Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Computer Network Users Share Generosity in Wake of Hurricane Katrina

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Computer Network Users Share Generosity in Wake of Hurricane Katrina

ATLANTA, Sept. 27 /PRNewswire/ -- Communities across America have generously responded to the urgent needs of those impacted by Hurricane Katrina. Now one of the newest communities -- peer-to-peer (P2P) computer network users -- has joined in the efforts with the downloading and purchase of a song dedicated to the storm's victims.

To date, P2P users have contributed more than $4,000.00 to the American Red Cross's Disaster Relief Fund (http://www.redcross.org/) with the purchase of "This Too Will Pass," written and performed by Internet-based singer- songwriter Scooter Scudieri (http://www.firstrockstar.com/). Recorded and launched just four days after Katrina's landfall, "This Too Will Pass" was previewed more than 12,000 times in its first week alone. Following the free preview, P2P users are able to purchase the song for 89 cents ($.89), with 80 cents ($.80) going directly to Red Cross relief efforts. Scudieri had written the piece earlier this year and said that "given the healing power of music, I knew something positive could result with the song's release."

"P2P users routinely employ file-sharing technology to acquire entertainment media. It's gratifying to see so many using it to tap into their generosity as well," commented Les Ottolenghi, president of INTENT MediaWorks (http://www.intentmediaworks.com/). The Atlanta-based company distributes legitimate entertainment content over major open P2P networks including BearShare, eDonkey, Grokster, Kazaa and TrustyFiles.

"We expect additional industry participation over the coming days and weeks. With an estimated 60 million P2P users in the U.S., the potential to help Katrina's victims is enormous. And it reflects the capabilities this technology holds to distribute content both ethically and effectively," Ottolenghi continued.

The fundraising idea had initial support from the Distributed Computing Industry Association (http://www.dcia.info/), the file-sharing industry's principal trade group.

"As the newest online distribution channel, we felt we should also take responsibility to help Hurricane Katrina's victims. We're grateful to see more of our members and more of the file-sharing public taking part," commented Marty Lafferty, DCIA chief.

Individuals may also make contributions to the Red Cross's relief efforts by calling 800-HELP-NOW (800-435-7669) or visiting http://www.redcross.org/.

About INTENT MediaWorks: Headquartered in Atlanta, Ga., INTENT MediaWorks (IMW) is the world's largest distributor of authorized P2P download entertainment media. IMW's technologies enable content owners to provide their works safely, securely and directly to consumers over major P2P file-sharing networks and through major download sites on the Web. With 250 million P2P users acquiring content each month, IMW offers marketers the single most effective channel for reaching the world's digital media consumers. More information at http://www.intentmediaworks.com/.

About the DCIA: Headquartered in Arlington, Va., the Distributed Computing Industry Association (DCIA) is a voluntary organization representing all sectors of the distributed computing industry including content providers, software developers and distributors, and service and support companies. The association's mission is to develop standards and practices that advance this burgeoning, consumer-based distribution channel. More information at http://www.dcia.info/.

About Scooter Scudieri: Widely acknowledged as the most searched for independent rock musician on P2P networks, Scooter Scudieri is redefining music production, promotion and distribution via the Internet. The Shepherdstown, West Va.-based artist is a Songwriters Hall of Fame Award winner and has appeared with such worldwide artists as The Dave Matthews Band, Nils Lofgren, Jewel and others. More information at http://www.firstrockstar.com/.

Source: INTENT MediaWorks

CONTACT: Les Ottolenghi of INTENT MediaWorks, +1-404-518-8161, or info@intentmediaworks.com

Web site: http://www.intentmediaworks.com/ http://www.redcross.org/ http://www.firstrockstar.com/ http://www.dcia.info/

------- Profile: Ent