tide is High"). And now Blondie have added to their legacy by being selected for induction in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame at its 21st ceremony at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York on March 13, 2006 along with Black Sabbath, Lynyrd Skynyrd, the Sex Pistols and Miles Davis, as one of two first-time nominees (Davis is the other).

"This is a tremendous honor for us," said the band's lead vocalist Deborah Harry, who is celebrating Blondie's 30th anniversary this year. "We're proud to take our place alongside some of our own idols."

Blondie: Greatest Hits - Sound & Vision:

* CD/DVD with 20 audio tracks and 16 videos, including Blondie classics:
"Heart Of Glass," "Atomic," "Call Me," "Rapture," "Maria;" previously
unreleased remixes of "In the Flesh" and "Good Boys;" and special Bonus
Audio and Video Tracks: "Rapture Riders" -- Blondie VS. The Doors
(release debut of the new mash-up of the band's 1980 hit "Rapture" and
The Doors' "Riders on the Storm").

* DVD includes 13 music videos spanning 1977 to 1982, including
groundbreaking conceptual clips for "Denis" and "The Tide is High," as
well as their most recent productions for "Maria" and "Good Boys," plus
the new music video for the "Rapture Riders" mash-up.

"Ain't technology great! The Doors and Blondie get to do each other. I've always had salacious dreams about Debbie Harry, and now it's a reality. The Doors and Blondie in a deep passionate embrace." - Ray Manzarek, The Doors

About Blondie:

The original Blondie was formed in 1974 by art student/guitarist Chris Stein and ex-folkie and ex-Max's Kansas City waitress, vocalist/songwriter Deborah Harry. Drummer Clem Burke and keyboard player Jimmy Destri joined in 1975. The band played the fabled New York downtown circuit of CBGB's, Max's Kansas City and Mothers, amassing a major following before recording their first album Blondie in 1976 for the Private Stock label. It was released in 1977 and was well received as the band toured in support of Iggy Pop and David Bowie.

The band went on to become a worldwide attraction, combining rock and pop with salsa, funk, disco, reggae and rap. They went to #2 on the U.K. singles chart with "Denis" in 1978 even before topping the U.S. singles chart with "Heart of Glass," from their 1979 Parallel Lines album. Deborah Harry's punk pin-up girl graced the cover of every major magazine, paving the way for blonde pop chanteuses from Madonna to Gwen Stefani. The band made a major comeback with the 1999 release of No Exit, which spawned the international hit, "Maria," which topped the charts in 14 different countries.

For additional information go to www.Blondie.net.

Source: Capitol/EMI Music Catalog Marketing & Ken Sunshine Consultants, Inc.

CONTACT: Paul Lombardi of Ken Sunshine Consultants, +1-212-691-2800,
Lombardi@kensunshineconsultants.com; or Jennifer Ballantyne of EMI Music
Marketing, +1-323-871-5494, jennifer.ballantyne@emicap.com; or David Scharff,
david@emgpr.com, or Jen Gross, jennifer@emgpr.com, both of Evolutionary Media
Group, +1-323-658-8700, for The Doors

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

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International Entertainment News

Super Bowl Song 'My Hawks' (Parody of My Humps) is Taking on the Steelers

Super Bowl Song 'My Hawks' (Parody of My Humps) is Taking on the Steelers

SEATTLE, Wash., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- The Bob Rivers Show's Twisted Tunes division released today three new Twisted Tunes to commemorate the Seattle Seahawks' historic journey to Super Bowl XL. The gold record-holding Seattle morning radio show host (KZOK 102.5 FM) has produced three new parody songs in tribute to the 'Hawks bid for victory this Sunday in Detroit:

-- "My Hawks" (Parody of My Humps) is a sassy retort to the naysayers who
claimed that the Seahawks would never make it to the Super Bowl.
-- "Hasselbeck" (Parody of Like a Rock by Bob Seger) portrays the
Seahawk's quarterback as the unheralded hero he is.
-- "50 Ways To Beat the Steelers" (Parody of 50 Ways to Lose Your Lover by
Paul Simon) rolls through the strategies that the Seahawks can utilize
to triumph over the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The audio files are available for download now at: http://www.bobrivers.com/audiovault/downloads/downloads.asp .

My Hawks-cut of lyrics
(Parody of The Black Eyed Peas' My Humps)

EAST COAST KEEPS ON TALKIN' THAT JUNK
SAYIN' MY HAWKS ARE GONNA GET THUMPED
WE'RE GONNA GIT GIT GIT YOU CHUMPS
CUZ I KNOW MY HAWKS ARE PUMPED
MY HAWKS, MY HAWKS, MY HAWKS ARE
REALLY PUMPED
MY HAWKS, MY HAWKS, MY HAWKS WILL
KNOCK THEM ON THEIR RUMPS
CHECK IT OUT.

The Bob Rivers Show, heard weekdays from 5-10 am on 102.5 KZOK FM, is Seattle's premier morning drive time show. Bob Rivers and his crew deliver fresh perspective on the day's headlines with humor, insight, honesty, and respect for their listeners. Twice voted Radio & Records' major market Personality of the Year, named by Billboard Magazine as a Radio Personality of the Week, Bob Rivers also holds a RIAA gold record for his Atlantic Records release, "Twisted Christmas." Bob has won three "Soundies," the People's Choice Awards from the Puget Sound Radio Broadcasters Association. A consistent leader in Arbitron ratings, The Bob Rivers Show combines sketch comedy, song parodies (Twisted Tunes), celebrity and expert guests, call-in topics, and a full range of humorous insight. Podcasts, downloadable Twisted Tunes, photographs of the staff's adventures and antics, and much more can be found at www.bobrivers.com.

Source: The Bob Rivers Show

CONTACT: Lauren Formicola of PR Matters, +1-206-281-5555, or
+1-206-853-5556, or Lauren@prmatters.com, for The Bob Rivers Show

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

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International Entertainment News

DreamWorks Animation SKG & D3Publisher of America Sign Worldwide Publishing Agreement for Flushed Away

DreamWorks Animation SKG & D3Publisher of America Sign Worldwide Publishing Agreement for Flushed Away

First Games Based on the Animated Feature Film Scheduled for Q4 2006

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- D3Publisher of America, Inc. (D3PA), a publisher and developer of interactive entertainment software, today announced a worldwide publishing agreement with DreamWorks Animation SKG (NYSE:DWA) for video games based on the forthcoming computer animated feature film "Flushed Away". The first games are scheduled to be released for console systems and handheld systems including Nintendo DS(TM), and Game Boy(R) Advance in Q4 2006 to coincide with the release of the DreamWorks computer animated feature film on November 3, 2006.

"This agreement with DreamWorks Animation SKG is a significant milestone for D3Publisher of America," stated Careen Yapp, vice president of licensing and business development for D3PA. "Our blueprint for success has always included both original intellectual properties, as well as licensed titles from top entertainment companies. 'Flushed Away' will be a key title for us in 2006 and we are very pleased to be working with the DreamWorks and Aardman Animation teams to deliver a fun gaming experience that expands on the computer animated feature film."

"Flushed Away" is a story driven, 3rd-person action-platform game that captures the characters and humor of the film. The games will also feature new characters and environments that are unique to the game that will enrich the world of "Flushed Away". The console products will be developed by Vicious Cycle, and the handheld products will be developed by Altron and ART.

About DreamWorks Animation's "Flushed Away"

From DreamWorks Animation and Aardman Features, the teams behind the worldwide hit "Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit", comes the computer-animated comedy "Flushed Away". Blending Aardman's trademark style and characterizations with DreamWorks' state-of-the-art computer animation, "Flushed Away" is a madcap comedy set on and beneath the streets of London.

Roddy is a decidedly upper-crust "society rat" who makes his home in a posh Kensington flat, complete with two hamster butlers named Gilbert and Sullivan. When a common sewer rate named Syd comes spewing out of the sink and decides he's hit the jackpot, Roddy schemes to rid himself of the pest by luring him into the "whirlpool." Syd may be an ignorant slob, but he's no fool, so it is Roddy who winds up being flushed away into the bustling sewer world of Ratropolis. There Roddy meets Rita, an enterprising scavenger who works the sewers in her faithful boat the Jammy Dodger.

Roddy immediately wants out, or rather, up; Rita wants to be paid for her trouble; and, speaking of trouble, the villainous Toad -- who royally despises all rodents -- wants them iced ... literally. The Toad dispatches his tow hapless hench-rats, Spike and Whitey, to get the job done. When they fail, the Toad has no choice but to send to France for his cousin -- that dreaded mercenary, Le Frog.

D3Publisher of America, Inc. is a subsidiary of D3Publisher, with headquarters in Tokyo. D3Publisher of America's strategic focus is on licensed and original titles from leading third-party developers that appeal to mass-market consumers or gaming enthusiasts. Based in Los Angeles, D3Publisher of America distributes and publishes software for personal computers and the major console platforms including Game Boy(R) Advance, Nintendo GameCube(TM), Nintendo DS(TM), PlayStation(R) game console, PlayStation(R)2 computer entertainment system, PSP(TM) portable entertainment system and the Xbox(R) video game system from Microsoft. For additional information on D3Publisher of America and its products, visit the website at http://www.d3p.us/

DreamWorks Animation is principally devoted to developing and producing computer generated, or CG, animated feature films. With world-class creative talent, a strong and experienced management team and advanced CG filmmaking technology and techniques, DreamWorks Animation makes high quality CG animated films meant for a broad movie-going audience. The company has theatrically released a total of nine animated feature films, including Antz, Shrek, Shrek 2, Shark Tale and Madagascar. DreamWorks Animation's newest release, Wallace & Gromit: Curse of the Were-Rabbit, opened in theaters October 7, 2005.

Source: D3Publisher of America, Inc.

CONTACT: Kirk Green of Gonzo Communications, +1-949-459-2165,
kirk@gonzocom.com, for D3Publisher of America, Inc.; or Molly Martuza of
DreamWorks Animation Corporate Communications, +1-818-695-9972,
mmartuza@dreamworks.com

Web site: http://www.d3p.us/

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International Entertainment News

SBS Consummates Sale of KDAY-FM and KDAI-FM

SBS Consummates Sale of KDAY-FM and KDAI-FM

Styles Media Completes $120 million Acquisition

COCONUT GROVE, Fla., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc., ("SBS"; Nasdaq: SBSA) announced today the completion of its sale of radio stations KDAY-FM and KDAI-FM in Southern California to Styles Media for $120 million.

The transaction, announced in the third quarter of 2004, was officially consummated upon receipt of the final $65 million payment made by Styles Media, in accordance with contractual terms agreed to by both parties.

About Spanish Broadcasting System

Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc. is the largest Hispanic-controlled radio broadcasting company in the United States. Upon the completion of all previously announced transactions, SBS will own and operate 20 radio stations located in the top Hispanic markets of New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, San Francisco and Puerto Rico, including the #1 Spanish-language radio station in America, WSKQ-FM in New York City, as well as 3 of the Top 4 rated radio stations airing the Tropical, Regional Mexican, Spanish Adult Contemporary and Hurban format genres and the highest billing Latino-formatted stations in each of the three largest U.S. Hispanic markets. The Company also produces live entertainment concerts and events throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico. On July 13, 2005 the Company announced the acquisition of WDLP-TV, a full-power television station serving South Florida. The Company also operates LaMusica.com, a bilingual Spanish-English online site providing content related to Latin music, entertainment, news and culture. The Company's corporate website can be accessed at http://www.spanishbroadcasting.com/

Source: Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc.

CONTACT: Analysts and Investors, Joseph A. Garcia, Executive Vice
President, Chief Financial Officer & Secretary of Spanish Broadcasting System,
Inc., +1-305-441-6901; or Analysts, Investors or Media, Todd St.Onge of
Brainerd Communicators, Inc., +1-212-986-6667

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

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International Entertainment News

Comcast's ON DEMAND Gets a Breath of Fresh Air With Terry Gross

Comcast's ON DEMAND Gets a Breath of Fresh Air With Terry Gross

... WHYY's Award-Winning Radio Show Comes to the Small Screen ...

PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- WHYY's nationally acclaimed radio magazine, Fresh Air with Terry Gross, will be available regionally on Comcast's ON DEMAND service beginning February 1, giving digital cable subscribers the option to listen -- and watch -- the Peabody Award-winning program whenever they choose for no additional charge. With this agreement, Philadelphia's leading public broadcast station is bringing host Terry Gross' prized conversations with artists, actors, musicians and singers from public radio to a viewer-controlled television experience for Comcast customers in Greater Philadelphia, Southern New Jersey and Delaware.

"This groundbreaking project extends WHYY's mission, which is to use our multiple communication platforms to connect our community to the world's richest ideas," said Bill Marrazzo, WHYY President and CEO. "By offering selected Fresh Air interviews ON DEMAND, we're allowing audiences to explore programs in greater depth through greater access. This is a unique pairing of audio and visual content, and Fresh Air ON DEMAND marries Gross' audio interviews with scrolling pictures of the celebrities and streaming facts about their lives, work and careers."

"We continually look to add more value for our customers, and Fresh Air is a radio magazine of compelling conversations that will be attractive to our customers and representative of our efforts to provide a diverse array of programming choices," said Greg Arnold, Comcast regional senior vice president for Pennsylvania.

The Fresh Air ON DEMAND episodes in February will feature five of Gross' most compelling arts interviews from her roster of thousands: late country music legend Johnny Cash; actress and activist Jane Fonda; iconic singer and pianist Ray Charles; comedian Dan Aykroyd; and actor, producer and director George Clooney. In March and April, conversations with gangsta rapper and movie producer Ice Cube; actor Tim Curry; actor, producer and author Gene Wilder; comedian George Carlin; and screenwriter and director Harold Ramis will also be available.

What defines Fresh Air ON DEMAND is the thought-provoking conversations themselves, the likes of which only Terry Gross can deliver. Often called the best interviewer in the business, Gross isn't afraid to ask tough questions, but she sets an atmosphere in which her guests volunteer the answers rather than surrender them. It's this inimitable style that has earned Gross numerous accolades during her more than 30 years behind the Fresh Air mike, including the Corporation for Public Broadcasting's Edward R. Murrow Award in 2003. It's also made Fresh Air, produced by WHYY and distributed nationally by National Public Radio, the third most listened to program on public radio, reaching more than 4.5 million listeners each week on 475 public radio stations.

To access Fresh Air with Terry Gross ON DEMAND, select the "Get Local" button from the "ON DEMAND" main menu, and choose "WHYY."

Fresh Air can be heard weekdays at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on WHYY 91FM, and over a live stream at http://www.whyy.org/. The program is also featured on WHYY's new HD radio service, providing listeners with even more opportunities to enjoy arts and informational programming.

WHYY is what a diverse community has in common. WHYY, through television, radio and other communications services, makes our region a better place, connecting each of us to the world's richest ideas and all of us to each other.

Headquartered in Philadelphia, Comcast Cable is a division of Comcast Corporation, the nation's leading provider of cable, entertainment and communications products and services. With 21.4 million cable customers, 8.1 million high-speed Internet customers and 1.2 million voice customers, Comcast is principally involved in the development, management and operation of broadband cable networks and in the delivery of programming content.

Comcast's Eastern Division currently serves more than 5.6 million customers along the New York to DC corridor, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Washington, DC, and Virginia, along with parts of California and Texas. The Eastern Division also founded and manages CN8, The Comcast Network, one of the nation's largest and most honored regional 24-hour diversified television networks, seen by more than seven million homes on the East Coast. The division is based in Oaks, Pennsylvania.

Source: WHYY

CONTACT: Suzanne Amarant of Comcast Cable, +1-610-650-1352,
Suzanne_Amarant@cable.comcast.com; or Nessa Forman, +1-215-351-1265, Anna
Christopher, +1-215-351-2066, both of WHYY

Web site: http://www.whyy.org/

NOTE TO EDITORS: The press may download electronic photographs of Terry Gross at http://www.whyy.org/pressroom.

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International Entertainment News

Zuffa, LLC Welcomes Genaro Hernandez as UFC(R) Spanish Language Commentator

Zuffa, LLC Welcomes Genaro Hernandez as UFC(R) Spanish Language Commentator

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- The Ultimate Fighting Championship(R) (UFC(R)) today announced Genaro Hernandez has joined Zuffa, LLC to serve as its new UFC Spanish language commentator. He will broadcast live during UFC pay-per-view events, including the upcoming superfight UFC 57: LIDDELL vs. COUTURE 3 Saturday, Feb. 4, 2006.

"I am pleased to welcome Genaro Hernandez to the world of mixed martial arts," said Dana White, UFC President. "With his distinguished career in boxing and years of broadcast television experience, there is no one better than Genaro to bring the live action of the UFC to our Spanish-speaking fight fans around the world. I am honored to have Genaro on my team, and look forward to the many contributions he will make to our growing organization."

"It is an honor to be involved with the UFC, an organization that is clearly on the rise in the fight game," said Hernandez. "It will be exciting to be Octagon(TM)-side for all the fights, bringing the UFC experience to an audience..."

In addition to providing commentary for the UFC, Hernandez also serves as the Spanish language commentator for the highly-respected HBO Boxing program, and has worked in the past as a CompuBox, Inc. technician for HBO(R) Boxing and ESPN.

Hernandez entered a long and successful career in boxing at age nine when he first started training in downtown Los Angeles. As an amateur, he accelerated and earned a name for himself by winning several Golden Gloves and Junior Olympic titles. He turned professional at eighteen years of age, and racked up a record of 13-0 with 6 knockouts. In 1988, he fought Refugio Rojas (former world title challenger to Julio Cesar Chavez) and KOd him in the sixth round. This victory enabled Hernandez to enter the World Boxing Association (WBA) Junior Lightweight rankings.

Two years later, he fought for the world title against Daniel Londas, and knocked him out in the ninth round to become the new Junior Lightweight Champion. He went on to defend his title numerous times, then accepted a highly-anticipated fight with Oscar de la Hoya. For the first time in his career, Hernandez was knocked out, losing in the sixth round to the much heavier and younger de la Hoya.

In 1997 he captured the World Boxing Council (WBC) World Junior Lightweight crown from Azumah Nelson, and then defended his title against contenders Anatoly Alexandrov, Carlos Genera and Carlos Famoso Hernandez. In 1998, he fought eight rounds with Floyd Mayweather Jr. before the challenger ended the fight by knockout. Shortly thereafter, due to injuries, he announced his retirement from boxing.

Born in South Central Los Angeles, Hernandez attended Roosevelt High School and attended Platt College in Irvine, Calif. He currently resides in Mission Veijo, Orange County, Calif.

About The Ultimate Fighting Championship

The Ultimate Fighting Championship(R) brand is the world's leading professional mixed martial arts organization and offers the premier series of MMA sports events. Owned and operated by Zuffa, LLC, and headquartered in Las Vegas, Nev., the UFC(R) organization produces approximately eight live pay-per-view events annually that are distributed through cable and satellite providers. In addition to its U.S. distribution, UFC fight programs are distributed throughout the world including broadcast on WOWOW, Inc. in Japan, Globosat in Brazil and Bravo in the United Kingdom. Zuffa, LLC licenses the distribution of its fight show DVDs through Studioworks Entertainment, a Ventura Distribution company. For more information, or current UFC fight news, visit http://www.ufc.com/.

Ultimate Fighting Championship(R), Ultimate Fighting(R), UFC(R), The Ultimate Fighter(R), Submission(R), As Real As It Gets(R), The Octagon(TM) and the eight-sided competition mat and cage design are registered trademarks, trademarks, trade dress or service marks owned exclusively by Zuffa, LLC in the United States and other jurisdictions. All other marks referenced herein may be the property of Zuffa, LLC or other respective owners.

Source: The Ultimate Fighting Championship

CONTACT: Jennifer Wenk of The Ultimate Fighting Championship,
+1-702-221-4790

Web site: http://www.ufc.com/
http://www.ufc.tv/

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International Entertainment News

New Frontier Media Invites You to Join Its Fiscal 2006 Third Quarter Earnings Conference Call

New Frontier Media Invites You to Join Its Fiscal 2006 Third Quarter Earnings Conference Call

BOULDER, Colo., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- New Frontier Media, Inc. (NASDAQ:NOOF) invites you to listen to the presentation of its Fiscal 2006 Third Quarter earnings via teleconference and live over the Internet on Tuesday, February 7, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time.

What: Fiscal 2006 Third Quarter Earnings Conference Call

When: Tuesday, February 7th at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time

Webcast: To access webcast, log on to the Company's web site at
www.noof.com -- Click on Investor Relations and then
Webcasts & Events

Conference Call: (866) 250-2351 (To reserve your space on the conference
call, contact Helen Patton of New Frontier Media by
calling 303-444-0900 ext. 113, or send an email to
hpatton@noof.com)

If you are unable to participate during the conference call or live webcast, the presentation will be archived for twelve months on the Corporate web site, www.noof.com, or available via telephone for seven days by calling 800-405-2236 using the access code 11052886#.

ABOUT NEW FRONTIER MEDIA, INC.

New Frontier Media, Inc. is a leading distributor of adult entertainment via electronic platforms. The Company delivers the most extensive lineup of quality programming over the broadest range of electronic means including cable, satellite, Broadband, Wireless, and video-on-demand.

The Erotic Networks(TM), the umbrella brand for the Company's subscription and pay television subsidiary, provides pay-per-view, video-on-demand, and subscription TV networks and services to over 89 million cable, DBS (direct broadcast satellite) and C-band households throughout North America. The Erotic Networks(TM) include Pleasure(TM), TEN(TM), TEN*Clips(TM), TEN*Xtsy(TM), TEN*Blue(TM), TEN*Blox(TM), TEN*Max(TM) and TEN*On Demand(TM). These networks and services represent the widest variety of editing standards available and are programmed without duplication to offer the most extensive selection of adult network programming under a single corporate umbrella.

For more information contact Karyn Miller, Chief Financial Officer, at (303) 444-0900, extension 102, and please visit our web site at www.noof.com.

Contact: Karyn L. Miller
(303) 444-0900 x 102
kmiller@noof.com

Source: New Frontier Media, Inc.

CONTACT: Karyn L. Miller of New Frontier Media, Inc., +1-303-444-0900,
ext. 102, kmiller@noof.com

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

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International Entertainment News

A&E Television Networks Announces Creation of History Education(TM)

A&E Television Networks Announces Creation of History Education(TM)

New Brand Created to Develop and Sell Educational Resources

The History Channel(R) Multimedia Classroom Product Line Launches February 10th

NEW YORK, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- After months of research and development, A&E Television Networks (AETN) has announced the formation of HISTORY EDUCATION(TM), a new business venture that develops and sells resources for schools and community colleges. An extension of The History Channel(R), History Education offers a new multimedia product line based on the network's acclaimed programming that challenges, inspires and encourages the love of learning.

The first release under the History Education brand is The History Channel Multimedia Classroom, a set of new social studies teaching tools that are specifically correlated to meet national and individual state curriculum requirements. Created for students in Middle School through Junior College, each lesson plan combines short clips of original programming with primary source documents, discussion questions, extended activities, maps and images, and suggested reading lists. The lesson plan components, in CD-Rom format (both PC and Mac compatible), are paired with closed-captioned DVD versions of the full-length programs on which they are based.

The History Channel Multimedia Classroom product line will launch on February 10, 2006 with American History, a comprehensive set spanning six distinct periods in the history of our nation. The American History set is comprised of 21 lesson plans within six subsets including Founding of a Nation, Early Expansion, Nation in Conflict, America in Transition, Years of Crisis, and New World Order.

"Over the years, it has been the mission of AETN and The History Channel to actively support teachers' and parents' efforts to bring history alive for students in the classroom and at home," said Dr. Libby O'Connell, Senior Vice President, Corporate Outreach and Chief Historian, AETN. "History Education is a culmination of the company's major effort to ensure that the finest multimedia tools are developed, presenting history lessons in an easy-to-use format."

The set, packaged together in an elegant, classroom ready collector's box, is designed to offer maximum flexibility. Teachers can select entire plans or only the elements they need, allowing them to individually tailor each lesson.

"One of AETN's primary goals for the History Education product was to create the richest, most expansive teaching tools but at an affordable price." said Andrew Wise, Vice President, Consumer Products, AETN. "We believe that a wide variety of students at a diverse range of educational levels will greatly benefit from this multimedia offering."

The entire American History set, which includes 29 DVDs along with the 21 CD-ROM lesson plans, is $849.00, a 15% savings off the individual volume prices, and can be ordered through http://www.history.com/education. In order to offer teachers and parents an opportunity to sample The History Channel Multimedia Classroom Product, AETN is offering Ben Franklin, a single title from the American History set, at a discounted rate of $24.95. The six American History subsets can also be purchased separately. The price of each subset varies according to the number of disks in each set, but ranges from $119.00 to $199.00 per set.

Three new Multimedia Classroom products scheduled to be issued later in 2006, include The U.S. Presidents, Global History, and Diversity in America.

A&E Television Networks, a joint venture of The Hearst Corporation, ABC, Inc. and NBC Universal, is an award-winning, international media company offering consumers a diverse communications environment ranging from television programming, to home videos/DVDs and music CDs, to Web sites, as well as supporting nationwide educational initiatives. AETN is comprised of A&E Network(R), The History Channel, History International(R), The Biography Channel(R), Military History Channel(TM), The History Channel en espanol(TM), Crime & Investigation Network(TM), AETN International, and AETN Consumer Products. The A&E web site is located at http://www.aetv.com/, the Biography web site is located at http://www.biography.com/ and The History Channel web site is located at http://www.history.com/.

Source: The History Channel

CONTACT: Susan Raisch, +1-718-667-5576, sraisch@verizon.net, or Kerri
Tarmey, +1-212-551-1504, Kerri.tarmey@aetn.com

Web site: http://www.aetv.com/
http://www.shopaetv.com/
http://www.history.com/
http://www.biography.com/

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International Entertainment News

eBay Drop-Off Store Launches Industry's First National Television Ad Campaign

eBay Drop-Off Store Launches Industry's First National Television Ad Campaign

COSTA MESA, Calif., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- QuikDrop International announced today that it has launched a 30 day national cable television advertising campaign to drive customers into its eBay drop-off retail stores throughout the United States and Canada. Spots have already started running on Fox News, Discovery Channel and BBC America featuring a woman exclaiming, "Do you have cash lying around the house and don't even know it?"

QuikDrop makes it easy for clients and businesses to sell items on eBay. Clients drop off items valued at $50 or more and QuikDrop does the rest. QuikDrop handles digital photography of the item(s), writes a detailed description and posts the product on eBay, the world's largest marketplace. When the item sells, QuikDrop packs and ships it to the buyer and sends a check directly to the seller, minus a commission.

"We had strong operating profits in 2005," according to Murray Mead, President of QuikDrop International. "Investing the winnings in national television advertising is the best way to tell the story about how our customers use our service to get cash they didn't know they had."

QuikDrop is the premier eBay drop-off store franchise. Since founding the first franchised eBay drop-off store in August 2003, QuikDrop has sold over $22 million worth of items on eBay for over 34,000 customers. For up-to-the-minute statistics on QuikDrop's successful eBay auctions, visit the eBay drop-off industry's first real-time reporting website at www.quikdrop.com or call (714) 429-1040.

Contact: Jack Reynolds info@quikdrop.com
QuikDrop International www.quikdrop.com
3151 Airway Ave., M-3
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Phone: 714-429-1040
Fax: 714-429-1038

Source: QuikDrop International

CONTACT: Jack Reynolds of QuikDrop International, +1-714-429-1040, or
fax, +1-714-429-1038, info@quikdrop.com

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

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International Entertainment News

SPJ Announces Distinguished Journalist Award Winners

SPJ Announces Distinguished Journalist Award Winners

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- The Greater Los Angeles Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists will honor four local journalists and a media attorney at its 30th annual awards banquet this spring.

SPJ-LA presents the Distinguished Journalist Award to members of the profession who demonstrate good news judgment, a strong sense of ethics and a passion for getting the story right. "They represent the best and the brightest of journalists working in the greater Los Angeles area today," says SPJ-LA President Mariel Garza.

Details about the date and location of the banquet will soon be announced. The information will be posted at: http://www.spj.org/losangeles .

DISTINGUISHED JOURNALIST AWARD WINNERS

JOHN ANTCZAK has covered Southern California for The Associated Press for 26 years as a reporter and a desk supervisor in the Los Angeles bureau. He has reported on virtually all aspects of life in the region -- Hollywood, politics, crime, business, science, natural disasters and Southern California culture. For many years, Antczak has specialized in directing coverage of big, breaking stories, ranging from earthquakes to the Emmy Awards. He was AP's California/Nevada 2004 Staffer of the Year.

STEVE KINDRED has been a radio reporter and anchor since 1975. Since joining KFWB-AM (980), he has covered Operation Desert Shield, the San Francisco and Northridge earthquakes and the 1992 L.A. Riots. His coverage of the 1997 North Hollywood bank shootout earned him a Mark Twain Award from The Associated Press. He is KFWB's City Hall reporter but may be best known for covering trials, from Rodney King to Robert Blake. He's the winner of an Edward R. Murrow award from the Radio-TV News Directors Association and 18 Golden Mikes.

JULIA SEIFER is the special projects producer for "Eyewitness News". Since joining KABC-TV (Ch. 7) in 1988, she's worked her way up from assignment desk assistant to writer to producer. She covers the medical and legal beats. Seifer also determines and coordinates coverage on long-term projects, including coverage of the O.J. Simpson, Rodney King, Kobe Bryant and Michael Jackson trials. She's worked abroad, working on stories about African-American genealogy, counter-terrorism efforts in Paris and American doctors helping terrorism victims in Israel. She received an Emmy Award for writing and producing a series about the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks. Seifer has also been recognized by The Associated Press for her breaking-news coverage.

DAVID ZAHNISER is a staff writer for the Los Angeles bureau of Copley News Service. He is known for breaking stories about city and county government. For example, Zahniser last year discovered employees of a Miami-based company had made donations to Antonio Villaraigosa's mayoral campaign. Villaraigosa later announced he would return the contributions. Zahniser's stories appear in the Daily Breeze of Torrance and the San Diego Union-Tribune.

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION AWARD

SPJ-LA also honors people, often non-journalists, who further the free flow of information and champion freedom of the press. The Freedom of Information Award is not given out every year. The chapter feels this year's recipient truly deserves the recognition.

KARLENE W. GOLLER is vice president and deputy general counsel for the Los Angeles Times and Tribune Company's senior counsel for West Coast media. She is also First Amendment counsel for the Times and Tribune's other California newspapers. Goller represents the papers in connection with legislative and policy matters at the state and federal levels. She is a member of the California, District of Columbia, Virginia, and United States Supreme Court Bars. She serves on the board and Government Affairs Committee of the California Newspaper Publishers Association and on the legal committees of LA Youth newspaper and the Newspaper Association of America. She also serves on the editorial board for the Media Law Resource Center's MediaLawLetter. Ms. Goller is vice chair and member of the board of Public Counsel, the largest pro-bono legal services provider in the country.

The Society of Professional Journalists is the nation's largest and most broad-based journalism organization, dedicated to promoting high standards of ethical behavior and encouraging the free practice of journalism. Founded in 1909 as Sigma Delta Chi, SPJ works to inspire and educate the next generation of journalists and protects First Amendment guarantees of freedom of speech and press.

Source: Greater Los Angeles Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists

CONTACT: Claudia Peschiutta of Greater Los Angeles Chapter of the
Society of Professional Journalists, +1-310-948-5315

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International Entertainment News

Toyota's 'Hybrid' Super Bowl Ad Sneak Peek Now Available on Toyota.com and Toyota.com/Espanol

Toyota's 'Hybrid' Super Bowl Ad Sneak Peek Now Available on Toyota.com and Toyota.com/Espanol

TORRANCE, Calif., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- While some companies are waiting until Sunday to debut their Super Bowl ads, Toyota is offering consumers a sneak peak of its entire Super Bowl commercial on Toyota.com and Toyota.com/espanol. The ad also is available as an iPod download.

Toyota's Super Bowl ad features a "hybrid" approach with English and Spanish to demonstrate the Camry Hybrid's use of gas and electricity. The ad features a Hispanic father and son driving in their new Camry Hybrid. The father explains that he bought a hybrid for the same reason he speaks two languages -- for the boy's future.

"We've had tremendous response to the initial publicity about the spot and decided to go ahead and make it available in advance of the game," said Jim Farley, Toyota Vice President of Marketing. "We think it does a good job of conveying the cross cultural message that parents act to improve their children's future. At the same time it briefly explains how the Camry Hybrid works and highlights its benefits."

The ad, which will run in the first quarter of the Super Bowl, was developed by Conill, Toyota's Hispanic advertising agency, and is Toyota's first bilingual, bi-cultural ad. It will also be the first ad to run for the all-new 2007 Camry.

Toyota is the top automaker among Hispanics and Camry is the third-best-selling car among Hispanics. Twenty-five percent of Hispanics 18 and over watch the Super Bowl.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030501/TOYLOGO )

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030501/TOYLOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

CONTACT: Nancy Hubbell of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.,
+1-310-468-7633

Web site: http://www.toyota.com/
http://www.toyota.com/espanol

NOTE TO EDITORS: More information about the ad, screen shot images and video of the commercial are available.

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International Entertainment News

Top Folk Artists Perform for Protect Our Cape Fear Benefit

Top Folk Artists Perform for Protect Our Cape Fear Benefit

Stop The Dump Concert is March 12, Kenan Auditorium, UNCW Campus, Wilmington

WILMINGTON, N.C., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Seven nationally known musicians headline a benefit concert March 12 to support growing opposition against locating an auto shredder residue (ASR) waste facility in the Cape Fear Region. The multi-national corporation Sims-Hugo Neu has bought property on Mount Misery Road in Navassa -- across the Cape Fear River from Wilmington -- to build a 350-foot mountain of waste unless a grass-roots effort by citizens in Southeast North Carolina can block the plan.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060131/NYTU123-ahttp://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060131/NYTU123-b )

The March 12 concert will be held at 7 p.m. at the Kenan Auditorium on the University of North Carolina's Wilmington Campus, 601 South College Road.

The artists, who have performed throughout the U.S. and Europe, will present an evening of contemporary folk music, including two original songs: Mount Misery Hill, by Jim Clare, and Landfill in my Soul, by Catesby Jones, written to bring attention to the dangers of locating a dump near the Cape Fear River.

Other performers are Dave Bohn, John Golden, Anne Haley, Tommy Hutchinson, and Geoff Morris.

"Every community, from the city of Wilmington to Fort Fisher, has a dog in this fight, "Mr. Clare told the non-profit Brunswick Citizens for a Safe Environment (BCFSE). Clare and Jones and fellow musicians volunteered their talents to aid the protest.

"When you consider the treasures of the Cape Fear Region -- our rivers, the Intracoastal Waterway, and the ocean -- it is clear that a dump, protected from the ground by a thin layer of plastic, will adversely affect the area for generations to come. Citizens must send a message to our legislators, R.C. Soles and Bonner Stiller, that they will not be re-elected if they don't stop Hugo Neu from locating in the Cape Fear Region."

Tax-deductible tickets to the concert are $20; $15 for blocks of 20 tickets or more; $5 for students and children, available by calling 910.383.2007 or at the Kenan Hall Box Office, or from a member of Brunswick Citizens for a Safe Environment (BCFSE). Visit the website at http://stopthedump.com/

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060131/NYTU123-a
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20060131/NYTU123-b
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: BCFSE

CONTACT: Beth Souther, PR for BCFSE, +1-910-383-2848

Web site: http://stopthedump.com/

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International Entertainment News

VideoDetective 3.0 Debuts Today

VideoDetective 3.0 Debuts Today

HADDON HEIGHTS, N.J., Jan. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- VideoDetective.com has always been a step ahead of the Internet as a whole. When all you could find on other movie sites was text reviews, the Detective had box art and thumbnail pictures. When other sites added box art and photos, it offered streaming previews. When the 'wannabees' added a few previews, it offered behind the scenes footage.

Now, while others talk all about web 2.0, VideoDetective.com has unveiled a third iteration that seamlessly integrates a user-empowering interface with its giant and dynamic database to provide the first truly interactive video search results.

The site enables searchers interested in movies, whether they are in theaters, DVD or VOD to find truly useful results. Searching or filtering results can be done by title, genre, actor or even decade. Once you find what you are looking for, you can preview the title with a click of your mouse.

Crisp clear streaming trailers tell show you what the movie is like. You can then decide for yourself if it interests you. You can then click through to a variety of media and purchase methods. This is just the way that people say that 'synergized TV and Internet' are going to work. You can see it today at VideoDetective.com.

"Our goal," says company Director of Technology, Robert Kolo, "is to create a tool that people want to use in making better choices about what and how to watch. Leisure time is so valuable and there are so many choices. If we can help people make the most of out it, we've added value and earned our place."

If you still doubt that video is the next 'killer ap' on the net, remember that the proof is in the pudding. VideoDetective.com is cooking with over 3 million unique visitors and over 12 million previews each month.

Online since November of 1996, the VideoDetective.com database is updated every day with previews and clips of upcoming theatrical, DVD and VOD releases and now contains over 17,000 digitized movie previews, trailers and clips. Many public libraries as well as leading online video retailers have incorporated them into their respective web sites as a research or shopping aid. VideoDetective LLC is an authorized preview distributor for most major studios and dozens of independent producers.

Source: VideoDetective.com

CONTACT: Rhodes Mason, VideoDetective.com, +1-856-310-1981, ext. 6, or
rhodesm@videodetective.com

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

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