More TV Choice and Competition Near for Residents of Sutton, Mass.Town Approves Video License for Verizon; Thousands More Households Soon Can Get FiOS TV

SUTTON, Mass., July 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Residents of Sutton are a major step closer to having another choice for their cable television services, thanks to a newly approved agreement authorizing Verizon to offer its FiOS TV service via the most advanced all-digital, fiber-optic network straight to customers' homes.

The Board of Selectmen in Sutton, granted a cable franchise to Verizon Tuesday (July 15), paving the way for video choice for thousands more Massachusetts households.

The board's vote brings to 77 the total number of Massachusetts communities where Verizon's FiOS TV is or will soon be available.

"We are thrilled to be able to bring FiOS TV to residents in Sutton," said Donna Cupelo, Verizon region president for Massachusetts and Rhode Island. "Since the launch of FiOS TV in Massachusetts last year, we are continuing our efforts to meet the consumer demand for cable TV choice."

FiOS TV is the company's new fiber-optic television service, which offers a better-quality picture, more high-definition and on-demand programs, and more reliable service at competitive prices.

Verizon currently offers FiOS TV in 73 Massachusetts communities [see list below] as well as other locations in New York, New Jersey, California, Delaware, Florida, Indiana, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Oregon, Rhode Island, Texas and Virginia.

"As a result of this new franchise, consumers in Sutton will be able to choose their cable provider as easily as they choose their phone company," said Cupelo. "Competition drives innovation, value and service quality, and it puts the consumer in control."

Verizon is currently in negotiations with several other communities in Massachusetts to obtain additional franchises. For more information on the Verizon franchise process in the state, log on to http://www.verizon.com/ma.

Verizon research indicates 87 percent of Massachusetts residents favor more competition and choice for video services. Independent studies have shown that competition in the video market brings enormous benefits to consumers in the form of reduced prices, better packages and improved service.

The Sutton franchise agreement contains provisions for the network's future growth; financial support and capacity for educational and government access channels; cable service to government buildings; and other important benefits to the town, including insurance, indemnification and enforcement protections.

"Verizon will compete aggressively for subscribers in Sutton with our FiOS services, which are fueled by our lightning-fast fiber-optic network," Cupelo said. Verizon soon will begin its door-to-door sales campaign in Sutton, explaining to local consumers the many advantages of FiOS TV.

Verizon is the first company to offer a fiber-to-the premises (FTTP) network, connecting homes and businesses directly to fiber optics on a widespread scale.

FiOS TV offers a broad collection of all-digital programming, 30 high-definition channels, thousands of video-on-demand titles and more. Fiber delivers amazingly sharp pictures and sound, and has the capacity to transmit a wide array of high-definition programming that is so clear and intense it seems to leap from the TV screen.

In addition to FiOS TV, Verizon's fiber network also allows the company to offer consumers and businesses high-speed FiOS Internet service at download speeds up to 50 Mbps (megabits per second) and upload speeds up to 20 Mbps.*

* NOTE: actual (throughput) speeds will vary.

[FiOS TV is available in Abington, Acton, Andover, Arlington, Bedford, Belmont, Boxborough, Boxford, Braintree, Burlington, Canton, Dedham, Dunstable, Framingham, Franklin, Georgetown, Hamilton, Hingham, Holliston, Hopkinton, Ipswich, Lakeville, Lawrence, Lincoln, Littleton, Lexington, Lynn, Lynnfield, Malden, Marion, Marlborough, Marshfield, Mattapoisett, Medfield, Medway, Melrose, Methuen, Middleborough, Nahant, Natick, Needham, Newton, Norfolk, North Andover, North Reading, Norwood, Plymouth, Reading, Rochester, Rockland, Rowley, Sherborn, Southborough, Stoneham, Sudbury, Swampscott, Taunton, Tewksbury, Topsfield, Tyngsborough, Wakefield, Walpole, Waltham, Wareham, Wayland, Wellesley, Wenham, West Newbury, Westborough, Westwood, Wilmington, Winchester and Woburn. The company also holds TV franchises in Ashland, Stoughton and Stow, Mass.]

Verizon Communications Inc. , headquartered in New York, is a leader in delivering broadband and other wireline and wireless communication innovations to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America's most reliable wireless network, serving more than 67 million customers nationwide. Verizon's Wireline operations include Verizon Business, which delivers innovative and seamless business solutions to customers around the world, and Verizon Telecom, which brings customers the benefits of converged communications, information and entertainment services over the nation's most advanced fiber-optic network. A Dow 30 company, Verizon employed a diverse workforce of approximately 232,000 as of the end of the first quarter 2008 and last year generated consolidated operating revenues of $93.5 billion. For more information, visit http://www.verizon.com/.

VERIZON'S ONLINE NEWS CENTER: Verizon news releases, executive speeches and biographies, media contacts, high-quality video and images, and other information are available at Verizon's News Center on the World Wide Web at http://www.verizon.com/news. To receive news releases by e-mail, visit the News Center and register for customized automatic delivery of Verizon news releases.

Verizon Communications

CONTACT: Ellen Cummings, +1-508-624-2219, ellen.m.cummings@verizon.com,
or Phil Santoro, 617-743-4760, philip.g.santoro@verizon.com, both of Verizon
Communications

Web Site: http://www.verizon.com/
http://www.verizon.com/ma

SAIC Awarded $31 Million Contract By U.S. Army Corps of EngineersCompany to Design, Engineer and Construct a Consolidated Fuel, Overhaul, Repair and Test Facility at Tinker Air Force Base

SAN DIEGO and MCLEAN, Va., July 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Science Applications International Corporation announced today that it has been awarded a contract by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Tulsa, Okla., District, to design, engineer and construct a consolidated fuel, overhaul, repair and test facility at Tinker Air Force Base (AFB), Okla. The award has a 22-month period of performance and a contract value of more than $31 million. Work will be performed by SAIC's design-build subsidiary, The Benham Companies LLC.

The contract includes architectural design, engineering and construction services for a 148,000 sq.ft., two-story facility, that will be used for the overhaul, repair and testing of aircraft fuel control accessories. The project also includes site work and utility systems, and anti-terrorism/force protection measures.

The facility will have areas for testing fuel components, a clean room for fuel control overhauls, cleaning areas, material control areas, as well as shipping and receiving and associated support and administrative areas. The design must meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification standards, and be environmentally controlled and protected by a fire protection system.

"We look forward to building a modern repair, maintenance and manufacturing processes facility that features environmentally sustainable construction and will support the critical mission at Tinker AFB for many years to come," said J.T. Grumski, SAIC senior vice president and business unit general manager.

About SAIC

SAIC is a FORTUNE 500(R) scientific, engineering, and technology applications company that uses its deep domain knowledge to solve problems of vital importance to the nation and the world, in national security, energy and the environment, critical infrastructure, and health. The company's approximately 44,000 employees serve customers in the Department of Defense, the intelligence community, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, other U.S. Government civil agencies and selected commercial markets. SAIC had annual revenues of $8.9 billion for its fiscal year ended January 31, 2008. For more information, visit http://www.saic.com/.

SAIC: From Science to Solutions(R)

Statements in this announcement, other than historical data and information, constitute forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause our actual results, performance, achievements, or industry results to be very different from the results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward- looking statements. Some of these factors include, but are not limited to, the risk factors set forth in SAIC's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended January 31, 2008, and other such filings that SAIC makes with the SEC from time to time. Due to such uncertainties and risks, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof.

Contact: Melissa Koskovich Laura Luke (703) 676-6762 (703) 676-6533 Melissa.l.koskovich@saic.com laura.luke@saic.com

SAIC

CONTACT: Melissa Koskovich, +1-703-676-6762,
Melissa.l.koskovich@saic.com, or Laura Luke, +1-703-676-6533,
laura.luke@saic.com, both of SAIC

Web site: http://www.saic.com/

Exponent Reports Second Quarter 2008 Results

MENLO PARK, Calif., July 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Exponent, Inc. today reported financial results for the second quarter ended June 27, 2008.

For the second quarter of 2008, revenues before reimbursements increased 11% to $50,801,000, as compared to $45,816,000, last year. Total revenues increased 9% to $54,956,000, as compared to $50,637,000, in the same period of 2007. Net income was up 16% to $5,793,000, or $0.36 per diluted share, as compared to $5,002,000, or $0.30 per diluted share, in the prior year period. EBITDAS(1) improved 17% to $11,907,000, as compared to $10,146,000, in the second quarter of 2007.

For the first half of 2008, revenues before reimbursements increased 13% to $102,823,000, as compared to $91,249,000, last year. Total revenues increased 12% to $111,216,000, as compared to $99,510,000, in the same period of 2007. Net income was up 21% to $12,140,000, or $0.76 per diluted share, as compared to $10,057,000, or $0.61 per diluted share, in the prior year period. EBITDAS(1) improved 23% to $25,745,000, as compared to $20,900,000, in the first half of 2007.

In the second quarter of 2008, Exponent repurchased $11.2 million of its common stock, bringing the total repurchases since the beginning of the year to $16 million. An additional $35 million remains available for future repurchases of common stock. Exponent ended the second quarter with $60.2 million in cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments.

"We are pleased that we had another quarter of solid growth as we continue to capitalize on our strategic market opportunities," commented Michael R. Gaulke, Chairman and CEO. "In the quarter we had several practices that performed well, including biomechanics, human factors, defense technology development, and mechanics & materials, in addition to our health group.

"Looking to the second half of 2008, we remain well positioned to post high single-digit to low double-digit growth in revenue before reimbursements for the full year. We will continue to hire key talent selectively and focus on capturing new growth opportunities across our practices. Exponent is committed to maintaining its differentiated market position as a leading multidisciplinary engineering and scientific consulting firm with unparalleled expertise," concluded Mr. Gaulke.

Today's Conference Call Information

Exponent will discuss its financial results in more detail on a conference call today, July 16, 2008, starting at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time/1:30 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time. The audio on the conference call is available by dialing 800-762-4758. A live webcast of the call will be available on the Investor Relations section of the Company's web site at http://www.exponent.com/investors. For those unable to listen to the live webcast, a replay of the call will also be available on the Exponent web site, or by dialing 800-405-2236 and entering reservation 11117165#.

About Exponent

Exponent is an engineering and scientific consulting firm providing solutions to complex problems. Exponent's multidisciplinary organization of scientists, physicians, engineers, and business consultants brings together more than 90 technical disciplines to address complicated issues facing industry and government today. The firm is best known for analyzing accidents and failures to determine their causes, but in recent years it has become more active in assisting clients with their new products to help prevent problems in the future. In addition, Exponent evaluates human health and environmental concerns to find cost-effective solutions.

Exponent may be reached at (888) 656-EXPO, info@exponent.com, or http://www.exponent.com/.

This news release contains, and incorporates by reference, certain "forward-looking" statements (as such term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and the rules promulgated pursuant to the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended thereto under) that are based on the beliefs of the Company's management, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company's management. Such forward-looking statements are subject to the safe harbor created by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this document and in the documents incorporated herein by reference, the words "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect" and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company or its management, identify such forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect the current views of the Company or its management with respect to future events and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, the Company's actual results, performance, or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, any such forward- looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such material differences include the possibility that the demand for our services may decline as a result of changes in general and industry specific economic conditions, the timing of engagements for our services, the effects of competitive services and pricing, the absence of backlog related to our business, our ability to attract and retain key employees, the effect of tort reform and government regulation on our business, and liabilities resulting from claims made against us. Additional risks and uncertainties are discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K under the heading "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in the report. The inclusion of such forward-looking information should not be regarded as a representation by the Company or any other person that the future events, plans, or expectations contemplated by the Company will be achieved. The Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly any updates or revisions to any such forward-looking statements.

(1) EBITDAS is a non-GAAP financial measure defined by the Company as net income before income taxes, interest income, depreciation and amortization, and stock-based compensation. The Company regards EBITDAS as a useful measure of operating performance and cash flow to complement operating income, net income and other GAAP financial performance measures. Additionally, management believes that EBITDAS provides meaningful comparisons of past, present and future operating results. Generally, a non-GAAP financial measure is a numerical measure of a company's performance, financial position or cash flow that either excludes or includes amounts that are not normally excluded or included in the most directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP. This measure, however, should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute or superior to, operating income, cash flows, or other measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. A reconciliation of EBITDAS to GAAP is set forth below.

EXPONENT, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME For the Quarters Ended June 27, 2008 and June 29, 2007 (in thousands, except per share data) Quarter Ended Six Months Ended June 27, June 29, June 27, June 29, 2008 2007 2008 2007 Revenues Revenues before reimbursements $50,801 $45,816 $102,823 $91,249 Reimbursements 4,155 4,821 8,393 8,261 Revenues 54,956 50,637 111,216 99,510 Operating expenses Compensation and related expenses 33,197 30,207 66,707 60,229 Other operating expenses 5,588 5,305 11,016 10,442 Reimbursable expenses 4,155 4,821 8,393 8,261 General and administrative expenses 3,207 3,244 6,196 6,059 46,147 43,577 92,312 84,991 Operating income 8,809 7,060 18,904 14,519 Other income Interest income, net 463 460 965 944 Miscellaneous income, net 355 808 290 1,203 818 1,268 1,255 2,147 Income before income taxes 9,627 8,328 20,159 16,666 Income taxes 3,834 3,326 8,019 6,609 Net income $5,793 $5,002 $12,140 $10,057 Net income per share: Basic $0.38 $0.33 $0.81 $0.67 Diluted $0.36 $0.30 $0.76 $0.61 Shares used in per share computations: Basic 15,086 15,193 14,966 15,121 Diluted 16,100 16,532 16,050 16,461 EXPONENT, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS June 27, 2008 and December 28, 2007 (in thousands) June 27, December 28, 2008 2007 Assets Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $7,206 $10,700 Short-term investments 52,993 53,034 Accounts receivable, net 65,338 59,819 Prepaid expenses and other assets 6,841 5,754 Deferred income taxes 4,089 3,450 Total current assets 136,467 132,757 Property, equipment and leasehold improvements, net 30,534 29,409 Goodwill 8,607 8,607 Other assets 13,856 11,618 $189,464 $182,391 Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Current liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $10,472 $7,139 Accrued payroll and employee benefits 26,889 30,366 Deferred revenues 5,934 6,458 Total current liabilities 43,295 43,963 Other liabilities 5,183 4,754 Deferred rent 1,560 1,755 Total liabilities 50,038 50,472 Stockholders' equity: Common stock 16 16 Additional paid-in capital 70,162 59,772 Accumulated other comprehensive income 513 347 Retained earnings 117,643 113,018 Treasury stock, at cost (48,908) (41,234) Total stockholders' equity 139,426 131,919 $189,464 $182,391 EXPONENT, INC. EBITDAS (1) For the Quarters Ended June 27, 2008 and June 29, 2007 (in thousands) Quarter Ended Six Months Ended June 27, June 29, June 27, June 29, 2008 2007 2008 2007 Net Income $5,793 $5,002 $12,140 $10,057 Add back (subtract): Income taxes 3,834 3,326 8,019 6,609 Interest income, net (463) (460) (965) (944) Depreciation and amortization 984 969 1,925 1,886 Stock-based compensation 1,759 1,309 4,626 3,292 EBITDAS (1) $11,907 $10,146 $25,745 $20,900 (1) EBITDAS is a non-GAAP financial measure defined by the Company as net income before income taxes, interest income, depreciation and amortization, and stock-based compensation. The Company regards EBITDAS as a useful measure of operating performance and cash flow to complement operating income, net income and other GAAP financial performance measures. Additionally, management believes that EBITDAS provides meaningful comparisons of past, present and future operating results. Generally, a non-GAAP financial measure is a numerical measure of a company's performance, financial position or cash flow that either excludes or includes amounts that are not normally excluded or included in the most directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP. This measure, however, should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute or superior to, operating income, cash flows, or other measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.

Exponent, Inc.

CONTACT: Exponent, Inc., 1-888-656-EXPO, info@exponent.com

Web site: http://www.exponent.com/

Alliance Data Announces Second Quarter Results* Results exceed high-end of guidance* Raises 2008 Cash EPS guidance to $4.35* Return to double-digit cash earnings growth

DALLAS, July 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Alliance Data Systems Corporation , a leading provider of loyalty and marketing solutions derived from transaction-rich data, today announced results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2008.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20051024/ADSLOGO )

Total second quarter revenue increased 5 percent to $507.2 million compared to $481.8 million for the second quarter of 2007. Income from continuing operations increased 20 percent to $61.9 million for the second quarter of 2008, or $0.79 per diluted share.

Adjusted EBITDA for the second quarter of 2008 increased 7 percent to $161.9 million compared to $150.9 million for the second quarter of 2007. Cash earnings for the second quarter of 2008 increased 12 percent to $81.7 million compared to $73.1 million for the second quarter of 2007. For the second quarter of 2008, cash earnings per diluted share, the Company's preferred metric for guidance, increased 14 percent to $1.04 compared to $0.91 for the second quarter 2007. This also exceeded the Company's previously issued guidance for second quarter cash earnings per diluted share of $1.00. Operating EBITDA for the second quarter of 2008 decreased 3 percent to $169.3 million compared to $174.4 million for the second quarter of 2007. See "Financial Measures" below for a discussion of operating EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, cash earnings and cash earnings per diluted share. The segment information, adjusted EBITDA, operating EBITDA, cash earnings and cash earnings per diluted share exclude pre-tax merger and other non-routine costs of $5.7 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008, including $2.8 million of expenditures directly associated with the proposed but now terminated merger of the Company with an affiliate of The Blackstone Group and $2.9 million in compensation charges related to integration and cost savings initiatives and other non-routine costs associated with the disposition of non-core operations.

"We are pleased with our results for the second quarter as our organic earnings growth returned to the double-digit level and our cash earnings per share came in ahead of the high-end of our guidance," said Mike Parks, Alliance Data chairman and chief executive officer. "Once again, our Canadian AIR MILES(R) Reward Program continued to over-perform, recording the highest revenue and adjusted EBITDA in its history. Additionally, we signed a long-term nationwide renewal with RONA, a top-5 sponsor and the largest Canadian distributor and retailer of hardware, home renovation and gardening products. The second quarter was topped off by the contract renewal and expansion of the Company's largest client, the Bank of Montreal. The expanded relationship now offers us an additional avenue to add value to our client as well as grow our earnings stream."

Mr. Parks added, "Epsilon Marketing Services continued double-digit growth in adjusted EBITDA and solid renewals from key clients such as Nestle Purina PetCare Company and National Geographic. New wins from our pipeline continue to move forward at a strong pace. Finally, while Private Label Services and Private Label Credit results continue to be affected by the loss of the Lane Bryant portfolio, we are beginning to see traction from the ramp-up of clients signed over the last three years as well as a very robust pipeline of potential new clients. This quarter we announced multi-year renewals with Crate & Barrel and Dress Barn, Inc., a top-10 Alliance Data client. In addition, during the quarter we signed a new client, PeachDirect, which is a fast growing web and catalog retailer of luxury merchandise.

"With regard to our previously announced disposition plan, we closed the sale of our merchant services business, a non-core operation, bringing in approximately $77 million in cash and have entered into a definitive agreement to sell most of our non-core utility business, for approximately $50 million in cash. In addition, while the challenging macro-economic environment has weighed down the overall stock market, it offered a tremendous opportunity for us to repurchase shares under our previously authorized $500 million program."

SEGMENT REVIEW

Loyalty Services. Loyalty Services achieved the strongest quarter in its history, delivering $53.5 million in adjusted EBITDA, an increase of 66 percent from the prior year period, which drove adjusted EBITDA margins up 500 basis points versus the second quarter of 2007. Driving this historic performance was a 31 percent increase in revenue to $200.0 million in the second quarter due to strong double-digit growth in both AIR MILES reward miles issued and AIR MILES reward miles redeemed.

Additionally, the AIR MILES Reward Program continues to benefit from stable pricing, the ramp-up of new sponsors, expanded commitments from existing sponsors, the continued benefit of coalition loyalty as households frequent an increasing number of sponsors and a moderate pick-up from the stronger Canadian dollar versus last year. Finally, a lower cost structure achieved through operating leverage continued to drive margin expansion.

As a result of the factors noted above, Loyalty Services is currently running well above its long-term target rates for both revenue and adjusted EBITDA. As such, it is expected that the segment's performance for the full-year 2008 will remain well ahead of initial expectations. Additionally, the renewal of RONA, the expanded relationship with Bank of Montreal and the pipeline consisting of both larger commitments from existing sponsors and new sponsor signings all provide solid comfort that 2009 will be another strong year for Loyalty Services.

Epsilon Marketing Services. For the second quarter of 2008, Epsilon Marketing Services posted solid year-over-year adjusted EBITDA growth to $26.4 million, highlighted by a continued double-digit organic growth rate. While revenue grew by just over 5 percent for the second quarter to $115.4 million, it should be noted that year-to-date revenue growth remains at a double-digit pace. Epsilon Marketing Services continues to have the most robust pipeline in the Company and signings this year have thus far covered a variety of industries including insurance, healthcare, financial services, computer services, retail and leisure. The segment's performance was driven by significant renewals (Nestle Purina & National Geographic), larger commitments from existing clients, stable pricing and new client ramp-ups.

Epsilon Marketing Services continues to benefit from the increasing shift of Fortune 1000 companies' marketing spend away from traditional channels and toward transaction-based loyalty and marketing programs that offer greater ROI. For 2008, guidance for Epsilon Marketing Services remains in-line with previous expectations of double-digit revenue growth and mid-teens adjusted EBITDA growth, which, in turn, will drive margin expansion.

Private Label Services. Private Label Services provides processing, high-end customer care and marketing programs associated with the Company's approximately 90 card-based programs. For the second quarter, Private Label Services revenue increased year-over-year approximately 5 percent to $95.8 million, while adjusted EBITDA increased 22 percent to $29.9 million. The key segment driver -- private label statements generated -- declined 9 percent during the second quarter as compared to the prior year period. Excluding the loss of the Lane Bryant portfolio, statements generated remained relatively flat as compared to the prior year period.

During the second quarter of 2008, the segment benefited from fees earned based upon incremental costs of expanding both its collections and customer care staff. These costs originated in Private Label Services, but ultimately will also provide an economic benefit to Private Label Credit. Private Label Services has increased its charges to Private Label Credit in 2008 due to the increased costs incurred by Private Label Services related to the ramp-up of the Company's collections and client services teams in 2007. Additionally, Private Label Services is expected to generate growth as the Lane Bryant grow-over eases and overall volumes begin to increase due to the continued ramp-ups of new clients signed in 2005, 2006 and 2007. For the full-year 2008, the Company expects Private Label Services to realize mid-to-high single digit growth in adjusted EBITDA.

Private Label Credit. For the second quarter, Private Label Credit revenue declined year-over-year 9 percent to $187.6 million due exclusively to the loss of Lane Bryant. For the second quarter, Private Label Credit adjusted EBITDA declined 29 percent to $63.6 million of which over half of the decline was due to the loss of Lane Bryant and transfer pricing.

Overall, the trends in the Company's operating metrics are favorable. For the second quarter, credit losses, while still above 2007 levels, improved over 20 basis points versus the first quarter of 2008 and remain comfortably on track to achieve the Company's mid-6 percent target for the full-year 2008. Furthermore, credit loss grow-over versus 2007 will anniversary in the fourth quarter along with Lane Bryant.

Delinquency rates, which historically have been a key predictor of future loss rates, also showed improvement and remain comfortably on track with the Company's mid-5 percent full-year 2008 goal. The delinquency grow over versus 2007 will anniversary in the third quarter, one quarter ahead of credit losses. Finally, it should be noted that delinquencies have remained at or below the mid-5 percent range for 11 straight months, suggesting stable credit loss rates for the back half of 2008 and into 2009. Other metrics also suggest modest growth as portfolio growth and credit sales grew 6 percent and 2 percent, respectively, when excluding the loss of the Lane Bryant portfolio. Lastly, funding costs remained favorable in the second quarter.

Private Label Credit will anniversary its higher delinquencies in the third quarter of 2008 and the segment's higher losses and the loss of the Lane Bryant portfolio in the fourth quarter of 2008. Given the stability shown for 11 months in delinquencies, the continued ramp-up of clients signed and 2005, 2006 and 2007 and the expected signings of six to seven new clients this year, the segment is expected to show positive growth in the fourth quarter and be poised for a strong start for 2009.

OUTLOOK FOR 2008

For 2008, the Company expects to continue to deliver on its three long-term objectives -- double-digit organic growth in adjusted EBITDA and cash earnings, solid free cash flow generation and earnings visibility.

Loyalty Services is expected to demonstrate over-performance throughout the year, while Epsilon Marketing Services remains comfortably on track to meet its plan. Within Private Label, higher credit loss rates have been mitigated by lower funding costs. Based on stable delinquency flows over the past 11 months, the ramp-up of new clients and the upcoming anniversary of the loss of the Lane Bryant portfolio, the Company expects Private Label to contribute positively to growth in the fourth quarter and be a solid contributor in 2009. Solid performance by Epsilon Marketing Services combined with over-performance in Loyalty Services are expected to drive the Company's accelerated earnings guidance throughout the remainder of the year.

Given the over-performance in the first half of 2008, the benefits of lower capital expenditures and interest expense and the impact of the previously announced stock repurchase program, the Company is comfortable raising its 2008 cash earnings per share guidance to $4.35 from our original guidance of $4.30. Revenue and adjusted EBITDA guidance remain consistent with previous guidance. For the third quarter of 2008, the Company is expecting to deliver cash earnings per share of $1.15 as originally indicated. Additionally, the Company may trade off some potential upside to enhance future visibility by locking in more expensive long-term fixed rate funding for Private Label Credit. For the fourth quarter of 2008, the Company is expecting cash earnings per share ahead of the third quarter.

Finally, regarding capital structure, in 2008, the Company has repurchased approximately $450 million of its outstanding shares at an average price of $58.37 per share. Due to the timing of the repurchases, they did not have a meaningful accretive impact to second-quarter results.

Financial Measures

In addition to the results presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, the Company presents financial measures that are non-GAAP measures, such as adjusted EBITDA, operating EBITDA, cash earnings and cash earnings per diluted share. These non-GAAP financial measures exclude the loss associated with the sale of the Mail Services business unit, costs associated with the proposed merger and other costs. The Company believes that these non-GAAP financial measures, viewed in addition to and not in lieu of the Company's reported GAAP results, provide useful information to investors regarding the Company's performance and overall results of operations. These metrics are an integral part of the Company's internal reporting to measure the performance of reportable segments and the overall effectiveness of senior management. Reconciliations to comparable GAAP financial measures are available in the accompanying schedules and on the Company's website. The financial measures presented are consistent with the Company's historical financial reporting practices. The non-GAAP financial measures presented herein may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies, and are not identical to corresponding measures used in our various agreements or public filings.

Conference Call

Alliance Data will host a conference call on July 16, 2008 at 5:00 p.m. (Eastern) to discuss the Company's second quarter results. The conference call will be available via the Internet at http://www.alliancedata.com/. There will be several slides accompanying the webcast. Please go to the website at least 15 minutes prior to the call to register, download and install any necessary software. The recorded webcast will also be available on the Company's website.

If you are unable to participate in the conference call, a replay will be available. To access the replay, please dial 706-645-9291 and enter "54503053". The replay will be available from two hours after the end of the call until 11:59 P.M. (Eastern Time) on July 23, 2008.

About Alliance Data

Alliance Data is a leading provider of marketing, loyalty and transaction services, managing over 120 million consumer relationships for some of North America's most recognizable companies. Using transaction-rich data, Alliance Data creates and manages customized solutions that change consumer behavior and that enable its clients to create and enhance customer loyalty to build stronger, mutually beneficial relationships with their customers. Headquartered in Dallas, Alliance Data employs over 9,000 associates at more than 60 locations worldwide. Alliance Data's brands include AIR MILES(R), North America's premier coalition loyalty program, and Epsilon(R), a leading provider of multi-channel, data-driven technologies and marketing services. For more information about the Company, visit its website, http://www.alliancedata.com/.

Alliance Data's Safe Harbor Statement/Forward Looking Statements

This release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such statements may use words such as "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "predict," "project" and similar expressions as they relate to us or our management. When we make forward-looking statements, we are basing them on our management's beliefs and assumptions, using information currently available to us. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, these forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including those discussed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

If one or more of these or other risks or uncertainties materialize, or if our underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, actual results may vary materially from what we projected. Any forward-looking statements contained in this presentation reflect our current views with respect to future events and are subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to our operations, results of operations, growth strategy and liquidity. These risks, uncertainties and assumptions include those made with respect to and any developments related to the termination of the proposed merger with an affiliate of The Blackstone Group, including risks and uncertainties arising from actions that the parties to the merger agreement or third parties may take in connection therewith. We have no intention, and disclaim any obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future results or otherwise.

"Safe Harbor" Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: Statements in this presentation regarding Alliance Data Systems Corporation's business which are not historical facts are "forward-looking statements" that involve risks and uncertainties. For a discussion of such risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements, see "Risk Factors" in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the most recently ended fiscal year. Risk factors may be updated in Item 1A in each of the Company's Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for each quarterly period subsequent to the Company's most recent Form 10-K.

ALLIANCE DATA SYSTEMS CORPORATION SUMMARY FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (In millions, except per share amounts) (Unaudited) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended June 30, June 30, 2008 2007 Change 2008 2007 Change Revenue $507.2 $481.8 5% $1,006.5 $948.2 6% Income from continuing operations $61.9 $51.5 20% $124.7 $116.3 7% Income from continuing operations per share -- diluted $0.79 $0.64 23% $1.57 $1.44 9% Adjusted EBITDA $161.9 $150.9 7% $326.4 $310.9 5% Operating EBITDA $169.3 $174.4 (3)% $344.5 $326.0 6% Cash Earnings $81.7 $73.1 12% $162.5 $154.4 5% Cash Earnings per share -- diluted $1.04 $0.91 14% $2.04 $1.91 7% As of As of June 30, December 31, 2008 2007 Cash and cash equivalents $208.2 $219.2 Seller's interest and credit card receivables 454.0 652.4 Redemption settlement assets 673.1 317.1 Intangible assets, net 314.0 343.4 Goodwill 1,176.6 1,185.8 Total assets 4,128.8 4,103.6 Deferred revenue 1,179.3 828.3 Certificates of deposit 264.8 370.4 Core debt(1) 1,130.0 921.0 Total liabilities 3,249.2 2,906.6 Stockholders' equity 879.6 1,197.0 (1) Core debt excludes certificates of deposit and capital leases and other debt. ALLIANCE DATA SYSTEMS CORPORATION SUMMARY FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (In millions) (Unaudited) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended June 30, June 30, 2008 2007 Change 2008 2007 Change Segment Revenue: Loyalty Services $200.0 $153.2 31% $371.8 $285.0 30% Epsilon Marketing Services 115.4 109.4 5 230.8 208.0 11 Private Label Services 95.8 91.5 5 190.4 189.4 1 Private Label Credit 187.6 206.3 (9) 396.7 426.1 (7) Corporate/Other 1.6 10.2 (84) 2.1 21.4 (90) Intersegment (93.2) (88.8) 5 (185.3) (181.7) 2 $507.2 $481.8 5% $1,006.5 $948.2 6% Segment Adjusted EBITDA: Loyalty Services $53.5 $32.3 66% $94.2 $58.0 62% Epsilon Marketing Services 26.4 23.6 12 50.0 44.5 12 Private Label Services 29.9 24.6 22 56.9 57.1 - Private Label Credit 63.6 89.4 (29) 150.7 189.3 (20) Corporate/Other (11.5) (19.0) (39) (25.4) (38.0) (33) $161.9 $150.9 7% $326.4 $310.9 5% Key Performance Indicators: Private label statements generated 30.8 33.7 (9)% 62.6 68.2 (8)% Average managed receivables $3,831.4 $3,853.3 (1)% $3,869.1 $3,884.8 - Private label credit sales $1,863.8 $1,917.2 (3)% $3,401.9 $3,503.6 (3)% AIR MILES Reward Miles issued 1,139.9 1,036.1 10% 2,162.9 1,978.2 9% AIR MILES Reward Miles redeemed 786.3 673.9 17% 1,487.9 1,318.3 13% As Adjusted Key Performance Indicators(1) Private label statements generated 30.8 31.4 (2)% 62.6 63.6 (2)% Average managed receivables $3,831.4 $3,615.4 6% $3,869.1 $3,647.4 6% Private label credit sales $1,863.8 $1,819.3 2% $3,401.9 $3,332.5 2% (1) Excludes the impact of the loss of the Lane Bryant portfolio. ALLIANCE DATA SYSTEMS CORPORATION CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (In millions, except per share amounts) (Unaudited) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended June 30, June 30, 2008 2007 2008 2007 Total revenue $507.2 $481.8 $1,006.5 $948.2 Total operating expenses 393.1 379.6 773.8 725.4 Operating income 114.1 102.2 232.7 222.8 Interest expense, net 13.9 18.9 31.0 34.7 Income from continuing operations before income taxes 100.2 83.3 201.7 188.1 Income tax expense 38.3 31.8 77.0 71.8 Income from continuing operations 61.9 51.5 124.7 116.3 Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxes (15.0) (7.4) (28.4) (15.3) Net income $46.9 $44.1 $96.3 $101.0 Per share data: Basic - Income from continuing operations $0.81 $0.66 $1.61 $1.48 Basic - Loss from discontinued operations (0.20) (0.10) (0.37) (0.19) Basic - Net income $0.61 $0.56 $1.24 $1.28 Diluted - Income from continuing operations $0.79 $0.64 $1.57 $1.44 Diluted - Loss from discontinued operations (0.19) (0.09) (0.36) (0.19) Diluted - Net income $0.60 $0.55 $1.21 $1.25 Weighted average shares outstanding - basic 76.6 78.2 77.5 78.6 Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted 78.6 80.5 79.5 80.8 ALLIANCE DATA SYSTEMS CORPORATION RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP INFORMATION (In millions, except per share amounts) (Unaudited) Three Months Ended Six Months Ended June 30, June 30, 2008 2007 2008 2007 Adjusted EBITDA and Operating EBITDA: Income from continuing operations (GAAP measure) $61.9 $51.5 $124.7 $116.3 Stock compensation expense 7.7 10.2 14.0 20.6 Income tax expense 38.3 31.8 77.0 71.8 Interest expense, net 13.9 18.9 31.0 34.7 Depreciation and other amortization 17.6 14.9 35.3 28.7 Amortization of purchased intangibles 16.8 17.4 34.0 32.6 Loss on sale of assets - - 1.0 - Merger and other costs 5.7 6.2 9.4 6.2 Adjusted EBITDA 161.9 150.9 326.4 310.9 Change in deferred revenue(1) 373.2 73.6 351.0 86.7 Change in redemption settlement assets(1) (365.6) (11.4) (356.0) (28.0) Foreign currency impact (0.2) (38.7) 23.1 (43.6) Operating EBITDA $169.3 $174.4 $344.5 $326.0 Cash Earnings: Income from continuing operations (GAAP measure) $61.9 $51.5 $124.7 $116.3 Add back non-cash non-operating items and merger and other costs: Stock compensation expense 7.7 10.2 14.0 20.6 Amortization of purchased intangibles 16.8 17.4 34.0 32.6 Loss on the sale of assets - - 1.0 - Merger and other costs 5.7 6.2 9.4 6.2 Income tax effect(2) (10.4) (12.2) (20.6) (21.3) Cash earnings $81.7 $73.1 $162.5 $154.4 Weighted average shares outstanding - diluted 78.6 80.5 79.5 80.8 Cash earnings per share - diluted $1.04 $0.91 $2.04 $1.91 (1) Increases to deferred revenue and redemption settlement assets in 2008 were impacted by the transaction completed with the Bank of Montreal in the second quarter of 2008. (2) Represents income taxes adjusted for the related tax benefit or expense for the non-GAAP measure adjustments. ALLIANCE DATA SYSTEMS CORPORATION RECONCILIATION OF SEGMENT ADJUSTED EBITDA (In millions) (Unaudited) Three months ended June 30, 2008 Stock compen- Merger & Operating Depreciation & sation other non- Adjusted income amortization expense routine costs EBITDA(1) Loyalty Services $42.3 $8.2 $3.0 $- $53.5 Epsilon Marketing Services 4.2 18.9 0.7 2.6 26.4 Private Label Services 25.9 2.2 1.2 0.6 29.9 Private Label Credit 60.4 2.8 0.4 - 63.6 Corporate/Other (18.7) 2.3 2.4 2.5 (11.5) $114.1 $34.4 $7.7 $5.7 $161.9 Three months ended June 30, 2007 Stock compen- Merger & Operating Depreciation & sation other non- Adjusted income amortization expense routine costs EBITDA(1) Loyalty Services $24.5 $6.0 $1.8 $- $32.3 Epsilon Marketing Services 2.7 18.4 2.5 - 23.6 Private Label Services 21.1 2.2 1.3 - 24.6 Private Label Credit 86.4 2.8 0.2 - 89.4 Corporate/Other (32.5) 2.9 4.4 6.2 (19.0) $102.2 $32.3 $10.2 $6.2 $150.9 Six Months ended June 30, 2008 Stock compen- Merger & Operating Depreciation & sation other non- Adjusted income amortization expense routine costs EBITDA(1) Loyalty Services $73.2 $16.6 $4.4 $- $94.2 Epsilon Marketing Services 7.8 38.1 1.5 2.6 50.0 Private Label Services 48.9 4.5 2.0 1.5 56.9 Private Label Credit 144.3 5.6 0.8 - 150.7 Corporate/Other (41.5) 4.5 5.3 6.3 (25.4) $232.7 $69.3 $14.0 $10.4 $326.4 Six Months ended June 30, 2007 Stock compen- Merger & Operating Depreciation & sation other non- Adjusted income amortization expense routine costs EBITDA(1) Loyalty Services $42.7 $11.6 $3.7 $- $58.0 Epsilon Marketing Services 6.2 33.8 4.5 - 44.5 Private Label Services 49.9 4.5 2.7 - 57.1 Private Label Credit 183.3 5.6 0.4 - 189.3 Corporate/Other (59.3) 5.8 9.3 6.2 (38.0) $222.8 $61.3 $20.6 $6.2 $310.9 (1) Represents segment Adjusted EBITDA and is equal to operating income plus depreciation, amortization, stock compensation expense and merger and other costs.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20051024/ADSLOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com Alliance Data Systems Corporation

CONTACT: Investors-Analysts: Julie Prozeller of Financial Dynamics,
+1-212-850-5721, alliancedata@fd.com, for Alliance Data; or Media: Shelley
Whiddon of Alliance Data, +1-972-348-4310, Shelley.Whiddon@AllianceData.com

Web site: http://www.alliancedata.com/

Belden Completes Acquisition of Trapeze NetworksThe acquisition adds a leader in enterprise wireless LAN technology to Belden's suite of signal transmission solutions for mission-critical applications

ST. LOUIS, July 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Belden has completed the acquisition of Trapeze Networks, a technology leader in wireless LAN equipment and network management software, for a cash price of approximately $133 million.

"Belden's strategy is to provide our customers with the world's most reliable signal transmission solutions for mission-critical applications, encompassing wireless systems as well as optical fiber, copper cable, and related connectivity products," said John Stroup, President and Chief Executive Officer of Belden. "Mobility is a requirement among our enterprise customers, and today's wireless technology provides the performance and security that make wireless an indispensable component of the enterprise network. The acquisition of Trapeze Networks uniquely positions Belden to address the enterprise market with a full complement of signal transmission solutions. We are eager to introduce Trapeze Networks' technology to Belden's enterprise customers.

"Trapeze Networks delivers NonStop wireless networking with an industry leading combination of performance, security, manageability and reliability. Trapeze also offers the award-winning RingMaster wireless LAN management suite, arguably the finest network management software in the market today. Trapeze Networks wireless LANs built upon the Trapeze SmartMobile architecture is the most secure, reliable, and scalable enterprise WLAN available.

Trapeze Networks, a privately held company based in Pleasanton, California, with 2007 revenues of $56 million, sells its products into healthcare, education, manufacturing, retail, government and other enterprise verticals through OEMs and distribution channels. The Trapeze product portfolio is an end-to-end WLAN system built on a highly scalable and secure wireless operating system running on Trapeze Networks access points and controllers and features the industry's most robust management software capabilities.

Jim Vogt, President of Trapeze Networks, said, "Our customers can be assured that Trapeze Networks will aggressively continue to deliver the innovative, customer-centered systems and platforms they depend on for constant connectivity and reliable mobility. More than 4,000 organizations around the world have installed Trapeze wireless platforms. We look forward to expanding our customer relationships by working with the worldwide Belden sales and marketing organization.

"Forward Looking Statements

Statements in this release other than historical facts are "forward looking statements" made in reliance upon the safe harbor of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward looking statements are based on forecasts and projections about the industries served by the Company and about general economic conditions. They reflect management's beliefs and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance and they involve risk and uncertainty. The Company's actual results may differ materially from these expectations. Some of the factors that may cause actual results to differ from the Company's expectations include demand for the Company's products; the cost and availability of materials including copper, plastic compounds derived from fossil fuels, and other materials; energy costs; the Company's ability to integrate successfully the acquired businesses; and other factors. For a more complete discussion of risk factors, please see our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, filed with the SEC on February 29, 2008. Belden disclaims any duty to update any forward looking statements as a result of new information, future developments, or otherwise.

About Belden

Sending All the Right Signals -- from industrial automation to data centers, from broadcast studios to aerospace, from cutting-edge wireless communications to consumer electronics, Belden people are committed to delivering the best signal transmission solutions in the world. Our 8,000 associates worldwide work in copper cable, fiber, wireless technology, connectors, switches and active components to bring voice, video and data to your mission-critical application. With 2007 revenue of $2.0 billion, Belden has manufacturing capability in North America, Europe and Asia. To obtain additional information contact Investor Relations at 314-854-8054, or visit our website at http://www.belden.com/.

About Trapeze Networks

Trapeze Networks is a leading provider of enterprise wireless LAN equipment and management software. Trapeze was the first company to introduce NonStop Wireless -- delivering unmatched reliability to the enterprise wireless LAN and its solutions are optimized for companies requiring mobility and high bandwidth such as healthcare, education, and hospitality. Trapeze delivers Smart Mobile(TM) -- providing scalable wireless LANs for applications such as Voice over Wi-Fi, location services, and indoor/outdoor connectivity.

Belden Dee Johnson 314.854.8054

Belden

CONTACT: Dee Johnson of Belden, +1-314-854-8054

Web site: http://www.belden.com/

Customers Turn to Oracle to Address Enterprise Performance Management and Business Intelligence NeedsOracle's Industry-leading EPM and BI Software Helps Organizations Optimize Business Processes, Decisions, and Actions

REDWOOD SHORES, Calif., July 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- -- In an effort to gain better insight, improve decision-making, and drive enhanced results, organizations across every industry and region are selecting Oracle's Enterprise Performance Management (EPM) and Business Intelligence (BI) software.

-- Organizations that have purchased Oracle's EPM and BI software recently include: Ameren, ASL BAT/1, Audatex, Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement Ltd, Bluegarden Norway, Bytes Technology Group South Africa, CajaGRANADA, Catholic Health Initiatives, CBeyond, City of Copenhagen, Cornell University, Dairy Crest, Department of Transport Australia, Education Management Corp., Fintur Holdings B.V., FLSmidth & Company A/S, GarantiBank Turkey, Gobierno de Aragon, Hayel Saeed Anam Group of Companies, Hellas Online, Iron Mountain UK Ltd, Jan de Nul Group, JVC, KPN Netherlands, Kalbe Pharma, Lavazza SpA, MasterCard Advisors, LLC - Consulting arm of MasterCard Worldwide, NetApp, Nykredit Holding A/S, Qualcomm, Rompetrol SA, Safaricom, Scottrade, Sosyal Guvenlik Kurumu, State University of New York System, Swedish Board of Fisheries, Telefonica de Espana, Telefonica Moviles, University of Antwerp, VDAB Belgium, Vion Food Group, and Wilkinson Hardware Store Ltd.

-- A component of Oracle Fusion Middleware, Oracle's EPM system unites category-leading performance management applications, pre-built BI applications, and BI foundation and tools, into a complete and integrated system for managing and optimizing performance across business functions.

-- The system's hot-pluggable capability enables organizations to extend the value of performance management, analytic applications and BI tools across heterogeneous IT environments and incorporate Oracle and non-Oracle data sources as necessary.

Supporting Quotes

"We selected the Oracle Enterprise Performance Management System to help us address our financial management activities such as reporting, analysis, planning and monitoring," said Norm Fjeldheim, Chief Information Officer, Qualcomm. "With the EPM system delivering a common foundation and processes for financial performance management, we anticipate increased visibility between Hyperion Financial Management and the Oracle E-Business Suite and greater transparency across both business units and function from a management perspective."

"Oracle offers organizations a comprehensive, integrated EPM system spanning performance management applications, packaged BI applications and BI foundation to support strategic, financial and operational management processes," said John Kopcke, senior vice president, Enterprise Performance Management Global Business Unit, Oracle. "Built on open standards, the Oracle EPM System enables organizations to get more out of their ERP systems -- Oracle or otherwise -- and extend intuitive, role-based intelligence across the enterprise."

Supporting Resources Oracle Expert Blogs Frank Buytendijk (http://blogs.oracle.com/frankbuytendijk) Podcasts

Hyperion Joins Oracle: A convergence of BI and EPM (http://finance.yahoo.com/)

Pervasive Business Intelligence (http://streaming.oracle.com/ebn/podcasts/middleware/5059682.mp3)

Related Resources

About Oracle Enterprise Performance Management and Business Intelligence (http://www.oracle.com/solutions/business_intelligence/index.html)

Independent Analyst Reports Regarding Oracle Software (http://www.oracle.com/corporate/analyst/reports/index.html)

Oracle EPM and BI Customers (http://www.oracle.com/customers/solutions/bi.html)

Download Oracle Software (http://www.oracle.com/technology/software/index.html)

About Oracle

Oracle is the world's largest enterprise software company. For more information about Oracle, please visit our Web site at http://www.oracle.com/.

Trademarks

Oracle is a registered trademark of Oracle Corporation and/or its affiliates. Other names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20020718/ORCLLOGO)

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20020718/ORCLLOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com Oracle

CONTACT: Eloy Ontiveros, +1-650-607-6458, eloy.ontiveros@oracle.com, or
Letty Ledbetter, +1-650-506-8071, letty.ledbetter@oracle.com, both of Oracle

Web site: http://www.oracle.com/

EnerSys Announces 1st Quarter Fiscal 2009 Results Conference Call

READING, Pa., July 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- EnerSys the world's largest manufacturer, marketer and distributor of industrial batteries, will host a conference call to discuss the Company's first fiscal quarter 2009 financial results and to provide an overview of the business. The call will conclude with a question and answer session.

The call, scheduled for Wednesday, August 6, 2008 at 9:00 am Eastern Time, will be hosted by John D. Craig, Chairman, President & Chief Executive Officer and Michael T. Philion, Executive Vice President - Finance & Chief Financial Officer.

The call will also be Webcast on EnerSys' website. There will be a free download of a compatible media player on the company's web site at http://www.enersys.com/.

The conference call information is: Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2008 Time: 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time Via Internet: http://www.enersys.com/ Domestic Dial-In Number: 866-831-6291 International Dial-In Number: 617-213-8860 Passcode: 13038454

A replay of the conference call will be available from 11:00 a.m. on August 6, 2008 through midnight on September 6, 2008.

The replay information is: Via Internet: http://www.enersys.com/ Domestic Replay Number: 888-286-8010 International Replay Number: 617-801-6888 Passcode: 38594856

For more information, contact Richard Zuidema, Executive Vice President, EnerSys, P.O. Box 14145, Reading, PA 19612-4145, USA. Tel: 800/538-3627

About EnerSys:

EnerSys, the world leader in stored energy solutions for industrial applications, manufactures and distributes reserve power and motive power batteries, chargers, power equipment, and battery accessories to customers worldwide. Motive power batteries are utilized in electric fork trucks and other commercial electric powered vehicles. Reserve power batteries are used in the telecommunications and utility industries, uninterruptible power suppliers, and numerous applications requiring standby power. The company also provides aftermarket and customer support services to its customers from over 100 countries through its sales and manufacturing locations around the world.

More information regarding EnerSys can be found at http://www.enersys.com/.

EnerSys

CONTACT: Richard Zuidema, Executive Vice President of EnerSys,
800-538-3627

Web site: http://www.enersys.com/

EnerSys Awarded US$13 Million in Submarine Battery Contracts

READING, Pennsylvania, July 16 /PRNewswire/ --

EnerSys (NYSE: ENS), the world's largest manufacturer, marketer and distributor of industrial batteries, announced that it has been awarded contracts for submarine batteries worth over US$13 million in recent weeks. The batteries are scheduled for delivery over the next several years.

The orders were received from HDW, the German shipbuilder, and are for the supply of submarine batteries for propulsion power on diesel electric vessels with several navies worldwide. The contracts include the supply of the batteries as well as the ongoing maintenance and technical support for the customers. The batteries will be manufactured in EnerSys' new special purpose submarine battery facility in Europe.

"EnerSys and its predecessor companies have been supplying submarine batteries for more than 100 years," said John Craig, chairman, president & chief executive officer of EnerSys. "Our submarine batteries are respected for their quality and service and are employed by navies around the world in both diesel electric and nuclear submarines. These latest contracts confirm our strong global position in supplying batteries for the defense sector."

"These latest contracts have been won against strong international competition and reflect our commitment to continue growth in this important sector with value-added, effective energy storage solutions for our land, sea and airborne defense applications," said Ray Kubis, president, EnerSys Europe.

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This press release (and oral statements made regarding the subjects of this release) contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, (i) statements regarding EnerSys' plans, objectives, expectations and intentions and other statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts, including statements identified by words such as "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "believes," "seeks," "estimates," "will" or words of similar meaning; and (ii) statements about the benefits of the contracts including any impact on our financial and operating results and estimates, and any impact on EnerSys' market position that may be realized from these contracts. These forward-looking statements are based upon management's current beliefs or expectations and are inherently subject to significant business, economic, and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control. The foregoing factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. EnerSys may not realize benefits from these contracts. The statements in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, even if subsequently made available by EnerSys on its website or otherwise. EnerSys does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date such forward-looking statement is made. For a list of other factors which could affect EnerSys' results, see EnerSys' filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including "Item 1A. Risk Factors," set forth in EnerSys' Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2008.

About EnerSys

EnerSys, the world leader in stored energy solutions for industrial applications, manufactures, distributes and services reserve power and motive power batteries, chargers, power equipment, and battery accessories to customers worldwide. Reserve power batteries are used in the telecommunications and utility industries, uninterruptible power suppliers, and numerous applications requiring standby power. Motive power batteries are utilized in electric forklift trucks and other commercial electric powered vehicles. The Company also provides aftermarket and customer support services to its customers from over 100 countries through its sales and manufacturing locations around the world.

EnerSys

Richard Zuidema, Executive Vice President of EnerSys, +1-800-538-3627

Verizon's TV Franchise Agreement With City of New York Receives Confirmation From New York PSCFinal Governmental Step Makes TV Choice a Reality for New Yorkers; Stage Is Set for FiOS TV Launch in Coming Weeks

NEW YORK, July 16 /PRNewswire/ -- The New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) today confirmed the agreement between Verizon and The City of New York for Verizon to provide TV service to all five boroughs of the city, and bring competition in the TV market. The company will provide the service through its state-of-the-art, all-fiber-optic FiOS TV network. The confirmation follows an agreement on April 29 by the city's Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications to accept the Verizon proposal, and approval by the city's Franchise and Concession Review Committee on May 27. The PSC confirmation today is the final governmental and regulatory step in Verizon's plan to offer FiOS TV service to New York City residents. The following statement on today's New York PSC confirmation should be attributed to Monica Azare, Verizon senior vice president for New York and Connecticut.

"Today is a great and historic day for New York City residents. After decades of being locked into one cable TV provider, consumers here soon will have more choices, better entertainment, and a superior customer service experience. When we launch our FiOS TV service in the city in the coming weeks, consumers will be amazed at the comprehensive channel lineup, the vast number of high-definition offerings, the clarity of the picture, and the real value they will be receiving for their entertainment dollar. All these benefits will be brought to New Yorkers by Verizon's revolutionary all-fiber-optic technology, straight to consumers' doors.

"Already, interest by the average New Yorker has been staggering. In the past few weeks, we have been taking orders in the New York City launch neighborhoods for Verizon's triple play of FiOS TV, FiOS Internet and wired, reliable telephone service.

"We will have more to say soon about the introduction of FiOS TV service in New York City. But for now, we're thrilled to be able to bring FiOS TV to the people of New York."

Verizon

CONTACT: John Bonomo, +1-212-321-8033, John.J.Bonomo@Verizon.com

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

Company News On-Call: http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/094251.html

BET Networks Continues its Extensive Election Year Political Coverage With Comprehensive Plans for the Democratic and Republican ConventionsBET News Also Reveals New Talk Show 'THE TRUTH WITH JEFF JOHNSON' Premieres Friday, August 15 at 11:00 P.M.*Through 'THE TRUTH,' Long-Time BET Host and Political Correspondent Jeff Johnson Tackles Today's Top Stories and Delivers a Keen Analysis of the Issues Facing the Black Community

WASHINGTON, July 16 /PRNewswire/ -- BET Networks today unveiled more details of its extensive election year political coverage, including the network's plans for this fall's Democratic and Republican National Conventions, as well as the premiere date of the BET News show THE TRUTH WITH JEFF JOHNSON. The company shared this news, along with its other upcoming programming announcements and overviews of its digital strategy, research efforts and pro-social initiatives, with members of Congress, leaders of major national organizations, and local elected officials in an election-themed presentation at the National Cable & Telecommunications Association Cable Multimedia Center.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070716/BETNETWORKSLOGO )

"As the leading African American targeted media company in the world, we have a comprehensive plan in place to reach our influential community of voters both on air and online," said Debra L. Lee, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, BET Networks. "We're so proud to give our audience a wealth of information and analysis throughout every step of this historic presidential election, all the while encouraging them to vote and make their voices heard."

"With the launch of 'The Truth With Jeff Johnson,' along with all of our other in-depth political coverage, we are providing a unique and necessary perspective on the issues important to the Black community," said Reginald Hudlin, President of Entertainment, BET. "BET News is committed to informing our audience with the news they can't get anywhere else, with a diversity of voices and opinions that our audience demands."

BET Networks will be taking an unprecedented multiplatform approach to cover the 2008 presidential election, including the Democratic and Republican National Conventions, through hours of on-air programming on BET and BET J, live coverage, daily news specials, public service announcements, and extended news briefs, in addition to extensive coverage online and on BET On Blast, BET's broadband channel.

In the weeks leading up to the Democratic Convention in August, when the first African American will accept the Democratic nomination for President of the United States of America, BET News will unveil a new and timely weekly talk show, THE TRUTH WITH JEFF JOHNSON, premiering on Friday, August 15 at 11:00 P.M.* This provocative half-hour program will use a mix of investigative reporting and one-on-one interviews with leading experts to review the week's events and examine exactly what the top headlines mean for the Black community. Known for his in-depth analysis of political, social, and economic problems affecting African Americans, host Jeff Johnson will leave no issue unaddressed. From unique coverage of the 2008 elections to the increase of heart failure in the black population, THE TRUTH will go behind the issues and deliver the African American side of the news.

During a special 2008 election report, THE TRUTH will travel to Denver for the 45th Democratic National Convention. Broadcasting live from inside the Pepsi Center and Invesco Field, Johnson will provide extensive event coverage, including Senator Barack Obama's speech on Thursday, August 28. He will be joined with other leading media figures such as political strategist and BET J host Keith Boykin; San Francisco District Attorney Kamala Harris; and political pundits Jamal Simmons, Keli Goff, Angela McGlowan. THE TRUTH WITH JEFF JOHNSON will take a frank look at news, trends, pop culture, current events and politics from an unapologetically Black point of view.

In addition to this new weekly program, BET News will also air a number of news specials, extended news briefs, special reports in entertainment and music programming throughout the week, and more. BET Networks' political coverage will include:

ON BET

-- Special editions of THE TRUTH WITH JEFF JOHNSON -- Before and after Obama's live speech on Thursday, August 28, Jeff Johnson and a team of political strategists, special guests and BET News correspondents will provide context and analysis of the speech and the latest developments of the Democratic Convention.

-- DNC Nomination Speech -- BET will air Barack Obama's nomination speech live from Invesco Field and in its entirety.

-- Convention Specials -- Each night of the Democratic Convention in primetime, a BET News special will delve into issues of the election. Each special will have a tailored introduction from the convention floor. The specials include:

-- Locked Out: Ex-cons and the Vote, an in-depth look at voter disenfranchisement; -- What's At Stake: The Top 10 Issues Affecting Black America, which delves into how the policies supported by both presidential candidates can, for better or worse, affect the lives of Black Americans; -- Obama's Journey to the White House, which counts down the top 10 moments of Obama's rise to the Democratic nomination for President; and -- The Dream: 45 Years Later, which takes a critical look at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s historic "I Have a Dream" speech and examines if Obama is the manifestation of Dr. King's vision.

-- 106 & PARK -- Terrence, co-host of 106 & PARK, will be in Denver providing updates and news to the show.

-- YOU(th) VOTE! Sound-Offs -- BET will be gathering YOU(th) VOTE! Sound-Offs that will air on BET throughout the conventions.

-- Extended News Briefs -- BET News correspondents will file reports all day that include interviews with members of the Congressional Black Caucus, political analysts, and celebrities attending the conventions. These reports will put the historic nature of this election in context and examine the issues coming out of the conventions as they relate to the Black community. Live and packaged reports will be integrated into 106 & PARK, RAP CITY and THE BLACK CARPET.

-- Public Service Announcements -- Throughout the election cycle, BET will be airing "BE HEARD," a series of special public service announcements encouraging viewers to make a difference and vote.

ON BET.COM

-- Decision '08 -- BET.com's comprehensive Decision '08 site provides up-to-the-minute coverage from the Democratic and Republican National Conventions, including breaking news, photo flipbooks, articles, polls and quizzes.

-- YOU(th) VOTE! Blog -- A YOU(th) VOTE! blogger will be on site at the conventions with frequent updates on the perspectives and opinions coming from young people attending the convention.

-- "Pamela On Politics"' Blog -- Pamela Gentry, BET's Senior Political Producer, will be live from the conventions. Her blog will include the latest news from the conventions and exclusive interviews and analysis from Black lawmakers, pundits and political watchers.

-- Jeff Johnson's The Truth Blog -- This will also be live from the conventions with commentary on the issues coming out of the conventions.

-- "BE HEARD" Upload Feature -- This feature will allow convention attendees and the public to upload photos and/or video of their personal takes on the conventions.

All of BET Networks' presidential election coverage can be found on BET's DECISION '08 site: http://www.bet.com/news/decision08.

For more on THE TRUTH WITH JEFF JOHNSON, please visit http://www.bet.com/. About BET Networks

BET Networks, a division of Viacom Inc. , is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 87 million households according to Nielsen Media Research, and can be seen in the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of businesses extensions: BET.com, a leading internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; BET Digital Networks -- BET J, BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; BET Mobile, which offers ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, an extension of BET network programming for global distribution.

*All times are ET/PT.

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AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com BET Networks

CONTACT: BET Networks Political Coverage Plans, Jeanine Liburd,
+1-212-205-3011, jeanine.liburd@bet.net, or Bernadette Simpao,
+1-212-205-3154, bernadette.simpao@bet.net; or The Truth With Jeff Johnson,
Tricia N. Newell, +1-212-975-8230, tricia.newell@bet.net, all of BET Networks

Web site: http://www.bet.com/

Lanoptics Schedules Second Quarter 2008 Results Release and Conference Call for Monday, August 4, 2008Conference Call to be Webcast Live on August 4, 2008 at 10:00am ET

YOKNEAM, Israel, July 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Lanoptics Ltd. , a provider of network processors, today announced that it will be releasing its second quarter 2008 results on Monday, August 4, 2008 before US markets open.

The Company will be hosting a conference call later that same day at 10:00am ET (7:00am PT; 3:00pm UK Time; 5:00pm Israel Time). On the call, management will review and discuss the results, and will be available to answer investor questions.

Live Webcast

The conference will be broadcast live from a link at http://www.ezchip.com/. To participate, please access the website at least 5 minutes before the conference call commences.

Dial - In

To participate through dial-in, please call one of the following teleconferencing numbers. Please begin placing your calls at least 15 minutes before the conference call commences. If you are unable to connect using the toll-free numbers, please try the international dial-in number.

US Dial-in Number: 1 888 935 4577; International Dial-in Number (US): +1 718 354 1389; Israel Dial-in Number: 1 809 246 002; Replay

For those unable to listen to the live call, a web-replay of the call will be available the day after the call under the investor relations section of the website.

About EZchip

LanOptics' business consists exclusively of the business of EZchip, a company that is engaged in the development and marketing of Ethernet network processors for networking equipment. EZchip provides its customers with solutions that scale from 1-Gigabit to 100-Gigabits per second with a common architecture and software across all products. EZchip's network processors provide the flexibility and integration that enable triple-play data, voice and video services in systems that make up the new Carrier Ethernet networks. Flexibility and integration make EZchip's solutions ideal for building systems for a wide range of applications in telecom networks, enterprise backbones and data centers. For more information on LanOptics and EZchip, visit the web site at http://www.ezchip.com/.

Contact: Ehud Helft CCGK Investor Relations info@gkir.com Tel: (US) +1-646-797-2868 / +1-646-201-9246

LanOptics Ltd.

CONTACT: Contact: Ehud Helft, CCGK Investor Relations, info@gkir.com,
Tel: (US) +1-646-797-2868 / +1-646-201-9246

Autodesk Announces Winners of Build Something Student Design ChallengeStudents from Five Countries Capture Awards for Innovation and Sustainability

SAN FRANCISCO, July 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Autodesk, Inc. announced the winners of the Build Something Student Design Challenge, a design contest created to encourage the next generation of design professionals from around the world to showcase their skills using Autodesk digital technologies in industrial design, architecture, civil and mechanical engineering and 3D animation.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080716/AQW093-a) (Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080716/AQW093-b)

"It is exciting to see the creativity of today's students come to life through sophisticated and innovative designs," said Paul Mailhot, Autodesk senior director, worldwide education programs. "The Build Something design contest is just one of the programs we are undertaking to challenge students to put their imagination and passion into action through design, and demonstrates Autodesk's support for the next generation of design professionals."

Andrew Southwood-Jones of Narrabundah College in Australia, won the Architecture Category as well as the Grand Prize for the General Categories for his UniCube prototype -- a digital model of a green campus residence designed using Revit Architecture software. Incorporating the practice of building information modeling (BIM), the UniCube features aesthetically pleasing spaces tailored for student life, renewable construction materials and green building technology, including gabion walls and rainwater recycling.

"The Student Design Challenge was an excellent opportunity for me to put my skills into practice by using Revit Architecture software. As an Australian, I gained valuable exposure to an international competition while helping to develop my future career portfolio," said Southwood-Jones. "In addition, the resources on the Autodesk Student Community are of considerable assistance. Design software, which is a necessity for many students, is expensive for students to purchase, and the Autodesk Student Community not only provides free professional software, but also offers useful tutorials and forums which enable me to use the latest software to the fullest extent to produce accurate and more innovative designs."

Roland Cernat of Hochschule fuer Gestaltung Schwaebisch Gmuend in Germany, won the Industrial Design Category and went on to take the Grand Prize for Sustainable Design for his ORIENS zero-emission motor glider concept based on the cradle-to-cradle principle, which makes designers think about how their products can be disassembled and reused. Cernat used Autodesk AliasStudio software to sketch the curves of the design and bring it through completion.

Additional winners and runners-up in the various categories are as follows:

Civil Engineering

Winner: Antonio Lorio, Universita La Sapienza di Roma, Italy, for his 3D digital prototype, created using AutoCAD Civil 3D software, of an infrastructure containing road intersections and roundabouts that would preserve existing archaeological excavations.

Runner-Up: Eugeny Malenkikh, St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Russia, for his design of a complex road junction in the city of Ivanovo designed using AutoCAD Civil 3D software.

Architecture

Winner: Andrew Southwood-Jones, Narrabundah College, Australia, for his UniCube, a prototype of environmentally friendly campus residences.

Runner-up: Matthew Calvey, Roger Williams University, United States, for his imagining of an open public space within a dense New York City block. Calvey used Revit Architecture software for his design.

Mechanical Engineering

Winner: Team Technical Engineering, ITIS Mozzali-Treviglio, Italy, for their digital prototype of a biomimetic Worm Robot that can navigate through tubes and vents in buildings. The project was actually built, and video was created in 3D with a design concept using Autodesk Inventor software.

Runner-up: Maria Krasovskaja, Kostroma State Technological University, Russia, for her digital model of a new exhaust mechanism intended for use in a textile machine. Krasovskaja used Autodesk Inventor software to design the system.

Industrial Design

Winner: Roland Cernat, Hochschule fuer Gestaltung Schwaebisch Gmuend, Germany, for his ORIENS zero-emission motor glider concept.

Runner-up: Elliot Ortiz, Academy of Art University, United States, for his Cargo concept, a vehicle maintaining the advantages of an urban scooter and possessing increased cargo capacity. Ortiz used Autodesk AliasStudio software.

3D Animation

Winner: Michal Gamrat, University of Science and Technology in Krakow, Poland, for his animation of a superhero character in an industrial environment. Gamrat used Autodesk MotionBuilder, Autodesk 3ds Max and Autodesk Combustion software to bring his superhero to life.

Winners were selected by a panel of industry experts from Autodesk and Autodesk customers such as HOK, AlchemyLabs, Palumbo Motorcars and Miller Legg. The judges and the companies they represent share Autodesk's vision of using design as a way to create a better, more sustainable world, and encouraging more students to pursue careers in design and engineering.

"Depletion of natural resources. Climate change. Global population explosion. These are some of the major problems facing our planet today, and as a result, the architecture industry is returning to a holistic view of design, ethics, balance, and democracy," said Jana Revedin, founder of Jana Revedin architects and design challenge judge. "We encourage young architects to be inquisitive, passionate and humanistic generalists who find a special, personal way to produce a sustainable architecture design, representing a long-term, environmentally friendly investment."

Students participated in the challenge by joining Autodesk's Student Engineering and Design Community. Since its launch in September 2006, this global online community has attracted more than 310,000 members from around the world. Designed to give students access to the tools they need to prepare for their future careers in architecture, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, industrial design, and games and animation, the site offers free(*) downloads of Autodesk design software as well as access to the expertise and experience of their peers and educators, as well as Autodesk professionals. To date, students and faculty have downloaded more than 550,000 design software programs.

About Autodesk Education

Autodesk is committed to supporting students and educators by providing access to powerful 2D and 3D design software, innovative programs, and resources designed to inspire the next generation of professionals to experience their ideas before they're real. By advancing education in the key areas of science, technology, engineering, math and visual communications, Autodesk is helping students develop critical skills for future academic and career success. Autodesk supports schools and institutions of higher learning worldwide through substantial discounts, subscriptions, grant programs, training, curricula development and community resources. For more information about Autodesk education programs and software, visit http://www.autodesk.com/education.

About Autodesk

Autodesk, Inc., is the world leader in 2D and 3D design software for the manufacturing, building and construction, and media and entertainment markets. Since its introduction of AutoCAD software in 1982, Autodesk has developed the broadest portfolio of state-of-the-art Digital Prototyping solutions to help customers experience their ideas before they are real. Fortune 1000 companies rely on Autodesk for the tools to visualize, simulate and analyze real-world performance early in the design process to save time and money, enhance quality and foster innovation. For additional information about Autodesk, visit http://www.autodesk.com/.

(*) Free products are subject to the terms and conditions of the end-user license agreement that accompanies download of the software.

Autodesk, AutoCAD, AliasStudio, Autodesk Inventor, Combustion, Inventor, MotionBuilder, Revit, and 3ds Max, are registered trademarks or trademarks of Autodesk, Inc., in the USA and/or other countries. All other brand names, product names or trademarks belong to their respective holders. Autodesk reserves the right to alter product offerings and specifications at any time without notice, and is not responsible for typographical or graphical errors that may appear in this document.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050415/SFF034LOGO) (C) 2008 Autodesk, Inc. All rights reserved. Contact: Angela Costa Simoes, 415-547-2388 Email: angela.simoes@autodesk.com

Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080716/AQW093-a
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080716/AQW093-b
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050415/SFF034LOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN11, 12
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com Autodesk, Inc.

CONTACT: Angela Costa Simoes of Autodesk, Inc., +1-415-547-2388,
angela.simoes@autodesk.com

Web site: http://www.autodesk.com/

Verizon's Industry-Leading FiOS Services Now Available to Nearly 800,000 FloridiansTransformational All-Fiber-Optic Network Brings Innovative Services, Improved Reliability to Residents, Businesses in Six West Central Counties

TAMPA, Fla., July 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Nearly 800,000 homes and businesses in six West Central Florida counties now can choose unmatched broadband speeds and some much-desired competition for their pay-TV services, via Verizon's transformational, reliable all-fiber-optic network.

Verizon currently offers FiOS Internet and FiOS TV services in dozens of communities in Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk and Sarasota counties, and the company continues to upgrade its network to all fiber in these areas. (NOTE: See end of release for a list of communities where FiOS TV and FiOS Internet services currently are available.)

"We started our fiber network deployment project in 2004 with a promise to provide next-generation technology and a superior competitive choice to Tampa Bay area residents," said Michelle A. Robinson, Verizon's regional president for the Southeast region. "Our FiOS Internet and TV services have been an extraordinary hit with consumers in Florida, and more residents are joining the FiOS family each day.

"Verizon is winning customers by providing the best, most reliable network available at a competitive price for voice, data and video services - all backed by the best employees in the business and a name consumers can trust," said Robinson.

Companies that install all-fiber networks gain other advantages in addition to new and superior services for customers. For example, fiber offers reliable service in stretches of wet weather that can affect copper-based networks.

"This new network will have greater reliability and lower maintenance costs," said Robinson.

Tampa Bay area residents who are FiOS TV-eligible can trim their monthly bills by bundling FiOS TV service, FiOS Internet service and the Verizon Freedom Essentials unlimited calling plan, all for $99.99 a month with a one-year commitment. They also can add a Verizon Wireless calling plan for a Grand Slam of communications and entertainment services.

Small and medium-sized businesses now also can combine unparalleled broadband FiOS Internet speeds with FiOS TV and Verizon's always-reliable voice service.

FiOS TV Service Highlights FiOS TV service highlights include:

- More than 400 all-digital channels grouped by genres such as entertainment, sports, news, shopping, movies and family, making it easy for audiences to find their favorite programming.

- A total of 31 high-definition channels in the Tampa Bay market, with extraordinary clarity and theater quality sound. The company will add approximately 25 more HD channels in the near future, and plans to expand its lineup to offer all available major HD programming by year-end.

- An industry-leading library of more than 10,000 video-on-demand (VOD) titles each month, 70 percent of which are free. In addition, an increasing number of on-demand titles in high-definition, with 1,000 HD VOD title per month by the end of the year.

- An easy-to-use interactive media guide that integrates HD programming, on-demand content and the digital video recorder along with broadcast television into a seamless user experience.

- Set-top boxes ranging from a standard-definition box for $5.99 per month to the Home Media DVR, featuring a multi-room DVR that enables up to three simultaneous viewings of recorded programs without requiring customers to set up a complex home network or buy extra equipment. The recorder is bundled with Media Manager, a new feature that lets customers easily access photos and music from their personal computer and play them on their entertainment center where they look and sound the best. A standard definition Home Media DVR is $17.99 per month.

- FiOS TV Widgets, a free interactive feature that provides local weather and traffic information.

Programming choices for Hispanic, African-American, Asian, Russian and other multicultural audiences are available in every market, making FiOS TV an outlet for emerging and independent networks to showcase their diverse programming.

Sports fans subscribing to FiOS TV Premier in the Tampa Bay market will also receive a host of sports channels - including Florida Sports Network, several ESPN channels and the NFL Network - at no extra charge.

FiOS TV is delivered over Verizon's all-fiber-optic network, which brings the power and capacity of fiber optics directly into people's homes and has industry-leading quality and reliability.

To date, Verizon has placed more than 55 million feet of fiber in its Florida service territory.

Fiber delivers amazingly sharp pictures and sound, and has the capacity to transmit a wide array of high-definition programming that is so clear and intense it seems to leap from the TV screen. It also delivers Internet download speeds of up to 50 Mbps* (megabits per second) and upload speeds of up to 20 Mbps, as well as high-quality voice services.

FiOS Internet Highlights

Verizon's 50/20 FiOS Internet connection is the fastest available to U.S. consumers, and the company's 20/20 symmetrical service is the first of its kind commercially available to U.S. consumers on a mass scale. Pioneering a new category of broadband for the American consumer, Verizon's symmetrical FiOS provides the ultra-fast, two-way speeds crucial for such burgeoning online activities as video conferencing, social networking and super-fast uploading of electronic photo albums or home videos, as well as multi-player gaming and online work collaboration.

At 50 Mbps, downloading a 5 GB (gigabyte) file, such as 112-minute, high-definition movie purchased online, takes approximately 13.3 minutes, while a 50 MB (megabyte) or 60-minute Web video takes 8 seconds, and a 5 MB MP3 music file takes less than eight-tenths of a second.

Using a 20 Mbps upstream broadband connection, a consumer could upload a 250 megabyte (MB) file of 200 photos in about 90 seconds, instead of the roughly 47 minutes it takes over a 768 kilobit-per-second (Kbps) upstream connection. A 500 MB file, such as 400 digital photos or a medical imaging data file, could upload in less than four minutes, compared with about 90 minutes over a 768 Kbps connection. A 3 gigabyte (GB) file, such as a one-hour family video shot with a high-definition video camera, can be uploaded in around 20 minutes, compared with more than nine hours with 768 Kbps upstream.

FiOS Internet 50/20 Mbps service is available for $139.95 a month with an annual service plan. The 20/20 Mbps FiOS Internet service is available for $64.99 a month with an annual service plan FiOS Internet service is also available as part of a discounted bundle of multiple Verizon services.

Tampa Bay area consumers can check online at http://www.verizon.com/fios for more information or to request that Verizon contact them when FiOS services become available. Customers also can call their local Verizon sales office or 888-GET FiOS (888-438-3467).

In addition to Florida, Verizon currently provides FiOS TV in parts of California, Delaware, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas and Virginia.

At the end of the first quarter 2008, 1.8 million Verizon customers received their broadband service over Verizon's all-fiber network, and more than 1.2 million customers had subscribed to FiOS TV.

* NOTE: actual (throughput) speeds will vary based on factors including computer configuration and network/Internet congestion.

Verizon Communications Inc. , headquartered in New York, is a leader in delivering broadband and other wireline and wireless communication innovations to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America's most reliable wireless network, serving more than 67 million customers nationwide. Verizon's Wireline operations include Verizon Business, which delivers innovative and seamless business solutions to customers around the world, and Verizon Telecom, which brings customers the benefits of converged communications, information and entertainment services over the nation's most advanced fiber-optic network. A Dow 30 company, Verizon employed a diverse workforce of approximately 232,000 as of the end of the first quarter 2008 and last year generated consolidated operating revenues of $93.5 billion. For more information, visit http://www.verizon.com/.

VERIZON'S ONLINE NEWS CENTER: Verizon news releases, executive speeches and biographies, media contacts, high-quality video and images, and other information are available at Verizon's News Center on the World Wide Web at http://www.verizon.com/news. To receive news releases by e-mail, visit the News Center and register for customized automatic delivery of Verizon news releases.

FiOS TV and FiOS Internet services currently are available in parts of the following Tampa Bay area communities: Hillsborough County Apollo Beach Beach Park Bell Shoals Brandon Carrollwood Fishhawk Ranch Hyde Park Keystone Lutz New Tampa Odessa Oldsmar Palma Ceia Plant City Riverview Ruskin Seffner Seminole Sulphur Springs Sun City Center Tampa Temple Terrace Town and Country Unincorporated Hillsborough County Universal Park Valrico West Tampa Westchase Wimauma Zephyrhills Manatee County Bradenton Cortez Ellenton Lakewood Ranch Longboat Key Palma Sola Palmetto Unincorporated Manatee County Pasco County Holiday Hudson Land O' Lakes Moon Lake New Port Richey Port Richey Spring Hill Unincorporated Pasco County Wesley Chapel Pinellas County Clearwater Clearwater Beach Countryside Crystal Beach Dunedin North Gulf Beach Palm Harbor Pinellas Park Safety Harbor St. George St. Petersburg Tarpon Springs Unincorporated Pinellas County Polk County Cypress Gardens Haines City Highlands Kissimmee Lake Wales Lakeland Loughman Poinciana Winter Haven Sarasota County Englewood Lido Key/St. Armands Longboat Key Nokomis North Port Osprey Palmer Ranch Sarasota Siesta Key Unincorporated Sarasota County Venice

Verizon

CONTACT: Sharon Shaffer of Verizon, +1-215-963-6200,
sharon.b.shaffer@verizon.com

Web Site: http://www.verizon.com/
http://www.verizon.com/fios
http://www.verizon.com/news

Company News On-Call: http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/094251.html

Herley Subsidiary, Micro Systems, Inc. Wins $2.8 Million for Production Orders

LANCASTER, Pa., July 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Herley Industries, Inc. announced today that its Micro Systems subsidiary located in Fort Walton Beach, Florida has been awarded production orders totaling $2.8 million on two long term production contracts.

-- A major defense prime contractor has ordered target control transponders for a total of 17 full scale aerial target drones under a contract option. Deliveries on the order commence in March 2009 and continue for a year, with additional orders expected to follow.

-- The US Navy has ordered 104 units of their DSQ-50A Scoring Sensor Unit used for measuring miss distances in weapons testing. The order represents the first production order on a five year indefinite delivery / indefinite quantity contract.

Wayne Armstrong, Micro Systems' President, stated, "These contract awards are good examples of the type of work that is the core of our business. Both products are the result of extensive development efforts that have now transitioned to production programs that run for many years. Our focus on timely deliveries of quality products at fair prices results in long term partnerships with our customers."

Herley Industries, Inc. is a leader in the design, development and manufacture of microwave technology solutions for the defense, aerospace and medical industries worldwide. Based in Lancaster, PA, Herley has eight manufacturing locations and approximately 965 employees. Additional information about the company can be found on the Internet at http://www.herley.com/.

For information at Herley contact: Tel: (717) 735-8117 Peg Guzzetti http://www.herley.com/ Investor Relations

Safe Harbor Statement -- Except for the historical information contained herein, this release may contain forward-looking statements. Such statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties. When used in this report, words such as "anticipated," "believes," "could," "estimates," "expects," "may," "plans," "potential" and "intends" and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company or its management, identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on the belief of the Company's management, as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company's management. The Company's results could differ materially based on various factors, including, but not limited to, cancellation or deferral of customer orders, difficulties in the timely development of new products, difficulties in manufacturing, increased competitive pressures, and general economic conditions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements as a result of future events or developments.

Herley Industries, Inc.

CONTACT: Peg Guzzetti, Investor Relations, of Herley Industries, Inc.,
+1-717-735-8117

Web site: http://www.herley.com/

Watch Some of Hollywood's Brightest Stars, Under the Stars, During TripAdvisor's Traveling Movie TourPartnering with Suitcases For Kids to Collect Bags for Foster Children at Festival Sites

NEWTON, Mass., July 16 /PRNewswire/ -- This summer, relax with TripAdvisor(R), the world's largest travel community, as the company brings its free Traveling Movie Tour film festival to New York City, Miami, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Boston. As part of TripAdvisor's movie tour, some of the nation's most prominent venues will be transformed into outdoor movie theaters allowing people to enjoy famous onscreen faces, in some interesting outdoor places.

Starting July 29 in New York City at the World Financial Center Plaza, these special engagements begin at 6 p.m. (with the movie starting at sundown) and will feature one of two family friendly movies -- Roman Holiday, starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck, or Planes, Trains and Automobiles, starring John Candy and Steve Martin. See the full movie tour schedule below.

Take a movie vacation for a night -- and don't forget your suitcase!

Guests are encouraged to bring their friends and family to the outdoor screenings, but most importantly, a piece of new or gently worn luggage -- such as suitcases, duffel bags or backpacks -- to contribute to Suitcases For Kids, a non-profit organization that arranges luggage donations to foster children worldwide. To date, more than 25,000 suitcases have been donated to foster kids in the U.S. and 47 countries since 1996.

Moviegoers can conveniently pack their soon-to-be-donated luggage with snacks for the show (popcorn, candy and soft drinks), and then leave the suitcase behind.

"TripAdvisor is thrilled to be able to bring great travel movies to a city near you this summer," said Christine Petersen, CMO, TripAdvisor. "Plus moviegoers can help foster kids in need through our partnership with Suitcases For Kids."

After dropping off a bag for Suitcases For Kids, festival attendees are encouraged to stop by the TripAdvisor tent to enter for a chance to win a Roman getaway. As part of the five-city movie festival, TripAdvisor is giving away one trip for two to Rome, Italy. Entries will also be accepted at the TripAdvisor Traveling Movie Tour Web site -- http://www.tripadvisor.com/MovieTour -- where complete film tour details can also be found.

TripAdvisor encourages guests to arrive early to snag a good viewing spot. Following is the movie tour schedule:

New York City, World Financial Center Plaza Tuesday, July 29 - Roman Holiday Miami, Lummus Park South Beach Wednesday, August 6 - Roman Holiday Thursday, August 7 - Planes, Trains and Automobiles Los Angeles, Huntington Beach Pier Plaza Wednesday, August 13 - Roman Holiday Thursday, August 14 - Planes, Trains and Automobiles San Francisco, Union Square Tuesday, August 19 - Roman Holiday Wednesday, August 20 - Planes, Trains and Automobiles Boston, Boston Common Wednesday, August 27 - Roman Holiday Thursday, August 28 - Planes, Trains and Automobiles

Those who are unable to attend the events can still donate luggage to Suitcases For Kids by visiting http://www.suitcasesforkids.org/ for more information.

About TripAdvisor Media Network

TripAdvisor(R) Media Network, operated by TripAdvisor, LLC, attracts nearly 32 million monthly visitors* across 12 popular travel brands, TripAdvisor(R), http://www.airfarewatchdog.com/, http://www.bookingbuddy.com/, http://www.cruisecritic.com/, http://www.holidaywatchdog.com/, http://www.independenttraveler.com/, http://www.onetime.com/, http://www.seatguru.com/, http://www.smartertravel.com/, http://www.travel-library.com/, http://www.travelpod.com/ and http://www.virtualtourist.com/. TripAdvisor-branded sites make up the largest travel community in the world, with 24 million monthly visitors*, six million registered members and 15 million reviews and opinions. Featuring real advice from real travelers, TripAdvisor-branded sites cover 300,000+ hotels and attractions and operate in the U.S. (http://www.tripadvisor.com/), the U.K. (http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/), Ireland (http://www.tripadvisor.ie/), France (http://www.tripadvisor.fr/), Germany (http://www.tripadvisor.de/), Italy (http://www.tripadvisor.it/), and Spain (http://www.tripadvisor.es/). TripAdvisor(R) Media Network provides travel suppliers with graphical advertising opportunities and a cost-per-click marketing platform. Collectively, the sites comprising the TripAdvisor Media Network have won hundreds of awards and accolades from press and industry worldwide. TripAdvisor and the sites comprising the TripAdvisor Media Network are operating companies of Expedia, Inc. .

TripAdvisor, SeatGuru, Travel-Library, Holiday Watchdog and TravelPod are either registered trademarks or trademarks of TripAdvisor LLC in the U.S. and/or other countries. Airfarewatchdog, BookingBuddy and SmarterTravel are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Smarter Travel Media LLC in the U.S. and/or other countries. Cruise Critic and The Independent Traveler are either trademarks or registered trademarks of The Independent Traveler, Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. VirtualTourist and OneTime are trademarks of other logos or product and company names mentioned herein may be the property of their respective owners.

*Source: comScore Media Metrix, May 2008 About Suitcases For Kids

Suitcases For Kids was founded by 10-year-old Aubyn Burnside in 1996 in an effort to provide Catawba County (North Carolina) foster care children with suitcases. Since its inception, the organization has grown to become an international non-profit with chapters in every state and 47 countries.

TripAdvisor

CONTACT: Cassie Piercey, +1-858-243-8875, cassie@shevrushpr.com, or Shev
Rush, +1-760-567-4321, shev@shevrushpr.com, both for TripAdvisor

Web site: http://www.tripadvisor.com/
http://www.tripadvisor.com/MovieTour
http://www.suitcasesforkids.org/

Allscripts Supports Landmark Medicare Electronic Prescribing ProvisionsMedicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 to Drive Adoption of Electronic Prescribing and Electronic Health Records

CHICAGO, July 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Allscripts, the leading provider of clinical software, connectivity and information solutions that physicians use to improve healthcare, congratulated the leadership of the United States Congress in passing the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 (H.R. 6331) last night. The Act, for the first time ever, provides financial incentives to physicians who adopt electronic prescribing (ePrescribing), requires adoption by 2011, and delays any reduction in fees for treating Medicare patients.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20061005/ALLSCRIPTSLOGO-b)<