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June 30, 2005 -- About Us | Advertise | Events | Subscribe | Unsubscribe

Main Stories
o U.S. Justice Dept. Raids Internet Piracy Sites in 11 Countries
o RIAA Sues Another 784 Suspected Internet Song-Swappers
o Report: Microsoft Pondering Acquisition of Adware Firm Claria
o EU Considering Pan-European Music Licensing Scheme
o Gates: Microsoft May License Xbox Software to Third Parties

o Verizon Plans Full-Track Mobile Music Download Service
o Developer PopCap Games Acquires Sprout Games

o Note to Readers: Independence Day Holiday


> Featured Advertisement:
--PwC Global Entertainment and Media Outlook: 2004-2008 
 

o Briefly Noted: Slingbox, KCRW - podcast boost, Muze, Mastiff - "Top Gun," Bandai - "Gundam vs. Zeta Gundam," Left Behind Games, O-3 Entertainment, BitTorrent's Bram Cohen - copyright lawsuit?
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> Job/Event/Marketplace Classifieds:
--Project Manager
--Database Warehouse Architect
--Senior SAP Application Architect
--Online Advertising Manager
--Director of Marketing
--Senior Software Engineer - ASP.Net, VB.Net, Web Services
--Media Supervisor
--Director, IT Planning and Program Management - Biotech
--Technical Account Manager (TAM)
--Account Executives, Integration Software & Solution Sales - Software AG
--Vice President/Media Director
--Sr. Product Manager
--Internal Communications/ Strategic HR Consultant
--Strategic Communications Group Offers Blog Relations Counsel
 


o U.S. Justice Dept. Raids Internet Piracy Sites in 11 Countries

Washington -- The U.S. Justice Dept. announced on Thursday that it has launched "Operation Site Down," conducting some 90 searches in 11 countries and arresting several people suspected of running Internet piracy sites where users could download movies, music and software for free. The government said its actions targeted "warez" piracy groups including RiSCISO, Myth, TDA, LND, Goodfellaz, Hoodlum, Vengeance, Centropy, Wasted Time, Paranoid, Corrupt, Gamerz, AdmitONE, Hellbound, KGS, BBX, KHG, NOX, NFR, CDZ, TUN and BHP -- resulting in seizure of hundreds of computers and the shut down of at least eight major file-sharing servers. The Justice Dept. estimated the sites offered movies, software and other content valued at over $50 million, including the recently released Star Wars film. "Our objective in this operation was to find and dismantle large-scale criminal enterprises that illegally obtain, copy, distribute, and trade in copyrighted software, music, movies, and video games," said U.S. Atty. General Alberto Gonzales.
http://www.usdoj.gov/ag/speeches/2005/063005operationsitedown.htm
http://tinyurl.com/dn538
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o RIAA Sues Another 784 Suspected Internet Song-Swappers

Washington -- Just days after a Supreme Court victory over the makers of file-sharing software, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) announced that it has filed a new round of lawsuits against 784 individual suspected Internet song-swappers. The "John Doe" lawsuits were filed against users of file-sharing networks including Grokster, LimeWire and Kazaa. "On Monday, the Supreme Court provided a real shot in the arm to legitimate online music services and unanimously injected moral clarity into this debate," said RIAA chairman and CEO Mitch Bainwol. "If there was any doubt left, there should now be none -- individuals who download music without permission are breaking the law. Our efforts to defend the rights of record labels, musicians, songwriters and others in the music community from theft will certainly continue and likely be strengthened in the weeks and months ahead." The RIAA has now filed in the neighborhood of 8,000 lawsuits against suspected file-swappers, the vast majority of whom end up settling the litigation and paying the RIAA an average of $3,000 each.
http://www.riaa.com/news/newsletter/062905.asp 
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o Report: Microsoft Pondering Acquisition of Adware Firm Claria

New York -- Microsoft has been in talks over the last two weeks to purchase Claria, a provider of adware that has been sued by publishers in the past over its pop-up ads, The New York Times reported. Microsoft was reportedly willing to offer as much as $500 million for Claria (formerly Gator), although a person close to Microsoft told The Times that the deal may still fall through. Microsoft may see Claria, which offers software that monitors Web surfing habits in order to serve more relevant ads to users, as a means of enhancing its search advertising capabilities in the face of rival Google. Claria's BehaviorLink software is currently installed on some 40 million PCs. Critics of the deal within Microsoft say the purchase could provoke a negative reaction from privacy advocates, who see Claria's software as intrusive.
http://tech.nytimes.com/2005/06/30/technology/30soft.html
http://www.claria.com
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o EU Considering Pan-European Music Licensing Scheme

Brussels -- The European Union will next month launch an initiative to make it easier to license music for online delivery across its 25 member countries, Reuters reported on Thursday, citing a source close to the situation. A study commissioned by the EU and seen by the source favors a pan-European license for music -- instead of the maze of individual licenses from each country that are currently required -- in addition to a single license for commercial uses of music. A multitude of licenses are currently needed in order to launch digital music services like iTunes in each EU member nation. "The single European license for online music use requires the Commission to rethink existing models for copyright licensing," the source told Reuters. A formal proposal on the EU music licensing scheme is expected to come in the fall.
http://tinyurl.com/a5tkk
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o Gates: Microsoft May License Xbox Software to Third Parties

Tokyo -- Microsoft chairman Bill Gates "hinted" that the company may license the software powering its Xbox video game console to third parties in a bid to expand its video game market share, the Associated Press reported. Gates did not specify if the software would be licensed to companies making game consoles, or for other consumer electronics that would enable gaming. Microsoft Japan spokesman Kazushi Okabe confirmed Gates' comments for AP. Microsoft plans to release its next-generation video game console, the Xbox 360, later this year.
http://tinyurl.com/do5vb
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o Verizon Plans Full-Track Mobile Music Download Service

Los Angeles -- Verizon Wireless president and CEO Denny Strigl told a conference this week that his company is planning to launch a mobile music download service within the next six to eight months, NewsFactor reported. Verizon spokesman Jeffrey Nelson confirmed Strigl's comments: "We intend and are working toward the launch of a service that would allow for full music on a mobile phone," Nelson told NewsFactor. Verizon plans to begin offering a phone capable of receiving full-track music downloads in the next couple of months, although the planned download service will not be ready for launch until some time later.
http://www.newsfactor.com/story.xhtml?story_id=36914
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o Developer PopCap Games Acquires Sprout Games

Seattle -- Video game developer PopCap Games announced on Thursday that it has acquired fellow developer Sprout Games. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Both Seattle-based companies develop mainly casual online and downloadable games; PopCap's titles, including "Bejeweled" and "Zuma," have been downloaded over 50 million times; Sprout Games' "Feeding Frenzy" claims more than 10 million downloads. Following the acquisition, Sprout's development team will move into PopCap's Seattle offices.
http://www.popcap.com
http://www.sproutgames.com
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o Note to Readers

Digital Media Wire will not be published again until Wednesday, July 6, as we take a short break for the Independence Day holiday weekend.

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> Featured Advertisement:

> PwC Global Entertainment and Media Outlook: 2004-2008 

PricewaterhouseCoopers Global Entertainment and Media Outlook: 2004-2008 is the leading global entertainment and media industry forecast, including in-depth global analyses and five-year growth projections for 14 industry segments covering every major global region. The complete 550-page book, is available in print or electronic format. The 50 page "Global Overview" (available in print or electronic format)or any of the 14 individual industry segment chapters (electronic format only) can be purchased separately for $95. For sample content and to order, click here.
 

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o Briefly Noted:

(San Mateo, Calif.) Consumer electronics developer Sling Media on Thursday launched its Slingbox, a device that "place-shifts" a live TV stream from a user's cable box, satellite receiver or digital video recorder to a Windows XP-based PC or laptop. The $249 Slingbox, available at Best Buy and CompUSA, is unique in that no additional subscription fees are required to view the channels a user already subscribes to through a cable or satellite provider. When connected to a broadband Internet connection, a user may access subscription channels on a laptop from anywhere in the world. San Mateo, Calif.-based Sling Media plans to add support for Mac, as well as smartphones and PDAs.
http://www.slingmedia.com 

(Santa Monica, Calif.) KCRW, the NPR flagship station based in Santa Monica, Calif., said on Thursday that it saw a tenfold increase in podcast downloads on Tuesday, the day that Apple launched iTunes 4.9 -- which included software for downloading podcasts -- and placed KCRW's podcasts on the iTunes home page. The station began offering podcasts of programs such as Harry Shearer's "Le Show" and Elvis Mitchell's "The Treatment" on March 1; a daily average of 10,000 podcast downloads grew to 100,000 on Tuesday, the station said.
http://www.kcrw.com 

(New York) Muze, a provider of informational databases on music, movies, games and books to online and traditional retailers, announced on Thursday that it has named current chairman of the board Bill Sternsrud to the additional role of CEO. Sternsrud is a managing director at Enterprise Partners Venture Capital, which acquired New York-based Muze in May. He replaces Paul Zullo, who had served as CEO since founding the company in 1991.
http://www.muze.com

(San Francisco) Video game publisher Mastiff said it is currently at work on "Top Gun" for Nintendo DS, based on the 1986 Paramount Pictures film. The title will enable multiplayer "dogfights" for up to four players.
http://www.mastiff-games.com 

(Cypress, Calif.) Japanese game developer Bandai on Thursday shipped its "Gundam vs. Zeta Gundam" title for PlayStaiton 2 to retailers. The game is based on the popular Japanese anime TV series that airs in the U.S. on Cartoon Network.
http://www.bandaigames.com
http://www.gundamofficial.com

(Los Angeles) Left Behind Games, a developer formed in 2001 to create games based on the "Left Behind" religious book series, announced that it plans to release a real-time strategy PC game based on the books. "Left Behind: Eternal Forces," which will feature an online multiplayer mode, is slated for release in the spring of 2006.
http://www.leftbehindgames.com 

(Santa Clara, Calif.) O-3 Entertainment, a provider of interactive entertainment publishing and distribution services, said on Wednesday that it has promoted Chris Jelinek to president. Jelinek, previously the company's vice president of sales and marketing, replaces Bill Gardner, who has left the company to pursue other interests.
http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/050629/295316.html 

(San Francisco) Wired News on Thursday reported on comments that Bram Cohen, developer of the BitTorrent file-sharing software, once made concerning digital piracy -- that could now figure in a potential future lawsuit. "I build systems to disseminate information, commit digital piracy…" Cohen wrote in his "Technological Activist's Agenda." "I wrote that in 1999, and I didn't even start working on BitTorrent until 2001," Cohen told Wired News. While the MPAA and RIAA have so far not sued Cohen for creating BitTorrent, this week's Supreme Court ruling said a file-sharing software creator's intentions are a factor in determining guilt in copyright lawsuits. "A good lawyer will try to nail him to the wall with that, and any other statements they can find. It's circumstantial evidence of intent. It's not a slam dunk but it hurts his case a little," Southern Illinois law professor Mark Schultz told Wired News.
http://www.wired.com/news/digiwood/0,1412,68046,00.html
http://www.bittorrent.com

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> Classifieds -- Advertise

> Project Manager

Cauldron Solutions, a leading provider of technology solutions that manage the production, distribution and transaction exchange of on-demand content, is seeking an experienced Project Manager. The right candidate will possess a strong track record of delivering large-scale media or technology projects on time and on budget. Excellent communication skills, attention to detail, PLC discipline, and strong client-relationship management skills are essential. Visit www.cauldronsolutions.com and send resumes to jobs@cauldronsolutions.com.
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> Database Warehouse Architect

This individual will lead in the design, modification, development and implementation of the company's database warehouse products and associated embedded and third party reports. He/she will lead in the testing process through test review and analysis, test witnessing and certification of software, research & employ commonly used concepts, procedures and best practices software development. Four plus years of overall software development experience is required as well as one plus years in Java. If interested, please submit your resume to vbhatia@hirestrategy.com, or visit, http://www.hirestrategy.com/quicklinks/hire275.asp
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> Senior SAP Application Architect

2-3 Years SAP BW Implementation and Development Exp. 5 Years of total exp in full life cycle SAP Implementations, with focus on Basis installation and configuration. 3-4 Years exp with a 3rd Party BI tool such as Business Objects, Cognos focusing on Architecture, Implementation and Configuration. Ability to work with minimal direction yet keep all parties well informed Communication and writing skills. Send resumes to kathe.yamagata@claraview.com
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> Online Advertising Manager

Proffiliates, Inc is seeking a highly motivated individual to help grow a successful and profitable email marketing company. Reporting to the co- founders of the company, the Online Advertising Manager will assist in all day to day operations of the business. This is a tele-commuting position. Proficient with Excel and other Office applications, Working knowledge of HTML 2.0, Past experience in the email advertising and/or direct marketing space, Good overall business experience, Strong problem solving, organizational, interpersonal and motivational skills. Deadline oriented. Send resumes to general@proffiliates.com
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> Director of Marketing

Hartley Hickey Executive Search works with small to mid-sized companies to help find talented marketing executives. Our client, a software provider of healthcare billing services, is looking for a seasoned direct marketer. Define marketing strategy for the customer experience. Define and manage marketing budget and oversee implementation of marketing components. Coordinate with product development and operations to ensure the success of the product. Send resumes to chris@hartleyhickey.com
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> Senior Software Engineer - ASP.Net, VB.Net, Web Services

Build Web Services for commercial CRM. Must have experience building Web Services and related technologies in a .NET environment: XML, XSL, SOAP, UDDI, WSDL ,WSE (.NET), security methods and standards, JavaScript, CSS, DHTML, ASP .NET, ADO.NET, MS SQL Server, T-SQL, stored procedures, triggers and data access optimization techniques. SharePoint 2003 Web Part Development, SharePoint Portal Server 2003 and Windows SharePoint Services configuration. Send resumes to recruiter@tmaresources.com
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> Media Supervisor - Manhattan, NY

In this management position, the Supervisor oversees all aspects of online media campaigns, including planning, implementing and tracking for one of the top 10 advertisers in the country. Require: Five to seven years of exp. in media, marketing or strategic planning, Exp. in online marketing and current knowledge of trends and innovations in interactive media, Proven leadership skills and mgmt exp., Excellent written and verbal communications skills, Detail-oriented approach. Please email cover letter and resume to Arela Simerson arela@cm-recruiting.com
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> Director, IT Planning and Program Management - Biotech

Key member of IT organization; senor management position within IT. Manage staff of 3-4 professionals; partner with CIO in managing IT planning, program management and administration. Prepare and track IT budget; determine performance measures; lead program management across all business functions; establish standards. Requires experience managing multiple large IT projects across diverse business units. Send resumes to fsltd@earthlink.net
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> Technical Account Manager (TAM) - Springfield, VA

Verio is a global industry-leading hosting and service provider. We are currently offering a position within our Technical Account Management group. The selected candidate will be responsible for the detailed tracking/resolution and day-to-day operational management of our dedicated hosting clients. The TAM will facilitate and assist with the troubleshooting of escalated client issues(24x7). Technical account/project management skills, preferably in a hosting environment, are desired. Bachelor's degree required. For more Information please visit http://ver.hrdpt.com Send resumes to cmerritt@verio.net
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> Account Executives, Integration Software & Solution Sales - Software AG

Established for over 30 years, Software AG is an expert in world-class enterprise modernization and information integration. We seek Account Executives with an advanced understanding of integration, middleware solutions, BPM, and workflow delivery software to sell our portfolio of software, solutions, and services. Visit http://www.softwareagusa.com/ or email resume to kim.burger@softwareagusa.com
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> Vice President/Media Director - Boston

Our client, one of the top interactive and analytical data marketing firms in their space, is searching for a Vice President / Media Director. Candidates should have at least 10 years of strategic media planning experience, large team management and strong client relationship building experience. P&L responsibility along with new business media lead pitch & win experience is required. The client will pay for full relocation for the right candidate. Reports to EVP/ Media. Boston. Requires relocation to Boston. Send resumes to dhonig@market- search.net
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> Sr. Product Manager - Walnut Creek

The Product Manager is the worldwide owner of assigned products throughout the product life cycle, including market analysis, definition of feature requirements, product positioning, competitive analysis, partner identification, and product launch. Require: 5 years enterprise software or hardware appliance product mgmt, understanding of IT environments in general and network troubleshooting in particular, strong communication and writing skills, strong strategic and analytical skills, ability to work in and foster a collaborative team, BS/BA required, MS/MBA preferred. Visit http://www.wildpackets.com Send resumes to hr2005@wildpackets.com
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> Internal Communications/ Strategic HR Consultant

Innovative and fast-growing strategic communications firm is seeking an exceptional internal communications Campaign Director responsible for the strategy and day-to-day execution of high-visibility communication projects. Contract Position. Min 3 to 5 years internal communications exp. Organizational development, change mgmt, and HR exp. Branding and communications design exp. Project mgmt exp. with emphasis on delivering projects on-time and on budget. Willingness to travel throughout US and Europe, possibly as much as 50 percent of the time. Highly motivated, dynamic personality. Send resumes to jobs@bonfiresf.com Visit http://www.bonfirecommunications.com
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> Strategic Communications Group Offers Blog Relations Counsel

Enter the Blogosphere prepared - Enhance your sales and marketing programs. Take advantage of blog relations and blog technology at its forefront. As blogging matures and becomes a prevailing force in communications, allow Strategic Communications Group to assist you in meeting your sales, profitability and corporate valuation goals. Contact us for a free white paper. Send inquiries to info@gotostrategic.com or call 301.408.4500. Visit http://www.gotostrategic.com/blogptw.html  for more info.
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About Us
Digital Media Wire, Inc. is a news organization, publisher and events company serving the digital media industry since May 2000. Our daily newsletter delivers original briefings on business, legal and financial developments shaping digital media and read by over 30,000 executives and professionals.

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