Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia Launches Be Great, Philadelphia! Campaign

 

PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia (BGCP), which serves more than 13,000 youth annually, announces the launch of Be Great, Philadelphia!, a comprehensive fundraising campaign focused on enhancing programs and facilities at the twelve BGCP Clubs across the city and sustaining the future of the organization. With an initial fundraising goal of $6 million, the campaign will allow BGCP to improve and implement new programs to address systemic and chronic problems facing the youth of Philadelphia, particularly high dropout rates and violence.

 

The initial phase of the Be Great, Philadelphia! campaign will allow BGCP to focus on the following and immediate organizational needs:

 

•Enhancement of teen programs to attract and retain teen members

•Infrastructure improvements at the most needy clubs in the city, such as the remodeling of the 100+ year-old Nicetown Club

•Creating an endowment that will provide financial support in perpetuity

 

The Be Great, Philadelphia! campaign is the result of the single largest charitable donation in the 123-year history of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Philadelphia, a $3 million pledge from John C. Haas. Mr. Haas, a former BGCP Board Chair, has been integral in the growth of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Philadelphia for more than 50 years, and with his latest pledge, his impact will be felt for generations to come.

 

"Mr. Haas' commitment to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia has provided thousands of Philadelphia youth the opportunity to follow their dreams. This unprecedented financial donation by Mr. Haas ensures that Boys & Girls Clubs can continue providing future Club members the same opportunities as their parents and grandparents had before them," said Richard Wegryn, Jr., Board Chairman of Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia.

 

"I have actively supported the Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia for over 50 years. This most recent financial commitment reflects the importance of their work in our community. I urge others to join me in supporting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia's Be Great, Philadelphia! campaign," stated John C. Haas.

 

In addition to Mr. Haas' pledge, the Be Great, Philadelphia campaign has received support from:

 

•The Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia Board of Directors, who have achieved 100% participation rate in personal giving to the campaign and have exceeded the projected income goal as a constituency

•Over 90% of Boys and Girls Clubs employees who have pledged approximately $18,000 of their own money to the campaign

•The Shane Victorino Foundation, which has pledged $900,000 to the campaign that will be utilized to remodel our Nicetown Club, renaming it the Shane Victorino Nicetown Boys and Girls Club of Philadelphia.

 

"On behalf of the volunteers, staff and, most importantly, the 13,000 children we serve each year, I want to thank the Haas and Victorino families for their generous gifts that will certainly go a long way to meeting our campaign goals," added Jeffrey Waldron, President and CEO, Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia.

 

"To continue to have a profound impact on the youth of Philadelphia, BGCP is also calling on the region's leading corporations, foundations and caring individuals to help us in our effort to inspire hope and dreams in this city's youth."

 

To learn more about Boys & Girls Clubs of Philadelphia and the Be Great, Philadelphia! campaign, please visit http://www.bgcphila.org.

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Canon U.S.A. Introduces First Installation LCOS Projector with DICOM Simulation Mode for Use in Medical Facilities

New REALiS WUX4000 D Brings Medical Educators Precision Image Clarity, Accurate Color And Improved End-User Operation

 

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, today introduced the REALiS WUX4000 D Installation LCOS Projector, the Company's first high-resolution installation projector for the medical education market. This new projector includes a DICOM Simulation mode that simulates the results of devices compliant with the Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) Part 14 standardized display function for display of grayscale images. DICOM is a global information-technology standard that is used in virtually all hospitals to ensure the interoperability of systems used to produce, store, display, retrieve or print medical images.

 

"all people, regardless of race, religion or culture, harmoniously living and working together into the future"

."No matter the type of medical images being displayed, the combination of Canon's leading imaging technologies in the new REALiS WUX4000 D coupled with DICOM simulation mode brings medical educators a precise, practical and easy-to-use display option for lecture or classroom settings," said Yuichi Ishizuka, executive vice president and general manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.

 

The inclusion of the DICOM Simulation mode, which offers 21 different levels of grayscale gradation, and Canon's fourth-generation proprietary AISYS-enhanced LCOS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon) optical system helps medical educators to clearly display detailed and intricate images to larger audiences without compromising image accuracy. The REALiS WUX4000 D Installation LCOS Projector also offers a choice of three optional Genuine Canon high-resolution interchangeable lenses for different throw distances and projection screen sizes and features a motorized lens shift, zoom and focus for improved end-user operability.

 

The Canon REALiS WUX4000 D Installation LCOS Projector delivers WUXGA-resolution (1920 x 1200) widescreen (16:10) images at 4000 lumens and includes a built-in Canon Color-Correction IC (integrated circuit), which together with the AISYS-enhanced LCOS system, provides highly accurate color reproduction and precision luminosity adjustment without affecting the display of neighboring colors. In addition, the Canon REALiS WUX4000 D Installation LCOS Projector's lamp and air filter can be replaced from the side of the projector, and its PS optical filter element can be replaced from the top of the unit for added convenience and economy.

 

Multimedia Device Compatibility

 

Industry-standard digital and analog terminals and connectors ensure the Canon REALiS WUX4000 D Installation LCOS Projector's compatibility with a wide range of video and computer devices. Signal inputs include HDMI Version 1.3, DVI-D and analog PC terminals, two audio inputs, and one audio output for external amplification and speakers. A built-in five-watt speaker is also included, while a convenient User Memory feature stores up to ten different setting combinations based on the content being shown. Five memory settings are for computer sources, such as DVI-D, analog PC, and HDMI (PC) and the other five settings are for video sources, such as component and HDMI (video). A network-ready RJ-45 port allows for authorized users to manage and control multiple projectors from any PC on the network. An RS-232 serial connection allows for monitoring the projector locally through a third-party control system and a hand-held remote control enables users to control four WUX4000 D projectors individually or simultaneously. Lens Shift and Gamma Control buttons are also included on the remote control.

 

Availability and Warranty Information

 

The new Canon REALiS WUX4000 D Installation LCOS Projector is scheduled to be available in March 2011, for a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $9,999. It will be backed by Canon U.S.A.'s Three-Year Limited Warranty and its exclusive Projector Protection Program ("Triple P"). Triple P is a FREE service program that provides a loaner projector of equal or greater value in the event that a qualifying unit is in need of repair. Triple P is available on all Canon projector models during the Three-Year Canon U.S.A. Limited Warranty period.*

 

For more information please visit www.usa.canon.com/projectors. The new Installation projector will be on display during the 2010 Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) Annual Meeting (November 28 – December 2) in Chicago at Canon's booth (Lakeside Center, #208).

 

GE Healthcare Introduces New Wireless Digital Detector Option for X-ray Customers

 

With its 'Digital by Design' wireless detector GE Healthcare aims to help radiologists transition from analog to digital, and increase access for patients worldwide

 

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GE Healthcare announced today the 510k clearance of its next generation wireless, digital X-ray detector at the 96TH annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) in Chicago. GE's FlashPad is a reliable, long-term investment for future Radiography and Fluoroscopy systems, compatible with a variety of GE X-ray products today and is the only wireless digital detector capable of supporting advanced applications.

 

Designed for digital use based on customer input, FlashPad is a flexible, wireless detector that features two handles that make it easier to position and maneuver. It is equipped with GE's most advanced X-ray detector technology, and its unique design provides up to eight percent more coverage for key applications and maintains high image quality at low dose levels. This wireless DR option was engineered to provide high image quality at low dose levels and is capable of being utilized in all routine radiography exams, and specialized areas including, pediatric work, intensive care and trauma, and wherever conventional screen-film systems may be used.

 

"FlashPad is a byproduct of direct customer feedback on the challenges facing radiology departments all over the world," said Anne LeGrand, Vice President and General Manager of X-Ray for GE Healthcare. "For the patient, this new solution from GE allows for improved access to critical X-ray technology and for customers, this innovation is a great way for any radiography department to go digital today with an affordable investment which answers the growing demand for advanced applications."

 

Among the advanced applications that can be performed using FlashPad, include:

 

• VolumeRAD - GE's version of digital tomosynthesis for radiography removes overlaying and underlying structures, which improves the detection of lesions and therefore enhances sensitivity. VolumeRAD provides physicians multiple high-resolution slice images of the human anatomy, including the chest, abdomen, extremities and spine, using an X-ray system.

 

• Dual Energy Subtraction – GE's outstanding digital X-ray application eliminates overlying bone obstruction from chest or abdominal images.

FlashPad is at the heart of several radiography products from the company:

 

• Discovery XR656 (powered by FlashPad)

 

• DR Imaging Option for Proteus XR/a (powered by FlashPad)

 

• DR Imaging Option for Precision 500D (powered by FlashPad)

 

• Optima XR220 amx and Optima XR200 amx (powered by FlashPad) [510(k) pending at FDA. Not available for sale in the U.S.]

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Consumers Snap Up 1.5 Million Nintendo Video Game Systems During Black Friday Week

In this photo provided by Nintendo of America, a GameStop employee hands a limited-edition red Wii console to Bryant P., 7, father Osvaldo P. and aunt Hellen P. of New York on a busy Black Friday at the Westfield Garden State Plaza in Paramus, N.J. on Nov. 26, 2010 (Photo: Business Wire)

 

Value-Minded Shoppers Purchase 900,000 Nintendo DS and 600,000 Wii Systems

 

REDMOND, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--When confronted with a wide range of Black Friday retail options, U.S. holiday shoppers again turned to Nintendo. Nintendo sold 900,000 combined units in the Nintendo DS™ family of systems and 600,000 Wii™ consoles between Sunday, Nov. 21, and Saturday, Nov. 27, according to the company's internal sales estimates.

 

"U.S. shoppers bought about 9,000 Nintendo hardware systems nonstop for every hour of every day during the week of Black Friday"

."U.S. shoppers bought about 9,000 Nintendo hardware systems nonstop for every hour of every day during the week of Black Friday," said Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime. "For the past several years, consumers have decided that Nintendo defined both top value and all-inclusive entertainment, and that sentiment continues again at the start of this shopping season."

 

Nintendo's Black Friday surge was fueled by multiple new hardware colors, each of which comes bundled with games. The bundles provide a great value for shoppers who are looking to get the biggest bang for their video game bucks. These bundles, all of which are available while supplies last, include:

 

•Limited-edition Mario red Wii hardware in honor of the 25th anniversary of the Super Mario Bros.™ game on the NES™. It includes a new red Wii system, a red Wii Remote™ Plus controller, a red Nunchuk™ controller, and games New Super Mario Bros.™ Wii and Wii Sports™ at a suggested retail price of $199.99.

 

•A limited-edition red Nintendo DSi XL™ bundle in honor of the 25th anniversary of the Super Mario Bros. game on the NES. It features a Mario red Nintendo DSi XL system with three iconic Super Mario Bros.-themed graphics, the Mario Kart™ DS game and preloaded software, including Brain Age™ Express: Arts & Letters, Brain Age Express: Math and Photo Clock. It is available at a suggested retail price of $179.99.

 

•Orange and green Nintendo DSi™ systems, which are bundled with the Mario Party™ DS game. They are available at a suggested retail price of $149.99.

In addition to the great hardware bundles, shoppers have dozens of great video game options for everyone on their shopping lists. Some exclusive games for the Wii console include Super Mario Galaxy™ 2, Metroid™: Other M, Wii Party™, Kirby's Epic Yarn™, PokéPark™ Wii: Pikachu's Adventure, FlingSmash™ (which comes bundled with the new Wii Remote Plus) and Donkey Kong Country™ Returns. Third-party Wii games include New Carnival Games® from 2K Play, NBA JAM from EA Sports, Just Dance® 2 from Ubisoft, Sonic Colors™ from SEGA, GoldenEye 007™ from Activision Publishing Inc. and Disney Epic Mickey from Disney Interactive Studios.

 

On the portable Nintendo DS family of systems, shoppers can choose games like DRAGON QUEST® IX: Sentinels of the Starry Skies™, Professor Layton and the Unwound Future™, Pokémon Ranger™: Guardian Signs, Art Academy™, Mario vs. Donkey Kong™: Mini-Land Mayhem! and Golden Sun™: Dark Dawn. Some key third-party Nintendo DS games include Super Scribblenauts™ from WB Games, Rock Band® 3 from MTV Games, GoldenEye 007 from Activision Publishing Inc. and Sonic Colors from SEGA.

 

International Herald Tribune Releases Applications For iPad And iPhone

The IHT apps are the first to launch using The New York Times's Press Engine platform

 

PARIS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The International Herald Tribune (IHT) today released its first news applications for the iPad™ and iPhone®. Access to the full content of the apps will require a simple registration and will be free until early 2011.

 

The apps feature the content of the IHT in an elegant and easy-to-navigate design that echoes the contemporary, international look of the newspaper with a home page section called Front Page. The Latest News section features breaking stories from global.nytimes.com throughout the day, and other sections – World News, Business with Reuters, Culture & Style, Sport and Views – are fully refreshed for the Europe and Asia mornings. Both apps also feature a Day in Pictures slideshow and international video content from global.nytimes.com.

 

Stephen Dunbar-Johnson, publisher of the IHT, said: "Now our well-traveled and sophisticated audience can enjoy the IHT's fresh and original take on the world's daily news combined with the elegance and interactivity of the iPad or iPhone. This is great news for readers and advertisers alike and is further proof of our commitment to making the IHT's unique brand of global journalism available wherever our readers are and however they want it."

 

The IHT apps also include the following features:

 

• Dropdown section listings and a popover article rail allow users to easily move between sections and articles;

• Slide shows - full-page slide shows display large-scale images tailored for the iPad or iPhone screen;

• Share options - share articles, videos and multimedia with a full set of tools, including Facebook, Twitter and e-mail;

• World Weather - handy in-app tool, with five-day forecasts, satellite maps and an extensive choice of locations around the globe, useful for international travelers.

 

The IHT apps are the first to be developed through Press Engine, a technology and design solution from The New York Times News Services that enables publishers and media organizations to deliver their content via elegantly designed applications for iPhone and iPad.

 

Press Engine applications are designed to integrate with publishers' registration systems, enabling the app to be offered as a free, registration or subscription product. Publishers who seek additional information about Press Engine may contact Christine Topalian, director, News Services, at +1 212-556-2087 or topalcn@nytimes.com.

 

The International Herald Tribune app for iPad is available for free from the App Store on iPad or at http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/international-herald-tribune/id404757420

 

The International Herald Tribune app for iPhone is available for free from the App Store on iPhone or at http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/international-herald-tribune/id404764212

 

UPS Exports Mobile Apps to International Markets

Leads Industry with Native Apps For Android®, BlackBerry®

 

ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--UPS today announced it is extending its popular UPS Mobile™ Apps and mobile Web site to customers in Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy and Canada. The Web site and native smartphone applications enable customers to ship and track packages as well as find the nearest UPS location.

 

."Exporting UPS mobile technology to customers in Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy and Canada is a key component of our mobile strategy to make UPS available anytime, anywhere," said Jordan Colletta, vice president of customer technology marketing at UPS. "Accessibility is vital to customers and our mobile offerings extend UPS capabilities to busy, on-the-go professionals and consumers who desire immediate, mobile access to UPS."

 

The mobile Web site, m.ups.com, and the UPS Mobile Apps for Android, BlackBerry and iPhone enable users to track shipments, create shipments using the My UPS address book and calculate shipping rates and time-in-transit. No log-in is required for tracking on m.ups.com and the UPS Mobile Apps. But when customers are logged in, tracking history displays and is automatically refreshed. UPS tracking numbers also can be nicknamed for quick reference.

 

Customers can use their smartphones to access their My UPS Address Book and Preferences and create shipping labels for document and non-document shipments worldwide. Shipping labels can be e-mailed in a PDF file for printout. As an added feature of the UPS Mobile Apps, customers can use their device's GPS capabilities to find the nearest UPS location.

 

m.ups.com is now available for customers in the U.S., Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy and Canada. The updated UPS Mobile App for Android is now available on Android Market in the U.S., Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy and Canada. The updated UPS Mobile App for BlackBerry is now available on App World in the U.S., Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy and Canada and in January 2011 in France.

 

UPS was first-to-market in the industry with apps for the BlackBerry (December 2009) and for the Android (April 2010). In less than one year, the apps surpassed the 1 million download mark in the U.S.

 

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Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. Names Sarah Gormley Senior Vice President, Communications and Marketing

 

NEW YORK, Nov. 29, 2010 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) today announced that Sarah Gormley has joined the company as Senior Vice President, Communications and Marketing. In this position, she will work closely with the senior management team, developing communications strategy for the company's media and merchandising businesses, and devising marketing plans for select initiatives. She will report to Executive Chairman Charles Koppelman.

 

A seasoned executive with nearly 15 year of experience working in corporate and business communications, Ms. Gormley joins MSLO from IMAX Corporation, where she has worked for the past five years, most recently as Vice President, Corporate Communications. Prior to IMAX, she held senior-level communications positions at National Financial Partners, Fleishman-Hillard and Edelman Public Relations Worldwide.

 

In announcing the appointment, Mr. Koppelman stated, "Sarah is a talented communications professional and a strategic thinker. Her experience in brand positioning and handling communications for a highly visible, well-known, public company makes her a terrific fit at MSLO. We're thrilled to have her on the team."

 

"MSLO is an iconic brand with a passionate consumer following," said Ms. Gormley. "I look forward to working with such a talented and dynamic team during an exciting time in the organization's evolution."

 

A graduate of DePauw University, Ms. Gormley holds an MBA from the University of Chicago.

 

SOURCE Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc.

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British Airways Announces New Flights to Marrakech

CRAWLEY, England, Nov. 29, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- British Airways is to launch new services to Marrakech from London Gatwick next year in direct competition with low cost carriers. The airline announced its new flights to Marrakech at the World Travel Market at ExCel in London.

 

Richard Tams, head of UK and Ireland Sales and Marketing, said: "British Airways offers a real alternative to discerning travellers to Morocco. Unlike the low cost carriers, we offer fantastic all-inclusive fares with no stealth extras. The benefits you get on BA at no extra charge include a generous baggage allowance, drinks and snacks and much more.

 

"Marrakech adds another fabulous destination to our leisure network at Gatwick and I am confident it will be a huge success. It's a great starting point to explore Morocco; from trekking in the Atlas Mountains to exploring its amazing deserts and beaches and soaking up the atmosphere of the many medinas."

 

The chief executive officer of the Moroccan National Tourist Office, Mr. Hamid Addou, welcomed the announcement and said: "We're delighted that British Airways is returning to Morocco and Marrakech, where we know that there is a strong demand from the UK tourist market for flagship carriers.

 

"Marrakech is one of the key tourism destinations in the southern Europe and Africa regions.  Its brand image is very strong and we will reinforce it in our joint marketing programme."

 

A mix of Boeing 737s and Airbus A319s will operate the thrice-weekly service, which departs Gatwick on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, returning the same evening.

 

British Airways offers a wide range of hotels suitable for all types of holidays in Marrakech. Traditional Moroccan architecture and surrounds can be experienced in the three-star Moroccan hotel, or right in the centre of the authentical Medina, minutes walk from the Souks and the famous Place Djemma el Fnaa is the four-star Riad Karmela. For those seeking paradise of light and magical fragrances coupled with a 27-hole golf course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., the award-winning five-star Palmeraie Golf Palace is the place to visit.

 

British Airways last flew to Marrakech as GB Airways. The service operated from October 2002 until March 2008, when the route was discontinued following GB's takeover by easyJet.

 

British Airways operates to 42 domestic, European and longhaul destinations perfect for Florida and Caribbean holidays from Gatwick and carries approximately five million customers a year through the airport. BA regularly outperforms all other Gatwick carriers to produce punctuality levels of more than 90 per cent.

 

British Airways customers benefit by choosing a flight with the airline due to no extra charges for a 23kg checked baggage allowance, two pieces of hand luggage, complimentary drinks and a snack on board, allocated seats for all, priority boarding for young families, centrally located airports and great punctuality performance. High value offered by British Airways compared to no-frills carriers can be viewed on the value calculator on ba.com.

 

SOURCE British Airways

 

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Verizon Wireless Commits to Indiana Customers: 'We'll Stay Ahead of Your Data Usage'

Company Will Double 3G Capacity in Indiana in 2010

 

INDIANAPOLIS, Nov. 29, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon Wireless has announced today that it is near completion of a major capacity improvement project for its high-speed 3G network in Indiana this year that will ensure the company continues to stay ahead of its customers' growing data usage on their smart phones, wireless modems and handsets.

 

The project has entailed adding 3G capacity on one-third more cell sites in Indiana compared to 2009, thereby doubling data capacity of the network throughout much of the state. The enhancements will provide further value to Verizon Wireless customers in Indiana who are looking to rely more and more on their wireless devices for accessing the Internet, social networking, viewing high-quality videos, downloading music, games and ringtones, and exchanging email.

 

"With so many of our customers relying on their devices for much more than just making phone calls, it's imperative that we stay ahead of their usage habits," said John Granby, president, Indiana/Kentucky/Michigan region, Verizon Wireless. "It doesn't matter how many bells and whistles your smart phone offers if you cannot depend on it to keep you connected wherever you go. Verizon Wireless is committed to making sure our network has enough capacity to handle the increasing data traffic from our customers' Internet browsing, tweeting and mobile gaming."

 

The company's ongoing network investment in Indiana now totals more than $1.1 billion. Nationally, Verizon Wireless has invested more than $60 billion since it was formed -- $5.7 billion on average every year -- to increase the coverage and capacity of its premier nationwide network and to add new services.

 

SOURCE Verizon Wireless

Kmart Announces Launch of Its Smart Sense Kmart Brand

 

Introduction of Exclusive Product Line Provides Customers Wider Product Offerings at a Value

              

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., Sept. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Just in time for the holiday smart shopping season, Kmart announces the expansion of its brand portfolio with the introduction of the Smart Sense™ line, its new Kmart brand that includes a wide range of items including everything from snacks and beverages, to oral care, paper products, household cleaners and over-the-counter medications. The quality of the Smart Sense line is comparable to that of national name brands, and on average costs 20 percent less.

 

"With the introduction of the Smart Sense line, Kmart is looking to offer a more affordable Kmart brand product assortment that will rival the quality of more nationally recognized brands," said Mark Snyder, chief marketing officer, Kmart. "While the Smart Sense line will offer the everyday essentials, Kmart is also taking it a step further by providing unique products that you wouldnt typically expect to see under a store brand."

 

The Smart Sense line currently consists of hundreds of products available in Kmart stores and the product line will expand to more than 1,200 items by early 2011. Kmart will also support the Smart Sense line launch through multiple communications channels, including advertising, coupon offers, merchandising displays, sampling, digital marketing and event marketing.

 

In addition to the introduction of the Smart Sense line, a new look has been created for many other Kmart brand products. The brighter and more vibrant packaging has been designed to capture the "colorful thinking" Kmart is demonstrating through its new product and brand announcements. In addition to the Smart Sense line roll-out, Kmart is also introducing products in a re-launch of its other exclusive brands, which include, Little Ones baby care products, Champion Breed pet care products, Image Essentials personal care products and VitaSmart vitamin products.

 

The Smart Sense line is part of the Kmart Smart Assist Savings Card. The program, which gives eligible unemployed customers a 20 percent discount off more than 1,200 regularly priced, high-quality Kmart brand grocery and drugstore staples, launched in 2009 and currently has more than 100,000 members. For more information, visit www.kmart.com/smartassist.

 

Smart Sense products can be found at 1,350 Kmart stores nationwide or online by visiting www.kmart.com.

 

SOURCE Kmart

Peru to reduce natural disasters vulnerability, boost response capacity with IDB assistance

$25 million loan to support legal, institutional reforms to maximize prevention, risk reduction and disaster management

 

Peru, the Latin American country most affected by natural disasters, will reduce its vulnerability and improve its disaster response capacity with a $25 million loan from the Inter-American Development Bank.

 

The program is the first of a series of three programmatic policy-based loans to support the Peruvian government in the implementation of measures to forecast, reduce, and control disaster risk factors in society and provide an adequate response to emergencies.

 

Between 1970-2009, a total 105 droughts, floods, mudslides, frosts, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions caused 74,000 deaths and affected 18 million people, more than in any other country in the region. Additionally, in the periods 1982-83 and 1997-98 the El Niño phenomenon caused estimated losses of $6.8 billion, while the Pisco earthquake in 2007 caused damages in excess of $2 billion.

 

This year, floods and mudslides caused by rains in Cusco, Ayacucho, Puno, Huancavelica and Huánuco left 92 dead and 235,000 people affected, 27,000 houses destroyed or damaged, and 11,700 hectares of ruined crops.

 

By providing support to the planned Framework Law for Integrated Disaster Risk Management, which would put Peru on the cutting edge of legislation on this issue, the program will strengthen the legislative and institutional structure in the areas of risk identification, reduction, management, and financial handling.

 

■ RISK IDENTIFICATION. Modern, efficient information systems will enable prevention and early warning moves through implementation of standards and an information integration platform and adoption of natural disasters and climate change monitoring and analysis systems.

 

■ RISK REDUCTION: Safe land use and territorial management, improved coordination among the various government levels, and safety criteria for informal settlements and populations in high-risk areas and in the agricultural sector will be promoted, with particular emphasis on floods risk reduction.

 

■ DISASTER MANAGEMENT: Development of emergency plans for earthquakes and tsunamis, particularly for Lima and Callao, will be supported, including simulation and drill activities, preparation of guides, and effective operation of Regional Emergency Operation Centers.

 

■ FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT: A National Financial Management Strategy for Disaster Risks comprising emergency reserve funds, contingency credit lines, and risk transfer instruments, including public infrastructure insurance, will be established.

 

The loan is for a 20-year term, with a five-year grace period and a variable interest rate based on Libor.

 

Argentina to boost farming sector with IDB assistance

A $170 million loan to promote technological innovation in agriculture, support climate change adaptation and environment protection

 

Argentina, one of the world's top four food exporters, will further boost sustainable growth of its agricultural sector by strengthening its innovation system for the development of new technologies, supporting small- and mid-sized producers, and implementing environmental sustainability improvements with a $170 million loan from the Inter-American Development Bank.

 

The loan will help the National Agricultural Technology Institute (INTA, Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria) to support the sector's innovation system, increase its capacity to generate and transfer new technologies, products and processes, scale-up coverage of extension services, and focus more attention on small-scale producers.

 

The program is expected to help maintain high agricultural productivity rates and lead at least 40% of Argentine farmers to adopt INTA-supported technologies aimed at boosting the sustainable use of natural resources.

 

Some $88 million will be set aside to build up INTA's research and development capacity, enhancing and improving its technical and scientific production. Another $17 million will be used to promote its contacts and integration with other public and private institutions, both local and foreign.

 

The program will devote $43 million to the diffusion of knowledge generated by improving technology transfer and extension processes. A special emphasis will be place on family-based agriculture in order to promote the use of technologies suitable for different regions, as well as the support local extension councils and research networks with civil society participation, including indigenous communities.

 

The IDB loan will also finance the construction of an INTA headquarters building to bring the senior management under a single roof, leading to major savings in office space leases and a 30 percent reduction in electricity costs. Additionally, the 29 existing management systems will be merged into five, improving access to information and leading savings in communications and transfer expenses.

 

The Argentine Government will provide an additional $43 million in local counterpart funds for the program.

 

The IDB loan is for a 25-year term, with a five-year grace period and a variable interest rate based on Libor.

Darwin the Duckey

 

Darwin the Duckey

CHELSEA BROOKE - GIRLS GONE WILD

 

CHELSEA BROOKE - GIRLS GONE WILD

Bitty Buttons

 

Bitty Buttons

Miss Mexico Jimena Navarrete Crowned Miss Universe 2010 during live NBC Telecast

 

NEW YORK, Aug. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Monday evening, during one of the year's most exciting live international television events, a star-studded panel of judges chose Jimena Navarrete, Miss Mexico, as Miss Universe 2010 live from Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas.

 

Bret Michaels and NBC's "Today" show co-host and correspondent Natalie Morales hosted the international event, which aired on NBC and Telemundo. John Legend & The Roots and Viva ELVIS by Cirque du Soleil performed live during the competition. The pageant was presented by official hair care sponsor Farouk Systems.

 

Miss Mexico, Jimena Navarrete, is 21 years old and loves nature, boating, riding motorcycles, spending time with her family and traveling.

 

The judging panel for the 2010 Miss Universe Pageant included: illusionist and mystifier, Criss Angel; actor, producer and writer, William Baldwin; world-renowned percussionist and drummer, Sheila E; anchor of "NBC Live," Tamron Hall; 2010 Olympic Gold Medalist and 2009 World Figure Skating Champion, Evan Lysacek; Oscar nominated actor and director best known for his work in A Bronx Tale, Chazz Palminteri; American singer and actress, Chynna Phillips; winner of multiple Emmys and Golden Globes, Jane Seymour; and international supermodel, Niki Taylor.

 

Throughout the two-hour event, contestants from over 80 countries and territories around the world competed in three categories: swimsuit, evening gown and personality interview. Stefania Fernandez, Miss Universe 2009, crowned her successor at the conclusion of the two-hour primetime telecast before an estimated worldwide viewing audience of approximately one billion viewers.

 

Final Results:

 

First Runner-Up:  Miss Jamaica, Yendi Phillipps; will assume the duties of MISS UNIVERSE 2010 if the titleholder for some reason cannot fulfill her responsibilities.

 

Second Runner-Up:  Miss Australia, Jesinta Campbell.

 

Rest of Top Five: Miss Ukraine, Anna Poslavska; and Miss Philippines, Venus Raj.

 

Rest of Top Ten:  Miss Ireland, Rozanna Purcell; Miss Albania, Angela Martini; Miss Puerto Rico, Mariana Paola Vicente; Miss South Africa, Nicole Flint; and Miss Guatemala, Jessica Scheel.

 

Rest of Top Fifteen:  Miss Belgium, Cilou Annys; Miss France, Malika Menard; Miss Russia, Irina Antonenko; Miss Colombia, Natalia Navarro; and Miss Czech Republic, Jitka Valkova.

 

Miss Photogenic Universe™ Award: Miss Thailand, Fonthip Watcharatrakul. The General public voted on www.nbc.com for the delegate who exemplifies beauty through the lens of a camera. She was awarded a $1,000 cash prize and a gift from pageant sponsor Diamond Nexus Labs.

 

Miss Congeniality Universe™ Award: Miss Australia, Jesinta Campbell. This award reflects the respect and admiration of the delegate's peers, who voted for her as the most congenial, charismatic and inspirational participant. She was awarded a $1,000 cash prize and a gift from Diamond Nexus Labs.

 

National Costume Award: Miss Thailand, Fonthip Watcharatrakul. This award was decided by an online vote through Club Universe, a new, exclusive membership club featured on MissUniverse.com. 

 

The MISS UNIVERSE® 2010 prize package includes: a custom diamond tiara and jewelry designed by Diamond Nexus Labs; a shoe wardrobe from Nina Footwear; a one-year scholarship (including housing) from the New York Film Academy; hair care products and tools from Farouk Systems; eveningwear wardrobe by Sherri Hill; a collection of swimwear from Dar Be Dar by Tala Raassi; luxury accommodations in a New York City apartment for the duration of her reign, including living expenses; a year-long salary as Miss Universe; personal services including membership to Gravity Fitness and hair services from John Barrett Salon; modeling portfolio by leading fashion photographer Fadil Berisha; dermatology and skincare services provided by Dr. Cheryl Thellman-Karcher; professional health and nutrition consultation by Tanya Zuckerbrot, MS, RD and dental services by Dr. Jan Linhart, D.D.S.; casting opportunities and professional representation by the Miss Universe Organization; extensive travel opportunities representing sponsors and charitable partners; access to various New York City events including movie premiers and screenings, Broadway shows and launch parties; year-long consultation with a fashion stylist; and access to a personal appearance wardrobe.

 

About the Miss Universe Organization

 

The MISS UNIVERSE®, MISS USA® and MISS TEEN USA® pageants are a Donald J. Trump and NBC Universal joint venture. Utilizing its nationwide grass roots infrastructure, the Miss Universe Organization is committed to increasing HIV/AIDS awareness by focusing on women's health and reproductive issues. By forging relationships with organizations committed to research and education such as the Latino Commission on AIDS, God's Love We Deliver, PSI/YouthAIDS, The Global Network for Neglected Tropical Diseases and Gay Men's Health Crisis. For more information, visit: www.missuniverse.com.

 

Follow Miss Universe

 

•Facebook: www.facebook.com/OfficialMissUniverse

•YouTube: www.youtube.com/OfficialMissUniverse

•Twitter: TheRealMissU

•Blogs: www.missuniverse.com/blogs/index

 

 Source The Miss Universe Organization

The Dominican Republic Call Center Association Opens Hurricane Hotline

 

Call Center Association Offers Hurricane Hotline

 

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, Aug. 16 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ -- The Dominican Republic Call Center Association today announced the availability of a toll-free hotline, which began in 2008, to help answer questions during this very active hurricane season.

 

Callers to the hotline will receive information regarding hurricane preparedness, storm development, hurricane tracking, shelter locations, evacuation information, etc. Call center representatives from DRCCA member companies will staff their contact number throughout the hurricane season. The toll-free number is 1-888-994-8774 and it will be answered from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday during the season.

 

"We are very proud to be able to offer these services, which are funded by our member organization. They have provided us with a team of representatives who are now trained to work the hurricane hotline," said Doug Meyers, DRCCA Director and co-founder for the DRCCA.

 

About The Dominican Republic Call Center Association

The Dominican Republic Call Center Association was established to inform companies in the Dominican Republic and the United States of the great opportunity that exists in the call center industry in the Dominican Republic. Most importantly, the DRCCA serves as a guide to those businesses who are interested in moving their business or operation to the Caribbean.

 

US companies often find it difficult to move their operation overseas as there are many unknown obstacles to navigate, such as laws, government policies, local banking, where to buy equipment services and more. The DRCCA team has achieved impressive results in a very short period of time.

 

Further information can be found at http://www.drcca.org or by calling us directly at (786) 347-5607.

 

SOURCE Dominican Republic Call Center Association

Farmers Insurance Unveils Latest Spanish-Language Television Campaign Highlighting Right Fit Coverage

 

Actor Edward James Olmos continues his role as Farmers spokesperson

 

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 10 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ -- Farmers Insurance will launch its latest national Hispanic TV advertising campaign this coming Monday, August 16, produced by its Hispanic Agency of Record, Accentmarketing.

 

The new ads are the next installment of the insurers "Right Fit" campaign, launched in 2009. They feature a "force field" which represents the customizable Farmers coverages customers can choose to meet their individual needs,

 

First to launch is "Neighbors", which uses a dramatization to highlight the difference between having customized coverage that "fits" correctly and inadequate or inappropriate coverage. In the spot, two neighbors boast about their insurance coverage, as represented by their "force fields". While one has the "right fit" coverage secured with the help of a Farmers agent, the other is not so lucky. Both neighbors have to duck for cover as a tree strikes the not-so-fortunate neighbors home, right where his "inadequate" coverage is.

 

In "Zoom Out" Farmers showcases its multiline product offerings of auto, home, life and business insurance and their customizable coverages available through a variety of different life stages. Beginning in a flower shop, we "zoom out" to see the Farmers "force field" around the business. Then we enter and exit a car, again "zooming out" to reveal the Farmers "force field" and finally we enter and exit a growing familys home and we see that it, too, counts on Farmers customized coverage.

 

"As more companies draw on Spanish-language media to reach Hispanic consumers, Farmers is taking an entertaining and innovative approach to connecting with this core audience," said Luisa Acosta-Franco, Vice President of Multicultural Marketing for Farmers. "Our agents work very hard to ensure that customers have the best possible coverage for their life circumstances, and we want prospective customers to know that, as well."

 

Continuing in his role as Farmers Insurance Hispanic spokesperson for the fifth year is actor and humanitarian, Edward James Olmos. In the new commercials Mr. Olmos shares with viewers that Farmers agents go through some of the best training in the industry, so they can rest assured that by working with a Farmers agent they can obtain the coverages that fit their lifestyles.

 

"It was important for us to make an emotional connection with our audience and we did that by showcasing the diversity of Latino life in this country," said Diana Ocasio, Executive Vice President and Creative Director for Accentmarketing. "We also wanted people to have that aha! moment that makes them think - If they dont adapt their coverage to themselves, theyll have to adapt to surprises. These new spots are unique and we feel they will be very impactful within the category."

 

Details of "Right Fit" TV Spots

1. Title: "Neighbors" and "Zoom Out"

2. Agency: Accentmarketing

3. Client: Farmers Insurance

4. Length of Spots: 30-seconds (:25 / :15 versions available)

5. Launch Date: August 16, 2010

6. Markets where it will air: National

7. EVP Creative Director: Diana Ocasio

8. Associate Creative Director: Daniel Stewart

9. SVP, Account Group Director: Alice Rivera

10. Executive Producer: Rudy Leschhorn

11. Production Company: Weird Pictures

12. Director: Martin Weisz

13. Executive Producer: Cordula Weisz

14. Post Production: Giant Steps

15. Music: Makeabeat Productions

 

About Farmers Insurance

Farmers is a trade name and may refer to Farmers Group, Inc. or the Farmers Exchanges, as the case may be. Farmers Group, Inc., a management and holding company, along with its subsidiaries, is wholly owned by the Zurich Financial Services Group. The Farmers Exchanges are three reciprocal insurers (Farmers Insurance Exchange, Fire Insurance Exchange and Truck Insurance Exchange), including their subsidiaries and affiliates, owned by their policyholders, and managed by Farmers Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries. For more information about Farmers, visit our Web site at http://www.farmers.com.

 

About Accentmarketing

 

Established in 1994, Accentmarketing (http://www.accentmarketing.com) is a full-service Hispanic marketing communications agency with offices in Miami, Los Angeles and Detroit. A certified minority owned business and member of The Interpublic Group of Companies, Accentmarketing employs a multinational and multicultural staff. The agencys client partners include the American, Farmers Insurance, GobiernoUSA.gov, Chevrolet, the California Association of Realtors, Kaiser Permanente, Brown-Forman and the U.S. Navy.

 

SOURCE Farmers Insurance