SEATTLE & AUSTIN, Texas, Oct 30, 2006-- Austin Ventures, "AV", today announced the acquisition and recapitalization of All Star Directories, the leading publisher of comprehensive online education directories. "We spent a long time studying both online lead generation and the education markets as part of our Media and Information Services practice. Our work identified All Star Directories as the clear leader in the educational lead-generation market. We are acquiring a very well run and profitable firm with a scalable technology foundation. The growth capital we are providing will allow All Star Directories to build on its excellent publishing content and technology platform to fully capitalize on its leading position in this high growth market," said Phil Siegel, partner at Austin Ventures. The All Star Directories deal came out of the partnership that AV has had with CEO-in-residence Elisabeth DeMarse, the former CEO of BankRate. Mike Mathieu, founder of Seattle-based All Star Directories, said, "We believe All Star Directories has found a great partner in Austin Ventures. Together we're focused on expanding our industry leadership in lead quality and increasing our lead volumes to schools." Mathieu will retain an ownership stake and continue on the board of directors. Doug Brown, the current President of All Star Directories, will maintain that title and be responsible for managing its staff of 65 employees. "We expect continued rapid growth over the coming years and will continue to aggressively recruit world-class talent to add to our Seattle-based team." DeSilva + Phillips, media investment bankers, advised All Star Directories.