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July 29, 2005 -- About Us | Advertise | Events | Subscribe | Unsubscribe

Main Stories
o Report: Video Game Sales Up 21% to $4.1 Billion in First Half of 2005
o Senate Pushes File-Sharing Firms to Stem Piracy, Filter Pornography
o Canada's Supreme Court Upholds Ban on "iPod Tax"
o Screen Actors Guild Members Vote to Accept Video Game Contract
o Fox Comes Out in Support of Sony's Blu-Ray in DVD Format War
o HP to End Sales of HP-Branded Apple iPod
o Handheld Game Console Maker Tapwave Discontinues Zodiac


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

o Briefly Noted: MTV Networks - mBlox, Viacom - The Sports Network, Universal Pictures - Sony's "God of War," Activision - Marvel Enterprises, BASS - Jakks Pacific, MLB.com - Hall of Fame webcast
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> Job/Event/Marketplace Classifieds:
--Analytics Manager
--Paid Search Analytics Manager
--Telecom/Network Sales Executives
--Research Analyst
--Integrated Marketing Account Manager
--Business Strategy Consultant - Telecom, Energy, Utilities
--eBay Marketing Executive
--Advertising And Marketing Position
--Marketing Communications Manager
--Director of Marketing Analytics
--Project Manager
--Database Warehouse Architect
--Senior SAP Application Architect
--Online Advertising Manager
--Strategic Communications Group Offers Blog Relations Counsel
 


o Report: Video Game Sales Up 21% to $4.1 Billion in First Half of 2005

Port Washington, N.Y. -- Titles for new handheld game systems from Sony and Nintendo helped drive video game industry sales up 21% to $4.1 billion in the first half of 2005, compared with $3.4 billion during the same period last year, according to a report from market research firm NPD Group. Losing ground were game consoles, which saw a 6% sales decline, from $631.6 million last year to $594 million in the first half of this year, and PC games, whose sales revenues were down 10.5%, to $405.4 million. Overall, however, video game sales for consoles, handhelds and the PC were up 9.2% to $2.8 billion; the top-selling title for the period was Sony's "Gran Turismo 4." Driving game sales were titles for Sony's PSP and Nintendo's DS and Game Boy handhelds, which were up 81% in the first half of 2005; handheld hardware sales also grew 74%. "The robust performance of the portable market certainly contributed to the considerable sales growth of the industry but another significant contributor to industry performance is software," said NPD analyst Anita Frazier.
http://www.npd.com/dynamic/releases/press_050728.html
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o Senate Pushes File-Sharing Firms to Stem Piracy, Filter Pornography

Washington -- Senators at a Commerce Committee hearing on Thursday urged peer-to-peer software companies to act to stem piracy and children's access to pornography, or else Congress may enact new legislation against them. Commerce Committee chairman Sen. Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) and Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) both indicated that peer-to-peer firms must act to filter content, even in the wake of a Supreme Court decision (MGM v. Grokster) that makes peer-to-peer firms liable for copyright infringement committed by end users. "If you don't move to protect copyright, if you don't move to protect our children, it's not going to sit well," Sen. Boxer said, at the hearing. "We're going to get specific about this, pornography over the Internet. People tell me we can't do anything about it. I don't believe that," said Commerce Committee chairman Stevens. Representing file-sharing companies at the hearing was Adam Eisgrau of P2P United, who warned of "very serious social, scientific, educational and all kinds of ramifications" if Congress restricts peer-to-peer technology. Eisgrau also argued in favor of voluntary collective licensing of copyrighted works for peer-to-peer networks, and for a lowering of the current $150,000-per-instance sum that copyright holders can claim as damages for infringement.
http://commerce.senate.gov/hearings/witnesslist.cfm?id=1594
http://www.wired.com/news/politics/0,1283,68350,00.html
http://tinyurl.com/bhayr
http://www.p2punited.org
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o Canada's Supreme Court Upholds Ban on "iPod Tax"

Toronto -- The Canadian Supreme Court this week declined to hear an appeal of a ruling that set aside a tax on iPods and other digital music players, which would have set aside funds to offset any potential losses to copyright infringement posed by the devices. Canada also charges a tax on blank CDs, which provides rights holders with about 2.8 cents per "lost sale" due to potential music CD copying. The ruling was praised by the Canadian Recording Industry Association (CRIA), which believes it clarifies that unauthorized file-sharing is an illegal activity in Canada. An earlier decision, which many viewed as legitimizing unfettered file-sharing in Canada, referred to the iPod tax as just compensation for any losses from file-sharing. "For years, those supporting unauthorized file sharing have misleadingly used the existence of the Private Copying Levy to justify illegitimate file sharing," said CRIA president Graham Henderson. "Today, the Supreme Court says 'no such luck.'"
http://www.cria.ca/news/280705_n.php
http://tinyurl.com/cbe7m
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o Screen Actors Guild Members Vote to Accept Video Game Contract

Los Angeles -- Actor members of Hollywood's Screen Actors Guild (SAG) have voted to approve a new contract covering their appearances in video games, the group announced on Friday. SAG members voted 81% in favor of the contract; a previous member vote approving the contract was nullified by an overriding vote by SAG's national executive committee. The new contract provides higher wages and more comprehensive benefits for video game actors, but denies their demands for residual payments based on game sales. A similar contract was approved in June by another actors' union, the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA). "By voting for this contract, SAG members have achieved major gains despite the fact that we were not able to win in the area of residuals," said Screen Actors Guild chief negotiator Sallie Weaver. "The interactive market is of vital importance to our membership, and SAG will spend the next three-and-a-half years devoting resources to further organize this exploding industry so that we can return to the bargaining table with renewed strength and vigor."
http://tinyurl.com/8y4ab 
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o Fox Comes Out in Support of Sony's Blu-Ray in DVD Format War

Beverly Hills, Calif. -- News Corp.'s Twentieth Century Fox film studio announced on Friday that it plans to release movies and other content on Sony's next-generation Blu-ray Disc DVD format. Fox said it decided to support Blu-ray as a result of the format's recent adoption of copyright protection measures, including renewable security. Sony's Blu-ray is one of two new, high-capacity DVD formats currently battling to become the standard -- reminiscent of the format war between VHS and Beta -- the other being Toshiba's HD DVD. The two companies have engaged in heated negotiations towards avoiding a format war, but so far have been unsuccessful. Studio support is considered vital for the success of both formats. Thus far, Disney and Fox are the only studios besides Sony's own to support Blu-ray; HD DVD has received commitments from Paramount, Universal and Warner Bros.
http://tinyurl.com/bed4o
http://tinyurl.com/8egjj
http://www.blu-raydisc.com
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o HP to End Sales of HP-Branded Apple iPod

San Jose, Calif. -- PC maker Hewlett-Packard said on Friday that it will stop selling an HP-branded version of Apple's iPod music player in September. "HP has decided that reselling iPods does not fit within the company's current digital entertainment strategy," said Apple spokeswoman Natalie Kerris. "As a result, HP plans to stop reselling iPods by end of this September." HP-branded iPods have made up an average of 5% of all iPod sales since the deal was brokered in January 2004. Apple indicated that HP will continue to ship PCs loaded with its iTunes music jukebox software after the HP iPods are discontinued.
http://tinyurl.com/acplu
http://biz.yahoo.com/ap/050729/hp_ipod.html
http://h10058.www1.hp.com/digital/entertainment/us/en/music/ipod_flash.html
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o Handheld Game Console Maker Tapwave Discontinues Zodiac

Mountain View, Calif. -- Tapwave, the manufacturer of the Zodiac handheld multi-functional video game system, announced this week that it has shuttered its Zodiac business and discontinued all service and support for the devices. "We thank you for your past interest and support and apologize for any inconvenience that this may have caused," reads a note on the company's website. The Zodiac ran on the Palm operating system, and in addition to games also lets users play digital music, and view photos and video. The device was released in the U.S. in 2003 and in the U.K. in late 2004. Mountain View, Calif.-based Tapwave said that additional products, accessories and game cards will still be available from CompUSA, Fry's and J&R while supplies last.
http://www.tapwave.com
http://www.gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=10444
http://tinyurl.com/7va7b

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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:

(New York) MTV Networks said this week that it has partnered with San Francisco-based mobile messaging services provider mBlox, to launch a new in-house mobile messaging platform to interact with its viewers. The service will enable cross-carrier mobile voting, polling and sweepstakes entry, in addition to the distribution of wireless alerts from MTV Networks' Comedy Central and VH1.
http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/050728/nyth166.html
http://www.mblox.com 

(Hatboro, Pa.) Media conglomerate Viacom's Digital Media Group said on Friday that it has partnered with The Sports Network, an international real-time sports wire news service, to bring localized sports content to Viacom TV station websites. Viacom is currently re-launching all 17 of its CBS network station websites.
http://www.sportsnetwork.com 

(Los Angeles) Universal Pictures has acquired the movie rights to Sony's "God of War" PlayStation 2 game, Variety reported. The game, which incorporates Greek mythology, was the top-selling U.S. title upon its release in March. While no cast, director or writers have been announced, Charles Roven ("Batman Begins") and Alex Garnter of Mosiac Media have signed on to produce the film.
http://www.gamesindustry.biz/content_page.php?aid=10411
http://us.playstation.com/Content/OGS/SCUS-97399/Site/main.asp

(Santa Monica, Calif.) Video game publisher Activision said on Friday that it has expanded its existing license agreement with comic book publisher Marvel Enterprises, to include the exclusive right to develop non-persistent roleplaying games that utilize a range of Marvel's ensemble cast of characters. Santa Monica, Calif.-based Activision expects to release its first title under the agreement in 2007.
http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/050729/laf023.html
http://www.activision.com 

(Orlando, Fla.) BASS, the world's largest fishing organization, said on Friday that toymaker Jakks Pacific's "BASS Angler Championship" TV Games plug-and-play video game device has shipped to retailers. The game's controller, which contains embedded games and plugs directly into a TV, is shaped like a fishing reel and features force feedback vibration.
http://www.bassmaster.com
http://www.jakkstvgames.com 

(New York) Major League Baseball said on Friday that it plans to stream a live webcast of its 2005 National Baseball Hall of Fame induction ceremony from Cooperstown, N.Y. on Sunday. This year's new inductees include Boston's Wade Boggs and the Chicago Cubs' Ryne Sandberg.
http://www.mlb.com
http://www.baseballhalloffame.org
 
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> Classifieds -- Advertise

> Analytics Manager @ Simple Star, Inc.

The Analytics Manager will serve as principal on all data collection, analysis and reporting initiatives. Responsibilities include identifying and reporting on KPIs on an on-going basis, designing and implementing tests to locate areas of improvement all around, and a variety of other crucial tasks. Must have 2-4 years' experience working in an analytics role for a major web property or consumer software business, experience with Omniture or like service provider, a strong understanding of SQL database structure, and working knowledge of query creation. More details can be found at: http://www.simplestar.com/careers/description.php?position=7.
_________________

> Paid Search Analytics Manager

Requires demonstrated skills in fact-based analysis, presentation, and interpersonal interaction that refine the Internet Marketing business plan. Manage cross functional projects working with Product Mgmt, Information Management, and Finance. 5 -7 years of exp in managing highly quantitative and analytical projects, with extensive experience in the field of Data-Mining or Quantitative Analysis. BA/BS in Statistics, Economics, Business, or other related field. Masters or MBA preferred. Proficient using SAS, SQL, Business Objects, Microsoft Excel, Access, and PowerPoint. A passion for understanding and serving the unique community of eBay. Send resumes to R3845115104234@PostTrak.com
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> Telecom/Network Sales Executives

XIF Networks (http://www.xif.net) is a master agent for many of the top US carriers and provides telecom consulting services to area businesses and organizations. Full and part-time positions are available in inside sales, as well as subagent opportunities. We are seeking sales executives with 3-4 plus years experience selling network and carrier services to small and medium sized businesses. We are seeking aggressive sales people with an ability to target markets, reach decision makers, and generate quality leads through grass roots efforts, personal contacts, and assertive sales tactics. This position would be in direct support of the VP of Sales. Send your resume, interest (sales career or agent opportunity), and cover letter to jobs@xif.net. No recruiters.
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> Research Analyst

Join a rapidly growing Online and Full Service market research company. Privately held, profitable, Fortune 500 accounts. Require: 7-10 years marketing research exp., particularly on the supplier side, experience with Fortune 500 marketing research clients highly desirable, Client side marketing research experience desirable, prior experience with writing effective proposals, survey writing knowledge, Strong communication skills, oral and written, Able to handle multiple projects simultaneously, Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Quantitative Analysis or related field. MBA a strong plus. Compensation: $80-100K. Send resumes to ktaylor@talentplanet.com
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> Integrated Marketing Account Manager

Avenue A Razorfish has an immediate opening for an Integrated Marketing Analyst in our Atlanta or Fort Lauderdale office. Require: 4 plus years exp. working in the areas of marketing or analytics for a professional services company. At least 2 years exp. with online marketing analytics related to web site and media-based performance. Email marketing exp. a plus. Detail-oriented, with excellent writing and analysis skills. Familiarity with online analytics measures, terminology, benchmarks and tracking technology (Atlas desired), Proven skills with Access and Excel with strong presentation skills. Submit a resume, cover letter via email to: se.recruiting@avenuea-razorfish.com
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> Business Strategy Consultant - Telecom, Energy, Utilities

Fortune 1000 Firm/Qualified candidates must have experience and a prior background in Operations Strategy consulting to clients in the Energy or Utilities industry. Must have ability to work in a team environment. Salary 110,000 - 140,000 with Bonus Consulting experience to the Energy and Utilities industries (3-5 yrs for Consultant, 5-10 yrs for SR. Consultant) Tier 1 or top tier consulting firm experience highly preferred MBA. Send resumes to mark@allandavidrecruiters.com
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> eBay Marketing Executive

Entry level position in a growing e-commerce company. We are seeking a dynamic individual who can manage over 500 auctions per day on eBay. You will be provided with our customized software to manage the auctions. The software empowers you to run reports and analyze auction success. You will be trained well and work closely with our Marketing Manager for a month before you take complete responsibility on the project. Require good problem-solving skills, communications skills. Excellent time-management skills. Great team worker. Successful experience selling on eBay is a plus. Send resumes to jobscss@comcast.net
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> Advertising And Marketing Position

Morristown Agency Seeking Part-time/Full-time Employees in Advertising/Marketing Industry, Web Developer and Client Services Position with 1 to 2 years experience. Contact 201-486-7167 or send resumes to michelle.nelson@iideagroup.com
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> Marketing Communications Manager

Network World has a great opportunity for a creative project manager with a marketing background (including online marketing) to lead the Marketing Communications department producing innovative and effective ways to further promote the Network World brand. Great people and project management skills; effectively lead a quality team juggling many priorities in a fast paced, dynamic environment. Excellent communication (oral and written), copywriting, proofing and editing skills; a solid understanding of design processes and software applications. Must be competent with financial administration to manage a budget. Send resumes to hotjobs@nww.com
 _________________

> Director of Marketing Analytics

In this position, the Director will support the Marketing department by providing analytical reports, interpretations, and recommendations. The ideal candidate should have a fluent knowledge of SAS foundation products and some experience in Hyperion, ESRI or VB.NET. A min. of 10 yrs exp. in an analytics role with a background in direct marketing. Degree in Statistics or Mathematics, Base SAS, ODS, SAS/STAT, SAS/Graph, SAS/Access to ODBC, Basic knowledge of marketing terminology and concepts. Exp. in marketing analytics: ROI, LTV, Segmentation, etc. Send resumes to: bvklbell@comcast.net. Visit http://www.investools.com
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> 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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> 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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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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