Video Feed: Disney Celebrates the 40th Anniversary of One of the Most Beloved Films of all Time

Video Feed: Disney Celebrates the 40th Anniversary of One of the Most Beloved Films of all Time


MARY POPPINS

Star-Studded Black Tie Hollywood 'Re-Premiere' Re-Unites
JULIE ANDREWS, DICK VAN DYKE and Other Original Cast and Crew -
for a Gala Celebration and Launch of a 'Special Edition' DVD

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NEWS: Original Cast And Crew Of Mary Poppins Re-Unites November 30 at Hollywood's Historic El Capitan Theatre

FORMAT: News Package With Extra Soundbites and B-roll.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: Video, hard copy requests, contact information and more available at http://www.prnewswire.com/broadcast/20847/press.shtml

STORY SUMMARY:

The anticipation, glamour and excitement of the original 1964 premiere of one of the most beloved films of all time -- MARY POPPINS, re-created on Hollywood Blvd. Arrivals will include fans, a red carpet with interview opportunities, original backdrops from the film's set, chalk pavement pictures and even live penguins -- perfect to transport attendees on a Jolly Holiday back to 1964! So Step in Time, you'll not want to miss out on this Spoonful of Sugar!

To celebrate the 40th Anniversary and the long-awaited restoration of MARY POPPINS, which will be available on December 14 in the 40th Anniversary Edition DVD, chock-full of spectacular, all-new bonus materials -- including a first-ever musical reunion with Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke and co-composer Richard M. Sherman reminiscing about making the film.

MARY POPPINS is one of Walt Disney's greatest achievements, a true milestone in cinema history. Julie Andrews won the Academy Award for Best Actress (1965), alongside fantastic co-star Dick Van Dyke. This magical tale of the "practically perfect" nanny who brings cheer and happiness to the children and all around her won the Academy Award for Best Score, Best Song ("Chim Chim Cher-ee"), Best Special Visual Effects and Best Film Editing.

Celebrities expected include Bill Paxton, George Lopez, Jack Klugman, Shirley Jones, Mary Steenburgen, Ted Danson, James Denton ("Desperate Housewives"), Camryn Manheim, Cary Elwes, Adrienne Barbeau, Red Buttons, Andy Dick, Larry Hagman, Ed Begley, Jr., Marilu Henner, Alan Thicke, Susan Egan, Jo Anne Worley, Christy Carlson Romano, Lin Shaye, Phyllis Diller, Rose Marie, Lainie Kazan, Margaret O'Brien, and Charmian Carr (Liesl in "The Sound of Music" film)

VIDEO PROVIDED BY: Buena Vista Entertainment

FOR TECHNICAL INFORMATION OR HARD COPY, PLEASE CALL:
MultiVu Media Relations, 800-653-5313 EXT. 3


PRNewswire -- Nov. 30

Video: http://www.prnewswire.com/broadcast/20847/press.shtml
Source: Buena Vista Entertainment

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


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Profile: intent

Microsoft and BT to Bring Digital Networked Economy Closer to Smaller Businesses

Microsoft and BT to Bring Digital Networked Economy Closer to Smaller Businesses

BT to Implement New .NET-based Solution With Microsoft Hosted Exchange Infrastructure to Deliver Rich E-Mail and Software Services to Smaller Businesses

LONDON, Nov. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:MSFT) and BT today announced they have signed an information technology (IT) services agreement for a series of strategic projects that will enable BT to accelerate the launch of new Internet-based services to its customers. By implementing the Microsoft(R) solution, BT will be able to roll out affordable and easy-to-use e-mail, shared calendar and contacts, as well as other software applications, to smaller businesses. The first new service BT plans to launch is an enhanced e-mail service for smaller businesses based on Microsoft Hosted Exchange. The contract between the two companies is valued at approximately $7 million (U.S.).

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO )

"Using the Microsoft .NET-based framework as the core of this infrastructure, we will be able to deliver a 'plug and play' facility for launching Internet-hosted software services, initially to smaller businesses in the U.K. Our aim is to offer these businesses a way to reduce or eliminate the initial capital outlays and ongoing maintenance costs that are associated with managing IT in-house," said Duncan Ingram, managing director of BT Openworld. "BT, together with Microsoft, aims to make IT applications and services simple to use, affordable and of good value. By offering an 'a la carte' menu of services that can be tailored to the diverse needs of a smaller business, we can deliver a level of customer service and support that we believe will help us both to drive new revenue streams."

The solution being deployed by BT comprises a suite of Microsoft .NET-based software and service packages that are designed to provide enhanced connectivity and streamline operational and billing processes. For example, Microsoft BizTalk(R) Server 2004 provides BT with a unified view of and easy access to its customer data and service information, helping ensure that BT can provision and bill customers for the new services quickly and efficiently.

The project follows extensive trials by BT and Microsoft Consulting Services at the Microsoft Technology Centre in Reading, England, and the Microsoft Partner Solutions Center in Redmond, Wash., to ensure the carrier-grade scalability and reliability needed to deploy these new hosted IT services on a wide scale. The projects are being coordinated by Microsoft Consulting Services, which is working with global systems integration provider Tata Consultancy Services Ltd. to implement the integrated solution. HP also will provide services to deliver the security-enhanced and scalable Microsoft Hosted Exchange infrastructure within BT.

"In the telecoms market, fixed-line and mobile operators have recognized that incremental revenues will be driven by their ability to deliver a range of value-added services -- particularly to smaller businesses," said Daren Mancini, U.K. director of the Communications Sector at Microsoft. "Microsoft is working closely with Tata Consultancy Services and HP to help BT deliver these innovative and profitable services to its customers and ensure they are efficiently integrated into BT's existing infrastructure."

"Tata Consultancy Services is pleased to be working with Microsoft to develop this strategic solution for BT, not only because BT is a valued customer for both of our companies, but also because this project is a key milestone in an important business relationship for Tata Consultancy Services and Microsoft," said A.S. Lakshminarayanan, vice president and country manager for the UK & Ireland at Tata Consultancy Services Ltd. "This solution will form a principal foundation for BT as they deliver new services to realize their vision around the Digital Networked Economy and Tata Consultancy Services is delighted to work with Microsoft to help BT achieve this."

Microsoft Hosted Exchange 2003 Solution

The Microsoft Solution for Hosted Exchange 2003 enables service providers to offer flexible and scalable e-mail, messaging and collaboration services to smaller businesses and consumers. Hosted Exchange is a tested, pre-engineered solution based on Microsoft server products and includes management tools that help ensure rapid time to market and superior service levels to end users.

Hosted Exchange offers the scalability to meet changing needs, accommodating growth from 30,000 to several million e-mail accounts, and also offers flexible business modeling and tools to help operators quickly deploy value-added services with minimal cost.

About Microsoft EMEA (Europe, Middle East and Africa)

Microsoft has operated in EMEA since 1982. In the region Microsoft employs more than 12,000 people in over 55 subsidiaries, delivering products and services in more than 139 countries and territories.

About BT

BT is one of the world's leading providers of communications solutions serving customers in Europe, the Americas and Asia Pacific. Its principal activities include IT and networking services, local, national and international telecommunications services, and higher-value broadband and internet products and services.

BT consists principally of three lines of business:

-- BT Retail, providing fixed and mobile communications services and
solutions and IT and networking services to more than 20 million
business and residential customers in the UK. It is also a leading UK
internet services provider.
-- BT Wholesale, providing network services and solutions within the UK to
more than 600 fixed and mobile operators and service providers
including the provision of broadband, private circuits.
-- BT Global Services, providing IT and networking services
internationally to meet the needs of multi-site organisations with
European operations. BT Global Services operates in more than
130 countries and also offers international carrier services.



In the year ended 31 March 2004, BT Group's turnover was £18,519 million with profit before goodwill amortisation, exceptional items and taxation of pounds Sterling 2,013 million.

BT Group plc is listed on stock exchanges in London and New York. British Telecommunications plc (BT) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of BT Group and encompasses virtually all businesses and assets of the BT Group.

For more information, visit http://www.bt.com/about .

About Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)


Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is the world leading information technology consulting, services, and business process outsourcing organization that envisioned and pioneered the adoption of the flexible global business practices that today enable companies to operate more efficiently and produce more value.

TCS achieved this by creating and perfecting a unique method of global deployment and delivery of high quality, high value services and products in IT consulting and business process outsourcing. Known as the "Global Delivery Model," this strategic services delivery concept has reshaped the IT services industry.

More than 75% of TCS customers reward the company's reliability, passion, creativity, and unique ability to handle the broadest range of their IT needs by continually extending and deepening their partnerships with TCS. With over 30,000 of the world's best trained IT consultants located in 32 countries, TCS is uniquely positioned to deliver its flexible world class services seamlessly to any location.

TCS reported consolidated revenues of $1.56 billion (U.S.) in the fiscal year 2003-2004. The company is listed on the National Stock Exchange and Bombay Stock Exchange in India.

TCS has been operating in the UK and Ireland since 1975 and has eight offices in these markets, including a development center in Guildford. Over 5000 TCS consultants are engaged on UK client work for organisations such as the NHS, Aviva, Forth Ports, Somerfield and P&O.

For more information, visit our website at www.tcs.com/uk .

About Microsoft


Founded in 1975, Microsoft is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

NOTE: Microsoft and BizTalk are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries.

The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000822/MSFTLOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Microsoft Corp.

CONTACT: Dagmar Glier, +1-425-452-5439, or dglier@webershandwick.com, or
Helen Murphy, + 44 0 20 7067 0531, or hmurphy@webershandwick.com, both of
Weber Shandwick for Microsoft Corp.; or Microsoft EMEA Response Centre,
+44 870 243 0515, or emearesponse@wagged.com, of Microsoft Corp.

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

NOTE TO EDITORS: If you are interested in viewing additional information on Microsoft, please visit the Microsoft Web page at http://www.microsoft.com/presspass on Microsoft's corporate information pages. Web links, telephone numbers and titles were correct at time of publication, but may since have changed. For additional assistance, journalists and analysts may contact Microsoft's Rapid Response Team or other appropriate contacts listed at http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/contactpr.asp .

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Profile: intent

Hell on the High Street This Christmas

Hell on the High Street This Christmas

LONDON, December 1/PRNewswire/ --

- Customers Can't get no Satisfaction!



Substandard service and a bag-full of stress - that's high
street shopping in the run up to Christmas, as revealed by a new study. Dr.
David Lewis conducted experiments to monitor stress and satisfaction levels
as customers shopped on the high street, by phone and on line. Coupled with
results from an independent survey of over 1,000 consumers commissioned by
internet and catalogue retailer Lands' End - it's official - Brits can't get
no service satisfaction!



The high street retail experience was the most stressful (41% stress
level) and disappointing with a low customer service index of just 47%
compared to 78% satisfaction when shopping by phone and 88% when shopping on
the internet.



High Street bugbears include lack of assistants, shoddy service and poor
product knowledge. Confusing store layouts make finding required items a
hassle and a lack of help and signage exacerbates the problem, leaving
customers hot under the collar.



'Alarmingly, Christmas shopping stress is increasing year on
year with outbursts of 'retail rage' on the up as customers rush around
hunting for 'must-have' products,' comments psychologist Dr David Lewis.
'We've found heart rate and blood pressure levels among some consumers
similar to combat pilots and riot police. Contributing factors include the
sheer number of shoppers and the vast number of goods available. What's more,
consumers, forced to make difficult buying decisions against a deadline, can
develop 'hypervigilance' in which poor choices are made.



And the rage doesn't stop there... over half of customers surveyed
nationwide (53%) see red when a company cannot deal with them directly, if
they have to repeat themselves and if they get shunted from one department to
the next, (23%) hate being kept waiting for information and having to queue.
(Regionalised releases available).



For telephone service, Dr Lewis found that customer
satisfaction was high at 78%, and stress levels low at (22%). However, there
is a bad service gripe, as Brits nationwide agree that having to speak to a
machine is a service no no (38%) and would much prefer talk to a real person.
Following closely behind automated services is trying to get information and
talking to assistants with little product knowledge (21%).



The experiment discovered shopping on-line to be the least
stressful (14%) and most satisfying (88% customer satisfaction rating). Cyber
shopping offers a fast, efficient and easy way to shop, so take the heat out
of the pre-Christmas dash on line. Dr Lewis offers six ways to reduce
shopping stress and avoid high street hell:



- Plan ahead and take your time.


- Organise your entire Christmas with military precision - enjoy
ticking things off that list!


- When hitting the high street, shop little and often to conserve
mental and physical energy!


- Shop off peak and take advantage of quieter times.


- Go on-line - up to two-thirds of all Christmas shopping will be
efficiently purchased on line or over the telephone this year. Looking at
a catalogue or web site and shopping from home can improve satisfaction,
and gift giving by up to 85%.



- As soon as you get home, give yourself 10 minutes of
'me-time' for every 30 minutes spent rushing around the shops.



'On-line and telephone shopping will boost retail sales this Christmas',
says Rob Galkoff, Lands' End Direct Merchants. Our customers trust us to
deliver in time for Christmas - with a last order time of midnight on 22
December - they can shop stress-free up to the last minute! Approximately
3,000 people visit landsend.co.uk each day throughout the year and our live,
24/7, call centre takes around 3,000 calls per day and on our busiest date -
around the beginning of December - calls reach nearly 6000, which means 30
items per minute are processed...that's Santa Claus Lands' End style! We're
proud of our service ethos and our customers certainly enjoy their Lands' End
shopping experience (83% rate our customer service 8/10 or higher).'



Dr David Lewis carried out the experiment - including heart
rate and blood pressure monitoring - on 100 shoppers. The independent survey,
commissioned by Lands' End and undertaken by the David Lewis Consultancy,
looked at the views of 1,000 men and women in England, Scotland and Wales.
Lifestyle, customer service centre and fashion images in j-peg format
available.



Psychologist Dr David Lewis and Rob Galkoff, Lands' End are
available for comment.



Lands' End website: www.landsend.co.uk


Lands' End free phone: 0800-61-71-61



Source: Lands End Direct Merchants

For further information, please contact: Emma Harding/Emma Bussey, Neville McCarthy Associates, tel: +44(0)20-7940-2900 Email emma@nevillemccarthy.com. Out of hours contact number: +44(0)7970-529-688


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Profile: intent

Dex Media's President & CEO George Burnett and Chief Financial Officer Robert Neumeister to Speak at Credit Suisse First Boston Conference

Dex Media's President & CEO George Burnett and Chief Financial Officer Robert Neumeister to Speak at Credit Suisse First Boston Conference

DENVER, Nov. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Dex Media, Inc. (NYSE:DEX) announced that its President & CEO George Burnett and Chief Financial Officer Robert M. Neumeister will speak at the Credit Suisse First Boston Media & Telecom Conference at The Plaza Hotel in New York City on Tuesday, December 7 at 2:10 p.m. EST.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030506/DEXLOGO)

The event will be audio broadcast live and replay audio will be available via web cast at www.dexmedia.com.

About Dex Media, Inc.

Dex Media, Inc. is the exclusive publisher of the official White and Yellow Pages directories for Qwest Communications International Inc. The company publishes 259 directories in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. In 2003, after giving effect to the acquisition of Dex Media West, LLC, Dex Media, Inc. generated revenues of approximately $1.6 billion.

Dex Media printed and distributed approximately 43 million print directories and CD-ROMs and served more than 400,000 local and 4,000 national advertiser accounts in 2003. The company's leading Internet based directory, DexOnline.com, is the most used Internet Yellow Pages in the states Dex Media serves, according to market research firm comScore.

Safe Harbor for Forward-Looking and Cautionary Statements

This release may contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These statements are based on management's current expectations and are subject to risks, uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Actual results may vary materially from the expectations contained in the forward-looking statements. All statements contained in this release that are not clearly historical in nature are forward-looking, and the words "anticipate," "believe," "expect," "estimate," "plan" and similar expressions are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements.

The following factors, among others, could affect future results: continuing weakness in the U.S. economy; increased competitive pressure from other directory publishers or media companies; changes in interest rates or a reduction in Dex Media's cash flow that could impair Dex Media's ability to service its debt obligations; Dex Media's high level of indebtedness; and risks related to the start-up of new print or Internet directories and media services.

Other factors that could materially affect actual results can be found in Dex Media's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Many of these factors are beyond the company's ability to control or predict. Given these uncertainties, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which only speak as of the date of this press release. Dex Media undertakes no obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030506/DEXLOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Dex Media, Inc.

CONTACT: investors, Brooke Martellaro, +1-866-545-2900,
brooke.martellaro@dexmedia.com, or media, Pat Nichols, +1-303-784-1555, or
+1-303-949-9672, pat.nichols@dexmedia.com, both of Dex Media, Inc.

Web site: http://dexonline.com/

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


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Profile: intent

On Command Completes InterContinental Buckhead-Atlanta Installation

On Command Completes InterContinental Buckhead-Atlanta Installation

Leading In-Room Entertainment Company Signs 422 Room InterContinental Flagship Property

DENVER, Nov. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- On Command Video Corporation, a leading provider of in-room interactive entertainment for the hotel industry and its guests has recently completed the installation of the new flagship InterContinental Buckhead-Atlanta.

The hotel is located in the heart of the Buckhead community at Atlanta's most famous address, Peachtree Road. The luxury property provides the sophistication required to support the discerning needs of the affluent traveler visiting one of America's top ten communities. All 422 hotel guest rooms are equipped with On Command's video-on-demand, pay-per-view entertainment system and free-to-guest programming.

"On Command has provided the InterContinental guest rooms with our proprietary Roommate(TM) platform and CANVAS(TM) software and menu system. This state of the art system allows the hotel guest hundreds of viewing choices including our new iGames product offering," said David Goldstone, group vice president of sales for On Command. "Our goal is to continue to provide the best entertainment opportunities for our hotel customers and their guests."

"Our guests expect the ultimate in amenities," said Ronen Nissenbaum, general manager, InterContinental Buckhead-Atlanta. "The installation of On Command's in-room entertainment system further demonstrates InterContinental's commitment to deliver the best in-room entertainment available in the marketplace today."

About On Command

On Command Video Corporation (www.oncommand.com) is a leading provider of in-room entertainment technology to the lodging and cruise ship industries. On Command is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Liberty Media Corporation (NYSE:L)(NYSE:LMCB). On Command entertainment services include: on-demand movies; television Internet services using high-speed broadband connectivity; television email; short form television features covering drama, comedy, news and sports; video games; and music-on-demand services through Instant Media Network, a majority-owned subsidiary of On Command and the leading provider of digital on-demand music services to the hotel industry. All On Command products are connected to guest rooms and managed by leading edge video-on-demand navigational controls and a state-of-the art guest user interface system. The guest menu system can be customized by hotel properties to create a robust platform that services the needs of On Command hotel partners and the traveling public. On Command and its distribution network services more than 1,000,000 guest rooms, which touch more than 300 million guests annually.

On Command's direct served hotel properties are located in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Spain. On Command distributors serve cruise ships operating under the Royal Caribbean, Costa and Carnival flags. On Command hotel properties include more than 100 of the most prestigious hotel chains and operators in the lodging industry including, Accor, Adam's Mark Hotels & Resorts, Fairmont, Four Seasons, Gaylord Hotels (Gaylord Palms, Gaylord Texan, Gaylord Opryland and Gaylord Hotel at Opryland), Hilton Hotels Corporation, Hyatt, Intercontinental Hotels Group (Inter-Continental, Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn), Loews, Marriott (Courtyard, Renaissance, Fairfield Inn and Residence Inn), New York Palace Hotel, Radisson, Ramada, Starwood Hotels & Resorts (Westin, Sheraton, W Hotels and Four Points), and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.

About the InterContinental Buckhead-Atlanta

The InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta offers the contemporary traveler luxury and sophistication that only comes from close to 60 years of hotelier experience on six continents. The 21-story high-rise includes 422 guest rooms, 21 suites, and the largest ballroom space of any five-star hotel in the city of Atlanta. An interior garden courtyard, which can be viewed from all public areas of the hotel, creates an oasis of calm in a vibrant urban setting. The InterContinental Buckhead-Atlanta features a three-story elliptical lobby and lounge area, day spa, and a 160-seat restaurant with exterior terrace along Peachtree Road that encompasses fine and casual dining. The hotel is ideally situated at the center of Buckhead on Peachtree Road, surrounded by premium shopping outlets and within walking distance of the business district. (http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/buckhead)

About InterContinental Hotels & ResortsInterContinental

Hotels & Resorts has been the preferred hotel brand for international travelers for nearly 60 years and is committed to meeting the needs of today's travelers worldwide. InterContinental offers services and amenities specifically designed for the international business traveler and has mastered the delicate balance between providing consistent, superior service, while also capturing the local flavor of the city where each hotel is located. InterContinental continues to expand in key destinations around the globe. (www.intercontinental.com)


Source: On Command Video Corporation

CONTACT: Jill Wisehart, Corporate Communications of On Command Video
Corporation, +1-720-873-3423, jwisehart@ocv.com

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

Web site: http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/buckhead

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


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Profile: intent

Jurassic 5 and Jem Headline Sallie Mae Benefit at the House of Blues

Jurassic 5 and Jem Headline Sallie Mae Benefit at the House of Blues

Annual Concert to Raise Money for Shade Tree Women's Shelter

LAS VEGAS, Nov. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- The buzz is building about the musical line-up at the annual Sallie Mae benefit concert for Las Vegas' Shade Tree Women's Shelter, a local non-profit organization that provides services to more than 4,000 homeless and abused women and children each month.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041130/DCTU054 )
(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030617/SLMLOGO-a )


The Dec. 3 event will feature gold record hip-hop group Jurassic 5, known by fans as "J5," and Jem, whose hit single "Come on Closer" is the theme song for the new Julia Roberts and Jude Law movie release, "Closer." Portland, Oregon's Geoff Byrd will open the show, to be held at the House of Blues, and British rocker John Waite will host the concert for the sixth year.

"This line-up is drawing interest from music fans from throughout the region," said Jeff Whorley, executive vice president of Sallie Mae, the nation's leading provider of education funding. "With the support of these incredible musicians, Sallie Mae's employees and the community at large, we are expecting our best-ever turn out. Shade Tree meets critical needs in the Las Vegas community and deserves our help."

For six years, Sallie Mae's 300-person call-center in Summerlin, Nev. has hosted the benefit concert for Shade Tree by giving up their annual holiday party and raising money through ticket sales. Sallie Mae employees volunteer their time to organize the benefit. The Sallie Mae Fund, the company's charitable arm, matches each dollar raised up to $30,000.

Brenda Dizon, executive director of Shade Tree Shelter, said, "The Sallie Mae employees here make this event happen, and then the Sallie Mae Fund matching dollars put us over the top. This benefit has become one of the Shelter's biggest fundraisers each year." Over the past five years, Sallie Mae has raised and contributed more than $200,000 for Shade Tree.

"Shade Tree VI: Songs for The Shelter" is open to the public. General admission tickets are $25 and reserved seats are $40. A limited number of $100 host tickets include admission to a private pre-show acoustic performance by John Waite and newcomer Holly Brook, and a private after show party with all the performers.

The concert at the House of Blues, 3950 Las Vegas Blvd, begins at 8:00 P.M. The pre-show performance begins at 6:30 P.M. Host ticket holders also are invited to the after-show party with all of the evenings' performers in the Oba Room at the House of Blues. All tickets can be purchased by contacting the House of Blues ticket office at 702-632-7600.

Sallie Mae has a strong tradition of supporting many important causes and community needs. In November BusinessWeek magazine named Sallie Mae one of 2003's Top Corporate Givers in its annual survey of philanthropy supported by U.S. businesses. The magazine ranks Sallie Mae fifteenth among 183 companies included in the survey for cash gifts to charitable causes.

SLM Corporation (NYSE:SLM), commonly known as Sallie Mae, is the nation's leading provider of education funding, managing more than $98 billion in student loans for more than 7 million borrowers. The company primarily provides federally guaranteed student loans originated under the Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFELP), and offers comprehensive information and resources to guide students, parents and guidance professionals through the financial aid process. Sallie Mae was established in 1973 as a government-sponsored enterprise (GSE) called the Student Loan Marketing Association, and began the privatization process in 1997. Since then, the parent company name has changed, most recently to SLM Corporation. Through its specialized subsidiaries and divisions, Sallie Mae also provides an array of consumer credit loans, including those for lifelong learning and K-12 education, and business and technical products and services for colleges and universities. More information is available at http://www.salliemae.com/. SLM Corporation and its subsidiaries, other than the Student Loan Marketing Association, are not sponsored by or agencies of the United States.

The Shade Tree is Clark County's primary 24-hour emergency shelter specifically for women and women with children who find themselves in a crisis-situation. It provides an environment that helps each client achieve self-sufficiency. With steady income, most clients can move out of the shelter and live independently. Established in l990, The Shade Tree is an independent, non-profit agency. The Shelter's Web site is http://www.theshadetree.org/.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041130/DCTU054
Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030617/SLMLOGO-a
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Sallie Mae

CONTACT: Jennifer Galloway of Sallie Mae, +1-703-984-6809, or
jennifer.galloway@slma.com

Web site: http://www.salliemae.com/
http://www.theshadetree.org/

Company News On-Call: http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/827187.html


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Profile: intent

Handsome Devil and Full Blown Karma to Play Rock Angel Toy Drive at the Gypsy Lounge on December 4, 2004

Handsome Devil and Full Blown Karma to Play Rock Angel Toy Drive at the Gypsy Lounge on December 4, 2004

LAKE FOREST, Calif., Nov. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Rock Angel volunteers will be collecting new, unwrapped toys for children in need at the door of the Gypsy Lounge, 23600 Rockfield Blvd Lake Forest, CA 92630.

Since 1990, Rock Angel has staged toy drives to collect and distribute holiday toys to thousands of needy children and children affected by HIV/AIDS. In past years, Rock Angel Toy Drives have been held in 5 cities, at such prestigious locations as the House of Blues (Boston), Axis (Boston), Coconut Teaser (L.A.), The Bank (NYC) and clubs in Las Vegas and Washington DC.

Toys collected at this event will be distributed to 3 Southern California charities: Caring Strokes, Foothill Family Service and St. Anne's Maternity Home.

This year Rock Angel is proud to have two of Orange County's best and most unique bands play the 2004 Rock Angel Toy Drive. A new, unwrapped toy is your ticket in to see Handsome Devil and Full Blown Karma.

Formed by singer-songwriter Danny Walker and guitarist Billie Stevens with powerhouse rhythm provided by drummer, Keith Morgan and bassist, Brian Wedmore, Handsome Devil began making the rounds in the Orange County club scene in 1999. Since that time, Handsome Devil has released two albums, Love and Kisses from the Underground and Knock Yourself Out to critical acclaim. Handsome Devil has toured the United States five times including the 2002 Warped Tour and performed live on the Craig Kilborn Show.

Full Blown Karma (FBK) is a power trio out of Orange County. They have a penchant for hooky melodic songs delivered with a high energy. Formed in the winter of 2001 the band consists of Allen Willingham on vocals and guitar, drummer Michael Beck and bassist, Henry Rosello. Full Blown Karma have been featured on the G-Man's Freak Show and opened for Great White on New Year's Eve 2002. Allen Willingham is also responsible for organizing Rock Angel's first Orange County event.

For more information regarding the Rock Angel Toy Drive, call or email Nancee Allen at: RockAnglToyDrive@aol.com or 714-776-7796.


Source: Rock Angel

CONTACT: Nancee Allen, +1-714-776-7796, for Rock Angel


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Profile: intent

UNIVERSAL PICTURES HOSTS THE WORLD PREMIERE OF 'IN GOOD COMPANY' MONDAY, DECEMBER 6 AT GRAUMAN'S CHINESE THEATER

UNIVERSAL PICTURES HOSTS THE WORLD PREMIERE OF 'IN GOOD COMPANY' MONDAY, DECEMBER 6 AT GRAUMAN'S CHINESE THEATER


WHAT: The world premiere screening of "IN GOOD COMPANY," the insightful
comedy from writer/director Paul Weitz ("About a Boy").

WHO: "IN GOOD COMPANY" cast members Dennis Quaid, Topher Grace,
Scarlett Johannson, Marg Helgenberger, David Paymer, Clark Gregg,
Philip Baker Hall, Selma Blair, Kevin Chapman and Amy Aquino;
writer/director/producer Paul Weitz; producer Chris Weitz; and
executive producers Rodney Liber and Andrew Miano.

Plus, additional celebrity and filmmaking guests including Morena
Baccarin, Adam Baldwin, Lara Flynn Boyle, Nathan Fillion, Summer
Glau, Ginnifer Goodwin, Seth Green, Frankie Muniz, Vadim
Perelman, Debra Jo Rupp, Adam Tudyk, Wilmer Valderrama and Kerry
Washington, along with many others.

WHERE: Grauman's Chinese Theater
6925 Hollywood Boulevard

WHEN: Monday, December 6, 2004
5:30 PM Press Call Time
6:30 PM Celebrity Arrivals
7:30 PM Screening Begins

The premiere for "IN GOOD COMPANY" is sponsored by DKNY Jeans.


"IN GOOD COMPANY" opens in New York and Los Angeles on Wednesday, December 29,

2004, and in theaters across the country on Friday, January 14, 2005

PRNewswire -- Nov. 30


Source: Universal Pictures

CONTACT: Television, Tahli Abramovitch, +1-818-777-1414, or Print,
Amanda Scholer, +1-818-777-0641, or Photographers, Bette Einbinder,
+1-818-777-3226, or On-Line, Jonelle Forte, +1-818-777-6708, all of Universal
Pictures


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Profile: intent

Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox Arrests Bridgman Child Predator

Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox Arrests Bridgman Child Predator

Defendant traveled to Novi for encounter with 14-year-old girl

LANSING, Mich., Nov. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox announced today the arrest of Thomas Russell, 41, of Bridgman, Mich., who used the Internet to send obscene images and arrange a sexual encounter with who he thought was a 14-year-old girl, but was actually an Attorney General Investigator.

Russell traveled from his home in Bridgman to meet the girl in Novi. He was arrested there on Tuesday morning and was conveyed to the Novi Police Department for an interview with an Attorney General Agent. He admitted to traveling to meet the minor and will be arraigned in 52-1 District Court tomorrow. Two search warrants are being executed for Russell's home.

"We must protect our children against these dangerous individuals," Cox said. "We have taught our children the dangers of dark alleys and talking to strangers. Together, we must now educate them about the dangers of the Internet and the predators that seek to harm them. My office is partnering with parents to keep our children safe, and we will continue to do just that."

Russell faces five felony charges stemming from Tuesday's arrest including: one count of Child Sexually Abusive Activity (1), a 20-year and/or $100,000 felony; one count of using the Internet to commit the crime of Child Sexually Abusive Activity, a 20-year and/or $20,000 felony; and three counts of distributing obscene matter to a minor, a 4-year and/or $5,000 felony.

Russell is the 21st arrest in Attorney General Cox's new campaign to utilize undercover investigators to identify and prosecute Internet child predators.

The Novi Police Department assisted Attorney General Investigators in the case.


Source: Michigan Attorney General

CONTACT: Randall Thompson of Michigan Attorney General's office,
+1-517-373-8060

Web site: http://www.michigan.gov/ag


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Profile: intent

Bristol-Myers Squibb Invites Yahoo!'s Global Audience to Shine a Light on the HIV/AIDS Crisis on World AIDS Day

Bristol-Myers Squibb Invites Yahoo!'s Global Audience to Shine a Light on the HIV/AIDS Crisis on World AIDS Day

- 'Light to Unite' Campaign Helps Raise HIV/AIDS Awareness on Nine Yahoo! Front Pages -

NEW YORK, Nov. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY) is working with Yahoo! to raise awareness of the global HIV/AIDS crisis through the "Light to Unite" initiative on World AIDS Day. The Company will sponsor the front pages of Yahoo.com and eight other Yahoo! global sites, including the UK/Ireland, France, Germany, Australia/New Zealand, Singapore, Korea, Brazil, and Yahoo! en Espanol, in an effort to recognize those impacted by HIV/AIDS and Bristol-Myers Squibb's global commitment to fight the epidemic. Bristol-Myers Squibb has also committed to be an exclusive sponsor of the HIV/AIDS Resource Center at Yahoo! Health, which provides valuable information about the history, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of the disease.

Through the "Light to Unite" campaign, people across the globe are encouraged to add a virtual flame to the world map through http://www.yahoo.com/ or by visiting http://www.lighttounite.org/.

World AIDS Day, an annual global event on December 1, is dedicated to remembering the people who have died from AIDS, learning more about the devastating effects of the disease around the world, and reaffirming the commitment to fight it.

"Light to Unite" participants can continue adding a virtual flame to the fight against HIV/AIDS until midnight EST, December 1 and there is no limit to the number of times an individual can log on. The NBC Astrovision by Panasonic video screen in New York's Times Square will feature hourly updates for the growing support on the "Light to Unite" global map from noon to midnight on December 1.

"We encourage people across the globe to help raise awareness of the fight against HIV/AIDS by logging on to http://www.lighttounite.org/," said Ron Cooper, senior vice president, Bristol-Myers Squibb Virology. "Because HIV/AIDS is such a critical health issue, Bristol-Myers Squibb is committed to helping lead the global fight against the pandemic every day through its support of the HIV/AIDS community and compassion for people living with HIV/AIDS."

"As an online destination for more than 300 million people around the world, the Yahoo network provides Bristol-Myers Squibb with an ideal platform for reaching a mass global audience with a singular message of awareness about this critical health issue." said Jack Barrette, category development officer for pharmaceutical, Yahoo!. "The sponsorship of Yahoo! Health in the United States will help extend the 'Light to Unite' campaign to a targeted audience interested in finding more information about HIV/AIDS."

According to the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, AIDS has claimed more than 20 million lives worldwide since the first cases were diagnosed in 1981 -- 2.9 million in 2003 alone.(1) It is estimated that more than 37 million people were infected with HIV in 2003. Sub-Saharan Africa is the worst-affected region, with approximately two-thirds of all HIV-infected persons in the world living there.(1) In the U.S., nearly 950,000 Americans are living with HIV, with 40,000 new infections every year.(1)

About Bristol-Myers Squibb

Bristol-Myers Squibb is a global pharmaceutical and related health care products company whose mission is to extend and enhance human life.

A further commitment by the Company to HIV/AIDS is the SECURE THE FUTURE(R) initiative, which is an important public/private partnership to fight HIV/AIDS in Africa. It is a multi-year, $115 million program to help women and children with HIV/AIDS in five sub-Saharan and four western African countries.

(1) U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of
Allergy and Infectious Diseases "Facts and Figures" are available at
http://www.niaid.nih.gov/factsheets/aidsstat.htm


Source: Bristol-Myers Squibb Company

CONTACT: David M. Rosen of Bristol-Myers Squibb, +1-609-252-5675, Pager,
1-866-308-4484, or david.m.rosen@bms.com

Web site: http://www.bms.com/
http://www.yahoo.com/
http://www.lighttounite.org/


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Profile: intent

Synaptics Announces Proposed Private Offering of $100 Million of Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes

Synaptics Announces Proposed Private Offering of $100 Million of Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes

SAN JOSE, Calif., Nov. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Synaptics Incorporated (NASDAQ:SYNA) today announced that it intends to offer $100 million of Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes due 2024 in a private placement to qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933. Synaptics also intends to grant the initial purchasers of the notes an option to purchase up to an additional $20 million aggregate principal amount of the notes. The notes will bear interest and will be convertible into shares of Synaptics common stock, at a rate and price to be determined at the time of the pricing of the offering.

The company expects to use the net proceeds of the offering for working capital and general corporate purposes and potentially for future acquisitions. The company currently has no understandings or agreements with respect to any acquisitions, and no assurance can be provided that it will complete any such transactions.

This announcement is neither an offer to sell nor a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities to be offered. The notes will be offered and sold only to qualified institutional buyers in accordance with Rule 144A under the Securities Act. Any offers of the securities will be made only by means of a confidential offering memorandum. The notes and the underlying common stock issuable upon conversion of the notes have not been registered under the Securities Act or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from such registration requirements.

About Synaptics

Synaptics is a leading developer of interface solutions for the mobile computing, communications, and entertainment industries. The company creates interface solutions for a variety of devices including notebook PCs, PC peripherals, digital music players, and mobile phones. The TouchPad(TM), Synaptics' flagship product, is integrated into more than 50 percent of today's notebook computers. Consumer electronics and computing manufacturers use Synaptics' solutions to enrich the interaction between humans and intelligent devices through improved usability, functionality, and industrial design. The company is headquartered in San Jose, California. The company's website is www.synaptics.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains "forward-looking" statements about Synaptics, as that term is defined under the federal securities laws. Synaptics intends such forward-looking statements to be subject to the safe-harbor created by those laws. Such forward-looking statements include the company's intent to complete the described offering and the company's use of the proceeds of such offering. Synaptics cautions that these statements are qualified by important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected by the forward-looking statements contained herein. Such factors include, but are not limited to, stock and debt market conditions, and other risks as identified from time to time in Synaptics' SEC reports, including Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, and Annual Reports on Form 10-K. All forward-looking statements are based on information available to Synaptics on the date hereof, and Synaptics assumes no obligation to update such statements.

Contact:

Jennifer Jarman
The Blueshirt Group for Synaptics
415-217-7722
jennifer@blueshirtgroup.com


Source: Synaptics Incorporated

CONTACT: Jennifer Jarman of The Blueshirt Group, +1-415-217-7722 or
jennifer@blueshirtgroup.com, for Synaptics

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


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Profile: intent

SkillSoft Reports Third Quarter Fiscal 2005 Results; Third Quarter Revenue of $52.5 Million; EPS of $0.04

SkillSoft Reports Third Quarter Fiscal 2005 Results; Third Quarter Revenue of $52.5 Million; EPS of $0.04

Revises Fourth Quarter and Full Year Fiscal 2005 Financial Targets; Announces Reorganization of Content Development Organization

NASHUA, N.H., Nov. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SkillSoft PLC (NASDAQ:SKIL), a leading provider of content resources and complementary technologies for integrated enterprise learning, today announced financial results for its fiscal third quarter ended October 31, 2004. The Company also announced a restructuring of its content development organization in Dublin, Ireland and Nashua, New Hampshire to more efficiently manage costs and capitalize further on the flexibility inherent in its existing outsourcing model.

THIRD QUARTER RESULTS

The Company reported total revenue of $52.5 million for the quarter ended October 31, 2004, the third quarter of the fiscal year ending January 31, 2005 (fiscal 2005) as compared to total revenue of $50.0 million in the third quarter of fiscal 2004. Gross margin was 89% for the fiscal 2005 third quarter as compared to 91% in the third quarter of fiscal 2004.

The Company reported net income of $4.1 million, or $0.04 per basic and diluted share, for its fiscal 2005 third quarter. Fiscal 2005 third quarter net income includes a charge of $0.9 million, or $0.01 per basic and diluted share, for incremental research and development expenses incurred from an outside party for the modification of the virtual classroom technology (as previously discussed in our second quarter earnings release) and restructuring and other non-recurring expenses of $0.8 million, or $0.01 per basic and diluted share.

SkillSoft's $4.1 million third quarter net income compares to a reported net loss of $21.9 million, or $0.22 per basic and diluted share, for the fiscal 2004 third quarter. The fiscal 2004 third quarter results included $16.0 million, or $0.16 per basic and diluted share, for the settlement of its 1998 class action shareholder lawsuit and restructuring and other non- recurring expenses of $5.3 million, or $0.05 per basic and diluted share, primarily for costs incurred due to the restatement of the historical SmartForce PLC financial statements.

"We are continuing to experience our strongest growth in our product lines focused on informal learning, such as Books 24x7. At the same time, we, along with the rest of our industry, are facing a challenging and competitive market for IT spending that has resulted in reduced contract value in our core formal learning product lines. We expect in the near term that these two dynamics will tend to offset each other. We continue to expect our revenue in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2005 to grow from the levels we have reported for the third quarter; however, based on our current review of our sales pipeline we expect the rate of growth to be less than we had originally expected. Going forward, we plan to focus our efforts on our informal learning business, and in particular on new products that will create growth opportunities for the Company," said Chuck Moran, President and Chief Executive Officer. "We have already made substantial progress on several such initiatives, including SkillSoft Dialogue, our virtual classroom product; Expert-Led certification Programs; as well as new Books 24x7 product offerings: Executive Summaries, Executive Blueprints and Engineering Pro," commented Moran.

The Company's gross margin was 89% for the fiscal 2005 third quarter compared to 91% in the fiscal 2004 third quarter. The decrease is mainly due to a higher mix of royalty bearing revenue in the fiscal 2005 third quarter. Research and development expenses decreased to $10.5 million, including $0.9 million for incremental research and development expenses incurred from an outside party for the modification of the virtual classroom technology, in the fiscal 2005 third quarter compared to $15.2 million in the fiscal 2004 third quarter. The Company was able to achieve this decrease, while increasing content output, due to the completion of merger-related initiatives for content and platform improvements (in the fiscal 2004 fourth quarter) and other operational efficiencies. Sales and marketing expenses increased to $22.4 million in the fiscal 2005 third quarter from $20.8 million in the fiscal 2004 third quarter. This increase was primarily due to an increase in commission expense and higher marketing expense in the fiscal 2005 third quarter. General and administrative expenses decreased to $6.4 million in the fiscal 2005 third quarter compared to $6.9 million in the fiscal 2004 third quarter mainly due to lower legal and contractor services expense. Amortization of intangible assets and deferred compensation in the fiscal 2005 third quarter was $2.7 million, or $0.03 per basic share and $0.02 per diluted share, compared to $3.3 million, or $0.03 per basic and diluted share, in the fiscal 2004 third quarter. Restructuring and other non-recurring charges decreased to $0.8 million in the fiscal 2005 third quarter as compared to $5.3 million in the fiscal 2004 second quarter. This expense decreased primarily due to the completion of the restatement of the SmartForce PLC historical financial statements in fiscal 2004. The restructuring and non-recurring expense reflected in the fiscal 2005 third quarter relates primarily to the ongoing SEC investigation and the re-filing of statutory tax returns as a result of the restatement of the SmartForce PLC historical financial statements.

SkillSoft had approximately $67.4 million in cash, cash equivalents, short-term investments, long-term investments and restricted cash as of October 31, 2004 compared to $87.5 million as of July 31, 2004. The decrease is primarily due to the payment of $15.25 million for the first half of the 2002 securities class action settlement in August 2004.

In order to adequately assess the Company's collection efforts, taking into account the seasonality of the Company's business, the Company believes that it is most useful to compare current period days sales outstanding (DSOs) to the prior year period. Given the quarterly seasonality of bookings, the deferral from revenue of subscription billings may increase or decrease the DSOs on sequential quarterly comparisons.

SkillSoft's DSOs were in the targeted range for the fiscal 2005 third quarter. On a net basis, which considers only receivables balances for which revenue has been recorded, DSOs were 12 days in the fiscal 2005 third quarter as compared to 11 days in the year ago period and 9 days in the second quarter of fiscal 2005. On a gross basis, which considers all items billed as receivables, DSOs were 81 days in the fiscal 2005 third quarter compared to 85 days in the year ago quarter and 77 days in the fiscal 2005 second quarter.

SkillSoft had deferred revenue of approximately $105.0 million as of October 31, 2004, which reflects a decrease of $8.0 million compared to approximately $113.0 million as of July 31, 2004. This decrease is mainly the result of the deferred revenue recognized in the quarter on a subscription basis exceeding new bookings in the quarter.

REORGANIZATION OF CONTENT DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATION

SkillSoft currently outsources all of its Business Skills content and over two thirds of its IT Skills content development to third parties under rigorous project management and quality control standards, and has been doing so for many years. Under the reorganization, SkillSoft will shift the remainder of its IT Skills content development activities to its outsourcing partners, while continuing to maintain project management and quality control structures. The Company believes that the reorganization will enable it to meet its existing content production targets at a reduced cost and with greater flexibility with respect to the product offerings in which it elects to make investments.

The restructuring includes a proposed reduction of approximately 120 employees in Dublin and 13 in Nashua. The Company will maintain reduced core teams in content development in both Dublin and Nashua. The primary factors leading to this restructuring are the Company's ability to more cost effectively utilize outsourcing partners to develop course content and the completion of certain research and development initiatives undertaken after the merger with SmartForce and the excess space that now exists following the departure of contractors used to complete that work.

"SkillSoft has been able to successfully employ an outsourcing strategy in the past and believes that doing so on a broader scale will afford the Company more flexibility to reinvest dollars that can be recaptured in an outsourcing model for other research and development initiatives and/or to increase the profitability of the organization," stated Chuck Moran, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company. "As we have stated in the past, we review the various cost structures of the business on an ongoing basis and try to take advantage of opportunities that exist. This initiative is a byproduct of that process."

The Company expects to incur charges in connection with this restructuring related to payments to terminated employees in Dublin and the U.S., facilities consolidation resulting from excess space following the workforce reductions and the completion of the merger-related work and the repayment of employment and facilities-related grants previously awarded to the Company by agencies in Ireland. The Company cannot at this time determine the exact amounts of the charges to be incurred, because of uncertainties (primarily due to Irish laws regarding workforce reductions) concerning the identity of the employees to be terminated, ongoing negotiations with the landlord for the main Dublin facility concerning changes to the leasing arrangement, and issues related to the Company's obligation to repay all or a portion of the grants received from Irish agencies. However, the Company currently estimates that the total amount of the charges associated with this restructuring will not be more than $15 million. The Company cannot specifically identify when these charges are expected to be incurred, but a majority of these charges are expected to be incurred in the fourth quarter, as discussed below, with the remaining amounts possibly incurred over time depending on a number of factors, including the accounting treatment related to each of the charges.

FOURTH QUARTER AND FULL YEAR FISCAL 2005 OUTLOOK

As a result of the factors discussed below, the Company is adjusting its fourth quarter and full year fiscal 2005 revenue and earnings targets, which excludes the impact of restructuring charges related to the reorganization of the content development organization. The Company's updated quarterly revenue target for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2005 is $56.0 to $61.0 million, compared to third quarter revenues of $52.5 million and to the previously targeted fourth quarter range of $64.0 to $67.0 million. The Company's updated fourth quarter earnings target for fiscal 2005, including $2.0 million in accelerated content development spending, is $3.1 million to $7.3 million, or $0.03 to $0.07 per basic and diluted share, compared to third quarter earnings of $0.04 per basic and diluted share, and to the previously targeted fourth quarter range of $0.105 to $0.125 per basic and diluted share.

As a result of these new fourth quarter targets, the Company is now targeting a revenue range of $212 million to $217 million and a net income range of $11.8 million to $16.0 million, or $0.11 to $0.15 per basic and diluted share, for fiscal 2005 as a whole, compared to revenues of $193.5 million and a loss of ($0.81) per basic and diluted share in fiscal 2004, and to the previously targeted revenue range of $221 million to $225 million and a targeted net income range of $21.0 million to $24.0 million, or $0.20 to $0.22 per basic and diluted share, for the fiscal year ending January 31, 2005 (fiscal 2005).

The Company is changing its revenue targets primarily as a result of three factors. First, the Company is experiencing competitive pricing of larger contract renewals and a delay in orders or non-renewal of contracts from other customers who are being more cautious with their budgets. Second, the Company's reselling partners are experiencing a similar industry dynamic, resulting in delayed channel partner sell-through. In accordance with the Company's revenue recognition policy, the Company is precluded from recording revenue without evidence of ultimate sell-through by our channel partners to end users. Third, the Company's SmartCertify IT certification-focused direct- to-consumer business is contributing less revenue than expected.

In addition to the effect of the changes to its revenue targets on expected earnings, the Company is also pursuing several initiatives to support revenue and profit growth that will impact operating results in the fiscal 2005 fourth quarter and future periods.

First, the Company expects to incur restructuring charges currently estimated not to exceed $15 million, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2005 associated with the workforce reduction, facilities consolidation and corresponding obligation to repay certain government grants described above. The Company expects that the related significant shifting in its mix of content development capacity away from fixed internal capacity in Dublin towards the more flexible outsourced model will result in increased flexibility and cost savings of approximately $5 million per year at current production levels, beginning in fiscal 2006. The financial impact on future fiscal periods for the facilities consolidation has not yet been determined, but the Company expects the effect of the changes, once made, will be to reduce facilities cost going forward.

Second, as mentioned above, the Company has determined that there are significant new opportunities in informal learning, and the Company has determined to invest aggressively to pursue several of those opportunities. The Company expects that this will accelerate product availability and allow sales cycles to start earlier in our next fiscal year. The Company is making these accelerated investments in products such as Executive Blueprints, Executive Summaries and the recently announced EngineeringPro. The incremental impact of these additional investments on the fiscal 2005 fourth quarter is expected to be an increase of approximately $2.0 million in research and development expenses.

The Company continues to expect its cash position to be approximately in the range of $62.0 to $70.0 million as of January 31, 2005, taking into consideration the additional cash needed for new informal learning product- line expenditures as described above. The targeted cash position range doesn't take into consideration any cash required for a stock-buyback or restructuring related expenses associated with the reorganization of the content development organization.

The Company will provide annual revenue and net earning targets for fiscal 2006 after the fourth quarter of fiscal 2005. The Company will also provide the first quarter revenue and net income targets for fiscal 2006 at that time and will continue to provide, on an ongoing basis, only the next sequential quarterly revenue and net earnings targets to be reported, as well as any adjustments to its fiscal year targets.

The Company's outlook excludes the impact of restructuring charges, as well as the potential impact of any future acquisitions or divestitures, including potential non-recurring acquisition related expenses. The outlook also excludes the effect of financing arrangements and Company stock buyback transactions that could impact outstanding shares and thereby the Company's EPS outlook.

Share Repurchase Program

Previously, the Company announced that its shareholders had authorized the repurchase from time-to-time by the Company and/or its subsidiaries of up to seven million ordinary shares (represented by American Depositary Shares). Under Irish law, the share repurchase authorization expires on March 24, 2006, unless renewed by the shareholders prior thereto. The purchase of shares, if any, is, under Irish law, subject to the availability of distributable profits in the Company or its subsidiary companies. The Company determined at the end of the third quarter that it has available distributable profits and may now, subject to the Company's insider trading policy and applicable laws, repurchase shares under the program as approved by shareholders. The timing and amount of any shares repurchased will be determined by the Company based on its evaluation of market conditions and other factors, and may be commenced or suspended at any time or from time to time without prior notice.

Conference Call

In conjunction with this release, management will conduct a conference call today, Tuesday, November 30, at 5:00 p.m. ET to discuss the Company's operating performance. Chuck Moran, President and Chief Executive Officer, and Tom McDonald, Chief Financial Officer, will host the call.

To participate in the conference call, local and international callers can dial 973-935-2408. The live conference call will be available via the Internet by accessing the SkillSoft Web site at http://www.skillsoft.com/. Please go to the Web site at least fifteen minutes prior to the call to register, download and install any necessary audio software.

A replay will be available from 8:00 p.m. ET on November 30, until 11:59 p.m. ET on December 7, 2004. The replay number is 973-341-3080, passcode: 5440498. A webcast replay will also be available on SkillSoft's Web site at http://www.skillsoft.com/.

About SkillSoft

SkillSoft is a leading provider of comprehensive e-learning content and technology products for business and IT professionals within the Global 2000. SkillSoft's multi-modal learning solutions support and enhance the speed and effectiveness of both formal and informal learning processes and integrate SkillSoft's in-depth content resources, learning management platform, virtual classroom technology and support services.

Content offerings include SkillSoft's business and IT skills courseware collections; ITPro(TM), BusinessPro(TM), FinancePro(TM), EngineeringPro(TM), OfficeEssentials(TM) and ExecSummaries(TM) Referenceware(R) collections by Books24x7(R); and health and safety compliance courseware by GoTrain. SkillSoft's complementary technologies include SkillPort(R), the Company's learning management platform with its powerful Search-and-Learn capabilities, and SkillSoft(R) Dialogue(TM), the Company's newly introduced virtual classroom offering with associated tools for blended learning solutions. For more information, visit http://www.skillsoft.com/.

SkillSoft, the SkillSoft logo, Ahead of the Learning Curve, SkillPort, Search-and-Learn, SkillChoice, Books24x7, Referenceware, ITPro, BusinessPro, OfficeEssentials, EngineeringPro, ExecSummaries, Express Guide and SkillSoft Dialogue are trademarks or registered trademarks of SkillSoft PLC in the United States and certain other countries.

This release includes information that constitutes forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any such forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include difficulties in integrating the organizations of SmartForce and SkillSoft, competitive pressures, changes in customer demands or industry standards, adverse economic conditions, loss of key personnel, litigation and other risk factors disclosed under the heading "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Future Operating Results" in SkillSoft's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended July 31, 2004, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements provided by the Company in this press release represent the Company's views as of November 30, 2004. The Company anticipates that subsequent events and developments may cause the Company's views to change. However, while the Company may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, the Company specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the Company's views as of any date subsequent to the date of this release.

SkillSoft PLC and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations
(Unaudited)

Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
October, 31 October, 31
2004 2003 2004 2003

Revenues $52,507 $49,992 $155,949 $138,714
Cost of revenues 5,597 4,557 15,932 14,234
Gross profit 46,910 45,435 140,017 124,480

Operating expenses:
Research and development 10,505 15,171 32,587 40,603
Selling and marketing 22,441 20,830 69,467 67,404
General and
administrative 6,388 6,946 18,625 20,031
Legal settlements - 16,000 - 62,250
Amortization of stock-
based compensation 296 676 944 1,637
Amortization of
intangible assets 2,390 2,574 7,202 7,498
Restructuring and other
non-recurring items 796 5,287 2,470 16,825

Total operating expenses 42,816 67,484 131,295 216,248

Other income / (expense),
net 75 251 (164) 272
Interest income, net 88 87 481 680
Gain on sale of investments,
net - - - 3,682
Income / (loss) before
provision for income
taxes 4,257 (21,711) 9,039 (87,134)

Provision for income
taxes - cash 74 150 137 528
Provision for income
taxes - non-cash 68 - 226 -

Net income / (loss) $4,115 $(21,861) $8,676 $(87,662)

Net income / (loss), per
share, basic $0.04 $(0.22) $0.08 $(0.88)

Basic weighted
average common
shares outstanding 105,935,620 99,993,573 104,851,577 99,745,570

Net income / (loss),
per share, diluted $0.04 $(0.22) $0.08 $(0.88)

Diluted weighted
average common
shares outstanding 108,941,334 99,993,573 9,974,424 9,745,570


SkillSoft PLC
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet
(Unaudited)

October 31, 2004 January 31, 2004
ASSETS

CURRENT ASSETS:
Cash, cash equivalents and
short term investments $59,393 $61,340
Restricted cash 400 25,044
Accounts receivable, net 46,215 72,775
Prepaid expenses and other
current assets 14,173 24,759

Total current assets 120,181 183,918

Property and equipment, net 9,289 6,447
Goodwill 125,444 125,878
Acquired intangible assets, net 18,544 25,745
Long term investments 7,580 266
Other assets 163 124

Total assets $281,201 $342,378

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS'
EQUITY

CURRENT LIABILITIES:

Accounts payable $3,661 $6,588
Accrued expenses 51,089 92,117
Deferred revenue 104,982 134,328
Total current liabilities 159,732 233,033

Total long term liabilities 6,238 23,587

Total stockholders' equity 115,231 85,758

Total liabilities and
shareholders' equity $281,201 $342,378



Source: SkillSoft PLC

CONTACT: Tom McDonald, Chief Financial Officer of SkillSoft PLC,
+1-603-324-3000, ext. 4232; or Michael Polyviou or Kirin Smith, both of
Financial Dynamics, +1-212-850-5748, for SkillSoft PLC

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


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Profile: intent

CMT Gears Up for a Rowdy New Episode of 'CMT Crossroads' Featuring Lynyrd Skynyrd and Montgomery Gentry

CMT Gears Up for a Rowdy New Episode of 'CMT Crossroads' Featuring Lynyrd Skynyrd and Montgomery Gentry

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Nov. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Southern rock and country rebels collide for a rowdy new episode of CMT CROSSROADS when Lynyrd Skynyrd joins forces with Montgomery Gentry. The one-hour episode of CMT CROSSROADS will be taped in front of an invitation-only audience in Nashville and is slated to premiere Friday, Dec. 10 at 10:00-11:00 PM, ET/PT.* The critically acclaimed series, CMT CROSSROADS, teams-up country music stars with music stars from other genres - pop, rock, R & B - to play together, swap stories, and share their common love of music.

Lynyrd Skynyrd released its first album "pronounced leh-nerd skin-nerd" in 1973 to critical acclaim, excitement and mystery. With hits such as "Free Bird," "Sweet Home Alabama," "Gimme Three Steps," "That Smell" and "Call Me the Breeze," the band went on to become a staple in American rock arenas and a permanent fixture in rock and roll history. Celebrating the group's 30th anniversary in 2003, Lynyrd Skynyrd released a new studio album, "Vicious Cycle," which was augmented by a successful tour. From that show, a live dvd ("Lynyrd Skynyrd Lyve: The Vicious Cycle Tour") was released, followed by a companion cd ("Lyve"). In 2004 a tribute record to the band came out ("Under the Influence"), with such luminaries as Gov't Mule, North Mississippi Allstars and Blues Traveler paying homage to the band by re-recording its songs. With more than 25 million albums sold, Lynyrd Skynyrd continues to pack arenas across the United States.

Montgomery Gentry's recent and fourth Columbia Records release, "You Do Your Thing," has spawned their first No. 1 single "If You Ever Stop Loving Me." The Lexington, Kentucky-based duo stormed onto the country music scene in 1999 with their debut album, "Tattoos & Scars" and hit single "Hillbilly Shoes." In 2000 they were awarded the American Music Award for Best New Country Artist, CMA Duo of the Year honors and ACM Top New Duo award. Follow- up releases have included "Carrying On," "My Town," and currently "You Do Your Thing." Hit singles "Daddy Won't Sell the Farm," "She Couldn't Change Me," "My Town," "Speed" and "Hell Yeah" have initiated sales in excess of triple platinum.

Other CMT CROSSROADS episodes have featured Elvis Costello and Lucinda Williams; Kid Rock and Hank Williams Jr.; ZZ Top and Brooks & Dunn; Elton John and Ryan Adams; Sheryl Crow and Willie Nelson; James Taylor and the Dixie Chicks; Ray Charles and Travis Tritt; John Mellencamp and Kenny Chesney; Melissa Etheridge and Dolly Parton; Pat Benatar and Martina McBride; Dave Matthews and Emmylou Harris; a live NFL Super Bowl CROSSROADS special featuring Toby Keith performing with Willie Nelson, Aerosmith's Steven Tyler and Joe Perry, Sammy Hagar, Run DMC's Darryl McDaniels, the Red Hot Chili Peppers' Chad Smith, Ted Nugent and jazz musician Wayman Tisdale; John Mayer and Brad Paisley; and Heart and Wynonna.

For more information on CMT CROSSROADS log on to
CMT.com http://www.cmt.com/shows/dyn/cmt_crossroads/series.jhtml

CMT, America's No. 1 country music network, carries original programming, specials, and live concerts and events, as well as a mix of videos by established country music artists and new cutting-edge acts, including world premiere exclusive videos. Founded March 6, 1983, CMT, owned and operated by MTV Networks, reaches more than 76.9 million households in the United States. Go to country music's biggest web site at http://www.cmt.com/ .

*EDITORS: CMT CROSSROADS debuts Friday, Dec. 10 at 10:00 PM, Eastern; 9:00 PM, Central; 11:00 PM, Mountain; and 10:00 PM, Pacific.


Source: CMT

CONTACT: Cindy McLean, +1-615-335-8404, or cindy.mclean@cmt.com , or Jama
Bowen, +1-615-335-8405, or jama.bowen@cmt.com , both of CMT

Web site: http://www.cmt.com/
http://www.cmt.com/shows/dyn/cmt_crossroads/series.jhtml


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Profile: intent

Internet Security Systems Preemptively Protects Customers From Vulnerability in Microsoft Windows Internet Naming Service

Internet Security Systems Preemptively Protects Customers From Vulnerability in Microsoft Windows Internet Naming Service

ATLANTA, Nov. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Internet Security Systems (ISS) (NASDAQ:ISSX) today announced that a vulnerability has been discovered in the Microsoft Windows Internet Naming Service (WINS). A WINS server is a Microsoft NetBIOS name server that eliminates the need for broadcast packets to resolve a NetBIOS computer name to an IP address. The vulnerability was discovered in the WINS server replication feature, which allows one or more WINS servers to exchange information with each other about the computers on their respective networks. By default, WINS is installed and running on Microsoft Small Business Server 2000 and on Microsoft Windows Small Business Server 2003. WINS is off by default on all other Microsoft server operating systems.

Organizations that have deployed ISS products or using ISS managed services are preemptively protected against all threats targeting this vulnerability.

Organizations not protected by ISS preemptive solutions should note:

An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could take complete control of an affected system, including installing malicious programs; viewing, changing, or deleting confidential information; or further network compromise.

Affected Infrastructure:
By default, WINS is not installed on:
* Windows NT Server 4.0
* Windows NT Server 4.0 Terminal Server Edition
* Windows 2000 Server
* Windows Server 2003.
By default, WINS is installed and running on:
* Microsoft Small Business Server 2000
* Microsoft Windows Small Business Server 2003



On all versions of Microsoft Small Business Server, the WINS component communication ports are blocked from the Internet and WINS is available only on the local network.

Available Protection:

Microsoft is currently developing a patch for this vulnerability. To mitigate exposure, it is recommended that organizations block TCP port 42 and UDP 42 at the firewall. Organizations that do not need WINS are encouraged to remove it from their systems if it has been installed. WINS is not enabled by default on Microsoft server operating systems with the exception of Small Business Server 2000 and Small Business Server 2003.

For the complete listing of Microsoft's suggested steps to mitigate exposure, please visit: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/890710/EN-US/ .

The full ISS X-Force alert can be found at: http://xforce.iss.net/xforce/alerts/id/184 .

For more information on Internet Security Systems(TM) preemptive protection offerings, please visit: http://www.iss.net/proof/preemptiveprotection/ .

About Internet Security Systems, Inc.

Internet Security Systems, Inc. (ISS) is the trusted expert to global enterprises and world governments, providing products and services that protect against Internet threats. An established world leader in security since 1994, ISS delivers proven cost efficiencies and reduces regulatory and business risk across the enterprise for more than 11,000 customers worldwide. ISS products and services are based on the proactive security intelligence conducted by ISS' X-Force(R) research and development team - the unequivocal world authority in vulnerability and threat research. Headquartered in Atlanta, Internet Security Systems has additional operations throughout the Americas, Asia, Australia, Europe and the Middle East. For more information, visit the Internet Security Systems Web site at http://www.iss.net/ or call 800-776-2362.

Internet Security Systems is a trademark and X-Force is a registered trademark of Internet Security Systems, Inc. All other companies and products mentioned are trademarks and property of their respective owners.


Source: Internet Security Systems, Inc.

CONTACT: Jeff Nessler, +1-404-236-3026, or jnessler@iss.net , or Kathryn
Quigley, +1-404-236-3691, or kquigley@iss.net , both of Internet Security
Systems, Inc.

Web site: http://www.iss.net/
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/890710/EN-US
http://xforce.iss.net/xforce/alerts/id/184
http://www.iss.net/proof/preemptiveprotection


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Profile: intent

The Number of Mobile Multimedia Users Exceeds 100 Million in 2004

The Number of Mobile Multimedia Users Exceeds 100 Million in 2004

WASHINGTON, Nov. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- In a new report, Telecommunications Management Group, Inc. (TMG) identifies the leading nations in mobile multimedia. Entitled "Superstars of the Mobile Internet," the publication provides the statistical basis to show which countries lead in using mobile handsets to download entertainment, exchange picture messages and access the Internet. The report compares often conflicting, exaggerated or vaguely defined mobile operator statistics with government surveys on mobile Internet use to arrive at its conclusions.

Japan and South Korea are neck and neck, leading the world in mobile multimedia use. The only other nation with double-digit penetration is France, part of a quartet of large European countries in the top ten (along with Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom). The tech-savvy Nordic nations are also present in the list, represented by Finland, Norway and Sweden. The only other Asian country in the top ten is Singapore, ranked number four.

Japan and South Korea accounted for over three quarters of all mobile multimedia users in 2000; by 2003, their share had declined to 57% of the 86 million mobile multimedia users around the world. TMG forecasts that the number of mobile multimedia users around the world will near 110 million in 2004.

Michael Minges, Senior Market Analyst at TMG notes "the launch of higher- speed mobile networks around the world is finally beginning to have an impact on mobile multimedia usage. Greater bandwidth coupled with a growing proportion of Internet-enabled handsets is leading to more compelling content and starting to increase demand for mobile multimedia."

TMG estimates that mobile multimedia and text messaging services generated US$ 45 billion in revenues for mobile operators in 2003.

The report is an indispensable reference tool, featuring statistics on mobile markets for 45 leading economies.

Top ten nations by percentage of population using mobile phones to access the Internet, 2003

Japan 29.5
Korea (Rep.) 24.8
France 10.5
Singapore 7.1
Sweden 7.1
Germany 6.1
United Kingdom 5.0
Finland 4.1
Norway 3.9
Spain 3.4

For more information about the report, see http://reports.tmgtelecom.com/

Telecommunications Management Group, Inc. (TMG), headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, is a premier consulting firm providing services in a variety of telecommunication areas. For additional information, visit http://www.tmgtelecom.com/.

CONTACT: Erin Rockwell of Telecommunications Management Group, Inc., +1-703-224-1501.


Source: Telecommunications Management Group, Inc.

CONTACT: Erin Rockwell of Telecommunications Management Group, Inc.,
+1-703-224-1501

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


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Profile: intent

Biz360 Announces Information Services Veteran Frank Sammann as Chief Executive Officer

Biz360 Announces Information Services Veteran Frank Sammann as Chief Executive Officer

SAN MATEO, Calif., Nov. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Biz360(R) Inc., the industry leader in global reputation and brand analysis, today announced the appointment of Frank Sammann as chief executive officer. Mr. Sammann brings nearly 25 years of executive leadership to the Biz360 team. His proven track record growing profitable services companies will help Biz360 continue to achieve its corporate goals and capitalize on the market opportunity. As chief executive officer, Mr. Sammann will develop the long term vision for how the company will continue to evolve to meet customer needs now and innovate for the future.

"Biz360 created the market and continues to lead the pack in delivering market intelligence services that help companies analyze the corporate and product brands in their marketplace. This is critical to understanding marketing effectiveness and reacting quickly to market changes," said Mr. Sammann. "The expertise of Biz360's services group and the scalability and power of the company's flagship product, Market360, provides a sustainable advantage in this emerging market. These attributes combined with the strong demand among CEOs and marketing executives for insight into how they are perceived, positions Biz360 as a high growth business. I look forward to helping the company achieve its potential."

Throughout his career, Mr. Sammann has helped growing companies reach their financial goals and capture market leadership. As executive vice president of worldwide sales at Nielsen NetRatings, Mr. Sammann was brought in by the chairman of the board to build a professional sales and customer service team for the North American market in preparation for filing an Initial Public Offering (IPO). At the completion of the IPO and associated funding, NetRatings had $332 million in the bank and had grown to a clear leadership position in Internet audience measurement and analysis.

Prior to NetRatings, Mr. Sammann was president and chief executive officer for Decisive Technology where he focused on developing new products, winning key customer accounts and restoring financial performance. At the time Decisive Technology merged with MessageMedia, it was valued at $50 million.

As vice president of Far East sales and marketing for Conner Peripherals, Mr. Sammann increased sales revenue in excess of $100 million quarterly through both direct and channel sales. At Dataquest, he was senior vice president and enabled the company to achieve 30 percent compound growth over his tenure.

"Frank's long term success in accelerating company growth and driving market adoption is ideal for taking Biz360's market leadership to the next level," said Bill Elmore, channel partner for Foundation Capital. "His experience taking Nielsen NetRatings, through a successful IPO will be invaluable as Biz360 prepares for its next stage of growth. The board is confident in Frank's ability to achieve short term corporate goals and develop a long term strategy for meeting the needs of Biz360 customers."

About Biz360

Biz360 is the industry leader in technology-based analytic services for managing global reputations and brands. Its award-winning market intelligence application, Market360(R), continuously analyzes over 50,000 sources of print, online and broadcast news content from 16 content service providers covering four major world regions. Corporate communications and marketing executives from one out of every five of the Fortune 50 rely on active market intelligence from Biz360 to maintain a positive corporate reputation, build trusted brands and measure and improve the impact of communications across the globe.

Biz360's industry-leading customers include AstraZeneca, Harley-Davidson Motor Company, PacifiCare Health Systems, Sun Microsystems, VeriSign, Inc. and Verizon Services Group. Biz360 is a privately held company located in San Mateo, CA and is funded by Foundation Capital, Granite Ventures, BA Ventures and Adobe Ventures. Biz360 can be reached at 866.424.9360 or www.biz360.com.


Source: Biz360 Inc.

CONTACT: Nick Leahy of Sparkpr, +1-415-962-8200, ext. 237,
nick@sparkpr.com, for Biz360 Inc.

Web site: http://www.biz360.com/


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Profile: intent

UNEXT Announces Appointment of Senior Vice President of Business Development

UNEXT Announces Appointment of Senior Vice President of Business Development

DEERFIELD, Ill., Nov. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- In a move designed to broaden and elevate strategic partnerships and branding initiatives, UNEXT, a global leader in online education, today announced the appointment of Bruce M. Goldstein, a proven tactician in business development and strategic planning, to the new position of Senior Vice President of Business Development, reporting to Cathleen Raffaeli, President and Chief Executive Officer.

Goldstein brings more than 25 years expertise to advance UNext's sector leadership and promote accelerated growth through market positioning, alternative customer acquisition partnerships, cross channel initiatives, and strategic broadening of current product offerings.

Goldstein joins UNext from Synthetica Holdings LLC, a management buyout firm that effects strategic acquisitions and mergers of companies in the media, technology and telecommunications industries, where he was Managing Director with responsibility for identifying and negotiating key strategic acquisitions with media and entertainment investors. His background includes top executive roles with a number of high profile companies in commerce, media and entertainment. Prior to Synthetica Holdings, Goldstein was Executive Vice President of Business Development and Strategic Planning for Styleclick, a USA Networks company focusing on new media, web services, integrated marketing and content convergence.

"Today's appointment demonstrates UNext's commitment to pursue and adopt initiatives to grow the business faster," said Raffaeli. "We are excited about having such a highly accomplished senior executive lead our efforts in the areas of marketing alliances, business acquisitions and strategic market planning. Bruce has extensive business development experience that he has successfully leveraged to manage and reposition an impressive array of commerce and media companies, as well as to meet the challenges of Fortune 500 companies. He brings tremendous value to the company and to its executive management team."

"Online education is as big a growth area as I have seen. UNext, with its best of breed platform and course development, is a company with winning components unique in the marketplace. I am excited to work with a highly motivated management team led by Cathi Raffaeli. Rarely have I seen a company so poised for dramatic growth," said Goldstein.

Mr. Goldstein also served as Executive Vice President for Business Development and Marketing in USA Network's Internet Shopping Network; President and CEO of Universal Management, a consulting firm to brands and celebrities for QVC and HSN; and Senior Vice President of Worldwide Licensing and Marketing for MY-CD.com, an early adopter of music online, and a division of Bandai America. He was also founder and CEO of Worldwide Thai, Ltd., a gourmet foods and housewares company formed with equity partner Marvin Traub, former Chairman of Bloomingdale's.

UNext, a privately held corporation headquartered in Deerfield, Illinois, develops and delivers innovative online education using advances in cognitive science and technology. In 2003, UNext partnered with New York Institute of Technology to create Ellis College, an unprecedented offering of undergraduate and graduate online degree programs to adult students supported by high-touch student services. UNext founded Cardean University in 2000 to bring graduate business and management education to learners worldwide. It continues to receive international accolades and industry awards for its online courses and programs.

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


Source: UNEXT

CONTACT: Patricia Tobin of UNext, +1-847-282-2424

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


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Profile: intent

BRISTOL-MYERS SQUIBB INVITES YAHOO!'S GLOBAL AUDIENCE TO SHINE A LIGHT ON HIV/AIDS EPIDEMIC ON WORLD AIDS DAY

BRISTOL-MYERS SQUIBB INVITES YAHOO!'S GLOBAL AUDIENCE TO SHINE A LIGHT ON HIV/AIDS EPIDEMIC ON WORLD AIDS DAY

Virtual Candles Lit on www.LightToUnite.org through Yahoo! Front Pages Shown on NBC Astrovision by Panasonic in Times Square

NEW YORK, Nov. 30 /PRNewswire/ --
WHAT: Bristol-Myers Squibb Company is working with Yahoo! to raise
awareness of the global HIV/AIDS crisis on World AIDS Day,
Dec. 1, 2004.

People worldwide are encouraged to visit http://www.yahoo.com/
home page or go directly to http://www.lighttounite.org/ to light
a virtual candle in recognition of people impacted by HIV and the
global commitment to fight the epidemic.

WHY: According to the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and
Infectious Diseases, AIDS has claimed more than 20 million lives
worldwide since the first cases were diagnosed in 1981 --
2.9 million in 2003 alone. It is estimated that more than
37 million people were infected with HIV in 2003. Sub-Saharan
Africa is the worst-affected region, accounting for approximately
two-thirds of all HIV-infected persons in the world. In the U.S.,
nearly 950,000 Americans are living with HIV, with 40,000 new
infections every year. (1)

VISUAL: The NBC Astrovision by Panasonic in New York's Times Square will
broadcast the growing support on the "Light to Unite" global map
every hour on the hour for three minutes from noon to midnight
EST on Dec. 1.

WHEN: Noon - Midnight
Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2004

WHERE: One Times Square
New York City

For more information, contact:

David M. Rosen Katie Krome
Bristol-Myers Squibb GolinHarris
Cell Phone: 609-721-6155 Phone: 312-729-4452
Email: david.m.rosen@bms.com Email: kkrome@golinharris.com

(1) U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of
Allergy and Infectious Diseases "Facts and Figures" are available at
http://www.niaid.nih.gov/factsheets/aidsstat.htm


Source: Bristol-Myers Squibb Company

CONTACT: David M. Rosen of Bristol-Myers Squibb, Cell Phone,
+1-609-721-6155, Email, david.m.rosen@bms.com , or Katie Krome of GolinHarris,
+1-312-729-4452, Email, kkrome@golinharris.com

Web site: http://www.lighttounite.org/
http://www.yahoo.com/


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Profile: intent

IP Applications Reports Strong Growth in Second Quarter

IP Applications Reports Strong Growth in Second Quarter

VANCOUVER, Nov. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- IP Applications Corp. (TSX- Venture: IAP), a leading provider of outsourced Internet services, today announced results for its second fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2004.

Revenue for the second fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2004 ("Q2") was $1,201,290 an increase of 24.0% from $968,662 recorded in the previous quarter June 30, 2004. This Q2 revenue achievement represents a 21% increase over the $993,240 of revenue realized in the second fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2003. Revenue for the six month period ended September 30, 2004 was $2,169,952, a 3.1% increase over the $2,103,815 realized in the six month period ended September 30, 2003.

Mark Sampson, President and CEO said, "We have continued to meet or exceed our targets for revenue growth, operational excellence and cost control and continue to search for investment partners to further fund our growth. On a year to date basis we have exceeded our revenue forecast and met our projected losses".

Net loss for the second fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2004 including one time costs of $64,750 was $478,647 compared to a net loss of $510,085 recorded in the previous fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2004. Net loss for the six month period ended September 30, 2004, including one time costs of $201,450, amounted to $988,733 or $0.03 per share compared to a net loss of $381,458 or $0.01 per share for the six month period ended September 30, 2003.

Sampson said that during the six month period ended September 30, 2004, the Company had continued to make great progress in both organic sales growth and growth by acquisition.

"We focused our energies on building a solid monthly recurring revenue (MRR) business increasing MRR from $255,000 in March 2004 to $525,000 in September 2004," Sampson said. "This included revenue of $171,000 from customers acquired with the business of Voyus Remote Services in September 2004."

Operational highlights for six month period ended September 30, 2004 include:

- The effective integration of Soft Tracks staff, technology and
facilities, a reduction in overhead and the creation of a profitable
business unit.

- The June 2004 signing of a service contract with Excel
Telecommunications Canada, resulting in an increase in IP
Applications' MRR by CDN$50,000.

- The September 2004 signing of a services contract with Sourcenet
Telecom to provide services for Quixtar resulting in an increase in
IP Applications' MRR by an additional CDN$55,000.

- The signing of lease agreements with Sun Microsystems and Network
Appliance to upgrade our production data centre, increase capacity
two fold and improve reliability, performance and throughput.

- Commenced implementation of a disaster recovery facility to further
increase our network and systems redundancy and ensure IP
Applications customers will not experience any discontinuation of
service in the event of a physical site disaster.

- The successful integration of the staff, technology and operations of
Voyus Remote Services.

- Entered into a lease agreement with Cygnal Technologies to install a
new Avaya phone switch to improve customer service levels with the
Remote Services business.



On September 7, 2004, the Company announced that it had entered into a letter of intent to acquire the business of a US based company and continues to carry out its due diligence and to negotiate terms with the target company.

The Company continues to pursue financing alternatives, including the private placement announced on September 7, 2004.

About IP Applications

IP Applications provides comprehensive outsourcing solutions that enable service providers to deliver high quality Internet services. A leading provider in the industry, IP Applications has an enviable customer list, providing secure Internet outsourcing solutions to AOL Canada, Sprint, Telus, Excel Telecommunications, Skycable and Navigata.

IP Applications meets Internet service providers' needs by combining its customer-branded web-based account management, provisioning, billing and support platform with a full range of end user services including: authentication, email, personal web hosting, spam blocking, content filtering, email virus scanning, network acceleration, information portal, North American network and call center coverage. A single point of contact and trusted supplier, IP Applications backs every services contract with an industry leading Quality of Service guarantee written into every Service Level Agreement. Customers are provided around-the-clock access to a team of experts and all of IP Applications solutions are monitored 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, from its Carrier Class Data and Network Operations Center.

Forward Looking Statements

The press release may contain forward-looking statements. Actual events or results may differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements due to a number of risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements are based on management's estimates, beliefs and opinions. The company assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements.

The TSX Venture Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy and accuracy of this release.

Signed:

"Shay Prasad"

Shay Prasad
Chief Financial Officer

Investor Relations Contact: Shay Prasad, CFO
Toll Free: 1-877-604-7277 ext. 127 or Direct: (604) 523-2567
Email: sprasad@ipapp.com


Source: IP Applications Corp.

CONTACT: Investor Relations Contact: Shay Prasad, CFO,
Toll Free: 1-877-604-7277 ext. 127 or Direct: (604) 523-2567, Email:
sprasad@ipapp.com


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Profile: intent