Serving Manitou Springs, Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Cañon City,
Denver, the State of Colorado and the Southwest

Graphic Courtesy Of: www.3dflags.com

www.centennialstatenews.com

Summer Edition 2008

Photo: Airbus

July 27, 2008 07:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Rubicon Unit Formed to Explore the Baxter Shale,
First Well Spuds in July

DENVER & PERTH, Australia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--As part of the joint venture arrangement with Devon Energy Corporation, Samson has joined the Rubicon Unit which is in the process of being formed in the southern part of the Green River Basin. The unit area comprises around 40,000 acres of which Samson currently holds 6,400 acres. This unit allows for the underlying leases to be held outside the applicable lease terms but are held so long as the terms of the unit agreement with the Bureau of Land Management are being met which normally includes a continuous drilling program.

The formation of the Rubicon Unit affects no change to the previous commercial arrangement entered into between Devon and Samson, which in summary allows Devon to earn up to 50% in the Samson leases whilst Samson retains the balance.

To maintain the Rubicon Unit a drilling program has to commence within a specified time frame and to this end Devon has proposed a well to be drilled in Section 28 which is immediately adjacent to the Samson leases. This well in which Samson has no equity (or cost) is proposed to be drilled to a depth of 16,000 feet and will evaluate the Baxter Shale. This well could be used to calibrate any 3D seismic survey which may be acquired and which could guide the exploitation effort through the use of future wells. It is expected that the Devon Rubicon 16-28-1 well will commence drilling during July 2008.

A 3D seismic survey has been proposed and awaits the necessary regulatory approvals.

As previously reported the Exploration Agreement with Devon covers Samson’s 6,400 acre holding in the western flank of the Vermillion Basin in Sweetwater County, Wyoming. This area contains a 3,500 foot section of Baxter Shale which was drilled in the 1970’s and recovered a significant flow of gas from an unstimulated Baxter Shale. Since that time there has been significant development of the Baxter Shale in the Vermillion region 40 miles east of Samson’s acreage, where our competitors have expended significant funds that have resulted in flows of up to 9 mmcfpd from the Baxter Shale.

The Exploration Agreement envisages that a 3D seismic grid will be acquired in an effort to define an exploratory program. Devon would operate the seismic acquisition and any subsequent exploratory program. Samson will hold a 50% interest in the leasehold block unless Samson permits a third party to complete the second farm-in well in the Greens Canyon area and earn an 18% equity stake in Samson’s leases. In that circumstance, Samson would retain a 32% equity interest in these leases.

Samson’s Ordinary Shares are traded on the Australian Securities Exchange under the symbol "SSN". Samson's American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) are traded on the American Stock Exchange under the symbol "SSN", and, each ADR represents 20 fully paid Ordinary Shares of Samson.

For and on behalf of the board of

SAMSON OIL & GAS LIMITED

TERRY BARR

Managing Director

Statements made in the presentation that is available on Samson’s website that are not historical facts may be forward looking statements, including but not limited to statements using words like “may”, “believe”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “should” or “will.”

Actual results may differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statement. There are a number of important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated or estimated by any forward looking information, including changes in the price of oil and natural gas and uncertainties inherent in estimating the timing and results of exploration activities and in the accuracy of predictions made on the basis of seismic data.

A description of the risks and uncertainties that are generally attendant to Samson and its industry, as well as other factors that could affect Samson’s financial results, are included in the Company's registration statement and report to the Securities and Exchange Commission on Form 20-F, as amended, a copy of which is available at www.sec.gov/edgar/searchedgar/webusers.htm.

July 26, 2008 12:30 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Silver State Bancorp Announces Director Resignation

HENDERSON, Nev.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Silver State Bancorp (NASDAQ:SSBX), the holding company for Silver State Bank, announced today that Andrew K. McCain submitted his resignation today as a director on the Boards of Directors of Silver State Bancorp and Silver State Bank, citing personal reasons.

Mr. McCain previously served as a director of Choice Bank in Scottsdale, Arizona from 2006 to April 1, 2008 when Choice Bank merged into Silver State Bank. Mr. McCain had been appointed to the Boards of the Company and Silver State Bank in February, 2008 and had served on the Audit Committee. Mr. McCain has recently been appointed Chairman of the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce, effective this month.

A spokesperson for the Company stated that the Company wishes him the very best in all his present and future endeavors.

About Silver State Bancorp

Silver State Bancorp, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Silver State Bank, currently operates thirteen full service branches in southern Nevada and four full service branches in the Phoenix/Scottsdale market area. Silver State Bank also operates loan production offices located in Nevada, California, Washington, Oregon, Utah, Colorado and Florida. Deposit accounts at Silver State Bank are FDIC insured to the maximum allowed by law. Please visit www.silverstatebancorp.com for more information.

July 26, 2008 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Integra Telecom Issues Statement Supporting FCC Ruling to Deny Qwest Petition for Forbearance

PORTLAND, Ore.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Integra Telecom Inc., a facilities-based, integrated communications carrier for business, released the following statement regarding the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) decision to deny Qwest Corporation’s petition for forbearance:

“Integra Telecom applauds the FCC’s decision to deny Qwest Corporation’s petition for forbearance,” said Dudley Slater, CEO of Integra Telecom Inc. “The commission rightly concluded that the incumbent’s petition was unwarranted, unproven, and would harm consumers and the competitive marketplace.”

John Nee, vice president of corporate communications for Integra Telecom and Integra’s assistant general counsel, Russ Merbeth, are available for comment on the FCC’s ruling.

About Integra Telecom

Integra Telecom Inc. provides voice, data and Internet communications to thousands of business and carrier customers in 11 Western states, including: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, North Dakota, Oregon, Utah and Washington. The company owns and operates a best-in-class fiber-optic network comprising metropolitan access networks, a nationally acclaimed tier one Internet and data network, and a 4,700-mile high-speed long haul network. The company has earned some of the highest customer loyalty and customer satisfaction ratings in the telecommunications industry. Primary equity investors in the company include Warburg Pincus, Banc of America Capital Investors and Boston Ventures. Integra Telecom, Electric Lightwave, Eschelon Telecom, Unicom and OneEighty Communications are registered trademarks of Integra Telecom Inc. For more information, visit www.integratelecom.com.

July 25, 2008 10:05 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Mutual of Omaha Bank to Acquire Deposits of Failed First National Bank

FDIC Closes First National Bank of Nevada and First Heritage Bank

OMAHA, Neb.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Mutual of Omaha Bank has agreed to acquire from the FDIC the deposits of the failed Reno, Nev.,-based First National Bank of Nevada and its affiliate, First Heritage Bank of Newport Beach, Calif., the company announced.

The transaction includes all deposits, both insured and uninsured. All former branches of First National Bank of Nevada (also operating as First National Bank of Arizona) and First Heritage Bank will open Monday as branches of Mutual of Omaha Bank, and all depositors will automatically become depositors of Mutual of Omaha Bank, said Jeff Schmid, chairman and CEO of Mutual of Omaha Bank.

Federal regulators on Friday declared First National Bank of Nevada and its affiliates insolvent and the FDIC was named receiver. The FDIC Board of Directors approved the assumption of more than $3 billion in deposits by Mutual of Omaha Bank. FDIC will retain most of First National’s loan portfolio.

“We would first like to reassure all customers of First National Bank of Nevada and First Heritage Bank that all their deposits are safe and accessible.” Schmid said. “Their deposits will automatically transition to Mutual of Omaha Bank and we will be open for business on Monday morning.”

First National Bank of Nevada operated 15 branches in Arizona and 10 branches in Nevada. First Heritage Bank, which specializes in commercial banking, operated three locations in the Los Angeles area. As of Monday, all became branches of Mutual of Omaha Bank. The acquisition also includes two First National operations: the Wealth Management Division and Community Association Banc, which serves neighborhood and condominium homeowners associations.

“We look forward to welcoming former First National and First Heritage customers to Mutual of Omaha bank and earning their business,” Schmid said. “We are committed to being a community bank – locally managed with a strong focus on serving on serving the individuals, families and businesses that are our neighbors.”

The acquisition of these accounts aligns with Mutual of Omaha Bank’s growth strategy of expanding into fast-growing markets where Mutual of Omaha has a strong brand presence and base of insurance customers, Schmid said.

Mutual of Omaha Bank currently has more than $750 in assets and operates 14 retail branches in Nebraska and Colorado with commercial lending offices in Dallas and Des Moines, Iowa. It is a subsidiary of Mutual of Omaha, a 99-year-old insurance and financial services company with more than $19 billion in total assets and very high ratings from the major ratings agencies.

Headline News

Arsine Aboolian

Photo: Business Wire

July 25, 2008 08:36 PM Eastern Daylight Time

E.T. Horn Adds Two Account Service Specialists

Both industry veterans will represent the company’s Essential Elements Group

LA MIRADA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Due to increased demand and need for technical service to support its growing customer base, the E.T. Horn Company, a leading national distributor, supplier, marketer, and manufacturer of specialty chemicals and ingredients, today announced that Ilbra Khenansho and Arsine Aboolian have joined the firm as Account Managers. Ms. Aboolian will handle customers in California, Utah, Colorado, and Montana, while Ms. Khenansho will be assigned to California, New Mexico, Nevada and Wyoming.

According to Christina Fiduccia, Vice President of E.T. Horn’s Essential Elements Group, the new hires are expected to strengthen a sales team that’s long been recognized for outstanding customer service and industry knowledge.

“Both ladies have exemplary bench formulating experience along with proven sales experience within our regional territory,” Fiduccia said. “With the addition of these two fine individuals, it demonstrates to the marketplace that E.T. Horn is committed to deliver top-shelf technical sales, with formulation knowledge, to our existing accounts and new prospects.”

Ms. Khenansho was recently employed at Lipo Chemicals where she was a West Coast account manager for two years. Prior to that, she was a research and development chemist at Levlad, Inc. and at Stanford Personal Care Manufacturing. She earned a bachelor's degree in chemistry from Bouali Sina University in Hamedan, Iran. In her spare time away from the office, the southern California resident enjoys outdoor activities, good times with friends and family, and is also active in trade associations such as Beauty Industry West and is currently the Treasurer-Elect with the local chapter of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists.

Ms. Aboolian brings a wealth of skills and knowledge to the E.T. Horn team. Prior to her hiring, she spent two years each with Grant Industries and International Sourcing, Inc. in a technical sales capacity. She has also owned her own business as an industry consultant for a number of years throughout her career. Ms. Aboolian earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Cal State Northridge, a certificate in Cosmetic Chemistry from UCLA, and is currently working towards an MBA. She is also an active participant with trade industry groups such as Beauty Industry West and the Society of Cosmetic Chemists.

About The E.T. Horn Company -

The E.T. Horn Company is one of the nation’s largest distributors, marketers and manufacturers of raw materials, chemicals and ingredients for use in coatings, building materials, elastomers, lubrication, nutrition, cosmetics, personal care, and food products. Founded in 1961, the company has focused on providing formulation solutions, superior customer service and technical expertise in distributing products from only the finest manufacturers. For additional information contact the company at 800-442-HORN or visit www.ethorn.com.

Headline News

Ilbra Khenansho

Photo: Business Wire

July 25, 2008 04:01 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Google to Present at the 10th Annual Pacific Crest Technology Leadership Forum

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Google Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG) announced today that David Girouard, President, Google Enterprise, will participate in a question-and-answer session at the Pacific Crest Technology Leadership Forum in Vail. The session is scheduled for 3:15 p.m. Eastern Time / 12:15 p.m. Pacific Time on Tuesday, August 5, 2008.

To access the live audio webcast of the presentation, please visit www.investor.google.com/webcast.html.

About Google Inc.

Google's innovative search technologies connect millions of people around the world with information every day. Founded in 1998 by Stanford Ph.D. students Larry Page and Sergey Brin, Google today is a top Web property in all major global markets. Google's targeted advertising program provides businesses of all sizes with measurable results, while enhancing the overall Web experience for users. Google is headquartered in Silicon Valley with offices throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia. For more information, visit www.google.com.

Google is a trademark of Google Inc. All other company and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated.

July 25, 2008 02:11 PM Eastern Daylight Time

John G. Balch Joins Hill International as Vice President

MARLTON, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hill International (NYSE:HIL), the global leader in managing construction risk, announced today that John G. Balch, CPCM has joined Hill as a Vice President with the company’s Construction Claims Group. In this role, Balch will be in charge of Hill’s new Colorado Springs, Colorado office.

Balch is a Certified Professional Contracts Manager with over 25 years of experience in contract administration, contract disputes, arbitration proceedings and settlements, alternative dispute resolution (ADR), mini-trials, expert witness testimony, negotiations, and business development and strategy. Before joining Hill, he was the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Excell Consulting International, Inc., a construction claims and dispute resolution firm. Earlier in his career, he served as a Warranted Contracting Officer for the United States Air Force. Balch earned his B.S. degree at the Virginia Military Institute and his Masters degree in Procurement/Management from Webster College. He is a Professional Member of the American Arbitration Association and the National Contract Management Association and he is an Associate Member of the American Bar Association.

“John has experience founding, building and leading a successful and prestigious construction consulting firm,” said Frederic Z. Samelian, PMP, President of Hill’s Construction Claims Group. “He will be a tremendous asset to our western U.S. consulting operations,” Samelian added.

Hill International has 2,000 employees in 70 offices worldwide providing program management, project management, construction management and construction claims services. Engineering News-Record magazine recently ranked Hill as the 11th largest construction management firm in the United States. For more information on Hill, please visit our website at www.hillintl.com.

This press release includes certain statements that fall within the definition of “forward-looking statements” under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, overall economic and market conditions, competitors’ and clients’ actions, and other conditions, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated, including those risks identified in Hill’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Accordingly, such statements should be considered in light of these risks. Any prediction by Hill is only a statement of management’s belief at the time the prediction is made. There can be no assurance that any prediction once made will continue thereafter to reflect management’s belief, and Hill does not undertake to update publicly its predictions, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

July 25, 2008 02:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Canon U.S.A. Unveils the Canon CXDI-60G Portable Digital Radiography System at AHRA 2008

Canon DR Systems Provide Speed, Efficiency and Streamlined Workflow to Meet Diverse Needs, Including Support for Off-Site Diagnosis and Emergency Care

AHRA 2008 Annual Meeting and Exposition

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in imaging technologies, will shine the spotlight on its newest digital radiography (DR) system – the Canon CXDI-60G Portable Flat Panel Detector – this weekend, at the American Healthcare Radiology Administrators (AHRA) 2008 Annual Meeting and Exposition, taking place at the Colorado Convention Center, July 27th – 30th (booth # 1103).

The Canon CXDI-60G Portable Flat Panel Detector succeeds the popular CXDI-31, the world’s first portable cassette-type DR Portable Digital Radiography System introduced in September 2001. Offering a more ergonomic and portable form than its predecessor, the CXDI-60G Portable Digital Radiography System realizes a new level of freedom and immediacy to diagnosis in the X-ray room and beyond. Thin, lightweight, and robust – the CXDI-60G Portable Digital Radiography System offers true portability and flexibility in high quality DR. Added benefits include low power consumption and a detachable sensor cable for convenient maintenance and installation. The model’s detachable sensor cable, which provides power to the unit and transfers data, enables easy room-to-room installation (with an optional power box and PC) from multiple locations such as the patient’s bedside or wheelchair, trauma or ICU and fits right into most neo-natal incubator trays.

"At AHRA 2008 visitors to the Canon booth will experience true DR innovation and see the Canon CXDI-60G Ultra-Portable DR System for the first time," said Tsuneo Imai, senior director and general manager, Medical Systems Division, Canon U.S.A., Inc. "Since introducing its first indirect X-ray projection camera in Japan in 1940, Canon has been at the forefront of medical imaging. The introduction of the Canon CXDI-60G demonstrates our commitment to advancing the field."

Weighing just 5.9 pounds and measuring less than an inch thick, the lightweight and slim-body CXDI-60G Portable Digital Radiography System offers an effective imaging area of 9 x 11 inches, accommodating a diverse range of applications, including the X-raying of hands, elbows, feet and knees. Enabling X-ray images to be confirmed on an optional preview monitor approximately three seconds after exposure, the system contributes to timely and effective patient care.

Additionally, Canon’s proprietary control software, which supports enhanced image-processing performance, contributes to increased diagnostic accuracy by making possible X-ray images optimized for the region being examined. Images can be transmitted almost immediately over the hospital network to other workstations, printers, and archived for fast and easy data sharing. Canon DR technology provides speed, efficiency, and a streamlined workflow to meet diverse needs, including support for off-site diagnosis and emergency care.

Other Canon DR systems and solutions on display at AHRA 2008 will include:


Portable DR Systems - The Canon CXDI-50G Portable DR system offers a thin, light-weight design and has a large imaging area of 14 X 17 inches. When combined with a compatible mobile unit, the CXDI-50G can bring digital radiography directly to the patient's bedside. Designed for diverse applications, the compact design is a practical solution for a wide range of room applications that can be difficult to perform with fixed devices. The CXDI-50G will be shown integrated with the RadPro 4kW Portable Digital X-Ray System, making it appropriate for bedside or post-operative procedures.

Canon DR Image Viewer Software – Canon helps to improve workflow efficiency of digital radiography systems with an intuitive, user-friendly interface. Canon DR images can be manipulated without compromising throughput, thus assisting the health care provider’s efficiency in delivering patient care. This economical and fully scalable solution provides the user with pixel-to-pixel display of individual or multiple high-resolution Canon DR images. The Canon DR Image Viewer software, which features pan, zoom and measurement tools such as cobb angles, can save images to a CD and send images to a Windows-based desktop printer or a DICOM* Standard-compliant network device. In addition, its optional modules, including stitching and implant matching for surgical templating applications, make it ideal for scoliosis and long-leg imaging, as well as for pre-surgical planning for the orthopedic surgeon. Also, included in the new version of DR Image Viewer software is DR Image Viewer Light, which offers the ability to copy an image to a CD/DVD with or without a subset of the viewing and manipulating tools.

In addition to its medical products and solutions, Canon will have other Canon-branded products, including the PIXMA Pro9500 photo printer, the imagePROGRAF iPF500 large format printer, and the REALiS SX7 projector, on display in its booth at AHRA 2008. The PIXMA Pro9500 printer is a 10-color ink printer that produces a wide color gamut to achieve vivid coloration and high glossiness, and prints up to 13 X 19 inches on plain paper and specialty media. The Canon imagePROGRAF iPF500 17-inch printer features the Company’s five-color dye-pigment reactive ink system, and the Canon L-COA image processor and FINE print head technology for exceptional image quality and fast output. The iPF500 can be used by medical facilities that print long images such as long-leg or other stitched images. The Canon flagship REALiS SX7 projector with the brilliance and sharpness of LCOS technology, 4,000 ANSI lumens brightness and 1.7X Ultra-Wide Powered Zoom Lens with Autofocus, delivers exceptional image quality and color reproduction.

Optical and Imaging Heritage of Canon

Canon’s extensive optical imaging heritage has allowed the company to make a significant mark in the medical imaging market, particularly when it comes to high-quality, affordable DR solutions and innovations. With its solid heritage and expertise as a foundation, Canon continues to develop and deliver medical imaging solutions that will support its status as an industry innovator for years to come.

Since 1997, Canon Medical Systems has introduced nine generations of flat panel sensors (the Canon CXDI-11/22, Canon CXDI-31, Canon CXDI-40G, Canon CXDI-50G, Canon CXDI-40C, Canon CXDI-40EG, the Canon CXDI-50C, the Canon CXDI-40EC flat panel sensors and the Canon CXDI-60G), offering a full range of DR system solutions for various applications.

Canon U.S.A. has installed more than 2,500 DR sensor panels throughout Canada, the United States and Latin America, part of more than 6,900 DR systems that have been installed worldwide by the Canon family of companies.

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer, business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions. Its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), a top patent holder of technology, ranked third overall in the U.S. in 2007†, with global revenues of $39.3 billion, is listed as one of Fortune's Most Admired Companies in America and is on the 2007 BusinessWeek list of "Top 100 Brands." To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company's RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/pressroom.

†IFI Patent Intelligence Press Release, January 2008

All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

* Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine

July 25, 2008 12:48 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Research and Markets: Cholla Petroleum, Inc. Detailed Analysis and Forecasts of Oil & Gas Exploration and Production Assets Now Available

DUBLIN, Ireland--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Research and Markets

http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/dacc67/cholla_petroleum

...has announced the addition of the "Cholla Petroleum, Inc. Detailed Analysis and Forecasts of Oil & Gas Exploration and Production Assets" company profile to their offering.

Cholla Petroleum, Inc. Detailed Analysis and Forecasts of Oil & Gas Exploration and Production Assets

Summary

This report is an essential source for data and information on Cholla Petroleum, Inc.'s exploration and production assets. It analyses the exploration and production operations of Cholla Petroleum, Inc. across the world and provides country level aggregated information. It also provides a detailed insight into the Cholla Petroleum, Inc.’s exploration blocks and oil and gas fields. The report also examines Cholla Petroleum, Inc.’s key business structure and operations, history and products, and provides summary analysis of its key revenue lines and strategy.

Key Topics Covered:

1 Content

1.1 List of Tables 10

1.2 List of Figures 16

2 Company Overview 17

2.1 Key Information 17

2.2 Industry Outlook - Production & Exploration 17

3 Cholla Petroleum, Inc., Crude Oil And Natural Gas Forecasts, 2000-2012 18

3.1 Cholla Petroleum, Inc., Gross Revenue Forecasts, By Fields 18

3.2 Cholla Petroleum, Inc., Total Government Take Forecasts, By Fields 19

3.3 Cholla Petroleum, Inc., Contractor Take Forecasts, By Fields 20

4 Cholla Petroleum, Inc., Exploration and Production Summary 21

4.1 Cholla Petroleum, Inc., Crude Oil Production, by Country 21

4.2 Cholla Petroleum, Inc., Natural Gas Production, by Country 22

5 Cholla Petroleum, Inc., Crude Oil and Natural Gas Production By Fields 23

5.1 Cholla Petroleum, Inc., Crude Oil Production 23

5.1.1 Cholla Petroleum, Inc., Crude Oil Production in Texas, By Fields 23

5.1.2 Cholla Petroleum, Inc., Crude Oil Production in Kansas, By Fields 28

5.2 Cholla Petroleum, Inc., Natural Gas Production 29

5.2.1 Cholla Petroleum, Inc., Natural Gas Production in Texas, By Fields 29

5.2.2 Cholla Petroleum, Inc., Natural Gas Production in Colorado, By Fields 34

5.2.3 Cholla Petroleum, Inc., Natural Gas Production in Oklahoma, By Fields 34

6 Cholla Petroleum, Inc.’s Exploration Blocks And Field Details 36

7 Major Products and Services 101

7.1 Overview 101

8 Competitors 102

9 Key Employees 103

10 Locations And Subsidiaries 104

10.1 Head Office 104

11 Appendix 105

11.1 What is this Report About? 105

11.2 Methodology 105

11.2.1 Coverage 106

11.2.2 Secondary Research 107

11.2.3 Primary Research 107

11.2.4 E&P Forecasts 107

11.2.5 Reserves 108

11.2.6 Production 108

11.2.7 Capital and Operating Expenditure 108

11.2.8 Fiscal Regime 109

11.2.9 Key Economic Assumptions 109

11.2.10 Midstream Forecasts 110

11.2.11 Expert Panel Validation 110

11.3 Contact Us 111

11.4 About us 111

11.5 Disclaimer 111

1.1 List of Table

1.2 List of Figures

Companies Mentioned:

The following companies are the major competitors of Cholla Petroleum, Inc.:

Newfield Exploration Company

Noble Energy, Inc.

Panhandle Oil and Gas Inc.

Triton Ep LLC

For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/dacc67/cholla_petroleum

Source: Global Markets Direct

July 25, 2008 12:20 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Commerce Bancshares, Inc. Declares Dividend

KANSAS CITY, Mo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Commerce Bancshares, Inc. (NASDAQ: CBSH) announced that its Board of Directors has approved a regular quarterly dividend of $0.25 per share on the company's common stock payable September 26, 2008, to stockholders of record at the close of business on September 12, 2008.

About Commerce Bancshares, Inc.

Commerce Bancshares Inc. (NASDAQ: CBSH) is a $17.0 billion regional bank holding company. For more than 140 years, Commerce has been meeting the financial services needs of individuals and businesses. Commerce provides a diversified line of financial services, including business and personal banking, wealth management and estate planning and investments through its affiliated companies. Commerce operates in the Midwest, primarily in Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, Oklahoma and Colorado with more than 360 locations and also has operating subsidiaries involved in mortgage banking, credit related insurance, venture capital and real estate activities.

July 25, 2008 11:29 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Colorado Technical University Joins the Ranks of Select Institutions Offering Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Project Management Accredited by the Project Management Institute’s Global Accreditation Center for Project Management

CTU becomes one of fewer than 20 institutions throughout the world accredited by PMI® GAC to offer university degrees in project management


COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Colorado Technical University Online recently became one of fewer than 20 institutions in the world that offer university-level programs in project management fully accredited by the Project Management Institute (PMI) Global Accreditation Center for Project Management (GAC), the world’s leading association for project management professionals. The not-for-profit PMI has more than 270,000 members around the world, providing global leadership and developing standards of practice for PM professionals.

After a rigorous period of evaluation, PMI's Global Accreditation Center for Project Management (PMI-GAC), whose stated mission is to serve "two fundamental purposes – to ensure the quality of academic degree programs in project management and to assist faculty and universities in the improvement of degree programs," accredited three CTU Online project management programs. Having their bachelor’s and master’s degree programs recognized by the world's most respected body in the PM profession, means that CTU has joined the ranks of only a handful of institutions throughout the world that are recognized by the PMI-GAC as fully meeting their standards for the profession. The newly accredited degree programs include:


BS in Business Administration with a concentration in Project Management (BSBA-PM)

MS in Management with a concentration in Project Management (MSM-PM)

MS in Management with a concentration in Technology Management (MSM-ITM)

Project management practitioners are utilized in a wide variety of industries. Commonly found in the engineering and construction management industries where PM professionals strive to keep multi-billion dollar mega projects with dozens, or even hundreds, of subcontractors and vendors on time and on budget, project managers are utilized on projects of all sizes, in a wide variety of industries. Information technology is a perfect example. Today’s IT projects can be huge in scale and require professional project management expertise to keep them on track and within budget. Whatever the industry or the size of the project, though, the goal of PM professionals is to keep all the "spinning plates" in the air, bringing each one down at exactly the right moment. Without crashing, of course.

CTU’s programs, delivered via the Web and accessed through a user-friendly “Virtual Campus,” have been found by the PMI-GAC to be relevant to project management and consistent with the knowledge and process areas described in the PMI’s A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide – Third Edition). Individuals studying in the CTU programs will, while earning their degrees, simultaneously earn highly sought-after academic certificates.

Dr. Wallace Pond, chancellor of CTU Online, stated "this newly-conferred honor for our programs in project management places CTU in good company. CTU, and only a few other universities in the world with programs accredited by the PMI – Boston University, the University of Maryland, and the University of Québec – to name three, are the only institutions where one can study and earn a degree recognized as superior, not only by professional peers, but also by the industry's most respected professional association. CTU Online's programs have been shown to meet the very highest professional standards."

Dr. Richard Kettner-Polley, CTU’s dean of management, commented that "a lot of people worked very hard to develop these programs and insure their consistency with the Project Management Institute's standards for the profession. The accreditation is the result of working closely with the PMI-GAC site visit team and the accreditation board to demonstrate the rigor of CTU’s programs. We are more than a little bit pleased that Colorado Technical University has been recognized as offering gold-standard, world-class programs in Project Management.”

Individuals who complete a CTU program earn 1,500 hours of project management experience towards the requirements that are needed to sit for the PMI’s Project Management Professional (PMP®) Credential Examination. Currently, applicants with a bachelor’s degree (or higher) must document 4,500 hours spent leading and directing project tasks. If the applicant documents that he or she graduated from a GAC accredited program, then only 3,000 hours of work experience need to be presented to fulfill this requirement.

The PMI Educational Foundation has also established a scholarship program to assist qualified students in obtaining degrees from accredited academic institutions of higher learning. They are available for study in the project management field or in fields that are related and that regularly make use of project management professionals. For additional information on the scholarships available for study at CTU, please visit http://www.pmi.org/pmief/scholarship/scholarships.asp.

About Colorado Technical University and CTU Online

Since 1965, Colorado Technical University (CTU) – an institution of higher learning that provides career-oriented education by teaching applied industry-current programs, has given students a pathway towards personal, academic, and professional advancement. CTU offers degree-track programs at the Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral levels in a wide range of fields of study. For more information on CTU, visit www.coloradotech.edu. Through its web-based virtual campus, CTU Online, the university offers 100% online degree programs. For more information on CTU Online, please visit www.ctuonline.edu. Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

CTU is a member of the Career Education Corporation (NASDAQ:CECO) network of colleges, universities and schools.

About the Project Management Institute

With more than 270,000 members in 170 plus countries, the Project Management Institute, Inc. (PMI) is the leading membership association for the project management profession and the largest association dedicated to project management in the world. As the leading advocate for the profession, PMI is actively engaged in setting professional standards, providing a professional career path for project managers and maintaining a family of professional credentials: Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM®), Project Management Professional (PMP®), Program Management Professional (PgMP)® and PMI Scheduling Professional (PMI-SP)SM. The PMP, held by more than 267,000 project managers worldwide, is the only project management credential that is globally transferable. PMI provides members with access to the knowledge, skills, educational support and networking opportunities needed to drive business results through project management, program management and portfolio management. The Institute is highly regarded for its extensive research capabilities and its program to accredit colleges and universities and Registered Education Providers to teach PMI approved project management courses. PMI was founded in 1969. Please visit PMI.org for more information.

July 25, 2008 10:15 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Western Union Appeals Arizona Court Ruling

ENGLEWOOD, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Western Union today asked the Arizona State Supreme Court to review a recent ruling by the Arizona Court of Appeals, which overturned a trial court’s decision in Western Union’s favor concerning the ability of the state to seize money transfers sent from states other than Arizona to Sonora, Mexico.

“This case presents important constitutional issues that we believe merit continued consideration by the courts,” said David Schlapbach, Western Union General Counsel and Executive Vice President. “We support and endorse the State of Arizona’s law-enforcement goals. We are also concerned about the constitutional rights of people to undertake ordinary financial transactions without unreasonable government interference. We hope that the Arizona Supreme Court will give these issues the attention they deserve,”

BACKGROUND – The case dates back to September 21, 2006, when the Arizona Attorney General issued a warrant seeking to seize all Western Union wire transfers over $500 sent from 28 states to locations in Sonora, Mexico. Western Union obtained a stay of this warrant in Arizona State Court. After a hearing and trial, the trial court ruled in January 2007 that the seizures were invalid and enjoined the Attorney General from continuing such seizures. In July 2008, the Court of Appeals overruled the trial court. Today, Western Union asked the Arizona Supreme Court to review the matter and uphold the initial trial court decision.

About Western Union

The Western Union Company (NYSE: WU) is a leader in global money transfer services. Together with its affiliates, Orlandi Valuta and Vigo, Western Union provides consumers with fast, reliable and convenient ways to send and receive money around the world, as well as send payments and purchase money orders. It operates through a network of more than 355,000 Agent locations in over 200 countries and territories. Famous for its pioneering telegraph services, the original Western Union dates back to 1851. For more information, visit www.westernunion.com.


Espanol:

July 25, 2008 10:15 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Western Union interpone un recurso de apelación contra fallo judicial en Arizona

ENGLEWOOD, Colo.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Western Union presentó hoy ante el Tribunal Superior de Justicia del Estado de Arizona una petición de revisión de un fallo emitido recientemente por el Tribunal de Apelaciones de Arizona, en el que se declara la anulación de un fallo a favor de Western Union en lo concerniente a la facultad del Estado de confiscar transferencias de dinero a Sonora, México, realizadas desde otros Estados.

David Schlapbach, Asesor Jurídico General y Vicepresidente de Western Union, expresó que: "Este caso presenta importantes desafíos de interpretación constitucional que, en nuestra opinión, justifican la continuación de su análisis por parte de los Tribunales. Si bien apoyamos y compartimos los objetivos de las autoridades de Arizona, también creemos que la gente tiene el derecho constitucional de efectuar transacciones financieras sin interferencia injustificada de las autoridades gubernamentales. Esperamos que el Tribunal Superior de Justicia de Arizona evalúe estos temas con la atención que merecen".

ANTECEDENTES – Este caso se remonta al 21 de septiembre de 2006, cuando el Fiscal General de Arizona emitió una orden de confiscación de todas las transferencias de dinero de Western Union por más de $500, enviadas desde 28 Estados a Sonora, México. Un Tribunal del Estado de Arizona concedió a Western Union la suspensión de dicha orden de confiscación. El caso fue a litigio y en enero de 2007 se emitió un fallo judicial invalidando estas confiscaciones y ordenando al Fiscal General la suspensión de estos procedimientos. En julio de 2008, el Tribunal de Apelaciones anuló el fallo del litigio. Western Union presentó hoy ante el Tribunal Superior de Justicia de Arizona un pedido de revisión de la apelación y la confirmación del fallo judicial inicial en este caso.

Acerca de Western Union

The Western Union Company (NYSE: WU) ocupa la vanguardia en servicios de transferencia de dinero a nivel mundial. Junto a sus compañías afiliadas Orlandi Valuta y Vigo, Western Union brinda servicios rápidos, fiables y convenientes para enviar y recibir dinero en todo el mundo, y también enviar pagos y hacer giros. Sus operaciones se sustentan en una red de más de 355000 agencias ubicadas en más de 200 países y territorios. Los orígenes de Western Union se remontan a 1851, cuando la compañía se hizo famosa por ser pionera en servicios de telégrafo. Podrá encontrarse más información al respecto en www.westernunion.com.

July 25, 2008 08:01 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Constitution Island Association Selects Olive Software to Digitize Revolutionary War and Literature Archives

Researchers Will Access Over 100,000 Pages of Historic Content Online

DENVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Constitution Island Association, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of the area surrounding West Point, has selected Olive Software to digitize its extensive archive of historic documents dating back to the Revolutionary War.

Constitution Island played a key role in American History, starting with the Revolutionary War. Olive will digitize 100,000 pages of historic material chronicling 200 years of life on Constitution Island, creating a fully indexed and searchable online archive open to the general public.

“Constitution Island played a pivotal role during the Revolutionary War. We wanted a way to preserve its rich history in a manner that makes the collection of documents accessible while maintaining their original appearance and context,” stated Richard de Koster, Executive Director of the Constitution Island Association. “Olive made it easy for us to bring our collection to life. Soon, scholars worldwide will be able to study these rare documents over the Internet.”

“The project brings a whole new dimension to rare documents from the Revolutionary War period,” commented Yuval Rachmilevitz, President and CEO of Olive Software. “Olive provides anywhere, anytime access to these unique and historic documents, allowing researchers to dig deeper into original sources and uncover new insights.”

Leading universities, libraries, and research institutions around the world, such as Penn State, Princeton University, Washington Research Library Consortium and The Brooklyn Public Library rely on Olive to preserve their historic collections, while making them fully searchable and available through a Web browser.

To view the collection, visit http://208.42.237.78/Olive/FileCabinet2/Constitution

About Constitution Island Association

The Constitution Island Association (www.constitutionisland.org) was founded in 1916. Constitution Island is part of New York State’s Revolutionary War History Trail. George Washington recognized the island, the S curve, and the high ground on the Western shore to be of strategic value to winning the Revolutionary War. In the 19th century authors Susan and Anna Warner lived and wrote over 100 books on the island.

About Olive Software

Olive Software ( www.olivesoftware.com ) is the leading provider of digital edition and digital archiving solutions for the publishing industry with more than 250 publishers and 650 titles worldwide.

July 24, 2008 05:38 PM Eastern Daylight Time

MarkWest Energy Partners Increases Quarterly Cash Distribution by 19 Percent Compared to Prior Year Quarter

DENVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--MarkWest Energy Partners, L.P. (NYSE: MWE) today announced that the Board of Directors of the General Partner of MarkWest Energy Partners, L.P., declared a cash distribution of $0.63 per common unit for the second quarter of 2008, for an implied annual rate of $2.52 per common unit. The second quarter 2008 distribution represents an increase of $0.03 per common unit compared to the first quarter 2008 distribution and an increase of $0.10 per common unit, or 19 percent, compared to the second quarter 2007 distribution.

The second quarter 2008 distribution is payable August 15, 2008, to unitholders of record on August 4, 2008. The ex-dividend date is July 31, 2008.

“The second quarter distribution increase reflects continued strong performance of our assets, a solid underlying capital structure, and confidence in our long-term growth opportunities," commented Frank Semple, President and Chief Executive Officer. “As a result of the merger with MarkWest Hydrocarbon in early 2008, all of our distributable cash flow is available for distribution to our unitholders and the elimination of a standalone parent company provides complete transparency to our balance sheet and our operations. We are very excited about our 2008 performance and future growth opportunities, and we look forward to our second quarter earnings call. During that call we will provide increased guidance for full year 2008 distributable cash flow, an expanded growth capital plan, and a continued strong coverage ratio."

MarkWest Energy Partners, L.P. (NYSE: MWE) is a growth-oriented master limited partnership engaged in the gathering, transportation, and processing of natural gas; the transportation, fractionation, marketing, and storage of natural gas liquids; and the gathering and transportation of crude oil. MarkWest has extensive natural gas gathering, processing, and transmission operations in the southwestern and Gulf Coast regions of the United States and is the largest natural gas processor in the Appalachian region. The primary business strategy of MarkWest is to provide outstanding customer service at competitive rates and to expand its assets and cash flow available for distribution through a balanced combination of organic growth projects and selective acquisitions.

This press release includes “forward-looking statements.” All statements other than statements of historical facts included or incorporated herein may constitute forward-looking statements. Actual results could vary significantly from those expressed or implied in such statements and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. The forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that affect our operations, financial performance, and other factors as discussed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Among the factors that could cause results to differ materially are those risks discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K, as amended, for the year ended December 31, 2007, as filed with the SEC. You are urged to carefully review and consider the cautionary statements and other disclosures made in those filings, specifically those under the heading “Risk Factors.” We do not undertake any duty to update any forward-looking statement except as required by law.

July 24, 2008 05:01 PM Eastern Daylight Time

DISH Network and DIRECTV Applaud House Judiciary Subcommittee Vote On State Video Tax Fairness Act

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. & EL SEGUNDO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--“DISH Network and DIRECTV applaud Chairwoman Sanchez and all the members of the House Judiciary’s Commercial and Administrative Law subcommittee who this morning overwhelmingly approved H.R. 3679, the State Video Tax Fairness Act.

“Today’s vote was a victory for all consumers, satellite and cable alike, who want to choose their video provider based on price, quality and customer service not based on which one has a lower state sales tax. The bill, sponsored by Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers (D-MI) and Rep. Chris Cannon (R-UT), allows states to tax any pay TV service so long as the tax is equal across all providers. DIRECTV and DISH Network look forward to working with a growing list of supporters to enact this bipartisan, common sense bill into law this year.”

July 24, 2008 04:37 PM Eastern Daylight Time

CCA’s ''Adult Education in Spanish'' Program Prepares Detainees for Successful Release

Graduation at Cibola County Correctional Center Brings Total Graduates From Company’s Innovative Program to More Than 2,000

MILAN, N.M.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--More than 300 undocumented immigrant offenders at Corrections Corporation of America’s (CCA) Cibola County Correctional Center recently achieved an educational milestone, joining the ranks of the more than 2,000 offenders nationwide who have earned educational certificates through the company’s innovative Adult Education in Spanish program.

On July 15, offenders at the Milan, N.M., facility participated in a graduation ceremony, which was attended by local dignitaries and representatives from Mexico’s National Institute of Adult Education (INEA).

“The graduation ceremony was a robust showing of the tenacity and tremendous commitment of our offenders,” says Eric Torres, principal of the education department at Cibola, which began offering the program in 2001. “Achieving such a milestone sets the tone for future vocational, professional and educational opportunities that these offenders will be better prepared to pursue when they reintegrate within their home communities.”

All offenders at Cibola, which is privately operated under contract with the Federal Bureau of Prisons, are illegal immigrants. The facility was the first to roll out the Adult Education in Spanish program, which is now offered at four other CCA facilities – California City Correctional Center (California City, Calif.), Eden Detention Center (Eden, Texas), McRae Correctional Facility (McRae, Ga.) and Northeast Ohio Correctional Center (Youngstown, Ohio). The program is also available at Crowley Correctional Center (Olney Springs, Colo.), Florence Correctional Center (Florence, Ariz.) and Tallahatchie County Correctional Facility (Tutwiler, Miss.), where populations are managed for the Colorado Department of Corrections and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, respectively.

Previously referred to as the Mexican GED program, this opportunity provides offenders with the Mexican educational equivalent of elementary (primaria – grades 1-6), middle (secundaria – grades 7-9) and high school (preparatoria – grades 10-12) completion. When offenders who have graduated from the program are released, they return to their country of origin with a recognized educational credential. This seamless approach has been made possible through CCA’s eight-year partnership with the INEA. Based in Mexico City, INEA collaborated closely with CCA’s Inmate Programs department to implement the program, which mirrors the one offered in Mexico.

“CCA was the first correctional institution to support and fully integrate this program. Today 36 different correctional centers – state, federal and privately operated – are working with INEA,” says Patricia Ramos Mendez, from INEA. “More than 6,000 inmates participate, and almost half of them are hosted in CCA facilities. Many graduates have said that they rediscovered their self-esteem by participating in this program and also found their re-entry into society less problematic than anticipated.”

“We know that educational attainment can improve outcomes for offenders upon release,” adds Dennis Bradby, CCA’s vice president of Inmate Programs. “This positive correlation is a universal one – true not only for American citizens who are incarcerated, but also for those from other countries in similar circumstances. Educational opportunities are an equalizer, promoting increased marketability in the work force and strengthened self-esteem for offenders, who hopefully may return to their communities as rehabilitated, restored citizens.”

A range of vocational programs designed to train offenders in many trades, such as masonry and horticulture, are also offered at Cibola and other CCA facilities to help them better navigate the transition to their home communities.

“The Adult Education in Spanish program is a prime example of CCA’s continued commitment to offer vocational and academic programs as part of a rehabilitative model intended to address offenders’ varied and unique needs,” says Bradby. “As part of our vision to be the best full-service adult corrections system in the country, we stand by our commitment to provide enriching and relevant opportunities to offenders in our care.”

To learn more about CCA programming, please visit:

http://www.correctionscorp.com/facility-operations/facility-operations/inmate-programs/

About CCA

CCA is the founder and industry leader of the private corrections management industry, representing the nation’s fourth-largest corrections system, behind the federal government and two states. CCA currently operates 65 facilities, including 42 that are company-owned, with a total design capacity exceeding 80,000 beds in 19 states and the District of Columbia, with more than 17,000 employees who provide comprehensive educational, vocational, therapeutic and addictions treatment programs intended to prepare inmates for successful re-integration with society.

Headline News

The CLIF BAR 2 Mile Challenge tour teaches people how riding a bike can help prevent climate change and keep more change in their pockets as gas prices continue to rise.

Photo: Business Wire

July 24, 2008 04:18 PM Eastern Daylight Time

CLIF® BAR Encourages People to “Bike Once a Week to Fight Climate Change”

Energy Bar Born on a Bike Updates Second Annual 2 Mile Challenge™ With New “Bike Builder” Web Tool to Improve the Ride


BERKELEY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--CLIF® BAR is back on the road with its second annual 2 Mile Challenge™ tour urging people to leave their cars at home and use bikes for trips of two miles or less. The company is challenging people to “Bike Once a Week to Fight Climate Change” to demonstrate that small changes in daily habits can have a big impact on the environment.

Every mile traveled by bike instead of car prevents one pound of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere, according to the Climate Leadership Initiative at the University of Oregon. Car-generated carbon dioxide is the leading cause of global climate change. What’s more, with today’s record-high gasoline prices, bikes are a more economical transit alternative than ever before.

To make it easier for people to use a bike for short trips, CLIF BAR has created “Bike Builder,” a web tool that shows people how to “build” a bike that best meets their needs. “Bike Builder” helps riders choose, shop for and use the right bike and gear for different riding scenarios, such as carrying groceries, riding to work and selecting safety gear. “Bike Builder” is located at www.2milechallenge.com/#/bikebuilder.

On the 2 Mile Challenge website, riders can build a customized Google map to identify grocery stores, coffee shops, banks, restaurants and other destinations within a two mile radius of any location. Since launching the first 2 Mile Challenge in September 2007, nearly 20,000 people have used the mapping service, which is found at www.2milechallenge.com.

“Every single effort to fight global climate change, even one errand a week using a bike instead of a car, is a step in the right direction,” said Gary Erickson, Clif Bar & Company founder and owner whose inspiration for making a better tasting energy bar came during a one-day, 175-mile bike ride. “With this year’s 2 Mile Challenge, we’re trying to remove all the barriers – all the excuses – so people can enjoy being outside, being active and making a difference in the communities where they live, work and play.”

Pedal power benefits personal health and the health of the planet, noted Erickson, whose company sponsors cyclists of all levels and maintains a strong cycling culture among its employees. The 2 Mile Challenge tour highlights the following advantages of bike riding:

In the U.S., 40 percent of all trips are two miles or less, and 90 percent of those trips are made by car. If one of 10 car commuters switched to a bike, carbon dioxide emissions would be reduced by 25.4 million tons per year. (U.S. Dept. of Transportation)

A 150-pound person can burn nearly 300 calories in a 30-minute bike ride for local errands. ( www.HealthStatus.com )

The 2008 2 Mile Challenge tour is spending nearly 40 days this summer at music festivals, cycling events and other hotspots in the Midwest, Colorado and California. The 38-foot biodiesel tour bus is loaded with trip-mapping and Bike Builder kiosks, an inspirational cycling video and the market’s best commuter bikes, along with CLIF BAR samples to give people a delicious source of natural sustained energy for their rides.

Catch the 2008 2 Mile Challenge tour in the following locations:

DATE
LOCATION


July 23-26 10,000 Lakes Music Festival - Detroit Lakes, MN
July 30 Whole Foods/REI - Boulder, CO
August 1-August 3 Crankworx Mountain Bike Festival - Winter Park, CO
August 5 TBD - Denver, CO
August 8-10 Summer Outdoor Retailer Show - Salt Lake City, UT
August 13 Bob Bolderick Theater - Carson City, NV
August 14 TBD - Reno, NV
August 15 Concerts in the Park - Sacramento, CA
August 16 Folsom Lake Adventure Race - Folsom, CA
August 17 32nd Annual Tour of Napa - Napa, CA

Photos, videos and more details about the CLIF BAR 2 Mile Challenge can be found online at www.2milechallenge.com.

CLIF’s Commitment to People and the Planet

The 2 Mile Challenge is part of CLIF BAR’s commitment to make it easy for people to do things that are good for the body and respectful of the planet. CLIF BARs are made from all-natural and organic ingredients and fit easily into a pocket, backpack, tool bag or purse so people can eat healthy foods for natural energy any time. By using organic ingredients, CLIF BAR helps keep pesticides out of the body and protects soil, water and air quality. In 2007, the company purchased more than 23 million pounds of organic ingredients.

About Clif Bar & Company

Clif Bar & Company ( http://www.clifbar.com ) is a leading maker of all-natural and organic energy and nutrition foods and drinks, including the CLIF® BAR energy bar and LUNA®, The Whole Nutrition Bar for Women. Focused on great food and sustainability, Clif Bar & Company works diligently to reduce its footprint on the planet from the field to the final product.

Google is a trademark of Google Inc.

Headline News

A 2 Mile Challenge tour participant saddles up to create a customized Google map of popular destinations within two miles of her home, such as coffee shops, movie theaters and pet food stores.

Photo: Business Wire

July 24, 2008 04:15 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Tessera Technologies to Present at Pacific Crest Technology Leadership Forum

10th Annual Pacific Crest Technology Leadership Forum


SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Tessera Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:TSRA), a leading provider of miniaturization technologies for the electronics industry, will present at the 10th Annual Pacific Crest Technology Leadership Forum at the Sonnenalp Resort in Vail, CO on Monday, August 4, 2008 at 4:00 p.m. Mountain Time/3:00 p.m. Pacific Time. Presenting from management will be Charlie Webster, chief financial officer.

The presentation will be webcast live and available by visiting the investor relations portion of the company's web site at www.tessera.com. In addition, a replay of management's presentation will be available at the company's web site for a period of 30 days.

About Tessera

Tessera Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:TSRA) is a leading provider of miniaturization technologies for the electronics industry. The company provides a broad range of advanced packaging, interconnect, and consumer optics solutions which are widely adopted in high-growth markets including consumer, computing, communications, medical and defense electronics. Tessera's customers include the world's top semiconductor companies such as Intel, Samsung, Texas Instruments, Toshiba, Micron and Infineon. The company's stock is traded on the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol TSRA. Tessera is headquartered in San Jose, California. For information call 1.408.894.0700 or go to www.tessera.com.

July 24, 2008 03:02 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Fireman’s Fund® Offers Equipment Breakdown Coverage for Homeowners

New Insurance is Designed for ‘Smart Homes’

NOVATO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Air conditioning, heat, and hot water are just a few necessities supplied by equipment that is susceptible to breaking down. That’s why Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company is offering homeowners a new coverage to protect against the breakdown of equipment used to provide these and other critical services in the home.

The coverage is unusual since most homeowners’ policies do not cover mechanical, electrical, or heating equipment breakdown, resulting in costly repair bills for the homeowner.

Under the new coverage, many types of equipment are covered, including central air conditioning systems (including compressors, condensers, and air handler units), heating equipment and heat pumps, ventilating systems, and boilers and hot water heaters. Also covered are emergency generators, well pumps, filtration systems for air and water, central vacuum systems, swimming pool filtration, pumps, and heating equipment, and chair lifts and elevators.

With the growing number of higher-end ‘smart’ homes, this equipment has become much more critical. Typically, smart homes integrate technology and services through digital networking for a better quality of living. Fireman’s Fund’s new insurance also protects the computer systems that manage the equipment. These systems run security systems, pools, spas, central heating and air conditioning, vacuum systems, and more.

“With the trend toward larger homes, smart homes and more sophisticated equipment, homeowners face greater financial losses from breakdowns than ever before,” said Don Soss, chief underwriting officer, Fireman’s Fund Personal Insurance. “Families depend on this equipment for comfort, safety and convenience. It represents a significant part of a home’s value. The breakdown coverage helps protect that investment so a homeowner isn’t surprised by a large repair bill.”

Equipment breakdown insurance is available June 1 for residents in Illinois. On July 1 it will roll out to homeowners in 32 states (Arizona, California, Connecticut, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington DC, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. August 1 it will be available for residents in New York.

About Fireman’s Fund

Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company is a premier property and casualty insurance company providing personal, commercial and specialty insurance products nationwide. It is rated ‘A+’ by Standard & Poor’s Rating Services. Fireman’s Fund is a member of the Allianz Group (NYSE:AZ), one of the world’s largest providers of insurance and financial services. Allianz ranks as the most sustainable insurer in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index based on its economic, social and environmental performance. For additional information, visit www.firemansfund.com.

© 2008 Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company, Novato, CA 94998

July 24, 2008 03:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

Oncor Files to Help Build Renewable Energy Superhighway

DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, Oncor made a filing with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) indicating its desire to build a significant portion of the Renewable Energy Superhighway from the Competitive Renewable Energy Zones (CREZ) located in West Texas. The Commission will make a final decision on which transmission providers will be called upon to build the transmission lines for CREZ.

“At Oncor we want to be an important part of the solution,” said Charles Jenkins, Oncor Senior Vice President of Transmission and System Operations. “Texas is already a leader in wind energy and this is the next step in maintaining that leadership position. Oncor has demonstrated over the decades that we can work with the state and local communities to build some of the most reliable transmission lines at some of the lowest cost, which is what Texas electric consumers deserve.”

Last week the Commission gave initial approval for the construction of approximately $5 billion in transmission facilities to bring wind energy from West Texas to the central part of the state to provide more renewable energy. Environmentalists and renewable energy supporters hailed the decision as one of the most significant orders in the nation. With the transmission lines in place, thousands more wind turbines can be built, more than doubling the state’s renewable energy capacity.

The Commission called for filings indicating which portion of the CREZ plan would be constructed by transmission providers. Oncor submitted its filing together with Electric Transmission Texas (ETT), AEP Texas Central Company (TCC), AEP Texas North Company (TNC), the Lower Colorado River Authority Transmission Service Corp. (LCRA) and Sharyland Utilities, LP. These transmission providers joined together in the filing offering to build, operate and maintain all of the CREZ transmission facilities.

The parties propose a comprehensive, coordinated approach for the prompt development of the CREZ transmission plan. At the time of the Commission’s order, the PUCT encouraged transmission parties to work together to help ensure timely development of transmission facilities to support wind generation. The joint filing is an important step in meeting that request and would help expedite when the transmission lines would be in place to be used.

In a joint filing by the transmission providers, they declare support for the development of expanded transmission for wind energy as good public policy and will work with stakeholders throughout the CREZ process. Oncor proposes to utilize its substantial resources and capabilities in order to build at least 1,000 miles of transmission lines and facilities in and around Oncor’s service territory, which Oncor estimates will require it to invest more than $2 billion.

Oncor is a regulated electric distribution and transmission business that uses superior asset management skills to provide reliable electricity delivery to consumers. Oncor operates the largest distribution and transmission system in Texas, providing power to 3 million electric delivery points over more than 102,000 miles of distribution and 14,000 miles of transmission lines. While Oncor is a subsidiary of Energy Future Holdings Corp., Oncor is governed by a separate board that is comprised of a majority of independent directors.

Headline News

Frontier Airlines A319 single aisle twinjets at the Flight Test Center in Toulouse, France.

Photo: Airbus

July 25, 2008 08:03 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Berry Petroleum Earns $1.08 Per Share in Second Quarter 2008; Averages Record 29,000 BOE/D Production and Generates Discretionary Cash Flow of $108 Million

Achieves Second Quarter Production Exit Rate of 30,000 BOE/D

DENVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Berry Petroleum Company (NYSE:BRY) earned net income of $49 million, or $1.08 per diluted share, for the three months ended June 30, 2008, up 128% from net income of $21.4 million, or $.48 per diluted share excluding the net gain on sale of assets of $30.6 million in the second quarter of 2007, according to Robert F. Heinemann, president and chief executive officer. Discretionary cash flow totaled a record $108 million in the quarter, up 82% from $59.4 million in the second quarter of 2007. (Discretionary cash flow is a non-GAAP measure; see reconciliation below.)

For the second quarter ended June 30, 2008 net production averaged a record 29,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (BOE/D), an increase of 7% from the 27,195 BOE/D achieved in the same 2007 period. The average realized sales price, net of hedging, for the 2008 second quarter was $69.77 per BOE, up 54% over the $45.43 per BOE received in the 2007 period. Oil and gas revenues rose 63% to $185 million in 2008 compared to $113 million in 2007. The Company drilled 120 gross (112 net) wells in the second quarter of 2008.

For 2008 and 2007, net production in BOE per day was as follows:

Mr. Heinemann said, “Execution of our development plans to reach a mid-year production goal of 30,000 BOE/D has been a focus for each of our asset teams this year and I am pleased to announce that through growth in both our oil and gas assets we reached this production milestone and exited the second quarter of 2008 at 30,000 BOE/D from our base assets.

“Our oil development projects in California continue to deliver exceptional results. Diatomite production is up 24% over first quarter 2008 levels to approximately 1,700 BOE/D. We continue to bring on new wells, expand infrastructure and appraise the productive limits of the field. We expect to exit 2008 in the diatomite with production of 3,000 BOE/D. Production from Poso Creek is up 19% from the first quarter of 2008 to 3,200 BOE/D. Our infill horizontal program, along with our development at Ethel D, has been successful in keeping our South Midway production decline in the 5% range as expected.

“