The dog days of summer can be tough on vehicles as high temperatures can destroy batteries and stress the cooling system and tires. As a precaution, these vehicle components should be checked periodically during summer to help avoid breakdowns and car problems, according to the Car Care Council.

Excessive heat and overcharging shorten the life of a battery. Heat causes battery fluid to evaporate, which then damages the internal structure of the battery. A malfunctioning component in the charging system, usually the voltage regulator, allows too high a charging rate, which will eventually destroy a battery.

To get the most life out of a battery, the council recommends having the electrical system checked to make sure it is charging at the correct rate. If your car’s battery is the type that needs to be topped off, check it often, especially in hot weather and add distilled water if necessary. Keep the top of the battery clean. Dirt can become a conductor, which drains battery power. If corrosion accumulates on battery terminals, it becomes an insulator and inhibits the current flow.

The cooling system also works harder during hot temperatures to prevent overheating of the engine. To keep the cooling system working effectively, the coolant and distilled water mixture for a vehicle’s radiator should be 50:50. As a reminder, never open a hot radiator cap when checking the coolant level in the reservoir.

As a rule of thumb, the coolant should be changed annually on most vehicles. This will keep the cooling system fresh and clean inside, which helps prevent corrosion and assures that the coolant has the proper boiling point and protection. A pressure test, thermostat test, a cooling fan test and a visual inspection for leaks and corrosion should also be done annually. Hoses and drive belts should be checked for cracks, bulges or frayed edges.

The radiator should be kept clean by periodically using a garden hose and a soft brush to carefully remove bugs, dirt and debris.

Tires also need special care in warmer weather as high temperatures put added stress on them. To maximize tire life and safety, check the tire condition and inflation pressure monthly, and have the tires rotated every 6,000 miles. Summer heat will cause the pressure within a tire to rise, therefore, it’s important to check the pressure when tires are cold. The owner’s manual includes the recommended air pressure for your vehicle’s tires.

“It takes very little time and money to make sure your car runs properly during summer, and although breakdowns happen, they can definitely be minimized by taking a few extra preventive maintenance steps,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council.

The council reminds motorists that the vehicle’s exterior also can be damaged by sunlight, UV radiation, acid rain, salt, dirt and air pollution. To protect the paint and finish, vehicles should be washed weekly and waxed every six months.

The Car Care Council is the source of information for the “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign promoting the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. For a copy of the council’s Car Care Guide or for more information, visit www.carcare.org.

Virgin Holidays are the UK’s leading tour operator to Florida and with 25 years experience you can rely on us to package up your perfect Orlando experience; the problem may be fitting everything in! A bit of prior planning goes a long way, so get some kind of rough itinerary together (after all, the anticipation is all part of the excitement!). But there’s a lot more to Orlando holidays than theme parks. The region is a top destination for golf lovers of all abilities and home to 8 major shopping malls offering everything from designer shopping to delicious international cuisine.

The Disney Yacht club is one of Disney’s deluxe resort hotels with perhaps the best pool complete at WALT DISNEY WORLD Resort, this is bound to be a sure-fire hit with the kids! There are over 3 acres of watery fun to get to grips with, featuring water slides and whirlpools galore. Classic surroundings recall the lazy days of summer along the Eastern Seaboard with deluxe accommodation and outstanding amenities the order of the modern day! EPCOT and Disney’s BoardWalk are within walking distance of the Disney Yacht club and, of course, you can easily explore all the other theme parks using the WALT DISNEY WORLD Transportation System. Top restaurant is the Yachtsman Steakhouse bedecked with boating memorabilia, although younger members of the family will love the Beaches and Cream Soda Shop!

The Best Western Orlando Gateway is an AAA 3-diamond, full service, family-friendly hotel and enjoys a prime location, just across the road from Wet ‘n Wild®. If that wasn’t enough the Best Western Orlando Gateway is less than a mile from Universal Orlando® Resort. What’s more, you don’t have to take the car everywhere you go, as there’s a COMPLIMENTARY shuttle service to Universal Orlando® Resort, SeaWorld® and Discovery Cove®, so let someone else take the strain for a change! After a busy day at the theme parks, you can enjoy the benefits of recently refurbished rooms, a brand new fitness centre and the kids can cool off in the sparkling pool whilst you enjoy a soak in the hot tub. Ideal for families, the Best Western Orlando Gateway offers everything you need plus a little bit more to feel at home straightaway.

Within easy reach of all I-Drive attractions, the Springhill Suites International Drive are also just steps away from SeaWorld® with Aquatica(TM) is just across the road. Suites are modern, well-furnished and extremely spacious, providing the perfect base from which to explore your surrounds. Amenities at the Springhill Suites International Drive include an outdoor swimming pool for cooling off in after a busy day complete with children’s section and whirlpool. There’s also a fitness centre if you’re not getting enough exercise dashing around those theme parks! A COMPLIMENTARY continental breakfast is served each morning so, tuck in and get the day off to a great start. Splash Bar & Grill offers typical American classics as does TGI Friday’s, which also does a mean cocktail. For delicious Starbucks® coffee, look no further than the Springhill Lounge, a great place to relax with friends. There are various other bars and restaurants close by the Springhill Suites International Drive to tempt you as well as shopping malls with discount bargains galore, simply hop on the I-Trolley and work your way from top to bottom!

Vista Cay Resort near Universal Resort Orlando® is a gated holiday resort, located along Universal Boulevard, parallel to the lively International Drive so perfect with families with young children. The apartments at Vista Cay Resort are spacious, well furnished with tasteful décor and all the usual amenities. Relax by the pool which overlooks picturesque Lake Cay making you feel worlds away from the fun and frolics of the theme parks. Vista Cay Resort has some great features to make your stay more fun, there’s a spacious pool area complete with children’s splash pool and a relaxing jacuzzi, a basketball court and fitness centre for those wishing to stay in shape, and a games room to keep the kids occupied with a game or two of pool while you’re in the business centre, emailing everyone at home to tell them how great your holiday is!

To book Orlando Holidays - Call 0844-557-3859 or go online.

Notes to editors

7 nights in Orlando from £1,089saving up to £110

Seven nights in Orlando with Virgin Holidays, including scheduled flights with Virgin Atlantic from London Gatwick orManchester direct to Orlando, accommodation at the 3V+ Springhill Suites on a breakfast included basis. Prices are per person based on 2 adults travelling and sharing a standard room, price includes all applicable taxes and fuel surcharges which are subject to change. Prices are based on departures 13 - 14 Apr 2012. Book by 2^nd Aug.

Nissan Americas has announced its support for the U.S. government’s proposal to set new nationwide greenhouse gas and fuel economy standards for passenger cars and light trucks between MY2017 and MY2025.

The Obama Administration has committed to continuing on the path of a harmonized national greenhouse gas and fuel-economy program for passenger cars and light-duty trucks. Nissan endorses this “one national program” approach as essential to future technical innovations across the automotive industry.

The rigorous new greenhouse gas targets call for a 5 percent year-over-year improvement in CO2 reduction for passenger cars and 3.5 percent year-over-year improvement for light trucks from MY2017-MY2021 as an estimated industry average. After MY2021, the proposal calls for a 5 percent annual increase for both passenger cars and light trucks through MY2025. Nissan has committed to working with the administration, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of Transportation and the California Air Resources Board as they solidify the details surrounding the aggressive targets.

“The Obama administration has issued some extremely challenging greenhouse gas reduction and fuel economy improvement targets, but Nissan is a company built on innovation and we’re up to the task,” said Scott Becker, senior vice president, Administration and Finance, Nissan Americas. “Nissan’s recent product introductions – including the all-electric Nissan LEAF, the Infiniti M Hybrid and improvements to internal-combustion technology – demonstrate our multifaceted approach to meeting consumer demand for increased fuel economy across our product lineup and to achieving these rigorous targets. We’re looking forward to helping achieve the Administration’s goals under one national standard, which supports long-term planning and technology development.”

Nissan introduced the LEAF – the world’s first and only 100-percent electric car for the mass market – in December 2010 and since has sold more than 4,000 units in the United States. Nissan recently announced the introduction of new markets, including Washington D.C., to the LEAF’s rollout schedule. The LEAF has achieved a fuel-economy rating of 99 mpg combined city/highway. Starting with the 2013 model year, Nissan will be building the Nissan LEAF and the lithium-ion batteries that power it in the United States, at its manufacturing facilities in Smyrna, Tenn., while the electric motors will be built at Nissan’sDecherd, Tenn., engine plant.

The Infiniti brand recently introduced a hybrid system on the Infiniti M luxury sedan, which allows it to produce V-8 power with 4-cylinder fuel economy. The Infiniti M Hybrid is the only car sold in the U.S. with more than 350 hp and an EPA rating greater than 30 mpg, achieving 32 mpg on the highway cycle. This technology was developed specifically to be compatible with other models across the line-up.

Debuting on the 2012 Versa sedan, Nissan also is launching its “Pure Drive” initiative, which showcases Nissan’s continuing commitment to development of environment-friendly technology through improved fuel economy on internal combustion engine vehicles. The Versa Sedan employs a dual fuel injector system, the next-generation continuously variable transmission, and other advanced technologies. The “Pure Drive” designation and technology will spread to other vehicles in the Nissan lineup as well.

About Nissan Americas

In the Americas, Nissan’s operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program and was recognized as an ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 2010 and 2011. More information on Nissan in North America, the Nissan LEAF and zero emissions can be found at www.nissanusa.com.

About Nissan

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Japan’s second largest Japanese automotive company by volume, is headquartered in Yokohama, Japan and is an integral pillar of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. Operating with more than 150,000 employees globally, Nissan provided customers with more than 4 million vehicles in 2010. With a strong commitment to developing exciting and innovative products for all, Nissan delivers a comprehensive range of fuel-efficient and low-emissions vehicles under the Nissan and Infiniti brands. A pioneer in zero-emission mobility, Nissan made history with the introduction of the Nissan LEAF, the first affordable, mass-market, pure-electric vehicle and winner of numerous international accolades including the prestigious 2011 European Car of the Year award. For more information on our products, services and commitment to Sustainable Mobility, visit our website at http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/.

CVS/pharmacy and MinuteClinic has announced that they are prepared to help customers fight the flu this season with the most convenient access to receiving a flu shot once influenza vaccine becomes available in August.

All CVS/pharmacy locations and all MinuteClinic sites, which are located inside select CVS/pharmacy stores, will provide flu shots every day with no appointment necessary, including evenings and weekends. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone ages 6 months and older get a flu shot as soon as vaccine is available, including those who were vaccinated last season.

“By providing 7,800 retail locations across the United States that can offer vaccinations with no appointment necessary, CVS/pharmacy and MinuteClinic will make getting a flu shot easier than ever this season,” said Papatya Tankut, RPh, Vice President of Pharmacy Professional Services at CVS/pharmacy. “While the composition of this year’s vaccine has not changed from the previous season, immunity from influenza declines over time. Receiving an annual flu shot provides you with the best protection against catching the flu.”

CVS/pharmacy and MinuteClinic will also make flu shots more accessible this year by providing direct medical billing to many national and regional health plans that will cover all or part of the cost of a flu shot.

In addition to the seasonal flu vaccine, CVS/pharmacy and MinuteClinic will offer Fluzone® High-Dose this season, which will be available for people ages 65 and older. This higher dose vaccine is designed to provide stronger protection from influenza to this age group, which has a greater risk of developing a severe illness from influenza. Most Medicare beneficiaries, including those covered by Medicare Part B, can get either version of the flu vaccine for no out of pocket cost.

According to the CDC, retail pharmacies such as CVS/pharmacy are an increasingly popular destination for a flu shot, accounting for more than 18% of adults who were vaccinated last season.*

CVS/pharmacy and MinuteClinic will announce the complete details of its 2011 flu vaccination program within the next few weeks.

About CVS/pharmacy

CVS/pharmacy, the retail division of CVS Caremark Corporation (NYSE: CVS), is America’s leading retail pharmacy with more than 7,200 CVS/pharmacy and Longs Drug stores. CVS/pharmacy is committed to improving the lives of those we serve by making innovative and high-quality health and pharmacy services safe, affordable and easy to access, both in its stores and online at CVS.com. General information about CVS/pharmacy and CVS Caremark is available at http://info.cvscaremark.com.

About MinuteClinic

MinuteClinic is a division of CVS Caremark Corporation (NYSE: CVS), the largest pharmacy health care provider in the United States. MinuteClinic is the largest provider of retail-based medical centers in the United States with approximately 500 locations in 26 states and the District of Columbia. By creating a health care delivery model that responds to consumer demand, MinuteClinic makes access to high-quality medical treatment easier for more Americans. Nationally, the company has generated more than nine million patient visits, with a 95% customer satisfaction rating. MinuteClinic consistently brings innovation to the marketplace and sets new standards for clinical quality that exceed national guidelines. MinuteClinic is the first retail health care provider to receive accreditation (2006) and reaccreditation (2009) from The Joint Commission, the national evaluation and certifying agency for nearly 15,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States. For more information, visit www.MinuteClinic.com.

* CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report: Place of Influenza Vaccination Among Adults – United States, 2010 — 11 Influenza Season, June 17, 2011 / 60(23); 781-785

Imagine being in a hurry between meetings and needing to find a nearby restaurant for a fast lunch. The QuickClick Restaurants app can locate and map places to go with one button tap. Or realizing that you’re out of cash. A single click of the ATM app shows the nearest locations.

In developing software for the QuickClick Locale series, Marketimpacts.com took an approach different from other developers. “Many apps try to be too many things to too many people” said Don Cowan, the lead QuickClick apps developer and Director of Software Engineering at Marketimpacts.com. “As a result, it can take valuable time to scan through a sequence of app screens to find what you’re looking for. We made speed and ease of use the top priority in our design.”

Marketimpacts.com developed individual QuickClick apps for finding places such as ATMs, coffee, fast food, gas stations, golf courses, health food, lodging, nightlife, parking, restaurants, shopping, and taxis.

All the information needed from the user is entered on a single screen. That screen was designed and tested to deliver a high level of efficiency. Developers put the apps through a battery of tests for ergonomic, technical and usability factors.

“It’s amazing how complex and challenging the design of a small smartphone app screen can really be” said Cowan. “You have to take into account the reach of thumbs, the size of fingertips, the size and readability of text, the time to enter information, colors, field placement and many other factors. There’s an art to writing software for small screens.”

“We did extensive testing with focus groups and learned a lot about how people actually use their devices and what works and doesn’t work for most people. As a result, we’ve had extremely positive feedback from our early users.”

In their first few weeks of availability, the QuickClick apps have been downloaded in over 50 countries, according to statistics from the Android Developers website.

QuickClick apps are fully integrated into the functionality of the smartphone or tablet.  For example, the device’s Contacts app has access to information found by QuickClick. This is often not the case with other apps. Many apps build their own “walled off city,” making information exchange both difficult and complex. As a result, QuickClick apps fully exploit mapping capabilities such as directions, navigation, satellite views, traffic conditions, street views, reviews, and ratings.

The QuickClick apps are available for download on the Android Market and more information can be found on the QuickClick Apps web page. To find the apps from a smartphone or tablet, search the Android Market for “QuickClick Apps”.

The Marketimpacts.com team develops software for smartphones, tablets and PCs.

Marketimpacts, QuickClick and Locale are trademarks of Arelinda Technology Group, Inc.

Enjoy the Summer at Scottsdale Quarter – for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The outdoor layout of Scottsdale Quarter is good for the whole family, especially with the Splashing Fountain for the kids (and adults) to run through to cool down in the desert heat. Al fresco dining and cool summer menus make dining at Scottsdale Quarter a delight.

Scottsdale Restaurants offer “Lunch at the Quarter”. The Scottsdale Lunch Card offers 25% off of Lunch until August 31, 2011 at Brio Tuscan Grille, Coal Burger, TK’s Urban Tavern, Narcisse Champagne and Tea Lounge, Tanzy, Parc Central, Grimaldi’s Pizzeria, or Prime Bar.

Scottsdale Quarter Shopping Center is Scottsdale’s newest and hippest shopping and eating destination. Shop at the Apple Store, A/X Armani Exchange, H&M, Nike, West Elm, then stop by one of the Scottsdale Quarter restaurants for lunch, tea, or dinner. Be sure to check out The Quarter and see what’s new in restaurants in Scottsdale.

With restaurants and lounges it would be a challenge to find anywhere else in Arizona, Scottsdale Quarter promises to become the Valley’s premier destination for world-class cuisine. Each restaurant offers a one-of-a-kind atmosphere – from 1930’s Hollywood to old-world Tuscany and modern Mediterranean. Nightlife at The Quarter will be just as unique with lounges and bars ranging from ultra-contemporary to retro-cool.

BRIO TUSCAN GRILLE
Brio Tuscan Grille is a casual, white tablecloth restaurant serving northern Italian cuisine.
Restaurant hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11am-11pm Phone: 480-607-1100

COAL BURGER
Coal Burger is a fast casual burger concept based on fresher ingredients and coal fired flavor. Using all natural products and ingredients, in both their build out and their food, they are revolutionizing the fast casual concept. Developed and owned by the founders of Grimaldi’s Pizzeria, Coal Burger uses a coal-fired brick oven to flavor their all grass-fed beef burgers. The Coal Burger menu also features fresh made salads, gelato shakes, and a wide variety of natural and organic beverages. Restaurant hours: Mon – Sun 11am-9pm    Phone: 480-596-1234

EDDIE V’s PRIME SEAFOOD
Eddie V’s Restaurants, Inc. is setting the standard for fine dining, featuring award-winning concepts that focus on the freshest, quality ingredients, exciting atmosphere and a staff that is dedicated to every detail.
Lounge Hours: Mon-Thur: 4pm-11pm, Fri-Sat: 4pm -12am, Sun: 4pm-10pm
Restaurant Hours: Mon-Thur: 5pm-10pm, Fri-Sat: 5pm-11pm, Sun: 5pm-10pm
Phone: 480-730-4800

GRIMALDI’S PIZZERIA
A taste of NY comes to Scottsdale Quarter in Scottsdale. Famously known for their thin crust, coal fired brick-oven pizzas and calzones, Grimaldi’s Pizzeria offers over 100 years of pizza making traditions. In addition to their world famous pies, Grimaldi’s serves up freshly prepared salads and desserts in an upscale yet casual, family-oriented pizzeria.
Restaurant hours: Sun-Thur: 11am-10pm, Fri & Sat: 11am-11pm    Phone: 480-596-4070

MENCHIE’S FROZEN YOGURT
Menchie’s customers help themselves to an unlimited mix of yogurt and toppings at a convenient self-serve station with more than 100 rotating flavors and more than 60 rotating toppings. After crafting the perfect mix, the yogurt is weighed and paid for by the ounce. Menchie’s uses the highest quality frozen yogurt and offers nonfat, low carb, non-dairy, no sugar added, kosher and gluten-free soft serve options. Restaurant hours: Sun-Thur: 11am-10pm, Fri & Sat: 11am-11pm. Phone: 480-219-6880

NARCISSE CHAMPAGNE & TEA LOUNGE
This unique Champagne Lounge is suited to fulfill the desires and needs of the affluent self-loved characters from all the surrounding areas of Scottsdale to metro Phoenix. The champagne bar will serve as an upscale destination with an air of sophistication and sensual style. The atmosphere inter mingles genres of stately old world opulence with a nuance of modern charm. Narcisse is a unique gathering place intended to stimulate the senses of taste sight and sound. Its progressive atmosphere will tease, excite and celebrate these senses continually throughout the experience. Restaurant hours: Mon – Closed, Sun – Thurs 2pm– til Close, Fri–Sat: 2pm- 2am, Tue– Fri: Tea Time 2pm–6pm Phone: 480-588-2244

PARC CENTRAL
Parc Central will feature contemporary international cuisine in an high energy atmosphere composing of three lounge areas, a private dining room, outdoor dining as well as a progressive menu, happy hour and late night menu. Restaurant hours: Mon-Thur 11am-9pm; Fri-Sat 11am-10pm; Sun 11am-8pm    Phone: 480-907-5333

PRESS COFFEE
Press Coffee Roasters takes an artisanal approach to roasting and is only done in small batches; this the best way to maintain a high level consistency and quality. Coffee is sourced and roasted from various regions all over the world. After selecting the best representative coffees, the roasting process is fine-tuned to bring out the best inherent flavor in each coffee. It is a time consuming process, but ensures that only great coffees will bear the Press Coffee Roasters name. Restaurant hours: Mon-Thurs 7am-9pm; Fri 7am-10pm; Sat 7:30am-10pm; Sun 8am-6pm    Phone: 480-718-9762

PRIME BAR
SOPHISTICATED. SEASONAL. SUSTAINABLE…
A unique, contemporary ale house featuring local products and brews Enjoy distinctively delicious American cuisine at this urban kitchen + bar; featuring an array of appetizers, salads, two-handed sandwiches and specialty entrees, all made with fresh local and regional ingredients. Behind the bar, primebar also offers an outstanding wine list, local micro-brews and a large selection of hand-crafted specialty cocktails. This Contemporary restaurant is ideal for lunch, dinner and cocktails. Restaurant hours: Mon – Sun: 3pm -2am. Phone: 480-822-6200

THE SALT CLUB at iPIC THEATRE
Find The Salt Club just inside the lobby of iPic. The hip and stylish Salt Lounge offers a place to relax, in the lounge area before or after a movie, a perfect destination for the night’s festivities, at the bar or on the dance floor. With a custom menu of creative, fresh cocktails and appetizers designed by world renowned mixologist Adam Seger and a live DJ on the weekends, Salt can satisfy all any craving. For those more significant nights, The Salt CLub is also available for private events. Restaurant hours: Sun-Thur: 10am-1am; Fri-Sat: 10am-2am Phone: 480-483-3232

STINGRAY SUSHI
Find a unique blend of upbeat energy with a spirit of Japanese cuisine and tradition only at Stingray. Restaurant hours: 11:00 a.m.-2:00 a.m    Phone: 480-427-2011

TANZY
Tanzy uses a new age approach to Mediterranean cuisine making it a unique addition to the Scottsdale scene and combines stylish elegance with an innate sense of fun. The executive chef orchestrates a symphony of flavors with each dish, using fresh, natural ingredients and a passionate belief in capturing the essence of the basics. From the dining room, guests are privy to the restaurant’s superb decor, rich textured woods, and dramatic copper ceilings, all while experiencing attentive service and enjoying breathtaking mountain views.A semi private dining room is also available for events.
Restaurant hours: Sun-Thur: 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat: 11am-12am Phone: 480-483-3255

TK’S URBAN TAVERN
TK’s Urban Tavern puts a contemporary twist on the timeless tavern tradition. Located in the heart of the bustling Scottsdale Quarter, this neighborhood mainstay attracts area visitors, families and foodies alike. Guests can relax in the warm dining room or the comfortable bar and savor the aromas from the open show kitchen. Serving mouthwatering classic American fare, handcrafted cocktails and a carefully selected wine list in a casual setting yet sophisticated design, TK’s Urban Tavern is also the perfect stop after a long day at work, or power shopping at one of the area’s premiere retail destinations. Daily Happy Hour with great discounts on Food and Spirits. Special on Mon – Tue: Pizza and a bottle of House Wine $25
Restaurant hours: Mon-Thurs: 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat: 11am-10am., Sun 12-6pm.
Happy Hour: 4-7pm Phone: 480-664-0873

TRUE FOOD KITCHEN
True Food Kitchen offers a globally inspired, seasonal menu appealing to anyone seeking a more balanced lifestyle. True Food Kitchen celebrates high quality locally and regionally sourced ingredients to create a pure, simple menu that tastes great while nourishing mind, body and spirit. Restaurant Hours: Mon-Thur: 11am – 9pm, Fri: 11am – 10pm, Sat: 10am – 10pm, Sun: 10am – 9pm    Phone: 480-265-4500

COMING SOON:
MINIBARBERSHOP
Minibarbershop, a dynamic new men’s barbering experience offering a comfortable modern atmosphere to groom, shop, drink and eat, is pleased to be adding its second Arizona location at Scottsdale Quarter. A strategic partnership with “Malin and Goetz” allows them to provide the highest quality products to be used on customers as well as being sold in the retail gift and grooming shop. A full menu is served in the minibar compliments of the renowned “Vincent’s on Camelback”. The entire experience would not be complete without a full range of beer, wine, champagne, sake and port, but most importantly all beers are only $2, all day every day… Please feel free to Get Buzzed at the Minibarbershop with $20 haircuts and $2 beers.

DOMENICKS STEAKHOUSE
The restaurant is set to open Sept. 23. The new venture was created by Michael Mastro, Dennis Mastro, Jeffrey Mastro and Scott Troilo, who together also launched the Mastro’s and Ocean Club restaurant concepts. The restaurant will be a two-level, 10,500-square-foot facility with capacity for 350 people. It will offer private dining for social events and business gatherings.

Land Rover of Newport Beach will be among the first dealerships in the US to unveil their newest Range Rover Model; the 2012 Range Rover Evoque. The 2012 Range Rover Evoque is Eco-friendly and technologically driven. To help create a technology driven atmosphere during the event Land Rover has asked Idolian to present its newest android tablet pc to guests at their event.

Idolian is an US based distributor of Android Tablet PCs. Their website http://www.idolian.com offers a wide range for Android tablet PC’s at a cost that is ½ from what you would normally pay. With the growth of the android market and the increasing number of applications available, Idolian is focused on making tablets that are affordable for every household. Most of Idolian’s customers are value driven customers who buys tablet pc as gifts to their friends, relatives and for their kids.

“We’re very proud to be invited to be a part of this event. Land Rover is synonymous with quality and for us to get the chance to meet with them and our other local business is a great experience” says Arthur Lopez, Director of Operations at Idolian. The Event begins August 12, 2012 at 7pm; a portion of the dealership will be transformed into an electric tech area where Idolian will be presenting its Android Tablets. The event will kick off the weekend ride and drive of the Evoque.

Idolian and Land Rover should pair up nicely at this event. The new Land Rover Evoque offers a wide range of new features and technologically advanced controls that will surely be appealing to the young, urban professionals anticipated to be at the unveiling. Idolian will be presenting its newest Android Tablet at the event, the Idolian all new TurboTab; a new lightweight, user-friendly model with a 7” screen that makes it more portable and durable than its larger competition.

Pedata RV Center releases tips for safe cross country RV trips. During the summer months more people find themselves on the road in areas that are unfamiliar to them. And many find themselves in areas not only unfamiliar, but unlike any other region they’ve ever experienced.

Tips for Safe Cross Country RV Trips:

1. Buckle up. This should be implied, but many feel that they are exempt from the rule when traveling by RV. And while one of the comforts of the RV is to be able to feel at home on the road, buckling up is still a safety issue.

2. Carry a portable weather radio. When traveling through unfamiliar areas, travelers are often amazed by unique landscapes, cultural highlights, and local fare, but they are also often surprised to discover that the weather varies greatly depending upon what region they are visiting. Be aware of what is possible through pre-trip research. Be prepared for potential weather issues (snow, hurricane, flood, etc.) And carry emergency weather notification devices such as weather applications for smart phones or the previously mentioned portable weather radio.

3. Check the air pressure in the RV tires. This is one of the simplest safety measures and one of the most often overlooked. A blow out on the highway at high speeds in an RV is a difficult and very dangerous experience. Don’t ignore the chance to prevent it by simply checking to ensure the tire air pressure is appropriate prior to departure and regularly throughout the trip.

Gerard Pedata of Pedata RV Center said, “We always recommend that new RVers listen to veteran RVers who have been to the area they have chosen to visit. We also recommend that RVers in general listen to the locals; they can be a big help if given the chance.”

Pedata RV Center sells used RVs, travel trailers, fifth wheels, campers and motor homes. Their full inventory is accessible online, and due to their low overhead costs they are able to offer competitive pricing in their industry. Easy access to industry and recreational vehicle information allows consumers to have access to the specific knowledge they need to ensure their purchase results in long-term satisfaction.

For more information on Pedata RV Center, or current trends in the RV industry visit Pedata RV Center online at http://www.pedatarvcenter.com.

Diehard Studio Entertainment has announced the release of the iPad adaptation of the Edgar Allan Poe classic, The Tell-Tale Heart. Perhaps Poe’s finest story, The Tell-Tale Heart is a riveting tale told by an unnamed narrator who slowly reveals a chilling mystery.

The Tell-Tale Heart HD for iPad is an interactive, fully painted and fully voiced retelling of the classic Edgar Allan Poe horror tale. Illustrated by Mutant League television series art director Dwayne Ferguson and performed by Hunter Wolf and veteran television actress Janet Hubert.

Ferguson, who has authored over 40 books and worked for companies such as Walt Disney, Sony Music, Warner Bros. and Macmillan Publishing, has wanted to adapt Edgar Allan Poe’s iconic horror story for years.

“I remember the first time I experienced The Tell-Tale Heart. I was fourteen and a huge fan of horror books, comics and movies. I liked them all, but there was something special about how Poe told this tale that resonated with me, and stayed with me since the day I read the last sentence of the story.

“Years later, while attending a comic book convention, I stumbled upon some 1930s radio shows starring The Shadow. I was hooked. Something about the style of the shows and the fact that they were performed live intrigued me.

“And now with the advent of the iPad, I am able to combine the two – Edgar Allan Poe and radio dramas – and present them along with the dark, moody, mixed-media paintings that I have always imagined. Then I filled it full of bone-chilling sounds and interactive elements to augment, not distract from, the original work itself.”

The result is an interactive experience that is the definitive version of horror master Edgar Allan Poe’s legendary tale of suspense, dread and terror. The exclusive to the iPad book is brought further to life with an optional voiceover recording headlined by Janet Hubert of Fresh Prince of Bel Air fame.

The central figure in The Tell-Tale Heart is the unnamed narrator and in literary circles there is much discussion as to whether the character is a man or a woman. Ferguson took a unique approach. “I decided, why not both?“

So he brought in Janet Hubert to join him, under his stage name, Hunter Wolf. The two alternated back and forth recording the voiceover of the narrator. The result is an eerie, unnerving delivery of the story that presents the killer as schizophrenic with both sides of his or her psyche alternately insane, clever, panicky and brilliant. The combination of the two adrenaline-filled voices adds an extra layer to the creeping horror of the text.

The Tell-Tale Heart contains creepy mixed-media painting, interactive elements, bone-chilling sound effects and a 1930′s-style radio drama performance that is sure to haunt your dreams!

The Tell-Tale Heart is now available for download to the iPad at the iTunes App Store at http://tinyurl.com/3he5o8a.

See the trailer at http://youtu.be/fP7w8KXpEQY.

About Diehard Studio Entertainment

Diehard Studio Entertainment is an independent production company, founded in 1986. The company produces animated films in both 2D and 3D, character design, logos, concept art, electronic and published books.

PLAYTIME LLC, the global provider of unique, interactive play areas, has entered into an exclusive licensing agreement with Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit educational organization behind Sesame Street, to create molded Sesame Street indoor play areas for malls, shopping centers, retail outlets, and other locations. This exclusive licensing agreement provides PLAYTIME with the ability to offer select customers a powerful brand differentiator.

“Sesame Workshop is pleased to work with PLAYTIME, the recognized leader in providing unique play experiences to a wide variety of businesses and markets, to extend the Sesame Street experience,” said Peter van Roden, Sesame Workshop’s Vice President of Themed Entertainment. “We are committed to engaging children and their families in active, healthy, and fun play.”

“Sesame Street is the most evergreen, iconic children’s brand in the world,” says Mike Evans, PLAYTIME President and CEO. “It’s multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, and well known for its wholesome values. A Sesame Street branded play area provides an opportunity for a major customer to take advantage of this powerful branding and business differentiation opportunity within their marketplace.”

PLAYTIME is actively seeking partner(s) to work together on a multi-year rollout of Sesame Street branded indoor play areas. In preparation for this, the PLAYTIME and Sesame Street design teams are working closely together to develop preferred design concepts.

“Creating Sesame Street branded play areas will be an exciting undertaking for us,” continued Evans. “We are looking to align our design and manufacturing capabilities together with the right partner committed to a significant number of locations nationwide.”

PLAYTIME’s Sesame Workshop licensing agreement provides a long-term leasing structure, allowing a partner to obtain an iconic branded play area without the typical upfront capital costs associated with a traditional purchase. The arrangement also enables the partner to bring in third party national or community sponsors to enhance the economics of adding this customer friendly amenity.

PLAYTIME is dedicated to providing active, healthy play experiences for the whole family. The playground manufacturer creates colorful, soft-sculpted foam play elements that nurture kids and their imaginations. Safe and durable, PLAYTIME’s smooth finish materials are naturally antibacterial, ensuring a healthy play environment for kids of all ages.

About PLAYTIME, LLC

Based in Englewood, CO, PLAYTIME is the global provider of unique, interactive, healthy play areas and playground equipment for indoor, outdoor and water play. Designed to engage children, PLAYTIME’s themed soft play areas drive traffic and enhance its customers’ brands. PLAYTIME is trusted by major brands and sponsors to bring their images to life. Visit http://www.playtime.com.

Lionbridge (Nasdaq: LIOX) today announced the integration between Lionbridge’s GeoFluent™ Instant Messaging (IM) real time translation solution and IBM Sametime® unified communications and collaboration software.

GeoFluent IM for Sametime will help IBM Sametime clients become more interconnected by collaborating more effectively with non-English speaking colleagues, partners and customers.  The benefits of real-time, multilingual instant messaging chat for Sametime include the ability to:

• Find, reach and collaborate with colleagues and partners across geographies in real time
• Improve communication and increase productivity across geographically dispersed teams
• Ensure security-rich, enterprise-scale instant messaging across languages
• Increase the productivity of online meetings
• Eliminate product development and delivery delays resulting from miscommunication
• Reduce costs for international travel, telephone plus audio- and Web-conferencing services

“Today’s dynamic workforce is increasingly globally dispersed, multigenerational and multicultural,” said Caleb Barlow, Director, Unified Communications and Collaboration, IBM. “As globally dispersed organizations move towards becoming social businesses, the challenge of resolving real-time barriers of language translation is critical. Today’s always available, socially-connected organizations need to communicate seamlessly with networks of partners, clients and suppliers, regardless of location, time-zone or language.”

Join Lionbridge and IBM for a webinar on August 23rd to learn more about increasing social communications across borders with multilingual unified communications.  Please register for the webinar here.

Lionbridge GeoFluent is a cloud-based, customizable, real-time automated translation technology that instantly translates content and communications into multiple languages.  GeoFluent is based on IBM’s machine translation engine and is the result of a technology partnership between Lionbridge and IBM.   GeoFluent IM is designed specifically for enterprise instant messaging and easily integrates into common messaging and collaboration environments, including Sametime.  GeoFluent includes Lionbridge customization capability which increases comprehension and usability of communication by reflecting each organization’s brand, products and terminology.

IBM Sametime® software provides integrated real-time communications services—voice, data and video—that make it easy for people to find, reach and collaborate effectively with others. Sametime allows employees to spend less time trying to find people who can answer questions and more time being productive, and helps enterprises lower customer service and help desk costs by more effectively resolving issues.

“This integration with Sametime is yet another example of the powerful benefits of Lionbridge GeoFluent for increasing online engagement with employees, partners and customers worldwide,” said Rory Cowan, CEO, Lionbridge.  ”Working with IBM, we will enable enterprises to adopt global-scale, cost-effective unified communications offerings that help them effectively run their businesses and increase collaboration worldwide.”

About Lionbridge

Lionbridge Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: LIOX) is a provider of translation, development and testing solutions. Lionbridge combines global resources with proven program management methodologies to serve as an outsource partner throughout a client’s product and content lifecycle – from development to translation, testing and maintenance. Global organizations rely on Lionbridge services to increase international market share, speed adoption of global products and content, and enhance their return on enterprise applications and IT system investments. Based in Waltham, Mass., Lionbridge maintains solution centers in 26 countries and provides services under the Lionbridge and VeriTest brands. To learn more, visit http://www.lionbridge.com.

Lionbridge and Lionbridge GeoFluent, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Lionbridge Technologies, Inc. in the U.S. and throughout the world.

DTE Energy announced today that it will install four Plug-in Electric Vehicle charging stations at Detroit Metro Airport – part of a program to deploy 16 such public charging stations throughout Southeastern Michigan.

The airport charging stations will be in the two main parking decks at the airport – two on the eighth floor of the McNamara Terminal parking deck and two on the fourth floor of the Big Blue Deck by the North Terminal. There will be no cost for PEV drivers to use the charging stations.

Besides the four PEV charging stations at the airport, DTE Energy also will install two charging stations in Ferndale, Mount Clemens, Rochester Hills and Auburn Hills, and one in Saline. In addition, two charging stations will be installed at the Village of Rochester Hills retail center and one at the Automation Alley technology center in Auburn Hills.

DTE Energy is working with General Motors through a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) grant to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles in the U.S. by deploying vehicles and installing charging infrastructure.

“This is another step we’re taking to ease the transition to PEV ownership, as well as meet the demand for infrastructure by current PEV owners,” said Trevor Lauer, DTE Energy vice president, Marketing & Renewables. “A key factor in the widespread success of electric vehicles will be the ability of utilities to supply ‘fuel’ on demand at a reasonable cost.”

“The introduction of electric vehicle charging stations in both parking structures at Detroit Metro Airport is the latest among a number of partnerships the Airport Authority has forged toward more sustainable transportation,” said Wayne County Airport Authority (WCAA) Board Chair Renee Axt. ”As operators of the airport system at the center of the global automotive industry and the region leading the development of alternative fuel technologies, it’s our pleasure to introduce infrastructure that supports the advancements of our hometown industry.”

Added WCAA Interim CEO Genelle Allen: “With the assembly line for the Chevy Volt just 20 miles down the road, we want our customers to know that we’ll soon be ready to accommodate such alternative-powered vehicles when they’re parked at Detroit Metro Airport.”

The GM/DOE public charging station demonstration program is an addition to another DTE Energy program which offers special electric vehicle rates and up to $2,500 for the purchase and installation of a 240-volt residential charging station for faster charging. Nearly 100 DTE Energy customers have participated in the program.

DTE Energy (NYSE: DTE) is a Detroit-based diversified energy company involved in the development and management of energy-related businesses and services nationwide. Its operating units include Detroit Edison, an electric utility serving 2.1 million customers in Southeastern Michigan, MichCon, a natural gas utility serving 1.2 million customers in Michigan and other non-utility, energy businesses focused on gas storage and pipelines, unconventional gas production, power and industrial projects, and energy trading. Information about DTE Energy is available at dteenergy.com, twitter.com/dte_energy and facebook.com/dteenergy.

The Dodge brand earned three awards as the Dodge Challenger, Charger and Durango led their segments in the J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study(SM).

The Dodge Charger ranked highest in the Large Car segment and was the most improved model in the industry. The Dodge Challenger scored highest in the Midsize Sporty Car class and Dodge Durango took the top spot in the Midsize Crossover/SUV segment.

The Jeep® brand improved by 32 points and Chrysler increased by 27 points compared to the industry’s average improvement of three points.

“We’ve listened to our customers and made significant improvements across the product line, launching 16 all-new or extensively updated vehicles in the past year,” said Doug Betts, Senior Vice President — Quality, Chrysler Group. “We worked very hard to make our vehicles truly competitive with the best vehicles in their respective segments. It’s nice to see this effort being recognized by our customers.”

According to J.D. Power and Associates, vehicles with high APEAL scores generate faster sales, higher profit margins, and less need for cash incentives. High levels of vehicle appeal also influence customer recommendation rates.

In the recently announced J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Initial Quality Study (SM) (IQS), the Dodge Challenger and the Chrysler Town & Country ranked highest in their respective segments for initial quality.

The APEAL Study examines how gratifying a new vehicle is to own and drive, based on owner evaluations of more than 80 vehicle attributes. Unlike IQS, which measures short-term quality, the APEAL Study identifies consumer likes and dislikes about their vehicle during the first 90 days of ownership, particularly regarding vehicle design, content, layout and performance.

“Different customers have different opinions about what makes a quality vehicle,” Betts explained. “At Chrysler Group, we define and measure six different types of quality. We’ve set aggressive internal targets and our progress is starting to show up in third-party surveys as well.”

About J.D. Power and Associates

Headquartered in Westlake Village, Calf., J.D. Power and Associates is a global marketing information services company operating in key business sectors including market research, forecasting, performance improvement, training and customer satisfaction. The firm’s quality and satisfaction measurements are based on responses from millions of consumers annually. For more information on cell phone ratings, car reviews and ratings, car insurance, health insurance and more, please visit JDPower.com. J.D. Power and Associates is a business unit of The McGraw-Hill Companies.

About Chrysler Group LLC

Chrysler Group LLC, formed in 2009 from a global strategic alliance with Fiat, S.p.A., produces Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram, Mopar®, SRT and Fiat vehicles and products. With the resources, technology and worldwide distribution network required to compete on a global scale, the alliance builds on Chrysler Group’s culture of innovation – first established by Walter P. Chryslerin 1925 – and Fiat’s complementary technology – from a company whose heritage dates back to 1899.

Headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich., Chrysler Group’s product lineup features some of the world’s most recognizable vehicles, including the Chrysler 300, Jeep Wrangler and Ram Truck. Fiat contributes world-class technology, platforms and powertrains for small- and medium-size cars, allowing Chrysler Group to offer an expanded product line including environmentally friendly vehicles.

While there are countless websites devoted to cancer education, fundraising and advocacy, finding practical information about living with cancer and making connections online can be difficult. With the launch of www.IHadCancer.com, cancer fighters, survivors and supporters can now tap the full power of social networking to connect with others who have been in their shoes.

Those shared experiences can be powerful – and essential – sources of hope, support and information.  A recent Pew Internet & American Life study found that while people turn to professionals for an accurate health diagnosis, they’re more likely to turn to nonprofessionals (50 percent to 30 percent) when they’re searching for emotional support.  Moreover, older Americans – those most likely to get cancer, according to the American Cancer Society – were almost twice as likely to use social networking sites in 2010 as they were the year before, Princeton Survey Research Associates International found.

But cancer strikes people of all ages, including IHadCancer.com founder Mailet Lopez who was 33 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008.  At the time, the co-founder of New York’s Squeaky Wheel Media found herself overwhelmed and in need of talking with someone who had been in her situation.

“I had wonderful doctors and plenty of support from family and friends.  But I was missing the connection to someone who shared my same experiences – someone who was my age, with my type of cancer … even someone who lived in my neighborhood,” Lopez said.  ”I had questions that only someone who has gone through cancer would be able to answer … questions like “how do I tell the people I work with” or “what are the best ways to keep my energy up and stress down.”

IHadCancer.com uses the most advanced social networking functionalities supported by usability standards people have come to expect with online experiences.  Users will be able to create a profile, share their story, build a circle of friends, participate in discussions – and even send cancer a message via the “Dear Cancer” tab.  Additional functionality will soon allow members to promote cancer-related events and fundraisers, and give nonprofit organizations ways to share their resources.  Site members will have the opportunity to recommend additional enhancements.

While the name IHadCancer.com intentionally draws on Lopez’s focus on hope and a positive attitude, the site can be a resource for those who serve as caregivers to people diagnosed with the disease, as well.  ”Four in 10 Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes.  When you add to that number all of the friends, family and other people who surround those battling the disease you quickly realize that almost everyone has a story to share,” she added.

Share your story at www.IHadCancer.com.

Visit our newsroom at ihadcancer.com/newsroom.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year for consumer electronics companies! More than 400 press will attend Pepcom’s Holiday Spectacular! demo event in search of the latest and greatest products to include in their holiday coverage and gift guides.

“The holiday shopping may happen in November and December, but the holiday press cycle starts in September,” noted Chris O’Malley, a founding partner at Pepcom. “Some of the biggest names in consumer electronics will be at Holiday Spectacular!, including companies like Best Buy, Canon, Lenovo, Nikon, RIM, Samsung, and Toshiba. And there’s room for more!”

Reserve your spot now to ensure your tablets, laptops, smartphones, TVs, videogames, cameras, GPS devices, and toys make it under the tree this year! Contact Jen Ferency at 561.278.5094 (jen@pepcom.com) or Jon Pepper at 212.355.6326 (jon@pepcom.com) for all the spectacular details!

Holiday Spectacular! is the biggest and most popular holiday preview event, attracting some of the world’s leading companies to mingle with respected journalists and analysts.  This exclusive event takes place Tuesday, September 14th.  Recent Pepcom events welcomed press from outlets including ABC, Bloomberg, BusinessWeek, CBS, CNN, CNET, Consumer Reports, Forbes, Fortune, Maxim, Men’s Health, NBC, New York Times, Newsweek, PC Magazine, PC World, Popular Mechanics, Popular Science, Reuters, Time, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal.

Pepcom’s next two events after Holiday Spectacular! are MobileFocus in San Diego on Oct. 11th, and Wine, Dine & Demo! inNew York on Nov. 17th.

About Pepcom® Inc.

Pepcom® Inc., based in Delray Beach, FL, is the leader in technology showcase events.  Each event joins the world’s top technology companies with the most influential press and analysts.  Pepcom’s showcases include DigitalFocus®, MobileFocus®, EcoFocus(SM), Digital Experience!®, Holiday Spectacular!® and Wine, Dine & Demo!®. For more information, visit www.pepcom.com or www.facebook.com/pepcom.

Edline, the leading provider of K-12 web and communication solutions, is pleased to announce its recent partnership with Florida Virtual School (FLVS). Known for their nationally recognized e-Learning model, FLVS provides a high-quality virtual education for students throughout the US and the world.

FLVS will utilize Edline’s feature-rich Notification System to communicate instantly via email, phone and SMS text message with their burgeoning student body of 122,000 and growing.

“Our decision to invest in Edline’s Notification solution was not taken lightly, ” says Christine Conidis, Project Specialist of FLVS. Conidis is responsible for oversight of the entire project including conversion from the existing platform. “We rigorously evaluated multiple providers to be sure their model was scalable—given the projected growth of FLVS—and that the company was reputable, with a long track record of success. In the end, we felt that Edline was the best fit for our school.”

Edline’s Notification system is being used in thousands of schools throughout the US and is setting the standard for concise, reliable outbound communication to promote student safety and success. Messages sent can be for routine or emergency purposes, and FLVS can choose from custom or predetermined messages that translate into over 20 languages.

Rick Noble, CEO of Edline, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. “We are thrilled that Florida Virtual School will be using our Notification System. It is truly gratifying to be working with a group that values student success as much as we do, and we are excited to provide what will surely become a valuable and integral part of their communication strategy.”

About Edline

Edline is the leading provider of website and communication solutions specifically designed for K-12 education. As an industry leader for over a decade, Edline helps over 20,000 schools and millions of families succeed through the use of innovative technologies that support learning and enable meaningful online communication and collaboration between teachers, students and families throughout the learning community. Edline’s solutions include District/School/Classroom websites, Learning Management and Classroom Solutions and Notification Solutions for routine and emergency communication.

About Florida Virtual School

Florida Virtual School (FLVS) is an established leader in developing and providing virtual Kindergarten-12 education solutions to students throughout Florida, the U.S. and the world. A nationally recognized e-Learning model and recipient of numerous awards, FLVS was founded in 1997 and was the country’s first, state-wide Internet-based public high school. Today, FLVS serves students in Kindergarten-12th grades and provides a variety of custom solutions for schools and districts to meet student needs

amaROCKS Group; a developer of cutting-edge business education and training, proudly announces the MLearnPad, the company’s first feature-packed Android 2.2 powered mobile learning tablet.

MLearnPad’s compact design encompasses a vibrant 8” color LCD touch screen, with a 4GB of internal storage, and up to 32GB of expandable storage via micro SD, a powerful Freescale ARM Cortex – A8 processor, and 512 MB of RAM. Boasting a feature set unparalleled in its class.

MLearnPad comes standard with blazing fast Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 1.3MP webcam, and USB.

MLearnPad comes with Android 2.2, which means it has support for Adobe Flash Player, giving the course participants unbridled access to the learning content. The multi-tasking MLearnPad also comes with eReader, e-mail, SKYPE, MSN, YAHOO MESSENGER, FACEBOOK, OFFICE Suite, 3D games support, Built-in Monophonic Recording and many more.

The introduction of the MLearnPad which was integrated and tested with more than 300 Soft Skills and Enterprise Business Skills courses represents a hugely innovative step forward in the evolution of the online training industry.

It has quite literally made it possible to take an entire curriculum, classroom, support staff, library and access it anywhere, anytime, in a totally user friendly format that is no bigger than an ordinary text book, and is available absolutely free of charge when course participant enroll for Professional or Pro-Diploma certificate course or at discounted price when they buy a single course(s).

In today’s fast paced environment, much of business learner’s time is lost sitting on commuter trains and buses, waiting in line, sitting in waiting rooms and “killing” time between meetings and in coffee shops. The MLearnPad makes it possible for business learners to invest all this down time in their future. In fact, anywhere business learners have access to WIFI can now be their own office, private classroom, library or study hall.

MLearnPad will keep business learners connected and engaged whether they are at home, at office, in flight, or at the neighborhood coffee shop. Surf the web, download apps, check email, stream videos and music, or share online status with friends and family anywhere there’s an available Wi-Fi connection.

Imagine being able to participate in LIVEeCLASS while ride the train to the office, review lessons while waiting at doctor’s office, write an assignment in the coffee shop, between meetings access webinar tutorials, while enjoy lunch at the food court review essay with course facilitator.

If business learners have access to WIFI, they literally have access to an entire world of training opportunities and support services through this revolutionary tool.

MLearnPad is available now through business education partners. For more information, please visit MLearnPad.com.

About amaROCKS Group

Based in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, amaROCKS develops and deliver consumer and Enterprise business education courses in business, personal, professional and productivity skills. With more than 300 business courses available via E-Learning and blended learning. With more and more people prefer e-learning, mobile learning, informal learning and bite size lessons; amaROCKS continue to focus on creating quality business education courses, and learning devices combines with innovative technology and cutting-edge content.

Learn about the amazing MLearnPad and the E-Learn network by visiting http://www.amarocksgroup.com.

Company Contact Information

amaROCKS
J Ben Benjamin
Toronto
Phone: 647-407-7091

Every year thousands of domain names are stolen. Some of these domains are valued in the five and six-figure range, and can often be the front-end to an entire business. Unfortunately law enforcement agencies do not have a procedure in place to track the theft and generally nothing is done. Most domain registrars and marketplaces try to stay-out of these situations as well and assume zero responsibility for the loss, even if the customer put their life-savings into the domain. There is no domain name police, theft database, or recovery agents, until now.

A creative new company founded by part-time Domain Investor Morgan Linton has just been announced and he plans to make a major impact in the domain security and theft prevention space. DomainTheft.org is a centralized database of stolen domains all verified by a proprietary algorithm called DTVS or the Domain Theft Verification System. DTVS does an initial check to ensure that the theft being committed is valid and then sends it along to a member of DomainTheft.org’s task force for investigation. “People have been buying and selling domain names for over 15 years, and thieves have been stealing domains for the same amount of time,” says Linton who runs a popular blog that attracts Domain Investors from all over the world.

Domain owners pay a small monthly fee to list their stolen domains in the system and the database is available to every major domain name sales platform and marketplaces like eBay and Flippa. “If every marketplace checks our database before listing a domain for sale it will not only dramatically reduce the number of stolen domains, but also improve the chance of recovery,” says Linton who is pioneering the space as the founder of the first Domain Theft Database available online. “Along with listing domain names in our database we have dedicated recovery agents that will work with registrars and law enforcement agencies to recover stolen domains.” The amazing thing about DomainTheft.org’s recovery service is the price – there is none. “The cost of this service is entirely up to the customer. At the end of the day we want to make the domain world a better place and financial gain is not our primary focus.”

Last week marked the first case where a domain thief was criminally prosecuted in the United States. Daniel Goncalves was sentenced to five years in prison after stealing P2P.com from domain investor Mark Ostrofsky and attempting to sell it to retired NBA star Mark Madsen. In cases like these it can take high-powered lawyers and big bucks to recover a domain.

“Our goal is big and the challenge is even bigger, but we think that we can make a huge impact in the Domain Name Security space. Just think, if everyone checks our database before they buy a domain name, it will be almost impossible for thieves to sell domains.” Linton feels strongly that by making it harder to sell stolen domains, thieves will become less inclined to even attempt a theft. “Some people want to make the physical world a better place, I want to make the virtual world a better place and DomainTheft.org will do exactly that.“

FitFarms opened it’s doors in 2006 and was flooded by women and men worldwide wanting to lose weight, tone up and learn to lead a happier and healthier lifestyle. The UK fitness boot camp was so popular and received press form magazines to broad sheets and even appeared on television. The popularity of the weight loss camp was so great that it started an industry now known as the UK weight loss boot camp market.

These boot camps tend to be military based but there are also some holistic style weight loss boot camps which call themselves UK weight loss retreats. FitFarms kept ahead of the chasing pack by simply offering a better service and a more rounded programme. The typical weight loss boot camp would offer a vigorous fitness programme accompanied by a calorie cutting nutrition programme.

The FitFarms programme differed by not only offering nutrition and exercise the UK fitness boot camp also offered behaviour therapy. The life coaching programme is delivered by the new Course Director motivation coach Gillie Sutherland.

Gillie concentrates on attendees relationships with exercise and nutrition creating a healthier balance between the two different areas. Women come to the UK weight loss boot camp with a negative attitude towards healthy living and they are wanting to make some radical changes in a short period of time.

The 7 day programme changes the women’s attitudes but there is also a 3 month after care programme making sure that all visitors to the fitness camp stay on track.

Sally Bidlake from Launceston in Devon says, “Yes the 7 day programme was challenging but it needed to be to get the weight loss and fitness results. There were times when I felt very much out of my comfort zone but the variety of exercise and the staff motivation just rides you through the programme. There was also great buzz between the group and more often than not we would motivate each other through the weight loss retreat week. I chose FitFarms because it has a non military boot camp approach and I have definitely not regretted my decision. I can recommend this weight loss and fitness week to anyone who wants to lose weight, tone up and really change their lifestyle for the better.”

FitFarms is very popular over the summer months and is the only fitness camp that is already fully booked throughout the month of August. The next available date is September 16th at the Peak District FitFarm. This will be the first of the refresher courses where FitFarms is offering the £250 discount to all returning client.

The refresher weight loss programmes will concentrate on preparing for Christmas. The majority of people tend to put on a few pounds over the Christmas period. FitFarms will be concentrating on teaching clients the 80 – 20 rule to make sure women maintain their weight loss and fitness achievements over this festive period.

“Searchthe.com wants you to search the web in the language of your choice and the language you understand”, says a key executive with the SearchThe.com development team. Searchthe.com has recently launched a brand new alternative search engine which offers search results in multiple international languages not just standard English like your typical search engine but Spanish, French, German, Russian, Arabic, Hindi and Tamil.

Unlike most major search engines Searchthe.com has deployed their search engine without paid advertisements littering the search results page. This excellent feature results in web users finding the information they need faster while not annoying them with unnecessary advertisements. A major built in feature is the ability for a web user to search in any language of their choice instantly by the click of a button.

Other standard features include a robust multi-language image, video and news search tool. Their unique one click search tool is available to any user so they can also search across the web for PDF files, Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, standard text files as well as Powerpoint presentations all in multiple international languages. One more bonus is a dictionary search which can be easily cross referenced in many different languages as well. The team at SearchThe.com has definately created a unique, useful and truly global search engine. Check it out. This new alternative search engine can be visited at: http://www.searchthe.com

When it comes to the new Mitsubishi i electric vehicle, the sales professionals at Bill Jacobs Mitsubishi cannot wait to be able to offer it to the public. When it comes to buying a new Mitsubishi in Joliet, Illinois, they are tough to beat on selection of vehicles and customer service, which is even more important to some people. The new EPA rating for the Mitsubishi electric car that is coming is really quite impressive in many ways.

The 100% electric-powered Mitsubishi i has earned an EPA-rated 126 MPGe in city driving and 99 MPGe out on the highway – for a total of 112 MPGe combined. Additionally, the EPA has also awarded the stylish and fun-to-drive electric vehicle (EV) a “real world” driving range of 62 miles, which is quite impressive when it comes to zero emission vehicles of the future.

Advanced safety features that are standard on the new electric car from Mitsubishi.

• Dual-stage supplemental front air bags
• Driver and front passenger seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags
• Roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard passengers
• Active Stability Control (ASC) with Traction Control Logic (TCL)
• 4-wheel Anti-Lock Braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD)
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• A high voltage cut-off system
• An Approaching Vehicle Audible System (AVAS)

“We feel that with the combination of capability, affordability, and high level of efficiency offered by the 2012 Mitsubishi i will prove very appealing to consumers considering EV transportation,” said Yoichi Yokozawa, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Motors North America.

In November of this year, MMNA will launch the battery-powered EV, the Mitsubishi i, as part of a mission to offer consumers more environmentally responsible modes of transportation. This battery-powered electric vehicle technology addresses the need for vehicles that produce zero tailpipe emissions. It supports a growing agenda for sustainability.

Local residents who want to buy a Mitsubishi in Joliet, Illinois or find out more about the electric vehicle coming from this technologically advanced car company are encouraged to drop by Bill Jacobs Mitsubishi. As the leading Mitsubishi dealer in Joliet, they have the selection and service consumers demand as well as all the high-tech cars.

A new Boston company is doing its part to fight the battle of the bulge. Since opening several months ago Sound Shapes has collectively dissolved hundreds of inches of body fat from area clients without diet, exercise, anesthesia or surgery. Clients report walking out the door after just one session looking and feeling like they’ve lost several pounds around their midsection or other areas.

Utilizing a newly developed treatment recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Sound Shapes features an entirely non-invasive ultrasound body sculpting technique that provides instant results similar to liposuction without anesthesia, incisions, compression garments, or lengthy recovery time.

Clients who have undergone this groundbreaking treatment compare it to a hot stone massage yet with immediate reduction in problem body areas one would get through invasive surgical techniques. A typical client will reduce their waistline or other areas by as much as an inch in just one session, though multiple sessions are recommended.

“This treatment, called VASER© Shape, is really targeted at the person who eats right, exercises regularly but has some areas of the body that they just can’t improve or aren’t happy with and who isn’t comfortable submitting to invasive reduction techniques,” said Theresa Sapienza-Cote, a licensed nurse and the founder, CEO and president of Sound Shapes LLC.

Sound Shapes is the only Boston-area facility to feature the breakthrough VASER© Shape, which recently received FDA approval for body sculpting and removal of cellulite. The treatment is also effective for skin tightening and spot reducing.

The new technology non-invasively breaks down the fat cells and removes them from the body.

“Our clients go right back to work or home after the treatment and no one knows they’ve had work done,” said Sapienza-Cote. “They are often asked if they’ve been working out or have lost weight.”

More on the breakthrough technology and technique can be found at Sound Shapes’ website at www.sound-shapes.com.

Key Facts

• AT&T* confirmed that upgrades to the Android™ 2.3 (Gingerbread) platform are planned for all post-paid Android smartphones already introduced this year.
• Motorola ATRIX™ 4G users will receive an update to Android 2.3 beginning today and HTC Inspire™ 4G users will receive the update in the coming weeks.
• Motorola ATRIX 4G update will also provide the ability to download applications from third-party stores.
• HTC Status™ arrived in stores July 17, the first AT&T smartphone running Android 2.3.

Upgrade Details

Customers who purchased an Android smartphone from AT&T introduced in 2011 can expect to receive an update to Android 2.3. All of these devices are planned to be upgraded from Android 2.2 to Android 2.3, also referred to as Gingerbread. In addition, Samsung Captivate™ owners will be able to upgrade to Gingerbread.

Delivery methods will vary by device. Whenever possible, upgrades are delivered over-the-air (OTA), however in some cases the size of the file needed to install the update will require the user to connect via Wi-Fi or connect the phone to a PC to install the update. Factors such as manufacturer-defined software and other device performance improvements result in each device requiring a separate update which will vary in timing.

Beginning today and continuing over the next few weeks, Motorola ATRIX 4G users will be prompted to install the update. To download the update, users must be connected via Wi-Fi. In August, HTC Inspire 4G users will be notified that the update is available and can be downloaded when connected to a Wi-Fi network. AT&T smartphone users can access at any one of the company’s more than 26,000 Wi-Fi hotspots at no cost.

The AT&T smartphones planned for a Gingerbread update are:

• HTC Inspire™ 4G
• LG Phoenix™
• Motorola ATRIX™ 4G
• Pantech Crossover™
• Samsung Captivate™ 4G
• Samsung Infuse™ 4G

Android 2.3 (Gingerbread)

Gingerbread delivers a number of improvements, such as user interface refinements, refined copy/paste functionality and speed enhancements. The upgrade offers improved power management that offers a more active role in managing applications in addition to an improved on-screen keyboard with multi-touch support that makes typing faster and more accurate.

*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.

4G speeds delivered by HSPA+ with enhanced backhaul. Available in limited areas. Availability increasing with ongoing backhaul deployment. Requires 4G device. Learn more at att.com/network.

Access includes AT&T Wi-Fi Basic. Wi-Fi enabled device required. Other restrictions apply. See www.attwifi.com for details and locations

Android is a trademark of Google, 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, voice and cloud-based services. A leader in mobile broadband and emerging 4G capabilities, AT&T also offers the best wireless coverage worldwide of any U.S. carrier, 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.

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 @ATT.

© 2011 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.

SOURCE AT&T Inc.

The American Cancer Society is the recipient of a two-million dollar grant from The Walmart Foundation to set up community health advisors in select underserved communities. The grant will provide $300,000 each to increase access to breast cancer screening for African American women in three communities – Jackson, Miss. (Hinds and Madison Counties); Minneapolis, Minn.; and Portsmouth, Va. In addition, 30 communities* across the country will each benefit from $30,000 grants to support existing community health advisor programs for breast and colon cancer screening.  According to the American Cancer Society, more than half of cancer deaths could be prevented if more emphasis were placed on early detection and healthier lifestyles, including maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise, avoiding tobacco, and getting recommended cancer screening tests.

“We are grateful to the Walmart Foundation for its collaboration with the Society, and for this commitment of additional resources to help us deliver on our lifesaving mission within these communities,” said Terry Music, chief mission delivery officer, American Cancer Society. “The Walmart Foundation’s community-based investment will help the Society make a positive impact in these communities by providing resources and information to help people stay well.”

According to the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Facts and Figures (2011), disparities predominantly arise from inequities in work, wealth, income, education, housing, and overall standard of living, as well as social barriers to high-quality cancer prevention, early detection and treatment services. Additionally, persons with lower socioeconomic status are more likely to engage in behaviors that increase cancer risk such as tobacco use, physical inactivity, and poor diet due to environmental or community barriers to opportunities for physical activity and access to fruits and vegetables.

The American Cancer Society has implemented programs across the country to help reduce cancer disparities, including community based initiatives such as the Patient Navigator Program, which helps patients and families through the complex medical system. Since 1999, the Society has funded 117 studies totaling $99 million devoted to the poor and medically underserved, and the Society’s intramural research department focuses resources on community-based interventions and disparities research.

The American Cancer Society combines an unyielding passion with nearly a century of experience to save lives and end suffering from cancer. As a global grassroots force of more than three million volunteers, we fight for every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community. We save lives by helping people stay well by preventing cancer or detecting it early; by helping people get well by being there for them during and after a cancer diagnosis; by finding cures through investment in groundbreaking discovery; and by fighting back by rallying lawmakers to pass laws to defeat cancer and by rallying communities worldwide to join the fight. As the nation’s largest non-governmental investor in cancer research, contributing more than $3.5 billion, we turn what we know about cancer into what we do. As a result, more than 11 million people in America who have had cancer and countless more who have avoided it will be celebrating birthdays this year. To learn more about us or to get help, call us anytime, day or night, at 1-800-227-2345 or visit cancer.org.

*The 30 recipient communities ($30,000 each) are: Pine Bluff, Ark.; Tucson, Ariz.; Eight Counties in California (Los Angeles,Orange, San Diego, Kern, Riverside, San Bernardino, Santa Cruz, and Monterey); Miami, Fla.; Orlando, Fla. (two grants);Tallahassee, Fla.; Tampa, Fla.; Savannah, Ga.; Chicago, Ill.; Eastern Kentucky; Detroit, Mich.; Tribal Communities in Michigan;Camden, N.J.; Newark, N.J.; Cortland, N.Y.; New York City, N.Y.; Charlotte, N.C.; Greenville, N.C.; Winston-Salem, N.C.;Cleveland, Ohio; Harrisburg, Pa.; Philadelphia, Pa.; Charleston, S.C.; Columbia, S.C.; Greenville, S.C.; Houston, Texas;Houston, Texas (Montgomery County); Richmond, Va.; and Seattle, Wash.

SOURCE American Cancer Society

Novelis, the world’s largest producer of rolled aluminum, today announced it will invest approximately $200 million to expand its rolling operations in Oswego, NY, in response to escalating demand for aluminum sheet in the United States. The expansion will result in a capacity increase of 200 kt, five times the company’s North America capacity for producing aluminum sheet for the automotive industry.

Novelis is the world leader in aluminum automotive sheet, with more than 50 percent of the global market share for aluminum sheet used for making structural components and exterior body panels. Novelis aluminum can be found in 117 different vehicle models produced by leading automakers around the globe.

“We are proud to continue building upon our leadership in providing technically innovative aluminum sheet for the global automotive market,” said Philip Martens, President and CEO of Novelis. “As the world’s number one supplier of auto sheet, we are in a unique position to support the growing demand from automakers for the use of lighter weight materials in new vehicle designs. This world class expansion will provide these customers with highly engineered aluminum sheet designed to significantly improve the fuel economy and reduce emissions of new vehicles currently in development, while also reducing the lifecycle carbon footprint of their overall operations.”

Aluminum is the sustainable choice for vehicles because of its recyclability and low weight. Lighter weight vehicles are a major part of the solution to the challenge that auto makers face in reducing emissions and improving fuel economy. Novelis will construct two new high-performance aluminum processing lines for automotive applications. The Oswego facility is an integrated recycling, hot rolling and cold rolling complex producing aluminum sheet for the beverage can, automotive and building construction industries.

The move reinforces Novelis’ sustainability commitment to reduce its carbon footprint as well as those of its customers. Cars made with more aluminum use less fuel and produce less greenhouse gas emissions. Novelis will also make a strong effort to include recycling initiatives into all new sheet contracts.

Novelis expects to hire approximately 100 new employees at Oswego over the next two years leading to start-up of the new equipment in the summer of 2013.

“Job growth and economic development are key to revitalizing New York’s economy and have been a top priority for my administration,” said Governor Andrew Cuomo. “Our goal is to make New York one of the most business friendly states in the nation. I congratulate Novelis on their expansion and applaud them for creating over 100 new jobs for the people of Oswego.”

In addition to incentives from the State of New York and Empire State Development, the County of Oswego Industrial Development Agency is providing additional support.

The global automotive sector is transforming the vehicle manufacturing process to contain larger percentages of aluminum sheet, causing higher demand for the material. To meet new fuel economy standards, North American auto makers are using more aluminum in cars to make them lighter and more fuel efficient without affecting size. New regulations in development by the U.S. Department of Transportation and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency are challenging automakers to boost the fuel economy of their vehicles to around 35.5 miles per gallon by 2016 and reduce emissions.

Fact sheets on Novelis, the company’s work in automotive, the Oswego plant, photos and B roll can be found in the novelis.com media center at http://www.novelis.com/en-us/Pages/Press-Kits.aspx.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements made in this news release describing Novelis’ intentions, expectations or predictions may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of securities laws. Examples of forward-looking statements in this news release include those regarding Novelis’ expectations about the anticipated capacity increase resulting from our investment and the expected completion date of the project.  Novelis cautions that, by their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty. We do not intend, and we disclaim any obligation, to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Important risk factors which could impact outcomes are included under the caption “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended March 31, 2011.

About Novelis

Novelis Inc. is the global leader in aluminum rolled products and aluminum can recycling.  The Company operates in 11 countries, has nearly 11,000 employees and reported revenue of $10.6 billion in fiscal year 2011.  Novelis supplies premium aluminum sheet and foil products to automotive, transportation, packaging, construction, industrial, electronics and printing markets throughout North America, Europe, Asia, and South America.  Novelis is a subsidiary of Hindalco Industries Limited (BSE: HINDALCO), one of Asia’s largest integrated producers of aluminum and a leading copper producer.  Hindalco is a flagship company of the Aditya Birla Group, a multinational conglomerate based in Mumbai, India.  For more information, please visit www.novelis.com.

SOURCE Novelis Inc.

The following is being issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration:

Fast Facts

• The FDA is warning consumers not to eat papayas from Agromod Produce, Inc., a distributor in McAllen, Texas.
• FDA and CDC are investigating 97 reported cases of Salmonella Agona, including 10 hospitalizations, in 23 states related to the consumption of papayas.
• Agromod Produce, Inc. voluntarily recalled the papayas after FDA detected Salmonella matching the outbreak strain.
• The elderly, infants and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to have a severe illness from Salmonellainfection.
• Consumers, retailers and others who have papayas from Agromod Produce, Inc. should discard them in a sealed container so people and animals, including wild animals, cannot eat them.
• FDA and CDC investigations are ongoing.

What is the Problem?

The FDA is taking steps to protect the public following the identification of Salmonella Agona in Agromod Produce, Inc.’s supply of fresh papayas. The FDA is advising consumers not to eat papayas from Agromod Produce, Inc. The company is voluntarily recalling the product. The papayas were imported from Mexico, and may be linked to the reported cases of Salmonella Agona. Recent sampling by the FDA found the outbreak strain in two papaya samples: one collected at the Agromod Produce, Inc. location in McAllen, Texas, and one collected at the U.S. border destined for Agromod Produce, Inc. The shipments that tested positive with the outbreak strain were not distributed in the U.S.

The FDA is working with Agromod Produce, Inc. to determine if previous shipments of potentially contaminated papaya could still be in U.S. commerce.

Agromod Produce, Inc. is voluntarily recalling all papayas sold prior to July 23, 2011.

What are the Symptoms of Illness/Injury?

Most persons infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps 12 to 72 hours after infection. The illness usually lasts four to seven days, and most persons recover without treatment. However, some individuals may require hospitalization from severe diarrhea. Salmonella infection may spread from the intestines to the blood stream and then to other body sites. It can cause death unless the person is treated promptly with antibiotics. The elderly, infants and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to become severely ill from Salmonella infection.

Who is at Risk?

The elderly, infants and those with impaired immune systems are more likely to become severely ill from Salmonella infection. The bacterium can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in these vulnerable populations. Most healthy individuals recover from Salmonella infections within four to seven days without treatment.

What Do Consumers and Healthcare Providers Need To Do?

Consumers should examine fresh papayas for Agromod brand stickers identified below and in the firm’s press release. Consumers who have purchased papayas are also advised to check with the retailer to see if the papayas they purchased are among those affected, or throw the product away. Consumers, retailers and others who have papayas from Agromod Produce, Inc. should throw them away in a sealed container so people and animals, including wild animals, cannot eat them.

Consumers who think they may have become ill from eating possibly contaminated papaya should consult their health care providers.

What Does the Product Look Like?

Agromod Produce, Inc. distributes the four brands of papayas whole and unprocessed: Yaya, Blondie, Mananita and Tastylicious. Receiving retailers or others may have further processed the papaya. It is recommended that consumers check with the retailer to see if any papaya available for purchase was distributed by Agromod Produce, Inc.  Individual papayas at retail stores will bear specific Agromod stickers provided in the link below.

Where is it Distributed?

The products may have been distributed nationwide to wholesalers and retail stores in the U.S. and Canada.

What is Being Done about the Problem?

FDA is investigating the problem in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and public health agencies in those states where illnesses have occurred. The investigation is ongoing.

The FDA is also working with state authorities to take appropriate action to make sure all recalled papaya is out of commerce. FDA is also working with Agromod Produce Inc. and with officials in Mexico to determine how the papayas may have become contaminated.

As part of this investigation, the FDA is taking regulatory action to prevent potentially contaminated papaya from entering the United States, including increasing its sampling of imported papaya. In addition to the two samples that tested positive for the outbreak strain, ten other papaya samples from Mexico have also tested positive with different strains of Salmonella; none of those sampled lots entered the United States.

What is latest information on the Illnesses?

A total of 97 individuals infected with the outbreak strain of Salmonella Agona have been reported from 23 states between January 1 and July 18, 2011. The number of ill persons identified in each state with the outbreak strain is as follows: 

Arkansas (1), Arizona (3), California (7), Colorado (1), Georgia (8), Illinois (17), Louisiana (2), Massachusetts (1), Minnesota (3), Missouri(3), Nebraska (2), Nevada (1), New Jersey (1), New Mexico (3), New York (6), Ohio (1), Oklahoma (1), Pennsylvania (1),Tennessee (1), Texas (25), Virginia (2), Washington (5), and Wisconsin (2)

The CDC and the FDA are collaborating with public health officials in many states to investigate a multistate outbreak ofSalmonella Agona infections. Public health investigators are using DNA analysis of Salmonella bacteria obtained through diagnostic testing to identify cases of illness that may be part of this outbreak.

Among persons for whom information is available, illnesses began on or after January 17, 2011. Ill persons range in age from less than 1 year old to 91 years old, and the median age is 20 years old. Forty-one percent of patients are younger than 5 years old. Sixty-three percent are female. Ten patients were hospitalized. No deaths have been reported. For persons who have been interviewed, 57% report consuming papaya. Epidemiologic, laboratory and traceback information identifies papayas fromMexico imported through Agromod Produce, Inc. as a likely source of infection.

Who Should be Contacted?

Consumers with questions about the recalled papayas should call Agromod Produce, Inc. at (800) 385-7658.

Consumers with questions about produce safety should contact 1-800-SAFEFOOD.

The information in this press release reflects the FDA’s best efforts to communicate what it has learned from the manufacturer and the state and local public health agencies involved in the investigation. The agency will update this page as more information becomes available.

If New Orleans isn’t exactly top of mind when it comes to places for great family vacations, it’s time to think again!

There is so much fun for families in the Big Easy, and some of these activities are new this summer.

For example, guests this summer are loving Audubon Aquarium’s Parakeet Point — set against the backdrop of the Mississippi River right at the foot of world-famous Canal Street, where hundreds of parakeets flock and fly and interact with guests. Visitors are invited to purchase a feed stick for a dollar and feed these personable birds. There are 800 birds in the exhibit, which opened to rave reviews this past spring.

At Audubon Zoo, just a streetcar ride away through the gorgeous Garden District and Uptown, Cool Zoo is a new splash park giving visitors a wet and refreshing way to experience one of the nation’s most beautiful zoos while still beating the New Orleans summer heat. Guests climb a two-story white alligator water slide or skip around dancing fountains. Those preferring to stay dry sit on the sidelines with a cool drink and a snack. A special toddler area keeps the little ones entertained with gentle water play. Once guests have had enough of the splash park, they are invited to explore the rest of this world-class zoo. And then go right back into Cool Zoo if they wish!

Audubon Insectarium on Canal Street is a lively new museum in town, and includes a dazzling butterfly garden showcased in one of the city’s most historic buildings. With super-size graphics and a friendly staff specializing in entertaining visitor interaction, the Insectarium is a unique experience that everyone will be talking about for a long time.

It’s definitely not Bourbon Street, and these new attractions make New Orleans a top spot for an active and exciting family vacation for both parents and kids.

With an exceptionally slim and stylish design, Sony’s new DSC-TX55 Cyber-shot camera makes it easy to capture any moment with high-quality still photos, full high-definition video and amazing 3D images, providing consumers with the ultimate in creative control of their photos and videos.

The DSC-TX55 camera features a range of innovative new technologies, including ‘By Pixel Super Resolution’ technology, which boosts the camera’s zoom range to a virtual 10x without losing quality at the image sensor’s maximum resolution (16.2 million pixels). The new model is also the first Cyber-shot camera to offer a ‘Picture Effect’ mode, which expands a shooter’s artistic possibilities without the need for editing software.

“Our new DSC-TX55 model redefines what a compact camera can do,” said Yosuke Tomoda, director of Sony Electronics’ Cyber-shot business. “In addition to the newly developed, ultra-thin chassis design, the camera features an incredible combination of features and performance, putting more creativity at users’ fingertips than ever before.”

The TX55 boasts a 16.2 megapixel, highly sensitive Exmor R™ CMOS sensor that delivers incredible image detail and ultra-low picture noise in both still images and Full HD video – even in low light conditions. Also the camera’s hi-speed auto focus can lock onto subject in as little as 0.1 seconds, letting users grab the most fleeting photo moments with ease.

16 Mega-pixel CMOS Sensor with Clear Image Zoom

Just 12.2mm slim (measurement excludes lens cover), which is smaller than the thickness of a standard AA-size battery, the Cyber-shot TX55 is the world’s thinnest camera in its class (among cameras with an optical anti-shake function). The new model captures Full HD AVCHD video clips as well as 16.2 megapixel still images through its innovative and exceptionally thin 5x optical folded zoom lens.

It introduces brand-new ‘Clear Image Zoom’ that boosts magnification without lowering the pixel count in the final image. Exclusive to Sony, ‘By Pixel Super Resolution’ processing further extends the camera’s 5x optical zoom range, allowing full-resolution 16.2 megapixel images with a maximum 10x zoom.

‘By Pixel Super Resolution’ technology also significantly boosts still image quality during movie recording. At a touch of the shutter button, ‘Dual Rec’ grabs detail-packed 12 megapixel-level still photos without interrupting Full HD video shooting.

Further, the camera’s back panel is dominated by a super-sized 3.3-inch (8.3cm) Xtra Fine™ OLED wide touch-screen, perfect for showing off photos and movie clips with incredible detail.

Enhanced Creativity and Functionality

The innovative Picture Effect mode broadens the range of artistic options with an exciting palette of in-camera image treatments. Effects can be viewed on the camera screen, allowing users to see the result of a chosen effect instantly rather than during the post-shooting experience.

The full list of seven Picture Effect options includes HDR Painting, Rich-tone Monochrome, Miniature, Toy Camera, Partial Color, Pop Color and Soft High-key.

Newly enhanced with additional electronic image stabilization for vertical and horizontal handshake correction, SteadyShot® image stabilization with Active Mode compensates for handheld camera movements during Full HD video shooting. Users can enjoy crisp, blur-free movie clips at all zoom settings, even when holding the camera while walking.

Great Results Made Easy

The new DSC-TX55 camera makes it simple for users to easily achieve DSLR-like picture quality. Superior Auto mode recognizes a wide range of shooting situations, adjusting exposure and other settings for high-quality images with low noise and high dynamic range.

Intelligent Sweep Panorama mode also features HR (High Resolution) mode, letting users capture breath-taking up to 42.9 megapixel panoramas. Just sweep the camera, then enjoy the results on a connected HD TV, or zoom in using a PlayStation®3 system to reveal the finest details.

3D Still Image captures dramatic 3D photos without the need for a large, bulky stereoscopic lens. With a single shutter press, the camera takes two shots consecutively, using the first image to estimate depth information to create a dramatic three-dimensional still image. Other 3D shooting options include 3D Sweep Panorama mode and Sweep Multi Angle.

Enabling its incredible slimness, the new TX55 camera includes a slot to accept Memory Stick Micro™ (Mark2) and microSD/SDHC flash memory cards. Sony offers a choice of ultra-compact, high quality media in capacities up to 16GB, with Memory Stick Micro™ being enhanced to achieve data transfer speed of up to 15MB/s (fastest among micro memory cards) by carrying the same high performance HX Engine controller used on Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo to fully support the new camera’s features such as 3D and full HD video shooting. All cards come with free PC software (available via download), File Rescue for quick, easy recovery of deleted or damaged photos and files, and x-Pict Story™ for Memory card that simplifies creation of dazzling slideshows.

Pricing and Availability

The new Sony Cyber-shot™ TX55 camera will be available for about $350 this September at Sony stores, www.sonystyle.comand other authorized retailers throughout the Sony Dealer Network.

The range of Sony Memory Stick Micro™ and MicroSD/SDHC media cards are available now throughout the Sony dealer network and along with an expanded range of coordinating accessories – including the colorful new LCJ-THF camera cover, AC-UD10 AC adaptor and BC-TRN2 fast battery charger.

Microscopes use a combination of light and special lenses to allow you to see tiny particles, bacteria and cells. Students often first discover the microscopic world that the naked eye can’t see through a simple light microscope at school or purchased for them as a gift. Hobby or professional researchers and scientists need equipment with top quality lenses and great zooming capabilities. Whether you want to purchase a simple beginner’s microscope or a piece of important lab equipment, you need to read the information gathered for you on the Best Microscope website. Making an uninformed purchase will cost you hundreds or even possibly thousands of dollars on a microscope that doesn’t meet your needs.

The Best Microscope website collects the most pertinent information about a variety of microscope models ranging from simple toys for children to the best microscopes on the market. This information includes the lenses used and their ability to magnify the smallest details, as well as what type of illumination the piece uses. LED lighting is usually the best choice for microscope lighting because the bulbs produce plenty of illumination without heat and last longer without replacement. However, some models use inferior LED lights that aren’t worth the high price that manufacturers ask.

Best Microscope will educate you on the importance of each feature if you’re unsure of what you need, or clearly describe the quality of the features on professional models. With the help of the website you’ll be able to determine if you should spend extra for LCD displays and electronic controls. The most basic microscopes only offer a single eyepiece for viewing, but Best Microscopes will explain why a stereo eyepiece is preferable even for children exploring the world of science.

For more information, please visit http://www.best-microscope.com.

On the heels of a new name, a revamped web site and a significant market expansion,  Savored, the web’s leading service for accessing insider pricing at premier restaurants nationwide, announces today a partnership with  OpenTable, Inc. (NASDAQ: OPEN) to provide Savored 30% Off Deals on OpenTable.com.  The Savored program debuts today on the San Francisco Bay Area homepage of OpenTable and will expand to other U.S. markets over time.

The extension of Savored dining offers to the OpenTable network, which seats more than 7 million diners each month, is designed to help fill more restaurant tables that would otherwise go empty and to streamline operations by integrating with the OpenTable Electronic Reservation Book at the host stands of participating restaurants.  The Savored offers provide diners with 30 percent off the price of their entire meal at premier restaurants on select dates and times in exchange for a $10 reservation fee.

“By partnering with OpenTable, we will be able to provide our marquee restaurant partners across the country with additional exposure to and seamless redemption from diners,” says Ben McKean, Chief Executive Officer of Savored. “We are excited to further develop our service with OpenTable and to continue delivering value to both our restaurant partners and our diners, who look to discover the best restaurants across the country.”

“Savored dining deals complement our existing offers programs, including Spotlight and 1,000-point tables, by providing compelling promotions in association with specific dates and times – a great value for diners and a powerful tool for restaurants to grow their businesses profitably,” said Matt Roberts, Chief Executive Officer of OpenTable.  “Savored has a broad selection of great restaurants offering an appealing promotion, and we believe that by working together we can enhance the experience and benefits for both restaurateurs and diners.”

OpenTable diners can access the new offers program by visiting the Deals and Local Events section on the San Francisco Bay Area section of OpenTable.com.  From there, diners can quickly see a list of all restaurants participating in 30% Off Deals and then find and book qualifying reservations.   For a table of four OpenTable diners with an average estimated dining check totaling $170, 30% off translates into a savings of more than $40 after accounting for the $10 reservation fee.

Once the diner makes a reservation, that reservation is automatically flagged in the restaurant’s OpenTable Electronic Reservation Book as a Savored offer booked via OpenTable so that Savored’s commitment to discretion is maintained: diners don’t need to print and present paper coupons or certificates to redeem their deals.

“Our partnership with Savored has allowed us to increase our reservations at times when tables may have otherwise gone unseated,” says Jon Sloane, manager of Mountain View’s Michelin recognized Chez TJ. “It’s important that we always have total control over the amount of tables we discount, so the combined effort of Savored’s business model coordinated with the ability to utilize our OpenTable Electronic Reservation Book for redemption is truly the perfect match for offering diners premium dining experiences.”

Savored currently serves Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Washington D.C. with over 500 high-end restaurant partners.

About Savored

Savored is a members-only service offering insider pricing of 30% off all food and drink at leading restaurants in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Washington, D.C. With Savored, members access a curated selection of restaurants, book reservations online and enjoy 30% discounts discreetly applied to their final bill. The company’s mission is to help members enjoy unforgettable dining experiences. For more information, visit  Savored.com.

About OpenTable, Inc.

OpenTable is a leading provider of free, real-time online restaurant reservations for diners and reservation and guest management solutions for restaurants. The OpenTable network delivers the convenience of online restaurant reservations to diners and the operational benefits of a computerized reservation book to restaurants. OpenTable has more than 20,000 restaurant customers, and, since its inception in 1998, has seated more than 200 million diners around the world.  The Company is headquartered in San Francisco, California, and the OpenTable service is available throughout the United States, as well as in Canada, Germany, Japan, Mexico, and the United Kingdom. OpenTable also owns and operates  toptable.com, a leading restaurant reservation site in the United Kingdom.

Anticipation in the consumer electronics world is soaring for the launch of Apple’s iPhone 5, which is rumored to be hitting store shelves this fall. PriceGrabber®, a part of Experian, just released the results of its iPhone 5 survey, revealing that 35 percent of consumers plan to purchase the latest iPhone upon its release. Of these respondents, 51 percent indicated that they will buy the smartphone within the first year of release, 30 percent will purchase it before the end of 2011, 14 percent will buy it within the first month, and 7 percent will buy it within the first week. Conducted from July 1–11, 2011, the survey includes responses from 2,852 U.S. online consumers.

Consumers are hoping for an improved battery life and reduced cost

When it comes to the new features shoppers deem most important in their decision to purchase the iPhone 5, practicality seems to reign. When respondents were asked to select new iPhone 5 features most important when considering a purchase, 59 percent indicated a better battery life, and 55 percent are looking for cost reduction. Forty-six percent said that 4G network compatibility was important to them, 45 percent are hoping for a larger screen, and 42 percent would like an improved camera.

“Our survey data confirms the strong following Apple has built around its iPhone, with more than one-third of consumers planning to upgrade to the latest model only a little over a year following the release of the iPhone 4,” stated Graham Jones, general manager of PriceGrabber. “Anticipation and brand loyalty are certainly high, but in today’s 24-7 work culture and uncertain economic environment, consumers are cautious to look for a reasonably priced phone that will perform optimally over an extended time period.”

Apple iOS leads the pack for smartphone operating systems

Consumers’ love for Apple products is clear. When asked which smartphone operating system they prefer, an overwhelming 48 percent of PriceGrabber survey respondents said Apple iOS. Nineteen percent of respondents indicated that they prefer Android OS, 7 percent said Microsoft Windows, and 6 percent chose RIM BlackBerry.

Respondents also were asked which smartphone they would prefer to receive as a gift. An astonishing 69 percent of consumers indicated that they would most like to receive Apple’s iPhone 5. Seven percent said they would like to receive Motorola’s upcoming Droid Bionic, 4 percent would prefer to get the Samsung Galaxy S II, and 3 percent said the BlackBerry Curve.

Smartphone use goes back to the basics

These days, smartphones’ abilities are practically limitless, and app marketplaces are full of solutions to enhance everyday life. However, according to PriceGrabber’s survey data, smartphones’ simplest features remain the most popular. When asked what they generally use their smartphone for, 88 percent of respondents said phone calls, 77 said email, 73 percent indicated texting, 69 percent use it to browse the Internet, 51 percent said searching, and 50 percent use the phone’s Global Positioning System.

Consumers use smartphones as an aid while shopping in brick-and-mortar stores

Even in our largely virtual world, the thrill of shopping in a real brick-and-mortar store has not died. PriceGrabber’s survey data found that 36 percent of consumers said they use their smartphone for shopping. When these respondents were asked to select all the ways in which they use their smartphones for shopping, 48 percent said they compare prices online when shopping in a store; 35 percent use it to scan product bar codes to find the best price; 29 percent use localization features to find nearby products; and 28 percent like to receive coupons, deals and alerts while on the go.

When asked how often they make shopping-related purchases on their phone, 22 percent of respondents said a couple of times a month, 16 percent said a few times a year, and 12 percent said one or more times per week.

“Mobile shopping has truly emerged as a trend among savvy consumers, and what positions it for long-term success is the fact that consumers can use their smartphones as an enhancement to the shopping they already do in brick-and-mortar stores,” said Jones. “Analysis of our survey data shows that shoppers are not just sitting behind a computer doing their shopping from home; they are engaging with and leveraging the technology of their smartphones to take advantage of what their local retailers have to offer, which is certainly a promising prospect for the Main Street economy.”

About PriceGrabber.com®

PriceGrabber, a part of Experian, is a leading online shopping site with more than 23 million unique shoppers monthly. At PriceGrabber, savvy shoppers can instantly find and compare millions of unique products and services across 25 categories with more than 11,000 merchants. Compare products side by side to find the right retailers at the best prices within popular categories, such as Digital Cameras, Electronics, Computers, Clothing, Books, TVs and more. PriceGrabber provides shoppers with the right product from the right merchant at the best price anytime, anywhere. Visit us at http://www.pricegrabber.com.

About Experian

Experian® is the leading global information services company, providing data and analytical tools to clients in more than 80 countries. The company helps businesses to manage credit risk, prevent fraud, target marketing offers and automate decision making. Experian also helps individuals to check their credit report and credit score, and protect against identity theft.

Experian plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange (EXPN) and is a constituent of the FTSE 100 index. Total revenue for the year ended 31 March 2011 was US$4.2 billion. Experian employs approximately 15,000 people in 41 countries and has its corporate headquarters in Dublin, Ireland, with operational headquarters in Nottingham, UK; California, US; and Sao Paulo, Brazil.

For more information, visit http://www.experianplc.com.

CBS Corporation (NYSE: CBS.A and CBS) and Amazon.com (NASDAQ: AMZN) today announced a non-exclusive licensing agreement that will enable Amazon customers to stream television shows from CBS’s vast library.  Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Amazon Prime customers will be able to instantly watch thousands of episodes from the CBS library at no additional cost to their membership.  With the deal, Amazon will add 2,000 episodes to grow the total number of Prime instant videos to more than 8,000 movies and television shows, and offer full seasons for 18 popular television series, including “The Tudors,” “Numb3rs,” “Medium,” the complete “Star Trek” franchise, “Frasier” and “Cheers.”  Starting this summer, dozens of CBS shows will also become available to Amazon Instant Video customers.

“Our new deal with CBS makes Amazon Prime even better for customers,” said Jeff Bezos, Amazon.com CEO.  ”We’re excited to add thousands of popular CBS programs to our already great selection, all of which stream at no additional cost to Amazon Prime members.”

“Amazon has created one of the most popular consumer marketplaces in the world, and we are very pleased to make these titles available to their Instant Video and Prime customers,” said Leslie Moonves, President and Chief Executive Officer, CBS Corporation.  ”This new agreement represents another meaningful way for us to realize incremental value for CBS’s content.”

Amazon Instant Video is a streaming video service that offers customers more than 90,000 movies and television shows available to purchase or rent, and with this CBS content included, will offer more than 6,000 movies and television shows included at no additional cost with an Amazon Prime membership.  Customers can instantly watch movies and television shows from Amazon on a Mac, PC or directly on television with any of the 300 compatible devices.

About CBS Corporation

CBS Corporation is a mass media company with constituent parts that reach back to the beginnings of the broadcast industry, as well as newer businesses that operate on the leading edge of the media industry.  The Company, through its many and varied operations, combines broad reach with well-positioned local businesses, all of which provide it with an extensive distribution network by which it serves audiences and advertisers in all 50 states and key international markets.  It has operations in virtually every field of media and entertainment, including broadcast television (CBS and The CW – a joint venture between CBS Corporation and Warner Bros. Entertainment), cable television (Showtime Networks, Smithsonian Networks and CBS College Sports Network), local television (CBS Television Stations), television production and syndication (CBS Television Studios, CBS Studios International and CBS Television Distribution), radio (CBS Radio), advertising on out-of-home media (CBS Outdoor), publishing (Simon & Schuster), interactive media (CBS Interactive), music (CBS Records), licensing and merchandising (CBS Consumer Products), video/DVD (CBS Home Entertainment), motion pictures (CBS Films) and sustainable media (EcoMedia). For more information, please visit www.cbscorporation.com.

About Amazon.com

Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, opened on the World Wide Web in July 1995 and today offers Earth’s Biggest Selection.  Amazon.com, Inc. seeks to be Earth’s most customer-centric company, where customers can find and discover anything they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices.  Amazon.com and other sellers offer millions of unique new, refurbished and used items in categories such as Books; Movies, Music & Games; Digital Downloads; Electronics & Computers; Home & Garden; Toys, Kids & Baby; Grocery; Apparel, Shoes & Jewelry; Health & Beauty; Sports & Outdoors; and Tools, Auto & Industrial.  Amazon Web Services provides Amazon’s developer customers with access to in-the-cloud infrastructure services based on Amazon’s own back-end technology platform, which developers can use to enable virtually any type of business.  Kindle, Kindle 3G, Kindle with Special Offers, Kindle 3G with Special Offers and Kindle DX are the revolutionary portable readers that wirelessly download books, magazines, newspapers, blogs and personal documents to a crisp, high-resolution electronic ink display that looks and reads like real paper.  Kindle 3G, Kindle 3G with Special Offers and Kindle DX utilize the same 3G wireless technology as advanced cell phones, so users never need to hunt for a Wi-Fi hotspot.  Kindle is the #1 bestselling product across the millions of items sold on Amazon.

Amazon and its affiliates operate Web sites, including www.amazon.com, www.amazon.co.uk, www.amazon.de, www.amazon.co.jp, www.amazon.fr, www.amazon.ca, www.amazon.cn, and www.amazon.it.  As used herein, “Amazon.com,” “we,” “our” and similar terms include Amazon.com, Inc., and its subsidiaries, unless the context indicates otherwise.

Forward-Looking Statements

This announcement 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.  Actual results may differ significantly from management’s expectations. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that include, among others, risks related to competition, management of growth, new products, services and technologies, potential fluctuations in operating results, international expansion, outcomes of legal proceedings and claims, fulfillment center optimization, seasonality, commercial agreements, acquisitions and strategic transactions, foreign exchange rates, system interruption, inventory, government regulation and taxation, payments and fraud.  More information about factors that potentially could affect Amazon.com’s financial results is included in Amazon.com’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent filings.