SILVER SPRING, Md.  (Profitable.com)  Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) today announced that the Cambria Suites hotel on Racetrack Road in Washington, Penn. has opened. Cambria Suites hotels offer contemporary and spacious suites that are larger than standard hotel rooms and amenities not often found in typical hotels today. The 105-suite hotel is the first of two Cambria Suites properties opening in Pennsylvania and is owned by Adios Associates, L.P., an affiliate of Horizon Properties Group and Madison Realty Group.

“It is exciting to be the first all-suites hotel for Washington, PA and we’re thrilled to open our doors to the community,” said Rodney Piatt, CEO of Horizon Properties Group, co-developer of the property. “We’ve worked in the hospitality industry for many years and truly know what travelers are looking for.  We look forward to serving our guests.”

Conveniently located near the Tanger Outlet Mall as well as The Meadows Racetrack and Casino, the Washington Cambria Suites brings a fresh, new and upscale all-suites option for the greater Pittsburgh area. Each suite features separate work and living areas with ergonomic chairs, movable desks, luxury linens, and Bath & Body Works® products. The all-suites hotels offer the latest in technology, including a media wall with two 52-inch televisions in the open, airy two-story lobby, and each suite includes two flat-screen LCD televisions and MP3 jacks. Every suite offers MediaHub™ plug-and-play technology, allowing guests to connect their laptop, MP3 player, game console, digital camera or CD/DVD player hassle-free. Free high-speed wired and wireless Internet access is available throughout the hotel, in addition to complimentary remote printing, so that guests can stay connected when on the road.

“We’re pleased to welcome the Washington property into the Cambria Suites family,” said Chris Kornmayer, senior director of marketing for Cambria Suites. “From well-appointed suites to meeting spaces with more than 1,000 square feet, the property is ideal for both business and leisure travelers.”

Like all Cambria Suites, the Washington property features Reflect, a dining and gathering area serving a dinner menu, liquor, wine, beer, and a barista bar featuring Wolfgang Puck® coffee, Cheesecake Factory® desserts and a hot breakfast buffet; Refresh, a state-of-the-art fitness center with an elegant pool and hot tub/spa area; and Refill, a 24-7 convenience store that offers energy drinks, snacks and sundries, as well as freshly prepared grab-and-go gourmet salads and sandwiches.

The Cambria Suites hotel is located at 451 Racetrack Road. The hotel can be reached via phone at (724) 223-5555 or via fax at (724) 223-2917. For more information on the Washington property, visit www.cambriasuiteswashingtonpa.com.

About Choice Hotels

Choice Hotels International, Inc. franchises more than 6,000 hotels, representing more than 485,000 rooms, in the United States and more than 35 other countries and territories.  As of June 30, 2010, more than 580 hotels are under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in the United States, representing more than 47,000 rooms, and approximately 100 hotels, representing approximately 8,700 rooms, are under construction, awaiting conversion or approved for development in 20 other countries and territories. The company’s Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge and Rodeway Inn brands serve guests worldwide.  In addition, via its Ascend Collection membership program, travelers in the United States, Canada and the Caribbean have upscale lodging options at historic, boutique and unique hotels.

Additional corporate information may be found on the Choice Hotels International, Inc. Web site, which may be accessed at www.choicehotels.com.

Choice Hotels, Choice Hotels International, Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Extended Stay Hotel, Econo Lodge, Rodeway Inn and Ascend Collection are proprietary trademarks and service marks of Choice Hotels International.

ROCKVILLE, Md.  (Profitable.com)  At the Clinton Global Initiative’s Annual Meeting, Goodwill Industries International made a commitment to expand its sustainable business model in Latin America and the Caribbean, with a specific focus on Brazil and Mexico. Goodwill® will collect and sell gently used items in six areas throughout these countries to fund job training programs and career services for people facing challenges to finding employment.

Brazil and Mexico have growing economies as well as a growing middle class, and the demand for skilled workers is increasing. The job training that Goodwill currently provides throughout the United States and Canada and abroad will help people in these areas learn the skills needed to be successful in the workplace.

“Goodwill’s employment services will generate thousands of jobs and foster economic development by increasing the number of qualified people able to work in their communities,” said Jim Gibbons, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries International. “The Goodwill social enterprise and programming will help individuals with disabilities and other disadvantages enhance their skills so that they can join the workforce, earn paychecks, and better care for their families and communities.”

To fulfill its commitment, Goodwill will work with on-the-ground partners and in-country funders to build a network of stores and Job Connection Centers in Brazil and Mexico that will offer retail training opportunities. In addition, each Job Connection Center will provide career training and employment services. Each center will also customize its services based on the needs of the people in its local community, including such services as English as a second language courses, computer skills training and financial literacy.

“This Commitment to Action will aim to provide employment opportunities to more than 5,000 people with disabilities, youth at risk for delinquency, women and others having trouble finding work during the pilot stage alone,” said Gibbons. “Within the next several years, our goal is to help more than 10,000 people become economically self-sufficient.”

Goodwill will work with local non-governmental organizations and engage the private sector through job placement and corporate social responsibility activities.

For more information about Goodwill’s efforts around the world, visit http://global.goodwill.org.

About Goodwill Industries International

Goodwill Industries International is a network of 165 community-based agencies in the United States and Canada with 14 affiliates in 13 other countries. Goodwill is one of North America’s top five most valuable and recognized nonprofit brands as well as a leading social services enterprise (Source: Cone Nonprofit Power Brand 100, 2009). Goodwill agencies are innovative and sustainable social enterprises that fund job training programs, employment placement services and other community-based programs by selling donated clothing and household items in more than 2,400 retail stores and online at shopgoodwill.com. Local Goodwill agencies also build revenue and create jobs by contracting with businesses and government to provide a wide range of commercial services, including packaging and assembly, food service preparation, and document imaging and shredding. In 2009, nearly 2 million people in the United States and Canada benefited from Goodwill’s career services. Goodwill channels 83 percent of its revenues directly into its programs and services. To find a Goodwill location near you, use the online locator at www.goodwill.org, or call (800) 741-0186. Twitter: @GoodwillIntl. Facebook: GoodwillIntl.

About the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI)

Established in 2005 by President Bill Clinton, the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) convenes global leaders to devise and implement innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Since 2005, CGI Annual Meetings have brought together more than 125 current and former heads of state, 15 Nobel Peace Prize laureates, hundreds of leading CEOs, heads of foundations, major philanthropists, directors of the most effective nongovernmental organizations, and prominent members of the media. These CGI members have made more than 1,900 commitments valued at $63 billion, which have already improved the lives of nearly 300 million people in more than 170 countries. The CGI community also includes CGI University (CGI U), a forum to engage college students in global citizenship, MyCommitment.org, an online portal where anybody can make a Commitment to Action, and CGI Lead, which engages a select group of young leaders from business, government, and civil society. For more information, visit www.clintonglobalinitiative.org.

NEW YORK  (Profitable.com)  Decca is pleased to announce its first CD release by Grammy-winning superstar, singer-songwriter Bryan Adams.  Slated for release on November 16th, Bare Bones is an inspired collection of minimally arranged hits culled from Adams’ impressive body of work spanning three decades.  Recorded in spring of 2010 during his “Bare Bones Tour,” the disc captures a raw Adams, featuring only his distinctive voice and guitar, accompanied on select songs by keyboardist Gary Breit, lending a newfound appreciation and perspective to what many consider some of the most beloved songs in pop/rock music.  

Inspired by his experience recording “MTV’s Unplugged” in the 90′s, Adams decided to revisit performing his material pared down once again in 2008.  With a consistently loyal following on the road, Adams continued playing live shows with these new spare arrangements in 2010, and as an experiment decided to start recording them for a possible record. Comments Adams, “as the tour rolled across the USA and Canada, many people were asking for a recording of the songs as they had just heard in the show. So in response to that, I decided to record a few shows to see if a recording was even interesting… I like the way the songs carry themselves warts and all, bare-boned, without the original arrangements of a full band or an orchestra.” He continues, “These recordings only have the voices and handclaps of the fans in the audience and the ambience of the room to lift them.”

Narrowing down the selections for Bare Bones was a challenging exercise given Adams’ expansive catalogue, so he enlisted the assistance of his fans.  Chosen by a combination of suggestions received through Twitter and his official website, the final tracklisting reflects a well-balanced mixture of old, rare, familiar and new material.  

About Bryan Adams

The Canadian-born, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter has sold more than 65 million albums worldwide, garnered 21 top ten hits, earned nominations for three Academy Awards and five Golden Globes, received 18 Juno Awards, an American Music Award and five ASCAP Film and Television Music Awards for Most Performed Song from a Motion Picture (his music has appeared on more than 40 movie soundtracks). 

Adams was recently honored to perform at the Opening Ceremony of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, performing a duet with Nelly Furtado.  This past spring, he was the recipient of the Allan Waters Humanitarian Award by the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, a tribute to his fundraising and charitable efforts.  A week later he received the prestigious Governor General’s Performing Arts Award for Lifetime Achievement.  Adams has been awarded the Order of British Columbia and is a companion of the Order of Canada; he has received an award for “Artist of the Decade” and was recently inducted into the Juno Hall of Fame.  He also has a star on Canada’s Walkway of Fame and recently added his handprint to the Wembley Square of Fame in celebration of his 25th show at the famed stadium. 

Bryan Adams’ live performances have benefited His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales Prince’s Trust, Live Aid,  Live 8, The Concert for Freedom for Nelson Mandela, Greenpeace, Amnesty International, Net Aid, The Canadian Avalanche Foundation and Breast Cancer,  as well as campaigns that have saved the rainforests, provided food and comfort for the needy and created whale sanctuaries. Through his own foundation he has also helped build schools in areas of Southeast Asia, devastated by the tsunami in 2004.

Adams is also an acclaimed photographer and donates his fees to his namesake foundation that funds projects supporting the elderly, victims of wars and natural disasters and other disadvantaged individuals. His work has also been on display with Hear the World presents “Hear the World Ambassadors” – featuring exclusive portraits of renowned personalities from the film, music, and fashion industries.  His critically acclaimed exhibit, “Modern Muses,” was on display in 2008 at the National Portrait Gallery in London.  Adam’s outstanding live concerts have established him as one of the world’s best rock singers of our time, performing over 120 concerts a year as he works to spread his message of music and environmental awareness to an audience of millions around the globe.

www.bryanadams.com

TORONTO  (Profitable.com)  With 72 percent of businesses concerned about their country’s level of public debt and 43 percent very or extremely concerned, a new survey from KPMG International shows that cutting public spending is the most popular method of managing the public debt.

According to research released today from KPMG International titled Paying the Bill, of the 538 business leaders surveyed from around the world seven out of 10 said that debt should be reduced primarily through cuts in public spending, rising to 77 percent among Europeans. Cutting public spending was also the top choice for the Americas (69 percent) and 54 percent for Asia- Pacific respondents.

Asked which aspects of public spending should be cut, public sector pay is the most popular option, chosen by 53 percent globally, followed by defence spending (47 percent) and welfare payments (34 percent). However, it is hard to draw any general inferences from this, since so much of a country’s perceived need for defence and welfare payments arises from local circumstances and history.

Votes for and against cuts in public sector pay varied widely among countries, with Ireland scoring a remarkable 100 percent in favour, and only 12 percent choosing this option among the French.

“Calls for cuts in public spending are hardly a new phenomenon in times of economic difficulty,” says Loughlin Hickey, KPMG International’s Global Head of Tax. “However, this enthusiasm for public spending cuts presents governments with a difficult political problem. Spending cuts are always hard to implement, especially in democracies and particularly when those having to bear the main impact are the government’s own employees.”

Support for public investment in infrastructure was well received in most countries-only 24 percent selected reducing these investments as an option to manage the debt. There were majorities in favour of maintaining infrastructure spending in all countries except Japan and Hong Kong, where views were evenly split for and against reductions in spending, and in China, where a remarkable 61 percent wanted to see infrastructure investment cut.

“Unless governments are comfortable simply accepting current levels of debt and working to meet interest payments, an option which was favoured by 16 percent of respondents to our survey, they will have no choice but to raise taxes in one form or another,” says Hickey.

However, and not surprisingly, the least popular option was taxation. Only one percent globally chose tax as an acceptable means for governments to manage their debts. The survey shows that a moderate number of respondents would support tax rises if these were just for the purpose of paying back debt, and were not part of general taxation. Globally, 19 percent supported this idea, making it the third most popular option after cutting public spending and finding means other than increased taxation.

The countries most keen on tax increases were the UK (65 percent in favour) and Japan (60 percent in favour). Least keen, with no support at all for this idea, were the Netherlands, Italy, Poland, Russia and Slovakia.

“Tax rate changes-new, increases, decreases-are options used by governments to alleviate their debt. Indeed, over the past decade, KPMG has documented a slow move away from taxes on corporate incomes and towards indirect taxes globally. That move seems to be accelerating this year,” adds Hickey. “At the beginning of August 2010, we noted plans by at least 10 countries to increase their rates of VAT or GST. A further two countries, China and India, plan to introduce new consumption tax systems between 2010 and 2013.”

The report also found that the broad consensus among respondents is that the corporate tax, consumption tax (GST/VAT) and personal income tax rates in their country should be more-or-less where they are now, or perhaps a bit lower.

With corporate taxation, 39 percent from the Asia-Pacific countries said it should lie between 20 percent and 30 percent, while 38 percent opted for 10-20 percent. The average preferred rate was 22 percent, just a little lower that the actual average among Asia Pacific countries which, at the time of the research, stood at 27.5 percent(1).

In Europe, there was an equally wide range of views, with 76 percent of respondents choosing something between 10 percent and 30 percent. The average chosen was 24 percent, a fraction higher than the actual EU average corporate tax rate of 23.2 percent.

Views in the Americas were more focused, with 36 percent opting for 20-30 percent and an average of 24 percent. This compares with an actual average rate for the Americas of 27 percent.

On consumption taxes, a majority of Europeans (55 percent) opted for a rate of 15-20 percent with an average of 17 percent. In the Asia-Pacific countries the largest group (48 percent) chose 5-10 percent with an average of 9 percent, and the Americans were split between 5-10 percent, and 15-20 percent, with an average of 12 percent.

The rates chosen for higher rate personal taxes told a slightly different story. Europeans were happy with rates of 40 percent plus, while Americans chose a wide range of options from 10-40 percent. Those in the Asia-Pacific countries were clearly in favour of lower personal taxes, with the largest group (34 percent) choosing a maximum of 10-20 percent.

“The evidence suggests that the basic contract between government and business is much the same in different parts of the world, in terms of levels of service provided for an acceptable level of payment,” says Hickey. “The differences arise when we consider what different cultures believe it is appropriate for governments to do, and how this activity should be funded.”

Methodology

KPMG’s international tax practice commissioned a research project covering 538 senior corporate decision-makers in 26 countries.

Independent researchers carried out telephone interviews in April and May 2010. Their respondents were chief executives and senior officers of companies in a wide range of industry sectors, with annual revenues ranging from less than US$ 1 billion to more than US$ 5 billion. The countries represented were:

A copy of Paying the Bill is available at: http://www.kpmg.com/Global/en/IssuesAndInsights/ArticlesPublications/Pages/paying-the-bill.aspx

About KPMG International

KPMG is a global network of professional firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. We operate in 146 countries and have 140,000 people working in member firms around the world. The independent member firms of the KPMG network are affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such.

(1) All actual average figures taken from KPMG’s Corporate and Indirect Tax Rate Survey 2009

For further information: Carolyn Forest, KPMG’s Global Tax Marketing and Communications, cforest(at)kpmg.ca, (001) 416-986-2316

BENTONVILLE, Ark.  (Profitable.com)  Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT) today announced that its board of directors has elected Charles Holley, 54, to succeed Tom Schoewe as the company’s chief financial officer.  The change will be effective Nov. 30, and Schoewe will stay on until Jan. 31 to help with the transition.

“Charles has great experience both inside Walmart and externally,” said CEO Mike Duke. “He is a talented strategist who also thoroughly understands the details of our business and the financial markets.  As treasurer, he has helped drive the strategy behind the company’s strong financial position and has made every organization he has led stronger.

“Charles has also played a strong role in pioneering the company’s international expansion.  He is respected within the company as well as by the investment community, and has been a key part of our strategic discussions for a number of years.”

Duke said, “Tom has been a key member of Walmart’s strategic team for the past decade and has overseen our financial functions during a period of tremendous growth and international expansion.  During that time he played a leading role in strengthening our balance sheet and our financial controls, and in establishing the financial priorities of growth, leverage and returns that guide our business.

“One of Tom’s greatest strengths is his focus on talent development, and he has built a strong and deep team across all our operations,” Duke continued.  ”Under his leadership, the company has continued to increase its returns to shareholders, and through the first half of this fiscal year gave back $9.4 billion through dividends and share repurchase.”

Holley joined Walmart in 1994 and is currently executive vice president, finance and treasurer. He is responsible for corporate strategy and planning, tax, investor relations, corporate mergers and acquisitions, risk management, and treasury operations, which includes capital markets and cash management.  Before joining Walmart, Holley worked for Tandy Corporation (now Radio Shack) as managing director for its European Memorex division and served as director of finance for its international operations. He also spent more than 10 years with Ernst & Young.

Schoewe, 57, joined Walmart in 2000.  Prior to that, he spent 14 years at Black and Decker, most recently as chief financial officer.

Both Holley and Schoewe are recognized leaders within the financial and retail industries and are active in community service.

Holley’s successor will be named at a later date.

NOTE:  Bios of Charles Holley and Tom Schoewe are available at: http://www.walmartstores.com.  High resolution photos of both are available for downloading from the site.

About Walmart

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., (NYSE: WMT) serves customers and members more than 200 million times per week at more than 8,400 retail units under 55 different banners in 15 countries. With fiscal year 2010 sales of $405 billion, Walmart employs more than 2 million associates worldwide. A leader in sustainability, corporate philanthropy and employment opportunity, Walmart ranked first among retailers in Fortune magazine’s 2010 Most Admired Companies survey. Additional information about Walmart can be found by visiting www.walmartstores.com. Online merchandise sales are available at www.walmart.com and www.samsclub.com.

MONTREAL  (Profitable.com)  International travel reaches a fever pitch in late December, as families on school break seek out adventure and relaxation in destinations around the world, from mountain getaways for skiing to classic beach holidays that leave the cold behind.

Luxury Retreats, the world leader in full-service luxury villa rentals worldwide, has just released its list of the top villas for the holiday period. With a holiday collection ranging from intimate homes for small families to large estates built for multi-generational travel, their list encompasses elite vacation rentals suited to anyone and everyone wishing to get away over Christmas and New Year’s.

View the full list here: http://www.luxuryretreats.com/promotions/christmas/index.aspx

“Villa rentals are an extremely hot commodity over the holidays,” said Ben Tuff, Luxury Retreats’ Director of Sales and Marketing. “It’s our busiest time of year, and the top villas usually get booked up quickly, at least a few months in advance. In other words, this availability list will change soon.”

One of the top villa rentals still available for the holidays is Casa La Laguna, a six-bedroom beachfront estate located in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Casa La Laguna is fully-staffed with a personal chef and in-villa masseuse, and offers a private pool with Jacuzzi above the beach.

In Maui, four-bedroom Garuda Estate is an Asian-style home overlooking the Pacific Ocean. One of the most exclusive rentals still available in the Caribbean is Rum Punch, a beautiful beachfront villa with contemporary style.

“It’s difficult to describe the excitement that occurs around this time of year, as our guests start booking their Christmas and New Year’s vacations,” said Tuff. “It can get hectic, but we love seeing our top villas get snapped up and helping those guests plan dream trips.”

Luxury Retreats is the world’s largest specialist in luxury villa rentals, offering almost 2,000 elite properties in over 70 worldwide destinations. Founded in 1999, the company has grown into a respected leader in the industry, with over 100 employees in its Montreal headquarters and satellite offices in Hawaii, the Caribbean and Europe.

WASHINGTON  (Profitable.com)  To serve their emerging communications technology needs and help ensure U.S. women-owned businesses continue to innovate and grow, AT&T* is launching the AT&T Women’s Entrepreneur Forum.

The announcement was made earlier today by Cathy Martine, AT&T Executive Vice President of Small Business Solutions, during her keynote speech at the annual Women Impacting Public Policy Conference in Washington, D.C.

The AT&T Women’s Entrepreneur Forum will bring together more than 30 of the most accomplished leaders of women-owned businesses from across the country, including entrepreneurs and business leaders in telecom, marketing and consulting, advertising, communications, healthcare, and accounting. The forum will focus on members’ business communications technology needs, future trends in their respective industries, and provide a look into how AT&T can help their businesses grow.

“The AT&T Women’s Entrepreneur Forum is designed to drive innovation and operational excellence by encouraging the sharing of new ideas, different perspectives and proven best practices,” Martine said. “Women-owned businesses today are creating new jobs and will play a big role in the country’s economic recovery. To continue this trend, they need the latest communications technology, and AT&T is committed to helping ensure that’s it’s both available and affordable.”

The country’s 8 million women-owned businesses generate a U.S. economic impact of $3 trillion, according to a 2009 study from the Center for Women’s Business Research.

AT&T was recognized earlier this year for its leadership in women’s business issues by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council and the National Association for Female Executives.

Members of the AT&T Women’s Entrepreneur Forum will hold a kick-off teleconference in October and will gather in person later this year at AT&T’s Global Network Operations Center in Bedminster, N.J.

Small businesses looking to find information about AT&T products and services can visit the AT&T Small Business page. For free business resources such as webinars, white papers, training, case studies and best practices, they can visit the AT&T Small Business InSite.

Additionally, real-time information can be found on the AT&T Small Business Facebook page and AT&T Small Business Twitter channel.

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

About AT&T

AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) 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. With a powerful array of network resources that includes the nation’s fastest mobile broadband network, AT&T is a leading provider of wireless, Wi-Fi, high speed Internet and voice services. A leader in mobile broadband, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide, offering the most wireless phones that work in the most countries. It also offers advanced TV services under the AT&T U-verse® and AT&T | DIRECTV brands. The company’s suite of IP-based business communications services is one of the most advanced in the world. In domestic markets, AT&T Advertising Solutions and AT&T Interactive are known for their leadership in local search and advertising. In 2010, AT&T again ranked among the 50 Most Admired Companies by FORTUNE® magazine. 

Additional information about AT&T Inc. and the products and services provided by AT&T subsidiaries and affiliates is available at http://www.att.com.  This AT&T news release and other announcements are available at http://www.att.com/newsroom and as part of an RSS feed at www.att.com/rss. Or follow our news on Twitter at @ATTNews. Find us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ATT to discover more about our consumer and wireless services or at www.Facebook.com/ATTSmallBiz to discover more about our small business services.

© 2010 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. Mobile broadband not available in all areas. 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. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

Home Prices Remain Stable Around Recent Lows

NEW YORK  (Profitable.com)  Data through July 2010, released today by Standard & Poor’s for its S&P/Case-Shiller(1) Home Price Indices, the leading measure of U.S. home prices, show that the annual growth rates in 16 of the 20 MSAs and the 10- and 20-City Composites slowed in July compared to June 2010.  The 10-City Composite is up 4.1% and the 20-City Composite is up 3.2% from where they were in July 2009. For June they were reported as +5.0% and +4.2%, respectively. Although home prices increased in most markets in July versus June, 15 MSAs and both Composites saw these monthly rates moderate in July.

The annual returns of the 10-City and 20-City Composite Home Price Indices show increases of 4.1% and 3.2%, respectively, in July 2010 compared to the same month in 2009. With July’s data, 10 of the 20 MSAs are reporting negative annual growth rates. With June’s report only five cities were negative on an annual basis – Atlanta, Cleveland, Dallas, Denver and Portland all fell back to reporting declining annual growth rates. The three cities in California, Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco, showed the strongest annual growth rates of +7.5%, +9.3% and +11.2%, respectively; but these too are weaker than June’s print.

“Home prices crept forward in July. Ten of the 20 cities saw year-over-year gains and only one – Las Vegas – made a new bottom, as the impact of the first time home buyer program continued to fade away,” says David M. Blitzer, Chairman of the Index Committee at Standard & Poor’s. “The year-over-year growth rates for 16 of the cities and both Composites weakened in July compared to June. While we could still see some residual support from the homebuyers’ tax credit, which covers purchases closing through September 30th, anyone looking for home price to return to the lofty 2005-2006 might be disappointed.  Judging from the recent behavior of the housing market, stable prices seem more likely.

“In the monthly data, 12 of the 20 MSAs and the two Composites were up in July over June; but the monthly rates also seem to be weakening. The next few months may give us an idea of the true strength of the housing market, as the temporary economic stimuli will have ended. Housing starts, sales and inventory data reported for August do not show signs of a robust market, and foreclosures continue.”

As of July 2010, average home prices across the United States are back to the levels where they were in late 2003. Measured from June/July 2006 through July 2010, the peak-to-current declines for the 10-City Composite and 20-City Composite are -28.3% and -27.9%, respectively. The improvement from their April 2009 trough is +7.9% and +6.9%, respectively.

In July, continuing its downward trend in all but two of the past 46 months, Las Vegas posted another index low as measured by the current housing cycle, when it peaked in August 2006. Peak-to-trough, that market is down 57.0%. Charlotte, Dallas, Denver, Phoenix, Portland and Tampa also saw prices decline in July.

Twelve of the 20 MSAs and both Composites showed month-over-month increases in July. The 10- and 20-City Composites were up 0.8% and 0.6%, respectively.  San Diego posted its 15th consecutive monthly increase. Chicago, Detroit, New York and Washington DC posted monthly increases of greater than 1%.

The table below summarizes the results for July 2010. The S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices are revised for the 24 prior months, based on the receipt of additional source data. More than 23 years of history for these data series is available, and can be accessed in full by going to www.homeprice.standardandpoors.com.

A summary of the monthly changes using the seasonally adjusted (SA) and non-seasonally adjusted (NSA) data can be found in the table below.

These indices are generated and published under agreements between Standard & Poor’s and Fiserv, Inc.

The S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices are produced by Fiserv, Inc. In addition to the S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices, Fiserv also offers home price index sets covering thousands of zip codes, counties, metro areas, and state markets. The indices, published by Standard & Poor’s, represent just a small subset of the broader data available through Fiserv.

For more information about S&P Indices, please visit www.standardandpoors.com/indices.

(1) Case-Shiller® and Case-Shiller Indexes® are registered trademarks of Fiserv, Inc.

About S&P Indices

S&P Indices, the world’s leading index provider, maintains a wide variety of investable and benchmark indices to meet an array of investor needs. Over $1.25 trillion is directly indexed to Standard & Poor’s family of indices, which includes the S&P 500, the world’s most followed stock market index, the S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Indices, the leading measure of U.S. home prices, the S&P Global BMI, an index with approximately 11,000 constituents, the S&P GSCI, the industry’s most closely watched commodities index, and the S&P National AMT-Free Municipal Bond Index, the premier investable index for U.S. municipal bonds. For more information, please visit www.standardandpoors.com/indices.  

About Standard & Poor’s

Standard & Poor’s, a subsidiary of The McGraw-Hill Companies (NYSE: MHP), is the world’s foremost provider of independent credit ratings, indices, risk evaluation, investment research and data. With offices in 23 countries and markets, Standard & Poor’s is an essential part of the world’s financial infrastructure and has played a leading role for 150 years in providing investors with the independent benchmarks they need to feel more confident about their investment and financial decisions. For more information, visit http://www.standardandpoors.com.

For more information about S&P Indices, please visit www.standardandpoors.com/indices.

AUSTIN, Texas  (Profitable.com)  While vacation rentals have long been popular among families and groups traveling together, HomeAway®, Inc. — the world’s leading online vacation rental marketplace — finds in its latest “HomeAway Vacation Rental Marketplace Report” the appeal of vacation rentals to business travelers also continues to grow in popularity.

According to HomeAway’s sixth quarterly report, 10 percent of travelers say they have stayed in a vacation rental for a business trip and 42 percent say they would consider a vacation rental while traveling for business.  Respondents say they prefer a vacation rental over a hotel for a business trip for the following reasons:

• Access to amenities, such as a kitchen and laundry room (69 percent)
• More cost-effective (58 percent)
• Provides a more home-like experience (49 percent)
• More space (44 percent)
• Has more bedrooms for coworkers or family (35 percent)
• Ideal for extended stays (32 percent)
• Provides more privacy (25 percent)
• Ideal for entertaining clients (10 percent)

“For business travelers looking to cut costs, particularly for extended stays, vacation rentals provide real value,” says Brian Sharples, chief executive officer of HomeAway.  ”Those traveling on business can avoid pricey hotel restaurants and mini-bars by dining in their own home away from home, and they have more space to work or relax – something that’s not easily done in a cramped hotel room.”

Whether traveling for business or pleasure, when given the choice of renting an entire vacation home, apartment or condo, or staying in a private or shared room, 98 percent of travelers say they prefer to rent an entire home.  Less than 2 percent prefer renting a private room in a home and less than 1 percent prefer a shared-room experience.

Private rooms typically consist of a private bedroom in a home in which the owner or landlord is on site, and a shared room typically is a sofa bed or a similar sleeping arrangement in a shared common living area of a home.

“Based on the vacation rental report’s quarterly findings, it’s clear travelers put a premium on privacy and security when traveling,” says Sharples.  

Dreaming of a Vacation Home of Their Own

When asked if they have considered buying a vacation home, about one in five (20 percent) travelers say they have dreamed of owning a vacation home.

“While many people dream of buying a beach home or mountain cabin one day, most don’t realize that it’s more affordable than they think,” says Tom Kelly, real estate expert and author of “How a Second Home Can Be Your Best Investment.”  ”By buying the home and then renting it to travelers, second home owners can generate rental income that can help offset the mortgage and other home costs.”

The HomeAway report found nearly one-third (31 percent) of vacation rental owners have generated more revenue this year compared with the same period last year, and approximately 40 percent of owners reported generating about the same amount of income from their properties as they did last year.

More Second Home Owners Getting In on the (Rental Revenue) Action

In the past three HomeAway Vacation Rental Marketplace Reports, Sunset Beach, N.C., has ranked as the market with the largest increase in new vacation rental listings.  Sandpoint, Idaho; Lancaster, Pa.; Lexington, Ky.; and Atlanta were among the cities making the list for the first time since reporting began.

In some instances, people are buying a vacation home before they’ve even bought a primary residence.  The report found about 14 percent of second home owners purchased their vacation home before buying their primary residence.

Many new vacation rental owners are finding it fruitful to rent out properties during special events and/or festivals.  In fact, 61 percent of those surveyed say they have or would rent their vacation homes out for a sporting event or festival – be it the Super Bowl or a local wine festival.

In terms of the fastest-growing destinations among travelers, vacation rental owners in New Orleans continue to see increases in inquiries from people looking to visit the Big Easy, despite the recent oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.  In fact, New Orleans has ranked in the top three markets with the largest year-over-year percent increase in traveler interest for the past four quarters.

In the most recent report for the second quarter of 2010, the following destinations had the largest year-over-year percent increase in traveler interest:

1. New Orleans (up 160%)
2. West Hollywood, Calif. (up 151%)
3. Santa Monica, Calif. (up 139%)
4. Chicago (up 131%)
5. Hot Springs, Ark. (up 129%)
6. Lancaster, Pa. (up 122%)
7. Snowshoe Mountain, W. Va. (up 112%)
8. Phoenicia, N.Y. (up 109%)
9. New York City (up 104%)
10. Beverly Hills, Calif. (up 95%)

About the HomeAway Vacation Rental Marketplace Report

Data for the HomeAway Vacation Rental Marketplace Report was collected via surveys that poll travelers and homeowners on vacation rental-related issues. Based on HomeAway, Inc. internal customer satisfaction research, traveler results are based on 813 responses collected between September 14 and September 20, 2010.  Owner results are based on 264 responses received between Aug. 17 and Sept. 1, 2010.  Market trends were based on a combination of in-depth research of supplier and consumer markets from the HomeAway, Inc. database.

About HomeAway, Inc.

HomeAway, Inc., based in Austin, Texas, is the worldwide leader in online vacation rentals, representing more than 540,000 paid vacation rental home listings throughout 120 countries. HomeAway offers an extensive selection of vacation homes that provide travelers with memorable experiences and benefits, including more room to relax and added privacy, for less than the cost of traditional hotel accommodations. The company also makes it easy for vacation rental owners and property managers to advertise their properties and manage bookings online. The HomeAway portfolio includes the leading vacation rental websites HomeAway.com, VRBO.com and VacationRentals.com in the United States; HomeAway.co.uk and OwnersDirect.co.uk in the United Kingdom; HomeAway.de in Germany; Abritel.fr and Homelidays.com in France; HomeAway.es in Spain; and AlugueTemporada.com.br in Brazil.

In addition, HomeAway operates BedandBreakfast.com, the most comprehensive global site for finding bed-and-breakfast properties, providing travelers with another source for unique lodging alternatives to chain hotels. For more information about HomeAway, please visit www.HomeAway.com.

WAYNE, N.J.  (Profitable.com)  Toys”R”Us® today announced plans to hire approximately 45,000 seasonal employees to staff its Toys”R”Us and Toys”R”Us Express pop-up stores in the U.S. this holiday season, essentially doubling its domestic workforce.  This number is greater than the total workforce the company hired during each of the last three holiday shopping seasons due to the addition of 600 new Toys”R”Us Express stores.  In previous holiday seasons, the company has hired approximately 35,000 toy-trained employees to help gift-givers find the RIGHT toy for the children on their lists this Christmas.

“Toys”R”Us is a classic destination for Christmas shopping, and one of the ways we differentiate ourselves is by employing and training associates who can make sound toy buying recommendations based on a child’s specific needs and interests,” said Dan Caspersen, Executive Vice President, Human Resources, Toys”R”Us, Inc.  ”We’re pleased that we can create thousands of new jobs as we double our workforce nationwide in preparation for another busy shopping season in our stores.”

Traffic in Toys”R”Us stores peaks in the weeks leading up to Christmas, and the company’s expanded holiday workforce plays an integral part in providing an enjoyable in-store experience for shoppers during this time.  Of the 45,000 total hired, 35,000 employees will staff the company’s 587 traditional Toys”R”Us stores, while the company will continue to fill 10,000 positions at approximately 600 Toys”R”Us Express stores in malls and other shopping centers.  Seasonal workers will also be hired in the company’s nine Distribution Centers across the country.  As it does each year, Toys”R”Us will provide existing employees with the opportunity to take on additional hours throughout the holiday season at their current site or at an alternate Toys”R”Us location.  During the non-holiday period, Toys”R”Us employs approximately 45,000 associates in the U.S.

Each year, following the holiday season, the company strives to find extended roles for high performing seasonal employees.  In the past, seasonal and part-time workers have gone on to full-time positions at the company.  Substantial long-term growth opportunities exist for hardworking seasonal employees at Toys”R”Us.

“At Toys”R”Us, we love kids, so we are looking for enthusiastic and diligent employees who enjoy working in a fun and fast-paced atmosphere and assisting customers in selecting gifts that are sure to bring happiness to children on Christmas morning,” said Caspersen.

There are numerous seasonal opportunities available at Toys”R”Us stores, ranging from managerial roles and sales associate positions to back-of-house stock employees and distribution center crews.  To accommodate its workers, Toys”R”Us offers flexible schedules during the week and on weekends.  For a complete list of available positions and descriptions, visit the company’s dedicated Careers website, Ruscareers.com.  

About Toys”R”Us, Inc.

Toys”R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. It currently sells merchandise in more than 1,560 stores, including 845 Toys”R”Us and Babies”R”Us stores in the United States, and more than 510 international stores and 200 licensed stores in 33 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com, FAO.com and babyuniverse.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys”R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need.

Winchester, MA  (Profitable.com)  Autumn is here and the holiday season is fast approaching. Now is the time to prepare for a corporate gift giving program. In this difficult economic environment businesses and sales people need every possible advantage to succeed. Corporate gifts, whether given to employees, present clients, or future prospects are vital to help cement and nurture business relationships. Choosing the perfect corporate gift can make or break your business. A business must do better than their rivals and gifting is one way for a company or salesperson to shine brighter than those who they are competing with. 1-800-Bakery.com is one company that can offer a solution to put you ahead of all the competition this holiday gift season and throughout the year. As Steve Schawbel, owner of Cruise Club of America states about 1-800-Bakery.com, “When I send your gift baskets, I’m an instant hero. Many of my clients have sent me so many referrals, and you’re the reason my business has increased almost 100% in the past year.”

One of the most effective ideas for corporate gifts is to give gifts that are edible and that also display your company’s logo, colors, name, and any message that you would like to convey. This can be achieved by sending gifts such as logo cakes, logo cookies, or logo chocolates either individually or in gift baskets. 1-800-Bakery.com is an on-line leader that specializes in these types of gifts. A deliciously fresh baked gift with a company logo and message on it will be long remembered, much more so than the typical promotional trinkets that will soon find themselves in a trash bin. Here is what Denise Arnold of the Lodging Host Hotel Corporation had to say about 1-800-Bakery.com’s logo cookies, “The cookies are always a great success! They are easy to carry around and our clients really like them. I have another sales blitz scheduled for the DC area next month. I will be contacting you for another order. Thanks again!” Another satisfied customer, Debbie Wilson of Valassis Communications,Inc. declared, “You provided us with some of the best custom logo cakes I have ever seen or tasted – I got many compliments! They were a hit with all of my customers and my co-workers who did not order any were upset they missed out . I want to thank you for the prompt and efficient service. I was very concerned about the cakes arriving in good shape. Your packaging was perfect and you even sent a few extra. Thanks again, Debbie!” Testimonies such as these speak volumes on how the appropriate corporate gifts can have a considerable effect on maintaining your current client base and helping it to multiply. Autumn is here and the holiday season is fast approaching. Procrastinating in creating a corporate gifting program can harm a business. Other companies are planning now for the holidays and the year ahead, don’t get left behind.

About 1-800-Bakery.com

Stephen Pazyra started 1-800-Bakery.com in 2004, to offer baked goods with a commitment to quality, creativity, and freshness for those who were miles away from home. Their Freshness is 100% Guaranteed. When you place an order at 1-800-Bakery.com it goes straight from the baker to your doorstep. Treat yourself or find a unique gift for someone you love. No matter what you select, 1-800-Bakery.com promises you will be satisfied beyond your wildest dreams.

St. Louis, MO  (Profitable.com)  After four years of work and $80 million in construction costs, custom-designed luxury condominiums in the Chase Park Plaza are now complete. Named The Private Residences at the Chase Park Plaza, these 86 condominiums are deemed St. Louis’ first living spaces atop a world-class hotel, with access to all of its amenities.

“For the first time in the rich history of The Chase Park Plaza, this landmark building is the address for sophisticated homeowners,” said Marcia Smith Niedringhaus, general counsel and executive vice president of development for Kingsdell L.P., managing general partner of the Chase Park Plaza. “Our ‘standard’ finishes really set a new standard in luxury living, especially when combined with all of the amenities of the Chase Hotel.”

All units feature new plumbing and electrical systems and luxurious finishes valued at approximately twice that of standard finishes, including granite and marble showers with frameless glass doors, Décor solid maple cabinets, and wood flooring. Many units contain fireplaces, coffered ceilings, and private terraces overlooking the Central West End, Forest Park, and downtown St. Louis.

Also complete is the new Garden Terrace on the third floor rooftop, with an outdoor fireplace, two large gas grills, a dog-walking area, and a community garden that is shared by all residents.

Additional amenities that residents enjoy include:

• Savoy Room gathering area, with a fireplace and plasma television
• Complimentary membership to Santé Fitness & Wellness, the on-site health club
• 24-hour valet and security
• Private concierge services
• Two reserved indoor parking spaces plus bicycle storage
• Access to The Chase Hotel’s heated swimming pool, five-screen movie theater, salon and spa, five restaurants, catering, and housekeeping services.

“These new, custom-designed condominiums are now available at prices that have never been better,” said Niedringhaus. “We’re offering a variety of pricing and move-in incentives, and property taxes are substantially reduced through 2016, which could save residents as much as $200,000.” For more information on the history of The Chase Park Plaza, available units, pricing specials, and a full list of amenities, visit www.chaseresidences.com or call 314-633-1100.

Background

The Chase Park Plaza is listed in the National Register of Historic Places for its contribution to the history of St. Louis. “During the 1980s, The Chase Park Plaza was a dated apartment building that had fallen into disrepair,” said Niedringhaus. “Today, the exemplary style that once made The Chase an unparalleled destination for sophisticated travelers now sets the stage for unique style in luxury living.” (A timeline of The Chase’s history can be found at www.chaseresidences.com.)

Construction of The Private Residences began in 2007. The outside of the building was left intact, but the inside was completely renovated. Floors nine through 26 contain one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom condominiums ranging from 1,200 to 4,200 square feet. Floor 27 contains the 7,000-square-foot penthouse, the highest living space available in a St. Louis landmark. This space presents a rare opportunity for the buyer to create a magnificent custom home, with soaring ceilings, unobstructed views of Forest Park and downtown St. Louis through floor-to-ceiling windows, and Art Deco terra cotta embellishments on a private terrace.

About The Private Residences at the Chase Park Plaza

Located in St. Louis’ Central West End, The Private Residences at The Chase Park Plaza are luxury condominiums that range from 1,020 square feet to nearly 7,000 square feet and list for $499,000 to $4.5 million. Owners can choose from more than 30 floor plans, including main-floor living and multi-level retreats. Residents enjoy house accounts with unique access to the hotel services, including 24-hour room service, private concierge services, in-house catering services and event support, health club memberships, and more. For more information, visit www.chaseresidences.com.

About The Chase Park Plaza

The Chase Park Plaza, which began as two buildings, has been a St. Louis landmark since the 1920s. Over the years, The Chase and Park Plaza welcomed discriminating travelers, royalty, entertainers, athletes, and politicians — including every American president between the 1920s and 1980s. The Chase continues to evolve, bringing storied history and lavish accommodations together with upscale living and unparalleled amenities. Today, The Chase Park Plaza encompasses the five-screen Chase Park Plaza Cinemas, Café Eau and Eau Bistro, The Tenderloin Room, Khorassan Room, The Zodiac Room and Starlight Roof, Chasers Lounge, a beautifully renovated conference center, and Santé Fitness & Wellness, an 18,000-square-foot wellness center.

NEW YORK  (Profitable.com)  As American consumers continue to add private label products to their shopping carts, consumer packaged goods (CPG) and retail executives recently surveyed by Deloitte agree: this is a trend that is here to stay. In Deloitte’s new “The Battle for Brands in a World of Private Labels” study, when asked how market share of store brands will change in the United States by 2012, 77 percent of CPG executives and 90 percent of retail executives surveyed indicated it will increase or increase significantly.

While there is consensus by CPG manufacturers and retailers on continued growth of store brands, there is a disconnect between the executive’s perspective on shoppers and consumer attitudes towards store brands.  Fewer than two out of 10 executives surveyed believe consumers view store brands as likely to be manufactured by the traditional national brands, while eight out of 10 consumers surveyed during Deloitte’s “2010 American Pantry Study” believe that most store brands are manufactured by the traditional national brands. In addition to the disconnect around manufacturing of store brands, 85 percent of consumers also indicated that they have found several store brands that are just as good as national brands and as a result have little reason to switch back.

“Though conventional wisdom has co-branding between retailers and CPG companies as a win-lose proposition, the results of our study indicate that nearly half of retail and CPG executives agree that working together may be the best way to win the wallets of the ‘new consumer,’” said Pat Conroy, vice chairman and Deloitte’s U.S. consumer products practice leader. “What they need to consider are variations on current brands and what new innovations should be brought to market so as not to overwhelm an already substantial marketplace.”

There is a fine line that needs to be followed by both CPG companies and retailers as both sides believe consumers have unique associations with national brands compared to store brands. While price and product performance are table stakes, the executives surveyed feel consumers are much more likely to associate innovation with national brands, and local variants, such as taste and specific regional preferences, with store brands. Those areas that the executives felt consumers did not have either a strong national brand or store brand specific association were: exclusivity, green (organic and environmentally friendly) and supportive of social causes.

The Bottom Line

It comes as no surprise that the executives surveyed believe that retailers are more focused on store brands, premium offerings and building customer loyalty, and that they believe CPG companies should be focusing more on store brands. However, they also believe that consumer packaged goods companies need to develop retailer-specific portfolios and more low-end brands. Furthermore, most retail executives surveyed believe that national brands would increase market share if they created local variations to better appeal to consumers in target cites, states, or regions.

To help navigate CPG companies through this changing environment and attract the “new consumer,” Deloitte offers the following strategies and recommendations:

• Shed homogeneity
• Be irreplaceable
• Make me-too strategies an onerous path
• Stop reckless promotions

“To compete in this new ‘store branded’ world, CPG companies must increase their direct-to-consumer efforts while simultaneously developing a product portfolio that reflects each retailer’s unique consumer base,” said Conroy.  

To download Deloitte’s “The Battle for Brands in a World of Private Labels,” please visit http://www.deloitte.com/us/privatelabel.

About the Surveys

“The Battle for Brands in a World of Private Labels” survey was conducted by Deloitte by collecting 193 highly targeted responses from executives and senior managers in the consumer products and retail industry segments. The survey report looks broadly at the results in cross-industry context; however, it compares and contrasts the responses of consumer product and retail executives in selected questions. The survey was conducted in April 2010.

“The 2010 American Pantry Study: The New Rules of the Shopping Game” was conducted by Deloitte and the Harrison Group.  The survey polled 2,077 household shoppers and food preparers in the U.S. during April 2010 and has a margin of error of plus or minus two percentage points.

As used in this document, “Deloitte” means Deloitte LLP and its subsidiaries. Please see www.deloitte.com/us/about for a detailed description of the legal structure of Deloitte LLP and its subsidiaries.

SANTA BARBARA, Calif.  (Profitable.com)  Sonos, the leading developer of wireless multi-room music systems for the home, today introduced the Sonos Wireless Dock (WD100), an accessory to the award-winning Sonos Multi-Room Music System.  With the Sonos Wireless Dock you can now play all of the music from an iPod or iPhone in every room of the house.  The Sonos Wireless Dock will be available for $119 beginning by the end of October.

“The Sonos Wireless Dock is the perfect accessory for our music loving customers who own an iPod or iPhone and want to enjoy the music stored on them in any or every room of the home,” said Phil Abram, President, Sonos, Inc.  “This new dock reinforces our mission to provide our customers with access to all of the music on the planet, including everything available on an iPod and iPhone in the home.”

The Sonos Wireless Dock accesses all of the music stored or playing on an iPhone or iPod and sends it wirelessly to Sonos ZonePlayers all throughout your home – before converting the music to analog – guaranteeing the best possible audio quality.

The Sonos Wireless Dock is compatible with the following devices: iPod touch (1st, 2nd, and 3rd generation), iPod classic, iPod nano (3rd, 4th, and 5th generation), iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 3G and iPhone, and has been certified by the developer to meet Apple performance standards. 

For more information about Sonos or to locate an authorized Sonos dealer in your area, please visit www.sonos.com.

About Sonos, Inc.

Sonos® is the leading developer of wireless multi-room music systems for the home. The Sonos Multi-Room Music System is the first, wireless multi-room music system that lets you play all the music you want all over your house – and control it all from the palm of your hand.  Sonos liberates the music stored on a computer so it can be enjoyed all over the house.  In addition, by partnering with audio services like Audible.com®, iheartradio, Last.fm, Napster®, Pandora®, RadioTime, Rhapsody®, SIRIUS® Internet Radio, Spotify, Wolfgang’s Vault, and more, Sonos gives music lovers instant, computer-free access to millions of songs, thousands of radio stations, audiobooks, and more.  The award-winning Sonos Multi-Room Music System is available at more than 6200 retailers in over 65 countries worldwide; or direct from Sonos at www.sonos.com.  Sonos is a privately-held company, headquartered in Santa Barbara, CA with offices in Cambridge, MA, Hilversum, Netherlands and Penang, Malaysia.  To find out more about the company or the Sonos Multi-Room Music System, please visit: pr.sonos.com.

© 2004-2010 by Sonos Inc. All rights reserved. Sonos is a Registered trademark of Sonos, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries with pending trademark registrations worldwide. SonosNet, ZonePlayer, ZoneBridge and all Sonos logos are trademarks of Sonos Inc. in the United States and other countries. All other products and services may be trademarks or service marks of their respective owners.

DALLAS  (Profitable.com)  Blockbuster Inc. (Pink Sheets: BLOKA, BLOKB), a leading global provider of rental and retail movie and game entertainment, today announced that it has reached agreement with a group of bondholders holding approximately 80.1 percent principal amount of the Company’s 11 3/4 percent senior secured notes (the “Senior Noteholders”) on the material terms of a plan to recapitalize its balance sheet and put the Company in a stronger financial position as it continues to pursue its strategic plan and transform its business model. The recapitalization plan would substantially reduce the Company’s indebtedness — from nearly $1 billion currently to an estimated $100 million or less when implemented.

To implement this “pre-arranged” recapitalization, the Company and its domestic subsidiaries have filed voluntary Chapter 11 petitions with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York. Blockbuster’s non-U.S. operations and its domestic and international franchisees, all of which are legally separate entities, were not included in the filings and are not parties to the Chapter 11 proceedings.

All of Blockbuster’s U.S. operations, including its stores, DVD vending kiosks, by-mail and digital businesses, are open and serving customers in the normal course. Blockbuster is fulfilling all orders as usual, including continuing to provide access to new releases the first day they become available. Blockbuster intends to continue honoring its Rewards program, valid coupons, gift cards and other customer programs.

Blockbuster franchise locations in both the U.S. and abroad are independently owned, operated and funded, and are also continuing normal business operations. In addition, BLOCKBUSTER Express vending kiosks, owned and operated through a relationship with NCR, continue their operations in retail locations around the U.S. The Company’s international operations in Canada, Denmark, Italy, Mexico, and the United Kingdom are also conducting business as usual. However, Blockbuster will no longer provide funding to support its operations in Argentina, which have experienced continued shortfalls in operating cash flow.    

Jim Keyes, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, commented, “After a careful and thorough analysis, we determined that the process announced today provides the optimal path for recapitalizing our balance sheet and positioning Blockbuster for the future as we continue to transform our business model to meet the evolving preferences of our customers. The recapitalized Blockbuster will move forward better able to leverage its strong strategic position, including a well-established brand name, an exceptional library of more than 125,000 titles, and our position as the only operator that provides access across multiple delivery channels – stores, kiosks, by-mail and digital. This variety of delivery channels provides unrivaled convenience, service, and value for our customers.”

The Company has secured a commitment of $125 million in new “debtor-in-possession” (DIP) financing from the Senior Noteholders to help meet its obligations to customers, suppliers and employees in the ordinary course during the recapitalization process.

As part of the recapitalization process, the Company will evaluate its U.S. store portfolio with a view towards enhancing the overall profitability of its store operations. Currently, all 3,000 of the Company’s stores in the U.S. will remain open.

Under the terms of the proposed plan of reorganization, the Company’s 11 3/4 percent senior secured notes will be exchanged for the equity of a reorganized Blockbuster. The only debt expected to remain on the Company’s balance sheet upon its emergence from Chapter 11 under the proposed plan will be the amounts drawn under Blockbuster’s $125 million DIP financing, which will convert to an exit loan facility upon consummation of the plan, and a new exit revolving credit facility of up to $50 million. Under the proposed plan, there would be no recovery by the holders of the Company’s outstanding subordinated debt, preferred stock or common stock.

Keyes said, “We are pleased to enter this process with the support of the Senior Noteholders. Their willingness to provide the DIP financing and to support a plan to eliminate a substantial amount of the Company’s debt in exchange for new equity is an important vote of confidence in Blockbuster.”

Additional information about the recapitalization is available at www.Blockbuster.com/recapitalization or by telephone at 877-660-6684 or 732-645-4110. General information for Blockbuster customers is available at www.Blockbuster.com or by calling 1-866-692-2789.

The Company’s legal advisor is Weil, Gotshal & Manges, its financial advisor is Rothschild Inc., and its restructuring advisor is Alvarez & Marsal.

About Blockbuster Inc.

Blockbuster Inc. is a leading global provider of rental and retail movie and game entertainment. The Company provides customers with convenient access to media entertainment anywhere, any way they want it – whether in-store, by-mail, through vending kiosks or digitally to their homes and mobile devices. With a highly recognized brand and a library of more than 125,000 movie and game titles, Blockbuster leverages its multichannel presence to serve nearly 47 million global customers annually. The Company may be accessed worldwide at www.blockbuster.com.

Forward Looking Statements 

This 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. Forward-looking statements may also be included from time to time in our other public filings, press releases, our website and oral and written presentations by management. Specific forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts and include, without limitation, words such as “may,” “will,” “expects,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “estimates,” “projects,” “predicts,” “targets,” “seeks,” “could,” “intends,” “foresees” or the negative of such terms or other variations on such terms or comparable terminology. Similarly, statements that describe our strategies, initiatives, objectives, plans or goals are forward-looking. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s current intent, belief, expectations, estimates and projections. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual results may vary materially from what is expressed in or indicated by the forward-looking statements. The risk factors set forth under “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Reports on Form 10-K and other matters discussed from time to time in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the “Disclosure Regarding Forward-Looking Information” and “Risk Factors” sections of our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, among others, could affect future results, causing these results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements. Currently, the risks and uncertainties that may most directly impact our future results include (i) the ability of the Company to continue as a going concern; (ii) the Company’s ability to obtain Bankruptcy Court approval with respect to motions in the chapter 11 cases; (iii) the ability of the Company and its subsidiaries to prosecute, develop and consummate one or more plans of reorganization with respect to the chapter 11 cases; (iv) the effects of the Company’s Bankruptcy Filing on the Company and the interests of various creditors, equity holders and other constituents; (v) Bankruptcy Court rulings in the chapter 11 cases and the outcome of the cases in general; (vi) the length of time the Company will operate under the chapter 11 cases; (vii) risks associated with third party motions in the chapter 11 cases, which may interfere with the Company’s ability to develop and consummate one or more plans of reorganization once such plans are developed, including the currently proposed plan; (viii) the potential adverse effects of the chapter 11 proceedings on the Company’s liquidity or results of operations; (ix) the ability to execute the Company’s business and restructuring plan; (x) increased legal costs related to the Bankruptcy Filing and other litigation; (xi) the Company’s ability to maintain contracts that are critical to its operation, to obtain and maintain normal terms with customers, suppliers and service providers and to retain key executives, managers and employees.  In the event that the risks disclosed in our public filings and those discussed above cause results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements, our business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity could be materially adversely affected and investors in our securities could lose part or all of their investments. Accordingly, our investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements because, while we believe the assumptions on which the forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, there can be no assurance that these forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate. Further, the forward-looking statements included in this release and those included from time to time in our other public filings, press releases, our website and oral and written presentations by management are only made as of the respective dates thereof. We undertake no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statement in this release or in other documents, our website or oral statements for any reason, even if new information becomes available or other events occur in the future.

CHICAGO  (Profitable.com)  Every house has a story.

That story can sell the house and nobody tells it better than the owner.

“Tell It and Sell It,” a new section of ForSaleByOwner.com, helps sellers turn stories into sales.

In today’s slow real estate market, it takes imagination to get buyers’ attention.  And once you’ve got their attention, home sellers need to know how to engage buyers with the key selling points of their properties.  Tell It and Sell It equips homeowners with case studies, checklists, tips, tactics and resources for telling and selling houses with unique stories, including:

• “Green” houses with energy-efficient features
• Live-work spaces perfect for home-based businesses
• Sears houses that represent a bungalow-sized bit of Americana
• Vacation homes with features like piers and family-friendly amenities
• “Not so big” houses that reflect today’s preferences for modest space, well designed

What’s the story behind the one-bedroom, energy-independent house a mile from the beaten path and 45 minutes from tiny Bisbee, Arizona? Susan Taylor built the house a decade ago when she moved to the area to help care for her aging parents. She sunk her savings into the house – quite literally, when it came to drilling 1,000 feet below the mesquite to hit the water table.  Craving independence, she designed the house to be energy self-supporting. It’s completely solar-powered, unconnected to the power grid.

Now, Taylor wants to travel. Through ForSaleByOwner.com, she sold the little casita to a like-minded couple.  Even as they add to its 400-square feet, they intend to keep it energy self-supporting.  In November, when the casita becomes theirs, they will start writing the next chapter of its story.

“You are the best teller of your house’s story,” said Joanne Cleaver, senior content producer of ForSaleByOwner.com.  ”Nobody is more invested in the history, features and unique functions of your house than you.  A unique story intrigues buyers, and that sets your house apart from the competition.”

ForSaleByOwner.com is the perfect venue for showcasing houses that don’t fit in the cookie-cutter mold of standard real estate listings, told by agents who repeat the same tired tactics when trying to sell every listing.  

At ForSaleByOwner.com, sellers get plenty of space for describing their houses and can upload lots of photos to tell their stories with pictures.

The new section can be found at: http://www.forsalebyowner.com/education/

About ForSaleByOwner.com

ForSaleByOwner.com is the nation’s leading “by owner” real estate website. Since 1999, ForSaleByOwner.com has saved home sellers more than one billion dollars by coaching and equipping them with information, tools and services that enable them to buy and sell houses directly.

By selling directly, homeowners can recoup more of their home equity by controlling transaction fees. The company charges $89 to $899 for its wide range of advertising, listing services and related information and tools. A homeowner selling a $300,000 home through a real estate agent would be charged a 6% commission and pay approximately $18,000, plus additional fees.

ForSaleByOwner.com was acquired in 2006 by Tribune Interactive and is based in Chicago.

INDIANAPOLIS  (Profitable.com)  Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) has been selected as one of the 100 Best Companies for Working Mothers by Working Mother magazine for the 16th consecutive year.

Celebrating its silver anniversary this year, the Working Mother 100 Best Companies initiative selects the nation’s top companies for family-friendly benefits. About 70 percent of mothers work outside the home—and women outnumber men in the workplace for the first time in U.S. history, according to the magazine.

Lilly has a long history of creating a working environment that empowers employees to balance work and personal life responsibilities. Benefit-related programs include: on-site child care; resources and referrals; on-site summer camp; back-up care; adoption assistance; support groups; on-site conveniences; health services; nursing mother stations

Companies were selected for the 2010 Working Mother 100 Best Companies based on an extensive application with more than 600 questions on workforce, compensation, child care, flexibility programs, leave policies and more.  The initiative also surveys the usage, availability and tracking of programs, as well as the accountability of managers who oversee them.

Seven areas were measured and scored: workforce profile, benefits, women’s issues and advancement, child care, flexible work, parental leave and company culture.  For this year’s 100 Best, particular weight was given to benefits, flexibility and parental leave.

Profiles of the 100 Best Companies, as well as national comparisons, are in the October issue of Working Mother and at workingmother.com/best companies.

About Working Mother Media

Working Mother magazine reaches 2 million readers and is the only national magazine for career-committed mothers; WorkingMother.com brings to the Web home and career information, advice and a broad range of solutions daily.

About Eli Lilly and Company

Lilly, a leading innovation-driven corporation is developing a growing portfolio of pharmaceutical products by applying the latest research from its own worldwide laboratories and from collaborations with eminent scientific organizations. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Ind., Lilly provides answers – through medicines and information – for some of the world’s most urgent medical needs. Additional information about Lilly is available at www.lilly.com.

PHOENIX  (Profitable.com)  Best Western International currently has more than 40 new hotels in Asia and the Middle East in various stages of development and by the end of 2011 the chain expects to have more than 235 Best Western properties open in these regions, the company announced today.

The global hotel chain currently has more than 160 properties, representing 8,400 rooms, in various stages of operation, rebranding, and development in mainland China, Taiwan, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Mongolia, Southeast Asia, Japan and the Middle East.

“Local hotel developers across Asia, the Middle East and other emerging regions are attracted to our unique membership model, the global strength of our brand and the marketing support we provide to each of our more than 4,000 hotels worldwide,” said Best Western’s President and CEO David Kong.

Best Western also launched Bhuvana My Spa in Asia in early 2010, the first spa concept for the chain, at several new Best Western Premier hotels in Thailand and Indonesia. The Bhuvana My Spa concept will expand to the chain’s hotels in Malaysia, India, Oman and Bahrain in 2011. Bhuvana My Spa properties offer authentic and relaxing treatments by professional therapists in a tranquil and inviting atmosphere.

Asia and Middle East development highlights for Best Western in 2010 include:

• 12 new hotels in China
• 10 new hotels in India
• 6 new hotels in Japan
• 1 new hotel in South Korea
• 10  new hotels in  Southeast Asia

In India, where the country’s Tourism Secretary recently cited a need for an additional 150,000 hotel rooms over the next three years due to escalating tourism, the hotel chain recently opened the Best Western Premier Vedic Village Spa Resort within the popular tourist destination of Kolkata. This 150-acre property is one of the few resorts to offer both Ayurveda and Naturopathy treatments.

Additional Best Western properties in India are expected to open in Bangalore, Goa, Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi.

In addition, Best Western is expanding its presence with new hotels in other emerging markets, including Africa, South America, New Zealand, Ukraine and Russia.

In West Africa, the chain opened its first Premier property, the Best Western Premier Accra Airport Hotel, in Ghana, which is home to one of the largest chocolate producers in the world. It is a full-service, 4-star hotel with 113 rooms, a jazz club and a five-story atrium decorated with African art. . Best Western has also recently opened two new hotels in Nigeria: the Best Western Island Hotel in Lagos and the Best Western Premier Port Harcourt Hotel in Port Harcourt.

South America 2010 development highlights for Best Western include:

• The chain’s goal is to have 14 hotels in Argentina and Uruguay by the end of 2010, making it the largest hotel chain in the region
• The first Best Western Premier hotel in Chile, the Best Western Premier Marina Las Condes, features a top-floor pool and atrium
• Also opening this year will be a five-star Best Western Premier hotel in Peru with a full-service plastic surgery clinic and recovery spa adjacent to the hotel

Best Western is also expanding in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) region, with 10 new hotels expected to be open by the end of 2011.

The three-star Best Western Sevastopol Hotel recently opened in Sevastopol, Ukraine, the first Best Western hotel in the country. Plans are underway to open five more properties in Ukraine by the end of 2011 and Best Western also plans to open the chain’s first three new Premier properties in Russia, including hotels in Moscow and St. Petersburg.  

Additionally, five new properties are in the pipeline for New Zealand, including hotels in the popular tourist and historical destinations of Casa Bella and Taipa Bay Resort on North Zealand’s North Island.

With more than 4,000 hotels worldwide, Best Western offers travelers more than 308,237 quality guest rooms located in approximately 80 countries and territories.

About Best Western International, Inc.

Best Western International, Inc. is THE WORLD’S LARGEST HOTEL CHAIN®, providing marketing, reservations and operational support to over 4,000* independently owned and operated BEST WESTERN, BEST WESTERN PLUS® and BEST WESTERN PREMIER® hotels in 80* countries and territories worldwide. An industry pioneer since 1946, Best Western has grown into an iconic brand that hosts 400,000* worldwide guests each night. Equally committed to the business and leisure traveler, Best Western recently embarked on a mission to lead the hotel industry in customer care. World Vision is the charity of choice for Best Western in building the world’s largest family, with our hotels and staff sponsoring children in need around the globe. Our partnerships with AAA/CAA, Michael Waltrip Racing™ and Harley-Davidson® help guests make the most of every trip. For the fastest way to a free night globally, join Best Western Rewards®. For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.bestwestern.com.

*Numbers are approximate and can fluctuate.

LOS ANGELES  (Profitable.com)  The results of Zagat Survey’s 2011 Los Angeles/ So. California Restaurant Survey were released today, available in bookstores, on ZAGAT.com and via ZAGAT TO GO for iPhone, iPad and Android. The survey covers 2,016 restaurants in the greater Los Angeles area as well as Orange County, Palm Springs and Santa Barbara. Over 10,800 local diners participated, averaging over two meals a day at the typical restaurant surveyed.

Top Food: The award for Top Food went to shopping mall phenom Sushi Zo, replacing last year’s winner, Urasawa, which fell to No. 21. The “brilliant” yet “subtle” cuisine of chef-owner Keizo Seki, rated a rare 29 rating out of a maximum possible 30, despite its “austere” strip-mall setting which scored a 13 out of 30 for decor. Other restaurants whose standings soared are Brandywine, Shiro, Sushi Nozawa and Wa. The award for Top Decor went to Cicada and Edison, who tied. Top Service went to Melisse, also No. 3 for its food, while Pizzeria Mozza remained L.A.’s Most Popular restaurant, followed by its next door sibling Osteria Mozza in 4th place. The five leaders in these main categories are as follows:

Economic Overview: In the City of Angels, the recession continues to affect diners. Notably, the cost of a meal has gone down for the first time since the survey has launched in LA in 1987, from $34.95 last year to $34.85 this year. This marginal decrease is all the more significant since 40% of surveyors say they are eating out less, 44% report being more attentive to prices and 41% are eating in less expensive places due to the economy. When they do go out, 23% of diners are skipping appetizers/dessert, and 16% are cutting back on alcohol. Also, a 12% group say that they’re less likely to try new restaurants. However, restaurant service seems to have improved since the downturn. This year, 63% of surveyors cited service as their top dining irritant, down from 74% prior to the recession. Also, the 119 newcomers in this year’s survey suggest that restaurateurs are optimistic about the future.

“In a city as dynamic as Los Angeles, there’s no shortage of options for diners, especially when dining out has become more affordable,” said Tim Zagat, CEO and Co-Founder of Zagat Survey. “Of the 2,000+ restaurants in our guide, 1483 boast average meal costs of under $40 for dinner and roughly $30 for lunch – that’s good news to wallet-weary diners and a sign that the LA restaurant scene continues to meet the public’s needs.”

Neighborhood Newcomers: This year’s crop of newcomers is led by Pasadena’s Noir, which features an eclectic roster of small plates. Diners are discovering their neighborhood eateries; in Downtown, a variety of notable newcomers debuted: First and Hope (American), Starry Kitchen (Asian) and NYC import, Rosa Mexicana. Culver City is gaining momentum thanks to affordable options including, Father’s Office (pub fare) and Libra (Brazilian). The unveiling of Santa Monica Place, and its notable tenants Xino and La Sandia, has also brought buzz to the beach.

Trucks are Trendy: The food truck trend owes much of its success to the rise of the Kogi Korean BBQ truck in 2009, and other mobile eateries with active Twitter and Facebook followings. This year, 28% of diners report frequenting food trucks – a clear sign these trucks have staying power. Some new and notable food trucks and pop-ups include tasty-taco purveyor Border Grill, flavorful pork belly buns from the Flying Pig truck, Vietnamese options at Phamish and chef Ludo Lefebvre’s uber-popular LudoBites.

Gadget Gurus: Not surprisingly, 24% of surveyors say they have downloaded a restaurant-related application onto their smartphone. However, users should take caution – while 87% of surveyors think it’s acceptable to take pictures of food or companions while dining out, 67% think that it’s inappropriate and rude for diners to talk, tweet, text or email at the table.

Waste Not, Want Not: Nose-to-tail cooking is still the rage with newcomers and standouts Lazy Ox Canteen (Downtown), Waterloo & City (Culver City) and Bistro LQ (Fairfax) serving everything from sweetbreads and smoked tongue to chicharrons. These newcomers should make locavores happy – 64% of surveyors consider locally-sourced, organic or sustainably raised menu items important. Additionally, 70% want to have low-carb, low-fat, heart healthy items available on the menu, and 57% are willing to pay more for “green” items.

Celebs and Chefs: In Los Angeles, stars of movies and TV can be found in coffee shops, retail stores and cafes, but when it comes to restaurants, celebrities aren’t simply at the tables. As chefs have amassed their own level of celebrity, it’s noteworthy that 39% of surveyors say they are more likely to dine at a restaurant with a celebrity chef. The good news for them is that Los Angeles has some high-profile newcomers including Bouchon and Bar Bouchon (Thomas Keller), Red O (Rick Bayless), the Tar Pit (Campanile‘s Mark Peel) and Wolfgang Puck’s WP24. Reality-series ‘Top Chef’ alums added to the mix this year, with Season 5 runner-up Stefan Richter’s Stefan’s at LA Farm and Season 2 winner, Ilan Hall’s The Gorbals.

Winners by Cuisine Type: Here are the winners by cuisine type.

About Zagat Survey, LLC

Known as the “wildly popular” “burgundy bible,” Zagat Survey is the world’s most trusted source for consumer-generated survey information. With a worldwide network of surveyors, Zagat rates and reviews restaurants, hotels, nightlife, movies, music, golf, shopping and a range of other entertainment categories and is lauded as the “most up-to-date,” “comprehensive” and “reliable” guide, published on all platforms. Zagat content is available to consumers wherever and whenever they need it: on ZAGAT.com, ZAGAT.mobi, ZAGAT TO GO for smartphones and in book form.

NEW YORK  (Profitable.com)  A new concept in Bedbug detection from AP&G’s Catchmaster™ line now offers hotel, hospitality and residence-based industries an innovative, “passive” detection system designed specifically to monitor for Bedbugs on a large scale as part of a proactive inspection/intervention strategy. Called BDS™ (Bedbug Detection System), the product overcomes the problems of standard insect glue traps by utilizing a patented adhesive dot matrix technology and physical design to capture specimens.

“The growing scourge of Bedbugs is a ticking time bomb,” said Jonathan Frisch, AP&G’s vice president, Sales and Marketing. “According to the National Pest Management Association, 95 percent of pest management companies recently surveyed said they had encountered a Bedbug infestation in the last year, compared to only 25 percent before 2000. As infestations increase throughout the hospitality industry, the potential losses in terms of reputation, confidence and litigation are incalculable. That’s why this new and effective system is needed in today’s marketplace.

“We were also driven to create the BDS device by pure economics,” Frisch added. “Current Bedbug monitors can range from $20 to $600. Considering these rates, it is hard to imagine a large-scale program being used in a 250-room hotel, or a 400-unit apartment complex. What’s more, the affordability, discrete nature and flexibility of the BDS system allow it to be used almost anywhere, including multi-unit dwellings, hotels, hospitals, military posts, and more.”

When strategically placed throughout the target areas, BDS monitors act as both an interceptor trap, by creating an adhesive barrier when used around bedposts, and as a passive monitor, to provide early detection in sheltered locations, thus allowing chemical treatments to be limited to fewer areas and minimizing the potential for pesticide misuse, a critical public health concern.

In fact, the concept of early detection is supported independently by the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, which states that the use of Bedbug monitoring devices should be part of an overall integrated pest management strategy. Intervention is key to this process because it is most effective when populations are low, hence the value of effective monitoring.

About AP&G

AP&G is an industry-leading innovator and U.S. based manufacturer of adhesive-type pest control products. Through the continuing growth and development of its Catchmaster™ line, the firm is committed to supplying the pest management and consumer markets with dependable and high-value products. For more information contact Jonathan Frisch at 800-458-7454, or at jonathanf@catchmaster.com.

WASHINGTON  (Profitable.com)  U.S. News Media Group, one of the nation’s leading sources of service journalism and news, today released the third annual edition of the World’s Best Universities rankings. The 2010 World’s Best rankings, which include colleges and universities across the globe, are available online at www.usnews.com/worldsbest.

World’s Best Universities rankings, updated annually by U.S. News, are based on the 2010 QS World University Rankings®, developed by QS Quacquarelli Symonds, one of the world’s leading resources for careers and education.  Following a different methodology and ranking data than the well-known U.S. News Best Colleges rankings, the World’s Best Universities rates universities on factors such as the proportion of international faculty and the proportion of international students.  

“There’s a growing interest among prospective students to attend institutions abroad,” said U.S. News Media Group Editor Brian Kelly.  ”The World’s Best Universities rankings help students compare and select the best schools worldwide. In addition, the rankings enable our readers to understand more fully how well American institutions perform when compared with other institutions of higher learning around the world.”

“The world is rapidly changing,” said Director of Data Research Bob Morse.  ”More students and faculty are eager to explore the higher education options that exist outside their countries.  Universities worldwide are competing for the best and brightest students, the most highly recognized research faculty, and coveted research dollars.  And more universities are seeking world-class status to become players on the global academic stage.”

Using an in-depth methodology, the World’s Best Universities rankings is one of the most comprehensive of its kind, and includes the following rankings: Top 400 Universities Worldwide, Top 50 Asian Universities, Top 50 British and European Universities, Top 20 Canadian Universities, Top 20 Australian and New Zealand Universities and Top 10 Latin American Universities. The listing also includes the Top 100 global rankings in the fields of arts and humanities; engineering and IT; life sciences and biomedicine; natural and physical sciences; and social sciences.  

To determine the 2010 rankings, six distinct indicators of excellence were evaluated, including: Academic Peer Review, Employer Review, Student-to-Faculty Ratio, Proportion of International Faculty, Proportion of International Students, and Citations per Faculty Member.

For additional information on the 2010 ranking of the World’s Best Universities, please visit www.usnews.com/worldsbest.  

About the U.S. News Media Group

The U.S. News Media Group is a multi-platform publisher of news analysis, research and rankings which includes the monthly U.S. News & World Report magazine, the digital-only U.S. News Weekly magazine, and the company’s websites, www.usnews.com and www.rankingsandreviews.com. Focusing on Health, Money, Education, Politics & Policy, Autos, and Travel, the U.S. News Media Group has earned a reputation as the leading provider of service news and information that improves the quality of life of its readers. The U.S. News Media Group’s signature franchises include its News You Can Use® brand of journalism and its “Best” series of consumer guides that include rankings of colleges, graduate schools, hospitals, health plans, and more.

About QS Quacquarelli Symonds

QS’s mission is “to enable motivated people to fulfill their potential through educational achievement, international mobility and career development.” Founded in 1990, today QS is the leading information and events company specialising in the higher education sector, worldwide. Through our exclusive events, publications, research and interactive web tools, we link undergraduate, graduate, MBA and executive communities around the world with recruiters and education providers. Our websites include: www.topuniversities.com, www.topgradschool.com,   www.topmba.com, and www.qs.com. The QS team is diverse, made up of over 180 individuals from 35 countries and includes internationally recognized experts in the higher and business education arena. QS operates globally from offices in London, Paris, Singapore, Stuttgart,  Beijing, Shanghai, Sydney, Washington DC, Boston, and Johannesburg.

ROCHELLE PARK, N.J.  (Profitable.com)  Strativity Group announces today the release of the 2010 Social Experience Study.  The study was designed to discover trends in social media as perceived by consumers and the role of social media in the overall ecosystem of consumer communication and service.

“The key message we heard from consumers was that social media is first and foremost considered private space. Akin to being a guest in someone’s house, companies need to adapt their behaviors and approach to social media by demonstrating respect to consumers. Additionally, the majority of consumers do not see social media as replacing existing channels. This is merely a complementary channel,” said Lior Arussy, Strativity President.

Key Findings:

Current Usage of Social Media

• 73% of consumers described their experience in social media as personal, utilizing sites such as Facebook and MySpace  
• 70% of consumers stated lack of time as an obstacle to further social media engagement
• 59% of consumers stated privacy as an obstacle to further social media engagement
• 58% of consumers stated too much junk and advertising as an obstacle to further social media engagement
• Banks, employers, grocery stores and cell phone companies were the companies participants most engaged with through social media
• The majority of consumers rejected the notion of using social media for traditional interactions with companies such as marketing, sales, or customer service

The Future of Social Media

• Sales, discounts and fun activities ranked highest in customers’ preference for social media engagement with companies

Study Overview

• Participants: 930 consumers from North America
• Study was a web-based questionnaire following the customer strategy phases.
• The survey was conducted from May 1, 2009 through June 30, 2009.
• The study was conducted in partnership with Customer Service Experts, Inc., a leading customer experience firm.

To receive a complimentary copy of the study, please click here and provide the requested information.

The study results will be discussed in the upcoming CEM Certification events in Scottsdale, AZ, October 4-6, 2010 and London November 15-16, 2010 www.CEMCertification.com

Strativity Group

At Strativity Group, Inc. we do more than customer experience research and strategic planning. We take a strong, multi-disciplinary approach to customer experience strategy design and implementation. Through proprietary research tools, strategic analysis, business planning and customer experience innovation design, we help our clients operationalize profitable customer experience strategies. We measure our success by a single method: execution.

Strativity Group, Inc. works with both Global 2000 companies as well as emerging businesses around the world. Our clients include Nokia, Computer Associates, SAP, American Management Association, Seagate Technology, Honeywell, Siemens, Dimension Data, FedEx, CATIC, Circle K, University of Pennsylvania, The Fund, Capital One, Jacada, Wyeth, Sage, Herbalife, Akibia, National, Lockheed Martin, Crown Plaza Hotels & Resorts and Nordea.

About Customer Service Experts

Customer Service Experts, Inc. (CSE) was created with a vision to improve the customer experience by focusing on the internal team and their direct link to customer satisfaction. CSE’s approach helps clients improve service from “the inside out” with a primary focus on executive leadership providing the proper support and tools for the frontline employees and managers to succeed. CSE’s strategies have benefited clients with both B2C and B2B engagements in a variety of industries including: retail, airport, hospitality, healthcare, education, government, financial, service and food and beverage.

WAYNE, N.J.  (Profitable.com)  Every holiday season, parents look forward to finding the perfect presents that will WOW their kids and elicit cheers of excitement when the wrapping paper is torn off on Christmas morning. To provide gift-givers with a starting point in developing their holiday shopping checklists, today Toys”R”Us® unveiled its annual Holiday Hot Toy List, filled with 36 items that are new this year and offer outstanding value in quality, price and play. As the world’s leading dedicated specialty toy retailer, Toys”R”Us spends the year testing and tracking new product introductions from around the world to identify the best-of-the-best items to include on this annual list.

“The Toys”R”Us merchant team has shopped the world to create this list of the 36 top toys guaranteed to delight kids of every age this Christmas season,” said Karen Dodge, Senior Vice President, Chief Merchandising Officer, Toys”R”Us, U.S. “Each of the items on the 2010 Toys”R”Us Holiday Hot Toy List represents a combination of quality AND value, offering children toys they can enjoy for years to come, while providing parents with a selection of products at a variety of price points that can fit any budget.”

As THE toy authority, with stores in 34 countries and jurisdictions and more than 60 years of experience, Toys”R”Us has unique insights into the toy industry. Coupled with its toy-trained associates and the assurance of daily shipments of the hottest playthings through Christmas, gift-givers will find a differentiated shopping experience at Toys”R”Us, including:  

Knowledgeable Insights from Toy Specialists – Each year, there is often much attention paid to one specific “hot” toy, however parents and gift-givers should know that no one toy is appropriate for every child. Whether shopping for a five-year-old girl or an eight-year-old boy, Toys”R”Us employees can help select playthings best suited for a particular child based on their age and interests. And, with thousands of unique toys and games available exclusively at Toys”R”Us stores, shoppers can choose from a broad assortment of distinctive products that can’t be found anywhere else.

Layaway and Rewards Opportunities for Savvy Savers – Beyond offering a strong cadence of incredible values, Toys”R”Us makes holiday shopping convenient and affordable with programs like the company’s layaway program, Christmas Savers Club and Rewards”R”Us. Those who want to reserve a special present early in the season, such as a gym set or video game console, can place items on layaway and make small payments over time.* And to keep these gifts away from eager young eyes, Toys”R”Us will store items placed on layaway until late in the season. Savvy shoppers can also sign up for the Christmas Savers Club to set aside money through Saturday, October 16 with the benefit of a three percent bonus added to their total savings, which can be used for holiday shopping starting Sunday, October 31.** Customers who choose to enroll in the Rewards”R”Us program at any Toys”R”Us store or online at Rewardsrus.Toysrus.com can also take advantage of exclusive shopping nights and savings, as well as e-mail discount offers, giving them even more reason to shop at Toys”R”Us stores.

Daily Shipments of the Toys that will WOW Kids on Christmas – Determining which gift will elicit an ear-to-ear grin on kids’ faces Christmas morning is the first important step for parents. But, finding that “must have” toy, on store shelves, when they need it is where Toys”R”Us stands apart. With trucks filled with new toy shipments arriving daily throughout the holiday season, parents and gift-givers have a better chance of finding the hottest toys, in-stock at Toys”R”Us than anywhere else.

The 2010 Toys”R”Us Holiday Hot Toy List, outlined below, features 36 total items, including the “Fabulous 15″ which represents the very best toys of the season.  All items on the list are available at Toys”R”Us stores nationwide and online at Toysrus.com/HotToys.  

For high-resolution photos, please click on the following link: https://toysrus.sharefile.com/d/sd9db737329e46989.

THE TOYS”R”US 2010 HOLIDAY HOT TOY LIST

From Baby’s First Christmas to Big Kids, the 2010 Toys”R”Us Holiday Hot Toy List represents the top new toys for 2010 in each age group:

Baby’s First Christmas

Go Baby Go™ Stride-to-Ride™ Dino from Fisher-Price®

There to assist little ones as they begin to take their first steps, this friendly-faced prehistoric pal will have tiny tots stomping along in no time! Featuring a large wheel base and sturdy handle bar, this dino makes the perfect walker for little ones preparing to take their first steps. While in motion, three lights on the dino’s head will dance along as music plays, including three songs, two tunes and five fun sound effects. When a child is ready to ride their dinosaur, rather than walk behind it, moms can easily slide the two rear legs together to create a comfy seat. 3 “AA” batteries required (included). Ages 9 months to 3 years.

Ocean Wonders™ Deep Blue Sea™ Table from Fisher-Price®

Loaded with fun ocean-themed activities for babies and toddlers, this Toys”R”Us exclusive starts an under-sea adventure when children roll the ball – with a friendly fish inside – to activate sounds, lights, music and more. Little ones will love controlling the dancing lights on the tabletop whenever they slide the seashell door back and forth. Kids can also turn a starfish around to hear fun bubble noises and flip the pages of the attached book to hear a silly sound! 3 “AA” batteries required (included). Ages 9 months to 36 months.

13 months to 2 years

1-2-3 Large Zoo from Playmobil®

Young animal lovers will be delighted with this playset, which comes with everything needed to create an imaginary day at the zoo and is available exclusively at Toys”R”Us. The bright colors, chunky pieces and rounded animal figures, including a giraffe, monkey, elephant, zebra, horse, lamb and more, are easy for little ones to grab and place on display. Additional figures and pieces, including a family of four, zookeeper and bench for spectators, complete the set and make for hours of pretend zoo fun. No batteries required. Ages 1-1/2 and up.

Disney Dance Star Mickey from Fisher-Price®

Kids can get into the groove with their fun-loving pal, Mickey Mouse as he takes over the dance floor. Just by pressing Mickey’s foot, the marvelous mouse comes to life as he dances along to one of six different songs in a variety of musical stylings, such as Disco, Techno and Latin – he even does the “Moonwalk.” Children can dance along or play interactive games with Mickey, including “Mickey Says” and “Freeze Dance.” 6 “AA” batteries required (included). Ages 2 years and up. This item will be available starting October 5.

Lil’ Zoomers™ Spinnin’ Sounds Speedway™ from Fisher-Price®

From rattling cars and zooming speedway sounds to lively music and flashing lights, little ones will stay captivated by this fast-moving miniature racetrack. Kids can make the easy-to-grasp, shake-and-roll cars travel down a ramp and into a light-up raceway where they whiz and swirl around until the spinning action sends each vehicle through the exit.  The first car to zip under the spinning flag wins this wacky race. 4 “C” batteries required (not included). Ages 6 months and up.

Ladybug Smart Trike from SmarTrike

Whether going on a stroll with Mom and Dad or learning how to ride a tricycle, little ones will love this red and black-themed grow-with-me tricycle that offers three distinct modes and is available exclusively at Toys”R”Us. Featuring a full metal frame and handle, parents can push their children around town using the adjustable handle, while a built in clutch switches control of the vehicle between the parent and child. Kids can stop on their own with the included foot brake system. The Smart Trike can also be outfitted with a washable seat cover and a red and black canopy to keep toddlers shaded while riding, and an included play phone lets kids cruse the neighborhood while pretending to talk to their friends. Additionally, a storage bucket lets kids take their favorite treasures along on any adventure. 2 “AA” batteries required. Ages 10 to 36 months.

2 to 4 years

BABY ALIVE BOUNCIN’ BABBLES from Hasbro®

Little ones will love playing “mommy” to this energetic doll that that moves and makes babbling sounds, just like a real toddler. Kids grab hold of their baby’s hands to watch her spring to life, bouncing as she plays. Showing off her wide eyes and huge smile, BABY ALIVE BOUNCIN’ BABBLES is barely able to contain her excitement, chattering and chuckling as she bops up and down. 3 “AA” batteries required (included). Ages 3 years and up.  

Calico Critters Luxury Townhouse from International Playthings

This four-room, two-story, spacious townhouse features enough space for an entire family of Calico Critters and their Cloverleaf Corner friends, available exclusively at Toys”R”Us.*** Boasting a balcony and an outdoor patio, this luxury playset is the finest home in the Cloverleaf Corner Community. Measuring 12 x 12 inches, the house has many amenities, including chandelier fixtures and customizable decor pieces to offer children hours of open-ended pretend play, as well as fun and easy storage for all of their Calico Critters. 2 “AA” batteries required. Ages 4 to 6 years.

Disney-Pixar® “Toy Story 3″ Imaginext™ Tri-County Landfill from Fisher-Price®

Kids can relive the climax of “Toy Story 3″ with this Toys”R”Us exclusive playset that recreates the Tri-County Landfill movie scene where everyone’s favorite toys were almost incinerated! Just like in the movie, the toys can be picked up in a giant scoop and then dropped into a sorter before landing on a conveyor belt that leads to an incinerator. Featuring two-inch scale versions of Buzz Lightyear, Lots-O’-Huggin’ Bear and three Aliens, kids can plan a great escape using the “claw” or anything else that sparks their imagination. No batteries required. Ages 3 to 6 years.

Geotrax™ Transportation System Christmas in Toy Town RC Set from Fisher-Price®

All aboard for a Christmas of WOWs with this Toys”R”Us exclusive radio-controlled train set, designed for the smallest engineers. Featuring more than 20 pieces of interchangeable Snap-Lock™ track, children can reconstruct Toy Town many different ways, whether they want to create a traditional city or add holiday cheer by making the train travel around the Christmas tree. Kids can even trim their town with miniature wreaths, trees and more, while Christmas music plays from both the train and controller. 3 “AA” and 15 “AAA” batteries required (included). Ages 2 to 7 years. This item will be available in November.

Imaginext™ Bigfoot the Monster from Fisher-Price®

The legendary Bigfoot has left the forest and landed in homes, not as a mythical creature, but as a remote-controlled friend. Featuring over 80 actions and phrases, Bigfoot stomps around, throws tantrums, exercises, somersaults, naps and more when kids press buttons on a foot-shaped remote control. Each button on the included remote features a symbol, making it easy for kids to use, even before they learn how to read. Bigfoot also comes with a ball he can toss and food for munching. 2 “AA” (not included) and 1 “7.2 V” (included) batteries required. Ages 3 to 8 years.

Lalaloopsy™ from MGA Entertainment®

Once traditional rag dolls, each of these 13-inch dolls magically came to life when their very last stitch was sewn. With different personalities based on the fabrics used when they were created, kids will have fun choosing which Lalaloopsy’s personality best matches their own. Kids can select Spot Splatter Splash™, Pillow Featherbed™, Crumbs Sugar Cookie™, Bea Spells-a-Lot™, Dot Starlight™, Jewel Sparkles™, Mittens Fluff ‘n’ Stuff™ and Peanut Big Top™ before learning about each doll’s unique personality. No batteries required. Ages 4 years and up.

Pillow Pets™ from Ontel Products Corp.

Combining the functionality of a pillow with the security of a plush pet, these foldable, fluffy creatures are ready for snuggling whether it’s naptime or playtime. Kids can quickly convert these 18-inch fuzzy friends from pillow to animal by opening and closing a Velcro strap across their pet’s belly. With dozens of animals to choose from, including lions, tigers, bears, puppies, giraffes, ladybugs, unicorns and more, children will have a new friend and the perfect slumber party companion. No batteries required. Ages 3 years and up.

Small Schoolhouse from Playmobil®

Kids can finally rule the classroom with this fully furnished, Toys”R”Us exclusive schoolhouse featuring everything needed for a full curriculum, including an art and music room, computer stations, a science class, complete with skeleton and more. An audible school bell lets students know when class is in session, while an adjustable clock and working chalkboard help make learning fun! This set also includes ten figures and nearly 500 detailed accessories. No batteries required. Ages 4 years and up.

Sing-a-ma-jigs!™ from Mattel®

These irresistible, quirky plush characters will sing their way into the hearts of kids of all ages. With more than six characters to choose from, anyone interested in an offbeat melody can squeeze the bellies on each of these plush creatures to hear its favorite song, including “Where Oh Where Has My Little Dog Gone,” “When the Saints Go Marching In” and more. And, when Sing-a-ma-jigs! sing together, it’s always in perfect harmony. 2 “AAA” batteries required (included). Ages 3 years and up.

Squinkies™ Cupcake Surprise! Bake Shop from blip® toys

Kids can take home the excitement of a coin-operated vending machine, filled with their favorite squishy, pencil-topping toys – Squinkies! By removing the cherry from the top of this oversized cupcake playset, children can begin to fill the dispenser with any of the nine included Squinkies individually packaged in a plastic bubble, or by choosing from the hundreds of Squinkies that are sold separately. When a Squinkies coin or standard penny or dime is inserted into the machine and the dial is turned, out will come a Squinkies surprise! The dispenser also doubles as a sweet shop playset when opened up. Inside, Squinkies characters can play the part as bakers, customers or even treats. No batteries required. Ages 3 years and up.

Thomas & Friends® Thomas’ Mountain Adventure by MEGA Bloks ®

Even the tiniest engineers can join Thomas and Percy on an adventure on the Island of Sodor with this 160-piece, Toys”R”Us exclusive construction set. Kids can build Sodor Island any way they want while Thomas and Percy work to get passengers and supplies to their final destinations. With included accessories to add challenges to Sodor Island, Thomas can travel through tunnels, pass by the water tower and go over the bridge to Tidmouth. Children can even use an elevator to bring Thomas to new heights or hit the track switcher to move Thomas or Percy into Tidmouth Shed for a relaxing break before going back to work. And, once playtime is over, all of the pieces can fit into the included storage table. No batteries required. Ages 3 years and up

Tomica Hypercity Mega Station Set from TOMY®

Kids can ride the rails around Hypercity with this fully automated, Toys”R”Us exclusive train set that mimics the action of a bustling station. Just like in real life, as the train pulls into the terminal, cars yield at the railroad crossing to wait as the train automatically stops, allowing passengers to hop on and off. Once the train resumes its travels, traffic automatically begins to move again. Children can even switch the station into manual mode to control the action on their own. To bring the station to life, kids can outfit their city with the paved roads, trees, parking spaces and lampposts as well as a convenience store, complete with a Tomikid figure to work the counter. 4 “C” batteries required. Ages 4 years and up. This item will be available on October 1.

5 to 7 years

Disney-Pixar® “Toy Story 3″ U-COMMAND Buzz Lightyear from Thinkway®

It’s “Buzz Lightyear to the rescue” with this fully programmable action figure. Children take control of Buzz by using an infrared remote control to make him speak, spin around, move forward and back, move his arms and activate his laser. With 10 program buttons that can create over 1,000 action combos and the ability to control Buzz using a joystick controller, kids will think Buzz actually left Andy’s house en route to their own home. This global exclusive can only be found at Toys”R”Us stores around the world. 7 “AA” Batteries required (4 included). Ages 6 years and up.

Disney® Princess & Me™ dolls from JAKKS Pacific®

Disney Princess fans can now share royal adventures with these five beautifully crafted 18-inch dolls, available exclusively at Toys”R”Us.**** Young ladies can select the princess with whom they most identify – choosing from Ariel, Aurora, Belle, Cinderella or Tiana – before creating a world of tea parties and more princess role play. Expanding on the magic and enchantment of Disney Princesses, these dolls feature sweet faces, silky hair, tiaras and detailed, signature gowns. Girls can even purchase wearable replicas of each ball gown in their size to match their favorite Princess. Each doll also includes an invitation to become a member of the Princess & Me Royal family. Ballet and sleep wear for the dolls, as well as matching child-size ball gowns, are sold separately. No batteries required. Ages 3 to 8 years.

Fan’s Choice City Public Transport from LEGO® Systems, Inc.

Helping citizens travel around LEGO City is easy with this 864-piece set, which lets builders construct multiple modes of transportation out of their LEGO pieces, including a sports car, city bus, cable car, bicycle and even a street sweeper to keep the roadways clean. Developed in response to fans’ votes, which ranked this set as the most sought-after addition to LEGO City, this Toys”R”Us exclusive also comes with enough LEGO bricks to create a bus stop, train platform and a general store to ensure the six included minifigures are occupied while waiting to take their next ride. No batteries required. Ages 6 years and up.

Fast Lane® Wild Fire RC from Toys”R”Us®

With tremendous, nine-inch tires that can drive on nearly every terrain, four-wheel drive and an engine that makes rumbling sounds, kids will instantly think they’re at a monster truck rally when they take control of this super-sized radio-controlled vehicle. Measuring at over one-foot-tall and two-feet-long, this gigantic truck towers over other cars and is ready to roll over anything in its path. To bring the excitement to life, the Wild Fire even has light-up flames shooting out of its exhaust pipes. 1 “9.6 V” rechargeable battery and 1 “9 V” battery required (included). Ages 6 years and up.

Leapster Explorer™ from LeapFrog®

Now kids can enjoy endless hours of play and learning with this electronic hand-held device that lets them customize experiences to fit the way they learn and play. In addition to a touch-screen and included stylus, the Explorer system features a library of more than 40 games and activities, downloadable games, e-books, videos and flash cards, which kids can use to enhance skills, such as reading, math, science and geography. Additionally, creativity and life skills, like music, health and problem solving are enhanced while using the system. Children can also go online with LeapWorld, a virtual space where they can find even more games and activities and where they can obtain virtual items, such as treats and shampoo for their onboard pet before uploading them to this on-the-go system. Parents can also check in on their child’s progress with the LeapFrog Learning Path, so they can see how their little learner is playing and exploring, as well as how to help them succeed. 4 “AA” batteries required (not included). Ages 4 to 9 years.

Loopz™ from Mattel®

Combining movement and music, this memory game really gets kids and families moving as players interact with four semi-circular rings. Lights flash and music plays with increasing speed as players mimic movements to match lights and sounds by waving their hands through the corresponding loops, while motion sensors in each ring read the action to ensure sequences are repeated correctly. The longer players keep up with correct motions, the faster the action, but if players miss the beat three times, they’re out! An internal counter measures each player’s speed and level, while rating their overall performance. Loopz includes seven different games that can be played solo or as a friendly competition for up to 4 players.  4 “AA” batteries required (not included).  Ages 7 years and up.

Monster High™ Cleo DeNile™ and Deuce Gorgon™ doll set from Mattel®

The teenage children of legendary monster menaces are now attending high school together at Monster High! With wild personalities, fierce attitudes and totally trendy styles, the dolls featured in this two-pack, Cleo DeNile and Deuce Gorgon, are the most popular couple at Monster High. Cleo is the daughter of the Mummy and a true Egyptian princess with flair, donning a headdress, exotic jewelry and the occasional stray bandage wrapping. Deuce is the son of Medusa, so he must wear his sunglasses to keep from turning his friends to stone. Complete with Deuce Gorgon’s pet rat, Perseus, and his cool shades, as well as Cleo DeNile’s pet snake, Hissette, and her gold purse, this gift set is all about monstrous fashion and fun. No batteries required. Ages 6 years and up.

Magic Orbeez Maker from Maya Group

By filling the Magic Orbeez Maker with water and placing up to 300 Orbeez inside at once, children can watch as these unique orbs, which start off tiny, grow to more than 100 times their original volume! As the Orbeez transform into wet, wacky, soft, squishy and bouncy orbs, kids can float them through hoops and then cascade them down a spiral ramp into a collection tray. From there, playtime is endless as kids can brew up their own concoctions or use the included activity booklet and 2,500 Orbeez to find dozens of fun ideas. No batteries required. Ages 5 years and up.

Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back AT-AT™ in vintage packaging from Hasbro®

Collectors and kids can transport themselves to 1980 with this all-new, highly detailed version of the classic All Terrain Armored Transport (AT-AT) walker, which was first seen attacking the Rebel base on ice planet Hoth in The Empire Strikes Back. Standing at over two feet tall, this armored vehicle comes ready for battle, complete with an AT-AT Driver™ and a Speeder Bike™ that can launch for sneak attacks. To celebrate the 30th anniversary of The Empire Strikes Back, the Toys”R”Us exclusive version features a replica of the original AT-AT packaging, complete with the Kenner® logo. To bring the movie fun to life, the AT-AT also features LED lights and authentic movie sounds and phrases. 3 “AA” batteries (not included). Ages 5 years and up.

8 – 11 years

Air Hogs® Pocket Copter™ from Spin Master™

Measuring less than 4-inches long, 2.56-inches high and less than one inch wide, the world’s smallest radio-controlled helicopter is packed with power and ready to take flight right from the palm of a hand. Offering stability during flight, this Toys”R”Us exclusive chopper features two rotors and trim control, while its hard-plastic, crash-resistant body provides durability even after the toughest landings. As an added bonus, the packaging converts into a charger and carrying case, letting micro-pilots prepare for takeoff while protecting their helicopter and controller. 6 “AA” and 3 “AAA” batteries required (not included). Ages 10 years and up.  

CSI Junior Investigator Kit from Toys”R”Us®

Kids can take investigations into their own hands with this fully equipped kit that will help them learn how to evaluate and process “crime scenes,” as they dust for fingerprints, collect and store evidence and more. This Toys”R”Us exclusive set comes with everything junior investigators need to become super sleuths, including a field case, mini microscope, stamp pad, replacement ink, fingerprinting powders, fingerprinting brush, fingerprint lifters, plastic gloves, tweezer, magnifying glass, crime scene tape, goggles, string, an “L” shaped ruler, faux evidence, bags, tags and logs, slides, flashlight, test tubes, stencils, plaster frame, activity book and more!  No batteries required. Ages 10 years and up.

Cuponk™ from Hasbro® Games

Walls, tables, chairs, stairs and additional household objects combine with electronic cups and ping-pong like balls in this game that challenges players to master off-the-wall tricks. Kids start by selecting from 30 cards before bouncing a ball into a cup in an effort to perfect shots, such as featuring tricks such as “Blind Hook,” “Karate Krane,” “Stairing Contest” and more to be rewarded with lights and cool sounds. With three types of cups to choose from, including gorilla-themed Gorillanator, zombie-styled Let It R.I.P. or Luchador-decorated El Campeon, kids will soon ricochet from standard tricks to creating their own miraculous maneuvers. 3 “AAA” batteries required (not included). Ages 9 years and up.

Ground Force® Drifter from Razor®

Riders can power slide through corners, throw fish tails or complete fast 360-degree spins to become the neighborhood drift king with this reinvention of the classic go kart! The Ground Force Drifter boasts speeds up to 12 mph and features a sturdy steel frame, molded aluminum front wheels with solid rubber tires, Super Slider™ POM rear wheels, high torque motor, hand-operated rear brake and a bucket seat with shoulder strap. Speedsters can ride for up to 40 minutes of continuous fun with each charge of this electric vehicle with classic go kart styling. Rechargeable “24 Volt” battery required (included). Ages 8 years and up. Maximum weight 140 pounds.

Minotaurus from LEGO® Systems, Inc.

Players are challenged to navigate the labyrinth in an effort to be the first to reach a hidden temple in this board game constructed entirely out of LEGO bricks. But, they must beware as a mighty Minotaur is waiting to block their path! To make navigating the tricky maze even more challenging, players can drop walls to prevent others from following them. Featuring 211 LEGO bricks and 12 microfigures, two to four players can lose themselves in this amazing adventure. No batteries required. Ages 7 years and up.

NERF N-Strike™ Stampede ECS™ from Hasbro®

Kids can power up their NERF battles with this fully automatic blaster that launches a continuous stream of darts up to 25-feet. Featuring three interchangeable 18-dart clips, the highest capacity NERF dart clip ever created, along with an additional clip that holds six darts, kids can quickly reload. The Stampede ECS-50 also comes with a detachable blast shield to help block return fire, while a pop-out stand lets kids steady the blaster as they prepare for their next assault. 6 “D” batteries required (not include). Ages 8 years and up.

Big Kids

Kinect for Xbox 360 from Microsoft®  

Kinect for Xbox 360 brings games to life in extraordinary new ways with no controller required. Players simply step in front of the sensor and Kinect recognizes and responds to their gestures. Full-body tracking allows the Kinect sensor to capture movement from head-to-toe, immersing them in the experience. If players see a ball on the screen, they can kick it – just like in real life.  Batteries not required.  Ages 6 years and up. This item will be available beginning November 4.

PlayStation® Move Bundle with Sports Champions™ from Sony PlayStation®

Now gamers can use their physical actions to interact with PlayStation® 3 video games when they use the new PlayStation Move motion control gaming system that combines a controller and motion tracking camera to replicate even the slightest real life move on-screen. Packaged with Sports Champions, players can immerse themselves in Disc Golf, Gladiator Duel, Beach Volleyball, Archery, Table Tennis and Bocce, while their movements and speed offer ultimate control over how they play the game. No batteries required. Rated “E 10+” for 10 years and up.

SCRABBLE FLASH from Hasbro® Games

One minute and quick-thinking are all that’s needed to play this addictive, fast-paced version of SCRABBLE. Slide, swap and shuffle five electronic freestanding tiles to create three, four or five-letter words – all without a game board! As the tiles form new words, they light up and beep using SmartLink technology while tracking time left in the game and players’ scores. Two additional games can be played, including “Five Letter Flash,” which challenges players to unscramble a five letter word, and “Pass Flash,” where players take turns forming five letter words. 5 “CR2032 Lithium” batteries required (included). Ages 8 years and up.

About Toys”R”Us, Inc.

Toys”R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. It currently sells merchandise in more than 1,560 stores, including 847 Toys”R”Us and Babies”R”Us stores in the United States, and more than 510 international stores and 200 licensed stores in 33 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com, FAO.com and babyuniverse.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys”R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need.

* The program will not be available in Maryland at this time. Ohio and Rhode Island have different policies for canceled orders. See stores for details.

** This card can be used on or after October 31, 2010 only for purchases at Toys”R”Us and Babies”R”Us stores in   the U.S. and Puerto Rico, or online at Toysrus.com and Babiesrus.com. Cash and credit refunds on the Christmas Savers Club Cards are not allowed except where required by law. Receipts are needed to redeem funds on lost or misplaced Christmas Savers Club Cards.

***The Calico Critter product line can only be found at Toys”R”Us and Toysrus.com. Not available at any other major retailers in the U.S.

**** The Disney Princess & Me line can only be found at Toys”R”Us, Toysrus.com and Disney stores.

COLUMBUS, Ohio  (Profitable.com)  Every woman knows that shoes can make or break an outfit, but for full-figured women, it can often be a challenge to find the season’s latest shoe styles in a size that fits. That’s why Lane Bryant, the nation’s leading women’s specialty full figured apparel retailer, has expanded their shoe collection to feature the hottest looks in shoes and boots.  The entire collection comes in sizes 8W – 12W, and our boots also feature wide calves.  Nobody fits you like Lane Bryant, and now the retailer can dress their customers from head to toe in comfort and style.

“To look great you have to feel great and our new shoes and boots fit as great as they look,” says Brian Woolf, President of Lane Bryant.  ”Because Lane Bryant has the styles and sizes you’re looking for, there’s no need to settle for a pair of tall riding boots or ankle boots you need to squeeze in to.”

So what’s hot for fall? Boots, boots and more boots! From cowboy inspired ankle boots to sleek riding boots to sexy suede slouch boots in a variety of colors, Lane Bryant has a boot for every outfit and for every woman. With a boot circumference of 17 in. around the calf, Lane Bryant boots provide a comfortable and stylish solution for women who thought they could never wear boots.  Paired with casual dresses for work or sexy jeggings and tunics for night, you can’t go wrong with Lane Bryant wide width/wide calf boots.

And even though hot summer nights may be coming to an end, you’ll still want to maintain your pretty pedicure because peep toe booties and pumps are all the rage.  Lane Bryant’s suede ruffle peep toe platforms come in two colors and will quickly become your go-to shoe of the season.  If you want an edgy look, Lane Bryant’s ruched peep toe heel and sling back peep toe heel feature buckle closures and stud detailing.

“Lane Bryant is all about fabulous wearable fashion and great prices.  Our shoes are designed to comfortably fit a woman and to compliment the latest styles on the runway and in our stores,” states Woolf.

Lane Bryant shoes and boots range in price from $26.50 to $74.50 and are available 24/7 online at www.lanebryant.com and in 500 stores nationwide.

About Lane Bryant – Lane Bryant is the nation’s leading women’s specialty full figured apparel retailer, providing stylish, high-quality fashion in sizes 14-28. The Lane Bryant collection includes a wide selection of career to casual apparel as well as accessories, hosiery and Cacique intimate apparel. Lane Bryant and Cacique fashions are available nationwide at its nearly 750 Lane Bryant stores, 107 Lane Bryant Outlet stores, and at lanebryant.com and cacique.com. Lane Bryant is owned and operated by Charming Shoppes, Inc. Please visit lanebryant.com for store locations and the latest fashion trend information.

NEW YORK  (Profitable.com)  With slow economic growth keeping household spending plans in check, retailers should anticipate a modest increase in 2010 holiday sales, Deloitte forecast today.

“Sustained weakness in the housing and employment markets continue to restrict consumer cash flow,” said Carl Steidtmann, Deloitte’s chief economist.

Steidtmann added, “Consumers discretionary funds have dwindled as households remain focused on reducing debt and increasing their savings, while banks continue to limit access to credit and stimulus checks have run out.  Should consumers receive good tidings later this season in the way of falling energy prices or additional stock market gains, they may be able to lend retailers a bit more holiday cheer.  However, given the unsteady pace of economic recovery, retailers should expect only a small uptick in holiday sales this year.”

Deloitte’s retail group expects total holiday sales to reach $852 billion(i), representing a 2 percent increase in November through January holiday sales, excluding motor vehicles and gasoline, over last season.  This growth rate represents a slight improvement over last year’s 1 percent gain.  

“Non-store retailing, particularly e-commerce, is gearing up to be the bright spot in the holiday picture this year,” said Alison Paul, vice chairman and Deloitte’s retail sector leader in the United States, adding that Deloitte forecasts a 15 percent increase in non-store sales.  Nearly two-thirds of non-store sales are from the online channel, with the remainder coming from catalogs and interactive TV.  

Paul continued, “The convenience and functionality that have fueled e-commerce gains in previous seasons will continue to draw consumers online to do their shopping this year.  Online activity may also influence in-store shopping this holiday season, as social networks and mobile applications are playing a more prominent role in the shopping process.  As such, retailers should seek to deliver tightly-integrated and consistent merchandise, inventory and promotional messages to customers moving between web-based and physical storefronts.”

Paul added that retailers appear to have started to moderately rebuild inventories after deep reductions last year, and that they will need to sharpen their game to move merchandise this season to capitalize on sales gains without dampening profit margins.  

“Retailers should be out in front of consumers to get their attention and strike a connection with their brand early and often,” said Paul.  ”By reaching out to consumers via mobile applications, digital marketing and social networks, retailers today may be able to enhance brand awareness and build traffic and sales this holiday season.”

For more information about Deloitte’s retail practice, please visit www.deloitte.com/us/retail.  

As used in this document, “Deloitte” means Deloitte LLP and its subsidiaries. Please see www.deloitte.com/us/about for a detailed description of the legal structure of Deloitte LLP and its subsidiaries.

(i) Deloitte is forecasting a 2 percent increase in 2010 holiday sales compared with 2009.  Retail sales between November 2009 and January 2010 (not seasonally adjusted and excluding automotive and gasoline) totaled $834 billion according to the U.S. Commerce Department.

IRVING, TX  (Profitable.com)  Michaels Stores, Inc., North America’s largest arts and crafts specialty retailer, announces the acquisition of the online scrapbooking application created by Chicago-based technology company ScrapHD, LLC, featuring an unprecedented level of customization using content from top scrapbooking vendors.

The application allows customers to work online to create digital scrapbooks that they can print at home or have bound into a professional, coffee table style book and sent to their homes or nearest Michaels store. Digital scrapbookers can also use their photos and layouts to create custom greeting cards and posters.

“We believe existing and future Michaels customers will love this application, featuring more than 10,000 pieces of digital creative content and an easy-to-use interface that appeals to beginners and experts alike,” said Michaels CEO John Menzer. “Digital photo booking and digital scrapbooking are an important part of Michaels’ strategy to continue as a world-class leader in the arts and crafts industry.”

“Our broad market reach and partnerships with leading traditional scrapbooking vendors, combined with ScrapHD’s unique technology, will result in an offer that will allow people to stay digitally connected and preserve their memories in a very personalized manner,” said Philo Pappas, Michaels Executive Vice President of Category Management.

The U.S. digital photo book market has grown by nearly 60 percent over the past five years, and is seen as a major potential growth area for the $2.8 billion traditional scrapbook business.

“We have focused on building an application that gives scrapbookers the ability to really customize their pages and books in an online world with an application that is intuitive and easy-to-use,” said Ross Petersen, President and co-founder of ScrapHD. “Michaels can take the ScrapHD technology to the millions of Americans who are interested in preserving their digital photos in a fun and creative format.”

The ScrapHD website will be closed during the transition, and will re-launch under the Michaels banner in 2011 on Michaels.com with free content and paid memberships for access to premium content.

About Michaels

Irving, Texas-based Michaels Stores, Inc. is North America’s largest specialty retailer of arts, crafts, framing, floral, wall decor, and seasonal merchandise for the hobbyist and do-it-yourself home decorator. As of September 15, 2010, the Company owns and operates 1,037 Michaels stores in 49 states and Canada, and 144 Aaron Brothers stores, and produces ten exclusive private brands including Recollections Studio Decor, Bead Landing, Creatology, Ashland, Celebrate It, Art Minds, Artist’s Loft, Craft Smart and Loops & Threads. For more information visit www.Michaels.com.

NEWARK, N.J.  (Profitable.com)  For the 13^th year in a row, Prudential Financial, Inc. (NYSE: PRU) has been recognized as one of the best companies for Latinas by LATINA Style magazine. This year Prudential ranked number two in the annual LATINA Style 50 Report. Yanela Frias, a managing director in the Treasurer’s organization, is representing the company in the magazine’s most recent issue.

Frias, responsible for the borrowing, liquidity, capital markets and capital planning functions for Prudential, joined the company in 1997 as a member of the external financial reporting group. She recalls that it was Prudential’s commitment to diversity and inclusion that first sparked her interest in the company.

“What attracted me to Prudential was the culture of the company,” said Frias. “Prudential fosters an innovative and inclusive work environment where employees can stretch and take on greater responsibilities. I knew I wanted to work for an organization where I would be rewarded for my hard work and offered challenging roles that would enhance my skill set. Prudential has certainly lived up to its reputation. I like to do new things and I’ve never been in an assignment for more than two years.”

After completing her MBA in 2000, Frias joined the strategy and competitive analysis group where she was instrumental in Prudential’s demutualization.

“The company was about to go through significant change which was very exciting and interesting,” said Frias. “I learned a great deal and built a stronger network as a result of that assignment.”

In 2008, Frias was offered another professional challenge during one of the most difficult times in the financial services industry.

“I took on the capital markets responsibility during the market crisis,” said Frias. “It was difficult, but also rewarding because I was able to influence strategic decisions that helped us manage through the turmoil.”

Frias attributes her strong work ethic and success in her career with Prudential to her upbringing and Latin heritage.

“As a child, my parents explained they left Cuba to provide me with a better life, with better opportunities,” said Frias. “They sacrificed so much, and I never want to let them down. That thought is deeply rooted in me every day.”

Frias also serves as a mentor in Prudential’s Financial Management mentoring program where she shares her experience and advice with others.

“My managers have always taken a special interest in my personal and professional growth,” said Frias. “It’s fulfilling for me to do the same by mentoring and helping to shape another individual’s career.”

Prudential Financial, Inc. (NYSE: PRU), a financial services leader with approximately $693 billion of assets under management as of June 31, 2010, has operations in the United States, Asia, Europe, and Latin America. Prudential’s diverse and talented employees are committed to helping individual and institutional customers grow and protect their wealth through a variety of products and services, including life insurance, annuities, retirement-related services, mutual funds, investment management, and real estate services. In the U.S., Prudential’s iconic Rock symbol has stood for strength, stability, expertise and innovation for more than a century. For more information, please visit http://www.news.prudential.com.

MIDDLEBURY, Conn.  (Profitable.com)  Timex® Originals is a new collection of vintage-influenced time pieces, which honors and celebrates the 156-year time-keeping heritage of Timex. The collection launches in select Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom and Lord & Taylor stores this month.

Inspired by the brand’s extensive product archives, the collection eloquently describes the Timex story through design.

“Timex Originals showcases our design philosophy throughout the past hundred-plus years: clean, classic American design that is functional, durable and affordable,” says Kristine Lumpinski, Vice President of Marketing, Timex. “We know today’s fashion-conscious shoppers are passionate about American brands with history. This collection will resonate with them.”

The pinnacle style in the Timex Originals collection is a striking reissue of a Timex watch from the 1970s.  Maintaining all of the design details and signatures, which give it character and individuality, the watch has been reproduced using modern materials and technology to deliver a contemporary rendition of the beautiful original.

Dial designs from key decades also feature strongly throughout the collection.  Timex sought inspiration from classic watch faces from the 20th century.  From a pocket-watch in the early 1900s to a ‘Q’ quartz watch in the 1970s, and influences from the 1940s, each of the dials pays homage to its era through typeface, colors, detailing and finish.  In addition, cases and traditional vintage-construction expansion bracelets (and in some cases the leather attachments) have been tumbled to give them a unique, time-worn finish and patina.  Because of the nature of the treatment, no two cases or attachments are alike, giving each individual watch its own identity.

The third category in the collection celebrates quintessential Timex styles, watches which have been stalwarts of the Timex range for generations: the Easy Reader® and Camper styles.  To celebrate their part in Timex’s history, they have been reinvented for a contemporary audience in a new, larger format.  While remaining true to their essence, the new watches embrace modern relevance and variety through a broad range of classic and trend-influenced colors and finishes.

The collection is available at retail prices ranging from $50 for the Timex Originals Modern Camper to $125 for the Timex Originals 1970s Inspiration.

Timex Originals: created to celebrate 156 years of experience, design and passion.  It’s not original unless it’s a Timex.

About Timex Group

Timex Group designs, manufactures and markets innovative timepieces and jewelry globally.  Founded in 1854, Timex is part of Timex Group, a privately-held company with numerous brands and over 5,000 employees worldwide.  It is one of the largest watch makers in the world.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA  (Profitable.com)  Last night history was made as Red Bull King of the Rock, a one-on-one basketball tournament, was held in The Yard on Alcatraz. The event marked the first official sporting event ever held on Alcatraz, and the first time basketball has been played there since the inmates left the island over 50 years ago. After several hours of intense game play on one of the most iconic locations on earth, Los Angeles’ Isaiah “Clutch” Bowman lived up to his nickname and beat Phoenix’s Gary Smith with a clutch shot breaking the six-six tie with two seconds remaining on the clock to claim the crown as Red Bull King of the Rock.

It was an unusually boisterous night in The Yard on Alcatraz as more than 600 people crowded behind the infamous prison walls to watch one of the most unique one-on-one competitions ever. Sixty-four players from across the West Coast went head-to-head to test their skills – as well as their endurance. The competitors soon learned they had to play not only against each other, but also against the island itself. Players had to adjust their game to account for the cracked and uneven ground, heavy fog, chilly weather and blustery wind.

With four courts hosting simultaneous games, each had a unique story to tell for the guests in the stands. Court 1 hosted David Moseley, a qualifier from Oakland who went to the Final Four with Stanford University in 1998. Mosley showed he still has the skills and made it to the elite eight, but finally was ousted in a close game by eventual runner-up Gary Smith. Court 2 started off with a heart-warming moment when it was announced that San Francisco’s Lawrence Coburn became a new father to a baby girl just days before. But Kris Smith, who qualified in Oakland, beat Coburn in the first round and continued on all the way to the final four, eventually being eliminated by Gary Smith. On Court 3, Red Bull King of the Rock winner Isaiah “Clutch” Bowman held the spotlight for the majority of the games. Court 4 saw an intense game that went into triple overtime in the sweet sixteen round between Google employee Aaron Weissman, dubbed by announcers as “the white Rondo,” and Nwaluze Umeh, who qualified in the second place position at the Oakland stop.

While the players were blessed with no rainstorms, the notorious Bay Area fog loomed eerily in The Yard and made the concrete courts slippery and the basketballs dewy, adding more challenges to an already difficult physical and mental game. When a referee had to dry off a game ball, announcer Bobbito Garcia joked that he has never seen a referee also act as a ball boy. Just before the semi-finals, select players participated in a slam dunk contest that earned top honors for San Francisco’s Sante Gayle

The finals were an intense and physical showdown between the heavily favored Gary Smith and Isaiah Bowman. Both worn down physically, the two pushed themselves to the limit, fighting against the rising wind. As the clock ran down, Bowman was able to find the hoop with only two seconds left on the clock. ”My emotions were going wild,” said Isaiah Bowman. ”This tournament had the types of games I live for. One-on-one. Do or die. I just feel honored to be here and to have had the chance to compete. Basketball on Alcatraz – Amazing!”

Basketball superstar Rajon Rondo was highly impressed with the talent on display and found that Alcatraz was “pretty much one of the coolest and most unique places you could possibly play basketball.”

Sixty-four players earned their spot on the rock through six qualifiers held in Los Angeles (July 17), San Diego (July 24), Phoenix, (July 31), Seattle (August 7), San Francisco (August 28) and Oakland (September 11). 

A 30 minute television show of Red Bull King of the Rock will air on the following networks:
FOX Sports West – October 9th after the Kings vs. Canucks game
FOX Sports Arizona – October 10th at 10:00pm
Comcast SportsNet Bay Area – October 8th at 6:30pm, October 9th at 7:30pm, October 10th at 5:30pm & 10:00pm

Both the Qualifiers and the Finals on Alcatraz followed a straightforward concept where players went head-to-head in raw outdoor basketball, using a single-elimination tournament bracket. Games lasted five minutes and were subject to regulation hoops rules and scoring (two and three pointers). Players had to be tough to make it to The Rock, but also had to play smart – five fouls equaled an automatic loss. After each game, the loser walked, and the winner faced his next opponent. Thus, the more a player won, the longer he played. So while pure hoops ability was essential, endurance also played a major role in overall victory. 

Visit www.redbullusa.com/kingoftherock for more information. 

Red Bull teamed up with 2K Sports, Converse, SLAM and 24 Hour Fitness for this historic event.

ORLANDO, FL  (Profitable.com)  As summer fades to fall, take advantage of great rates and pack your bags for a memorable getaway in spacious villa accommodations. Book your stay today at more than 50 participating Marriott Vacation Club resorts worldwide offering guests 20 percent off room rates for stays of two or more nights, now through December 17, 2010.

With resorts in some of the world’s most desirable destinations from Hawaii to Thailand, the hardest part will be deciding where to go.

• Soak up the sun at Marriott’s Marbella Beach Resort or Marriott’s Playa Andaluza in the heart of the Costa del Sol surrounded by the enduring romance of Southern Spain.
• Avoid the crowds of summer and enjoy all that Orlando, Fla. has to offer this time of year at one of the seven Marriott Vacation Club resorts in the area.
• Enjoy the perfect balance of the serenity of the French countryside with the nearby excitement of “The City of Light” and Disneyland Paris at Marriott’s Village d’Ile-de-France.

Wherever you go, enjoy all the comforts of home in spacious studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom villas featuring fully-equipped kitchens, separate living and dining areas, multiple televisions, private balcony, washer/dryer and wireless Internet access. Three-bedroom villas can accommodate up to 10 guests.

Reservations must be made for stays between September 7 and December 17, 2010. Book this package today by visiting www.marriott.com/vacationdreams or call 00800 8855 6677.

* Terms and Conditions — Valid for travel 9/7/10 – 12/17/10. Two night minimum stay required. Offer available at participating resorts only. Limited number of rooms are available for this promotion. Offer does not apply to groups of 10 or more rooms. Offer cannot be combined with any other promotions. Blackout dates may apply. Advance reservations required. Other restrictions may apply. Rates are per room, per night and based on availability at the time of reservations.

About Marriott Vacation Club

Marriott Vacation Club is a worldwide leader in vacation ownership. In 1984, Marriott became the first branded hospitality company to enter the timeshare industry, adding its signature quality, service and hospitality expertise. In 2006, the brand established a regional presence in Asia-Pacific through the launch of a flexible points-based program tailored to the Asian consumer and after more than 25 years of innovation and evolution, the Marriott Vacation Club Destinations program was introduced in 2010 in North America and the Caribbean. For more information, please visit www.marriottvacationclub.com. For nightly Marriott villa rentals, please visit www.marriott.com. Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MarriottVacClub.

Visit Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR) for company information. For the latest company news, visit www.marriottnewscenter.com.

Nashville, TN  (Profitable.com)  As a top correspondent and anchor on the Fox News Channel Brian Wilson always tried to play it straight up the middle. But now, after leaving Fox, Brian is ready to tell you what he REALLY thinks; about politics — about government — about key elected officials that he observed at close range during his 25 years in Washington, DC — and about the current state of American journalism.

“Everywhere I go, people always seem to be looking for the real inside scoop,” Wilson said recently. “They want your personal impressions of elected officials. They want to know how Washington really works and what you think about the big issues of the day. As a working journalist, striving to be impartial, you are sort of required to pull your punch. You aren’t allowed to call BS when you see it. Now, as an ‘unrestricted free agent’, I can tell you some things that I have been wanting to say for years. Think of it as Brian Wilson unleashed.”

Over the course of 25 years, he has covered the White House, Congress, Supreme Court and everything in between. He is best known for his ability to take very complex and complicated issues and break them down into common sense explanations with his entertaining charisma and thought provoking style.

“There is nothing in the journalism rule book that says good reporting has to be dull reporting. I take that same approach before a live audience. I believe that before you can inform and educate — you must gain their full and undivided attention. Trust me. These speeches will be many things, but they will not be boring.”

Combining his professional journalism to gather facts and talent to present the information in a compelling way and a Texan’s gift for entertaining storytelling, Brian leaves the audience begging for more. No matter what the venue that he speaks, Brian enjoys the question and answer time afterwards – where he talks about Washington’s most colorful figures and the fascinating behind-the-scenes stories about how news is gathered.

Among the topics he is prepared to address:

Washington, DC: How Things REALLY Work in News and Politics
The Tea Party Movement: How Angry Voters Are Changing the Political Landscape
What I Saw and Learned During 35 Years in Television News
Effective Communication: Making Sure Your Message is Getting Through

The Grable Group is pleased to serve as the exclusive agent for Brian Wilson. With over twenty years experience, The Grable Group is a leader in the speaking industry working with Fortune 500 Companies and over 30 countries.

Austin, TX  (Profitable.com)  Global touch screen manufacturer and touch technology developer, Touch International, announced today the release of its Touch Screen Developer Kits. Allowing customers to easily test and evaluate touch technologies, these developer kits help engineers to choose the right touch screen for their project and streamline the prototype development process.

“The touch screen developer kits give our customers a chance to test-drive the technology and integrate it into their application to ensure it is the right fit for their product,” explains Robert Spencer, Vice President of Sales for Touch International. “These kits also allow customers to begin software development for their project prior to finalizing the prototype design which can shorten the product’s time to market.”

Touch International’s 10.1” MulTI-Touch Projected Capacitive Developer Kit is the first kit available in the series. The single piece, plug-and-play unit consists of a touch screen mounted to an LCD and a touch screen controller conveniently mounted on a backer board to ensure optimal performance and reliability. Allowing for up to 10-finger touch with full gesture capabilities, the MulTI-Touch developer kit works with water spray and accepts input from gloved and bare fingers and passive pens.

“The MulTI-Touch developer kits let customers get a feel for how it responds to different gestures such as expand, shrink, rotate and flick,” says Spencer. “They can expect the same high-performance from their end product as what they see with the developer kit.”

The Apple iPhone-type is often used in high-tech devices including military simulation equipment, in-flight entertainment and medical instruments.

MulTI-Touch Features Include:

• Windows 7 Compatible
• Signature Capture Capable
• Multi-Touch Input (Up to 10-Fingers)
• Works with Environmental Water Spray
• Accepts Finger, Glove or Passive Pen Input
• True Touch With Gesture (No Ghost Points)
• Works with up to 3mm Thick Glass or Plastic Cover Glass
• Hardware and Firmware Can be Modified to Meet Stringent EMI Standards

About Touch International

Global touch screen manufacturer, Touch International, was founded in 2002 by Michael Woolstrum and long-time veteran, Gary L. Barrett. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, Touch International is a world leader in touch screen and EMI filter technology. The company, with its partner DMC, Co. Ltd. in Osaka, Japan, operates seven manufacturing facilities worldwide with 1,200 employees. Touch International’s China factories manufacture Apple iPhone-type projected capacitive touch screens, resistive sensors and glass filter products used in touch screens, EMI, anti-reflective or anti-vandal filters.