Where do you see the likeliest positive surprises in 2009 Which countries will outperform, and are there global issues that may move closer to resolution this yearA - The Persian Gulf states are weathering the current financial crisis quite well. These countries remain remarkably stable despite the steep drop in oil prices of recent months and a drop in portfolio investments from the global market slowdown. This is especially true in Saudi Arabia, where the royal family had the good judgment to budget for a lower oil price than many other oil-producing nations factored in. The kingdom has also taken meaningful steps toward economic reform. In 2009, the big regional story will likely be better relations among member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council.In addition, there's not much reason to fear that Brazil will stray from its responsible macroeconomic path. President Lula's government illustrates the point that the differences between responsible economic policymaking (as in Brazil) and irresponsible economic policymaking (as in Venezuela) are most obvious during a downturn.North Korea may generate a few headlines in 2009, but isn't likely to produce a crisis this year. For the moment, the Chinese military leadership has pronounced itself angry with the U.S over arms shipments to the island But there's nothing new about the U.S. 
role as Taiwan's arms supplier, and Washington and Beijing have bigger worries than any inflammatory rhetoric coming from Taipei.(Editing by Paul Tait) China Russia. CUPERTINO, CA, Jan 05 (MARKET WIRE) Symantec Corp. (NASDAQ: SYMC) will webcast its quarterly earningsconference call on Wednesday, Jan 28, 2009, at 5 p.m ET/2 p.m. PT todiscuss the results of its fiscal third quarter 2009, ended Jan. 2, 2009.All interested parties are invited to listen to Symantec's chairman andchief executive officer, John W. For those who cannot listen tothe live broadcast, a replay will be available on this site shortly afterthe call.About SymantecSymantec is a global leader in providing security, storage and systemsmanagement solutions to help consumers and organizations secure and managetheir information-driven world.

Our software and services protect againstmore risks at more points, more completely and efficiently, enablingconfidence wherever information is used or stored. More information isavailable at TO EDITORS: If you would like additional information on SymantecCorporation and its products, please visit the Symantec News Room at http:// All prices noted are in U.S. dollars and arevalid only in the United States.Symantec and the Symantec Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks ofSymantec Corporation or its affiliates in the U.S. and other countries.Other names may be trademarks of their respective owners.MEDIA CONTACT:Melissa MartinSymantec INVESTOR CONTACT:Helyn CorcosSymantec Copyright 2009, Market Wire, All rights reserved.-0-. SAN CLEMENTE, CA, Jan 05 (MARKET WIRE) We all have them: those skinny jeans we vowed to fit back into and wearagain one day.
For 2009,the California Milk Processor Board (CMPB), the creator of GOT MILK, hasteamed up with Jason Walsh, trainer to the stars, to help Californiansget that fresh start. Walsh, who trains the likes of Jessica Biel andSophia Bush, says the secret to a stronger, leaner and higher-performingbody is exercise and proper nutrition that includes low fat or nonfatmilk tips he outlines exclusively on , who earned a B.A. degree in Exercise and Sports Science from theUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, is an expert in fitness andnutrition. He holds two top-level certifications fromthe National Strength and Conditioning Association as a Certified Strengthand Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and Certified Personal Trainer(NSCA-CPT). Walsh says chocolatemilk is also an important part of one's daily workout regimen. In fact,studies have shown that chocolate milk competes effectively withcommercial sports drinks when it comes to muscle recovery when taken 30minutes after exercise."I am a firm believer in putting natural products in the body," saysWalsh. "Milk contains whey protein, calcium and Vitamin D to maintainmuscle mass and to strengthen bones.