Goffice.com Donates Free Global Postal Mail Service to South Asian Earthquake and Tsunami Survivors and Relief Workers

Goffice.com Donates Free Global Postal Mail Service to South Asian Earthquake and Tsunami Survivors and Relief Workers

SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Goffice.com announced today that it will mail free-of-charge letters and other correspondence to any postal address in the world to help earthquake and tsunami survivors and relief workers send word of their situation to loved ones that may not have email or telephone access. Those affected type their message over the Internet at http://www.goffice.com/ and follow the special prompts to create their Adobe PDF document, and Goffice will print and send it for free by United States Postal Mail anywhere in the world.

"Given the level of devastation, outbound mail delivery directly from the affected areas has been severely curtailed. Many survivors have sent emails to loved ones telling of their situation, but not everyone has email, which is where Goffice comes in," said Kevin Warnock, founder and CEO of Goffice.

"These may be the most important letters we will ever deliver," continued Warnock. While such service normally costs USD $3 per letter, the firm is donating its services to send unlimited disaster-related correspondence.

"A core principle of the company is to offer an advanced communication tool to everyone, regardless of income or location. This effort is an extension of that principle," affirmed Goffice advisor Todd Bruininks.

To further help disaster survivors, Goffice.com will donate 100% of its subscriber and advertising revenue, up to USD $250,000.00, from December 26, 2004 through January 9, 2005, to the American Red Cross.

Goffice.com is an offering of Silveroffice, Inc., founded March 3, 2003 in San Francisco, California, USA to revolutionize written communications with its browser-based word processor, to bring the benefits of web-based applications like Hotmail, GMail and Yahoo Mail to the office suite. Goffice is housed in the Berkeley Entrepreneurship Laboratory near the Haas School of Business at the University of California at Berkeley. Founder Kevin Warnock has 15 years of experience in the electronic document field, and in 2000 sold his last company, funded by Nokia Venture Partners, to a public communications company. Goffice relies on Google for search and advertising services, but is not affiliated with that company. Contact Kevin Warnock by phone at 800-890-2013 or 415-661-5800, or by email at press@goffice.com.


Source: Goffice.com

CONTACT: Kevin Warnock of Goffice.com, 1-800-890-2013, or
+1-415-661-5800, or press@goffice.com

Web site: http://goffice.com/


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Profile: intent

Green Card Lottery Deadline Looms as Millions Prepare to Register

Green Card Lottery Deadline Looms as Millions Prepare to Register

SANTA BARBARA, Calif., Dec. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Creative Networks, http://www.mygreencard.com/ , a leading immigration web site, today remind those who intend to enter the annual State Department Diversity Visa Lottery to apply before the January 7 deadline.

According to J. Stephen Wilson, co-author of Win the Green Card Lottery! "We strongly encourage lottery entrants to register at http://www.dvlottery.state.gov/ no later than January 4, 2005 to avoid access problems to government computers caused by the large volume of last minute applications. Register now since it is too close to the January 7 deadline to engage a lottery service to submit your application."

Written by Marybeth Rael, a former lottery service owner, her booklet, Win the Green Card Lottery outlines the entire procedure from entering the lottery to obtaining permanent residency. Based on the latest State Department rules for DV-2006, this guide provides over 20 tips and essential guidelines to help eliminate common mistakes throughout the process, plus scanning and photography guidelines, reviews of lottery services, and an entire chapter devoted to lottery winners. Their latest edition also includes other ways to get a green card.

Editor James T. Daly, Attorney At Law adds, "Some applicants accidentally reverse their first name and last name on their application. The State Department considers this sufficient grounds to deny your application."

About MyGreencard.com

MyGreencard.com, by Creative Networks, is a leading immigration portal featuring the latest immigration news, immigration reports, and other publications. The 3rd edition of Win the Green Card Lottery! The Complete Do- It-Yourself Guide to the USA Diversity Visa Lottery, DV 2004-DV-2006 by Marybeth Rael, and J. Stephen Wilson, ed. James. T. Daly; ISBN 097050895-6 is now available at http://www.mygreencard.com/ in PDF format ($9.50 USD). ISBN 097050896-4 (hardcopy) is available at http://www.amazon.com/ ($19.50 USD). Includes index, illustrations, and glossary of immigration terms, 180 pp.

Press Release Contact Information:
J. Stephen Wilson
Owner
Creative Networks
+1-805-452-4037
media@mygreencard.com

This release was issued through WebWire(R). For more information visit http://www.webwire.com/ .


Source: Creative Networks

CONTACT: J. Stephen Wilson, Owner of Creative Networks, +1-805-452-4037,
or media@mygreencard.com

Web site: http://www.mygreencard.com/
http://www.dvlottery.state.gov/
http://www.amazon.com/

NOTE TO EDITORS: Free review copies are available.

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Profile: intent

PR Newswire Entertainment Weekly RoundUp for Week Ending Friday, December 31, 2004

PR Newswire Entertainment Weekly RoundUp for Week Ending Friday, December 31, 2004

The following is a select summary of the top entertainment-related press releases transmitted this week by PR Newswire. The full text of these releases is available at no charge to journalists on PR Newswire for Journalists, http://www.prnewswire.com/media.

Editors are also advised that high-resolution photos are available to accompany these previously transmitted releases. Members of the media may download the photos at no charge from the online archive links indicated below. Many photos are also available via the AP PhotoExpress Network, as indicated by the PRN# listed below.

1. Steve Irwin Headlines Aussie Travel Expo

Full text of the release is available at:
http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/main.jsp?resourceid=2843388

An accompanying high-resolution photo is available at:
NEWSCOM: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041231/LAFRU5

AP PHOTOEXPRESS: PRN5

Caption: Steve Irwin headlines Aussie Travel Expo. Australian Steve
Irwin and some of his country's most famous animals will star
in two special live performances at G'Day LA: Australia
Week's Aussie Travel Expo on January 20th and 21st, 2005 in
Los Angeles. The Aussie Travel Expo will also feature an
interactive travel marketplace, The Ten Tenors and a real
taste of Australia. With net proceeds benefiting the Steve
Irwin Wildlife Fund USA, tickets are $25 per person and
available on www.australiatravelexpo.com.

Contact: Kristen Malaby, +1-310-695-3214,
kmalaby@tourism.australia.com, for G'Day LA: Australia
Week 2005


2. Manatees Are Among Sites to 'Sea' in Jacksonville Through Super Bowl
XXXIX

Full text of the release is available at:
http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/main.jsp?resourceid=2843302

An accompanying high-resolution photo is available at:
NEWSCOM: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041229/FLW002

Caption: Manatees Are Among Sites to 'Sea' in Jacksonville Through
Super Bowl XXXIX

Contact: Bonnie Upright, APR, Otis Smith Kids Foundation,
+1-904-880-6847, or mobile, +1-904-955-1278; or Stephanie
Webb of St. John & Partners, +1-904-596-8567, or mobile,
+1-904-476-6829


3. Reebok Teams Up With Lifetime Products Inc. - The World's Leading
Manufacturer of Basketball Equipment - to Launch RBK Basketball
Systems

Full text of the release is available at:
http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/main.jsp?resourceid=2842986

An accompanying high-resolution photo is available at:
NEWSCOM: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041231/LAFRU2

AP PHOTOEXPRESS: PRN2

Caption: Reebok Teams Up With Lifetime Products Inc. - The World's
Leading Manufacturer of Basketball Equipment - to Launch RBK
Basketball Systems. Lifetime offers a full lineup of
basketball systems that cater to all skill levels. More
information on Lifetime basketball products available on:
http://www.lifetime.com/Basketball/Default.aspx.

Contact: Phil Mickey of Lifetime Public Relations, +1-801-728-1239; or
Jenny Shanley, +1-781-401-4548, or Carla Stellman,
+1-781-401-7731, both of Reebok Public Relations


4. Inflatable BodyWedge 21 Introduces A 'New Angle In Fitness' And
Provides A Portable Fitness Center Everywhere You Go

Full text of the release is available at:
http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/main.jsp?resourceid=2842628

An accompanying high-resolution photo is available at:
NEWSCOM: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041227/NYM037

Caption: The BodyWedge 21 will keep exercise simple and fun. The
unit's versatility allows users to work their abs, buttocks,
thighs, arms, chest and lower back. The BodyWedge 21 can be
used by itself, using your own body weight and strength for
resistance, or can be used with free weights.

Contact: Lou Desiderio of BodyWedge 21, +1-917-627-0912,
lou_desiderio@hotmail.com


5. Bowl Contenders Win the Checkers(R) Challenge

Full text of the release is available at:
http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/main.jsp?resourceid=2843673

An accompanying high-resolution photo is available at:
NEWSCOM: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041230/FLTH009

Caption: Bowl Contenders Win the Checkers(R) Challenge

Contact: Lisa Tristano, MARC Public Relations, +1-412-562-1189, or
ltristano@marcusa.com, for Checkers Drive-In Restaurants,
Inc.



6. Nutrition Author Reveals How to Quit the Soft Drink Addiction in Five
Easy Steps

Full text of the release is available at:
http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/main.jsp?resourceid=2843918

An accompanying high-resolution photo is available at:
NEWSCOM: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041231/LAFRU6

AP PHOTOEXPRESS: PRN6

Caption: Nutrition author reveals how to quit your soft drink
addiction in five easy steps. Penned by nutrition guru Mike
Adams, this mini e-book, "The Five Soft Drink Monsters,"
offers a five-step action plan for conquering one of
America's most prevalent yet overlooked additions: carbonated
beverages. To assist soft drink addicts in overcoming their
beverage dependency, this report is available for downloading
at http://www.truthpublishing.com/ for $7.95.

Contact: Jessica Smith, +1-520-390-7763, jessica.s@newstarget.com, for
Truth Publishing


7. Sensi - Dining Drama

Full text of the release is available at:
http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/main.jsp?resourceid=2842708

An accompanying high-resolution photo is available at:
NEWSCOM: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041227/LAM030-a

Caption: Roasted Squab with Parsnip Puree.

Contact: Media, Stephanie Davis of MGM MIRAGE, +1-702-891-7517; or
Jennifer Baum of BULLFROG & BAUM, +1-212-255-6717, for MGM
MIRAGE


8. Bayer Advanced(TM) Tries for Fifth Consecutive Trophy in the 2005
Rose Parade(R)

Full text of the release is available at:
http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/main.jsp?resourceid=2842454

An accompanying high-resolution photo is available at:
NEWSCOM: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041226/NYSU001

Caption: Bayer Advanced(TM) Tries for Fifth Consecutive Trophy in the
2005 Rose Parade(R)

Contact: Brian Pia, +1-205-877-9870, or cell, +1-205-821-3441, Lori
Merricks, +1-205-877-9736, or cell, +1-205-422-5756, Angela
Drinkwater, +1-631-477-1221, drinkh2o@optonline.net, Ruffin
Flowers, +1-205-877-9795, or cell, +1-205-249-5285, Shannon
Goff, +1-205-877-9705, or cell, +1-205-266-8409, all of
Luckie PR; Mark Schneid, Bayer Advanced, +1-201-307-3368, or
cell, +1-201-274-5176; Larry Palmer, Phoenix Decorating,
cell, +1-626-375-1025


9. The Polar Express May Be Gone for Now but Many Tennessee Trains Are
Just Heading Out of the Station

Full text of the release is available at:
http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/main.jsp?resourceid=2843676

An accompanying high-resolution photo is available at:
NEWSCOM: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041231/LAFRU3

AP PHOTOEXPRESS: PRN3

Caption: Not much has changed in the last hundred years when you
experience the scenic beauty of East Tennessee by train.
No matter what part of Tennessee you want to visit, there are
trains, train rides, train museums and train people to make a
part of your tour. For additional information on Tennessee
trains, visit http://www.tenntravelnews.com/ .

Contact: Mike Cohen of the Tennessee Department Of Tourist Development
News Bureau, +1-865-584-2744


10. Disney's Magical Express Delivers 'Hassle-Free Travel' for Disney
Hotel Guests

Full text of the release is available at:
http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/main.jsp?resourceid=2843050

An accompanying high-resolution photos are available at:

Photo #1
NEWSCOM: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041228/FLTU007-b

Caption: ON THE MOVE -- Rendering shows decor of the 37 state-of-the-
art motor coaches owned and operated by Mears Transportation
that will serve passengers using Disney's Magical Express
between Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World
Resort beginning May 5, 2005. The complimentary round-trip
airport shuttle/baggage delivery service will be available
for guests booking vacations with accommodations at 22 Disney
hotels.

Photo #2
NEWSCOM: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041228/FLTU007-a

Caption: Like magic, guests and their belongings will be whisked from
Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World Resort
when Disney's Magical Express begins operation on May 5,
2005. The complimentary round-trip airport shuttle/baggage
delivery service will be available for guests booking
vacations with accommodations at 22 Disney hotels. The new
service also includes an expedited airline check-in process.
Guests may begin booking vacations that include Disney's
Magical Express on Jan.

Contact: Walt Disney World Public Affairs, +1-407-828-3814


11. Apollo Theater Holiday eBay Charity Auction Offers Lucky Bidder the
Opportunity to Have Lunch With 2004 Kennedy Center Honorees Ossie
Davis and Ruby Dee

Full text of the release is available at:
http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/main.jsp?resourceid=2843801

An accompanying high-resolution photo is available at:
NEWSCOM: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041231/LAFRU4

AP PHOTOEXPRESS: PRN4

Caption: 2004 Kennedy Center Honorees Ruby Dee & Ossie Davis have
enriched and transformed American life as brilliant actors,
writers, directors, producers, and passionate advocates for
social justice, human dignity, and creative excellence.

Contact: Andrew Emmett of JAMI Charity Brands, +1-212-497-7252


12. Become a Hometown Hero in 2005:
Volvo For Life Awards' Nominees Provide Tips For Volunteering

Full text of the release is available at:
http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/main.jsp?resourceid=2843740

An accompanying high-resolution photo is available at:
NEWSCOM: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041231/LAFRU1

AP PHOTOEXPRESS: PRN1

Caption: Do you know a hero? After losing her son in a drive by
shooting, Lorna Hawkins, Lynwood, Ca., founded Drive By
Agony, which educates people about violence in Los Angeles
and allows parents of murdered children to discuss their
loss. She is among thousands of heroes nominated in the Volvo
for life Awards, a national search for everyday heroes,
honoring local heroes with $1 million in charitable
contributions. To nominate a hometown hero you know, visit
www.volvoforlifeawards.com by Jan. 10.

Contact: Eric Davis of Haberman & Associates, +1-612-372-6447,
eric@modernstorytellers.com , or Soren Johansson of Volvo
Cars of North America, +1-949-341-6719,
sjohan44@volvocars.com


13. KB Home's Jim Widner Named Builder of the Year

Full text of the release is available at:
http://media.prnewswire.com/en/jsp/main.jsp?resourceid=2843383

An accompanying high-resolution photo is available at:
NEWSCOM: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041229/LAW021

Caption: Jim Widner, division president of KB Home, Nevada named
Builder of the Year by Builder and Developer magazine.

Contact: Sarah Thornton of The Firm Public Relations, +1-702-739-9933,
saraht@thefirmpr.com, for KB Home



For more information on any of the photos, or on gaining access to the archives, members of the media may contact the PR Newswire Photo Desk at +1- 888-776-6555 or +1-212-782-2840.

PRNewswire -- Dec. 31

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041231/LAFRU5
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041229/FLW002
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041231/LAFRU2
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041227/NYM037
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041230/FLTH009
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041231/LAFRU6
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041227/LAM030-a
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041226/NYSU001
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041231/LAFRU3
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041228/FLTU007-b
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041228/FLTU007-a
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041231/LAFRU4
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041231/LAFRU1
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041229/LAW021
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN1, PRN2, PRN3, PRN4, PRN5, PRN6
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: PR Newswire


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Profile: intent

Apollo Theater Holiday eBay Charity Auction Offers Lucky Bidder the Opportunity to Have Lunch With 2004 Kennedy Center Honorees Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee

Apollo Theater Holiday eBay Charity Auction Offers Lucky Bidder the Opportunity to Have Lunch With 2004 Kennedy Center Honorees Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee

NEW YORK, Dec. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- eBay bidders have the opportunity to purchase lunch with 2004 Kennedy Center honorees Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee. Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee have excelled as collaborators and as individuals (they married in 1948), and they often broke new ground for African Americans. They made their film debuts in 1950 in No Way Out and starred together on Broadway in A Raisin in the Sun. Davis and Dee were celebrated as "national treasures" when they received the National Medal of Arts in 1995. In 2000, they were presented with the Screen Actors Guild's highest honor, the Life Achievement Award. They received the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Silver Circle Award in 1994 and are inductees in the Theater Hall of Fame and the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041231/LAFRU4 )

eBay's Apollo Theater holiday charity auction will run through January 15 2005. Other items up for bid include; two VIP passes to the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Launch Party in New York City with access to the VIP Model Lounge and a backstage meeting with the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover Model and the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Model Search Winner, two tickets to The WB All Star Summer Party where the lucky bidder and a guest can party with the hottest young stars on television at one of the hottest night spots in Los Angeles, two tickets to an HBO fight in Las Vegas, along with two tickets to the HBO after-party and tickets to the production dinner and signed boxing gloves, four tickets to the premiere of New Line Cinema's movie Monster-in-Law which also includes airfare and hotel for four.

The legendary Apollo Theater is so much more than an historic landmark -- it is a source of pride and a symbol of the brilliance of American artistic achievement. From 1934 when the Apollo first introduced its world-famous Amateur Night which launched the careers of legendary artists like Ella Fitzgerald, James Brown, Michael Jackson, D'Angelo and Lauryn Hill, the Apollo has maintained its position as the nation's most popular arena for emerging and established black and Latino performers. No other institution has had a greater impact on the entertainment industry and world culture as a whole. Entertainers from Elvis Presley, Tom Jones, The Beatles and The Rolling Stones to the modern rock bands of Korn and The Strokes, have all been inspired by the legends who have emerged from the Apollo Theater.

JAMI Charity Brands Marketing was founded over 20 years ago to create mutually beneficial strategic partnerships between nonprofit organizations and corporations. Through integrated cause marketing partnerships we enable non- profit organizations to have greater reach and impact by leveraging the resources and capabilities of corporations.

To bid on one of these exciting charity auction items, please log on to http://www.ebay.com/kids.

For additional information please call Andrew Emmett, Jami Charity Brands (212) 497-7252.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20041231/LAFRU4
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: JAMI Charity Brands

CONTACT: Andrew Emmett of JAMI Charity Brands, +1-212-497-7252

Web site: http://www.ebay.com/kids


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Profile: intent

Victory for former Olympic Wrestler the only New Years resolution worth keeping

Victory for former Olympic Wrestler the only New Years resolution worth keeping

Sportsbook.com Team Quest member Dan Henderson to fight New Years Eve

LAS VEGAS, NV, Dec. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Sportsbook.com sponsored Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Fighter Dan Henderson is set to battle legendary Japanese fighter Yuki Kondo at this New Years Eve's Pride Shockwave. The fight premiers on Pay Per View Sunday, Jan. 2, 2005.

Henderson (15-3), a Greco-Roman Wrestler, who has twice represented the US in the 1992 Barcelona and 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games, is now facing one of his greatest challenges ever.

Kondo (43-14-5) is known as one of the greatest all around fighters in the sport today. His resume of fallen opponents includes Frank Shamrock (by knockout), Mario Sperry, Semmy Schilt (twice) and many other top fighters.

"Henderson, a fan favorite, needs this win to move up in the rankings and secure a shot at middleweight gold in 2005," said Alex Czajkowski, Marketing Director, Sportsbook.com. "As sponsor of Team Quest, Sportsbook.com will be front and center, cheering on Henderson as he faces one of the greatest competitors in MMA history."

In addition to Henderson, Team Quest consists of some of the biggest names in UFC today, including Matt Lindland, Randy Couture and Evan Tanner, to name a few. These skilled fighters are schooled in boxing, kick boxing, wrestling, jiu-jitsu, grappling and must be prolific with Submission Techniques.

Both the UFC and Pride are the most popular leagues with all fights being shown on PPV. MMA fighting is one of the fastest growing sports in the world today.

For more information on odds and props for this match and others, please visit www.sportsbook.com

About Sportsbook.com

Sportsbook.com is the leading U.S. focused provider of online sports betting, gambling and gaming and offers numerous other products including horse racing, casino, poker and virtual games. It is the flagship brand for Sportingbet PLC, the world's largest publicly traded online betting, gambling and gaming company.


Source: Sportsbook.com

CONTACT: Court Elliott, Sportsbook.com, sportsbook@mediaprofile.com,
1-866-505-2900


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Profile: intent

Apollo Theater Holiday eBay Charity Auction Offers Lucky Bidder the Opportunity to Have Lunch With 2004 Kennedy Center Honorees Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee

Apollo Theater Holiday eBay Charity Auction Offers Lucky Bidder the Opportunity to Have Lunch With 2004 Kennedy Center Honorees Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee

NEW YORK, Dec. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- eBay bidders have the opportunity to purchase lunch with 2004 Kennedy Center honorees Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee. Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee have excelled as collaborators and as individuals (they married in 1948), and they often broke new ground for African Americans. They made their film debuts in 1950 in No Way Out and starred together on Broadway in A Raisin in the Sun. Davis and Dee were celebrated as "national treasures" when they received the National Medal of Arts in 1995. In 2000, they were presented with the Screen Actors Guild's highest honor, the Life Achievement Award. They received the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Silver Circle Award in 1994 and are inductees in the Theater Hall of Fame and the NAACP Image Awards Hall of Fame.

eBay's Apollo Theater holiday charity auction will run through January 15 2005. Other items up for bid include; two VIP passes to the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Launch Party in New York City with access to the VIP Model Lounge and a backstage meeting with the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Cover Model and the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Model Search Winner, two tickets to The WB All Star Summer Party where the lucky bidder and a guest can party with the hottest young stars on television at one of the hottest night spots in Los Angeles, two tickets to an HBO fight in Las Vegas, along with two tickets to the HBO after-party and tickets to the production dinner and signed boxing gloves, four tickets to the premiere of New Line Cinema's movie Monster-in-Law which also includes airfare and hotel for four.

The legendary Apollo Theater is so much more than an historic landmark -- it is a source of pride and a symbol of the brilliance of American artistic achievement. From 1934 when the Apollo first introduced its world-famous Amateur Night which launched the careers of legendary artists like Ella Fitzgerald, James Brown, Michael Jackson, D'Angelo and Lauryn Hill, the Apollo has maintained its position as the nation's most popular arena for emerging and established black and Latino performers. No other institution has had a greater impact on the entertainment industry and world culture as a whole. Entertainers from Elvis Presley, Tom Jones, The Beatles and The Rolling Stones to the modern rock bands of Korn and The Strokes, have all been inspired by the legends who have emerged from the Apollo Theater.

JAMI Charity Brands Marketing was founded over 20 years ago to create mutually beneficial strategic partnerships between nonprofit organizations and corporations. Through integrated cause marketing partnerships we enable non- profit organizations to have greater reach and impact by leveraging the resources and capabilities of corporations.

To bid on one of these exciting charity auction items, please log on to http://www.ebay.com/kids.

For additional information please call Andrew Emmett, Jami Charity Brands (212) 497-7252.


Source: JAMI Charity Brands

CONTACT: Andrew Emmett of JAMI Charity Brands, +1-212-497-7252

Web site: http://www.ebay.com/kids


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Profile: intent

VimpelCom to Host Conference Call to Discuss the Final Decision of a 2001 Tax Review on Monday, January 3, 2005

VimpelCom to Host Conference Call to Discuss the Final Decision of a 2001 Tax Review on Monday, January 3, 2005

MOSCOW and NEW YORK, Dec. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Open Joint Stock Company "Vimpel-Communications" ("VimpelCom" or the "Company") (NYSE:VIP) announced today that it will host a conference call to discuss the final decision of a 2001 tax review on Monday, January 3, 2005, at 6:30 p.m. Moscow time (10:30 a.m. ET).

The conference call will be hosted by Alexander Izosimov, Chief Executive Officer. He will be joined by Elena Shmatova, Chief Financial Officer. The call may be accessed via webcast at the Company's website at the following URL address http://www.vimpelcom.com/.

VimpelCom is a leading provider of telecommunications services in Russia and Kazakhstan, operating under the "Bee Line GSM" brand in Russia and "K-mobile" and "EXCESS" brands in Kazakhstan. The VimpelCom Group's license portfolio covers approximately 94% of Russia's population (136 million people), including the City of Moscow, the Moscow Region and the City of St. Petersburg, as well as the entire territory of Kazakhstan. VimpelCom was the first Russian company to list its shares on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE"). VimpelCom's ADSs are listed on the NYSE under the symbol "VIP".


Source: VimpelCom

CONTACT: Valery Goldin of VimpelCom (Moscow), +7-095-974-5888,
vgoldin@vimpelcom.com


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Profile: intent

Online Poker Site to Donate Proceeds to Tsunami Relief

Online Poker Site to Donate Proceeds to Tsunami Relief

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica, Dec. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Online poker leader AbsolutePoker.com has announced that it will donate all tournament fees from this Saturday's activity to the International Red Cross to be dedicated to helping those people injured or left homeless by last weekend's earthquake and subsequent tsunamis in Southeast Asia.

Poker Room Manager Gian Perroni estimates that this amount will reach $25,000, and plans are in the works to provide additional opportunities for players to also make direct donations. "We have an incredibly generous group of players on our site," said Mr. Perroni, "and we believe that they will join us in trying to make an effort to help those that have suffered too greatly this past week." In addition to the overall tournament buy-in fees, AbsolutePoker will be hosting a special Tsunami Tourney on Wednesday, January 5, in order to raise funds.

Established in 2002, Absolute Poker is one of the leading poker sites on the Internet. Licensed and regulated in Canada, Absolute Poker provides a selection of online poker games to players from around the world.

For information:

AbsolutePoker.com
Gian Perroni
Poker Room Manager
gian@absolutepoker.com
1-800-471-1970



Source: AbsolutePoker.com

CONTACT: Gian Perroni, Poker Room Manager, AbsolutePoker.com,
+1-800-471-1970, or gian@absolutepoker.com

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


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Profile: intent

BlueBeat.com Issues a Call for Humanitarian Aid as Tsunami Toll Continues to Rise

BlueBeat.com Issues a Call for Humanitarian Aid as Tsunami Toll Continues to Rise

SANTA CRUZ, Calif., Dec. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Responding to the enormous tragedy caused by the tsunami in the Indian Ocean, BlueBeat.com calls upon the United States government, citizens of the United States, and the international community to come together in providing assistance to those affected by the horrific disaster that occurred this week in Asia. The death toll has quickly climbed past 100,000 and experts believe that disease will likely double that count. This number, coupled with massive infrastructure damage to the countries, makes it clear that now is the time for the world to unite in goodwill and provide any solace possible. The internet radio site urges its listener base as well as all people of the world to contribute to the charity organizations that reach the survivors with much-needed assistance and support. BlueBeat.com makes an impassioned plea to the Bush administration to provide the needed assistance to those countries that are still reeling from this global tragedy. Hank Risan, BlueBeat.com's CEO, implores President Bush to uphold his duties as the leader of the free world. "If you truly are the compassionate Commander-In-Chief you have declared yourself to be," he challenges, "show the world that America will do the right thing. Prove that we are indeed a country that can be relied upon in times of crisis."

Links to international aid organizations are available on the BlueBeat.com homepage. BlueBeat.com asks that everyone help contribute to these noble associations which include Unicef, Red Cross/Red Crescent, The World Health Organization, Doctors Without Borders, Plan USA, and Save the Children. These coalitions are instrumental in saving lives, providing relief and basic healthcare, controlling the spread of infectious diseases, and rebuilding the nations that were devastated by the earthquake and subsequent tsunami. Southeast Asia is in the midst of one of the greatest natural disasters in history and it needs the support of the global community to combat the perils stemming from such a catastrophe. Visit BlueBeat.com and contribute to the relief effort. BlueBeat.com has dedicated a music playlist, "Strength of Human Spirit" to the courageous survivors, as well as to the determined and brave relief workers, without whom our donations would be far less effective. Like individuals in the strength of a group, even small donations make a powerful impact when united in purpose.

About BlueBeat.com

Bluebeat.com, a subsidiary of Media Rights Technologies (MRT) -- a leading provider of copy-control and superdistribution software -- launched as a free digital radio offering in July. The service features over 600,000 tracks of CD-quality music in over 100 genres and 340 channels, covering more than a century of music, and streams secure MP3s at 320k per second, using MRT's proprietary secure MP3 format X1 SeCure Recording Control.

About Media Rights Technologies

Media Rights Technologies, founded by Hank Risan, is located in Santa Cruz, California. MRT creates, markets and licenses software that provides content-control solutions for digital media, enabling the superdistribution of media and intellectual property, whether it be music or books, movies or software.

Media Contacts: Henry Eshelman; George Cabico, B|W|R Public Relations 310.248.6109, heshelman@bwr-la.com; 310.248.6177, gcabico@bwr-la.com


Source: BlueBeat.com

CONTACT: Henry Eshelman, +1-310-248-6109, OR heshelman@bwr-la.com, or
George Cabico, +1-310-248-6177, or gcabico@bwr-la.com, both of B|W|R Public
Relations, for BlueBeat.com

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


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Profile: intent

Universal Studios Home Entertainment Announces 'Friday Night Lights'

Universal Studios Home Entertainment Announces 'Friday Night Lights'

Kicks Off on DVD and VHS January 18, 2005

"One of the Greatest Sports Movies Ever Made!" - Larry King

"Two Thumbs Way Up!" - Ebert and Roeper

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., Dec. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- "Friday Night Lights," the acclaimed hard-hitting, adrenaline-pumping, no-holds-barred story of Gary Gaines, a dedicated football coach and his team, the Permian Panthers, who aspire to be Texas State champions, comes to DVD and VHS on January 18, 2004. Academy Award(R)-winning producer Brian Grazer ("A Beautiful Mind," "Apollo 13," "8 Mile") and director Peter Berg ("The Rundown," "Very Bad Things") team up with Oscar(R) winner Billy Bob Thornton ("Sling Blade," "Bad Santa") to create an unforgettable and gritty film based on Pulitzer Prize winning journalist H.G. Bissinger's acclaimed non-fiction book "Friday Night Lights: A Town, A Team and a Dream," hailed by Sports Illustrated as the best football story -- and one of the five greatest sports stories -- of all time. Grammy(R)-winning country superstar Tim McGraw makes his feature film debut with rising young stars Derek Luke ("Antwone Fisher," "Biker Boyz"), Jay Hernandez ("Ladder 49," "The Rookie"), Lucas Black ("Cold Mountain," "Sling Blade") and Garrett Hedlund ("Troy"). The DVD is priced at $29.98 SRP. The VHS is $23.98.

Named as one of the "Top 10 Films of the Year" by the American Film Institute and Newsweek, and hailed by the sports press for its uncompromising depiction of the tough competitive world of high school football and the electrifying action sequences of the game plays, "Friday Night Lights" is ideal entertainment for film fans and sports enthusiasts alike.

Bonus Features

The Friday Night Lights DVD's line-up of powerful bonus features takes viewers into the action of the bone-crunching plays and into the unique world experienced by the real people who have lived the phenomenon of Friday night lights as part of their dreams. Extras include:

* Player Cam -- Experience first hand the action that ensues when
40 actor-athletes live together for six weeks on the field, in the
locker room and even when they're off the clock exploring the great
Texas plains.

* Tim McGraw: Off the Stage -- From country music star to the silver
screen, Tim McGraw will share his experience bringing this best
selling novel to life.

* Real Life, Real Games, Real People -- Through the eyes of the "Friday
Night Lights" cast and crew and the real Permian players and fans,
viewers will be treated to a scene witnessed by few: the real Friday
night lights.

* Never-before-seen action-packed Deleted Scenes

* Commentary with Director Peter Berg and Writer Buzz Bissinger

Synopsis


Based on the best-selling book by H.G. Bissinger, "Friday Night Lights" chronicles the 1988 season of the Permian High Panthers of Odessa, Texas, the most successful football team in the state's history. For Coach Gary Gaines (Billy Bob Thornton), it is a season filled with tremendous pressure as he tries to drive his team to the championship after failing to do so the previous two years. For the young men of the team, every play is a chance to transcend their small town and the fleeting dream of gridiron stardom whose pinnacle may be reached by the time they turn 18. The movie paints a vivid portrait of Odessa and places like it across America where once a week during the fall season, the town and its hopes come alive beneath the dazzling Friday night lights.

For more information please visit: www.fridaynightlightsmovie.com.

CAST & FILMMAKERS
Director: Peter Berg
Screenwriters: David Aaron Cohen, Peter Berg
Based on Book By: H.G. Bissinger
Producer: Brian Grazer
Executive Producers: James Whitaker, John Cameron
Director of Photography: Tobias Schlessler
Production Designer: Sharon Seymour
Editors: David Rosenbloom, Colby Parker Jr.
Costume Designer: Susan Matheson
Music Producer: Brian Reitzell
Cast: Billy Bob Thornton, Lucas Black, Garrett Hedlund, Derek Luke, Jay
Hernandez, Lee Jackson, Lee Thompson Young, Tim McGraw

TECHNICAL INFORMATION
DVD
Street Date: January 18, 2005
Pre-Order Date: December 14, 2004
Copyright: 2004 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
Price: $29.98 SRP
Selection Numbers: 25476 (Anamorphic Widescreen); 25477 (Full Frame)
Running Time 1 Hour and 58 Minutes
Layers: Dual Layers
Aspect Ratio: Full Frame (1.33:1); Anamorphic Widescreen (2.35:1)
Rating: PG-13 (for thematic issues, sexual content, language, some teen
drinking and rough sports action)
Technical Info: English Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround/Captions; French Dolby
Digital 5.1 Surround/Subtitles; Spanish Dolby Digital 5.1
Surround/Subtitles

VHS
Street Date: January 18, 2005
Pre-Order Date: December 14, 2004
Copyright: 2004 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
Price: $23.98 SRP
Selection Numbers: 62775
Running Time 1 Hour and 58 Minutes
Aspect Ratio: Full Frame
Rating: PG-13 (for thematic issues, sexual content, language, some teen
drinking and rough sports action)
Technical Info: Hi-Fi Stereo Surround



Universal Studios Home Entertainment is a unit of Universal Pictures, a division of Universal Studios. Universal Studios is a part of NBC Universal, one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production, and marketing of entertainment, news, and information to a global audience. Formed in May 2004 through the combining of NBC and Vivendi Universal Entertainment, NBC Universal owns and operates the No. 1 television network, the fastest-growing Spanish-language network, a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group, and world-renowned theme parks. NBC Universal is 80%-owned by General Electric, with 20% controlled by Vivendi Universal.

CONTACTS

Universal Studios Home Video
Vivian Mayer
Senior Vice President, Publicity
(818) 777-3594

Craig Radow
Manager, Print Publicity
(818) 777-4572

Evan Fong
Executive Director, Publicity
(818) 777-5540

Heather David
Manager, Broadcast Publicity
(818) 777-0549



Source: Universal Studios Home Entertainment

CONTACT: Vivian Mayer, Senior Vice President, Publicity,
+1-818-777-3594, or Craig Radow, Manager, Print Publicity, +1-818-777-4572, or
Evan Fong, Executive Director, Publicity, +1-818-777-5540, or Heather David,
Manager, Broadcast Publicity, +1-818-777-0549, all of Universal Studios Home
Video

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


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Profile: intent

TuneGrabber.com Rewards Online Shoppers With Free, Legal Music Downloads

TuneGrabber.com Rewards Online Shoppers With Free, Legal Music Downloads

SANTA FE, N.M., Dec. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- The estimated four million music lovers who found a new iPod(R) portable music player under their Christmas tree can now earn free and legal music downloads while spending their holiday cash thanks to TuneGrabber.com, an innovative new website.

TuneGrabber.com lets shoppers earn free music downloads by shopping at more than 300 popular and well-known online retailers, including Macy's, Sharper Image and Office Depot. When shopping through TuneGrabber.com, every dollar spent at each participating retailer translates into TuneTokens. All new members will immediately receive 1,000 TuneTokens. Once a member's account balance reaches 10,000, which could easily be accomplished in a single transaction, TuneGrabber automatically sends a $10 iTunes Music Store(R) gift certificate via email.

As the number of recording industry lawsuits recently reached 7,704, more Americans are turning away from illegal file swapping and finding legal alternatives, such as the iTunes Music Store, which has sold over 200 million songs. Since the free iTunes(R) Software is cross-platform, both PC and Mac(R) users can download their personal music selection at their convenience.

"This is an incredibly simple and rewarding way to get free, legal music downloads," explains TuneGrabber founder Sasha Nordeen, who negotiated agreements with the participating retailers. "Many consumers shop online but are completely unaware of the bargains and perks that can be found if you know where to look. Visiting TuneGrabber.com before you begin shopping is the key to receiving free music downloads for doing something you had planned to do anyway. There's absolutely nothing to lose and lots of free music to be gained."

There are no fees associated with becoming a TuneGrabber member. All visitors have access to a comprehensive database of online coupons and free shipping offers for immediate savings. With generous TuneToken deposits that never expire, automated reward redemption and instant online delivery, there is no red tape to keep members from receiving music downloads.

About TuneGrabber.com

TuneGrabber.com, a new website with many innovative and patent pending features, allows consumers to earn free, legal music downloads by shopping online. An impressive group of over three hundred participating online merchants provides users with a wide variety of shopping opportunities in every category, ranging from clothing to travel, books to electronics and beyond. The list includes: 1-800-Contacts, 1-800-Flowers, Abt Electronics, Blue Nile, Cricket Communications, dELiA*s, drugstore.com, eCampus.com, Hammacher Schlemmer, Hickory Farms, Hottopic.com, Hotwire.com, KBtoys.com, Liz Claiborne, Macy's, Match.com, Office Depot, Overstock.com, Payless ShoeSource, PETCO, Philips Electronics, Radisson Hotels & Resorts, Sephora, Sharper Image, Shoes.com, Steve Madden, Thrifty Rent-A-Car and WorldPerks(R) Visa.

Contact founder Sasha Nordeen at (505) 310-8481 or press@tunegrabber.com. Visit http://www.tunegrabber.com/ for additional details.


Source: TuneGrabber.com

CONTACT: Sasha Nordeen of TuneGrabber.com, +1-505-310-8481,
press@tunegrabber.com

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


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Profile: intent

OG&E Adopts Web-Based Approach to Purchase Power; Program Will Make Power Purchase Agreements More Visible

OG&E Adopts Web-Based Approach to Purchase Power; Program Will Make Power Purchase Agreements More Visible

OKLAHOMA CITY, Dec. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Beginning in January 2005, OG&E Electric Services will begin buying some of its power online.

The Web-based application will allow the company to electronically accept offers from utilities and other electricity suppliers that may be selling power in the region.

"OG&E has always purchased power from other suppliers to help meet our customer's demand or to take advantage of low-cost power that may be available," said company spokesman Brian Alford. "This new method will simplify the process for those who seek to sell power to the company."

Alford said the application also opens up the process to anyone interested in how OG&E conducts business on behalf of its customers.

The website describes specific criteria for potential sellers, including financial stability, ability to meet minimum quantity and reliability standards, and performance history.

OGE Energy (NYSE:OGE) is the parent company of Oklahoma Gas and Electric Company (OG&E), a regulated electric utility serving approximately 733,000 customers in a service territory spanning 30,000 square miles in Oklahoma and western Arkansas, and of Enogex Inc., a natural gas pipeline business with principal operations in Oklahoma and Arkansas.


Source: OGE Energy Corp.

CONTACT: Brian Alford of OGE Energy Corp., +1-405-553-3187

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


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Profile: intent

C I Host Encourages Geographic Diversity in Tsunami's Wake

C I Host Encourages Geographic Diversity in Tsunami's Wake

DALLAS, Dec. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Natural disasters, like the 9.0 earthquake and resulting killer tsunami last Sunday, could create devastating tidal waves on the Internet as well -- were it not for geographic diversity in Web hosting data centers, according to Christopher Faulkner, CEO of C I Host, a global leader in Web hosting and data center operation.

Faulkner said, "The disaster caused immeasurable, horrific suffering for the population in and around Indonesia. But looking beyond that tragedy, there could be ripple effects throughout the hosting industry and e-commerce in general if major companies' servers were hit."

For that very contingency, C I Host recently launched a 2005 initiative to strategically place more data centers around North America and in Europe to provide backups in the event of catastrophes.

C I Host recently opened a data center in San Jose, Calif., and will also add locations in the New York City market and in London during 2005. C I Host now operates diverse data centers in the Dallas/Fort Worth market, Los Angeles and Chicago.

"The strategic, diverse locations provide different options for customers to visit the data centers at will, but more importantly, the different locations typically are not susceptible to any single catastrophic event," Faulkner said. "If there is a problem at one location, there are multiple data centers ready to transfer the traffic and shift the work load."

About C I Host:

C I Host (http://www.cihost.com/ ), based in the Dallas/Fort Worth market, is a global Web hosting and Internet solutions provider serving 215,000 individual consumers and businesses in 190 countries worldwide. C I Host's headquarters and Network Operations Center are in Bedford, Texas, and the company operates additional diverse data centers in Los Angeles and Chicago.


Source: C I Host

CONTACT: D. Kent Pingel, VP, Corporate Communications & PR of C I Host,
+1-888-868-9931, ext. 7006, or kentp@cihost.com

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


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Profile: intent

Hop-On to Exhibit GSM Tri-Band Flip Phone at the 2005 Consumer Electronics Show

Hop-On to Exhibit GSM Tri-Band Flip Phone at the 2005 Consumer Electronics Show

IRVINE, Calif., Dec. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Hop-on.com, Inc. today announced that it will introduce an entry-level priced tri-band (900/1800/1900 MHz) GSM flip phone at the 2005 Consumer Electronics Show that runs from January 6 to 9, 2005 in Las Vegas. While targeted to be the least expensive GSM tri-band flip phone in the market, Hop-on's Model 1827 handset is no lightweight in terms of features as its stylish and compact design includes a 65K color LCD screen, EMS (Enhanced Message Service), polyphonic ring tones, predictive text input, speed dialing, vibration call alert, and a 200-entry phone book. This phone is targeted to distributors and GSM carriers in North and South America, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Africa and Asia. For more information about this phone, please visit the Company's website, http://www.hop-on.com/.

The International CES, the world's largest annual consumer technology tradeshow, will run January 6-9, 2005 in Las Vegas, Nevada (http://www.cesweb.org/). Media requests for information or meetings with Hop- on executives should be directed to Andrew Rodriguez, (646) 536-7032, arodriguez@theruthgroup.com.

About Hop-on.com, Inc.

Hop-on develops and markets wireless phones and accessories as well as wireless surveillance systems. It product line includes the next generation CDMA2000 handsets designed by its Dallas R&D team as well as GSM/GPRS handsets. Hop-on targets its phones to both emerging market carriers and other domestic carriers and resellers needing an entry level priced phone.

In addition, Hop-on offers a line of innovative and attractively priced wireless accessories for both Hop-on phones and other leading manufacturers as well as affordable, wireless surveillance systems. Hop-on is also known for developing the world's first disposable cell phone. It was an IS-95 CDMA phone that was sold to consumers with prepaid airtime and included the capability to add on additional minutes. For more information, visit http://www.hop-on.com/.

CONTACTS:
David Pasquale, 646-536-7006 or Andrew Rodriguez, 646-536-7032
Both with The Ruth Group, http://www.theruthgroup.com/

This Company's news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements relate to, among other things, software functionality and capacity, timing of the commencement of operations and cash flow, and are indicated by words or phrases such as "anticipate," "estimate," "plans" and similar words or phrases. The following are among the principal factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements: general business and economic conditions in the Company's operations, including the rate of inflation, population, employment and job growth rate, the pricing pressures and other competitive factors and issues arising from year 2000 information technology issues. Consequently actual events and results may vary significantly from those included in or contemplated or implied by such statements.


Source: Hop-on.com, Inc.

CONTACT: David Pasquale, +1-646-536-7006, or Andrew Rodriguez,
+1-646-536-7032, both of The Ruth Group, for Hop-on.com, Inc.

Web site: http://www.hop-on.com/


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Profile: intent

WorldTeq Expands VoIP Program

WorldTeq Expands VoIP Program

ROCKVILLE, Md., Dec. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- WorldTeq Group International Inc. (BULLETIN BOARD: WTEQ) , a full-service solutions provider of Long Distance, Toll-Free services, and Financial Services announces a partnership with an established company in the VoIP marketplace.

"Beginning in January, our new sales team will begin aggressively marketing our expanded VoIP services. While we have previously offered some VoIP services, the accepting marketplace is allowing us to focus more resources in this area. Bandwidth availability has increased ten-fold in the last few years, resulting in a quality of service that is near perfect. VoIP is a more profitable business segment. We expect to see an additional $3,000 - $5,000 in additional monthly profits from VoIP very shortly after the program is initiated with continued acceleration throughout the year. By the end of 2005 we expect VoIP revenues and resulting profits to surpass our regular long distance services," stated Jeff Lieberman, CEO of WorldTeq.

"VoIP is starting to gain mass acceptance. Currently about 400,000 residents and hundreds of thousands of businesses use a VoIP solution for their communication needs. In 2004 alone, VoIP penetration in the business community grew from 3% to 14% of all business telephone traffic. By 2009 it is predicted that 12.1 million American households, nearly 17% of all households, will use VoIP technology to carry their voice traffic. It is expected that business usage of VoIP technology will be nearly 100% by this time," continued Lieberman.

About WorldTeq Group International

WorldTeq Group International offers a wide range of telecommunications, merchandising and financial services with related products via independent agents, associations, sales organizations and affiliate marketing.

For more information visit the company's Web Site at http://www.worldteqgroup.com/.

The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides a "safe harbor" for forward-looking statements.

Certain information included in this press release (as well as information included in oral statements or other written statements made or to be made by WorldTeq) contains statements that are forward-looking, such as statements relating to consummation of the transaction, anticipated future revenues of the company and success of current product offerings.

Such forward-looking information involves important risks and uncertainties that could significantly affect anticipated results in the future and, accordingly, such results may differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by or on behalf of WorldTeq Group International.

Contact Information: WorldTeq Group International Inc., Jeff Lieberman, 888-263-7776, 413-513-1260 fax, jlieberman@worldteq.com


Source: WorldTeq Group International Inc.

CONTACT: Jeff Lieberman of WorldTeq Group International,
+1-888-263-7776, or +1-413-513-1260 fax, or jlieberman@worldteq.com

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


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Profile: intent

VeriSign Reports $8.8 Billion in Online Purchases During the 2004 Holiday Shopping Season

VeriSign Reports $8.8 Billion in Online Purchases During the 2004 Holiday Shopping Season

Online Sales Experienced a Healthy Growth of 24 Percent as Compared to 2003

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Dec. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- VeriSign, Inc. (NASDAQ:VRSN), the leading provider of intelligent infrastructure services for the Internet and telecommunications networks, today released new e-commerce data showing that the 2004 holiday shopping season (Thanksgiving through Monday, December 27) yielded a total of $8.8 billion in online shopping purchases, a 24 percent increase as compared to the same period last year. VeriSign also reported that the average price of an online purchase reached a season-high of $178 on Wednesday, December 22, 2004, one of the final shipping days before Christmas. Additionally, the final five shopping days during the week of December 20 accounted for $1.5 billion in online purchases.

"The 2004 online holiday shopping season has proved highly successful, with virtually every indicator showing growth. From spikes in merchant categories to new shopping phenomena like 'Black Monday,' we continue to observe the impact the online marketplace has on traditional shopping-behavior patterns," said Trevor Healy, vice president of payment services, VeriSign. "Through the online data we collected, we have seen clear changes in consumer behavior such as accelerated weekday shopping activity, more confidence in buying digital goods from e-commerce sites, an increase in gift-certificate purchases as well as the direct impact of shipping lead times on sales."

VeriSign's latest statistics are based on the analysis of online sales volume processed through VeriSign Payment Services, which comprises more than 35 percent of all North American e-commerce and represents in excess of 120,000 online retailers.

Full Category Comparisons

VeriSign tracks year-over-year merchant activity in key e-commerce categories. Significant findings this year include the following figures from Thanksgiving 2004 through the Monday following Christmas (Monday, December 27, 2004), as compared to the equivalent time period in 2003 (Thanksgiving 2003 through Monday, December 29, 2003):

-- Online transactions for the electronics category increased 17 percent
for the entire holiday shopping season as compared to 2003. This
category picked up steam from a four percent increase as of
December 12, 2004 and a 12 percent increases as of December 19, 2004.
The category also carried an average ticket price of $291, the highest
average price across all categories.
-- Online transactions for the apparel category increased 45 percent for
the entire holiday shopping season as compared to 2003. Women's apparel
represented the largest portion of this category, accounting for
40 percent of the total sales this season. Women's apparel also showed
the highest increase in average ticket price, increasing 28 percent to
$140 this year as compared to the 2003 online holiday shopping season.
-- Online transactions for the entertainment category (music and video
downloads) increased 54 percent for the entire holiday shopping season
as compared to 2003.
-- Online transactions related to the photo-printing-and-sharing category
increased 120 percent for the entire holiday shopping season as
compared to 2003. This was the fastest growing of all categories
tracked during the 2004 holiday season.
-- Online transactions for the general retail category increased
24 percent for the entire holiday shopping season as compared to 2003.
The Kitchen-and-Housewares subcategory held the highest share of this
category at 28 percent. Kitchen-and-Housewares also held one of the
season's highest average ticket prices at $148 -- second only to the
electronics category.

Spending Patterns
-- Consistent with previously observed consumer online shopping behavior,
Monday again was the busiest shopping day of the week. Monday,
December 20, 2004, the peak online shopping day from the week,
accounted for 4.8 million transactions, representing more than
23 percent of the week's activity.
-- In the "brick-and-mortar" world, retailers expect that December 26, the
day after Christmas, will draw a large number of consumers to their
stores. This year, December 26 fell on a Sunday, a day of the week with
historically low online shopping activity. Therefore, the equivalent
spike in online shopping activity occurred on Monday,
December 27, 2004, the first weekday following Christmas. The total
volume of transactions recorded on December 27, 2004 was 3.8 million, a
61 percent increase as compared to Friday, December 26, 2003 (the first
weekday following Christmas in 2003). This also represented an eight
percent increase as compared to Monday, December 29, 2003 (the first
Monday following Christmas 2003).
-- The total amount spent from Thanksgiving 2004 through Monday,
December 27, 2004 was $8.8 billion, a $1.7 billion -- or 24 percent
-- increase in sales as compared to the same period in 2003 (Thursday,
November 27, 2003 to Monday, December 29, 2003).
-- The average sale amount during the time-period from Thanksgiving 2004
through Monday, December 27, 2004 was $145, a 12 percent increase as
compared to the same time period in 2003 (Thursday, November 27, 2003
to Monday, December 29, 2003). The average ticket price reached a high
of $178 on Wednesday, December 22, 2004.



VeriSign's ability to correlate intelligence gathered across the Internet enables the company to identify market trends such as changes in Internet shopping patterns that may impact vendors with an online presence. As such, in addition to reporting on the week of December 20, VeriSign also issued data collected during the week of December 6 and December 13, which can be found at: http://www.verisign.com/verisign-inc/news-and-events/news-archive/us-news- 2004/page_020992.html and http://www.verisign.com/verisign-inc/news-and- events/news-archive/us-news-2004/page_021992.html, respectively. Additionally, on November 30, VeriSign issued e-commerce statistics regarding the impact of online shopping on traditional brick-and-mortar retail shopping events such as the Friday after Thanksgiving, commonly known as "Black Friday." These statistics are currently available at: http://www.verisign.com/verisign-inc/news-and-events/news-archive/us-news- 2004/page_019494.html.

About VeriSign

VeriSign, Inc. operates intelligent infrastructure services that enable individuals and businesses to find, connect, secure, and transact across today's complex global networks. Additional news and information about the company is available at www.verisign.com.

Statements in this announcement other than historical data and information constitute 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 involve risks and uncertainties that could cause VeriSign's actual results to differ materially from those stated or implied by such forward-looking statements. The potential risks and uncertainties include, among others; the ability of VeriSign to successfully develop and market new services and customer acceptance of any new services; the risk that VeriSign's announced strategic relationships may not result in additional products, services, customers and revenues; increased competition and pricing pressures. More information about potential factors that could affect the company's business and financial results is included in VeriSign's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003 and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. VeriSign undertakes no obligation to update any of the forward-looking statements after the date of this press release.


Source: VeriSign, Inc.

CONTACT: press, Karen McGuirk Regan, +1-781-696-2834, or
kregan@verisign.com, or investors, Tom McCallum, +1-650-426-3744, or
tmccallum@verisign.com, both of VeriSign, Inc.

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


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Profile: intent

Radware Announces Earnings Conference Call

Radware Announces Earnings Conference Call

TEL AVIV, Israel, Dec. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Radware (NASDAQ: RDWR), the leading provider of Intelligent Application Switching (IAS) solutions, ensuring the availability, performance and security of networked applications across the enterprise, will present its fourth quarter financial results in a conference call on Monday, January 31, 2005 at 08:45 AM (EST).

Please find a link to the upcoming webcast presentation on the following web page: http://www.radware.com/content/company/investorrelations/default.asp

About Radware

Radware (NASDAQ:RDWR) is the Global Leader in Intelligent Application Switching, enabling the complete security, maximum performance and full availability of all mission critical networked applications while dramatically cutting operating and scaling costs.

Radware's integrated Application Security, Application Infrastructure and End-to-End Connectivity solutions are deployed by over 2,500 enterprises and carriers worldwide. Radware offers the broadest product line in the industry, meeting application needs at every critical point across the network including Web and Application Servers, Firewalls, VPNs, ISP links, Anti-Virus Gateways and Cache. Learn more on how Radware Intelligent Application Switching Solutions can enable the security, performance and availability of mission critical applications at http://www.radware.com/.

This press release may contain forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, general business conditions in the Application Switching industry, changes in demand for Application Switching products, the timing and amount or cancellation of orders and other risks detailed from time to time in Radware's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including Radware's Form 20-F.


Source: Radware

CONTACT: Editorial - Jon Rabinowitz, Radware Ltd.; +1-201-512-9771,
ext. 233, jonr@radware.com, Investor Relations: Dennis S. Dobson,
+1-203-255-7902, IR@radware.com

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


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Profile: intent

Network Installation Announces Multiple Telecom Projects

Network Installation Announces Multiple Telecom Projects

IRVINE, Calif., Dec 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Network Installation Corp. (BULLETIN BOARD: NWKI) announced today it was awarded multiple telecom project orders. The projects entail the deployment of Avaya or Mitel telecom solutions for the following companies; Los Angeles, CA-based Sound Solutions, Solana Beach, CA-based TS Restaurants and Long Beach, CA-based e-commerce marketer NeWave, Inc.

Network Installation CEO Michael Cummings stated, "As with wireless solutions, telecom solutions provides us with our greatest profit margins. We will continue building on the foundation that we established this year in the telecom sector, as we believe it to be a major growth area and revenue driver for the Company as we move into 2005."

About Network Installation Corp.

Network Installation Corp. provides communications solutions to the Fortune 1000, Government Agencies, Municipalities, K-12 and Universities and Multiple Property Owners. These solutions include the design, installation and deployment of data, voice and video networks as well as wireless networks including Wi-Fi and Wi-Max applications and integrated telecommunications solutions including Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) applications. To find out more about Network Installation Corp. (BULLETIN BOARD: NWKI - News) , visit our corporate website at www.networkinstallationcorp.net or www.delmarsystems.com. The Company's public financial information and filings can be viewed at www.sec.gov.

Forward Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements concerning our business and possible or assumed future results of operations. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements for many reasons including: our ability to continue as a going concern, adverse economic changes affecting markets we serve; competition in our markets and industry segments; our timing and the profitability of entering new markets; greater than expected costs, customer acceptance of wireless networks or difficulties related to our integration of the businesses we may acquire; and other risks and uncertainties as may be detailed from time to time in our public announcements and SEC filings. Although we believe the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, they relate only to events as of the date on which the statements are made, and our future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements may not meet these expectations. We do not intend to update any of the forward-looking statements after the date of this document to conform these statements to actual results or to changes in our expectations, except as required by law.

For more information, please contact: Michael Novielli, Chairman, Network Installation Corp., mnovielli@networkinstallationcorp.com, +1-203-791-3838; or Malcom McGuire, CCRI Group, +1-800-828-0406, for Network Installation Corp.


Source: Network Installation Corp.

CONTACT: Michael Novielli, Chairman of Network Installation Corp.,
mnovielli@networkinstallationcorp.com, +1-203-791-3838; or Malcom McGuire of
CCRI Group, +1-800-828-0406, for Network Installation Corp.

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

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


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Profile: intent

Tournament of Roses Countdown

Tournament of Roses Countdown


Thursday, December 30, 2004

ROSE PARADE EVENTS

ROSE PARADE MEDIA CENTER

TIME: 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. (PST)

SITE: Tournament House, Rose Room
391 South Orange Grove Blvd.
Pasadena
(626) 449-9550 ext. 1312
Enter through office lobby

NOTE: Phones, computers with Internet access (wireless access
available), food and beverages will be available to the media as
well as information about Rose Parade-related activities. Rose
Parade media credential distribution will also take place in the
Rose Room. Please contact Adria DeBaca at (626) 449-9550
ext. 1312 with questions.

FLOAT DECORATING SITES presented by Bayer Advanced

TIME: 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. (PST)

SITES: Rosemont Pavilion Brookside Pavilion*
700 Seco Street, Pasadena Southwest of the Rose Bowl,
Pasadena

Buena Vista Pavilion* Rose Palace
2144 Buena Vista, 835 South Raymond Avenue,
City of Duarte Pasadena

* Areas are accessible to the mobility-impaired.

NOTE: Rain or shine, experience the magic of the Rose Parade floats
before Parade Day. View up close the floats in their final
stages of preparation for the Parade from any of four
locations. Hard working volunteers alongside experienced
professionals will be applying the final touches of a variety of
fruit, seeds, bark, grasses and of course, flowers, to the
floats. Site maps are available at all information booths.

Admission $5 for any two visits; children three and under are
free.

FANFEST EXPO VILLAGE presented by Home Depot

TIME: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

SITE: Parking Lot I at the Rose Bowl

NOTE: At the Fanfest Expo Village, visitors can enjoy entertainment
for all ages while spending the day one-on-one with many of the
Tournament of Roses participants. Among other opportunities for
amusement, attendees can browse educational exhibits, visit
family-friendly displays, sing along with country western stars,
watch bands perform, see animals do unique tricks, and listen as
kids from the area broadcast live television newscasts.

The Expo Village also includes a food court coordinated by the
Pasadena Chamber of Commerce, giving visitors a chance to
refresh between exhibits and performances.

Admission is free.

TOURNAMENT OF ROSES BANDFEST presented by Remo USA

TIME: 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. (first show)
2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. (second show)

SITE: Pasadena City College
1570 E. Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena
(Corner of Hill and Colorado)

NOTE: Music, America and the tradition of the high school marching
band come alive in this showcase of national talent. Bandfest
features the award-winning bands of the 2005 Rose Parade
performing the field shows that made them famous.

Admission is $10 for adults; $5 for children 4-12; and free for
children three and under.

Media parking will be available in Lot 5 and the check-in is
located at the East end of the stadium. For equipment trucks,
please contact Tony Alexakis, Bandfest Captain, at 626-278-1992
or a pass to Lot 5.

Scheduled to perform on Thursday, December 30, 2004, 10:00 a.m.
* Bands of America Honor Band, Indianapolis, Indiana
* Hempfield Area High School Marching Band, Greensburg,
Pennsylvania
* Pasadena City College Tournament of Roses Honor Band,
Pasadena, California
* Pasadena Unified School District All Star Band, Pasadena,
California
* Pomona High School Marching Band, Arvada, Colorado
* The Spirit of Central Marching Band, Indianapolis, Indiana
* The University of Texas Longhorn Band, Austin, Texas

Scheduled to perform on Thursday, December 30, 2004, 2:30 pm
* El Dorado Golden Hawks Marching Band & Colorguard,
Placentia, California
* Lassiter High School Band, Marietta, Georgia
* Lindbergh High School Spirit of St. Louis Marching Band,
Saint Louis, Missouri
* Pasadena City College Tournament of Roses Honor Band,
Pasadena, California
* Seminole High School Warhawk Marching Band, Seminole,
Florida
* Sioux Falls Lincoln Patriot Marching Band, Sioux Falls,
South Dakota

CHILI COOK-OFF presented by Smart & Final

TIME: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

SITE: Parking Lot I at the Rose Bowl

NOTE: The competition, sanctioned by the International Chili Society,
will draw chili cooks and chili lovers from all over the
country. For just fifty-cents per sample, visitors can taste
the unparalleled products of friendly competition between the
finest chili cooks from around he world.

Admission is free.

TOURNAMENT OF ROSES EQUESTFEST presented by Wells Fargo

TIME: 11:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Box office opens at 10:30 a.m.
Rain or shine under the covered Equidome

SITE: Los Angeles Equestrian Center
480 Riverside Drive,
Burbank, CA 91506

NOTE: Bob Eubanks, equestrian enthusiast and co-host of KTLA's Rose
Parade broadcast, will announce the performances of the many of
the equestrians appearing in the 2005 Rose Parade at Equestfest.
Watch the ongoing performances, demonstrations and exhibits of
the Andalusians, Lusitanos, Arabians, draft horses, Mules,
Donkeys, Saddlebreds, Paints and more.

The "wild west" will be brought to life as visitors enjoy
continuous entertainment and a variety of exhibits, displays,
music, food and beverages. Viewers may stroll through the
stables, talk to the riders, or sit back and watch the horses
and talented riders perform drills and demonstrate trick riding
and roping.

Admission is $8; children five and under admitted free. Parking
is $4 per car.

Tickets may be purchased online at www.sharpseating.com or by
calling (626) 795-4171. Tickets will also be available day-of
at the L.A. Equestrian Center.

CONTACT: PASADENA TOURNAMENT OF ROSES ASSOCIATION
Caryn Eaves or Adria DeBaca
(626) 449-9550 ext. 1312

HILL & KNOWLTON, INC.
Mindy Buchanan
(323) 966-5707

- ROSE -


PRNewswire -- Dec. 30


Source: Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association

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


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Profile: intent

Health Nutrition Guru Dr. Gary Null Brings the Award Winning 'The Gary Null Show' to the Internet on the VoiceAmerica Network

Health Nutrition Guru Dr. Gary Null Brings the Award Winning 'The Gary Null Show' to the Internet on the VoiceAmerica Network

PHOENIX, Dec. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SurfNet Media Group (BULLETIN BOARD: SFNM) announced today the debut of "The Gary Null Show" broadcasting live five days a week beginning Monday, January 3, 2005 at Noon Eastern (9 a.m. Pacific) on the VoiceAmerica Network (http://www.voice.voiceamerica.com/) and rebroadcast on VoiceAmerica Health and Wellness (http://www.health.voiceamerica.com/). Hosted by Gary Null, a leading natural health spokesperson, nutritional expert, prolific author and veteran talk show host, "The Gary Null Show" is the longest-running, continuously aired health program in America and a winner of eight Silver Microphone Awards. "Taking my radio talk show to the Internet enables us to reach an international audience with our message to explore the nature and politics of medicine, health, nutrition and the environment," stated Dr. Null.

A singular blend of nutrition, alternative medicine, natural healing, self-empowerment and investigative news features, the show offers practical tips, intriguing guests and call-in segments that keep listeners tuning in daily. With Voice America's On Demand service, listeners have the option to hear the show live or access past shows at their convenience. To access the show, log onto http://www.voice.voiceamerica.com/ Listeners with questions, comments or opinions are encouraged to call in live, toll-free at 888-335-5204. "The Gary Null Show" will continue to broadcast on WWRL, 1660 AM on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. EST.

About Gary Null

Gary Null, Ph.D., is a broadcast veteran of over 27 years, a New York Times best-selling author of over 70 books and an award-winning documentary filmmaker. He appears regularly on public television, and has been featured in numerous publications, including Time, The Daily News and Fitness. To learn more about Dr. Null visit http://www.garynull.com/.

About SurfNet Media Group

SurfNet Media Group (http://www.surfnetmedia.com/) is an Internet digital entertainment media publisher producing and broadcasting live and on-demand talk radio content streamed globally 24/7. SurfNet produces and broadcasts over 100 talk programs weekly on its channels, VoiceAmerica (http://www.voice.voiceamerica.com/), VoiceAmerica Business (http://www.business.voiceamerica.com/), and VoiceAmerica Health & Wellness (http://www.health.voiceamerica.com/). SurfNet enables sponsors to deliver cost-effective advertising content to targeted audiences.

Denise Dion
602-426-7200
denise.dion@surfnetmedia.com
Surfnet Media Group, Inc.



This press release was distributed by PRWEB (http://www.prwebdirect.com/), a service of eMediawire.


Source: SurfNet Media Group, Inc.

CONTACT: Denise Dion of Surfnet Media Group, Inc., +1-602-426-7200, or
denise.dion@surfnetmedia.com

Web site: http://www.voice.voiceamerica.com/

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

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


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Profile: intent

Toronto Slumps on Resource Weakness

Toronto Slumps on Resource Weakness

Wednesday, December 29, 4:15 PM EST (Thomson Financial): Canadian stocks ended the first session after a long holiday weekend lower. Trading volumes were razor thin as many traders have already closed their books for the year and there was a dearth of news to push people back into the markets. Energy and gold shares were among the leading decliners, with other resource issues posting losses as well. Financial and consumer discretionary shares advanced.

* The S&P/Toronto Stock Exchange Composite Index fell 58.32 points, or
0.63%.

* Energy stocks tumbled, as the sector played catch up after the holiday.
Oil prices tumbled sharply on Monday, as forecasts for more mild
weather in the U.S. could reduce demand for heating oil and alleviate
some of the pressure on supplies. Still, oil prices jumped today, as
the weekly U.S. inventory data proved to be more bullish than expected.
Crude oil stockpiles declined by 800,000 barrels in the latest week,
while distillate stocks also fell by 800,000. Gasoline inventories rose
by 900,000 for the week.

* Turning to corporate news, PetroKazakhstan said that production of
Turgai Petroleum, its 50% joint venture with Lukoil, has been
temporarily curtailed as a result of non compliance by the management
of Turgai with existing agreement on marketing. Historically,
PetroKazakhstan Kumkol Resources, as operator of the Kumkol South
field, and Turgai Petroleum, as operator of the Kumkol North field,
have shared the supply of the domestic market in proportion to their
production.

* Gold stocks also took a hit, as the price of the yellow metal fell on
some renewed strength in the U.S. greenback. Trading has been light in
the commodity markets due to the holidays, and as many big players have
already closed out their books for the year.

* Elsewhere, aluminum giant Alcan said it has paid Powerex, a subsidiary
of B.C. Hydro, US$110 million to settle a claim associated with the
collapse of Enron in late 2001 and the Kemano Completion Project.
Additionally, Alcan has advised B.C. Hydro that it was providing a
five-year notice of the recall of the 140 megawatts of power it sells
to B.C. Hydro under the Long Term Electricity Purchase Agreement. Alcan
will record a pretax charge of US$10 million to income in the fourth
quarter of 2004.

* In other news, Rogers Media, a unit of Rogers Communications, announced
that it has acquired the 20% interest in Rogers Sportsnet held by Fox
Sports Net Canada Holdings, an affiliate of Fox Cable Networks, for
C$45 million. Sportsnet was developed and launched in 1998 by Rogers,
CTV and Fox, and with the acquisition of the 20% stake, Rogers now owns
100% of the network.

* Out of the transportation group, WestJet Airlines is reportedly
considering halting next year's expansion plans and switching attention
to cutting costs by retiring most or all of its fleet of 15 older
Boeing 737-200 aircraft. The carrier will be taking delivery of 15 new
737s next year.

* Technology stocks sank, as there was no local news to direct trading,
and there were limited developments out of the U.S. U.S. software
stocks were active after Oracle said it has assumed control of
PeopleSoft now that approximately 75% of PeopleSoft shareholders have
tendered their shares. Earlier this month, PeopleSoft agreed to be
bought by Oracle for US$10.3 billion following an 18-month takeover
battle.

* Looking at U.S. economic data, existing home sales for November rose
2.7% to an annual rate of 6.94 million units. Analysts were looking for
a 0.3% increase in the month. Inventory of unsold homes was unchanged
at 4.3 months' supply.

-- Justin.Menza@thomson.com; Thomson Financial Corporate Group



This is Thomson Financial Corporate Group's Canadian Commentary, which is updated twice daily. The information herein is believed to be true and accurate, we take no responsibility for inaccurate information and reserve the right to update our reports. For more financial information at your fingertips, please visit http://www.irchannel.com/. If you have any questions please e-mail James Sang at james.sang@tfn.com or call 646.822.6233 For more information about Thomson Financial visit us on-line at http://www.thomsonfinancial.com/.

PRNewswire -- Dec. 29


Source: Thomson Financial Corporate Group

Web site: http://www.thomsonfinancial.com/
http://www.irchannel.com/


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Profile: intent

20 Million Smokers Resolve to Quit in 2005 ... Again

20 Million Smokers Resolve to Quit in 2005 ... Again

New Research Shows Individualized Web-based Support Program Can Boost Chances of Success by Nearly 30 Percent

PITTSBURGH, Dec. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Nearly half of America's smoking population -- more than 20 million people -- say they want to quit smoking in 2005 ... again, according to a new survey. What's new? This year, smokers trying to quit will be able to take advantage of Committed Quitters(R) (http://www.committedquitters.com/), an individualized Web-based support system that has been clinically proven to increase the chances of smoking cessation success.

For most smokers, 2005 won't be the first year they've tried to quit. The survey of more than 2,000 Americans found that 82 percent of smokers have tried to quit at least once, and one out of five smokers (20 percent) have tried to quit five or more times.

Smokers rate worries about the psychological and behavioral challenges of quitting as high as the physical challenges, like withdrawal symptoms. Nearly equal numbers of smokers worry about fading willpower (72 percent) and finding themselves around people and in places or situations where they'd be tempted to smoke (71 percent), as about cigarette cravings (75 percent) and irritability (73 percent). By providing smokers with individualized tools, tips and information, Committed Quitters (http://www.committedquitters.com/) can help them deal with the psychological and behavioral challenges that may have led them back to smoking in the past, while nicotine replacement therapy like NicoDerm(R) CQ(R) reduces the physical withdrawal symptoms like cigarette cravings.

A recent research study found that smokers using the online Committed Quitters program with NicoDerm(R) CQ(R) increased their chances of success by more than 28 percent compared to smokers trying to quit using the same product and non-individualized support.

"Individualized support is the key, and a tailored Web-based program offers the best of both worlds; it's customized, like individual or group therapy, but instead of reaching a few people, it can reach millions, like a major public smoking cessation campaign," says Dr. Robin J. Mermelstein, clinical psychologist, smoking cessation researcher and director of the Center for Health Behavior Research at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. Mermelstein has studied the efficacy of direct-to-smoker programs that ranged from direct mail to direct telephone support and customized, individually tailored programs, like the new Committed Quitters(R) program.

Committed Quitters features free, easily accessible and highly individualized support. Participants enroll by answering an in-depth online interview that gathers information about their habits, behaviors and motivations for smoking and quitting. The data is then compiled to craft a customized smoking cessation plan, which includes proactive e-mail outreach and newsletters that address each individual's specific needs, while providing support and encouragement that is available 24/7. The support and tips for a life-long smoker can differ greatly from those designed for a younger smoker who has trouble avoiding smoking in social situations.

Better to Have Tried and Failed, Than Not to Have Tried at All

On average, smokers who've tried to quit in the past are almost 50 percent more likely than people who've never tried quitting to worry about willpower; being around people or in situations or in places where they'll be tempted to smoke; and irritability and nervousness.

Experts say that previous attempts at quitting smoking shouldn't discourage smokers from trying again -- in fact, going through the process helps smokers learn more about their smoking behaviors, so they're better prepared to face the challenges of quitting.

"Past attempts to quit should make you more confident about future attempts - not less!" says Dr. Mermelstein. "Each time smokers try to quit, they learn more about the specific, individual challenges they'll face."

For those looking to quit this New Year's, Dr. Mermelstein offers the following tips for getting started:

* Think about the reasons you smoke -- It will give you a clearer path to
quitting. Does smoking relieve stress? Is it a large part of your social
life?

* Get your head in the game -- Dr. Mermelstein recommends that clients get
support products like nicotine replacement therapy and online help
before they quit, so they can read up on materials before they're under
the pressure of quitting. Not only does this help raise consciousness
about the patterns of smoking, it gives them the tools they'll need when
they make the decision to quit for good.

* Check out online support services -- The online Committed Quitters(R)
program provides support and encouragement to help you break your
behavioral and psychological link to cigarettes, and is proven effective
in helping smokers quit.

* Get yourself physically ready -- Start walking, take in more fluids, and
get plenty of rest.

* Put a support system in place -- Fight the urge to keep your plans to
yourself and enlist the help of family and friends. You can also rely on
online support programs like the ones at Committed Quitters, which has
been proven more effective in helping smokers quit.

About Committed Quitters and NicoDerm CQ


Committed Quitters is an individualized Web-based behavioral support program available free to users of NicoDerm(R) CQ(R). Using the NicoDerm CQ patch as directed can double a smoker's chances of quitting cigarettes versus a cold turkey quit attempt, and adding this online support program greatly improves the chances of success. Committed Quitters includes customized materials that provide coping strategies, advice and incentives to stay smoke-free.

About GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare

GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare is one of the world's largest over-the-counter healthcare products companies, ranking second globally in sales of oral care products. Its more than 30 well-known products include such medicine cabinet staples as Abreva(R), Aquafresh(R) toothpastes and toothbrushes, Nicorette(R), NicoDerm(R) CQ(R), Sensodyne(R) and Tums(R).

About GlaxoSmithKline

GlaxoSmithKline is one of the world's leading research-based pharmaceutical and consumer healthcare companies. GlaxoSmithKline is committed to improving the quality of human life by enabling people to do more, feel better and live longer.


Source: GlaxoSmithKline

CONTACT: Amanda Shaker of CKPR, +1-312-616-2426, ashaker@ckpr.biz, for
NicoDerm CQ; or Malesia Dunn of GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare,
+1-412-200-3544, malesia.a.dunn@gsk.com

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


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Profile: intent

Sirius Satellite Radio To Hold Press Conference At The Consumer Electronics Show

Sirius Satellite Radio To Hold Press Conference At The Consumer Electronics Show

Event to Take Place on Wednesday, January 5, 2005 at 4 p.m. PST in Las Vegas

NEW YORK, Dec. 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- SIRIUS Satellite Radio (NASDAQ:SIRI) today announced that it will hold a press conference on January 5, 2005 at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, NV.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/19991118/NYTH125 )

The press conference will be held at the SIRIUS booth #4020 in the Las Vegas Convention Center's North Hall at 4 p.m. PST.

The speakers will be:

* Joe Clayton, Chairman of the Board of Directors
* Scott Greenstein, President of Entertainment & Sports
* Mary Pat Ryan, Executive Vice President of Marketing
* Larry Pesce, Senior Vice President of Product Management and Strategic
Planning
* Mel Karmazin, Chief Executive Officer



Press conference highlights will include new product and partner announcements, updates on technology, programming strategy and the introduction of Mel Karmazin to CES.

The press conference will be webcast on SIRIUS' website, http://www.sirius.com/, under Company Information/Investor Relations. It will also be broadcast on SIRIUS channel 131.

About SIRIUS

SIRIUS delivers more than 120 channels of the best commercial-free music, compelling talk shows, news and information, and the most exciting sports programming to listeners across the country in digital quality sound. SIRIUS offers 65 channels of 100% commercial-free music, and features over 55 channels of sports, news, talk, entertainment, traffic and weather for a monthly subscription fee of only $12.95. SIRIUS also broadcasts live play-by- play games of the NFL and NBA, and is the Official Satellite Radio partner of the NFL.

SIRIUS radios for the car, truck, home, RV and boat are manufactured by Alpine, Audiovox, Blaupunkt, Clarion, Delphi, Jensen, JVC, Kenwood, Sanyo and XACT Communications. Available in more than 25,000 retail locations, SIRIUS radios can be purchased at major retailers including Best Buy, Circuit City, Crutchfield, Office Depot, Sears, Target, Wal-Mart and RadioShack. SIRIUS is also available at heavy truck dealers and truck stops nationwide.

SIRIUS radios are currently offered in vehicles from Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Infiniti, Jeep(R), Lincoln-Mercury, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Nissan, Porsche and Volkswagen. Beginning in February 2005, SIRIUS will also be available in Toyota, Lexus, and Scion vehicles. Hertz currently offers SIRIUS at 53 major locations around the country.

Click on http://www.sirius.com/ to listen to SIRIUS live, or to find a SIRIUS retailer or car dealer in your area.

Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance with respect to SIRIUS Satellite Radio Inc. are not historical facts and may be forward-looking and, accordingly, such statements involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Accordingly, any such statements are qualified in their entirety by reference to the factors discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2003 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Among the key factors that have a direct bearing on our results of operations are: our dependence upon third parties to manufacture, distribute, market and sell SIRIUS radios and components for those radios; the unproven market for our service; our competitive position and any events which affect the useful life of our satellites.

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/19991118/NYTH125
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: SIRIUS Satellite Radio

CONTACT: Jim Collins, Corporate Communications, +1-212-901-6422,
jcollins@siriusradio.com; or Ron Rodrigues, Media Relations, +1-212-584-5192,
rrodrigues@siriusradio.com; or Michelle McKinnon, Investor Relations,
+1-212-584-5285, mmckinnon@siriusradio.com; or Jaymie VanValkenburgh, Investor
Relations, +1-212-584-5158, jvalkenburgh@siriusradio.com, all of SIRIUS

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


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Profile: intent