Monday, August 24, 2009

Fw: Iridium To Provide Communications Service Along Canadian Trans-Labrador Highway

Great news here.

Matt Randall matt@mattsbird.com 661.406.2499


From: Iridium Satellite News
Date: 24 Aug 2009 13:44:03 -0000
To: <iridium@mail.mediaroom.com>
Subject: Iridium To Provide Communications Service Along Canadian Trans-Labrador Highway

Iridium To Provide Communications Service Along Canadian Trans-Labrador Highway

BETHESDA, Md. – August 24, 2009 – The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is establishing an Iridium Satellite LLC (Iridium)-based satellite phone service for motorists on the Trans-Labrador Highway. Roadpost of Mississauga, Ontario is supplying Iridium 9555 satellite phones and services through its dealer Newfound Mobility Solutions.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador launched this new Iridium-based satellite phone program for the Trans-Labrador Highway to ensure they had the most reliable communications capability possible. The Iridium solution replaces and upgrades previous communications services from other providers. Through this program, local hotel operators will offer Iridium phones as loaners to motorists traveling along the highway. The phones will be pre-programmed to direct calls to the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, which will coordinate necessary emergency responses directly or through the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. The Trans-Labrador Highway is made up of more than 950 miles of asphalt and gravel road, with very few turnoffs or stops, in a remote region of northeastern Canada.

 

“Iridium is the only mobile satellite network capable of providing reliable coverage across the region – and anywhere in the world, actually,” said Morris Shawn, president of Roadpost. “Motorists can be confident they will be in communication with the outside world –especially in an emergency situation.”

 

“We are confident that the Iridium phones will provide a more reliable and consistent performance communication lifeline, which is very important as it is the only means of communication on a long, desolate stretch of highway,” said Trevor Taylor, transportation minister for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.

 

"Businesses, governments, citizens and travelers in remote locations rely on Iridium in their daily lives because they work in the large, open areas beyond the reach of terrestrial wireless phone networks,” added Greg Ewert, executive vice president, global distribution channels, Iridium.

As part of North America’s summer season, Iridium has launched its third annual “Test Your Satellite Phone” initiative, to encourage satellite phone users to prepare now to ensure that one of their most critical lifelines in a disaster – their satellite phone – works properly.

The Iridium Test Your Satellite Phone initiative asks all satellite phone owners to call a special U.S.-based number – +1-480-752-5105 – to test their satellite phones. Callers will hear a recorded message confirming that their call was completed and offering quick tips on proper handset usage. Iridium does not charge customers for air time on their satellite phone when they call this number. Non-Iridium customers should consult with their service providers to determine what charges may apply. If customers find that their phones are not operational through this process, they should call their respective service provider.

 

About Iridium Satellite LLC

Iridium Satellite LLC (www.iridium.com) is the only mobile satellite service (MSS) company offering coverage over the entire globe. The Iridium constellation of low-earth orbiting (LEO), cross-linked satellites provides critical voice and data services for areas not served by terrestrial communication networks. Iridium’s subscriber growth has been driven by increasing demand for reliable, global communications. Iridium serves commercial markets through a worldwide network of hundreds of distributors, and provides services to the U.S. Department of Defense, and other U.S. and international government agencies. The company’s customers represent a broad spectrum of industry, including maritime, aeronautical, government/defense, public safety, utilities, oil/gas, mining, forestry, heavy equipment and transportation. Iridium has launched a major development program for its next-generation satellite constellation, Iridium NEXT, which will result in continued and new Iridium MSS offerings. The company is headquartered in Bethesda, Md. and is currently privately held.

 

About Roadpost

Founded in 1991, Roadpost Inc. (www.roadpost.com) provides global satellite and cellular communications through its industry-leading Roadpost Satcom and Brightroam business units. Roadpost Satcom’s comprehensive portfolio of satellite voice and data services has been widely adopted by individuals and organizations that travel or work beyond the limits of terrestrial wired or wireless networks. Partnered with leading satellite networks and equipment manufacturers, Roadpost Satcom delivers solutions that are uniquely suited to each customer’s critical voice and data requirement including global voice services, mobile broadband data services, narrowband SCADA/telemetry applications, and satellite equipment rentals.

 

Press Contacts:

Liz DeCastro

Iridium

+1 (301) 571-6257

liz.decastro@iridium.com

 

Jim Rhodes

Rhodes Communications

+1 (757) 451-0601

jrhodes@rhodescomm.com

 

PDF file of press release attached.

 

 

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Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Heat kills boy, 11, lost with his mother in Death Valley]

Very sad situation. Do not leave incorporated areas without communication guarantee....

--------------------
Heat kills boy, 11, lost with his mother in Death Valley
--------------------

The two were stranded for days in a remote area. The child's mother is being treated for severe dehydration.

Associated Press

August 7 2009, 11:14 PM CDT

An 11-year-old boy died in the intense heat of Death Valley National Park after he and his mother became stranded and survived for several days on bottled water, Pop-Tarts and cheese sandwiches, authorities said Friday.

The complete article can be viewed at:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/la-me-deathvalley8-2009aug08,0,3594264.story


Sunday, August 16, 2009

Fw: President Declares Major Disaster For Iowa (Updates During DIsasters)

FYI:


From: "FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)"
Date: Sun, 16 Aug 2009 14:55:37 -0500
To: <matt@mattsbird.com>
Subject: President Declares Major Disaster For Iowa (Updates During DIsasters)

President Declares Major Disaster For Iowa
Fri, 14 Aug 2009 08:05:27 -0500

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced that federal disaster aid has been made available for the State of Iowa and ordered federal aid to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area struck by a severe storm on July 10, 2009.

 Receive FEMA Updates During Disasters

 

PLEASE FORWARD THIS E-MAIL BULLETIN TO FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES WHO MIGHT BENEFIT FROM THE INFORMATION

 


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Fw: FEMA Major Disaster Declarations Update

FYI:


From: "FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)"
Date: Sun, 16 Aug 2009 18:27:01 -0500
To: <matt@mattsbird.com>
Subject: FEMA Major Disaster Declarations Update

Kentucky Severe Storms, Straight-line Winds, and Flooding
Sun, 16 Aug 2009 17:17:34 -0500

Major Disaster Declaration number 1855 declared on Aug 14, 2009


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Friday, August 14, 2009

Fw: FEMA Funding to Help California Fight Lockheed Fire

FYI:


From: "FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)"
Date: Fri, 14 Aug 2009 16:06:50 -0500
To: <matt@mattsbird.com>
Subject: FEMA Funding to Help California Fight Lockheed Fire

FEMA Funding to Help California Fight Lockheed Fire
Fri, 14 Aug 2009 15:07:43 -0500

OAKLAND, Calif. -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to help the state of California fight the Lock-heed Fire in Santa Cruz County.


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FEMA · U.S. Department of Homeland Security · Washington, DC 20472 · 1 (800) 621-FEMA (3362)

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Cell phone does not help ........

Very sad story that didn't have to happen:

Vegas boy dies after getting stranded in Death Valley

http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2009/aug/07/boy-dies-after-getting-stranded-in-death-valley/

Matt Randall
Bird In The Sky Communications -
Satellite Phones and Services
661.406.2499
matt@mattsbird.com
http://www.birdintheskycommunications.com

Monday, August 10, 2009

Fw: Iridium Reports Second Quarter 2009 Results

Great news from Iridium - See Iridium news below:

Matt Randall
Bird In The Sky Communications -
Satellite Phones and Services
661.406.2499
matt@mattsbird.com
http://www.birdintheskycommunications.com


From: Iridium Satellite News
Date: 10 Aug 2009 20:01:03 -0000
To: <iridium@mail.mediaroom.com>
Subject: Iridium Reports Second Quarter 2009 Results

Iridium Reports Second Quarter 2009 Results

BETHESDA, Md., Aug. 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --

  • Subscribers Up 23.9% from Prior Year Quarter to 347,000
    • Subscriber Growth of 71.4% in Emerging Machine-to-Machine Market
  • Revenue Up 1.2% from Prior Year Quarter:
    • Commercial Service Revenues Up 21.6%
    • Government Service Revenues Up 15.2%
    • Equipment Sales Declined 25.7%
  • Operational EBITDA(1) Up 31.5% from Prior Year Quarter
  • Net Income Up 52.9% from Prior Year Quarter
  • Full Year 2009 Operational EBITDA Guidance Lifted to $123-130 Million

Iridium Satellite LLC ("Iridium"), the only provider of truly global mobile satellite services ("MSS"), today reported consolidated financial results for the three months ended June 30, 2009. The company reported growth in subscribers, revenue, Operational EBITDA and net income for the second quarter 2009 compared to the second quarter 2008. In addition, the company is on track to complete its planned transaction to combine with GHL Acquisition Corp. ("GHL Acquisition") (NYX: GHQ, GHQ.U and GHQ.WS), which will take Iridium public.

Operating Highlights and Transaction Update

The following consolidated financial results for the second quarter 2009 continue to demonstrate the company's strength despite the global economic downturn. Subscribers were up 23.9% to 347,000 at the close of the second quarter of 2009 from 280,000 at the close of the second quarter of 2008. Commercial service revenue increased 21.6% to $39.9 million in the second quarter of 2009 compared to $32.8 million during the same quarter in 2008. Government service revenue increased 15.2% to $18.2 million in the second quarter of 2009 compared to $15.8 million in the same quarter of 2008. Subscriber equipment revenue for the quarter declined 25.7% to $24.6 million compared to $33.1 million in the second quarter of 2008. Overall revenue increased 1.2% to $82.7 million in the second quarter of 2009 from $81.7 million in the previous year's second quarter. Operational EBITDA increased 31.5% to $36.7 million in the second quarter of 2009 from $27.9 million in the second quarter of 2008. Finally, net income increased 52.9% to $28.6 million in the second quarter 2009 from $18.7 million in the second quarter of 2008. New products, such as the Iridium OpenPort(®) high-speed maritime communications system and the Iridium 9555 satellite phone, contributed to the company's gains in the second quarter of 2009.

"Our growth in Operational EBITDA is a result of increased commercial service and government service revenues, and more than offsets a decline in equipment revenue," said Matt Desch, CEO of Iridium. "Iridium is the only truly global MSS that works everywhere. Our products and services are reliable, cost effective and essential to both commercial and government users. And, we have built a large and growing subscriber base that has continued to generate strong recurring revenue even in a weak economy. From a strategic perspective, we are nearing the completion of our combination with GHL Acquisition, which will take us public. Completing the GHL Acquisition transaction will be valuable as we move forward with the development and launch of our NEXT constellation, which promises even broader applications and services to our growing user base."

The company expects further growth through the remainder of 2009 on the strength of its growing subscriber base. As such, Iridium now expects 2009 Operational EBITDA of between $123 million and $130 million, up 14% to 20% over 2008, on low single-digit revenue growth.

"Iridium's second quarter results are impressive," said Scott L. Bok, CEO of GHL Acquisition. "The company's continued growth - even in a weak global economy - is further confirmation of the strength of this company and the attractiveness of its value potential for GHL Acquisition and its sponsor, Greenhill. We continue to be enthusiastic about Iridium's strong prospects for the future."

Highlights - Commercial

In Iridium's rapidly emerging Machine-to-Machine ("M2M") business, short-burst data ("SBD") subscribers grew 71.4% in the second quarter of 2009 compared to the second quarter of 2008, and Iridium experienced 60.0% growth in SBD service revenue during the second quarter of 2009 over the same quarter in the prior year. The breadth of Iridium's data communications applications mirrors the expansion in the company's target vertical markets.

"There are a growing number of applications being developed in the M2M market, and we are only in the early stages of developing the full potential of this service," said Greg Ewert, executive vice president of global distribution channels for Iridium. "We are pleased by the many opportunities presented to us through new applications, such as asset tracking, that continue to add quantifiable value and represent cost-saving solutions to a wide array of industries."

Subscriber equipment sales remained slow in the quarter due to the weak economic environment. However, year-over-year comparisons of equipment revenue are affected by $1.4 million of equipment amortization relating to sales of equipment in prior years that are included in the second quarter of 2008. Without the impact of the amortization, overall revenue would have increased 3.0% versus 1.2%, and equipment revenue would have declined by 22.4% versus 25.7%.

"Despite the economy, sales of the Iridium 9555 and Iridium OpenPort increased in the second quarter," said Don Thoma, executive vice president of marketing for Iridium. "In fact, we shipped our 1,000(th) Iridium OpenPort unit in the quarter and realized strong revenue growth over the first quarter of 2009 with this ground-breaking product. With its attractive hardware package, ease of installation and low service costs, Iridium OpenPort has provided a cost-effective alternative to the status quo. This has resulted in strong usage driven by a variety of value-added applications, delivered by our service partners, for ships' business and crew welfare programs where there are higher bandwidth communications needs."

On the regulatory front, initiatives ensuring the safety of people and assets continue to fuel growth and generate revenues. Safety regulations related to air traffic safety and maritime vessel tracking for homeland security require organizations to outfit boats, aircraft, assets and personnel with satellite-based devices that track and report factors such as location, speed, temperature and status.

In the maritime market, for example, Iridium is the key provider for Vessel Monitoring Systems ("VMS") for fisheries to meet regulatory requirements not only globally but in very northern and southern latitudes where no other MSS is available. In addition, Iridium is the only option for vessels' Long-Range Identification and Tracking ("LRIT") communications needs in those regions. Likewise, Iridium continues to make progress in aviation as it seeks certification for provision of air safety services. Supported by air carriers seeking reliable communications for their Polar routes, Iridium recently gained DO 262 and DO 270 approval, clearing the way for a flight certification program with the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration ("FAA") and Continental Airlines.

Highlights - Government

Iridium service revenue from its contracts with the U.S. Department of Defense ("DoD") grew 15.2% for the second quarter of 2009 compared to the second quarter of 2008. As previously announced, the U.S. Navy demonstrated its commitment to Iridium by awarding the company a contract to fund the development and delivery of the Distributed Tactical Communications System ("DTCS") - an extension of "Netted Iridium," the push-to-talk platform. DTCS will provide over-the-horizon, on-the-move, beyond-line-of-sight netted voice and data communications over the Iridium network for U.S. and allied forces' soldiers. In addition, the DTCS program includes the development of several new, ruggedized Iridium tactical radios to support the military's communications needs.

"This contract is an indicator of the U.S. Government's commitment to expanding its reliance on the Iridium network and its unique capabilities," said Lt. Gen. John Campbell (USAF, Ret.), executive vice president of government programs for Iridium. "DTCS provides an enhanced two-way, push-to-talk, over-the-horizon, on-the-move, beyond-line-of-sight capability, free of deployed ground infrastructure, for our soldiers anywhere their missions take them. Iridium and the DoD have been working collaboratively on this program for several years, and we are pleased to be able to partner with the Navy to put more advanced and further-reaching communications capabilities into soldiers' hands."

Iridium also announced, in conjunction with Boeing, that the companies achieved two major milestones to further develop and demonstrate capability enhancements to the High Integrity Global Positioning System program (also known as "iGPS") for the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory.

"iGPS is a quick and cost-effective way for the DoD to enhance the existing GPS system, providing users improved capability in restrictive environments and under conditions which would degrade unaided performance," Campbell said.

The first iGPS milestone provided appropriately equipped personnel the ability to lock on and maintain a GPS signal even when operating in difficult environments. The second milestone involved a live demonstration of the ability of a user to acquire a GPS signal while moving in a vehicle despite substantial jamming.

Both iGPS and DTCS are technologies being developed with the DoD that Iridium believes have promising longer term commercial applications.

Update on Iridium NEXT

Progress continues on the design of Iridium NEXT, the company's next-generation satellite network, with initial NEXT satellite launches planned for 2014. Iridium is working with its two prime contractor candidates, Lockheed Martin and Thales Alenia Space, to refine design proposals with final selection planned toward the end of the year. The company also continues to work with prospective hosted payload customers, since NEXT will provide a significant and cost-effective means for organizations to operate important payloads and sensors in space without the need for them to build or enhance their own satellite networks. Through Iridium NEXT, the company plans to seamlessly replace its current constellation with new satellites, ensuring backward compatibility for Iridium's customers and partners' products and services, while offering enhanced services, higher data speeds and flexible communications capabilities.

(1)Non-GAAP Financial Measures

In addition to disclosing financial results that are determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP, Iridium discloses Operational EBITDA, which is a non-GAAP financial measure and management believes it is the most comparable measure to GAAP net income. Operational EBITDA represents earnings before interest; income taxes; depreciation and amortization; Iridium NEXT (second-generation system development) revenue and expenses; and expenses associated with the proposed transaction with GHL Acquisition. Additionally, Operational EBITDA does not include the impact of purchase accounting and other transaction-related adjustments that will be reflected in the post-transaction performance. Operational EBITDA does not represent and should not be considered an alternative to GAAP measurements, such as net income, and the company's calculations thereof may not be comparable to similarly entitled measures reported by other companies. Management uses Operational EBITDA to manage the company's business including preparation of its annual operating budget, financial projections and compensation plans.

The company uses Operational EBITDA as a supplemental measure for operating performance because, by eliminating interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, transaction expenses and Iridium NEXT revenue and expenses, the company believes it is a useful measure across time in evaluating the company's performance. The company believes that Operational EBITDA is also useful to investors because like measures are frequently used by securities analysts, investors and other interested parties in their evaluation of companies in similar industries. As indicated, Operational EBITDA does not include interest expense on borrowed money or depreciation expense on our capital assets or the payment of income taxes, which are necessary elements of the company's operations. Because Operational EBITDA does not account for these expenses, its utility as a measure of the company's operating performance has material limitations. Because of these limitations, the company's management does not view Operational EBITDA in isolation and also uses other measurements, such as net income, revenues and operating profit, to measure operating performance. Iridium's calculations of Operational EBITDA may also differ from the calculation of Operational EBITDA or like measures by its competitors and other companies and, as such, their utility as comparative measures is limited. Included in this release is a reconciliation of net income (loss) to Operational EBITDA.

Conference Call Information

Iridium and GHL Acquisition will host a conference call for analysts, investors and other interested parties on August 11, 2009 at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time (ET) to discuss this earnings release. To participate, please call the toll-free number 866-481-9047 (U.S. callers only) or, from outside the U.S., 706-902-1870. The passcode for the live call is 23639627. For those unable to participate in the live call, a replay of the call will be available for 30 days toll free at 800-642-1687 (U.S. callers only), or at 706-645-9291 (callers outside the U.S.). The passcode for the replay is 23639627. To help ensure the conference begins in a timely manner, please dial in five minutes prior to the scheduled start time.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains, and Iridium's management may make, certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words "anticipates," "may," "can," "believes," "expects," "projects," "intends," "likely," "will," "to be" and other expressions that are predictions of or indicate future events, trends or prospects identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Iridium to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, uncertainties regarding the timing of the proposed transaction with GHL Acquisition, whether the transaction will be approved by GHL Acquisition's stockholders, whether the closing conditions will be satisfied (including receipt of regulatory approvals), as well as industry and economic conditions, and competitive, legal, governmental and technological factors. There is no assurance that Iridium's expectations will be realized. If one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if Iridium's underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those expected, estimated or projected.

Iridium's forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release or as of the date they are made, and, except as required by law, Iridium undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements.

About Iridium Satellite LLC

Iridium Satellite LLC (www.iridium.com) is the only mobile satellite service (MSS) company offering coverage over the entire globe. The Iridium constellation of low-earth orbiting (LEO) cross-linked satellites provides critical voice and data services for areas not served by terrestrial communication networks. Iridium's subscriber growth has been driven by increasing demand for reliable, global communications. Iridium serves commercial markets through a worldwide network of hundreds of distributors, and provides services to the U.S. Department of Defense, and other U.S. and international government agencies. The company's customers represent a broad spectrum of industry, including maritime, aeronautical, government/defense, public safety, utilities, oil/gas, mining, forestry, heavy equipment and transportation. Iridium has launched a major development program for its next-generation satellite constellation, Iridium NEXT, which will result in continued and new Iridium MSS offerings. The company is headquartered in Bethesda, Md., U.S. and is currently privately held.

                     Consolidated Historical Financial Data                                                 Three Months Ended June 30,     Statement of Operations Data:                      2008     2009      Total revenue                                   $81,679  $82,705     Total operating expenses                        (58,786) (50,042)     Operating profit                                $22,893  $32,663     Total other income / expense                     (4,218)  (4,063)     Net income                                      $18,675  $28,600                                                           As of                                                 December 31,  June 30,     Balance Sheet Data:                                2008     2009      Total current assets                            101,355  114,424     Total assets                                    190,569  199,484     Total members' deficit                          (62,230) (21,605)                                                Three Months Ended June 30,                                                        2008     2009      Net income                                      $18,675  $28,600       Interest expense                                4,590    4,597       Interest income                                  (283)    (132)       Depreciation and amortization                   2,893    3,574       Non-recurring transaction expenses                320    1,275       Iridium NEXT expenses                           1,698   (1,216)     Operational EBITDA                              $27,893  $36,698

SOURCE Iridium Satellite LLC

SOURCE: Iridium Satellite LLC

Web site: http://www.iridium.com/

 

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Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Magnitude 6.9 - GULF OF CALIFORNIA

Info on major earthquake Monday; Gulf of California....

Sunday, August 2, 2009

HotSpotSCV

Working with www.hotspotscv.com on optimizing Bird in The Sky

Matt Randall
Bird In The Sky Communications -
Satellite Phones and Services
661.406.2499
matt@mattsbird.com
http://www.birdintheskycommunications.com

'CA Certified Small Business'
Member: Better Business Bureau of Los Angeles
Member: Santa Clarita Chamber of Commerce
Member: Valencia Industrial Association (VIA)


Matt Randall matt@mattsbird.com 661.406.2499

Friday, July 31, 2009

Fw: FEMA Major Disaster Declarations Update

FYI:

Matt Randall
Bird In The Sky Communications -
Satellite Phones and Services
661.406.2499
matt@mattsbird.com
http://www.birdintheskycommunications.com

Matt Randall matt@mattsbird.com 661.406.2499


From: "FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)"
Date: Fri, 31 Jul 2009 18:30:36 -0500
To: <matt@mattsbird.com>
Subject: FEMA Major Disaster Declarations Update

Nebraska Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding
Fri, 31 Jul 2009 18:08:49 -0500

Major Disaster Declaration number 1853 declared on Jul 31, 2009


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Thursday, July 30, 2009

Fw: FEMA Major Disaster Declarations Update

FEMA Notice:

Matt Randall
Bird In The Sky Communications -
Satellite Phones and Services
661.406.2499
matt@mattsbird.com
http://www.birdintheskycommunications.com

'CA Certified Small Business'
Member: Better Business Bureau of Los Angeles
Member: Santa Clarita Chamber of Commerce
Member: Valencia Industrial Association (VIA)

Matt Randall matt@mattsbird.com 661.406.2499


From: "FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)"
Date: Thu, 30 Jul 2009 18:24:42 -0500
To: <matt@mattsbird.com>
Subject: FEMA Major Disaster Declarations Update

Maine Severe Storms, Flooding, and Landslides
Thu, 30 Jul 2009 17:28:38 -0500

Major Disaster Declaration number 1852 declared on Jul 30, 2009


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FEMA · U.S. Department of Homeland Security · Washington, DC 20472 · 1 (800) 621-FEMA (3362)

Friday, July 24, 2009

Fw: Department of Homeland Security Improves Efficiency With GPS Tracking Systems from Fleet Management Solutions, Inc.

Update on new Iridium contract with Dept of Homeland Security:

Matt Randall
Bird In The Sky Communications -
Satellite Phones and Services
661.406.2499
matt@mattsbird.com
http://www.birdintheskycommunications.com

'CA Certified Small Business'
Member: Better Business Bureau of Los Angeles
Member: Santa Clarita Chamber of Commerce
Member: Valencia Industrial Association (VIA)

Matt Randall matt@mattsbird.com 661.406.2499


From: Iridium Satellite News
Date: 22 Jul 2009 12:31:05 -0000
To: <iridium@mail.mediaroom.com>
Subject: Department of Homeland Security Improves Efficiency With GPS Tracking Systems from Fleet Management Solutions, Inc.

Department of Homeland Security Improves Efficiency With GPS Tracking Systems from Fleet Management Solutions, Inc.

Electronic Fleet Tracking System Uses Iridium Satellite Data Links for Universal Coverage

BETHESDA, Md. and SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. July 22 /PRNewswire/ -- Fleet Management Solutions, Inc. (FMS) and Iridium Satellite LLC (Iridium) announce that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Detention and Removal (DRO) has selected FMS Iridium-based vehicle tracking and mobile resource management systems for deployment under a major initiative to optimize efficiency.

The FMS tracking equipment and hosted Web software will improve asset readiness, enhance mission effectiveness, reduce fleet costs and coordinate compliance with Federal Property Management Regulations (FPMR). DRO is installing in its vehicles a GPS tracking device, which transmits position, direction and speed and other telematic data for user-specified events and reporting. Data is sent through the Iridium satellite network to the FMS Fleet Central Web server, permitting dispatch centers to closely monitor the vehicles' location, movements and status.

As part of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), DRO operates more than 4,000 specialty law enforcement and administrative vehicles. Accurate and timely accountability of fleet assets is critical to mission success. With the annual cost of fuel and maintenance for the fleet at more than $30 million, it is an important area of efficiency improvement for DHS.

DRO promotes public safety and national security by ensuring the departure of all removable aliens from the U.S. through the fair and effective enforcement of the nation's immigration laws. During recent budget testimony before the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano identified 16 efficiency initiatives, which included electronic fleet-tracking tools to optimize fleet management and to heighten vigilance over fraud, waste or abuse.

"Managing a motor vehicle fleet is like counting ants in an ant farm," said Charles "Chuck" Welke, who is tasked with deployment of the FMS tracking systems for the DRO Fleet Inventory and Communications Unit. "It cannot be done effectively without the latest technologies, which FMS provides."

FMS vehicle tracking systems also integrate well with existing enterprise applications currently in use by DRO. FMS Web services enhance real-time situational awareness, and permit more effective execution of missions in the field.

"FMS combined with Iridium-based communications continues to prove their value where high security and mobile resource management requirements demand visibility and data transmission from anywhere, regardless of telecommunications infrastructure or geography," said Cliff Henley, CEO of FMS. "With the increasing importance of operations efficiency in Federal fleets, FMS all-satellite GPS tracking systems will be a vital tool in meeting the challenges."

"This FMS client is a great example of how large organizations are taking advantage of Iridium's universal global coverage, high network reliability and low-latency, two-way short-burst data links to manage widely scattered assets," said Greg Ewert, executive vice president, Global Distribution Channels, Iridium. "With Iridium, the vehicles are never out of range, even when operating in remote areas beyond the coverage of cellular networks."

About the Department of Homeland Security Office of Detention and Removal

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Detention and Removal (DRO) (www.ice.gov/pi/dro/index.htm) is the primary enforcement arm within ICE for the identification, apprehension and removal of illegal aliens from the U.S. The resources and expertise of DRO are utilized to identify and apprehend illegal aliens, fugitive aliens and criminal aliens; to manage them while in custody; and to enforce orders of removal from the U.S. DRO is committed to enforcing our nation's immigration laws in a fair, effective and professional manner.

About Fleet Management Solutions

Fleet Management Solutions, Inc. (FMS) (www.fmsgps.com) combines GPS technology with two-way satellite communications, intelligent modems and its Web-hosted application, Fleet Central, to deliver all-satellite, mobile fleet management and GPS tracking systems. FMS solutions deliver measurable improvements in asset utilization, safety and security, and productivity with rapid ROI. FMS serves customers in government, military, energy, construction, mining and logistics industries. FMS is located in more than 75 countries, providing solutions for use in rugged and remote environments.

About Iridium Satellite LLC

Iridium Satellite LLC (www.iridium.com) is the only mobile satellite service (MSS) company offering pole-to-pole coverage over the entire globe. The Iridium constellation of low-earth orbiting (LEO), cross-linked satellites provides critical voice and data services for areas not served by terrestrial communication networks. Iridium's subscriber growth has been driven by increasing demand for reliable, secure, global communications. Iridium serves commercial markets through a worldwide network of hundreds of distributors, and provides services to the U.S. Department of Defense, and other U.S. and international government agencies. The company's customers represent a broad spectrum of industry, including maritime, aeronautical, government/defense, public safety, utilities, oil/gas, mining, forestry, heavy equipment and transportation. Iridium has launched a major development program for its next-generation satellite constellation, Iridium NEXT, which will result in continued and new Iridium MSS offerings. The company is headquartered in Bethesda, Md., U.S., and is currently privately held.

SOURCE Iridium Satellite LLC

SOURCE: Iridium Satellite LLC

Web site: http://www.iridium.com/

 

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Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Daily earthquake activity

Great site to have bookmarked for daily earthquake activity....

http://www.data.scec.org/recenteqs/

Can also be followed on http://www.birdintheskycommunications.com

Fw: Iridium Extends and Expands Trade-Up Program

Great trade up news below:

Matt Randall
Bird In The Sky Communications -
Satellite Phones and Services
661.406.2499
matt@mattsbird.com
http://www.birdintheskycommunications.com

'CA Certified Small Business'
Member: Better Business Bureau of Los Angeles
Member: Santa Clarita Chamber of Commerce
Member: Valencia Industrial Association (VIA)

Matt Randall matt@mattsbird.com 661.406.2499


From: Iridium Satellite News
Date: 20 Jul 2009 16:34:05 -0000
To: <iridium@mail.mediaroom.com>
Subject: Iridium Extends and Expands Trade-Up Program

Iridium Extends and Expands Trade-Up Program

Offers Incentives to Customers Switching to Iridium's New-Generation 9555 Handset

BETHESDA, Md., July 20 /PRNewswire/ -- Iridium Satellite LLC (Iridium) announces that it is extending and expanding its popular Trade-Up to Iridium program to include its new-generation 9555 satellite phone.

Iridium launched the Trade-Up to Iridium initiative in January 2008 to provide an opportunity for customers affected by the well-publicized degradation of Globalstar's satellite voice service to take advantage of Iridium's high network quality and global coverage. The program offers credits of up to $550 for North American Globalstar subscribers switching to Iridium, including up to $250 off the cost of the handset and up to $300 in airtime credits when signing up for a qualified Iridium North American calling plan with a participating service provider.

The incentive program, which originally applied to trade-ins for Iridium 9505A handsets, now offers Iridium 9555 satellite phones in exchange for Globalstar handsets. Introduced late last year, the Iridium 9555 provides enhancements over the 9505A, including a space-saving, internally retractable antenna, large illuminated weather-resistant keyboard, SMS with predictive text entry capability, integrated speakerphone and other features. It is 30 percent smaller and 27 percent lighter than the 9505A, and offers a rugged design built to withstand the world's toughest environments with resistance to water, dust and shock. Included with the 9555 satellite phone is a robust assortment of accessories and support materials including chargers, international adapters, an external antenna, leather case, data cable, headset and user guide to enable ease of use in a variety of situations. Iridium delivers the only mobile satellite services (MSS) devices that provide truly global coverage.

"So far, thousands of users have participated in the Trade-Up to Iridium program," said Don Thoma, executive vice president, Marketing, Iridium. "We recognize that satellite phones are critical items of equipment for first responders and relief agencies in emergency situations when terrestrial landlines and cellular networks are destroyed or overburdened. Likewise, satellite phones are an important utility, particularly during the North American summer season, where they can be the only connection with the outside world in Alaska, Canada and other wide-open spaces across the continent. We want to ensure they have uninterrupted access to reliable MSS when and where they need it."

The Trade-Up to Iridium program lasts through Dec. 31, 2009.

About Iridium Satellite LLC

Iridium Satellite LLC ( www.iridium.com ) is the only mobile satellite service (MSS) company offering coverage over the entire globe. The Iridium constellation of low-earth orbiting (LEO), cross-linked satellites provides critical voice and data services for areas not served by terrestrial communication networks. Iridium's subscriber growth has been driven by increasing demand for reliable, global communications. Iridium serves commercial and government markets through a worldwide network of hundreds of distributors. The company's customers represent a broad spectrum of industry, including maritime, aeronautical, government/defense, public safety, utilities, oil/gas, mining, forestry, heavy equipment and transportation. Iridium has launched a major development program for its next-generation satellite constellation, Iridium NEXT, which will result in continued and new Iridium MSS offerings. The company is headquartered in Bethesda, Md., U.S., and is currently privately held.

SOURCE Iridium Satellite LLC

SOURCE: Iridium Satellite LLC

Web site: http://www.iridium.com/

 

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Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Fw: Iridium and Telaurus Provide Satellite Communications for "Northwest Passage" Filming Expedition

Great Iridium telecomm update:

Matt Randall
Bird In The Sky Communications -
Satellite Phones and Services
661.406.2499
matt@mattsbird.com
http://www.birdintheskycommunications.com

'CA Certified Small Business'
Member: Better Business Bureau of Los Angeles
Member: Santa Clarita Chamber of Commerce
Member: Valencia Industrial Association (VIA)

Matt Randall matt@mattsbird.com 661.406.2499


From: Iridium Satellite News
Date: 14 Jul 2009 20:29:03 -0000
To: <iridium@mail.mediaroom.com>
Subject: Iridium and Telaurus Provide Satellite Communications for "Northwest Passage" Filming Expedition

Iridium and Telaurus Provide Satellite Communications for "Northwest Passage" Filming Expedition

Only Iridium OpenPort® Provides Reliable High-Speed Communications In The Arctic

 

BETHESDA, Md. and CEDAR KNOLLS, N.J. – July 14, 2009 – Iridium Satellite LLC (Iridium) and Telaurus Communications LLC (Telaurus) have teamed to provide satellite communication equipment and services for a six-month Northwest Passage Filming voyage. The voyage got underway from Rhode Island on June 13, 2009 and will end in Seattle on Oct. 31, 2009. The voyage’s vessel, the BAGAN, is equipped with an Iridium OpenPort® high-speed maritime communications terminal and Telaurus Se@COMM software. Iridium OpenPort enables the BAGAN to transmit critical voice and data communications in the Arctic Region where no other service is available, including services based on geostationary satellites. So, the captain and crew of the BAGAN are able to speak on the phone at the same time, even during data transmission, due to OpenPort’s availability of three voice lines and one data port, which can all be used simultaneously. The Se@COMM communications software by Telaurus provides real-time messaging, and advanced compression and file transfer capabilities, giving maximum flexibility and control to both operators and crew.

 “For maritime vessel operators, Iridim OpenPort is easy to install, simple to operate, reliable and efficient with three voice lines and a data port,” said Greg Ewert, executive vice president, Global Distribution Channels, Iridium. “And, of course, Iridium OpenPort was the natural choice due to its coverage over 100 percent of the Earth’s surface, including Polar waters.  Though competitive service providers like to say they provide ‘global’ coverage, users such as the BAGAN crew are beyond the reach of geostationary satellite systems and, once again, Iridium is the only network capable of providing communications service to those operating in this region of the world.”

Emmy Award -winning filmmaker Sprague Theobald has assembled this team of sailors, divers and filmmakers uniquely suited to not only take on the challenges of an Arctic expedition, but to capture it on film in dramatic and compelling ways that highlight environmental and political issues surrounding the passage.

Theobald’s documentary objective is “to show what’s at stake and what we risk losing if we don’t take action now to preserve what’s left of the Arctic frontier.” In addition to preserving the Arctic’s natural beauty, Theobald will also use his Northwest Passage documentary as an educational piece encapsulating maritime history and Arctic environmental conservation opportunities.

“As the story of this epic voyage is documented, it is critical for the crew to be able to communicate it back to headquarters, as well as to stay in communication with family and friends,” said Malcolm McMaster, president, Telaurus. “We are pleased to be providing the hardware and software to enable communications in such a far northern location, where the crew would have otherwise been out of touch.”

Theobald will publish daily photographs, audio/video, and daily reports to the film’s Website, www.northwestpassagefilm.com. He hopes that, by making such live broadcasts like this to the Website and through TV and news partners, he will continue to generate support and awareness for the Arctic people, wildlife and habitat.

About Iridium Satellite LLC

Iridium Satellite LLC (www.iridium.com) is the only mobile satellite service (MSS) company offering coverage over the entire globe. The Iridium constellation of low-earth orbiting (LEO), cross-linked satellites provide critical voice and data services for areas not served by terrestrial communication networks. Iridium’s subscriber growth has been driven by increasing demand for reliable, global communications. Iridium serves commercial and government markets through a worldwide network of hundreds of distributors. The company’s customers represent a broad spectrum of industry, including maritime, aeronautical, government/defense, public safety, utilities, oil/gas, mining, forestry, heavy equipment and transportation. Iridium has launched a major development program for its next-generation satellite constellation, Iridium NEXT, which will result in continued and new Iridium MSS offerings. The company is headquartered in Bethesda, Md., U.S. and is currently privately held.

About Telaurus Communications

Telaurus Communications LLC is a full-service satellite communications company with leading-edge technology designed to provide highly efficient, cost-effective communications solutions which provides maximum operational and cost-control benefits to ship owners/operators. The company’s principal business is based on providing real-time data connectivity, voice, and fax to merchant ships. Telaurus has a global presence, including offices in the U.S., U.K., Germany and Singapore, as well as representative offices in Greece, Cyprus, Italy, Turkey, Latvia, Japan and China. For more information about Telaurus products and services please send your request to info@telaurus.com or visit the Telaurus Website at www.telaurus.com.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Press Contacts:

Liz DeCastro

Iridium Satellite LLC

+1 (301) 571-6257

liz.decastro@iridium.com

 

Jim Rhodes

Rhodes Communication

+1 (757) 451-0602

jrhodes@rhodescomm.com

 

 

 

To unsubscribe or change your settings click here:
http://iridium.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=subscribe

Fw: Iridium and Telaurus Provide Satellite Communications for "Northwest Passage" Filming Expedition

Great Iridium telecomm update:

Matt Randall
Bird In The Sky Communications -
Satellite Phones and Services
661.406.2499
matt@mattsbird.com
http://www.birdintheskycommunications.com

'CA Certified Small Business'
Member: Better Business Bureau of Los Angeles
Member: Santa Clarita Chamber of Commerce
Member: Valencia Industrial Association (VIA)

Matt Randall matt@mattsbird.com 661.406.2499


From: Iridium Satellite News
Date: 14 Jul 2009 20:29:03 -0000
To: <iridium@mail.mediaroom.com>
Subject: Iridium and Telaurus Provide Satellite Communications for "Northwest Passage" Filming Expedition

Iridium and Telaurus Provide Satellite Communications for "Northwest Passage" Filming Expedition

Only Iridium OpenPort® Provides Reliable High-Speed Communications In The Arctic

 

BETHESDA, Md. and CEDAR KNOLLS, N.J. – July 14, 2009 – Iridium Satellite LLC (Iridium) and Telaurus Communications LLC (Telaurus) have teamed to provide satellite communication equipment and services for a six-month Northwest Passage Filming voyage. The voyage got underway from Rhode Island on June 13, 2009 and will end in Seattle on Oct. 31, 2009. The voyage’s vessel, the BAGAN, is equipped with an Iridium OpenPort® high-speed maritime communications terminal and Telaurus Se@COMM software. Iridium OpenPort enables the BAGAN to transmit critical voice and data communications in the Arctic Region where no other service is available, including services based on geostationary satellites. So, the captain and crew of the BAGAN are able to speak on the phone at the same time, even during data transmission, due to OpenPort’s availability of three voice lines and one data port, which can all be used simultaneously. The Se@COMM communications software by Telaurus provides real-time messaging, and advanced compression and file transfer capabilities, giving maximum flexibility and control to both operators and crew.

 “For maritime vessel operators, Iridim OpenPort is easy to install, simple to operate, reliable and efficient with three voice lines and a data port,” said Greg Ewert, executive vice president, Global Distribution Channels, Iridium. “And, of course, Iridium OpenPort was the natural choice due to its coverage over 100 percent of the Earth’s surface, including Polar waters.  Though competitive service providers like to say they provide ‘global’ coverage, users such as the BAGAN crew are beyond the reach of geostationary satellite systems and, once again, Iridium is the only network capable of providing communications service to those operating in this region of the world.”

Emmy Award -winning filmmaker Sprague Theobald has assembled this team of sailors, divers and filmmakers uniquely suited to not only take on the challenges of an Arctic expedition, but to capture it on film in dramatic and compelling ways that highlight environmental and political issues surrounding the passage.

Theobald’s documentary objective is “to show what’s at stake and what we risk losing if we don’t take action now to preserve what’s left of the Arctic frontier.” In addition to preserving the Arctic’s natural beauty, Theobald will also use his Northwest Passage documentary as an educational piece encapsulating maritime history and Arctic environmental conservation opportunities.

“As the story of this epic voyage is documented, it is critical for the crew to be able to communicate it back to headquarters, as well as to stay in communication with family and friends,” said Malcolm McMaster, president, Telaurus. “We are pleased to be providing the hardware and software to enable communications in such a far northern location, where the crew would have otherwise been out of touch.”

Theobald will publish daily photographs, audio/video, and daily reports to the film’s Website, www.northwestpassagefilm.com. He hopes that, by making such live broadcasts like this to the Website and through TV and news partners, he will continue to generate support and awareness for the Arctic people, wildlife and habitat.

About Iridium Satellite LLC

Iridium Satellite LLC (www.iridium.com) is the only mobile satellite service (MSS) company offering coverage over the entire globe. The Iridium constellation of low-earth orbiting (LEO), cross-linked satellites provide critical voice and data services for areas not served by terrestrial communication networks. Iridium’s subscriber growth has been driven by increasing demand for reliable, global communications. Iridium serves commercial and government markets through a worldwide network of hundreds of distributors. The company’s customers represent a broad spectrum of industry, including maritime, aeronautical, government/defense, public safety, utilities, oil/gas, mining, forestry, heavy equipment and transportation. Iridium has launched a major development program for its next-generation satellite constellation, Iridium NEXT, which will result in continued and new Iridium MSS offerings. The company is headquartered in Bethesda, Md., U.S. and is currently privately held.

About Telaurus Communications

Telaurus Communications LLC is a full-service satellite communications company with leading-edge technology designed to provide highly efficient, cost-effective communications solutions which provides maximum operational and cost-control benefits to ship owners/operators. The company’s principal business is based on providing real-time data connectivity, voice, and fax to merchant ships. Telaurus has a global presence, including offices in the U.S., U.K., Germany and Singapore, as well as representative offices in Greece, Cyprus, Italy, Turkey, Latvia, Japan and China. For more information about Telaurus products and services please send your request to info@telaurus.com or visit the Telaurus Website at www.telaurus.com.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Press Contacts:

Liz DeCastro

Iridium Satellite LLC

+1 (301) 571-6257

liz.decastro@iridium.com

 

Jim Rhodes

Rhodes Communication

+1 (757) 451-0602

jrhodes@rhodescomm.com

 

 

 

To unsubscribe or change your settings click here:
http://iridium.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=subscribe

Monday, July 13, 2009

Fw: FEMA Major Disaster Declarations Update

FYI:

Matt Randall
Bird In The Sky Communications -
Satellite Phones and Services
661.406.2499
matt@mattsbird.com
http://www.birdintheskycommunications.com

'CA Certified Small Business'
Member: Better Business Bureau of Los Angeles
Member: Santa Clarita Chamber of Commerce
Member: Valencia Industrial Association (VIA)

Matt Randall matt@mattsbird.com 661.406.2499


From: "FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency)"
Date: Mon, 13 Jul 2009 18:26:08 -0500
To: <matt@mattsbird.com>
Subject: FEMA Major Disaster Declarations Update

Tennessee Severe Storms, Tornadoes, Straight-Line Winds, and Flooding
Mon, 13 Jul 2009 17:17:49 -0500

Major Disaster Declaration number 1851 declared on Jul 13, 2009


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