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Associate Creative Director Barry Munsterteiger, Producer Kenji Hayashi and
Associate Art Director Adam Oestergaard Handle Growing Volume of Design
Work

San Francisco, CA (January 26, 2010)-Bonfire, the motion design and
integrated media company, and sister facility of Bay Area mainstay Phoenix
Editorial, announced it has grown its team. Associate Creative Director
Barry Munsterteiger, Producer/Technical Advisor Kenji Hayashi, and
Associate Art Director Adam Oestergaard have been recruited to handle
Bonfire's growing volume of design work.

Bonfire is starting the new year with a number of high profile design
assignments. The company has also seen an increase in clients coming to
Bonfire to help solve their design challenges - whether it's creating
futuristic product UI design, immersive digital entertainment experiences,
or creative content for the big screen.

Said Julia Sonder-Patchin, executive producer for Bonfire and Phoenix
Editorial, "It was clear as 2009 was drawing to a close that we needed to
expand, so we've added to Bonfire's already heavy-duty brain trust. Barry's
many years with Apple enable him to communicate with our technology clients
on a user level. He's also an amazing designer, most notably in the world
of user interface design. We're also fortunate to add Kenji, an extremely
detail-oriented producer and an expert at compression technology, so he'll
be a huge asset as we upgrade our production pipeline. Rounding out the
trio is Adam, who truly has the makings of a rock-star animator."

Barry Munsterteiger is a formally trained industrial designer whose
specialty is solving complex business problems through design. With
experience that spans digital, broadcast, user experience and user
interface design, Munsterteiger brings strategic thinking as well as
technical and creative innovation to Bonfire, where he'll be working
closely with Creative Director Matt Silverman and Associate Creative
Director Phil Spitler on Bonfire's highest profile technology clients.

"When we decided we needed another creative leader on our team, Barry was
the first person I thought of. We've worked together on numerous projects
over the years for Apple, and our careers have followed similar core paths
while diverging in different directions," said Bonfire Creative Director
Matt Silverman. "His unique expertise from his time at Apple will help
Bonfire transition into the new bleeding-edge motion-intensive interactive
space."

Munsterteiger comes to Bonfire after spending nearly eight years with
Apple, most recently as a creative director, where he played a key role in
R&D that led to the development of iTunes LP and iTunes Extras. He also
spent five years as technical director and was the very first person hired
to join Apple's in-house motion graphics department. Munsterteiger's career
has included management and design posts at several Bay Area design and
technology companies. He began his career as an industrial designer,
working at Index Design & Associates, and Procter & Gamble.

Producer and Technical Advisor Kenji Hayashi will be working across both
Bonfire and Phoenix Editorial and will be tasked with what he
affectionately dubs, "extreme cat-herding." Hayashi's key responsibilities
will be bringing together creative teams from both facilities on jobs,
managing the budget schedule and overseeing the post-production workflow,
in particular video compression and how it relates to acquisition, post and
delivery. Before joining Bonfire/Phoenix, Hayashi was an executive producer
at Compression Group, and prior to that, spent five years at Rough House
Editorial, where he was executive technical director and producer.

Denmark native Adam Oestergaard is a talented animator and 3D artist who
honed his skills during a 10-month-long stint at Bonfire while attending
the Academy of Art, San Francisco to earn his MFA in Visual Effects.
Previous to heading out to California (and thus, fulfilling a childhood
dream), Oestergaard studied at Northern England's Cumbria Institute of the
Arts, where he earned a degree in 3D and Visual Effects.

About Bonfire Labs
Bonfire specializes in designing moving images combined with compelling
narratives for any medium - from TV and feature film, to high-definition
LED screens and mobile devices. The company taps into a wealth of talent,
including creative directors, graphic designers and visual effects artists,
to deliver work for clients that have included HBO's "True Blood," Bank of
America, Microsoft, Adobe and other Silicon Valley companies. Bonfire
launched in 2009 as the sister company to San Francisco mainstay Phoenix
Editorial. For more information about Bonfire, please visit
www.bonfirelabs.com.

About Phoenix Editorial
Phoenix has been a mainstay in the San Francisco post-production and design
community since 1991. The company's award-winning roster of editors works
with creatively-driven advertising agencies, including Organic, Venables,
Bell & Partners, Goody, Silverstein & Partners, Publicis & Hal Riney, Heat,
AKQA and McCann-Erickson on campaigns and brand initiatives for Apple,
Microsoft, Audi, PG&E, Palm, HP, Adobe, AT&T, Sega, EA, HBO and Sprite. In
2009, Phoenix Editorial re-launched its motion graphics and visual effects
division Bonfire. For more information about Phoenix Editorial:
www.phoenixedit.com.

###

Toronto / Los Angeles / London - Jan. 6, 2009 - Leading independent studio E1 Entertainment announces the appointment of Jennifer Chambers as VP of Creative Affairs. 

 

Chambers will be based at E1's Los Angeles office and report directly to Michael Rosenberg, Senior VP of Creative Affairs for E1 Television where she will be responsible for all scripted development.

 

"I'm thrilled to welcome Jen to the E1 team," commented Michael Rosenberg.  "I'm looking forward to teaming up with her again to create and develop top-quality scripted programming."

 

Before joining E1, Chambers was employed at Maverick Television where she helped develop the company's full slate of one-hour and half-hour projects including The Riches for FX.  She also worked in the drama development department for Fox Network, working on projects such as The O.C., Wonderfalls, House, and Bones.  Chambers began her career in the TV lit department at the Paradigm Agency. 

 

E1 continues to build worldwide recognition as one of the industry's leading creators, producers and international distributors of quality entertainment.  The indie studio has a track record of attracting impressive in-demand creative partners, top networks and specialty broadcasters, such as Stephen King and SyFy for the television series Haven (based on the author's novella, The Colorado Kid), HBO for Hung, CBS and CTV for The Bridge and ABC and Canwest for Copper. 

Trace Pictures is thrilled to announce their new Creative Director, Hector Herrera. Hector has joined the ranks of Trace heading up the design and animation team.
Previously of Cuppa Coffee Animation and The Studio Upstairs, Hector moves to Trace with 9 years under his belt as CD. He has lead commercial and broadcast projects for such clients as Cartoon Network, Spike TV, BBC, JWT, CTV, TSN, FCB, CBC, Gospel Network ... to name a few.
Starting his career as a graphic designer, Hector has a passion for hands on design and mixed media approach. "I love combining multiple sources and techniques and I've always found Trace's work inspiring for this reason. They are open to doing crazy sh$@! What's really exciting for me though, is Trace's strategic approach to working. Their work is not only well executed but it's also well thought out."
Hector has also worked on the ad agency side as Art Director for agencies such as Leo Burnett and MacClaren McCann.
In his spare time, Hector is an instructor at The Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD) in the illustration program, a competitive swimmer, a karate master, a conneseur of fine food and drink (tequila included), and a lover of all things musical. Welcome, Hector.

About TRACE PICTURES:

Trace is a design firm and a full service production company working in live action and all forms of animation. Most recent clients include Nickelodeon, Digitas, DDB NY, Tribal, Nicktoons, The Hive, Showtime, Cartoon Network, Versus, Leo Burnett, Strawberry Frog, National Geographic Channel, Worldways, Fox Sports Net, WE and many more.

For any client wanting a classic 2D animated look to their potential spot, there is one director who is a cut above the rest.  With nearly 30 years of animating commercials under his belt and a seemingly uncanny ability to utilize several different styles of animation, Director Bruce McFarlan is one of the best animation directors in the advertising world.  And currently McFarlan is joining the all-star roster of directors at Z Animation (www.zanimation.tv), headed by Executive Producer Peter Barg. 

 

Bruce McFarlan started animating for advertising in 1981, and since then has been a force to be reckoned with, directing several ads for several clients, including Hershey's, Alka Seltzer, Time Magazine, Target, Church's Chicken, Samsung, and many more.  Known for full traditional character animation, McFarlan's work quickly reminds us of the old classical cel-animated cartoons of the 1930s-1950s.  In the spots he directed for Hershey's, the artwork and animation clearly resembles the "rubber-arm" style of cartoons that came from old Merry Melodies and Silly Symphonies shorts back in the '30s. 

 

Other work of his utilizes different styles of humor and at the same time, different styles of animation.  A sort-of off-color campaign ad for Massachusetts candidate Christy Mihos, who was running for Governor of Massachusetts in 2006, features a very minimalized, colored-pencil look, which is very different from some of McFarlan's other works, such as the Hershey's spots or the Publix spots.  The story is very much like a TV Funhouse sketch from Saturday Night Live.

 

 

Z Animation is an independent commercial animation design and production company whose goal is to be a valuable creative toolbox for agency art directors, writers and producers.  Founded by former Agency Executive Producer Peter Barg, Z Animation's directors include Caroline Attia, Orrin Zucker, Odd Todd, John Vondracek, Paul Fierlinger, and 20 more with a full range of techniques including 3D, Flash, Cel, rotoscope, papercut out, and motion graphics.

London, 15^th September, 2009. Ludorum plc, a leading specialist in the creation of global children's IP, announced today the appointment of Maureen Taxter to the newly-created position of Senior Vice President, US Consumer Products, based in New York.

Taxter is a licensing industry veteran with over 25 years experience in building and managing entertainment brands.  She has held senior positions within globally recognised companies such as Jim Henson Productions, Hasbro and Viacom contributing to some of the world's most successful kid's brands including SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, The Muppets, Playskool and more.

During her ten-year tenure at Viacom, Taxter led development of Nickelodeon's first successful consumer products brands, growing Rugrats and Blue's Clues into $1 billion franchises. She subsequently oversaw Brand Management, Retail and New Business Development for the $4 billion licensing division responsible for Nickelodeon, Noggin & Comedy Central consumer products.

Reporting directly to Ludorum COO, Charlie Caminada, Taxter will be responsible for all Ludorum's commercial operations in the US working across Ludorum properties and in particular, the CGI animated series for pre-schoolers, Chuggington which is to air on the Playhouse Disney programming block in the United States beginning Spring 2010.

Commenting on the appointment, Charlie Caminada, COO, Ludorum said: "We are delighted to welcome an executive of Maureen's calibre to Ludorum.  Maureen's appointment comes at an exciting time in our company's life and her knowledge and experience will be invaluable as we expand our activities in the US."

Taxter commented - "I am thrilled to be joining Ludorum to build and drive the company's brands and operation in the US.   Chuggington has had considerable success to date worldwide and I look forward to working with such an experienced team to launch this great new kid's property here in the US."

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - September 14, 2009 - Marc Schwartz, Managing Partner at Fluid, the New York-based editorial, original music and visual effects studio, announced today that Laura Relovsky will become Executive Producer of Fluid's editorial staff which includes Robin Burchill, Greg Letson, Scott Philbrook, John Mallerman, Karama Brown, Jim Rubino and lead designer Wes Waldron.
 
In making this announcement, Schwartz stated, "Laura brings years of experience and contacts to Fluid.  So many of our projects now involve multiple divisions here at Fluid (edit, music, sound design, graphics, production, interactive, etc.) and I think Laura will enjoy the ability to bring a lot more than editorial to the table for her clients."
 
Relovsky is an 18-year veteran of the advertising postproduction industry.  Prior to joining Fluid, she served as Executive Producer  at Mad River (New York, NY) for fourteen years, producing work for Canon, Vaseline, Levis, Tostitos, Nike, ESPN, Miller Lite, NFL, Amstel, Heineken, MTV, and Coke, and working with agencies such as BBDO, O&M, Y&R, JWT, W+K and Hill Holiday.
        
Of her new position Ms. Relovsky said, "Joining Fluid is the next logical step for me. I was immediately drawn in by the atmosphere, the people, and the vast array of talent contained within the company's walls.  To me it represents what the new model for the postproduction industry will be. Yet they've been doing it for years! Not only am I energized and thrilled to be working with such a great editorial team, but being able to collaborate with such accomplished composers, visual effects artists, and interactive designers, all under one roof, is more than I could have hoped for.  It is an exciting time and I hope that I can add to the creative texture with my experience, ideas, and industry relationships."    
 
Earlier in her career, Relovsky co-founded Progressive Image Group (New York, NY) with Editor Tim Sherry, and served as Business Manager and Producer at Vito DeSario Editing (New York, NY).
          
A Rutgers (Newark, NJ) graduate with a bachelor's degree in communications and English literature, Relovsky currently lives in Glen Ridge, NJ with her daughter, Olivia.
 
About Fluid:
 
Fluid, innovators in creating a collaborative of original music, editorial, design and interactive resources, was launched in the fall of 1998 by founding partners Composer/Executive Producer David Shapiro, Composer Andrew Sherman, and Managing Partner/Executive Producer Marc Schwartz, and today boasts a staff of 35. With its recent partnership with Crush + Lovely, the company has extended its reach into interactive web design and development.
 

FLUID is headquartered at 532 Broadway, 5th floor, New York, NY 10012; phone (212) 431-4342; fax (212) 431-6525.  Visit the FLUID website at www.fluidny.com For more information, or to see a reel, contact Jessica Millington, Kristen Bedard or Lori Youmans.
 
 

Christina Miller has been promoted to senior vice president of Turner Sports Strategy/Marketing/Promotions and Cartoon Network Enterprises.  In this role, Miller will continue her oversight of Cartoon Network's Consumer Products and Home Video business in the United States, which includes global licensing partnerships and merchandising strategies and retail business development for Cartoon Network and Adult Swim properties.  Miller's added duties will include responsibility for overall management and direction of Turner Sports strategy, marketing and programming, including overseeing relationships with league partners, Turner networks and their digital extensions.
 
Miller will relocate from New York to Atlanta.  She will continue to report to David Levy, president of sales, distribution and sports for Turner Broadcasting System, Inc., and to Stuart Snyder, president and chief operating officer, Animation, Young Adults and Kids Media Group.  With her new role, Miller will additionally report to Lenny Daniels, executive vice president, chief operating officer, Turner Sports.
 
"Christina's strategic approach, along with her reputation in the industry and her supportive leadership style, will be a perfect complement to the Turner Sports team," Daniels said.  "Christina was instrumental in our recent golf deal, which created an important kids' licensing partnership between Turner and the PGA."
 
Previously vice president of CNE, Miller joined Turner in 2005 and was responsible for the division's first global, multi-property, strategic partnership, which brought the entire Cartoon Network portfolio of toys to the marketplace.  Most recently, she was a key player in making CNE the PGA's licensing agent in the youth marketplace.  CNE, in this new role, will use its strengths to create an extensive consumer product and retail program for the PGA with the youth marketplace through a range of licensing agreements and co-branding partnerships across all product categories.  This new product line will increase the PGA's presence with the next generation of fans and also broaden the PGA's scope of retail offerings.  The deal provides an opportunity for CNE to deepen its commitment to the youth market and continue to build successful consumer products programs in this space.
 

Mocap Pioneer Spearheards Pipeline Development

Los Angeles, CA (August 31, 2009)--VICON, developer of Academy
Award(r)-winning motion capture systems, announced today that DJ Hauck has
signed on as Technical Supervisor at the company's Los Angeles motion
capture studio, VICON House of Moves. Hauck has had a long career in motion
capture that includes innovative pipeline development solutions for such
features as "Beowulf," "Monster House" and "The Polar Express."

"DJ brings a vast wealth of knowledge about mocap workflows to House of
Moves, and we couldn't be more ecstatic about his return," said Brian
Rausch, Vice-President of Production, VICON House of Moves. "He'll have the
same title, but it's a very different position now. In my two years here
the company has changed dramatically, and we needed to bring in someone
with DJ's proven success in developing high-end motion capture and
animation pipelines to address the complex issues of digital filmmaking and
evolving content. He's the ideal person for the job."

A pioneer in full-body and facial motion capture, Hauck re-joins VICON
House of Moves from Digital Concepts Group, where as co-founder he
developed DCG Face, a toolset for cleaning and re-targeting facial motion
capture. Prior to co-founding DCG, Hauck worked at Sony Pictures
Imageworks, where he served as Senior Technical Animator and Motion Capture
Technology Lead. In this position, he was recruited to implement the motion
capture system and pipeline for "The Polar Express," which he continued to
manage and develop through both "Monster House" and "Beowulf." Hauck began
his career in motion capture in 1999, starting out as a Motion Editor at
House of Moves in the years before the facility was purchased by VICON. He
was promoted to Technical Supervisor in 2000 with oversight of delivery of
all motion capture files, a position he returns to today in its
much-expanded capacity.

"Over the years, I have witnessed a complete transformation of House of
Moves. Brian has taken a technically based mocap facility and transitioned
it into an integrated team that services the full range of animation
possibilities, from motion capture to key-frame and everything in-between,"
said Hauck. "The environment at House of Moves encourages dedication,
technical expertise and creativity among employees. I'm thrilled about the
opportunity to work with such a dynamic team."

About VICON House of Moves
VICON House of Moves is a division of VICON, the Academy Award(r)-winning
supplier of precision motion tracking systems, serving customers in film,
visual effects, computer games, and broadcast television, as well as
engineering and life science industries.

VICON is the largest holding of OMG (Oxford Metrics Group - LSE: OMG), plc.
VICON House of Moves provides professional motion capture services, stock
3D data, and 3D animation services for the entertainment industry.  With
expertise dating back to 1985 and credits ranging from game titles
Resistance 2 and Unchartered to films including Spider-Man 2 to Titanic,
VICON House of Moves has contributed to hundreds of animation projects. For
more information, call (310) 306-6131 or visit www.moves.com.

                                                       ####

Comedy Central, the home of animated hits such as South Park, Futurama and Drawn Together, has hired on Lisa Leingang as SVP of Original Programming and Development, East Coast. In her new position, Leingang will oversee all original pilots and series in production on the East Coast and report to Lauren Corrao, President--Original Programming and Dev. Leingang comes to Comedy Central from a VP programming and development post at CBS, where she oversaw development of scripted series and pilots. Her comedy chops where also honed at NBC, where she was VP of comedy development for seven years and sealed deals for Flight of the Conchords and comedian Demetri Martin.

Discovery has moved Sara Kozak from her production post at the brand's Discovery Health channel into their Emerging Networks branch, where she will serve as VP Production for  Science Channel, Investigation Discovery and Military Channel. Kozak most recently acted as senior producer on the main network's Destroyed in Seconds and Two Weeks in Hell. Kozak came to the Discovery family from the BBC after collaborated with them on American adaptations of such BBC series as  What Not to Wear.

Yuri Lowenthal and Tara Platt Offer a Peek Into the World of VO

LOS ANGELES, July 24, 2009 -- Voice-Over superstars Yuri Lowenthal and
Tara Platt will officially announce publication of their book,
"Voice-Over Voice Actor: What It's Like Behind the Mic," this weekend
at the prestigious San Diego Comic-Con, the largest comic book and
popular arts convention in the world.

Have you ever watched a cartoon, played a video game or heard a movie
trailer and wondered just who are those folks behind the mic? Maybe
you've wanted to get into the business and become a voice actor
yourself, but wanted to know where to begin? Coming this November, you
can get answers to those questions and more with husband and wife duo
Yuri Lowenthal and Tara Platt new 'How To' book.

With insider tips and in-depth discussion about this exciting
profession, the book, "Voice-Over Voice Actor," is also peppered with
anecdotes from stars in the field like Phil Morris (Secret Saturdays),
Wil Wheaton (Batman: The Brave and the Bold), and Dee Bradley Baker
(Spongebob Squarepants), and with a foreword by Eisner Award winning
comic book writer Paul Jenkins (Wolverine: Origin). This book is sure
to open your eyes and entertain.

NYC based visual effects/conceptual design company, Manic has signed Creative Director Fran Roberts as part of its continued growth as a leading creative brand. Fran's reputation and extensive capabilities in graphic design, computer-generated animation, photography and visual effects will provide Manic's clients with a creative visionary disciplined in a concept through production approach to all projects.

Roberts spearheaded design + visual effects work for Apple, Nike, Acura, Pontiac, L'Oreal, Dentyne, Toyota, AT&T, Empire Blue Cross and Blue Shield, LensCrafters, the SciFi Channel, HotJobs.com, Chase Bank and the Financial Times among others. He has directed and produced content for Nickelodeon, VH1, and MTV - where he supervised production of the first in-house CGI-animated material Viacom had ever produced - and helped develop the look and lighting for the hit film Ice Age.

"We are thrilled to have Fran join Manic as creative director," noted Manic Managing Director Bob Cagliero. "Fran brings impressive, award-winning heritage from a line of brands known for ground breaking work. His comprehensive skill set further enables us to approach all degrees of high-end visual design and effects work and immediately emboldens Manic's presence in the industry. Fran's passion and concept-first mindset brings strong creative leadership to an already highly talented group of artists and designers."

Prior to joining Manic, Roberts co-founded the 3D and visual effects house Special Branch with partner Ed Manning in 2005, which eventually turned into an exclusive relationship with Manic entitled Special Branch@Manic. After a period devoted to collaborating on independent projects as a Creative Director as well as a commercial photographer, Roberts now assumes the comprehensive lead role as Creative Director of Manic.

"I've always enjoyed working with Manic, and teaming up with Bob (Cagliero) and leading a talented group of artists and designers was a special opportunity," stated Roberts. "In this environment, Manic has a valuable advantage of unique, extensive capabilities and a seasoned staff already in place. The new additions to the group will further catalyze the creation of breathtaking, game-changing work, both for current and new clients."

About Manic:

New York-based Manic delivers cutting-edge motion graphics, 2D and 3D VFX, design, animation, and high-end finishing services for clients working in commercials, feature films, television, music videos and broadcast. The company's artists and principals have led campaigns for notable brands such as Nike, Virgin Mobile, Acura, Reebok, Verizon, Maybelline, and Apple from major agencies TBWA/Chiat/Day, Merkley+Partners, McCann Erickson, and JWT to name a few.

The Portland, Oregon-based production company and creative laboratory Bent Image Lab is further expanding its roster with the recent signing of veteran animator and director Ken Lidster. Known for brilliant, award-winning commercials, such as those for Brisk iced tea that feature the voices and animated likeness of such stars as Bruce Willis and Danny DeVito, Lidster has directed noteworthy spots for Energizer, Chips Ahoy!, Kellogg's, Oscar Mayer, Quaker Oats, and Target.

"Ken has a history of spot-on work, whether he's directing a series of commercials around a common theme or doing a one-time gig," notes BENT Executive Producer Ray Di Carlo. "He has the exact combination of qualities that we look for in all of our directors - a creative bent, a tireless work ethic, and, maybe most important of all, a great sense of humor."

"BENT has been making a lot of moves lately, and I'm really thrilled for this opportunity to join their crew," stated Lidster. "Their work is imaginative and brilliant, and never fails to impress with its high quality and entertainment value."

Prior to joining BENT in 2009, the Canadian native spent two decades in London, where in the early 1990's he founded the animation company Loose Moose. While there, Lidster and his cohorts created more than one hundred international, award-winning commercials. Before starting Loose Moose, Lidster worked at Aardmann Animation Studio in Bristol.

Santa Monica, CA (July 9, 2009)--Artist owned-and-operated bi-coastal
effects boutique Brickyard VFX announced today that Cassie Hulen has been
hired as Executive Producer at the company's Santa Monica shop, teaming up
with Head of Production Diana Young Gomez.

"Cassie has an extensive background as an executive producer working with
some of the top directors and agencies in the industry," said Steve
Michaels, Managing Partner, Brickyard VFX. "We welcome her experience and
know she'll make a great addition to the Brickyard team."

Hulen joins Brickyard VFX from Anonymous Content, where she worked for the
last nine years. Originally hired as Head of Production at the company's
launch, Hulen signed directorial team Carter & Blitz and was quickly
promoted to executive producer. While at Anonymous Content, Hulen worked on
ads for brands such as Levis and Converse, as well as Monster.com's
celebrated commercial "Slots," which was honored for visual effects by the
AICP in 2008. In addition, Hulen developed strong relationships with
directors on the Gorgeous Enterprises roster, including Daniel Benmayor,
Jeff Blitz, Mac Carter, Patrick Sherman and PES, as well as such top
agencies as McCann-Erickson, BBDO, BBH, and The Martin Agency.

Toronto, Canada June 29, 2009.  guru, the internationally renowned award-winning animation studio is pleased to announce the addition of Janice Jacobs to the team. Janice is stepping in to the role of producer for their episodic + film department.
 
Janice comes to guru with over 20 years experience as a producer, production manager and line producer for animated CGI feature films, television series, long and short format programming for broadcast and commercials. Some notable experience includes the Weinstein Bros. feature film Outlander, Disney's 3D animated feature The Wild, Peter and Jane, Return to Neverland and popular children's series, Franklin, and The Magic School Bus.
 
Frank Falcone, Creative Director of guru studio, comments, "Janice possesses tremendous attention to detail along with the ability to manage demanding and complex productions. She will be a great asset to guru at a time when we are expanding into multiple series productions, including our own in house content."
 

Hollywood, CA (June 18, 2009)--Leading post-production facility Post Logic
Studios, a division of Prime Focus Group, announced today it has brought
Terrence Dwyer on board to its Hollywood facility as Director of
Audio/Supervising Re-recording Mixer. Dwyer is an industry veteran with
over three decades experience as an audio mixer and sound designer. He
joins Post Logic from Wild Woods, where for the last 12 years he worked on
top reality television shows including "Survivor," "Fear Factor, "Kid
Nation," "American Gladiators," "Wipeout" and, most recently, "Dating in
the Dark."

"We are extremely pleased to be working with Terrence," commented Larry
Birstock, CEO, Post Logic Studios. "He has a great deal of talent and a
wealth of expertise, and has worked on some of the biggest and
longest-running shows in reality television. I know he will be an enormous
asset to the development of Post Logic's audio facilities."

Prior to his position as chief engineer and supervising re-recording mixer
at Wild Woods, from 1994-1997, Dwyer worked as a re-recording mixer at
Telemation on reality projects such as "How'd They Do That?" and "U.S.
Customs Classified."  In 1977, Dwyer founded Indian Hill Audio Video, an
audio post facility catering to music and video production clients, which
he ran for over 15 years. In 2001, Dwyer received his first Emmy Award for
outstanding sound mixing on "Survivor," and went on to garner three
additional nominations. In 2008, Dwyer received his second Emmy in the news
and documentary category for "Operation Homecoming: Writing the Wartime
Experience."

"I am thrilled to be joining Post Logic Studios," said Dwyer. "It's a
beautiful facility with incredible staff and everything in place that I
need to build a great mixing facility. This is the perfect opportunity to
build a better mousetrap."

About Post Logic Studios
A leader in digital intermediate and feature film restoration, Post Logic
Studios is a part of the Prime Focus Group family, an integrated global
network of visual effects and post-production companies servicing clientele
around the world with technologically advanced facilities in Hollywood, New
York, London and India.  With access to hundreds of talented visual effects
and 3D artists from within Prime Focus Group, Post Logic has continued to
expand into new and emerging arenas within the post-production realm,
providing unmatched digital intermediate, digital mastering, editorial
assembly, restoration, visual effects and audio post production services to
feature film and television clients from its flagship Hollywood facility
and Manhattan-based satellite, Post Logic Studios N.Y.  For more
information, please visit www.postlogic.com or call 323-461-7887.

Brings Wealth of Experience as a Creative Lead on Film Titles, Commercials,
Environmental Designs and Network Branding Packages

Hollywood, CA (June 11, 2009)‹Troika Design Group announced that Stan Lim
has joined the strategic branding and design agency as art director, where
he'll play an important role guiding creative on projects within Troika's
collaborative environment. Lim comes to Troika from Imaginary Forces, where
he developed a reputation for artistic rigor, strategic thinking and a
fresh design approach ­ qualities that will soon be put to use on upcoming
work for Troika clients such as ABC and Fox.

"Everyone knows Troika as one of the most established and well-regarded
branding agencies in the industry," said Stan Lim, art director, Troika
Design Group. "This of course was a huge factor in my joining the team, but
what's equally exciting are some new developments taking shape at Troika
that I'm thrilled to be a part of."

TORONTO (June 10, 2009) - Toronto-based distribution company, Breakthrough Entertainment has brought in Kate Blank as its new sales executive. The announcement was made today by Nat Abraham, Head of Distribution.
 
Ms. Blank will be responsible for sales in the Asia Pacific region, the Middle East, Central and Eastern Europe, and Africa.
 
"As Breakthrough Entertainment's wide range of programming continues to increase so does our expansion into international territories and markets," said Mr. Abraham. "Kate's experience, track record and international contacts will make her an invaluable asset to our team and our strategic growth."
 
Most recently Ms. Blank was a sales executive at Sullivan Entertainment where she handled international sales and worked with broadcasters including NHK/Mico in Japan, Seven Network in Australia, YLE in Finland, TV2 in Denmark and EBS in Korea.
 
Ms. Blank will be attending the upcoming Discop market, June 16-19, in Budapest. Breakthrough Entertainment will be located at table #30.
 

Munich/London, 03 June 2009 - TV-Loonland has appointed Barbora Sopkova as Sales Manager for TV & Home Entertainment distribution. Based out of our London office, Barbora will take up her new post with immediate effect.

Barbora joins TV-Loonland from Classic Media Inc (formerly Entertainment Rights) where she previously held the position of Territory Manager for Central & Eastern Europe. Reporting to Loonland´s Head of International Distribution, Justine Bannister, Barbora will be responsible for driving TV and Home Entertainment sales of Loonland´s extensive portfolio within Central and Eastern Europe and Russia, Benelux, Greece, Turkey, North Africa, the Middle East and Asia (excl. Japan).
 
Additional responsibilities include working together with Loonland´s Head of Licensing & Merchandising, Bernd Conrad, on the placement of licensing agents for the key brands in the aforementioned territories.
 
Justine Bannister, Head of International Distribution, commented: "We are absolutely delighted that Barbora is joining us at TV-Loonland. She has extraordinary talent and proven skills and will be a valuable addition to our sales force. We are confident in her ability to increase revenue considerably for all of our key and catalogue titles across all of these territories.
 
Barbora Sopkova added: "I am thrilled to be on board at TV-Loonland and look forward to be representing their diverse portfolio, with shows suitable for each business partner across all territories. From sweet pre-school animation to hilarious Manga shows, TV-Loonland's creativity and dynamism in producing new and innovative shows will ensure that the group continues to grow and develop as one of the leading players in the animation business."
 
Barbora will be attending DISCOP EAST in Budapest, Hungary from 16th until 19th June (please come visit her at stand B 28).
 

BRB Internacional has the pleasure to announce the incorporation of Michel Monier as its new International Licensing Director. Under his supervision and in coordination with the Co-production and Sales Department, the development of style scripts, agent selection and contract management in the multinational sphere, among other duties, will be carried out. Michel comes to BRB with a thick merchandising dossier from many outstanding companies -- Toei Animation, The Licensing Company and Carrere Group,  just to name a few - and will be formally be named to his new post at the upcoming Licensing Show in Las Vegas and at  Brand Licensing Europe in London.
 
Michel Monier will head BRB's international licensing team with the firm intention of amply developing the company's catalogue in different countries. In fact, he is already working on boosting the performance of several properties, among them:
The Secret Life of Suckers: the avant-garde cartoon series offering an original X-ray of life itself, starring Art Toy dolls living in cars.
Iron Kid: Currently being aired in open-broadcasts in the US as Eon Kid and a sure bet for strong licensing possibilities because of its success in so many different countries.
Bernard: the famous polar bear who has just come out with his third TV season at the same time that his first TV movie and a stereoscopic feature film for theater viewing with 3D glasses are in the works.
The Imp: The most diabolical animated series on TV whose evil protagonist is bent on flooding every nook and cranny the world over with merchandising.
Angus& Cheryl: The blow-you-away slapstick comedy determined to fill the world with colors - happy blues and pinks - and sounds, like the ones in videogames. 
 
 
 
For more information:
Yolanda Muñoz (PR - BRB Internacional)
E-mail: Yolanda@brb.es    Ph. + 34 91 77 11 400, + 34 91 77 11 497
 
 
BRB Internacional: An international company founded in Spain with more than 35 years experience in the production, distribution and licensing of high quality television programmes. BRB's animated series have been seen around the world, and characters such as David the Gnome, Dogtanian and Willy Fog are widely recognised as classics since back in the '80s. Currently BRB is producing innovative and branded series through the development of its Catalan studio Screen 21 using the latest techniques in design and CG technology - including such successful brands like Bernard, Iron Kid, The Imp, Angus&Cheryl, Papawa, Khuda-Yana or The Secret Life of Suckers. In the field of licensing, the company manages aside of all BRB's titles an impressive catalogue which includes the Cartoon Network's properties for Spain and Portugal (The Powerpuff Girls, Foster's, Ben 10, Bakugan, ...), MGM (Pink Panther), Storm Hawks (Nerd Corps), Dibo and other brands like, Death Note.  For more information, see: www.brb.es
 

Leading Industry Veterans Jonathan Breiter and Jennifer Zivic to Represent
Fitz Roy's Hottest Kid Properties: Funny Face, Heathcliff and Secret Wings
 
Jon Rosenberg to Represent Properties to Publishing Industry
Richard Oren Will Lead Promotional Programs
 
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
 
NEW YORK - (May 27, 2009) - Fitz Roy Media announced today the appointment of Jonathan Breiter and Jennifer Zivic, two of the industry's most respected licensing and merchandising executives, as the designated U.S. licensing agents for the company's slate of children's properties. Breiter and Zivic will launch their representation of Fitz Roy's newest kid franchises including Funny Face, Heathcliff and Secret Wings at the 2009 Licensing International Expo in June.
 
Also added to the team are leading publishing industry executive Jon Rosenberg, who will represent Fitz Roy's slate of properties exclusively throughout the publishing industry and veteran development executive Richard Oren, who will be the exclusive agent handling promotional opportunities.
 
"Breiter, Zivic, Rosenberg and Oren undoubtedly comprise a team of highly regarded industry leaders whose depth of experience and expertise in the kids business would be difficult to match. We are extremely proud of our new association and look forward to their sage guidance in maximizing the potential for our proprietary children's brands," said Fitz Roy Media CEO Hamp Hampton.
 

Trinigy sharpens its focus on North American video game market, and appoints experienced middleware executive to head up sales

AUSTIN, TX, - May 27th, 2009 - Trinigy, an industry leading 3D game engine provider with over 100 licensees and offices in Germany and Austin, TX, announced today the expansion of its North American operations as a result of increased demand for its Vision game engine in the US and Canadian video game markets.

Trinigy, which in the past month has signed deals with JoWood Productions, Spellbound Entertainment, Nitro Games and MunkyFun, has experienced enormous interest and a number of commitments from developers and publishers in North America. To meet the growing demand for its technology, Trinigy has moved to larger offices in Austin, TX to accommodate the increase in necessary engineering, support and sales staff.

Trinigy has also appointed David Ripka as director of sales and business development for North America. Ripka is a veteran sales and middleware executive with extensive experience in the games industry. Before joining Trinigy, Ripka served as sales executive at two other middleware companies: Emergent Game Technologies and Criterion. 

Hollywood, CA (May 14, 2009) -- Frantic Films VFX, a division of Prime
Focus Group, announced it has brought on board award-winning Art Director
and Motion Graphics Supervisor Neil Huxley. Huxley's experience working in
feature film titles design and motion graphics sequences -- he recently
completed the opening title sequence for Zack Snyder's "Watchmen" and was
lead art director for motion graphics on Neveldine/Taylor's upcoming movie
"Gamer" -- is already being put to use on a high-profile stereoscopic 3D
feature film project currently in the Frantic Films production pipeline.

Said Chris Bond, President & Creative Director, Frantic Films, "I've been
closely following Neil's career for years. In addition to being an
immensely talented designer, Neil has a deep knowledge of visual effects
and as a live-action filmmaker himself, understands every aspect of the
production process. He's passionate, a perfectionist and a natural leader
-- qualities I look for in anyone who joins the Frantic team."

Technology executive with two decades of IT experience in the media industry to head development of the company's Storage Delivery Network

SAN DIEGO - May 19, 2009 - Nirvanix, the premier enterprise Cloud Storage service provider, today announced that it has hired Chris Russell, a longtime technology executive with extensive knowledge of IT in the motion picture and television industries, as its Vice President of Engineering. He reports directly to Nirvanix President and CEO Jim Zierick.

Russell has over two decades of executive hands-on technology experience at digital media and entertainment companies providing engineering and product development leadership for a wide range of software and service offerings. In his post of Vice President of Engineering at Nirvanix he will help continue Nirvanix's success in providing a secure, scalable and efficient service for enterprises looking to preserve valuable data offsite, optimize their storage tiers, or enable collaboration within asset management or software-as-a-service applications.

He comes to Nirvanix from NextEngine, where as Vice President of Technology, he led all engineering and go-to-market activities for the company that produces hardware and software for 3-D digital scanning.  Prior to NextEngine, he served as Chief Technology Officer and a General Manager of DivX Inc. where he helped analyze and direct the company's technology, business and corporate strategies.  There he led the development of all the company's products, including hardware and software for digital video encoding, playback, online movie storefronts, media management, community websites and digital rights management.  He was also part of the senior management team responsible for strategic planning, operations and corporate development.

Oxford, 19 May 2009. Leading independent producer Novel Entertainment is further expanding the reach of its hit property Horrid Henry, appointing Stella Projects as licensing agent for the brand in Australia and New Zealand.
This appointment comes on the heels of a number of recent licensing and merchandising deals signed by Novel's licensing partner Copyright Promotions for Horrid Henry, including a master toy license deal with Re:creation and an apparel deal with Mothercare. Novel has also signed a DVD distribution deal for the second series of Horrid Henry with Abbey Home Media Group and other key partners include EMI as record licensee, Universal as music publisher and Asylum as electronic game partner.
Caroline Mickler, Consultant for Novel Entertainment who brokered the deal with Stella Projects says: "Horrid Henry's popularity continues to grow and we are excited to be working with Stella Projects to bring him to new audiences in Australia and New Zealand. Stella has a great reputation in these territories so we are looking forward to securing new partners for the property."

Named Vice President of International Sales Sonia Mehandjiyska
to Attend the Cannes International Film Festival
 

NEEDHAM, MASS and LOS ANGELES, CA (May 12, 2009) - Independent global distributor Echo Bridge Entertainment continues to ramp up its sales executive ranks with the appointment of Sonia Mehandjiyska to the post of Vice President of International Sales, Eastern Europe. The announcement was made today by Dan March, Executive Vice President, Echo Bridge Entertainment, to whom she will report.
 
Mehandjiyska's appointment is the fourth senior sales executive appointment this year, following the addition of Natalie Yuen to the newly created position of Vice President, International Sales, Asia Pacific; Melissa Caron to the post of Vice President, International Sales, Europe; and Emilia Nuccio's appointment to Vice President, International Sales with a focus on Latin America and U.S. Hispanic market.   Mehandjiyska will spearhead the company's sales activities in Poland, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bosnia_and_Herzegovina> , Croatia <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Croatia> , Macedonia <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Macedonia_%28country%29> , Montenegro <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montenegro> , Serbia <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serbia> , Slovenia <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slovenia> , Kosovo and Turkey.  She will first represent the company at the upcoming Cannes International Film Festival.