Don’t Wreck Your Summer Road Trip

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ORLANDO, Fla., May 21 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The summer vacation season kicks off this month with the Memorial Day weekend, and millions of Americans will hit the road in the coming months en route to their summer getaways. AAA notes that ensuring your summer road trip goes smoothly starts well before you take to the highway.
No one wants to spend their vacation stranded on the roadside, but last summer AAA responded to more than seven million calls for roadside assistance from June to August.
“The secret to a successful and fun-filled summer road trip is advance planning of your journey and preparation of your vehicle,” said Marshall L. Doney, AAA Automotive vice president. “AAA encourages travelers to take time prior to their road trip to inspect their vehicle, map out and plan their trip and make sure they have the right supplies for their journey.”
Detailed advice for those planning long-distance summer road trips is available to reporters and producers on AAA’s national media NewsRoom at AAA.com/news.
Running out of gas or getting lost can severely dampen the excitement of a road trip vacation. Plan your route in advance by getting up-to-date, accurate maps and routing information. With the help of an online service such as the TripTik(R) Travel Planner on AAA.com, you can also find gas stations, lodgings and restaurants along your route.
Preparing your vehicle in advance of your road trip can help reduce the likelihood of mechanical problems during your trip. An in-depth list of items to check prior to hitting the road is available on the AAA NewsRoom at AAA.com/news.
Motorists can perform many of the vehicle preparation recommendations themselves. However, it is usually a good idea to have a trained technician look over your vehicle before an extended road trip. If you need assistance locating a qualified technician in your area, visit the Automotive section of AAA.com to locate a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility in your area. Approved Auto Repair facilities are certified by AAA to meet and maintain high professional standards.
As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 51 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at AAA.com.
AAA news releases can be downloaded from .

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AAA

Backpacker Magazine Launches Fully Redesigned Website With New Multimedia and GPS-Supported Content

BOULDER, Colo., April 28 /PRNewswire/ — Backpacker magazine, the authority on outdoor adventure, today announced the launch of its newly redesigned website . Rebuilt from the bottom up, Backpacker.com now includes more than 1,200 editor-approved GPS-supported hikes, daily blog posts from experts devoted to survival, fitness, news, and trends, on-the-scene videos featuring Backpacker editors, and a database of approximately 1,900 products that can be searched and compared in the site’s interactive GearFinder tool. Backpacker.com’s extensive online community can now also post and share gear reviews, photos, GPS coordinates, and reports of their favorite trips.
“The new website brings the heart and soul of Backpacker to our online community,” said editor-in-chief Jonathan Dorn. “Since last September, we have been architecting what our readers said they wanted: more multimedia content, GPS-enabled hikes, current gear reviews, and loads of interactive trip tools. This site is not only a reflection of Backpacker magazine, but also our readers.”
The new website delivers on Backpacker’s tagline mission, “The Outdoors at Your Doorstep” with close-to-home hikes, skills features that make the trail safer and more accessible, and stories, told both editorially and through audio/visual applications, that inspire users to experience the world outdoors.
“We’ve packed Backpacker.com with every tool and feature we could think of to make it the ultimate one-stop-shop for preparing for and learning about the outdoors,” said Backpacker.com editor Anthony Cerretani. “And this is just the beginning. We’ll be adding new content every day.”
New features include:

Interactive Flash Map

Featured prominently on the homepage and the destinations page is a new interactive Flash map directing users to more than 1,200 edited and approved GPS-supported hikes, from the Appalachian Trail to the Pacific Crest Trail. Another 10,000 trips are accessible to site users. The hikes, which are submitted by volunteer Backpacker readers and staff contributors, can be searched by city, state, park, and long trail. Each week, 10 new trips are featured, and each month, 50 new trips are added. Also included are trip Tools-interactive features pointing users to menu planners, gear lists, information on permit centers, and expert advice.
GearFinder
Readers said they wanted an improved GearFinder, and that is exactly what they got. The new GearFinder includes approximately 1,900 pieces of gear searchable by product type, size, cost, and weight. (backpacker.com/gear/) (Gearfinder.com)
Expanded Community Section
Backpacker.com currently boasts more than 20,000 active community participants. The new community pages allow participants to share photos and GPS coordinates in their own personalized trip reports and link to their favorite and past trips. They can also create personal profiles, save articles to read later, post gear reviews, and rate and comment on every article and trip on the Backpacker site. This is the core of the new site, embracing the strength of Backpacker’s online community. (backpacker.com/community/)
Fresh Daily Editorial Content
Backpacker.com has answered reader requests for more editorial content with informative new blogs (backpacker.com/blogs) and on-the-scene videos (backpacker.com/videos).
The Pulse blog, written by long-time Rocky Mountain Editor Steve Howe, is devoted to the art and science of survival. Grant Davis’s Peak Fitness blog showcases the challenges of staying fit while balancing everyday life, and The Daily Dirt, written by the editors of Backpacker and Backpacker.com, showcases news, trends, and events in the outdoor world.
The site’s new video page (backpacker.com/video) features an archive of instructional skills and gear-based videos as well as on-the-scene travel and destinations profiles filmed by the editors, including a climb of Colorado’s Longs Peak by the staff.
Content will be uploaded daily, and can be shared and syndicated through an array of Web 2.0 applications, including RSS feeds, del.icio.us, and Facebook.
“Our primary focus was to create the ultimate outdoor adventure renaissance experience on the web,” said Cerretani. “We wanted users not only to get the most up-to-date information from a top-notch site, but also to be able to participate in the site’s evolution, utilizing Web 2.0 applications to post trips, gear reviews, comments, and more.”
New features mean users can quickly submit gear reviews, trip reports and photos, and comment on each and every article, trip, and blog post on the site. Tech-savvy participants can also upload GPS tracks, geotagged photos, and Google Earth screenshots. The platform is customizable, encouraging individual preference and personality.
“Backpacker’s online brand is now as compelling as the magazine,” said Andrew Clurman, Active Interest Media’s chief operating officer and group publisher. “Backpacker.com is fast becoming the web’s premier outdoor adventure website, with advertisers and readers alike responding with passionate support.”
“The technology, functionality, and design of the site are not only exceptional tools for the user, but also for advertisers looking to reach the active and influential outdoor community,” said Kent Ebersole, Backpacker’s publisher. “Our 100% share-of-voice strategy offers distinct awareness and focus among users.”
Since the redesign was launched, pageviews increased 22% in the first month while unique visitors increased 27%. Average time spent on the site is approximately eight minutes.
About Backpacker
Backpacker brings the outdoors to readers’ doorsteps, inspiring and empowering them to get out and enjoy nature more often. The authority on active adventure, Backpacker is the world’s first GPS-enabled magazine, and the only magazine whose editors personally test the hiking trails, camping gear, and survival tips they publish. Backpacker’s Editors’ Choice Awards, an industry honor recognizing design, feature, and product innovation, has become the gold standard against which all other outdoor-industry awards are measured.
Backpacker is published by Active Interest Media (), has a circulation of 340,000, and is published nine times per year. In 2006, the magazine won a coveted National Magazine Award for editorial excellence, and it has just been nominated again for ASME’s highest honor, the National Magazine Award for General Excellence. Backpacker’s award-winning website, , is updated daily and features more than 1,200 hikes, a searchable and comprehensive database of outdoor gear (), special sections for beginners, the most active community forums in the outdoor space, and a wealth of trail tips, videos, and GPS know-how.
Backpacker

INRIX Announces Comprehensive Connected Services Platform Integrating Traffic, Map, Routing and Other Content Into a Complete Solution for Navigation Applications

KIRKLAND, Wash., May 20 /PRNewswire/ — INRIX(R), the leading provider of traffic information, today announced a comprehensive suite of INRIX Connected Services solutions for navigation devices, telematics services and other in- car applications. The INRIX Connected Services platform encompasses the world’s first ‘third generation’ routing engine, dynamic traffic data covering 800,000 miles of roadways, additional location-relevant content, and a developer zone designed to greatly simplify creation of location-based service applications.
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World’s First ‘Third Generation’ Routing Service

INRIX is introducing the world’s first ‘third generation’ routing service which goes beyond current state-of-the-market “traffic avoidance” routing algorithms to incorporate real-time, predictive and historical traffic information providing consumers with accurate fastest-route calculations. INRIX technology has developed a platform that enables the ability to anticipate traffic and road conditions along potential routes, over the course of time. INRIX routing algorithms can intelligently evaluate multiple routes and apply the most relevant fusion of traffic information available across each segment of roadway along the entire route. This groundbreaking service looks into the future to determine how traffic is expected to change along the course of travel — a breakthrough in providing better routes and more accurate travel times to consumers.
Total Fusion
INRIX also announced the availability of INRIX Total Fusion, the first traffic data service that intelligently combines real-time, predictive and historical traffic information for over 800,000 miles of roadways across the U.S. INRIX Total Fusion is the ideal solution for a rich connected navigation experience, providing speed information for busy city streets and congested arterials in addition to major freeways and the entire U.S. interstate highway system.
Connected Services Content and Developer Zone
The INRIX Connected Services platform seamlessly integrates Total Fusion traffic data and time-intelligent, traffic-influenced routing with other dynamic content aggregated by INRIX including map data, fuel prices, weather, movie times, local search and more. INRIX has partnered with best-of-breed companies — including Tele Atlas, deCarta, Clear Channel, OPIS and others — to aggregate the highest quality location-relevant content and geospatial services available.
Customers of INRIX will gain direct access to the INRIX Connected Services platform and content via the INRIX Developer Zone (devzone.inrix.com). In addition to sample applications and code libraries, the developer zone provides API access to the INRIX Connected Services platform, routing engine and content, greatly simplifying the creation of location-based service applications. Example applications customers can integrate include traffic flow and incident information with other content to create targeted applications including integrating traffic-influenced routing based upon real- time, historical and predictive traffic; enabling traffic-based alerts customized to individual users; highlighting road speeds or fuel prices along a potential route or in a region; and displaying traffic on a map.
“Today’s announcement marks an important evolution for INRIX from being solely a traffic data information provider to a company focused on delivering customized solutions — with traffic at its core — for connected devices,” commented Bryan Mistele, INRIX president and CEO. “We are enabling our customers to swiftly achieve their go-to-market strategies by providing a one stop shop for location-relevant content along with a suite of developer tools for easy access to our content and services. As costs come down across all segments, device makers need to differentiate — this is their catalyst to stay competitive.”
INRIX Connected Services platform offers an unparalleled suite of content services providing navigation OEMs and location-based service application developers with private label, go-to-market solutions for in-vehicle, personal navigation device (PND), wireless phone and other connected devices. The company has several customers for its connected services platform which will be formally announced in the coming months.
Rising consumer awareness, declining unit prices and rapid technological advances are driving exponential growth of navigation devices and applications. According to a recent study published by ABI Research, real- time, two-way connected versions of navigation devices (PNDs, automotive OEM, and aftermarket) will show strong growth, reaching nearly 100 million units shipped by the end of 2012. Handset-based navigation will also experience explosive growth over the next 5 years — from under 500,000 users worldwide at the end of 2007 to more than 70 million at the end of 2012.(1)
INRIX Connected Services will be available to INRIX customers in June, 2008.
About INRIX
INRIX(R) is the leading provider of accurate real-time, historical and predictive traffic information in North America and Europe, with over 55 customers and industry partners including TomTom, MapQuest, Microsoft, Clear Channel Radio’s Total Traffic Network, TeleNav, I-95 Corridor Coalition, Tele Atlas, deCarta, ITIS Holdings, Mio, Navigon, TCS, Telmap, ANWB, ARC Transistance, and TNO. INRIX delivers the highest quality data and broadest coverage available for personal navigation, mapping, telematics and other location-based service applications in the car, online and on mobile devices.
INRIX Traffic Services leverage sophisticated statistical analysis techniques, originally developed by Microsoft Research, to aggregate and enhance traffic-related information from hundreds of public and private sources, including traditional road sensors and the company’s unique network of over 750,000 GPS-enabled vehicles and cellular probes. INRIX delivers traffic information today for over 100 markets in North America and via ARC Transistance for 16 European countries. To experience the traffic technology revolution behind the next generation of navigation and location-based service applications, visit .
INRIX is a registered trademark of INRIX, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries.
The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.
(1) ABI Connected Navigation Research Brief - - Q42007

INRIX, Inc.

Global Air Freight Forecast to Return to Strong Growth, Says OAG

WASHINGTON, May 22 /PRNewswire/ —

- Annual growth rate of 5.6% by 2011

- 10-year forecast for international air freight predicts 6.1% average

growth

- Security and green issues will pull regional air freight trade below 4%

- Middle East and Africa the fastest growing regions, pushing China to

third place

- Freighter fleet to grow by 3% per year over next decade

OAG Analytical Services, part of Official Airline Guide, has released its
third annual OAG Global Air Freight Forecast which projects trends in air
freight demand and fleet for 2008-2017. The full report goes on sale today,
available at www.oag.com/go/globalairfreightforecast. “Amid soaring fuel
prices and economic uncertainty, the projections for the next decade reveal
some light at the end of the tunnel,” says Tulinda Larsen, managing director
OAG Analytical Services.

The global air freight industry is wrestling with the same issues as the
rest of aviation: a teetering global economy, increasing security
regulations, skyrocketing fuel costs, changing currency exchange rates and
environmental initiatives. The only good news, it seems, has been the
liberalized air rights between China and European Union countries with the
United States.

The 2008 OAG Global Air Freight Forecast reflects these underlying
trends, with a return to an average annual growth rate of 5.6 percent by 2011
after a slowdown in the near term. Over the long term, OAG sees these
underlying trends creating a growing demand for freighter aircraft.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080522/NYTH086-a )

The international air freight market is expected to continue to flourish,
with average annual growth of 6.1 percent during the 10-year forecast period
from 2008 to 2017.

Security and green issues are expected to pull down demand for regional
air freight trade to 3.9 percent average annual growth.

The Middle East has emerged as the fastest growing region, pushing China
to number three behind Africa in terms of growth rates. These emerging
markets are posting impressive growth rates, but on a very small overall base
level of air freight traffic. The trade lane between North America and China
remains the largest global market for air freight.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080522/NYTH086-b )

Tulinda Larsen concluded, “Trade connecting to North America continues to
dominate global air freight and other markets are feeling the impact of the
U.S. economic woes. The rising cost of operations will force the industry to
make tough decisions that will impact air freight capacity on a global
level.”
The OAG Global Air Freight Forecast 2008-2017 is available to buy for
USD$1,200 from www.oag.com/go/globalairfreightforecast. The report includes
analysis of underlying trends; forecast of air freight traffic by trade lane;
freighter forecast by aircraft type including details on conversion programs;
and supporting reference data spreadsheets.

About OAG Analytical Services

OAG Analytical Services’ consulting team specializes in providing
value-added analysis anchored in the OAG schedules, fleet and related
databases. Services include business planning; air service development;
economic, market analysis and forecasting; industry issue analysis; air
cargo; maintenance repair and overhaul (MRO); and expert witness. Clients
rely on OAG Analytical Services’ resources and skills to supplement internal
staff, validate internal studies and provide independent opinions to meet
government and regulatory requirements.

About OAG (Official Airline Guide)

OAG (www.oagcorporate.com) is a global flight information and data
solutions company for the passenger aviation, air cargo logistics and
business travel markets. It brings together buyers and sellers of air travel
and transport through the management and distribution of airline product
information; the supply of corporate travel planning tools; and the promotion
of travel and transport products.

It is the global leader in aviation information and intelligence. The
business is underpinned by its data management expertise. It is best known
for its airline schedules database which feeds the world’s global
distribution systems and travel portals and drives the internal systems of
many airlines, air traffic control systems, aircraft manufacturers, airport
planners and government agencies.

OAG is part of Commonwealth Business Media (www.cbizmedia.com) a wholly
owned subsidiary of United Business Media plc (www.unitedbusinessmedia.com).

Web site: http://www.oagcorporate.com
http://www.oag.com/go/globalairfreightforecast
http://www.cbizmedia.com
http://www.unitedbusinessmedia.com

OAG Analytical Services

VRX Named ‘Official Content Services Provider’ For Hawthorn Suites and Microtel Inns & Suites

VANCOUVER, May 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — VRX Worldwide Inc. (TSX-V:VRW) announced today that its wholly owned subsidiary, VRX Studios Inc. (VRX), and US Franchise Systems, Inc. (USFS) have signed a 30-month production and distribution agreement naming VRX the “Official Content Services Provider” for USFS’ hotel brands, Hawthorn Suites and Microtel Inns & Suites.
Under the agreement, VRX will create premium rich media content for 91 Hawthorn and 289 Microtel properties worldwide. Once produced and certified, VRX will make the new high definition virtual tours, still images and interactive maps available to all online travel agencies, global distribution systems and tour operators through Athena, its recently launched innovative rich media distribution system. As part of VRX’s end-to-end content solution, VRX will work with USFS to ensure that their content is Always Fresh(TM).
“We are excited to be partnering with VRX on this brand-wide initiative for both Hawthorn Suites and Microtel Inns & Suites,” said Allison Solomon, Vice President, Electronic Marketing and Distribution of USFS. “VRX has a history of successfully completing the largest hospitality photo shoots while consistently delivering the highest quality rich media content in the industry. Participation in VRX’s Athena distribution platform will provide us with unprecedented exposure for our hotels.”
USFS is one of North America’s most respected hospitality franchisors and was again recently named “Franchisor of the Year” by the American Association of Franchisees and Dealers (AAFD). USFS has built its reputation on understanding customers’ needs and delivering a superior product.
“VRX is proud to support USFS’ continued upward momentum in the marketplace,” commented David MacLaren, president and CEO of VRX Studios. “We look forward to creating stunning images of all Hawthorn Suites and Microtel Inns & Suites properties and increasing consumer awareness of the Hawthorn and Microtel brands.”
About US Franchise Systems, Inc.
Headquartered in Atlanta, GA, US Franchise Systems is the parent company of the franchisor of the Microtel Inns & Suites and Hawthorn Suites hotel brands. Microtel Inns & Suites is the award-winning chain of all newly constructed, interior-corridor economy hotels, and Hawthorn Suites is the all-suites, mid-market extended-stay chain. With nearly 500 properties open or under construction worldwide, the company has a reputation for treating franchisees with respect and fairness and has been cited for its fair franchise practices and license agreement, which has become an industry model.
All USFS hotels are independently owned and operated.

About VRX Studios Inc.

VRX Studios Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of VRX Worldwide Inc. (TSX-V: VRW) (), is the world leader in producing, distributing and licensing high quality, rich media content that educates, inspires, and compels online travel consumers. Leading travel brands such as Harrah’s, Hyatt, Fairmont, Travelocity, Lastminute and Orbitz rely on VRX’s stunning hotel, cruise and destination content to attract and engage millions of consumers each month. VRX was recognized as one of the fastest growing companies in Canada by Profit magazine (June 2007) and Business in Vancouver (September 2007). To find out more about VRX Studios, its products and services, visit ww.vrxstudios.com.
VRX Worldwide Inc.

per “David MacLaren”

David MacLaren, President and CEO

“The TSX Venture Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy
or accuracy of this release.”
CONTACT: VRX Worldwide Inc.: Investor & Public Relations, (888) 605-0059,
VRX Worldwide Inc.

VRX Named ‘Official Content Services Provider’ For Hawthorn Suites and Microtel Inns & Suites

VANCOUVER, May 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — VRX Worldwide Inc. (TSX-V:VRW) announced today that its wholly owned subsidiary, VRX Studios Inc. (VRX), and US Franchise Systems, Inc. (USFS) have signed a 30-month production and distribution agreement naming VRX the “Official Content Services Provider” for USFS’ hotel brands, Hawthorn Suites and Microtel Inns & Suites.
Under the agreement, VRX will create premium rich media content for 91 Hawthorn and 289 Microtel properties worldwide. Once produced and certified, VRX will make the new high definition virtual tours, still images and interactive maps available to all online travel agencies, global distribution systems and tour operators through Athena, its recently launched innovative rich media distribution system. As part of VRX’s end-to-end content solution, VRX will work with USFS to ensure that their content is Always Fresh(TM).
“We are excited to be partnering with VRX on this brand-wide initiative for both Hawthorn Suites and Microtel Inns & Suites,” said Allison Solomon, Vice President, Electronic Marketing and Distribution of USFS. “VRX has a history of successfully completing the largest hospitality photo shoots while consistently delivering the highest quality rich media content in the industry. Participation in VRX’s Athena distribution platform will provide us with unprecedented exposure for our hotels.”
USFS is one of North America’s most respected hospitality franchisors and was again recently named “Franchisor of the Year” by the American Association of Franchisees and Dealers (AAFD). USFS has built its reputation on understanding customers’ needs and delivering a superior product.
“VRX is proud to support USFS’ continued upward momentum in the marketplace,” commented David MacLaren, president and CEO of VRX Studios. “We look forward to creating stunning images of all Hawthorn Suites and Microtel Inns & Suites properties and increasing consumer awareness of the Hawthorn and Microtel brands.”
About US Franchise Systems, Inc.
Headquartered in Atlanta, GA, US Franchise Systems is the parent company of the franchisor of the Microtel Inns & Suites and Hawthorn Suites hotel brands. Microtel Inns & Suites is the award-winning chain of all newly constructed, interior-corridor economy hotels, and Hawthorn Suites is the all-suites, mid-market extended-stay chain. With nearly 500 properties open or under construction worldwide, the company has a reputation for treating franchisees with respect and fairness and has been cited for its fair franchise practices and license agreement, which has become an industry model.
All USFS hotels are independently owned and operated.

About VRX Studios Inc.

VRX Studios Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of VRX Worldwide Inc. (TSX-V: VRW) (), is the world leader in producing, distributing and licensing high quality, rich media content that educates, inspires, and compels online travel consumers. Leading travel brands such as Harrah’s, Hyatt, Fairmont, Travelocity, Lastminute and Orbitz rely on VRX’s stunning hotel, cruise and destination content to attract and engage millions of consumers each month. VRX was recognized as one of the fastest growing companies in Canada by Profit magazine (June 2007) and Business in Vancouver (September 2007). To find out more about VRX Studios, its products and services, visit ww.vrxstudios.com.
VRX Worldwide Inc.

per “David MacLaren”

David MacLaren, President and CEO

“The TSX Venture Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy
or accuracy of this release.”
CONTACT: VRX Worldwide Inc.: Investor & Public Relations, (888) 605-0059,
VRX Worldwide Inc.

Lost Landmarks: Greyhound Survey Reveals Surprising Behaviors of U.S. Travelers

DALLAS, May 8 /PRNewswire/ — Americans making their summer travel plans will likely skip some of the nation’s most popular landmarks. That’s one of the surprising findings from Greyhound’s first-ever “Hit the Road” survey, a poll of 1,000 nationally representative American adults exploring how often they travel, where they go and how they get there.
The survey found that Americans like to travel regularly for pleasure, with 82 percent taking at least one leisure trip each year. But while they may be itching to hit the road, few Americans have visited the nation’s iconic landmarks such as Mount Rushmore (19 percent), the Liberty Bell (27 percent) and Niagara Falls (35 percent). Even the Washington Monument in our nation’s capitol has been seen by less than half (42 percent) of Americans.
“We’re surprised to find that more U.S. travelers aren’t choosing to visit some of our nation’s wonderful monuments,” said Kim Plaskett, director, corporate communications, Greyhound. “We encourage travelers to see America by hitting the road this summer, but leave the car behind. The bus provides a safe, inexpensive and environmentally friendly way to take in the sights, especially in light of high gas prices.”
The survey also found that 37 percent of Americans have been to less than 10 U.S. states in their lifetime. Florida tops the list of the most-visited states (62 percent), followed by California (56 percent) and New York (51 percent). Despite its beautiful scenery, Alaska is the least visited state in the country with just 13 percent venturing that far north.
Finally, Americans planning their vacations this summer are also more likely to travel someplace new, with 62 percent saying they would prefer a destination that they haven’t previously visited. Midwesterners in particular seem more adventurous, with more than seven in ten (71 percent) preferring to go to a new destination.
“With sky-high gas prices, congested airports and fewer amenities on airlines despite higher fares, summer travelers are looking for ways to get the best value for their money,” said Plaskett. “Greyhound offers a relaxing and cost-effective alternative for exploring new vacation destinations.”
The Greyhound “Hit the Road” Survey was conducted online by Kelton Research from March 19 to March 24, 2008. Quotas are set to ensure a reliable and accurate representation of the total population of Americans ages 18 and over. Results of any sample are subject to sampling variation. In this particular study, the chances are 95 in 100 that a survey result does not vary, plus or minus, by more than 3.1 percentage points from the result that would be obtained if interviews had been conducted with all persons in the universe represented by the sample.
About Greyhound
Greyhound is the largest North American provider of intercity bus transportation, serving more than 2,300 destinations with nearly 13,000 daily departures across the continent. The company also provides Greyhound PackageXpress (GPX), as well as charters and shore services. For fare and schedule information and to buy tickets call 1-800-231-2222 or visit the Web site at .
About Kelton Research
Kelton Research is a full service market research consultancy with offices in Los Angeles, New York, and Washington DC. Kelton serves as a strategic partner to both Fortune 500 corporations and smaller companies, utilizing a wide range of qualitative and quantitative methodologies to drive tactical recommendations for clients. For more information about Kelton’s services, please call (310) 479-4040 or visit .
Greyhound Lines, Inc.

TRX Names William A. Clement, Jr. to Board of Directors

ATLANTA, May 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — TRX, Inc. , a global technology company that develops and hosts software applications to process data records and automate manual processes, today announced the appointment of William A. Clement, Jr. to the Company’s Board of Directors. He will serve as a director and as a member of the Audit Committee and the Compensation, Corporate Governance, and Nominating Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors.
Mr. Clement is considered to be an independent director, as defined by the rules of the NASDAQ Stock Market, and an audit committee financial expert, as defined by the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Mr. Clement is the Chairman & CEO of DOBBS, RAM & Company, a systems integration company that he founded in 1981. He has served in various key roles in the public and private sector during his 40 year career, working in leadership positions with the financial sector. He has also served on several corporate and non-profit boards.
“We are excited for Bill to join our Board of Directors,” commented Trip Davis, TRX President and CEO. “He brings strong leadership skills, financial background, and great experience to our Board, management team, and shareholders.”
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking” statements as defined in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 (the “Securities Act”), Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”), the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (the “PSLRA”), or in releases made by the Securities and Exchange Commission, all as may be amended from time to time. Statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts may be forward-looking statements within the meaning of the PSLRA. Any such forward-looking statements reflect our beliefs and assumptions and are based on information currently available to us and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, including but not limited to, the loss of key clients, volatility in the number of transactions we service, failure or interruptions of our software, hardware and other systems, industry declines, competitive pressures and other risks, including those discussed under the heading entitled “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.
Forward-looking statements are predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. These cautionary statements are being made pursuant to the Securities Act, the Exchange Act and the PSLRA with the intention of obtaining the benefits of the “safe harbor” provisions of such laws. TRX, Inc. cautions investors that any forward-looking statements we make are not guarantees or indicative of future performance.
About TRX
TRX is a global technology company. We develop and host software applications that process data records and automate manual processes, enabling our clients to optimize performance and control costs. We are a leading provider to the travel industry and are expanding into financial services and healthcare. We deliver our technology applications in an on- demand environment to travel agencies, corporations, travel suppliers, government agencies, credit card associations, credit card issuing banks, and third-party administrators. TRX is headquartered in Atlanta with operations and associates in North America, Europe, and Asia.
TRX, Inc.

Governor Paterson Announces Makeover and Statewide Push for Iconic ‘I Love NY’ Campaign

NEW YORK, May 6 /PRNewswire/ — Governor David A. Paterson today announced a revitalized long-term marketing strategy for the iconic “I LOVE NY” brand campaign. This fresh makeover — led by Empire State Development (ESD) — will take one of the world’s most well-known, signature brands in a new direction that will help increase New York State tourism from 155 million visitors in 2006 to 200 million by 2020 and boost direct tourism spending to $60 billion annually.
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“It’s critical that we maintain a strong statewide brand because tourism is presently a $47 billion revenue generator for the State of New York that supports over 740,000 jobs,” said Governor Paterson. “It’s been 31 years since the ‘I LOVE NY’ brand was initially launched and it is an incredible asset for New York. The time to build on this tradition is now and we can take the campaign to a new level in a way that will encourage today’s visitors to experience the incredible getaway opportunities we offer throughout the entire State.”
The campaign, executed by the award-winning Saatchi & Saatchi advertising agency, currently employs a multi-faceted media approach incorporating advertisements in key market newspapers, billboards, direct response, magazines, guerilla marketing and viral and digital marketing. It also introduces progressive brand partnerships with industry partners such as JetBlue, Virgin Atlantic, Travelocity and Orbitz, as well as an updated ILoveNY.com web site, innovative custom brochures and a distinctive new, non-traditional getaway guide.
The new campaign incorporates elements of both New York City and the State into its creative messaging, with artistic imagery that blends familiar city sights with different facets of the State’s landscape.
Among the most eye-catching elements of the campaign are the enhancements to the famous logo itself. Empire State Development and Saatchi have added symbols, such as grass, a butterfly and squirrel in one version to symbolize the State’s natural assets, and grapes to symbolize the State’s outstanding wineries and culinary offerings in another.
“Our logo is already easily one of the most recognized in the world,” said Governor Paterson. “We hope to leverage that recognition by making small distinctive alterations to our logo. By putting our logo in New York’s surroundings we will tell a new story about what New York has to offer.”
The launch of the new campaign included a national media event held today in New York City with the Governor, as well as street teams deployed at major transit hubs throughout the State offering coffee and specially designed New York-centric crossword puzzles.
ESD Upstate Chairman Dan Gundersen said: “Studies show that nearly all consumers associate ‘I LOVE NY’ as an urban brand representing the greatest city in the world. Its time that we use that metropolis image to tell consumers about the all the affordable, accessible and attractive vacation and entertainment options offered throughout the rest of the greatest State.”
ESD Downstate President Avi Schick said: “Over the past year we have renewed our commitment to reinvesting in tourism as a key driver of economic growth. We have taken a business-focused approach targeted at the more than 80 million people who live within a three-to-five hour drive, or one tank of gas, of New York State.”
Thomas Ranese, Chief Marketing Officer for Empire State Development said: “People all over the world are in love with New York. The brand relaunch is about celebrating the pride New Yorkers have in the state and in the I LOVE NY travel brand.”
Daniel C. Murphy, President of the New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association said: “This revitalized marketing strategy will increase awareness of the many natural, historic and cultural attributes our great state has to offer. The campaign will allow us to be more competitive with surrounding states — 80 million people live within a three- to five-hour drive of New York State — in this ever-changing travel marketplace. The makeover for the internationally known I Love NY brand is a welcome change for the thousands of hoteliers and travel-related businesses that will be directly impacted by this cutting-edge campaign.”
In addition to the new logo enhancements, the $17 million campaign will focus on interactive advertising and partnership opportunities as an important new direction for the campaign.
“We are focusing on promoting New York State where today’s travelers shop,” said Ranese. “There is no doubt that the online world is an essential element of any successful campaign and we’ve devoted 50 percent of our media budget to online media, whether it is banner ads, web site redevelopment and email blasts. We’re using multiple tactics to ensure we’re positioned in the most comprehensive and effective way possible.”
The State, for the first time, is allowing the customization of travel brochures for visitors to ILoveNY.com. Site visitors will indicate geographical locations, activities and events for which they are interested and will be given the option to print a PDF version of the brochure in their own home or have the customized piece mailed to them, thus cutting down on paper and saving costs.
The State’s Getaway Guide is also a dramatically enhanced feature, eschewing the encyclopedic nature of most state’s guides for a more visually appealing, narrative-focused style. The goal in all the campaign elements is to drive potential visitors to the Web site for more in-depth information. Consumers can also continue to call 1-800-ILOVENY.
“What we are doing is ensuring that the best and most up-to-date marketing techniques are being employed on the State’s behalf,” said Gundersen. “Essentially, we’re creating a 21st century brand for a diverse State that is poised to reach today’s travelers in the best ways possible.”
For more information on vacation options in New York State, go to . Media may view elements of the new campaign at thebeat.ILoveNY.com.

Empire State Development

New Book, ‘DogFriendly.com’s East Coast Dog Travel Guide’ Includes 6000 Dog- Friendly Destinations Plus 200 ‘Must See’ Places from Maine to Florida

POLLOCK PINES, Calif., May 6 /PRNewswire/ — DogFriendly.com ( ) introduced its most complete travel guidebook for dog lovers throughout the Eastern United States. So hop into your car with your best friend and this 688 page latest edition to DogFriendly.com’s series of pet travel guides and explore attractions such as boat tours, living history museums, ghost tours, horse and carriage rides and other popular sights. Or hike in beautiful Acadia or Shenandoah National Parks, drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, or visit dog-friendly city and state parks and beaches throughout the east. Stay at budget hotels, luxury resorts or campgrounds and dine at dog-friendly restaurant patios. Hundreds of off-leash parks and areas are also included.
Included is complete coverage of pet-friendly places in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Washington DC, Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. Also included are highway guides to I-95 and other Interstates and a special section on Toronto, Montreal and Quebec as well.
“This all new travel guide is designed for the dog lover who can now have access to thousands of places to visit with their dog,” says Len Kain, who co-founded DogFriendly.com in 1998. “From resorts like Bar Harbor, Cape Cod, the Adirondacks, Cape May, Key West, Charleston or Jekyll Island to New York City, Boston, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Washington, Charlotte, Atlanta, Miami and Orlando, you can find thousands of places that you and your dog can enjoy together.”
The authors, Tara and Len Kain, are previous ForeWord Magazine Book of the Year Award winners and finalists. They have traveled over 150,000 miles throughout the United States and Canada with their dogs. Their guidebooks are available at bookstores, pet stores and online. DogFriendly.com also offers free online and mobile-web guides and articles for travelers with dogs.
This release was issued through The Xpress Press News Service, merging e-mail and satellite distribution technologies to reach business analysts and media outlets worldwide. For more information, visit
Press Contact:
Len Kain, DogFriendly.com, Inc.
1-877-475-2275

DogFriendly.com, Inc.