EIN Presswire: Travel Live Feed Press Releases

Universal Travel Group Appoints Chief Operating Officer and New Board Members

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 02:41:30 +0000

Universal Travel Group Appoints Chief Operating Officer and New Board Members

PR Newswire

SHENZHEN, China , Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire-Asia-FirstCall/ -- Universal Travel Group (NYSE: UTA) ("Universal Travel Group" or the "Company"), a leading travel services provider in China offering package tours, air ticketing, and hotel reservation services online and via customer service representatives, today announced that it has appointed Mr. Jun Liu as Chief Operating Officer of the Company. Ms. Moling Shang and Mr. Jun Liu have been appointed to the Board of Directors.

Mr. Jun Liu has nearly 20 years of experience working in the travel industry. Mr. Liu joined Universal Travel Group in November 2009 and served as Universal Travel's Deputy General Manager. He began his career in the hotel industry in 1988 working at the Beijing Likang Hotel. From 1993 through 2004, Mr. Liu served as General Manager of Beijing Likang Hotel as well as General Manager of Beijing Likang Travel Agency from 1997 through 2004. During his tenure, the revenue of Beijing Likang Travel agency more than doubled. In 2004, Mr. Liu established Beijing Hongtai International Travel agency where he served as General Manager. Mr. Liu graduated from the Party School of Beijing Municipal Party Committee of Economic Management.

Ms. Moling Shang has served during her career in several jobs in the communications division of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC). From 1984 through 1996, Ms. Shang was the Chief of the Propaganda Department in the Information Bureau of the CPC's Central Committee. From 1996 to 1999, Ms. Shang served in numerous positions including Associate Director of News Agency for China Central Television and her previous role as the Chief of Propaganda. Following her successful completion of her previous roles, Ms. Shang was appointed Deputy Chief of Propaganda in the Organization Department of the CPC Central Committee where she was responsible for the Three Represents campaign from 1999 through 2002. From 2002 to 2010, she served as Deputy Chief of the Information Bureau of the CPC Central Committee. Ms. Shang graduated from the Branch School of Peking University.

About Universal Travel Group

Universal Travel Group Inc. (NYSE: UTA) is a leading China-based travel services provider, focusing on the domestic tourism market for leisure and corporate travel and offering packaged tours, air ticketing, and hotel reservation services. The Company targets geographic expansion in underpenetrated travel markets in central and western China; and it has established a second operation base in Chongqing. With the Chinese disposal income continuing to rise driving demand for domestic leisure services, the Company continues to benefit and dominate packaged tour businesses. The Company operates multi-channels sales with 24 hour call centers, online website, owned and franchised sales offices and various wholesale channels. For more information, please visit Universal Travel Group's website at us.cnutg.com

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

Mr. Jing XIE, Secretary of Board & Interim Chief Financial Officer
Universal Travel Group Inc.
Tel: 86-755-86319549
Fax: 86-755-86319348
06@cnutg.com
Website: us.cnutg.com

Christensen
Kimberly Minarovich
Tel: +1 212 618 1978
Kminarovich@ChristensenIR.com

Christian Arnell
Tel: +86 10-5826-4939
carnell@ChristensenIR.com

SOURCE Universal Travel Group

Fagerhult Light Hygena Stores With Xicato Spot Module

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 02:32:00 +0000

Hygena, owned by the kitchen group Nobia, is one of the best-known kitchen brands in France. Complete kitchen solutions are offered from about 127 wholly owned stores. All shops are between 100 and 600 m2, and include exhibition, shop and office area.

Hygena wanted to refurbish their shops at the end of 2011 and a part of this was to change the lighting. Fagerhult was contacted to replace existing LED luminaires where color and glare were issues.

The LED module selected by Fagerhult for this task was the 1300lm Xicato Spot Module, with a Correlated Color Temperature of 3000K and a Color Rendering Index of 80+. It was selected for its all-round performance including energy saving, perfect uniformity and sustained light quality (in terms of color point and lumen maintenance), all achieved via the foundation 'Corrected Cold Phosphor Technology™.' Xicato LED modules have seen vastly increasing usage since their launch in 2008, including by Fagerhult in such areas as retail, offices and museums, though globally retail uptake has been most prevalent.

Fagerhult designed an optimized lighting solution with downlighters and pendants which resulted in about half the number of luminaires previously used, yet giving 30% more light.

"Fagerhult developed a new solution for us that gave more and better light, cost less in investment and less in running costs," says Per Kaufmann Head of Continental European Retail at Nobia. "A total LED solution for a future-proof light," summarized Delphine Rousset, Retail Lighting Solutions, Fagerhult.

Luminaires: project versions of Fagerhult's Noc 1300 lumen, developed specifically for Hygena, incorporating Xicato's XSM 1300
Roll out: total of 117 Hygena shops in France

Xicato

Xicato is passionate about light. Light has an emotional effect on people and a direct impact on business profitability. It ultimately influences everything in our lives. Xicato is a recognized leader in creating LED modules that provide superior aesthetics, economics and durability. Xicato aspires to be the trusted partner of the global lighting design community and luminaire manufacturers.

For an overview of our customers' luminaires visit http://www.xicato.com.

For the best in lighting design, Xicato recommends a qualified lighting designer from the Professional Lighting Design Association (PLDA) or the International Association of Lighting Designers (IALD).

For more information on Xicato contact:
Europe:
Roger Sexton
+44 7525715497 (EU)
Email Contact

Japan:
Noboru Kaito
+81 50 5534 3168 (Japan)
Email Contact

North America:
Ron Steen
+1 847 525 5048 (US)
Email Contact

San Jose Office: +1 866 223 8395 (US)

For press images contact
Jane Kingsley
JKS Communications
Email - Email Contact
www.xicato.com

Images by Sanna Fisher-Payne

UNITED CONTINENTAL HOLDINGS REPORTS JANUARY 2012 OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 01:07:22 +0000

UNITED CONTINENTAL HOLDINGS REPORTS JANUARY 2012 OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE

PR Newswire

CHICAGO, Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- United Continental Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: UAL) today reported January 2012 combined operational results for its United Airlines and Continental Airlines units.

UAL's consolidated traffic (revenue passenger miles) in January 2012 decreased 3.2 percent and consolidated capacity (available seat miles) decreased 2.8 percent versus January 2011 results. The company's consolidated load factor in January 2012 decreased 0.2 points compared to January 2011.

The company's January 2012 consolidated and mainline passenger revenue per available seat mile (PRASM) increased an estimated 8.5 to 9.5 percent and 6.5 to 7.5 percent, respectively, as compared to January 2011.

About United Continental Holdings, Inc.
United Continental Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: UAL) is the holding company for both United Airlines and Continental Airlines. Together with United Express, Continental Express and Continental Connection, these airlines operate an average of 5,656 flights a day to 376 airports on six continents from their hubs in Chicago, Cleveland, Denver, Guam, Houston, Los Angeles, New York/Newark Liberty, San Francisco, Tokyo and Washington, D.C. United and Continental are members of Star Alliance, which offers more than 21,000 daily flights to 1,290 airports in 189 countries. United and Continental's more than 80,000 employees reside in every U.S. state and in many countries around the world. For more information about United Continental Holdings, Inc., go to UnitedContinentalHoldings.com. For more information about the airlines, see united.com and continental.com or follow United on Twitter and Facebook.

- tables attached – Preliminary Operational Results
		January
		2012	2011	Change
REVENUE PASSENGER MILES (000)
	Domestic	6,673,051	6,982,370	(4.4)	%

	International	6,785,047	6,999,397	(3.1)	%
	Atlantic	2,719,271	2,772,083	(1.9)	%
	Pacific	2,566,037	2,717,833	(5.6)	%
	Latin	1,499,739	1,509,481	(0.6)	%

	Mainline	13,458,098	13,981,767	(3.7)	%
	Regional	1,879,152	1,854,425	1.3	%
	Consolidated	15,337,250	15,836,192	(3.2)	%
AVAILABLE SEAT MILES (000)
	Domestic	8,240,673	8,807,025	(6.4)	%

	International	8,918,572	8,903,978	0.2	%
	Atlantic	3,876,046	3,796,985	2.1	%
	Pacific	3,146,282	3,197,105	(1.6)	%
	Latin	1,896,244	1,909,888	(0.7)	%

	Mainline	17,159,245	17,711,003	(3.1)	%
	Regional	2,590,627	2,608,820	(0.7)	%
	Consolidated	19,749,872	20,319,823	(2.8)	%
PASSENGER LOAD FACTOR
	Domestic	81.0%	79.3%	1.7	pts

	International	76.1%	78.6%	(2.5)	pts
	Atlantic	70.2%	73.0%	(2.8)	pts
	Pacific	81.6%	85.0%	(3.4)	pts
	Latin	79.1%	79.0%	0.1	pts

	Mainline	78.4%	78.9%	(0.5)	pts
	Regional	72.5%	71.1%	1.4	pts
	Consolidated	77.7%	77.9%	(0.2)	pts
ONBOARD PASSENGERS (000)
	Mainline	7,016	7,380	(4.9)	%
	Regional	3,313	3,287	0.8	%
	Consolidated	10,329	10,667	(3.2)	%
CARGO REVENUE TON MILES (000)
	Total	192,969	218,969	(11.9)	%

Preliminary Financial Results

December 2011 year-over-year consolidated PRASM change			5.0	%
December 2011 year-over-year mainline PRASM change			4.5	%
January 2012 estimated year-over-year consolidated PRASM change			8.5 – 9.5	%
January 2012 estimated year-over-year mainline PRASM change			6.5 – 7.5	%
January 2012 estimated consolidated average price per gallon of fuel, including fuel taxes			3.25	Dollars
First Quarter 2012 estimated consolidated average price per gallon of fuel, including fuel taxes			3.32	Dollars

Preliminary Operational Results

	2012	2011(3)	Change
January On-Time Performance(1)	82.2%	81.1%	1.1	pts
January Completion Factor(2)	98.9%	97.7%	1.2	pts

(1)								Based on domestic mainline scheduled flights arriving within 14 minutes of scheduled arrival time, according to data published in the DOT Air Travel Consumer Report.
(2)								Mainline Completion Percentage.
(3)								In order to provide a meaningful year-over-year comparison, 2011 operational results are combined on a weighted departure basis for the Company's two operating subsidiaries, United and Continental. On a standalone basis, United's January 2011 on-time performance and completion factor was 84.5% and 97.9%, respectively, and Continental's January 2011 on-time performance and completion factor was 76.5% and 97.4%, respectively.

Safe Harbor Statement
Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: Certain statements included in this release are forward-looking and thus reflect our current expectations and beliefs with respect to certain current and future events and financial performance. Such forward-looking statements are and will be subject to many risks and uncertainties relating to our operations and business environment that may cause actual results to differ materially from any future results expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Words such as "expects," "will," "plans," "anticipates," "indicates," "believes," "forecast," "guidance," "outlook" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Additionally, forward-looking statements include statements which do not relate solely to historical facts, such as statements which identify uncertainties or trends, discuss the possible future effects of current known trends or uncertainties, or which indicate that the future effects of known trends or uncertainties cannot be predicted, guaranteed or assured. All forward-looking statements in this release are based upon information available to us on the date of this release. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, changed circumstances or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Our actual results could differ materially from these forward-looking statements due to numerous factors including, without limitation, the following: our ability to comply with the terms of our various financing arrangements; the costs and availability of financing; our ability to maintain adequate liquidity; our ability to execute our operational plans; our ability to control our costs, including realizing benefits from our resource optimization efforts, cost reduction initiatives and fleet replacement programs; our ability to utilize our net operating losses; our ability to attract and retain customers; demand for transportation in the markets in which we operate; an outbreak of a disease that affects travel demand or travel behavior; demand for travel and the impact that global economic conditions have on customer travel patterns; excessive taxation and the inability to offset future taxable income; general economic conditions (including interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates, investment or credit market conditions, crude oil prices, costs of aviation fuel and energy refining capacity in relevant markets); our ability to cost-effectively hedge against increases in the price of aviation fuel; any potential realized or unrealized gains or losses related to fuel or currency hedging programs; the effects of any hostilities, act of war or terrorist attack; the ability of other air carriers with whom we have alliances or partnerships to provide the services contemplated by the respective arrangements with such carriers; the costs and availability of aviation and other insurance; the costs associated with security measures and practices; industry consolidation or changes in airline alliances; competitive pressures on pricing and on demand; our capacity decisions and the capacity decisions of our competitors; U.S. or foreign governmental legislation, regulation and other actions (including open skies agreements and environmental regulations); labor costs; our ability to maintain satisfactory labor relations and the results of the collective bargaining agreement process with our union groups; any disruptions to operations due to any potential actions by our labor groups; weather conditions; the possibility that expected merger synergies will not be realized or will not be realized within the expected time period; and other risks and uncertainties set forth under Item 1A., Risk Factors of our Annual Report on Form 10-K, as well as other risks and uncertainties set forth from time to time in the reports we file with the SEC. Consequently, forward-looking statements should not be regarded as representations or warranties by us that such matters will be realized.

SOURCE United Continental Holdings, Inc.

Buy Cheap Valentine's Flowers: LA California Flower Mall Petallers Want Makeover Ideas

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 23:50:00 +0000

LA's top DIY destination to buy cheap Valentine's flowers up to 70 percent below retail prices wants your ideas for a sparkling LA Flower District makeover.

California Flower Mall President and Chairman of The LA Fashion District Mark Chatoff said, "LA's Flower District -- the largest wholesale and discount flower hub in the U.S -- is already a vibrant, colorful place to buy cheap Valentine's flowers and fresh flower gifts for all occasions. It's time for our diamond in the rough to be cut, and polished. After 40 district-wide 'Fashion Your District' stakeholders meetings a vision for the LA Flower District blending operational efficiencies with lively greener streetscapes, residences, restaurants and building rehabs is taking shape. LA has the most creative residents on the planet we want their vision for a dazzling District makeover."

"Fashion Your District" is a $1 million 18 month analysis that crafts a ten year development plan for the LA Fashion District. It's the first comprehensive analysis of the area that includes the six block LA Flower District between 7th and 9th, Maple and San Pedro Streets. In peak seasons The Flower District blossoms to roughly 225 floral businesses pushing beyond the confines of the original Wall Street flower markets to include the San Pedro Street California Flower Mall and four other wholesale flower markets.

The now defunct Community Redevelopment Agency of Los Angeles (CRA) launched the comprehensive study hiring AECOM, a Fortune 500 company recognized for their engineering and environmental expertise to lead the project team.

"It was originally intended to be a development plan funded by redevelopment tax increment financing," said Kent Smith, Executive Director of The LA Fashion District. "With the demise of the CRA we are cautiously optimistic that this will become a community specific plan within the City Planning Department. More challenging in the agency's absence is funding an environmental impact report for the whole district so owners that want to redevelop properties won't have to go to the expense of getting one done for each individual project." Smith added there are many options to make the vision a reality and he's working with members of the California Downtown Association to create new ways to fund and manage the redevelopment plan.

Mark Chatoff
Email Contact
310-738-2441 (mobile/text)
@CalifFlowerMart

Kent Smith
Email Contact
213-422-7628 (mobile/text)
@LAFashionDistrict

Budget wise guys delight their sweeties with gorgoeus farm fresh Valentine's flowers and roses from the California Flower Mall on San Pedro Street. LA's top DIY destination to buy cheap Valentine's flowers up to 70% below retail prices. CFM is open Valentine's weekend 4am - 11pm and Mon they open all night until Valentine's Day Feb. 14 6pm. Admission is free to the public.

Caesars Entertainment Corporation Publicly Lists Its Shares

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 23:16:23 +0000

Caesars Entertainment Corporation Publicly Lists Its Shares

PR Newswire

LAS VEGAS, Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Caesars Entertainment Corporation ("Caesars" or the "Company") announced today that its common stock was approved for listing on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol "CZR" and its offering of 1,811,313 shares of its common stock was priced at $9.00. Gross proceeds from this offering will be approximately $16 million before deducting the underwriting discounts and commissions and expenses.

Caesars also granted to the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to 271,697 additional shares of its common stock at the initial price less underwriting discounts and commissions.

In addition to the shares to be sold by Caesars in this offering, shares held by certain existing investors representing approximately 27.8 percent of the Company's issued and outstanding capital stock have also been registered for resale, of which approximately 18.8 percent are now freely tradable, with the remainder becoming freely tradable 180 days after completion of the offering described above.

Credit Suisse and Citigroup are acting as joint book-running managers and representatives for the offering, BofA Merrill Lynch and Deutsche Bank Securities are acting as joint book-running managers for the offering and KeyBanc Capital Markets, Lebenthal & Co., LLC, and Ramirez & Co.,Inc. are acting as co-managers for the offering. The offering will be made only by means of a prospectus. Copies of the prospectus related to the offering may be obtained, when available, from: Credit Suisse, Attention: Prospectus Department, One Madison Avenue, New York, New York, 10010, or by telephone at 1-800-221-1037, or by email at newyork.prospectus@credit-suisse.com; or Citigroup, Attention: Prospectus Department, Brooklyn Army Terminal, 140 58th Street, 8th Floor, Brooklyn, New York 11220, or by telephone at 800 831-9146 , or by email at batprospectusdept@citi.com.

A registration statement relating to these securities has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). A copy of the registration statement can be accessed through the SEC's website. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

About Caesars Entertainment

Caesars Entertainment Corporation is the world's most diversified casino-entertainment provider and the most geographically diverse U.S. casino-entertainment company. Since its beginning in Reno, Nevada, more than 73 years ago, Caesars has grown through development of new resorts, expansions and acquisitions and now operates casinos on four continents. The company's resorts operate primarily under the Caesars®, Harrah's® and Horseshoe® brand names. Caesars also owns the World Series of Poker® and the London Clubs International family of casinos. Caesars is focused on building loyalty and value with its guests through a unique combination of great service, excellent products, unsurpassed distribution, operational excellence and technology leadership. Caesars is committed to environmental sustainability and energy conservation and recognizes the importance of being a responsible steward of the environment. For more information, please visit www.caesars.com.

This release includes "forward-looking statements" intended to qualify for the safe harbor from liability established by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify these statements by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. These statements contain words such as "may," "will," "project," "might," "expect," "believe," "anticipate," "intend," "could," "would," "estimate," "continue" or "pursue," or the negative or other variations thereof or comparable terminology. In particular, they include statements relating to, among other things, future actions, new projects, strategies, future performance, the outcomes of contingencies and future financial results of Caesars. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and projections about future events.

Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or results and involve risks and uncertainties that cannot be predicted or quantified and, consequently, the actual performance of Caesars may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the following factors, as well as other factors described from time to time in the Company's reports filed with the SEC (including the sections entitled "Risk Factors" and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" contained therein):

the impact of the Company's significant indebtedness;
the impact, if any, of unfunded pension benefits under multi-employer pension plans;
the effects of local and national economic, credit and capital market conditions on the economy in general, and on the gaming industry in particular;
construction factors, including delays, increased costs of labor and materials, availability of labor and materials, zoning issues, environmental restrictions, soil and water conditions, weather and other hazards, site access matters and building permit issues;
the effects of environmental and structural building conditions relating to the Company's properties;
the ability to timely and cost-effectively integrate companies that the Company acquires into its operations;
the ability to realize the expense reductions from the Company's cost savings programs;
access to available and reasonable financing on a timely basis;
changes in laws, including increased tax rates, smoking bans, regulations or accounting standards, third-party relations and approvals, and decisions, disciplines and fines of courts, regulators and governmental bodies;
litigation outcomes and judicial and governmental body actions, including gaming legislative action, referenda, regulatory disciplinary actions and fines and taxation;
the ability of the Company's customer-tracking, customer loyalty and yield-management programs to continue to increase customer loyalty and same store sales or hotel sales;
the Company's ability to recoup costs of capital investments through higher revenues;
acts of war or terrorist incidents, severe weather conditions, political uprisings or natural disasters;
access to insurance on reasonable terms for the Company's assets;
abnormal gaming holds;
the potential difficulties in employee retention and recruitment as a result of the Company's substantial indebtedness, the ongoing downturn in the gaming industry, or any other factor; and
the effects of competition, including locations of competitors and operating and market competition.

Any forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and, as such, speak only as of the date made. Caesars disclaims any obligation to update the forward-looking statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date stated, or if no date is stated, as of the date of this press release.

SOURCE Caesars Entertainment Corporation

Extraordinary Events to Manage New L3 at Santa Monica Place

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:59:00 +0000

Largest, Most Versatile Event Space to Fill Niche in Top Ten Beach City

Extraordinary Events, an award-winning, Los Angeles-based international meeting and event production company, is currently managing the new L3 event space at Santa Monica Place. L3 spans over 42,000-square-feet on the Dining Deck of the shopping center and is the largest and most versatile event space in Santa Monica.

With other local venues projected to be under construction in the coming years, L3 is the solution to attract meetings, events and conventions. While the city has been named as one of the top ten beach cities to visit by National Geographic and has earned accolades from Zagat for its cuisine and world-class hotels, the lack of a large venue has been a drawback. However, with the opening of L3 in the heart of downtown, Santa Monica has become a competitive gem for meetings, events and conventions.

A blank canvas, the space is customizable for any occasion from private events, product launches, location shoots, business meetings, press events, receptions, dinners or trade shows. L3 is moments from the beach and the iconic 3rd Street Promenade with ten visionary restaurants, luxury retail, easy and accessible parking and unrivaled views of the Pacific Ocean.

Extraordinary Events will manage, show, sell and consult on all aspects of the space.

To learn more about L3 visit http://www.santamonicaplace.com/Events/L3 or contact Extraordinary Events, at:

Extraordinary Events
www.extraordinaryevents.net

Downtown St. Louis Hotel's Redesigned Ballrooms Set New Standards for Hospitality

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:46:00 +0000

New Year Rings in New Look at Historic Downtown Union Station Hotel

A new year brings a new look to the ballrooms of one of the most prestigious hotels in downtown St. Louis and for a limited time wedding planners and event executives can take advantage of special promotions in these newly modernized venues.

Redesigned for peak performance, the newly renovated ballrooms provide 24,000 square feet of combined event space featuring flexible configurations, modern design elements, expansive pre-function space, enhanced air wall systems and cutting edge audio visual services. These fabulous facilities combined with this downtown St. Louis hotel's skilled culinary team and dedicated event managers make the historic St. Louis Union Station Marriott an outstanding choice for elegant St. Louis wedding receptions and stately business gatherings.

The stylish new redesign was made with guests in mind and portrays the welcoming atmosphere, opulent accommodations and exceptional service of this historic landmark hotel, easily recognized as one of the premier luxury hotels in St. Louis. In celebration of a new year and a new look, the St. Louis Union Station Marriott is offering added amenities for qualifying contracts signed by February 28, 2012. Added services include free high speed Internet access in guest rooms, a complimentary welcome beverage station during group's arrival and a Marriott Rewards signing bonus of 10,000 points.

Event planners seeking to enjoy the new standards of hospitality set forth by these sophisticated St. Louis reception venues will be wowed by the exciting changes that have taken place inside the ballrooms and are welcomed to contact the sales department at 314-802-3440 or sales@unionstationmarriott.com for more details or to schedule a visit of the facilities. An extensive offering of menu options is also available and the hotel's skilled culinary staff is happy to work with clients to customize menus that meet their specific needs. Business travelers are also treated to 24-hour access to the hotel's business center and a concierge level with private lounge is also available for added amenities and private lounge access.

About the St. Louis Union Station Marriott

The St. Louis Union Station Marriott is located in the heart of St. Louis and radiates with elegant architecture of days past while presenting guests with a unique hotel experience. Located inside Union Station, the Marriott welcomes travelers with the grand splendor of days past and contemporary luxuries of the present. Still welcoming guests to a hub of the city's excitement, the hotel is conveniently located near Scottrade Center, Busch Stadium, America's Convention Center and other popular St. Louis destinations including the Gateway Arch, Missouri History Museum and St. Louis Science Center.

CONTACT:
Carrie Sheridan
St. Louis Union Station Marriott
314-802-3445

St. Louis wedding receptions become stunning affairs at Union Station Marriott. With expert event managers, an opulent ballroom & superb catering, our wedding St. Louis wedding reception venues are the perfect setting for unforgettable celebrations.

'Sunday Special' at Courtyard Boston Cambridge Hotel Just in Time for Spring Events

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:40:00 +0000

Boston Educational Institution Visitors Find Value, Comfort at Hotel Near Northeastern University

From tennis matches and concerts to alumni events and graduation, higher education plays a big role in the activities that take place throughout Boston, and hotels near Boston University, Emerson College, Northeastern University and Berklee School of Music not only offer guests comfortable accommodations, but are conveniently located near campus activities.

Parents, alumni, friends and associates of local educational institutions will find the Courtyard Boston Copley Square conveniently located downtown and a premier choice among hotels near Northeastern University and other local schools and colleges. The hotel's spacious accommodations and prime location make it an ideal choice for those making their way into Boston for the unending rendition of events and activities. Guests will not only revel in the convenience, but will be treated to a unique hotel experience as this sophisticated Courtyard by Marriott is located inside a historic 1800s apartment building that has undergone a remarkable transformation to provide travelers with spacious and well-appointed guest rooms and hotel suites.

And, just in time for a full calendar of spring events, the Courtyard is offering a "Sunday Special" through April 8, 2012 that provides Sunday travelers significant savings with a low nightly rate of just $99*. This inviting hotel deal is aimed at helping keep travel affordable and is just one of the many Boston travel packages and discounts offered by the Courtyard. The hotel also participates in the Marriott Rewards program as another value-added service to help meet the needs of busy travelers.

Providing guests with complimentary high-speed Internet access, this Copley Square Courtyard is one of the most distinctive hotels near Newbury Street, so Boston visitors can easily enjoy the excitement of one of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods while being pampered with gracious accommodations. All guest rooms and suites include thick mattresses topped with crisp cotton-rich linens, marble bathrooms, cable/satellite service with premium movie channels and pay-per-view movie options. During their stay, guests have access to a breakfast buffet served daily at the Courtyard Café and The Market is open 24/7 to provide snacks, drinks and necessities. This Northeastern University hotel's fitness room is also available, equipped with cardiovascular equipment for an exhilarating workout.

Boston travelers may easily book accommodations at the Courtyard Boston Copley Square utilizing the "Sunday Special" by using promotional code WJY online at http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bosdt-courtyard-boston-copley-square/.

*Offer not valid for groups of 10 or more rooms and may not be used in combination with any other discount or promotion. Please see hotel website for additional terms and conditions.

About the Courtyard Boston Copley Square
The Courtyard Boston Copley Square is conveniently located among Boston hotels near Newbury Street and other popular downtown locations and surrounds guests with the historic ambiance of Boston's heritage. The hotel's unique design renders guest rooms that feature ornate windows adorned with window benches and a 19th century atmosphere while surrounding guests with modern conveniences and contemporary design.

CONTACT:
Courtyard Boston Copley Square
1-617-437-9300
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bosdt-courtyard-boston-copley-square/

Our Boston University hotel's spacious accommodations offer guests the ultimate in comfort & luxury, with plush bedding, on-site dining & free high-speed Internet. Conveniently located in the heart of the city, our hotel is the ideal urban getaway.

Medical Travelers Relax With Downtown Boston Hotel Specials in Copley Square

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:35:00 +0000

Historic Downtown Setting Surrounds Travelers With Comfort and Convenience at Courtyard Boston Copley Square

Boston medical travelers can rest easy while staying close to medical facilities with accommodations at stylish Boston hotels near Newbury Street, where comfort and value-added amenities top the list when welcoming guests.

Surrounding guests with a historic downtown setting, the Courtyard Boston Copley Square hotel is conveniently located less than 10 minutes from some of Boston's finest medical facilities including Massachusetts General Hospital, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Boston Medical Center, so travelers can rest comfortably whether visiting patients or traveling on medical business. Occupying a magnificently refurbished 1800s apartment building and situated for easy access among hotels near Boston Common and other popular districts, the Courtyard pampers guests with spacious guest rooms and well-appointed hotel suites. Additionally, guests are treated to room furnishings that include thick mattresses topped with luxurious cotton-rich linens, marble bathrooms, complimentary high speed Internet access, cable/satellite service with premium movie channels and pay-per-view movie options.

Along with inviting accommodations, the Courtyard welcomes travelers to take advantage of its downtown Boston hotel specials designed to help keep travel affordable. While the hotel always features Marriott Rewards promotions, other packages are aimed at helping travelers best meet their individual needs, whether traveling for business or leisure. The hotel's "Sunday Special" currently offers Sunday travelers significant savings with a low nightly rate of $99* now through April 8, 2012. This limited time deal is perfect for those traveling to see family or friends at any of the city's medical facilities or business travelers looking to get a head start on their weekly schedule.

Conveniently located among hotels near Newbury Street, the Boston Copley Square Courtyard also allows travelers easy access to some of the city's most exciting districts, filled with fine dining, fashion boutiques, specialty shops, antiques, spas, galleries and an amazing historic and architectural heritage.

Travelers wishing to book accommodations at the Courtyard Boston Copley Square utilizing the "Sunday Special" may do so online by using promotional code WJY at http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bosdt-courtyard-boston-copley-square/.

*Offer not valid for groups of 10 or more rooms and may not be used in combination with any other discount or promotion. Please see hotel website for additional terms and conditions.

About the Courtyard Boston Copley Square
The Courtyard Boston Copley Square hotel sets the standard for hospitality among Boston hotels near Newbury Street, welcoming guests to its historic downtown location, refurbished to accentuate Boston's heritage while providing guests with modern day comforts and conveniences. In addition to a fabulous location, guests have access to a breakfast buffet served daily at the Courtyard Café and The Market is open 24/7 to provide snacks, drinks and necessities for the convenience of travelers. A fitness room is also available, equipped with cardiovascular equipment to help travelers maintain their exercise routine while traveling.

CONTACT:
Mike Givens
Marriott Hotels & Resorts
301-547-4761
Email Contact

Discover our Boston Copley Place hotel's quick access to many of the city's top attractions, like Fenway Park & the Museum of Fine Arts. For tips on the best area dining, shopping & entertainment, view our Copley Place hotel's Boston Visitor's Guide.

Wine & Dine This Valentine's Day at Long Island Winery Hotels

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:34:00 +0000

Explore Dining, Shopping and More in the Charming Bellport Village

To make your Valentine's Day not only sweet, but "suite," book a night at the SpringHill Suites Long Island Brookhaven, among Patchogue, NY hotels.

Just in the time for the holiday, this Farmingville, NY hotel is offering couples an unforgettable getaway with a special package. Enjoy accommodations in a spacious king studio suite, toast to your love with champagne, and sweeten the deal with some chocolate.

The next morning, wake up to a complimentary breakfast in the lobby lounge, and then enjoy roundtrip transportation to the charming village of Bellport, where you can stroll between shops, catch a local theater performance, visit the historical society, or even indulge in a spa treatment. Before heading back to the hotel, sit down for a romantic meal at one of Bellport's restaurants. Enjoy steak and seafood at the nautically inspired Porters on the Lane, old world Italian fare at Avino's, creative cuisine from the European-trained chef at The Bellport, or cocktails and sushi at Nakama Steakhouse and Sushi Grill.

As a Long Island winery hotel, the SpringHill Suites Long Island Brookhaven offers easy access to area wineries, where tastings make for a romantic day out. You'll also be close to other area attractions, including shopping at Tanger Outlets, beaches in the Hamptons, and Atlantis Marine World.

The Valentine's Day package at this Stony Brook New York hotel starts at just $119 a night. To reserve your room, call 1-800-Marriott or 631-924-0090.

To learn more about the SpringHill Suites Long Island Brookhaven, visit the hotel website at https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ispsh-springhill-suites-long-island-brookhaven/, where you can explore nearby dining and attractions, find packages and deals, and book rooms.

About the SpringHill Suites Long Island Brookhaven
Just minutes from the Long Island MacArthur Airport, the SpringHill Suites Long Island Brookhaven offers a perfect base for both business and leisure travelers. Corporate travelers with Siemens, Boeing, Motorola, Brookhaven National Laboratory, and Stony Brook University & Hospital are just minutes from meetings when they stay at this Bellport hotel. For those who left work back home, enjoy easy access to Long Island wineries, the Hamptons, Tanger Outlets, Baseball Heaven, Atlantis Marine World, and much more. Suites at this Long Island hotel offer the comfort and conveniences of home, with a mini-fridge, microwave, flat-screen cable TV with premium channels and pay-per-view, coffee/tea service, and pull-out sofa to accommodate families. Working guests will appreciate the large desk and free high-speed Internet access, and those looking to host a board meeting or business event can explore the hotel's more than 1,360 sq ft of event space. This Brookhaven hotel prepares you for the day with a complimentary breakfast buffet, and offers an exercise room and indoor pool to help you unwind. When it's time to check out, the hotel offers a free shuttle to the airport.

CONTACT:
Jennifer McGuigan
SpringHill Suites Long Island Brookhaven
1-631-924-0090
Email Contact

JCM Global's Award-Winning PayCheck 4(TM) Thermal Printer on Track to Earn 40 Percent Market Share in Just Nine Months

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:29:00 +0000

Perhaps the only thing faster than the print speed of JCM Global's award-winning PayCheck 4™ thermal printer is the speed at which it has gained market share. Nine months ago, the PayCheck 4 started getting all necessary OEM and regulatory approvals and hoping to secure possible traction in the highly competitive gaming market. With the product's performance, and with the JCM name and sales team behind it, JCM expects the PayCheck 4 to be installed in 40 percent of the games in North America casinos openings in 2012.

"When we first became familiar with the PayCheck 4 printer, we instantly recognized its potential, because it is the fastest, smartest and toughest printer we have seen. We rebranded it as a JCM product, and through our sales team and our network of distributors, we introduced it to customers across North America. The response was immediate, because people know quality when they see it," said JCM Global VP of Sales Mark Henderson.

The new PayCheck 4 has numerous advantages over competitive products. First, PayCheck 4 is the fastest printer in the industry, printing and presenting a complete ticket twice as fast as competitive printers. Next, PayCheck 4 has the most standard memory of any printer in the gaming industry, giving operators more power and flexibility to communicate directly with their customers. Last, it is the longest-lasting printer in the industry, with a print head that lasts twice as long as any competitive product -- an average life span of 640,000 slot-type tickets.

"PayCheck 4 is a perfect complement to our award-winning line of products that we have designed for today's gaming industry, including the iVIZION® bill validator and the new Intelligent Cash Box (ICB®) system with web reports. The suite of products, combined with our superior service, clearly sets JCM Global apart from all other companies," Henderson said.

About JCM Global
JCM Global is the world's leading supplier of innovative automated transactions solutions for the banking, gaming and retail industries. With unsurpassed service and support, JCM Global is trusted by operators, manufacturers and integrators on six continents. Its extensive line of award-winning products set global standards with ground-breaking products like the iVIZION®, Universal Bill Acceptor (UBA®) and Vega-RC™ bill validators, Intelligent Cash Box (ICB®) and PayCheck 4™ thermal printer. For more information, visit JCM Global's 24-hour tradeshow at www.jcmglobal.com.

Contact:
Paul Speirs
Steinbeck Communications
P +1 (702) 413-4278
E Email Contact
T @steinbeckcomm

$2 Powerball Jackpot Climbs to $250 Million; Highest Since June 2010

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:24:00 +0000

$1 Million Second Prize Already Won Twice in Arizona

The jackpot for the new $2 Powerball has climbed to $250 million for the draw on Wednesday, Feb. 8. This is the highest Powerball jackpot since June 2010 and since $2 Powerball launched on January 15.

Since the launch, only two other states besides Arizona have had two second prize winners -- both $1 million each. The first $1 million winning ticket was claimed by a Tucson resident, who purchased it at a Fry's Food Store in Tucson. The second $1 million winning ticket was claimed by a couple from Fort Mohave, who purchased it at the Smith's Food & Drug in Fort Mohave.

In the last week alone, there have been more than 54,000 Powerball winners in Arizona.

"This is an exciting time for the Arizona Lottery since Arizona is one of only three states to boast two second prize $1 million winners thus far," said Karen Bach, assistant director of budget, products and communications for the Arizona Lottery. "The new $2 Powerball game is delivering on its promise of more winners and larger prizes, and we expect to be congratulating more Arizona millionaires this year than ever before."

The new $2 Powerball game offers many appealing features to players, including better overall odds and jackpots that grow bigger, faster. The starting jackpot doubled from $20 million to $40 million and the second prize for matching all five numbers, without the Powerball, increased from $200,000 to $1 million.

The next $2 Powerball draw is this Wednesday, Feb. 8 and the jackpot is up to $250 million.

Players must be 21 years or older to purchase or redeem tickets. Winners have 180 days from the drawing date to claim their prize at an Arizona Lottery office or by mail. Overall odds vary by game. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, these materials may be made available in an alternate format. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-NEXT STEP. Please Play Responsibly. ™

About the Arizona Lottery
The Arizona Lottery operates entirely from the revenue it generates through the sale of its products; it receives no General Fund dollars from the State. Proceeds from sales of Lottery tickets -- nearly $3 million per week -- fund a variety of state programs. Since July 1981, the Arizona Lottery has paid out more than $4.6 billion in prizes to players, nearly $2.7 billion in net profit to the state and more than $550 million in commissions to retailers.

Contact:
Karen Bach
Arizona Lottery
(480) 921-4493

Jennifer Adler
E.B. Lane
(602) 417-1594

DFW International Airport to Host 2012 Boyd Group International Aviation Forecast Summit

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 21:44:10 +0000

DFW International Airport to Host 2012 Boyd Group International Aviation Forecast Summit

PR Newswire

Summit to draw aviation leaders from more than 10 countries, provide insight to the future of aviation

DFW AIRPORT, Texas, Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport will welcome aviation industry leaders later this year for the 17th Annual Boyd Group International Aviation Forecast Summit. The event is expected to draw aviation experts from countries throughout the world. It will be held at the Intercontinental Hotel in Addison from September 16 through 18.

"We take great pride in the fact that DFW Airport has been chosen to host this year's International Aviation Forecast Summit," said Jeff Fegan, CEO of DFW International Airport. "For the past 16 years, the conference has featured expert presenters whose insight is vital for future aviation planning, and DFW thrives by staying at the forefront of key developments in the aviation industry."

Summit organizers anticipate the event could attract over 500 airline and airport executives, as well as vendors, suppliers, financial organizations, global aircraft and power plant manufacturers.

"A world-class global portal such as DFW International Airport is the perfect venue for this event, which draws aviation leaders from around the world," said Michael J. Boyd, President, Boyd Group International. "We are looking forward to providing insightful information, which is critical in this quickly changing aviation environment."

The Boyd Group International will focus on aviation trends, global fleet demand, and airport traffic forecasts that will affect aviation in the future.

A tentative agenda will be posted shortly. For the latest information, please visit http://www.aviationforecastsummit.com/

About DFW International Airport
Located halfway between the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas, DFW International Airport is the world's fourth busiest, offering nearly 1,750 flights per day and serving 57 million passengers a year. DFW provides nonstop service to 145 domestic and 47 international destinations worldwide. For five consecutive years, DFW has ranked in the top five for customer service among large airports worldwide in surveys conducted by Airports Council International. For the latest news, real-time flight information, parking availability or further details regarding the many services provided at DFW International Airport, visit www.dfwairport.com.

(re)defining DFW International Airport

DFW International Airport's $1.9 billion Terminal Renewal and Improvement Program (TRIP) is (re)defining first class for this global gateway. For the latest details regarding TRIP, log on to www.dfwairport.com/redefine.

Follow DFW International Airport On:

http://twitter.com/dfwairport

http://www.youtube.com/user/DFWIntlAirport

http://www.facebook.com/dfwairport

Contact: Public Affairs Department, 972-973-5555

SOURCE DFW International Airport

Copa Holdings Announces Monthly Traffic Statistics for January 2012

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 21:30:00 +0000

Copa Holdings Announces Monthly Traffic Statistics for January 2012

PR Newswire

PANAMA CITY, Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Copa Holdings, S.A. (NYSE: CPA), today released preliminary passenger traffic statistics for January 2012:

	January	January	% Change
*Operating Data*	2012	2011	(YOY)
Copa Holdings (Consolidated)
ASM (mm) (1)	1,313.9	1,093.7	20.1%
RPM (mm) (2)	1,043.0	868.8	20.0%
Load Factor (3)	79.4%	79.4%	-0.1p.p.
International Service
ASM (mm) (1)	1,247.9	981.2	27.2%
RPM (mm) (2)	987.0	780.2	26.5%
Load Factor (3)	79.1%	79.5%	-0.4p.p.
Domestic Service
ASM (mm) (1)	66.1	112.5	-41.3%
RPM (mm) (2)	56.0	88.6	-36.8%
Load Factor (3)	84.8%	78.8%	6.1p.p.
1. Available seat miles - represents the aircraft seating capacity multiplied by the number of miles the seats are flown.
2. Revenue passenger miles - represents the numbers of miles flown by revenue passengers
3. Load factor - represents the percentage of aircraft seating capacity that is actually utilized

For the month of January 2012, Copa Holdings' system-wide passenger traffic (RPM) increased 20.0%, while capacity increased 20.1%. System load factor for January 2012 was 79.4%, a 0.1 percentage point decline when compared to January 2011.

International passenger traffic grew 26.5%, while capacity increased 27.2%. This resulted in a load factor of 79.1%, a 0.4 percentage point decrease when compared to January 2011. For the month, International capacity represented 95.0% of total capacity.

Domestic traffic, represented wholly by Colombian domestic service, decreased 36.8%, while capacity decreased 41.3%. As a result, domestic load factor for the month increased 6.1 percentage points to 84.8%. For the month, domestic capacity represented 5.0% of total capacity.

Copa Holdings is a leading Latin American provider of passenger and cargo services. The Company, through its operating subsidiaries, provides service to 59 destinations in 28 countries in North, Central and South America and the Caribbean with one of the youngest and most modern fleets in the industry, consisting of 73 aircraft: 47 Boeing 737NG aircraft and 26 EMBRAER-190s. For more information visit www.copaair.com.

CPA-G

SOURCE Copa Holdings, S.A.

26th Annual Pacific Rim Whale Festival March 17-25, 2012 Kicks Off West Coast Vancouver Island Whale Watching Season

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 21:00:00 +0000

The Pacific Rim Whale Festival and Tourism Tofino today announced the extensive calendar of educational, culinary and cultural arts events -- many of them free -- planned for the 26th Annual Whale Festival http://www.pacificrimwhalefestival.com being held in Tofino, Ucluelet and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, on the west coast of Vancouver Island, from March 17-25, 2012. The Pacific Rim Whale Festival marks the opening of the region's famed whale watching season and the annual migration of over 20,000 grey whales on their 13,000 km journey from the waters of Mexico's Baja Peninsula to the Bering Sea.

The 2012 Pacific Rim Whale Festival welcomes wildlife enthusiasts, and lovers of the arts, food and music to come and be inspired by the world's largest whale celebration.

Except where indicated, advanced tickets to all events are available online at: http://www.pacificrimwhalefestival.com/purchase-tickets.

Event highlights include:
New, Pre-festival Event -- Tuesday, February 14, 2012
"SWEET, PLAY, LOVE" -- UAC HALL 1510 Peninsula Rd, Ucluelet, B.C.
A celebration of love, food and music featuring melodic performances by Vancouver Island musicians Slim Pickin' and Saskia & Darrel, with 'aphrodisiac appetizers' from Breakers Café. Advance Tickets: $25/Single, $45/Couple

Thursday, March 15, 2012
The Wickaninnish Inn "Gala Dinner & Silent Auction" -- Tofino B.C.
Chef Nick Nutting and the kitchen brigade cook up some magic, as wine pairings and tempting silent auction items complement the evening for this annual fundraising (and fun-raising) event. Tickets: $110/ Person available at http://www.wickinn.com

Sunday, March 18, 2012
"Chowder Chowdown" -- Ucluelet Community Centre, 500 Matterson Drive, Ucluelet, B.C.
Acclaimed area chefs compete for awards while attendees and local "celebrity judges" sample, compare and vote for their favorite chowder creations. Live music by the Jocelyn Pettit Band.
Advance Tickets: $10/Adults, $5/Children, $25/Family Rate available at Ucluelet Community Centre

Monday, March 19, 2012
"Sweet Indulgence: All You Can Eat Dessert Affair" -- Ucluelet Community Centre, 500 Matterson Drive, Ucluelet, B.C.
An evening of decadence, featuring favorite west coast family dessert recipes, door prizes and live local musical guests Small Town Empire.
Advance Tickets: $10/Adults, $5/Children, $25/Family Rate

Thursday, March 22, 2012
Black Rock Oceanfront Resort presents the 10th Annual "Barnacle Blues" -- 596 Marine Drive, Ucluelet, B.C.
A fundraising evening of music with opening act 'Headwater' and feature performance by Juno award winner Jim Byrnes! This event includes drinks and gourmet appetizers prepared by Black Rock's Chef, a raffle and live action.
Advance Tickets: $40/Person

Whale Festival Button Events: For a suggested $5.00 donation, guests receive a colourful Whale Festival Button designed by our local elementary school artists. These buttons provide free access to over 40 educational and entertaining events.

General Festival & Events Contact
Wendy Hainstock
Festival Coordinator
250-726-7798
Email Contact

Media Contact
Lynda Kaye
Kaye PR for Tourism Tofino
250-725-2035
Email Contact