Tag Archive: entertainment


Sony projects wider loss for full year (AP)

Filed Under: Insurance News
Feb.02, 2012

TOKYO – Sony Corp. has reported a net loss of 159 billion yen ($2.1 billion) for the October-December quarter as weak TV sales, a strong yen and the disruption in production from flooding in Thailand cut into its earnings.

The Japanese electronics and entertainment company also revised upward its expected loss for the full fiscal year through March to 220 billion yen from an earlier forecast of 90 billion.

Thursday’s results come out a day after Sony announced that Kazuo Hirai, who leads the company’s core consumer products business, will replace Howard Stringer as CEO and president effective April 1.

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‘THE HELP’ and FEEDING AMERICA Campaign Together to Help Americans in Need This Holiday Season

Filed Under: Insurance News
Dec.02, 2011

CHICAGO, Dec. 2, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ – FEEDING AMERICA, the nation’s leading domestic hunger-relief charity, and the DreamWorks Pictures movie THE HELP, are joining forces this holiday season to help feed Americans facing hunger.  Coinciding with the DVD/Blu-ray release of THE HELP on December 6, a national donation campaign will run from December 1 to December 11 to generate food and funding to help feed the 1 in 6 people in the United States who do not have enough to eat.

“The economic downturn really hurt American families,” said Feeding America Director of Media Relations Ross Fraser. “As a nation, we need to come together to help our neighbors who are struggling to make ends meet. The collaboration between FEEDING AMERICA and the producers of THE HELP is a great example of how we can come together to make a difference.”

“The film’s hopeful message of creating change along with its home entertainment release during the holidays inspired the team here to reach out and help make a difference in people’s lives,” noted Jeff Small, President and Chief Operating Officer of DreamWorks Studios. “FEEDING AMERICA seemed the perfect fit in that it operates nationally but is focused locally and housed within the communities it serves and will directly benefit those in need.  We’re happy THE HELP can help.”

To help put food in the hands of as many people/families in need this holiday season, FEEDING AMERICA/THE HELP are asking consumers to please help contribute in one of the following ways.

It’s this simple:

  • DONATE ONLINE – Every $1.00 donated can help FEEDING AMERICA provide meals eight meals for people in need. People who make online donations at www.feedingamerica.org/thehelp between December 1 and 11 will receive a limited-time $5.00 off coupon toward the purchase of the film THE HELP on Blu-ray or DVD.  Touchstone Pictures, the affiliate of The Walt Disney Company that distributed THE HELP, will provide a matching donation of up to $10,000, with a goal of providing more than 200,000 meals to families at risk of hunger.
  • GET SOCIAL – Throughout the month of December, Facebook and Twitter fans of THE HELP will be encouraged to take action in their local communities.  THE HELP Facebook and Twitter accounts will post details about how people can get involved and ask fans to provide feedback and talk about their local community efforts/contributions.
  • DROP OFF FOOD – FEEDING AMERICA/THE HELP themed food donation boxes will be positioned at local community events in Manhattan, Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Dallas and Atlanta throughout December. The food collected will be distributed the local Feeding America food bank.  Please consider donating foods that are most frequently requested, such as cereal, pasta, rice, beans, canned fruits and vegetables, soups, 100% juices, peanut butter, canned tuna, chicken or turkey.

Those who would like to stay connected with the FEEDING AMERICA/THE HELP program are encouraged to:

Unprecedented Demand For Food Assistance
The state of the economy is affecting more Americans than any other time in recent history. The US Department of Agriculture reports that 49 million Americans are food insecure. FEEDING AMERICA reports a 46 percent increase in the number of people seeking emergency food assistance through their nationwide network of food banks compared to four years ago.

For those not living in the five cities where the food drive takes place, DreamWorks will be doing grassroots and media awareness campaigns to encourage local community efforts.   As well, you can find other ways to help on TakePart.com/TheHelp, the social action website sponsored by THE HELP’s producing partners Participant Media.

About THE HELP:
The #1 New York Times best-seller by Kathryn Stockett comes to vivid life through the powerful performances of a phenomenal ensemble cast. THE HELP is an inspirational, courageous and empowering story about very different, extraordinary women in the 1960s South who build an unlikely friendship around a secret writing project — one that breaks society’s rules and puts them all at risk. Filled with poignancy, humor and hope — and complete with compelling, never-before-seen bonus features — THE HELP is a timeless, universal and triumphant story about the ability to create change. To learn more about the movie please visit, http://thehelpmovie.com/us/.

About FEEDING AMERICA
FEEDING AMERICA provides low-income individuals and families with the fuel to survive and even thrive. As the nation’s leading domestic hunger-relief charity, our network members supply food to more than 37 million Americans each year, including 14 million children and 3 million seniors. Serving the entire United States, more than 200 member food banks support 61,000 agencies that address hunger in all of its forms. For more information on how you can fight hunger in your community and across the country, visit http://www.feedingamerica.org. Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/FeedingAmerica or follow our news on Twitter at twitter.com/FeedingAmerica.

About DreamWorks Studios:
DreamWorks Studios is a motion picture company formed in 2009 and led by Steven Spielberg and Stacey Snider in partnership with The Reliance Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group. Recent releases include The Help, Real Steel and War Horse. DreamWorks Studios can be found on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/DreamWorksStudios and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/dw_studios.

About Participant Media:
Participant Media is an entertainment company that focuses on documentary and narrative feature films, television, publishing and digital content about the real issues that shape our lives. For each of its projects, Participant creates social action and advocacy programs to transform the impact of the media experience into individual and community action. Participant’s online Social Action Network is TakePart (takepart.com). Founded by Chairman Jeff Skoll in 2004, Jim Berk serves as CEO and Ricky Strauss as President. Participant’s films include The Kite Runner, Charlie Wilson’s War, An Inconvenient Truth, Good Night, and Good Luck, The Visitor, Food, Inc., The Cove, The Crazies, Countdown to Zero, Waiting for “Superman,” Fair Game, The Help and Contagion.

© 2011 DreamWorks II Distribution Co., LLC

SOURCE DreamWorks Studios

‘THE HELP’ and FEEDING AMERICA Campaign Together to Help Americans in Need This Holiday Season | Chicago Press Release Services – Chicago’s leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.



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Waterton Residential Acquires Vue Portfolio in Dallas, Texas

Filed Under: Insurance News
Dec.01, 2011

CHICAGO, Nov. 30, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — With the goal of national expansion, Waterton Residential recently acquired 592 upscale, high-design apartment units through its purchase of three Class A multifamily properties in Dallas, Texas: Vue Fitzhugh, Vue Greenville and Vue Live Oak.

(Photo: http://photos.CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM.com/prnh/20111130/CG14919)

(Logo: http://photos.CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM.com/prnh/20100908/CG61365LOGO)

The Vue portfolio, originally developed by Inland American Communities, includes three institutional quality communities totaling 503,775 square feet of rentable space.

“Waterton is excited to add such a high quality group of assets to our growing portfolio,” said Matt Masinter, senior vice president of acquisitions, Waterton Residential. “The Vue portfolio offers the unique combination of post-2000 vintage construction with value-added potential and a strong, infill Dallas location. Waterton will continue to pursue opportunistic acquisitions in Dallas as we endeavor to grow the Waterton Residential Property Venture XI, L.P. portfolio nationwide.”

Vue Fitzhugh

Built in 2004, Vue Fitzhugh is a distinctive three-story building set on 3.6 acres in Dallas’ trendy Knox-Henderson entertainment district. It includes 226 units consisting of one-bedroom/one-bathroom, one-bedroom/one-bathroom loft and two-bedroom/two-bathroom apartment homes. The property features contemporary amenities such as a resident lounge, fitness center, resident internet cafe, swimming pool, outdoor fireplace lounge, barbeque grilling area, parking garage and controlled access entry. In addition, each apartment home is well-appointed with upscale decor including a ceramic tile entryway, hardwood floors, granite countertops, dishwasher, patio or balcony and an intrusion alarm.

Vue Greenville

Built in 2006, Vue Greenville is a unique three-story building set on 3.7 acres in the heart of the Greenville entertainment district and minutes from both downtown and uptown. It includes 128 units consisting of one-bedroom/one-bathroom, two-bedroom/two-bathroom and three-bedroom/three-bathroom apartment homes. The property features a fitness center, swimming pool, outdoor fountain lounge, barbeque grilling area, parking garage and controlled access gates. Charming and distinctive decor mark these apartments which include European-style cabinetry, hardwood floors, granite countertops, patios/balconies, dishwashers and wood-burning fireplaces.

Vue Live Oak

Built in 2003, Vue Live Oak consists of four separate three-story buildings stylishly designed and set on 3.6 acres near the Dallas central business district and Deep Ellum neighborhood. It includes 238 units with a mix of efficiencies, one-bedroom/one-bathroom, one-bedroom/one and a half-bathroom, two-bedroom/two-bathroom and two-bedroom/ two and a half-bathroom apartment homes. The property includes a resident lounge, fitness center, swimming pool, barbeque grilling area, parking garage, controlled access gates. High design decor differentiates these apartments which include European-style cabinetry, hardwood floors, granite countertops, patios/balconies, dishwashers and wood-burning fireplaces.

Renovations, which began in 2007 under the previous owner, will continue at all three properties and include the addition of wood floors and granite countertops in units that do not already include them. Waterton Residential closed on the purchase of the Vue portfolio November 21, buying the apartment community from GE Capital. The seller was represented by Apartment Realty Advisors’ Dallas office. The portfolio was acquired as part of Waterton Residential Property Venture XI, a $500 million discretionary multifamily investment fund.  

About Waterton Residential:

Chicago-based Waterton Residential, one of the leading multifamily companies in the nation, is focused on the acquisition and management of apartment communities in multiple markets to which it can add value through repositioning and renovation. Since its inception in 1995, the Waterton Residential team has remained committed to outstanding customer service by providing a community our residents are proud to call home. With 16,974 apartment homes in 44 communities in 11 states the Waterton Residential brand signifies exceptional living experiences, a sense of community, and home. Waterton employs 474 associates who are committed to achieving the Waterton Residential vision to be the leader in the multifamily industry. For more information, please visit www.watertonresidential.com.

Properties Facts at a Glance:

Vue Fitzhugh

2819 N. Fitzhugh Avenue

Dallas, TX 75204

Number of Units:

226

Average Square Footage:

807 SF

Total Residential Square Footage:

182,367 SF

Structure:

1 Three-Story Building

Year Built:

2004

Land:

3.6 Acres

Vue Greenville

1811 Greenville Avenue

Dallas, TX 75206

Number of Units:

128

Average Square Footage:

935 SF

Total Residential Square Footage:

119,721 SF

Structure:

1 Three-Story Building

Year Built:

2006

Land:

3.7 Acres

Vue Live Oak

1333 N. Peak Street

Dallas, TX 75204

Number of Units:

238

Average Square Footage:

847 Square Feet

Total Residential Square Footage:

201,687 SF

Structure:

4 Three-Story Buildings

Year Built:

2003

Land:

3.6 Acres

SOURCE Waterton Residential


http://www.watertonresidential.com

Waterton Residential Acquires Vue Portfolio in Dallas, Texas | Chicago Press Release Services – Chicago’s leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.



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Creative writing students soak up advice, criticism from radio host Ira Glass

Filed Under: Insurance News
Nov.02, 2011

About 100 creative writing students gathered on a recent Saturday afternoon in the Francis X. Kinahan Theater, hoping for words of wisdom from one of the undisputed masters of nonfiction storytelling.

They got what they bargained for: Ira Glass, radio host of “This American Life,” had plenty advice for them—and a little tough love.

Daniel Raeburn, lecturer in the Committee on Creative Writing, who organized Glass’ visit, had asked students in his Intermediate Creative Nonfiction course to write sample “This American Life” story pitches for Glass to review. Glass glanced at the stack of pitches and looked into the audience.

“These pitches were terrible,” Glass good-naturedly told the students. “They weren’t even close to being good.”

At least they were in good company. Glass confessed he was a “terrible” writer when he began his journalism career as a reporter for NPR. Writing and reporting “seemed very mysterious,” he said. It wasn’t until he mastered the basics of storytelling that his writing began to improve.

Throughout the two-hour conversation and workshop, Glass encouraged the aspiring writers and reporters to stay focused on compelling storytelling and plot. “A story is about logic; it’s not about reason, it’s not about emotion, primarily,” he said, “It’s about the motion of action—this thing happened, which led to this thing.”

If you create narrative suspense, your audience “can’t resist it,” he explained. “So you’re kind of stuck with us.”

Even when “This American Life” tackles serious issues, the producers try not to let their sense of mission detract from the show’s entertainment value, Glass said. “We want to play a really advanced game on both of those things.”

He also urged the students not to lose sight of what they found interesting. “It’s important that you’re out to amuse yourself,” he said.

Glass called on several students in Raeburn’s class, and encouraged them to hone in on the most engaging aspects of their story ideas.

Glass praised third-year Tyler Leed’s idea for a story about his experiences with the waning punk scene in Washington D.C. Leeds said he planned to go back and revise his pitch based on Glass’ feedback—“seeing as my final grade depends on it.”

Fourth-year Adam Gillette also was singled out by Glass. The experience was “nerve-wracking,” he said, but he was grateful for the guidance. “You’d be foolish not to take something away from it,” Gillette said.

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Gogo, Ford Team Up to Give Passengers Free Access to Mustang Customizer and Facebook at 30,000 Feet

Filed Under: Insurance News
Oct.24, 2011

ITASCA, Ill., Oct. 24, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — Gogo, a leading provider of in-flight connectivity, and Ford have teamed up to give passengers free access to Ford’s new interactive Mustang Customizer.  This is the first time travelers will be able to access Ford’s popular Mustang Customizer and share their Mustang creations from the stratosphere for free.    

(Logo: http://photos.CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM.com/prnh/20110715/CG34837LOGO)

Passengers aboard flights equipped with Gogo’s in-flight Wi-Fi who configure their Mustang will then gain access to Facebook for the duration of their flight.  The special promotion starts October 21, 2011 and ends November 18, 2011.

Passengers can choose to customize their Mustang from literally trillions of combinations: 78,791,049,216,000 combinations to be exact.  Passengers start by choosing a Mustang V6, GT, Boss 302 or Shelby GT500. Their custom touch is blended with three different backgrounds – a dragway, cityscape or drive-in restaurant – along with five different angles from which to check out the design.  Accessories include body kits, wheels, decals, grilles and decklids, along with parts from Ford Racing Performance Parts and Ford Vehicle Personalization.  Passengers can also save and share their mustangs with their friends on Facebook.  When they’re through playing with their new Mustang, they can enjoy free access to Facebook on Gogo so they can keep in touch with friends and family at 30,000 feet.

“This is the second time Gogo has worked with Ford in creative ways to promote their brand via Gogo’s in-air network,” said Ash ElDifrawi, Gogo’s chief marketing officer.  ”We’re extremely excited to work with them on building a rich media opportunity to reach travelers and bring their cutting edge, interactive Mustang Customizer to passengers at 30,000 feet.  This promotion is one more way Gogo is working with partners to bring exciting entertainment options to travelers while offering creative marketing solutions for advertisers.”

Accessing the Ford Mustang Customizer is easy.  Passengers with their own Wi-Fi enabled device can simply open their Internet browser.  From there, they will automatically be directed to Gogo’s in-air Web site where they will see a special promotion.  From there, they just click on the promotion and they will automatically be directed to the Ford Mustang Customizer.

“We are really excited to give Gogo users a chance to customize their very own Mustang while in flight,” added Brian McClary, emerging and social media specialist at Ford.  ”The Mustang Customizer has proven to be a great way for users to create their own Mustang and provides an interactive and immersive experience.”

About Gogo

By allowing travelers to get online, in air, Gogo keeps them connected to life. Using Gogo’s exclusive network and services, passengers with laptops and other Wi-Fi enabled devices can get online on all domestic AirTran Airways and Virgin America flights, on all domestic mainline Delta flights and on select Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines, and US Airways flights.

Back on the ground, Gogo’s 350+ employees in Itasca, IL and Broomfield, CO are working to continually redefine flying as a productive, socially connected, and all-around more satisfying experience. Connect with us at www.gogoair.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/gogo and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/gogo.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 166,000 employees and about 70 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.

Contact:
Steve Nolan
630-647-1074
snolan@gogoair.com

SOURCE Gogo


http://www.gogoair.com
http://www.ford.com

Gogo, Ford Team Up to Give Passengers Free Access to Mustang Customizer and Facebook at 30,000 Feet | Chicago Press Release Services – Chicago’s leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.



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STRATA SURVEY: Advertising Demonstrates Resilience in Tough Economy; Digital Puts Pressure on TV

Filed Under: Insurance News
Oct.20, 2011

CHICAGO, Oct. 20, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — Advertising showed its resiliency this quarter by achieving solid gains consistent with spending trends from third quarter 2010, according to a new STRATA quarterly survey of leading advertising agencies. However, client attraction and decreasing budgets remain the chief challenges affecting overall agency growth. The survey also noted a possible shift for the top advertising channel, with Digital and Spot (Local) TV now only separated by a margin of 1%.  

STRATA, the system of choice for over 900 agencies and roughly half of ad agencies nationally, found that 52% of respondents noted that their business is increasing compared to the same time last year (only 16.5% saw a decrease in business, down 30% from a year ago).  Job growth also made a steady upswing this quarter, with 24% of agencies surveyed noting they will hire before the end of the year (up 8% since last year).  

When listing their biggest business challenges, attracting new business remains tops for agency respondents (38%) followed closely by client spending (22%).  In fact, most feel that their business won’t return to a strong growth period until after 2012.  If market volatility continues, Print and Local TV would be the media most hit by ad spending cuts (Print 52% and Local TV 24%). The auto industry (30%) and entertainment industry (21%) are the two top industries that agencies say are asking to cut advertising.

The STRATA survey suggests its now a tight race for the top advertising avenues. Local TV remains the medium of choice (35%), though it is just barely beating out Digital (34%), which is up 43% since last quarter. Taking a closer look, 85% say clients are focusing on Digital more than last year. Local Cable noticed a bump as 31% say they are more focused on it than they were last year (up 13% over last year). Radio had a downturn as 37% say they are less focused on it as they were a year ago. Network TV noticed an uptick with 12% saying they are more focused on Network TV than they were a year ago (up 86% since third quarter 2010).

Social and Mobile are helping Digital challenge Traditional advertising, according to STRATA’s third quarter survey. In fact, 89% of respondents indicated that they would use Facebook in their campaigns (up 10% from last quarter).  For the first time, YouTube (39%) is the number two most desirable social medium for campaign, surpassing Twitter (37%).  Google+ is still on the outside looking in with only 14% planning to use it this quarter (down 47% since last quarter). LinkedIn was a strong fourth at 22%. Mobile advertising sees the iPhone as the convincing leader with 78% of respondents noting it is the device their clients are most interested in advertising on (down 10% since last quarter). Android is closing the gap at 54% (up 7% since one year ago).  The iPad remains strong at 46% (up 85% since last year).  With Amazon and Apple continuing to focus on content for tablets, 69% say that focus will make this medium more attractive to advertisers.

“If one looks for another sign of a nominally growing economy, one should look to the advertising industry right now,” said John Shelton, CEO/President of STRATA. “Attracting new business is still a challenge for agencies, but, and it’s a key point to emphasize, client retention is stabilizing, and market volatility is not immediately effecting long-term goals and campaigns. As we’ve seen throughout the year, the STRATA survey is a good indicator of advertising growth and definitely highlighted third quarter challenges such as client attraction.  But with the holidays right around the corner, it will be interesting to see if the industry can leverage short-term boosts to create long-term optimism.”  

Other key findings of the STRATA survey:

  • 20% of respondents say that they anticipate having a greater spend on Digital than Traditional within 1-3 years.
  • 36% say that they will never have a greater spend on Digital than Traditional.
  • Facebook’s Open Graph launch did create some buzz, but agencies aren’t quite sure yet with 64% saying it is too early to tell if it will help stabilize social media advertising.
  • Agencies question whether their clients see the value in Digital. In the survey only 56% say their clients understand the value in Digital with 44% saying that they don’t see the value.
  • 29% say clients are more focused on Local TV than they were last year.

ABOUT STRATA

STRATA is the only system provider that connects both media buyers and sellers. The custom solutions supplied by STRATA empower clients to sell and efficiently purchase all media types including cable, broadcast, newspaper, radio, outdoor and digital advertising mediums.  On average, over $50 Billion in advertising dollars flow through STRATA systems per year.    

The whole-scale changes that are occurring in this fragmented media landscape require a customizable and convergent solution. STRATA provides the technology to enable organizations to lead rather than react.  By transforming the way advertisements are placed and tracked, STRATA adds efficiency and precision across traditional and emerging platforms. 

Headquartered in Chicago, STRATA has been supplying solutions to the media buying and selling industry since 1983.  STRATA is owned by Comcast Cable http://www.comcast.com/.  For more information, visit www.gotostrata.com or call (800) 9 STRATA

For more information: www.gotostrata.com, http://www.facebook.com/STRATA and on Twitter – @gotostrata

SOURCE STRATA


http://www.gotostrata.com

STRATA SURVEY: Advertising Demonstrates Resilience in Tough Economy; Digital Puts Pressure on TV | Chicago Press Release Services – Chicago’s leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.



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Motorola Mobility Makes Powerful a Lot More Fun and Affordable with Motorola ATRIX™ 2

Filed Under: Insurance News
Oct.11, 2011

LIBERTYVILLE, Ill., Oct. 11, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — Make fun times high-powered with Motorola ATRIX 2, the latest smartphone from Motorola Mobility, Inc. (NYSE: MMI). Thanks to its 1GHz dual-core processor, you’ll have up to two times faster processing power than single-core smartphones. You’ll instantly feel the rush: faster web browsing, faster data download speeds of up to 21 Mbps*, seamless multi-tasking and smooth-as-silk game play, so there’s never a hitch in the action. All this on a stunning 4.3-inch qHD screen, razor-sharp and crystal clear. A dazzler by design, Motorola ATRIX 2 is a good-looking, high performer that gives you access to the best entertainment anywhere. Built for a fast-paced world, it’s a smartphone that takes entertainment to the next level, with a price within reach.

Eager to get your hands on it? Motorola ATRIX 2 will be available in the United States starting in mid-October, with subsequent launches planned for China, Asia, Middle East and Latin America.

“Motorola ATRIX 2 is the smartphone that doubles as an entertainment center,” said Alain Mutricy, senior vice president, product and portfolio management, Motorola Mobility. “With its large crystal clear qHD display, dual-core processor, full 1080p video capture and free ZumoCast app for music and pictures — all at a price within reach — Motorola ATRIX 2 offers a great value for your money and an amazing entertainment experience.”

Fun at the Snap of Your Fingers

Remotely access content from your computer while on the go. With our free ZumoCast™(1) app, you get secure, unlimited access to music playlists, pictures and videos straight from your computer’s hard drive — in real-time, without using your phone’s memory. And with Music, our fully connected music player, Motorola ATRIX 2 gives you the power to play whatever you’re craving. Plus, the Music app lets you access your favorite artists, song lyrics, and allows you to share what you’re listening to with your friends. With super-quick downloads, Adobe® Flash® Player 10 and a high-resolution screen, watching video and browsing the Web on Motorola ATRIX 2 makes fun larger than life. Whether it’s a hot new remix, TV clip you can’t miss, or that bonus level you’re going to beat any day now (promise), you’ll experience entertainment at its best.

Capture the Moment

Step aside, standalone digital camera. With advanced imaging features, you can take pictures in an instant with shutter response that is faster than a digital camera. With an amazing 8-megapixel camera, you can take pictures clear enough for a poster-sized 16 by 20 inch print. Starting where the original Motorola ATRIX left off, this camera has better resolution so you can capture even more details. Motorola ATRIX 2 also has a full 1080p HD video capture for the highest video quality, smooth playback at 30 frames per second and speedy startup — you’ll never miss a beat from start to finish. If a wireless hub is nearby, you can also video chat with PCs or other smartphones via GoogleTalk™. And to share pictures and videos with your friends and family, the Gallery app makes it easy to post on your social networks in no time. Or what you might call, proof of awesomeness.

Want More Entertainment and Productivity?

Experience the full potential of Motorola ATRIX 2 by using Motorola’s unique webtop application. Just plug into a Motorola LAPDOCK™ 100 and in seconds a large-screen display and full keyboard are at your fingertips — or plug into a Motorola HD Station, then use the HDMI out to connect to any size HD monitor or TV(2). It’s super-sized Web surfing with a full version of the Mozilla Firefox® browser, with its multiple-window capabilities to surf the Web, make a call, stream a video or run a business web application like Google Docs™ — all at the same time! All while charging your Motorola ATRIX 2 in the background. It’s the smartphone that’s always ready for more.

Feel the Power by Being Business ready

Motorola ATRIX 2 is the right tool for any job, with everything a business owner wants and just what an employee needs. Motorola ATRIX 2 takes “work smart” to the next level with business-ready security and productivity features that would make any IT department proud. This is above and beyond what’s found in basic Android™-powered devices, with PIN lock and password protection; inactivity timeouts; data encryption on both the device and the SD card; and the ability to wipe the phone remotely if it’s ever lost or stolen. It doesn’t disappoint when it comes to productivity either. Access to corporate address information, calendar resources and conference dialing is quick and easy. Email is easier too, with the ability to filter, spell check and view or download attachments in a snap.

Download high resolution images here: http://mediacenter.motorola.com/Press-Releases/Motorola-Mobility-Makes-Powerful-a-Lot-More-Fun-and-Affordable-with-Motorola-ATRIX-2-382b.aspx.

 Motorola ATRIX 2 Features and Specifications

 Form Factor

 Touch Screen

 OS

 Android 2.3 (Gingerbread)

 Dimensions

 66 x 126 x 10.4 (mm)

 Display

 4.3-inch qHD

 Weight

 147g

 Processor

 Dual-core 1GHz

 Battery

 1785 mAh

 Talk and Standby Time(3)

 Up to 8.5 hours of talk time and 15.9 days in standby

 Bands/Modes

 WCDMA 850/900*/1900/2100

 GSM 850/900/1800/1900,

 HSDPA 21.1  Mbps, HSUPA 5.76 Mbps,

 850/1900 Rx Diversity

 Wi-Fi

 802.11 b/g/n

 Bluetooth

 Version 2.1+EDR

 Stereo Bluetooth Class 2

 Connectivity

 3.5mm headset jack, Micro USB 2.0, HDMI

 Mobile HotSpot capabilities — Allows customers to connect up to five other Wi-Fi®-enabled devices and laptops

 Messaging/Web/Apps

 MMS, SMS, Email (Corporate Sync, Gmail™, POP3/IMAP embedded, Push Email) IM (Google Talk), WebKit w/ Flash

 Cameras

 8MP auto focus with LED flash, VGA Front Camera

 Audio

 AAC, AAC+, AAC+ Enhanced, AMR NB, AMR WB*, MIDI, MP3, WAV, WMA v10, WMA v9

 Video

 Capture/Playback 1080p, H.263, H.264, MPEG4

 Storage & Memory

 1GB RAM x 8GB ROM, microSD slot, 2GB SD card in box, total memory expandable up to 40GB

 Location Services

 aGPS (assisted), eCompass

 Pre-loaded Applications

 Access to Google Maps™ with Navigation, Google Talk and Web browsing

 Sensors

 eCompass, Accelerometer, Light and Proximity Sensor

About Motorola Mobility

Motorola Mobility, Inc. (NYSE: MMI) integrates innovative technology and human knowledge to create experiences which simplify, connect and enrich people’s lives. Our portfolio includes converged mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets; wireless accessories; point-to-point data and video transmission, and administrative solutions, including data-access devices and decoders. For more information, visit motorola.com/mobility.

Media contacts:
Christa Smith
858-404-2990
christasmith@motorola.com
Motorola Mobility, Inc.

*Certain features, services and applications are network dependent and may not be available in all areas; additional terms, conditions and/or charges may apply. Contact your service provider for details. All features, functionality and other product specifications are subject to change without notice or obligation.

(1) MOTOCAST supports many popular file formats and codecs. Additional software is necessary to enable use of unsupported files on your mobile phone.  DRM-protected content is not supported. Respect the rights of copyright owners by only using MOTOCAST to stream and sync authorized content.

(2) Accessories sold separately

(3) All talk and standby times are quoted in Digital Mode, and are approximate. Battery performance depends on network configuration, signal strength, operating temperature, features selected, and voice, data and other application usage patterns.

Motorola Mobility and the Stylized M Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Motorola Trademark Holdings, LLC. Facebook is a registered trademark of Facebook, Inc. Google Talk, Google Docs, Android, Gmail and Google Maps are trademarks of Google, Inc. All other product or service names are the property of their respective owners. © 2011 Motorola Mobility, Inc. All rights reserved.

SOURCE Motorola Mobility Holdings, Inc.


http://www.motorola.com

Motorola Mobility Makes Powerful a Lot More Fun and Affordable with Motorola ATRIX™ 2 | Chicago Press Release Services – Chicago’s leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.



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Levy Home Entertainment Sold to Treesdale Investment Group

Filed Under: Life Insurance
Oct.06, 2011

OAKBROOK, Ill., Oct. 6, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM-iReach/ — The Chas. Levy Company LLC today announced that it has sold its sole operating subsidiary, Levy Home Entertainment LLC, to Readerlink LLC, an affiliate of Treesdale Investments, Inc.  Financial terms of the transaction, which became effective as of October 3, 2011, were not disclosed.

Levy Home Entertainment is the largest full-service distributor of books in the United States, providing distribution, category management and other services to leading retailers in the mass merchant, grocery, drug, warehouse club and specialty retail channels.

Dennis E. Abboud, Managing Partner of Treesdale Investments, and President of Readerlink LLC, previously served as an executive at Chas Levy Company, from 1994-2000. “We believe that the Company’s exceptional management team, talented employees and world-class customers and suppliers distinguish the Company as a leader in its industry,” said Abboud, who also has deep experience in ecommerce, digital media and direct-to-consumer fulfillment. “Our Company will strive to become the ‘reader link‘– the essential link between our publishers, our retail partners and their customers. Our new strategy will help us compete in our industry’s newest frontiers, from eBooks, to ecommerce fulfillment, to proprietary publishing. Most importantly, we will pursue these initiatives while continuing to focus on, and invest in, our core full-service print book distribution business.” 

All of the current operational management and employees of Levy Home Entertainment will remain unchanged, including Carol Kloster, the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer, and Steve Carlson, the Company’s Chief Financial Officer, who will continue to lead the Company. The Company will continue to be called Levy Home Entertainment over the next several months as it gradually undergoes rebranding to Readerlink Distribution Services.

Prior to the acquisition, Levy Home Entertainment had been continuously majority-owned and controlled by the Levy family since its founding in 1962. Barbara Levy Kipper, Chairperson of Chas Levy LLC, said, “This transaction will allow Levy Home Entertainment to focus on continued growth and investment in its core competencies while leveraging new expertise in digital media and direct-to-consumer fulfillment. We are pleased to have identified the right buyer and are confident the business, its customers and its publisher partners are in good hands.”

“This is an exciting opportunity for our Company, our customers and our publisher partners,” said Carol Kloster, who has been with the company for 35 years. ”I’ve known Dennis over 20 years and believe he has the vision, experience and talent needed to help us grow in this difficult market. He shares our deep commitment to our customers and publishing partners and values the culture that Barbara and the Levy family have developed over many decades. This transaction will provide us with additional resources and expertise to continue our long-standing, proven commitment to customer service and help us leverage our strengths to take advantage of a dynamic and evolving print book market.”

Upon completion of the transaction, Barbara Levy Kipper and Jim Levy, Chas. Levy LLC’s Vice Chairman, are retiring from the Company.

Media Contact: STEVE CARLSON, Levy Home Entertainment, 708-356-3664, scarlson@levybooks.com

News distributed by PR Newswire iReach: https://ireach.CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM.com

SOURCE Levy Home Entertainment

Levy Home Entertainment Sold to Treesdale Investment Group | Chicago Press Release Services – Chicago’s leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.



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Horseshoe Casino Announces World Series of Poker® Circuit Event Schedule October 13 – October 24, 2011

Filed Under: Insurance News
Sep.29, 2011

CHICAGO, Sept. 29, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — Horseshoe Casino, just 20 minutes from downtown Chicago, announces that the high-stakes action of the World Series of Poker, the richest sporting event on the planet is back at Horseshoe Casino starting Thursday, October 13, 2011 through Monday, October 24, 2011. The series will kick off with an exciting Chicago Police Department Memorial Foundation Poker Tournament on Wednesday, October 12.

Held in the state-of-the-art entertainment center, The Venue at Horseshoe Casino, The World Series of Poker Circuit tournament has buy-ins ranging from $150 up to $1,600. This year, Horseshoe Casino is also guaranteeing a $500,000 prize pool for Event #1 and a whopping $1.5 million dollar prize pool for the Main Event Championship, starting on October 21.

Pre-Registration begins Friday, October 7 from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. at the poker room cage and will end Wednesday, October 13 at 9 p.m.

WSOPC Registration will re-open Wednesday, October 12 in The Venue from 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.

WSOPC Registration hours starting Thursday, October 13-24 will be 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. in The Venue.

The Chicago Police Memorial Foundation Poker Tournament registration starts at 4pm and the tournament begins at 6pm, on Wednesday, October 12. The top nine winners will be guaranteed a $1,600 WSOP Main Event seat on Friday, October 21. Additionally, the top eight finishers will also receive cash payouts totaling more than $17,000. The Chicago Police Memorial Foundation is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to honoring the lives of fallen Chicago Police heroes.

Horseshoe Casino’s World Series of Poker Circuit event schedule is as follows, or visit www.chicagohorseshoe.com for full tournament schedule and information:

Date

Time

Event #

Event

Buy In

Thursday, October 13, 2011

12pm

1A

NL Hold’em* – Re-Entry**

$350

5pm

Mega Satellite*

$250

7pm

Nightly Tournament*

$150

Friday, October 14, 2011

12pm

1B

NL Hold’em* – Re-Entry**

$350

5pm

Mega Satellite*

$250

7pm

Nightly Tournament*

$150

Saturday, October 15, 2011

12pm

2

NL Hold’em*

$560

5pm

Super Satellite w/re-buys ($100)*

$150

7pm

Nightly Tournament*

$150

Sunday, October 16, 2011

12pm

3

NL Hold’em*

$1,100

5pm

4

PLO w/ re-buys ($100)*

$350

7pm

Nightly Tournament*

$150

Monday, October 17, 2011

12pm

5

NL Hold’em*

$350

5pm

NL Hold’em (6 handed-turbo)*

$300

7pm

Nightly Tournament*

$150

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

12pm

6

NL Hold’em (6 handed)*

$560

5pm

7

H.O.R.S.E.*

$350

7pm

Nightly Tournament*

$150

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

12pm

*

NL Hold’em (stimulus)*

$200

5pm

8

NL Hold’em*

$1,100

7pm

Nightly Tournament*

$150

Thursday, October 20, 2011

12pm

9

Omaha 8*

$350

12pm

Mega Satellite*

$250

3pm

Super Satellite w/re-buys ($100)*

$150

6pm

Mega Satellite*

$250

9pm

Super Satellite w/re-buys ($100)*

$150

Friday, October 21, 2011

10am

Mega Satellite-Turbo*

$250

12pm

10A

NL Hold’em Main Event-    Re-Entry**

$1,600

5pm

Mega Satellite*

$250

7pm

Nightly Tournament*

$150

9pm

Super Satellite w/re-buys ($100)*

$150

Saturday, October 22, 2011

10am

Mega Satellite-Turbo*

$250

12pm

10B

NL Hold’em Main Event- Re-Entry**

$1,600

7pm

Nightly Tournament

$150

Sunday, October 23, 2011

12pm

11

NL Hold’em

$560

7pm

Nightly Tournament

$150

Monday, October 24, 2011

12pm

12

NL Hold’em (one day-turbo)

$350

TBD

NL Hold’em Main Event Final Table

*Main Event Seats Added to Prize Pools

9 Main Event seats will be added to WSOPC numbered events leading up to the Main Event unless otherwise noted

8 Main Event seats will be added to Event #7

6 Main Event seats will be added to Event #6 and the 6 handed turbo

18 Main Event seats will be added to the “stimulus” event

3 Main Event seats will be added to all Mega & Super Satellites

2 Main Event seats will be added to nightly tournaments leading up to the Main Event

**Re-Entry

Event #1 & Event #10 both allow re-entry on day 1B if players bust out during play on day 1A

Event #1 is scheduled as a three day event due to the re-entry option, 10/13 – 10/15

Event #10 is scheduled as a four day event due to the re-entry option, 10/21 – 10/24

All WSOPC numbered events are scheduled as two day events unless otherwise noted

Play may be adjusted due to participation volumes

Management Reserves The Right To Alter Or Discontinue At Anytime

Win your WSOP Circuit Main Event seat by playing at the Horseshoe Casino Poker Room Thursday, September 1– Wednesday, October 12.

Cash Game Promotions, Thursday, September 1- Wednesday, October 12

Six times a day, a randomly drawn table will high card for a $1,600 WSOPC Main Event Seat on October 21.

Daily Tournament Promotions, Sunday, August 27 – Tuesday, October 11

The Horseshoe daily tournament winner will receive a $1,600 WSOPC Main Event Seat on October 21. *The tournament voucher is good for the $1,600 WSOPC Main Event buy-in.

Please visit www.WSOP.com, www.chicagohorseshoe.com or the Horseshoe Casino Poker Room for more details.

Additional days may be added or subtracted to any tournament due to participation.  Management reserves the right to alter or cancel tournaments at any time with prior notification to IGC.

ABOUT THE WSOP

The World Series of Poker (WSOP) is the largest, richest and most prestigious gaming event in the world awarding millions of dollars in prize money and the prestigious gold bracelet, globally recognized as the sport’s top prize. Featuring a comprehensive slate of tournaments in every major poker variation, the WSOP is poker’s longest running tournament in the world, dating back to 1970.  In 2010, the event attracted 72,966 entrants from 117 different countries to the Rio in Las Vegas and awarded over $187 million in prize money.  In addition, the WSOP has formed groundbreaking alliances in broadcasting, digital media and corporate sponsorships, while successfully expanding the brand internationally with the advent in 2007 of the World Series of Poker Europe.  The WSOP Circuit Tour is entering its seventh season in 2010-11, and will feature 12 stops throughout the U.S., plus for the first ever, a stop in South Africa. For more information on the World Series of Poker, please visit www.WSOP.com.

ABOUT HARRAH’S ENTERTAINMENT, INC.

Harrah’s Entertainment, Inc. is the world’s largest provider of branded casino entertainment. Since its beginning in Reno, Nevada, more than 70 years ago, Harrah’s has grown through development of new properties, expansions and acquisitions, and now owns or manages casinos on four continents. The Company’s properties operate primarily under the Harrah’s®, Caesars® and Horseshoe® brand names; Harrah’s also owns the London Clubs International family of casinos and the World Series of Poker®. Harrah’s Entertainment is focused on building loyalty and value with its customers through a unique combination of great service, excellent products, unsurpassed distribution, operational excellence and technology leadership. For more information, please visit www.harrahs.com.

ABOUT HORSESHOE CASINO

The all new $500 million Horseshoe Casino, a Harrah’s Entertainment, Inc. property, just 20 minutes from downtown Chicago is the premier entertainment and gambling destination in Chicagoland. Where legendary gaming lives on, Horseshoe boasts more than 350,000 square feet with over 3,000 slot machines, over 100 table games, one of the largest poker rooms in the Midwest, and more. The Venue at Horseshoe Casino is proud to offer the ultimate concert and entertainment destination and premier experience in a flexible space that can hold up to 3,300 guests. Dining elegance is not overlooked and guests can choose from a variety of dining options including; Jack Binion’s Steak House which overlooks Lake Michigan and recent winner of the 2009, 2010 and 2011 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, around-the-globe variety at the Village Square Buffet, and a taste of Chicago at Benny’s Pub and Eatery. For more information, please visit: www.chicagohorseshoe.com.

Must be 21 years or older to gamble. Know when to stop before you start.® Gambling problem? Call 1.800.9.WITH.IT. ©2010 Harrah’s License Company, LLC.

SOURCE Horseshoe Casino


http://www.chicagohorseshoe.com

Horseshoe Casino Announces World Series of Poker® Circuit Event Schedule October 13 – October 24, 2011 | Chicago Press Release Services – Chicago’s leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.



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Video from Rivers Casino and Synaptic Digital: Rivers Casino Celebrates Grand Opening In Des Plaines

Filed Under: Insurance News
Aug.13, 2011

NEW YORK, Aug. 12, 2011 /CHICAGOPRESSRELEASE.COM/ — Rivers Casino, the highly anticipated new gaming and entertainment destination, opened to the public on Monday, July 18, 2011. Excited guests lined up during the early morning hours in order to be among the first to experience the 147,000 square foot property, featuring the most popular slots and table games, as well as unparalleled dining options and entertainment venues.

See video from Rivers Casino at: http://inr.synapticdigital.com/RiversCasino/GrandOpening/

Rivers Casino is expected to generate millions in annual gambling tax revenue that will benefit the state of Illinois, the city of Des Plaines and the Chicagoland area.

Rivers Casino features exciting gaming options including:

  • A 44,000 square foot state-of-the-art gaming floor
  • More than 1,050 of the newest slots with the most popular game themes
  • 48 table games including blackjack, craps, roulette, pai gow poker, baccarat and many more with the highest table limits in Illinois
  • A plush VIP area including an intimate gaming salon and an exclusive lounge

Rivers Casino offers a variety of top-notch dining options:

  • Hugo’s Frog Bar & Chop House – Featuring steaks, the freshest seafood and an extensive wine list.
  • Canopy Buffet – Serving freshly prepared cuisine at nine different stations.
  • FLIPT – A casual grill serving specialty burgers, hand cut fries and handmade shakes.
  • MianBar – Serving dim sum and authentic Asian noodle and rice dishes.
  • Coffee Spot – Serving Chicago-based Metropolis Coffee, sandwiches, pastries and desserts.

Rivers Casino boasts exciting entertainment venues including Lotus, a sophisticated cocktail lounge at the center of the casino floor, and Cube, a space that easily transforms from a state-of-the-art sports bar to a live performance venue and features an outdoor patio.

Rivers Casino has applied to be the country’s first LEED (Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design) certified casino – designed and built with environmentally friendly materials and processes.

For more information, visit www.playrivers.com, or find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/winatrivers and Twitter at @winatrivers.

Must be at least 21 years old to enter Rivers Casino. Valid government-issued photo ID required upon entry. Management reserves the right to cancel or modify offers at any time with prior notification to IGB. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

07ch11-0986

SOURCE Synaptic Digital; Rivers Casino

http://www.playrivers.com

Video from Rivers Casino and Synaptic Digital: Rivers Casino Celebrates Grand Opening In Des Plaines | Chicago Press Release Services – Chicago’s leading press release newswire service; professional press release services, press release distribution and newswire services.



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