Princess Grace Foundation-USA Announces New Film Initiative with the Ford Foundation's JustFilms Program

12 Mar 2012 17:00 Africa/Lagos

Princess Grace Foundation-USA Announces New Film Initiative with the Ford Foundation's JustFilms Program

NEW YORK, March 12, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Princess Grace Foundation-USA (PGF-USA) is proud to announce a new initiative for film grants: the Princess Grace JustFilms Documentary Awards, made possible by the Ford Foundation's JustFilms program. These funds will be awarded to help support social justice documentary thesis projects of students in undergraduate/graduate programs and final projects of individuals participating in production programs at media arts centers. In this inaugural year of the grant, an emphasis is placed on filmmakers and films that focus on South Asian and Southeast Asian communities.

The Princess Grace Foundation-USA, a public charity, was formed after the death of Princess Grace (Kelly) in 1982. They present scholarships, apprenticeships, and fellowships to assist artists in the early stages of their careers. The Foundation has cultivated a diverse group of nearly 600 artists who continue to advance the spectrum of performing arts with innovative, cutting-edge, and vibrant theater, dance, choreography, film, playwriting and design. Since the Foundation's inception, more than 700 Awards have been given to recipients, totaling more than $8.5 million.

PGF-USA Executive Director Toby E. Boshak notes, "PGF-USA is excited to expand our already diverse community of documentary filmmakers by funding their unique stories and thanks the Ford Foundation for the opportunity to achieve this goal."

PGF-USA will identify and support voices that tell authentic and powerful stories from or about underrepresented communities, through the Princess Grace JustFilms Documentary Film Awards. Grants will be made in accordance with the applicants' thesis/final project budgets. Nominations for film grants are submitted by Deans/Department Chairs in conjunction with the faculty of established U.S. colleges and universities, or directors of non-profit media arts organizations with structured film production programs that the Foundation has invited to apply.

"Acknowledging the vision and creativity of promising new filmmakers with an award of this kind, can be a critical moment of affirmation that we hope will fuel their determination to pursue their talents," said JustFilms' Director Orlando Bagwell. "This partnership, and these awards, will help identify and support new voices in under-represented communities who bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the field of social justice documentaries."

Choosing Awardees:

In evaluating an application, primary consideration will be given to the talent and potential of the filmmaker as demonstrated by the sample work submitted with each application. The panel will also consider the quality, originality and mastery of the subject and approach of the proposed project, as well as the potential impact the work will have on viewers, the community and the film's subject(s). An advisory panel, independent of the PGF-USA staff and Trustees, reviews every application on its merits in competition with other applicants in the same category and awards the scholarships for the next school year.

A current list of accepted schools can be found in the FAQ of the Grants Program section at www.pgfusa.org. Additional schools/media arts centers who would like to be considered may contact Program Manager Diana Kemppainen at grants@pgfusa.org. The postmark deadline for applications is June 1, 2012 .

ABOUT THE PRINCESS GRACE FOUNDATION - USA

The Princess Grace Foundation-USA is a not-for-profit, publicly-supported foundation, headquartered in New York City and founded 30 years ago by Prince Rainier III of Monaco in honor of his wife, Princess Grace [Kelly]. The Foundation's mission, that mirrors Princess Grace's in Her lifetime, is to support emerging artists in theater, dance and film through the awarding of scholarships, apprenticeships and fellowships. Some notable Princess Grace Awards recipients in Film include: Cary Joji Fukunaga, director of Sin Nombre and Jane Eyre; Andrew Okpeaha MacLean , writer/director of On the Ice and Sikumi; and Ham Tran, writer/director of Journey from the Fall.

For more information about the Princess Grace Awards program, please visit www.pgfusa.org; visit our Facebook page for "Princess Grace Awards" and follow us on Twitter @PrincessGraceUS.

ABOUT THE FORD FOUNDATION/JUSTFILMS PROGRAM

The Ford Foundation is an independent, nonprofit grant-making organization with its headquarters in New York. For 75 years it has worked with courageous people on the frontlines of social change worldwide, guided by its mission to strengthen democratic values, reduce poverty and injustice, promote international cooperation and advance human achievement. The foundation's JustFilms initiative, launched in 2011, builds on Ford's longtime support for documentaries and acknowledges the importance of visual narratives in creating social change. Leveraging the foundation's global network of regional offices in Latin America, Africa, the Middle East and Asia, JustFilms seeks to identify new talent from around the world and to strengthen emerging communities of documentary filmmakers.

For more information about the Ford Foundation/JustFilms program, please visit www.fordfoundation.org

SOURCE The Princess Grace Foundation-USA (PGF-USA)

CONTACT: Media, Chris Kite, Communications Manager, +1-212-317-1470, ckite@pgfusa.org, or Grants, Diana Kemppainen, Program Manager, +1-212-317-1470, dkemppainen@pgfusa.org

Web Site: http://www.pgfusa.org

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France Speaks On Two Europeans Killed in Nigeria

Christopher McManus, the British hostage killed in Nigeria. The photograph has been chosen by the family for use by the media. Photograph: handout
Photo Credit: The Guardian of UK.


Franco Lamolinara and his British colleague Chris McManus were found dead on Thursday. Photograph: laprovinciadisondrio.it
Photo Credit: The Guardian of UK.


Nigeria - Death of a British and an Italian national (12 March 2012)

PARIS, March 12 2012/African Press Organization (APO) / - Alain Juppé, Minister of State, Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, expressed in two letters addressed today to the British and Italian counterparts, the emotion of France following the murder of two of their nationals in Nigeria Thursday, March 8.

He urged them to pass the victims' families his condolences on behalf of France.

This drama illustrates again the need for collective action and determined to fight against terrorism in all its forms.


Source: France - Ministry of Foreign Affairs


Italy and Britain in a Row Over Hostage Raid



The Italian government says it wasn't informed about Britain's failed rescue attempt in Nigeria. British and Italian hostages died in the raid.

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12 Mar 2012
18:12	Investors Seek Low Risk at MIPIM
18:00	Saker Aviation Services Introduces New Investor Relations Website
17:51	PR Newswire Offers Tips for Content Marketers to Increase Leads and Brand Visibility
17:00	Princess Grace Foundation-USA Announces New Film Initiative with the Ford Foundation's JustFilms Program
16:30	We Can Be Heroes Campaign Launches Text 2 Give Effort at WonderCon
16:27	Too Late -- Military Intervention Fails To Halt Elephant Slaughter in Cameroon
15:31	U.S., France Voice Strong Support for Morocco's Autonomy Plan to Resolve Western Sahara Dispute, Remove Obstacle to Peace in Region

15:06 MTN Denounces Turkcell's Extortionate Litigation Threat and Refusal to Cooperate with Independent Investigation

4:33 Niger's former Interim President to head ECOWAS election observation mission to Guinea Bissau


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Ceragon Networks Wins $6 Million Globacom Contract in Nigeria

12 Mar 2012 11:00 Africa/Lagos

Ceragon Networks Wins $6 Million Globacom Contract for Wireless Backhaul Deployment in Nigeria




Deal includes Ceragon's leading short-haul and long-haul systems as well as site survey, installation, commissioning and project management services

PARAMUS, New Jersey, March 12, 2012/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --

Ceragon Networks Ltd. [http://www.ceragon.com ] (NASDAQ: CRNT [http://www.ceragon.com/investor_relations.asp ]), the #1 wireless backhaul specialist, today announced a new $6 million USD contract with Globacom Nigeria [http://www.gloworld.com ] (Glo) for Ceragon's high-capacity wireless backhaul solutions and professional services in Nigeria. Ceragon will manage the end-to-end deployment of its field-proven FibeAir IP-10 and Evolution IP Long-Haul systems throughout Nigeria, expanding upon the original network Ceragon developed for Glo in 2010. Glo is the second largest mobile operator in Nigeria serving approximately 25 million subscribers, and is Africa's fastest-growing telecommunications company.

As part of the Glo deployment, Ceragon will provide backhaul for Glo's 2G/3G infrastructure network in Lagos. The network modernization will expand the traffic capacity of Glo's 3G network, while providing legacy 2G TDM support. Subscribers that have had limited or no mobile access will now be able to connect to the expanded network through the Ceragon wireless backhaul deployment.

"Ceragon has always provided us with the optimum mix of great solutions, superior professional services and fast time to market," said Mike Jitubo, Executive Director of Special Projects at Globacom. "When selecting a vendor for this expanded network coverage, it was a natural choice for us to continue working closely with Ceragon. We look forward to an ongoing successful relationship as we continue our network expansion throughout Africa."

"Our experience and expertise as the #1 wireless specialist teaches us that it's not just about the radios and antennas but also about lowering our customer's total cost of ownership (TCO) and facilitating a faster time to new revenue (TTR)," said Ira Palti, President and CEO of Ceragon. "With this approach, Ceragon is able to offer operators more capacity under any given network scenario for any network budget. We're honored to partner with a leading telecom provider like Globacom to serve the connectivity needs of the Nigerian market."

About Globacom Limited

Globacom Limited is Africa's fastest growing telecommunications company. Glo is currently the second largest mobile operator in Nigeria serving approximately 25 million subscribers. Owned by the Mike Adenuga Group, Globacom is the market leading mobile service provider in Nigeria. Globacom also operates in the Republic of Benin and has recently acquired licenses to operate in Ghana and the Ivory Coast. It has a reputation as one of the fastest growing mobile service providers in the world. Globacom Limited aims to be recognized as the biggest and best mobile network in Africa.

About Ceragon Networks Ltd

Ceragon Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: CRNT) is the #1 wireless backhaul specialist. Ceragon's high capacity wireless backhaul solutions enable cellular operators and other wireless service providers to deliver 2G/3G and LTE/4G voice and data services that enable smart-phone applications such as Internet browsing, music and video. With unmatched technology and cost innovation, Ceragon's advanced point-to-point microwave systems allow wireless service providers to evolve their networks from circuit-switched and hybrid concepts to all IP networks. Ceragon solutions are designed to support all wireless access technologies, delivering more capacity over longer distances under any given deployment scenario. Ceragon's solutions are deployed by more than 230 service providers of all sizes, and hundreds of private networks in more than 130 countries. Visit Ceragon at http://www.ceragon.com.

Ceragon Networks(R) is a registered trademark of Ceragon Networks Ltd. in the United States and other countries. Other names mentioned are owned by their respective holders.

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This press release may contain statements concerning Ceragon's future prospects that are "forward-looking statements" under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on current expectations and projections that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that future results will be achieved, and actual results could differ materially from forecasts and estimates. These are important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from forecasts and estimates. Some of the factors that could significantly impact the forward-looking statements in this press release include the risk that Nera and Ceragon's businesses will not be integrated successfully; the risk that any synergies from the transaction may not be fully realized or may take longer to realize than expected; disruption from the Nera transaction making it more difficult to maintain relationships with customers, employees or suppliers, the risk that Nera business may not perform as expected, and other risks and uncertainties, which are discussed in greater detail in Ceragon's Annual Report on Form 20-F and Ceragon's other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and Ceragon undertakes no commitment to revise or update any forward-looking statement in order to reflect events or circumstances after the date any such statement is made. Ceragon's public filings are available from the Securities and Exchange Commission's website at http://www.sec.gov or may be obtained on Ceragon's website at http://www.ceragon.com .


Company & Investor Contact:
Yoel Knoll
Ceragon Networks Ltd.
Tel: +1-(201)-853-0228
yoelk@ceragon.com

Media Contact:
Abigail Levy-Gurwitz
Ceragon Networks Ltd.
Tel: +1-(201)-853-0271
abigaill@ceragon.com

Media Contact:
Karen Quatromoni
Rainier Communications
Tel. +1-(508)-475-0025 x150
kquatromoni@rainierco.com


Source: Ceragon Networks Ltd

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Boko Haram Threatens Vanguard, Tribune and Accord Newspapers

Abubakar bin Mohammad Shekau, leader of the People Committed to the Propagation of the Prophet's Teachings and Jihad (Arabic: جماعة اهل السنة للدعوة والجهاد, Jama'atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda'awati Wal-Jihad).

Boko Haram Threatens Vanguard, Tribune and Accord Newspapers

Boko Haram, the dreaded Islamic terrorist sect in Nigeria has threatened to attack the Vanguard, Tribune and National Accord newspapers for biased news reporting in favour of the Nigerian government and security agencies and not reporting the facts according to Abu Qaqa, the spokesman of Boko Haram and warned the three newspapers to stop their biased reports against the sect.

In fact, the popular name of Boko Haram is not the real name of the Islamic sect, but People Committed to the Propagation of the Prophet's Teachings and Jihad (Arabic: جماعة اهل السنة للدعوة والجهاد, Jama'atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda'awati Wal-Jihad). Even the Wikipedia wrongly said that the sect’s mission is to abolish the secular system of government and establish sharia law in the country. This is erroneous.


The 12 states which have implemented Sharia in northern Nigeria since 1999.

The true mission of the Islamic sect is the total Islamization of the northern states dominated by Muslims and to extend the Sharia already instituted in 9 Muslim-majority and in some parts of 3 Muslim-plurality states in northern Nigeria since 1999, when Alhaji Ahmad Rufai Sani, then-Zamfara State governor began the push for the institution of Sharia at the state level of government. And the corrupt government of the ruling People's Democratic Party (PDP) accepted the Sharia states without any amendment of the Federal Constitution and without the approval of the National Assembly. The ruling party permitted the rule of the Sharia to please the Muslims and win their votes in elections.

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Releases displayed in Africa/Lagos time
12 Mar 2012
11:00	Ceragon Networks Wins $6 Million Globacom Contract for Wireless Backhaul Deployment in Nigeria
08:05	Ceragon Networks Wins $6 Million Globacom Contract for Wireless Backhaul Deployment in Nigeria
05:37	ECOWAS urged to include sugar on the product priority list for common external tariff
05:33	ECOWAS, ILO to intensify fight child labour in West Africa

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Empire Theatres is First in Canada To Complete Circuit Wide Digital Cinema Conversion

9 Mar 2012 18:51 Africa/Lagos

Empire Theatres is first national exhibitor in Canada to complete circuit wide digital cinema conversion

HALIFAX, March 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ - Empire Theatres, a partner in the Canadian Digital Cinema Partnership, announced today the completion of their digital cinema conversion project. The conversion began in theatres starting in May 2011, and its completion makes Empire Theatres the first national exhibitor in Canada to complete a digital cinema conversion. As of March 7, 2012, 359 screens in 45 theatres have been converted from 35mm to digital projection.

Empire Theatres partnered with Barco to complete the digital cinema conversion. As a global leader in digital cinema projection, Barco offers a wide range of Series II projector models that allowed Empire Theatres to select appropriate projectors for each of their screens, providing the best and brightest 2k and 4k digital images available.

"We are excited about our growing relationship with Empire Theatres as we help them embrace the latest digital cinema solutions," commented Joe DeMeo, Director of Sales, Digital Cinema for Barco North America. "We are committed to serving the ongoing needs of our Canadian exhibitors."

Doremi Cinema, the leader in digital cinema technology, was selected as Empire Theatres' partner for all projector server technology featuring Doremi's TMS platform. Empire Theatres' digital projectors incorporate either Doremi's DCP-2000 or Integrated Media Block (IMB) with Doremi's ShowVault, and provide outstanding 2K playback for 2D and 3D, and have allowed for the introduction of CaptiView™ throughout the Empire Theatres' circuit for select titles.

CaptiView™ is a personal in-theatre closed caption viewing device for deaf & hard of hearing moviegoers. The CaptiView™ system consists of a small OLED display on a bendable support arm that fits into a cup holder. The easy-to-read screen can display three lines of text at a time and can support up to four languages.

"Empire's ability to complete the conversion in such a short period of time show's their commitment to providing their customers the best possible presentation in every screen," stated Michael Archer, VP Digital Cinema, Doremi. "Empire is the quintessential exhibitor for Doremi. They have utilized four separate Doremi products in the multiplex to help them maximize all opportunities afforded by digital cinema."

As a result of the conversion, 40% of Empire Theatres' screens now have RealD 3D capability, delivering a stunningly realistic and fully immersive entertainment experience for moviegoers. RealD is the world's most widely used 3D movie technology.

In select Empire Theatre locations, distinctive Empire Extra auditoriums offer guests a revolutionary new digital cinema experience. Empire Extra auditoriums allow guests to enjoy stunning digital presentation on a massive, wall to wall wrap-around screen with picture provided by a Barco projector and Doremi server. In addition, Empire Extra auditoriums provide dynamic sound through a proprietary custom-designed multi-channel sound system for the ultimate audio experience; and reserved seating in comfy, high back rockers.

"As a guest-focused company, we view the rollout of digital cinema projection technology as an important and strategic investment in our business" says Dean Leland, Vice President of Studio & Media Relations for Empire Theatres Limited. "The digital conversion will allow our guests to benefit from the best and brightest picture presentation each and every time they enjoy a movie at Empire Theatres, and enables us to provide a premium guest experience through our Empire Extra auditoriums."

"I would like to acknowledge our partners Barco, Doremi, RealD, ProjecTech, and DCIP who have been great assets to our digital conversion project" states Valerie Ryan, Chief Operating Officer for Empire Theatres Limited. "The collaboration and hard work of our internal teams, along with the support and expertise of our partners have enabled this project to be completed within only 8 months without business interruption."

About Empire Theatres Limited:
Empire Theatres Limited is a Canada-wide movie exhibition company providing an exciting out-of-home entertainment experience including traditional movie exhibition as well as other content using its digital and satellite capabilities.

Empire Theatres Limited is a 100% owned subsidiary of Empire Company Limited that owns and operates 50 theatres across Canada with 383 screens, including four IMAX auditoriums and six Empire Extra auditoriums.

Empire Theatres Limited' corporate headquarters are located in Stellarton, NS, with regional offices in Halifax, NS; Toronto, ON; and Calgary, AB. With approximately 2,500 employees, Empire Theatres provides excellent employment opportunities for the youth of Canada in an exciting and energetic industry.

SOURCE EMPIRE THEATRES LIMITED


CONTACT:

Megan Parsons - Manager, Marketing & Communications
Empire Theatres Limited - Halifax
(902) 876-4830
megan.parsons@empiretheatres.com

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VConnect : Largest Local Search Engine & Information Service Business Forum

Did you miss the last VConnect Business Forum for entrepreneurs? Well, you have another chance to attend the next one coming up on Thursday March 15, 2012, to join the wining business success network of the largest local search engine and information service in Nigeria.

Click here to register for the next Free VConnect Business Forum.

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Nigerian American Urban Entrepreneur Wins $50000 Grand Prize

Nigerian American Urban Entrepreneur Wins $50000 Grand Prize

Ola Ayeni, a Nigerian American, CEO of Dining Dialog has won the grand prize of $50000 in the 2012 MillerCoors Grants in the United States.

The following is the news release.

9 Mar 2012 15:00 Africa/Lagos

MillerCoors Grants $125,000 to Small Businesses
2012 MillerCoors Urban Entrepreneurs Series Winners Announced

CHICAGO, March 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- MillerCoors granted $125,000 to four small business owners through its MillerCoors Urban Entrepreneurs Series (MUES). The grand prize winner, Ola Ayeni, CEO of Dining Dialog, which helps food and beverage companies grow their customer base, received a $50,000 investment grant and three runners-up will receive $25,000 each.


Pictured above are (from left) Benjamin Lamson, WeDidIt; Larry Waters, Director of Multicultural Relations for MillerCoors; Sulamain Sanni, WeDidIt; Luis Montanes, Black and Denim; Ola Ayeni, Dining Dialog; Joanne Tabellija-Murphy, Multicultural Relations Manager for MillerCoors; Roberto Torres, Black and Denim; Daymond John, ABC's Shark Tank; Jamien Sills, Neimaj. (PRNewsFoto/MillerCoors)


ABC's Shark Tank, Daymond John Congratulates the MillerCoors Urban Entrepreneurs Series Winners. (PRNewsFoto/MillerCoors)

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120309/CG67555-a)

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120309/CG67555-b)

"This is a big step for me and my business," said Ayeni. "This will help me get the resources I need to succeed and one day do the same thing MillerCoors is doing—help other entrepreneurs bring their businesses to life."

The ultimate goal of the MUES program is to create a pipeline of potential MillerCoors suppliers. Supplier diversity, community investment and economic empowerment are priorities for MillerCoors. The brewer has set a target to cumulatively spend more than $2.5 billion with minority-owned and women-owned suppliers by 2015.

"We believe these emerging businesses and the jobs they are creating are the key to growing and developing urban communities across the U.S.," said Larry Waters, Director of Multicultural Relations for MillerCoors. "The entrepreneurs involved in MUES are dynamic and innovative business owners. Our support and guidance gives them the motivation and resources they need to take their business to new heights." A recent study by Hiscox Small Business Insurance reveals that 47% of emerging business owners are optimistic about their growth, with 8% reporting that they plan on hiring new staff for 2012[1].

The business plan competition was established in 1999 as a valuable resource for entrepreneurs to grow their businesses, create jobs and make a powerful impact in their communities. MUES has awarded nearly $1.7 million in grants to more than 100 emerging businesses and offers fundamental resources for all participating entrepreneurs, including instructional webinars, interactive social media platforms and guidance from some of the leading business minds in the country.

MillerCoors awarded Ayeni a $50,000 grant and three runners-up each received $25,000. Winners were honored during a special reception on Thursday, March 8, at the MillerCoors Corporate Headquarters in Chicago, IL. Co-star of ABC's Shark Tank and founder of FUBU, Daymond John, served as the event's guest speaker, sharing his entrepreneurial experiences.

The complete listing of this year's winners follows:


Ola Ayeni │$50,000
Dining Dialog – Bolingbrook, IL

Dining Dialog is an innovative business that helps food and beverage companies increase revenue, through a mix of effectively proven customer acquisition and retention marketing programs.

Sulaiman Sanni & Benjamin Lamson │$25,000
WeDidIt – Brooklyn, NY

WeDidIt is a web-based, online crowd-funding platform, allowing organizations to raise money, reach new donors and increase their exposure, at a lower cost than any other method in use today.

Roberto Torres, Michael Gil, Luis Montañez, & Christopher Findeisen│$25,000
Black and Denim Apparel – Tampa, FL

Black and Denim is an apparel brand with roots in American heritage principles: hard work and functionality where "Made in America" is not a slogan, but a way of business.

Jamien Sills, Gwendolyn Tucker, Ricky Tucker, Tracy Bryant, Christopher Lee│$25,000
Neimaj – Memphis, TN

Neimaj produces evolutionary footwear for the everyday hero, focusing on 360 degree protection safetywear, as well as ecofriendly footwear without the use harmful chemicals and adhesives.

MillerCoors continues to work with community and economic empowerment organizations across the country, to help facilitate the MUES program. These organizations are called upon to provide technical assistance and resources to business owners, as well as serve as an ambassador for the program. Long-time program partners include, the Atlanta Business League, the Chicago Urban League, the Detroit Urban League, the Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Urban League of Greater Dallas and North Central Texas, the National Association of Asian American Professionals, Recycling Black Dollars of Los Angeles, the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee, the Milwaukee Urban League, the Regional Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Latin American Chamber of Commerce and the Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. The program has also received the endorsement and support of the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

For more information about the winners and the program, visit www.MillerCoorsMUES.com.

About MillerCoors

MillerCoors brews, markets and sells the MillerCoors portfolio of brands in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Built on a foundation of great beer brands and nearly 300 years of brewing heritage, MillerCoors continues the commitment of its founders to brew the highest quality beers. MillerCoors is the second-largest beer company in America, capturing nearly 30 percent of U.S. beer sales. Led by two of the best-selling beers in the industry, MillerCoors has a broad portfolio of highly complementary brands across every major industry segment. Miller Lite is the great-tasting beer that established the American light beer category in 1975, and Coors Light is the brand that introduced consumers to Rocky Mountain cold refreshment. MillerCoors brews premium beers Coors Banquet and Miller Genuine Draft, and economy brands Miller High Life and Keystone Light. The company also offers innovative products such as MGD 64, Miller Chill and Sparks. Through MillerCoors new craft and import company, Tenth and Blake, imports Peroni Nastro Azzurro, Pilsner Urquell, Grolsch and Molson Canadian and features craft brews from the Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company, Blue Moon Brewing Company and the Blitz-Weinhard Brewing Company. MillerCoors operates eight major breweries in the U.S., as well as the Leinenkugel's craft brewery in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, and two microbreweries, the 10th Street Brewery in Milwaukee and the Blue Moon Brewing Company at Coors Field in Denver. MillerCoors vision is to create the best beer company in America by driving profitable industry growth. MillerCoors insists on building its brands the right way through brewing quality, responsible marketing and environmental and community impact. MillerCoors is a joint venture of SABMiller plc and Molson Coors Brewing Company.

[1] Hiscox Small Business Insurance, DNA of an Entrepreneur (2011), http://www.hiscoxusa.com/shared-documents/the-2011-hiscox-dna-of-an-entrepreneur-study.pdf

SOURCE MillerCoors

CONTACT: Karina Diehl of MillerCoors, +1-312-496-2973, karina.diehl@millercoors.com; or Daisy Garcia of Flowers Communications Group, +1-312-228-8828, dgarcia@flowerscomm.com, for MillerCoors

Web Site: http://www.millercoorsmues.com

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Impressive Performance by MTN in Nigeria and other Countries

8 Mar 2012 10:38 Africa/Lagos

Impressive Performance by MTN Group Driven by Strong Subscriber Acquisition and Data Take-up, says Frost & Sullivan

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, March 8, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Despite the implementation of compulsory SIM card-registration in most of its operations, and intense competition, MTN Group has experienced an impressive increase in subscriber numbers; this has offset the detrimental effects of the social unrest in the Middle East and African regions.

MTN Group released results for the year-ended 31 December 2011, reporting a 16.2% growth in group subscriber numbers to 164.5 million, and a 6.3% increase in revenues to R121.884 billion. The group's adjusted headline earnings per share increased 43.2% to 1,070 cents.

"MTN South Africa (SA) has recorded 22 million subscribers, representing a growth rate of 16.9%," states Frost & Sullivan's Information and Communication Technologies Research Analyst Mervin Miemoukanda. "This is impressive in a saturated market, and can be attributed to the company's many promotional campaigns."

However, the company has a lot of work ahead because most of these new subscribers are multiple SIM card holders. They are, therefore, more likely to become inactive subscribers in the following months.

MTN SA has witnessed a dramatic growth rate in terms of data revenues, which increased up to 27.7%. Their 3G network expansion, across the country, is a positive indication that the company has shifted their focus to data services, as voice service revenues have been declining year-on-year.

However, with the current price wars on data services in the country, MTN SA's data revenue is likely to grow at a slower rate in the short term, if no strategies are put in place to boost broadband subscriptions.

MTN's mobile money service will drive the uptake of mobile money services in Nigeria, believes Miemoukanda. "This service is expected to boost revenues in MTN Nigeria's revenues, as the company has a strong customer base and extensive distribution channels in the country."

With the establishment of MTN Business in Ghana, MTN Ghana is likely to increase its data revenues, despite the company being a late comer in this sector.

Possible restraints to the future growth of MTN Group will most likely take place in Iran, which accounts for approximately 20% of its overall subscriber base. With the recent economic sanctions imposed on Iran by the European Union and the United States of America, MTN Group is likely to freeze its expansion investment plans, which may hamper its growth.

With uncertain prospects in the Middle East, particularly in Iran, Syria, Afghanistan and Yemen, MTN Group should invest in network expansion in the remaining countries to boost subscriber acquisitions.

MTN Group is likely to enjoy healthy growth rates in terms of subscribers and revenues in 2012 because the SIM card-registrations in key markets such as Nigeria and Ghana will no longer have a detrimental effect on its subscriber growth. In addition, the increased uptake of data services across its operations as well as the launch of mobile money in the remaining operations will help increase its revenues.

About Frost & Sullivan

Frost & Sullivan, the Growth Partnership Company, enables clients to accelerate growth and achieve best-in-class positions in growth, innovation and leadership. The company's Growth Partnership Service provides the CEO and the CEO's Growth Team with disciplined research and best-practice models to drive the generation, evaluation, and implementation of powerful growth strategies. Frost & Sullivan leverages over 45 years of experience in partnering with Global 1000 companies, emerging businesses and the investment community from 40 offices on six continents. To join our Growth Partnership, please visit http://www.frost.com.

Contact:
Samantha James
Corporate Communications – Africa
P: +27 21 680 3574
F: +27 21 680 3296
samantha.james@frost.com

http://www.frost.com


SOURCE Frost & Sullivan

Web Site: http://www.frost.com

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U.S Implicated in $4 Billion Dollars’ Russian Arms Deal With Syria

Russia supplies warplanes to Syria.

Yesterday, three U.S. Senators strongly questioned Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta about U.S. contracts with the Russian arms dealer Rosoboronexport — the same company selling billions in arms to Syria. Panetta didn't have an answer.

The illegal arms deal was uncovered by United to End Genocide.

While our government calls on the world to sanction Syria’s government, our own defense department is doing business with the same Russian arms trader that has provided $4 billion dollars’ worth of weapons to the Syrian regime.

With thousands of men, women and children dying by the day in Syria — we need to send one message LOUD and CLEAR to Secretary of Defense, Leon Panetta: It's time to stop doing business with Rosoboronexport and start standing up for the innocent people of Syria.

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2015 Will Take Care of Itself“– Prince Tonye Princewill

Prince Tonye T.J.T Princewill

“2015 will take care of itself“– Princewill

~ By Nwaorgu Faustinus

For some time now, the grapevine has been awash with reactions, comments, views and scepticism of what the former AC governorship candidate in 2007, Prince Tonye Princewill wants in Rivers State politics, given his past and present actions which some school of thought feel to be a political Launchpad to market himself prior to the 2015 Governorship election . Some analysts argue that his various billboards with different inscriptions which adorn strategic spots in the state capital as well as his philanthropic works are signs that point to his intention to contest for the 2015 gubernatorial seat. But what does Prince Tonye Princewill, the only scion of the Kalabari king make of this?

The above and many other issues agitating their minds regarding the current administration’s policies, actions and perceived inaction, programmes in Rivers State to wit; unabated flooding in the state, transaction that led to the selling of Obiwale Cultural Centre to Silverbird, wisdom behind the building of monorail and its sustainability, etc were what some socio-political commentators or analysts and the fourth estate drawn from Port Harcourt based newspaper sought to know in a media chat at Hotel Riveria recently from Prince Tonye Princewill.

To clarify these issues, the Prince thought it prudent to call for media chat where he can feel their (the Press) pulse through discussion, because they are closer to the grassroots than most politicians and in a better position to gauge the feelings of the common man as regards government policies that affect them either positively or otherwise and spread same to the government of the day through the various media they represent.

Setting the ball rolling, the Prince of Niger Delta Politics as he is fondly called by his associates said he was not disposed always to hear about the good things the present dispensation is doing but attaches importance to hear (the bad and ugly- my words) what Amaechi’s administration is not doing right, for he is a constructive critic of the State government.

Answering question on his link with the transaction that ushered Silver Bird into the former cultural centre (Obiwale Cultural Center), Princewil said it was the first investment he attracted to Rivers State and this can be verified from Silver Bird not minding contrary opinions adding that initially, 80 per cent of the capital was sourced by Silverbird and 20 per cent is from the state government but due to the delays the government has now negotiated a reduced stake for the Silverbird group who now have 70%. This is hinged on the Silverbird giving a 2 million dollar guarantee and evidence of contractor mobilization. According to him what is on ground at the moment is the first phase of the investment as hotel, shopping mail among others will be incorporated, apart from recent efforts to attract Game and ShopRite - two world class investor outfits to come and invest. Though he admitted the slow pace of work at the Silverbird Cinema with unhappiness, Princewill expressed optimism that in no mean time things will fall into place.

On his assessment of Amaechi’s administration, Princewill scored him 6/10 in his first term as well as 6/10 on his running term based on what he described as “anticipated gains”, adding that in recent weeks his hope has rose but noted that the team on board of the executive does not march the vision of the Rivers State government. “I am not enthusiastic about his team. They have nice schools but buildings do not teach”, said Princewill while expressing his worry about the absence of teachers in some schools. Acknowledging that something has been done in the area of infrastructural development across the state he holds that a lot still needs to be done.

Reacting on the Mono Rail being constructed by Gov. Amaechi’s administration, Princewill opined that there are school of thoughts who believed that the project was a white elephant project doomed to fail but he does not belong to such school of thought. While the government sees the project as viable and beneficial to the government and people of Rivers State, Prince Tonye is of the view that the project is worthwhile, achievable and sustainable in the long run if marched with the needed political will to achieve it.

Responding on what he has about 2015 and what he wants in Rivers State, his answered that 2015 is too far away, to start thinking about it, as according to him it is something he can start while asleep noting that when time comes he would make his intention known because he is not the type of politician who puts hand on the plow and start to look back. “2015 will take care of itself. I am not ruling anything in or out”, said Princewill, while appealing to all to focus on what Rivers State government wants to achieve. On the question on what he wants, this was his reponse: I want to see good roads, hospitals, schools, security etc. I want to see Rivers State move forward and the money for the state to work for the state”.

He explained that the goal, aim or what Princewill’s Political Associates intends to achieve is to arose political consciousness in the apolitical, make members know politics should be people-oriented as well as build army of people who will question, criticize constructively the policies and programmes of the government of the day.

On empowerment he said he was more interested in giving postgraduate scholarship to Rivers State natives but the state government favoured graduate scholarship, explaining that the Rivers state has the largest number of natives who are on scholarships around the globe when compared with other states in Nigeria.

On national issues such as the realistic revenue sharing formula, sovereign national conference and the recent petroleum scarcity in Port Harcourt he said there is need to look for appropriate revenue sharing formula that will assuage the needs of other brother states especially in the north and supported sovereign national conference to be held, as no one knows what the future holds. According to him, the sooner they had discussion the better, because in the absence of dialogue there can only be distrust. Describing the present fuel scarcity as embarrassing, he pointedly blamed the federal government for it.

Finally on his take on the Greater Port Harcourt City. For him it is a project that can be developed in addition to other parts of the state as it can be driven by the private sector.

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