I have made a career out of interpretations, so here are mine...
1. They brought the IR effort back inside because they are close to completing the deal, no need to continue to outsource what is soon coming to an end
2. The reference to Merriman Curhan Ford confirms the deal-making is solidly engaged
3. That they are "in the midst of that activity" combined with the statement they "plan to provide an update on the process once we have MORE definitive information" suggests there are finalizing things; possibly getting court approval.
4. I will go out on a limb and say, this is going to fly next week...Wed/Thur. Of course, they are running out of weeks...Feb 4th is the date...
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