Grand Directory Blog http://www.grandir.net/blog Just another WordPress weblog Sat, 24 May 2008 22:54:10 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.3.2 en Indie Artists Flock to Widgets as Solution for Adding Virality to Campaigns http://www.grandir.net/blog/indie-artists-flock-to-widgets-as-solution-for-adding-virality-to-campaigns.html http://www.grandir.net/blog/indie-artists-flock-to-widgets-as-solution-for-adding-virality-to-campaigns.html#comments Sat, 24 May 2008 22:54:10 +0000 admin http://www.grandir.net/blog/indie-artists-flock-to-widgets-as-solution-for-adding-virality-to-campaigns.html SAN FRANCISCO, May 23 /PRNewswire/ — Gydget, the social marketing platform that allows music artists, labels, promoters and sports teams to reach their audiences on social networking and fan-based Web sites, today announced that Bay Area rapper/producer, Starski, will be releasing free tracks from his new album, “Tomorrow Ain’t Promised” through his viral fan widget, or gydget, found on his MySpace page.
Direct-to-listener online campaigns have been a recent trend in the music industry, with both major label and indie artists opting to give their music away in lieu of, or in advance of, the commercial sale. “We took a close look at what was happening in the industry and decided that creating a buzz and getting Starski’s music out there was the best way to ensure his success,” said Petey Pistorelo, A & R Director of Pimp Hop Records. “We selected Gydget as the vehicle to distribute the tracks because we wanted this campaign to be about fans telling friends about the music. Gydget is the best way to create a complete music experience for a fan’s page. The gydget is like a mini-MySpace page that fans can promote to their friends.”
“Thanks to social networking sites and free fan-based marketing solutions such as gydget, indie artists now have the power to get their music heard, without having to rely on radio or more traditional label marketing,” said Gerardo Capiel, CEO of Gydget. “We’re thrilled to see Starski, and thousands of other indie bands taking their careers into their own control and getting their music heard.”
Chris Herche, Head of New Media at Koch Records agrees. “Styles P, Myriad, Sheek Louch and Ray J are just a few of our indie artists using Gydget. Gydget’s free widget solution allows artists and labels to spread their brand through social networking platforms, which is integral to an album’s success. Gydget also updates automatically based on changes to the MySpace page, which saves us time and resources and keeps content fresh for our fans.”
Fans looking to download Starski’s tracks for free can find them on the Starski gydget on . Bands and promoters that want to create customizable widgets can create them for free at .
About Gydget
Gydget provides a social marketing platform that allows music groups, sports teams, non-profits and other organizations to reach their audiences on social networking and fan-based Web sites. Gydgets, the company’s groundbreaking viral fan widgets, make it easy for promoters and bands to share event dates, box-office and merchandise links, music, news, videos and other information directly with fans and their friends. With a single mouse click, users can add the gydgets to their personal profile pages, blogs and web sites. More than one million consumers see gydgets every day. In addition to Sony BMG, Universal Music Group, Warner Music Group and EMI, customers include leading promoters such as AEG Live and C3 Presents and distributors such as The Orchard and IRIS Distribution. Visit for more information.
Gydget

]]> http://www.grandir.net/blog/indie-artists-flock-to-widgets-as-solution-for-adding-virality-to-campaigns.html/feed All Aboard as the Orient-Express Departs From Stand 28 at the Taste of London! http://www.grandir.net/blog/all-aboard-as-the-orient-express-departs-from-stand-28-at-the-taste-of-london.html http://www.grandir.net/blog/all-aboard-as-the-orient-express-departs-from-stand-28-at-the-taste-of-london.html#comments Sat, 24 May 2008 22:54:05 +0000 admin http://www.grandir.net/blog/all-aboard-as-the-orient-express-departs-from-stand-28-at-the-taste-of-london.html LONDON, May 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — For the very first time, Orient-Express is showcasing its renowned gourmet cuisine at the 2008 Taste of London festival. To commemorate the event, Matthew Smith, Executive Head Chef, has devised an exclusive summer Champagne celebration menu especially for Taste of London giving visitors a chance to experience the Orient-Express….off the rails!
Taking time off from the rails, Smith has created three Champagne signature dishes, which after being previewed at Taste of London will be served onboard the Orient-Express trains throughout the summer season;
* Orient-Express’s Chilled Strawberry & Champagne soup
* Warm Rump of Lamb Served on a Nicoise Salad Accompanied by a Champagne & Mint Dressing
* Laurent Perrier Rose Champagne & Kentish Summer Berry Jelly
Despite, the daunting task of serving some of the 60,000 visitors expected at this year’s festival, Smith, who is used to working in the small confines of the trains kitchens, is quietly confident: “It will be a real treat to be in a kitchen that isn’t rocking on the rails for a change!” he says.
No culinary journey would be complete without a visit to the exclusive Orient-Express bar, situated next door to the restaurant. Mind the gap as you step onboard the bar car where liveried stewards will be on hand to serve delicious Bellini’s.
Welcome onboard and experience a taste of the Orient-Express at this year’s Taste of London!
Taste of London is from the 19th - 22nd June at Regents Park, London.
Notes to editors:

The legendary Orient-Express offers the epitome of luxury, refinement and glamour. Discover an intoxicating combination of romance, timeless elegance and supreme comfort where liveried stewards offer mouth-watering cuisine, champagne and fine wines and no request is too much trouble.
The magical elegance of the Orient-Express is no more clearly expressed than through the exclusive gourmet experiences aboard its UK trains, The British Pullman and The Northern Belle. Sister trains to the famous Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, the British Pullman and Northern Belle captivate and enthral with a stylish collection of day excursions and short break travel experiences across the UK.
For further information on Orient-Express UK journeys please visit or call 44(0)845-077-22-22.
Orient Express Hotels Ltd

]]> http://www.grandir.net/blog/all-aboard-as-the-orient-express-departs-from-stand-28-at-the-taste-of-london.html/feed Make It a Pure Michigan Summer http://www.grandir.net/blog/make-it-a-pure-michigan-summer.html http://www.grandir.net/blog/make-it-a-pure-michigan-summer.html#comments Sat, 24 May 2008 13:00:09 +0000 admin http://www.grandir.net/blog/make-it-a-pure-michigan-summer.html LANSING, Mich., May 21 /PRNewswire/ — Following a spectacular winter season, Michigan is making a big deal about the unofficial start to the summer travel season this Memorial Day weekend. With gas pump prices soaring, don’t cancel your summer vacation plans, reroute them to stay in Michigan.
“Michigan has a wealth of diverse travel products for any budget,” said George Zimmermann, Vice President of travel Michigan, a business unit of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “Even with gas prices escalating, travel by car is still cost-effective and provides a memorable family road trip experience.” Tourism is vital to Michigan’s economy, contributing $18.8 billion annually, accounting for 200,000 jobs and generating $1.1 billion in state tax revenues.
Instead of cutting back on travel, try cutting costs in other ways, such as finding deals and discounts or packages on the michigan.org web site. Michigan.org offers information on more than 12,000 properties within the State of Michigan, with more than 200 cost savings packages, including numerous gas card promotions. Mark michigan.org on your favorite list as packages are updated on a daily basis.
Log on to michigan.org to preview a number of one-tank vacation suggestions for every region of the Upper and Lower Peninsulas. Each destination offers things to do and see within a reasonable distance from home base. Families can also preview a Pure Michigan road trip; there are several to choose from, each themed for special interests and diverse regions of the state. Add a Michigan festival or event to a one-tank itinerary; choose from more than 100 summer festivals and events, from strawberries to Elvis.
There’s still time to order a free copy of the 2008 Michigan travel Ideas, the 120-page, full-color travel guide packed with tips for exploring the Great Lakes State in all four seasons. To request a copy of the free magazine log on to michigan.org or call toll-free (888) 784-7328. Michigan travel Ideas is also available at the 13 Michigan Welcome Centers across the state.
Travel Michigan, a division of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, is the State of Michigan’s official agency for the promotion of tourism. travel Michigan markets the state’s tourism industry and provides valuable visitor information services. For more information on traveling in the State of Michigan, visit the official travel Web site at michigan.org .
Contact: Kirsten Borgstrom, (517) 335-1871
Jenny Schilp, (248) 225-6744
Travel Michigan

]]> http://www.grandir.net/blog/make-it-a-pure-michigan-summer.html/feed AT&T Introduces ‘Green Fleet’ of More Than 100 Alternative-Fuel Vehicles http://www.grandir.net/blog/att-introduces-green-fleet-of-more-than-100-alternative-fuel-vehicles.html http://www.grandir.net/blog/att-introduces-green-fleet-of-more-than-100-alternative-fuel-vehicles.html#comments Sat, 24 May 2008 13:00:09 +0000 admin http://www.grandir.net/blog/att-introduces-green-fleet-of-more-than-100-alternative-fuel-vehicles.html SAN ANTONIO, May 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — AT&T Inc. today announced plans to add 105 alternative-fuel vehicles to the corporate fleet of its operating companies. The vehicles, which will roll out in more than 30 cities across the U.S. beginning in June, will help the company reduce its impact on the environment and its dependence on imported oil.
After carefully evaluating several alternative-fuel technologies, AT&T will deploy three types of alternative-fuel vehicles. The vehicles will be embedded into AT&T’s workforce as operational components of its fleet. AT&T will measure and track fuel efficiency, greenhouse gas emissions, operating costs, performance and driver satisfaction of each vehicle.
“Reducing our fleet’s petroleum fuel consumption and operating costs is a top priority,” said Jerome Webber, vice president of Fleet Operations, AT&T Services Inc. “Even the smallest improvement in fuel use, when applied across our corporate fleet, can make a significant impact for the environment and for our business. That’s why we’re committed to identifying smart ways to improve the efficiency of our fleet and to exploring advancement with alternative-fuel technologies.”
The alternative-fuel vehicles consist of 25 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vans, 65 electric hybrid Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) vehicles — Ford Escapes and Toyota Priuses — and 15 electric hybrid conversion work trucks. The vehicles, which will be deployed in cities in California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio and Texas, join four Ford Escape hybrids that were deployed in California in late 2007. A Green Technology insignia will make the vehicles easy to identify on the road.
AT&T estimates that its use of these alternative-fueled and more fuel-efficient vehicles will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 124 metric tons and conserve nearly 34,395 gallons of fuel annually.
The CNG vans are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 30 percent compared with traditional gasoline vans. The electric hybrid OEM vehicles are expected to offer a 39 percent improvement in fuel economy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 29 percent. The electric hybrid conversion work trucks are expected to offer a 38 percent improvement in fuel economy compared with similar gasoline-powered vehicles and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 28 percent.
“More and more fleets are recognizing that hybrid trucks can deliver significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and fuel costs,” said Victoria Mills, project manager at Environmental Defense Fund. “AT&T’s investment in these more efficient vehicles will benefit the environment and the bottom line.”
Stephe Yborra, director of Market Analysis, Education and Communications for the nonprofit Clean Vehicle Education Foundation, said, “AT&T’s use of CNG vans, powered solely by America’s abundant natural gas, and hybrid vehicles that consume less gasoline, will help our nation improve air quality and reduce reliance on foreign oil.”
The deployment of 105 alternative-fuel vehicles further strengthens AT&T’s commitment to make its fleet more efficient. AT&T has implemented additional measures to increase fuel efficiency, decrease operating costs and reduce environmental impacts. These measures include the use of a Daily Best Fuel Price tool, which allows drivers to check the cheapest fuel stations within their assigned route, and the planned implementation of an idling-reduction policy.
Deploying alternative-fuel vehicles is one way that AT&T is working to minimize the environmental impact of its operations. AT&T works to enhance energy performance and minimize energy consumption in company buildings, IT systems and networks, and the company is evaluating alternative energy sources such as wind and solar power. The company conserves natural resources through waste reduction, recovery and recycling efforts, helping its customers do the same. AT&T also helps customers further manage their own environmental impact through intelligent use of AT&T products and services, like teleconferencing, video conferencing and other broadband applications.
About AT&T
AT&T Inc. is a premier communications holding company. Its subsidiaries and affiliates, AT&T operating companies, are the providers of AT&T services in the United States and around the world. Among their offerings are the world’s most advanced IP-based business communications services and the nation’s leading wireless, high speed Internet access and voice services. In domestic markets, AT&T is known for the directory publishing and advertising sales leadership of its Yellow Pages and YELLOWPAGES.COM organizations, and the AT&T brand is licensed to innovators in such fields as communications equipment. As part of its three-screen integration strategy, AT&T is expanding its TV entertainment offerings. In 2008, AT&T again ranked No. 1 on Fortune magazine’s World’s Most Admired Telecommunications Company list and No. 1 on America’s Most Admired Telecommunications Company list. Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at .
(C) 2008 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies.
Note: This AT&T news release and other announcements are available as part of an RSS feed at . For more information, please review this announcement in the AT&T newsroom at .
AT&T Inc.

]]> http://www.grandir.net/blog/att-introduces-green-fleet-of-more-than-100-alternative-fuel-vehicles.html/feed Escape to Ireland at an Exceptional Price http://www.grandir.net/blog/escape-to-ireland-at-an-exceptional-price.html http://www.grandir.net/blog/escape-to-ireland-at-an-exceptional-price.html#comments Sat, 24 May 2008 13:00:09 +0000 admin http://www.grandir.net/blog/escape-to-ireland-at-an-exceptional-price.html BRAINTREE, Mass., May 21 /PRNewswire/ — Brian Moore International Tours (BMIT) invites travelers to discover all things Irish this summer with an almost unbelievable inclusive vacation package to Ireland. Whether kissing the blarney stone, enjoying a pint in the pub, or touring the countryside, the Ireland Summer sale package allows travelers the freedom to explore at their own pace.
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“The Ireland Summer sale package is an excellent opportunity to for affordable travel this summer,” stated Sara Stanton, President of Brian Moore International Tours. “Take advantage of significant savings and discover the magic and mystery of this enchanted island.”
The Ireland Summer sale package is priced from $1399 and includes roundtrip airfare on Aer Lingus to Shannon or Dublin, 6 nights B&B accommodations with private bath, 7 day Hertz rental car, local tax (rental fees and/or surcharges may be extra), unlimited mileage, full Irish breakfast daily, all taxes and service charges. Package price excludes airport taxes and fees. Purchase deadline is May 30th 2008.
For more information about the Ireland Summer sale and to make reservations, please visit Brian Moore International Tours’ website at or call a customer service agent at 800-982-2299 (9:00am to 10:00pm ET Monday — Friday and 10:30am to 7pm ET Saturday and Sunday).
About Brian Moore International Tours:
Brian Moore International Tours (BMIT) has been bringing Americans to Ireland & Britain for over 30 years and in 2008 will offer more vacation options than ever before. Browse through the wide range of escorted tours offered or choose an independent vacation tailored to your budget and needs. Brian Moore International Tours takes pride in an exceptional record of outstanding customer service and destination expertise. BMIT offers a wide range of exclusive benefits and addresses travelers’ needs better than any single organization in the marketplace.
CONTACTS:
Sara Stanton
President

800-982-2299 x405

Kelsey Merwick
Public Relations Coordinator

800-227-3235 ex 203

Brian Moore International Tours

]]> http://www.grandir.net/blog/escape-to-ireland-at-an-exceptional-price.html/feed Groupe Mutuel Selects Autonomy For Corporate Intranet http://www.grandir.net/blog/groupe-mutuel-selects-autonomy-for-corporate-intranet.html http://www.grandir.net/blog/groupe-mutuel-selects-autonomy-for-corporate-intranet.html#comments Sat, 24 May 2008 13:00:09 +0000 admin http://www.grandir.net/blog/groupe-mutuel-selects-autonomy-for-corporate-intranet.html CAMBRIDGE, England and SAN FRANCISCO, California, May 21
/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Autonomy Corporation plc , a global leader in infrastructure software for the enterprise, today announced that Groupe Mutuel, Switzerland’s leading insurance company, has selected Autonomy’s Meaning-based Computing solution for its corporate intranet as part of an initiative to improve the company’s entire IT infrastructure. Autonomy’s Intelligent Data Operating Layer (IDOL) will allow Groupe Mutuel to aggregate its data silos and deliver information more efficiently to over 1,300 employees across various geographical locations.
Groupe Mutuel will use IDOL to index more than five million documents in French, German, Italian and English across various data types and from multiple content repositories. By aggregating all of the company’s information into one single access point, Groupe Mutuel will be able to better leverage its data assets, avoid duplication of effort and ensure that its employees are provided with the right information at the right time.
As with all modern organizations, especially those within the financial, legal or insurance sectors where litigation and regulatory compliance are key factors, Groupe Mutuel needed a solution that could scale in a large and diverse IT environment. Security was also imperative. Groupe Mutuel found that only Autonomy was able to offer mapped security, a highly configurable, accurate and fast method for respecting third-party security entitlements. IDOL maps the existing underlying security system to ensure that there are no security breaches whilst retrieval speed levels are maintained.
“We selected Autonomy from a long list of technology vendors as the only solution able to meet all of our business requirements,” commented Stephane Rard, IT Management Team at Groupe Mutuel. “The conceptual, secure, scalable approach offered by IDOL across multilingual, disparate content will add a great deal of value to our organization and we are also excited by the future possibilities offered by this technology.”
Autonomy’s IDOL technology is increasingly being used by organizations within the financial and insurance sectors, like Groupe Mutuel, to provide a single, secure access point to all their corporate data. Groupe Mutuel also has future plans to incorporate some of Autonomy’s other advanced features such as Autonomy Cardiff’s Business Process Management technology and Autonomy etalk’s call center solution, as part of an IT initiative to improve efficiency, productivity and intelligence across the organization.
“We are delighted that Groupe Mutuel has selected Autonomy to play a key part in improving its IT infrastructure,” commented Mike Lynch, CEO of Autonomy. “With the increasing eDisclosure pressures, regulatory changes and legislation in Europe, we look forward to working with Groupe Mutuel as the company expands Autonomy’s technologies into its other business areas.”
About Groupe Mutuel
Groupe Mutuel is one of the largest health insurance agencies in Switzerland specializing in health, life and corporate insurance. It employs a total of 1,300 staff in 7 principal offices and 30 subsidiaries.
About Autonomy
Autonomy Corporation plc is a global leader in infrastructure software for the enterprise and is spearheading the meaning-based computing movement. Autonomy’s technology forms a conceptual and contextual understanding of any piece of electronic data including unstructured information, be it text, email, voice or video. Autonomy’s software powers the full spectrum of mission-critical enterprise applications including information access technology, BI, CRM, KM, call center solutions, rich media management, information risk management solutions and security applications, and is recognized by industry analysts as the clear leader in enterprise search.
Autonomy’s customer base comprises of more than 17,000 global companies and organizations including: 3, ABN AMRO, AOL, BAE Systems, BBC, Bloomberg, Boeing, Citigroup, Coca Cola, Daimler Chrysler, Deutsche Bank, Ericsson, Ford, GlaxoSmithKline, Lloyd TSB, NASA, Nestle, the New York Stock Exchange, Reuters, Shell, T-Mobile, the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Autonomy also has over 300 OEM partners and more than 400 VARs and Integrators, numbering among them leading companies such as BEA, Business Objects, Citrix, EDS, IBM Global Services, Novell, Satyam, Sybase, Symantec, TIBCO, Vignette and Wipro. The company has offices worldwide.
The Autonomy Group includes: Autonomy ZANTAZ, the leader in the archiving, e-Discovery and Proactive Information Risk Management (IRM) markets; Autonomy Cardiff, a leading provider of Intelligent Document solutions; Autonomy etalk, award-winning provider of enterprise-class contact center products, Autonomy Virage, a visionary in rich media management and security and surveillance technology and Autonomy Meridio, a leading provider of records management software.
Autonomy and the Autonomy logo are registered trademarks or
trademarks of Autonomy Corporation plc. All other trademarks are

the property of their respective owners.
Autonomy Editorial Contacts:

Sarah Webster
Autonomy (UK)
44(0)1223-448074

Sayo Ogundiran
Cohn & Wolfe (US)
1-415-365-8552

Edward Bridges
Financial Dynamics (UK)
44-207-831-3113

Bite Communications (UK)
44(0)20-8834-3518

Autonomy Corporation plc

]]> http://www.grandir.net/blog/groupe-mutuel-selects-autonomy-for-corporate-intranet.html/feed Spb Software Showcases Spb Online Shell at CeBIT Australia http://www.grandir.net/blog/spb-software-showcases-spb-online-shell-at-cebit-australia.html http://www.grandir.net/blog/spb-software-showcases-spb-online-shell-at-cebit-australia.html#comments Sat, 24 May 2008 13:00:08 +0000 admin http://www.grandir.net/blog/spb-software-showcases-spb-online-shell-at-cebit-australia.html SYDNEY, May 21 /PRNewswire/ —

- Spb Online Shell is a Convergence of Online and Media Tools,
Targeted to Helping mobile Network Operators Expand Their Online Services
Portfolios and Meet High-End Customization Needs.

SYDNEY, May 21 /PRNewswire/ —

Today at CeBIT Australia, Spb Software House, a leading mobile
applications vendor, showcased Spb Online Shell - a practical on-device
access point to online multimedia content and services. Spb Online Shell will
help mobile network operators deliver improved content experiences to
subscribers.

Spb Online Shell is an elegant content discovery solution that makes it
possible to bring online radio, TV, video-on-demand, weather, gaming, music,
and shopping directly to subscribers using Windows mobile handsets. Set to
reinvigorate user enthusiasm for mobile entertainment and data, Spb Online
Shell is an easy to use and engaging single entry portal for online services
and payments. It is designed to strictly adhere to, and enhance, a carrier’s
unique identity and brand.

Sebastian-J Schmidt, CEO, Spb Software, said: “The demand for mobile
services is strong throughout the world. In Australia, we’re now actively
seeking partnerships with innovative mobile carriers, and believe that Spb
Online Shell will resonate well here, since Australia is an early adopter of
3G and streaming content for mobile devices.”
Spb Online Shell uses the engine of Spb mobile Shell, an application that
has been recognized by dozens of respected mobility experts around the world
as the user interface improver, which reignites interest in Windows Mobile
and changes the device experience completely.

“Not all services are created equal and success is not just about
functionality. It ultimately is about the end user experience,” said Vassili
Philippov, COO, Spb Software. “We have seen a few million iPhones generate
more web traffic than all the other web-enabled smartphones put together, so
Spb understands that in any delivery, the ‘how’ is just as important as the
‘what’.”
To meet the growing demand for online mobile services and to adequately
service its partners, Spb plans to set up a separate business entity.

About Spb Software (http://www.spbsoftwarehouse.com)

Spb Software House designs software to enhance the experience of using
Windows mobile phones. Spb combines a unique line of consumer products, and
its customers include ASUSTeK, BenQ Siemens, E-TEN, Fly, Fujitsu Siemens
Computers, Gigabyte, HTC, O2, Optimus, Palm, SingTel, Swisscom Mobile,
Toshiba, T-Mobile, and VimpelCom.

Media Contact:

Victoria Krasilshikova,
Spb Software House,
pr@softspb.com .

Spb Software House

]]> http://www.grandir.net/blog/spb-software-showcases-spb-online-shell-at-cebit-australia.html/feed Arris Signs Purchase Agreement with Comcast for DOCSIS(R) 3.0 CMTS http://www.grandir.net/blog/arris-signs-purchase-agreement-with-comcast-for-docsisr-30-cmts.html http://www.grandir.net/blog/arris-signs-purchase-agreement-with-comcast-for-docsisr-30-cmts.html#comments Sat, 17 May 2008 20:10:06 +0000 admin http://www.grandir.net/blog/arris-signs-purchase-agreement-with-comcast-for-docsisr-30-cmts.html SUWANEE, Ga., May 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — ARRIS announced today that it has entered into an agreement with Comcast, the nation’s leading provider of entertainment, information and communications products and services, for the purchase of the latest generation of C4(R) Cable Modem Termination System (CMTS) chassis from ARRIS.
The DOCSIS 3.0 C4 CMTS enhances the existing hybrid-fiber coax infrastructure to deliver higher Internet connection speeds of up to 160 Mbps using channel bonding technology. A graceful enhancement process allows the cost-effective introduction of this major technology upgrade to the existing installed base of C4 CMTS, and greatly increases the overall capacity of the platform. The technology provides the service operator greater flexibility in being able to provision upstream and downstream capacity independently, providing the ability to tune each configuration to the traffic patterns of the network. ARRIS’ ongoing commitment to industry standards means other features such as extended address management are also provided.
“Comcast continues to be an integral part of our planning process and we are excited to receive this initial order from them,” said ARRIS Chairman and CEO Bob Stanzione. “The increased speeds and capabilities provided by DOCSIS 3.0 will change the way people use the Internet, providing a network capable of delivering personalized content anytime, anywhere.”
For more information about the ARRIS C4 CMTS, visit .
About ARRIS
ARRIS is a global communications technology company specializing in the design, engineering and supply of technology supporting triple- and quad-play broadband services for residential and business customers around the world. The company supplies broadband operators with the tools and platforms they need to deliver, reliable telephony, demand driven video, next-generation advertising and high-speed data services. ARRIS products expand and help grow network capacity with access and outside plant construction equipment, reliably deliver voice, video and data services and assure optimal service delivery for end customers. Headquartered in Suwanee, GA, USA, ARRIS has R&D centers in Atlanta, Chicago, Beaverton, Wallingford, Cork, Ireland and Shenzhen, China, and operates support and sales offices throughout the world. Information about ARRIS products and services can be found at .
ARRIS

]]> http://www.grandir.net/blog/arris-signs-purchase-agreement-with-comcast-for-docsisr-30-cmts.html/feed MGM and Comcast Bring Consumers More High-Def Movies Through MGM HD http://www.grandir.net/blog/mgm-and-comcast-bring-consumers-more-high-def-movies-through-mgm-hd.html http://www.grandir.net/blog/mgm-and-comcast-bring-consumers-more-high-def-movies-through-mgm-hd.html#comments Fri, 16 May 2008 20:25:09 +0000 admin http://www.grandir.net/blog/mgm-and-comcast-bring-consumers-more-high-def-movies-through-mgm-hd.html LOS ANGELES, May 16 /PRNewswire/ — MGM HD, the high definition movie channel from Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, today announced it has signed an affiliate agreement with Comcast Corporation, the nation’s leading provider of entertainment, information and communications. This new agreement between MGM and Comcast will provide Comcast the ability to distribute the network to its high-definition (HD) customers with hundreds of HD movies from MGM’s expansive library.
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Comcast’s HD customers will be able to enjoy award-winning classic and contemporary films from MGM on both Comcast’s linear line-up as well as its signature video-on-demand (VOD) service, which offers more than 10,000 selections each month.
“This is another step in growing the incredible opportunities that exist between MGM and Comcast and deepens our strategic relationship,” said Jim Packer co-President Worldwide Television MGM. “We are very excited to be able to offer MGM HD to Comcast’s HD customers and think that the channel will be a wonderful complement to the company’s HD initiatives.”
“As more people are watching movies in HD, Comcast is a one-stop destination for all of the hits, new and old,” Matt Bond, Executive Vice President, Content Acquisition for Comcast Cable. “This agreement brings a wealth of quality MGM films to our customers and adds to our growing library of hundreds of HD choices we currently offer.”
Backed by the world’s largest modern film library, consisting of more than 4,100 film titles (which have earned 209 Academy Awards(R) collectively), MGM HD has a distinct advantage over the competition in the expanding HD marketplace. In addition to classic MGM theatrical hits, MGM HD is the ultimate resource for serious movie fans, offering viewers an array of original programming and new content. Audiences can look forward to exclusive behind the scenes coverage of red carpet events, sneak peeks at new films in production, seasonal promotions and world premieres of newly re-mastered hits from the MGM library.
About MGM HD
MGM HD, the studio’s first wholly-owned channel in the United States, delivers a robust library of classic and contemporary films in high definition, 1080i. MGM HD is the ultimate resource for serious movie fans. MGM HD is composed of a 24/7 linear network, a companion MGM HD VOD offering, and mgmhd.com. It draws from the largest modern film library in the world. And with world premieres of newly re-mastered hits and exclusive original programming, MGM HD is the way movies were meant to be seen.
About Comcast Corporation
Comcast Corporation () is the nation’s leading provider of entertainment, information and communications products and services. With 24.7 million cable customers, 14.1 million high- speed Internet customers, and 5.2 million voice customers, Comcast is principally involved in the development, management and operation of broadband cable systems and in the delivery of programming content.
Comcast’s content networks and investments include E! Entertainment Television, Style Network, The Golf Channel, VERSUS, G4, PBS KIDS Sprout, TV One, ten Comcast SportsNet networks and Comcast Interactive Media, which develops and operates Comcast’s Internet business. Comcast also has a majority ownership in Comcast-Spectacor, whose major holdings include the Philadelphia Flyers NHL hockey team, the Philadelphia 76ers NBA basketball team and two large multipurpose arenas in Philadelphia.
CONTACT: Jeff Pryor
Executive Vice President/Corporate Communications
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Inc.
p. 310-449-3446; e.

MGM

]]> http://www.grandir.net/blog/mgm-and-comcast-bring-consumers-more-high-def-movies-through-mgm-hd.html/feed Brooklyn Residents Reminded to Recycle Old Cell Phones at Spring Electronics Recycling Event, May 18 http://www.grandir.net/blog/brooklyn-residents-reminded-to-recycle-old-cell-phones-at-spring-electronics-recycling-event-may-18.html http://www.grandir.net/blog/brooklyn-residents-reminded-to-recycle-old-cell-phones-at-spring-electronics-recycling-event-may-18.html#comments Fri, 16 May 2008 20:15:11 +0000 admin http://www.grandir.net/blog/brooklyn-residents-reminded-to-recycle-old-cell-phones-at-spring-electronics-recycling-event-may-18.html NEW YORK, May 16 /PRNewswire/ — Sanitation Commissioner John J. Doherty is reminding Staten Island residents that the New York City Department of Sanitation’s Bureau of Waste Prevention, Reuse and Recycling is teaming up with Verizon Wireless to collect old cell phones at its annual Electronics Recycling and Clothing Donation events this spring. Doherty is urging all New York City residents to donate their old, unused wireless phones to help survivors of domestic violence.
Brooklyn residents are asked to bring their old phones to the recycling event on Sunday, May 18, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., rain or shine. The event will be held at Prospect Park; Willink Drive, next to the Carousel near the corner of Flatbush Avenue and Empire Boulevard; cars enter at the corner of Parkside and Ocean Avenue.
All collected phones will be donated to the Verizon Wireless HopeLine(R) program, which will refurbish, recycle or sell the phones and donate the proceeds to domestic violence advocacy groups in the form of cash grants and prepaid wireless phones for victims. Phones that cannot be refurbished are disposed of in an environmentally sound manner.
“Joining forces with Verizon Wireless’ HopeLine program creates a win-win situation for the residents of New York City,” said Commissioner Doherty. “We’re always interested in programs that encourage reusing items that otherwise might end up in the waste stream. When you donate your old phone to HopeLine, you’ll not only give a product a second life — you’ll also give a family in need a second chance at life.”
This will be the last electronics recycling event the City will hold this spring. To date, more than 11,000 people have responded and recycled over 1100 pounds of cell phones.
Verizon Wireless was the first wireless carrier in the nation to collect and recycle old cell phones and has done so since January 1999 — first in New York and then across the U.S. To date, thanks to conscientious consumers, the company’s national HopeLine program has:
— Kept more than 200 tons of electronics waste and batteries out of
landfills.
— Collected nearly 4.5 million wireless phones.
— Properly disposed of nearly 1 million wireless phones.
— Recycled more than 170,000 pounds of batteries in cooperation with
Call2Recycle(TM)

“HopeLine was created more than 10 years ago as a means for Verizon Wireless to put its products and services to work to help survivors of domestic violence and help the environment at the same time,” said Pat Devlin, president of Verizon Wireless’ New York Metro Region. “More than $5 million in cash grants has been awarded to local shelters and groups working to fight family violence across the nation, and nearly 60,000 wireless phones with airtime have helped survivors rebuild their lives.”
Locally, HopeLine’s direct and in-kind donations total nearly $900,000 including more than $150,000 to the New York City Family Justice Center Initiative.
“Many of us take our cell phones for granted,” said Commissioner Yolanda Jimenez of the Mayor’s Office to Combat Domestic Violence. “But for a woman who is being abused or stalked, it is often her first line of defense.”
In addition to the City’s neighborhood recycling events, HopeLine phone donations are accepted year-round at all Verizon Wireless Communications Stores in New York City and across the nation. For store locations and additional information, visit .
About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation’s most reliable wireless voice and data network, serving 65.7 million customers. The largest U.S. wireless company and largest wireless data provider, based on revenues, Verizon Wireless is headquartered in Basking Ridge, NJ, with 69,000 employees nationwide. The company is a joint venture of Verizon Communications and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). Find more information on the Web at . To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at .
About New York City’s Department of Sanitation
Since 1881, when the New York City Department of Sanitation — originally known as the Department of Street Cleaning — was founded, waste collection and disposal have come virtually full circle. At the end of the 19th century, one of the Department’s most prolific commissioners, Colonel George Waring, instituted efficiencies and waste reduction programs that foretold the programs of today — including recycling, street sweeping and a dedicated uniformed cleaning and collection force. Today, the Department is the world’s largest, collecting over 12,000 tons of residential and institutional refuse and recyclables a day. The City’s businesses, whose waste is collected by private carting companies, generate another 13,000 tons of refuse each day. And under the leadership of Commissioner John J. Doherty, New York City’s streets are cleaner today then they have been in over 30 years.
Verizon Wireless

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