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Increased vaccination could save more than 8 million children by 2020; significant funding gaps remain, others must join effort

DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Bill and Melinda Gates announced today that their foundation will commit $10 billion over the next 10 years to help research, develop and deliver vaccines for the world’s poorest countries.

The Gateses said that increased investment in vaccines by governments and the private sector could help developing countries dramatically reduce child mortality by the end of the decade, and they called for others to help fill critical financing gaps in both research funding and childhood immunization programs.

“We must make this the decade of vaccines,” said Bill Gates. “Vaccines already save and improve millions of lives in developing countries. Innovation will make it possible to save more children than ever before.”

Bill and Melinda Gates made their announcement at the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting, where they were joined by Julian Lob-Levyt, CEO of the GAVI Alliance.

“Vaccines are a miracle — with just a few doses, they can prevent deadly diseases for a lifetime,” said Melinda Gates. “We’ve made vaccines our number-one priority at the Gates Foundation because we’ve seen firsthand their incredible impact on children’s lives.”

The foundation used a model developed by a consortium led by the Institute of International Programs at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health to project the potential impact of vaccines on childhood deaths over the next 10 years.

By significantly scaling up the delivery of life-saving vaccines in developing countries to 90 percent coverage — including new vaccines to prevent severe diarrhea and pneumonia — the model suggests that we could prevent the deaths of some 7.6 million children under 5 from 2010-2019. The foundation also estimates that an additional 1.1 million children could be saved with the rapid introduction of a malaria vaccine beginning in 2014, bringing the total number of potential lives saved to 8.7 million.

If additional vaccines are developed and introduced in this decade — such as for tuberculosis — even more lives could be saved.

The new funding announced today is in addition to the $4.5 billion that the Gates Foundation has already committed to vaccine research, development and delivery to date across its entire disease portfolio since its inception.

Public-Private Partnerships Drive Progress in Vaccine Development, Delivery

Bill and Melinda Gates said their pledge was inspired by the remarkable progress made on vaccines in recent years. For example:

* Record-breaking vaccine access: New WHO data show that global vaccination rates have reached all-time highs, rebounding from years of decline in the 1990s. Between 2000 and 2009, the percentage of children receiving the basic DTP3 vaccine in the poorest countries of the world jumped from 66 percent to 79 percent, the highest on record. The number of people who died of measles worldwide fell by 77 percent between 2000 and 2008, and in Africa, measles deaths fell by 92 percent.
* Improved routine immunization: Partnerships focused on reducing diseases like polio and measles are also helping build a stronger foundation for the delivery of both new and existing vaccines. Trained health workers, proper cold chain function, and surveillance are all necessary to ensure vaccines reach every child who needs them.
* New vaccine introduction: Important new vaccines for the two leading causes of global child deaths — severe diarrhea and pneumonia — are becoming available. Research published this week in The New England Journal of Medicine shows that introducing a rotavirus vaccine in South Africa and Malawi reduced severe diarrhea caused by the virus by more than 60 percent.
* R&D momentum: The vaccine research and development pipeline is more robust than ever. Late-stage trials have begun on a promising vaccine to protect children from malaria, and a new vaccine to prevent meningitis outbreaks in Africa is likely to be introduced this year.

Many of the recent advances in vaccine development and delivery have been driven by public-private partnerships such as the GAVI Alliance and the Rotavirus Vaccine Program at PATH, which coordinate the resources and expertise of vaccine companies, donors, UNICEF, WHO, the World Bank, and developing countries. Mr. Gates said these partnerships are “transforming the business of vaccines.”

The GAVI Alliance — launched at the World Economic Forum 10 years ago this week — has reached 257 million additional children with new and underused vaccines, and prevented 5 million future deaths. In the coming years, GAVI will focus on rapidly introducing vaccines to tackle diarrhea and pneumonia.

“Investments in global immunization have yielded an extraordinary return,” said Julian Lob-Levyt. “The GAVI Alliance was founded just 10 years ago and has already saved 5 million lives by increasing access to immunization in the world’s poorest countries. The potential to make bigger strides in the coming decade is even more exciting.”

Increased Commitments Critical to Future Success

Today’s commitment will support a broad spectrum of vaccine-related activities, from basic research to innovations in delivery. However, billions more are needed from other donors to achieve the goal of 90 percent coverage of childhood immunization. Critical funding gaps exist at GAVI and in the global polio and measles programs, and more support is needed for the research and development necessary to produce new vaccines.

Speakers at the press conference underscored the need for major new funding from donors, governments and the private sector to:

* Rapidly scale immunization programs in order to reach all those in need
* Conduct the laboratory research and clinical trials needed to create new vaccines
* Introduce life-saving new vaccines for pneumonia and severe diarrhea, as well as other promising vaccines currently in the development pipeline
* Ensure a steady market for vaccines in developing countries, and an adequate supply from manufacturers

Commenting on the announcement, WHO Director-General Margaret Chan said, “The Gates Foundation’s commitment to vaccines is unprecedented, but just a small part of what is needed. It’s absolutely crucial that both governments and the private sector step up efforts to provide life-saving vaccines to children who need them most.”

Guided by the belief that every life has equal value, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation works to help all people lead healthy, productive lives. In developing countries, it focuses on improving people’s health and giving them the chance to lift themselves out of hunger and extreme poverty. In the United States, it seeks to ensure that all people, especially those with the fewest resources, have access to the opportunities they need to succeed in school and life. Based in Seattle, Washington, the foundation is led by CEO Jeff Raikes and Co-chair William H. Gates Sr., under the direction of Bill and Melinda Gates and Warren Buffett.

NOTE TO EDITORS:

Live webcast and replay will be available at http://www.livestream.com/worldeconomicforum

Video replay will be also be available at http://www.livestream.com/worldeconomicforum/videos

Multimedia: To access various video clips, B-roll, still photos and other available resources, you may go to the foundation’s Newsmarket link http://www.gatesfoundation.org/press-room/Pages/news-market.aspx and click on “multimedia presspacks.”

SOURCE Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

A Magical & Revolutionary Device at an Unbelievable Price

SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Apple® today introduced iPad, a revolutionary device for browsing the web, reading and sending email, enjoying photos, watching videos, listening to music, playing games, reading e-books and much more. iPad’s responsive high-resolution Multi-Touch™ display lets users physically interact with applications and content. iPad is just 0.5 inches thick and weighs just 1.5 pounds— thinner and lighter than any laptop or netbook. iPad includes 12 new innovative apps designed especially for the iPad, and will run almost all of the over 140,000 apps in the App Store. iPad will be available in late March starting at the breakthrough price of just $499.

“iPad is our most advanced technology in a magical and revolutionary device at an unbelievable price,” said Steve Jobs, Apple’s CEO. “iPad creates and defines an entirely new category of devices that will connect users with their apps and content in a much more intimate, intuitive and fun way than ever before.”

iPad features 12 next-generation Multi-Touch applications. Every app works in both portrait and landscape, automatically animating between views as the user rotates iPad in any direction. The precise Multi-Touch interface makes surfing the web on iPad an entirely new experience, dramatically more interactive and intimate than on a computer. Reading and sending email is fun and easy on iPad’s large screen and almost full-size “soft” keyboard. Import photos from a Mac®, PC or digital camera, see them organized as albums, and enjoy and share them using iPad’s elegant slideshows. Watch movies, TV shows and YouTube, all in HD or flip through pages of an e-book you downloaded from Apple’s new iBookstore while listening to your music collection.

iPad runs almost all of the over 140,000 apps on the App Store, including apps already purchased for your iPhone® or iPod touch®. The iTunes® Store gives you access to the world’s most popular online music, TV and movie store with a catalog of over 11 million songs, over 50,000 TV episodes and over 8,000 films including over 2,000 in stunning high definition video. Apple also announced the new iBooks app for iPad, which includes Apple’s new iBookstore, the best way to browse, buy and read books on a mobile device. The iBookstore will feature books from major and independent publishers.

Apple also introduced a new version of iWork® for iPad, the first desktop-class productivity suite designed specifically for Multi-Touch. With Pages®, Keynote® and Numbers® you can create beautifully formatted documents, stunning presentations with animations and transitions, and spreadsheets with charts, functions and formulas. The three apps will be available separately through the App Store for $9.99 each.

iPad syncs with iTunes just like the iPhone and iPod touch, using the standard Apple 30-pin to USB cable, so you can sync all of your contacts, photos, music, movies, TV shows, applications and more from your Mac or PC. All the apps and content you download on iPad from the App Store, iTunes Store and iBookstore will be automatically synced to your iTunes library the next time you connect with your computer.

iPad’s brilliant 9.7-inch, LED-backlit display features IPS technology to deliver crisp, clear images and consistent color with an ultra-wide 178 degree viewing angle. The highly precise, capacitive Multi-Touch display is amazingly accurate and responsive whether scrolling web pages or playing games. The intelligent soft keyboard pioneered on iPhone takes advantage of iPad’s larger display to offer an almost full-size soft keyboard. iPad also connects to the new iPad Keyboard Dock with a full-size traditional keyboard.

iPad is powered by A4, Apple’s next-generation system-on-a-chip. Designed by Apple, the new A4 chip provides exceptional processor and graphics performance along with long battery life of up to 10 hours.* Apple’s advanced chemistry and Adaptive Charging technology deliver up to 1,000 charge cycles without a significant decrease in battery capacity over a typical five year lifespan.**

iPad comes in two versions—one with Wi-Fi and the other with both Wi-Fi and 3G. iPad includes the latest 802.11n Wi-Fi, and the 3G versions support speeds up to 7.2 Mbps on HSDPA networks. Apple and AT&T announced breakthrough 3G pre-paid data plans for iPad with easy, on-device activation and management.

Continuing Apple’s dedication to designing and creating environmentally responsible products, each iPad enclosure is made of highly recyclable aluminum and comes standard with energy-efficient LED-backlit displays that are mercury-free and made with arsenic-free glass. iPad contains no brominated flame retardants and is completely PVC-free.

Apple today released a new Software Development Kit (SDK) for iPad, so developers can create amazing new applications designed to take advantage of iPad’s capabilities. The SDK includes a simulator that lets developers test and debug their iPad apps on a Mac, and also lets developers create Universal Applications that run on iPad, iPhone and iPod touch.

Pricing & Availability

iPad will be available in late March worldwide for a suggested retail price of $499 (US) for the 16GB model, $599 (US) for the 32GB model, $699 (US) for the 64GB model. The Wi-Fi + 3G models of iPad will be available in April in the US and selected countries for a suggested retail price of $629 (US) for the 16GB model, $729 (US) for the 32GB model and $829 (US) for the 64GB model. iPad will be sold in the US through the Apple Store® (www.apple.com), Apple’s retail stores and select Apple Authorized Resellers. International pricing and worldwide availability will be announced at a later date. iBookstore will be available in the US at launch.

*Apple tested wireless battery life by browsing web pages and receiving email over an AirPort® network, never letting the system go to sleep during the test, and keeping the display at half brightness. This is a typical scenario of use on the go, resulting in a battery performance number that is very relevant to mobile users.

**A properly maintained iPad battery is designed to retain 80 percent or more of its original capacity during a lifespan of up to 1,000 recharge cycles. Battery life and charge cycles vary by use and settings.

Apple ignited the personal computer revolution in the 1970s with the Apple II and reinvented the personal computer in the 1980s with the Macintosh. Today, Apple continues to lead the industry in innovation with its award-winning computers, OS X operating system and iLife and professional applications. Apple is also spearheading the digital media revolution with its iPod portable music and video players and iTunes online store, and has entered the mobile phone market with its revolutionary iPhone.

© 2010 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. Apple, the Apple logo, Mac, Mac OS, Macintosh, iPhone, iPod touch, iTunes, iWork, Pages, Keynote, Numbers, Apple Store and AirPort are trademarks of Apple. Other company and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

SOURCE Apple

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WASHINGTON, Jan. 26 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Bacardi Limited, the largest privately held spirits company in the world, has generously donated $50,000 to help relieve the suffering of thousands of survivors of the devastating 7.0 earthquake in Haiti, the Pan American Development Foundation (PADF) announced.

“Bacardi has consistently shown its compassion during natural disasters, and we applaud its support of PADF’s emergency relief work in Haiti,” says John Sanbrailo, PADF’s Executive Director. “One hundred percent of Bacardi’s donation will go to the earthquake relief.”

Bacardi’s donation will be used for emergency shelter, medicine, water, food and hygiene kits, with an emphasis on Port-au-Prince and the Southeast province’s city of Jacmel.

“We need to get help to the Haitian people as quickly as possible. The Bacardi family, Company and employees are deeply saddened by the devastation and horrific loss caused by the earthquake in Haiti. We hope this donation will help alleviate some of the suffering they are experiencing,” said Facundo L. Bacardi, chairman of Bacardi Limited.

In addition to the donation to PADF, various country companies within the Bacardi family of companies have organized Haiti relief collection events at their facilities.

PADF, along with the Organization of American States (OAS) and Hollywood Unites for Haiti (HUFH), are collaborating in the promotion of the crisis and distribution of supplies. PADF has worked in Haiti for nearly 30 years.

In addition to Haiti’s earthquake, Bacardi Limited has a long history providing much-needed assistance during catastrophic natural disasters. It has helped in Southeast Asia (tsunami), China (earthquake), and in the United States (Hurricane Katrina). In 2008, it partnered with PADF in supplying emergency relief in Cuba following Hurricanes and tropical storms of Fay, Gustav, Hanna and Ike.

Bacardi Limited encourages donations from companies and individuals to aid the Haitian people through PADF at www.PanAmericanRelief.org, its toll free number (877) 572-4484 or by texting HEAL to 50555.

About Bacardi Limited

Bacardi Limited, the largest privately held spirits company in the world, produces and markets a variety of internationally recognized spirits. The Bacardi brand portfolio consists of more than 200 brands and labels, including: BACARDI® rum, the world’s favorite and best-selling premium rum, as well as the world’s most awarded rum; GREY GOOSE® vodka, the world-leader in super-premium vodka; DEWAR’S® Scotch whisky, the number-one selling blended Scotch whisky in the United States; BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin, the top-valued premium gin in the world; CAZADORES® blue agave tequila, the top-selling premium tequila worldwide; MARTINI® vermouth, the world-leader in vermouth; and other leading brands. It was founded in Santiago de Cuba, February 4, 1862. For more information, visit www.BacardiLimited.com.

About HUFH

Hollywood Unites For Haiti is a non-profit charitable aid organization based in Los Angeles that puts 100 percent of its donations directly into the cause of helping Haitian citizens and raising global awareness of ways in which people can help. For more information, please visit www.hufh.org and www.HaitianHero.com.

About the OAS

The Organization of American States (OAS) is the world’s oldest regional organization, dating back to the First International Conference of American States, which was held in Washington, D.C., from October 1889 to April 1890. Today, it is comprised of 34 countries from Latin America and the Caribbean. For additional information, please visit www.oas.org.

About PADF

PADF is a non-profit organization established in 1962 to promote, facilitate, and implement social and economic development in Latin America and the Caribbean. In the past year, it had more than 5.6 million beneficiaries in 18 countries. PADF has worked in Haiti for almost 30 years.

PADF is one of the largest non-governmental organizations in Haiti. With nearly three decades of work on the ground, PADF now manages a large portfolio of activities ranging from community-driven development to protecting human rights.

Its headquarters is in Washington, D.C., and has field offices in Haiti, Colombia, the Dominican Republic and elsewhere. For more information, please visit www.padf.org.

SOURCE Pan American Development Foundation

GM commits to paying back US and Canadian government loans by June

DETROIT, Jan. 25 /PRNewswire/ — Edward E. Whitacre, Jr., has agreed to continue as chairman and CEO of General Motors, it was announced today.

Speaking at a press conference at GM’s headquarters, Whitacre also expressed the GM board’s commitment that the company will pay back in full the U.S. Treasury and the Canadian and Ontario government loans by June.

Whitacre’s appointment reflects GM’s progress since the new company was formed last summer. “The board of directors asked if I would be willing to stay on at GM and help continue the company’s road back to success,” Whitacre said. “Having spent the past few months learning the business, meeting with our employees, customers and dealers, and working with the GM leadership team, I was both honored and pleased to accept this role. This is a great company with an even greater future, and I want to be part of it.

“We’ve made significant progress in the past couple of months, so much so that I can confirm with certainty that we will pay back in full the U.S. Treasury and Canadian and Ontario government loans by June,” Whitacre said. “This represents a significant milestone in our journey back to being a profitable and viable company.”

About General Motors: General Motors, one of the world’s largest automakers, traces its roots back to 1908. With its global headquarters in Detroit, GM employs 204,000 people in every major region of the world and does business in some 140 countries. GM and its strategic partners produce cars and trucks in 34 countries, and sell and service these vehicles through the following brands: Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, GM Daewoo, Holden, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling. GM’s largest national market is the United States, followed by China, Brazil, Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Italy. GM’s OnStar subsidiary is the industry leader in vehicle safety, security and information services. General Motors acquired operations from General Motors Corporation on July 10, 2009, and references to prior periods in this and other press materials refer to operations of the old General Motors Corporation. More information on the new General Motors can be found at www.gm.com.

SOURCE General Motors

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iTunes(R), YouTube, Hulu, Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, Yahoo!, AOL, Microsoft, Fancast, Akamai, Verizon Wireless, AT&T, FLO TV, PayPal and Dozens More Digital Partners Aid Haiti Relief Telethon Across Online, Mobile, Social Media and Download-to-Own

NEW YORK, LOS ANGELES and LONDON, Jan. 22 /PRNewswire/ — When “Hope for Haiti Now: A Global Benefit for Earthquake Relief” airs tonight at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT and 7:00 p.m. CT, the telethon will be supported by the greatest digital distribution, promotion, and support of any televised fundraising event in history. iTunes, YouTube, Hulu, Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, Yahoo!, AOL, Microsoft, Fancast, Akamai, Verizon Wireless, AT&T, FLO TV, PayPal and dozens more digital partners across online, mobile, social media and download-to-own have joined together to promote and live stream the event in support of Haiti relief efforts.

LIVE STREAMING

The two-hour telethon will be live streamed in its entirety across sites including: ABC.com, AOL, AT&T Entertainment, Bebo, Bild Germany, Bing, Buddy TV, Causecast, CBS.com, CNN.com, Eonline.com, EpixHD.com, Facebook, Fancast, Gawker, GlobalGrind.com, Habbo UK, Huffington Post, Hulu, Metacafe, MSN, MySpace, NBC.com, Oprah.com, OurStage.com, PerezHilton, Rhapsody, Veoh, VEVO, Yahoo and YouTube. The live streaming is powered via the Akamai HD Network.

On mobile, the event will be live streamed via Alltel, Sprint, Verizon Wireless, MobiTV, FloTV, via apps on iPhone, Palm, Inc. and Blackberry, and across MTV Networks mobile sites, which will be promoted via AT&T, PrimeTime2Go, Yahoo Mobile, AOL Mobile and the largest mobile ad networks.

Live streaming of the telethon will be made available online by major cable and telco operators as well including AT&T, Bright House Networks, Charter, Comcast, Cox Communications, Mediacom, Suddenlink, Time Warner Cable, Warner Latin America and Wide Open West.

MTV Networks sites including MTV.com, VH1.com, Nick.com, TeenNick.com, AddictingGames.com, ParentsConnect.com, Shockwave.com, ComedyCentral.com, The DailyShow.com, ColbertNation.com, Jokes.com, Atom.com, Spike.com, GameTrailers.com and TVLand.com will all be promoting “Hope for Haiti Now” through live streaming of the event and the celebrity-manned phone banks, text alerts to registered users, on-demand video and post-show clips.

Internationally, users can watch via a multi-language site (21 languages), hope.mtv.com, which will include information on the telethon, links to the donation site, a central Facebook connect widget and links to the Twitter Tracker.

DOWNLOAD-TO-OWN

Beginning today, iTunes customers will be able to exclusively pre-order both the “Hope for Haiti Now” full performance album ($7.99) and the full two-hour video telecast ($1.99), and can receive an exclusive studio track from Jay-Z, Bono, The Edge and Rihanna. Pre-orders will be delivered in the days following the telethon. Individual audio performances will be available for purchase and download for $.99 cents each in the days following the telethon. Apple, the record labels and the artists will donate their share of the proceeds to Haiti relief funds managed by “Hope for Haiti Now” charities. Performances will also be available for purchase on AmazonMP3 and Rhapsody, with distribution provided by INgrooves.

SOCIAL MEDIA

“Hope for Haiti Now” will also have unprecedented support from the leading social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter and Gigya. Twitter is promoting “Hope for Haiti Now” across every user profile page – a first for Twitter – and will promote the #igave hashtag during the show to encourage people to share how they’ve helped Haiti relief efforts. MTV.com and hopeforhaitinow.org will also provide the “Hope For Haiti Now” Twitter Tracker, offering a visual representation of real-time conversations around the globe taking place on Twitter to capture how people are responding to the tragedy in unprecedented ways. Built by Stamen Design, with technical support from Twitter, users will be able to follow activity on a country-by-country basis, down to individual tweets at any given moment. Gigya is providing a social widget to support “Hope for Haiti Now” with a live chat experience alongside the live stream on both MTV.com and VH1.com.

TECHNOLOGY PARTNERS

“Hope for Haiti Now” has the support of the following technology partners across its online and mobile operations that have made all of this possible: AdMob, Akamai, Drop.io, Incited Media, Inlet Technologies, iStreamPlanet, Kyte, Level 3, Mediafly, Millennial Media, Mobile Accord, Mobile Giving Foundation, Netbiscuits, Obtiva, Quattro, Real Networks, Stamen Design, Tagged, Wiredset and Xtreme Labs.

The global telethon will feature musical performances by Madonna, Wyclef Jean, Bruce Springsteen, Jennifer Hudson, Mary J. Blige, Shakira, Sting, Alicia Keys, Christina Aguilera, Dave Matthews, John Legend, Justin Timberlake, Stevie Wonder, Taylor Swift, Haitian Artist Emaline Michel, Beyonce, Coldplay, and group performances by Keith Urban, Kid Rock, and Sheryl Crow; and by Bono, The Edge, Jay-Z, and Rihanna.

In addition to musical performances, Wyclef Jean in New York City, George Clooney in Los Angeles, and CNN’s Anderson Cooper reporting from Haiti, “Hope for Haiti Now” will feature President Bill Clinton, Ben Stiller, Brad Pitt, Chris Rock, Clint Eastwood, Denzel Washington, Halle Berry, Jon Stewart, Julia Roberts, Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Meryl Streep, Morgan Freeman, Nicole Kidman, Robert Pattinson, Samuel L. Jackson, Tom Hanks, Will Smith with Muhammad Ali, and more than one hundred of the biggest names in film, television, and music.

DIGITAL DONATIONS

“Hope for Haiti Now” will begin accepting donations at 12:00 p.m. ET/9:00 a.m. PT on Friday, January 22 via the following methods:

* Online: www.hopeforhaitinow.org
* Text: Text “GIVE” to 50555

All proceeds will benefit Haiti relief funds managed by “Hope for Haiti Now” charities: Oxfam America, Partners in Health, the Red Cross, UNICEF, United Nations World Food Programme, Yele Haiti Foundation, and the newly formed Clinton Bush Haiti Foundation.

“Hope for Haiti” is produced by Joel Gallen and Tenth Planet Productions, in collaboration with Viacom’s MTV Networks and George Clooney.

About MTV Networks

MTV Networks, a division of Viacom ( VIA, VIA.B), is one of the world’s leading creators of entertainment content, with brands that engage and connect diverse audiences across television, online, mobile, games, virtual worlds and consumer products. The company’s portfolio spans more than 150 television channels and 400 digital media properties worldwide, and includes MTV, VH1, CMT, Logo, Harmonix, Nickelodeon, Nick at Nite, Nick Jr., TeenNick, AddictingGames, Neopets, COMEDY CENTRAL, SPIKE, TV Land, Atom, GameTrailers, and Xfire.

SOURCE MTV Networks

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http://www.mtv.com

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Jan. 21 /PRNewswire/ –

The Chrysler Foundation has donated $50,000 to both Oxfam America and the United States Fund for UNICEF to support their earthquake relief and recovery efforts for the residents of Haiti. The Company also continues to support Haiti relief efforts through initiatives with its employees, dealers and retirees.

“The Chrysler Foundation expresses support to the people of Haiti who are struggling to recover from this devastating earthquake,” said Brian Glowiak, Head of The Chrysler Foundation. “Many relief organizations such as Oxfam America and UNICEF are gathering resources for immediate support to the impoverished nation, as well as in the long term as Haiti works to rebuild its infrastructure and the Haitian citizens work to rebuild their lives and communities.”

Chrysler Group LLC is participating in a series of other initiatives supporting Haiti relief efforts including:

The Chrysler Foundation will also collect donation checks from Chrysler Group employees, dealers and retirees who are interested in contributing to Oxfam or UNICEF, allowing the Company’s extended organization to stand together in its support of Haiti relief efforts.

People interested in donating to Oxfam may call 800-77-OXFAM (800-776-9326) or visit online at www.oxfamamerica.org. Those interested in donating to UNICEF, may visit www.unicefusa.org or call 1.800.FOR.KIDS.

About The Chrysler Foundation

During the past 56 years, The Chrysler Foundation has established a proud legacy of enriching the physical, educational and cultural needs of local communities in which Chrysler Group LLC conducts business. Chrysler employees also have a strong commitment to helping improve their communities by volunteering their time and talents in the places where we live and work.

Since its inception, The Chrysler Foundation has awarded more than $500 million in charitable grants.

SOURCE The Chrysler Foundation

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BASKING RIDGE, N.J., Jan. 20 /PRNewswire/ — Verizon Wireless today announced it is waiving all calling fees for its customers trying to reach loved ones in Haiti.

Starting immediately, Verizon Wireless customers with contracts or monthly bills in the United States can make calls to reconnect with friends, family, businesses and emergency services in Haiti free of long distance charges. In addition, Verizon Wireless customers with contracts or monthly bills currently in Haiti will not be charged any fees when making phone calls back to the United States. Charges for these voice calls are waived retroactive to last week’s earthquake on Jan. 12 until 11:59 p.m. EST on Sunday, Jan. 31, 2010.

Verizon also will waive all long-distance usage charges on calls made to Haiti from any Verizon residential landline (for more information, visit www.verizon.com/news).

Dan Mead, chief operating officer of Verizon Wireless, said, “Communicating and connecting families is essential to what our business stands for, and who we are. During this major relief effort as communication systems are starting to come back on line, we understand the importance of being in touch with the people who matter most.”

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless operates the nation’s most reliable and largest wireless voice and 3G data network, serving 89 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 85,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ) and Vodafone (NASDAQ and LSE: VOD). For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

SOURCE Verizon Wireless

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A challenging 2009 spurs small business owners to gear up for the recovery

CHERRY HILL, N.J. and PORTLAND, Maine Jan. 19 /PRNewswire/ — According to a recent survey conducted by TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank®, 87 percent of small business owners say their business will perform at least the same or better in 2010 compared with 2009, and 57 percent are cautiously optimistic that the new year will bring an end to the pain of the recession. A remarkable 92 percent of small business owners are considering proactive strategies to prepare for an economic upswing, with 36 percent expecting to see their business grow in 2010. TD Bank conducted the survey to gauge how the recession and other issues are affecting small businesses.

“For our survey, TD Bank asked small business owners across the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions how they think 2010 will compare to 2009, and it’s not surprising that the economy and its impact on their day-to-day operations will continue to be a top-of-mind concern,” said Fred Graziano, Head of Retail and Small Business Banking for TD Bank. “What’s encouraging is that the majority of small businesses are not only anticipating but gearing up for an economic recovery. This indicates that small businesses will generally be well positioned to both ride out the storm and seize new opportunities for growth in 2010.”

So Long, 2009

Many businesses have likely said a fond farewell to 2009, as 66 percent of small business owners say the recession had some level of negative effect on their business, with 23 percent rating the impact as very negative.

The sting of the recession is evident in how small business owners rate their company’s performance over the past year. In 2009, 46 percent of small businesses fared as they expected, giving their business a C. Thirteen percent gave their business a B rating and only five percent gave themselves an A. Twenty-six percent say they did not have the year they planned on in 2009, giving their business a D, and an unfortunate 10 percent rated their company with an F, saying their business landed in serious trouble.

The economy wasn’t the only concern for small business owners in 2009. Aside from the recession, 38 percent said their biggest hurdle was retaining and growing their customer base, while managing cash flow was the toughest challenge for 34 percent of respondents. Keeping healthcare and insurance costs in-line (15 percent) and staffing issues (eight percent) were also sources of stress. Still, if given the chance, 35 percent of small businesses say they would have done nothing differently in 2009, while 24 percent would have done more sales and marketing.

Interestingly, nearly a quarter (24 percent) say the recession had no influence over their business’ performance in 2009, and 10 percent say they grew their business despite the recession. And for the slim five percent who report that 2009 was their best year ever, it appears that streamlining costs (29 percent), innovating with the right products and services at the right time (24 percent), and shrewd forecasting (22 percent) were the keys to their success last year.

New Year, New Hopes

The start of a new year offers time for reflection on hopes and resolutions, and small business owners have plenty of each for their companies. If they had but one wish for their business in 2010, 41 percent would wish to see an uptick in the overall economy as early as possible, while 20 percent wish to win a large piece of new business or make a big sale. Nineteen percent hope to realize a year-end profit once their 2009 financial books are closed, and being able to reward loyal employees in a big way is the number one wish for 13 percent of respondents.

What will small businesses do to make sure 2010 is as successful a year as possible? The top business New Year’s Resolution, at 45 percent, is to save more and spend less, which also happens to be the number one personal New Year’s Resolution for 41 percent of small business owners. Thirty percent resolve to devote more of their time to sales and marketing efforts, while 10 percent aspire to execute those operational improvements they’ve been contemplating.

Meeting Challenges and Opportunities Head-On in 2010

What does 2010 look like for small business owners? Many small businesses anticipate better times, with eight percent believing 2010 might be their best year ever, and 28 percent looking forward to solid growth ahead of projections. The largest group, at 51 percent, expects their business to perform the same as in 2009. Eight percent expect to do worse in 2010, with five percent saying their business will be in peril.

Although many small businesses are optimistic about the recovery, they’re cautious about how long it might take to get there. Only four percent anticipate that the first quarter of 2010 will bring relief, while 36 percent of respondents believe it will take until at least the third quarter of 2010 before their business no longer feels the impact of the recession. And it won’t be until sometime in 2011 before 43 percent of small business owners break free from the recession’s grasp.

Nevertheless, small businesses have their focus on the future. The majority, at 53 percent, believe that an improving economy will be their biggest business opportunity in 2010. Twenty percent think that promoting their business via social media and networking sites will bring the most opportunity, while 15 percent will try to take advantage of a better competitive landscape and a large pool of available talent.

Small businesses also have big plans to stimulate growth, considering several new measures this year, with 43 percent focusing on growing relationships with their existing customers. Twenty-two percent will invest in more marketing, while 17 percent will look to add value by offering a greater variety of products and services. A price reduction on products and services is being considered by 10 percent of respondents.

Small businesses remain strongly tuned-in to the realities of guiding their company through tough economic times. When asked what one thing about their business keeps them up at night, 41 percent of small business owners said it is the uncertain economy, followed by managing cash flow (meeting payroll, paying suppliers) at 29 percent. These were followed by coping with healthcare and insurance expenses (15 percent) and rising energy costs (5 percent).

“There’s no question that the effects of the recession will continue to be felt in 2010, but small businesses that are following a sound business plan, making adjustments where necessary, and preparing strategies for an economic recovery are positioned to fare well in the new year and beyond,” said Graziano. “No matter how big or small the company, TD Bank stands ready to assist business owners with the guidance they need to make the right financial decisions for their business’ future growth.”

About TD Bank’s Small Business Survey

TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, polled small business owners in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions of the U.S. to understand the impact of the recession on small businesses. The survey was conducted by Angus Reid Strategies from December 16 to 22, 2009, with small business owners (defined as business owners with fewer than 20 employees) using the Angus Reid Forum. The sample size included 575 men and women.

About TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank®

TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, is one of the 15 largest commercial banks in the United States with $142 billion in assets, and provides customers with a full range of financial products and services at more than 1,000 convenient locations from Maine to Florida. TD Bank, N.A., is headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., and Portland, Maine. TD Bank is a trade name of TD Bank, N.A. For more information, visit www.tdbank.com.

TD Bank, America’s Most Convenient Bank, is a member of TD Bank Financial Group of Toronto, Canada, a top 10 financial services company in North America and one of the few banks in the world rated Aaa by Moody’s.

SOURCE TD Bank

RELATED LINKS
http://www.TDBank.com

Chase Community Giving provides opportunity for expanded programs benefiting families affected by autism

NEW YORK, Jan. 15 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The National Autism Association (NAA) announced today its move into Round Two of the Chase Community Giving program, placing the organization into the running for $1 million dollars to be awarded to the top vote-getter in Chase’s Facebook-based challenge, January 15-22.

Autism rates have risen dramatically over the past three decades, now affecting one in 110 children in the US. “Despite this staggering number, autism remains the most underfunded disorder among our nation’s children,” said NAA board chair and parent Lori McIlwain. “Autism is a national health emergency placing unimaginable burdens on families. Chase Community Giving on Facebook offers a way to expand NAA’s programs that directly benefit families dealing with autism.”

The $1 million award would allow NAA to significantly broaden its existing assistance programs which address the most critical needs among families impacted by autism. These programs include Helping Hand, which assists families in funding desperately needed treatments and therapies for their children, and FOUND, which was established to combat the rise in wandering-related deaths in the autism community. “One million dollars would have a huge impact on our ability to reach those who need our help the most,” Ms. McIlwain commented.

In addition to its family care programs, NAA advocates for the most relevant scientific research, legislation for access to medical care, coverage for medical and safety devices, services and support over the life span and protection from abuse towards individuals with autism. The award money would allow for enhanced legislative and educational efforts for these crucial issues facing thousands of families nationwide.

“NAA’s programs are unique in the autism community and have made a tremendous difference for so many families in desperate need,” said Michele Iallonardi of Hauppauge, NY, mother of three boys diagnosed with autism. “I encourage everyone with a Facebook account to log on and vote for the National Autism Association.”

To vote for NAA in Chase Community Giving on Facebook, go to http://apps.facebook.com/chasecommunitygiving/charities/486243?

To share “Chase the Hope” messages on Facebook, visit http://www.nationalautismassociation.org/chase/share.htm

CONTACT: Rita Shreffler (Nixa, MO), 401-632-6452
Wendy Fournier (Portsmouth, RI), 401-835-5828

SOURCE National Autism Association

RELATED LINKS
http://www.nationalautism.org

Milestone achievement comes as The New York Times proclaims BACARDI® 8 as ‘the ring of true rum authority’

CORAL GABLES, Fla., Jan. 14 /PRNewswire/ — BACARDI® rum, the world’s favorite and best-selling premium rum now tops 300 awards — sustaining its title and position of “the world’s most awarded rum.” This highlights the Bacardi commitment and dedication to producing a range of rums of exceptional quality and great taste.

Bacardi has a well documented history of superior rum-making since its founding in 1862 in Santiago de Cuba when Don Facundo Bacardi Masso revolutionized the spirits industry by creating the world’s first light-bodied rums and flavored rums. For nearly 150 years, through seven generations of Don Facundo’s descendants, Bacardi has focused on quality, taste and excellence. BACARDI rum has been recognized and awarded in sixteen countries around the world.

Some of the recent accolades the BACARDI rum portfolio has secured include the top awards at the World Spirits Awards in Bad Kleinkirchheim, Austria; the Monde Selection in Brussels; the International Wine & Spirit in London; and the International Review of Spirits in Chicago.

In addition to these awards, BACARDI 8 rum just received critical acclaim in The New York Times. The New York Times spirits panel pronounced BACARDI 8 as having “the ring of true rum authority” and declared, “…the Bacardi was our best value.”

Because of its exceptional taste and quality, BACARDI rum was chosen for the creation of some of the world’s most loved and timeless cocktails. The Mojito was created with BACARDI® Superior rum in 1862; The Daiquiri was created with BACARDI Superior in 1898. The Cuba Libre — BACARDI® Gold rum and COCA-COLA® — was first mixed in 1900, and the original Pina Colada was made with BACARDI Superior in 1922. For nearly a century and a half, BACARDI rum has been at the heart of making great tasting cocktails.

With BACARDI rum you will find consistency in taste and quality all over the world as it is specifically blended to the same flavor profile no matter where it is enjoyed.

BACARDI — the most awarded rum in the world.

About BACARDI Rums

In 1862, in Santiago de Cuba, Bacardi revolutionized the spirits industry when founder Don Facundo Bacardi Masso began producing his remarkable light-bodied, smooth rum – BACARDI, the world’s favorite premium rum brand. Today, BACARDI Rum is produced in multiple locations including Puerto Rico and Mexico, following the production legacy set forth by Don Facundo.

About Bacardi U.S.A., Inc.

Bacardi U.S.A., Inc. is the United States import, sales and marketing arm of one of the world’s leading spirits and wine producers. The company boasts a portfolio of some of the most recognized and top-selling spirits brands in the United States including BACARDI® rum, the world’s favorite and best-selling premium rum, as well as the world’s most awarded premium rum; GREY GOOSE® vodka, the world-leader in super-premium vodka; DEWAR’S® Blended Scotch Whisky, the number-one selling blended Scotch whisky in the United States; BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin, the top-valued premium gin in the world; CAZADORES® blue agave tequila, the number-one premium tequila in the world; MARTINI® vermouth, the world-leader in vermouth; and other leading and emerging brands.

For additional information:

Cortney Silverman, Senior Account Executive
CORBIN-HILLMAN COMMUNICATIONS
(212) 246-3586 / Cortney@corbinpr.com

Joe Gerbino, Senior Manager, Corporate Communications & Public Relations
Bacardi U.S.A., Inc.
(786) 264-8421 / jgerbino@bacardi.com

THIRSTY FOR LIFE? DRINK RESPONSIBLY.

www.Bacardi.com

©2010 BACARDI AND THE BAT DEVICE ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF BACARDI & COMPANY LIMITED. BACARDI U.S.A., INC., CORAL GABLES, FL. RUM-40% ALC.BY VOL.; FLAVORED RUM – 35% ALC. BY VOL.

SOURCE BACARDI

RELATED LINKS
http://www.bacardi.com