Television pr

Rentrak Announces Trial With Charter Communications

2009-03-03T13:00:00.000+02:00

- Rentrak's TV Essentials System to Include Data from the Nation's Fourth Largest Cable Provider To Analyze Relationship Between On Demand and Linear Viewing Trends -

PORTLAND, Ore., March 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Rentrak Corporation (Nasdaq: RENT) today announced it has reached an agreement with Charter Communications to begin a linear TV measurement trial. The trial, utilizing Rentrak's TV Essentials service will focus on the relationship between linear television and on demand viewing patterns.

Rentrak's TV Essentials system is a comprehensive suite of research tools that enables customers to analyze anonymous and aggregate audience viewing of programming and advertising for linear television. Features of TV Essentials include reports on audience flow, audience retention, day part analysis, and series/title comparison summarized at a national or market level.

"With the addition of the Charter data, Rentrak is uniquely qualified to provide unparalleled linear television insights," said Sandra Kilbridge, vice president of operations, Advanced Media and Information (AMI) division at Rentrak. "As the industry continues to demand greater accountability, Rentrak is leading the way to deliver timely, accurate, multi-platform media measurement."

"Consumers ultimately benefit from a better understanding of linear and on-demand television viewing habits through improved programming and easier access to that programming," said Jim Heneghan, Charter's Senior Vice President of Advertising Sales.

Rentrak's TV Essentials system processes data from more than seven million set top boxes to help advertising agencies, networks and local stations make business decisions to drive increased revenue. In addition to the TV Essentials system, Rentrak processes on demand television data representing more than 54 million set top boxes.

About TV Essentials(R)

Rentrak's TV Essentials is a comprehensive suite of research tools that enable customers to analyze anonymous audience viewing of programming and advertising across VOD, DVR, interactive and linear television. Utilizing proprietary technology to process massive amounts of click-stream data, the TV Essentials system is able to aggregate and report second-by-second information from millions of digital set-top boxes. The system can isolate individual market, network, series, or telecast performance, administer national and local estimates, and provide an evaluation of influencing factors such as psychographics and demographics.

About Rentrak Corporation

Rentrak Corporation, based in Portland, Oregon, is an information management company serving clients in the media, entertainment, retail, and advertising industries. The company's Entertainment Essentials(TM) suite of services is redefining media measurement in the digital broadband era. Entertainment Essentials provides customers with near-real-time, actionable insight into performance of content distributed over a wide variety of modern media technologies. Available by license or subscription, each Entertainment Essentials application allows executives to analyze detailed industry-wide and title-specific data to make decisions that enhance the bottom line and provide competitive advantage. For further information, please visit Rentrak's corporate Web site at Rentrak.com.

    Contact for Rentrak Corporation:
    Sallie Olmsted / Amanda Bartz
    Office: 310-854-8124 / 310-854-8151
    E-mail: solmsted@rogersandcowan.com / abartz@rogersandcowan.com

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Ulanguzi Creates 'Extreme' Website for Edenton Builders.

2009-03-03T12:00:00.000+02:00

Agency builds website and communications portal for Extreme Makeover : Home Edition's 143rd build.

RALEIGH, N.C., March 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Included in the efforts, are a website, www.extremeEBheroes.com, which serves as a clearing house for information and a resource for volunteer and donation activities and an online logistics management portal to coordinate the thousands of people and supplies needed to successfully complete the build. Just as the show relies on the efforts of volunteers, Ulanguzi is donating all of the services needed to build and maintain these systems.

"An important part of Ulanguzi includes doing things that matter, that make a positive contribution to the world," remarks Ulanguzi Designer Matt Tarpley. "This is absolutely one of those things."

"Like so much of what we do, this project brought together disciplines from throughout the agency," adds Web Developer Ryan Keefer. "The real-time collaboration of our entire team was instrumental in completing this project in an impossibly short timeframe."

With the builder announced and the web system launched, Ulanguzi has met its first goal of creating an active information portal, and with the project build and show air dates approaching quickly, the website and their associated systems will prove to be instrumental to a successful home build for one very deserving family.

About Ulanguzi Creative Strategies

Founded in 2001, Ulanguzi, a Raleigh based design agency, brings together a talented group of marketing and advertising strategic thinkers and skilled designers and programmers from all parts of the country. Swahili for "spirit of revolutionary success," ulanguzi is the approach that is applied to solving an organization's marketing, communications, advertising and design challenges. Ulanguzi employs clear thinking, strategic planning and on-target creative solutions that propel companies confidently through the battle zones that face businesses every day. To participate in the revolution, call 919.899.3835 or visit Ulanguzi on the Web at http://www.ulanguzi.com.

About ABC's-TVs Extreme Makeover: Home Edition

"Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, "which has won back-to-back Emmy Awards as Best Reality Program (non-competitive), is entering its 6th season on ABC. The program is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. Anthony Dominici is the executive producer; and David Goldberg is the president of Endemol USA.

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Hannah Montana Fans Get Key to Online Secrets With New Book and Interactive Website

2009-03-03T10:30:00.000+02:00

CHAPPAQUA, N.Y., March 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Kids get the key to hours of fun and entertainment with Hannah Montana Secrets Unlocked Online, new this spring from Reader's Digest. Fans will covet the collectible charm with secret password that comes with the book. It enables readers to access a special website, www.hannahwebpass.com, that's chock-full of fun online activities. Kids can read about Hannah, her friends Lily and Oliver, and even heartthrob Jake Ryan, then log on to the website, plug in the secret code, and discover a treasure chest full of pictures, posters, printables and interactive activities.

The book and website each include three separate sections -- "Fashion Focus," "School, Friends, and More," and "Family Rocks" -- that not only show what makes Hannah so cool, but also give kids a chance to explore their own fashion style, relationships, and more. Fans will want to share with each other the book's familiar Hannah Montana moments -- silly, goofy, funky, and, of course, romantic. The website extends the fun.

Online, kids can design a room, guitar, bulletin board, birthday card, or concert t-shirt, choose outfits for Hannah, edit a magazine cover or yearbook, and print out a fashion calendar or a birthday keeper. Whether fans want to read Miley's diary, find out their "crush style," or create a Hannah Montana family scrapbook, it's all there at www.hannahwebpass.com. A special bonus page even allows kids to download and print posters and stickers.

The Hannah Montana Secrets Unlocked Online book and secret website are the ultimate key to fun for Hannah Montana fans.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

New Course Announced on Using Direct Response to Reach U.S. Hispanics

2009-03-02T23:09:00.000+02:00

AUSTIN, Texas, March 2 /PRNewswire/ -- The Direct Response Academy is introducing the first course on infomercial marketing to the U.S. Hispanic consumer. Hispanic DRTV Marketing will be held on March 24 & 25 in Austin, Texas.

"This new program is very timely," says Greg Sarnow, Academy CEO. "Marketers are being challenged today to introduce their brands to the Hispanic market using infomercial television advertising. But first, they need to understand the distinct differences in approach to this sector."

Attendees at the Austin course will explore the nuances of marketing to the Hispanic consumer and the tactical differences in approach to Hispanic marketing vs. general marketing. Challenges like the vendors needed for Hispanic DRTV, how to solve the issue of COD, and the truth about credit cards in marketing to Hispanics will be thoroughly evaluated.

The Hispanic DRTV Marketing course is built on the curriculum of the Academy's cornerstone program, DRTV Management Boot Camp, which covers the full spectrum of an infomercial campaign. Participants will learn to:

Determine if a product is feasible for a Hispanic infomercial campaign
Build a compelling product offer
Choose the best creative approach and production format for a Hispanic program
Build a sound financial model
Analyze media placement results
Maximize effectiveness of telemarketing and product fulfillment vendors
Integrate web sales with a DRTV campaign
Brand DRTV products for sale at the retail level

An added bonus is that the course dovetails with Austin's annual SXSW festival. Information on the festival can be found at http://sxsw.com/.

Hispanic DRTV Marketing will be held in Austin, Texas on March 24th and 25th. For more information, contact Mark Warren at courses@directresponseacademy.com, or call (512) 301-5900. Visit: www.DirectResponseAcademy.com/courses-hispanic-drtv-marketing.html

The Direct Response Academy in Austin, Texas is the only educational company dedicated to teaching the best practices of direct response television marketing. The Academy offers on-site and public training, infomercial campaign management, and consulting services for companies and individuals who are launching or managing DRTV campaigns.

    CONTACT:     Patricia Mellody
                 512-301-5900
                 pat@directresponseacademy.com

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One Shot One Dream Reality Series to Launch

2009-03-02T15:00:00.000+02:00

Titillating 2009 Season Features Hot Male Athletes in World Locations

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., March 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Soccer in the United States has failed to capture the same viewership as it has around the world; but don't tell that to Esad Pepic and Dominic Fratantaro, creators of the new reality series One Shot One Dream.

In this reality series, twenty-three hopefuls will live out their dream as professional soccer players in Europe, hitting the road on a 14-day glimpse into soccer madness, fame, and European attractions. The team will be led by their hard-nosed former professional coach turned ultimate fighter, preparing the players for harsh realities when they play six showcase matches against top European teams in search of a professional contract.

Between games the team will tour Europe on their two story bus adorned with International Soccer Star artwork, compete in street soccer games in historic European cities, mingle with the hard core soccer hooligans, dine on authentic European cuisine, and travel the Adriatic Sea by yacht.

International Soccer Star F.C., the independent international traveling soccer club behind the One Shot One Dream reality show will be a groundbreaking show for soccer in the United States. "Forget about Beckham and the MLS, this series will be the most talked by all American sports lovers ... it has something for everybody!" Pepic voiced. The production expects to attract thousands of young hopefuls from across the country that will have their climb to soccer stardom recorded in detail.

"This series takes the drama of the Real World, shoves it in a bus and punches it in the face," said Pepic. Fratantaro added, "This is not the soccer you see in America ... it has sex appeal, passion, and intense drama." Check out the 2008 season to see how the first tour rocked Europe at www.OneShotOneDream.com.

The buzz surrounding the first season demonstrates that major network interest will be high. Pepic noted, "We will be showcasing to FOX, WB, HBO, ESPN and many more networks in the weeks ahead ... you add team in-fighting, night clubs, world class soccer, fashion shows, Europe, and the opportunity to be offered a contract, and you get a recipe for a fantastic reality series ... we were blown away at what happened and now it's time for us to officially launch."

The 2008 season ended with six players receiving trials and three players offered contracts. Who will be the next International Soccer Star on the One Shot One Dream Reality Series? It could be you!

Hopefuls for the One Shot One Dream Reality TV Series can sign up early on the official site www.oneshotonedream.com . For further information: 1 (949) 610-4353.

                            Location: Irvine, California

                             Cost: $145 Registration Fee

                              Tryouts: June 13-14, 2009

                            Camp: June 22 - July 17, 2009

                          Europe: July 20th - August 3, 2009
                ****All Times and Locations are Subject to Change****
                       Soccer Gear Awarded To All Participants

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Comcast Interactive Media Appoints IAB Co-Founder and Media Veteran Scott Schiller as SVP of Advertising Sales for Fandango, Fancast, Movies.com and Plaxo

2009-03-02T14:09:00.000+02:00

LOS ANGELES, March 2 /PRNewswire/ -- Comcast Interactive Media (CIM), a division of Comcast Corporation dedicated to developing and operating online and cross-platform entertainment and media businesses, announced today that it is appointing entertainment media and digital advertising industry veteran Scott Schiller as its Senior Vice President of Advertising Sales, overseeing sales for Fandango, Fancast, Movies.com and Plaxo.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090302/LA77165)

A co-founder of the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB), and its first vice-chairman, Schiller has more than 25 years of advertising, sales management and start-up media experience, in leading positions at worldwide entertainment brands including Disney, AOL, Sony, Prodigy and MTV Networks.

As a key member of the CIM executive team, Schiller will be based in New York City, but he will staff and manage CIM sales offices throughout the country. Schiller will report directly to Chuck Davis, Executive Vice President of Comcast Interactive Media and Chief Executive Officer of Fandango.

"We are pleased to welcome Scott to the Comcast Interactive Media family," says Chuck Davis, Executive Vice President of Comcast Interactive Media and Chief Executive Officer of Fandango. "CIM has a growing number of trusted brands, and Scott has a long track record of building highly motivated advertising sales teams. We think his experience, combined with our highly-trafficked sites, creates a winning formula."

Schiller joins CIM from Glam Media, Inc., one of the fastest-growing women's Web properties, where he was the Executive Vice President of Global Marketing and its original Chief Revenue Officer. Earlier in his career, Schiller served as Senior Vice President of Interactive Marketing for America Online; Senior Vice-President of Strategic Partnership Marketing for the Walt Disney Internet Group (where he ran advertising sales and sponsorship for such Disney-branded sites as ABC.com, ABCNews.com, Disney.com, Family.com and ESPN.com); Vice President of Advertising and Partnership Marketing for Sony Online Ventures; Vice President of Advertising Sales for Prodigy; and account director for MTV Networks, during the cable network's earliest days.

About Comcast Interactive Media

Comcast Interactive Media (CIM), is a division of Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA, CMCSK) dedicated to developing and operating online and cross-platform entertainment and media businesses, including Comcast.net (www.comcast.net), one of the country's most visited websites. CIM's other properties include Fandango, a top movie and entertainment destination, selling tickets for more than 16,000 screens across the country; Fancast.com, a national online entertainment site; Movies.com, a top information site for film fans; DailyCandy, the daily e-mail newsletter and website; thePlatform, the industry-leading provider of digital media publishing solutions over broadband and wireless networks; and Plaxo, an online social networking based platform.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Spanish Beisbol Network Expands Offering for Fans and Advertisers

2009-03-02T13:00:00.000+02:00

PHILADELPHIA, March 2 /PRNewswire/ -- With Major League Baseball spring training underway, it's a signal for fans and advertisers that the official season is just around the corner. The Spanish Beisbol Network (SBN) is gearing up for the season with the addition of a new MLB team to its roster and the extension of its marketing platform to help sponsors effectively reach the growing Hispanic demographic.

Recently, SBN inked a five-year deal with the Oakland A's. It marks the first time in Oakland A's history that fans will be able to listen to Spanish broadcasts for every regular season game, home and away. SBN also has the broadcast rights for the Boston Red Sox, Philadelphia Phillies and Washington Nationals, and provides feeds for mlb.com and SAP-TV in some markets.

"This announcement represents a milestone for SBN," states Bill Kulik, president of SBN. "It expands our network to the West Coast. And, it gives us great pleasure to bring our first rate Spanish language baseball programming to the San Francisco Bay Area Latino community. We thank our radio station partners, KDIA and KDYA, and the Oakland A's for their tremendous cooperation in making this deal a reality."

According to Scarborough Research, 62% of all U.S. Hispanics are MLB fans, compared to 59% of the total population. For this reason, advertisers looking for a low-cost, multi-platform approach to reach the Hispanic audience are responding to the new elements that SBN has to offer. In April, SBN is re-launching its website, http://www.beisbol.net, in conjunction with the start of the season to be a more fan-friendly, interactive Spanish-language baseball source. This new site will be promoted on every SBN broadcast, and provides measureable exposure for a brand in the form of banner ads, contest and fan poll sponsorships, branded features as well as links to an advertiser's site.

"In addition, Latino youth baseball clinics, pre-game hospitality events, in-game promotions, sweepstakes and online contests are just some of the ways we're working with sponsors to develop fully integrated programs beyond the traditional radio spot buy," says Kulik. "With 162 games, the SBN platform is a relatively low-cost, yet effective way to connect with Hispanic sports fans and provides the frequency needed to build brand awareness."

About Spanish Beisbol Network

The Spanish Beisbol Network (SBN) was founded in 2001 as a premier sports media broadcasting and content company for Spanish-language sports programming. SBN currently has contracts with the Boston Red Sox, Philadelphia Phillies, Washington Nationals, Oakland A's and the Caribbean World Series. In 2008, SBN was acquired by Celeritas Management Inc., a portfolio management company, based in Virginia. Celeritas partners with companies at the intersection of sports, entertainment and lifestyle pursuits whose products and services strike a chord with the passions of American consumers, especially the Hispanic demographic. For more information about SBN, please visit http://www.beisbol.net.

    Contacts:
    Bill Kulik, SBN President, 215-518-2376, william.kulik@beisbol.net
    Beth Woerner, Celeritas Sr. VP of Marketing, 804-230-4235,
     beth.woerner@celeritasmgmt.com

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

DISH Network(R) Reports Fourth Quarter 2008 Financial Results

2009-03-02T11:05:00.000+02:00

ENGLEWOOD, Colo., March 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- DISH Network Corporation (Nasdaq: DISH) today reported total revenue of $2.92 billion for the quarter ended Dec. 31, 2008, a 1 percent increase compared with $2.89 billion for the corresponding period in 2007.

Net income totaled $217 million for the quarter ended Dec. 31, 2008, compared with $175 million during the corresponding period in 2007. Diluted earnings per share were $0.48 for the quarter ended Dec. 31, 2008, compared with $0.39 during the corresponding period in 2007.

For the year ended Dec. 31, 2008, DISH Network reported total revenue of $11.62 billion compared with $11.09 billion for the year ended Dec. 31, 2007, an increase of 5 percent. DISH Network's net income for the year ended Dec. 31, 2008, totaled $903 million, compared with $756 million for the year ended Dec. 31, 2007. Diluted earnings per share were $1.98 for the year ended Dec. 31, 2008, compared with $1.68 during the corresponding period in 2007.

DISH Network lost approximately 102,000 net subscribers during the quarter ended Dec. 31, 2008, giving the company approximately 13.678 million subscribers at year-end. The number of net subscribers lost for the full year ended Dec. 31, 2008 was also approximately 102,000.

Detailed financial data and other information are available in DISH Network's Form 10-K for the annual period ended Dec. 31, 2008, filed today with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

About DISH Network Corporation

DISH Network Corporation (Nasdaq: DISH) provides approximately 13.678 million satellite TV customers as of Dec. 31, 2008 with the highest quality programming and technology at the best value, including the lowest all-digital price nationwide. Customers have access to hundreds of video and audio channels, the most international channels in the U.S., state-of-the-art interactive TV applications, and award-winning HD and DVR technology including 1080p Video on Demand and the DuoDVR(TM) ViP(R) 722 DVR, a CNET and PC Magazine "Editors' Choice." DISH Network is included in the Nasdaq-100 Index (NDX) and is a Fortune 250 company. Visit www.dishnetwork.com.

DISH Network will host its Fourth Quarter and year-end 2008 financial results conference call today at noon ET. The dial-in number is (800) 616-6729.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

For Florida Nonprofits: Free Fundraising Consulting Hotline

2009-02-28T18:05:00.000+02:00

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Feb. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Totally free, personalized fundraising consulting is now available for all Florida nonprofits 24/7 at www.fundraisershotline.com.

"Florida nonprofit fundraisers may ask anything they want - like How can I find donors? or How can I get my board to give more and to ask others to give? It's absolutely one-on-one attention. They won't be getting boilerplate answers," says Dr. Stephen L. Goldstein, creator of the hotline and president of The Nonprofit Institute, Educational Marketing Services in Fort Lauderdale.

"Nonprofits always have a hard time raising money. But many are really struggling in today's bad economy, especially in Florida. They need immediate professional advice tailored to their specific needs. But most nonprofits cannot afford to hire an expert to give them quick answers to their pressing questions. So, www.fundraisershotline.com gives them personal access to an experienced professional to be their sounding-board to increase their fundraising success," Goldstein adds.

That's what's so unique about the hotline. It's quick, efficient, direct --and free, of course. Getting answers from the hotline is simple. Go to www.fundraisershotline.com, fill out the short user form, ask a question, then send it to Dr. Goldstein. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. Every question is answered personally and within 24 hours.

Columnist, author, consultant, TV and radio personality, and workshop leader - Dr. Stephen L. Goldstein is a nationally recognized marketing, communications, and fundraising executive, as well as a trends analyst and forecaster. For more than 30 years, he has developed strategies for nonprofit success.

Dr. Goldstein is now the co-producer and host of "The Forum for Nonprofits," which airs on WNN & WSBR and may be heard 24/7 at www.forumfornonprofits.com. He was the producer and host of "Fundraising Success," a weekly radio program on WXEL, 90.7FM/National Public Radio and still available at any time from anywhere in the world at www.wxelpodcasts.org.

Dr. Goldstein's "Fundraising Guru" columns have appeared in The South Florida Sun-Sentinel and have been a regular feature of the Scripps papers on Florida's Treasure Coast. He is the author of the bestseller, 30 Days to Successful Fundraising.

Goldstein is also the developer of "Fundraising Briefing Books," the basis for the workshops and tailored consulting programs he offers nationwide.

    Media contact:
    Stephen Goldstern
    954-772-4455
    trendsman@aol.com

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Cable, Dish Satellite and Now Home Stations Installations

2009-02-28T04:28:00.000+02:00

The Country's Newest Company to Compete with Cable and Dish Satellite

SCRANTON, Pa., Feb. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- While reports of rising unemployment rates and job cuts have dominated the news recently, a new company, Home Stations Installations, opened in West Pittston, Pennsylvania.

"For the past year, I've been working on this new business," says President/CEO Gary Zurenda of Exeter, Pennsylvania. The business has to do with DTV converter boxes and digital antennas. "I have kept it very quiet due to the fact that I'm a new company, and the cable and satellite companies are established corporations that have been around for the last 30 years. It's a great feeling knowing I can help free people from a monthly bill so they can put that savings towards their family."

Now the secret is out; he has opened a 50/100 person call center and is putting 10,000 plus installers nationwide to work immediately. Thanks to President Barack Obama, he feels confident that the government will encourage and assist the everyday person in taking the plunge into a new business during these difficult times.

"We can easily install thousands of homes per week," says Executive Director Colleen Daly. "I want my free DTV; that is what I hear most. It is important that the poor, shut-ins, and misfortunate have at least 1 television working in case of a crisis because this is the emergency frequency. I met with two high ranking Senators' offices and one high ranking Congressman's office, and they are still not sure how to help. I suggested a government coupon to the very needy." The company gives a 10% discount to seniors and veterans.

Finally, there is a national company that has professional technicians that will come to your home and hook up your products or their products for a one time affordable fee. For those that are in need, Home Stations Installations can be reached at 1-877-474-3887 or by visiting them on the web at www.iwantmyfreedtv.com. Who would ever think that cable/satellite would be a luxury -- not a necessity?

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

A Neil Lane Engagement Ring Will Make One Bachelorette's Dreams Come True on ABC's The Bachelor

2009-02-28T00:58:00.000+02:00

Jason Mesnick to Propose with Three-Carat Neil Lane Diamond Ring

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Celebrity jeweler extraordinaire Neil Lane (www.neillanejewelry.com ) adds sparkle to ABC's "The Bachelor," from Warner Horizon Television, when Jason Mesnick proposes to one lucky bachelorette on Monday, March 2nd. The top-rated reality series will come to a close as Mesnick will get down on one knee and propose with a hand-crafted Neil Lane marquise-cut diamond and platinum ring which is encrusted and set with 170 smaller diamonds for a total weight of 3.18 carats. The center diamond is a 1.94-carat marquise-cut diamond, which is D in color, a top grade, and VS1 clarity with a GIA certificate. The ring, designed by Lane, bears the signature Neil Lane script in the shank.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090227/LA76958)

Mesnick who had been courting women for seven weeks on the ABC series, selected this ring from three Neil Lane designs with different cuts of diamonds, including oval and pear. Neil Lane, with a fabulous eye for elegance and style, is the favorite for Hollywood brides to be. Neil Lane has supplied engagement rings for everyone from Reese Witherspoon and Kate Hudson to Sandra Bullock, Brooke Shields and Jennifer Hudson.

As an avid collector of fine jewelry with an eye for designing pieces exuding both style and elegance, Neil Lane has earned the respect and admiration of an all-star crowd. Whether worn for the Oscars, or other red-carpet events or engagements, his iconic jewelry designs have been adorned by some of the most beautiful and powerful women in Hollywood, including Angelina Jolie, Charlize Theron, Elizabeth Taylor, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jennifer Garner, Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, and many others.

Neil Lane jewelry has graced the covers of Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, W and many other high-end fashion publications. As a leading Hollywood jewelry designer, hailed in the media as The King of Bling, the Ace of Diamonds, Neil Lane has influence and impact both domestically and internationally.

Neil Lane

708 N. La Cienega Boulevard

Los Angeles, CA 90069

For more information on Neil Lane Jewelry, please contact info@neillanejewelry.com

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Acorn International to Announce Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2008 Financial Results on March 9, 2009

2009-02-27T10:00:00.000+02:00

SHANGHAI, Feb. 27 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- Acorn International, Inc. ("Acorn") (NYSE: ATV), a leading integrated multi-platform marketing company in China, will release its financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended December 31, 2008 before the market opens on Monday, March 9, 2009. A copy of the earnings release will be available on the company's website at http://www.chinadrtv.com .

Acorn's management has scheduled a conference call at 8:00 a.m. ET on March 9, 2009 (8:00 p.m. Beijing Time) to discuss the Company's perspective on the results and answer questions. You may access the live interactive call via:

    -- +1 866 549 1292 (U.S. Toll Free)
    -- +800 701 1223 (China Toll Free)
    -- +852 3005 2050 (International)
    -- Passcode: ATV

Please dial-in approximately 10 minutes in advance to facilitate an on-time start.

A replay will be available for approximately two weeks after the call and may be accessed via:

-- +852 3005 2020 (International)

-- Passcode: 136511#

A live and archived webcast of the call will be available on the Company's website at http://www.chinadrtv.com .

About Acorn

Acorn International (NYSE: 'ATV') is a leading integrated multi-platform marketing company in China, operating China's largest TV direct sales business in terms of revenues and TV air time and a nationwide off-TV distribution network. Acorn's TV direct sales platform consists of airtime purchased from both national and local channels. In addition to marketing and selling through its TV direct sales programs and its off-TV nationwide distribution network, Acorn also offers consumer products and services through catalogs, an outbound telemarketing center and an e-commerce website. Leveraging its integrated multiple sales and marketing platforms, Acorn has built a proven track record of developing and selling proprietary-branded consumer products, as well as products and services from established third parties.

    For further information, please contact:

    Acorn International
     Chen Fu, Director of Investor Relations
     Tel:   +86-21-5151-8888 x2228
     Email: ir@chinadrtv.com

    PRChina
     Jane Liu
     Tel:   +852-2522-1838
     Email: jliu@prchina.com.hk

     Henry Chik
     Tel:   +852-2522-1368
     Email: hchik@prchina.com.hk

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Top Chef Season 5 Show Favorite, Fabio Viviani Will Act as American Spokesperson for Italy's Number One Selling Frozen Pizza

2009-02-27T03:25:00.000+02:00

Dr. Oetker's Ristorante will partner with the Top Chef star to introduce the great tasting, gourmet Italian restaurant style frozen pizza to American homes this summer

STUDIO CITY, Calif., Feb. 26 /PRNewswire/ -- Fans of Bravo TV's Top Chef can look forward to more flavor from the series' "Italian Stallion," Fabio Viviani. Dr. Oetker, the number one frozen pizza manufacturer in Italy, is launching its best-selling Ristorante brand in the United States and the season five star has signed on to be the spokesperson.

Fabio Viviani, who was born in Florence and recalls Dr. Oetker pizza from his childhood, will participate in a five-city media tour this summer to introduce the favorite brand of thin-crust pizza lovers throughout Europe and Canada to consumers in the northeastern United States.

"Growing up in Italy, my mom often had Dr. Oetker's products in the home so I'm excited to help introduce Ristorante brand frozen pizzas to American households," explained Viviani. "As a chef, I am very particular about the ingredients that I select. That's why I am a fan of Dr. Oetker's Ristorante pizza because it features fresh, high-quality ingredients, such as spinach, mozzarella, mushrooms and other vegetables on a thin crispy crust."

"We are eager to introduce the authentic taste of Dr. Oetker Ristorante to American pizza-lovers and feel Fabio is the perfect voice for the brand," said William Whalen, executive vice president for Dr. Oetker U.S.A., LLC. "He has an incredible personality and a real passion for cooking, eating and entertaining with great food."

Lots of Americans are eating out less often but they still want to enjoy the taste and fresh flavors like the ones featured on Top Chef or found in an Italian restaurant, such as Cafe Firenze," said Viviani.

"Dr. Oetker's Ristorante pizza is a delicious and convenient way to capture the essence of Italian restaurant dining in the home."

Northeast U.S. Products are priced from $4.99 to $5.99. To learn more about Dr. Oetker, please visit www.oetker.us.

About Fabio Viviani

Fabio is the Owner and Executive Chef of Cafe Firenze, one of the most recognized restaurants in Ventura County. Born and raised in Florence, Italy, he incorporates Italian, French and Spanish influences in his dishes and believes that cooking is a craft.

www.cafefirenze.net.

About Dr. Oetker

The Dr. Oetker company started in Germany in 1891 with the development of a special baking powder, Backin, that produced extraordinary baking results. More than 30 years ago, the first frozen pizza was launched in Germany and, today, Dr. Oetker is the market leader of frozen pizza in most European countries. In 2003, Ristorante Pizza was introduced in Canada and has continued to maintain an overwhelming amount of success in the market place. For more information about Dr. Oetker and Ristorante, please visit www.oetker.us.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

TV Azteca Announces Net Sales of Ps.2,909 Million and EBITDA of Ps.1,401 Million In 4Q08

2009-02-27T00:05:00.000+02:00

MEXICO CITY, Feb. 26 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- TV Azteca, S.A. de C.V. (BMV: TVAZTCA; Latibex: XTZA), one of the two largest producers of Spanish- language television programming in the world, announced today net sales of Ps.2,909 million, EBITDA of Ps.1,401 million and EBITDA margin of 48% for the fourth quarter of 2008.

"We were able to preserve the solid top line level reported in the prior year and multiply net profit by four in the quarter, despite the difficult economic environment," said Mario San Roman, Chief Executive Officer of TV Azteca. "On the operating front, we further strengthened our successful programming grid, particularly in prime time, positively influencing sales in the period, and setting the basis for a firm market positioning in 2009."

Fourth Quarter Results

Net sales were Ps.2,909 million, practically unchanged compared to Ps.2,898 million in the same quarter of 2007. Total costs and expenses were Ps.1,508 million, from Ps.1,381 million in the same period of the previous year. As a result, TV Azteca reported EBITDA of Ps.1,401 million, compared to Ps.1,517 million in the fourth quarter of 2007. The company registered net majority income of Ps.863 million, more than four times above the Ps.186 million in the same period of 2007.

Net Sales

"The growing popularity of our content -- especially novelas and La Academia: Ultima Generacion -- translated into a 41% commercial audience share in prime time in the quarter. Successful programming was key to build effective advertising campaigns for recognized brands in Mexico, and enhanced demand for multiple ad spaces in the period," added Mr. San Roman.

Fourth quarter revenue includes sales of Ps.62 million from Proyecto 40, which have been consolidated in TV Azteca results beginning this year.

TV Azteca also reported net sales from Azteca America -- the company's wholly owned broadcast television network focused on the U.S. Hispanic market -- of Ps.194 million, compared to Ps.132 million a year ago.

Programming sales to other countries were Ps.15 million in the period, compared to Ps.26 million the prior year. Revenue this quarter resulted from the sale of the shows Lo que Callamos las Mujeres and Montecristo in Latin America, and Bellezas Indomables in Europe.

Revenue from barter sales was Ps.112 million, practically unchanged from Ps.113 million from the previous year.

Costs and Expenses

Total costs and expenses grew 9% in the quarter, as a result of a 13% increase in programming, production and transmission costs -- to Ps.1,219 million, from Ps.1,079 million in the same period a year ago -- and a 4% reduction in selling and administrative expenses -- to Ps.288 million, compared to Ps.302 million in the same quarter of 2007.

The increase in costs reflects the consolidation of Proyecto 40 in TV Azteca results, and the effect of the exchange rate depreciation on peso disbursements of the acquired programming that was transmitted during the quarter.

Decrease in selling and administrative expenses resulted from reductions in operating and travel expenses, and advisory fees, as a result of initiatives that punctually control the company's outlays.

TV Azteca continues to seek additional actions to reduce expenses, as a response to the deceleration of the economic activity in Mexico.

EBITDA and Net Income

EBITDA was Ps.1,401 million, compared with Ps.1,517 million in the same period of the prior year; EBITDA margin was 48%.

Below EBITDA the main changes were: i) reduction of Ps.798 million in provision for taxes, due primarily to an extraordinary charge in the deferred income tax a year ago, ii) decrease of Ps.80 million in other financial expense, and iii) a Ps.60 million increase in interest paid, due to changes in the debt balance.

Net majority income for the period was Ps.863 million, more than four times higher than Ps.186 million a year ago.

Advertising Advances

The balance of advertising advances as of December 31, 2008 was Ps.3,971 million, 8% above Ps.3,693 million in the prior year.

The company considers that growth in advertising advances represents a vote of confidence of clients regarding the effectiveness of TV Azteca content to reach target markets.

Debt

As of December 31, 2008, TV Azteca's outstanding debt -- excluding Ps.1,621 million debt due 2069 -- was Ps.8,043 million.

Such debt is peso denominated, and of it, Ps.6,000 million are long term Securities Certificates. The interest rate is fixed at 9.29% annually, thanks to interest coverage for the next three years.

The cash balance was Ps.3,250 million, which resulted in net debt of Ps.4,793 million. Debt to last twelve months (LTM) EBITDA ratio was 2.1 times, and net debt to LTM EBITDA was 1.2 times.

Twelve Months Results

Net sales in 2008 were Ps.9,815 million, 3% above the Ps.9,505 million reported a year ago. Total costs and expenses were Ps.5,923 million, from Ps.5,482 million in the same period in the prior year, primarily due to the consolidation of Proyecto 40 in TV Azteca results and the production and transmission of the Summer Olympic Games in Beijing. As a result, TV Azteca reported EBITDA of Ps.3,893 million in the year, compared to Ps.4,022 million in 2007. The company reported majority net income of Ps.1,054 million, from net income of Ps.1,041 million in the prior year.

Company Profile

TV Azteca is one of the two largest producers of Spanish-language television programming in the world, operating two national television networks in Mexico, Azteca 13 and Azteca 7, through more than 300 owned and operated stations across the country. TV Azteca affiliates include Azteca America Network, a new broadcast television network focused on the rapidly growing U.S. Hispanic market, and Azteca Web, an Internet company for North American Spanish speakers.

TV Azteca is a Grupo Salinas company (www.gruposalinas.com), a group of dynamic, fast growing, and technologically advanced companies focused on creating shareholder value, and improving society through excellence. Created by Mexican entrepreneur Ricardo B. Salinas, Grupo Salinas operates as a management development and decision forum for the top leaders of member companies.

Except for historical information, the matters discussed in this press release are forward-looking statements and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Other risks that may affect TV Azteca and its subsidiaries are identified in documents sent to securities authorities.

                             Investor Relations:
    Bruno Rangel                                      Dinorah Macias
    + 52 (55) 1720 9167                              + 52 (55) 1720 0041
    jrangelk@tvazteca.com.mx                         dmacias@tvazteca.com.mx

                               Press Relations:
    Tristan Canales                                    Daniel McCosh
    + 52 (55) 1720 1441                              + 52 (55) 1720 0059
    tcanales@gruposalinas.com.mx                   dmccosh@tvazteca.com.mx

(Financial tables follow)



                    TV AZTECA, S.A. DE C.V. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                        CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
           (Millions of Mexican pesos of December 31, 2007 and 2008 )

                                     Fourth Quarter of:
                                2007            2008
                                                                   Change

    Net revenue             Ps 2,898  100% Ps  2,909   100%    Ps    11    0%

    Programming, production
     and transmission costs    1,079   37%     1,219    42%         140   13%
    Selling and
     administrative expenses     302   10%       288    10%         (13)  -4%

    Total costs and expenses   1,381   48%     1,508    52%         127    9%

    EBITDA                     1,517   52%     1,401    48%        (115)  -8%

    Depreciation and
     amortization                126             129                  4

    Operating profit           1,391   48%     1,272    44%        (119)  -9%

    Other expense -Net          (301)           (308)                (6)

    Comprehensive financing
     result:
    Interest expense            (200)           (261)               (60)
    Other financing expense      (97)            (17)                80
    Interest income               31              23                 (8)
    Exchange gain  -Net            3              39                 36
    Gain on monetary
     position                     44              -                 (44)
                                (220)           (216)                 4

    Income before the
     following provision         870   30%       749    26%        (121) -14%

    Provision for income tax    (684)            114                798

    Net income              Ps   187         Ps  863            Ps  676

    Net income
     of minority
     stockholders           Ps     1         Ps    -            Ps   (1)

    Net income
     of majority
     stockholders           Ps   186    6%   Ps  863    30%     Ps  677  365%


                    TV AZTECA, S.A. DE C.V. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                        CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
           (Millions of Mexican pesos of December 31, 2007, and 2008)

                                      Year ended December 31,

                                      2007           2008            Change
    Net revenue                   Ps 9,505  100% Ps 9,815  100%  Ps  311    3%

    Programming, production
     and transmission costs          4,323   45%    4,767   49%      444   10%
    Selling and administrative
     expenses                        1,159   12%    1,156   12%       (3)   0%

    Total costs and expenses         5,482   58%    5,923   60%      440    8%

    EBITDA                           4,022   42%    3,893   40%     (130)  -3%

    Depreciation and amortization      434            479             45

    Operating profit                 3,588   38%    3,414   35%     (175)  -5%

    Other expense -Net                (744)          (867)          (122)

    Comprehensive financing result:
    Interest expense                  (799)          (868)           (70)
    Other financing expense           (162)          (119)            42
    Interest income                    110             93            (17)
    Exchange (loss) gain -Net          (10)            79             89
    Gain on monetary position           70              -            (70)
                                      (790)          (816)           (26)

    Income before the following
     provision                       2,053   22%    1,731   18%     (323) -16%

    Provision for income tax        (1,013)          (676)           336

    Net income                    Ps 1,041        Ps1,055          Ps 14

    Net income of minority
     stockholders                 Ps    (1)       Ps    1              1
         Net income of majority
         stockholders             Ps 1,041   11%  Ps1,054   11%    Ps 13    1%



                    TV AZTECA, S.A.  DE C.V. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                           CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
           (Millions of Mexican pesos of December 31, 2007 and 2008 )


                                             At December 31,
                                            2007        2008
                                                                 Change
    Current assets:
    Cash and cash equivalents          Ps   1,678  Ps   3,250 Ps  1,572
    Accounts receivable                     4,210       4,547       337
    Other current assets                    1,337       1,642       305

    Total current assets                    7,225       9,439     2,214   31%

    Long-term accounts receivable from
     Pappas                                 1,672       2,039       367
    Exhibition rights                         476         524        48
    Property, plant and equipment-Net       2,985       3,242       257
    Television concessions-Net              4,636       4,650        14
    Other assets                            1,611       1,539       (72)
    Goodwill - Net                            154         159         5
    Deferred income tax asset                 469         259      (210)
    Total long term assets                 12,003      12,412       409    3%

    Total assets                       Ps  19,228  Ps  21,851 Ps  2,623   14%


    Current liabilities:
    Short-term debt                    Ps     -    Ps   1,984 Ps  1,984
    Other current liabilities               3,760       3,225      (535)

    Total current liabilities               3,760       5,209     1,449   39%

    Long-term debt:
    Structured Securities Certificates      6,000       6,000       -
    Long-term debt                            -            60        60
    Total long-term debt                    6,000       6,060        60
    Other long term liabilities:
    Advertising advances                    3,693       3,971       278
    Exhibition rights payable                  36         -         (36)
    American Tower Corporation (due 2069)   1,301       1,621       320

    Total other long-term liabilities       5,030       5,592       562   11%

    Total liabilities                      14,790      16,861     2,071   14%

    Total stockholders' equity              4,438       4,990       552   12%

    Total liabilities and equity       Ps  19,228  Ps  21,851 Ps  2,623   14%

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Commander's Palace in New Orleans Hosts Bravo's 'Top Chef' Season Five Finale

2009-02-26T03:00:00.000+02:00

Co-Owner Ti Adelaide Martin and Executive Chef Tory McPhail Participate in Episode

NEW ORLEANS, Feb. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- Commander's Palace, the celebrated New Orleans restaurant, welcomed Bravo's "Top Chef: New York" cast and crew for the filming of the season finale, which aired earlier this evening, Wednesday, February 25. Co-Owner Ti Adelaide Martin and Executive Chef Tory McPhail served as judges. (Co-Owner Lally Brennan was unable to join due to a prior commitment in New York City for a charity event.)

From welcoming the cast and crew for cocktails in the parlor to executing Commander's famous style of team service, the Commander's Palace family was thrilled to work with "Top Chef".

Executive Chef Tory McPhail, who turned over his kitchen to the final three contestants for the afternoon, said "My favorite moment was the look on the contestant's faces when an entire alligator was presented as the final challenge." (Chef Tory, a seasoned hunter of all game - including alligators - has prepared many an alligator dish in the Commander's kitchen.)

"We were thrilled to hear 'Top Chef' was planning to film in New Orleans and doubly so when they inquired about taping at Commander's," says Co-Owner Ti Adelaide Martin. "The dinner had all the elements of a great New Orleans-style meal: great food, well-made cocktails and repartee - the perfect combination!"

About Commander's Palace

The renowned Commander's Palace restaurant, celebrating 129 years of business, is where top chefs Paul Prudhomme, Emeril Lagasse and the late Jamie Shannon each launched their careers. Commander's Palace, recently voted "Most Popular" by Zagat Survey for the eighteenth year, has also amassed numerous awards, among them the James Beard Foundation's Lifetime Outstanding Restaurant Award, Lifetime Service Award and Who's Who of Food and Beverage Award. In March 2008, Commander's Palace Family of Restaurants was inducted into the Culinary Institute of America's Hall of Fame, one of only three families to ever win the CIA's leadership award.

Commander's Palace offers dinner from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily and lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Jazz Brunch is served 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, and 10:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. on Sunday. Reservations are recommended and may be made by calling (504) 899-8221.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

WWE Monday Night RAW Ratings Soar Over the Top Rope

2009-02-25T23:44:00.000+02:00

Last Two Weeks on USA Nets Highest Ratings in Almost Seven Years

NEW YORK, Feb. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- The last two weeks on WWE MONDAY NIGHT RAW have broken ground to ratings highs not seen in almost seven years for the year-round ratings titan. The 2/16 and 2/23 episodes have delivered an average of 6.015 million total viewers, 3.028 million in P18-49, 2.9 million in P25-54, 4.055 million households and a household coverage rating of 4.1.

"Charismatic characters, high production value, intricate storylines, action-adventure, soap opera, rock concert, comedy, athleticism, and drama are all a recipe for success. When combined with the partnership of USA Network, Monday Night RAW is the undisputed champion of cable television" said Kevin Dunn, Executive Vice President, Television Production.

The two week delivery of 6 million total viewers for RAW was the first time that has happened in almost seven years -- since April 2002
RAW delivered over 3 million in P18-49 two weeks in a row, the first time that has happened in 6 /12 years -- since August 2002
This past week the 10pm hour USA was the #1 TV network among M18-34 (1.153 million) almost doubling the nearest competitor ABC. The 10pmRAW segment also drew in more M18-34 viewers for the night than Fox's 24 (9pm). USA was also #1 in the 10pm hour, above all TV channels, among M25-54 (2.262 million) and M18-49 (2.219 million) and beat CSI Miami among P18-49 (3.258 million). In the 9pm hour USA topped both ABC's The Bachelor and CBS among M18-34 (880,000) and beat The Bachelor among both M18-49 (1.1814 million) and M25-54 (1.951).

*Note: all weekly daypart and program data is Live+SD.

USA Network is the #1 network in all of basic cable and is seen in 94 million U.S. homes. A division of NBC Universal, USA is the cable television leader in original series and is home to the best in blockbuster theatrical films, acquired television series and entertainment events. The award-winning USA website is located at www.usanetwork.com. Characters Welcome.

USA Network is a program service of NBC Universal Cable a division 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.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

IndoorDIRECT Closes Funding to Launch Major Expansion of theBITE

2009-02-25T23:13:00.000+02:00

Restaurant Network to Grow to 1,000 Locations

DALLAS, Feb. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- IndoorDIRECT announced that it has secured a funding package that could reach $22.5 million to complete the rollout of its in-store entertainment network into 1,000 quick-service and fast-casual restaurants from its current base of 430 locations.

The funding was led by Syncom Venture Partners, a firm that specializes in media properties. Joining them were Northwood Ventures LLC and Poseidon Enterprises LLC, which also have considerable media expertise. Challenger Capital Group LTD and Haynes & Boone LLP assisted in the transaction.

The funding will allow indoorDIRECT to establish an initial national media platform of more than 10 million viewers per month in top DMAs.

"Our network is an effective way for advertisers to reach consumers for many reasons," said Bill Myers, Co-Founder and COO. "We entertain our viewers with engaging content that people enjoy watching and listening to while they are sitting, not just walking past the screens. This enables impressions to really register with viewers who are in most cases close to retail sites where they can immediately act on the messages presented to them."

"We feel that indoorDIRECT is reaching captive customers who want to be entertained," said Duane McKnight, head of Syncom Venture Partners. "In a time of TIVO and channel switching, this venue is especially effective for advertisers." Peter Schiff of Northwood Ventures LLC added, "As one of the first serious investors in this booming sector, we feel the advertising community will strongly embrace the consumer reach this network creates."

About theBITE Network

Each week indoorDIRECT creates and produces theBITE Network, the program which airs on its LCD screens in restaurant dining rooms, providing advertisers with national reach in a receptive environment. Four dynamic hosts, selected exclusively for theBITE, host the 60-minute program reporting on news, entertainment, music and sports. TheBITE features customized content for a range of interests such as music videos, NASCAR updates, college football features and content from providers including CBS, TBS, TNT, Speed and most recently NFL Network. TheBITE also features scrolling text with breaking news, sports updates and localized time and weather. Catch the latest from theBITE at www.thebitenetwork.com/STREAM.

Fred Margolin, the company's CEO, said that indoorDIRECT is pleased to be working with leading restaurant chains that have a total of more than 30,000 locations nationwide. "Our rollout to more restaurant locations will enable us to attract greater advertiser attention and we will have the opportunity to grow very quickly," he said.

"We are gratified by the positive response we've gotten from franchisors and franchisees of restaurant chains throughout the country that have installed the indoorDIRECT system," said Michael Winton, President and Co-Founder. "They immediately see the network helps store profitability and makes the dine-in experience much more enjoyable for their customers."

About indoorDIRECT

IndoorDIRECT is a powerful digital out-of-home media company providing entertainment content to high-volume quick-service and fast-casual restaurant chains across the nation. IndoorDIRECT created theBITE Network -- a combination of entertainment content and advertising tailored to reach the millions of Americans who visit quick-service and fast-casual restaurant chains every month. IndoorDIRECT LCD screens are located in restaurant dining rooms, as well as a promotional board at the point-of-purchase to highlight featured menu items. The promotional network has shown proven results that about 40 percent of the customers are influenced. The company is privately held and has its headquarters in Dallas. More information is available at www.indoordirect.com.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Video: Ad Council Launches New PSAs and Social Media Tools to Prevent Youth Reckless Driving

2009-02-25T13:00:00.000+02:00

Campaign empowers teens to 'Say Something'

WASHINGTON, Feb. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- For more than two decades, car crashes have been the number one killer of teens in the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Advertising Council joined today with a coalition of state Attorneys General and consumer protection agencies to launch a new series of public service advertisements (PSAs) designed to save lives by reducing youth reckless driving.

To view the Multimedia News Release, go to: http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/adcouncil/36881/

NHTSA data shows that, on average, more than 300,000 teens are injured in car crashes each year, nearly 8,000 are involved in fatal crashes and more than 3,500 are killed. Research also shows that teen drivers are involved in more than five times as many fatal crashes as adults. Young drivers are more likely to speed, run red lights, make illegal turns and die in an SUV rollover.

First launched in January 2007, the Youth Reckless Driving Prevention campaign targets teens and young adults between the ages of 15 and 21 and encourages them to speak up when they are in the car with friends who are driving recklessly and they don't feel safe. The campaign also seeks to increase awareness about the dangers of reckless driving and educate teens on how to be safe drivers by focusing on safe speeds, avoiding distractions, wearing seat belts, and the differences associated with driving SUVs.

"This PSA campaign has a real opportunity to reach teens around the country," said Thurbert Baker, Attorney General of Georgia. "By speaking up about reckless driving, young people can save lives, both their own and those of their friends."

Research conducted by the Ad Council shows that teen drivers are more likely to listen to their friends than the adults in their lives. In a survey conducted in 2007, 8 in 10 teens said that when a friend speaks up, they will listen because they don't want to damage the friendship, be labeled a bad driver or cause harm to their friends.

Created pro bono by ad agency Y&R New York, the new television, radio, outdoor and interactive elements continue the peer-to-peer intervention strategy utilized in the first round of creative and communicate to teens "If your friend is driving recklessly, say something." The television spots feature comedians Rachel Harris, Fred Willard and Rob Riggle acting as teen passengers who humorously "speak up" to prevent a car crash.

"According to our research, since the launch of the campaign two years ago there has been a significant increase in the proportion of young adults that said they spoke up every time a friend was driving recklessly," said Peggy Conlon, President and CEO of the Ad Council. "I'm confident that this new round of PSAs, featuring comedians that appeal to our target audiences, will continue to raise awareness and inspire teens to 'speak up' when they're in a car and don't feel safe."

The PSAs direct audiences to visit www.SpeakUpOrElse.com, where they can find the motivation and tools to help them speak up. The newly redesigned site houses the PSAs and teaches teens the importance of driving safely. Additional elements to be added to the site soon include a free iPhone and iPod Touch application that turns the device into a bullhorn with flashing lights that can be used to inform a friend of his or her reckless driving. The site will also let the user send instant message videos, starring the comedians, to friends. The recipient, expecting a friend to chat, will receive a reckless driving video instead. All of these tools are designed to get the point across with humor rather than a heavy hand.

A social media program kicking off this week will help promote the campaign and website on social networking sites and blogs targeted to teens. Additionally, non-profit partners such as SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) will be helping to spread the message by reaching out to its 350,000 student members.

The Ad Council is distributing the new PSAs to media outlets nationwide this week. Per the Ad Council's model, the ads will run and air in time and space donated by the media. Since its launch, the campaign has received more than $44.5 million in donated support.

The Advertising Council

The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies in issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

State Attorneys General and Consumer Protection Agencies

The coalition of Attorneys General and consumer protection organizations is a multi-state group comprised of the Offices of the Attorney General and Consumer Protection Agencies of all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Funds generated in a settlement with Ford Motor Company were earmarked for public education, with a focus on SUV safety tips through public service advertising such as that of the Youth Reckless Driving Prevention campaign.

Y&R New York

Y&RNY is the flagship agency of Y&R, one of the world's leading marketing communications companies. Founded in 1923, Y&R was the first agency to be founded by a creative, Raymond Rubicam. Today, the agency's work spans the communications spectrum, including viral, interactive and ambient marketing. Y&RNY is HQ for some of the agency's largest global clients, including Colgate-Palmolive, Xerox and Campbell's Soup Company, as well as clients such as UNCF (the United Negro College Fund), Rubbermaid, MetLife and Fisher-Price, among others.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Discovery Communications Reports Full Year and Fourth Quarter 2008 Results

2009-02-25T12:05:00.000+02:00

Full Year 2008 Financial Highlights:

- Revenues increased to $3.44 billion

- Adjusted OIBDA increased to $1.31 billion

- Net income from continuing operations increased to $274 million

- Free Cash Flow increased to $467 million

SILVER SPRING, Md., Feb. 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Discovery Communications, Inc. ("Discovery" or the "Company") (Nasdaq: DISCA, DISCB, DISCK) today reported financial results for the full year and fourth quarter ended December 31, 2008. The discussion below assumes the transaction between Discovery Holding Company ("DHC"), Discovery Communications Holding LLC ("DCH"), and Advance/Newhouse Programming Partnership that resulted in Discovery becoming a public company, as described in the Other Items section on page 5, occurred on January 1, 2007 and as such includes 100% of Discovery Communications' results for both 2008 and 2007. Please see the as adjusted financial statements beginning on page 14 for an explanation of why management believes this presentation is appropriate.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080918/NETH035LOGO )

David Zaslav, Discovery's president and chief executive officer, said, "This past year was one of significant accomplishment for Discovery, as we delivered strong operating performances across our businesses and successfully transitioned to a fully public company. Strategically, we strengthened the programming and development at our fully distributed channels and finished the year with double digit ratings growth in the fourth quarter among key demos at Discovery Channel and TLC. We also established new identities for several of our emerging networks and continued our international expansion, increasing our subscriber base overseas by 16%. Most importantly, our strategic initiatives were achieved while strongly growing revenues and Adjusted OIBDA, in what are increasingly challenging times. As we execute our 2009 operating plan in a difficult economic climate, our stable foundation of contracted and growing subscription revenues, diversified international expansion and stringent focus on costs give us confidence that we will outperform the marketplace and continue to grow moving forward."

Fourth Quarter Results

Fourth quarter revenues of $904 million increased $1 million over the as adjusted(1) fourth quarter a year ago as 8% growth at U.S. Networks was mostly offset by a 23% decline in Commerce, Education and Other as well as a 4% decline at International Networks, primarily the result of a $33 million impact from foreign currency fluctuations. Adjusted Operating Income Before Depreciation and Amortization ("OIBDA") grew to $362 million, an increase of $222 million versus the fourth quarter a year ago, mainly driven by an increase of $188 million at U.S. Networks and an increase of $26 million, or 32%, at International Networks. The prior year results included a content impairment charge of $139 million, primarily at U.S. Networks. Excluding the impact of the content impairment charge, Adjusted OIBDA increased $64 million or 23% from the prior year. Adjusted OIBDA margin, excluding the impact of the content impairment charge, increased to 38% for the fourth quarter, up from 31% in the same period a year ago. Adjusted OIBDA is defined as revenue less (i) cost of revenues and selling, general and administrative expense excluding marked to market share-based compensation expense under our long-term incentive plans, (ii) restructuring and impairment charges, (iii) depreciation and amortization, including amortization of deferred launch incentives and (iv) gains on assets and business dispositions.

Fourth quarter net income from continuing operations of $105 million ($0.25 per share) grew $113 million versus the as adjusted(1) loss from continuing operations of $8 million ($0.03 per share) a year ago.

Free cash flow was $128 million for the fourth quarter, an increase of $24 million from the as adjusted(1) results in the same period for 2007. Free cash flow is defined as cash flows from operating activities less acquisitions of property and equipment.

Full Year Results

Full year 2008 revenues of $3,443 million increased 10% or $302 million over the as adjusted(1) revenues for 2007, primarily driven by 10% growth at U.S. Networks and 12% growth at International Networks. Adjusted OIBDA increased 49% to $1,310 million led by 37% growth at U.S. Networks and 52% growth at International Networks. The prior year results included a content impairment charge of $139 million, primarily at U.S. Networks. Excluding the impact of the content impairment charge, Adjusted OIBDA increased $216 million or 21% from the prior year and Adjusted OIBDA margin grew to 38% in 2008, up from 28% in 2007.

Full year net income from continuing operations of $274 million ($0.85 per share) grew $123 million versus the as adjusted results(1) of $151 million ($0.54 per share) a year ago. The increased results primarily reflect the higher Adjusted OIBDA as well as a $69 million benefit in the current year related to the unrealized change in the fair value of the marked to market share-based compensation, which was an expense of $141 million in the prior year.

Free cash flow was $467 million for 2008, an increase of $295 million from the as adjusted(1) results in 2007.

    (1)  See the as adjusted financial statements beginning on page 14 for
         2007 results.

    SEGMENT RESULTS
    (dollars in millions)     Three Months Ended      Twelve Months  Ended
                                 December 31,            December 31,
                              2008    2007   Change   2008    2007   Change
                                  (As adjusted)           (As adjusted)

    Revenues (1)(2)(3):
       U.S. Networks          $536    $498     8%   $2,062  $1,879    10%
       International
        Networks               294     307    (4%)   1,158   1,030    12%
       Commerce, Education,
        and Other               70      91   (23%)     196     225   (13%)
        Corporate                4       7   (43%)      27       7   286%
     Total Revenues           $904    $903     -    $3,443  $3,141    10%

    Adjusted OIBDA (1)(2)(3):
       U.S. Networks          $300    $112   168%   $1,111    $810    37%
       International
        Networks               107      81    32%      387     254    52%
       Commerce, Education,
        and Other               11       -     -        13       4   225%
        Corporate              (56)    (53)    6%     (201)   (189)    6%
    Total Adjusted OIBDA      $362    $140   159%   $1,310    $879    49%

    (1) 2007 excludes Travel Channel results through its disposition on May
        14, 2007. See the supplemental financial schedules on page 11 for
        Travel Channel results.
    (2) All results exclude the Discovery Channel Stores which ceased
        operations in the third quarter of 2007 and have been treated as part
        of discontinued operations.
    (3) See the supplemental financial schedules on pages 12 to 18 for reconciliations of
        Adjusted OIBDA to operating income as well as 2007 financial data to
        previously reported results from Discovery Holding Company.


    U.S. Networks
    (dollars in millions)  Three Months Ended    Twelve Months Ended
                             December 31,          December 31,
                        2008    2007   Change   2008    2007   Change
                            (As adjusted)           (As adjusted)
    Revenues:
       Distribution     $236    $209    13%     $927    $840    10%
       Advertising       282     265     6%    1,058     975     9%
       Other              18      24   (25%)      77      64    20%
    Total Revenues      $536    $498     8%   $2,062  $1,879    10%

    Adjusted OIBDA      $300    $112   168%   $1,111    $810    37%

    Adjusted OIBDA
     Margin               56%     22%           54%       43%

Fourth Quarter Results

U.S. Networks' revenue in the fourth quarter of 2008 increased 8% to $536 million primarily driven by distribution and advertising revenue growth. Distribution revenue grew 13% largely from higher rates across the fully distributed networks, subscriber growth at the emerging networks and lower launch-support amortization. Advertising revenue increased 6% from higher pricing as well as increased ratings at Discovery Channel and TLC, which satisfied prior period ratings shortfalls.

Adjusted OIBDA increased $188 million to $300 million reflecting the 8% revenue growth and lower operating expenses, primarily due to the impairment charge of $129 million taken in the fourth quarter a year ago, which also resulted in a $19 million decline in content amortization expense in the current quarter as compared to prior year. Excluding the impact of the impairment charge taken a year ago, programming expense increased $16 million and Adjusted OIBDA grew $40 million or 17%.

Full Year Results

U.S. Networks' revenue for the full year 2008 increased 10% to $2,062 million mainly driven by distribution and advertising revenue growth. Distribution revenue grew 10% largely from higher rates across the fully distributed networks, subscriber growth at the emerging networks and lower launch-support amortization. 2008 distribution revenues also include $8 million of one-time revenue related to accruals in prior periods for certain distributors. Advertising revenue increased 9% as compared with 2007 as a result of pricing and higher sellouts, partially offset by lower ratings at TLC and Discovery Channel. Additionally, other revenue grew 20% reflecting Discovery's sales representation of Travel Channel and an increase in digital revenue, primarily from the inclusion of HowStuffWorks, which was acquired in December 2007.

Adjusted OIBDA increased 37% to $1,111 million reflecting the 10% revenue growth and 12% lower operating expenses, primarily due to the content impairment charge of $129 million taken in the fourth quarter of 2007, which also resulted in a $76 million decline in content amortization expense in the current year as compared to the prior year. Excluding the impact of the impairment charge taken a year ago, programming expense increased $49 million and Adjusted OIBDA grew $96 million or 10%. Full year results also include a content impairment charge of $17 million related to the management team reorganization at TLC during the third quarter of 2008.

    International Networks

    (dollars in millions)   Three Months Ended      Twelve Months Ended
                               December 31,             December 31,
                           2008    2007   Change   2008     2007   Change
                               (As adjusted)           (As adjusted)
    Revenues:
       Distribution        $165    $168    (2%)     $713    $615    16%
       Advertising           99     112   (12%)      336     330     2%
       Other                 30      27    11%       109      85    28%
    Total Revenues         $294    $307    (4%)   $1,158  $1,030    12%

    Adjusted OIBDA         $107     $81    32%      $387    $254    52%

    Adjusted OIBDA Margin    36%     26%              33%     25%

Fourth Quarter Results

International Networks' revenue for the fourth quarter decreased 4% to $294 million as the $33 million impact of foreign currency fluctuations resulted in a 2% decline in distribution revenue and a 12% decline in advertising revenue. Excluding the impact of foreign currency fluctuations, revenues increased 6% led by 8% affiliate revenue growth, primarily from subscriber increases in EMEA (Europe (excluding U.K.), Middle East and Africa) and Latin America. Advertising revenue in local currency terms was flat as strong growth in EMEA and Latin America was offset by lower advertising revenue in the U.K. due to lower rates as well as the interpretation of a contract provision resulting in a limitation in our ability to monetize our audience. Excluding the U.K., advertising revenue in local currency terms increased 14% over the fourth quarter a year ago at International Networks.

Adjusted OIBDA increased 32% to $107 million as the 4% revenue decline was more than offset by an 18% decline in operating expenses. Excluding the impact of foreign currency, Adjusted OIBDA increased 36% reflecting 6% revenue growth and a 4% decline in operating expenses as increased programming expenses were more than offset by lower marketing and research costs.

Full Year Results

International Networks' revenue for the full year 2008 increased 12% to $1,158 million led by 16% distribution revenue growth primarily from subscriber increases in EMEA (Europe (excluding U.K.), Middle East and Africa) and Latin America. Advertising revenue increased 2% as strong growth in EMEA and Latin America was offset by lower advertising revenue in the U.K. due to lower rates as well as an interpretation of a contract provision. Excluding the U.K., advertising revenue in local currency terms increased 22% over 2008 at International Networks. The full year also included 28% growth in other revenue driven by the sale of Discovery Networks programs in the U.K. and Canada.

Adjusted OIBDA increased 52% to $387 million reflecting the 12% revenue growth and a 1% decline in operating expenses as lower marketing and research costs were mostly offset by increased programming and personnel costs. Excluding foreign currency fluctuations, revenues increased 12% and Adjusted OIBDA increased 45% versus 2007. The full year impact of foreign currency increased revenues by $7 million and Adjusted OIBDA by $17 million.

    Commerce, Education, and Other

    (dollars in millions)    Three Months Ended     Twelve Months Ended
                                December 31,           December 31,
                           2008    2007    Change  2008    2007    Change
                                (As adjusted)           (As adjusted)
    Revenues                $70     $91    (23%)   $196    $225      (13%)
    Adjusted OIBDA          $11      $-      -      $13      $4      225%

    Adjusted OIBDA Margin    16%      -%              7%      2%

Fourth Quarter Results

Commerce, Education and Other fourth quarter revenue decreased 23% to $70 million primarily reflecting lower commerce revenues as compared to the same period a year ago, which included stronger DVD sales of Planet Earth. Adjusted OIBDA increased to $11 million as compared with the break even results in the fourth quarter a year ago as the revenue decline at commerce was mostly offset by lower operating costs as compared to prior year. Additionally, prior year results included an impairment charge of $10 million at education. The current quarter results also include revenues of $20 million and Adjusted OIBDA of $1 million for Creative Sound Services which was flat with the results a year ago.

Full Year Results

Commerce, Education and Other full year 2008 revenue decreased 13% to $196 million primarily reflecting lower commerce revenues as compared to the same period a year ago, which included stronger DVD sales of Planet Earth, partially offset by higher education revenues from the streaming of new products as well as assessment, sponsorship and licensing deals. Adjusted OIBDA increased $9 million to $13 million as the revenue decline was offset by lower operating costs, primarily at education, due to an impairment charge of $10 million in the prior year,. The current year results include revenues of $75 million and Adjusted OIBDA of $4 million for Creative Sound Services, which was flat with the results a year ago.

Corporate

For the full year 2008 Adjusted OIBDA decreased $12 million as a result of an increase in Corporate expenses, primarily due to costs associated with the transaction described in Other Items as well as costs related to the OWN joint venture.

OTHER ITEMS

In September 2008, Discovery Holding Company, Inc. ("DHC") and Advance/Newhouse Programming Partnership ("Advance/Newhouse") closed a transaction that included the combination of DHC's approximate 67% interest in Discovery Communications Holding, LLC ("DCH") with Advance/Newhouse's approximate 33% interest in DCH. In connection with the transaction, DHC spun-off its interests in Ascent Media Corporation except for certain businesses that provide sound-related services, which remain with Discovery. As a result of the transaction, DHC ceased to be a reporting company and Discovery became the successor reporting entity to DHC. The attached consolidated statements of operations, consolidated balance sheets and consolidated statements of cash flows assume the above transaction occurred as of January 1, 2008, in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). The prior year results included in the attached financial statements reflect the previously reported results of DHC, which accounted for its interest in DCH in equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates. Additionally, the results of Ascent Media Corporation with the exception of the Creative Sound Services business have been treated as discontinued operations for 2008 and 2007. See our Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 25, 2009 for a more detailed description of the transaction and for further explanation of the financial statement presentation. See the supplemental financial schedules beginning on page 14 for a reconciliation of DHC's previously reported results to as adjusted financial statements for 2007.

FULL YEAR 2009 OUTLOOK

For the full year ended December 31, 2009, Discovery Communications expects total revenue between $3,375 million and $3,500 million, Adjusted OIBDA between $1,300 million and $1,400 million and net income from continuing operations of $475 million to $575 million. Our outlook incorporates current foreign exchange rates for revenues and expenses and current share price for marked to market equity based compensation calculations while excluding the impact of OWN. It is expected that $70 to $80 million will be invested in OWN in 2009 but the income statement impact will depend on the timing of the launch.

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

Adjusted OIBDA and Free Cash Flow

In addition to the results prepared in accordance with GAAP provided in this release, the Company has presented Adjusted OIBDA and free cash flow. The Company defines Adjusted OIBDA as revenue less (i) cost of revenues and selling, general and administrative expense excluding marked to market share-based compensation expense under our long-term incentive plans, (ii) restructuring and impairment charges, (iii) amortization of deferred launch incentives, and (iv) gain on asset and business dispositions. The Company excludes share-based compensation under long-term incentive plans due to its significant volatility from being marked-to-market. The Company excludes the amortization of deferred launch incentive payments because these payments are infrequent and the amortization does not represent cash payments in the current reporting period. In addition to these items, Adjusted OIBDA also excludes depreciation and amortization, restructuring and impairment charges that are included in the measurement of operating income pursuant to GAAP. Management uses Adjusted OIBDA to assess the operational strength and performance of its operating segments, as well as the Company as a whole, and to view operating results, perform analytical comparisons, identify strategies to improve performance and allocate resources to each operating segment. The Company believes Adjusted OIBDA is an important measure to investors because it allows them to analyze operating performance of each business and the Company overall using the same metric management uses and provides investors a measure to analyze operating performance of each business division and the Company overall against historical data.

The Company defines free cash flow as cash provided by operations less acquisitions of property and equipment. The Company uses free cash flow as it believes it is an important indicator for management and investors of the Company's liquidity, including its ability to reduce debt, make strategic investments and return capital to shareholders.

Since Adjusted OIBDA and free cash flow are non-GAAP measures, they should be considered in addition to, but not as a substitute for, operating income, net income, cash flow provided by operating activities and other measures of financial performance reported in accordance with GAAP. Please review the supplemental financial schedules beginning on page 11 for reconciliations to GAAP measures.

2007 Results

See page 14 for an explanation of how as adjusted results for 2007 have been calculated and why management believes this presentation would be meaningful to investors.

Travel Channel

The Company presents 2007 results without the Travel Channel, which was exchanged on May 14, 2007. See our Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 25, 2009 for a more detailed description of this transaction. Management believes this presentation is useful to investors because it allows them to analyze operating performance of the U.S. Networks and total company against comparable historical data. See page 11 for reconciliation to results including Travel Channel.

Conference Call Information

Discovery Communications will host a conference call today at 8:30 a.m. EST to discuss its full year and fourth quarter 2008 results. To listen to the call, visit http://www.discoverycommunications.com.

Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements based on current expectations, forecasts and assumptions that involve risks and uncertainties. These statements are based on information available to the Company as of the date hereof, and the Company's actual results could differ materially from those stated or implied, due to risks and uncertainties associated with its business, which include the risk factors disclosed in its Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on February 25, 2009. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding the Company's expectations, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future, and can be identified by forward-looking words such as "anticipate," "believe," "could,", "continue," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "should," "will" and "would" or similar words. Forward-looking statements in this release include, without limitation, the full year 2009 outlook. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained herein to reflect any change in the Company's expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

                         DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
           (unaudited; amounts in millions, except per share amounts)

                                            Three Months       Twelve Months
                                                Ended              Ended
                                             December 31,       December 31,
                                           2008     2007(a)   2008    2007(a)
    Revenues:
      Distribution                         $401       $-    $1,640      $-
      Advertising                           382        -     1,396       -
      Other                                 121       17       407      76

    Total revenues                          904       17     3,443      76

    Operating costs and expenses:
      Cost of revenues, excluding
       depreciation and amortization
       listed below                         266       16     1,024      60
      Selling, general and
       administrative                       270        5     1,115      22
      Depreciation and
       amortization                          40        1       186       3
      Impairment of intangible
       assets                                30        -        30       -
      Exit and restructuring charges         14        -        31       -
      Gains on asset dispositions             -       (1)        -      (1)

    Total operating costs and expenses      620       21     2,386      84

    Operating income (loss)                 284       (4)    1,057      (8)

    Other (expense) income:
      Equity in (loss) earnings of
       Discovery Communications
       Holding, LLC                           -      (16)        -     142
      Equity in loss of
       unconsolidated affiliates            (59)       -       (61)      -
      Interest expense, net                 (60)       -      (256)      -
      Other, net                             16        2        14       8

    Total other (expense) income, net      (103)     (14)     (303)    150

    Income (loss) from
     continuing operations
     before income taxes and
     minority interests                     181      (18)      754     142

    (Provision for) benefit from
     income taxes                           (67)       6      (352)    (56)
    Minority interests, net of tax           (9)       -      (128)      -

    Income (loss) from
     continuing operations                  105      (12)      274      86

    Income (loss) from discontinued
     operations, net of tax                   1     (158)       43    (154)

    Net income (loss)                      $106    $(170)     $317    $(68)

    Income (loss) per share from
     continuing operations:
      Basic                               $0.25   $(0.04)    $0.85   $0.31
      Diluted                             $0.25   $(0.04)    $0.85   $0.31
    (Loss) income per share from
     discontinued operations:
      Basic                                  $-   $(0.56)    $0.13  $(0.55)
      Diluted                                $-   $(0.56)    $0.13  $(0.55)

    Net income (loss) per share:
      Basic                               $0.25   $(0.60)    $0.99  $(0.24)
      Diluted                             $0.25   $(0.60)    $0.98  $(0.24)

    Weighted average number of
     shares outstanding:
      Basic                                 422      281       321     281
      Diluted                               422      281       322     281

    (a) The 2007 results presented are on a GAAP basis and are those of our
        predecessor, Discovery Holding Company, which accounted for its
        investment in DCH using the equity method.  See page 15 for the as
        adjusted statement of operations for the three months ended December
        31, 2007 and page 16 for the as adjusted statement of operations for
        the twelve months ended December 31, 2007.



                          DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
                           CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                         (unaudited; amounts in millions)

                                                          As of December 31,
    ASSETS                                                 2008      2007(a)
    Current assets:
      Cash and cash equivalents                            $100        $8
      Receivables, net                                      780        10
      Content rights, net                                    73         -
      Deferred income taxes                                  49         -
      Prepaid expenses and other current assets             107         2
      Assets of discontinued operations                       -       352
    Total current assets                                  1,109       372

    Investment in Discovery Communications Holding, LLC       -     3,272
    Noncurrent content rights, net                        1,163         -
    Property and equipment, net                             395         5
    Goodwill                                              6,891     1,782
    Intangible assets, net                                  716         1
    Other noncurrent assets                                 210         -
    Assets of discontinued operations                         -       434
    Total assets                                        $10,484    $5,866

    LIABILITIES, REDEEMABLE INTERESTS
     IN SUBSIDIARIES, AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

    Current liabilities:
      Accounts payable                                      $71       $1
      Accrued liabilities                                   350        5
      Deferred revenues                                      93        -
      Current portion of long-term
       incentive plan liability                               8        -
      Current portion of long-term
       debt                                                 458        -
      Other current liabilities                              90        2
      Liabilities of discontinued
       operations                                             -      112
    Total current liabilities                             1,070      120

    Long-term incentive plan
     liability                                               15        -
    Long-term debt                                        3,331        -
    Deferred income taxes                                   246    1,227
    Other noncurrent liabilities                            237        1
    Liabilities of discontinued
     operations                                               -       23
    Total liabilities                                     4,899    1,371

    Commitments and contingencies                             -        -
    Redeemable interests in
     subsidiaries                                            49        -

    Stockholders' equity:
      Preferred stock                                         2        -
      Common stock                                            3        3
      Additional paid-in capital                          6,545    5,728
      Accumulated deficit                                  (936)  (1,253)
      Accumulated other
       comprehensive (loss) income                          (78)      17

    Total stockholders' equity                            5,536    4,495
    Total liabilities, redeemable
     interests in subsidiaries,
     and stockholders' equity                           $10,484   $5,866

    (a) The 2007 results presented are on a GAAP basis and are those of our
        predecessor, Discovery Holding Company, which accounted for its
        investment in DCH using the equity method.  See page 17 for the
        December 31, 2007 as adjusted balance sheets.



                            DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
                         CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                           (unaudited; amounts in millions)

                                                          Twelve Months Ended
                                                               December 31,
                                                            2008      2007(a)
     Operating activities
      Net income (loss)                                     $317      $(68)
      Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash
       provided by operating activities:
      Share-based compensation (benefit) expense             (66)        1
      Depreciation and amortization                          232        68
      Impairment of goodwill                                   -       165
      Impairment of intangible assets                         30         -
      Gains on asset dispositions                            (76)       (1)
      Equity in earnings of Discovery Communications
       Holding, LLC                                            -      (142)
      Equity in loss of unconsolidated affiliates             61         -
    Deferred income taxes                                    190        56
      Minority interests, net of tax                         128         -
      Other non cash expenses (income), net                   69        (8)
     Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of
      discontinued operations:
      Receivables, net                                       (45)        4
      Content rights, net                                   (145)        -
      Accounts payable and accrued liabilities               (46)      (11)
      Other, net                                             (80)       (6)
    Cash provided by operating activities                    569        58

    Investing activities
    Purchases of property and equipment                     (102)      (47)
    Proceeds from business and asset dispositions            139         2
    Net cash acquired from Newhouse Transaction               45         -
    Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired               (8)        -
    Proceeds from sale of securities                          24        28
    Other investing activities, net                            -         2
    Cash provided by (used in) investing activities           98       (15)

    Financing activities
    Ascent Media Corporation spin-off                       (356)        -
    Net repayments of revolver loans                        (125)        -
    Principal repayments of long-term debt                  (257)        -
    Principal repayments of capital lease obligations        (29)        -
    Net cash from stock option exercises                       -        13
    Other financing activities, net                           (7)       (1)

     Cash (used in) provided by financing activities        (774)       12

    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash
     equivalents                                              (2)        -

    Change in cash and cash equivalents                     (109)       55
     Cash and cash equivalents of continuing operations,
      beginning of period                                      8         1
     Cash and cash equivalents of discontinued operations,
      beginning of period                                    201       153
     Cash and cash equivalents, end of period               $100      $209

    (a) The 2007 results presented are on a GAAP basis and are those of our
        predecessor, Discovery Holding Company, which accounted for its
        investment in DCH using the equity method.  See page 18 for the
        twelve months ended December 31, 2007 as adjusted statement of cash
        flows.



                          DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
                           SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL DATA
                     RECONCILIATION OF TRAVEL CHANNEL RESULTS
                         (unaudited; amounts in millions)

                               Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2007(a)
                  U.S. Networks Excluding   Travel   U.S. Networks Including
                       Travel Channel       Channel       Travel Channel
    Revenues:
       Distribution         $840              $22              $862
       Advertising           975               40             1,015
       Other                  64                -                64
    Total Revenues        $1,879              $62            $1,941

    Adjusted OIBDA          $810              $20              $830


                               Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2007(a)
                  Total Company Excluding   Travel   Total Company Including
                      Travel Channel        Channel      Travel Channel
    Revenues:
       Distribution        $1,455             $22            $1,477
       Advertising          1,305              40             1,345
       Other                  381               -               381
    Total Revenues         $3,141             $62            $3,203

    Adjusted OIBDA           $879             $20              $899


    (a) The 2007 results presented are as adjusted.  See page 14 for an
        explanation of how these results have been calculated and why
        management believes this presentation would be meaningful to
        investors.



                          DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
                           SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL DATA
                RECONCILIATION OF ADJUSTED OPERATING INCOME BEFORE
                          DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION
                         (unaudited; amounts in millions)

                              Three Months Ended December 31, 2008
             Adjusted
             Operating                             Marked
              Income                                 to
              Before                 Amortization  Market
           Depreciation Depreciation   of Cable    Share-
               and          and      Distribution   Based    Other Operating
           Amortization Amortization Investments Compensation (b)    Income

    U.S.
     Networks   $300       $(16)         $(8)       $(4)     $(38)    $234
    Inter-
     national
     Networks    107        (11)          (8)         -        (2)      86
    Commerce,
     Education,
     and Other    11         (2)           -          -        (2)       7
    Corporate    (56)       (11)           -         26        (2)     (43)
      Total     $362       $(40)        $(16)       $22      $(44)    $284


                              Three Months Ended December 31, 2007(a)
             Adjusted
             Operating                             Marked
              Income                                 to
              Before                 Amortization  Market
           Depreciation Depreciation   of Cable    Share-
               and          and      Distribution   Based    Other Operating
           Amortization Amortization Investments Compensation (c)    Income

    U.S.
     Networks   $112        $(9)        $(14)        $-        $-      $89
    Inter-
     national
     Networks     81        (10)         (11)         -        (2)      58
    Commerce,
     Education,
     and Other     -         (4)           -          -        (1)      (5)
    Corporate    (53)       (14)           -        (11)        -      (78)
      Total     $140       $(37)        $(25)      $(11)      $(3)     $64

    (a) The 2007 results presented are as adjusted and include Travel Channel
        results.  See page 14 for an explanation of how these results have
        been calculated and why management believes this presentation would
        be meaningful to investors.
    (b) For the three months ended December 31, 2008, Other includes write-
        offs of intangible assets and costs related to employee terminations
        and relocation.
    (c) For the three months ended December 31, 2007, Other includes costs
        related to employee terminations due to a number of organizational
        and strategic adjustments.



                          DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
                           SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL DATA
                 RECONCILIATION OF ADJUSTED OPERATING INCOME BEFORE
                          DEPRECIATION AND AMORTIZATION
                        (unaudited; amounts in millions)

                                  Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2008
             Adjusted
             Operating                             Marked
              Income                                 to
              Before                 Amortization  Market
           Depreciation Depreciation   of Cable    Share-
               and          and      Distribution   Based    Other Operating
           Amortization Amortization Investments Compensation (b)    Income

    U.S.
     Networks  $1,111      $(56)        $(34)       $(4)      (51)    $966
    Inter-
     national
     Networks     387       (43)         (41)         -        (2)     301
    Commerce,
     Education,
     and Other     13        (9)           -          -        (6)      (2)
    Corporate    (201)      (78)           -         73        (2)    (208)
      Total    $1,310     $(186)        $(75)       $69       (61)  $1,057


                                   Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2007(a)
             Adjusted
             Operating                             Marked
              Income                                 to
              Before                 Amortization  Market
           Depreciation Depreciation   of Cable    Share-
               and          and      Distribution   Based    Other Operating
           Amortization Amortization Investments Compensation (c)    Income
    U.S.
     Networks   $830       $(28)        $(56)        $-        $-     $746
    Inter-
     national
     Networks    254        (36)         (44)         -        (2)     172
    Commerce,
     Education,
     and Other     4        (17)           -          -       (27)     (40)
    Corporate   (189)       (53)           -       (141)      119     (264)
       Total    $899      $(134)       $(100)     $(141)      $90     $614

    (a) The 2007 results presented are as adjusted and include Travel Channel
        results.  See page 14 for an explanation of how these results have
        been calculated and why management believes this presentation would
        be meaningful to investors.
    (b) For the twelve months ended December 31, 2008, Other at U.S. Networks
        includes write-offs of intangible assets as well as costs related to
        employee relocation and termination of a production agreement.
        Commerce, Education, and Other includes costs related to closure of
        Commerce's distribution center and stores headquarter offices.
    (c) For the twelve months ended December 31, 2007, Other at Commerce,
        Education, and Other includes write-offs of intangible assets.
        Corporate represents a gain on the disposition of a business offset
        by costs related to employee terminations due to a number of
        organizational and strategic adjustments.

DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL DATA

AS ADJUSTED FINANCIAL RESULTS

(unaudited; amounts in millions)

The following as adjusted financial statements assume the transactions between DHC, DCH and Advance/Newhouse were completed as of January 1, 2007. The as adjusted results do not purport to be indicative of the results that would have been obtained if these events had been completed by January 1, 2007. See our Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 25, 2009 for a more detailed description of the transaction and for further explanation of the financial statement presentation.

The as adjusted financial statements for 2007 have not been prepared in accordance with GAAP. Management believes that this presentation is meaningful to investors, because it presents the results of Discovery, the reporting successor to DHC. Discovery will be the reporting entity going forward and a comparison of DHC's results for 2007 to Discovery's results for 2008 would not provide investors with meaningful information regarding changes in financial performance of Discovery from 2007 to 2008.

The information in the DHC historical and DCH historical columns in the following as adjusted financial statements is derived from the historical financial statements of DHC and Discovery Communications, Holding, LLC, respectively. Certain reclassifications, with no impact to operating income, have been made to the 2007 financial information to conform to the 2008 presentation.

                          DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
              RECONCILIATION OF DISCOVERY HOLDING COMPANY HISTORICAL
                        TO DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
            (unaudited; amounts in millions, except per share amounts)

                                      Three Months Ended December 31, 2007
                                                           Less:
                                                  Add:    Minority  Discovery
                                    DHC           DCH     Interest     As
                                Historical(a) Historical Adjustment Adjusted
    Revenues:
      Distribution                        $-      $377     $-       $377
      Advertising                          -       377      -        377
      Other                               17       132      -        149
    Total revenues                        17       886      -        903

    Operating costs and expenses:
      Cost of revenues, excluding
       depreciation and
       amortization listed below          16       431      -        447
      Selling, general and
        administrative                     5       347      -        352
      Depreciation and amortization        1        36      -         37
      Exit and restructuring charges       -         4      -          4
      Gains on asset dispositions         (1)        -      -         (1)
    Total operating costs and expenses    21       818      -        839

    Operating (loss) income               (4)       68      -         64
    Other (expense) income:
      Equity in loss of Discovery
       Communications
       Holding, LLC                      (16)        -     16 (b)      -
      Equity in earnings of
       unconsolidated affiliates           -         3      -          3
      Interest expense, net                -       (70)     -        (70)
      Other, net                           2       (12)     -        (10)
    Total other expense, net             (14)      (79)    16        (77)

    Loss from continuing operations
     before income taxes and minority
     interests                           (18)      (11)    16        (13)

    Benefit from (provision for)
     income taxes                          6        (3)     -          3
    Minority interests, net of tax         -        (6)     8 (c)      2

    Loss from continuing operations      (12)      (20)    24         (8)

    Loss from discontinued operations   (158)       (4)     -       (162)

    Net loss                           $(170)     $(24)   $24      $(170)

    Loss per share from continuing
     operations, basic and diluted    $(0.04)                     $(0.03)
    Loss per share from discontinued
     operations, basic and diluted    $(0.56)                     $(0.58)
    Net loss per share, basic and
     diluted                          $(0.60)                     $(0.61)
    Weighted average number of shares
     outstanding, basic and diluted
                                         281                         281

    (a) DHC results of operations include DHC corporate costs and the
        results of Creative Sound Services, with the results of Ascent
        Media Corporation recorded as discontinued operations.
    (b) Represents the elimination of DHC's historical share of earnings
        of DCH for the three months ended December 31, 2007.
    (c) Represents the minority interest expense for the proportion of
        DCH's historical share of earnings not recognized by DHC for the
        three months ended December 31, 2007.



                        DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
             RECONCILIATION OF DISCOVERY HOLDING COMPANY HISTORICAL
                      TO DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
           (unaudited; amounts in millions, except per share amounts)

                                    Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2007

                                                           Less:
                                                  Add:    Minority  Discovery
                                    DHC           DCH     Interest     As
                                Historical(a) Historical Adjustment Adjusted
    Revenues:
      Distribution                     $-        $1,477      $-     $1,477
      Advertising                       -         1,345       -      1,345
      Other                            76           305       -        381
    Total revenues                     76         3,127       -      3,203

    Operating costs and expenses:
      Cost of revenues, excluding      60         1,167       -      1,227
      depreciation and amortization
      listed below
      Selling, general and             22         1,296       -      1,318
      administrative
      Depreciation and amortization     3           131       -        134
      Asset impairment                  -            26       -         26
      Exit and restructuring charges    -            20       -         20
      Gains on asset and business
      dispositions                     (1)         (135)      -       (136)
    Total operating costs and
     expenses                          84         2,505       -      2,589

    Operating (loss) income            (8)          622       -        614

    Other income (expense):
      Equity in earnings of Discovery
       Communications Holding, LLC    142             -    (142)(b)      -
      Equity in earnings of
       unconsolidated affiliates        -             9       -          9
      Interest expense, net             -          (249)      -       (249)
      Other, net                        8           (10)      -         (2)

    Total other income (expense),
     net                              150          (250)   (142)      (242)

    Income from continuing
     operations before income
     taxes and minority interests     142           372    (142)       372

    Provision for income taxes        (56)          (77)      -       (133)
    Minority interests, net of tax      -            (8)    (80)(c)    (88)

    Income from continuing operations  86           287    (222)       151

    Loss from discontinued operations,
     net of tax                      (154)          (65)      -       (219)

    Net (loss) income                $(68)         $222   $(222)      $(68)

    Income per share from
     continuing operations,
     basic and diluted              $0.31                            $0.54
    Loss per share from
     discontinued operations,
     basic and diluted             $(0.55)                          $(0.78)
    Net loss per share,
     basic and diluted             $(0.24)                          $(0.24)
    Weighted average number of
     shares outstanding, basic
     and diluted                      281                              281


    (a) DHC results of operations include DHC corporate cost and the
        results of Creative Sound Services, while the results of Ascent
        Media Corporation are included in net loss from discontinued
        operations.
    (b) Represents the elimination of DHC's historical share of earnings
        of DCH for the twelve months ended December 31, 2007.
    (c) Represents the minority interest expense for the proportion of DCH's
        historical share of earnings not recognized by DHC for the twelve
        months ended December 31, 2007.

                       DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
           RECONCILIATION OF DISCOVERY HOLDING COMPANY HISTORICAL
                      TO DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
                     (unaudited; amounts in millions)


                                          As of December 31, 2007
                                            Add:     Less: Other
                                 DHC        DCH      Adjustments   Discovery,
                              Historical Historical      (a)      As adjusted
    ASSETS
    Current assets:
      Cash and cash
       equivalents                  $8        $45         $-             $53
      Receivables, net              10        742          -             752
      Content rights, net            -         79          -              79
      Deferred income taxes          -        104          -             104
      Prepaid expenses and
       other current assets          2        107          -             109
      Assets of discontinued
       operations                  352          -       (352)              -
    Total current assets           372      1,077       (352)          1,097

    Investment in Discovery
     Communications Holding,
     LLC                         3,272           -     (3,272)             -
    Investments                      -         101         -             101
    Noncurrent content rights,
     net                             -       1,048        46           1,094
    Property and equipment, net      5         397         -             402
    Goodwill                     1,782       4,870       475           7,127
    Intangible assets, net           1         182       277             460
    Other noncurrent assets          -         285         -             285
    Assets of discontinued
     operations                    434           -      (434)              -
    Total assets                $5,866      $7,960   $(3,260)        $10,566

    LIABILITIES, REDEEMABLE
     INTERESTS IN SUBSIDIARIES,
     AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
    Current liabilities:
      Accounts payable              $1         $98        $-             $99
      Accrued liabilities            5         435         -             440
      Deferred revenues              -          78         -              78
      Current portion of
       long-term incentive
       plan liability                -         141         -             141
      Current portion of
       long-term debt                -          32         -              32
      Other current liabilities      2          66       115             183
      Liabilities of discontinued
       operations                  112           -      (112)              -
    Total current liabilities      120         850         3             973

    Long-term debt                   -       4,109         -           4,109
    Deferred income taxes        1,227          11    (1,106)            132
    Other noncurrent
     liabilities                     1         233         -             234
    Liabilities of discontinued
     operations                     23           -       (23)              -
    Total liabilities            1,371       5,203    (1,126)          5,448

    Commitments and
     contingencies                   -           -         -               -
    Redeemable interests in
     subsidiaries                    -          49         -              49

    Stockholders' equity:
      Common stock                   3           -         -               3
      Members' equity                -       2,533    (2,533)              -
      Additional paid-in
       capital                   5,728           -       586           6,314
      Accumulated deficit       (1,253)        185      (185)         (1,253)
      Accumulated other
       comprehensive income
       (loss)                       17         (10)       (2)              5
    Total stockholders'
     equity                      4,495       2,708    (2,134)          5,069
    Total liabilities,
     redeemable interests in
     subsidiaries, and
     stockholders' equity       $5,866      $7,960   $(3,260)        $10,566


    (a) Represents elimination of Ascent Media Corporation, excluding
        Creative Sound Services, as well as DHC's historical investment
        in DCH.



                           DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
                RECONCILIATION OF DISCOVERY HOLDING COMPANY HISTORICAL
                          TO DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
                           (unaudited; amounts in millions)

                                      Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2007
                                   DHC As                        Discovery
                                  reported             DCH      As adjusted
     Operating activities
     Net loss                       $(68)               $-           $(68)
     Adjustments to reconcile
      net loss to
      cash provided by
      operating activities           139               459            598
     Changes in operating
      assets and liabilities,
      net of discontinued
      operations                     (13)             (217)          (230)
     Cash provided by
      operating activities            58               242            300

    Investing activities
     Purchases of property and
      equipment                      (47)              (81)          (128)
     Proceeds from asset
      dispositions                     2                 -              2
     Business acquisitions,
      net of cash acquired             -              (306)          (306)
     Proceeds from sale of
      securities                      28                 -             28
     Other investing
      activities, net                  2               (44)           (42)
     Cash used in investing
      activities                     (15)             (431)          (446)

     Financing activities
     Borrowings from long-term
      debt                             -             1,500          1,500
     Net repayments of revolver
      loans                            -                (2)            (2)
     Principal repayments of
      long-term debt                   -                (8)            (8)
     Principal repayments of
      capital lease
      obligations                      -                (6)            (6)
     Repurchase of members'
      interests                        -            (1,285)        (1,285)
     Net cash from stock
      option exercises                13                 -             13
     Other financing
      activities, net                 (1)              (24)           (25)
     Cash provided by
      financing activities            12               175            187

    Effect of exchange rate
     changes on cash and cash
     equivalents                       -                 7              7

     Change in cash and cash
      equivalents                     55                (7)            48
     Cash and cash equivalents
      of discontinued
      operations, beginning of
      period                         153                 -            153
     Cash and cash equivalents
      of continuing
      operations, beginning of
      period                           1                52             53
     Adjustment to remove AMC
      cash                          (201)                -           (201)
     Cash and cash
      equivalents, end of
      period                          $8               $45            $53




                           DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
                            SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL DATA
                         (unaudited; amounts in millions)

    CALCULATION OF FREE CASH FLOW

                                 Three Months Ended      Twelve Months Ended
                                     December 31,           December 31,
                                 2008  2007(a)  Change  2008  2007(a)  Change
    Cash provided by
     Operating activities        $146    $141       $5  $569    $300     $269
    Acquisition of property
     and equipment                (18)    (37)      19  (102)   (128)      26
    Free cash flow               $128    $104      $24  $467    $172     $295


    (a) The 2007 results presented are as adjusted.  See page 14 for an
        explanation of how these results have been calculated and why
        management believes this presentation would be meaningful to
        investors.


    RECONCILIATION OF 2009 OUTLOOK TO GAAP MEASURES

                                                           Full Year 2009
    Net income from continuing operation              $475     To       $575
    Interest, net                                      260     To        230
    Depreciation and amortization                      175     To        170
     Other, including amortization of cable
      distribution investments, marked to market
      equity based compensation, restructuring
      costs, equity earnings in unconsolidated
      affiliates, unrealized and realized gains and
      losses from derivatives, income tax expense,
      minority interests in consolidated
      subsidiaries                                     390     To        425
    Adjusted OIBDA                                  $1,300     To     $1,400



                     DISCOVERY COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
                      SUPPLEMENTAL FINANCIAL DATA
                       SELECTED FINANCIAL DETAIL
                   (unaudited; amounts in millions)


    BORROWINGS
                                                                 As of
                                                           December 31, 2008

    $1.0 billion Term Loan A, due quarterly to October 2010             $938
    $1.6 billion Revolving Loan, due October 2010                        315
    $1.5 billion Term Loan B, due quarterly September
     2007 to May 2014                                                  1,478
    7.45% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due
     September 2009                                                       55
    8.37% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due
     March 2011                                                          220
    8.13% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due
     September 2012                                                      235
    Floating Rate Senior Notes (3.3% at December 31, 2008), semi-annual
    interest,
     Due December 2012                                                    90
    6.01% Senior Notes, semi-annual interest, due
     December 2015                                                       390
    Obligations under capital leases                                      67
    Other notes payable                                                    1
    Subtotal                                                           3,789
    Current portion                                                     (458)
    Total long-term debt                                               3,331
    Cash and cash equivalents                                            100
    Net debt                                                          $3,231


    SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
                                               As of January 31, 2009
                                  Total      Weighted     Vested      Weighted
                                  Units       Average     Units        Average
          Long-Term             Outstanding  Exercise  Outstanding    Exercise
       Incentive Plans         (in millions)   Price  (in millions)     Price

    Discovery appreciation plan        20      18.77         -              -

    Stock appreciation rights
      Vesting in March 2009             3      14.40         -              -
      Vesting in March 2010             3      14.40         -              -

    Stock options                      11      14.48         3          13.87
      Total share-based
       compensation plans              37      16.79         3          13.87

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

OpenTV Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2008 Results

2009-02-25T11:00:00.000+02:00

- Achieves First Year of Profitability -

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- OpenTV Corp. (Nasdaq: OPTV), a leading software and technology provider of advanced digital television solutions, today announced financial results for its fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2008.

"2008 marked the first profitable year in OpenTV's history. We exceeded both our revenue and net income guidance for the year by improving our service delivery to customers and by building a more efficient operating structure," said Ben Bennett, OpenTV's Chief Executive Officer. "We remain focused on growing our core businesses and continue to solidify our market position with the deployment to date by our customers of more than 121 million OpenTV-enabled devices around the world. We also continue to make significant inroads with U.S. MSO's (multiple service operators). Our EclipsePlus product now delivers spot advertising to more than 28.5 million cable subscribers in the U.S. Although we are pleased with our 2008 results, we are also mindful of the current economic environment and the impact it may have on our customers and our business. Having achieved profitability, we aim to maintain it by balancing disciplined expense management with priority investments in next generation solutions for both middleware and advanced advertising that will support our customers and our longer-term growth objectives."

Key Operating Measures of Continuing Operations

    USD Millions     Three     Three      Change    Twelve    Twelve   Change
                     months    months               months    months
                     ended     ended                ended     ended
                    December  December             December  December
                    31, 2008  31, 2007             31, 2008  31, 2007

    Revenues         $28.9m    $38.2m     -24.3%    $116.5   $110.0m     5.9%

    Adjusted EBITDA,  $3.9m    $12.1m    $(8.2)m    $17.6m     $8.3m    $9.3m
     before unusual
     items

    Net Income        $2.3m    $11.0m    $(8.7)m     $9.6m   $(5.2)m   $14.8m

    Cash, Cash      $102.8m    $81.8m      25.7%   $102.8m    $81.8m    25.7%
     Equivalents
     and Marketable
     Debt Securities

Full-Year 2008 Results

For the year ended December 31, 2008, revenues were $116.5 million, 5.9% higher than revenues of $110.0 million in 2007, reflecting gains in the middleware and advanced advertising product lines. Royalties and licenses revenues in 2008 increased 4.6% to $77.1 million. Services and other revenues in 2008 increased 8.5% to $39.4 million. Adjusted EBITDA, before unusual items, improved to $17.6 million in 2008, compared to $8.3 million in 2007.

Net income for the year ended December 31, 2008 was $9.6 million, or $0.07 per share, compared to a net loss of $5.2 million, or $(0.04) per share, in 2007.

Cash flows from operations were $14.2 million in 2008, compared to $16.6 million in 2007.

As of December 31, 2008, the Company recorded a balance of $33.2 million in deferred revenue, compared to $24.1 million as of December 31, 2007.

As of December 31, 2008, the Company had cash, cash equivalents and short and long-term marketable debt securities totaling $102.8 million, compared to $81.8 million as of December 31, 2007.

Fourth Quarter 2008 Results

For the quarter ended December 31, 2008, revenues were $28.9 million, compared to revenues of $38.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2007. Revenues in the fourth quarter of 2007 were impacted by the recognition of $10.5 million of previously deferred revenue from UPC Broadband, a division of Liberty Global. Royalties and licenses revenues were $20.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2008, compared to $25.6 million in the prior year period. Services and other revenues were $8.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2008, compared to $12.6 million in the prior year period. Adjusted EBITDA, before unusual items, was $3.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2008, compared to $12.1 million in the prior year period.

Net income in the fourth quarter of 2008 was $2.3 million, or $0.02 per diluted share, compared to net income of $11.0 million, or $0.08 per diluted share, in the fourth quarter of 2007.

Segment Information

Revenues

For the full year 2008, revenues from the Middleware Solutions segment increased by 5.6% to $103.2 million from $97.7 million in 2007. In the fourth quarter of 2008, revenues from the Middleware Solutions segment were $25.7 million, compared to $35.1 million for the same period in the prior year.
For the full year 2008, revenues from the Advertising Solutions segment increased 8.1% to $13.3 million from $12.3 million in 2007. In the fourth quarter of 2008, revenues from the Advertising Solutions segment were $3.3 million, compared to $3.2 million for the same period in the prior year.

Contribution Margin

For the full year 2008, Middleware Solutions contribution margin increased by $8.7 million to $40.8 million. In the fourth quarter of 2008, Middleware Solutions contribution margin was $9.8 million, compared to $16.4 million for the same period in the prior year.
For the full year 2008, Advertising Solutions contribution margin improved by $1.4 million to $1.0 million. In the fourth quarter of 2008, Advertising Solutions contribution margin was $0.2 million, compared to $0.6 million for the same period in the prior year.

For 2008, total contribution margin from our operating segments improved to $41.8 million, compared to $31.7 million in 2007. Unallocated corporate overhead in 2008 was $24.1 million, compared to $23.4 million in 2007. For the fourth quarter of 2008, total contribution margin from the Company's operating segments was $10.0 million, compared to $17.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2007. Unallocated corporate overhead was $6.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2008, compared to the unallocated corporate overhead of $4.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2007.

Adjusted EBITDA before unusual items and contribution margin are non-GAAP financial measures. Reconciliations of the differences between these non-GAAP financial measures and net income (loss), which is the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, are included at the end of this press release. Additional information regarding the derivation of Adjusted EBITDA and contribution margin and a statement of the relevance to management of this information and its possible usefulness to investors is also included at the end of this release and on the investor relations page of our Web site.

Summary of Recent Announcements

The following is a summary of key press releases issued by the Company during the fourth quarter of 2008:

OpenTV announced that HOT, Israel's largest operator, has launched OpenTV Core2(TM) to power its new high definition television services. The OpenTV-enabled digital television services provided by HOT reach approximately one million households in Israel.
OpenTV announced that it launched a unique and dynamic movie portal application in partnership with Bell TV, Canada's leading satellite and high definition television provider. The Bell TV movie portal developed by OpenTV enables movie content providers to promote specific channels, as well as the movies they feature, through a fully customizable application that runs on OpenTV's Core middleware platform. In addition, the application features a unique scheduling option that allows viewers to schedule movie recordings and also aims to drive increased viewership from non-subscribers by giving them the option to subscribe to the featured channel directly through the portal.
OpenTV announced that OpenTV EclipsePlus(TM), its next generation advertising campaign management solution, launched in two additional Comcast Spotlight markets, Philadelphia and Seattle, which are among the top US Designated Market Areas (DMAs). Comcast Spotlight, the advertising sales division of Comcast Cable, first launched the solution in the Baltimore market in the summer 2008, soon after the general availability of the product. EclipsePlus is designed to meet the ever-evolving needs and increasing complexity of cable spot buy operations through its ability to handle thousands of local and interconnect networks, schedule complicated channel environments and run multiple DMAs within a single database.

Conference Call Details

OpenTV will conduct a conference call to discuss the Company's financial results for the quarter and year ended December 31, 2008. The details of the call are as follows:

    Date and Time:                 Wednesday, February 25, 2009,
                                   at 8:00am ET / 5:00am PT
    Dial-in Number US:             800.510.0146
    Dial-in Number International:  617.614.3449
    Passcode:                      56 33 26 13
    Participants:                  Ben Bennett, Chief Executive Officer
                                   Shum Mukherjee, Chief Financial Officer
                                   Mark Beariault, General Counsel

The Company will also make available on the Investor Relations section of its Web site a slide presentation in PDF format containing additional information about the Company that may be discussed on the conference call.

The conference call replay will be available from February 25, 2009 at 11:00am ET / 8:00am PT through March 11, 2009 at 11:59pm ET / 8:59pm PT.

    Replay Number US:             888.286.8010
    Replay Number International:  617.801.6888
    Passcode:                     30 25 95 41

About Segment Information

Because our business segments reflect the manner in which management reviews our business, they necessarily involve judgments that management believes are reasonable in light of the circumstances under which they are made. These judgments may change over time or may be modified to reflect new facts or circumstances. Segments may also be changed or modified from time to time to reflect technologies and applications that are newly created or that have changed, or other business conditions that evolve, each of which may result in management reassessing specific segments, the elements included therein and the methodologies used to assess segment performance.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

"EBITDA" is an acronym for earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA, as used in this release, removes from EBITDA the effects of amortization of intangible assets, share-based compensation expense, other income and expense, and minority interest. "Adjusted EBITDA before unusual items" removes from Adjusted EBITDA the effects of contract amendments that mitigated potential loss positions and restructuring costs.

"Contribution margin," as used in this release, is defined by the company as segment revenues less related direct or indirect allocable costs, including headcount and headcount-related overhead costs, consulting and subcontractor costs, travel, marketing and network infrastructure and bandwidth costs. Contribution margin excludes unallocated corporate support, interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, amortization of intangible assets, share-based compensation, impairment of goodwill, impairment of intangibles, other income, minority interest, restructuring provisions, and unusual items such as contract amendments that mitigated potential loss positions. These exclusions reflect costs not considered directly allocable to individual business segments and result in a definition of contribution margin that does not take into account the substantial cost of doing business.

Management believes that "Adjusted EBITDA before unusual items" and "contribution margin" are relevant and useful measures, when considered in conjunction with the comparable GAAP measures, for use by investors in evaluating the operational performance of the company. They are some of the principal measures used by OpenTV's management to assess the financial performance of its business. OpenTV's management believes that both Adjusted EBITDA before unusual items and contribution margin provide meaningful information because each measure represents a transparent view of OpenTV's recurring operating performance and allows management to readily view operating trends, perform analytical comparisons and benchmarking between segments and identify strategies to improve operating performance. While OpenTV's management may consider Adjusted EBITDA before unusual items and contribution margin to be important measures of comparative operating performance, they should be considered in addition to, but not as a substitute for, profit (loss) from operations, net income (loss), cash flow and other measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States that are presented in the financial statements included in this press release. Additionally, OpenTV's calculation of Adjusted EBITDA before unusual items and contribution margin may be different from the calculation used by other companies and, therefore, comparability may be affected. OpenTV reconciles Adjusted EBITDA before unusual items and each reported segment's contribution margin to its consolidated net income (loss) as presented in the accompanying financial statements, because OpenTV believes consolidated net income (loss) is the most directly comparable financial measure presented in accordance with GAAP.

While OpenTV believes that the presentation of non-GAAP financial measures contained in this press release complies with the rules and guidance of the SEC, it can give no assurance that it will be able to provide the same or comparable measures in future press releases or announcements. OpenTV may, in the future, present non-GAAP financial measures other than "Adjusted EBITDA before unusual items," "Adjusted EBITDA" and "contribution margin" that it believes may be useful to investors. Any such determinations will be made with the intention of providing the most useful information to investors and will reflect the information used by OpenTV's management in assessing its business, which may change from time to time.

Cautionary Language Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on management's current expectations and are subject to uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Actual results may differ materially from these expectations due to changes in political, economic, business, competitive, market and regulatory factors. In particular, factors that could cause our actual results to differ include risks related to: delays in the development or introduction of new versions of our products; technical difficulties with networks or operating systems; deterioration of worldwide economic conditions and the potential impact of such conditions on our customer's purchasing and investment decisions; our ability to manage our resources effectively; changes in technologies that affect the television industry; and the protection of our intellectual property rights. These and other risks are more fully described in our periodic reports and registration statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and can be obtained online at the Commission's web site at http://www.sec.gov. Readers should consider the information contained in this release together with other publicly available information about our company for a more informed overview of our company. We disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

About OpenTV

OpenTV is one of the world's leading providers of advanced digital television solutions dedicated to creating and delivering compelling viewing experiences to consumers of digital content worldwide. The company's software has been integrated in more than 121 million digital set-top boxes and digital televisions around the world, and enables enhanced program guides, video-on-demand, personal video recording, enhanced television, interactive and addressable advertising, and a variety of consumer care and communication applications. For more information, please visit www.opentv.com.

                                 OPENTV CORP.
               UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                     (In thousands, except share amounts)

                                                December 31,  December 31,
                                                      2008          2007*
                                                      ----          ----
                      ASSETS
    Current assets:
         Cash and cash equivalents                   $93,887       $58,599
         Short-term marketable debt securities         7,768        20,404
         Accounts receivable, net of allowance for
          doubtful accounts of $1,076 and $565 at
          December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively    27,275        16,655
         Prepaid expenses and other current assets     4,628         5,465
         Current assets of discontinued operations         -             -
                                                         ---           ---
              Total current assets                   133,558       101,123
    Long-term marketable debt securities               1,178         2,811
    Property and equipment, net                        7,974         6,554
    Goodwill                                          95,250        95,082
    Intangible assets, net                             8,519        12,589
    Other assets                                       2,471         1,896
                                                       -----         -----
              Total assets                          $248,950      $220,055
                                                    ========      ========

             LIABILITIES, MINORITY INTEREST AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
    Current liabilities:
         Accounts payable                             $2,287        $2,687
         Accrued liabilities                          17,602        17,360
         Accrued restructuring                           238           883
         Deferred revenue                             16,130        14,992
                                                      ------        ------
              Total current liabilities               36,257        35,922
    Accrued liabilities, net of current portion        1,160         2,764
    Accrued restructuring, net of current portion      1,146         1,297
    Deferred revenue, net of current portion          17,092         9,142
                                                      ------         -----
              Total liabilities                       55,655        49,125
    Commitments and contingencies
    Minority interest                                    431           451
    Shareholders' equity:
         Preference shares, no par value,
          500,000,000 shares authorized; none
          issued and outstanding                           -             -
         Class A ordinary shares, no par value,
          500,000,000 shares authorized; 108,385,176
          and 109,657,613 shares issued and
          outstanding, including treasury shares, at
          December 31, 2008 and 2007,
          respectively                             2,234,687     2,234,614
         Class B ordinary shares, no par value,
          200,000,000 shares authorized;
          30,206,154 shares issued and outstanding
          at December 31, 2008 and 2007               35,953        35,953
         Additional paid-in capital                  515,506       500,162
         Treasury shares at cost, 523,647 and
          zero shares at December 31, 2008
          and 2007, respectively                        (623)            -
         Accumulated other comprehensive loss         (2,163)         (141)
         Accumulated deficit                      (2,590,496)   (2,600,109)
                                                  ----------    ----------
             Total shareholders' equity              192,864       170,479
                                                     -------       -------
    Total liabilities, minority interest and
     shareholders' equity                           $248,950      $220,055
                                                    ========      ========


    * The condensed consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2007 has been
      derived from the company's audited consolidated financial statements
      at that date.



                                         OPENTV CORP.
                   UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
                      (In thousands, except share and per share amounts)

                                Three Months Ended            Year Ended
                                    December 31,             December 31,
                                  ----------------         ----------------
                                  2008        2007         2008        2007
                                  ----        ----         ----        ----
    Revenues:
          Royalties and
           licenses             $20,222     $25,620      $77,133     $73,735
          Services and other      8,703      12,612       39,341      36,242
                                  -----      ------       ------      ------
            Total revenues       28,925      38,232      116,474     109,977
    Cost of revenues:
          Royalties and
           licenses               1,033          24        4,994       5,115
          Services and other      9,874      13,826       39,059      42,944
                                  -----      ------       ------      ------
            Total cost of
             revenues            10,907      13,850       44,053      48,059
                                 ------      ------       ------      ------
    Gross profit                 18,018      24,382       72,421      61,918
    Operating expenses:
          Research and
           development            8,631       7,668       34,400      32,718
          Sales and marketing     1,867       2,147        9,371      10,829
          General and
           administrative         5,269       4,813       20,299      21,563
          Restructuring and
           impairment costs           -         295          575         267
          Amortization of
           intangible assets        184         186          734       1,618
          Impairment of
           intangible assets        767           -          767           -
                                    ---         ---          ---         ---
            Total operating
             expenses            16,718      15,109       66,146      66,995
                                 ------      ------       ------      ------
    Profit (loss) from
     operations                   1,300       9,273        6,275      (5,077)
    Interest income                 364         789        2,230       3,195
    Other income                    802       2,124        1,561       2,789
    Minority interest                 2           9           20          35
                                    ---         ---          ---         ---
          Profit before income
           taxes                  2,468      12,195       10,086         942
    Income tax expense (benefit)    148         (77)         473       1,248
                                    ---         ---          ---       -----
          Net income (loss) from
           continuing operations  2,320      12,272        9,613        (306)
    Discontinued operations:
          Loss from discontinued
           operations, net of tax     -      (1,153)           -      (1,091)
          Impairment of assets
           of discontinued
           operations, net of tax     -        (112)           -      (3,764)
                                    ---        ----          ---      ------
          Net loss from
           discontinued
           operations                 -      (1,265)           -      (4,855)
                                    ---      ------          ---      ------
    Net income (loss)            $2,320     $11,007       $9,613     $(5,161)
                                 ======     =======       ======     =======

    Net income (loss) per
     share from continuing
     operations, basic            $0.02       $0.09        $0.07           -
    Net loss per share
     from discontinued
     operations, basic                -       (0.01)           -       (0.04)
                                    ---       -----          ---       -----
    Net income (loss)
     per share, basic             $0.02       $0.08        $0.07      $(0.04)
                                  =====       =====        =====      ======

    Net income (loss) per
     share from continuing
     operations, diluted          $0.02       $0.09        $0.07           -
    Net loss per share
     from discontinued
     operations, diluted              -       (0.01)           -       (0.04)
                                    ---       -----          ---       -----
    Net income (loss) per
     share, diluted               $0.02       $0.08        $0.07      $(0.04)
                                  =====       =====        =====      ======

    Shares used in per share
     calculation, basic     139,097,785 139,845,242  139,496,297 139,012,431
                            =========== ===========  =========== ===========
    Shares used in per share
     calculation, diluted   139,796,495 140,575,305  140,211,084 139,012,431
                            =========== ===========  =========== ===========



                                OPENTV CORP.
          UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                               (In thousands)

                                                              Year Ended
                                                              December 31,
                                                             -------------
                                                             2008     2007
                                                             ----     ----
    Cash flows from operating activities:
    Net income (loss)                                      $9,613  $(5,161)
         Less: Loss from discontinued operations                -   (4,855)
                                                              ---   ------
         Net income (loss) from continuing operations       9,613     (306)
    Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net
     cash provided by operating activities:
         Depreciation and amortization of
          property and equipment                            4,193    3,819
         Amortization of intangible assets                  3,303    5,888
         Share-based compensation                           2,516    3,267
         Non-cash employee compensation                        12       88
         Provision for doubtful accounts                      511      700
         Impairment costs                                     767        -
         Gain on sale of cost investment                     (220)  (1,739)
         Loss on disposal of fixed assets                       5      346
         Loss on investment in marketable debt securities      58        -
         Minority interest                                    (20)     (35)
         Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
             Accounts receivable                          (11,052)   1,329
             Prepaid expenses and other current assets     (1,087)   1,752
             Other assets                                    (547)   2,737
             Accounts payable                                (505)  (1,192)
             Accrued liabilities                           (1,682)   1,187
             Accrued restructuring                           (796)    (190)
             Deferred revenue                               9,088   (1,467)
                                                            -----   ------
             Net cash provided by operating
              activities of continuing operations          14,157   16,184
             Net cash provided by (used in) operating
              activities of discontinued operations             -      403
                                                              ---      ---
             Total net cash provided by operating
              activities                                   14,157   16,587
    Cash flows from investing activities:
    Purchase of property and equipment                     (5,198)  (3,378)
    Cash used in acquisition, net of cash acquired           (228)       -
    Proceeds from sale of cost investment                   1,959        -
    Proceeds from disposal of property and equipment            -       27
    Proceeds from sale of marketable debt securities       20,334   17,646
    Purchase of marketable debt securities                 (6,380) (24,235)
                                                           ------  -------
             Net cash provided by (used in) investing
              activities of continuing operations          10,487   (9,940)
             Net cash provided by (used in) investing
              activities of discontinued operations           225     (573)
                                                              ---     ----
             Total net cash provided by (used
              in) investing activities                     10,712  (10,513)
    Cash flows from financing activities:
    Repurchase of employee stock options                        -     (167)
    Repurchase of restricted shares                          (532)       -
    Repurchase of treasury shares                          (1,307)  (1,305)
    Capital contribution from the controlling shareholder  14,333    5,395
    Proceeds from issuance of ordinary shares                  17      321
                                                              ---      ---
             Net cash provided by financing activities of
              continuing operations                        12,511    4,244
    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash
     equivalents of continuing operations                  (2,092)    (198)
    Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash
     equivalents of discontinued operations                     -     (137)
                                                              ---     ----
             Total effect of exchange rate changes on
              cash and cash equivalents                    (2,092)    (335)
    Net increase in cash and cash equivalents of
     continuing operations                                 35,288   10,290
    Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents of
     discontinued operations                                    -     (307)
                                                              ---     ----
             Net increase in cash and cash equivalents     35,288    9,983
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period, of
     continuing operations                                 58,599   48,309
    Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period, of
     discontinued operations                                    -      307
                                                              ---      ---
             Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of
              period                                       58,599   48,616
    Cash and cash equivalents, end of period, of
     continuing operations                                 93,887   58,599
    Cash and cash equivalents, end of period, of
     discontinued operations                                    -        -
                                                              ---      ---
             Cash and cash equivalents, end of period     $93,887  $58,599
                                                          =======  =======

    Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
    Cash paid for income taxes                            $(1,528) $(1,617)
                                                          =======  =======

    Non-cash investing and financing activities:
    Conversion of exchangeable shares                          $2      $63
                                                              ===      ===
    Value of bonus shares issued to employees                   -        -
                                                              ===      ===
    Retirement of treasury shares                            $912   $1,343
                                                             ====   ======



                                  OPENTV CORP.
              UNAUDITED SEGMENT INFORMATION AND RECONCILIATION OF
          CONTRIBUTION MARGIN AND ADJUSTED EBITDA TO NET INCOME (LOSS)
                                 (In thousands)

                                       Three Months Ended      Year Ended
                                           December 31,       December 31,
                                          -------------      --------------
                                          2008     2007      2008      2007
                                          ----     ----      ----      ----
    Revenues:
    Middleware solutions
      Royalties and licenses           $18,822  $24,283   $71,166   $68,673
      Services and other                 6,842   10,771    32,030    28,988
                                         -----   ------    ------    ------
        Subtotal - Middleware
         solutions                      25,664   35,054   103,196    97,661
    Advertising solutions
      Royalties and licenses             1,400    1,337     5,967     5,062
      Services and other                 1,861    1,841     7,311     7,254
                                         -----    -----     -----     -----
        Subtotal - Advertising
         solutions                       3,261    3,178    13,278    12,316
                                         -----    -----    ------    ------
          Total revenues               $28,925  $38,232  $116,474  $109,977
                                       =======  =======  ========  ========

    Contribution margin (loss):
      Middleware solutions              $9,847  $16,420   $40,779   $32,057
      Advertising solutions                158      611       960      (389)
                                           ---      ---       ---      ----
          Total contribution margin     10,005   17,031    41,739    31,668
    Unallocated corporate support       (6,095)  (4,899)  (24,098)  (23,416)
                                        ------   ------   -------   -------
      Adjusted EBITDA before unusual
       items                             3,910   12,132    17,641     8,252
    Restructuring and impairment costs       -     (295)     (575)     (267)
                                           ---     ----      ----      ----
      Adjusted EBITDA                    3,910   11,837    17,066     7,985
    Depreciation and amortization       (1,073)  (1,013)   (4,193)   (3,819)
    Amortization of intangible assets     (455)  (1,025)   (3,303)   (5,888)
    Share-based and non-cash
     compensation                         (315)    (526)   (2,528)   (3,355)
    Interest income                        364      789     2,230     3,195
    Other income                           802    2,124     1,561     2,789
    Minority interest                        2        9        20        35
    Impairment of intangible assets       (767)       -      (767)        -
                                          ----      ---      ----       ---
      Profit before income taxes         2,468   12,195    10,086       942
    Income tax expense (benefit)           148      (77)      473     1,248
                                           ---      ---       ---     -----
      Net income (loss) from
       continuing operations             2,320   12,272     9,613      (306)
    Discontinued operations:
      Loss from discontinued
       operations, net of tax                -   (1,153)        -    (1,091)
      Impairment of assets of
       discontinued operations,
       net of tax                            -     (112)        -    (3,764)
                                           ---     ----       ---    ------
      Net loss from discontinued
       operations                            -   (1,265)        -    (4,855)
                                           ---   ------       ---    ------
    Net income (loss)                   $2,320  $11,007    $9,613   $(5,161)
                                        ======  =======    ======   =======

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Central European Media Enterprises Reports Strong Full-Year Revenues and EBITDA

2009-02-25T05:01:00.000+02:00

- Net Revenues of $1,019.9 million -

- Segment EBITDA of $345.7 million -

- Non-cash impairment charges relating to Bulgaria and Ukraine -

HAMILTON, Bermuda, Feb. 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Central European Media Enterprises Ltd. ("CME" or the "Company") (Nasdaq/Prague Stock Exchange - CETV) today announced financial results for the fourth quarter and full-year ended December 31, 2008.

Net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2008 increased 22% to $1,019.9 million, compared to the year ended December 31, 2007. Operating income decreased $338.3 million to a loss of $(127.8) million as a result of an impairment charge of $336.8 million relating to the Company's Ukraine and Bulgarian operations. Net income from continuing operations decreased $344.8 million to a loss of $(251.8) million, and fully diluted earnings per share in respect of continuing operations decreased $8.18 to a loss of $(5.95). Segment EBITDA(1) for the year ended December 31, 2008 increased 7% to $345.7 million, compared to the year ended December 31, 2007.

Net revenues for the fourth quarter of 2008 decreased 3% to $291.5 million, compared to the fourth quarter of 2007. Operating income for the quarter decreased $378.4 million to a loss of $(279.2) million as a result of the impairment charge. Net income from continuing operations decreased $394.6 million to a loss of $(322.0) million, and fully diluted earnings per share in respect of continuing operations decreased by $9.35 to a loss of $(7.61). Segment EBITDA for the quarter declined 28% to $93.6 million, compared to the fourth quarter of 2007.

Adrian Sarbu, President and Chief Operating Officer of CME, commented: "2008 was an outstanding year for our core stations despite a difficult fourth quarter. I am particularly pleased with the performance of our Czech and Romanian operations which both delivered their best ever results. In Croatia we enjoyed our highest growth yet in audience share and revenues. In an environment where companies all over the world are struggling, we remain leaders in our markets. 2009 will be challenging as we face adverse macroeconomic conditions and reduced visibility across our markets. We have taken aggressive measures to reduce our operating costs and capex and will take steps necessary to maximize our revenues and liquidity. We expect to emerge from the current economic crisis with our leadership positions intact and to return to our path of growth."

(1) Total Segment Data, Segment Net Revenues and Segment EBITDA as used in this press release are all non-US GAAP measures. For further details, including a reconciliation to the most directly comparable US GAAP financial measures, see 'Reconciliation Between Consolidated Statements of Operations and Segment Data (non-US GAAP)' below. We define Segment EBITDA margin as Segment EBITDA expressed as a percentage of Segment Net Revenue.

Consolidated Results for the Three Months Ended December 31, 2008

Consolidated net revenues for the three months ended December 31, 2008 decreased by 3% to $291.5 million from $300.6 million for the three months ended December 31, 2007. Operating income for the quarter was a loss of $(279.2) million compared to income of $99.2 million for the three months ended December 31, 2007. Net income for the quarter was a loss of $(323.3) million compared to income of $73.0 million for the three months ended December 31, 2007. Fully diluted earnings per share for the three months ended December 31, 2008 decreased $9.35 to a loss of $(7.64).

Headline Consolidated Results for the three months ended December 31, 2008 and 2007 were:

                                     CONSOLIDATED RESULTS (Unaudited)
                                  For the Three Months Ended December 31,
                                                  (US $000's)
                                        2008      2007   $ change  % change
    Net revenues                    $291,500  $300,552    $(9,052)    (3)%
    Operating (loss) / income     $(279,170)   $99,195  $(378,365)     Nm
    Net (loss) / income from
     continuing operations        $(322,039)   $74,418  $(396,457)     Nm
    Net (loss) / income           $(323,289)   $72,991  $(396,280)     Nm
    Fully diluted (loss) /
     earnings per share from
     continuing operations           $(7.61)     $1.74     $(9.35)     Nm
    Fully diluted (loss) / earnings
     per share                       $(7.64)     $1.71     $(9.35)     Nm

Consolidated Results for the Year Ended December 31, 2008

Consolidated net revenues for the year ended December 31, 2008 increased by 22% to $1,019.9 million from $838.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2007. Operating income for the year was a loss of $(127.8) million compared to income of $210.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2007. Net income for the year was a loss of $(255.5) million compared to income of $88.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2007. Fully diluted earnings per share decreased from $2.12 to a loss of $(6.04) for the year ended December 31, 2008.

Headline Consolidated Results for the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007 were:

                                            CONSOLIDATED RESULTS
                                        For the Year Ended December 31,
                                                  (US $000's)
                                        2008      2007   $ change  % change
    Net revenues                  $1,019,934  $838,856   $181,078     22%
    Operating (loss) / income      $(127,797) $210,456  $(338,253)     Nm
    Net (loss) / income from
     continuing operations         $(251,759)  $93,048  $(344,807)     Nm
    Net (loss) / income            $(255,544)  $88,568  $(344,112)     Nm
    Fully diluted (loss) /
     earnings per share from
     continuing operations            $(5.95)    $2.23     $(8.18)     Nm
    Fully diluted (loss) / earnings
     per share                        $(6.04)    $2.12     $(8.16)     Nm

Segment Results

We evaluate the performance of our television operations based on Segment Net Revenues and EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization).

Segment Results for the Three Months Ended December 31, 2008

For the three months ended December 31, 2008, Total Segment Net Revenues declined 3% to $291.5 million from $300.6 million for the three months ended December 31, 2007. Total Segment EBITDA for the three months ended December 31, 2008 declined 28% to $93.6 million from $129.8 million in the three months ended December 31, 2007. Segment EBITDA margin for the three months ended December 31, 2008 was 32% compared to 43% for the three months ended December 31, 2007.

Our Total Segment Net Revenues, Total Segment EBITDA and Segment EBITDA margin for the three months ended December 31, 2008 and 2007 were:

                                          SEGMENT RESULTS (Unaudited)
                                   For the Three Months Ended December 31,
                                                  (US $000's)
                                        2008      2007   $ change  % change
    Segment Net Revenues -
     Broadcast Operations           $288,899  $298,996  $(10,097)      (3%)
    Segment Net Revenues -
     Non-Broadcast Operations         $2,601    $1,556    $1,045       67%
    Total Segment Net Revenues      $291,500  $300,552   $(9,052)      (3%)
    Segment EBITDA - Broadcast
     Operations                      $96,137  $131,248  $(35,111)     (27%)
    Segment EBITDA - Non-Broadcast
     Operations                      $(2,548)  $(1,481)   $1,067       72%
    Total Segment EBITDA             $93,589  $129,767  $(36,178)     (28%)
    Segment EBITDA margin                 32%       43%

Segment Results for the Year Ended December 31, 2008

For the year ended December 31, 2008, Total Segment Net Revenues increased 22% to $1,019.9 million from $838.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2007. Total Segment EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2008 increased 7% to $345.7 million from $323.5 million in the year ended December 31, 2007. Segment EBITDA margin for the year ended December 31, 2008 was 34% compared to 39% for the year ended December 31, 2007.

Our Total Segment Net Revenues, Total Segment EBITDA and Segment EBITDA margin for the year ended December 31, 2008 and 2007 were:

                                      SEGMENT RESULTS (Unaudited)
                                         For the Year Ended December 31,
                                                  (US $000's)
                                        2008      2007   $ change  % change
    Segment Net Revenues -
     Broadcast Operations         $1,010,404  $835,232   $175,172      21%
    Segment Net Revenues -
     Non-Broadcast Operations         $9,530    $3,624     $5,906     163%
    Total Segment Net Revenues    $1,019,934  $838,856   $181,078      22%
    Segment EBITDA - Broadcast
     Operations                     $354,387  $327,330    $27,057       8%
    Segment EBITDA - Non-Broadcast
     Operations                      $(8,707)  $(3,878)    $4,829     125%
    Total Segment EBITDA            $345,680  $323,452    $22,228       7%
    Segment EBITDA margin                 34%       39%

CME will host a teleconference to discuss its fourth quarter and 2008 year-end results on Wednesday, February 25, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. EST (3:00 p.m. GMT and 4:00 p.m. CET). The teleconference will refer to presentation slides, which will be available on CME's website at www.cetv-net.com prior to the call.

To access the teleconference, U.S. and international callers may dial +1 412-317-9250 ten minutes prior to the start time and reference passcode: 9381217. The conference call will be broadcast live via www.cetv-net.com.

A replay of the teleconference will be available for one week following the call and can be accessed by dialing +1 412-317-0088 for U.S. and international callers, passcode: 9381217. A digital audio replay in mp3 format will also be archived on the Company's web site for two weeks following the call.

Forward-Looking and Cautionary Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements, including those relating to our capital needs, business strategy, expectations and intentions. For these statements and all other forward-looking statements, we claim the protection of the safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which cannot be predicted with accuracy or are otherwise beyond our control and some of which might not even be anticipated. Future events and actual results, affecting our strategic plan as well as our financial position, results of operations and cash flows, could differ materially from those described in or contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Important factors that contribute to such risks include, but are not limited to: the effect of the credit crisis and economic downturn in our markets as well as in the United States and Western Europe; decreases in television advertising spending and the rate of development of the advertising markets in the countries in which we operate; the impact of any additional investments we make in our Bulgaria, Croatia and Ukraine operations; our effectiveness in implementing our strategic plan for the Studio 1+1 group in Ukraine; our ability to make future investments in television broadcast operations; our ability to develop and implement strategies regarding sales and multi-channel distribution; changes in the political and regulatory environments where we operate and application of relevant laws and regulations; the timely renewals of broadcasting licenses and our ability to obtain additional frequencies and licenses; and our ability to acquire necessary programming and attract audiences. For a more detailed description of these uncertainties and other factors, please see the "Risk Factors" section in CME's Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 25, 2009.

This press release should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008, which was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 25, 2009.

We make available, free of charge, on our website at www.cetv-net.com our Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the Securities and Exchange Commission.

CME is a broadcasting company operating leading networks in seven Central and Eastern European countries with an aggregate population of approximately 97 million people. The company's television stations are located in Bulgaria (TV2 and Ring TV), Croatia (Nova TV), Czech Republic (TV Nova, Nova Cinema and Nova Sport), Romania (PRO TV, PRO TV International, Acasa, PRO Cinema, Sport.ro and MTV Romania), Slovakia (TV Markiza and Nova Sport), Slovenia (POP TV and Kanal A) and Ukraine (Studio 1+1, Studio 1+1 International and Kino). CME is traded on the NASDAQ and the Prague Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "CETV".

For additional information, please visit www.cetv-net.com.

                        CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
                         CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
                      (US$ 000's, except share and per share data)
                                      (Unaudited)

                                           For the Years Ended December 31,
                                              2008       2007       2006

    Net revenues                        $1,019,934   $838,856   $602,646
    Operating costs                        145,210    116,859     89,486
    Cost of programming                    438,203    327,230    226,133
    Station selling, general and
     administrative expenses                90,841     71,315     64,975
    Depreciation of station property,
     plant & equipment                      51,668     32,653     25,430
    Amortization of broadcast
     licenses and other intangibles         35,381     24,970     18,799
    Corporate operating costs (including
     the cost of settling our Croatia
     litigation of $12.5 million in 2007
     and non-cash stock-based compensation
     of $6.1 million, $5.7 million and $3.6
     million in 2008, 2007 and 2006,
     respectively)                          49,676     55,373     34,104
    Impairment charge                      336,752          -        748
    Operating (loss) / income             (127,797)   210,456    142,971
    Interest expense, net                  (58,469)   (49,208)   (37,853)
    Foreign currency exchange loss, net    (37,877)   (34,409)   (44,892)
    Change in fair value of derivatives      6,360     (3,703)   (12,539)
    Other income                             2,620      7,891      3,059
    (Loss) / income before provision
     for income taxes, minority
     interest, equity in income of
     unconsolidated affiliates and
     discontinued operations              (215,163)   131,027     50,746
    Provision for income taxes             (34,525)   (20,822)   (14,952)
    (Loss) / income before minority
     interest, equity in income of
     unconsolidated affiliates and
     discontinued operations              (249,688)   110,205     35,794
    Minority interest in income of
     consolidated subsidiaries              (2,071)   (17,157)   (13,602)
    Equity in loss of unconsolidated
     affiliates                                  -          -       (730)
    Gain on sale of unconsolidated
     affiliate                                   -          -      6,179
    Net (loss) / income from continuing
     operations                           (251,759)    93,048     27,641
    Net loss from discontinued
     operations                             (3,785)    (4,480)    (7,217)
    Net (loss) / income                  $(255,544)   $88,568    $20,424

    PER SHARE DATA:
    Net (loss) / income per share
    Continuing operations - Basic           $(5.95)     $2.25      $0.69
    Continuing operations - Diluted          (5.95)      2.23       0.68
    Discontinued operations - Basic          (0.09)     (0.11)     (0.18)
    Discontinued operations - Diluted        (0.09)     (0.11)     (0.18)
    Net (loss) / income - Basic              (6.04)      2.14       0.51
    Net (loss) / income - Diluted           $(6.04)     $2.12      $0.50

    Weighted average common shares used
     in computing per share amounts (000s):
    Basic                                   42,328     41,384     40,027
    Diluted                                 42,328     41,833     40,600



                       CENTRAL EUROPEAN MEDIA ENTERPRISES LTD.
                        CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
                     (US$ 000's, except share and per share data)
                                       (Unaudited)

                                                   For the Three Months Ended
                                                           December 31,
                                                       2008           2007

    Net revenues                                   $291,500       $300,552
    Operating costs                                  36,975         33,873
    Cost of programming                             130,978        114,196
    Station selling, general and administrative
     expenses                                        29,958         22,716
    Depreciation of station property, plant &
     equipment                                       12,631          9,755
    Amortization of broadcast licenses and
     other intangibles                                9,319          8,057
    Corporate operating costs (including non-cash
     stock-based compensation of $0.6 million,
     $1.6 million and $1.2 million in 2008, 2007
     and 2006, respectively)                         14,057         12,760
    Impairment charge                               336,752              -
    Operating (loss) / income                      (279,170)        99,195
    Interest expense, net                           (16,263)       (10,866)
    Foreign currency exchange (loss), net           (32,291)        (5,884)
    Change in fair value of derivatives              20,031         (7,200)
    Other income                                      1,012          8,638
    (Loss) / income before provision for income
     taxes, minority interest, equity in income
     of unconsolidated affiliates and
     discontinued operations                       (306,681)        83,883
    Provision for income taxes                      (15,048)        (2,189)
    (Loss) / income before minority interest,
     equity in income of unconsolidated
     affiliates and discontinued operations        (321,729)        81,694
    Minority interest in income of consolidated
     subsidiaries                                      (310)        (7,276)
    Net (loss) / income from continuing
     operations                                    (322,039)        74,418
    Net loss from discontinued operations            (1,250)        (1,427)
    Net (loss) / income                           $(323,289)       $72,991

    PER SHARE DATA:
    Net (loss) / income per share
    Continuing operations - Basic                    $(7.61)         $1.76
    Continuing operations - Diluted                   (7.61)          1.74
    Discontinued operations - Basic                   (0.03)         (0.03)
    Discontinued operations - Diluted                 (0.03)         (0.03)
    Net (loss) / income - Basic                       (7.64)          1.73
    Net (loss) / income - Diluted                    $(7.64)         $1.71

    Weighted average common shares used in
     computing per share amounts (000s):
    Basic                                            42,337         42,297
    Diluted                                          42,337         42,654

Segment Data

We manage our business on a geographic basis, and review the performance of each business segment using data that reflects 100% of operating and license company results. Our segments are comprised of Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Romania, the Slovak Republic, Slovenia and our two businesses in Ukraine.

We evaluate the performance of our segments based on Segment EBITDA. Segment Net Revenues and Segment EBITDA include the results of certain entities (primarily our operations in the Slovak Republic) that were not consolidated until January 23, 2006.

Segment EBITDA is determined as segment net income/(loss), which includes costs for program rights amortization costs, before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization of intangible assets. Items that are not allocated to our business segments for purposes of evaluating their performance, and therefore are not included in Segment EBITDA, include:

expenses presented as corporate operating costs in our consolidated statements of operations;

stock-based compensation charges;

foreign currency exchange gains and losses;

changes in fair value of derivatives; and

certain unusual or infrequent items (e.g., extraordinary gains and losses, impairments of assets or investments).

We use Segment EBITDA as a component in determining management bonuses.

Below is a table showing our Segment EBITDA by operation and a reconciliation of these figures to our consolidated results for the years ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006, and for the three months ended December 31, 2008 and 2007:

             Reconciliation between Consolidated Statements of Operations
                       and Total Segment Data (non-US GAAP)

                                     SEGMENT FINANCIAL INFORMATION

                                    For the Years Ended December 31,

                                              (US $000's)

                       Segment Net Revenues (1)           Segment EBITDA

                      2008      2007      2006      2008       2007      2006

    Country
    Bulgaria (TV2,
     RING TV)(2)    $1,263        $-        $-  $(10,185)        $-        $-
    Croatia
     (NOVA TV)      54,651    37,193    22,310    (5,415)   (13,882)  (14,413)
    Czech
     Republic(3)   376,546   279,237   208,387   208,655    156,496   100,488
    Romania (4)    274,627   215,402   148,616   111,783     93,075    65,860
    Slovak Republic
     (TV MARKIZA)  132,693   110,539    73,420    50,228     41,532    20,805
    Slovenia (POP
     TV and
     KANAL A)       80,696    69,647    54,534    25,413     22,767    19,842
    Ukraine
     (STUDIO 1+1)   96,738   125,323    96,413   (32,944)    27,000    29,973
    Ukraine (KINO,
     CITI)(5)        2,720     1,515       726    (1,855)    (3,536)   (1,795)
    Total Segment
     Data       $1,019,934  $838,856  $604,406  $345,680   $323,452  $220,760

    Reconciliation to Consolidated
     Statement of Operations:
    Consolidated Net
     Revenues / (Loss) /
     income before
     provision for
     income taxes,
     minority interest,
     equity in income of
     unconsolidated
     affiliates and
     discontinued
     operations $1,019,934  $838,856  $602,646 $(215,163)  $131,027   $50,746
    Corporate operating
     costs (including
     the cost of
     settling Croatian
     litigation of
     $12.5 million in
     2007 and non-cash
     stock-based
     compensation of
     $6.1 million, $5.7
     million and $3.6
     million in 2008,
     2007 and 2006,
     respectively)       -         -         -    49,676     55,373    34,104
    Impairment charge    -         -         -   336,752          -       748
    Unconsolidated
     Equity
     Affiliates(6)       -         -     1,760         -          -    (1,292)
    Depreciation of
     station assets      -         -         -    51,668     32,653    25,430
    Amortization of
     broadcast licenses
     and other
     intangibles         -         -         -    35,381     24,970    18,799
    Interest expense,
     net                 -         -         -    58,469     49,208    37,853
    Foreign currency
     exchange loss,
     net                 -         -         -    37,877     34,409    44,892
    Change in fair
     value of
     derivatives         -         -         -    (6,360)     3,703    12,539
    Other income         -         -         -    (2,620)    (7,891)   (3,059)
    Total Segment
     Data       $1,019,934  $838,856  $604,406  $345,680   $323,452  $220,760

    (1) All net revenues are derived from external customers.  There are no
    inter-segmental revenues.
    (2) We acquired our Bulgaria operations on August 1, 2008.
    (3) Czech Republic networks are TV NOVA, NOVA SPORT and NOVA CINEMA,
    which was launched in December 2007.
    (4) Romanian networks are PRO TV, PRO CINEMA, ACASA, PRO TV INTERNATIONAL,
    SPORT.RO and MTV.
    (5) We acquired our Ukraine (KINO, CITI) operations in January 2006 and
    ceased operating the CITI channel in January 2009.
    (6) Our Slovak Republic operations were accounted for as an equity
    affiliate until January 23, 2006.



                                       SEGMENT FINANCIAL INFORMATION

                                  For the Three Months Ended December 31,

                                                  (US $000's)

                                 Segment Net Revenues(1)   Segment EBITDA

                                     2008       2007       2008       2007

    Country
    Bulgaria (TV2, RING TV)          $800         $-    $(7,084)        $-
    Croatia (NOVA TV)             $16,500    $12,492      1,034     (4,082)
    Czech Republic(2)             105,816     96,034     62,200     57,245
    Romania(3)                     77,508     79,424     29,999     35,922
    Slovak Republic (TV MARKIZA)   44,565     41,924     21,268     18,521
    Slovenia (POP TV and KANAL A)  22,305     25,338      8,057     10,523
    Ukraine (STUDIO 1+1)           23,212     44,965    (21,628)    12,207
    Ukraine (KINO, CITI)(4)           794        375       (257)      (569)
    Total Segment Data           $291,500   $300,552    $93,589   $129,767

    Reconciliation to Consolidated
     Statement of Operations:
    Consolidated Net Revenues /
     (Loss) / income before
     provision for income taxes,
     minority interest, equity in
     income of unconsolidated
     affiliates and discontinued
     operations                  $291,500   $300,552  $(306,681)   $83,883
    Corporate operating costs
     (including non-cash
     stock-based compensation of
     $0.6 million and $1.6
     million in 2008 and 2007,
     respectively)                     -           -     14,057     12,760
    Impairment charge                  -           -    336,752          -
    Depreciation of station assets     -           -     12,631      9,755
    Amortization of broadcast
     licenses and other intangibles    -           -      9,319      8,057
    Interest expense, net              -           -     16,263     10,866
    Foreign currency exchange
     loss, net                         -           -     32,291      5,884
    Change in fair value of
     derivatives                       -           -    (20,031)     7,200
    Other income                       -           -     (1,012)    (8,638)
    Total Segment Data          $291,500    $300,552    $93,589   $129,767

    (1) All net revenues are derived from external customers.  There are no
    inter-segmental revenues.
    (2) Czech Republic networks are TV NOVA, NOVA SPORT and NOVA CINEMA,
    which was launched in December 2007.
    (3) Romanian networks are PRO TV, PRO CINEMA, ACASA, PRO TV INTERNATIONAL,
    SPORT.RO and MTV.
    (4) We acquired our Ukraine (KINO, CITI) operations in January 2006 and
    ceased operating the CITI channel in January 2009.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

It's Tee Time for FiOS TV Customers - Golf Channel Now Available in High Definition in Massachusetts

2009-02-24T14:00:00.000+02:00

Verizon Customers Can Experience Golf With the Ultimate HD Picture

BOSTON, Feb. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon FiOS TV customers continue to enjoy the ultimate in high-definition (HD) home entertainment, with the addition of the Golf Channel in HD to the FiOS programming lineup in Massachusetts.

With this addition, Verizon has 106 HD channels available to its FiOS TV customers in the state, more than any other TV carrier.

As spring approaches and the tournament season swings into action, FiOS TV subscribers can immerse themselves in the world of golf, only as it can be experienced on pure FiOS HD.

The Golf Channel, a 24-hour-a-day network, offers a range of programming including news and scores, tournament coverage, post-tournament programs, highlights, and current events happening around the golf industry. This popular channel will also provide subscribers with coverage of the Majors in HD -- The Masters, U.S. Open, British Open and the PGA Championship. For golfers looking to improve their game, Golf Channel offers instructional videos, equipment review, and information on courses and golf resorts around the country.

"There's HD on FiOS, then there's everything else," said Terry Denson, vice president - FiOS TV content and programming. "With our advanced network providing the most HD channels, the best picture-and-sound quality and interactive features that go beyond old-fashioned cable -- there's no better place than FiOS to experience sports in HD. With FiOS TV's pure HD, viewers will feel as if they're standing at the tee box."

FiOS TV scored highest in J.D. Power's "2008 Residential Television Service Satisfaction Study for the East Region." A leading consumer magazine gave FiOS TV the top rating in its most recent survey of television service, with top marks in all six categories it measured: channel choice, image quality, sound quality, reliability, value and support.

FiOS TV offers a broad collection of programming, with more than 500 all-digital channels and 14,000 video-on-demand (VOD) titles each month -- 70 percent of which are free. Verizon's VOD library also includes more than 1,200 HD titles. FiOS TV is currently available to more than 9.2 million homes in 14 states, including more than 90 communities in Massachusetts.

For more information on FiOS TV, consumers can visit www.verizon.com/fiostv or call their local Verizon sales office or 888-438-3467.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE: VZ), headquartered in New York, is a leader in delivering broadband and other wireline and wireless communication innovations to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America's most reliable wireless network, serving more than 80 million customers nationwide. Verizon's Wireline operations include Verizon Business, which delivers innovative and seamless business solutions to customers around the world, and Verizon Telecom, which brings customers the benefits of converged communications, information and entertainment services over the nation's most advanced fiber-optic network. A Dow 30 company, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of nearly 224,000 and last year generated consolidated operating revenues of more than $97 billion. For more information, visit www.verizon.com.

VERIZON'S ONLINE NEWS CENTER: Verizon news releases, executive speeches and biographies, media contacts, high-quality video and images, and other information are available at Verizon's News Center on the World Wide Web at www.verizon.com/news. To receive news releases by e-mail, visit the News Center and register for customized automatic delivery of Verizon news releases.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

'Phil Mickelson: Secrets of the Short Game'

2009-02-24T13:10:00.000+02:00

SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif., Feb. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Competitive Edge announced today they will be representing Pasea LLC in a breakthrough golf DVD titled "Phil Mickelson: Secrets of the Short Game." The one-year agreement gives Competitive Edge's retail division exclusive rights to market the DVD series to golf retailers and websites, as well as green-grass shops. The two-disc DVD program and booklet discuss Phil's putting, chipping, sand and flop shot techniques and strategies that have made Phil's short game legendary. A national TV campaign will launch on Golf Channel the week of the Masters.

With Phil's win this past weekend at the Northern Trust Open, he has now logged 35 career wins, ranking second among active players and is 13th on the all-time wins list. He has finished second or third on the money list eight times including seven of the last nine seasons. He has finished in the top 10 at eight of the last nine Masters Tournaments, including wins in 2004 and 2006. He is the only U.S. player to appear in all seven Presidents Cups and the last seven Ryder Cups.

The DVD series and TV commercial were produced and directed by Terry Jastrow, a seven-time Emmy award winner whose credits include Producer/Director of six previous Olympic Opening Ceremonies, Super Bowl XIX, 68 Golf Majors and events ranging from an Indianapolis 500 and Kentucky Derby. Mr. Jastrow is married to actress Anne Archer and has two sons and is a member of the Texas State Golf Hall of Fame.

For more information on Competitive Edge, visit http://www.compedgemedia.com. If you are a retailer/website interested in selling Phil's DVD, please call (805)788-0685 and ask for Greg Parks, or e-mail him at greg@compedgemedia.com.

This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Outdoor Channel Holdings to Host 2008 Fourth Quarter Conference Call on February 26

2009-02-23T23:02:00.000+02:00

TEMECULA, Calif., Feb. 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Outdoor Channel Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: OUTD) today announced that management will host its regular quarterly investor conference call at 2 p.m. PST (5 p.m. EST) on Thursday, February 26, 2009, to review the financial results for its 2008 fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2008.

Investment professionals are invited to participate in the live call by dialing 800-573-4752 (domestic) or 617-224-4324 (international) and using participant passcode 22697955. The call will be open to all other interested parties through a live, listen-only audio Internet broadcast in the Investor Relations section of the company's Web site, www.outdoorchannel.com.

For those who are not available to listen to the live broadcast, the call will be archived online for one year. A telephonic playback of the conference call also will be available through Thursday, March 5, 2009, by calling 888-286-8010 (domestic) or 617-801-6888 (international) and using participant passcode 87661859.

About Outdoor Channel Holdings, Inc.

Outdoor Channel Holdings, Inc. owns and operates Outdoor Channel, America's leader in outdoor TV. The national network offers programming that captures the excitement of hunting, fishing, shooting, off-road motorsports, adventure and the Western lifestyle. Outdoor Channel can be viewed on multiple platforms including high definition, video-on-demand, as well as on a dynamic new broadband website. For more information about the company or Outdoor Channel, please visit www.outdoorchannel.com.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Classic Diamonds Showcased Sophistication and Old Hollywood Glamour at the 81st Annual Academy Awards(R)

2009-02-23T06:59:00.000+02:00

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- DIAMONDS, in all their natural beauty, dazzled on the red carpet at the 81st Annual Academy Awards(R). Oscar nominees and attendees chose diamonds to accessorize their glamorous looks for Hollywood's biggest night.

Throwback glamour was the mood of the evening as evidenced by the classic and alluring looks of iconic Hollywood beauties. Academy Award winner Kate Winsletchanneled Grace Kelly in her 28 carat pear shaped diamond cluster earrings, 117 carat multi-cut diamond bracelet and diamond ring by Chopard. Audrey Hepburn's spirit was present in both Anne Hathaway wearing a diamond starburst brooch in hair, diamond watch bracelet, diamond swirl earrings, and diamond rings by Cartier and in Academy Award winner Penelope Cruz who wore the ultimate diamond classics - diamond riviere necklace, stacked diamond line bracelets and diamond studs from Chopard.

Timeless allure was revealed, as diamonds were the foundation of many Red Carpet ensembles. Taraji P. Henson's 19th Century diamond statement necklace and 6 carat cushion cut diamond drop earrings from Fred Leighton framed her face beautifully. The diamond mixed cut micro-set drop earrings and diamond 3 stone ring from William Goldberg worn by Queen Latifah were the perfect complement to her look. And Amanda Seyfried's Fred Leighton diamond flower necklace, 19th Century diamond bracelet, old mine cut diamond earrings, and 19th Century diamond ring were the perfect ornamentation to her red dress and Veronica Lake waves.

THE LEGACY AND BEAUTY OF DIAMONDS WERE SHOWCASED IN THE EVENING'S TOP DIAMOND TRENDS featured at the 2009 Academy Awards. The top diamond trends included:

Classic Diamond Drop Earrings

*Diane Lane - Neil Lane - Diamond Drop Earrings
Jennifer Aniston- Bulgari - Diamond Earrings with 2 Pear Shaped Diamonds
Natalie Portman- Kwiat - 6 carat Diamond Drop Earrings
Phoebe Cates- Fred Leighton - Diamond Drop Earrings
*Queen Latifah- William Goldberg - Diamond Mixed Cut Micro-Set Drop Earrings
Reese Witherspoon- Fred Leighton - Diamond Triple Drop Earrings with 7 carat Old Mine Cut Drops
*Taraji P. Henson - Fred Leighton - Diamond Pendant Earrings with 6 carat Cushion-Cut Drops

Stunning Diamond Statement Necklaces

*Amanda Seyfried - Fred Leighton - 19th Century Diamond Flower Necklace
*Diane Lane - Neil Lane - Diamond Fringe Necklace
*Penelope Cruz- Chopard - Cushion-Cut Diamond Necklace
*Taraji P. Henson - Fred Leighton - Diamond Pendant Earrings with 6 carat Cushion-Cut Drops; 19th Century Diamond Flower Necklace

Spectacular Diamond Bracelets, including diamond line bracelets and cuffs

*Amanda Seyfried - Fred Leighton - 19th Century Diamond Bracelet
Anne Hathaway - Cartier - Diamond Watch Bracelet from the Private Archive Collection; Diamond Double and Triple Row Bracelet, Cartier London 1934
*Diane Lane - Neil Lane - Darkened Diamond and Platinum Bracelet
Evan Rachel Wood- Neil Lane - Darkened Diamond Bracelet
Halle Berry - H. Stern - Diamond Hera Cuff Bracelet
Jennifer Grey- H. Stern - Stern Star Diamond Bracelet in Black and White Diamonds
Jessica Biel- Louis Vuitton - Diamond Cuff Bracelet
*Kate Winslet - Chopard - Multi-Cut Diamond Bracelet (117 carats)
*Penelope Cruz- Chopard - Diamond Bracelets
Phoebe Cates- Fred Leighton - Diamond Bracelets
Robin Wright Penn - H. Stern - Diamond Bracelet
Sarah Jessica Parker - Fred Leighton - Diamond and Gold Arm Bangle
Tilda Swinton - Fred Leighton - 9 Diamond and Multi-Colored Gold Bangle Bracelet
Tina Fey - Fred Leighton - 19th Century Diamond Flower Bracelet
Viola Davis - Fred Leighton - 2 Vintage Diamond Bracelets

The following celebrities wore DIAMONDS to the 81st Annual Academy Awards:

Alicia Keys- Fred Leighton - 19th Century Diamond Leaf Pendant Earrings, 19th Century diamond ring
*Amanda Seyfried - Fred Leighton - Old Mine Cut Diamond Stud Earrings; 19th Century Diamond Flower Necklace; 19th Century Diamond Bracelet; 19th Century Diamond Ring
Amy Adams - Fred Leighton - Diamond Stud Earrings
Anil Kapoor - Chopard - Diamond and White Gold Cufflinks
Anne Hathaway - Cartier - Diamond Starburst Brooch (worn in hair), Cartier Paris 1958; Diamond and White Gold Swirl Earrings; Diamond Watch Bracelet from the Private Archive Collection; Diamond Double and Triple Row Bracelet, Cartier London 1934; Diamond Pave Ring; 9.6 carat Princess Cut Diamond Ring with Pave details
Beyonce - Lorraine Schwartz - 2 Yellow Diamond Flower Rings
Brad Pitt- David Yurman - Black Diamond Ring; Black Diamond Cufflinks; Black Diamond Stud Set
Deborra-Lee Furness - Fred Leighton - Diamond and Onyx Earrings; 1930's Diamond and Black Jade Bracelet
*Diane Lane - Neil Lane - Diamond Drop Earrings; Diamond Fringe Necklace; Darkened Diamond and Platinum Bracelet; Darkened Diamond and Platinum Rings
Evan Rachel Wood- Neil Lane - Darkened Diamond Chandelier Earrings; Darkened Diamond Bracelet; Diamond Ring
Frank Langella- Le Vian - Diamond Cufflinks; Diamond Shirt Studs
Halle Berry - H. Stern - Diamond Hera Earrings; Diamond Hera Cuff Bracelet; Diamond Hera Ring
Heidi Klum - Lorraine Schwartz - Diamond and Coral Earrings; 3 Diamond Bangle Bracelets and 1 Diamond and Coral Bracelet; Diamond and Coral Ring and Diamond Ring
Jennifer Aniston- Bulgari - Diamond Earrings with 2 Pear Shaped Diamonds; Emerald-Cut Diamond Ring, over 11 carats
Jennifer Grey- H. Stern - Diamond Solitaire Earrings; Stern Star Diamond Bracelet in Black and White Diamonds; Stern Star Diamond Ring
Jessica Biel- Louis Vuitton - Diamond Pendant Earrings; Diamond Cuff Bracelet
Kate Ledger(Sister of Heath Ledger) - Fred Leighton - Old European Cut Diamond Stud Earrings (7 carats); 2 Turn of the Century Diamond Bracelets; Diamond Octagonal Ring and Diamond Band Ring
*Kate Winslet - Chopard - Diamond Pear-Shaped Cluster Earrings (28 carats); Multi-Cut Diamond Bracelet (117 carats); Diamond Ring
Maria Menounos - Platt Jewelers - Rose-Cut Diamond Cluster Earrings; Rose-Cut Diamond Ring
Miley Cyrus- Neil Lane - Diamond Pendant Earrings
Moran Atias- Chopard - Diamond Earrings
Natalie Portman- Kwiat - Deco Diamond Hair Pins and Diamond Hair Combs; 6 carat Diamond Drop Earrings; Vintage Diamond Cluster Ring
Nicole Kidman- Diamond waterfall earrings; Diamond Brooch in hair
*Penelope Cruz- Chopard - Diamond Stud Earrings (11 carats); Cushion-Cut Diamond Necklace (69 carats); Diamond Bracelets; Starburst Yellow Diamond Ring (21 carats)
Phoebe Cates- Fred Leighton - Diamond Arrow Pin in her hair; Diamond Drop Earrings; Diamond Bracelets; Diamond Rings
*Queen Latifah- William Goldberg - Diamond Mixed Cut Micro-Set Drop Earrings; Diamond Trilogy Oval Ring, over 11 carats
Reese Witherspoon- Fred Leighton - Diamond Triple Drop Earrings with 7 carat Old Mine Cut Drops; 19th Century Rose Cut Diamond and Blue Enamel Ring
Robert Downey Jr. - Cartier - Diamond and White Gold Pasha 42 Watch on Black Crocodile Strap
Robin Roberts- Lorraine Schwartz - Diamond and Pink Gold Caviar Drop Earrings; 2 Diamond and Pink Gold Caviar Bangles, Diamond and Pink Gold Mesh Cuff Bracelet; Diamond and Pink Gold Caviar Right Hand Ring
Robin Swicord(Nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay for "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button") - Neil Lane - Diamond and Yellow Gold Bangle Bracelets; Diamond and Yellow Gold Ring
Robin Wright Penn - H. Stern - Ares Diamond Earrings; Diamond Bracelet
Ryoko Hirosue - Van Cleef and Arpels - Diamond Linear Earrings; Diamond Wreath Necklace
Sally Bell(Heath Ledger's Mother) - Fred Leighton - 1950's Diamond Leaf Earrings; 1950's Diamond Bracelet with Brown Diamonds; 3-Stone Diamond Ring; Diamond Band Ring
Sarah Jessica Parker - Fred Leighton - Diamond Flower Ear Clips; Diamond and Gold Arm Bangle; 9 carat Cushion-Cut Ring
*Taraji P. Henson - Fred Leighton - Diamond Pendant Earrings with 6 carat Cushion-Cut Drops; 19th Century Diamond Flower Necklace
Tilda Swinton - Fred Leighton - 9 Diamond and Multi-Colored Gold Bangle Bracelet
Tina Fey - Fred Leighton - Diamond Pendant Earrings; 19th Century Diamond Flower Bracelet
Academy Awards Trophy Presenter - Martin Katz - Diamond Pear Shape Drop Earrings; Diamond Rope Necklace with 100 carat Black Diamonds; 5 Diamond Bangles; Diamond Right Hand Ring
Viola Davis - Fred Leighton - 1930's Diamond Stylized Hoop Earrings; Diamond Honey Comb Bracelet, 2 Vintage Diamond Bracelets; 1950's Diamond Double Clip Brooch on her Dress
Virginia Madsen - Loree Rodkin - Diamond and Yellow Gold Multi-Estelle Princess Cross Earrings; Diamond and Yellow Gold Maltese Cross Bracelet; Diamond and Yellow Gold Etched Ring

*The Diamond Information Center (DIC) has purchased the rights to red carpet diamond photos to be used for editorial purposes.

For detailed descriptions and jeweler information, please see credit chart sent separately from this release.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

J.Crew Featured on the Oscars(R) Red Carpet

2009-02-23T00:43:00.000+02:00

ABC's Robin Roberts, to wear J.Crew As co-host of Official Oscars(R) Red Carpet Pre-Show

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Good Morning America's Robin Robertswill wear J.Crew to walk the Red Carpet and to co-host The Official Oscars Red Carpet Pre-Show tonight on ABC.

Suze Yalof Schwartz, Executive Fashion Editor-at-Large of Glamour magazine, introduced Roberts to J.Crew's Creative Director, Jenna Lyons. Yalof Schwartz and Roberts met with Jenna and the J.Crew design team at their New York Headquarters to view J.Crew's designs for the perfect Red Carpet look. The taped visit aired on Good Morning America on Wednesday, February 18th. Roberts encouraged America to weigh in to help her choose her Oscar gown. Ultimately, J.Crew was the favorite over two other high profile designers. As of today, over ten thousand GMA viewers had written in sharing their opinions.

Part of J.Crew's Weddings & Parties Collection, Roberts chose the "Gracie" gown in Fresh Tangerine. This special color is part of the fall 2009 Collection and made exclusively for Robin and this Red Carpet occasion. She looked beyond the Red Carpet regulars and chose J.Crew - an unexpected designer for the Oscars, re-confirming that high fashion does not have to cost a fortune. The "Gracie" gown is about sophistication and glamour, carried through in a sleek shoulder-baring gown. The J.Crew designers used dreamy triple-ply silk tricotine and designed a dramatic halter silhouette, offset by a deep-V down the back and a straight skirt that elegantly floats to the floor. Cut slightly longer in back, there are beautiful designer details throughout. Robin also wears J.Crew shoes and accessories including the Organdy Fleur Peep Toe Heels and the Satin Minaudiere Clutch.

TO view a sketch of the award winning look, go to:

http://www.jcrew.com/AST/Navigation/goodMorningAmerica.jsp

Still a well kept secret, J.Crew's Weddings & Parties Collection features dressier designs for special occasions - whether a wedding, a festive party or a Red Carpet moment. J.Crew's designers search the world for the best and most luxurious fabrics (many of which come from couture fabric houses). They are obsessed with detail, ensuring that every J.Crew dress is cut to fit, impeccably finished and always elegantly designed.

J.Crew Group, Inc. is a nationally recognized multi-channel retailer of men's, women's and children's apparel, shoes and accessories. The Company operates 218 retail stores, 75 factory stores, the J.Crew catalog business, and jcrew.com. Additionally, certain product, press release and SEC filing information concerning the Company are available at the Company's website www.jcrew.com

For additional information, sketches, or to discuss possible interviews / TV opportunities, Contact Heather McAuliffe at J.Crew. (Ph) 212-209-2611 or email heather.mcauliffe@jcrew.com.

Certain statements about future store openings are "forward-looking statements" made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements reflect the Company's current expectations or beliefs concerning future events and may differ significantly from current expectations. Any such forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties, including the availability of suitable store locations and other factors that are set forth in the Company's Form 10-K and in all filings made with the SEC made by the Company subsequent to the filing of the Form 10-K. The Company does not undertake to publicly update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Contact: Heather McAuliffe
    212. 209. 2611

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

VIZIO Files FCC Request to Cease Unreasonable Funai Patent Enforcement

2009-02-22T23:00:00.000+02:00

IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- VIZIO, Inc., America's HDTV and Consumer Electronics company, announced today that it filed a Request for the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") to require Funai Electronics Co., Ltd. and its subsidiary, Funai Corporation, to comply with patent licensing conditions imposed by the FCC when it adopted the digital television standards for the United States. VIZIO has requested that the FCC order Funai to cease its unreasonable and discriminatory patent enforcement policies while the FCC considers a pending petition for declaratory ruling. The declaratory ruling seeks action and protection from excessive DTV patent charges that have collectively exceeded $1 billion.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090204/LA66605LOGO )

VIZIO pointed out that Funai is demanding windfall royalties for its single patent that are equivalent to the cost of licensing a group of over 30 patents owned by seven different companies. VIZIO told the FCC that if it does not act and VIZIO does not consent to Funai's extortionate demands, Funai will continue threatening to exclude VIZIO televisions from the market just before the completion of the June 12, 2009 transition to digital television.

VIZIO asked the FCC to enforce the clear requirements in its patent licensing conditions. "It is VIZIO's policy to minimize unnecessary costs that are absorbed by U.S. consumers," stated Laynie Newsome, VIZIO Co-Founder, VP Sales and Marketing Communications. "We respect the rights of intellectual property, thoroughly investigate all claims, and vigorously defend our legal rights when we feel a patent is invalid and not infringed."

About VIZIO

VIZIO, Inc., "Where Vision Meets Value," headquartered in Irvine, California, is America's HDTV Company. In 2007, VIZIO skyrocketed to the top by becoming the #1 selling brand of flat panel HDTVs in North America and became the first American brand in over a decade to lead major categories in U.S. TV sales. VIZIO is committed to bringing feature-rich flat panel televisions to market at a value through practical innovation. VIZIO offers a broad range of award winning Plasma and LCD HDTVs including the new XVT series. VIZIO's products are found at Costco Wholesale, Sam's Club, Sears, Walmart, Target, BJ's Wholesale, and other retailers nationwide along with authorized online partners. VIZIO has won numerous awards including a #1 ranking in the Inc. 500 for Top Companies in Computers and Electronics, Good Housekeeping's Best Big-Screens, CNET's Top 10 Holiday Gifts and PC World's Best Buy among others. For more information, please call 888-VIZIOCE or visit on the web at www.VIZIO.com.

The V, VIZIO, Where Vision Meets Value names, phrase and symbols are trademarks or registered trademarks of VIZIO, Inc. All other trademarks may be the property of their respective holders

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

'Project Runway' Designer in San Francisco to Educate About Living with HIV and Combat Stigma Associated with the Disease

2009-02-22T17:30:00.000+02:00

Jack Mackenroth to kick off 2009 Living Positive By Design local tour at largest Academy Awards(R) party outside Hollywood

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Jack Mackenroth, from the hit reality television series "Project Runway," is visiting San Francisco for the Academy of Friends' annual Academy Awards Night Gala, representing Living Positive By Design, his national HIV and AIDS education initiative. The Living Positive By Design campaign, a major sponsor of the Gala, seeks to help combat the stigma associated with HIV by engaging people in thoughtful conversation about the disease and is being supported by Merck & Co., Inc. At the Gala, which benefits 12 local Bay Area HIV and AIDS service organizations, Jack will unveil a new series of Living Positive By Design video vignettes that he has created to garner support for the goals of the program as well as provide on-site commentary on the celebrity fashions from the awards show. The Gala event is being held on Sunday, February 22, 2009 at Fort Mason.

"I am excited to bring Living Positive By Design to San Francisco in partnership with the Academy of Friends, an organization committed to improving the lives of people living with HIV," said Mackenroth. "Through Living Positive By Design, I have been speaking about my experiences living with HIV for more than 20 years, addressing the stigma still associated with the disease and highlighting the importance for people living with HIV to have a positive outlook on life while effectively managing their disease."

In addition to Jack, local HIV specialist Lisa Capaldini, M.D. of Castro Medical will also be available the weekend of the Gala to discuss the current and future landscape of HIV and AIDS treatment and research.

"One of the goals of Living Positive By Design is to educate people living with HIV that taking medications to help reduce the amount of virus in the blood to undetectable levels and helping to restore their immune system must be some of the priorities for today's disease management," said Dr. Capaldini. "In addition to this, with new advancements in HIV treatment, physicians should also factor in the tolerability of treatment regimens."

In 2008, Jack held Living Positive By Design events in Miami/Fort Lauderdale, Florida, at the 2008 United States Conference on AIDS (USCA); in Atlanta, Georgia, at the Atlanta AIDS Walk; and in New York, New York, at the Gay Men's Health Crisis' (GMHC) annual Fashion Forward fundraiser. He will continue to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS through events in additional cities, including Houston, Texas. For more information on Living Positive By Design and participating cities, please visit: www.LivingPositiveByDesign.com.

Prevalence of HIV and AIDS

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than one million Americans are living with HIV and AIDS in the U.S. and approximately 55,000 new people become infected every year. In 2006, 50 percent of new diagnoses were among men who have sex with men (MSM). The state of California has the second highest number of reported AIDS cases compared to any other state in the U.S. At the end of 2007, 15,470 San Francisco residents were living with HIV or AIDS.

About Merck

Merck & Co., Inc. is a global research-driven pharmaceutical company dedicated to putting patients first. Established in 1891, Merck currently discovers, develops, manufactures and markets vaccines and medicines to address unmet medical needs. The Company devotes extensive efforts to increase access to medicines through far-reaching programs that not only donate Merck medicines but help deliver them to the people who need them. Merck also publishes unbiased health information as a not-for-profit service. For more information, visit www.merck.com.

About the Academy of Friends

The Academy of Friends (AOF) (www.academyoffriends.org) is one of the largest contributors to HIV and AIDS service organizations in the San Francisco Bay Area, and aims to raise funds, award donations and encourage volunteerism to benefit these groups. Through hosting the world's premier, annual Academy Awards Night Gala and other monthly events, AOF has raised over seven million dollars to date to support nearly 70 organizations.

Forward-looking statement

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on management's current expectations and involve risks and uncertainties, which may cause results to differ materially from those set forth in the statements. The forward-looking statements may include statements regarding product development, product potential or financial performance. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual results may differ materially from those projected. Merck undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Forward-looking statements in this press release should be evaluated together with the many uncertainties that affect Merck's business, particularly those mentioned in the risk factors and cautionary statements in Item 1A of Merck's Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2007, and in any risk factors or cautionary statements contained in the Company's periodic reports on Form 10-Q or current reports on Form 8-K, which the Company incorporates by reference.

    Media Contacts:
               Rachi Govil                   Michelle Ouellette
               Cohn & Wolfe                  Cohn & Wolfe
               O: (212) 537-8157             O: (212) 537-8263
               M: (908) 415-8933             M: (781) 710-3732
               rachi.govil@cohnwolfe.com     michelle.ouellette@cohnwolfe.com

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Moet & Chandon Releases Grand Vintage 1929 Magnum Commemorating First-Ever Academy Awards(R) To Benefit Motion Picture & Television Fund

2009-02-22T09:57:00.000+02:00

Rare Bottle Autographed by Steven Spielberg, Hugh Jackman, and Robert Downey, Jr., to be Auctioned at Christie's To Raise Funds For Leading Health and Social Services Charity

NEW YORK, Feb. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- On the morning of the 81st Academy Awards, Moet & Chandon is delighted to announce a symbolic charitable donation to mark Moet & Chandon's first year as exclusive champagne of the Oscars(R). The esteemed champagne house is honored to extend celebration of the Academy Awards beyond the glamour and excitement of the Red Carpet and Oscars(R) ceremony by auctioning off this rare bottle with the proceeds to benefit the Motion Picture & Television Fund (MPTF), the leading Hollywood charity that provides health and social services to the entertainment community.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090222/NY73811-a)

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090222/NY73811-b)

To celebrate Moet & Chandon's shared heritage with Oscars history, Moet & Chandon's President Frederic Cumenal has graciously released an extremely rare Grand Vintage Magnum from 1929, the year of the very first Academy Awards(R) ceremony, to benefit the MPTF. This exceptional champagne will be prominently displayed at the Governor's Ball immediately following the Oscars ceremony. To support the MPTF's fundraising efforts, Moet & Chandon has partnered with Christie's, the world's leading art business, to auction the Magnum to the highest bidder. On June 6, 2009, Christie's will present this important bottle as the star lot at a special auction of exceptional wines to be held in the Hamptons, New York.

The 1929 Magnum was presented at the MPTF Night Before Fundraiser where the bottle's wooden case was autographed by leading supporters of the charity who were in attendance. The addition of these signatures by top Hollywood celebrities will add even greater fundraising value to this unique auction item. Signatures include Steven Spielberg, 2009 Oscars host Hugh Jackman, Robert Downey, Jr., Tina Fey, Lindsay Lohan, Matthew Broderick, Jessica Simpson and more. The Magnum is expected to fetch a high price at auction due to its rarity, quality, symbolism and exclusive Hollywood allure.

As Frederic Cumenal comments, "Cinema is a universal, timeless Art form. Our new partnership with the Academy Awards(R) represents an opportunity for us to support those who dedicate themselves to the welfare of those in need within the entertainment community. During challenging times the contributions of such organizations is especially critical."

Since 1743, Moet & Chandon has produced the world's most loved champagne and in especially magnificent years, created vintages that stand the test of time. The Grand Vintage Collection 1929 was recently disgorged at Moet & Chandon's cellars in Epernay, France, by Chef de Cave Benoit Gouez who tasted the champagne before it was sealed. As Mr. Gouez commented, "This sublime, magnificent champagne is a fitting tribute to the stature and grandeur of the Academy Awards. The 1929 Vintage is a great work of Art that pairs beautifully with the level of artistic achievement celebrated at the Oscars over the past 81 years."

The Grand Vintage 1929 Magnum made the pilgrimage from Moet & Chandon's cellars in Epernay, France to Los Angeles, a journey Moet & Chandon champagnes have made since Hollywood's earliest days. Having stood fast throughout its 266 year history, Moet & Chandon recognizes the importance of joy, renewal and celebration especially during the most challenging of times.

About Moet & Chandon

Recognized for its quality and prestige, Moet & Chandon is the champagne of choice for celebration in Hollywood. The venerable house has captured the attention of Hollywood's brightest stars since the birth of the film industry. Generations of legendary actors, actresses, producers and directors have celebrated their achievements with Moet & Chandon at Hollywood's most significant and exclusive events, including past Oscars celebrations. Moet & Chandon is imported, sold and marketed by Moet Hennessy USA, the world's leading wine and spirits company, a division of French luxury group LVMH.

About the Motion Picture & Television Fund

The Motion Picture & Television Fund (MPTF), a nonprofit organization headquartered in Woodland Hills, CA, was founded in 1921 to provide "relief" for those in the film industry who had fallen on hard times. Today, MPTF is a major service provider to the entertainment community, providing health care, childcare, retirement living, and social/charitable services with compassion and respect for the dignity of the whole person.

About Christie's

Christie's, the world's leading art business had global auction and private sales in 2008 that totaled 2.8 billion pounds Sterling/$5.1 billion. Christie's is a name and place that speaks of extraordinary art, unparalleled service and expertise, as well as international glamour. Founded in 1766 by James Christie, Christie's conducted the greatest auctions of the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, and today remains a popular showcase for the unique and the beautiful. Christie's offers over 600 sales annually in over 80 categories, including all areas of fine and decorative arts, jewellery, photographs, collectibles, wine, and more. Prices range from $200 to over $80 million. Christie's has 70 offices in 30 countries and 10 salerooms around the world including in London, New York, Paris, Geneva, Milan, Amsterdam, Dubai and Hong Kong. More recently, Christie's has led the market with expanded initiatives in emerging and new markets such as Russia, China, India and the United Arab Emirates, with successful sales and exhibitions in Beijing, Mumbai and Dubai.

Visit Christie's Web site at www.christies.com

About the 81st Academy Awards

Academy Awards for outstanding film achievements of 2008 will be presented on Sunday, February 22, 2009, at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center(R), and televised live by the ABC Television Network. The Oscar(R) presentation also will be televised live in more than 200 countries worldwide.

For high resolution images, please visit http://www.beimages.net/ or contact the press contacts on the release.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

South Beach Sizzles as America's Culinary Elite Compete in Idaho(R) Potato Side Dish Challenge

2009-02-20T12:00:00.000+02:00

Chef Carol Wallack of Sola in Chicago Snags First Place in Challenge at South Beach Wine and Food Festival's Burger Bash and Awards $5,000 to Florida International University

EAGLE, Idaho, Feb. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- The country's top chefs battled it out at the third annual South Beach Wine and Food Festival's Burger Bash hosted by Rachael Ray. Not only were their skills at the grill tested as they bumped the beloved burger to new culinary heights, but Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) -- a Silver Sponsor of the Festival -- challenged ten of the best in the business to go a step further and prepare a prize-winning Idaho(R) potato side dish. The Grand Prize was a $5,000 donation to Florida International University made by the IPC on behalf of Chef Wallack.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090220/LA73350-a)

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090220/LA73350-b)

The popular chefs had their work cut out for them as they earnestly peeled and prepped for a panel of Idaho(R) potato experts. The judging team included Frank Muir, IPC President & CEO; Don Odiorne, IPC Vice President, Foodservice and none other than Nationally Syndicated TV personality "Mr. Food," aka Art Ginsburg. "The IPC is continually amazed with the creativity and caliber of potato-driven dishes," said Frank Muir. "The chefs here this evening outdid themselves once again! After a rigorous round of tasting and tallying scorecards, we awarded the Grand Prize to Chef Wallack for her Sola Idaho Potato Truffle Fries."

"As someone who loves quick and easy dinner solutions, I am always on the look-out for tasty recipes that use readily available ingredients, like potatoes, and these talented chefs have taken the American food icon, the Idaho(R) potato, to 'celebrity food' status," said Mr. Food (Art Ginsburg). "Recipes like the ones I tasted at the Idaho Potato Commission Side Dish Challenge will definitely motivate anyone at home to try something new!"

Chef Wallack's Idaho Potato Truffle Fries are hand-cut fries drizzled with truffle oil and sprinkled with Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. "I use the best, fresh ingredients that are available, said Chef Wallack. "And the best potatoes for certain come from Idaho."

Foodservice operators nationwide use Idaho(R) potatoes regularly because of their versatility, cost effectiveness and consistent performance. "Idaho's rich, volcanic soil yields a potato with a high solids and starch content. High solids and low moisture content means you will get less shrinkage and more potato taste with your dishes -- something we all need to be conscious of in these tight economic times," said Don Odiorne. "Chef Wallack's Idaho Potato Truffle Fries are a perfect example of how cost effectively and well Idaho(R) potatoes perform."

In addition to the Side Dish Challenge, IPC also hosted an Idaho(R) Potato Fresh Chips booth which was run by Florida International University students. All of the event attendees were able to sample the best Idaho(R) potato chips on earth!

The side dishes were judged on a five point scale for each of the following criteria: Use of Product, Originality, Presentation and Flavor. The side dish with the highest total score captured the Grand Prize. Other participating chefs included:

Randy Garutti of Shake Shack, New York, NY - Yukon Gold Idaho French Fries
Alex Gray, Every Day with Rachael Ray Contest Winner - Roasted Idaho Potato Wedges with Pesto Drizzle
Katie Lee Joel, author of Comfort Table, New York, NY and Milton, West Virginia - Homemade Idaho Potato Chips
Tim Nickey of Kobe Club, South Beach, FL - Shoestring Truffle Parmesan Idaho Potato Fries & Fresh Corn Salad
Jake Linsinmeir of X Cafe in Telluride, CO - Fresh Shaved Truffle and Rosemary Potatoes
Masaharu Morimoto of Morimoto, New York, NY - Wasabi Mashed Idaho Potatoes
Miguel Santiago of Pier 66 - Lobster and Idaho Potato Fritter with Lime and Habanero Aioli
Andrew Garrison of Schotts, Central Falls, RI - Idaho Potato Fries with Jalapeno Mayonnaise
David Walzog of SW Steakhouse, Las Vegas, NV - Crisp Idaho Potatoes on a Stick with Roasted Garlic Ketchup

For consumer and foodservice recipes and tips, visit www.idahopotato.com

About South Beach Wine & Food Festival

The Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival is a national, star-studded, four-day destination event showcasing the talents of the world's most renowned wine and spirits producers, chefs and culinary personalities.

About the Idaho Potato Commission

The Idaho Potato Commission is a state agency that is primarily responsible for expanding the markets for Idaho grown potatoes through advertising, promotion and research. The Commission also protects the use of the "Idaho(R) potato" and "Grown in Idaho(R)" seals, which are federally registered Certification Marks that belong to the IPC. These Marks ensure that consumers are purchasing potatoes that have been grown in the state of Idaho.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Qatar Telecom (Qtel) Q.S.C. Announces Final Results of Tender Offers in Indonesia and the United States

2009-02-20T06:39:00.000+02:00

DOHA, Qatar and JAKARTA, Indonesia, Feb. 20 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- Qatar Telecom (Qtel) Q.S.C. ("Qtel") today announced the final results of its concurrent tender offers, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Indonesia Communications Pte. Ltd., to acquire Series B Shares of PT Indosat Tbk. (IDX: ISAT; NYSE: IIT), an Indonesian company ("Indosat" and, such shares, "Series B Shares"), pursuant to an Indonesian offer, and to acquire American Depositary Shares representing Series B Shares ("ADSs") pursuant to a U.S. offer. The offers expired at 3:00 a.m., New York City time (which is 3:00 p.m., Jakarta time), on February 18, 2009. In the aggregate, Qtel had offered to purchase up to 1,314,466,775 Series B Shares (including Series B Shares underlying ADSs) in the offers, representing approximately 24.19% of the total issued and outstanding Series B Shares (including Series B Shares underlying ADSs) of Indosat.

Based on the final tabulation provided by The Bank of New York Mellon, the ADS tender agent for the U.S. offer, and PT Danareksa Sekuritas, the share tender agent for the Indonesian offer, a total of 17,705,799 ADSs were validly tendered into the U.S. offer and not withdrawn, and a total of 1,439,620,500 Series B Shares were validly tendered into the Indonesian offer and not withdrawn, representing an aggregate of 2,324,910,450 Series B Shares (including Series B Shares underlying ADSs). Each ADS represents fifty (50) Series B Shares.

Because the number of Series B Shares (including Series B Shares underlying ADSs) tendered into the offers exceeds the aggregate number of Series B Shares that Qtel offered to purchase in the offers, the proration rules will apply pursuant to the terms of the offers. The proration factor is approximately 56.54%.

Applying the proration factor, Qtel announced that it has accepted for purchase 10,010,572 ADSs at the offer price of US$31.0055 per ADS (which is the U.S. dollar equivalent of Indonesian Rupiah 369,400) and 813,938,000 Series B Shares at the offer price of Indonesian Rupiah 7,388 per Series B Share. After consummation of the offers, Qtel will beneficially own approximately 65% of the outstanding Series B Shares (including the Series B Shares underlying ADSs).

Settlement of the offers will occur on or prior to March 5, 2009. Payment for the ADSs validly tendered and accepted for purchase in the U.S. offer will be made in U.S. dollars, and payment for the Series B Shares accepted for purchase in the Indonesian offer will be made in Indonesian Rupiah. All tendered ADSs and Series B Shares that were not accepted for purchase in the offers will be returned to the tendering holders.

Pursuant to the terms of the U.S. offer, the purchase price for ADSs was converted from Indonesian Rupiah to U.S. dollars based on the "Applicable Exchange Rate" of Indonesian Rupiah 11,914 for US$1.00, which is the average of the U.S. dollar/Indonesian Rupiah sell rates for transactions as reported by Bank Indonesia at 4:00 p.m., Jakarta time, on each of the last five (5) Indonesian business days of the offer period (excluding the last day of the offer period) on its official website at: http://www.bi.go.id/web/en/Moneter/Kurs+Bank+Indonesia/Kurs+Transaksi/ .

About Qtel

Qatar Telecom (Qtel), a corporation organized under the laws of Qatar and headquartered in Doha, Qatar, is Qatar's sole telecommunications provider and one of the largest public companies in that country. Qtel provides a wide range of telecommunications products including, among others, national and international GSM mobile services, internet and cable television services. Qtel's shares are listed and traded on the Doha Securities Market and the Abu Dhabi Securities Market, and the Global Depository Receipts of Qtel are traded on the London Stock Exchange.

Forward-looking Statements

Statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts may be "forward-looking" statements. To identify these forward-looking statements look for words like "believes", "expects", "may", "will", "should", "seeks", "intends", "plans", "projects", "estimates", or "anticipates" and similar words and phrases. These, and all forward-looking statements, are based on current expectations and necessarily are subject to risks and uncertainties which would cause actual results to differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors which include, but are not limited to, our ability to achieve our objectives and to maintain quality, resilience and service support. We caution readers not to rely on forward- looking statements, and we disclaim any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

    Press Contacts

    For Qtel
     Nick Swierzy
     Tel:   +974-559-9686
     Email: NSwierzy@qtel.com.qa

    International PR
     Diana Footitt
     Tel:   +852-9183-0667
     Email: diana.footitt@fd.com

     Laurel Teo
     Tel:   +65-8228-1061
     Email: laurel.teo@fd.com

    Indonesia PR
     Dian Safitri
     Tel:   +62-811-852-004
     Email: dian.safitri@inkemaris.com

     Armand Maris
     Tel:   +62-812-825-0440
     Email: armand.maris@inkemaris.com

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Passion Parties Brings 'Pure Satisfaction' to Daytime Television

2009-02-20T00:59:00.000+02:00

A Revolutionary Breakthrough in Sexual Satisfaction is featured on Hit TV Show, 'The Doctors'

LAS VEGAS, Feb. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Passion Parties, the premier direct sales party plan company and leading supplier of sensual products, announces the popularity of the Pure Satisfaction(R) UniSEX Enhancement Gel, one of the first intimacy gels made available to both men and women.

As seen on the new hit television show, The Doctors, Pure Satisfaction(R) is a safe, aloe vera-based topical gel enriched with a blend of natural ingredients including L-Arginine, an amino acid that is known to promote and enhance clitoral and penile sensitivity and arousal. Other doctors have also seen results of this incredible exclusive product. When interviewed in 2005 on the WB Networks' The Daily Buzz and asked why Pure Satisfaction(R) is Passion Parties' number one selling product, renowned sex educator and therapist, Dr. Laura Berman replied, "Because it works!"

"At Passion Parties, we are excited to offer products that help both women and men strengthen their bond during lovemaking," said President Pat Davis. "The Pure Satisfaction(R) UniSEX Enhancement Gel provides a comprehensive product for optimizing sexual health and performance. When coupled with our other exclusive G-Spot Creme, also featured on The Doctors, wonderful lovemaking is bound to occur."

To learn more about the Pure Satisfaction(R) UniSEX Enhancement Gel or G-Spot Creme, Passion Parties products, to join the business or to have a Passion Party in the United States or Canada, visit the web site www.passionparties.com.

About Passion Parties

Passion Parties, Inc. leads the party plan industry as the premier supplier of sensual products in the United States and Canada. Informative Passion Parties create a unique environment for women; one that is fun, educational and confidential. With over 74,000 women who have joined the company as Consultants since its inception in 1994, Passion Parties offers women the opportunity to own and manage their own business, while promoting sexual awareness and well-being. For more information on Passion Parties products, business or parties, visit www.passionparties.com.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Glendale, Colorado Announces KMGH Channel 7 as the Media Sponsor for Its Infinity Park Rugby Stadium, Sports Complex and Event Center

2009-02-20T00:16:00.000+02:00

GLENDALE, Colo., Feb. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- The City of Glendale, Colorado announced today that it has entered into a Media Sponsorship Agreement (MSA) with Denver's ABC Channel 7 (KMGH-TV), for its Infinity Park Rugby Stadium, Sports Complex and Event Center for 2009.

Commenting on the MSA, Larry Harte, Mayor of Glendale, stated, "We are very pleased to have entered into this MSA with KMGH-TV. We have worked extremely hard to improve the lifestyle the City has to offer its residents and the surrounding community. Through the events we are producing at Infinity Park, the youth programs we are offering at the Stadium and our new state-of-the-art special event venue, we are accomplishing our goals of improving Glendale's 'quality of community.' The exposure that we will gain through our relationship with KMGH-TV will go a long way in publicizing Glendale as a new destination."

"KMGH-TV is excited to partner with Infinity Park as you embark on this adventure to promote the sport of rugby, as well as every aspect of your first class facility," stated Ted Vanderveen, Senior Marketing Specialist with KMGH-TV.

"Once you see the transformation that has taken place in Glendale and feel the energy that is being generated by the City, you can begin to appreciate the vision and action the city leaders have taken to reach their goals of community improvement. This is a truly remarkable endeavor," continued Mr. Vanderveen.

Under the terms of the agreement, KMGH-TV has agreed to produce a 15-second commercial about Infinity Park and the Glendale Raptors Rugby Football Club that will air in conjunction with the February 22, 2009, 3 - 4 pm MST showing of the international rugby action of USA Sevens National Team at PETCO Park in San Diego. Additionally, this one hour ABC(TM) broadcast falls right before the "Red Carpet Walk" prior to the Academy Awards.

Channel 7 will also be producing a new 30-second commercial spot that will air throughout the year promoting Glendale's Infinity Park and the Raptors as a whole.

Finally, KMGH-TV has agreed to air Glendale Raptors Rugby Football action as part of their Saturday morning Sports Highlight Show.

About Infinity Park, Village of Glendale

Located in Glendale, Colorado, Infinity Park is the nation's first municipally owned rugby stadium. Opening in the fall of 2007 and seating 5,000 fans, Infinity Park has hosted national and international rugby championships and has set the standard for the growth of rugby in the United States. The Glendale Sports Center is a 35,000 square foot fitness facility with a full-time training staff for injuries and rehabilitation needs.

The Infinity Park Event Center opened on November 1, 2008 and features a stunning 8,600 square foot ballroom, two conference rooms and an impressive boardroom that overlooks the Pitch. The International Ballroom offers the highest quality audio visual capabilities as well as open sight lines, with seating for up to 800 guests for a sit-down function.

Infinity Park provides multiple venues with indoor and outdoor access accommodating groups of 5 to 10,000+.

For more information about the Infinity Park Rugby Stadium, Glendale Sports Center, Glendale Raptors Rugby Football Spring Season or Infinity Park Event Center, please visit http://www.infinityparkatglendale.com or http://www.glendalerugby.com or http://www.infinityparkeventcenter.com.

For Media, Advertising and Sponsorship inquiries please contact Diana Anderson at 303.639.4417 (o) or 303.475.0038 (c) or diana@glendalerugby.com.

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Scripps Reports Fourth-Quarter Results

2009-02-19T12:30:00.000+02:00

CINCINNATI, Feb. 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The E.W. Scripps Company (NYSE: SSP) today reported fourth-quarter operating results for its television, newspaper, and licensing and syndication businesses. The operations that formerly comprised the company's Scripps Networks and interactive media divisions, which were spun off into a separate publicly traded company on July 1, 2008, are reported in previous periods as discontinued operations.

The quarterly results reflect continued weakness in advertising sales at the company's newspapers and television stations. The company's revenue decreased 6.2 percent to $265 million, compared with $282 million in the fourth quarter of 2007.

The company reported a loss from continuing operations before income taxes and minority interests of $19.4 million, compared with income before income taxes and minority interests of $44.7 million in the fourth quarter of 2007.

The company still is in the process of finalizing the allocation of its provision for income taxes for 2008 and 2007 between its continuing and discontinued operations. The final allocated amounts will be included in the company's 2008 Form 10K, which is expected to be filed by March 2.

During the fourth quarter, pre-tax income from continuing operations was reduced by the following items:

-- severance costs in the newspaper division totaling $5.0 million,

-- costs related to the separation of the Scripps Networks and interactive media divisions totaling $1.9 million,

-- the write-down of certain long-lived assets in the television division totaling $31.0 million, and

-- the write-down of the company's investment in its Colorado newspaper partnership totaling $10.9 million.

"It became apparent toward the end of the year there's nowhere to hide from the national economic crisis. Despite our geographic diversity and multiple sources of advertising revenue, we're feeling the pain as the recession rolls its way through our local markets and media businesses," said Rich Boehne, president and CEO of Scripps. "Our primary short-term goal is to protect the company's financial health and flexibility, but at the same time we continue to reposition our local brands to take advantage of the long-term opportunities presented by this season of rapid evolution for media."

Fourth-quarter results by segment are as follows:

Television

Revenue from the company's television stations was $93.4 million in the fourth quarter, an increase of 2.1 percent over the fourth quarter of 2007.

    Revenue broken down by category was:
    -- Local, down 26.9 percent to $41.5 million
    -- National, down 26.9 percent to $20.8 million
    -- Political, $26.0 million compared with $1.3 million in the 2007 quarter

After a slow start for political advertising due to national party rules that prohibited Democratic candidates from advertising in Michigan and Florida, the full-year total for political advertising was $41 million, in line with the $42 million reported in the previous presidential election year of 2004.

Cash expenses for the station group were $62.3 million, an increase of 2.5 percent from $60.8 million in the 2007 quarter, despite a 15 percent increase in programming costs.

Segment profit for the television division was $31.1 million in the fourth quarter, a 1.3 percent increase over the fourth quarter of 2007.

Newspapers

Year-over-year revenue from newspapers managed solely by Scripps fell 16.5 percent to $137.5 million. Advertising revenue was down 19.8 percent to $104.8 million.

    Advertising revenue broken down by category was:
    -- Local, down 15.1 percent to $32.1 million
    -- Classified, down 31.2 percent to $27.7 million
    -- National, down 18.0 percent to $7.5 million
    -- Preprint and other, down 13.8 percent to $29.5 million
    -- Online, down 13.1 percent to $8.0 million

The decline in online ad revenue is attributable to the weakness in print classified advertising, to which most of the online advertising is tied. Revenue from pure-play advertisers who only purchase ads on the company's newspaper Web sites more than doubled to $3.7 million.

Circulation revenue was $28.3 million, down 3.9 percent.

Due to significantly lower usage, newsprint and ink expense declined slightly to $16.7 million, despite an increase in newsprint pricing of about 41 percent over the prior-year period.

Cash expenses for Scripps newspapers, including severance costs of $5.0 million, were down 2.1 percent from the prior year.

Segment profit at newspapers managed solely by the company was $12.9 million, compared with $37.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2007.

JOA and Newspaper Partnerships

Scripps reported $51,000 in equity in earnings of JOAs, compared to $11.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2007. The dramatic decrease is attributable to the cessation of cash distributions from the Denver Newspaper Agency in the second half of 2008, as well as the change in the reporting of earnings from the Albuquerque partnership. As a result of the closure of The Albuquerque Tribune and termination of the Albuquerque JOA in early 2008, the company's residual interest in the Albuquerque partnership is now treated as a passive investment. For reporting purposes, earnings from the partnership have been removed from the "JOA and newspaper partnerships" segment in 2008 and now are reflected in the "investment in newspaper partnership" line in the attached financial tables.

Consequently, the results of the JOAs and newspaper partnerships decreased segment profit by $8.4 million in the quarter, compared with a contribution to segment profit of $3.5 million in the fourth quarter of 2007.

Licensing and Other Media

Revenue was $30.9 million, a 20 percent increase compared with $25.7 million in the prior-year period, and segment profit increased more than 36 percent to $4.3 million from $3.2 million in the 2007 quarter. The increase was largely attributable to the ABC television network airing 13 Peanuts specials in the fourth quarter of 2008 vs. eight airings in the 2007 quarter.

Full Year

For the full year, consolidated revenues from continuing operations decreased 7.2 percent to $1.00 billion from $1.08 billion in 2007.

Revenues at newspapers managed solely by Scripps decreased 13.6 percent to $568.7 million, and segment profit was $71.5 million, compared with prior-year segment profit of $135.9 million.

Television revenue was essentially flat at $326.9 million, and segment profit decreased 3.9 percent to $80.6 million.

Revenue from licensing and other media rose 9.5 percent to $102.5 million, and segment profit increased 16.2 percent to $10.4 million.

Non-operating items

Due to sharp declines in the equities markets in the fourth quarter, the value of the company's pension plan assets was approximately $145 million less than the value of the company's accumulated benefit obligations at the end of the year. The company's pension expense in 2008 was $15 million, but it is expected to climb to $41 million in 2009. The company is only required to fund approximately $5 million into its pension plans in 2009 due to excess contributions in prior years, but in 2010 the company's pension contribution is expected to be approximately $46 million.

Bank debt as of Dec. 31 was approximately $61 million.

Capital expenditures for 2009 are expected to total approximately $52 million.

Denver

For the full year, newsroom expenses for the Rocky Mountain News incurred by Scripps were approximately $16 million higher than equity in earnings from the Denver Newspaper Agency, excluding a one-time gain from the sale of real estate in the first quarter.

The company announced in December its intention to sell the Rocky Mountain News and expects to announce its plans for the future of the newspaper before the end of the first quarter.

Expense-control initiatives

To reduce expenses and protect the health of the company during this period of unprecedented pressure on the company's ad revenue sources, Scripps yesterday announced to employees a list of cost-saving measures. The initiatives include pay reductions of 3 to 5 percent for most employees at newspapers and the corporate office. These cuts are in addition to salary cuts of between 5 and 15 percent that affected corporate executives, TV station general managers and newspaper publishers effective January 1, 2009. The company also will suspend its match of most employees' contributions to 401(k) retirement savings plans, and drastically reduce bonuses across the company for 2009. Other changes were implemented as well, differing by location, division and, where applicable, collective bargaining agreements. It is expected that these measures will reduce the company's expenses in 2009 by approximately $20 million.

Employees also were told that the company will freeze its pension plan later this year, but specific details of the change - and what the company will do to help transition employees who are close to retirement - are not yet available.

Outlook

Fast-changing economic conditions, which weigh heavily on the decisions of advertisers, complicate the forecasting of first-quarter performance. Revenue and expense trends of the fourth quarter of 2008 have continued into the first quarter of 2009.

Conference call

The senior management of The E.W. Scripps Company will discuss the company's fourth-quarter results during a telephone conference call at 9 a.m. EST today. Scripps will offer a live audio webcast of the conference call. To access the webcast, visit http://www.scripps.com, choose "Shareholders" then follow the link in the "Upcoming Events" section.

To access the conference call by telephone, dial 1-800-230-1074 (U.S.) or 1-612-332-0107 (International), approximately 10 minutes before the start of the call. Callers will need the name of the call ("fourth-quarter earnings report") to be granted access. Callers also will be asked to provide their name and company affiliation. The media and general public are provided access to the conference call on a listen-only basis.

A replay line will be open from 11 a.m. ESTFeb. 19 until 11:59 p.m. ESTFeb. 26. The domestic number to access the replay is 1-800-475-6701 and the international number is 1-320-365-3844. The access code for both numbers is 985059.

A replay of the conference call will be archived and available online for an extended period of time following the call. To access the audio replay, visit http://www.scripps.com approximately four hours after the call, choose "Shareholders" then follow the "audio archives" link on the left navigation bar.

Forward-looking statements

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements related to the company's businesses that are based on management's current expectations. Forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks, trends and uncertainties, including changes in advertising demand and other economic conditions that could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations expressed in forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements should be evaluated with the understanding of their inherent uncertainty. The company's written policy on forward-looking statements can be found on page F-5 of its 2007 SEC Form 10K. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date the statement is made.

About Scripps

The E.W. Scripps Company is a diverse, 130-year-old media enterprise with interests in television stations, newspapers, local news and information Web sites, and licensing and syndication. The company's portfolio of locally focused media properties includes: 10 TV stations (six ABC affiliates, three NBC affiliates and one independent); daily and community newspapers in 15 markets and the Washington, D.C.-based Scripps Media Center, home of the Scripps Howard News Service; and United Media, the licensor and syndicator of Peanuts, Dilbert and approximately 150 other features and comics. For a full listing of Scripps media companies and their associated Web sites, visit http://www.scripps.com/.



    THE E.W. SCRIPPS COMPANY
    RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

    (in thousands, except per share data)

                           Three months ended              Years ended
                              December 31,                 December 31,
                         2008      2007   Change      2008     2007    Change

    Operating revenues $264,926  $282,308 (6.2)% $1,001,792 $1,079,546  (7.2)%
    Costs and expenses,
     excluding
     separation costs  (231,947) (232,434)(0.2)%   (906,757)  (939,237) (3.5)%
    Separation costs     (1,877)                    (33,506)      (257)
    Depreciation and
     amortization of
     intangibles        (12,402)  (11,406) 8.7 %    (46,972)   (44,705)  5.1 %
    Impairment of
     goodwill,
     indefinite and
     long-lived assets  (31,036)                   (809,936)
    Gains on disposal
     of property, plant
     and equipment        3,565       280             5,809         24

    Operating income
     (loss)              (8,771)   38,748          (789,570)    95,371
    Interest expense               (7,998)          (10,941)   (37,121)(70.5)%
    Equity in earnings
     of JOAs and other
     joint ventures         920    10,983            13,795     27,688 (50.2)%
    Write-down of
     investments in
     newspaper
     partnerships       (10,876)                   (130,784)
    Loss on
     repurchases of
     debt                                           (26,380)
    Miscellaneous,
     net                   (642)    2,953             6,888     17,148 (59.8)%

    Income (loss) from
     continuing
     operations before
     income taxes and
     minority
     interests         $(19,369)  $44,686         $(936,992)  $103,086

    See notes to results of operations.



    Notes to Results of Operations

    1. OTHER CHARGES AND CREDITS

Loss from continuing operations before income tax and minority interest was affected by the following:

2008 - As a result of the spin-off of Scripps Networks Interactive ("SNI"), employees holding share-based equity awards, received modified awards in E.W. Scripps and SNI's stock. Under SFAS 123R the adjustment to the outstanding share-based equity awards is a modification of the awards and incremental compensation is recognized to the extent the fair value of the awards immediately prior to the modification is less than the fair value of the modified awards. Compensation associated with the modification totaled $19.6 million and is included in separation costs in our 2008 results of operations from continuing operations before income tax and minority interest.

Due primarily to the continuing negative effects of the economy on our advertising revenues and those of other publishing companies, and the difference between our stock price following the spin-off of SNI to shareholders and the per share carrying value of our remaining net assets, we determined that indications of impairment of goodwill related to our newspaper business segments existed as of June 30, 2008. In the second quarter we recorded a $779 million, non-cash charge to reduce the carrying value of goodwill. In 2008, we also recorded a non-cash charge of $131 million to reduce the carrying value of our investment in the Denver JOA and Colorado newspaper partnership to our share of the estimated fair value of their net assets.

In the fourth quarter we took a $31 million non cash charge to write-down to fair value certain tangible and intangible assets in our Television segment.

In the second quarter of 2008, we redeemed the remaining balances of our outstanding notes and recorded a $26.4 million loss on the extinguishment of debt.

Investment results, reported in the caption "Miscellaneous, net" in our 2008 results of operations from continuing operations before income tax and minority interest, include realized gains of $6.8 million from the sale of certain investments in the second quarter of 2008.

2007 - A majority of our newspapers offered voluntary separation plans to eligible employees during 2007. In connection with the acceptance of the offer by 137 employees, we accrued severance related costs of $8.9 million in the second quarter of 2007.

2. SEGMENT INFORMATION

We determine our business segments based upon our management and internal reporting structure. Our reportable segments are strategic businesses that offer different products and services.

Our newspaper business segment includes daily and community newspapers in 15 markets in the U.S. Newspapers earn revenue primarily from the sale of advertising to local and national advertisers and from the sale of newspapers to readers.

JOAs and newspaper partnerships include a newspaper that is operated pursuant to the terms of joint operating agreement. The newspaper in the JOA maintains an independent editorial operation and receives a share of the operating profits of the combined newspaper operations. This segment also includes newspaper partnerships. We account for our share of the earnings of our JOA and newspaper partnerships using the equity method of accounting. Our equity in earnings of our JOA and newspaper partnerships is included in "Equity in earnings of JOAs and other joint ventures" in our results from operations. When we ceased the publication of our Albuquerque newspaper our investment became a passive investment and the equity earnings are no longer included in segment profit from 2008 forward.

Television includes six ABC-affiliated stations, three NBC-affiliated stations and one independent station. Our television stations reach approximately 10% of the nation's television households. Television stations earn revenue primarily from the sale of advertising to local and national advertisers.

Licensing and other media aggregates our operating segments that are too small to report separately, and primarily includes syndication and licensing of news features and comics.

In addition, certain corporate costs and expenses, including information technology, pensions and other employee benefits, and other shared services, are allocated to our business segments. The allocations are generally amounts agreed upon by management, which may differ from amounts that would be incurred if such services were purchased separately by the business segment. Corporate assets are primarily cash, cash equivalents and other short-term investments, property and equipment primarily used for corporate purposes, and deferred income taxes.

Our chief operating decision maker (as defined by SFAS 131 - Segment Reporting) evaluates the operating performance of our business segments and makes decisions about the allocation of resources to our business segments using a measure we call segment profit. Segment profit excludes interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, impairment charges, divested operating units, restructuring activities (including our proportionate share of JOA restructuring activities), investment results and certain other items that are included in net income (loss) determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.



    Information regarding our business segments is as follows:

    (in thousands)

                           Three months ended              Years ended
                              December 31,                 December 31,
                         2008     2007    Change     2008      2007    Change

    Segment operating
     revenues:
      Newspapers    $137,532  $164,632  (16.5)%   $568,667   $658,327  (13.6)%
      JOAs and
       newspaper
       partnerships                 49                 133        225  (40.9)%
      Television      93,402    91,516    2.1 %    326,860    325,841    0.3 %
      Licensing and
       other media    30,893    25,655   20.4 %    102,538     93,633    9.5 %
      Corporate        3,099       456               3,594      1,520

    Total operating
     revenues       $264,926  $282,308   (6.2)% $1,001,792 $1,079,546   (7.2)%

    Segment profit
     (loss):
      Newspapers     $12,850   $37,267  (65.5)%    $71,475   $135,870  (47.4)%
      JOAs and
       newspaper
       partnerships   (8,385)    3,539             (15,606)    (1,235)
      Television      31,148    30,743    1.3 %     80,589     83,860   (3.9)%
      Licensing and
       other media     4,349     3,185   36.5 %     10,437      8,982   16.2 %
      Corporate       (6,753)  (13,877) (51.3)%    (42,208)   (59,480) (29.0)%

    Depreciation and
     amortization of
     intangibles     (12,402)  (11,406)   8.7 %    (46,972)   (44,705)   5.1 %
    Impairment of
     goodwill,
     indefinite and
     long-lived
     assets          (31,036)                     (809,936)
    Investment in
     newspaper
     partnership         690                         4,143
    Gains on disposal
     of property,
     plant and
     equipment         3,565       280               5,809         24
    Interest expense            (7,998)            (10,941)   (37,121) (70.5)%
    Separation costs  (1,877)                      (33,506)      (257)
    Write-down of
     investment in
     newspaper
     partnerships    (10,876)                     (130,784)
    Loss on
     repurchases of
     debt
                                                   (26,380)
    Miscellaneous,
     net                (642)    2,953               6,888     17,148  (59.8)%

    Income (loss)
     from continuing
     operations before
     income taxes and
     minority
     interests      $(19,369)  $44,686           $(936,992)  $103,086

Certain items required to reconcile segment profitability to consolidated results of operations determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America are attributed to particular business segments. Significant reconciling items attributable to each business segment are as follows:

    (in thousands)

                                      Three months ended      Years ended
                                          December 31,        December 31,
                                        2008      2007      2008       2007

    Depreciation:
    Newspapers                         $5,578    $5,578    $21,905    $22,273
    JOAs and newspaper partnerships       321       330      1,290      1,320
    Television                          5,132     4,232     19,057     16,939
    Licensing and other media             309       119        787        475
    Corporate                             253       340        713        608

    Total depreciation                $11,593   $10,599    $43,752    $41,615

    Amortization of intangibles:
    Newspapers                           $525      $522     $2,088     $1,961
    Television                            284       285      1,132      1,129

    Total amortization of intangibles    $809      $807     $3,220     $3,090

    Gains (losses) on disposal of
     property, plant and equipment:
    Newspapers                           $(82)     $(65)      $(91)     $(145)
    JOAs and newspaper partnerships         1                  (32)        (1)
    Television                          3,687       378      6,088        225
    Corporate                             (41)      (33)      (156)       (55)

    Gains (losses) on disposal of
     property, plant and equipment     $3,565      $280     $5,809        $24



    The following is segment operating revenue for newspapers:

    (in thousands)
                           Three months ended             Years ended
                              December 31,                December 31,
                          2008     2007   Change     2008      2007    Change

    Segment operating
     revenues:
      Local             $32,099  $37,787  (15.1)%  $124,074  $142,431  (12.9)%
      Classified         27,738   40,332  (31.2)%   141,655   187,475  (24.4)%
      National            7,487    9,134  (18.0)%    28,086    34,927  (19.6)%
      Online              7,969    9,169  (13.1)%    36,768    40,085   (8.3)%
      Preprint and other 29,497   34,200  (13.8)%   106,908   116,647   (8.3)%

      Newspaper
       advertising      104,790  130,622  (19.8)%   437,491   521,565  (16.1)%
      Circulation        28,319   29,476   (3.9)%   113,398   118,696   (4.5)%
      Other               4,423    4,534   (2.4)%    17,778    18,066   (1.6)%
    Total operating
     revenues          $137,532 $164,632  (16.5)  %$568,667  $658,327  (13.6)%



    The following is segment operating revenue for television:

    (in thousands)

                           Three months ended             Years ended
                               December 31,               December 31,
                          2008     2007   Change     2008      2007   Change

    Segment operating
     revenues:
      Local             $41,546  $56,824  (26.9)%  $180,065  $204,791  (12.1)%
      National           20,759   28,407  (26.9)%    86,252   101,002  (14.6)%
      Political          26,044    1,337             41,012     2,735
      Network
       compensation       1,922    1,825    5.3 %     7,792     7,431    4.9 %
      Other               3,131    3,123    0.3 %    11,739     9,882   18.8 %

    Total operating
     revenues           $93,402  $91,516    2.1 %  $326,860  $325,841    0.3 %



    3. JOINT OPERATING AGREEMENT AND NEWSPAPER PARTNERSHIPS

    Financial information related to our JOA and newspaper partnerships is as
follows:

    (in thousands)

                              Three months ended            Years ended
                                  December 31,              December 31,
                             2008    2007    Change    2008    2007    Change

    Equity in earnings of
     JOAs and newspaper
     partnerships:
      Denver                        $9,200            $9,530  $19,426  (50.9)%
      Albuquerque                    2,390                      9,773
      Colorado                 51     (607)              122   (1,188)
      Other newspaper
       partnerships and
       joint ventures                                            (323)

    Total equity in
     earnings of JOAs          51   10,983             9,652   27,688  (65.1)%
    Operating revenues
     of JOAs and newspaper
     partnerships                       49               133      225  (40.9)%
    Total                      51   11,032             9,785   27,913  (64.9)%
    JOA editorial costs
     and expenses           8,436    7,493   12.6 %   25,391   29,148  (12.9)%
    Contribution to
     segment profit
     (loss)               $(8,385)  $3,539          $(15,606) $(1,235)

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

Sri Lankan Foreign Secretary Responds to Hip Hop Star M.I.A. on PBS's 'Tavis Smiley'

2009-02-19T01:51:00.000+02:00

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 18 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Sri Lanka's Foreign Secretary, Dr. Palitha Kohona, responded to comments made about the civil war in Sri Lanka by Oscar and Grammy-nominated hip hop artist, M.I.A. on tonight's edition of "Tavis Smiley" on PBS.

In an exclusive interview, Dr. Kohona took issue with the comments made by M.I.A. on "Tavis Smiley" three weeks ago, which were repeated in a New York Times article on February 11 (http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/11/world/asia/11mia.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=Tavis%20Smiley,%20sri%20lanka&st=cse).

"M.I.A. is a great artist and we wish her well," said Dr. Kohona. "But, sorry, I think she is misinformed and it's best that she stays with what she's good at, which is music. Not politics."

Clip from interview: http://www.pbs.org/kcet/tavissmiley/video/share.html?s=tavi08s1fb9q75e

On the Jan. 28th edition of "Tavis Smiley" M.I.A., a member of Sri Lanka's Tamil minority, accused the Sri Lankan government of "systematic genocide."

[Via http://www.prnewswire.com]

The Sportsman Channel and Local Southern California Homeless Shelters Partner for Hunt.Fish.Feed.(SM)

2009-02-18T23:19:00.000+02:00

NEW YORK, Feb. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Hunt.Fish.Feed.(SM) -- The Sportsman Channel's unique initiative to help feed the nation's needy during the economic crisis and beyond -- is joining forces with The Salvation Army in Orange County and the Union Rescue Mission in Los Angeles to feed members of the community this weekend. The Hunt.Fish.Feed.(SM) events will be held at The Salvation Army's Hospitality House on Friday, February 20, from 5:00pm to 6:30pm and at the Union Rescue Mission on Saturday, February 21, from 11am to 3pm. Both events are expected to feed more than 1,000 individuals in need.

The Hunt.Fish.Feed.(SM) initiative is a unique outreach program that utilizes a new and previously unused food source -- game donated by hunters -- to feed those struggling with hunger, made possible by responsible outdoorsmen to whom hunting is synonymous with harvesting. The Southern California events will utilize venison, a highly nutritious food source, which will be donated by local hunters from the region, in cooperation with The Sportsman Channel and the Safari Club International Foundation.

In the U.S., California has the highest homeless population with over 170,000 individuals. Los Angeles accounts for 53% or 91,000 of California's homeless, ranking the city number one in the country. Orange County accounts for 21% or 35,000, ranking it third in the country. Of the homeless populations in Los Angeles and Orange County, over 36% are homeless families. Meanwhile, the overpopulation of deer is responsible for approximately 1.5 million in deer-related vehicle accidents, causing about 150 deaths and $1.1 billion in property damages annually.

"This event is a perfect example of what can be accomplished when the concept of 'sharing' is applied to every aspect of life. We are grateful to the Sportsman Channel for including Union Rescue Mission in this creative approach to feeding people who are hungry," said Jacqui Groseth, Associate Development Director Union Rescue Mission.

"Hunting is synonymous with harvesting," said Mark Kang, VP of Affiliate Relations for The Sportsman Channel. "Hunt.Fish.Feed. connects sportsmen and homeless shelters to utilize a new food source for the hungry. During these economic hard times this initiative has become even more significant, especially in a state like California who struggles with the highest homeless populations in the U.S."

"I've never seen an event like this. It's the most unique philanthropic event I've ever seen," remarked Las Vegas Mayor Oscar B. Goodman, who attended last month's Las Vegas Hunt.Fish.Feed.(SM) event.

The Orange County and Los Angeles events are part of The Sportsman Channel's Hunt.Fish.Feed.(SM) tour taking place in six other cities across the nation, targeting the highest homeless populations, including New York City, Detroit, Las Vegas, Denver, Houston and Washington, D.C.

    WHAT:    Hunt.Fish.Feed.(SM) Orange County

    WHERE:   The Salvation Army's Hospitality House
             818 E. Third Street
             Santa Ana, CA

    WHEN:    Friday, February 20, 2009
             Serving Dinner 5 to 6:30pm


    WHAT:    Hunt.Fish.Feed.(SM)  Los Angeles

    WHERE:   Union Rescue Mission
             545 S. San Pedro Street
             Los Angeles, CA

    WHEN:    Saturday, February 21, 2009
             Serving Lunch 11am to 3pm


    Contact:  Greg Hughes, 404-394-3700; ghughes5425@gmail.com
              Kim Hawkins, 262-442-0439; Khawkins@thesportsmanchannel.com
              Amy Sorrells, 404-550-4885; amyssorrells@comcast.net

ReQuest Integrates Hulu Streaming Content in Home Media Servers

2009-02-18T14:05:00.000+02:00

Intelligent Media Client now includes hundreds of hours of free programming

BALLSTON SPA, N.Y., Feb. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- ReQuest, pioneers and industry leaders in the realm of music server and whole-house media technology, is releasing new free firmware for the Intelligent Media Client (IMC), giving users the ability to stream hundreds of hours of television shows and movies from Hulu.com. ReQuest is currently the only high-performance media server manufacturer in the CEDIA Channel to include this feature built-in.

Hulu is a free, online, streaming video service that delivers both new television series as well as some nostalgic dramas and sitcoms plus a growing library of classic and contemporary movies, as well as hours of "webisodes" and other bonus programming.

Hulu control will be familiar to current users of the IMC. ReQuest has worked to make the interface blend seamlessly with the other familiar features of the system. Watching video content, searching for favorite titles, and even subscribing to favorite series are all intuitive processes in an easy-to-navigate menu system. "With a quick click of the remote, users can add their favorite shows to the 'My Shows' menu, and as new episodes come online, they are automatically added into the system," ReQuest CEO Peter Cholnoky explains. "We do all the tagging and creation of RSS feeds transparently, so the users never have to go to their computer to select shows. All control takes place right in the IMC."

Popular Hulu features such as "Most Recent" and "Highest Rated" videos are also available in the IMC interface.

The Intelligent Media Client is a convenient, elegantly scalable network device that harnesses the power of ReQuest iQ and F.Series systems to deliver an ever-expanding array of multiroom entertainment options. Intuitive IR control brings DVD movies, music, photos, online streaming content, and informational widgets to the biggest TVs in the house. With the recent introduction of NAS (Network Attached Storage) support to ReQuest servers, customers can easily grow their libraries of music and movies using inexpensive NAS products.

Hulu is included on all new ReQuest IMC shipments. Firmware updates are available to existing customers at no charge. This is only the first of many compelling IMC enhancements planned for 2009.

Digital images of ReQuest products are available in the Press Relations section of ReQuest's website at http://www.ReQuest.com/press/pressgraphics.asp

About ReQuest

ReQuest, Inc.'s home-entertainment systems have set the standard for high-end digital media storage, management, playback, and system integration since 1998. The Company's award-winning media servers are the accepted leaders in cutting-edge technology. ReQuest has received numerous accolades for having the best service in the consumer electronics industry, with an installed base of more than 30,000 units. ReQuest was ranked by Inc. magazine as one of the top 500 fastest-growing private businesses in America for two years in a row. For more information, visit http://www.request.com.

    Media Contact:

    Scot Seguine
    518-490-6142
    scot.seguine@request.com

This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com.

Verizon Adds 14 New Channels to FiOS TV Lineup for New Jersey Area Customers

2009-02-18T14:00:00.000+02:00

New FiOS TV Customers Eligible for a High-Def or Home Media Digital Video Recorder - Free for 6 Months

NEWARK, N.J., Feb. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon FiOS TV continues delivering the ultimate home-entertainment experience, with the addition of 14 new channels to its New Jersey lineup. FiOS TV customers in the area now have a total of 108 high-definition (HD) channels available, more than any traditional cable TV company in the area. Customers also can choose from more than 1,200 HD video-on-demand (VOD) titles, which are offered each month.

"Only Verizon delivers all-digital TV over an all-fiber-optic network straight to customers' homes," said Mark Adams, Verizon's marketing director for the mid-Atlantic region. "Our advanced network creates the ultimate home-entertainment experience, with an ever-expanding channel lineup, the most HD channels, the best picture-and-sound quality and interactive features that go beyond old-fashioned cable."

New customers who subscribe to FiOS TV between now and Feb. 21 will also receive their choice of free use for six months of either a high-definition (HD) digital video recorder (DVR) or an HD Home Media DVR. Customers who take advantage of this offer will save between $95 and $119 for the first six months, depending upon the DVR customers choose.

Customers who take advantage of Verizon's multi-room DVR can use one DVR to record programming that can be watched on up to six other TV sets in the home. This includes viewing up to three separately recorded programs simultaneously on different TV sets, and the ability to pause recorded programming on one set and continue watching it on another. Verizon's Home Media DVR also allows customers to access photos and music from their personal computers and play them on their TV or home theater systems.

New Content

The 14 new channels available to subscribers in the New Jersey area offer more movie and sports content, with channels such as Encore HD, which features a great selection of movie choices; Chiller, a 24-hour channel devoted to suspense and horror movies; and sports channels including CBS College Sports Network and Golf Channel HD. Customers also have access to the Home Shopping Network in HD and Blue Highway TV, a channel highlighting music, neighborhoods, art, festivals and celebrations that define American culture.

FiOS TV also continues to expand its diverse content with the addition of eight new multicultural content channels: CCTV-9, Deutsche Welle, Zee TV, Jus Punjabi, ProSiebenSat.1Welt, SET Asia, Starz Indie and Starz Retro, leading channels for multicultural audiences as well as Asian, Indian, German and European audiences.

FiOS TV's innovative interactive media guide (IMG) helps customers quickly and easily find and enjoy content from TV listings, VOD catalogs and their DVR, as well as personal music and photos from a home network. Among the features of the IMG are:

Remote DVR management - Subscribers can remotely control their Home Media DVRs either online or via select Verizon Wireless handsets. On-the-go FiOS TV subscribers can use the service to remotely review, change or add recording requests, delete recorded programs, browse and search TV and video-on-demand listings, set parental controls, and more.
Widgets - Customers have one-touch, on-demand access to local weather and traffic reports shown on TV screens. Widgets provide local traffic and weather reports, daily local and national news headlines, daily national sports headlines, community news, and daily horoscopes.
Free casual games - With the remote control and an HD set-top box, customers can access chess, solitaire and wordplay.
"What's Hot on FiOS TV" - Features information on the most-popular programs currently being broadcast in the region and the most popular VOD titles.
Return to paused programming - Allows customers to pause live programming, change channels, and then return to the paused program and pick up where they left off.
Channel sorting options - Customers can create two separate lists of favorite channels for family members. Customers also can filter channels in the guide by genre, for instances where a customer only may want to see HD content, international channels or kids programming, among others.

China Mass Media International Advertising Corp. to Announce Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2008 Financial Results on February 24, 2009

2009-02-18T05:01:00.000+02:00

BEIJING, Feb. 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- China Mass Media International Advertising Corp. (NYSE: CMM), a leading independent television advertising company in China, today announced that it will release its unaudited financial results for the fourth quarter and full year 2008 before the market opens on February 24, 2009. Management will host a conference call to discuss the results at 8:00 am Eastern Standard Time (9:00 pmBeijing time) on the same day.

Conference Call

Mr. Wang Sheng Cheng, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Eric Cheung, Chief Financial Officer, and Ms. Julie Sun, Vice President of Corporate Development, will discuss the results and take questions following the prepared remarks.

The dial-in details for the live conference call are as follows:

- U.S. Toll Free Number: +1 866 761 0748

- International dial-in number: +1 617 614 2706

- China Toll Free Number: +10 800 130 0399

- Hong Kong Toll Free Number: + 800 96 3844

Passcode: CMM

A live webcast of the conference call will be available on the investor relations section of the Company's website at: http://www.chinammia.com.

A telephone replay of the call will be available for seven days after the conclusion of the conference call. The dial-in details for the replay are as follows:

- U.S. Toll Free Number: +1 888 286 8010

- International dial-in number: +1 617 801 6888

Passcode: 21500418

About China Mass Media

As a leading TV advertising company in China, MMIA provides a full range of advertising services, including advertising agency services, creative production services, public service announcements sponsorship services, and other value added services. MMIA currently offers more than 500 minutes of advertising time slots on CCTV 1,2,4,E and F, the largest television network in China. MMIA has also been the exclusive advertising agent of the most popular and highest rating TV program, Chinese New Year Gala, since its incorporation. Since 2003, MMIA has produced over 200 advertisements and has won a number of the most prestigious awards in China.

http://www.chinammia.com

    For further information, contact:

    China Mass Media International Advertising Corp.

    Julie Sun
    V.P. Corporate Development
    6/F, Tower B, Corporate Square,
    35 Finance Street Xicheng District
    Beijing, 100032
    P. R. China
    Tel:  86 10 8809 1050
    E-mail: IR@chinammia.com

    Christensen

    Tip Fleming
    Tel:  852 2117 0861
    E-mail:   tfleming@ChristensenIR.com

    Roger Hu
    Tel:  852 2117 0861
    E-mail:  rhu@ChristensenIR.com

Sorpresa!'s Branded Block Launches Nationwide on Mega TV Via DirecTV

2009-02-17T23:00:00.000+02:00

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Sorpresa! is now airing a branded kids block on Mega TV via DirecTV expanding its audience during this block by more than a million Hispanic satellite subscribers thru DirecTV Mas in addition to Sorpresa!'s existing 1.1 million cable subscribers. Now more kids and families nationwide can enjoy Sorpresa! through an in-language, in-culture preschool programming block launched on Saturday, February 7th. The one and a half hour block will air Saturdays and Sundays at 10 AM EST/7 AM PT.

"Sorpresa!'s unique style and commitment to serve the Hispanic children's audience along with our previous success with the branded block with them makes us confident that this new venture will be very successful. The Sorpresa! block will allow us to continue to provide an in language, in culture viewing experience that our Hispanic children and their families will enjoy," stated Cynthia Hudson, EVP/ CCO of SBS and the Managing Director of Mega TV.

"We are very happy to continue our partnership with Mega TV and to support their launch on DirecTV, enabling our programming to serve a wider audience beyond our existing 1.1 million cable subscribers," said Maria Badillo, SVP of Programming. "We have selected a collection of popular programs from Sorpresa! representing both educational and entertaining content, including preschool programs like Cubeez, Bali, Zumbers, Boom and Reds, and Telmo and Tula: Little Cooks."

About Sorpresa!

Sorpresa!, a Juniper Content Corporation company, is the nation's first Hispanic children's television network and digital community. Sorpresa! is offered on Comcast, Cablevision, Charter Communications, Cox Communications, Time Warner Cable, Verizon FiOS, participating National Cable TV Cooperative systems and in Puerto Rico on Liberty Cable Systems, Choice Cable and OneLink.

Juniper Content Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding future events and future performance of Juniper Content Corporation. These statements are based on management's current expectations or beliefs. Actual results may vary materially from those expressed or implied by the statements herein. This information is qualified in its entirety by cautionary statements and risk factors disclosure contained in certain of Juniper Content Securities and Exchange Commission filings. For a description of certain factors that could cause actual results to vary from current expectations and forward-looking statements contained in this press release, refer to documents that Juniper Content files from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Juniper Content is under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, changes in assumptions or otherwise.

About Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc.

Spanish Broadcasting System, Inc. is the largest publicly traded Hispanic-controlled media and entertainment company in the United States. SBS owns and/or operates 21 radio stations located in the top Hispanic markets of New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, San Francisco and Puerto Rico, including the #1 Spanish-language radio station in America, WSKQ-FM in New York City, as well as 4 of the Top 8 rated radio stations airing the Tropical, Mexican Regional, Spanish Adult Contemporary and Urban format genres. The Company also owns and operates Mega TV, a television operation serving the South Florida and Puerto Rico markets, with national distribution through DirecTV Mas and over-the-air affiliates. SBS also produces live concerts and events throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico. In addition, the Company operates www.LaMusica.com, a bilingual Spanish-English online site providing content related to Latin music, entertainment, news and culture. The Company's corporate Web site can be accessed at www.spanishbroadcasting.com.

www.mega.tv

www.spanishbroadcasting.com

Tyler Perry Donates $110K to Covenant House Keeping Atlanta Teens off the Street

2009-02-17T13:15:00.000+02:00

Perry's Donation to Fund Renovation of Crisis Shelter

ATLANTA, Feb. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Covenant House Georgia announced today that writer/director/producer Tyler Perry has donated $110,000 and a brand new 15-passenger van to the Atlanta-based homeless shelter. The funds will contribute to operating costs and the complete renovation of its Crisis Shelter for homeless adolescents in Atlanta.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090217/NY71356)

"God bless Mr. Perry for this incredible gift to our kids," said Kevin Ryan, President of Covenant House. "The van will be used to rescue young people from the hopelessness of the street. His generous donation will provide immediate help to kids in crisis as well as the long-term support that will transform their lives."

"A donation of this caliber from Mr. Perry is the beginning of exponential growth for services at Covenant House Georgia," says Covenant House Georgia CEO Maxine Shoulders Brandon. "When we are able to reach more homeless youth on the streets and provide more services to the kids in our care, there will be fewer homeless that sleep under the bridge and on the streets. At Covenant House we give our youth the tools of self-sufficiency, not a handout."

Tyler Perry is no stranger to homelessness. The successful director, playwright, best-selling author and actor experienced periods of homelessness and hunger before finding success. He now focuses his philanthropic efforts to charities benefiting those who are homeless and hungry including Feeding America, the Atlanta Food Bank and Perry Place -- a 20-home community Tyler built for survivors of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans.

Covenant House Georgia (CHGA), opened in August 2000 in downtown Atlanta and is the newest addition to Covenant House -- the largest privately funded childcare agency in the United States providing shelter and services to homeless and runaway youth. CHGA has a Crisis Shelter, Rights of Passage Transitional Living program and Community Service Center offering GED classes, life-skills training, case management and job assistance.

Last year Covenant House Georgia served over 2,000 kids providing access to immediate shelter, food, clothing, counseling, educational and vocational services. Since coming to Atlanta, Covenant House Georgia has changed the lives of close to 10,000 youth.

Trident HiDTV(TM) Pro System-On-A-Chip Receives DLNA Certification

2009-02-17T10:30:00.000+02:00

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Feb. 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Trident Microsystems, Inc. (Nasdaq: TRID), a leader in high-performance semiconductor system solutions for the multimedia and digital television markets today announced that its HiDTV Pro-AX System-On-A-Chip processor received the Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA(R)) certification for Digital Media Player (DMP).

DLNA defines the framework for the connected home, which was a significant highlight of the TV industry at the Consumer Electronics Show 2009. A digital TV that is DLNA-enabled allows users to share and access digital media easily across a variety of wired and wireless connectivity technologies, such as MoCA(R), Wi-Fi(R) and Ethernet. Such a DTV, also commonly known as "connected TV", makes it possible for consumers to share and stream digital content (including video recordings, music, photos and videos) between the DTV and the personal computer (PC), and other consumer electronics (CE) devices such as mobile handsets and set-top-boxes (STBs) anywhere in the house.

"The certification demonstrates Trident's capability in successfully implementing DLNA's interoperable framework to enable access to content of various file formats -- regardless of whether they are based on a PC server, located over the Internet for access using Widgets, or stored as files on a USB drive -- and play and display the content with Trident's well-regarded picture quality," said Dr. Wen Li, Chief Marketing Officer at Trident Microsystems.

In addition to the Pro-AX, all of Trident's upcoming HiDTV Pro solutions will be designed with the DLNA technology, providing TV manufacturers a cost effective connected TV solution. With Trident's HiDTV's comprehensive and portable SDK, TV OEMs can differentiate their products with a wide breadth of applications and services supported by the DLNA specification while shortening the time required to bring new TVs to market.

With a goal of ensuring interoperability in home networks, the DLNA has the support of more than 200 companies comprised of CE, computers and mobile device manufacturers, service providers, and components and software developers. As of February 2009, the DLNA has certified more than 3000 DLNA- enabled products made by more than 30 manufacturers. Trident is one of the few DTV & SOC manufacturers that has received the certification from the DLNA.

Trident will continue to develop new methods to integrate the DLNA technology into its HiDTV Pro product line, enabling consumers to have greater selection of information and entertainment sources.

Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains 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, and is subject to the safe harbor created by those sections. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements about the certification of Trident's products under the Digital Living Network Association ("DLNA"). Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties; there are important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those in the forward looking statements. These factors include, without limitation, that Trident may not be able to successfully integrate the DLNA technology into future products; that TV manufactures may not realize cost effective solutions to TV solutions; that increased adoption of the technology may not allow TV OEMs to differentiate their products as anticipated; that time to market may not be shortened; that consumers selection may not meet with consumer expectations and that other parties may offer similar solutions as provided by Trident. The forward- looking statements included in this press release are made only as of the date of this press release; the Company assumes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Additional information concerning factors that could cause results to differ can be found in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Company's most recent Reports on Form 10-K and Form 10-Q made with the Securities and Exchange Commission available at http://www.sec.gov.

About Trident Microsystems, Inc.

Trident Microsystems, Inc., with headquarters in Santa Clara, California, designs, develops and markets digital media for the masses in the form of multimedia integrated circuits (ICs) for PCs and digital processing ICs for TVs and TV monitors. Trident's products are sold to a network of OEMs, original design manufacturers and system integrators worldwide. For further information about Trident and its products, please consult the Company's web site: http://www.tridentmicro.com.

NOTE: Trident, the Trident logo, HiDTV Pro-AX, and HiDTV are trademarks or registered trademarks of Trident Microsystems, Inc., in the United States and other countries. All other company and/or product names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

MobiTV Eclipses Six Million Subscriber Mark

2009-02-17T05:01:00.000+02:00

BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Mobile World Congress 2009 -- MobiTV, Inc., announced the company's latest milestone today, surpassing six million subscribers on its managed mobile media service. Available on more than 350 handsets across 20 carrier networks, including AT&T and Alltel in the U.S., MobiTV attributes its accelerated growth to increasing consumer demand for highly anticipated television events on mobile devices, the proliferation of smart phones and a growing trend toward bundling TV and radio services in high-value wireless plans.

"MobiTV's bullish approach to subscriber growth, despite the economy, has allowed us to be a catalyst for increased mobile television adoption," said Charlie Nooney, chairman and CEO, MobiTV. "The biggest hurdle to adoption is no longer availability or technology -- it is awareness, and as the market leader we're poised to capitalize on increasing consumer demand for compelling, entertaining TV and video-on-demand for the mobile phone."

MobiTV has consistently demonstrated the ability to drive large consumer demand, as its mobile TV and radio services have repeatedly been among the top-selling applications on Handango and Handmark. MobiTV's content offerings include primetime shows from NBC and ABC and more than 40 channels of content, including ESPN, Disney, CNBC, MSNBC and more.

"We're seeing growth driven by major television events, from the Olympics to Election Day. Additionally, the proliferation of 3G smart phones and media-centric devices is enabling the very high-quality mobile TV experience that consumers expect," said Paul Scanlan, president and co-founder of MobiTV.

In addition to its broad content offerings, MobiTV is pioneering interactive technology only available through its unicast delivery model, such as the technology displayed in January at the National Association of Television Production Executives conference in Las Vegas, showcasing a new level of viewer interaction and unique opportunities for advertisers.

About MobiTV

MobiTV (http://www.mobitv.com), the first to bring live TV to mobile devices, draws on its proven knowledge to continuously anticipate, develop and deliver a compelling mobile-media experience to more than six million subscribers worldwide. MobiTV is shaping the mobile-media landscape with a passion for delivering a compelling consumer experience.

Founded in 1999, MobiTV is a privately held company with headquarters in Emeryville, California.

For more information about MobiTV managed end-to-end services, as well as hosted content-delivery technology and solutions, please visit: http://www.mobitv.com/technology.

To learn more about MobiTV mobile television products and services, go to: http://www.mobitv.com/gettv.

Celebrity Chef Rone de Beauvoir to Launch New TV Channel

2009-02-16T23:58:00.000+02:00

PARIS and HOUSTON, Feb. 16 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Celebrity Chef/Author Rone de Beauvoir, announced today a new Christian Lifestyle Television Network, to launch in March 2009 in the United States, Africa, Europe and the Middle East. The new TV Channel called Joy Christian Television Network www.joychristiantelevision.com will be a 24 hour free-to-air TV Channel covering the world with the message of joy to its viewers. The channel encompasses two overseas satellites, FM Radio Satellite, Israel Tour Company, and original programs.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090216/DC71466 )

The new channel format is designed to reach audiences on TV, radio, the Internet, mobile phones, and hand held computers, with new programming that will cover 8 main themes, capturing the interest of a diverse audience with new patterns of visual elegance.

Rone de Beauvoir, Founder/CEO of Joy Christian Television, hails the arrival of the new channel. She said: "The launch of Joy Christian Television is an event of major importance for Joy and for me as its founder. I have lived in 22 countries around the world, lived homeless on the streets for over 1 year and 4 months wearing the same clothes each day, and through it all the Holy Living God sustained me, provided for me, and brought me out to a life I could not have imagined. Because of this and so many other life circumstances that I've overcome, I wanted to launch a channel that would first bless the Lord and secondly bless others.

It is simply a way to say thank you to the Lord. In addition, we want to set new unique standards in Christian Television broadcasting, through the Joy channel with specific techniques and visual transitions while saving souls for Christ. Everything we will do for our viewers will be tied into the name of the channel while transmitting the message of Joy. We will broadcast via satellite on Galaxy 25 in North America and Eurobird 9 in Europe, Africa and Middle East. The channel will air 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to any home with a satellite dish or cable connection.

This is a really exciting diversification and we are thrilled to be unveiling the new channel in countries around the world. The launch of this new international channel represents a significant new opportunity for us to utilize our creative talent and knowledge to save souls for Jesus Christ, and we look forward with pleasure and joy!"

The official broadcast launch of Joy Christian Television will be on March 29, 2009 in countries all over the world, in English, French and Hebrew. The new lifestyle channel has programming plans to include 30 second and 60 second commercials, and some surprising program features never seen before on a Christian Television Channel.

'VH1 Storytellers: Kanye West' Premieres on VH1 Saturday, February 28 at 9:00 PM*

2009-02-16T15:35:00.000+02:00

NEW YORK, Feb. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Grammy award winning artist, Kanye West treated fans to an intimate performance Friday night, February 13 while taping an upcoming episode of VH1 Storytellers at The Sony Stages in Los Angeles. This exclusive performance, "VH1 Storytellers: Kanye West" will premiere Saturday, February 28 at 9:00 PM on VH1. The hour long show will feature West performing songs from his critically acclaimed album 808's & Heartbreak in addition to past hits. Following in the "Storytellers" format, viewers will get a unique opportunity to hear the inspiration and stories behind each song.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090216/NY71227)

*all times ET/PT

Despite a Down Economy, Zoodango.com Partners With the United Way to Promote Volunteerism Through a Star-Studded Fundraising Event

2009-02-16T13:00:00.000+02:00

SEATTLE, Feb. 16 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Despite a major downturn in the national economy and corporate distrust among Americans, a Seattle company is using its business influence to make a positive impact in the community. Zoodango.com is sponsoring a star-studded fundraiser to benefit the United Way of King County on February 19, 2009. The purpose of the event is to get people involved in their first volunteering experience in a cool and hip way. The event will combine local celebrities, athletes, and businesses to increase volunteerism and raise money for United Way's Emergency Response for Basic Needs, a program that promotes housing stability and fights hunger for the needy.

Zoodango is creating a model of engaging for-profit companies with non-profits to keep the community strong during this economic downturn. "As a CEO, I don't believe we have to wait until we're the size of Microsoft in order to give back. It's the little things that count. If every company helped a non-profit, it would completely change the landscape of community involvement," says James Sun, the CEO of Zoodango.com. During the event, there will be a celebrity volunteer signup program where a local celebrity will sign up a group of volunteers for a United Way volunteer activity. The goal is to give people their first glimpse into the joy of volunteering by working with an influential local person. The celebrities will include the following people:

Jason Mesnick - "The Bachelor"

Jason Mesnick is currently on ABC's "The Bachelor" after he competed on season four of The Bachelorette. Jason's popularity with fans from "The Bachelorette" led ABC to recruit him as their next Bachelor.

Tara Turnure - "Miss Washington USA"

Tara is the current Miss Washington USA 2009, and she will be competing in Miss USA pageant this spring. She is currently filming a new reality show about beauty pageant contestants.

Tod Leiweke - "CEO of the Seattle Seahawks"

Tod Leiweke enters his sixth season with the Seattle Seahawks after joining the club in June 2003. Leiweke serves as Chief Executive Officer for the Seattle Seahawks and oversees all aspects of the club.

Alex Thomason - "The Apprentice Lawyer"

Alex is a high profile attorney who was on "The Apprentice" with Donald Trump. He is currently a Seattle attorney who works on high profile cases.

Lawyer Milloy - "NFL Probowler"

Lawyer Milloy is one of the best athletes to come out of the University of Washington as a football and baseball letterman. He's had a successful 13-year career with the New England Patriots, Buffalo Bills, and Atlanta Falcons. He is a superbowl champion and probowl safety in the NFL.

James Sun - "The Apprentice Runner-Up"

James Sun is the CEO of Zoodango.com, community activist, public speaker, and runner-up on Donald Trump's show "The Apprentice."

The event is open to the public and people can purchase tickets at www.zoodango.com.

The Jim Henson Company and RC2 Announce a New Licensing Partnership for Dinosaur Train

2009-02-16T12:05:00.000+02:00

RC2's Learning Curve(R) Brands to Debut Product Lines in 2010

OAK BROOK, Ill., Feb. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Jim Henson Company has appointed RC2 Corporation (Nasdaq: RCRC) as the global master toy licensee for the upcoming animated series Dinosaur Train. Under the multi-year agreement, RC2 Corporation's Learning Curve Brands will feature a line of preschool products that will debut in the last half of 2010 and bring to life the rich and detailed world of the series.

Dinosaur Train, created for 3-6 year old children and currently in production for PBS KIDS(R), features a world of dinosaurs and prehistoric lands, all connected by a colorful train line known as the Dinosaur Train. Each episode is shown through the eyes of Buddy, a preschool-aged Tyrannosaurus Rex, who, along with his adoptive family of pteranodons, goes for adventures on the Dinosaur Train to discover and visit with all kinds of dinosaurs while learning the basic concepts of natural science, natural history and paleontology.

Melissa Segal, The Jim Henson Company's Sr. Vice President of Global Consumer Products, said, "We know that children will love getting to know Buddy, his family and the fantastical Dinosaur Train through the television adventures; and by working with a trusted brand like Learning Curve our audience will be able to extend their learning and play at home as this world is realized with detailed and imaginative products."

Peter Henseler, President of RC2 Corporation, stated, "We're excited to work with The Jim Henson Company on the development of Dinosaur Train products. Not only does this property bring together two of kids' favorite themes, but it also delivers on dinosaurs in a more entertaining and educational way than any other dinosaur property. We look forward to bringing these exciting new products to market in 2010."

Dinosaur Train, produced by The Jim Henson Company, is co-produced with Singapore animation company BIG Communications, with the participation and assistance of the Singapore Media Development Authority. UK production and financial support is being provided by Ingenious Media.

About The Jim Henson Company

The Jim Henson Company has remained an established leader in family entertainment for over 50 years and is recognized worldwide as an innovator in puppetry, animatronics and digital animation. Best known as creators of the world famous Muppets (the rights to which are now owned by The Walt Disney Company), Henson is the recipient of over 50 Emmy Awards and nine Grammy Awards. Credits include the Saturn Award-winning "Farscape" and the features "MirrorMask," "Five Children and It," "Good Boy!" and the recently released direct to DVD "Unstable Fables," which features "3 Pigs and a Baby," "Tortoise vs. Hare" and "The Goldilocks and the Three Bears Show." With additional locations in New York and London, The Jim Henson Company is headquartered in Los Angeles on the historic Charlie Chaplin lot, complete with soundstage and postproduction facilities. Independently owned and operated by the five adult children of founder Jim Henson, the Company is also home to Jim Henson's Creature Shop(TM), a pre-eminent character-building and visual effects group with international film, television and advertising clients, as well as Henson Recording Studios, one of the music industry's top recording facilities known for its world-class blend of state of the art and vintage equipment. The Company is currently completing production on 40 episodes of Sid the Science Kid, a science readiness animated series for preschoolers that debuted on PBS KIDS in September 2008, and recently premiered the preschool live-action puppet series "Pajanimals" on PBS KIDS Sprout. The Company's Henson Alternative brand continues to produce "Puppet Up! - Uncensored," a live puppet improvisational show that has played to sold out crowds around the world and runs monthly at the Avalon Hollywood. The Company has also announced the creation of Jim Henson Designs, a merchandise collection inspired by Jim Henson's earliest sketches, and The Jim Henson Company: Discoveries, an acquisitions banner that celebrates outstanding third party produced independent film, television and video productions from around the globe embodying the Company's enduring legacy. www.henson.com

About RC2 Corporation

RC2 Corporation (Nasdaq: RCRC, www.rc2.com) is a leading designer, producer and marketer of innovative, high-quality toys, collectibles and infant products. RC2's infant, toddler and preschool products are marketed under its Learning Curve(R) (www.learningcurve.com) family of brands which includes The First Years and Lamaze brands, as well as popular and classic licensed properties such as Thomas & Friends, Bob the Builder, Winnie the Pooh, John Deere, Nickelodeon and Sesame Street. RC2 markets its youth and adult products under the Johnny Lightning (www.johnnylightning.com) and ERTL(R) (www.ertl.com) brands. RC2 reaches its target consumers through multiple channels of distribution supporting more than 25,000 retail outlets throughout North America, Europe, Australia and Asia Pacific.

Forward-looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this release contain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking words or phrases such as "anticipate," "believe," "could," "expect," "intend," "may," "plans," "potential," "target," "should," "will," and "would." Such forward-looking statements are inherently subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties. The Company's actual results and future developments could differ materially from the results or developments expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to make any revisions to the forward-looking statements contained in this release or to update them to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this release.

DISH Network Corporation Announces Conference Call for Fourth Quarter 2008 Financial Results

2009-02-16T11:05:00.000+02:00

ENGLEWOOD, Colo., Feb. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- DISH Network Corporation (Nasdaq: DISH) will host its fourth quarter and year end 2008 financial results conference call on Monday, March 2, 2009, at noon ET. The dial-in number is (800) 616-6729.

DISH Network's press release about its financial results will be distributed prior to the conference call. The press release will be available on the DISH Network Web site,

www.dishnetwork.com/aboutus.

About DISH Network Corporation

DISH Network Corporation (Nasdaq: DISH) provides approximately 13.78 million satellite TV customers as of Sept. 30, 2008 with the highest quality programming and technology at the best value, including the lowest all-digital price nationwide. Customers have access to hundreds of video and audio channels, the most international channels in the U.S., state-of-the-art interactive TV applications, and award-winning HD and DVR technology including 1080p Video on Demand and the DuoDVR(TM) ViP(R) 722 DVR, a CNET and PC Magazine "Editors' Choice." DISH Network is included in the Nasdaq-100 Index (NDX) and is a Fortune 250 company. Visit www.dishnetwork.com.

MultiVu Video Feed: Hollywood and Sports Stars Join

2009-02-14T13:00:00.000+02:00

T-Mobile For the Shot of a Lifetime

T-Mobile is giving its fave five celebrities and athletes the chance to each win up to $50,000 for the charity of their choice at the T-Mobile myFaves Shot of a Lifetime event. Up to $250,000 could be donated at the end of the night!

Guests will watch stars shoot it out with Dwyane Wade on the custom-designed myFaves half-court to win thousands for their charities. After the charity challenge, guests will be able to mingle and dance among the who's who in the worlds of Hollywood and sports and check out the T-Mobile g1 phones. The event kicks off the beginning of NBA all-star weekend and features a special performance by pop star Katy Perry and music provided by Jermaine Dupri.

The T-Mobile myFaves shot of a lifetime event will be the 'must-attend' destination for celebrities and athletes during basketball's biggest weekend. For more information, visit www.t-mobile.com.

    SATELLITE FEEDS:
    Saturday, February 14th, 2009      Saturday, February 14th, 2009
    10:00 AM - 10:15 AM ET             2:30 PM - 2:45 PM ET
    AMC 3                              AMC 3
    C-Band                             C-Band
    Transponder 3                      Transponder 3
    Downlink Freq. 3760 Horizontal     Downlink Freq. 3760 Horizontal

    Monday, February 16th, 2009
    10:00 AM - 10:15 AM ET
    AMC 3
    C-Band
    Transponder 3
    Downlink Freq. 3760 Horizontal

    NEWS: Celebs and Athletes Shoot It Out with Dwyane Wade to Benefit Charity

    FORMAT: B-roll and Soundbites

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: Video, contact information and more available at: http://www.prnewswire.com/broadcast/36996/press.html


    SOUNDBITES:
    * Dwyane Wade, NBA All-Star

    B-ROLL INCLUDES:
    * Charity Shoot Out Competition
    * Katy Perry Performance
    * Party Footage

VIDEO PROVIDED BY: T-Mobile

Contact: FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL: MultiVu Media Relations, 1-800-653-5313 EXT. 3

The World's Strictest Parents Casting Teens and Parents:

2009-02-13T14:15:00.000+02:00

Brand new website launches with more details about the show!

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- The producers of international parenting phenomenon SUPERNANNY and U.S. cable hits It's Me Or The Dog (Animal Planet) and The Real Housewives of NYC (BRAVO) are now searching for families AND rebellious teenagers who will live with these families for a few days for The World's Strictest Parents, a brand new television series from the BBC. The new website, www.theworldsstrictestparents.com, launches today with casting details.

Interested teens and parents may apply from anywhere via www.theworldsstrictestparents.com. They can also call 888-41-TEENS (1-888-418-3367) or email teens@ricochettelevision.com for more information.

The producers of this show are based in Los Angeles and also have offices in London and Brighton. The production company is one of the leading independent production companies of high quality un-scripted television programming in the United States and abroad. The international phenomenon, SUPERNANNY, launched the company in the United States where they are building an innovative reputation for creating transformational, critically acclaimed reality based documentary style television.

China Digital TV to Announce Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2008 Unaudited Financial Results on March 10, 2009

2009-02-13T10:00:00.000+02:00

BEIJING, Feb. 13 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- China Digital TV Holding Co. Ltd. ("China Digital TV") (NYSE: STV), the leading provider of conditional access systems to China's rapidly growing digital television market, today announced it will report its unaudited financial results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, after the U.S. market closes on Tuesday, March 10, 2009. The Company will hold an earnings conference call on the same day at 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time (8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 11, Beijing/Hong Kong Time).

    Conference Call Dial-in Information

    United States Toll Free:  +1-866-953-0757
    International:            +1-617-399-3487
    Hong Kong:                +852-3002-1672
    China Toll Free:          +10-800-130-0399

    Passcode:  China Digital TV Earnings Call

A replay of the call will be available for 1 week between 9:00 p.m. on March 10, 2009 and 9:00 p.m. on March 17, 2009 Eastern Time.

    Replay Information

    United States:            +1-888-286-8010
    International:            +1-617-801-6888

    Passcode:  71120949

Additionally, a live and archived webcast of this call will be available on the Investor Relations section of China Digital TV's corporate website at http://ir.chinadtv.cn .

About China Digital TV

Founded in 2004, China Digital TV is the leading provider of conditional access ("CA") systems to China's rapidly growing digital television market. CA systems enable television network operators to manage the delivery of customized content and services to their subscribers. China Digital TV conducts its CA-related business through its subsidiary, Beijing Super TV Co. Ltd., and its affiliate, Beijing Novel-Super Digital TV Technology Co. Ltd. and its value-added services business through its subsidiary, Beijing Novel-Super Media Investment Co. Ltd.

For more information please visit the Investor Relations section of China Digital TV's website at http://ir.chinadtv.cn .

    For more information, please contact:

     Eric Yuan
     Senior Manager of Investor Relations
     Tel:   +86-10-6297-1199 x6171
     Email: ericyuan@novel-supertv.com

     Cynthia He
     Brunswick Group
     Tel:   +86-10-6566-2256
     Email: chinadigital@brunswickgroup.com

Video: Largest-Ever Gathering of 'American Idol' Winners Joins in Premiere of Attraction at Walt Disney World

2009-02-13T05:00:00.000+02:00

On Stage or in the Audience, 'The American Idol Experience' Immerses Guests in the Pop-Culture Phenomenon

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., Feb. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- With the largest-ever gathering of "American Idol" winners joining in the celebration, Walt Disney World Resort Thursday night raised the curtain on "The American Idol Experience," a new attraction capturing the energy and excitement of the hit TV show.

To view the Multimedia News Release, go to: http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/disney/37018/

Thursday's grand premiere, at Disney's Hollywood Studios, was attended by all seven winners of the series, from season-one winner Kelly Clarkson to season-seven champion David Cook. Joining Cook and Clarkson were Jordin Sparks (season six), Taylor Hicks (five), Carrie Underwood (four), Fantasia Barrino (three) and Ruben Studdard (two).

More than two dozen Idol stars - winners and finalists from the first seven seasons - plus judge Paula Abdul and TV show host Ryan Seacrest arrived by celebrity motorcade, rolling down Hollywood Boulevard to the cheers, applause and snapping cameras of Disney's Hollywood Studios guests. Thursday's gala had all the glamour of a Hollywood opening. Cook treated the supercharged audience with a performance of his popular hit, "Light On," and after Underwood performed her hit, "All-American Girl," the pair brought down the house by teaming up for a first-ever duet, singing "Go Your Own Way," the Fleetwood Mac hit. The premiere even had a "red carpet" -- except the carpet was appropriately blue in celebration of the "American Idol" color scheme.

That color scheme and, in fact, the look of the attraction is similar to the actual TV show set. "The American Idol Experience" was developed by Walt Disney Imagineering in conjunction with FremantleMedia Enterprises (FME) and 19 TV Ltd. and is based on the smash-hit television show "American Idol." The 1,000-seat indoor theater features twirling neon signs and a multi-layered backdrop inspired by the actual "American Idol" set in California.

The attraction is designed to immerse park guests in the authentic feel of a live television production, with some guests 14 or older auditioning to take the spotlight onstage, while fellow guests cheer them on from the audience and vote for their favorite singer with instant results. Audition slots are limited and interested guests are encouraged to arrive early.

Performers with the highest votes during preliminary shows return for a high-energy grand finale show that same evening. After their encore performances, one is voted the day's top singer.

In addition to their new-found theme park fame, the top vote-getter at the finale show receives "The American Idol Experience" Dream Ticket, which allows an eligible holder to schedule a front-of-the-line audition to a future regional audition for the "American Idol" television show. Feb. 14 is the grand opening of the attraction.

Disney's Hollywood Studios immerses guests in the glamour of show business with thrilling attractions, incredible Broadway-style shows, world-class atmosphere entertainment and interactive film, television and radio production facilities. The theme park is part of the 25,000-acre Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Fla. For more information, call 407/824-4321 or visit disneyworld.com.

About the Dream Ticket:

Dream Ticket recipients must satisfy AMERICAN IDOL* TV program requirements in effect at time of use, such as age and residency (Season 8 - only ages 16-28 and U.S. citizens or legal permanent U.S. residents eligible to work full-time in U.S.). Dream Ticket does not include travel, meals, lodging or other expenses.

About the Audition:

Guests 14 or older inside Disney's Hollywood Studios may audition to sing that day at the attraction, subject to guidelines in Frequently Asked Questions at Disneyworld.com/idol. Audition openings are limited and will likely close early in the day. Only a few singers will be chosen to sing onstage. A limited number of assigned audition times may be available in advance from time to time.

Complete attraction guidelines are described in the Frequently Asked Questions referenced above, which are subject to change without notice.

*AMERICAN IDOL(R) is a registered trademark of 19 TV Ltd. and FremantleMedia North America, Inc.

About 19 Entertainment

Simon Fuller's 19 Entertainment (of CKX, Inc., a publicly traded company listed on the NASDAQ National Market(R) under the ticker symbol "CKXE") is recognized as a leading creator, provider and promoter of globally successful music-based entertainment, or "entertainment brands." The company has attracted a unique collection of expertise in people who work together to integrate and leverage activity across television, film, touring, merchandising, music publishing, recording, artist / writer and producer management, sponsorship and promotion. Simon Fuller is the most successful British music manager of all time having sold over 116 million CDs in North America alone, and is known as the creator of "American Idol," the most valuable TV format in the world with an estimated value in excess of $2.5 billion. For further information, visit www.americanidol.com.

About FremantleMedia Enterprises & FremantleMedia

FremantleMedia Enterprises is the content exploitation arm of FremantleMedia, offering a one-stop-shop for all Licensing, Distribution and Home Entertainment. It is a division of FremantleMedia, one of the largest international creators and producers of entertainment brands in the world with leading prime time drama, serial drama, entertainment and factual entertainment programming in over 40 countries worldwide. FremantleMedia is a subsidiary of RTL Group, Europe's largest television and radio broadcast company, which is 90% owned by Bertelsmann AG, an integrated media and entertainment company that commands leading positions in the world's media markets. For further information, visit www.fremantlemedia.com.

'I Second That Emotion': UNCF Wins Second Image Award for Its Tribute to Smokey Robinson

2009-02-13T03:31:00.000+02:00

FAIRFAX, Va., Feb. 12 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Tonight in Los Angeles at the Shrine Theatre and Auditorium, UNCF - the United Negro College Fund - won its second NAACP Image Award for An Evening of Stars(R) (AEOS), its annual televised celebration of education and excellence. The AEOS production won in the category of Outstanding Variety or Series Special for A Tribute to Smokey Robinson, which aired in early 2008.

AEOS 2008 honored Robinson with an all-star tribute for his support of UNCF and minority education, his contributions to the music industry and his role as a global humanitarian and philanthropist.

On hand to receive the award for UNCF were President and CEO Michael L. Lomax, Ph.D., and executive producer and director of the show, six-time Emmy Award(R) winner Louis J. Horvitz.

"This award is a tribute to so many people," said Lomax. "Our honoree, Smokey Robinson, a true American treasure; Executive Producer and Director Louis J. Horvitz; our sponsors; Target, Toyota, McDonalds, AT&T, American Airlines, Wachovia, and Prudential; and my UNCF colleagues for whom AEOS is a year-round labor of love," he continued. "But most of all it's a tribute to the 39 historically black colleges that belong to UNCF and the 60,000 students who attend UNCF member schools and receive UNCF scholarships, whose work reminds us every day how true it is that 'A mind is a terrible thing to waste.(R)'"

AEOS 2008 featured performances by singers Yolanda Adams, John Legend, Ne-Yo, Joss Stone, Stevie Wonder and many more. Special guest presenters included Tichina Arnold and Tyler James Williams from Everybody Hates Chris; former Saturday Night Live actor-comedian Jimmy Fallon; Hill Harper from CSI-NY; Shemar Moore from Criminal Minds and more.

"It is a privilege to produce UNCF's television special each year," said Horvitz, now in his thirteenth year with AEOS. "And to be recognized again this year by the NAACP is the ultimate validation of the important work being done by UNCF each and every day." Horvitz directed UNCF's Lou Rawls Parade of Stars(R) for twelve years. His other credits include The Academy Awards The Prime Time Emmy Awards and The Kennedy Center Honors.

AEOS helps bring awareness to UNCF's mission of providing assistance to its 39 member colleges and universities and minority education. This second Image Award is a significant recognition for the 65-year-old organization and is a salute to the outstanding work of UNCF donors and partners.

About An Evening of Stars(R)

An Evening of Stars(R) (AEOS), originally known as The Lou Rawls Parade of Stars(R), first aired in 1979 and, since that time, has become one of the longest-running and most successful televised events in U.S. history. Lou Rawls, a spokesperson for UNCF and champion for AEOS for more than 25 years, is credited with helping raise more than $200 million to help UNCF scholarship recipients, member institutions and their students pay the cost of higher education. In recent years, AEOS has featured a Who's Who of recognizable talent, including Stevie Wonder, John Legend, Chaka Khan, Ne-Yo, Nancy Wilson, Beyonce, Anita Baker, Jill Scott, Whoopi Goldberg, Fantasia, Joss Stone, Jennifer Hudson, Michael Bolton, Natalie Cole, Herbie Hancock, Al Jarreau, Hall and Oates, Ziggy Marley, Maroon 5, and scores of others. An Evening of Stars(R) received an NAACP Image Award for its 2006 tribute to Stevie Wonder.

About UNCF

UNCF--the United Negro College Fund--is the nation's largest and most effective minority education organization. To serve youth, the community and the nation, UNCF supports students' education and development through scholarships and other programs, strengthens its 39 private member colleges and universities, and advocates for the importance of minority education. UNCF institutions and other historically black colleges and universities are highly effective, awarding 18 percent of African American baccalaureate degrees. UNCF administers more than 400 programs, including scholarship, internship and fellowship, mentoring, summer enrichment, and curriculum and faculty development programs. Today, UNCF supports more than 60,000 students at over 900 colleges and universities across the country. Its logo features the UNCF torch of leadership in education and its widely recognized motto, "A mind is a terrible thing to waste."(R) Learn more at www.UNCF.org.

HDNet Concert Series Presents The Backstreet Boys

2009-02-12T23:47:00.000+02:00

Reunited 90s boy band premieres exclusively on the HDNet Concert Series, Sunday, February 15 at 8:00 p.m. ET

DALLAS, Feb. 12 /PRNewswire/ --

WHAT: The HDNet Concert Series presents "Backstreet Boys Live from The O2 Arena, London," this Sunday, February 15 at 8:00 p.m. ET

The Backstreet Boys, who have several platinum records to their credit, conquered the music world shortly after their formation in 1992. Now reunited, they deliver an electric show to a sold out crowd, including energetic performances of their best-loved favorites such as "I Want It That Way," and "Everybody (Backstreet's Back)."

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080324/HDNETLOGO)

WHEN: The Backstreet Boys concert premieres on HDNet, Sunday, February 15 at 8:00 p.m. ET.

About HDNet

HDNet (www.hd.net) is a network that is original, thinks independently and delivers unique content and provocative, authentic programming, all in true high definition.

HDNet is the exclusive, high definition home for popular, critically acclaimed original programming, including television's only HD news feature programs "HDNet World Report," the Emmy Award winning "Dan Rather Reports," featuring legendary journalist Dan Rather. Only HDNet goes beyond the headlines to deliver real news that is redefining the way we look at our world. HDNet News is provocative, sometimes controversial and always relevant - telling the important stories of our time in-depth, with attitude and with independence.

HDNet presents championship sports coverage featuring the best of Mixed Martial Arts through HDNet Fights. HDNet Fights partners with leading MMA promoters including Affliction, DREAM, StrikeForce, M1, K-1, K-1 Max, MFC, Adrenaline and more. HDNet produces more live mixed martial arts events than any other network and HDNet's "Inside MMA" is the hottest mixed martial arts program on television, giving MMA fans their weekly fix for everything MMA.

HDNet also delivers the world's largest and most diverse concert line-up through the HDNet Concert Series. The HDNet Concert Series features leading artists and bands including Coldplay, Gwen Stefani, John Mayer and more. HDNet also features revealing lifestyle programming featuring "Art Mann Presents," "Vegas Confessions," "Deadline" and "Get Out!" HDNet is also the exclusive high definition home to critically acclaimed and award winning documentaries as part of the InFocus series. "NASA on HDNet" presents all live shuttle launches through 2010.

Only HDNet Movies delivers exclusive Sneak Previews of new movies before they hit theaters. The HDNet Movies Sneak Preview series features top Hollywood stars in critically acclaimed performances including Gwyneth Paltrow, Joaquin Phoenix, Demi Moore, Michael Caine, Tom Hanks, Vera Farmiga, Parker Posey, Brian Cox, Matthew Broderick, Brittany Snow and Eric Bana.

Upcoming Sneak Previews include "The Great Buck Howard," starring Colin Hanks, John Malkovich and Tom Hanks, and "Harlem Aria," starring Damon Wayans.

In addition to being the exclusive home of Sneak Previews, HDNet Movies presents viewers with over one hundred films and an average of twenty-five "HD Premieres" each month. HDNet Movies viewers enjoy the best films from the classics of the 1950s-1970s, to favorite films from the 1980s and 1990s, to recently released theatrical films.

HDNet Movies offers subscribers a premium movie viewing experience in true HD, and more original movies shot entirely in HD than any other network.

Launched in 2001 by Mark Cuban and General Manager Philip Garvin, the HDNet networks are available on AT&T, Bright House Networks, Charter Communications, Comcast, DIRECTV, DISH Network, Insight, Mediacom, Time Warner Cable, Verizon and more than 40 NCTC cable affiliate companies. For more information visit www.hd.net.

FreedomDebt.com Appearing on National TV Shows to Assist Struggling Debtors

2009-02-12T13:25:00.000+02:00

SAN ANTONIO, Feb. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- FreedomDebt.com (http://freedomdebt.com), a leading national debt settlement company, is providing help and hope for struggling debtors on the country's airwaves. While fledgling and often shady companies are hoping to capitalize on the exploding debt settlement industry by advertising with road signs, junk mailers, telemarketing calls, and even buying your personal information from credit bureaus, FreedomDebt.com appears regularly on television and radio shows across the country.

Several years ago, FreedomDebt.com began appearing on news and lifestyle shows such as the nationally syndicated "Daily Buzz," Meredith Broadcasting's "Better.tv," "Daytime," and others, educating consumers about their debt-relief options.

FreedomDebt.com discusses debt options on national TV show Better.tv: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vvcK_ru8kCM&feature=channel_page

Recently, FreedomDebt.com has been invited as a regular guest on the National Christian-based "The Word" network. Many similar-sized companies are spending millions of dollars on 30- and 60-second radio and TV commercials. "It doesn't take a business degree from an Ivy League university to understand spending most of your company revenue on marketing means far less is available to allocate towards customer service, and the customers suffer greatly as a result," says Jeremiah Martin, co-CEO of FreedomDebt.com.

Co-CEO Richard Martin says, "What is truly alarming is that many of these new debt solution companies are being run by the same people that helped cause the current mortgage crisis by writing unscrupulous loans. Using similar predatory practices, they often push clients in to programs they are destined to fail, just to collect fees. They weren't here before the economy went bad and most won't be here when it gets better.

"It is also important to note that, as was similar with the mortgage industry, most of the debt solution companies advertising on TV are frequently 'lead generation' companies, and when you contact them, sell your information to one or even several companies. If the company assisting you is not the same company you responded to, be very wary. Although some reputable companies buy these leads, this is how most new and non-reputable companies obtain new clients and you never really know who you are dealing with," says Richard Martin.

Making appearances as often as weekly in some markets, the Company's national spokesman, Tim Wilkins, provides useful information regarding the latest money-saving tips, consumer updates, and ways to reduce existing debt. For those struggling with extreme debt it is his detailed explanation of the benefits of debt settlement that are most helpful. Wilkins states, "Those who qualify for FreedomDebt.com's program are typically out of debt in 2-3 years and for around half of what they owed. They are provided with a monthly plan that dramatically lowers their spending compared to the minimum payments with the credit cards. This is something 'credit counseling' companies cannot offer and is a great alternative to bankruptcy for many. The program is not always a walk in the park but for struggling individuals determined to pay their debts, it is an important option." When asked his thoughts on using TV as the medium for the Company's message, Wilkins said, "Appearing on shows like the Daily Buzz and Better.tv affords us the chance to reach large, diverse audiences. Given the difficult economic times, I enjoy the opportunity to share financial tips and information that could have a positive impact on people's lives, and present how FreedomDebt.com can help people dealing with high-interest credit card debt gain financial stability and security. Also, these shows are ideal as I am generally a morning person."

Regarding the use of Wilkins and TV to reach consumers, Jeremiah Martin noted, "We feel the legitimacy of TV is tantamount to drawing a distinction between ourselves as an industry leader and the myriad start-up debt settlement companies coming in to capitalize on a growing market. Bringing on Tim Wilkins as National Spokesman was a perfect fit. As a TV personality and talk-show host with a financial background as well as a professional stand-up comedian, we felt he could bring just the right amount of economic and media savvy and blend it with a bit of levity to help deliver our message in these tough economic times."

    FreedomDebt.com Logo:
   http://www.ereleases.com/pr/2009-FreedomDebt.com-Logo.jpg

    For more information, contact:

    Dan Brunner at 888-710-3320, Extension 404
    or visit:http://freedomdebt.com
    andhttp://www.youtube.com/user/FreedomDebtTv

This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com.

Viacom Reports Full-Year and Fourth Quarter 2008 Results

2009-02-12T12:00:00.000+02:00

- Full-Year Revenues Increased 9% to $14.63 Billion with Filmed Entertainment Up 10% and Media Networks Up 8%

- Adjusted Diluted EPS from Continuing Operations Were $2.38 for the Full Year and $0.76 for the Fourth Quarter

NEW YORK, Feb. 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA and VIA.B) today reported financial results for the full year and the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2008.


    2008 Results

                         Quarter Ended   Better/     Year Ended      Better/
                          December 31,   (Worse)     December 31,    (Worse)
    (in millions, except                 2008 vs.                    2008 vs.
     per share amounts)    2008   2007     2007      2008    2007      2007

    Revenues             $4,243 $4,248        0%  $14,625 $13,423         9%
    Operating income        475    978      (51)%   2,523   2,936       (14)%
    Net earnings from
     continuing operations  172    545      (68)%   1,233   1,630       (24)%
    Diluted EPS from
     continuing
     operations           $0.28  $0.83      (66)%   $1.97   $2.41       (18)%
    Discontinued
     operations,
     net of tax               1     15       NM        18     208        NM
    Net earnings            173    560      (69)%   1,251   1,838       (32)%
    Diluted EPS           $0.28  $0.86      (67)%   $2.00   $2.72       (26)%
    Adjusted diluted EPS
     from continuing
     operations           $0.76  $0.84      (10)%   $2.38   $2.36         1%

    NM = Not Meaningful

Revenues for the full year 2008 grew 9% to $14.63 billion driven by solid growth in both the Filmed Entertainment and Media Networks segments. Operating income declined 14% to $2.52 billion reflecting the year-over-year net impact of restructuring and other charges as well as higher expenses. Reported net earnings for the year were down 32% to $1.25 billion, or diluted net earnings per share (EPS) of $2.00.

On December 4, 2008, Viacom announced restructuring plans to better align its organization and cost structure with changing economic conditions. In addition, following a strategic review of its operations, the Company wrote down certain programming and other assets. These activities resulted in an aggregate of $454 million of restructuring and other charges in the fourth quarter of 2008. Excluding the impact of these charges and other items, adjusted diluted EPS from continuing operations were $2.38 versus $2.36 in 2007. Adjustments for the full-year and fourth quarter 2008 and 2007 results are detailed in the Supplemental Disclosures table at the end of this release.

Revenues in the fourth quarter of 2008 were flat year-over-year at $4.24 billion. Operating income was down 51% to $475 million, including the impact of $454 million in restructuring and other charges taken in the quarter. Reported net earnings and diluted net EPS for the quarter declined to $173 million and $0.28 respectively. Excluding the impact of restructuring and other charges, adjusted diluted EPS from continuing operations decreased 10% to $0.76 compared with $0.84 in the fourth quarter of 2007.

Sumner M. Redstone, Executive Chairman of Viacom, said, "There is no doubt that global economic conditions are difficult right now. Having worked through turbulent times before, I know that it is in such times that companies with strong, resilient assets distinguish themselves. With enduring brands and a proven leadership team, Viacom is well prepared to manage through this environment and thrive over the long term."

Philippe Dauman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Viacom, said, "Our fourth quarter results reflect the realities of a challenging economy. The broad marketplace conditions weighed on our advertising, home entertainment and consumer products businesses. That was offset, however, by solid growth in our affiliate and theatrical revenues, both up double digits. Ratings trends at several of our core networks are improving as new programming gains traction and we are looking forward to a promising motion picture slate anchored by three upcoming tentpoles, J.J. Abrams' Star Trek, Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen and G.I. Joe.

"While our strategy remains firmly focused on building our brands for long-term success, we also have great confidence in our ability to execute successfully today. We acted early and decisively to prepare for the rapid decline in economic conditions. Without sacrificing the creation of great content, we aggressively managed our cost structure, which significantly boosted cash flow and further strengthened our balance sheet. The restructuring actions we took late last year will result in approximately $200 million in savings this year. While it is difficult to know how long these conditions will persist, our actions have positioned us very well to seize the opportunities that will arise as the economy recovers."


    Revenues

    Revenues              Quarter Ended   Better/     Year Ended      Better/
                           December 31,   (Worse)     December 31,    (Worse)
    (in millions)                         2008 vs.                    2008 vs.
                           2008    2007     2007     2008     2007      2007

    Media Networks       $2,475  $2,447       1%   $8,756   $8,101         8%
    Filmed Entertainment  1,807   1,836      (2)%   6,033    5,476        10%
    Eliminations            (39)    (35)     NM      (164)    (154)       NM
      Total revenues     $4,243  $4,248       0%  $14,625  $13,423         9%

    NM = Not Meaningful

Full Year 2008 revenues of $14.63 billion increased 9% over revenue of $13.42 billion in 2007. Media Networks revenues rose 8% to $8.76 billion, principally driven by a 32% increase in worldwide ancillary revenues to $1.41 billion. This growth reflects increased sales of the Rock Band video game, which were partially offset by revenue declines in home entertainment and consumer products. Worldwide affiliate revenues increased 12% to $2.62 billion and worldwide advertising revenues grew 1% to $4.72 billion. Domestic advertising revenues were flat year-over-year reflecting softness in the overall advertising market, particularly during the second-half of the year. Filmed Entertainment revenues grew 10% to $6.03 billion led by a 17% increase in theatrical revenues to $1.71 billion and a 9% rise in home entertainment revenues to $2.72 billion. The growth in theatrical revenues reflected a more favorable mix of films versus the prior year, including Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, Marvel's Iron Man and DreamWorks Animation's Kung Fu Pandaand Madagascar 2: Escape to Africa. Home entertainment revenue growth was driven primarily by higher third-party distribution revenues and the DVD release of Iron Man. Worldwide television license fees increased 3% to $1.33 billion, primarily due to an increase in Pay TV and syndicated television in international markets.

Fourth Quarter 2008 revenues of $4.24 billion were flat compared with fourth quarter revenues in 2007. Media Networks revenues were up 1% to $2.48 billion, which included a 12% increase in worldwide affiliate revenues to $667 million. Worldwide ancillary revenues were flat at $462 million versus the prior year's quarter and worldwide advertising revenues declined 3% to $1.35 billion. Filmed Entertainment revenues declined 2% in the fourth quarter to $1.81 billion, principally the result of a 6% decrease in home entertainment revenues to $1.02 billion. This decrease in home entertainment revenues, which was partially offset by increased revenues from third-party distribution agreements, reflects the impact of the industry-wide decline in the home entertainment market during the fourth quarter. Theatrical revenues grew 28% to $350 million, primarily due to the strong performance of Madagascar 2: Escape to Africa. Television license fees were down 13% to $351 million and ancillary revenues increased 9% to $86 million.


    Operating Income

    Operating Income  Quarter Ended    Better/      Year Ended        Better/
     (Loss)            December 31,    (Worse)      December 31,      (Worse)
    (in millions)                      2008 vs.                       2008 vs.
                        2008  2007       2007       2008    2007        2007

    Media Networks      $509  $916       (44)%    $2,729  $3,048        (10)%
    Filmed Entertainment  22   117       (81)%        26     103        (75)%
    Corporate            (58)  (57)       (2)%      (234)   (219)        (7)%
    Eliminations           2     2        NM           2       4         NM
      Total operating
       income           $475  $978       (51)%    $2,523  $2,936        (14)%
    Adjusted operating
     income             $929  $985        (6)%    $2,977  $3,013         (1)%

    NM = Not Meaningful

Full Year 2008 operating income decreased 14% to $2.52 billion compared with $2.94 billion in 2007 with substantially all of the decline due to the impact of restructuring and other charges. The 2008 result includes an aggregate $454 million in restructuring and other charges, consisting of $389 million in Media Networks, $62 million in Filmed Entertainment and $3 million in Corporate expenses. The 2007 results included $77 million in Media Networks restructuring charges. Media Networks operating income was down 10% to $2.73 billion, with nearly all of the decline resulting from restructuring and other charges. Filmed Entertainment operating income decreased 75% for the year to $26 million, including a 60-percentage point impact from restructuring and other charges. Corporate expenses rose $15 million over the prior year, reflecting increased litigation-related costs and restructuring and other charges.

Fourth Quarter 2008 operating income decreased 51% to $475 million, including the impact of $454 million in restructuring and other charges, compared with $978 million in fourth quarter 2007. Media Networks operating income was down 44% to $509 million and Filmed Entertainment operating income declined 81% to $22 million in the quarter. The declines in both segments were principally due to restructuring and other charges.

Full Year 2008 net earnings from continuing operations decreased 24% to $1.23 billion versus $1.63 billion in 2007 due to lower operating income and the year-over-year unfavorable impact of $92 million in foreign exchange fluctuations. The Company's reported effective tax rate was 32.6% in 2008 compared with 36% in 2007, principally due to higher year-over-year discrete tax benefits resulting from effectively settled audits.

Full Year 2008 diluted net EPS were $2.00 compared with $2.72 in 2007, which included a $0.31 gain from the sale of Famous Music. Full year 2008 diluted net EPS from continuing operations were $1.97 compared with $2.41 in 2007. The 2008 EPS results included a net $0.41 negative impact from adjusted items and the 2007 results included a net $0.05 benefit from adjusted items. Adjusted diluted net EPS from continuing operations for the full year 2008 were $2.38 compared with $2.36 in 2007. Diluted weighted average shares outstanding for the full year 2008 were 625.4 million compared with 675.6 million in 2007, reflecting stock repurchases.

Fourth Quarter 2008 net earnings from continuing operations declined 68% to $172 million versus the prior year due to lower operating income and the year-over-year unfavorable impact of $65 million in foreign exchange fluctuations.

Fourth Quarter 2008 reported diluted net EPS were $0.28 compared with $0.86 in 2007. Fourth quarter 2008 diluted net EPS from continuing operations were also $0.28 versus $0.83 in the prior year. The 2008 results included a net $0.48 negative impact from adjusted items and the fourth quarter 2007 results included a $0.01 negative impact from Media Networks restructuring charges. Excluding these items, adjusted diluted net EPS from continuing operations for the fourth quarter 2008 were $0.76 versus $0.84 in 2007. Diluted weighted average shares outstanding in the fourth quarter of 2008 were 611.5 million compared with 653.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2007, reflecting stock repurchases.

Stock Repurchase Program

For the quarter ended December 31, 2008, 8.5 million shares were repurchased for an aggregate purchase price of $148 million. For the full year ended December 31, 2008, 38.7 million shares were repurchased for an aggregate purchase price of $1.22 billion. The Company has $1.28 billion remaining in its existing $4 billion share repurchase program.

Debt

At December 31, 2008, total debt outstanding, including capital leases, decreased to $8 billion, compared with $8.25 billion at December 31, 2007.

About Viacom

Viacom, consisting of BET Networks, MTV Networks and Paramount Pictures, is the world's leading entertainment content company. It engages audiences on television, motion picture and digital platforms through many of the world's best known entertainment brands, including MTV, VH1, CMT, Logo, Rock Band, Nickelodeon, Nick at Nite, Noggin, AddictingGames, Neopets, COMEDY CENTRAL, Spike TV, TV Land, Atom, Gametrailers, BET and Paramount Pictures. Viacom's global reach includes approximately 165 channels and 400 online properties in 162 countries and territories.

For more information about Viacom and its businesses, visit www.viacom.com.

Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains both historical and forward-looking statements. All statements that are not statements of historical fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements reflect the Company's current expectations concerning future results, objectives, plans and goals, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that are difficult to predict and which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ. These risks, uncertainties and other factors include, among others: the continuation or worsening of current economic conditions generally, and in advertising markets in particular; the public acceptance of the Company's programs, motion pictures and games; competition for audiences and distribution; technological developments and their effect in the Company's markets and on consumer behavior; fluctuations in the Company's results due to the timing, mix and availability of the Company's motion pictures and games; changes in the Federal communications laws and regulations; the impact of piracy; other domestic and global economic, business, competitive and/or regulatory factors affecting the Company's businesses generally; and other factors described in the Company's news releases and filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its 2008 Annual Report on Form 10-K and reports on Form 10-Q and Form 8-K. The forward-looking statements included in this document are made only as of the date of this document, and the Company does not have any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.



    VIACOM INC.
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
    (Unaudited)

                                       Quarter Ended         Year Ended
                                        December 31,         December 31,

    (in millions, except earnings
     per share amounts)                2008    2007       2008       2007


    Revenues                         $4,243  $4,248    $14,625    $13,423
    Expenses:
    Operating                         2,795   2,433      8,787      7,431
    Selling, general and
     administrative                     849     741      2,910      2,663
    Depreciation and amortization       124      96        405        393
                                        ---      --        ---        ---

    Total expenses                    3,768   3,270     12,102     10,487

    Operating income                    475     978      2,523      2,936
    Interest expense, net              (119)   (124)      (482)      (464)
    Gain on sale of equity
     investment                           -       -          -        151
    Equity in losses of investee
     companies                          (26)    (12)       (74)         -
    Other items, net                    (74)      9       (112)       (43)
                                       ----       -      -----       ----

    Earnings from continuing
     operations before provision for
     income taxes
     and minority interest              256     851      1,855      2,580

    Provision for income taxes          (79)   (298)      (605)      (929)
    Minority interest, net of tax        (5)     (8)       (17)       (21)
                                        ---     ---       ----       ----

    Net earnings from continuing
     operations                         172     545      1,233      1,630
    Discontinued operations, net of
     tax                                  1      15         18        208
                                          -      --         --        ---

    Net earnings                       $173    $560     $1,251     $1,838
                                       ====    ====     ======     ======

    Basic earnings per common share:
    Earnings per share, continuing
     operations                       $0.28   $0.84      $1.97      $2.42
    Earnings per share, discontinued
     operations                       $0.00   $0.02      $0.03      $0.31
    Net earnings per share            $0.28   $0.86      $2.00      $2.73

    Diluted earnings per common
     share:
    Earnings per share, continuing
     operations                       $0.28   $0.83      $1.97      $2.41
    Earnings per share, discontinued
     operations                       $0.00   $0.03      $0.03      $0.31
    Net earnings per share            $0.28   $0.86      $2.00      $2.72

    Weighted average number of
     common shares outstanding:
    Basic                             611.2   651.8      624.7      674.1
    Diluted                           611.5   653.3      625.4      675.6

    VIACOM INC.
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (Unaudited)

                                                  December 31,    December 31,
                                                      2008            2007
    (in millions, except par value)

    ASSETS
    Current assets:
    Cash and cash equivalents                           $792          $920
    Receivables, net (includes retained interests
     in securitizations)                               2,271         2,617
    Inventory, net                                       881           727
    Deferred tax assets, net                             203           248
    Prepaid and other assets                             355           321

    Total current assets                               4,502         4,833
    Property and equipment, net                        1,145         1,196
    Inventory, net                                     4,133         4,108
    Goodwill                                          11,470        11,375
    Intangibles, net                                     674           684
    Other assets                                         563           708

    Total assets                                     $22,487       $22,904

    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
    Current liabilities:
    Accounts payable                                    $574          $497
    Accrued expenses                                   1,304         1,563
    Participants' share and residuals                  1,537         1,545
    Program rights obligations                           384           370
    Deferred revenue                                     442           406
    Current portion of long-term debt                    105           187
    Other liabilities                                    496           705

    Total current liabilities                          4,842         5,273
    Long-term debt                                     7,897         8,059
    Participants' share and residuals                    488           285
    Program rights obligations                           621           533
    Deferred tax liabilities, net                         12           105
    Other liabilities                                  1,556         1,501
    Minority interests                                    38            37
    Commitments and contingencies
    Stockholders' equity:
    Class A Common stock, par value $0.001, 375.0
     authorized; 57.4 and 57.4 outstanding,
     respectively                                          -             -
    Class B Common stock, par value $0.001,
     5,000.0 authorized; 549.4 and 587.4
     outstanding, respectively                             1             1
    Additional paid-in capital                         8,186         8,079
    Treasury stock                                    (5,725)       (4,502)
    Retained earnings                                  4,658         3,407
    Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income        (87)          126

    Total stockholders' equity                         7,033         7,111

    Total liabilities and stockholders' equity       $22,487       $22,904

VIACOM INC.

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES REGARDING NON-GAAP FINANCIAL INFORMATION

The following tables reconcile the Company's results for the quarter and year ended December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively, to adjusted results that exclude the impact of restructuring and other charges, a realized gain on the sale of the Company's non-controlling investment in MTV Russia, impairment charges of minority investments and net discrete tax benefits. The Company uses adjusted operating income, adjusted net earnings and adjusted diluted EPS among other things, to evaluate the Company's operating performance in the absence of these items and for planning and forecasting of future periods. The Company believes that the adjusted results provide relevant and useful information for investors because it allows investors to view performance in a manner similar to the method used by the Company's management, improves their ability to understand the Company's operating performance and makes it easier to compare the Company's results with other companies. Since adjusted operating income, adjusted net earnings and adjusted diluted EPS are not measures of performance calculated in accordance with GAAP, they should not be considered in isolation of, or as a substitute for operating income, net earnings and diluted EPS as indicators of operating performance and they may not be comparable to similarly titled measures employed by other companies.



    (in millions, except                       Quarter Ended
     per share amounts)                      December 31, 2008

                                        Pre-tax       Net           Diluted
                                        Earnings      Earnings      EPS
                                        from          from          from
                             Operating  Continuing    Continuing    Continuing
                             Income     Operations(1) Operations(2) Operations


    Reported results            $475          $256          $172        $0.28
    Adjustments:
       Restructuring and
        other charges(3)         454           454           286         0.47
       Impairment
        of investments(5)          -            15            15         0.02
       Discrete tax
        benefits (6)               -             -            (9)       (0.01)
    Adjusted results            $929          $725          $464        $0.76



    (in millions, except                      Quarter Ended
     per share amounts)                     December 31, 2007

                                        Pre-tax       Net           Diluted
                                        Earnings      Earnings      EPS
                                        from          from          from
                             Operating  Continuing    Continuing    Continuing
                             Income     Operations(1) Operations(2) Operations


    Reported results            $978          $851          $545        $0.83
    Adjustments:
       Media Networks
        restructuring
        activities(3)              7             7             5         0.01
    Adjusted results            $985          $858          $550        $0.84



    (in millions, except                        Year Ended
     per share amounts)                     December 31, 2008

                                        Pre-tax       Net           Diluted
                                        Earnings      Earnings      EPS
                                        from          from          from
                             Operating  Continuing    Continuing    Continuing
                             Income     Operations(1) Operations(2) Operations

    Reported results          $2,523        $1,855        $1,233        $1.97
    Adjustments:
       Restructuring and
        other charges(3)         454           454           286         0.46
       Impairment of
        investments(5)             -            27            27         0.04
       Discrete tax
        benefits (6)               -             -           (55)       (0.09)
    Adjusted results          $2,977        $2,336        $1,491        $2.38



    (in millions, except                        Year Ended
     per share amounts)                      December 31, 2007

                                        Pre-tax       Net           Diluted
                                        Earnings      Earnings      EPS
                                        from          from          from
                             Operating  Continuing    Continuing    Continuing
                             Income     Operations(1) Operations(2) Operations

    Reported results          $2,936        $2,580        $1,630        $2.41
    Adjustments:
       Media Networks
        restructuring
        activities(3)             77            77            49         0.07
       Gain on sale of equity
        investment(4)              -          (151)          (95)       (0.14)
       Impairment of
        investment(5)              -            36            23         0.04
    Discrete tax benefits (6)      -             -           (15)       (0.02)
    Adjusted results          $3,013        $2,542        $1,592        $2.36

    (1) Pre-tax earnings represent earnings from continuing operations before
        provision for income taxes and minority interest.
    (2) The tax impact of adjustments has been calculated where appropriate
        using the applicable rates in effect for the period presented.
    (3) 2008 adjusted results exclude $454 million for the quarter and year
        ended December 31, 2008, of restructuring and other charges across all
        segments.  The charge principally relates to programming abandonments,
        severance, the write-down of film inventory and other charges.  2007
        adjusted results exclude $7 million and $77 million, respectively, of
        expenses related to Media Networks restructuring charges, principally
        severance, affecting MTV Networks domestic and international
        operations for the quarter and year ended December 31, 2007.
    (4) In 2007, the Company sold its non-controlling investment in MTV Russia
        for $191 million and recognized a pre-tax gain of $151 million.
    (5) 2008 adjusted results exclude $15 million and $27 million,
        respectively, of pre-tax non-cash investment impairment charges for
        the quarter and year ended December 31, 2008.  2007 adjusted results
        exclude $36 million of pre-tax non-cash investment impairment charges
        for the year ended December 31, 2007.
    (6) 2008 adjusted results exclude $9 million and $55 million,
        respectively, of net discrete tax benefits for the quarter and year
        ended December 31, 2008.  2007 adjusted results exclude $15 million of
        net discrete tax benefits for the year ended December 31, 2007.  The
        discrete tax benefits were principally the result of effectively
        settled audits.

Americans Reject Pork in Stimulus Bill, According to an ATI-News/Zogby Poll

2009-02-12T10:03:00.000+02:00

Senator Schumer Wrong - Americans DO Care About Pork

WASHINGTON, Feb. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- On the floor of the U.S. Senate yesterday, Senator Charles Schumer (D-NY) took it upon himself to speak for the American people, boldly declaring that, when it comes to pork, "the American people really don't care." However, according to a just-released ATI-News/Zogby poll, Schumer's statement is incorrect.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030425/ATNLOGO)

The poll surveyed 7,010 likely voters. It was conducted February 5th through 9th and has a margin of error of plus-or-minus 1.2 percentage points. Here is a sampling of the results:

Question #1: ATI-News/Zogby asked likely voters, "The current stimulus package supported by President Obama contains $650 million, renewing funding to help Americans buy digital converter boxes. Do you favor or oppose this spending provision?"

Overall, 56 percent of Americans oppose this $650 million pork provision; while only 33 percent favor it (11 percent are not sure). Eighty-four percent of Republicans oppose it, as do 61 percent of Independents. Fifty-five percent of young voters age 18-29 oppose, and only 34 percent favor it (11 percent are not sure).

Question #2: ATI-News/Zogby asked voters, "The current stimulus package supported by President Obama contains nearly $4.2 billion for neighborhood stabilization activities that could go to organizations such as ACORN or the League of Women Voters, that would spend it on voter registration activities and other community involvement programs. Do you favor or oppose this spending provision?"

Fifty-eight percent of American voters oppose using the "stimulus" bill to send $4.2 billion taxpayer dollars to community activist organizations. Ninety-three percent of Republicans oppose this pork, as do 64 percent of Independent voters.

Question #3: ATI-News/Zogby asked voters, "The stimulus bill would allow undocumented workers, who are also referred to as illegal aliens, who are working and paying taxes to collect a tax rebate check of $500 per person. Do you agree or disagree with this provision?"

Sixty-eight of all American voters disagree with using the economic recovery bill to give tax rebates to illegal aliens; while only 26 percent agree (6 percent are not sure). Ninety-two percent of Republicans disagree, as do 74 percent of Independents.

"Next time, Senator Schumer may want to think twice before speaking on behalf of the American people," said ATI-News president Brad O'Leary. "As this poll shows, a clear majority of the American electorate is opposed to using the economic stimulus bill as a vehicle for pork."

Brad O'Leary is President of ATI-News, a bestselling author, and is a former NBC Westwood One talk show host. To interview Brad O'Leary, contact Peyton Knight at 202-828-1202 or email peytonknight@pm-direct.com.

28% of Broadband Households in Western Europe Watch Online TV Monthly

2009-02-12T08:00:00.000+02:00

CONNECTIONS(TM) Europe Summit examines new opportunities in broadband, video services, digital media, CE

DALLAS, Feb. 12 /PRNewswire/ -- International research firm Parks Associates announced today the topics and preliminary list of speakers for CONNECTIONS(TM) Europe Summit, March 31, 2009, in Nice, France. This executive event addresses the new strategies for service and technology providers, media companies, and manufacturers in creating new entertainment and communications solutions.

"Twenty-eight percent of broadband households in Western Europe watch TV shows online at least monthly," said Kurt Scherf, vice president, principal analyst, Parks Associates. "HDTV ownership among broadband households is at or above 50% in several countries. Combining online activities with advanced CE is one point of convergence where companies with the right solution can offer real value to their customers. CONNECTIONS(TM) Europe focuses on these emerging opportunities."

Summit sessions include broadband and value-added services, the evolution of video services, digital media, connected CE, digital home services and customer support, and the future of consumer technologies.

CONNECTIONS(TM) Europe features Roger Pitton, Program Director, TV Business, Microsoft Corporation, delivering the keynote "IPTV and the keys to keeping customers." The event also features:

        Michimasa Aramaki, HD-PLC Alliance
        Thierry Boudard, Thomson
        Richard Bullwinkle, Macrovision
        Mark Cavicchia, WhereverTV
        Brian Donnelly, Icron
        Margot Dor, ETSI
        Paul Entwistle, Pace
        Milan Erbes, HGI
        Gil Eyal, Enure Networks
        Ed Forman, ActiveVideo Networks
        Peter Galyas, Tilgin
        Trevor Izsak, Cloakware
        Stefan Jenzowsky, moreTV Broadcasting GmbH
        Art Lancaster, Affinegy
        Dr. Ulrich Leiner, Fraunhofer Institute for Telecommunications, HHI
        Dr. Anton Monk, MoCA; Entropic Communications
        Trond Neergard, Radialpoint
        Dr. Randolph Nikutta, Deutsche Telekom AG, Laboratories
        Frederic Onado, HomePlug Powerline Alliance; SPiDCOM Technologies
        Eric Plesner, IO-Homecontrol
        Micha Risling, Valens Semiconductor
        Eran Rom, Jungo
        Bill Stanley, Telcordia

Event sponsors include Advisory Sponsors Affinegy and Enure Networks and Supporting Sponsor HomeGrid Forum. CONNECTIONS(TM) Global Sponsors include ActiveVideo Networks, Affinegy, Cloakware, DSC, HD-PLC, Icron, Macrovision, MoCA(TM), ProVision Communications, Radialpoint, Telcordia, and Zilog.

For information, visit http://www.connectionseurope.com or contact 972-490-1113, sales@parksassociates.com.

About CONNECTIONS(TM) EuropeSummit

CONNECTIONS(TM) Europe Summits, produced by Parks Associates, provide attendees with high-level analysis and consumer research, networking opportunities, and information on emerging residential and mobile technologies and services. Each focused event creates a forum where executives can learn about vital international trends, successful strategies, and key players in the development of digital living technologies. http://www.connectionseurope.com

    Contact: Mindi Sue Sternblitz-Rubenstein
    Parks Associates
    972-490-1113
    Email: mindi.sue@parksassociates.com

National Association of Independent Networks: Time Warner Issued a 'Get Out of Jail Free' Card for Discriminatory Practices

2009-02-12T02:12:00.000+02:00

WASHINGTON, Feb. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Simply stated, the Media Bureau's recent decision regarding Time Warner's spin-off amounts to a 'get out of jail free' card for Time Warner Cable. From program access issues to program carriage issues, this decision will allow Time Warner Cable to continue its discriminatory practices without even the minimal level of recourse to the FCC that had previously existed.

In particular, NAIN is disappointed that the Media Bureau failed to investigate the realities of the transaction, which it could have done by asking a few simple questions -- such as why, if Time Warner's content and cable businesses are truly being separated, is Time Warner Cable moving its offices FROM Stamford, Connecticut, TO office space in Time Warner's New York headquarters. Had it asked such questions, the answers would have revealed that far from representing true deconsolidation in the media industry, the proposed transaction reduces the Commission's ability to police Time Warner Cable's anti-consumer conduct without any real public interest benefits. Those questions also would have illustrated the need for the narrow conditions proposed by NAIN and others to deal with "legacy discrimination" flowing from Time Warner's current vertically integrated operations. NAIN and its members are considering their legal and other options, and are confident that the FCC and the Media Bureau will ultimately see the need for appropriate remedies to address the continuing threat of discrimination by Time Warner Cable.

About NAIN, the National Association of Independent Networks

The National Association of Independent Networks, NAIN, is a trade organization dedicated to addressing the needs of independent cable programming networks in a positive and proactive way. NAIN advocates for a more competitive programming environment to benefit consumers with lower prices, higher quality programming, greater diversity and more choices. The group is comprised of well established independent cable programming networks along with pre and post launched emerging networks. NAIN represents a wide range of independent programming networks from sports related channels to some of the nation's most well established high definitions to minority focused networks. A partial list of founding members includes the Hispanic Information & Telecommunications Network, The Horror Channel, and WealthTV. For more information, please visit www.NAINonline.org

    For more information, contact:

    Sara Nunez
    NAIN Activities & PR Coordinator
    1-858-270-6900
    Sarah.Nunez@NAINonline.org

Yanni Finds His 'Voice'

2009-02-12T01:00:00.000+02:00

PBS STAR TO PREMIERE LIVE CONCERT SPECIAL 'YANNI VOICES: LIVE FROM THE FORUM IN ACAPULCO'

Concert Special to Premiere on PBS March 2, 2009

First CD release in six years, YANNI VOICES, set for March

U.S. tour kicks off in April

BURBANK, Calif., Feb. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- YANNI VOICES: LIVE FROM THE FORUM IN ACAPULCO, a live concert spectacular from Grammy-nominated and multi-platinum recording artist Yanni, premieres on PBS Monday, March 2, 2009. After Yanni's four-year hiatus from public performance, YANNI VOICES: LIVE FROM THE FORUM IN ACAPULCO marks his triumphant return to the stage and, for the first time in his remarkable career, features show-stopping vocal performances by young artists who bring to life his most popular musical compositions.

Long a PBS favorite, Yanni has a unique ability to engage his audience with his masterful productions; he has done so again, creating an enchanting and riveting experience that features beautiful music, spectacular choreography, dazzling costumes and dynamic set design. Most prominently featured in YANNI VOICES: LIVE FROM THE FORUM IN ACAPULCO are the "Voices" themselves - Nathan Pacheco, Chloe, Ender Thomas and Leslie Mills - four exceptional vocalists who, under Yanni's direction, perform both original and classic Yanni compositions accompanied by Yanni's acclaimed orchestra, comprised of musicians from across the globe.

One of the world's most recognizable musicians, Yanni has distinguished himself as a top-selling adult contemporary artist, with worldwide sales of more than 25 million albums, accumulating 35 platinum and gold records globally. His concert DVDs Tribute and Live at the Acropolis both attained multi-platinum status; Live at the Acropolis remains the second highest-selling music DVD to date.

Yanni's last PBS concert special YANNI LIVE! THE CONCERT EVENT in 2006 was an unqualified success. His other hit PBS specials include YANNI LIVE AT ROYAL ALBERT HALL, YANNI TRIBUTE: IN CONCERT AT THE TAJ MAHAL AND THE FORBIDDEN CITY, YANNI IN CONCERT: LIVE AT THE ACROPOLIS and YANNI: NO BORDERS, NO BOUNDARIES.

Following the PBS special, Disney Pearl Series will release "Yanni Voices" on March 24. This will be Yanni's 16th album release and marks the first time the acclaimed composer/pianist has brought vocals to the forefront of his music. On April 10, Yanni will kick-off of the "Yanni Voices" tour - his first since 2005 - which will run through October and cover more than 75 North American markets, including Mexico and Canada.

YANNI VOICES: LIVE FROM THE FORUM IN ACAPULCO will air on PBS stations nationwide. Please check local listings for times and stations.