Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Indiana player wins Powerball's top prize
FLORIDA LOTTERY
Indiana player wins Powerball's top prize
From Herald staff and wire reports
miamiherald
1.19.09
Lottery Strategies
No one hit the Florida Lotto jackpot Saturday night, but an Indiana Powerball player matched all six numbers in the multistate game to walk away with its $163.2 million top prize.
Saturday's Florida Lotto numbers were 6, 20, 25, 31, 32 and 45.
With no winner, the jackpot will grow to $15 million for Wednesday's drawing, the Florida Lottery said Sunday.
Saturday's Powerball numbers were 2, 5, 9, 23 and 59, and the Powerball was 26.
That game's jackpot will return to its base amount of $20 million on Wednesday.
Powerball tickets that match the first five numbers, but miss the Powerball, win $200,000 each, and there were two of those, sold in South Dakota and Tennessee. The Power Play option, which players get if they pay $2 for a ticket, doubled the winnings of those who won the smaller prizes. Neither of the $200,000 winners was a Power Play ticket.
More than 136,000 Florida Powerball players won prizes, including 10 who matched four numbers plus the Powerball, each winning $10,000, the Florida Lottery said. It did not say where those tickets were sold.
Meanwhile, six tickets, including two sold in Miami-Dade, matched all five numbers in Florida's Fantasy 5 lottery.
Each ticket is worth $42,021.32 each, the lottery said.
Saturday's Fantasy 5 numbers were 1, 3, 8, 10 and 23. The Miami-Dade winners were Quick Pick tickets sold at the Food Spot, 7301 Miami Lakes Dr., and the Mobil gas station at 3201 NW 79th St.
The other winners were sold in Lehigh, Kissimmee, Orlando and Stuart.
Monday's New Jersey lottery numbers
Monday's New Jersey lottery numbers
CourierPOstOnline
January 19, 2009
Lottery Strategies
New Jersey Lottery Eds: UPDATES with evening lottery numbers
TRENTON, N.J. (AP) -- Here are the winning numbers selected Monday night in the New Jersey State Lottery
.
Pick 3
4-2-4
(four, two, four)
Straight pays $232.50. Box pays $77.50. Pair pays $23. Pick 4
3-4-6-3
(three, four, six, three)
Straight pays $4,149. Box pays $345.50.
Cash 5
9-12-23-24-34
(nine, twelve, twenty-three, twenty-four, thirty-four)
5 of 5 pays $0. 4 of 5 pays $481. 3 of 5 pays $10. Pick 6
1-7-12-16-30-49
(one, seven, twelve, sixteen, thirty, forty-nine)
There were no top prize winners in Monday night's Pick 6 Lotto drawing, New Jersey Lottery officials said.
Five out of six paid $3,403 to 10 winners; four out of six paid $48 to 775 winners; three out of six paid $3 to 14,135 winners.
Thursday's top prize estimate is $3.5 million annuity.
TRENTON, N.J. (AP) -- Here are the winning numbers selected Monday in the New Jersey Lottery's Midday drawing:
Pick 3
0-7-2
(zero, seven, two)
Straight: $319.50
Box: $53
Pair: $31.50 Pick 4
9-9-0-3
(nine, nine, zero, three)
Straight: $3,957.50
Box: $329.50
CourierPOstOnline
January 19, 2009
Lottery Strategies
New Jersey Lottery Eds: UPDATES with evening lottery numbers
TRENTON, N.J. (AP) -- Here are the winning numbers selected Monday night in the New Jersey State Lottery
.
Pick 3
4-2-4
(four, two, four)
Straight pays $232.50. Box pays $77.50. Pair pays $23. Pick 4
3-4-6-3
(three, four, six, three)
Straight pays $4,149. Box pays $345.50.
Cash 5
9-12-23-24-34
(nine, twelve, twenty-three, twenty-four, thirty-four)
5 of 5 pays $0. 4 of 5 pays $481. 3 of 5 pays $10. Pick 6
1-7-12-16-30-49
(one, seven, twelve, sixteen, thirty, forty-nine)
There were no top prize winners in Monday night's Pick 6 Lotto drawing, New Jersey Lottery officials said.
Five out of six paid $3,403 to 10 winners; four out of six paid $48 to 775 winners; three out of six paid $3 to 14,135 winners.
Thursday's top prize estimate is $3.5 million annuity.
TRENTON, N.J. (AP) -- Here are the winning numbers selected Monday in the New Jersey Lottery's Midday drawing:
Pick 3
0-7-2
(zero, seven, two)
Straight: $319.50
Box: $53
Pair: $31.50 Pick 4
9-9-0-3
(nine, nine, zero, three)
Straight: $3,957.50
Box: $329.50
$163 Million Lottery Ticket Remains Unclaimed
$163 Million Lottery Ticket Remains Unclaimed
1/19
kypost
Lottery Strategies
A lucky winner is holding a multi-million dollar lottery ticket, and it could be your neighbor.
Someone bought the winning powerball ticket worth over $160 million at the Circle K station in Greendale near Lawrenceburg.
"Everybody is coming in here and checking their tickets to see if they've won. But the winner hasn't come foreword yet," said Circle K Manager Mary Cummings.
The ticket is worth an estimated $163.2 million, which can buy a lot of things...
So what if the winner is hungry? He or she can buy a foot long from Subway...and one for every person in Canada.
If they want a new car? They can buy a new $63,000 G.M.C. Yukon Denali with leather seats and 22-inch wheels. Plus one for more than 2,500 of their closest friends.
The last winning powerball ticket was sold in Indianapolis in November. Those winners stayed anonymous.
At this point, no one has claimed the prize.
The lucky numbers? 2, 5, 9, and 59...the Powerball: 26.
1/19
kypost
Lottery Strategies
A lucky winner is holding a multi-million dollar lottery ticket, and it could be your neighbor.
Someone bought the winning powerball ticket worth over $160 million at the Circle K station in Greendale near Lawrenceburg.
"Everybody is coming in here and checking their tickets to see if they've won. But the winner hasn't come foreword yet," said Circle K Manager Mary Cummings.
The ticket is worth an estimated $163.2 million, which can buy a lot of things...
So what if the winner is hungry? He or she can buy a foot long from Subway...and one for every person in Canada.
If they want a new car? They can buy a new $63,000 G.M.C. Yukon Denali with leather seats and 22-inch wheels. Plus one for more than 2,500 of their closest friends.
The last winning powerball ticket was sold in Indianapolis in November. Those winners stayed anonymous.
At this point, no one has claimed the prize.
The lucky numbers? 2, 5, 9, and 59...the Powerball: 26.
Lottery games still a big draw as people try to change their luck in hard times
Lottery games still a big draw as people try to change their luck in hard times
Bob Matteo, one of 14 Schnuck’s employees in the lottery pool at the store, prepares to purchase more Powerball tickets with the winnings from a recent drawing. Out of the tickets purchased, there were $11 in winnings, which Matteo used to buy more tickets.
News Tribune
By Kris Hilgedick
January 18, 2009
Lottery Strategies
Is the Missouri Lottery having an exceptional year, revenue-wise, even as the economy dives deeper into a recession? Or are the agency's earnings flat?
It depends on how you crunch the numbers, said Gary Gonder, director of Integrated Services.
In the calendar year 2008, the Missouri Lottery's sales exceeded $1 billion - a longtime internal goal for lottery employees.
But, if revenues from the current fiscal year are examined, it appears revenues are only up .17 percent - “flat as a pancake,” said Gonder.
Lotteries across the nation don't appear to be scoring big gains in tough times. However, unlike many other industries suffering massive decreases, they aren't witnessing big losses, either.
Steve Scherr, owner of Mr. Convenience near downtown Jefferson City, said he thinks lottery proceeds for his store are probably up for the year.
“Lottery sales are pretty good,” he said. “In bad times, I think people say, ‘I might win the big one!'”
When other industries are being laid to waste, “Any increase at all is good,” said Scherr.
Scheer believes people buy them almost as a habit. “It seems like it's a tradition to buy a ticket,” he said.
People may think more people buy lottery tickets when times are hard, but Gonder isn't certain it's true.
“We haven't seen people putting more money down because of the poor economy,” he said.
The Missouri Lottery offers about nine different game classes - Scratchers, Pulltabs, Lotto, Powerball, Pick 3, Pick 4, Show Me Cash, Club Keno and Raffle.
One sign that the poor economy may be changing people's buying habits is that sales of $1 Scratchers tickets are up.
Buyers “are still participating, but at a cheaper pricepoint,” he said. “It's the first time in five or six years we've seen an increase in the $1 game.”
Pulltabs are down by a third, but the small-stakes cards are being phased out anyway, said Gonder.
The biggest losses - down 15 percent - are in the Powerball category, but Gonder said that has nothing to do with the economy.
Powerball sales are driven strictly by the size of the jackpots, he said. When jackpots are huge, people hear about it and rush out to buy tickets. Scherr has witnessed the phenomenon: “The larger it get, people start buying Powerball tickets like crazy.”
Four share £7.6m lottery jackpot
Four share £7.6m lottery jackpot
Lottery Strategies
UK Shopping
Four lucky ticketholders have matched all six lottery numbers to scoop Saturday's main £7.6m Lotto prize.
They will be able to collect £1.9m each.
Their winning numbers were 1, 7, 9, 33, 36 and 38 and the bonus ball was 39.
Draw machine Topaz and set of balls seven were used.
Eight people matched five numbers plus the bonus ball to win £192,384 while 549 ticketholders matched five numbers to win £1,752.
Nobody won the Thunderball draw top prize.
These numbers were 11, 20, 22, 28 and 34. The Thunderball was 14.
There were also no winners in the Lotto Dream Number game,
The balls, which had be matched in order, were 5, 1, 1, 2, 8, 6, 2.
Story from BBC NEWS
Published: 2009/01/17
Lottery Strategies
UK Shopping
Four lucky ticketholders have matched all six lottery numbers to scoop Saturday's main £7.6m Lotto prize.
They will be able to collect £1.9m each.
Their winning numbers were 1, 7, 9, 33, 36 and 38 and the bonus ball was 39.
Draw machine Topaz and set of balls seven were used.
Eight people matched five numbers plus the bonus ball to win £192,384 while 549 ticketholders matched five numbers to win £1,752.
Nobody won the Thunderball draw top prize.
These numbers were 11, 20, 22, 28 and 34. The Thunderball was 14.
There were also no winners in the Lotto Dream Number game,
The balls, which had be matched in order, were 5, 1, 1, 2, 8, 6, 2.
Story from BBC NEWS
Published: 2009/01/17
$191,000 Lottery Ticket Sold in Roseville
$191,000 Lottery Ticket Sold in Roseville
Posted By: Jason Kobely
1/18
Lottery Strategies
SACRAMENTO, CA - Someone in Roseville may be a whole lot richer this weekend now that a California Lottery ticket sold there Friday had winning numbers worth over $191,000, lottery officials announced Saturday.
The Fantasy 5 ticket was purchased at the Bel Air Market at 1039 Sunrise Avenue in Roseville Friday with the winning numbers 25, 24, 29, 5 and 14. The ticket is worth $191,542, a California Lottery spokesperson said.
While a winner hadn't stepped forward by early Saturday, all lottery winners are advised to sign the backs of their tickets, keep them in a safe place, then contact lottery officials or visit the closest Lottery district office as soon as possible.
News10/KXTV
Posted By: Jason Kobely
1/18
Lottery Strategies
SACRAMENTO, CA - Someone in Roseville may be a whole lot richer this weekend now that a California Lottery ticket sold there Friday had winning numbers worth over $191,000, lottery officials announced Saturday.
The Fantasy 5 ticket was purchased at the Bel Air Market at 1039 Sunrise Avenue in Roseville Friday with the winning numbers 25, 24, 29, 5 and 14. The ticket is worth $191,542, a California Lottery spokesperson said.
While a winner hadn't stepped forward by early Saturday, all lottery winners are advised to sign the backs of their tickets, keep them in a safe place, then contact lottery officials or visit the closest Lottery district office as soon as possible.
News10/KXTV
Lotto 23: We'll cut hours to save jobs
Lotto 23: We'll cut hours to save jobs
By JOHN TROUP
17 Jan 2009
Lotto Strategies
UK Shopping
WORKERS who won £2.6million on the Lotto have asked to go part-time so colleagues escape redundancy.
The offer was made by most of the 23 winners in a syndicate after bosses planned to axe jobs at Havebury Housing Partnership.
The generous pals, who each scooped £114,357, told union officials they were willing to cut their hours or job share.
Management are considering the offer as a way of avoiding some redundancies among 200 staff at Haverhill and Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk.
All 23 vowed to carry on working when they picked up a £2,630,225 cheque in November.
Sasha Pearce, regional organiser for the public service union Unite, said: “It’s a lovely idea.”
One staff member said: “All the winners are a great bunch of people.”
By JOHN TROUP
17 Jan 2009
Lotto Strategies
UK Shopping
WORKERS who won £2.6million on the Lotto have asked to go part-time so colleagues escape redundancy.
The offer was made by most of the 23 winners in a syndicate after bosses planned to axe jobs at Havebury Housing Partnership.
The generous pals, who each scooped £114,357, told union officials they were willing to cut their hours or job share.
Management are considering the offer as a way of avoiding some redundancies among 200 staff at Haverhill and Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk.
All 23 vowed to carry on working when they picked up a £2,630,225 cheque in November.
Sasha Pearce, regional organiser for the public service union Unite, said: “It’s a lovely idea.”
One staff member said: “All the winners are a great bunch of people.”
Lottery sales soar for lucky No. 1549
Lottery sales soar for lucky No. 1549
BY GLENN BLAIN
DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITER
Saturday, January 17th 2009,
Lottery Strategies
ALBANY - Thanks to the Miracle on the Hudson, 1549 has become New York's newest lucky number, state Lottery officials said Friday.
Sales of Win 4 tickets using Flight 1549's number sold out shortly after 4 p.m. Thursday and are sold out through Tuesday night's drawing, said Lottery spokeswoman Carolyn Hapeman.
Ticket sales for a given number are suspended when the money that would have to be paid out if that number hits exceeds $5 million, Hapeman said.
She could not estimate how many tickets were sold using that number. Hapeman said 1549 is still available in other games.
BY GLENN BLAIN
DAILY NEWS STAFF WRITER
Saturday, January 17th 2009,
Lottery Strategies
ALBANY - Thanks to the Miracle on the Hudson, 1549 has become New York's newest lucky number, state Lottery officials said Friday.
Sales of Win 4 tickets using Flight 1549's number sold out shortly after 4 p.m. Thursday and are sold out through Tuesday night's drawing, said Lottery spokeswoman Carolyn Hapeman.
Ticket sales for a given number are suspended when the money that would have to be paid out if that number hits exceeds $5 million, Hapeman said.
She could not estimate how many tickets were sold using that number. Hapeman said 1549 is still available in other games.
Year-old $250,000 lottery ticket must be redeemed by Tuesday
Friday, January 16, 2009
Year-old $250,000 lottery ticket must be redeemed by Tuesday
Charlie Cain / Detroit News Lansing Bureau
Lottery Strategies
The holder of a winning $250,000 lottery ticket had better beat feet to Michigan Lottery headquarters in Lansing.
The ticket, sold at Joslyn Market in Pontiac, must be redeemed by 4 p.m. Tuesday or it won't be worth the paper it's printed on.
"We were speculating on who might have bought it and it came down to a couple of guys," said Eddie Shouneyia who works in the family-owned market.
"We think the winner might have ended up losing the ticket, otherwise it would have been turned in by now with the way the economy is. If it was lost, that's a shame."
The winning Mega Millions ticket is from the Jan. 18, 2008, drawing. The numbers were 12-22-33-43-44 with the gold mega ball 15.
Lottery tickets must be redeemed within one year of the drawing date. Since the expiration date falls on Sunday and state government offices are closed Monday in honor of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, the winner has until the close of business Tuesday to collect. The winner is urged to contact the Lottery public relations division at (517) 373-1237 to set up an appointment to collect the prize.
About $27.4 million worth of winning tickets were never cashed in last year. Since the lottery debuted in 1972, more than a half-billion dollars -- $530 million -- has gone unclaimed, including 13 prizes of $1 million or more.
Unclaimed prize money goes into the state School Aid Fund, which supports K-12 education. Last year, the lottery sent $740 million to schools, and paid $1.32 billion in prizes on $2.33 billion in ticket sales.
Year-old $250,000 lottery ticket must be redeemed by Tuesday
Charlie Cain / Detroit News Lansing Bureau
Lottery Strategies
The holder of a winning $250,000 lottery ticket had better beat feet to Michigan Lottery headquarters in Lansing.
The ticket, sold at Joslyn Market in Pontiac, must be redeemed by 4 p.m. Tuesday or it won't be worth the paper it's printed on.
"We were speculating on who might have bought it and it came down to a couple of guys," said Eddie Shouneyia who works in the family-owned market.
"We think the winner might have ended up losing the ticket, otherwise it would have been turned in by now with the way the economy is. If it was lost, that's a shame."
The winning Mega Millions ticket is from the Jan. 18, 2008, drawing. The numbers were 12-22-33-43-44 with the gold mega ball 15.
Lottery tickets must be redeemed within one year of the drawing date. Since the expiration date falls on Sunday and state government offices are closed Monday in honor of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday, the winner has until the close of business Tuesday to collect. The winner is urged to contact the Lottery public relations division at (517) 373-1237 to set up an appointment to collect the prize.
About $27.4 million worth of winning tickets were never cashed in last year. Since the lottery debuted in 1972, more than a half-billion dollars -- $530 million -- has gone unclaimed, including 13 prizes of $1 million or more.
Unclaimed prize money goes into the state School Aid Fund, which supports K-12 education. Last year, the lottery sent $740 million to schools, and paid $1.32 billion in prizes on $2.33 billion in ticket sales.
Robber Sprays Tear Gas At Radio Shack Clerks
Jan 17, 2009
Robber Sprays Tear Gas At Radio Shack Clerks
PERRIS
RadioShack
Following the robbery, two clerks at Radio Shack were treated for tear gas exposure at the Perris store Friday night. (File)
CBS 3
A man who was pretending to shop at the Radio Shack on North Perris Boulevard pulled a gun, demanded cash and gassed two clerks with the tear gas "Mace," Perris police reported Saturday.
The alleged tear gas robber remained at large and authorities were looking for him, said Riverside County sheriff's Investigator Juan Zamora.
The two clerks were treated for tear gas exposure at the store Friday night, according to Perris police Sgt. Kevin Smith.
An employee at the store Saturday said she and the manager were not allowed to discuss the robbery and referred questions to a district spokesman.
The robbery occurred about 8:10 p.m. Friday when a man walked into the Radio Shack at 1688 N. Perris Blvd. and spoke to one clerk about buying some electronic products, according to Smith.
The clerk went into a stockroom to look for a product the man had requested. The man then started speaking to a second clerk and pulled a gun, according to Smith.
The gunman brandished his weapon, demanded money from the registers, then gassed both clerks and ran with an undisclosed amount of cash, according to Smith.
The gunman was described as a black man, 6 feet tall, 220 pounds, 30 to 35 years of age, with a mustache, a black beanie, white T-shirt, light gray sweatshirt and black pants.
Smith encouraged anyone with information to call (800) 950-2444 or (951) 210-1000.
Robber Sprays Tear Gas At Radio Shack Clerks
PERRIS
RadioShack
Following the robbery, two clerks at Radio Shack were treated for tear gas exposure at the Perris store Friday night. (File)
CBS 3
A man who was pretending to shop at the Radio Shack on North Perris Boulevard pulled a gun, demanded cash and gassed two clerks with the tear gas "Mace," Perris police reported Saturday.
The alleged tear gas robber remained at large and authorities were looking for him, said Riverside County sheriff's Investigator Juan Zamora.
The two clerks were treated for tear gas exposure at the store Friday night, according to Perris police Sgt. Kevin Smith.
An employee at the store Saturday said she and the manager were not allowed to discuss the robbery and referred questions to a district spokesman.
The robbery occurred about 8:10 p.m. Friday when a man walked into the Radio Shack at 1688 N. Perris Blvd. and spoke to one clerk about buying some electronic products, according to Smith.
The clerk went into a stockroom to look for a product the man had requested. The man then started speaking to a second clerk and pulled a gun, according to Smith.
The gunman brandished his weapon, demanded money from the registers, then gassed both clerks and ran with an undisclosed amount of cash, according to Smith.
The gunman was described as a black man, 6 feet tall, 220 pounds, 30 to 35 years of age, with a mustache, a black beanie, white T-shirt, light gray sweatshirt and black pants.
Smith encouraged anyone with information to call (800) 950-2444 or (951) 210-1000.
Jones County dad wins $1 million Lotto prize
Jan. 16, 2009
Jones County dad wins $1 million Lotto prize
Liz Fabian
Macon
Lotto Strategies
A Jones County father of four had been out of work with a back injury for five months when he won a $1 million prize in the Georgia Lottery.
Scott Barnard of Wayside bought his winning ticket for $20 Sunday at the City Limits Food Mart at 4386 Gray Highway. He scratched off two others before revealing one of the major prizes in the lottery's 15th Anniversary Millionaire Extravaganza instant game.
Barnard called the win an incredible blessing that will allow him to seek medical treatment for his injured back and pay off the family's debt.
"We're going to stay down to earth," said Jennifer Burkhalter, Barnard's wife, who works as a nurse at Coliseum Medical Centers in Macon. "I will work anyway. Nursing is a calling."
The couple does not plan any major expenditures, they said.
Jones County dad wins $1 million Lotto prize
Liz Fabian
Macon
Lotto Strategies
A Jones County father of four had been out of work with a back injury for five months when he won a $1 million prize in the Georgia Lottery.
Scott Barnard of Wayside bought his winning ticket for $20 Sunday at the City Limits Food Mart at 4386 Gray Highway. He scratched off two others before revealing one of the major prizes in the lottery's 15th Anniversary Millionaire Extravaganza instant game.
Barnard called the win an incredible blessing that will allow him to seek medical treatment for his injured back and pay off the family's debt.
"We're going to stay down to earth," said Jennifer Burkhalter, Barnard's wife, who works as a nurse at Coliseum Medical Centers in Macon. "I will work anyway. Nursing is a calling."
The couple does not plan any major expenditures, they said.
California Lottery
Jan. 16, 2009
California Lottery
Lottery Strategies
No one matched all five numbers and the mega number in Wednesday's drawing of the California Super Lotto. The next jackpot will be at least $50 million.
The winning numbers were:
1 19 39 44 45 (8)
Drawings are held on Wednesday and Saturday. Odds of matching all five winning numbers and the mega number are one in 41,416,353. Overall odds of winning are 1 in 23.
California Lottery
Lottery Strategies
No one matched all five numbers and the mega number in Wednesday's drawing of the California Super Lotto. The next jackpot will be at least $50 million.
The winning numbers were:
1 19 39 44 45 (8)
Drawings are held on Wednesday and Saturday. Odds of matching all five winning numbers and the mega number are one in 41,416,353. Overall odds of winning are 1 in 23.
New lottery terminals are giving retailers fits
Friday, January 16, 2009
New lottery terminals are giving retailers fits
Lottery Strategies
Numerous glitches have popped up on the touch-screen devices that use satellite technology.
Charlie Cain / Detroit News Lansing Bureau
LANSING -- The new generation of Michigan Lottery machines is giving some retailers fits as the devices sometimes go on the blink in this winter's harsh weather.
The state began replacing 11,000 older model machines last fall, and the conversion should be completed by month's end.
But unlike the old system, which used phone lines, the new one relies on satellite technology.
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In snowy, windy weather, the newer machines sometimes freeze up, and retailers can't make sales during the down time, which they say has been for as long as an hour at a time.
Lottery officials say the problems go beyond the weather; they blame the situation on "glitches" in the satellite technology system. They say they are working to find solutions.
Meantime, many of the retailers are irked.
"It's a terrible terminal, it's so slow. I liked the old one 10 times better because the problems were easier to fix," said John Kenyon, owner of Luke's Gift & Sweet Shoppe at Oakland Mall in Troy. "I'm located in the middle of a mall, and sometimes I get huge lines because the new machine is six, seven times slower."
Mike Sawa, owner of Oak Liquor and Wine in Oak Park, one of the state's top retailers, says his two new terminals quit working for brief periods.
"Of course, I'm losing customers; people don't want to wait. And with this new machine, everything is slow," Sawa said.
Linda Gonzales, manager of JP's West, a Detroit bar and restaurant, said she's had problems with the new terminals, but normally they're resolved by a simple phone call to a Michigan Lottery technician.
But she said this week has been more troublesome, with the brutal weather. On Tuesday, the Club Keno machine froze and wouldn't accept bets.
"We had probably four (patrons) who just left," she said.
Many retailers are happy with the sleek, new terminals, which have touchpad screens, thermal images, laser printers and flat-screen TV monitors.
"Mine hasn't gone down, and I haven't had any problems," said Phillip Shouneyia, who owns Joslyn Market in Pontiac.
Lottery officials acknowledge that the situation is frustrating.
"While some of the problems are weather-related, not all of them are," said Andi Brancato, the agency's spokeswoman. "It's hard to pin down how many terminals may have been down at any one time because it's an intermittent problem," she said.
Brancato said technicians are trying to iron out the kinks so sales aren't interrupted.
"It doesn't appear we've had any significant negative (economic) impact at all because it's not like the retailers have been down for days," she said.
Last year, the Michigan Lottery had about $2.3 billion in sales.
Florida Lotto jackpot rises to $15 million
Florida Lotto jackpot rises to $15 million
By ASSOCIATED PRESS
January 18, 2009
Lotto Strategies
TALLAHASSEE — The jackpot in the Florida Lotto game has grown to $15 million after no one matched the six winning numbers in the latest drawing, lottery officials said Sunday.
A total of 55 tickets matched five numbers to win $6,068 each; 3,381 tickets matched four numbers for $80 each; and 73,054 tickets matched three numbers for $5 each.
The winning Florida Lotto numbers selected Saturday: 6-20-25-31-32-45.
By ASSOCIATED PRESS
January 18, 2009
Lotto Strategies
TALLAHASSEE — The jackpot in the Florida Lotto game has grown to $15 million after no one matched the six winning numbers in the latest drawing, lottery officials said Sunday.
A total of 55 tickets matched five numbers to win $6,068 each; 3,381 tickets matched four numbers for $80 each; and 73,054 tickets matched three numbers for $5 each.
The winning Florida Lotto numbers selected Saturday: 6-20-25-31-32-45.
Ton Lotto winners scoops £4000
Published: Thursday, 15th January, 2009
Ton Lotto winners scoops £4000
greenock telegraph
Lotto Strategies
UK Shopping
THE Morton Lotto jackpot is creeping up once again after a recent win for an overseas player.
With no winners this week, it now stands at £2,000.
Double it, and that is what Derek McLean scooped, with his brother on hand at Cappielow to accept the cheque on his behalf.
Lottery manager Heather Arthur also presented a cheque for £400 to Duncan McGurk who sold Derek the winning ticket.
Ton Lotto winners scoops £4000
greenock telegraph
Lotto Strategies
UK Shopping
THE Morton Lotto jackpot is creeping up once again after a recent win for an overseas player.
With no winners this week, it now stands at £2,000.
Double it, and that is what Derek McLean scooped, with his brother on hand at Cappielow to accept the cheque on his behalf.
Lottery manager Heather Arthur also presented a cheque for £400 to Duncan McGurk who sold Derek the winning ticket.
Education is Tennessee Lottery's top winner
Education is Tennessee Lottery's top winner
Tickets first went on sale 5 years ago
By Lucas L. Johnson II • ASSOCIATED PRESS • January 20, 2009
Lottery Strategies
The Tennessee Lottery has generated more than $1.3 billion for education programs since its inception five years ago, and officials are hoping that number will continue to grow despite a tight economy.
Today marks the fifth anniversary of the state lottery, which began selling scratch-off tickets on Jan. 20, 2004.
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Since then, the program has had nearly $5 billion in sales, and about $3 billion in prizes have been paid to winners, lottery spokeswoman Kym Gerlock said. However, the biggest beneficiary has been education.
Last year, Gerlock said lottery funds helped more than 68,000 students at statewide higher education institutions and about 10,000 students in dual enrollment classes, helped fund 257 new pre-K classes and provided grants to 126 after-school programs. Tennessee lottery funds are dedicated by statute to those facets of education.
Overall, Gerlock said more than 100,000 individuals benefit each year from lottery-funded education programs.
"The more students who can be impacted by the dollars we raise, the more successful we'll be," said lottery CEO Rebecca Paul Hargrove.
Democratic Gov. Phil Bredesen, a strong advocate of education programs, said he's pleased with the assistance the state lottery has provided — particularly for the state's best students.
"I think it's been successful and helped a lot of people go to college," he said. "I think it's done a really good job of keeping a bunch of really good students home in Tennessee institutions."
At some point, however, the governor said he would like to see more lottery funds made available to help "the non-3.0 students, which is where I think a lot of the new students are going to come from."
Not all smooth sailing
Despite its success, the lottery has had a few troubles. In October, lottery officials filed a lawsuit against Smartplay International Inc. and Gaming Laboratories International Inc., the technology provider and system reviewer held responsible for a programming glitch.
The error caused no duplicate digits to appear in winning Cash 3 and Cash 4 numbers between July 28 and Aug. 20 of 2008. Gamblers who picked duplicate digits could not win.
Then in November, Hargrove told Bredesen in budget sessions that lottery sales were running about $400,000 less per week than in 2007 and that the lottery was now projecting about $288.6 million in revenues for education this fiscal year.
That's about $2.5 million more than 2007, but about $3.5 million less than earlier estimates.
She said at the time that Powerball sales had been coming in lower because the game's jackpots had been smaller than the previous year.
Officials say they don't know whether the tough economic times are driving the decrease in sales. Some researchers say financial insecurity might actually encourage people to risk more of their money than usual on $1 and $5 instant scratch-offs and other daily games in hopes of a big payoff.
25 win $1M or more
Hargrove said there isn't much evidence to support a prediction, because the nation hasn't seen an economy like this since the Great Depression — an era when there were no legal lotteries in the United States.
However, she said data from recessions since 1964 show they haven't driven lottery ticket sales up or down.
"In recessionary times, you put off buying the refrigerator or the new car, but your $1 lottery ticket isn't something that you give up," Hargrove said.
Since the lottery began, she said retailers have earned nearly $320 million in commissions, and 25 people have won a million dollars or more.
Shannon Rebello, a manager at a Nashville Mapco convenience store, said every other customer spends at least $2 on lottery tickets. And Darlene Harper, a Mapco manager at another Nashville location, said she sells about $300 worth of lottery tickets daily.
Kenny Stinnett, 39, a construction worker in Knoxville, said the economy hasn't affected whether he buys the tickets or how often. He said he buys the scratch-off tickets "every once in a while."
"Just when I have a couple of extra dollars," he said. "Sometimes I wish I'd win the $100,000. I'd buy a house and a new car ... but I'd keep playing."
Tickets first went on sale 5 years ago
By Lucas L. Johnson II • ASSOCIATED PRESS • January 20, 2009
Lottery Strategies
The Tennessee Lottery has generated more than $1.3 billion for education programs since its inception five years ago, and officials are hoping that number will continue to grow despite a tight economy.
Today marks the fifth anniversary of the state lottery, which began selling scratch-off tickets on Jan. 20, 2004.
Advertisement
Since then, the program has had nearly $5 billion in sales, and about $3 billion in prizes have been paid to winners, lottery spokeswoman Kym Gerlock said. However, the biggest beneficiary has been education.
Last year, Gerlock said lottery funds helped more than 68,000 students at statewide higher education institutions and about 10,000 students in dual enrollment classes, helped fund 257 new pre-K classes and provided grants to 126 after-school programs. Tennessee lottery funds are dedicated by statute to those facets of education.
Overall, Gerlock said more than 100,000 individuals benefit each year from lottery-funded education programs.
"The more students who can be impacted by the dollars we raise, the more successful we'll be," said lottery CEO Rebecca Paul Hargrove.
Democratic Gov. Phil Bredesen, a strong advocate of education programs, said he's pleased with the assistance the state lottery has provided — particularly for the state's best students.
"I think it's been successful and helped a lot of people go to college," he said. "I think it's done a really good job of keeping a bunch of really good students home in Tennessee institutions."
At some point, however, the governor said he would like to see more lottery funds made available to help "the non-3.0 students, which is where I think a lot of the new students are going to come from."
Not all smooth sailing
Despite its success, the lottery has had a few troubles. In October, lottery officials filed a lawsuit against Smartplay International Inc. and Gaming Laboratories International Inc., the technology provider and system reviewer held responsible for a programming glitch.
The error caused no duplicate digits to appear in winning Cash 3 and Cash 4 numbers between July 28 and Aug. 20 of 2008. Gamblers who picked duplicate digits could not win.
Then in November, Hargrove told Bredesen in budget sessions that lottery sales were running about $400,000 less per week than in 2007 and that the lottery was now projecting about $288.6 million in revenues for education this fiscal year.
That's about $2.5 million more than 2007, but about $3.5 million less than earlier estimates.
She said at the time that Powerball sales had been coming in lower because the game's jackpots had been smaller than the previous year.
Officials say they don't know whether the tough economic times are driving the decrease in sales. Some researchers say financial insecurity might actually encourage people to risk more of their money than usual on $1 and $5 instant scratch-offs and other daily games in hopes of a big payoff.
25 win $1M or more
Hargrove said there isn't much evidence to support a prediction, because the nation hasn't seen an economy like this since the Great Depression — an era when there were no legal lotteries in the United States.
However, she said data from recessions since 1964 show they haven't driven lottery ticket sales up or down.
"In recessionary times, you put off buying the refrigerator or the new car, but your $1 lottery ticket isn't something that you give up," Hargrove said.
Since the lottery began, she said retailers have earned nearly $320 million in commissions, and 25 people have won a million dollars or more.
Shannon Rebello, a manager at a Nashville Mapco convenience store, said every other customer spends at least $2 on lottery tickets. And Darlene Harper, a Mapco manager at another Nashville location, said she sells about $300 worth of lottery tickets daily.
Kenny Stinnett, 39, a construction worker in Knoxville, said the economy hasn't affected whether he buys the tickets or how often. He said he buys the scratch-off tickets "every once in a while."
"Just when I have a couple of extra dollars," he said. "Sometimes I wish I'd win the $100,000. I'd buy a house and a new car ... but I'd keep playing."
Lottery cash for suicide support
Lottery cash for suicide support
1/20 BBC
Lottery Strategies
UK Shopping
Mary Rodgers and office manager Margaret Leiper
Mary Rodgers (left) feels people often find it difficult to discuss suicide
A Dundee-based charity that helps those struggling to cope after the suicide of a friend or family member is to expand after receiving lottery cash.
Insight Counselling has been awarded £272,183 over five years to employ a counsellor and a community worker.
As well as taking on the two new part-time workers, the grant will also allow them to expand into Perth.
The charity currently works in Dundee, Forfar, Arbroath , Montrose and Brechin and does outreach work in schools.
'Guilt and shame'
The charity already has 35 trained volunteer counsellors, two paid workers and reception staff.
Dundee Samaritans has also committed 10 volunteers to help in the project.
Project manager Mary Rodgers said: "Suicide bereavement is a specialist area as those who are affected often have feelings of guilt and shame, and can become prisoners to hindsight when they think of all the 'if onlys' connected to the death.
"They can also become isolated because they don't want to speak about it and their friends and family don't want to speak about it either.
"It's not often realised that people bereaved by suicide are more at risk of committing suicide themselves.
"Our new service will undertake to offer one-to-one counselling, provide a listening service and our goal is to set up lots of small self-help groups in communities.
"The self-help groups are important because we are living in a society where the concept of community is becoming quite fragmented."
1/20 BBC
Lottery Strategies
UK Shopping
Mary Rodgers and office manager Margaret Leiper
Mary Rodgers (left) feels people often find it difficult to discuss suicide
A Dundee-based charity that helps those struggling to cope after the suicide of a friend or family member is to expand after receiving lottery cash.
Insight Counselling has been awarded £272,183 over five years to employ a counsellor and a community worker.
As well as taking on the two new part-time workers, the grant will also allow them to expand into Perth.
The charity currently works in Dundee, Forfar, Arbroath , Montrose and Brechin and does outreach work in schools.
'Guilt and shame'
The charity already has 35 trained volunteer counsellors, two paid workers and reception staff.
Dundee Samaritans has also committed 10 volunteers to help in the project.
Project manager Mary Rodgers said: "Suicide bereavement is a specialist area as those who are affected often have feelings of guilt and shame, and can become prisoners to hindsight when they think of all the 'if onlys' connected to the death.
"They can also become isolated because they don't want to speak about it and their friends and family don't want to speak about it either.
"It's not often realised that people bereaved by suicide are more at risk of committing suicide themselves.
"Our new service will undertake to offer one-to-one counselling, provide a listening service and our goal is to set up lots of small self-help groups in communities.
"The self-help groups are important because we are living in a society where the concept of community is becoming quite fragmented."
Program offered to quit smoking
Program offered to quit smoking
The Times-Reporter
Posted Jan 14, 2009
CANTON, OH —
Quit Smoking
Drugstores Online
Mercy Medical Center at Canton is offering a free six-week smoking cessation class at the hospital, and work-site classes are also available. Through grant funding, Mercy also is offering free nicotine-replacement patches for eight weeks or a one-month supply of Chantix – a smoking cessation medication – with a second month at half-price for qualified individuals while supplies last.
Mercy also is offering up to nine weeks of pulmonary rehabilitation – or even a one-time informational visit – for the community’s uninsured and underserved thanks to a grant from the Foundation for Healthy Communities of the Ohio Hospital Assn.
The Times-Reporter
Posted Jan 14, 2009
CANTON, OH —
Quit Smoking
Drugstores Online
Mercy Medical Center at Canton is offering a free six-week smoking cessation class at the hospital, and work-site classes are also available. Through grant funding, Mercy also is offering free nicotine-replacement patches for eight weeks or a one-month supply of Chantix – a smoking cessation medication – with a second month at half-price for qualified individuals while supplies last.
Mercy also is offering up to nine weeks of pulmonary rehabilitation – or even a one-time informational visit – for the community’s uninsured and underserved thanks to a grant from the Foundation for Healthy Communities of the Ohio Hospital Assn.
Zandile Blay is Fashion Market Editor at Paper Magazine in New York City.
Zandile Blay is Fashion Market Editor at Paper Magazine in New York City.
Posted January 14, 2009
Supima Cotton for Fashion's Rising Stars
Clothings Fashion
Read More: Brooks Brother, Cotton, Emerging Designers, Fashion, Fashion Shows, Gotham Hall, Lands End, New York, Ralph Lauren, Retail, Supima Competition For Aspiring Designers, Supima Cotton, Style News
Brooks Brothers. Ralph Lauren. Lands End. These are just a few of a laundry list of retailers who favor Supima cotton, a luxurious, fashion forward brand of cotton cultivated exclusively in America. After decades of providing fabric to established designers, Supima - or specifically the growers who produce it - is seeking to provide inspiration to aspiring designers. This was the motivation behind their annual venture, Supima Competition for Emerging Designers.
The contest culminates tonight in an extravaganza at Gotham Hall in New York City, but the process began months ago. Last November, hundreds of aspiring fashion designers lined up around Thompson Hotel where a panel of judges waited to review their portfolios. The twenty-one designers who were selected that day were presented with an additional challenge: creating a complete collection from ten yards of luxurious Supima cotton.
Their pieces will finally be revealed this evening at Gotham Hall in New York City where Supima is putting on a dazzling fashion show featuring cocktails, clothing and of course competition! One person out of the group will be selected as a winner and may very well become one of fashions rising stars.
Who will win this year? Stay tuned.
Posted January 14, 2009
Supima Cotton for Fashion's Rising Stars
Clothings Fashion
Read More: Brooks Brother, Cotton, Emerging Designers, Fashion, Fashion Shows, Gotham Hall, Lands End, New York, Ralph Lauren, Retail, Supima Competition For Aspiring Designers, Supima Cotton, Style News
Brooks Brothers. Ralph Lauren. Lands End. These are just a few of a laundry list of retailers who favor Supima cotton, a luxurious, fashion forward brand of cotton cultivated exclusively in America. After decades of providing fabric to established designers, Supima - or specifically the growers who produce it - is seeking to provide inspiration to aspiring designers. This was the motivation behind their annual venture, Supima Competition for Emerging Designers.
The contest culminates tonight in an extravaganza at Gotham Hall in New York City, but the process began months ago. Last November, hundreds of aspiring fashion designers lined up around Thompson Hotel where a panel of judges waited to review their portfolios. The twenty-one designers who were selected that day were presented with an additional challenge: creating a complete collection from ten yards of luxurious Supima cotton.
Their pieces will finally be revealed this evening at Gotham Hall in New York City where Supima is putting on a dazzling fashion show featuring cocktails, clothing and of course competition! One person out of the group will be selected as a winner and may very well become one of fashions rising stars.
Who will win this year? Stay tuned.
Tampa Teenagers Invited To Local Macy's To Shop For Wardrobe To Wear To Historic Presidential Inauguration
Tampa Teenagers Invited To Local Macy's To Shop For Wardrobe To Wear To Historic Presidential Inauguration
Local Teens Invited by Boys & Girls Clubs of America to take part in President-Elect Barack Obama Inauguration Activities
Macy's Discount Coupon
WHO: Six Tampa area teenagers are less than a week away from attending the 2009 Inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama. 15-year-old Amari Bennett, 15-year-old Cody Crawford, 16-year-old Devin Oliver, 16-year-old Tyler Placeres, 15-year-old Kristina Sutor, and 16-year-old Jennifer Tran were chosen by the Boys & Girls Club of America to represent the organization at the Presidential Inauguration, the parade, and at one of the Inaugural Balls. The teenagers were chosen because of their dedication to the Jim Walter Interbay Boys & Girls Club and for their extensive community service. The teenagers will depart on January 18, 2009 for Washington, D.C.
WHAT: Before their departure to the nation's capital, the teenagers will be treated to a special shopping trip to Macy's at Westshore Plaza in Tampa. Each teen will receive a $500 electronic gift card from Macy's to purchase clothes, accessories or any items needed to look their best for the historic event.
WHEN: Thursday, January 15th, 2009 1 p.m.
WHERE: Macy's at Westshore Plaza
298 Westshore Plaza
Tampa, FL 33609
EDITOR'S NOTE: Media wishing to attend must RSVP in advance to Ivonne Amor at 305-299-2091.
About the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay
For more than 80 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay have provided young people with a safe place to learn and grow. Currently comprised of 21 facilities in Hillsborough and Pasco Counties, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay serves over 9,000 youth annually, through the generosity of United Way and Children's Board of Hillsborough County. Youth development professionals provide children, ages 5-18, through key programs that emphasize character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills, the arts, as well as sports, fitness and recreation.
About Macy's
Macy's, the largest retail brand of Macy's, Inc., delivers fashion and affordable luxury to customers at more than 800 locations in 45 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and Guam. Offering distinctive assortments including exclusive fashion and home brands, Macy's stores are operated by four regionally based retail divisions - Macy's East, Macy's Florida, Macy's Central, and Macy's West - and an online store at macys.com.
Crowne Plaza opens in Louisville, KY.
20 January 2009
Crowne Plaza opens in Louisville, KY.
50,000 square feet of meeting space is third largest in Crowne Plaza global portfolio
ATLANTA (Jan. 20, 2009) – IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) [LON: IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)], the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms, today announced that the Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport Kentucky Expo Center is expected to open within a month, after a renovation and conversion from the Executive West Hotel.
The renovation included upgrades to all 588 guestrooms, the addition of Presidential and Executive Suites and a total re-design of public space to include a new bar and restaurant with outdoor terrace seating, a new ballroom, dedicated exhibit space, an executive boardroom and a new business center. Other improvements include major façade and exterior work, significant mechanical and HVAC upgrades, a new entrance canopy and a complete lobby renovation.
The eight-story hotel is located less than a mile from the entrance to the Louisville International Airport and a short drive to downtown Louisville and the one-million-square-foot Kentucky Expo Center. The property also offers convenient access to Interstate 264 and Interstate 65 and is near several major employers in the Louisville area, including UPS, Yum! Brands and Humana Healthcare.
“The hotel’s location near the airport and the expo center makes it a major attraction for meeting planners,” said Gina LaBarre, vice president, Brand Management, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, the Americas. “With the conversion of this hotel to a Crowne Plaza, we can now offer them our comprehensive meetings program, which they won’t find at any other hotel in the Louisville market.”
The Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport Kentucky Expo Center offers 588 guest rooms and a variety of amenities, including a fitness center, indoor and outdoor pool, gift shop, airport and local business shuttle and multiple dining outlets.
The privately-held Al J. Schneider Company, owner of the Crowne Plaza and the independent Galt House Hotel & Suites in downtown Louisville, engaged Senate Hospitality Group to manage the conversion. Senate ensured adherence to the Crowne Plaza Property Improvement Plan (PIP) and provided development services to manage the renovation design and budget, FF&E procurement and support of information systems planning. Senate’s strong track record with meetings hotel development influenced the hotel’s re-positioning and renovation design.
Senate Hospitality Group has extensive background in hospitality and entertainment development and management. Senate’s principals have led the creation, development and management of more than 75 hotels and resorts including other IHG hotels.
Through Senate’s repositioning efforts, the hotel now features the Crowne Plaza Sleep Advantage, which is available at all Crowne Plaza hotels in the Americas. Sleep Advantage encompasses the entire sleep experience, from training staff on how to create and maintain a restful environment to providing innovative products and services. Program components include signature bedding, guaranteed wake-up calls, designated quiet zones, night lights, drape clips, sleep CDs, sleep tips and amenities such as eye masks, ear plugs and lavender spray.
Also consistent with the Crowne Plaza brand, the hotel offers a comprehensive meetings program to ensure a seamless planning process and exceptional meeting experience consisting of three key components: a Two-Hour Response Guarantee, Crowne Meetings Director and a Daily Meetings Debrief. The Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport Kentucky Expo Center features 50,000 square feet of exceptional meeting and banquet space for business functions or special events, the third largest amount of meeting space at any Crowne Plaza in the world.
The property is located at 830 Phillips Road, Louisville, Ky., and is owned and managed by Al J. Schneider Company Hotel Division, under a license agreement with a company in the InterContinental Hotels Group.
Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts participates in IHG’s guest loyalty program, Priority Club® Rewards. The industry’s first and largest guest loyalty program has 40 million members. Priority Club Rewards membership is free and guests can enroll by logging on at priorityclub.com, by calling 1-888-211-9874 or by inquiring at the front desk of this hotel or any of IHG’s more than 4,100 hotels worldwide.
Crowne Plaza was recently recognized by Lodging Hospitality magazine as one of the industry’s top growing brands. As part of the IHG global portfolio, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts has more than 300 hotels in nearly 60 countries, and are located in major urban centers, gateway cities and resort destinations. For reservations at Crowne Plaza properties, visit www.crowneplaza.com or call 1-800-2CROWNE.
Crowne Plaza opens in Louisville, KY.
50,000 square feet of meeting space is third largest in Crowne Plaza global portfolio
ATLANTA (Jan. 20, 2009) – IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) [LON: IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)], the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms, today announced that the Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport Kentucky Expo Center is expected to open within a month, after a renovation and conversion from the Executive West Hotel.
The renovation included upgrades to all 588 guestrooms, the addition of Presidential and Executive Suites and a total re-design of public space to include a new bar and restaurant with outdoor terrace seating, a new ballroom, dedicated exhibit space, an executive boardroom and a new business center. Other improvements include major façade and exterior work, significant mechanical and HVAC upgrades, a new entrance canopy and a complete lobby renovation.
The eight-story hotel is located less than a mile from the entrance to the Louisville International Airport and a short drive to downtown Louisville and the one-million-square-foot Kentucky Expo Center. The property also offers convenient access to Interstate 264 and Interstate 65 and is near several major employers in the Louisville area, including UPS, Yum! Brands and Humana Healthcare.
“The hotel’s location near the airport and the expo center makes it a major attraction for meeting planners,” said Gina LaBarre, vice president, Brand Management, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts, the Americas. “With the conversion of this hotel to a Crowne Plaza, we can now offer them our comprehensive meetings program, which they won’t find at any other hotel in the Louisville market.”
The Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport Kentucky Expo Center offers 588 guest rooms and a variety of amenities, including a fitness center, indoor and outdoor pool, gift shop, airport and local business shuttle and multiple dining outlets.
The privately-held Al J. Schneider Company, owner of the Crowne Plaza and the independent Galt House Hotel & Suites in downtown Louisville, engaged Senate Hospitality Group to manage the conversion. Senate ensured adherence to the Crowne Plaza Property Improvement Plan (PIP) and provided development services to manage the renovation design and budget, FF&E procurement and support of information systems planning. Senate’s strong track record with meetings hotel development influenced the hotel’s re-positioning and renovation design.
Senate Hospitality Group has extensive background in hospitality and entertainment development and management. Senate’s principals have led the creation, development and management of more than 75 hotels and resorts including other IHG hotels.
Through Senate’s repositioning efforts, the hotel now features the Crowne Plaza Sleep Advantage, which is available at all Crowne Plaza hotels in the Americas. Sleep Advantage encompasses the entire sleep experience, from training staff on how to create and maintain a restful environment to providing innovative products and services. Program components include signature bedding, guaranteed wake-up calls, designated quiet zones, night lights, drape clips, sleep CDs, sleep tips and amenities such as eye masks, ear plugs and lavender spray.
Also consistent with the Crowne Plaza brand, the hotel offers a comprehensive meetings program to ensure a seamless planning process and exceptional meeting experience consisting of three key components: a Two-Hour Response Guarantee, Crowne Meetings Director and a Daily Meetings Debrief. The Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport Kentucky Expo Center features 50,000 square feet of exceptional meeting and banquet space for business functions or special events, the third largest amount of meeting space at any Crowne Plaza in the world.
The property is located at 830 Phillips Road, Louisville, Ky., and is owned and managed by Al J. Schneider Company Hotel Division, under a license agreement with a company in the InterContinental Hotels Group.
Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts participates in IHG’s guest loyalty program, Priority Club® Rewards. The industry’s first and largest guest loyalty program has 40 million members. Priority Club Rewards membership is free and guests can enroll by logging on at priorityclub.com, by calling 1-888-211-9874 or by inquiring at the front desk of this hotel or any of IHG’s more than 4,100 hotels worldwide.
Crowne Plaza was recently recognized by Lodging Hospitality magazine as one of the industry’s top growing brands. As part of the IHG global portfolio, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts has more than 300 hotels in nearly 60 countries, and are located in major urban centers, gateway cities and resort destinations. For reservations at Crowne Plaza properties, visit www.crowneplaza.com or call 1-800-2CROWNE.
Local residents disappointed with Circuit City store's closure
Friday, Jan. 16, 2009
Local residents disappointed with Circuit City store's closure
Tonya Strickland and Nick Wilson
Electronics Stores
Several customers at the Circuit City off Los Osos Valley Road in San Luis Obispo said they were disappointed with the news of the store’s liquidation plan.
Many said they view Circuit City as another option to find the best deals among local electronics stores – which also include Best Buy and Radio Shack.
But some customers also admitted to shopping online on Web sites such as Amazon.com and say that giving their business to Internet companies likely has contributed to the closures of Circuit City stores.
“I do shop for electronics on the Internet,” said Earl Sally, a Paso Robles resident searching for a subwoofer Friday. “But it’s also disappointing to see this store go out of business. It’s one less option.”
A Long Beach State University student whose parents live in the county said that she bought a camera for her father for Christmas at Circuit City and lamented the fact that many stores are going out of business.
“It’s sad,” said Sarah Contreras, 23. “I don’t shop here that much, but just that it’s going out of business is disappointing, especially with Linens-N-Things going out too.”
San Luis Obispo resident Mickey Wallwork said he came to the store Friday to make sure his wireless router was still set to be installed by Circuit City staff. Wallwork said he was told by employees that the work would be completed as planned.
A manager of the store said he wasn’t allowed to answer any questions from the media and referred inquiries to the store’s corporate office. It’s unclear how many employees the store has.
An e-mail sent by The Tribune to Circuit City’s public relations department went unreturned Friday.
Local residents disappointed with Circuit City store's closure
Tonya Strickland and Nick Wilson
Electronics Stores
Several customers at the Circuit City off Los Osos Valley Road in San Luis Obispo said they were disappointed with the news of the store’s liquidation plan.
Many said they view Circuit City as another option to find the best deals among local electronics stores – which also include Best Buy and Radio Shack.
But some customers also admitted to shopping online on Web sites such as Amazon.com and say that giving their business to Internet companies likely has contributed to the closures of Circuit City stores.
“I do shop for electronics on the Internet,” said Earl Sally, a Paso Robles resident searching for a subwoofer Friday. “But it’s also disappointing to see this store go out of business. It’s one less option.”
A Long Beach State University student whose parents live in the county said that she bought a camera for her father for Christmas at Circuit City and lamented the fact that many stores are going out of business.
“It’s sad,” said Sarah Contreras, 23. “I don’t shop here that much, but just that it’s going out of business is disappointing, especially with Linens-N-Things going out too.”
San Luis Obispo resident Mickey Wallwork said he came to the store Friday to make sure his wireless router was still set to be installed by Circuit City staff. Wallwork said he was told by employees that the work would be completed as planned.
A manager of the store said he wasn’t allowed to answer any questions from the media and referred inquiries to the store’s corporate office. It’s unclear how many employees the store has.
An e-mail sent by The Tribune to Circuit City’s public relations department went unreturned Friday.
Empire Direct falls into administration following loss of credit insurance
Empire Direct falls into administration following loss of credit insurance
January 20 2009
The Financial Times
Electronics Stores UK
Empire Direct falls into administration following loss of credit insurance
Empire Direct, an electricals retailer, fell into administration on Monday after a poor Christmas for most stores selling televisions and washing machines was aggravated by the loss of credit insurance.
KPMG, administrator to the company, which employed 350 people, said the "business really suffered when credit insurers withdrew cover in October". Credit insurers insure suppliers against the risk of the retailer defaulting on debt.
The Leeds-based retailer was one of the few specialist electrical chains to have survived the competition from Kesa Electricals and DSG International, the owners of Comet and Currys, both of which have seen their own sales come under pressure as consumers refrain from buying "big ticket" electrical and electronic products.
With turnover of £152m, the company had bank overdrafts of £10.9m at its year end in March last year.
In the accounts, directors flagged "the ongoing availability of overdraft facilities" as a potential risk.
Empire Direct, which is 25 years old and was run and part-owned by Madan Showan, had 14 stores which have now been closed, as well as a large website.
KMPG said it was trying to contact customers who had paid for goods but not received them.
January 20 2009
The Financial Times
Electronics Stores UK
Empire Direct falls into administration following loss of credit insurance
Empire Direct, an electricals retailer, fell into administration on Monday after a poor Christmas for most stores selling televisions and washing machines was aggravated by the loss of credit insurance.
KPMG, administrator to the company, which employed 350 people, said the "business really suffered when credit insurers withdrew cover in October". Credit insurers insure suppliers against the risk of the retailer defaulting on debt.
The Leeds-based retailer was one of the few specialist electrical chains to have survived the competition from Kesa Electricals and DSG International, the owners of Comet and Currys, both of which have seen their own sales come under pressure as consumers refrain from buying "big ticket" electrical and electronic products.
With turnover of £152m, the company had bank overdrafts of £10.9m at its year end in March last year.
In the accounts, directors flagged "the ongoing availability of overdraft facilities" as a potential risk.
Empire Direct, which is 25 years old and was run and part-owned by Madan Showan, had 14 stores which have now been closed, as well as a large website.
KMPG said it was trying to contact customers who had paid for goods but not received them.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Verizon Wireless upgrades Westchester network
Verizon Wireless upgrades Westchester network
By Jay Loomis • The Journal News • January 16, 2009
Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless said the addition of five new transmission sites will improve wireless reception in Westchester County.
The nation's largest wireless carrier said the expanded coverage will mean fewer dropped calls as customers use their wireless phones to send and receive e-mail, text, picture and video messages. The company added that the new cell transmission sites will particularly help improve service in parts of Peekskill, New Rochelle, Croton-on-Hudson, Mount Pleasant and Port Chester.
Advertisement
Verizon Wireless said it has invested more than $2 billion to improve its New York/New Jersey metro network and more than $48 billion nationally during the past nine years. Verizon Wireless serves more than 83.7 million customers across the country.
Wachovia Securities plans move within White Plains
Wachovia Securities, recently acquired by Wells Fargo & Co., will leave downtown White Plains in May for the Platinum Mile along the I-287 corridor.
Wachovia will move from offices at 10 Bank St. and 360 Hamilton Ave. and consolidate on a 74-acre campus at 1133 Westchester Ave., owned by RPW Group. Wachovia signed a minimum 10-year lease for 26,000 square feet at 1133 Westchester, commercial brokerage Cushman & Wakefield said.
The deal is the first large office lease to be announced in 2009. RPW President and Chief Executive Officer Robert P. Weisz said about 80 to 100 Wachovia employees are moving. Wachovia officials could not be reached for comment.
Weisz said the financial company was drawn by 1133's amenities, including a conference center, an executive dining room, shuttle service to trains and on-site day care. Provident Bank has signed a lease to open a branch office at the building in March, he added.
About 150,000 of the 640,000 square feet at the building are available. Other tenants include ITT Corp., IBM, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide and EMC Corp. Asking rent at the building is $35 a square foot, said Glenn Walsh, senior director at Cushman & Wakefield.
Hudson Valley Holding says TARP not needed
Hudson Valley Holding Corp. of
Yonkers said it does not need to use the asset protection services the U.S. government is providing to banks. The assistance effort, the Treasury Department's Capital Purchase Program, is widely known as TARP. Hudson Valley Holding Corp. is the parent company of two local banks, Hudson Valley Bank and New York National Bank.
"Hudson Valley is extremely well capitalized," James J. Landy, president and chief executive officer, said in a written statement.
Provident Bank's parent company earns $6.3 million in fiscal 1Q
Provident New York Bancorp reported net income of $6.3 million, or 16 cents a share, during its fiscal first quarter. That was higher than the net income of $5.9 million, or 15 cents per share, a year earlier. The Montebello-based parent of Provident Bank said loans grew by $15.1 million, mainly in the commercial sector. "I'm pleased to report solid earnings for the quarter despite the continuing economic challenges facing the Hudson Valley and the nation," George Strayton, president and chief executive officer, said in a written statement.
Verizon Stitches Mobile Phone Into Bundles
Verizon Stitches Mobile Phone Into Bundles
DSL Available In 26 States and D.C.; In 17 States For FiOS Internet Customers
By Todd Spangler -- Multichannel News, 6/17/2008
Verizon Wireless
Verizon Communications—responding to consumers who are giving up their landlines and using wireless as their primary voice service—rolled out a new double-play offer that combines broadband Internet and wireless on one bill.
The telco’s Flex Double Play bundle consists of any national Verizon Wireless calling plan of 450 minutes or greater and a FiOS Internet or DSL Internet service at 3 Megabits per second.
FiOS TV service, if available, can also be added to create a triple-play bundle. Verizon offers DSL in 26 states and Washington, D.C. FiOS Internet is available in 17 states, and FiOS TV is available in 13.
Verizon's One Bill system must be used with all Flex bundles, and consumers must commit to a one- or two-year contract depending on the package. Verizon Wireless is a joint venture between Verizon and Vodafone.
According to Verizon, customers can save money with the bundles.
For example, a 450-minute Verizon Wireless nationwide calling plan can be combined with a mid-tier FiOS Internet plan for a Flex double play starting at $84.99 monthly—about $13 per month less than unbundled prices. If FiOS TV is added to those two services, the triple-play bundle pricing starts at $124.99 per month ($15 off standalone pricing).
“This comprehensive bundle provides us greater flexibility to meet the evolving communication preferences of customers," Verizon Telecom president Virginia Ruesterholz said, in a statement. "Consumers who have chosen to use a wireless phone as their sole voice connection, or who are thinking about that, can now marry the industry's best networks for wireless, broadband Internet and television in one high-value Verizon bundle."
DSL Available In 26 States and D.C.; In 17 States For FiOS Internet Customers
By Todd Spangler -- Multichannel News, 6/17/2008
Verizon Wireless
Verizon Communications—responding to consumers who are giving up their landlines and using wireless as their primary voice service—rolled out a new double-play offer that combines broadband Internet and wireless on one bill.
The telco’s Flex Double Play bundle consists of any national Verizon Wireless calling plan of 450 minutes or greater and a FiOS Internet or DSL Internet service at 3 Megabits per second.
FiOS TV service, if available, can also be added to create a triple-play bundle. Verizon offers DSL in 26 states and Washington, D.C. FiOS Internet is available in 17 states, and FiOS TV is available in 13.
Verizon's One Bill system must be used with all Flex bundles, and consumers must commit to a one- or two-year contract depending on the package. Verizon Wireless is a joint venture between Verizon and Vodafone.
According to Verizon, customers can save money with the bundles.
For example, a 450-minute Verizon Wireless nationwide calling plan can be combined with a mid-tier FiOS Internet plan for a Flex double play starting at $84.99 monthly—about $13 per month less than unbundled prices. If FiOS TV is added to those two services, the triple-play bundle pricing starts at $124.99 per month ($15 off standalone pricing).
“This comprehensive bundle provides us greater flexibility to meet the evolving communication preferences of customers," Verizon Telecom president Virginia Ruesterholz said, in a statement. "Consumers who have chosen to use a wireless phone as their sole voice connection, or who are thinking about that, can now marry the industry's best networks for wireless, broadband Internet and television in one high-value Verizon bundle."
Wireless company offers tips for protecting phones in cold weather
Wireless company offers tips for protecting phones in cold weather
Verizon Wireless
With temperatures plunging across the nation, Verizon Wireless offers these tips to prepare wireless phones for the cold weather:
• Charge phones/PDAs frequently. Cold temperatures can run down the battery’s charge more quickly. Use a car charger if you get stranded or stuck in traffic due to winter weather.
• Handle handsets with care. The display cover can become brittle when exposed to cold temperatures for long periods of time.
• Keep phones in a warm place. Avoid leaving it in an outside pocket or backpack or in the car overnight. Prolonged exposure to the cold may affect the display screen. When outside, carry devices in an inside jacket pocket, keeping it close to your body for warmth.
• Check your phone’s signal strength in a non-emergency situation to know where the signal is strong and where it’s not.
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• Maintain a list of emergency phone numbers — police, fire and rescue agencies; power companies; insurance providers; family, friends and co-workers; etc. — and program them into your phone. Add highway department and school numbers to check for local road and school closings and “no tow” orders.
• Be prepared before heading outside by checking weather, traffic and news reports available on most wireless phones.
With 83.7 million customers, Verizon Wireless is the nation’s largest wireless provider.
Verizon Wireless
With temperatures plunging across the nation, Verizon Wireless offers these tips to prepare wireless phones for the cold weather:
• Charge phones/PDAs frequently. Cold temperatures can run down the battery’s charge more quickly. Use a car charger if you get stranded or stuck in traffic due to winter weather.
• Handle handsets with care. The display cover can become brittle when exposed to cold temperatures for long periods of time.
• Keep phones in a warm place. Avoid leaving it in an outside pocket or backpack or in the car overnight. Prolonged exposure to the cold may affect the display screen. When outside, carry devices in an inside jacket pocket, keeping it close to your body for warmth.
• Check your phone’s signal strength in a non-emergency situation to know where the signal is strong and where it’s not.
Advertisement
• Maintain a list of emergency phone numbers — police, fire and rescue agencies; power companies; insurance providers; family, friends and co-workers; etc. — and program them into your phone. Add highway department and school numbers to check for local road and school closings and “no tow” orders.
• Be prepared before heading outside by checking weather, traffic and news reports available on most wireless phones.
With 83.7 million customers, Verizon Wireless is the nation’s largest wireless provider.
Wireless Phone Users in Lenexa, Kansas Now Experience Even Clearer Reception and Fewer Dropped Calls
Press Release Source: Verizon Wireless
Wireless Phone Users in Lenexa, Kansas Now Experience Even Clearer Reception and Fewer Dropped Calls
Thursday January 15
Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless Activates New Cell Site
LENEXA, Kan., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon Wireless, the only major carrier with a 30-day network test-drive pledge that pays for calls if a customer isn't satisfied and switches to another carrier, has activated a new cell site in Lenexa that expands network coverage and increases capacity, enabling more customers to use their wireless phones concurrently to make calls; send and receive email and text, picture and video messages; and download games and ringtones while enjoying clearer reception and fewer dropped calls.
This new cell site improves Verizon Wireless' voice and data network in Lenexa, from K-7 Highway east to I-435, and from 95th Street north to 72nd Street.
"This network enhancement reflects our ongoing commitment to meet the growing needs of our customers and to provide them with the reliable, high quality service they expect from Verizon Wireless," said Brendan Fallis, president-Kansas/Missouri Region, Verizon Wireless.
Reliable service is fundamental to customer loyalty, and Verizon Wireless boasts the highest customer loyalty in the industry, as measured by the company's low percent of customer turnover.
"The value we offer our customers is closely tied to our industry-leading customer retention," Fallis said. "Wireless consumers today understand that value is not defined by price alone. A major reason our customers choose Verizon Wireless and stay with us is because we offer the nation's most reliable network."
This new cell site is part of Verizon Wireless' continual effort to expand coverage, increase capacity and enhance the quality of its wireless voice and data network in Kansas and throughout the country. Verizon Wireless has invested more than $48 billion since it was formed -- $5.5 billion on average every year -- to increase the coverage and capacity of its national network and to add new services. More than $14.5 million was spent in Kansas in the first half of 2008.
About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable wireless voice and data network, serving 83.7 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 85,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ - News) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD - News News). For more information, visit http://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 http://www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.
Wireless Phone Users in Lenexa, Kansas Now Experience Even Clearer Reception and Fewer Dropped Calls
Thursday January 15
Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless Activates New Cell Site
LENEXA, Kan., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon Wireless, the only major carrier with a 30-day network test-drive pledge that pays for calls if a customer isn't satisfied and switches to another carrier, has activated a new cell site in Lenexa that expands network coverage and increases capacity, enabling more customers to use their wireless phones concurrently to make calls; send and receive email and text, picture and video messages; and download games and ringtones while enjoying clearer reception and fewer dropped calls.
This new cell site improves Verizon Wireless' voice and data network in Lenexa, from K-7 Highway east to I-435, and from 95th Street north to 72nd Street.
"This network enhancement reflects our ongoing commitment to meet the growing needs of our customers and to provide them with the reliable, high quality service they expect from Verizon Wireless," said Brendan Fallis, president-Kansas/Missouri Region, Verizon Wireless.
Reliable service is fundamental to customer loyalty, and Verizon Wireless boasts the highest customer loyalty in the industry, as measured by the company's low percent of customer turnover.
"The value we offer our customers is closely tied to our industry-leading customer retention," Fallis said. "Wireless consumers today understand that value is not defined by price alone. A major reason our customers choose Verizon Wireless and stay with us is because we offer the nation's most reliable network."
This new cell site is part of Verizon Wireless' continual effort to expand coverage, increase capacity and enhance the quality of its wireless voice and data network in Kansas and throughout the country. Verizon Wireless has invested more than $48 billion since it was formed -- $5.5 billion on average every year -- to increase the coverage and capacity of its national network and to add new services. More than $14.5 million was spent in Kansas in the first half of 2008.
About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable wireless voice and data network, serving 83.7 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 85,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ - News) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD - News News). For more information, visit http://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 http://www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.
Wireless Phone Users in Jackson County, Missouri Now Experience Even Clearer Reception and Fewer Dropped Calls
Press Release Source: Verizon Wireless
Wireless Phone Users in Jackson County, Missouri Now Experience Even Clearer Reception and Fewer Dropped Calls
Thursday January 15
Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless Activates New Cell Site in Kansas City
KANSAS CITY, Mo., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon Wireless, the only major carrier with a 30-day network test-drive pledge that pays for calls if a customer isn't satisfied and switches to another carrier, has activated a new cell site in Kansas City, Mo., that expands network coverage and increases capacity, enabling more customers to use their wireless phones concurrently to make calls; send and receive email and text, picture and video messages; and download games and ringtones while enjoying clearer reception and fewer dropped calls.
This new cell site improves Verizon Wireless' voice and data network around the Brookside neighborhood, from Wornall Rd. east to Prospect Ave., and from 59th Street north to 39th Street.
"This network enhancement reflects our ongoing commitment to meet the growing needs of our customers and to provide them with the reliable, high quality service they expect from Verizon Wireless," said Brendan Fallis, president-Kansas/Missouri Region, Verizon Wireless.
Reliable service is fundamental to customer loyalty, and Verizon Wireless boasts the highest customer loyalty in the industry, as measured by the company's low percent of customer turnover.
"The value we offer our customers is closely tied to our industry-leading customer retention," Fallis said. "Wireless consumers today understand that value is not defined by price alone. A major reason our customers choose Verizon Wireless and stay with us is because we offer the nation's most reliable network."
This new cell site is part of Verizon Wireless' continual effort to expand coverage, increase capacity and enhance the quality of its wireless voice and data network in Missouri and throughout the country. Verizon Wireless has invested more than $48 billion since it was formed -- $5.5 billion on average every year -- to increase the coverage and capacity of its national network and to add new services. More than $26 million was spent in Missouri in the first half of 2008.
About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable wireless voice and data network, serving 83.7 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 85,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ - News) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD - News News). For more information, visit http://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 http://www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.
Wireless Phone Users in Jackson County, Missouri Now Experience Even Clearer Reception and Fewer Dropped Calls
Thursday January 15
Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless Activates New Cell Site in Kansas City
KANSAS CITY, Mo., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon Wireless, the only major carrier with a 30-day network test-drive pledge that pays for calls if a customer isn't satisfied and switches to another carrier, has activated a new cell site in Kansas City, Mo., that expands network coverage and increases capacity, enabling more customers to use their wireless phones concurrently to make calls; send and receive email and text, picture and video messages; and download games and ringtones while enjoying clearer reception and fewer dropped calls.
This new cell site improves Verizon Wireless' voice and data network around the Brookside neighborhood, from Wornall Rd. east to Prospect Ave., and from 59th Street north to 39th Street.
"This network enhancement reflects our ongoing commitment to meet the growing needs of our customers and to provide them with the reliable, high quality service they expect from Verizon Wireless," said Brendan Fallis, president-Kansas/Missouri Region, Verizon Wireless.
Reliable service is fundamental to customer loyalty, and Verizon Wireless boasts the highest customer loyalty in the industry, as measured by the company's low percent of customer turnover.
"The value we offer our customers is closely tied to our industry-leading customer retention," Fallis said. "Wireless consumers today understand that value is not defined by price alone. A major reason our customers choose Verizon Wireless and stay with us is because we offer the nation's most reliable network."
This new cell site is part of Verizon Wireless' continual effort to expand coverage, increase capacity and enhance the quality of its wireless voice and data network in Missouri and throughout the country. Verizon Wireless has invested more than $48 billion since it was formed -- $5.5 billion on average every year -- to increase the coverage and capacity of its national network and to add new services. More than $26 million was spent in Missouri in the first half of 2008.
About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable wireless voice and data network, serving 83.7 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 85,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ - News) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD - News News). For more information, visit http://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 http://www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.
Verizon Wireless to fill 160 jobs in Wilmington
Verizon Wireless to fill 160 jobs in Wilmington
Jan 15, 2009
by Lynda Figueredo
Verizon Wireless
WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - Verizon Wireless is looking to fill more than 100 customer service positions in Wilmington by August 2009.
The phone has been ringing nonstop at the Employment Security Commission in Wilmington, and Verizon is giving the unemployed some hope.
"Anything is good right now," said newly unemployed John Roeck. "I did customer service with a restaurant, so I would be more than comfortable with a customer service job."
With businesses across town laying off employees and cutting down on supplies, Verizon Wireless is keeping its lot full and plans to fill many spots in the near future.
Verizon Wireless is looking to fill 160 position at its Call Center in Wilmington. Those jobs pay about $27,000 a year, plus benefits.
People like Roeck are in luck because the company is looking for people with a background in customer service.
Sherwood Southerland, the regional manager for the Employment Security Commission, said with unemployment rates up 122%, these open positions are a big help to the community.
"Anytime we hear about additional job openings especially 100 plus, it is a great thing locally, and probably to a certain degree maybe a little unusual," said Southerland.
Southerland said it's rare that he can transfer some of the calls from his office to Verizon.
To learn how you can start a career at Verizon Wireless, click here.
Jan 15, 2009
by Lynda Figueredo
Verizon Wireless
WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - Verizon Wireless is looking to fill more than 100 customer service positions in Wilmington by August 2009.
The phone has been ringing nonstop at the Employment Security Commission in Wilmington, and Verizon is giving the unemployed some hope.
"Anything is good right now," said newly unemployed John Roeck. "I did customer service with a restaurant, so I would be more than comfortable with a customer service job."
With businesses across town laying off employees and cutting down on supplies, Verizon Wireless is keeping its lot full and plans to fill many spots in the near future.
Verizon Wireless is looking to fill 160 position at its Call Center in Wilmington. Those jobs pay about $27,000 a year, plus benefits.
People like Roeck are in luck because the company is looking for people with a background in customer service.
Sherwood Southerland, the regional manager for the Employment Security Commission, said with unemployment rates up 122%, these open positions are a big help to the community.
"Anytime we hear about additional job openings especially 100 plus, it is a great thing locally, and probably to a certain degree maybe a little unusual," said Southerland.
Southerland said it's rare that he can transfer some of the calls from his office to Verizon.
To learn how you can start a career at Verizon Wireless, click here.
Manhattan Residents Benefit from Verizon Wireless Network Expansion
Press Release Source: Verizon Wireless
Manhattan Residents Benefit from Verizon Wireless Network Expansion
Wednesday January 14
Verizon Wireless
Investing to Stay Ahead of Growing Demand for Wireless Calling, Data Access and Music as Area Businesses and Consumers Increasingly Rely on All-in-One Wireless Devices
ORANGEBURG, N.Y., Jan. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Wireless calling, text messaging and surfing the Mobile Web for email and information now are easier and faster for Verizon Wireless customers in Manhattan, thanks to the activation of a new cell site.
The new cell site improves network coverage and capacity in Manhattan along Edgecombe Avenue from 130th to 153rd streets.
With the improved network coverage, more customers can use their wireless phones to send and receive email and text, picture and video messages; view high-quality videos; and access turn-by-turn directions, while enjoying clearer reception and fewer dropped calls.
"Reliable networks aren't built overnight," said Pat Devlin, president of the company's New York Metro Region. "Today's wireless customers demand much more than voice service and this network expansion reflects our ongoing commitment to stay ahead of the curve. New and exciting multimedia devices, like the BlackBerry® Storm, leverage the high-speeds of the Verizon Wireless 3G network. We will continue to efficiently invest in network enhancements to deliver the most reliable voice, data and multimedia services available."
Verizon Wireless has invested over $2 billion to enhance its New York/New Jersey Metro network and more than $48 billion across the nation since it was formed in 2000. The company's 3G wireless broadband network is the largest and most reliable in the U.S.
Demand for Verizon Wireless services continued during the third quarter of 2008 when the company added 1.48 million new customers, and continued its industry-leading customer loyalty rates. Verizon Wireless now serves more than 83.7 million customers nationwide. During the third quarter, the company delivered nearly 80 billion text messages and completed nearly 1.5 billion picture/video messages and 43 million music downloads.
Nationally, Verizon Wireless' real-life test men and women drive 98 specially equipped vehicles nearly one million miles each year on the country's most frequently traveled roadways to confirm that voice calls and data connections are successful on the first attempt and stay connected. Vehicles are equipped with computers that automatically make more than three million voice call attempts and more than 16 million data tests annually on Verizon Wireless' network and the networks of other carriers.
For more information on Verizon Wireless, please visit www.verizonwireless.com.
About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable wireless voice and data network, serving 83.7 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 85,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ - News) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD - News News). 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
Manhattan Residents Benefit from Verizon Wireless Network Expansion
Wednesday January 14
Verizon Wireless
Investing to Stay Ahead of Growing Demand for Wireless Calling, Data Access and Music as Area Businesses and Consumers Increasingly Rely on All-in-One Wireless Devices
ORANGEBURG, N.Y., Jan. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Wireless calling, text messaging and surfing the Mobile Web for email and information now are easier and faster for Verizon Wireless customers in Manhattan, thanks to the activation of a new cell site.
The new cell site improves network coverage and capacity in Manhattan along Edgecombe Avenue from 130th to 153rd streets.
With the improved network coverage, more customers can use their wireless phones to send and receive email and text, picture and video messages; view high-quality videos; and access turn-by-turn directions, while enjoying clearer reception and fewer dropped calls.
"Reliable networks aren't built overnight," said Pat Devlin, president of the company's New York Metro Region. "Today's wireless customers demand much more than voice service and this network expansion reflects our ongoing commitment to stay ahead of the curve. New and exciting multimedia devices, like the BlackBerry® Storm, leverage the high-speeds of the Verizon Wireless 3G network. We will continue to efficiently invest in network enhancements to deliver the most reliable voice, data and multimedia services available."
Verizon Wireless has invested over $2 billion to enhance its New York/New Jersey Metro network and more than $48 billion across the nation since it was formed in 2000. The company's 3G wireless broadband network is the largest and most reliable in the U.S.
Demand for Verizon Wireless services continued during the third quarter of 2008 when the company added 1.48 million new customers, and continued its industry-leading customer loyalty rates. Verizon Wireless now serves more than 83.7 million customers nationwide. During the third quarter, the company delivered nearly 80 billion text messages and completed nearly 1.5 billion picture/video messages and 43 million music downloads.
Nationally, Verizon Wireless' real-life test men and women drive 98 specially equipped vehicles nearly one million miles each year on the country's most frequently traveled roadways to confirm that voice calls and data connections are successful on the first attempt and stay connected. Vehicles are equipped with computers that automatically make more than three million voice call attempts and more than 16 million data tests annually on Verizon Wireless' network and the networks of other carriers.
For more information on Verizon Wireless, please visit www.verizonwireless.com.
About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation's most reliable wireless voice and data network, serving 83.7 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 85,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE: VZ - News) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD - News News). 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
Has Sprint Started a New Wireless Price War?
January 15, 2009, 5:56 pm
Has Sprint Started a New Wireless Price War?
By Saul Hansell
Cell Phones
If you you pay $100 a month or more to AT&T or Verizon Wireless on your wireless bill, don’t expect your bill to drop in half quickly. But the new $50-a-month unlimited wireless calling plan from Sprint’s Boost Mobile brand may well set off some significant price-cutting by wireless carriers.
Sprint is starting a price war as a way to wring value from the underutilized network of Nextel, the wireless company it disastrously bought in 2005. Nextel’s claim to fame was its push-to-talk feature that let people communicate with other Nextel phones without paying per-minute rates. Now that most wireless operators offer plans that let people call anyone else on their network at no additional charge, demand for this feature is dropping. The limited selections of phones that use Nextel’s iDen technology also has discouraged customers.
Boost Mobile is Sprint’s brand that mainly sells prepaid wireless service meant to appeal to young people, who talk a lot but are very price-sensitive. Boost had 3.9 million customers at the end of last September. (Prepaid service is less expensive to operate than more traditional postpaid service, where customers get a monthly bill for use after the fact, because there are no credit losses. In addition, carriers don’t subsidize the purchase of handsets and often spend less on customer service.)
Last year, the four largest wireless carriers introduced $100-a-month postpaid wireless calling plans. Sprint includes text message and Web surfing at that price, while AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile charge extra for those features.
So far, these plans, which cut the bills for some very heavy talkers, haven’t led to price cuts for more typical users. The average revenue to wireless carriers for each user has been increasing slightly as more customers buy data and text-message services. The revenue from voice calling has been falling, largely because more customers are buying family plans with more users sharing a bundle of wireless minutes.
Prices have been falling, however, in the market for prepaid wireless service, which has mainly appealed to young people in urban areas. Two growing regional carriers, Leap Wireless and MetroPCS Communications, have been offering prepaid unlimited wireless service at prices around $50 a month, but Sprint’s network is much broader. Shares of Leap and Metro PCS fell sharply today as investors worried about the competition.
Boost, which has 3.9 million customers, is promising a heavy marketing campaign that will try to broaden its appeal to customers who have been using postpaid plans. Its $50 offer includes voice, text messaging, wireless Web surfing and most taxes, making it a better value than most of the entry-level postpaid plans, which often start at about $40 a month before including taxes, text messages and data.
“We believe the offer we have in these challenging economic times will make people take a harder look at Boost … and we believe that will open us up to a much broader piece of the population,” Matt Carter, Boost’s president, told The Associated Press.
The discount may attract customers from Sprint’s main brand and from T-Mobile, which have been a bit more price-competitive than the market leaders, AT&T and Verizon. But the bigger carriers will be under some pressure to fight back with cheaper plans.
Craig Moffett, the telecom analyst for Sanford C. Bernstein, says that AT&T and Verizon are in a bind because they want to keep individual subscribers, yet they don’t want to undercut the pricing to business accounts.
“The worst of all possible outcomes would be for the big guys to cut their prices to match Boost,” he said, thinking about the situation from the perspective of investors. “But it’s not a picnic if they leave prices alone and lose subscribers to Boost either.”
Mr. Moffett says the shift in the market to flat-rate, all-inclusive price plans will ultimately increase competition because such plans make it easier for consumers to shop around.
“For years, the wireless industry had a halo of price protection because users had no idea what price they really were paying,” he said, noting that it was hard for people to figure out which calls were included in various buckets of free airtime, etc. “Once you cross the Rubicon of flat-rate pricing, there is no going back.”
Has Sprint Started a New Wireless Price War?
By Saul Hansell
Cell Phones
If you you pay $100 a month or more to AT&T or Verizon Wireless on your wireless bill, don’t expect your bill to drop in half quickly. But the new $50-a-month unlimited wireless calling plan from Sprint’s Boost Mobile brand may well set off some significant price-cutting by wireless carriers.
Sprint is starting a price war as a way to wring value from the underutilized network of Nextel, the wireless company it disastrously bought in 2005. Nextel’s claim to fame was its push-to-talk feature that let people communicate with other Nextel phones without paying per-minute rates. Now that most wireless operators offer plans that let people call anyone else on their network at no additional charge, demand for this feature is dropping. The limited selections of phones that use Nextel’s iDen technology also has discouraged customers.
Boost Mobile is Sprint’s brand that mainly sells prepaid wireless service meant to appeal to young people, who talk a lot but are very price-sensitive. Boost had 3.9 million customers at the end of last September. (Prepaid service is less expensive to operate than more traditional postpaid service, where customers get a monthly bill for use after the fact, because there are no credit losses. In addition, carriers don’t subsidize the purchase of handsets and often spend less on customer service.)
Last year, the four largest wireless carriers introduced $100-a-month postpaid wireless calling plans. Sprint includes text message and Web surfing at that price, while AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile charge extra for those features.
So far, these plans, which cut the bills for some very heavy talkers, haven’t led to price cuts for more typical users. The average revenue to wireless carriers for each user has been increasing slightly as more customers buy data and text-message services. The revenue from voice calling has been falling, largely because more customers are buying family plans with more users sharing a bundle of wireless minutes.
Prices have been falling, however, in the market for prepaid wireless service, which has mainly appealed to young people in urban areas. Two growing regional carriers, Leap Wireless and MetroPCS Communications, have been offering prepaid unlimited wireless service at prices around $50 a month, but Sprint’s network is much broader. Shares of Leap and Metro PCS fell sharply today as investors worried about the competition.
Boost, which has 3.9 million customers, is promising a heavy marketing campaign that will try to broaden its appeal to customers who have been using postpaid plans. Its $50 offer includes voice, text messaging, wireless Web surfing and most taxes, making it a better value than most of the entry-level postpaid plans, which often start at about $40 a month before including taxes, text messages and data.
“We believe the offer we have in these challenging economic times will make people take a harder look at Boost … and we believe that will open us up to a much broader piece of the population,” Matt Carter, Boost’s president, told The Associated Press.
The discount may attract customers from Sprint’s main brand and from T-Mobile, which have been a bit more price-competitive than the market leaders, AT&T and Verizon. But the bigger carriers will be under some pressure to fight back with cheaper plans.
Craig Moffett, the telecom analyst for Sanford C. Bernstein, says that AT&T and Verizon are in a bind because they want to keep individual subscribers, yet they don’t want to undercut the pricing to business accounts.
“The worst of all possible outcomes would be for the big guys to cut their prices to match Boost,” he said, thinking about the situation from the perspective of investors. “But it’s not a picnic if they leave prices alone and lose subscribers to Boost either.”
Mr. Moffett says the shift in the market to flat-rate, all-inclusive price plans will ultimately increase competition because such plans make it easier for consumers to shop around.
“For years, the wireless industry had a halo of price protection because users had no idea what price they really were paying,” he said, noting that it was hard for people to figure out which calls were included in various buckets of free airtime, etc. “Once you cross the Rubicon of flat-rate pricing, there is no going back.”
Man coughs up rat in hard-hitting advert about dangers of buying viagra online
Man coughs up rat in hard-hitting advert about dangers of buying viagra online
By Jenny Hope
15th January 2009
Drugstores Online
Thousands of men are being warned that buying fake medicines such as Viagra from internet sites could put their lives at risk.
A hard-hitting cinema advertisement being screened from tomorrow shows a man coughing up a dead rat after taking a pill bought online.
The 50-second commercial is supposed to illustrate how rat poison has been found among the rogue ingredients used in counterfeit drugs bought on illicit websites.
The public health campaign comes after a survey revealed that one in ten men admitted-to buying prescription only medicines from unregulated sources.
Half are using the internet to buy products such as Viagra, smoking cessation medicines and weight loss pills.
But research shows between 50 per cent and 90 per cent of all medicines purchased online are likely to be counterfeit or substandard, including medication to treat heart, brain and mental health conditions.
Among ingredients found in fake medicines are high levels of toxic solvents, rat poison, boric acid and lead based road paint.
Experts at the World Health Organisation say fake medicines can lead to death either as a direct result of dangerous ingredients or because they supplant genuine medication.
More than £10million is being spent by British men on fake medicines each year.
The £650,000 cinema and online advertising campaign was created by Viagra manufacturer Pfizer. It is backed by the UK drug safety watchdog the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency and leading patient groups including the Patients' Association, Men's Health Forum and HEART UK.
Dr David Gillen, Pfizer's medical director said: 'The time has definitely come to issue a clear, unified message to people about the dangers of purchasing medicines from illicit and unregulated sources.'
Mick Deats, group manager of enforcement at the MHRA said: 'We will not hesitate to take action against those who undermine public health.
'There is considerable risk to the public from obtaining medicines through unregulated websites.'
By Jenny Hope
15th January 2009
Drugstores Online
Thousands of men are being warned that buying fake medicines such as Viagra from internet sites could put their lives at risk.
A hard-hitting cinema advertisement being screened from tomorrow shows a man coughing up a dead rat after taking a pill bought online.
The 50-second commercial is supposed to illustrate how rat poison has been found among the rogue ingredients used in counterfeit drugs bought on illicit websites.
The public health campaign comes after a survey revealed that one in ten men admitted-to buying prescription only medicines from unregulated sources.
Half are using the internet to buy products such as Viagra, smoking cessation medicines and weight loss pills.
But research shows between 50 per cent and 90 per cent of all medicines purchased online are likely to be counterfeit or substandard, including medication to treat heart, brain and mental health conditions.
Among ingredients found in fake medicines are high levels of toxic solvents, rat poison, boric acid and lead based road paint.
Experts at the World Health Organisation say fake medicines can lead to death either as a direct result of dangerous ingredients or because they supplant genuine medication.
More than £10million is being spent by British men on fake medicines each year.
The £650,000 cinema and online advertising campaign was created by Viagra manufacturer Pfizer. It is backed by the UK drug safety watchdog the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency and leading patient groups including the Patients' Association, Men's Health Forum and HEART UK.
Dr David Gillen, Pfizer's medical director said: 'The time has definitely come to issue a clear, unified message to people about the dangers of purchasing medicines from illicit and unregulated sources.'
Mick Deats, group manager of enforcement at the MHRA said: 'We will not hesitate to take action against those who undermine public health.
'There is considerable risk to the public from obtaining medicines through unregulated websites.'
Brazilian clubs say they won't use Viagra to enhance play
Brazilian clubs say they won't use Viagra to enhance play
1/14/2009
Drugstores Online
SAO PAULO, Brazil (AP) -- Two Brazilian soccer teams denied they are considering combatting the effects of playing at high altitudes during Copa Libertadores by using Viagra, a drug being studied by the World Anti-Doping Agency for its potential use as a performance enhancer.
The issue emerged this week when Brazilian reporters asked a Gremio trainer, Alarico Endres, about possibly using Viagra -- the blue pill commonly associated with treating sexual dysfunction in men -- during the South American championship.
Viagra, or sildenafil citrate, suppresses an enzyme that regulates blood flow and allows vessels to relax and widen. It also was used to treat pulmonary hypertension by relaxing the arterial wall.
In the case of athletes, increased cardiac output and more efficient transport of oxygenated fuel to the muscles can enhance endurance.
"We're going to analyze everything that could benefit the players in (high) altitude," Endres responded.
But Gremio physician Marcio Bolzoni said Endres was misinterpreted.
"Gremio would never use professional athletes to experiment with a drug," Bolzoni said. "If it is proven that it enhances an athlete's performance, its use will be immediately considered as doping."
Palmeiras team doctor Claudio Pavanelli told the GloboEsporte Web site: "Viagra may be a potent vascular dilator, but it is no use pumping more blood to the muscle if it does not have the capacity to receive it. It would be like equipping an old car with a bigger gas tank but keeping the same engine."
WADA is sponsoring a study to determine whether Viagra should be banned from sports.
1/14/2009
Drugstores Online
SAO PAULO, Brazil (AP) -- Two Brazilian soccer teams denied they are considering combatting the effects of playing at high altitudes during Copa Libertadores by using Viagra, a drug being studied by the World Anti-Doping Agency for its potential use as a performance enhancer.
The issue emerged this week when Brazilian reporters asked a Gremio trainer, Alarico Endres, about possibly using Viagra -- the blue pill commonly associated with treating sexual dysfunction in men -- during the South American championship.
Viagra, or sildenafil citrate, suppresses an enzyme that regulates blood flow and allows vessels to relax and widen. It also was used to treat pulmonary hypertension by relaxing the arterial wall.
In the case of athletes, increased cardiac output and more efficient transport of oxygenated fuel to the muscles can enhance endurance.
"We're going to analyze everything that could benefit the players in (high) altitude," Endres responded.
But Gremio physician Marcio Bolzoni said Endres was misinterpreted.
"Gremio would never use professional athletes to experiment with a drug," Bolzoni said. "If it is proven that it enhances an athlete's performance, its use will be immediately considered as doping."
Palmeiras team doctor Claudio Pavanelli told the GloboEsporte Web site: "Viagra may be a potent vascular dilator, but it is no use pumping more blood to the muscle if it does not have the capacity to receive it. It would be like equipping an old car with a bigger gas tank but keeping the same engine."
WADA is sponsoring a study to determine whether Viagra should be banned from sports.
$31 Million Holiday Inn Hotel Opens in Long Island City
08 January 2009
$31 Million Holiday Inn Hotel Opens in Long Island City
New-build property features new sign and brand standards as part of the worldwide brand relaunch
Holiday Inn Hotels
ATLANTA (Jan. 8, 2009) – IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)], the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms, announced today that the 136-room Holiday Inn Long Island City-Manhattan View has opened.
The property will showcase the brand’s new sign, which is the seal of approval that this hotel exemplifies the standards of the $1 billion Holiday Inn brand relaunch program. First announced in 2007, the relaunch program was established to create a more contemporary brand image, increase quality and drive consistency. The global estate of more than 3,200 Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express properties is expected to be relaunched by the end of 2010.
“We are thrilled to welcome this property to the Holiday Inn family of hotels with the brand new sign and everything it represents. Holiday Inn hotels are specifically designed for business and family oriented leisure travelers in need of a full-service lodging experience, and this property fits well within that offering,” said John Merkin, senior vice president, Brand Management, Holiday Inn Brands, The Americas. “Development in the New York City market is key to expanding our Holiday Inn consumer base and growing an even stronger presence across the Americas.”
Situated in Long Island City in the Queens borough, the new-build 75,000 square foot hotel boasts modern décor throughout the lobby and guestrooms. The property is within walking distance to the New York City subway system, making guests just minutes away from popular Manhattan attractions, including Times Square, the Empire State Building and Rockefeller Center. Silvercup Studios, LaGuardia Community College and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation are also nearby. The hotel is located just a short drive from all three of New York’s high-traffic international airports: La Guardia, John F. Kennedy and Newark Liberty.
The Holiday Inn Long Island City-Manhattan View offers a variety of amenities including an indoor swimming pool, state-of-the-art fitness center and wireless internet access throughout the hotel. Many rooms have balconies with views of the Manhattan skyline.
The hotel’s dining facility, 39 Below, features the Holiday Inn Best-4-Breakfast® menu, featuring signature items such as Cinnamon Supreme French Toast™ and Skillet Inspirations™. Kids 12 and younger eat free at Holiday Inn when ordering from the kids’ menu in the hotel restaurant and accompanied by a dining adult. Room Service Right…On Time™, also a standard at all Holiday Inn hotels, ensures that guests’ room service orders are accurate and delivered on time, every time. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s lounge, Swirl which will offer contemporary American cuisine and an outdoor patio. With nearly 1,000 square feet of function space, the hotel will also be available for business meetings.
Standard Holiday Inn guestroom accommodations feature comfortable queen or king-sized beds, a sitting area with a lounge chair, cable television, hairdryer, coffee maker, iron and ironing board. Guest beds are made using crisp, white bedding with pillows that come in two comfort levels: “soft” and “firm.” Bathrooms include a specially designed showerhead that offers superior pressure, as well as a signature shower curtain with curved rod and new amenities. Guestrooms provide a work desk and ergonomic chair, data ports and complimentary USA TODAY® newspapers.
“We’ve invested $31 million to build this property and are pleased with the end result,” said Juan Bueno, general manager. “The New York City area is one of the most well-traveled markets for both tourism and business in the U.S., and it’s a perfect fit for the Holiday Inn product.”
Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts participates in IHG’s guest loyalty program, Priority Club® Rewards. The industry’s first and largest guest loyalty program has 40 million members. Priority Club Rewards membership is free and guests can enroll by logging on at priorityclub.com, by calling 1-888-211-9874 or by inquiring at the front desk of this hotel or any of IHG’s more than 4,100 hotels worldwide.
The Holiday Inn Long Island City-Manhattan View is managed by InterContinental Hotels Group Resources, Inc., on behalf of Queens Plaza North. The hotel is located at 39-05 29th St., Long Island City, N.Y., 11101.
About Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts
With nearly 1,400 hotels worldwide, Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts is the most widely recognized lodging brand in the world. In fact, Holiday Inn was one of the first international hotel brands to establish a presence in China in 1984. Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts provides the services that business travelers need, while also offering a comfortable atmosphere where all people can relax and enjoy amenities such as restaurants and room service, swimming pools, fitness centers and comfortable lounges. The casual atmosphere and amenities such as meeting and on-site business facilities, KidSuites rooms, Kids Eat and Stay Free programs, and the ability to earn Priority Club Rewards points that can be redeemed for great merchandise, airline miles or free room nights, demonstrate the long-standing commitment of
Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts to serving travelers and have helped to establish the brand as “America’s Favorite Hotel.” For more information about Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts or to book reservations, call 1-800-HOLIDAY or visit www.holidayinn.com.
About The Hotel Management Group
IHG's management portfolio is one of the largest in the world. As of Sept. 30, 2008, the company operates 589 hotels and more than 150,000 rooms around the world. In the Americas alone, IHG's The Hotel Management Group manages 207 hotels comprised of more than 44,000 rooms with another 25 hotels and more than 5,200 rooms in the region’s management pipeline. The Hotel Management Group provides a proprietary hotel management program called Performance Advantage, which allows for adaptation of its management services and contract terms based on the needs of each individual property investor.
$31 Million Holiday Inn Hotel Opens in Long Island City
New-build property features new sign and brand standards as part of the worldwide brand relaunch
Holiday Inn Hotels
ATLANTA (Jan. 8, 2009) – IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) [LON:IHG, NYSE:IHG (ADRs)], the world's largest hotel group by number of rooms, announced today that the 136-room Holiday Inn Long Island City-Manhattan View has opened.
The property will showcase the brand’s new sign, which is the seal of approval that this hotel exemplifies the standards of the $1 billion Holiday Inn brand relaunch program. First announced in 2007, the relaunch program was established to create a more contemporary brand image, increase quality and drive consistency. The global estate of more than 3,200 Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express properties is expected to be relaunched by the end of 2010.
“We are thrilled to welcome this property to the Holiday Inn family of hotels with the brand new sign and everything it represents. Holiday Inn hotels are specifically designed for business and family oriented leisure travelers in need of a full-service lodging experience, and this property fits well within that offering,” said John Merkin, senior vice president, Brand Management, Holiday Inn Brands, The Americas. “Development in the New York City market is key to expanding our Holiday Inn consumer base and growing an even stronger presence across the Americas.”
Situated in Long Island City in the Queens borough, the new-build 75,000 square foot hotel boasts modern décor throughout the lobby and guestrooms. The property is within walking distance to the New York City subway system, making guests just minutes away from popular Manhattan attractions, including Times Square, the Empire State Building and Rockefeller Center. Silvercup Studios, LaGuardia Community College and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation are also nearby. The hotel is located just a short drive from all three of New York’s high-traffic international airports: La Guardia, John F. Kennedy and Newark Liberty.
The Holiday Inn Long Island City-Manhattan View offers a variety of amenities including an indoor swimming pool, state-of-the-art fitness center and wireless internet access throughout the hotel. Many rooms have balconies with views of the Manhattan skyline.
The hotel’s dining facility, 39 Below, features the Holiday Inn Best-4-Breakfast® menu, featuring signature items such as Cinnamon Supreme French Toast™ and Skillet Inspirations™. Kids 12 and younger eat free at Holiday Inn when ordering from the kids’ menu in the hotel restaurant and accompanied by a dining adult. Room Service Right…On Time™, also a standard at all Holiday Inn hotels, ensures that guests’ room service orders are accurate and delivered on time, every time. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s lounge, Swirl which will offer contemporary American cuisine and an outdoor patio. With nearly 1,000 square feet of function space, the hotel will also be available for business meetings.
Standard Holiday Inn guestroom accommodations feature comfortable queen or king-sized beds, a sitting area with a lounge chair, cable television, hairdryer, coffee maker, iron and ironing board. Guest beds are made using crisp, white bedding with pillows that come in two comfort levels: “soft” and “firm.” Bathrooms include a specially designed showerhead that offers superior pressure, as well as a signature shower curtain with curved rod and new amenities. Guestrooms provide a work desk and ergonomic chair, data ports and complimentary USA TODAY® newspapers.
“We’ve invested $31 million to build this property and are pleased with the end result,” said Juan Bueno, general manager. “The New York City area is one of the most well-traveled markets for both tourism and business in the U.S., and it’s a perfect fit for the Holiday Inn product.”
Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts participates in IHG’s guest loyalty program, Priority Club® Rewards. The industry’s first and largest guest loyalty program has 40 million members. Priority Club Rewards membership is free and guests can enroll by logging on at priorityclub.com, by calling 1-888-211-9874 or by inquiring at the front desk of this hotel or any of IHG’s more than 4,100 hotels worldwide.
The Holiday Inn Long Island City-Manhattan View is managed by InterContinental Hotels Group Resources, Inc., on behalf of Queens Plaza North. The hotel is located at 39-05 29th St., Long Island City, N.Y., 11101.
About Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts
With nearly 1,400 hotels worldwide, Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts is the most widely recognized lodging brand in the world. In fact, Holiday Inn was one of the first international hotel brands to establish a presence in China in 1984. Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts provides the services that business travelers need, while also offering a comfortable atmosphere where all people can relax and enjoy amenities such as restaurants and room service, swimming pools, fitness centers and comfortable lounges. The casual atmosphere and amenities such as meeting and on-site business facilities, KidSuites rooms, Kids Eat and Stay Free programs, and the ability to earn Priority Club Rewards points that can be redeemed for great merchandise, airline miles or free room nights, demonstrate the long-standing commitment of
Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts to serving travelers and have helped to establish the brand as “America’s Favorite Hotel.” For more information about Holiday Inn Hotels and Resorts or to book reservations, call 1-800-HOLIDAY or visit www.holidayinn.com.
About The Hotel Management Group
IHG's management portfolio is one of the largest in the world. As of Sept. 30, 2008, the company operates 589 hotels and more than 150,000 rooms around the world. In the Americas alone, IHG's The Hotel Management Group manages 207 hotels comprised of more than 44,000 rooms with another 25 hotels and more than 5,200 rooms in the region’s management pipeline. The Hotel Management Group provides a proprietary hotel management program called Performance Advantage, which allows for adaptation of its management services and contract terms based on the needs of each individual property investor.
IHG Ranked #1 For Fifth Straight Year in the Hotel & Motel Category of Entrepreneur Magazine's 2009 Franchise 500
12 January 2009
IHG Ranked #1 For Fifth Straight Year in the Hotel & Motel Category of Entrepreneur Magazine's 2009 Franchise 500
InterContinental Hotels
IHG is the only hotel company in the Top 10, ranking #5 across all industries
ATLANTA (Jan. 12, 2009) - IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) [LON: IHG, NYSE: IHG (ADRs)], the world’s largest hotel group by number of rooms, has garnered the #1 ranking among all hotel companies in the 2009 Entrepreneur Magazine's 30th Annual Franchise 500® in the Hotel & Motel Category. IHG has held the top spot in the category since 2005.
"From a business standpoint, IHG excels with franchisees because of its strong brands, reservation system, field operations staff and its Priority Club Rewards program that is instrumental in driving new and repeat business to my hotels," said Mike Monchino, owner and operator of various hotel brands including Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites.
Entrepreneur Magazine is a U.S.-based business publication that focuses on business owners and provides information that helps them operate their businesses. The Franchise 500 list is in its 30th year and measures the financial strength, stability, growth rate and size of the system of franchise companies. These factors are entered into the publication's exclusive Franchise 500 formula, rating each company with the highest scores. The publication's website is located at: www.entrepreneur.com
In addition, IHG also ranked fifth across all industries, joining Subway, McDonald's, Liberty Tax Service, Sonic Drive In Restaurants, Ace Hardware Corp., Pizza Hut, The UPS Store/Mail Boxes Etc., Circle K, and Papa John's Int'l Inc., in the Top 10 of the Franchise 500 rankings. Each year since 2005, IHG has been in the Franchise 500, ranking 31st or higher.
"Our ranking by Entrepreneur Magazine is a strong proof point that we are a tremendous value for franchisees who sign with one of our seven brands - InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza, Hotel Indigo, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites," said Jim Anhut, chief development officer, North America, IHG. "We take
great pride in the collaborative relationship we have with our franchisees at more than 4,100 hotels globally and the hard work put forth on their behalf every day by our team at IHG."
Also as part of the rankings, Entrepreneur Magazine ranked IHG 22nd among the Fastest-Growing Franchises across all industries.
IHG Ranked #1 For Fifth Straight Year in the Hotel & Motel Category of Entrepreneur Magazine's 2009 Franchise 500
InterContinental Hotels
IHG is the only hotel company in the Top 10, ranking #5 across all industries
ATLANTA (Jan. 12, 2009) - IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) [LON: IHG, NYSE: IHG (ADRs)], the world’s largest hotel group by number of rooms, has garnered the #1 ranking among all hotel companies in the 2009 Entrepreneur Magazine's 30th Annual Franchise 500® in the Hotel & Motel Category. IHG has held the top spot in the category since 2005.
"From a business standpoint, IHG excels with franchisees because of its strong brands, reservation system, field operations staff and its Priority Club Rewards program that is instrumental in driving new and repeat business to my hotels," said Mike Monchino, owner and operator of various hotel brands including Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites.
Entrepreneur Magazine is a U.S.-based business publication that focuses on business owners and provides information that helps them operate their businesses. The Franchise 500 list is in its 30th year and measures the financial strength, stability, growth rate and size of the system of franchise companies. These factors are entered into the publication's exclusive Franchise 500 formula, rating each company with the highest scores. The publication's website is located at: www.entrepreneur.com
In addition, IHG also ranked fifth across all industries, joining Subway, McDonald's, Liberty Tax Service, Sonic Drive In Restaurants, Ace Hardware Corp., Pizza Hut, The UPS Store/Mail Boxes Etc., Circle K, and Papa John's Int'l Inc., in the Top 10 of the Franchise 500 rankings. Each year since 2005, IHG has been in the Franchise 500, ranking 31st or higher.
"Our ranking by Entrepreneur Magazine is a strong proof point that we are a tremendous value for franchisees who sign with one of our seven brands - InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Crowne Plaza, Hotel Indigo, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Staybridge Suites and Candlewood Suites," said Jim Anhut, chief development officer, North America, IHG. "We take
great pride in the collaborative relationship we have with our franchisees at more than 4,100 hotels globally and the hard work put forth on their behalf every day by our team at IHG."
Also as part of the rankings, Entrepreneur Magazine ranked IHG 22nd among the Fastest-Growing Franchises across all industries.
20 hotel agreement to boost Germany's Holiday Inn portfolio
14 January 2009
20 hotel agreement to boost Germany's Holiday Inn portfolio
InterContinental Hotels Group
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has signed a franchise agreement with Foremost Hospitality GmbH to introduce 20 new Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express properties across the country's key cities by 2016.
Speaking about the signing Karl-Heinz Pawlizki, IHG's director of operations, Germany, said: "As IHG's sixth biggest market globally by number of rooms and seventh by hotels, Germany remains a priority market for us and Foremost Hospitality an important strategic partner.
"With 55 hotels currently operating under the Holiday Inn brand family in Germany* of which nine** are already open with the new Holiday Inn brand flags, this new agreement demonstrates our owner community's support of the worldwide relaunch of the Holiday Inn brand family. Furthermore, we believe this agreement will ensure we are ideally placed to continue our growth within one of Europe's best performing markets."
Of the 20 properties within the agreement, seven hotel contracts are already signed and development underway. These include the November signing of two additional hotel contracts; the 328-room Holiday Inn Berlin City Centre - Potsdamer Platz, expected to open March 2011, and the 150-room Holiday Inn Express Berlin City Centre - Alexander Platz, scheduled to open March 2010.
Notes:
*There are currently 55 hotels operating under the Holiday Inn brand family in Germany, of which 41 are Holiday Inn and 14 are Express by Holiday Inn properties. As of 30 September 2008 Germany's pipeline of signed deals was three Holiday Inn and nine Holiday Inn Express properties, which includes five signed deals with Foremost Hospitality.
**Of the nine hotels in Germany complete with the new Holiday Inn signage seven are Holiday Inn Express hotels (Berlin City Centre - West, Essen, Frankfurt - Messe, Munich Airport, Nürnberg - Schwabach, Singen and Stuttgart Airport) and two are Holiday Inn hotels (Frankfurt City - South, Conference Centre and Munich City Centre).
20 hotel agreement to boost Germany's Holiday Inn portfolio
InterContinental Hotels Group
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has signed a franchise agreement with Foremost Hospitality GmbH to introduce 20 new Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express properties across the country's key cities by 2016.
Speaking about the signing Karl-Heinz Pawlizki, IHG's director of operations, Germany, said: "As IHG's sixth biggest market globally by number of rooms and seventh by hotels, Germany remains a priority market for us and Foremost Hospitality an important strategic partner.
"With 55 hotels currently operating under the Holiday Inn brand family in Germany* of which nine** are already open with the new Holiday Inn brand flags, this new agreement demonstrates our owner community's support of the worldwide relaunch of the Holiday Inn brand family. Furthermore, we believe this agreement will ensure we are ideally placed to continue our growth within one of Europe's best performing markets."
Of the 20 properties within the agreement, seven hotel contracts are already signed and development underway. These include the November signing of two additional hotel contracts; the 328-room Holiday Inn Berlin City Centre - Potsdamer Platz, expected to open March 2011, and the 150-room Holiday Inn Express Berlin City Centre - Alexander Platz, scheduled to open March 2010.
Notes:
*There are currently 55 hotels operating under the Holiday Inn brand family in Germany, of which 41 are Holiday Inn and 14 are Express by Holiday Inn properties. As of 30 September 2008 Germany's pipeline of signed deals was three Holiday Inn and nine Holiday Inn Express properties, which includes five signed deals with Foremost Hospitality.
**Of the nine hotels in Germany complete with the new Holiday Inn signage seven are Holiday Inn Express hotels (Berlin City Centre - West, Essen, Frankfurt - Messe, Munich Airport, Nürnberg - Schwabach, Singen and Stuttgart Airport) and two are Holiday Inn hotels (Frankfurt City - South, Conference Centre and Munich City Centre).
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Macy's to close at Brookdale in Brooklyn Center
Macy's to close at Brookdale in Brooklyn Center
# BY WENDY ERLIEN SUN NEWSPAPERS
January 8, 2009
Macys.com Coupons
Brookdale Shopping Center is taking another hit with Thursday's announcement that Macy's plans to close its store at the mall in Brooklyn Center.
The mall lost another anchor store - Steve and Barry's - last fall when it closed due to a bankruptcy filing.
The Brookdale Center site is one of 11 Macy's stores nationwide that was classified as "underperforming" and slated for closing. The Brookdale store, which opened in 1996, has 72 employees.
Other locations to be closed are in California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Indiana, Missouri, Pennsylvania and Tennessee.
"These closings are part of our normal-course process to prune underperforming locations each year in order to maintain a healthy portfolio of stores," Macy's Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Terry Lundgren said. "While new store growth has slowed in the current economy, our long term strategy is to continue to selectively add new stores while closing those that are underperforming."
On the same day the store closings were announced, Macy's Inc. reported a 4.7 percent drop in sales for the last five weeks ending Jan. 3, compared to last year. Sales in November and December were down 7.5 percent.
Final clearance sales at the 11 closing locations, with the exception of Hawaii, will begin next week.
"The decision to close stores is difficult and often occurs when the market changes, new competing shopping centers are opened nearby to existing older ones or when customers change shopping habits," Lundgren said.
Store employees may be considered for open positions at other Macy's locations. Those who are laid off due to the closing will get severance benefits and outplacement assistance.
Barnes and Noble Bookstore and Sears currently remain as the anchor stores at Brookdale Center.
# BY WENDY ERLIEN SUN NEWSPAPERS
January 8, 2009
Macys.com Coupons
Brookdale Shopping Center is taking another hit with Thursday's announcement that Macy's plans to close its store at the mall in Brooklyn Center.
The mall lost another anchor store - Steve and Barry's - last fall when it closed due to a bankruptcy filing.
The Brookdale Center site is one of 11 Macy's stores nationwide that was classified as "underperforming" and slated for closing. The Brookdale store, which opened in 1996, has 72 employees.
Other locations to be closed are in California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Indiana, Missouri, Pennsylvania and Tennessee.
"These closings are part of our normal-course process to prune underperforming locations each year in order to maintain a healthy portfolio of stores," Macy's Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer Terry Lundgren said. "While new store growth has slowed in the current economy, our long term strategy is to continue to selectively add new stores while closing those that are underperforming."
On the same day the store closings were announced, Macy's Inc. reported a 4.7 percent drop in sales for the last five weeks ending Jan. 3, compared to last year. Sales in November and December were down 7.5 percent.
Final clearance sales at the 11 closing locations, with the exception of Hawaii, will begin next week.
"The decision to close stores is difficult and often occurs when the market changes, new competing shopping centers are opened nearby to existing older ones or when customers change shopping habits," Lundgren said.
Store employees may be considered for open positions at other Macy's locations. Those who are laid off due to the closing will get severance benefits and outplacement assistance.
Barnes and Noble Bookstore and Sears currently remain as the anchor stores at Brookdale Center.
Macy’s in First Colony Mall not affected by store closings
Macy’s in First Colony Mall not affected by store closings
By DIANE TEZENO
1.09.09
The Macy’s store in First Colony Mall, one of the Sugar Land mall's four anchor stores, is not among the recently announced list of stores being closed by the national retailer.
According to a company press release issued on Jan. 8 by Macy’s corporate office, the retail chain is closing 11 stores in various locations across the country due to low-performance.
"These closings are part of our normal-course process to prune underperforming locations each year in order to maintain a healthy portfolio of stores," Terry J. Lundgren, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Macy's, Inc said in the press release.
"While new store growth has slowed in the current economy, our long-term strategy is to continue to selectively add new stores while closing those that are underperforming."
Closings will occur at the following Macy’s locations: Ernst and Young Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, The Citadel, Colorado Springs, CO, Westminster Mall, Westminster, CO, Palm Beach Mall in West Palm Beach, FL, Mauna Lani Bay Hotel, Island of Hawaii, Lafayette Square, Indianapolis, IN, Brookdale Center, Brooklyn Center, MN, Crestwood Mall, St. Louis, MO, Natrona Heights Plaza, Natrona Heights, PA and Century III Furniture and Clearance, West Mifflin, PA, Bellevue Center, Nashville, TN.
According to the press release, final clearance sales at stores, slated for closing, will begin within the next week, excluding the Hawaii location.
"The decision to close stores is difficult, and often occurs when the market changes, new competing shopping centers are opened nearby to existing older ones, or when customers change shopping habits. In the store closing process, we are committed to treating affected associates with respect and openness," Lundgren said.
Costs associated with the 11 store closings will be approximately $65 million, according to the release.
In a separate press release also issued Jan. 8, the retail store also reported a decrease of 4.7 percent in total sales ($4.397 billion) for the five weeks ended Jan. 3, 2009, compared to total sales ($4.614 billion) for the same time period last year.
By DIANE TEZENO
1.09.09
The Macy’s store in First Colony Mall, one of the Sugar Land mall's four anchor stores, is not among the recently announced list of stores being closed by the national retailer.
According to a company press release issued on Jan. 8 by Macy’s corporate office, the retail chain is closing 11 stores in various locations across the country due to low-performance.
"These closings are part of our normal-course process to prune underperforming locations each year in order to maintain a healthy portfolio of stores," Terry J. Lundgren, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Macy's, Inc said in the press release.
"While new store growth has slowed in the current economy, our long-term strategy is to continue to selectively add new stores while closing those that are underperforming."
Closings will occur at the following Macy’s locations: Ernst and Young Plaza, Los Angeles, CA, The Citadel, Colorado Springs, CO, Westminster Mall, Westminster, CO, Palm Beach Mall in West Palm Beach, FL, Mauna Lani Bay Hotel, Island of Hawaii, Lafayette Square, Indianapolis, IN, Brookdale Center, Brooklyn Center, MN, Crestwood Mall, St. Louis, MO, Natrona Heights Plaza, Natrona Heights, PA and Century III Furniture and Clearance, West Mifflin, PA, Bellevue Center, Nashville, TN.
According to the press release, final clearance sales at stores, slated for closing, will begin within the next week, excluding the Hawaii location.
"The decision to close stores is difficult, and often occurs when the market changes, new competing shopping centers are opened nearby to existing older ones, or when customers change shopping habits. In the store closing process, we are committed to treating affected associates with respect and openness," Lundgren said.
Costs associated with the 11 store closings will be approximately $65 million, according to the release.
In a separate press release also issued Jan. 8, the retail store also reported a decrease of 4.7 percent in total sales ($4.397 billion) for the five weeks ended Jan. 3, 2009, compared to total sales ($4.614 billion) for the same time period last year.
Verizon Wireless buys Alltel for $5.9 billion
Verizon Wireless buys Alltel for $5.9 billion
By Trevor Anderson
January 9, 2009
Can you hear me now, Chad?
Verizon Wireless announced Friday it closed a $5.9 billion deal to acquire Alltel Corp. from Atlantis Holdings LLC.
Baskin Ridge, N.J.-based Verizon said in a news release the merger will expand its network coverage to about 290 million people, making it the largest cellular phone company in the world.
Verizon will absorb Alltel's $22 billion debt and will continue to use the Alltel brand name and operate its retail stores for the next several months while the transition is under way.
"It's a very exciting day for us," Karen Schultz, Verizon's public relations manager for its Carolinas/Tennessee Region, said in a phone interview. "We're thrilled to welcome our new team members and customers. It's going to be an exciting year for everyone."
She said as a regulatory condition of the purchase, Verizon must sell 105 overlapping markets in 24 states.
A majority of the markets sold will be from Alltel, and Verizon will divest in four markets it held before the buyout. It also plans to sell Unicel operations it owns in Minnesota and Kansas.
Verizon said it will pick up Alltel's 12.9 million customers and will have 83.7 million total customers after the divestiture.
Alltel markets covering Cherokee and Union counties were listed among those that will not be retained by Verizon.
"As a part of the regulatory requirements of the purchase, Alltel customers in those areas will not become Verizon customers," Schultz said.
She said Verizon will eventually re-brand Alltel operations in the retained markets in phases, beginning in the second quarter and continuing through the third quarter of 2009, as billing conversions are completed throughout the country.
Schultz also said Alltel customers in markets that will be retained should receive a letter within the next few weeks informing them of the purchase and of new services that will be available to them when they transition to Verizon Wireless.
"Alltel customers don't need to take any action at this time," Schulz said. "Most will be able to keep their same handsets, as Verizon and Alltel are on the same system."
Verizon said it will retain all Alltel employees below the executive level as the company assesses positions that need to be cut or be kept under the new arrangement.
The company said it expects to gain more than $9 billion in aggregate capital and operating expense savings as a result of the acquisition.
By Trevor Anderson
January 9, 2009
Can you hear me now, Chad?
Verizon Wireless announced Friday it closed a $5.9 billion deal to acquire Alltel Corp. from Atlantis Holdings LLC.
Baskin Ridge, N.J.-based Verizon said in a news release the merger will expand its network coverage to about 290 million people, making it the largest cellular phone company in the world.
Verizon will absorb Alltel's $22 billion debt and will continue to use the Alltel brand name and operate its retail stores for the next several months while the transition is under way.
"It's a very exciting day for us," Karen Schultz, Verizon's public relations manager for its Carolinas/Tennessee Region, said in a phone interview. "We're thrilled to welcome our new team members and customers. It's going to be an exciting year for everyone."
She said as a regulatory condition of the purchase, Verizon must sell 105 overlapping markets in 24 states.
A majority of the markets sold will be from Alltel, and Verizon will divest in four markets it held before the buyout. It also plans to sell Unicel operations it owns in Minnesota and Kansas.
Verizon said it will pick up Alltel's 12.9 million customers and will have 83.7 million total customers after the divestiture.
Alltel markets covering Cherokee and Union counties were listed among those that will not be retained by Verizon.
"As a part of the regulatory requirements of the purchase, Alltel customers in those areas will not become Verizon customers," Schultz said.
She said Verizon will eventually re-brand Alltel operations in the retained markets in phases, beginning in the second quarter and continuing through the third quarter of 2009, as billing conversions are completed throughout the country.
Schultz also said Alltel customers in markets that will be retained should receive a letter within the next few weeks informing them of the purchase and of new services that will be available to them when they transition to Verizon Wireless.
"Alltel customers don't need to take any action at this time," Schulz said. "Most will be able to keep their same handsets, as Verizon and Alltel are on the same system."
Verizon said it will retain all Alltel employees below the executive level as the company assesses positions that need to be cut or be kept under the new arrangement.
The company said it expects to gain more than $9 billion in aggregate capital and operating expense savings as a result of the acquisition.
Downturn has more people betting on lottery
Downturn has more people betting on lottery
In these tough times, many people appear willing to gamble a few precious dollars in the hope of winning instant deliverance from their economic woes.
By Juanita Cousins, The Associated Press
1/11/2009
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- In these tough times, many people appear willing to gamble a few precious dollars in the hope of winning instant deliverance from their economic woes.
More than half of all states with lotteries have reported rising sales over the past six months, and some researchers say financial insecurity might be driving people to risk more of their money than usual on $1 and $5 instant scratch-offs and other daily games in hopes of a big payoff.
"Someday somebody is going to win, and I hope it is me," said Albert Atwood of Nashville, who spends $100 weekly playing the Pick 5 and Lotto Plus. "I imagine that I would be a heap better off if I saved this money, but everybody has dreams."
Driven by regulars like Atwood and a growing number of occasional players, 25 of 42 states with lotteries have experienced higher sales of scratch-off and daily lottery games since July, according to Scientific Games, a maker of scratch-offs.
In Washington, D.C., instant sales reached a record of $45 million in the 2008 fiscal year, representing an 11percent year-over-year increase.
In Tennessee, sales of instant lottery games were up $8 million during the fiscal quarter ending in October.
The Massachusetts lottery reached a record of $4.7 billion in sales during the last fiscal year, up from $4.4 billion.
Nationwide, instant and daily lottery revenues have been on the rise since 2004, according to U.S. Census Bureau data.
Some experts say economic hardships prompt people to justify small-stakes gambles even as they cut back on nonessential goods and services. Others pin the increased lottery activity on creative marketing by scratch-off makers and state governments, which cannot afford to lose this revenue at a time of tight budgets.
Some researchers see a correlation between economic difficulties and the popularity of lotteries.
"When people feel like they are behind compared to where they were yesterday, they want to make up for that," said Emily Haisley, a postdoctoral associate at the Yale School of Management who published a research paper on lotteries in The Journal of Behavioral Decision Making in July.
"They become risk-seeking in order to catch up and the small hope of winning becomes more attractive."
John L. Mikesell, a professor at Indiana University, published a study in 1994 comparing lottery sales rise and unemployment rates.
"When times are tough, the prospect of spending $1 on a remote chance to potentially change your life is appealing," Mikesell said.
Bill Cooper, a 60-year-old a from Chattanooga, Tenn., was still savoring his $500 win from a day earlier on a $1 Cash 3 pick that helped the disabled painter pay groceries, a title loan and some IOUs.
Allen Nevils, a 58-year-old moving company supervisor, put himself on a budget, driving less and purchasing groceries in bulk, but he still allots $20 a week to play daily lottery games.
"I really don't want to win that much," Nevils said. "I just want to be all right."
Atwood, a 68-year-old telephone company retiree, said he has spent at least $75,000 on lottery tickets since the Tennessee lottery began in 2000.
"I am absolutely not acting in my best economic interest," Atwood said. "But we always hope that we win big, and that is what drives us."
Many states' lottery sales are rising in recession
Many states' lottery sales are rising in recession
Associated Press - January 12, 2009 1:23 AM ET
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - Even in these uncertain economic times, many people are feeling lucky.
Scientific Games, a maker of scratch-off tickets, says 25 of 42 states with lotteries have experienced a higher sale of scratch-off and daily lottery games since July.
Some researchers say financial insecurity might be driving people to risk more of their money than usual in hopes of a big payoff. Others credit creative marketing by scratch-off makers and state governments.
States' revenues from multistate lotteries, such as MegaMillions and Powerball, have dropped. But industry officials say sales of those tickets tend to fluctuate as the value of the jackpots rise and fall.
Associated Press - January 12, 2009 1:23 AM ET
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - Even in these uncertain economic times, many people are feeling lucky.
Scientific Games, a maker of scratch-off tickets, says 25 of 42 states with lotteries have experienced a higher sale of scratch-off and daily lottery games since July.
Some researchers say financial insecurity might be driving people to risk more of their money than usual in hopes of a big payoff. Others credit creative marketing by scratch-off makers and state governments.
States' revenues from multistate lotteries, such as MegaMillions and Powerball, have dropped. But industry officials say sales of those tickets tend to fluctuate as the value of the jackpots rise and fall.
Sex offender wins $500,000 Alaska lottery
Sex offender wins $500,000 Alaska lottery
(CNN) -- An Alaska lottery held to raise money for a group that helps sexual abuse victims had a surprise winner: a convicted sex offender.
Alec Ahsoak will donate part of his winnings to charity, his attorney says.
Alec Ahsoak, who according to the state sex offender registry was convicted in 1993 and 2000 for sexual abuse of a minor, came forward Saturday with the winning ticket for the $500,000 Lucky Time Pull Tabs jackpot.
Proceeds of the lottery help Standing Together Against Rape in Anchorage, a nonprofit group that offers support to sexual assault victims among other services.
"It's not how we had envisioned the story going," Nancy Haag, the group's executive director, told CNN Radio.
Alaska has the highest per capita number of rape cases in the United States, according to FBI statistics.
"With a ranking that high, it's ironic that the person who wins is a convicted sex offender," Haag added.
Don't Miss
Ahsoak's past was first revealed by KTUU-TV in Anchorage on Sunday. His attorney, Lance Wells, did not immediately return a call Monday from CNN.
Efforts to reach lottery organizer Abe Spicola, who owns Lucky Times Pull Tabs, were unsuccessful late Monday. But Spicola told the Anchorage Daily News that Ahsoak "was going to buy a house and said he was going to donate part of it to God, and, you know, charity."
Woman wins $200,000 in lottery
Woman wins $200,000 in lottery
From Staff Reports
Jan. 13, 2009
DURHAM -- A Durham woman has won $200,000 by playing Powerball in the N.C. Education Lottery.
Lottery officials reported Monday that Lucy Hanson of Durham bought her Powerball ticket for the Nov. 15 drawing at the Kangaroo Express on Erwin Road in Dunn. She said she plans to splurge on a day at a spa, and then put the rest of her winnings in savings.
Lottery officials also reported that a Robeson County man, Khairalla Aziz of Fairmont, won $478,953, the top prize in the Dec. 26 "Carolina Cash 5" drawing when his ticket matched all five numbers drawn. He bought his winning ticket in Fairmont.
In the Saturday Powerball drawing, three North Carolina tickets matched four out of five white balls plus the Power Ball and are worth $10,000 each. These tickets were sold at Wilco on Richlands Highway in Jacksonville, Petro Express on West North Main Street in Waxhaw, and Sea Merchants Inc. on Cape Fear Boulevard in Carolina Beach.
From Staff Reports
Jan. 13, 2009
DURHAM -- A Durham woman has won $200,000 by playing Powerball in the N.C. Education Lottery.
Lottery officials reported Monday that Lucy Hanson of Durham bought her Powerball ticket for the Nov. 15 drawing at the Kangaroo Express on Erwin Road in Dunn. She said she plans to splurge on a day at a spa, and then put the rest of her winnings in savings.
Lottery officials also reported that a Robeson County man, Khairalla Aziz of Fairmont, won $478,953, the top prize in the Dec. 26 "Carolina Cash 5" drawing when his ticket matched all five numbers drawn. He bought his winning ticket in Fairmont.
In the Saturday Powerball drawing, three North Carolina tickets matched four out of five white balls plus the Power Ball and are worth $10,000 each. These tickets were sold at Wilco on Richlands Highway in Jacksonville, Petro Express on West North Main Street in Waxhaw, and Sea Merchants Inc. on Cape Fear Boulevard in Carolina Beach.
Lawmakers hope Ark. gov's address features lottery
Lawmakers hope Ark. gov's address features lottery
Monday January 12
By Jill Zeman, Associated Press Writer
Lawmakers hope Arkansas Gov. Beebe will offer guidance on lottery in state of state speech
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) -- Although Arkansas Gov. Mike Beebe is expected to use his State of the State speech to call for a decrease in the sales tax on food, many lawmakers hope the governor will also offer some guidance on how to establish a state-run lottery and scholarship program.
Beebe is to give his second State of the State address on Tuesday, the second day of the Legislature's regular session.
Sen. Steve Faris, D-Malvern, said he's looking to Beebe for direction on how to establish the lottery and that the governor still has a role in the discussion, though Beebe says he voted against the lottery measure in the November general election and has said it's not his top issue for the session.
"I'll look to him for leadership and guidance because he is the chief executive of the state," said Faris, chairman of the State Agencies and Governmental Affairs Committee, which will consider lottery legislation.
Senate President Bob Johnson said Beebe still has influence over the discussion on the lottery and the scholarships, despite the governor's opposition to the constitutional amendment authorizing the games.
"You've got to put that behind you. There have been a lot of issues here that I haven't supported, but once it becomes the will of the body to support it, then I've got to put my shoulder in and push," Johnson said. "That's what I think he'll do."
Rep. Bobby Pierce, D-Sheridan, said he's looking forward to hearing proposals on how the lottery's revenues will be distributed.
"We're all looking to see where that part of the education and the lottery come together," said Pierce, a member of the House Rules Committee, which will hear the lottery proposal.
Some of Beebe's plans are already out in the open. The governor has said repeatedly that he wants to further cut the state's sales tax on food from 3 cents to 2 cents.
"You know by my very nature that I'm pretty fiscally conservative," Beebe told reporters last week. "As a result of that, I'm very cautious about revenue estimates and forecasts. Notwithstanding all that ... based on current numbers, we can afford to cut it another penny."
The governor has also said he will ask for an increase in the cigarette tax to pay for a trauma system and other health care programs. Beebe wouldn't specify an amount, but said that a 50-cent per pack tax may not be high enough. Arkansas' current cigarette tax is 59 cents per pack.
Rep. Bryan King, the House minority leader, said how hard Beebe pushes for a cigarette tax increase could be a test of his relationship with Republicans in the Legislature. King says he expects House Republicans to back a plan to pay for the trauma system using increased fees for drunken and reckless driving convictions.
"I think this cigarette tax issue, raising taxes, will be a good telling point about where it's going to go with that," King said.
In his State of the State speech two years ago, Beebe detailed his plan to cut the state's sales tax on food from 6 cents to 3 cents. Both chambers unanimously approved that tax cut less than a month after the session started.
Also in that session, Beebe called for a $50 million fund to attract and retain new businesses; that Quick Action Closing Fund is now depleted, and the governor hopes the Legislature will replenish it this session.
Freshman Rep. Darrin Williams, D-Little Rock, said he looks forward to hearing any economic development news from the governor Tuesday.
"I'm excited about the new economic development prospects and the things that are moving to the state with the governor's quick action cash fund," Williams said. "I want to help him to keep that. I think that's very important to the state of Arkansas, so I look forward to hearing his thoughts there."
Monday January 12
By Jill Zeman, Associated Press Writer
Lawmakers hope Arkansas Gov. Beebe will offer guidance on lottery in state of state speech
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) -- Although Arkansas Gov. Mike Beebe is expected to use his State of the State speech to call for a decrease in the sales tax on food, many lawmakers hope the governor will also offer some guidance on how to establish a state-run lottery and scholarship program.
Beebe is to give his second State of the State address on Tuesday, the second day of the Legislature's regular session.
Sen. Steve Faris, D-Malvern, said he's looking to Beebe for direction on how to establish the lottery and that the governor still has a role in the discussion, though Beebe says he voted against the lottery measure in the November general election and has said it's not his top issue for the session.
"I'll look to him for leadership and guidance because he is the chief executive of the state," said Faris, chairman of the State Agencies and Governmental Affairs Committee, which will consider lottery legislation.
Senate President Bob Johnson said Beebe still has influence over the discussion on the lottery and the scholarships, despite the governor's opposition to the constitutional amendment authorizing the games.
"You've got to put that behind you. There have been a lot of issues here that I haven't supported, but once it becomes the will of the body to support it, then I've got to put my shoulder in and push," Johnson said. "That's what I think he'll do."
Rep. Bobby Pierce, D-Sheridan, said he's looking forward to hearing proposals on how the lottery's revenues will be distributed.
"We're all looking to see where that part of the education and the lottery come together," said Pierce, a member of the House Rules Committee, which will hear the lottery proposal.
Some of Beebe's plans are already out in the open. The governor has said repeatedly that he wants to further cut the state's sales tax on food from 3 cents to 2 cents.
"You know by my very nature that I'm pretty fiscally conservative," Beebe told reporters last week. "As a result of that, I'm very cautious about revenue estimates and forecasts. Notwithstanding all that ... based on current numbers, we can afford to cut it another penny."
The governor has also said he will ask for an increase in the cigarette tax to pay for a trauma system and other health care programs. Beebe wouldn't specify an amount, but said that a 50-cent per pack tax may not be high enough. Arkansas' current cigarette tax is 59 cents per pack.
Rep. Bryan King, the House minority leader, said how hard Beebe pushes for a cigarette tax increase could be a test of his relationship with Republicans in the Legislature. King says he expects House Republicans to back a plan to pay for the trauma system using increased fees for drunken and reckless driving convictions.
"I think this cigarette tax issue, raising taxes, will be a good telling point about where it's going to go with that," King said.
In his State of the State speech two years ago, Beebe detailed his plan to cut the state's sales tax on food from 6 cents to 3 cents. Both chambers unanimously approved that tax cut less than a month after the session started.
Also in that session, Beebe called for a $50 million fund to attract and retain new businesses; that Quick Action Closing Fund is now depleted, and the governor hopes the Legislature will replenish it this session.
Freshman Rep. Darrin Williams, D-Little Rock, said he looks forward to hearing any economic development news from the governor Tuesday.
"I'm excited about the new economic development prospects and the things that are moving to the state with the governor's quick action cash fund," Williams said. "I want to help him to keep that. I think that's very important to the state of Arkansas, so I look forward to hearing his thoughts there."
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