THE COUNTDOWN BEGINS THIS WEEK ON NBC�S �THE APPRENTICE�

THE COUNTDOWN BEGINS THIS WEEK ON NBC'S "THE APPRENTICE" AS REBECCA AND RANDAL BEGIN THEIR FINAL TASKS (DECEMBER 8, 9-10PM ET/PT)

NEW YORK � December 7, 2005 � Randal, a Rhodes Scholar and Rebecca, a financial journalist begin their final mission on NBC's "The Apprentice," (Thurs., Dec. 8, 9-10 pm ET/PT). Donald Trump issues the final two tasks, which will ensue over the next two episodes beginning this week and resulting in the ultimate boardroom hiring of the fourth "Apprentice" on December 15 broadcasting live from Lincoln Center (9-11pm ET).

After battling with one another to pick "employees" to assist on their projects, the two candidates receive their final tasks--to manage the Outback Steakhouse VIP Softball Challenge, which will raise money for the charity Autism Speaks, and the Yahoo! All-Star Comedy Benefit, which will raise money for The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric Aids Foundation.

"EXCEL": Randal

"CAPITAL EDGE": Rebecca

"The Apprentice" is produced by Mark Burnett Productions in association with Trump Productions LLC. Mark Burnett, Donald Trump and Jay Bienstock are executive producers. Conrad Riggs and Kevin Harris are co-executive producers. Al Berman is executive producer of the live finale.