Multimedia Inc

* Total Multimedia Inc. in Thousand Oaks has hired Ryan Eldred to produce the next generation of the TMM SoftVideo player. The new player will allow users to access music libraries online and listen to Eldred's patented system, designed to provide listeners with a surround-sound experience through stereo speaker systems on computers and home sound systems.

Spotlight on Multimedia Inc.: The Greenville, S.C.-based company, which employs more than 3,800 people, produces a variety of communication and entertainment products for distribution in newspapers, television, radio and other media outlets. Says Chief Executive J. William Grimes: "Our company's strength has been our diverse and excellent assets and operating with maximum efficiency. Our challenge is to chart tomorrow's course in these highly converging and competitive times."