NSW:NSW axes outdated School Certificate

AAP General News (Australia)
08-04-2011
NSW:NSW axes outdated School Certificate

SYDNEY, Aug 4 AAP - The NSW government hopes to increase high school retention rates
by abolishing the School Certificate.

Education Minister Adrian Piccoli says some students have been treating the Year 10
milestone as an "exit point", with 18 per cent of leaving high school in 2008 at that
point without going on to complete the Higher School Certificate in Year 12.

"We want to encourage every student at our schools in NSW, government and non-government,
to continue all the way through to the HSC," Mr Piccoli told reporters on Thursday.

He announced that this year's School Certificate examinations would be the last, with
Year 10 students next year being given an alternative assessment.

NSW Teachers Federation president Bob Lipscombe doubts the move will have any bearing
on retention rates, because the school leaving age was lifted to 17 last year.

"A typical student would not be legally able to leave school until midway through Year
11," Mr Lipscombe told AAP.

Despite this, the federation fully supports the decision to cancel the certificate
which it views as "past its use-by date".

The School Certificate is awarded to students at the end of Year 10 after they complete
a series of exams, including a computer skills test.

It is designed to assist school-leavers in finding employment.

Mr Piccoli says today's students need a credential that is more modern and relevant.

The NSW Board of Studies will conduct rigorous consultation with education stakeholders
to develop a new credential that will be applicable from 2012.

Students due to complete Year 10 at the end of this year will still sit the School
Certificate exams.

Mr Piccoli said the new credential could recognise achievements such as volunteer work
or a first aid certificate.

Board of Studies president Tom Alegounarias said one key feature of the new credential
would be that it would take into account a student's achievements at the time they chose
to leave school.

"It recognises what you've achieved at the point that you leave school, not just what
you did at an exam some time earlier," Mr Alegounarias told reporters.

The opposition has welcomed the announcement.

Education spokeswoman Carmel Tebbutt urged the Board of Studies to include young people
in the consultation process.

"They're the people who are going to be particularly affected by the replacement,"

Ms Tebbutt told AAP.

AAP gg/wjf/jl

KEYWORD: CERTIFICATE WRAP

� 2011 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.

Time running out.

Ireland's debt deal has failed to calm investors' nerves, as fears rise that Portugal and Spain could be the next eurozone nations in line for a handout.

As the two countries insisted they will not seek outside help, creating a sense of deja-vu for investors who have heard such promises from Ireland and Greece already this year, Europe braced itself for what some analysts said seemed the inevitability of more expensive bailouts.

Portugal's parliament approved an unpopular debt-reducing package, including tax hikes and cuts in pay and welfare benefits.

But the sense among analysts was that the move had only bought a little time.

"This confusing 'pea-soup' of indecision, vacillation and disunity by the EU is beginning to create unnecessarily seismic waves of fear in international bond and money markets," said David Buik, markets analyst at BGC Partners.

Analysts say markets need more reassurance from EU leaders that the rot can be stopped in Portugal, before it spreads to Spain, the continent's fourth-largest economy - a scenario that would threaten the 16-nation euro currency itself.

The financial crisis took a step in that direction last week, as it increasingly becomes apparent that bond investors will not be pacified by austerity measures but want weak countries' public finances to be plugged once and for all.

Meanwhile, tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets of Dublin yesterday to call for Ireland's 2011 budget cuts to hit the rich and the banks, not average citizens already struggling with reduced wages and rising bills.

The rally is the first major demonstration since Ireland last week opened negotiations with European Union and International Monetary Fund (IMF) experts on a likely $115 billion loan to save the country from bankruptcy and prop up its struggling banks.

2009 Al Sidra Media LLC

Provided by Syndigate.info an Albawaba.com company

HighLights of the AAP National Wire at 14:30, April 8

AAP General News (Australia)
04-08-2011
HighLights of the AAP National Wire at 14:30, April 8

CANBERRA - Treasurer Wayne Swan has blocked the takeover of Australia's stock exchange
by the Singaporean bourse, saying it would not be in the national interest. (ASX Update)
(pix available))

SYDNEY - Shadow Treasurer Joe Hockey has accused federal Treasurer Wayne Swan of bungling
in his rejection of a deal to merge the Australian and Singapore stock exchanges. (ASX
HOCKEY)

TO COME: ASX Fronter to come. ASX Wrap on finance wire.

CAIRNS - Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd has rejected suggestions he is on the comeback
trail, saying there is no faint prospect of him regaining the prime ministership. (Labor
Rudd)

LABOR Update and Wrap to come. Factbox sent.

CANBERRA - Climate Change Minister Greg Combet says there's "general support" for putting
a price on carbon among business leaders but concerns remain about the tax's design and
industry support. (Climate) Wrap to come on merit.

DARWIN - A Northern Territory coroner has slammed police for failing to properly investigate
the death of an eight-year-old Aboriginal boy, whose weighed down body was found in a
shallow waterhole. (Boy )

CANBERRA - A senior government frontbencher says she felt sick when she learnt of a
sex scandal engulfing defence. (Cadet Roxon) See also Cadet Backgrounder

CANBERRA - The community would be legitimately concerned that Reserve Bank governor
Glenn Stevens is paid more than $1 million, Treasurer Wayne Swan says. (RBA Swan)

MELBOURNE - Former Supreme Court judge and Melbourne University Chancellor Alex Chernov
has been inaugurated as the new Governor of Victoria. (Governor Vic Update)

PERTH - Controversial lead miner Magellan Metals looks set to lay off nearly 200 staff
as it mothballs its Wiluna mine following the discovery of lead-contaminated mud on a
container at Fremantle Port. (Lead)

CANBERRA - Afghanistan's Independent Human Rights Commission is to investigate the
death of a small boy who has died after a firefight between Australian troops and insurgents.

(Afghan Child)

CANBERRA - Australia should maintain a military presence in East Timor as late as 2020,
a new report recommends. (Timor Aust)

SYDNEY - A portrait of celebrity chef Matt Moran has won the Packing Room prize, the
prelude to the NSW annual Archibald art prize. (Packing. Pix available)

SYDNEY - Famous faces have dominated this year's Archibald prize finalists, with portraits
of actors, TV personalities and even teen sailor Jessica Watson among the chosen entries.

(ARCHIBALD Wrap and sidebar to come with video and pics)

FINANCE

SYDNEY - Foster's Group Ltd has won an appeal against the tax man that harks back to
the days when John Elliott ran the company with his Elders Finance Group. (Fosters)

SPORT:

AUGUSTA - Geoff Ogilvy carded an almost flawless three-under-par 69 to head the Australians,
four strokes from the lead after the opening round at the Masters. (Gol Masters Aust Update)

SYDNEY - Champion racehorse Black Caviar has arrived safely in Sydney after an overnight
road trip from Melbourne. (Gallops Caviar)

MORE was

KEYWORD: HIGHLIGHTS NATIONAL

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AAP National News Wire Round-Up for Midday, Dec 19

AAP General News (Australia)
12-19-2010
AAP National News Wire Round-Up for Midday, Dec 19
Midday Round-Up: HIGHLIGHTS OF THE AAP RTV FILE AT 1130

Nightclub (SYDNEY)

Former rugby league star JOHN HOPOATE has reportedly been charged with assault .. following
an incident while he was working as a security guard in Sydney's Kings Cross last night.

Police say three men were refused entry into the Trademark Hotel on Bayswater Road
at about 11pm (AEDT) .. and one of the trio allegedly made threats toward a security guard
.. sparking a chase through nearby streets and a subsequent altercation.

As a result .. a 33-year-old man suffered head injuries and was rushed to St Vincents
Hospital where he underwent surgery .. and remains in a serious condition.

Media's named the bouncer as HOPOATE .. and he's due to face Downing Centre Local Court
on January 11.



Boat Capsize (CANBERRA)

Asylum seekers who died when their boat was wrecked off Christmas Island last week
will be remembered in a private memorial service today.

Thirty people .. including 13 men .. nine women and eight children .. perished when
their wooden boat broke apart in heavy seas early on Wednesday morning.

A private memorial service for asylum seekers detained on Christmas Island will be
held later today .. while another's expected to take place on Monday.



Post (CANBERRA)

A union says Australia Post must fight to keep the doors of its local post offices open.

The communications union says Australia Post promised it would do everything possible
to boost the performance of its outlets.

But there are reports this morning that 27 post offices around the country are facing
closure from December 31 .. after Australia Post lost money on letters for the first time
last financial year.



Toll National (SYDNEY)

The number of people killed on Australian roads this holiday season has risen to four
.. with the latest death reported near Wollongong on the NEW SOUTH WALES south coast.

It's the state's first fatality this season.

Police say a 20-year-old man was hit late last night by a station wagon while crossing
an intersection at Bellambi .. north of Wollongong and critically injured.

He was pronounced dead at Wollongong Hospital.

Earlier last night .. a man in his 20s died when his ute crashed into a tree at Sarsfield
in VICTORIA.



Weather Europe (ZURICH)

Three people have died .. as blizzards and freezing temperatures shut down runways
.. train tracks and highways across Europe.

Hundreds of flights out of Britain .. Germany .. France .. Spain .. the Netherlands
and Denmark have been cancelled or delayed .. as fresh snow blocked runways.

Meanwhile .. the three deaths occurred in Italy .. including a driver whose truck overturned
in a highway mass pile-up .. a man who suffered a heart-attack shovelling snow and a homeless
man who froze to death.



US Gay (WASHINGTON)

US President BARACK OBAMA'S expected to sign a bill this week .. which will allow gay
people to serve openly in the military for the first time.

It comes after the US Senate voted 65-31 to repeal the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" compromise
of 1993 .. requiring gay soldiers to keep quiet about their sexual orientation or face
dismissal.

During the debate .. Senator CARL LEVIN said the first casualty in the war in Iraq
was a gay soldier .. and the mine that took off his right leg didn't care whether he was
gay or straight.



Mine (CANBERRA)

Foreign Minister KEVIN RUDD says Australia and Chile will help each other handle mine disasters.

Mr Rudd and Chilean government ministers have decided to extend an existing agreement
on mining co-operation between the two nations .. to include mine rescue management and
safety regulations.

The deal follows the August collapse of the San Jose mine in Chile .. which trapped
33 miners underground for 67 days.



WikiLeaks Bank (BECCLES)

WikiLeaks founder JULIAN ASSANGE has denounced what he calls business McCarthyism in
the US after the Bank of America halted all transactions to the website.

The Australian .. who is spending his second full day on bail .. has vowed the whistle-blowing
website will carry on releasing controversial leaked documents as he insists his life
is under threat.

Bank of America .. the largest US bank .. has halted all transactions for WikiLeaks
.. joining other institutions that refuse to process payments for the website.

The 39-year-old .. who had been held in a London jail before being granted bail ..

is wanted for questioning in Sweden over allegations that he sexually assaulted two women
.. which he denies.



Briefly in other news ..



Italy Knox (PERUGIA)

An Italian court has ruled that it will allow an independent review of crucial DNA
evidence in AMANDA KNOX's appeals trial on her murder conviction.



Unite (MELBOURNE)

NSW police commissioner ANDREW SCIPIONE says an acceptance of excessive drinking is
partly to blame for alcohol-related violence.



UK Middleton (LONDON)

KATE MIDDLETON'S made her first public appearance since announcing her engagement to
Prince WILLIAM .. joining him at a cancer charity fundraising event.



in Sport ..



Soccer Europe Aust (LONDON)

Australian strikers SCOTT MCDONALD and NIKITA RUKAVYTSYA have done their best to lock
up spots in HOLGER OSIECK'S squad for next month's Asian Cup by netting for their respective
clubs this morning.

MCDONALD continued his return to form by scoring his third goal in six matches for
Middlesbrough in their 2-1 loss at Doncaster, while RUKAVYTSYA scored from the centre
of the box for Hertha Berlin in their 1-1 draw at FC Augsburg in the German second division.

Australia's Asian Cup squad is due to be trimmed to 23 players on December 28 before
a January 5 friendly against the United Arab Emirates in Abu Dhabi on tournament eve.



Swim World (DUBAI)

Olympic champion LEISEL JONES has won Australia's sixth silver medal and eighth overall
on the fourth night of the FINA World Short Course Championships in Dubai.

American REBECCA SONI beat JONES in the 100m breaststroke.

SONI and JONES split the 100 and 200 titles at the Beijing Olympics, but SONI beat
JONES over both distances at the Pan Pacific championships in August as the Australian
returned from a post-Olympic break.

Spain's MIREIA BELMONTE GARCIA matched American star RYAN LOCHTE with her third gold
medal at the meet, winning the 200m individual medley.



ENDS MIDDAY ROUND-UP

Broadcast Desk inquiries 24 hours: 02 9322 8714

AAP RTV wf

KEYWORD: MIDDAY ROUND-UP

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FED:Gun lobby says put Greens last

AAP General News (Australia)
08-11-2010
FED:Gun lobby says put Greens last

Australia's largest gun lobby group is urging the nation's 800 thousand licensed shooters
to put the Australian Greens last on their Senate ballot paper at the August 21 poll.

The Sporting Shooters Association of Australia says the Greens are a threat to shooting
and other outdoor activities.

The association's mailed a flyer to its 130 thousand members calling on them to vote
below the line in the Senate to make sure preferences don't inadvertently flow to the
Greens.

But the association isn't specifically advocating members to vote either Labor or coalition.

AAP RTV mb/rl/crh

KEYWORD: POLL10 SHOOTERS (CANBERRA)

� 2010 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.

HighLights of the AAP National Wire at 19:30, April 1 = 2

AAP General News (Australia)
04-01-2010
HighLights of the AAP National Wire at 19:30, April 1 = 2

SYDNEY - Ducks waddling around in designer outfits while chooks got a wash and blow-dry
were among the more bizarre sights at the Sydney Showground on Thursday. (Show Wrap)



SYDNEY - Baby Adam's umbilical cord was tied with a bulldog clip. (Baby Wrap)



CANBERRA - Where is the missing two cents? (Petrol)



SYDNEY - The Australian way of life is the envy of many outsiders because its foundations
are built on Christian teachings, the Catholic Archbishop of Sydney Cardinal George Pell
says. (Easter Pell)



SYDNEY - A man charged with murdering Mudgee woman Michelle Morrissey will remain in
custody for at least two months after facing a NSW court. (Cotterill)



MELBOURNE - The cycle of gang-related gun violence in Melbourne's northern suburbs
continued overnight with two shootings, the second in less than five weeks at one house.

(Shot Wrap)



MELBOURNE - Two teenagers accused of inciting a riot that wrecked a Bob Jane T-Mart
store have been bailed. (Lawson)



CANBERRA - An Australian soldier has been wounded in Afghanistan after his patrol was
fired upon by insurgents. (Afghan Aust)



CANBERRA - Doctors have been warned by their representative body against allowing their
prescribing habits to be influenced by gifts from the pharmaceutical industry. (Ethical
AMA)



DARWIN - The Northern Territory News is taking interactive media to a whole new level. (Fool NT)



SYDNEY - Tourism Australia's new campaign to get Australians to tell the world about
the continent's best tourist attractions is being sent up in a spoof site. (Tourism)



SYDNEY - Police are considering taking action against celebrity agent Max Markson's
business over allegations he lied about being behind the wheel of his speeding company
car. (Loophole)



SYDNEY - A middle-aged Sydney couple "drowning in debt" vow never to buy cheap bananas
again after claiming OZ Lotto's $30 million prize. (Ozlotto)



MELBOURNE - A Melbourne bottleshop owner has been slugged more than $4000 to open on
Good Friday, while liquor giant Dan Murphy's and drive-throughs are exempt. (Binge Wrap)



BRISBANE - Landowners in Queensland have been reminded to kill as many bunnies as possible
because Easter is a good time to do it. (Bunny)



BRISBANE - Australians on death row will be recognised at a prayer vigil on Good Friday
in Brisbane. (Vigil)



BRISBANE - Medics are battling to save the life of a two-year-old boy who's fallen
from a Sunshine Coast balcony. (Toddler)



BRISBANE - Health authorities are working to track down people who may have been exposed
to the measles on a Brisbane train. (Measles)



ADELAIDE - The first instalment of Queensland and NSW floodwaters heading for South
Australia will be held in reserve. (Murray SA)



CANBERRA - The controversial case of Sydney Muslim cleric Mansour Leghaei will be highlighted
by traditional opponents this Easter weekend when Christians gather to pray for the community
leader. (Leghaei)



BRISBANE - The Queensland government has apologised over a pay glitch that has left
thousands of doctors and nurses shortchanged. (Pay)



SYDNEY - The NSW government has nominated former Western Australia ombudsman Deirdre
O'Donnell as the state's first Information Commissioner. (FOI)



BRISBANE - Twin pop stars The Veronicas have been acknowledged for their wildlife conservation
efforts by Australia Zoo. (Warriors)



AAP de

KEYWORD: HIGHLIGHTS NATIONAL UPDATE 2 SYDNEY

2010 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.

Vic: Swine flu vaccine on the way

AAP General News (Australia)
08-20-2009
Vic: Swine flu vaccine on the way

MELBOURNE, Aug 20 AAP - Federal Health Minister Nicola Roxon says a swine flu vaccine
has yet to be officially approved and she doesn't expect it to be available until mid-September
at the earliest.

Ms Roxon says reports on Thursday claiming the vaccine would be ready as early as September
7 are premature.

"The reports in the paper today are slightly premature in that we don't yet have the
final data," she told ABC Radio.

"The chief medical officer hasn't yet said to me that he is satisfied we could roll
out the vaccine.

"But the data we do have is the first that has been available in the world.

"It looks very promising and we are certainly doing everything we can to make sure
the vaccine is available and implementation is ready to go as soon as we get that tick-off.

"I think it's anticipated by the middle or end of September we will be starting to
vaccinate the priority groups that, of course, are the most vulnerable.

"They are pregnant women, those with chronic diseases, those children in special schools
and, of course, our health workforce."

AAP jfp/gfr/sn

KEYWORD: FLU AUST ROXON

2009 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.

Vic: Twelve-year-old boy among five injured in head on smash

AAP General News (Australia)
04-10-2009
Vic: Twelve-year-old boy among five injured in head on smash

A 12-year-old boy and two adults are in critical condition following a head-on collision
in northern central Victoria.

Police say two others were injured when two cars collided on the Bridgewater-Serpentine
Road at Salisbury West .. northwest of Bendigo .. shortly after nine o'clock last night
(AEST).

The drivers of both cars and a 12-year-old boy were flown to Melbourne hospitals in
critical condition.

Two other men .. believed to be passengers from the cars .. were taken by road ambulance
to the Bendigo Base Hospital.

The road was closed between the Calder and Loddon Valley highways.



Eds: Amends age of critically injured boy in third par on police advice.

AAP RTV jrd/psm/

KEYWORD: SMASH (MELBOURNE)

2009 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.

WA: Woman walks free after killing her son

AAP General News (Australia)
12-05-2008
WA: Woman walks free after killing her son

A woman who killed her infant son when she held him as she jumped from the eighth floor
of a Perth apartment block has walked free after being convicted of manslaughter.

40 year old YEEDA TOPHAM .. of Roleystone near Perth .. had pleaded guilty in the West
Australian Supreme Court to a charge of unlawfully killing 21-month-old JAMES TOPHAM on
November 5 last year.

TOPHAM .. who has been in custody since JAMES' death .. was sentenced to a term equal
to the time spent in custody.

Director of Public Prosecutions DAVID DEMPSTER didn't oppose the defence's submission
for a suspended sentence.

Mr DEMPSTER said TOPHAM should be freed as long as she has ongoing psychiatric treatment.

AAP RTV was/crh/af

KEYWORD: TOPHAM (PERTH)

2008 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.

NSW: Solar means test should be stopped, not tweaked: opposition

AAP General News (Australia)
08-02-2008
NSW: Solar means test should be stopped, not tweaked: opposition

SYDNEY, Aug 2 AAP - The federal opposition says neither the industry nor the environment
will benefit if the Rudd government raises the income bar on its solar panel rebate means
test.

In May, the federal government announced that families earning more than $100,000 would
not be eligible for the $8,000 rebate for installing solar panels.

But the opposition's spokesman for climate change, environment and urban water, Greg
Hunt, says a means test makes it harder for anyone trying to reduce their emissions and
the test should be scrapped.

Mr Hunt expects Environment Minister Peter Garrett to announce as early as today that
he will raise the income bar on the means test.

"Some industry sources believe Mr Garrett will soon announce the Government will increase
the means test on the solar panel rebate program from $100,000 to $150,000," Mr Hunt said.

"Not scrap the means test, simply tweak it."

"But this would still be a bad result for Australia's solar industry and for home owners
wanting to install solar panels," he said

"It still makes it harder for many people who want to install solar in their homes.

It would still treat the rebate as welfare, not a positive incentive to boost the renewable
sector in Australia."

Mr Hunt said means testing the rebate had turned it into a welfare payment of sorts
and that defeated the purpose of the scheme, which had always been to help the environment.

The rebate scheme was introduced by the previous Howard government, and demand has
tripled since the rebate was doubled last year.

AAP ad/it/de

KEYWORD: SOLAR HUNT

2008 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.

Fed: New Years Eve to spark 55,000 messages a minute

AAP General News (Australia)
12-31-2007
Fed: New Years Eve to spark 55,000 messages a minute

Mobile phone services are expected to be stretched to the limit tonight .. with the
count-down to midnight sparking a surge in text messages.

Telstra predicts more than 53 million will be sent.

Spokesman JEREMY MITCHELL says his company expects about 55 thousand text messages
a minute between 11 pm and midnight tonight.

AAP RTV dr/wz/crh/tm

KEYWORD: EVE NATIONAL PHONES (SYDNEY)

2007 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.

NSW: Villawood rooftop protest enters third day

AAP General News (Australia)
08-22-2007
NSW: Villawood rooftop protest enters third day

SYDNEY, Aug 22 AAP - A rooftop protest by three detainees at Villawood detention centre
has entered its third day.

New Zealanders Montana Kelly, 27, and his cousin Bruce Ngaromoa, 32, and 30-year-old
Vietnamese man Van Nguyn climbed onto the roof on Monday night in a protest sparked by
a ban on inmates visiting family outside the centre.

Two of the men say they need surgery after they suffered cuts from razor wire while
getting onto the roof of the western Sydney facility.

A spokeswoman for Immigration Minister Kevin Andrews said today centre management would
not force the men to come down, despite their injuries.

"Any injuries they have, they have had since they gained access to the roof," the spokeswoman
said.

"At this stage I'm not aware of these injuries being particularly serious, but it is
hard to know as no-one has had the opportunity to properly examine them.

"The current status is that the men need to agree to voluntarily leave the roof and
come down to the ground."

Around 48 detainees are on a hunger strike demanding the resumption of home visits
and better all-round treatment in the centre.

Ten of them are sleeping outside their rooms on the ground of a basketball court.

Mr Andrews' spokeswoman has said the matters would be addressed once the men came down
from the roof.

AAP sk/jl/jlw

KEYWORD: DETENTION DAYLEAD

2007 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.

NSW: Easter crowds make beeline for Sydney Fish Market

AAP General News (Australia)
04-06-2007
NSW: Easter crowds make beeline for Sydney Fish Market

Deep-fried fish and chips .. lobster and oysters for breakfast?

Must be Good Friday at the Sydney Fish Market.

Around 70 thousand people are expected to snap up more than 300 tonnes of seafood over
the long weekend .. making Easter the second busiest time of the year .. behind Christmas.

While fish are the biggest sellers .. a lot of prawns and oysters are going out the doors too.

NICHOLAS GEORGOURAS .. from Nicholas Seafood .. says his top seller is whole fresh
snapper .. and he has more than a ton of it.

And a wet and drizzling morning wasn't enough to stop some eager shoppers .. who were
first through the doors at 3:00 o'clock (AEST) this morning when the market opened.







The Sydney Fish Market will be open until 5pm (AEST) today and 7am to 4pm tomorrow,
Sunday and Monday.

AAP RTV cj/acb/bart

KEYWORD: EASTER FISH (SYDNEY)

2007 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.

Fed: Lower house to consider aborted foetus egg use in cloning

AAP General News (Australia)
12-06-2006
Fed: Lower house to consider aborted foetus egg use in cloning

An amendment to the therapeutic cloning bill that would stop stem cells being extracted
from the eggs of aborted female foetuses .. will be moved in the lower house today.

If the Liberal MP's amendment is successful .. it'll send the bill back to the Senate
.. where there are fears it may not survive another challenge after passing by a margin
of just two votes last month.

House of Representatives debate on former health minister KAY PATTERSON'S private member's
bill enters its fourth day today .. with senior ministers including Treasurer PETER COSTELLO
and Health Minister TONY ABBOTT expected to speak.

About two-thirds of the more than 50 MPs who have so far spoken on the bill have supported it.

The bill would allow scientists to create cloned human embryos by using a donated egg
and human cells .. and extract their stem cells for medical research.

AAP RTV jb/sb/wz/cp

KEYWORD: STEMCELL (CANBERRA)

2006 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.

Qld: Man killed in gyrocopter crash

AAP General News (Australia)
04-30-2006
Qld: Man killed in gyrocopter crash

A man's been killed in a gyrocopter crash in south-east Queensland.

Police say the accident happened about 7.30 this morning (AEST) .. when the gyrocopter
was taxiing on an airstrip on private property at Nikenbah .. just outside Hervey Bay.

Police and accident investigation squad officers are at the scene.

AAP RTV rad/jmt

KEYWORD: GYROCOPTER (BRISBANE)

2006 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.

Fed: Govt should look into dropping age to join forces: Bishop

AAP General News (Australia)
02-01-2006
Fed: Govt should look into dropping age to join forces: Bishop

CANBERRA, Feb 1 AAP - The federal government should investigate allowing younger teenagers
to join the defence forces to help with a foreshadowed shortfall of Australian troops,
Liberal backbencher Bronwyn Bishop said today.

Recently appointed Minister of Defence Brendan Nelson yesterday ruled out calls from
a former military chief to reintroduce compulsory national service.

Admiral Chris Barrie says the nation needs to think about a system of compulsory national
service because it is set to run out of young people for the defence force.

He says Australia's ageing population means just 40,000 new entrants would join the
workforce in the decade from 2020 and defence may need 30,000 of them.

Liberal backbencher Bronwyn Bishop said today that lowering the age for joining the
Australian defence force should be investigated.

"I'd like to see a good debate on lowering the age for certain recruitment and education
packages because I do think the ADF has to be competitive," she told ABC Radio.

Neil James from the Australia Defence Association also called for new early entry allowing
the military to offer apprenticeships to 14 and 15 year olds.

"The defence forces of course used to do that.

They used to bring in people for apprenticeship schemes at 15 and the navy had its
boy sailor scheme which bought people in at 15, educated them and trained them up so they
could enter the seagoing part of the navy at 17 and 18," he told ABC Radio.

"Australia stopped that essentially because we acceded to a number of international
conventions to do with getting rid of child soldiers in Africa and the legal interpretation
then was they required Australia to get rid of our early entry schemes."

"It may be that original legal advice is wrong and it should be looked into."

AAP klw/cjh

KEYWORD: MARITIME BISHOP

2006 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.

New Yorker Magazine Publishes Book of Most Popular Technology Cartoons.(Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News)

Dec. 22--There are 110 good reasons to buy "The New Yorker Book of Technology Cartoons," and they're all inside the new book.

But don't ask Bob Mankoff to tell you which one is the best.

Mankoff, a New Yorker cartoonist since 1977 and the magazine's cartoon editor since 1997, had to whittle down the selection to 110 from hundreds of wry entries penned over the years by his fellow cartoonists.

"I have no one favorite; they're all my children, and I don't want to make any of them jealous," said Mankoff, who pores over 600 or 700 submissions each week before selecting 15 cartoons for the magazine.

There is an one technology-related image, however, that Mankoff said is the most re-published of all the magazine's tech cartoons, and has become -- for better or worse -- "an icon of the Internet."

It is cartoonist Peter Steiner's 1993 illustration of one dog -- his paw resting on his master's computer keyboard -- telling another: "On the Internet, nobody knows you're a dog."

To date, said Mankoff, that image has generated revenues of $100,000 in reprint fees.

Like other themed New Yorker cartoon books -- there are two more out this year, one on politics and one on literature -- the topic of technology was ripe for harvesting.

"Technology holds out this wonderful promise of a life made frictionless, and it never fails to break that promise," quipped Mankoff, who is an admitted gadget devotee.

The book, which features the work of 45 cartoonists, comes with a first for the magazine's cartoon anthologies: a CD of the tech cartoons, allowing readers to send the images to their friends over the Internet for free.

The book appears to be a hit with holiday gift-buyers in the valley this season. "We're selling it well. We have it on our humor display tables up front, as well as in the humor section itself," said Clark Kepler, owner of Kepler's Books in Menlo Park. "They (the New Yorker magazine editors) are always choosing book topics that are timely and speak to the culture, and certainly technology speaks to the culture of Silicon Valley."

At the Barnes & Noble store on Stevens Creek Boulevard in San Jose, all of the New Yorker books of cartoons are selling fast, said spokeswoman Lorraine Antonucci.

The CD-in-a-book relates to another segment of Mankoff's professional life -- as founder and president of the Cartoon Bank, a New Yorker Magazine Company that allows the works of New Yorker cartoon artists to live on forever, as it were, in digital archives.

The Web site, www.cartoonbank.com, offers New Yorker cartoon fans an easy way to navigate through thousands of cartoons published over the decades.

According to Andy Pillsbury, vice president of business development for Cartoon Bank, Mankoff selected 3,500 classic cartoons from 1925 -- the year the magazine was founded -- through 1986. All of the cartoons from 1986 through today are included on the site.

And there is more: The hundreds of drawings that do not make Mankoff's cut into the weekly New Yorkers are available for use. The artists also can be contacted through the online company to create newly commissioned work for customers and businesses.

All of the images -- published or unpublished -- can be accessed and sent to others online and even over your Palm Pilot, for no charge.

Of course, the more lucrative end of the business for the New Yorker and its cartoonists are the sweatshirts, T-shirts and framed or matted cartoons sold on the site.

There are other customers: Businesses pay for the rights to use the cartoons in sales and marketing presentations. Publications and Web sites often use reprints, as do advertising agencies.

"Before the Cartoon Bank existed, there was a relatively difficult process that organizations would have to go through to get art work and permission to use cartoon," said Pillsbury.

"Cartoons are a great way for a company to make a point," said Pillsbury. "They help companies make a connection with their customers in way that statistics or written material often cannot do."

Silicon Valley companies have taken advantage of the opportunity. At the Intel Museum's latest exhibit, "The Birth Of The PC," three New Yorker tech cartoons are featured.

The New Yorker Book of Technology Cartoons (Bloomberg Press, 110 pp, $24.95).

To see more of the San Jose Mercury News, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.sjmercury.com

(c) 2000, San Jose Mercury News, Calif. Distributed by Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News.

When old friends get rich.(People profit from high tech industry.)(Brief Article)

Many of us can point to the moment when we finally realized we had missed out on the easy money of the great Internet gold rush. My moment came last week. That's when one of my friends from way back in my old neighborhood informed me that his Internet company is out raising zillions of dollars with the help of one of Wall Street's blue-chip investment banks. It's difficult to convey how much of a shock this was. I'm not talking about an old friend who graduated from MIT or spent his childhood locked in a room rebuilding computers. I didn't exactly have friends like that. Mine, you're more likely to find today making guest appearances on The Sopranos than out raising venture capital with the help of Wall Street's finest investment bankers. Nevertheless, my old pal is now in line for his share of Internet riches. I won't tell you the name of his company, because my journalism ethics prevent me from giving free publicity to old friends. And he doesn't need any PR now that he's going to be a billionaire with two homes in the Hamptons and one in Vail. Anyway, it's not a local company. And what can I say about his investment bankers, except that one of Wall Street's true legends would probably be flipping over in his grave if he knew that his august firm is now doing business with someone from my former neck of the woods. In many ways, I guess my friend qualifies as an Internet tycoon as much as anyone else these days. He's a serial entrepreneur who has started about a dozen businesses in his short life. Somewhere along the way, he found a road into the Internet game, although I thought this was a mere sideshow for him. Now, suddenly, he has a real business on-line-or as real as just about anything else on the Net-and blue-chip investment bankers want his business, and soon investors will be tearing down the doors to get a piece of the action. Is this a great country, or what? Of course, there are still some gaps to fill between the New Economy and my old neighborhood.

Last week, for instance, I received a cryptic e-mail from my friend, who asked me if I knew anything about one of the great figures in modern finance. I wasn't surprised that my friend hadn't heard of this titan, because back in the old neighborhood, we didn't read the Journal every day. But then my friend told me that this legend is now on his board of directors and his bankers are ecstatic. I almost fell off my chair on hearing the news. My friend merely wanted to know what all the fuss is about. Now that someone from the old neighborhood is cashing in on the Net revolution, I'm sure others will quickly jump on board, since that was always the way things worked back home. Soon, in fact, everyone will be swimming in Internet riches. This is quite a contrast from the old days, when the easy money on my block was made by selling merchandise that fell off the back of trucks. I guess this is what they call progress. @@Volume: 16 @@Publication number: 13 @@Word Count: 539 words

Second Annual Parenting/BlogHer Study of over a Thousand Moms Reveals Technology's Impact on Family Life: Kids Hit Digital Milestones at Younger Ages.

San Diego, CA, (PRWEB) August 04, 2011

The Parenting Group, publisher of Parenting, Babytalk and Parenting.com, and BlogHer, Inc., the premium cross-platform media network and publisher for women, today announced the results of their second annual study of technology's impact on family life.

Like Parent, Like Child

According to a survey of 1,038 women released at the 2011 BlogHer Conference, Moms who go online are so reliant on access to the Internet that nearly 40% of moms say they can only go a few hours without using their mobile phone and the Internet. In contrast, only 18% say the same about television. Reflecting those priorities, mobile and Internet service are now considered a necessity, with nearly twice as many moms viewing a cell phone (79%) as a necessity over a landline (42%), the survey finds.

Taking a cue from their parents, children are using technology at ever-younger ages. In 2010, Parenting and BlogHer asked moms to weigh in on the ages that they would permit their children to own specific technologies, and the average age parents would let their children have their own mobile phone was 13 years old. In 2011, however, the parents were asked at what ages their children started using those same technologies -- and found that 1 in 4 moms allowed their children to interact with a mobile phone by age 2. Children of Gen Y moms are the earliest adopters -- one-third report their children have played with a laptop and a mobile phone by age 2.

When today's children are reaching "digital milestones":

According to the 2011 Parenting/BlogHer study, many parents are allowing their children to start using the following technologies by the time they reach age 4:

*     60% of children have used a computer

*     43% have used a digital camera

*     32% have used a smart phone

*     25% have used an iPod

*     14% have used a tablet computer

Me-Time vs. We-Time

The Parenting/BlogHer study reveals different preferences for me-time vs. kid-time vs. family-time. The majority of Moms turn to Facebook (81%) and blogs (57%) on a daily basis to communicate with one another, only 2% report using Facebook to communicate with their children daily. YouTube, on the other hand, has become a family media channel, with 45% of moms reporting that they watch YouTube video together as a family. Meanwhile, moms report that one of the many benefits they derive from their own mobile phone is actually as a toy/diversion for their toddler (23%) or as a game device for their kids (15%).

"Digging deeper into how technology is really used by the family, we see it integrated into every facet of family life," said Elisa Camahort Page, Co-founder and COO of BlogHer, Inc. "Whether it's seeking advice from other moms who blog, staying in constant touch with text messaging or delivering pure entertainment and play, parents have identified, particularly, the Internet and their mobile devices as their 'desert island', can't-live-without technologies of choice."

"This study has proven that a new picture of modern 'family time' is starting to emerge," said Mark Wildman, VP and Group Publisher, The Parenting Group. "With parents and kids gathered around the laptop to watch user-generated videos, and toddlers using mom's cell phone to learn their ABC's, our reliance on staying connected is providing children with the opportunity to interact with technology at a much earlier age."

For more information, please visit: http://www.blogher.com/todays-e-moms-engaged-enabled-entertained

Survey methodology

The Parenting/BlogHer study was conducted among 1,038 members of The Parenting Group's nationally-representative MomConnection research panel and BlogHer's publishing network July 11-July 18, 2011. The margin of error is at + or -- 3.04%.

About The Parenting Group

The Parenting Group, home of the Parenting, Babytalk, Working Mother and Conceive brands, reaches families over 15 million times every month through magazines, digital media, custom content, and events. TPG's publications include: Parenting School Years, for families with children in kindergarten through elementary school; Parenting Early Years, for families with infants, toddlers and preschoolers; Babytalk, for new moms and moms-to-be; and Working Mother, for career-minded moms. TPG's other media properties include: Conceive, for women trying to get pregnant, the Babytalk Pregnancy Planner; the Parenting.com and ConceiveOnline.com web sites; MomConnection(R), a nationally-representative online research network; and a custom content unit. The Parenting Group is a division of Bonnier Corporation.

About BlogHer

Reaching more than 26 million women each month (Nielsen Site Census, July 2011), BlogHer is the leading cross-platform media network created by, for and with women social media leaders. BlogHer created and leads the marketplace with the most robust economic and networking opportunities for women in social media and brands seeking to engage in authentic and persuasive dialog with them. Founded in February 2005 by Elisa Camahort Page, Jory Des Jardins and Lisa Stone, BlogHer publishes and syndicates news, information, advice and recommendations to and from 2,500 premium blogs, delivers uniquely insightful research on women in social media across interest areas, hosts the world's largest conferences for women in social media and curates a daily news service, BlogHer.com. BlogHer's investors are Venrock, GE/NBC Universal's Peacock Equity Fund, and Azure Capital Partners.

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Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2011/8/prweb8682618.htm

GenomeQuest Develops Clinical Decision-Support System to Translate Advances from Whole-Genome Sequencing to Personalized Medicine.

GenomeQuest, a global provider of large-scale genomic software applications, announced the availability of the industry's first clinical decision-support system for whole-genome diagnostics.

Used to analyze and report information about variations and changes in genes and proteins to improve disease treatment, the GQ-DxSM product will launch immediately for the scientific and clinical communities seeking practical and efficient ways to translate advances from whole-genome sequencing into clinical application.

"With whole-genome sequencing advancing to practical use, we see that the next roadblock is the effective clinical application of the emerging discoveries and vast amounts of data," said Richard Resnick, GenomeQuest's CEO. "GQ-Dx makes use of the aligned advancements in sequencing, bioinformatics, computing, and medicine to deliver whole-genome molecular diagnostics. Just as the industry has been able to reduce sequencing time and cost, GenomeQuest has addressed analysis time and cost so that researchers can finally take data from the bench and apply it at the bedside."

GQ-Dx runs on genome center-scale, secure, cloud-based computing infrastructure housed and maintained by GenomeQuest. This service-based software option requires no capital or infrastructure investment and offers simple administration for diagnostic organizations. Optionally, customers can install GQ-Dx in their data center behind their firewall. Diagnostics users access all processing, reporting and research features via the Internet from their desktop or smart device.

Approximately $5 trillion is spent annually on global health care, about 65 percent of therapy decisions are based on the results of diagnostics tests, and molecular diagnostics are the fastest-growing segment of the diagnostics market. Major diagnostic advances enabled by whole-genome sequencing immediately supported by GQ-Dx include consolidation of existing molecular tests, pharmacogenomic screening, and a new generation of discoveries in diagnosing complex, multi-gene disorders.

Designed for academic research laboratories, diagnostics labs, IVD manufacturers, and pharmaceutical companion diagnostic groups, GQ-Dx is already being used in clinical research. In collaboration with GenomeQuest, pathologists at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, a teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School, are developing "clinical grade" annotation methods and databases for cancer diagnoses. In February, GenomeQuest created a GeneTests-based diagnostic panel that generates a report on disease susceptibility, diagnosis, and treatment on more than 2,000 disorders from a single, whole-genome sequence of a patient.

GenomeQuest is a global provider of large-scale genomic software applications. Based on a whole/multi-genome hosting platform, the company's products include GQ-IP for global research of genomic sequence intellectual property, GQ-Dx, the industry's first clinical decision-support system for whole-genome diagnostics, and GQ-Research, a research platform for teams to store, manage, and analyze genomic information at whole/multi-genome scale. GenomeQuest serves major pharmaceutical companies, global agriculture firms, biotech firms, IP legal groups, genome centers, academic research centers, diagnostic companies and labs, and universities around the world.

((Comments on this story may be sent to newsdesk@closeupmedia.com))

M&I Bank, La Crosse, Establishes Fund for Tornado Victims.

M&I Bank, La Crosse, has announced the establishment of a relief fund for victims of the tornado that destroyed homes and other property in the La Crosse area. Donations to the "The Salvation Army FBO La Crosse Tornado Relief" fund can be made at any M&I Bank location. Funds will be administered by the La Crosse Salvation Army. M&I Bank will match the total funds donated up to $2,500.

M&I Bank is an affiliate of Marshall & Ilsley Corporation (NYSE: MI), a diversified financial services corporation headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., with $49.6 billion in assets. Founded in 1847, M&I Marshall & Ilsley Bank is the largest Wisconsin-based bank, with 188 offices throughout the state. In addition, M&I has 53 locations throughout Arizona; 36 offices along Florida's west coast and in central Florida; 33 offices in Indianapolis and nearby communities; 26 offices in metropolitan Minneapolis/St. Paul, and one in Duluth, Minn.; 17 offices in the greater St. Louis area; 15 offices in Kansas City and nearby communities; and one office in Las Vegas, Nev. M&I also provides trust and investment management, equipment leasing, mortgage banking, asset-based lending, financial planning, investments, and insurance services from offices throughout the country and on the Internet (www.mibank.com or www.micorp.com).

Keywords: Finance, Financial Planning, Financial Services, Investing, Investment Management, M&I Bank, Mortgage, Real Estate.

This article was prepared by Real Estate Weekly News editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2011, Real Estate Weekly News via VerticalNews.com.

COMMISSION SETS OUT "BLUEPRINT" FOR INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS TO BOOST CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION.

BRUSSELS -- The following information was released by the European Union:

Intellectual property rights (IPR), which comprise patents, trademarks, designs and geographical indications, as well as copyright (authors' rights) and rights related to copyright (for performers, producers and broadcasters), have been around for centuries. Often, without our even realising, they affect our daily lives: they protect the technology we use (cars, mobile phones, trains), the food we eat and the music we listen to or the films we watch. But in the last few years, technological change and, in particular, the growing importance of online activities, have completely changed the world in which IPR operate. The existing mix of European and national rules are no longer adapted and need to be modernised. That is why the Commission has adopted today a comprehensive strategy to revamp the legal framework in which IPR operate. Our objective is to enable inventors, creators, users and consumers to adapt to the new circumstances and to enhance new business opportunities. The new rules will strike the right balance between promoting creation and innovation, in part by ensuring reward and investment for creators and, on the other hand, promoting the widest possible access to goods and services protected by IPR. Getting this balance right will make a real difference to businesses (from the individual artist working alone to the big pharmaceutical companies) by encouraging investment in innovation. This will benefit the EU's growth and competitiveness which is delivered through the single market. Consumers will benefit from wider and easier access to information and cultural content, for example online music. The strategy deals with many issues to ensure IPR are covered comprehensively - from the patent a business needs to protect an invention to tackling the misuse of such inventions via a proposal also adopted today which will strengthen action on counterfeiting and piracy. Among the first deliverables of this IPR overall strategy are today's proposals for an easier licensing system for so-called "orphan works" that will allow many cultural works to be accessible online, and for a new regulation to reinforce customs actions in fighting trade of IPR infringing goods.

" Ensuring the right level of protection of intellectual property rights in the single market is essential for Europe's economy . Progress depends on new ideas and new knowledge," said Internal Market Commissioner Michel Barnier. " There will be no investment in innovation if rights are not protected. On the other hand, consumers and users need to have access to cultural content, for example online music, for new business models and cultural diversity to both thrive. Our aim today is to get the balance between these two objectives right for IPR across the board. To make Europe's framework for intellectual property an enabler for companies and citizens and fit for the online world and the global competition for ideas ."

Algirdas A emeta, Commissioner responsible for Customs said: "Customs are ideally placed at the border, to protect citizens and legitimate businesses and their contribution is highly valuable in fighting counterfeiting and piracy". He added: "I am convinced that a robust system of intellectual property rights is essential for the whole EU economy. With today's proposal, customs will be able to provide greater protection for IPR and to better tackle the trade in IPR infringing goods."

The IPR Strategy sets out a series of short- and long-term key policy actions in various areas which include:

Patents: the Commission already launched proposals in April for a unitary patent protection under enhanced cooperation (see IP/11/470). Meanwhile, work will continue on proposals relating to the creation of a unified and specialised patent court for the classical European patents and the future European patents with unitary effect. This would considerably reduce litigation costs and the time it takes to resolve patent disputes. It would also increase legal certainty for business.

Trade marks: while trade mark registration in the EU has been harmonised in Member States for almost 20 years and the Community trade mark was established 15 years ago, there is an increasing demand for more streamlined, effective and consistent registration systems. The Commission intends to present proposals in 2011 to modernise the trade mark system both at EU and national levels and adapt it to the Internet era.

Geographical indications (GIs): GIs secure a link between a product's quality and its geographical origin. However, there is currently no such system available at EU level for the protection of non-agricultural products such as Carrara marble or Solingen knives. This leads to an unlevel playing field in the Single Market. The Commission will therefore carry out an in-depth analysis of the existing legal framework in the Member States as well as the potential economic impact of protection for non-agricultural GIs in 2011 and 2012. Depending on the outcome of an impact assessment, these could eventually be followed up by legislative proposals.

Multi-territorial copyright licensing: While the substantive scope of copyright has been largely harmonised, rights are still licensed on a national basis. In view of the digital Single Market, streamlining copyright licensing and revenue distribution is one of the most important challenges that must be addressed. In the 2nd half of 2011, the Commission will submit a proposal to create a legal framework for the efficient multi-territorial collective management of copyright, in particular in the music sector. It will also establish common rules on the transparent governance and revenue distribution. In the second half of 2011, the Commission will also launch a consultation on the various issues related to the online distribution of audiovisual works.

Digital libraries: The creation of European digital libraries that preserve and disseminate Europe's rich cultural and intellectual heritage is key to the development of the knowledge economy. To facilitate this, the Commission is also tabling today a legislative proposal that will enable the digitisation and online availability of so-called "orphan works" (works like books and newspaper or magazine articles that are still protected by copyright but where the right holders are not known or cannot be located to obtain copyright permissions) - see MEMO/11/333. Concurrently, the Commission looks forward to concluding a Memorandum of Understanding amongst libraries, publishers, authors and collecting societies to facilitate licensing solutions to digitise and make available out-of-commerce books.

IPR violations : Counterfeiting and piracy are a growing threat for the economy. Between 2005 and 2009, the number of registered cases at the EU borders of goods suspected of infringing IPR increased from 26 704 to 43 572. Meanwhile, the creative industry estimates that piracy has cost the European music, movie, TV and software industry 10 billion and more than 185 000 jobs in 2008 alone. The Commission is set to intensify its efforts in this area. Firstly, the Commission has tabled a regulation today that is to reinforce the European Observatory on Counterfeiting and Piracy, which it launched in 2009, by entrusting its tasks to the Office for Harmonisation in the Internal Market (OHIM). This will allow the Observatory to benefit from OHIM's intellectual property expertise and strong record of delivery in trade marks and designs. The Regulation now passes to the European Parliament and the Council for consideration. Secondly, in Spring 2012, the Commission will propose to revise the IPR Enforcement Directive (see IP/04/540). The Directive provides for civil law measures allowing right holders to enforce their intellectual property rights but should be adapted, in particular to meet the specific challenges of the digital environment.

IPR enforcement by customs: Customs supervise all trade crossing EU external borders: they carry out controls for many purposes and have an essential role in fighting the trade in IPR infringing goods. In 2009 only, customs intercepted over 40 000 suspect shipments involving 118 million articles. Whilst the majority of goods intercepted are counterfeit or pirated, customs' unique position at the border allows for the enforcement of a wide range of intellectual property rights. As part of today's overall IPR strategy, the Commission also proposes a new customs regulation, to further reinforce the legal framework for customs' actions. The proposal also aims to tackle the trade in small consignments of counterfeit goods sent by post as the overwhelming majority of these goods results from internet sales.

Background

IPR is a cornerstone of the EU economy and a key driver for its further growth. In 2009, the value of the top 10 brands in EU countries amounted to almost 9% of GDP on average. Copyright-based creative industries such as software, book and newspaper publishing, music and film, contributed 3.3% to EU GDP in 2006 and account for approximately 1.4 million SMEs, representing 8.5 million jobs. Employment in "knowledge-economy" industries increased by 24% between 1996 and 2006 compared to 6% for other industries.

For more information on Intellectual Property Rights:

http://ec.europa.eu/internal_market/top_layer/index_52_en.htm

See MEMO/11/332 and MEMO/11/333

For more information on the customs policy:

http://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/customs/customs_controls/counterfeit_piracy/statistics/index_en.htm

For more information on the new IPR customs regulation:

See MEMO/11/327

http://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/index_en.htm

Servcorp, the Virtual Office Provider in Bangkok, Offers a Myriad of Promotions This April.

(PRWEB) April 18, 2011

First off, Servcorp presently offers the Servcorp Onefax, which is an intuitive Internet fax-to-mail innovation that assists companies in keeping their business going smoothly regardless of how near or far they are from their office. Servcorp Onefax enables clients to reduce their expenses via online fax communication, decreased paper usage, added accessibility, ensured confidentiality using faxes that are directly sent to the inbox, and extra mobility because people can basically fax their requirements and whatnot at any place that has an Internet connection available.

Meanwhile, this serviced office Thailand company also has the Servcorp Onefone as one of its latest special features as well. This particular service uses safe, secure, reasonably priced, and portable VOIP technology that transforms one's notebook computer into a business phone of sorts. The bottom line here is that Servcorp Onefone shall serve as the client's mobile business phone solution using only his laptop and his Internet connection. It enables people to make and receive calls through the Servcorp-assigned business phone number regardless of where they are in the world. Besides which, this is a highly secure method of communication because it utilizes the Cisco VPN tunnel that guarantees no interference or virtual wiretapping of conversations by a third party. There isn't even a need to give out multiple business numbers to clients thanks to this remarkable technology that should reduce the company's phone expenses considerably, among many other perks.

This expert in the field of virtual office Bangkok services will also be giving a 50% discount for over two months if the clients will sign up in April. The April Virtual Office Special ensures that all Servcorp customers who'll avail of this promo will receive half-price virtual office services at any location within Bangkok. What more can a person possibly ask for from a company that provides premium-grade, cost-effective services that ensures convenience at every step of the way, from online fax and online phone services to large discounts for this month only? Well, regardless of whether or not Servcorp has offered enough promos for the season, it's nevertheless providing one more special offer to ensure it is without a doubt Thailand's premier virtual office solutions company that goes above and beyond the call of duty on a daily basis.

Servcorp Thailand continues its tradition of brilliant virtual office solutions with this month's slew of special offers. In addition to Servcorp's bread-and-butter features such as office in Bangkok and virtual office Bangkok services as well as serviced office Thailand solutions, the company will also be offering Servcorp Onefax (an online faxing service), Servcorp Onefone (an online business phone solution), and a 50% discount for anyone who signs up with Servcorp's virtual office services in April.

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Read the full story at http://www.prweb.com/releases/2011/04/prweb5226214.htm

PARTNERSHIP FOR PRESCRIPTION ASSISTANCE CELEBRATES FIVE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY AND LAUNCH OF PPA 2.0.

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- The following information was released by the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA):

In an effort to help even more Americans who are uninsured and struggling financially, the Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA) today launched new online resources designed to expand the program's outreach. "PPA 2.0," an evolution of the nationwide effort sponsored by America's pharmaceutical research and biotechnology companies, was unveiled here during a celebration of the PPA's five-year anniversary of helping patients obtain access to the medicines they need for free or nearly free. Since its debut in April 2005, PPA has helped more than 6.5 million Americans by connecting them to patient assistance programs.

These two important milestones were celebrated today at Indianapolis' Blackburn Health Center, where PPA's new national spokesman, Jerry Mathers, was joined by likely NFL Hall of Famer and former Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jerome Bettis and four-time World Series Champion and legendary New York Yankees and New York Mets slugger Darryl Strawberry.

"Over the past five years, we've been from coast to coast, in all 50 states, helping people who are uninsured and struggling -- but our work is not yet done, said Ken Johnson, senior vice president of the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). "The next generation of PPA employs the latest technology to give our partners, health care providers, patient advocates and patients themselves easier access to the help provided by patient assistance programs."

"PPA 2.0" introduces new online resources that expand community partnerships and enhance PPA's mobile and Internet presence to make it even easier to obtain information about PPA programs. In an effort to reach more people in more places, PPA is launching a new text hotline and smart phone application, in addition to the existing toll-free hotline and Web site, to ensure around-the-clock access to information about the more than 475 programs offered through the PPA. Nearly 200 of the programs are provided by pharmaceutical companies.

Jerry Mathers, an American TV icon who has diabetes, has traveled with the PPA to raise awareness of this devastating chronic disease -- and the help available through the PPA. Mathers is best known for his portrayal of "The Beaver" in the television classic, "Leave It To Beaver." Currently shown on TV Land and in countries throughout the world, "Leave It To Beaver" has made Jerry Mathers one of the most well-known actors in television history.

Also unveiled at the event is a new 60-second television public service announcement featuring Bettis and former New England Patriots star linebacker and patient advocate Tedy Bruschi, who team up to raise awareness of the PPA program. The PSA has been sent to more than 1,500 commercial television stations, 500 community TV stations and 500 cable systems throughout America.

"As a professional athlete with asthma, I realize how important it is for people battling chronic conditions to take their medication," explained Bettis. "This public service announcement is a great opportunity to share a free, easy and confidential way for people to get help."

Bruschi, who won three Super Bowls with the Patriots, suffered a debilitating stroke in February 2005, but returned to football just eight months later and was honored as the NFL's Comeback Player of the Year. "After my stroke, I was very fortunate to receive tremendous medical care and the medicines I needed," Bruschi said. "But others aren't as lucky. People who are uninsured and in need should pick up the phone or go to PPA's user-friendly Web site."

Patients seeking help with their medicines can call PPA's toll-free number (1-888-4-PPA-NOW) to talk to a trained operator or access the PPA Web site (www.pparx.org). It only takes 10 to 15 minutes to find out if someone may qualify for free or nearly free medications.

Patients who qualify for help from the PPA's participating patient assistance programs have access to more than 2,500 brand-name and generic prescription medicines. In addition, the PPA provides information on more than 10,000 free health care clinics in America and has connected more than 300,000 patients with clinics and health care providers in their communities.

"At a time when the national unemployment rate is at one of its highest in almost two decades, PPA has become an important lifeline for a growing number of patients," PhRMA's Johnson said. "With tens of thousands of Americans added to the jobless rolls over the last several months, there could be a sharp increase in the number of people losing health care benefits. This can be a scary time for those affected, especially considering the prevalence of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes and asthma."

Nationwide, more than 133 million Americans suffer from at least one chronic disease, which is responsible for seven out of every 10 deaths in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

"I've been traveling the country talking about the Partnership for Prescription Assistance, urging people to pick up the phone or log on to the Web site to see if they may qualify for assistance," said Mathers. "As a patient who must cope every day with the effects of diabetes, I understand only too well the importance of having access to the medicine you need."

More than 1,500 national, state and local partners, including the American Lung Association, American Cancer Society and National Urban League, are working with America's pharmaceutical research and biotechnology companies to spread the word about the program. Trained specialists work with doctors, pharmacists, other health care providers and community groups, educating them on the process and use of PPA's easy-to-access Web site and toll-free number.

"We're excited that the Partnership for Prescription Assistance is celebrating its fifth anniversary -- and improving on a great program," said Jennifer Pferrer, Director at the local Diabetes Association of Indianapolis. "We look forward to helping even more patients in need with the efficient use of these new PPA resources."

Eye-Fi Expands Service with Adobe Photoshop Express and Nikon's My Picturetown and Announces Nationwide Retail Availability at Circuit City.

New relationships offer effortless image uploads for editing, sharing and storing memories and an expansion of retail locations for purchase

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., July 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Eye-Fi Inc., makers of the world's first wireless memory card for digital cameras, today announced new online photo sharing partnerships with Adobe and Nikon and its first nationwide retailer Circuit City.

Images stored on Eye-Fi Cards will now wirelessly upload to Adobe(R) Photoshop(R) Express and Nikon's my Picturetown, enabling consumers to easily get their digital memories to destinations that provide a rich photo editing, sharing and storing experience. In addition, Eye-Fi Cards are now available at each of Circuit City's more than 600 retail stores nationwide and on the Circuit City Web site.

"Expanding our partnerships to include more interactive sites is important to digital photo enthusiasts and to Eye-Fi," said Jef Holove, CEO of Eye-Fi. "The integration of Adobe Photoshop Express and my Picturetown adds two rich online photo options -- from two of the best brands in digital photography -- to the Eye-Fi Service. And, the addition of Circuit City stores is a major step in the expansion of this new category being created by Eye-Fi."

Eye-Fi users can automatically upload images to Adobe Photoshop Express, a new Web-based solution that allows users to store up to two gigabytes of images for free, edit photos and share them in creative ways. The online experience allows anyone to easily show off digital photos with eye-catching effects and bypass the initial hassle of uploading photos by using the Eye-Fi Card.

"Together, Eye-Fi and Adobe provide the easiest way for everyday snapshooters to get their images directly from their digital cameras into Adobe Photoshop Express, where it's simple and fun for anyone to organize, edit, store and share their pictures online, no software download required," said Geoff Baum, Director of Photoshop Express at Adobe. "Enabling Eye-Fi-powered image uploading makes a great Adobe Photoshop Express experience even better for our users."

Earlier this year, Eye-Fi announced that Nikon enhanced its D60 Digital SLR camera for the Eye-Fi Card. Photographers can now select Nikon's my Picturetown as a destination for their full-resolution digital images to be stored and shared. The service offers users new ways to enjoy digital images "anytime, anywhere" by organically linking digital cameras, the Internet, computers, mobile phones and now, the Eye-Fi Card.

Eye-Fi also announced expanded retail availability at Circuit City stores nationwide and on http://www.circuitcity.com/.

"The Eye-Fi Card is a good example of how new technology and a new approach can redefine a mature category and make it even more valuable and convenient for the consumer. Circuit City customers regularly come to us to seek out products that simplify their lives, and the Eye-Fi Card does just that," said Ann Saulsbury, imaging buyer of Circuit City.

Eye-Fi has garnered numerous awards, including PC World's "The 100 Best Products of 2008" and Yahoo! Tech's "Last Gadget Standing 2008." The Eye-Fi family of products range from $79-$129 MSRP and are PC and Mac compatible. For more information, please visit http://www.eye.fi/.

About Eye-Fi

Founded in 2005, the company is dedicated to building products and services that help consumers navigate, nurture and share their visual memories. Eye-Fi's patent-pending technology works with Wi-Fi networks to automatically send photos from a digital camera to online, in-home and retail destinations. Headquartered in Mountain View, Calif., the company's investors include Opus Capital and Shasta Ventures. More information is available at http://www.eye.fi/.

About Nikon

Nikon Inc. is the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally recognized for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Inc. distributes consumer and professional digital SLR cameras, NIKKOR optics, Speedlights and system accessories; Nikon COOLPIX(R) compact digital cameras; COOLSCAN(R) digital film scanners; 35mm film SLR cameras; Nikon software products and Nikon sports and recreational optics. Nikon D Series digital SLR cameras are recognized as "Highest in Customer Satisfaction with digital SLR cameras," according to the latest J.D. Power and Associates 2007 digital Camera Satisfaction Study. Nikon Corporation, the parent company of Nikon Inc., recently celebrated its 90th anniversary and announced the production of over 40 million NIKKOR SLR interchangeable lenses. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-UX or visit http://www.nikonusa.com/, which links all levels of photographers to the Web's most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities.

About Circuit City Stores, Inc.

Circuit City Stores, Inc. is a leading specialty retailer of consumer electronics and related services. At May 31, the domestic segment operated through 687 Superstores and 9 outlet stores in 158 U.S. media markets. At May 31, the international segment operated through 775 retail stores and dealer outlets in Canada. Circuit City also operates Web sites at http://www.circuitcity.com/, http://www.thesource.ca/ and http://www.firedog.com/.

CONTACT: Gina Weakley of Red Consultancy, +1-415-618-8809, gina.weakley@redconsultancy.com, for Eye-Fi Inc.

Web site: http://www.eye.fi/ http://www.nikonusa.com/ http://www.circuitcity.com/

Kevin Sepe, Founder of Dynamic Response Group, Inc., is the Featured Guest in an Audio Interview at SmallCapVoice.com.

AUSTIN, Texas -- SmallCapVoice.com, Inc. today announced that a new audio interview featuring, Kevin Sepe, Founder of Dynamic Response Group, Inc., (OTC:DRGP), is now available at SmallCapVoice.com. The interview can be heard here at http://www.smallcapvoice.com/drgp/dgrp-6-5-07.html.

SmallCapVoice.com is a recognized corporate consulting firm, with clients nationwide, known for its ability to help emerging growth companies build a following among retail and institutional investors. To learn more about Smallcapvoice.com and their services, please visit http://www.smallcapvoice.com/services.html.

About DRG

Dynamic Response Group, Inc. (OTC:DRGP - News) ("DRG") creates, develops and markets innovative products addressing large national and international consumer audiences primarily through direct response TV (DRTV) and Internet advertising. Three of DRG's products have surpassed the $1 million gross sales milestone.

DRG is the innovator and direct response retailer of highly effective products and services including: ProCede(TM), a hair thickening system for men that has generated sales in excess of $22 million; "Backyard Drills with Bill Parcells," a DVD series for fathers and sons (sales surpassed $1 million in April 2006); The Sonic Clean Between Machine[R], an oral hygiene product (sales surpass $1 million in April 2006); Allure Smile and SeroTrol and others.

ProCede consistently ranks in the top 5 most-aired short-form infomercials in the U.S., ranking in the top 5 for 22 consecutive months, and reaching number 1 of all products in the Health and Beauty category twice in that time period (Infomercial Monitoring Service). To date, ProCede has received registration approvals in 28 foreign countries including the European Union, United Arab Emirates and South Africa, and the company plans on making an announcement shortly outlining international distribution plans for its powerful patent-pending formula.

For more information, please visit: www.dynamicresponsegroup.com.

Forward Looking Statements

Statements contained in this news release that are not historical facts are forward looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from any forward looking statements due to many risk factors which include, but are not limited to, no operating history and no earnings, reliance on the Company's management team, the ability to successfully implement the Company's business plan, the ability to fund the Company's business strategy, competition and general economic conditions. Reference is made to our filings made with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.

TSM-SATCOM: Global Broadcast Service. (TSM update).

Global Broadcast Service is in the threshold of becoming a viable component of the deployed warfighters' Internet Protocol based information arsenal. The GBS architecture has been converting from an Asynchronous Transfer Mode to an IP-based network during the past two years.

All the satellite broadcast managers have converted to simulcast operations allowing them to support both ATM and IP during this transition phase. Based on major subordinate command operational need requests, HQDA G3 requested and the Program Executive Officer Command, Control, Communications--Tactical approved an Urgent Material Release for 130 of the IP-based Transportable Ground Receive Suites. Based on this guidance, the Program Manager for Warfighter Information Network-Tactical (GBS-Army) is in the process of coordinating the hand-receipt of the TGRS equipment to units in accordance with HQDA G3 established priorities. Issuance of the IP TGRS in accordance with the UMR includes conduct of New Equipment Training and will continue through 2nd Qtr FY06 when Full Material Release is projected.

GBS is a high-speed, one-way information flow of high volume data to units deployed, or in garrison, and is a component of the military satellite communications architecture. The GBS system is not intended to replace existing MILSATCOM systems. Instead, it supports existing requirements by providing the capability to distribute large information products to user platforms thereby relieving that burden from critical two-way SATCOM systems.

Information products are developed and distributed using a "Smart Push" and/or "User Pull" philosophy to avoid saturating deployed forces with "information overload." This capability allows existing and planned satellite communications systems to support the two-way communications needs of force elements while providing a means for GBS users to request information.

Information products such as imagery, weather, mapping, logistics, national intelligence, and theater intelligence are assembled and broadcast to the user. The information may be in the form of video (classified or unclassified) or data (classified or unclassified). The information sources are identified and contacted as part of the overall GBS responsibilities. A baseline hardware design was selected for the Army IP Transportable Ground Receive Suites consisting of three transit cases--two for the antenna assemblage, called the Next Generation Receive Terminal, and one for the RBM components (88XR). This transition to IP will provide modularity, expandability, enhanced capability, dynamic bandwidth allocation, and the application of industry standards, all significant improvements over the current capabilities.

For more information on the GBS program call Lynn Epperson, DSN 780-2352, COMM (706) 7912352, email: harold.lynn.epperson@us.army.mil

Mr. Epperson is a retired Army lieutenant colonel who served in various capacities both in the Army Signal Corps and joint assignments. He is employed by Femme Comp Inc. and supports the TRADOC System Manager for Satellite Communications at Fort Gordon, Ga.

ACRONYM QUICKSCAN

ATM--Asynchronous Transfer Mode C3T-Command, Control, Communications--Tactical GBS--Global Broadcast Service IP--Internet Protocol MILSATCOM--military satellite communications NET--New Equipment Training NGRT--Next Generation Receive Terminal PEO--Program Executive Officer PM--Program Manager SBMs--Satellite Broadcast Managers TGRS--Transportable Ground Receive Suites UMBR--Urgent Material Release WIN-T--Warfighter Information Network-Tactical