Press Releases

PITTSBURGH, July 6 /PRNewswire/ -- DynaVox Systems LLC, the world's leading provider of communication and education solutions for individuals with speech, language and learning disabilities, today announced that the company has merged with Blink Twice. This acquisition reinforces DynaVox's commitment to providing the appropriate communication solution for each client's unique needs, and further solidifies the company's position as the market leader in the augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) industry.

Blink Twice develops and manufactures the Tango, a novel and innovative communication solution designed primarily for children and teens with significant speech and language challenges. The addition of the Tango, and its vibrant library of illustrations and symbols, to the DynaVox product lines further extends DynaVox's reach into the education and child-focused speech device markets. It also provides customers with greater selection, as well as increased pre- and post-sales support for Tango users and their care teams.

"We admire Blink Twice's innovative approach to AAC, and the way that the team has forever changed the way that speech-generating devices are viewed by the AAC community and the general public," said Ed Donnelly, DynaVox CEO. "The development of the Tango forced manufacturers to reevaluate how they approach AAC, and as a result the industry is stronger than ever and consumers have more - and better - choices available to them.

"Blink Twice made its mark on the AAC industry by providing effective, easy-to-use, and engaging communication solutions. The addition of the Tango to the DynaVox line complements our business plan, and provides DynaVox with a unique opportunity to provide greater selection to the AAC community. We are pleased to welcome Tango users and those who support them to the DynaVox family."

Richard Ellenson, Blink Twice founder and CEO, and the father of a child who uses the Tango, will join DynaVox as Chief Vision Officer. In his new role, Mr. Ellenson will take active roles in product development efforts and strategic planning to ensure DynaVox continues to put clients and clinicians first in the development of a dynamic range of products and services that further the ability and right to communicate. Mr. Ellenson will also direct advocacy initiatives and focus on raising awareness of speech disabilities and solutions within the general population.

"I started Blink Twice with a commitment to approach AAC from a new perspective; one that would forever change the way the world views assistive technology and those who rely upon it," said Ellenson. "I am extremely proud that the Blink Twice team accomplished so much in less than three years.

"Joining forces with DynaVox is a natural and great step for both companies. Together we can offer the world a vibrant new vision for AAC, as well as world-class products and customer service. I view this not only as a great partnership between the companies, but as a renewed partnership with every individual and SLP who relies on us for the products or services that support so many amazing individuals."

Additional terms of the merger include:

    --  Continued availability of the Tango - DynaVox will carry the Tango as
        part of the suite of DynaVox devices.
    --  All key Blink Twice staff will join the company.
    --  Increased support - Current and future Tango communicators and their
        care teams will be able to tap into DynaVox's extensive network of
        support services, including:
        --  assistance from the AAC industry's largest and most experienced
            funding team,
        --  expanded sales support,
        --  access to the industry's largest technical support team, and
        --  increased training opportunities through the company's
            Accelerated Learning program and Implementation Toolkit.

About DynaVox Mayer-Johnson

DynaVox Mayer-Johnson develops a range of speech communication and education solutions designed to help children and adults challenged by significant speech, language and learning disabilities make meaningful connections and participate in the home, classroom and the community. The company's DynaVox line of speech communication devices gives a voice to the millions of people who are unable to use speech as their primary means of communication due to the effects of conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS or Lou Gehrig's Disease), stroke, traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy, Parkinson's Disease, autism and mental retardation. The Mayer-Johnson line of print-based and on-screen education products engage students in the learning process and support academic achievement. Driven by a strong entrepreneurial culture, the company develops technology-based products and offers an extensive customer support program to assist individuals as well as their families and support professionals. For more information about DynaVox Mayer-Johnson, visit www.dynavoxtech.com.

SOURCE DynaVox Mayer-Johnson

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/406b97/analysis_of_the_de) has announced the addition of the "Analysis of the Development of China Thin-Film Cells and CIGS Thin-Film Cells 2009" report to their offering.

In 2008, the global output of photovoltaic cells was 6.4GW, a year-on-year increase of 60%, maintaining a long trend of high growth, while China seems to have become the world's largest photovoltaic cells producer. The output in mainland China to occupy 30 percent of global production. Among the world top 25 PV companies in 2008, China accounted for 8 with total output of 1821MW and Taiwan accounted for 3 with the total output of 723.5MW.

In 2008, the global output of thin-film solar cells was 892MW, a year-on-year growth rate of 120% for two consecutive years, accounting for 15% of total solar cell output.

The future development trend of Photovoltaic cells is that the crystalline silicon cell will still in a dominant position in the near future in terms of the continuous improvement process of technology and the continuing decline of cost. And due to the low-cost and conversion efficiency is still have room for improvement of thin film coating battery, thus, the future market share will be have a significant growth. In terms of the market circumstance, the CIGS thin-film battery will be the fastest growth one of thin-film cell in the future.

CIGS thin-film battery has a cost advantage compared with crystalline silicon cells, CIGS cells using low-cost glass as substrate, sputtering technology is the major technology and the wastage of Cu, In, Ga, Al, Zn is very little. For the large-scale industrial production, if able to maintain relatively high efficiency of the battery, the cost of battery (per-watt) is much lower than single crystal silicon and polycrystalline silicon cells.

In terms of the scarcity of raw materials, the shortage of Indium will be the major matter for the long term development of the CIGS thin film cells. But, in fact, in a short term, the scarcity of Indium does not constitute an obstacle to the development of CIGS thin-film battery.

Indium is a rare silver-white metal, does not have an independent mineral, widely distributed in the sphalerite. China reserves approximately 13,000 tons, accounting for 2/3 of the world's reserves. In addition to China, the United States, Canada and Japan are the major producers. Presently, the majority of China's indium export to Japan and South Korea, only a small amount consumed in domestic market. In terms of the special nature and rarity of indium, since June 2007 China has started the implementation of the export quota system of Indium, in 2008, China produced a total of 215 tons of indium ingot.

Key Topics Covered:

Overview of thin-film battery industry

    --  Category of PV cells
    --  Classification and characteristics of thin-film batteries
    --  Development of global thin-film battery

Cost of thin-film battery

The raw materials of thin-film battery in China

    --  Conductive glass
    --  Conductive glass suppliers
    --  photovoltaic glass - substrate deposition and components packaging
    --  EVA film
    --  Special gas
    --  coating target

Performance of 2008

Overview of CIGS thin-film battery

    --  Cost of CIGS thin-film battery
    --  The advantages of CIGS thin-film battery
    --  Possibility of problems
    --  Future demands

For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/406b97/analysis_of_the_de

    Source: Research and Markets

OCEANSIDE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- International Stem Cell Corporation (OTCBB:ISCO), has entered into a definitive agreement for a $5 million investment commitment (the "Investment") with a biotechnology-focused fund (the "Investor") that has offices in New York and California. The Investment will be used to fund operations and working capital needs of the company and expand its scientific research. Proceeds of the investment provide a valuable addition to the company's capital structure. Together with the private capital already committed to the company and its internally generated revenue, these funds are expected to provide the capital needed by ISCO for the balance of 2009 and a significant amount of the capital expected to be needed in 2010.

The Company may draw down funds from the Investor as it finds a need, but is not obligated to do so. Funds will be drawn down through the issuance of Series E Preferred Stock (the "Preferred Stock"). The Preferred Stock will not be convertible into common stock and may be redeemed by the Company after one year. Each issue of Preferred Stock will be accompanied by the issuance of five-year warrants to purchase common stock at 100% of the closing price of the company's common stock on the day prior to the date the company gives notice of its election to draw funds. The total exercise value of warrants issued will equal 135% of the drawdown amount. Dividends on the Preferred Stock are payable in additional shares of non-convertible Preferred Stock at the rate of 10% per annum. A commitment fee of $250,000, payable in shares of common stock, was made to the Investor.

"The flexibility of this financing will add greatly to our financial strength," commented Kenneth Aldrich, CEO and Chairman of ISCO. "We are pleased that we have secured a financing source that will be available to us at the time of our own choosing over the next year."

For more news and information on International Stem Cell Corporation please visit www.IRGnews.com/coi/ISCO where you can find the CEO's video, a fact sheet on the company, investor presentations, and more.

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL STEM CELL CORPORATION (ISCO.OB):

International Stem Cell Corporation is a California biotechnology company focused on developing therapeutic and research products. ISCO's technology, Parthenogenesis, results in the creation of pluripotent human stem cell lines from unfertilized human eggs. ISCO scientists have created the first Parthenogenetic homozygous stem cell line (phSC-Hhom-4) that can be a source of therapeutic cells that will minimize immune rejection after transplantation into hundreds of millions of individuals of differing sexes, ages and racial groups. These advancements offer the potential to create the first true "Stem Cell Bank" and address ethical issues by eliminating the need to use or destroy fertilized embryos. ISCO also produces and markets specialized cells and growth media worldwide for therapeutic research through its subsidiary Lifeline Cell Technology. For more information, visit the ISCO website at: www.internationalstemcell.com.

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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS:

Statements pertaining to anticipated future financial and/or operating results, future growth in research, technology, clinical development and potential joint venture and other opportunities for the company and its subsidiary, along with other statements about the future expectations, beliefs, goals, plans, or prospects expressed by management constitute forward-looking statements. Any statements that are not historical fact (including, but not limited to statements that contain words such as "will," "believes," "plans," "anticipates," "expects," "estimates") should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, risks inherent in the development and/or commercialization of potential products, uncertainty in the results of clinical trials or regulatory approvals, need and ability to obtain future capital, application of capital resources among competing uses, and maintenance of intellectual property rights. Actual results may differ materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking statements and as such should be evaluated together with the many uncertainties that affect the company's business, particularly those mentioned in the cautionary statements found in the company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings. The company disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

Key Words: Stem Cells, Biotechnology, Parthenogenesis

    Source: International Stem Cell Corporation

NEW YORK, July 6 /PRNewswire/ -- Looking for plans this summer that are both exclusive and affordable at the same time? OpenSkies is offering an exciting promotion that fits the bill. The unique all business airline operating nonstop flights between New York (Kennedy and Newark) and Paris (Orly), and between New York (Kennedy) and Amsterdam (Schiphol), announced July 1st, special summer fares to travel on both of its spectacular routes for the month of July! These unbeatable fares offer travelers the opportunity to enjoy the unparalleled business class experience provided by OpenSkies at a low price.

Beginning July 1st through July 31st, travelers can take advantage of the following offers:

    --  Fly from New York City to Amsterdam in Biz Seat for only $565* one way
        and only $1039* one way in the Biz Bed Cabin.

    --  Fly from New York City to Paris for only $628* one way in the Biz seat
        cabin and only $1139* one way in the Biz Bed cabin.

The Biz Seat fares are open for travel any time, while the Biz Bed fares are valid for travel now through September 11, 2009.

Dale Moss, Managing Director of OpenSkies said, "We are pleased to be able to offer this exciting promotion, and our customers have the choice of both our cabins. It is another reflection of our commitment to providing our customers with business class travel at an affordable price. Over 92,000 passengers have flown OpenSkies in the past year, and we welcome all to experience our airline's unsurpassed service for their travel to Paris or Amsterdam this summer and beyond."

OpenSkies' two cabins offer a unique business class experience that combines comfort with quality, and personalized service with competitive rates:

    --  Biz Bed cabin has up to 12 seats, ensuring an intimate yet roomy feel
        for optimal comfort
    --  Biz Bed offers six-foot long electronically-powered seats that recline
        to 180 degrees and transform into completely lie-flat beds
    --  Biz Seat spacious cabin, holds up to 72 seats in a 2x2 configuration

    --  Biz Seat offers seats that recline 140 degrees with a 52" seat
        pitch

Both cabins offer travelers the following amenities on every flight:

    --  Exceptional plated dining service with a selection of wine and champagne
    --  Individual Archos video players loaded with more than 50 hours of
        entertainment and equipped with top of the range Sennheiser audio
        headphones
    --  Simplified access to the gate through "fast-track" check-in
    --  Exclusive Concierge service available around the clock to assist with
        reservations, as well as hotel, car rental, restaurants, theater,
        florists and child care

    --  Advantage of joining the "British Airways Executive Club"
        customer-loyalty program allowing customers to accumulate miles on both
        OpenSkies and British Airways and to benefit from its many advantages
        beyond mileage. Interested consumers can register at
        www.ba.com/Executiveclub to obtain a card number.

About OpenSkies

OpenSkies is a unique all business airline that offers guests superior service, competitive fares and exceptional value. OpenSkies flies from Paris-Orly to New York-JFK and Newark and from Amsterdam-Schiphol to New York-JFK. OpenSkies offers guests innovative features onboard, including lie-flat beds, personal entertainment units with 50+ hours of programming and fresh, and a healthy meal service. A subsidiary of British Airways, OpenSkies is the first airline created as a result of the E.U. / U.S. Open Skies Agreement, which allows airlines to fly between any U.S. and E.U. destination. For more information: www.flyopenskies.com or 1 866-581-3596.

Terms and Conditions:

* Airfares displayed above are one way based on round trip purchase, non-refundable and subject to availability. Fare doesn't include government fees and taxes of up to $164 and a $2.50 September 11th Security fee. OpenSkies reserves the right to rescind this offer at any time. Other significant restrictions may apply. See www.flyopenskies.com for full details.

SOURCE OpenSkies

DALLAS, TX -- (MARKET WIRE) -- 07/06/09 -- Artfest International, Inc. (OTCBB: ARTI) is pleased to announce that the Company has completed the acquisition of Charity Sports Distribution, Inc. (CSD) for $3,750,000 to be paid in restricted shares of Artfest International's common stock valued at $.25 per share. Artfest International will also assume $500,000 in debt as part of the transaction. The acquisition of CSD was one of the major factors in Artfest International receiving a $5 Million equity line of credit from Delaney Capital, LLC earlier this month.

CSD is in the gift, novelty, collectable and memorabilia business and operates souvenir shops and game day auctions at major stadiums and college sport venues. CSD is headquartered in Carrollton, TX. CSD currently has over 20 employees and had annual sales of over $3.3 million in 2008. Through this acquisition, Artfest will also receive approximately $1.2 million in sport memorabilia, which will be available for sale on the Company's Web site www.artfestinternational.com, which is just one of the avenues in which CSD will be able to increase its sales figures in 2009.

"The acquisition of Charity Sports Distribution will have a positive impact on Artfest's revenues. Through CSD's agreements with the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers, the Dallas Stars, the Dallas Mavericks, as well as 27 College Teams, we will now have direct access to a large and diverse portfolio of sports memorabilia," stated Edward Vakser, CEO of Artfest International, Inc. "This is a first of many targeted memorabilia, framing and printing companies that Artfest is planning to acquire in what is considered to be a 100,000,000,000 plus market space. We are focused to 'vertically' integrate framing, printing art and memorabilia companies to support our business plan and foster our growth."

Companies wishing to be considered for mergers and acquisitions by Artfest should contact Artfest M&A Team at: 866-534-2847. Or Evakser@artfestinternational.com

Artfest recently held a National Teleconference to update investors. To listen to a replay of Artfest International's Teleconference please visit the Company's Website: www.artfestinternational.com.

"Artfest will be implementing RFID technology for all the art and memorabilia products. Having our own 'in-house' framing and manufacturing capabilities will enable us to provide further security and authentication to the consumer," stated Angie Tassan, Artfest CMO.

About Artfest International, Inc.

Artfest International, Inc. is a publicly traded Company under the stock symbol "ARTI." Artfest brings together artists, investors, decorators, designers, private collectors and art galleries. Artfest International's corporate site is www.artfestinternational.com. Artfest's subsidiaries are Art Channel, Inc. www.artchannel.tv, and Art Channel Galleries, Inc. www.ArtChannelGalleries.com, offering the most exciting product and rewards program in the history of direct sales marketing.

Safe Harbor Statement -- This release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 27E of the Securities Act of 1934. Statements contained in this release that are not historical facts may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain. Actual performance and results may differ materially from that projected or suggested herein due to certain risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, ability to obtain financing and regulatory and shareholder approvals for anticipated actions. Such statements are based on management's current expectations and are subject to certain factors, risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, events and performance to differ materially from those referred to or implied by such statements. In addition, actual or future results may differ materially from those anticipated depending on a variety of factors, including continued maintenance of favorable license arrangements, success of market research identifying new product opportunities, successful introduction of new products, continued product innovation, sales and earnings growth, ability to attract and retain key personnel, and general economic conditions affecting consumer spending. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. ARTI does not intend to update any of the forward-looking statements after the date of this release to conform these statements to actual results or to changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law.

Contact:
Investor Relations
Big Apple Consulting USA
1-407-389-5900