May 2007 Archives

Monster® and Comcast recently announced that Monster's recruitment services will now be available through Comcast's portal, Comcast.net, as part of a two-year deal.

Monster will be the exclusive provider of career tools and services on Comcast.net through a co-branded recruitment channel, which will offer career content and advanced search and match capabilities for hundreds of thousands job openings nationwide. In addition, employers will have the ability to post jobs, and gain access to the world's largest resume database via the co-branded channel.

"This relationship marks yet another major step forward in Monster's commitment to advance our business through the creation of new points of distribution for our services," said Doug Klinger, president, Monster North America. "Working with Comcast will allow us to capitalize upon two powerful brands to bring Monster's world-class products to key customers nationwide. We look forward to the opportunity to leverage our combined expertise."

"Comcast.net is one of the fastest-growing Internet portals in the country," said Charlie Herrin, SVP of Product Development and Portal Services for Comcast. "We are committed to delivering a great consumer experience on Comcast.net, and working with strong brands like Monster enables us to keep delivering excellent value to our customers."

Comcast.net is now a top 10 site with more than 2.5 billion page views, more than 80 million videos viewed and 15 million unique visitors per month.

If you are looking for a job, you can currently access the co-branded site at comcast.monster.com or by clicking on the 'Jobs' category on Comcast.net.

Experts at the NOAA Climate Prediction Center are projecting a 75 percent chance that the Atlantic Hurricane Season will be above normal this year—showing the ongoing active hurricane era remains strong. With the start of the hurricane season upon us, NOAA recommends those in hurricane-prone regions to begin their preparation plans.

"For the 2007 Atlantic hurricane season, NOAA scientists predict 13 to 17 named storms, with seven to 10 becoming hurricanes, of which three to five could become major hurricanes of Category 3 strength or higher," said retired Navy Vice Adm. Conrad C. Lautenbacher, Ph.D., undersecretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and NOAA administrator. An average Atlantic hurricane season brings 11 named storms, with six becoming hurricanes, including two major hurricanes.

"With expectations for an active season, it is critically important that people who live in East and Gulf coastal areas as well as the Caribbean be prepared," said Bill Proenza, NOAA National Hurricane Center director. "Now is the time to update your hurricane plan, not when the storm is bearing down on you."

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, with peak activity occurring August through October. The NOAA Climate Prediction Center will issue an updated seasonal forecast in August just prior to the historical peak of the season.

For more information, check out the NOAA site.

Comcast Corporation recently announced that Comcast will purchase from Cablevision's programming subsidiary, Rainbow Media Holdings LLC, its 60 percent interest in FSN Bay Area and its 50 percent interest in FSN New England for $570 million in cash.

Upon completion of the FSN transactions, Comcast will own 100 percent of FSN New England and 60 percent of FSN Bay Area, with the remaining 40 percent still owned by an affiliate of News Corporation. Comcast will operate both networks and completion of these two transactions is subject to certain closing conditions.

For Comcast, the transactions add to its growing regional sports programming operations. The sale of FSN Bay Area and FSN New England allows a divestiture by Cablevision of its only remaining regional sports programming assets located outside of the New York market.

"FSN Bay Area and New England are excellent operating businesses and fit strategically into Comcast's portfolio of sports networks. By growing RSNs in markets where Comcast has existing operations, we have a unique opportunity to reinforce our brand image and capitalize on our local presence," said Jeff Shell, President of Comcast Programming Group.

"We have been honored to have operated FSN New England and FSN Bay Area since their inception and are confident that Comcast will only build on our record of excellence for sports viewers in these two important markets," said Josh Sapan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Rainbow Media Holdings.

For more information, check out the Comcast press release.

Electricity capacity is expected to be able to ensure reliable electric service throughout North America this summer, under normal summer weather conditions, according to Rick Sergel, president and CEO of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC). However, widespread and sustained hot and humid weather could threaten that reliability. NERC will release this and other conclusions in its 2007 Summer Assessment.

"The numbers tell us we will be OK, but the weather has been challenging in recent years. If areas of North America experience extended periods of extreme weather this summer, utilities may need to implement emergency procedures to reduce customer demand," said Rick Sergel, president and CEO of NERC.

In summer 2006, when extreme weather was experienced across much of North America, some utilities issued emergency alerts and public appeals, implemented voltage reductions, and exercised contracts with customers that allowed them to interrupt electricity supply in return for lower rates. All these actions helped keep supply and demand in balance and maintained the reliability of the bulk power system.

Extreme weather can impact the electricity grid in numerous ways. Higher demand for electricity, mainly from air-conditioning, stresses the electricity supply and delivery system. Generating units cannot be cooled as easily so their output has to be reduced to maintain appropriate operating temperatures. The amount of electricity flowing over transmission lines must be limited during extreme heat to prevent excessive line sagging and damage.

Several issues highlighted in NERC's Long-term Reliability Assessment issued in October 2006 are being addressed. The amount of demand represented by customer Interruptible Demand and Direct Control Load Management programs increased since last year by more than 10 percent in Florida, 13 percent in other parts of the southeastern United States, and almost 20 percent in the western United States and Canada. Many regions are studying the interdependence of fuel delivery and reliability, and improving coordination between fuel suppliers and generators.

For more information, see the NERC Web site.

Qwest Communications recently announced that it earned a Statement of Support from Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) as a "Five-Star Employer" in Utah. This is the highest honor ESGR awards to companies for their support of employees in the National Guard and Reserve.

In addition to keeping jobs available for returning employees, Qwest offers differential pay when military pay is lower than an employee's normal salary, and the company keeps most benefits in force during a leave of absence.

"We are gratified that Qwest employees know that while they are serving their country they do not have to worry about their civilian jobs," said James G. Martin, ESGR chairman for Utah.

Qwest also maintains contact with service members and their families and helps in other ways, including organizing drives to collect comfort items for shipment to U.S. personnel serving in the armed forces.

"Employees are the backbone of our company, and we go to great lengths to support them and their families as they serve their country," said Jerry Fenn, Qwest president for Utah.

For more information, check out the Qwest press release.

Are you going to be one of the more than 20 million households that moves this year? Whether you are planning to move across town or across the country, it's important to start preparing early for your move. Having the right supplies and plans in place can cut back on a lot of the stress you could face during your move.

If don't plan on hiring movers to do all the heaving lifting for you, check out these do-it-yourself moving tips from Penske Truck Rental:

• Truck Selection - Most movers find the 12- or 16-foot truck perfect for moving a few large items or the contents of a small condo or apartment. Make sure you choose a truck that's the right size. Most rental companies list the number of rooms and type of furniture that will fit in the trucks they offer.
• Reserve Early - Penske suggests reserving your truck at least two weeks in advance.
• Pack Smart - Load the heaviest items on the truck first. Avoid injury when lifting, by always bending your knees and lifting with your legs.
• Use Accessories - Boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, moving blankets, and hand trucks are all essential moving tools that help protect your items during your move, making your experience more enjoyable.
• Mark Your Boxes - Label the outside of your boxes as you pack. It makes it easy to put the boxes in the right room when you unload at your final destination.
• Safety & Security - Remember, trucks are taller, wider, heavier, and require more stopping distance than the vehicle you are used to driving. To ensure a smooth moving day, pick up your truck a day early and practice driving it. Take extra precautions, especially when the truck is loaded. Use caution near low hanging tree branches, building overhangs and when cornering. Park in well-lit areas and padlock the rear door.
• Plan for Travel - With most family belongings packed tightly away, create a travel bag for moving day to keep important paperwork, credit cards, identification, change of clothing, drinks and snacks close at hand.

For more great moving tips, check out the WhiteFence Moving FAQ or the WhiteFence Home Services Guide Moving Tips. For more information on Penske, check out the press release.

As part of its continued growth in the Washington, D.C. area, RCN recently added another sponsorship to its roster. In addition to the company's agreement with the Patriot Center in Fairfax, Virginia, RCN recently announced that it has signed a two-year partnership with Kettler Capitals Iceplex, official training center of the Washington Capitals, has signed a two-year partnership to provide cable services for the team's new headquarters in Arlington, Virginia. RCN is one of the first official sponsors of the recently opened $43.7 million Iceplex.

Home of the Washington Capitals' front offices, team practice rink and training facilities, Kettler Capitals Iceplex is an indoor ice-skating complex that features two NHL regulation-sized rinks with seating for 1,200 and building occupancy of 2,100. Combined, the two rinks offer the public 12,000 hours of ice time annually. In addition to the Capitals, other user groups include Washington Jr. Capitals, Washington Jr. Nationals, Washington Little Capitals and Georgetown University, as well as local adult, college, high school and youth hockey teams.

"Kettler Capitals Iceplex is a state-of-the-art facility that deserves only the best in technology," said Washington Capitals Chairman and Majority Owner Ted Leonsis. "RCN adds cable services and a level of sponsorship that will add to the quality of the building for the community, players, coaches, fans and staff. We are excited to have RCN onboard as a new partner and look forward to the services and technology that they add to our facility."

As part of the deal, RCN will become the exclusive Official Cable Provider to the Kettler Capitals Iceplex, which includes a range of on-site branding opportunities including Web site, TVs, dasherboards, ice-resurfacing machine and in-ice recognition.

"We are proud to have been the first to offer the triple play of video, high-speed data and voice, so we are very excited to now bring a viable, competitive choice to businesses in Arlington County," said RCN President and CEO Peter Aquino. "The Kettler Capitals Iceplex is a very remarkable facility, and we look forward to meeting its cable needs and to the marketing opportunities that this deal provides for us."

According to RCN Senior Vice President, Strategic & External Affairs Richard Ramlall, the company's growing affiliation with local sports teams reflects its determination to have a positive presence in the community.

"Our company was formerly known as Starpower in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. With this new partnership, RCN's star power continues to grow," Ramlall said. "In addition to the Kettler Capitals Iceplex, our partnerships allow us to showcase RCN at D.C. United soccer games, Georgetown basketball games and at more than 140 Patriot Center concerts, community events and George Mason basketball games."

Under the terms of the agreement, RCN will provide cable video services for the Kettler Capitals Iceplex. This contract is the first since RCN created a new business unit to focus solely on serving small to medium-sized businesses.

"Our focus is on taking the time to understand the communications needs of each small business we serve. We do that with knowledgeable sales people and experienced customer care teams who are armed with service selections that make sense," said RCN Small Business Vice President John Baker. "In addition to a variety of phone rate plans for example, we offer data speeds up to 20Mbps, while DSL taps out at only 7Mbps and Comcast at 8Mbps."

Baker explained that RCN's focus is good news for small and medium-sized businesses looking for vendor choice. "We realize that choosing the right provider for phone, high-speed Internet and cable TV is critical for small business and we take pride in delivering the services and support our customers can rely on."

For more information, check out the RCN press release.

Wireless phone users can now help raise funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer by purchasing pink wireless phones from Qwest Communications and SANYO. Ten percent of all retail sales of the phones through October will be donated to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, with a minimum donation of $50,000 up to a maximum donation of $100,000. The Minneapolis Race for the Cure takes place on May 13.

These stylish and fun phones by Qwest and SANYO are available at approximately 100 Qwest retail locations in Qwest's 14-state service area. In addition to Qwest retail locations, the new phones will be sold through Qwest call centers and online.

"A key to our success at Komen for the Cure is that we collaborate with a variety of organizations to provide creative ways for people to make a difference in the fight against breast cancer," said Cindy Schneible, vice president of resource development at Susan G. Komen for the Cure. "We are proud to have the opportunity to partner with Qwest and SANYO to allow wireless phone users to make a bold statement about breast cancer awareness and a valuable contribution to breast cancer research and community outreach programs."

"This is the pink phone with a heart," said John Stanoch, Qwest's president for Minnesota. "We are proud to work with SANYO to advance this important cause, and we hope our pink phones become another symbol of Komen for the Cure's important work in our community."

With three different models to choose from, Qwest customers can choose the pink phone that fits their individual style. The sleek, ultra-slim SANYO Katana offers Bluetooth wireless technology, a built-in digital camera, and a high-resolution 2.2-inch color display. The SCP-2400 and SCP-3100 offer high-quality speakerphones and walkie-talkie-style communication for keeping in touch with family and friends.

"We are proud to partner with Qwest Wireless for the second year to support Komen for the Cure and the pink phone program," said Andy Kodera, senior vice president and general manager of SANYO Fisher Company's Wireless Communications Division. "Almost everyone carries their wireless phone with them on a daily basis; the pink phone with Qwest is a great way to get people talking about the program and to express support for breast cancer awareness wherever they go. Also, the funds raised by the sale of these pink phones will support Komen's research and outreach programs."

Qwest and SANYO will release two additional pink phones that will be part of this partnership later this summer.

For more information, check out the Qwest press release.

This summer the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority's (NYSERDA) BE COOL campaign is making it easier for New Yorkers to save energy. Single- and multi-family residential customers of Con Edison electric service in New York City and Westchester County who turn in an old, working room air conditioner and purchase a new ENERGY STAR qualified model can earn a financial reward. Those turning in a window-based room air conditioning unit may earn $35 for each unit and those turning in a through-the-wall air conditioning unit may earn $100 for each unit when they purchase a new ENERGY STAR model.

Residents just need to bring their old unit to an authorized drop off site or retailer location, where the units will be properly recycled and residents will receive a mail-in application for the incentive. Managers of multi-family buildings may contact NYSERDA directly to complete a change-out of all the units in their building.

The savings to New York City residents go far beyond the initial incentive. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average family spends $1,900 a year on energy bills, nearly half of which goes to cooling and heating. Additionally, ENERGY STAR qualified room air conditioners use 10 to 25 percent less energy than a conventional new model or up to 40 percent less energy than a 10-year-old unit. Additionally, ENERGY STAR qualified room air conditioners often include timers or programmable thermostats for better temperature control, allowing residents to use the minimum amount of energy needed to cool a room, and to cool the room only when it's really needed.

"NYSERDA's BE COOL campaign represents a huge opportunity for New Yorkers to reduce both their energy use and carbon dioxide emissions, as well as save money," said Peter R. Smith, president and CEO of NYSERDA. With just a few simple changes, New Yorkers can use their air conditioners without wasting energy. It's really the way to 'be cool' this summer."

"Con Edison customers can keep cool this summer and help reduce pollutants by properly recycling their old air conditioners and buying ENERGY STAR qualified air conditioners," said Rebecca Craft, director of energy efficiency programs for Con Edison. "ENERGY STAR qualified appliances use energy efficiently and the BE COOL reward is an added incentive."

New Yorkers who are not eligible for the incentive can still save energy during the summer by using timers on air conditioners and lights; closing shades or curtains on windows that receive direct afternoon sun; using ENERGY STAR compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) instead of wasteful, heat- generating incandescent bulbs; and always looking for the ENERGY STAR when purchasing appliances and air conditioning products. Also, by shifting energy-intensive tasks such as dishwashing and clothes washing to cooler early morning or late night hours, New Yorkers can help reduce mid-afternoon heat build-up and make sure there is enough electricity for everyone during the hottest part of the day.

The message is hip, but the results are serious. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), if one out of 10 families in the United States used cooling and heating equipment that has earned the ENERGY STAR, the change would keep more than 17 billion pounds of pollution out of the air. Additionally, properly sizing new units, recycling old ones and taking simple steps to be more energy efficient at home increases the savings.

"The New York Power Authority's energy efficiency programs, on behalf of its public sector partners, have contributed to significant energy savings across the state. Working with NYSERDA, New York City and Con Edison to provide consumers with the tools to save energy in the home will have a positive effect this summer," said Timothy S. Carey, president and CEO of the New York Power Authority.

NYSERDA is also coordinating with New York City's plaNYC effort to make New York City more sustainable and plan for the year 2030.

"I urge all New Yorkers to take advantage of these programs to make saving energy even more cost-effective," said Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg. "By taking these easy steps in their homes, New Yorkers can lower electricity bills, help prevent blackouts, and help prevent climate change. Helping consumers save energy is a key component of our plaNYC effort to build a greener, greater New York, and we are proud to be working with NYSERDA on this program."

Visit www.GetEnergySmart.org or call 1-877-NY-SMART (1-877-697-6278) for more information about BE COOL and other summer energy saving tips.

D-Link recently announced that the D-Link® Xtreme N™ Gigabit Router (DIR-655) has been awarded the "Editors' Choice" award in the latest issue of the popular computer publication, PC Magazine.

In rating today's routers, the May issue product review says D-Link's latest router has "robust feature set that includes wireless QoS (Quality of Service) monitoring and adjustment" and it is "feature-rich," showing "better performance than the other three routers tested."

"Recognition from PC Magazine, one of the industry's most respected publications, is a testament to the engineering and design teams that work tirelessly on these products and underscores our confidence in the Draft 802.11n technology," said Brian Larsen, associate vice president for product management for D-Link Systems, Inc, "We're proud of the acknowledgment our Xtreme N Gigabit Router has received from the media, especially when it continues to be described by words such as robust, feature-rich, lightening-fast, and packs a punch."

Earlier this year, LAPTOP Magazine's editorial staff gave the router a perfect five out of five star rating, citing its speedy quality of service technology that connects computers, game consoles or media players to the Web, and noting that its Gigabit ports can move 3GB of wired data some three times faster than D-Link's nearest competitor.

The D-Link DIR-655 has also received kudos from C|NET, which gave it high marks and called it "lightening-fast." It was recognized by Practically Networked Magazine, garnering 4.5 out of 5 in its Editors' Choice award, and honored by Target PC Magazine, winning its Editors' Choice Award.

Powered by Xtreme N technology and equipped with three external antennas, the DIR-655 Xtreme N Gigabit Router provides superior wireless coverage for larger homes and offices, or for users running bandwidth-intensive applications. When connected to a cable or DSL modem, it provides high-speed Internet access to multiple computers, game consoles, and media players. The DIR-655 creates a secure wireless network to share photos, files, music, videos, printers, and network storage, and includes a 4-port 10/100/1000 Gigabit switch that connects Gigabit wired devices for enjoying lag-free network gaming and faster file transfers.

To learn more about availability and pricing, check out the D-Link press release.

PECO has joined an award-winning coalition of electric utilities and educators from 18 states committed to promoting electrical safety among children, consumers and contractors. The coalition has grown from its founding in early 2001 to include more than 200 members.

Accidents and fires involving electricity result in more than a thousand deaths and tens of thousands of injuries each year. Prevention of electricity-related tragedies is the goal of during this National Electrical Safety Month and PECO's safety outreach efforts all year-round.

John Boyle, PECO's safety manager, said protecting company employees is a top priority everyday, and PECO wants to share its information and resources with the public in hopes of preventing hazardous situations.

"We must have a healthy respect for electricity, and we are pleased to bring the valuable resources of Safe Electricity to our customers. Information and awareness create life-saving attitudes and actions,' said Boyle. "Our employees take responsibility each day for their own safety, working around electricity and natural gas. We hope this message during National Electrical Safety Month extends to families and contractors so they will take a more active role in staying safe."

Indoors, Boyle encourages every household to have ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in any room where appliances can be used near water, such as the kitchen, bathroom, laundry room and basement. Additionally, he advises, do not overload electrical outlets or extension cords, especially in home offices or entertainment areas, label the circuit breaker box or fuse box for easy reference when problems occur, use plastic caps on unused electrical outlets if there are young children at home, and be sure all electrical cords are in good condition.

Outdoors, stay away from a fallen power line; always stay at least 10 feet away from power lines when climbing or pruning a tree, painting, or working on the roof; never touch anything electrical when wet or standing in water; and always call 8-1-1 prior to digging so underground utilities are not hit during landscaping or other activities around the house.

For more electrical safety information, or information about the Safe Electricity program, visit www.SafeElectricty.org.

To help moms select quality movies to watch with their kids, Blockbuster says it has surveyed close to 14,000 moms nationwide, asking them which movies they like best for keeping their kids entertained. Blockbuster says it is sharing the resulting list of "go-to" movies that moms can refer to all year long just in time for Mother's Day.

"Moms are the most widely-turned to authority on family entertainment," said Keith Leopard, product director, rental film, with Blockbuster Inc. "Now when the kids can't agree what to rent, the sleepover is at your place or the kids are headed to their grandparents' house for the weekend, mothers will have an easy reference to help them choose or recommend kid-friendly movies approved by moms just like them."

Topping the list of mom-approved movies for all age groups were the Shrek movies, the animated features that follow the adventures of the grumpy green ogre with a heart of gold. The funny fairytale stars comedic giants like Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz and John Cleese, whose animated antics are almost as popular with parents as they are with their kids.

Moms also chose the best movies for different age groups. Shrek came out tops again for kids ages five to seven, but the animated fish tale Finding Nemo was more popular for moms of two- to four-year-olds. Moms selected the swashbuckling Pirates of the Caribbean for their eight- to 10- year-olds, while the magic of the Harry Potter series was reserved for older children ages 11 to 13.

If you realize you need a kid-friendly film, Blockbuster says it makes it easy to pick up a mom-approved movie. BLOCKBUSTER stores are open seven days a week, including on Sundays and Mother's Day. BLOCKBUSTER Total Access® members who rent DVDs online also have the option of returning any not-so-kid-friendly online rental to a store where it can be exchanged for a more suitable movie free of charge.

Blockbuster also reminds moms and others choosing entertainment for kids that they should always consult ratings and make their own determinations about whether content is suitable for their child and their child's age group.

For an overview of the survey results, check out the Blockbuster press release.

At a press conference last week on the National Mall, the Common Ground Alliance (CGA) joined with U.S. Secretary of Transportation Mary Peters, the Federal Communications Commission, and representatives from national launch partners the Associated General Contractors of America, John Deere, The Travelers Companies, Inc., and Cox Communications, to ceremonially connect 811, the new national 'Call Before You Dig' number.

"Now that there is a single number to call, any time, there's no excuse for putting lives at risk by striking a utility line," said U.S. Secretary of Transportation Mary E. Peters. "If 911 is the number you call to report emergencies, 811 is the number to call to prevent them."

The 811 number was designated by the FCC in 2005 at the direction of an Act of Congress in 2002. Its creation was supported by more than fifteen industry stakeholder groups who encouraged its development and creation and now promote its use nationwide.

To ensure that all Americans know and use 811, today's event on "America's Front Yard" also kicked off a national public education campaign, which will use an educational Web site, television and radio PSAs, industry and consumer outreach, and local events to raise awareness of the new number and demonstrate its relevance to consumers and professionals who conduct digging activities. Additionally, the campaign's national launch partners and promotional sponsors will promote the new number through a variety of tactics designed to leverage the grassroots power of their customers, clients and members, creating awareness and positive behavioral change among those most likely to dig.

"Knowing the approximate locations of where utility lines are buried before each digging project helps protect America's pipelines, industry and people," said CGA President Bob Kipp. "We believe the new 811 number will encourage more people to have their lines marked to protect themselves, their neighbors and their community."

Nationwide, risky assumptions about the location of underground utility lines, which are buried at various depths below the ground, lead to more than one unintentional hit per minute every day, every year. Even simple digging jobs can damage utility lines and disrupt vital services to an entire neighborhood, harm those who dig, and result in expensive fines and repair costs.

For more information about the 811 service, campaign, and a new national survey on consumer digging habits, visit www.call811.com.

The average U.S. household owns 25 consumer electronics (CE) products and the average adult spends $1,200 annually on these products according to a study released today by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA®). The 9th Annual Household and Teen CE Ownership and Market Potential Study also revealed the most owned CE products and tracks the growth rates of popular product categories.

The top five growth sectors were digital video recorders (DVRs), network routers or hubs, MP3 players, cable modems and digital cameras. DVR ownership and network/routers in U.S. households grew eight percentage points since 2006 to 25 and 30 percent respectively. Thirty-two percent of households now own an MP3 player, up seven percentage points since last year. Cable modem ownership grew six percentage points and digital camera ownership rose to 62 percent of all U.S. households.

"It's interesting to note here that two of the fastest movers and shakers in the CE industry are devices that enable home networking," said CEA Senior Research Analyst Elena Caudle. "The other three products enable consumers to create, shift or transport digital content. As consumers continue to embrace digital technology this new convergence will continue to change the way Americans live, work and play."

Other categories with significant growth include HDTV with penetration reaching a quarter of U.S. homes. More than three-quarters of U.S homes have at least one cell phone; CEA estimates 178.5 million wireless phones are in use. DVD players have reached 84 percent household penetration and have surpassed VCRs, partially because of the availability of portable DVD players.

In addition to identifying top growth categories, the study reveals the five most owned products beginning with the television (92 percent), DVD player or recorder, VCR (82 percent), cordless phone (82 percent) and the cellular phone (76 percent).

"Many of the top owned products have enjoyed mass market saturation for years and will likely see growth based on upgrade and replacement sales. Some of the more intriguing categories are those that still occupy niche markets, such as mobile CE devices like GPS systems and satellite radio, which have seen healthy growth in the past few years," said Caudle.

The study also sets out the spending habits of consumers by age demographics. While adults spend $1,200 annually on CE products, teens spend $350 each year which is about half of their total annual discretionary income. Adults with children and teens spend up to $500 more on CE purchases than the national average.

"This is excellent news for the industry as children and teens who currently influence household CE purchase decisions grow up to become the next generation's early adopters," said Caudle.

9th Annual Household and Teen CE Ownership and Market Potential Study (April 2007) was conducted in February 2007. It was designed and formulated by CEA Market Research, the most comprehensive source of sales data, forecasts, consumer research and historical trends for the consumer electronics industry.

For more information, check out the CEA press release.

Dell recently announced that Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) will become the first corporate partner of its 'Plant a Tree for Me' program through a $16,000 donation on behalf of the company's 16,000 worldwide employees.

"We applaud AMD for its extraordinary leadership and commitment to building on the enthusiasm of the program," said Tod Arbogast, director of Dell Sustainable Business. "The company's generous contribution is a clear example of industry's ability to join together, take proactive steps and make a difference for the environment."

Dell's non-profit partners, The Conservation Fund and Carbonfund.org, also reported that initial customer interest and donations have made possible the planting of more than 20,000 trees that over their lifetime will help sequester 38 million pounds of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

"Addressing global climate change is one of the great challenges of the 21st century," said Larry Vertal, senior strategist, AMD Green. "AMD is committed to reducing impacts through leadership in energy-efficient computing, sustainable manufacturing, and industry and government partnerships like this one with Dell's innovative 'Plant a Tree for Me' program. We share Dell's commitment to partnering with businesses and consumers to protect the global environment for future generations."

When launched in January, the program enabled Dell customers to offset the carbon impact of their notebook computer use for $2 and desktop system use for $6. Last month, Dell expanded the program to include U.S.-based consumers and businesses with no product purchase required and for an extended portfolio of IT products. Dell also recently introduced 'Plant a Tree for Me' in the virtual world Second Life to help raise awareness of the importance of climate stewardship and provide a way for participants to link back to the program's Web site.

"Through 'Plant a Tree for Me,' Dell is harnessing and consolidating the enthusiasm of businesses and consumers who want to be a part of a solution-oriented process," said Eric Carlson, executive director of Carbonfund.org. "We are delighted to welcome AMD and its employees as partners in this process."

In addition to climate stewardship, Dell says it makes continual improvements to its design, manufacturing and administrative facilities around the globe, and partners with a number of stakeholders to help set environmental policies. The company remains the only computer manufacturer to offer consumers free and convenient product recycling around the world, irrespective of product purchase. Earlier this week, the company joined with the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Recycling Coalition to host a free recycling event for consumers in Washington, D.C.

The company hosts two Web sites, Dell IdeaStorm and StudioDell to provide customers the opportunity to share their own ideas and feedback. Dell also recently launched Dell Earth, a comprehensive online resource that provides in-depth information about the company's environmental programs and policies.

For more information, check out the Dell press release.

The Home Depot® recently expanded its long-term commitment to the environment and sustainability by launching its Eco Options^SM program in the United States. Eco Options is a classification that allows customers to easily identify products that have less of an impact on the environment and empowers them to help make a difference in their own homes.

The Home Depot has identified more than 2,500 Eco Options products, including all-natural insect repellents, cellulose insulation, front-load washing machines, organic plant food and vegetables in biodegradable pots. The wide array of Eco Options also includes compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs, programmable thermostats and certified wood.

As The Home Depot works with vendors and independent experts, the Eco Options line will be continuously expanded to include scores of innovative products that reduce the impact on the environment.

As part of its Eco Options launch, The Home Depot gave away 1 million CFL bulbs at its stores on Earth Day, April 22, and launched an interactive Web site dedicated to the program. The CFL bulb has become an icon of energy efficiency, and replacing 1 million incandescent bulbs with CFLs will result in savings of $12 million in annual energy costs and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by at least 147 million pounds. The Home Depot also sold more than 50 million CFL bulbs in 2006.

"For more than a decade, The Home Depot has been a proponent of environmental sustainability. From our wood purchasing policy to having our first store certified as green by the U.S. Green Building Council, we are committed to helping improve the environment and lessen our impact on it," said Frank Blake, chairman and CEO of The Home Depot. "Eco Options is the next step in expanding our commitment and making sure we help our customers who want to make a difference themselves."

Products with the Eco Options label are either eco friendly by definition, such as solar lights that use natural power, or have met certain environmental performance criteria verified by Scientific Certification Systems, an independent standards development and certification company. Eco Options products fall into one of five categories: clean air, water conservation, energy efficiency, healthy home and sustainable forestry.

The first Eco Options displays are rolling out now in The Home Depot stores across the country. The launch will capitalize on the growing trend of consumers embracing environmentalism and seeking ways to protect the environment.

The Company also is working to reduce its own impact on the environment. To save energy in its stores, The Home Depot has begun the process of replacing the incandescent bulbs in its Lighting department displays with CFL bulbs. The bulb replacement is under way at 200 The Home Depot stores and will be expanded to others throughout the year.

For more information on the Eco Options program, check out The Home Depot press release.

Verizon recently announced it is adding HGTV HD, Food Network HD and LMN HD (Lifetime Movie Network) to the company's FiOS TV national channel lineup.

"By adding HGTV HD, Food Network HD and LMN HD to our FiOS TV lineup, we're enriching the customer experience for our HD customers, who now can enjoy their favorite shows on these channels in brilliant HD and digital surround sound," said Terry Denson, Verizon vice president - FiOS TV content and programming. "With these high-definition networks, Verizon continues to deliver the breadth of content that consumers want in a way that best fits their lifestyles."

The three channels will be available in all FiOS TV markets by the end of April, bringing the total number of HD channels to at least 27 in most markets, depending on the number of local channels that broadcast in HD. FiOS TV subscribers with an HD-capable TV and an HD set-top box will receive the three new channels at no additional cost.

HGTV and Food Network are America's leading networks in home, food and lifestyle programming. HGTV HD and Food Network HD air some of the same popular shows that appear on the standard definition networks including "Cash in the Attic," "Decorating Cents," "Barefoot Contessa" and "Everyday Italian." LMN, the second highest-rated women's network on basic cable behind sibling Lifetime Television, offers nearly 200 different movie titles each month, including exclusive film and cable premieres.

John Baird, executive vice president of affiliate sales and marketing for Scripps Networks, parent company of HGTV and Food Network, said, "FiOS TV is growing in popularity just as our high definition networks are, making this agreement a winning partnership for viewers."

Louise Henry Bryson, president, distribution and affiliate business development, Lifetime Networks, said, "We're delighted to partner with FiOS TV for this HD offering, which will provide our customers with LMN's high-quality entertainment in Verizon's high-quality picture."

Verizon FiOS TV offers a all-digital programming of more than 400 total channels, 8,600 video-on-demand titles and more. It is currently available in parts of California, Delaware, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas and Virginia.

For more information, check out the Verizon press release.