The Wiggles coming to BOK Center
Staff Reports
Tulsa World
One of the most beloved family entertainment bands in the world, The Wiggles, will be at the BOK Center for two shows: Sunday, Aug. 2 at 1:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.
The Wiggles, Captain Feathersword, Dorothy the Dinosaur, Henry the Octopus, Wags the Dog and all the Wiggly Dancers will perform their new show "Go Bananas Live!" The fabulous four from down under will feature a brand new lineup of songs from their latest album "The Wiggles Go Bananas" including the smash hit "Monkey Man" featuring Australian pop sensation Kylie Minogue.
The tour brings a highly interactive, fun and educational message to the BOK Center with a show full of audience participation features including having fun with your favorite wiggly pal as they sing and dance through the audience, start the fun at home by creating a Wiggles sign and dressing up as your favorite character, yelling "Wake up, Jeff!" whenever the loveable Purple Wiggle falls asleep onstage, bringing roses, for dancing pal Dorothy the Dinosaur, and bones, for canine comedian Wags the Dog, that The Wiggles and Wiggly Dancers collect during the show.
The Wiggles, the world's No. 1 preschool band, performed over 300 shows to more than 1.5 million fans since 2005 in the United States alone. The Wiggles perform over 200 shows annually across four continents. The Wiggles are seen on TV in over 110 countries worldwide. The Wiggles have sold more than 22.5 million videos and 7 million CDs in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand.
Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday and are available through Tickets.com tulsaworld.com/tickets, Reasor's stores or by calling (866) 726-5287, and at the BOK Center box office. Prices range from $17 to $34. Seating for tickets purchased at the $34 level will take place in the "hot potato seats" and will include an exclusive Wiggles giveaway.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
The Boston Red Sox Sign a Multi-Year Contract Extension with Tickets.com
Agreement to include ProVenueMobile™ ticketing and Primary Ticket Auctions
Costa Mesa, CA— APRIL 29, 2009: Tickets.com, a leading global provider of integrated ticketing solutions, announced that it has signed a multi-year contract extension with Major League Baseball’s Boston Red Sox. With the regular season underway, the seven-time World Series Champions head into 2009 with enhanced ticketing functionality for their fans and their organization. The renewal encompasses Tickets.com products including ProVenueMobile™, Tickets@Phone®, Primary Ticket Auctions, and Automated Kiosks.
"We’re proud of our company’s long association with the Red Sox,” said Larry Witherspoon, chief executive officer, Tickets.com. "I’m pleased that we have the opportunity to serve the club with website mobilization and other upgrades this year. Our goal is to help the franchise score wins in brand differentiation, fanbase expansion, and customer service so that they can concentrate all their efforts on playing a successful season.”
The Red Sox will go live with ProVenueMobile this season, making them the third MLB franchise on the Tickets.com client roster to implement the product after the Oakland A’s and Milwaukee Brewers. ProVenueMobile enables full-circle, branded ticket transactions to be made 24/7 from any mobile phone model directly through the client’s mobilized website. To further maximize the potential of ProVenueMobile, the Boston Red Sox will simultaneously adopt the proprietary Tickets@Phone technology from Tickets.com into its suite of ticketing solutions. Tickets@Phone functionality allows customers to digitally receive unique bar-coded tickets on their mobile phone for a 100% mobile, secure, paperless—and green—ticket buying experience.
Other consumer friendly additions to the Boston Red Sox ticketing service agreement include enhanced functionality through Tickets.com technology via Automated Kiosks and Primary Ticket Auctions for select games. Both features increase the avenues through which patrons can acquire tickets. Automated Kiosks provide a convenient, easy way to get tickets without waiting in long box office lines; Auctions can serve as a fair means to acquire premium seats to key sold-out games. Other MLB teams employing Primary Auctions include the A’s, the Cubs, the Giants and the Tigers.
“Extending our relationship with Tickets.com gives me total confidence that we will be providing state-of-the-art functionality for our fans,” said Mike Dee, chief operating officer, Boston Red Sox. “With technology like ProVenueMobile, game attendees will have more options and ease of use than ever before.”
Costa Mesa, CA— APRIL 29, 2009: Tickets.com, a leading global provider of integrated ticketing solutions, announced that it has signed a multi-year contract extension with Major League Baseball’s Boston Red Sox. With the regular season underway, the seven-time World Series Champions head into 2009 with enhanced ticketing functionality for their fans and their organization. The renewal encompasses Tickets.com products including ProVenueMobile™, Tickets@Phone®, Primary Ticket Auctions, and Automated Kiosks.
"We’re proud of our company’s long association with the Red Sox,” said Larry Witherspoon, chief executive officer, Tickets.com. "I’m pleased that we have the opportunity to serve the club with website mobilization and other upgrades this year. Our goal is to help the franchise score wins in brand differentiation, fanbase expansion, and customer service so that they can concentrate all their efforts on playing a successful season.”
The Red Sox will go live with ProVenueMobile this season, making them the third MLB franchise on the Tickets.com client roster to implement the product after the Oakland A’s and Milwaukee Brewers. ProVenueMobile enables full-circle, branded ticket transactions to be made 24/7 from any mobile phone model directly through the client’s mobilized website. To further maximize the potential of ProVenueMobile, the Boston Red Sox will simultaneously adopt the proprietary Tickets@Phone technology from Tickets.com into its suite of ticketing solutions. Tickets@Phone functionality allows customers to digitally receive unique bar-coded tickets on their mobile phone for a 100% mobile, secure, paperless—and green—ticket buying experience.
Other consumer friendly additions to the Boston Red Sox ticketing service agreement include enhanced functionality through Tickets.com technology via Automated Kiosks and Primary Ticket Auctions for select games. Both features increase the avenues through which patrons can acquire tickets. Automated Kiosks provide a convenient, easy way to get tickets without waiting in long box office lines; Auctions can serve as a fair means to acquire premium seats to key sold-out games. Other MLB teams employing Primary Auctions include the A’s, the Cubs, the Giants and the Tigers.
“Extending our relationship with Tickets.com gives me total confidence that we will be providing state-of-the-art functionality for our fans,” said Mike Dee, chief operating officer, Boston Red Sox. “With technology like ProVenueMobile, game attendees will have more options and ease of use than ever before.”
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: Fresno Grizzlies
Grizzlies Prepare To Welcome 5 Millionth Fan
Our Sports Central
FRESNO, CA - At some point during their current four-game homestand, the Fresno Grizzlies expect to welcome the five-millionth fan in franchise history through the turnstiles. The Grizzlies will welcome the Reno Aces to Chukchansi Park on Saturday night to open an abbreviated homestand during which they will host Strike Out Autism Night, give fleece blankets to 2,500 fans, offer the best entertainment value in the Central Valley, and welcome their milestone fan.
As of Friday, almost 4,980,000 fans have enjoyed Fresno Grizzlies baseball since the organization began play in 1998, and more are experiencing the team's "Fun. Guaranteed." brand of entertainment each year. The Grizzlies will see their five-millionth fan enter Chukchansi Park some time over the next four games, and have a homestand-long celebration planned for the weekend.
Each night (Saturday, Sunday, Monday, & Tuesday) during "Five Millionth Fan Week", five fans will be selected at random to receive a "5 Millionth Fan Week" prize package that will include five 600 Club tickets to a future game, and $25 in Grizzlies Bucks.
But the lucky Grizzlies fan that enters the ballpark as the five-millionth has a special prize package waiting. Immediately the fortunate fan will receive a customized Grizzlies jersey, a ceremonial plaque, a 2009 team-signed baseball, and the opportunity to throw out the first pitch before the game.
The fun will continue throughout the 2009 season however, as the Grizzlies five-millionth fan will get the chance to take batting practice at Chukchansi Park, operate the ballpark's manual scoreboard for an evening, be included in the 2009 Fresno Grizzlies baseball card set, and receive a two-person getaway package from Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino. But perhaps most importantly, the lucky fan will have the best mascot in Minor League Baseball, Parker, as his/her personal assistant for a day.
"Five Millionth Fan Week" began on Saturday night, when the Grizzlies welcomed the Reno Aces, their new division rivals playing their inaugural season in the PCL, to Downtown Fresno for the first time. Saturday night was the Second Annual Strike Out Autism Night at Chukchansi Park. The Grizzlies wore special theme jerseys during the game that were auctioned off live following the game to benefit the Central California Autism Center.
The first 2,500 fans into the ballpark on Saturday night received a Fresno Grizzlies fleece blanket, featuring the team's orange-and-black logo, presented by Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino. Fans were in for a treat during the game when The Drag Kings, Minor League Baseball's premier infield-dragging dance crew, made their second appearance of the season, presented by Tickets.com.
Sunday April 26th was a day game at Chukchansi Park, and a great day for kids to come to the ballpark. Like every Sunday there was a Future Giants autograph session on the stadium concourse, featuring Grizzlies players. After the game, kids under the age of 12 ran the bases on the field thanks to Del Taco.
On Monday April 27th, Grizzlies fans took advantage of Monday Madness, presented by ABC 30, the best entertainment value in the entire Central Valley. For just $22, fans got two Field Level Reserve tickets for Monday's game against Reno, two hot dogs, two sodas, two Wild Water Adventure Park passes, and two Blackbeard's miniature golf passes, a bundle worth over $100 in total.
The Grizzlies and Aces wrap up their inaugural series on Tuesday, April 27th, the Grizzlies first-ever "All You Can Eat Tuesday." In a new promotion designed to provide the utmost in value for fans, Tuesdays at the ballpark mean that for just $15, fans can purchase a Field Level Reserve ticket and enjoy unlimited hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, soft drinks, and water until 8:30pm.
The Fresno Grizzlies kicked off "Five Millionth Fan Week" on Saturday, April 25th when they welcomed new division rivals the Reno Aces to Chukchansi Park. For information on tickets, promotions, and the best entertainment value in the Valley, call 320.HITS or visit the new-and-improved FresnoGrizzlies.com.
Our Sports Central
FRESNO, CA - At some point during their current four-game homestand, the Fresno Grizzlies expect to welcome the five-millionth fan in franchise history through the turnstiles. The Grizzlies will welcome the Reno Aces to Chukchansi Park on Saturday night to open an abbreviated homestand during which they will host Strike Out Autism Night, give fleece blankets to 2,500 fans, offer the best entertainment value in the Central Valley, and welcome their milestone fan.As of Friday, almost 4,980,000 fans have enjoyed Fresno Grizzlies baseball since the organization began play in 1998, and more are experiencing the team's "Fun. Guaranteed." brand of entertainment each year. The Grizzlies will see their five-millionth fan enter Chukchansi Park some time over the next four games, and have a homestand-long celebration planned for the weekend.
Each night (Saturday, Sunday, Monday, & Tuesday) during "Five Millionth Fan Week", five fans will be selected at random to receive a "5 Millionth Fan Week" prize package that will include five 600 Club tickets to a future game, and $25 in Grizzlies Bucks.
But the lucky Grizzlies fan that enters the ballpark as the five-millionth has a special prize package waiting. Immediately the fortunate fan will receive a customized Grizzlies jersey, a ceremonial plaque, a 2009 team-signed baseball, and the opportunity to throw out the first pitch before the game.
The fun will continue throughout the 2009 season however, as the Grizzlies five-millionth fan will get the chance to take batting practice at Chukchansi Park, operate the ballpark's manual scoreboard for an evening, be included in the 2009 Fresno Grizzlies baseball card set, and receive a two-person getaway package from Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino. But perhaps most importantly, the lucky fan will have the best mascot in Minor League Baseball, Parker, as his/her personal assistant for a day.
"Five Millionth Fan Week" began on Saturday night, when the Grizzlies welcomed the Reno Aces, their new division rivals playing their inaugural season in the PCL, to Downtown Fresno for the first time. Saturday night was the Second Annual Strike Out Autism Night at Chukchansi Park. The Grizzlies wore special theme jerseys during the game that were auctioned off live following the game to benefit the Central California Autism Center.
The first 2,500 fans into the ballpark on Saturday night received a Fresno Grizzlies fleece blanket, featuring the team's orange-and-black logo, presented by Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino. Fans were in for a treat during the game when The Drag Kings, Minor League Baseball's premier infield-dragging dance crew, made their second appearance of the season, presented by Tickets.com.
Sunday April 26th was a day game at Chukchansi Park, and a great day for kids to come to the ballpark. Like every Sunday there was a Future Giants autograph session on the stadium concourse, featuring Grizzlies players. After the game, kids under the age of 12 ran the bases on the field thanks to Del Taco.
On Monday April 27th, Grizzlies fans took advantage of Monday Madness, presented by ABC 30, the best entertainment value in the entire Central Valley. For just $22, fans got two Field Level Reserve tickets for Monday's game against Reno, two hot dogs, two sodas, two Wild Water Adventure Park passes, and two Blackbeard's miniature golf passes, a bundle worth over $100 in total.
The Grizzlies and Aces wrap up their inaugural series on Tuesday, April 27th, the Grizzlies first-ever "All You Can Eat Tuesday." In a new promotion designed to provide the utmost in value for fans, Tuesdays at the ballpark mean that for just $15, fans can purchase a Field Level Reserve ticket and enjoy unlimited hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, soft drinks, and water until 8:30pm.
The Fresno Grizzlies kicked off "Five Millionth Fan Week" on Saturday, April 25th when they welcomed new division rivals the Reno Aces to Chukchansi Park. For information on tickets, promotions, and the best entertainment value in the Valley, call 320.HITS or visit the new-and-improved FresnoGrizzlies.com.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Multiplatinum rock group Hinder plays Monday in Fargo
Ryan Johnson
Grand Forks Herald
Rock band Hinder has sold millions of albums with its two releases, seen its breakthrough song covered by a number of musicians and even had the chance to record a classic rock track for a TV promo.
Guitarist Mark King said the band’s escalating fame since 2005 is still pretty surreal at times, but it’s what the group always wanted.
“That’s what every band dreams for is to sell millions of records and headline arenas,” King said. “It’s pretty crazy for us five boys from Oklahoma.”
Hinder will be at the Venue in Fargo on Monday along with Theory of a Deadman and Blackstone Cherry. Tickets are $31 the day of the show at the door, or can be purchased for $29.50 at www.tickets.com.
King joined Hinder in 2004, and said the Oklahoma City music scene wasn’t the best for a band like Hinder.
“There’s, like, a bunch of emo bands around there,” he said. “We were the band that everybody hated there. It’s definitely not a glamorous spot for music by any means.”
Having fun
King said the band has always written what its members know. He described Hinder’s sound as somewhat of a throwback to the 1980s rock mentality — having a good time and enjoying a partying lifestyle.
When he first joined, the band had realized that late 1990s and early 2000s musical trends were “just depressing,” he said. Band members decided they could break out of the mold.
“Not everyone’s pissed off with their parents and their upbringing,” he said. “We just write what we know basically; it’s pretty simple like that.”
King said the best explanation he’s heard about this was from Will Smith, who once described albums as a snapshot of where an artist was in his life.
Hinder was signed to a contract with Universal Records shortly after he joined the band, and the first single off its 2005 debut album, “Extreme Behavior,” put the group on the map in the modern rock scene.
They have received mixed reviews since becoming a nationally-known rock group, but he said their success and what they’ve been able to do in recent years has taken the bite out of harsh critics.
“Honestly, a bad review usually gives us a good laugh,” he said. “When you sell 3 million copies of your first album, it doesn’t sting so bad.”
One of King’s favorite disses was an iTunes review that poked fun at the name of Hinder’s second album, released in November 2008. “It just said, ‘Take it to the Limit’? More like take it to the trash can,” he said.
Widespread fame
In early 2006 Hinder released “Lips of an Angel,” a single that launched the band as a hit-making machine. The song became a breakthrough that charted in the Top 10 on several Billboard trade charts in the U.S. and reached the top chart position in several other countries.
“Lips of an Angel” describes the singer’s lingering feelings for an ex-girlfriend, even as his current significant other is in another room. The song quickly established Hinder and also spawned a number of cover versions in multiple genres. It even ended up on the kids-oriented album Kidz Bop in February 2007 after a couple changes to the lyrics.
King said it’s an honor to have a song performed by other artists.
“The song’s pretty good if someone wants to cover it,” he said.
The band has gotten lots of feedback about the lyrics and message of the song, he said. It goes over well with crowds at live shows. One of the strangest things he has heard — and more than once — is that the song has been performed at weddings.
“I don’t really know how to play that one off yet,” he said.
The track almost didn’t even make it onto their debut album. Someone from their label listened to the demo and told the band that it’s a “pretty good song, but probably a b-side.”
“After he left the room, we just looked at each other and said, ‘Hey, he’s an idiot,’” he said. “It’s going on the album.”
After “Lips of an Angel” and other hits, Hinder has toured with many of its idols. King said it’s still a little weird that musicians he used to listen to are now his friends. He considers the opportunity a blessing, he said.
He hopes to eventually meet Ben Folds, the musician who got him interested in the piano.
The band was tapped to record a cover version of classic rock track “Born to Be Wild” for a NASCAR on TNT promotion. King said there was some apprehension about it, but they gave it a shot and liked the end result.
“We played it one time through and we’re like, OK, we can put our stamp on it,” he said. “We’re happy with what came out.”
Hinder’s second album, released in November, debuted at No. 6 on the Billboard 200 chart and sold more than 80,000 copies in its first week alone. The band will tour with Nickelback this summer and continues to live its rocking dream in shows across the world.
Grand Forks Herald
Rock band Hinder has sold millions of albums with its two releases, seen its breakthrough song covered by a number of musicians and even had the chance to record a classic rock track for a TV promo.
Guitarist Mark King said the band’s escalating fame since 2005 is still pretty surreal at times, but it’s what the group always wanted.
“That’s what every band dreams for is to sell millions of records and headline arenas,” King said. “It’s pretty crazy for us five boys from Oklahoma.”
Hinder will be at the Venue in Fargo on Monday along with Theory of a Deadman and Blackstone Cherry. Tickets are $31 the day of the show at the door, or can be purchased for $29.50 at www.tickets.com.
King joined Hinder in 2004, and said the Oklahoma City music scene wasn’t the best for a band like Hinder.
“There’s, like, a bunch of emo bands around there,” he said. “We were the band that everybody hated there. It’s definitely not a glamorous spot for music by any means.”
Having fun
King said the band has always written what its members know. He described Hinder’s sound as somewhat of a throwback to the 1980s rock mentality — having a good time and enjoying a partying lifestyle.
When he first joined, the band had realized that late 1990s and early 2000s musical trends were “just depressing,” he said. Band members decided they could break out of the mold.
“Not everyone’s pissed off with their parents and their upbringing,” he said. “We just write what we know basically; it’s pretty simple like that.”
King said the best explanation he’s heard about this was from Will Smith, who once described albums as a snapshot of where an artist was in his life.
Hinder was signed to a contract with Universal Records shortly after he joined the band, and the first single off its 2005 debut album, “Extreme Behavior,” put the group on the map in the modern rock scene.
They have received mixed reviews since becoming a nationally-known rock group, but he said their success and what they’ve been able to do in recent years has taken the bite out of harsh critics.
“Honestly, a bad review usually gives us a good laugh,” he said. “When you sell 3 million copies of your first album, it doesn’t sting so bad.”
One of King’s favorite disses was an iTunes review that poked fun at the name of Hinder’s second album, released in November 2008. “It just said, ‘Take it to the Limit’? More like take it to the trash can,” he said.
Widespread fame
In early 2006 Hinder released “Lips of an Angel,” a single that launched the band as a hit-making machine. The song became a breakthrough that charted in the Top 10 on several Billboard trade charts in the U.S. and reached the top chart position in several other countries.
“Lips of an Angel” describes the singer’s lingering feelings for an ex-girlfriend, even as his current significant other is in another room. The song quickly established Hinder and also spawned a number of cover versions in multiple genres. It even ended up on the kids-oriented album Kidz Bop in February 2007 after a couple changes to the lyrics.
King said it’s an honor to have a song performed by other artists.
“The song’s pretty good if someone wants to cover it,” he said.
The band has gotten lots of feedback about the lyrics and message of the song, he said. It goes over well with crowds at live shows. One of the strangest things he has heard — and more than once — is that the song has been performed at weddings.
“I don’t really know how to play that one off yet,” he said.
The track almost didn’t even make it onto their debut album. Someone from their label listened to the demo and told the band that it’s a “pretty good song, but probably a b-side.”
“After he left the room, we just looked at each other and said, ‘Hey, he’s an idiot,’” he said. “It’s going on the album.”
After “Lips of an Angel” and other hits, Hinder has toured with many of its idols. King said it’s still a little weird that musicians he used to listen to are now his friends. He considers the opportunity a blessing, he said.
He hopes to eventually meet Ben Folds, the musician who got him interested in the piano.
The band was tapped to record a cover version of classic rock track “Born to Be Wild” for a NASCAR on TNT promotion. King said there was some apprehension about it, but they gave it a shot and liked the end result.
“We played it one time through and we’re like, OK, we can put our stamp on it,” he said. “We’re happy with what came out.”
Hinder’s second album, released in November, debuted at No. 6 on the Billboard 200 chart and sold more than 80,000 copies in its first week alone. The band will tour with Nickelback this summer and continues to live its rocking dream in shows across the world.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Don't Miss the EAMC Challenge!
Wednesday, June 10, 3-6 pm
Make sure you get to Colorado Springs in time for this year's teambuilding event, the EAMC Challenge. Don’t miss a great opportunity to network, socialize and get to know fellow conference attendees before the opening reception.
The EAMC Challenge is the Amazing Race meets Special Olympics, spiced with a scavenger hunt, followed by a bad version of American Idol. This exciting, interactive entertainment experience is designed to be fun & educational!
Teams will be made up of Marketing & PR, Group Sales Veterans and Newcomers. There will be 10 tasks to test creativity, critical thinking and collaboration, as well as physical challenges and marketing trivia to keep you on your toes.
For more information, visit http://www.eventarenamarketing.com.
Make sure you get to Colorado Springs in time for this year's teambuilding event, the EAMC Challenge. Don’t miss a great opportunity to network, socialize and get to know fellow conference attendees before the opening reception.
The EAMC Challenge is the Amazing Race meets Special Olympics, spiced with a scavenger hunt, followed by a bad version of American Idol. This exciting, interactive entertainment experience is designed to be fun & educational!
Teams will be made up of Marketing & PR, Group Sales Veterans and Newcomers. There will be 10 tasks to test creativity, critical thinking and collaboration, as well as physical challenges and marketing trivia to keep you on your toes.
For more information, visit http://www.eventarenamarketing.com.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: Hartman Arena
Hartman Arena sets date for Jeff Foxworthy
Wichita Business Journal
Levi Wolters
Comedian Jeff Foxworthy will perform at Hartman Arena on Friday, Oct. 9. Ticket details will be announced at a later date.
“We are very pleased to have Jeff Foxworthy at the Hartman Arena,” says Arena Manager John Nath. “Everyone that attends will enjoy our intimate nightclub-like setting for this show.”
Foxworthy is famous for his “You Might Be A Redneck If ...” routine and his syndicated radio show, “The Foxworthy Countdown.” He has sold more than 13 million comedy albums.
Foxworthy is the latest show the new arena has booked. Others include a monster truck rally (April 17-18), Slipknot (May 10), Thomas the Tank Engine (May 24), Yanni (June 10) and New Kid’s on the Block (July 3).
Tickets for all events can be purchased at the Hartman Arena box office, both Leeker’s and Sports Time locations and Checker’s, www.stage1tickets.com, Tickets.com, or at 888-755-2583.
Wichita Business Journal
Levi Wolters
Comedian Jeff Foxworthy will perform at Hartman Arena on Friday, Oct. 9. Ticket details will be announced at a later date.
“We are very pleased to have Jeff Foxworthy at the Hartman Arena,” says Arena Manager John Nath. “Everyone that attends will enjoy our intimate nightclub-like setting for this show.”
Foxworthy is famous for his “You Might Be A Redneck If ...” routine and his syndicated radio show, “The Foxworthy Countdown.” He has sold more than 13 million comedy albums.
Foxworthy is the latest show the new arena has booked. Others include a monster truck rally (April 17-18), Slipknot (May 10), Thomas the Tank Engine (May 24), Yanni (June 10) and New Kid’s on the Block (July 3).
Tickets for all events can be purchased at the Hartman Arena box office, both Leeker’s and Sports Time locations and Checker’s, www.stage1tickets.com, Tickets.com, or at 888-755-2583.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Happy Earth Day from Tickets.com
In honor of Earth Day, check out Tickets.com's environmentally friendly mobile ticketing product: Tickets@Phone. Send paperless, barcoded tickets directly to your customers’ mobile phones. Tickets@Phone are redeemed at your venue directly from their mobile phone display through the use of a barcode scanner. Tickets@Phone “tickets” are far less expensive than printing, handling, and mailing a paper ticket.
Learn more about Tickets.com's mobile ticketing solutions >
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
The Proof Lies In Mobile Growth
MediaPost: Online Media Daily
The mobile device is quickly becoming the world's newest gateway to information. This provides users with relevant information on the go and creates an increased opportunity for advertisers to reach their intended audiences.
The last decade has seen incredible growth in the mobile space. Today there are more mobile devices than personal computers and televisions combined: At last count there were 4 billion mobile subscribers worldwide ITU, compared to 1 billion personal computer users. Additionally, with the advent of new, more engaging devices like the iPhone and Android-based devices, shipments of smartphones now equal those of laptops. The large growth in the number of phones, particularly of high-end devices, combined with the availability of affordable flat-rate data plans from phone carriers, is helping to fuel the growth and access to the mobile web.
In the US, more than 50% of consumers use their mobile handsets for more than just voice calls. According to eMarketer, 2009 will be the first time that more than half of all new connections to the Internet will come from a phone. Not surprisingly, brands want to ensure that they have a presence on the mobile Internet to be in front of these mobile users.
Read more >
The mobile device is quickly becoming the world's newest gateway to information. This provides users with relevant information on the go and creates an increased opportunity for advertisers to reach their intended audiences.
The last decade has seen incredible growth in the mobile space. Today there are more mobile devices than personal computers and televisions combined: At last count there were 4 billion mobile subscribers worldwide ITU, compared to 1 billion personal computer users. Additionally, with the advent of new, more engaging devices like the iPhone and Android-based devices, shipments of smartphones now equal those of laptops. The large growth in the number of phones, particularly of high-end devices, combined with the availability of affordable flat-rate data plans from phone carriers, is helping to fuel the growth and access to the mobile web.
In the US, more than 50% of consumers use their mobile handsets for more than just voice calls. According to eMarketer, 2009 will be the first time that more than half of all new connections to the Internet will come from a phone. Not surprisingly, brands want to ensure that they have a presence on the mobile Internet to be in front of these mobile users.
Read more >
Monday, April 20, 2009
Yes tour announces prog-rock partnership, summer dates with Asia
By Allison Reitz
Progressive rock musician Steve Howe will play overtime this summer when prog-rock icon Yes tours with special guest Asia. Howe, who plays guitar in both bands, will take the stage twice a night throughout the 24-city tour.
The trek kicks off on the West Coast with a June 26 concert at Fantasy Springs in Indio, CA, and crosses over to the East Coast for an August 2 close-out at Bethlehem Musikfest in Bethlehem, PA. Highlights of the run are a July 2 concert at Warfield Theatre in San Francisco, CA, a July 12 performance at Paramount Theatre in Denver, CO, and a July 29 show at Wellmont Theatre in Montclair, NJ.
Asia formed in the early 1980s, comprised of members from prog-rock titans such as King Crimson and Emerson, Lake & Palmer. The group's mainstream success was somewhat limited, driven by the anthemic commercial hit "Heat of the Moment." However, Asia has retained a place of honor among progressive rock fans.
"People have been waiting for this for decades," said John Wetton, bassist and vocalist for Asia, in a statement. "Since America was so important to the success of both bands, we feel it was the right time and place to launch [this tour]."
In addition to Howe, the Yes lineup will consist of classic members Chris Squire on bass and Alan White on drums. They will be joined by stand-in vocalist Benoit David and keyboardist Oliver Wakeman, taking over for his father and longtime Yes member Rick Wakeman.
For the past year, the Yes line-up has been in a state of flux. Lead singer Jon Anderson was diagnosed with acute respiratory failure last summer and ordered to rest for at least six months, sidelining the band's planned 40th anniversary tour. David, a Yes tribute band singer, stepped in for Anderson, allowing the band to complete more than 30 concerts on the 2008-2009 In The Present Tour.
More health issues sidelined the band during its early 2009 tour dates. After undergoing leg surgery in February, Squire was ordered to rest for one month, and the rest of the tour was cancelled.
Despite his recent health concerns and shifts in the band lineup, Squire is optimistic about the band's direction and upcoming tour. In a statement, he said, "This has turned out to be one of the best performing line-ups in Yes' storied history. It feels like we're rediscovering these songs all over again."
Progressive rock musician Steve Howe will play overtime this summer when prog-rock icon Yes tours with special guest Asia. Howe, who plays guitar in both bands, will take the stage twice a night throughout the 24-city tour.
The trek kicks off on the West Coast with a June 26 concert at Fantasy Springs in Indio, CA, and crosses over to the East Coast for an August 2 close-out at Bethlehem Musikfest in Bethlehem, PA. Highlights of the run are a July 2 concert at Warfield Theatre in San Francisco, CA, a July 12 performance at Paramount Theatre in Denver, CO, and a July 29 show at Wellmont Theatre in Montclair, NJ.
Asia formed in the early 1980s, comprised of members from prog-rock titans such as King Crimson and Emerson, Lake & Palmer. The group's mainstream success was somewhat limited, driven by the anthemic commercial hit "Heat of the Moment." However, Asia has retained a place of honor among progressive rock fans.
"People have been waiting for this for decades," said John Wetton, bassist and vocalist for Asia, in a statement. "Since America was so important to the success of both bands, we feel it was the right time and place to launch [this tour]."
In addition to Howe, the Yes lineup will consist of classic members Chris Squire on bass and Alan White on drums. They will be joined by stand-in vocalist Benoit David and keyboardist Oliver Wakeman, taking over for his father and longtime Yes member Rick Wakeman.
For the past year, the Yes line-up has been in a state of flux. Lead singer Jon Anderson was diagnosed with acute respiratory failure last summer and ordered to rest for at least six months, sidelining the band's planned 40th anniversary tour. David, a Yes tribute band singer, stepped in for Anderson, allowing the band to complete more than 30 concerts on the 2008-2009 In The Present Tour.
More health issues sidelined the band during its early 2009 tour dates. After undergoing leg surgery in February, Squire was ordered to rest for one month, and the rest of the tour was cancelled.
Despite his recent health concerns and shifts in the band lineup, Squire is optimistic about the band's direction and upcoming tour. In a statement, he said, "This has turned out to be one of the best performing line-ups in Yes' storied history. It feels like we're rediscovering these songs all over again."
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: Pabst Theater
Louis C.K. to shoot next comedy special at the Pabst Theater
Louis C.K. can’t stop throwing love at Milwaukee. First, he added a second show April 18 at the Pabst Theater, and now the Pabst has announced that the comedian will be filming the performances for his third hour-long special, Louis C.K.: Hilarious. Clearly C.K. doesn’t need any help filling seats, but just in case his pointed humor isn’t enough of a draw, anyone on the fence should be wooed by the potential of seeing their own laughing face on the screen when the special is released. C.K., whose observations on parenthood, social issues, and everyday life have earned him both a solid fan base and a host of detractors, tweeted (@cklouis) that the taped Milwaukee shows “will actually come out as a film in theaters,” which means audience members will get to maybe see themselves on the big screen, not just HBO or Showtime.
Louis C.K. can’t stop throwing love at Milwaukee. First, he added a second show April 18 at the Pabst Theater, and now the Pabst has announced that the comedian will be filming the performances for his third hour-long special, Louis C.K.: Hilarious. Clearly C.K. doesn’t need any help filling seats, but just in case his pointed humor isn’t enough of a draw, anyone on the fence should be wooed by the potential of seeing their own laughing face on the screen when the special is released. C.K., whose observations on parenthood, social issues, and everyday life have earned him both a solid fan base and a host of detractors, tweeted (@cklouis) that the taped Milwaukee shows “will actually come out as a film in theaters,” which means audience members will get to maybe see themselves on the big screen, not just HBO or Showtime.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: Comerica Park
Kid Rock tickets go on sale SaturdayAdam Graham / Detroit News Pop Music Writer
Tickets for Kid Rock's July 17 concert at Comerica Park -- the biggest hometown concert the Detroit rocker has ever staged -- go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday. Prospective ticket buyers should note the online retailer for tickets is tickets.com, not ticketmaster.com.
For those looking to bypass online sales altogether, a wristband policy will be in effect for tickets going on sale at the Comerica Park box office. Wristbands will be handed out at the Tiger Club, on Witherell Street next to the Comerica Park Pro Shop, beginning at 3 p.m. Friday. Individuals will draw a numbered wristband at random, and on Saturday between 8:15-8:30 a.m., one of the 500 numbered wristbands will be chosen. That number will represent the first person in line, the next number will represent the second person in line and so on, all the way through 500 and beginning again with one, until everyone with a numbered wristband gets a place in line. Individuals without wristbands who arrive after 8:45 a.m. will follow those with a wristband in line. Wristbands do not guarantee tickets to the concert.
Tickets are priced at $30, $46.50 and $69.50. Six packs of "party deck" tickets -- that's Kid Rock-speak for upper deck -- will be available for $99, which breaks down to $16.50 per ticket.
Buy Kid Rock tickets >
Tickets for Kid Rock's July 17 concert at Comerica Park -- the biggest hometown concert the Detroit rocker has ever staged -- go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday. Prospective ticket buyers should note the online retailer for tickets is tickets.com, not ticketmaster.com.
For those looking to bypass online sales altogether, a wristband policy will be in effect for tickets going on sale at the Comerica Park box office. Wristbands will be handed out at the Tiger Club, on Witherell Street next to the Comerica Park Pro Shop, beginning at 3 p.m. Friday. Individuals will draw a numbered wristband at random, and on Saturday between 8:15-8:30 a.m., one of the 500 numbered wristbands will be chosen. That number will represent the first person in line, the next number will represent the second person in line and so on, all the way through 500 and beginning again with one, until everyone with a numbered wristband gets a place in line. Individuals without wristbands who arrive after 8:45 a.m. will follow those with a wristband in line. Wristbands do not guarantee tickets to the concert.
Tickets are priced at $30, $46.50 and $69.50. Six packs of "party deck" tickets -- that's Kid Rock-speak for upper deck -- will be available for $99, which breaks down to $16.50 per ticket.
Buy Kid Rock tickets >
Tickets.com Launches B2B Site in India
Tickets.com launches new business-to-business website for India to enable clients, media, partners, and potential clients in India to find the information they need about Tickets.com ticketing solutions.
Tickets.com is a growing global company with thousands of entertainment, sports, and arts clients worldwide. The new India B2B website features a user-friendly interface that provides convenient access to information about Tickets.com products and services.
Visit the Tickets.com India B2B site >
Tickets.com is a growing global company with thousands of entertainment, sports, and arts clients worldwide. The new India B2B website features a user-friendly interface that provides convenient access to information about Tickets.com products and services.
Visit the Tickets.com India B2B site >
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Tickets.com Product Highlight: ProVenue Automated Kiosk
ProVenue® Automated KioskProVenue Automated Kiosk automates basic ticketing processes, enabling customers to purchase and pick up tickets for same day or future events without waiting in box office lines.
Learn more about ProVenue Automated Kiosks >
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
San Jose Earthquakes Seek Fans to Film Public Service Announcement
Fans Who Pledge to Be Designated Drivers Become Spokespeople for Responsibility
TEAM Coalition SANTA CLARA, CA--(Marketwire - April 6, 2009) - Earthquakes fans will have an opportunity to serve as spokespeople for responsible behavior at their home game against the Chicago Fire on April 11th at Buck Shaw Stadium. The San Jose Earthquakes, Anheuser-Busch, and TEAM Coalition are partnering to educate fans about the importance of using a designated driver, buckling up and demonstrating positive fan behavior. The message is simple: "Be a Good Sport, Always Have a Designated Driver."
Fans must first make the Responsibility Has Its Rewards (RHIR) pledge to:
-- Always have a designated driver
-- Never drive drunk
-- Always buckle up
Those fans will have the opportunity to tape their own message about responsible behavior at the game. Public Service Announcements produced from the taping will air throughout the season on the Buck Shaw Stadium and Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum video board and on local broadcast TV. In addition, the video clips will be e-mailed to participants so their moment of fame can be shared with family and friends. Fans from across MLS who pledge and demonstrate responsible behavior have a chance to be selected as the Earthquakes Designated Driver for the Season and may win a trip to the 2009 MLS Cup® at Qwest Field on November 22, 2009 if the Earthquakes make it to the championship game or the 2010 MLS All-Star Game®.
"Giving fans the opportunity to be the voice of the Responsibility Has Its Rewards campaign personalizes the 'Fans Don't Let Fans Drive Drunk' message," said Jill Pepper, executive director of TEAM Coalition. "Teamwork is exactly what this campaign is all about, and through this program the San Jose Earthquakes and Anheuser-Busch are demonstrating that everyone -- including the fans -- plays an important role in alcohol management."
The designated-driver program is a key component of the responsibility initiatives that TEAM Coalition -- an alliance of professional and collegiate sports, entertainment facilities, stadium service providers, concessionaires, the beer industry, broadcasters, governmental traffic safety experts, and others working together to promote responsible drinking and positive fan behavior at sports facilities -- helps coordinate with professional sports leagues including Major League Soccer (MLS), the National Basketball Association (NBA), Major League Baseball (MLB), the National Football League (NFL), and the National Hockey League (NHL).
"Tying Responsibility Has Its Rewards to our season-long Good Sport program makes for a winning combination," said Carol Clark, vice president of Corporate Social Responsibility for Anheuser-Busch. "We're pleased to work with TEAM and the other program partners to recognize fans who look out for each other and make a designated-driver part of their game plan. When it comes to preventing drunk driving, we're all part of the team."
The designated-driver program is one of several components of the alcohol management plan at both Buck Shaw Stadium and the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. In addition, alcohol management training for both venues' employees gives them the skills to observe fan behavior and serve alcohol beverages in compliance with local laws and in a manner designed to encourage responsible consumption. Alcohol service policies are enforced to ensure only fans of legal drinking age are served alcohol beverages. These combined efforts represent an alcohol management plan in which the fans, arena employees, corporate sponsors and team representatives all are working toward common goals -- promoting responsible alcohol consumption, positive fan behavior and traffic safety.
"The San Jose Earthquakes take the issue of alcohol management seriously. Game day should be safe and enjoyable for our fans, both at the game and as they travel home after the games," said David Alioto, executive vice president of Business Operations for the San Jose Earthquakes. "We're proud that so many of our fans have chosen to demonstrate responsible behavior and embrace the Good Sport designated-driver program."
Saturday, fans who pledge to be designated drivers will have a unique opportunity to show their dedication to the Earthquakes, because responsibility really does have its rewards.
TEAM's members and supporters include Major League Soccer, the National Basketball Association, Major League Baseball, National Football League, National Hockey League, National Collegiate Athletics Association, ARAMARK, Delaware North Companies Sportservice, Beer Institute, Anheuser-Busch, MillerCoors, LiveNation, National Association of Broadcasters, Contemporary Services Corporation, International Association of Assembly Managers, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. www.teamcoalition.org.
TEAM Coalition SANTA CLARA, CA--(Marketwire - April 6, 2009) - Earthquakes fans will have an opportunity to serve as spokespeople for responsible behavior at their home game against the Chicago Fire on April 11th at Buck Shaw Stadium. The San Jose Earthquakes, Anheuser-Busch, and TEAM Coalition are partnering to educate fans about the importance of using a designated driver, buckling up and demonstrating positive fan behavior. The message is simple: "Be a Good Sport, Always Have a Designated Driver."
Fans must first make the Responsibility Has Its Rewards (RHIR) pledge to:
-- Always have a designated driver
-- Never drive drunk
-- Always buckle up
Those fans will have the opportunity to tape their own message about responsible behavior at the game. Public Service Announcements produced from the taping will air throughout the season on the Buck Shaw Stadium and Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum video board and on local broadcast TV. In addition, the video clips will be e-mailed to participants so their moment of fame can be shared with family and friends. Fans from across MLS who pledge and demonstrate responsible behavior have a chance to be selected as the Earthquakes Designated Driver for the Season and may win a trip to the 2009 MLS Cup® at Qwest Field on November 22, 2009 if the Earthquakes make it to the championship game or the 2010 MLS All-Star Game®.
"Giving fans the opportunity to be the voice of the Responsibility Has Its Rewards campaign personalizes the 'Fans Don't Let Fans Drive Drunk' message," said Jill Pepper, executive director of TEAM Coalition. "Teamwork is exactly what this campaign is all about, and through this program the San Jose Earthquakes and Anheuser-Busch are demonstrating that everyone -- including the fans -- plays an important role in alcohol management."
The designated-driver program is a key component of the responsibility initiatives that TEAM Coalition -- an alliance of professional and collegiate sports, entertainment facilities, stadium service providers, concessionaires, the beer industry, broadcasters, governmental traffic safety experts, and others working together to promote responsible drinking and positive fan behavior at sports facilities -- helps coordinate with professional sports leagues including Major League Soccer (MLS), the National Basketball Association (NBA), Major League Baseball (MLB), the National Football League (NFL), and the National Hockey League (NHL).
"Tying Responsibility Has Its Rewards to our season-long Good Sport program makes for a winning combination," said Carol Clark, vice president of Corporate Social Responsibility for Anheuser-Busch. "We're pleased to work with TEAM and the other program partners to recognize fans who look out for each other and make a designated-driver part of their game plan. When it comes to preventing drunk driving, we're all part of the team."
The designated-driver program is one of several components of the alcohol management plan at both Buck Shaw Stadium and the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. In addition, alcohol management training for both venues' employees gives them the skills to observe fan behavior and serve alcohol beverages in compliance with local laws and in a manner designed to encourage responsible consumption. Alcohol service policies are enforced to ensure only fans of legal drinking age are served alcohol beverages. These combined efforts represent an alcohol management plan in which the fans, arena employees, corporate sponsors and team representatives all are working toward common goals -- promoting responsible alcohol consumption, positive fan behavior and traffic safety.
"The San Jose Earthquakes take the issue of alcohol management seriously. Game day should be safe and enjoyable for our fans, both at the game and as they travel home after the games," said David Alioto, executive vice president of Business Operations for the San Jose Earthquakes. "We're proud that so many of our fans have chosen to demonstrate responsible behavior and embrace the Good Sport designated-driver program."
Saturday, fans who pledge to be designated drivers will have a unique opportunity to show their dedication to the Earthquakes, because responsibility really does have its rewards.
TEAM's members and supporters include Major League Soccer, the National Basketball Association, Major League Baseball, National Football League, National Hockey League, National Collegiate Athletics Association, ARAMARK, Delaware North Companies Sportservice, Beer Institute, Anheuser-Busch, MillerCoors, LiveNation, National Association of Broadcasters, Contemporary Services Corporation, International Association of Assembly Managers, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. www.teamcoalition.org.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: Milwaukee Brewers
Brewers' ticket sales 10 percent ahead of 2008
The Business Journal of Milwaukee
by Mark Kass
As the Milwaukee Brewers opened their home schedule Friday at Miller Park, the team has already sold 1.8 million tickets, a 10 percent increase compared with last season.
Rick Schlesinger, Brewers' executive vice president of business operations, said demand for tickets has been high, despite the current economic downturn.
"Ticket sales have been in a word -- great," he said in an interview this week. "It is a great tribute to our fans and the demand and interest there is in this team this year."
The Brewers set an all-time franchise attendance mark of more than 3 million fans in 2008 when the team went to the playoffs for the first time in 26 years.
Schlesinger said the team would like to exceed 3 million again, but it will depend on how the Brewers do on the field.
"We have had a good start for ticket sales, but it always comes down to how the team plays," he said. "If we are in the playoff race in September, we will have very good year at the gate."
The team has added a new seating area to Miller Park -- a 42-seat elevated seating area that was built in left-center field. It is called the “Harley-Davidson Deck” and features Harley-Davidson motorcycles built into the decor.
Members of Harley Owners Group (HOG) will receive discounted tickets, which will include food buffet and two complementary beverages, to the deck for all games.
Schlesinger said the seating area is already sold out for about 80 percent of the home games.
In addition, the renamed AirTran Airways Landing Zone seating area in right field is sold out for 90 percent of the home games.
AirTran Airways signed a multi-year partnership with the Milwaukee Brewers in January, the centerpiece of which was naming rights to an all-inclusive outfield seating area that has been renamed the AirTran Airways Landing Zone.
The Business Journal of Milwaukee
by Mark Kass
As the Milwaukee Brewers opened their home schedule Friday at Miller Park, the team has already sold 1.8 million tickets, a 10 percent increase compared with last season.
Rick Schlesinger, Brewers' executive vice president of business operations, said demand for tickets has been high, despite the current economic downturn.
"Ticket sales have been in a word -- great," he said in an interview this week. "It is a great tribute to our fans and the demand and interest there is in this team this year."
The Brewers set an all-time franchise attendance mark of more than 3 million fans in 2008 when the team went to the playoffs for the first time in 26 years.
Schlesinger said the team would like to exceed 3 million again, but it will depend on how the Brewers do on the field.
"We have had a good start for ticket sales, but it always comes down to how the team plays," he said. "If we are in the playoff race in September, we will have very good year at the gate."
The team has added a new seating area to Miller Park -- a 42-seat elevated seating area that was built in left-center field. It is called the “Harley-Davidson Deck” and features Harley-Davidson motorcycles built into the decor.
Members of Harley Owners Group (HOG) will receive discounted tickets, which will include food buffet and two complementary beverages, to the deck for all games.
Schlesinger said the seating area is already sold out for about 80 percent of the home games.
In addition, the renamed AirTran Airways Landing Zone seating area in right field is sold out for 90 percent of the home games.
AirTran Airways signed a multi-year partnership with the Milwaukee Brewers in January, the centerpiece of which was naming rights to an all-inclusive outfield seating area that has been renamed the AirTran Airways Landing Zone.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Baseball coverage bigger, better on MLB.com in '09
New additions and upgrades for following baseball onlineBy Mark Newman / MLB.com
This momentous decade began with a January 2000 unanimous vote by Major League Baseball owners to centralize baseball's Internet operations and create MLB Advanced Media, which would manage MLB.com, all 30 club sites and a digital baseball road map. The Yankees beat the Mets in a Subway Series that year, marking the last time that a World Series champion has repeated.
Now it is 2009 and the final season of this first decade in the new millennium is about to get under way. It remains to be seen whether the Phillies can end that long drought and finally give baseball another repeat champion, but one thing we do know is that fans embraced the technology MLBAM went on to introduce, and today you can experience baseball essentially anywhere in the world and in almost every way.
MLB.TV, Video Alerts, online ticketing, All-Star Game voting, MLB.com At Bat 2009 for the iPhone, MLB.com Shop orders, MLB.com Gameday, Fantasy games, MLBlogs and boards, detailed Draft scouting reports, live studio programming, 24/7/365 coverage from a network of 30 traveling beat writers -- those are just some of the advancements that came along this decade. As we welcome the new chase for a World Series title to close this decade of baseball tech, here is a guide to those favorite fan staples today:
MLB.TV Premium
Courtney Heitkamp, 21, of Sioux Falls, S.D., recently posted to Twitter: "Oh my gosh I'm watching the Twins...I love you MLB.TV!"
In case anything actually needs to be said other than that, then just let MLB.TV Premium speak for itself. If you are among the millions who have experienced live baseball over your computer with MLB.TV in the past, then brace yourself because it is more captivating than ever. Developers threw the kitchen sink in for the 2009 model, building a new Flash media player that has received rave reviews throughout public beta testing this spring. Many fans who do not have actual HD televisions at home are seeing what that crystal-clarity looks like on a computer screen. MLB.TV Premium is $109.99 for a year's subscription, a $10 markdown from last year despite numerous enhancements. You'll enjoy the proprietary speed detection; playback controls with DVR and jump-to-inning functionality; home-or-away and TV-or-radio swapping; picture-in-picture; archived games; and much more. Like Heitkamp, you will love MLB.TV.
Video Alerts
Video Alerts were added to the MLB.com Mobile team text menu last season, and that was a smashing success. Fans enjoyed receiving video highlights over their enabled handheld devices, and that will be an important element again this summer. You can be working on a project around the house or walking through an airport on a business trip, and suddenly one of these highlights pops up and your mood changes and you just want to show it to the person closest to you.
Just sign up by texting "GET Club name" to 65246. For example, if you are a Cincinnati fan, you send the text "get reds" to 65246. Once you sign up for the text alerts, MLB.com will send eligible fans a second text message offering the Video Alerts service. The price hasn't changed, so this is the throw-in of all-time. As always, you can manage your Team Alert selections in the "m-dash" (Mobile Dashboard).
Fantasy Games
Remember when someone almost won a million bucks last summer playing MLB.com Beat the Streak? That was close. Maybe you will win that amount by playing the easy-to-manage game this season. Or take your chance at winning $10,000 by entering MLB.com 2009 Fantasy Baseball. Go to MLB.com Fantasy and look through all the opportunities, and dominate your leagues by taking advantage of the wealth of advice from experts. Fantasy has only grown in scope over this decade, to the point that our Player Rankings now are even being used to predict final standings based on aggregate fantasy rankings per team. Unlike 2000, a massive segment of today's baseball fandom get into the game because of fantasy.
"We've learned a lot this decade about the kinds of games fans are looking for, and most importantly, how to get new fans involved and enjoying fantasy baseball," said Gregg Klayman, VP of content development. "Back in 2000, you had a hardcore base of fans playing games online, whereas today you have millions of experts and novices competing in all different levels of games."
Video Search
Want to see B.J. Upton highlights? Looking for examples of why Tim Lincecum won the last NL Cy Young Award? Just go to http://mlb.mlb.com/media/video.jsp and search for their names or any others. Search for anything around Major League Baseball, and there is a strong likelihood you will be satisfied.
As with Video Alerts, this is a demonstration of the penetration that online video has reached in today's world. It's one of the first things many fans look for, something they can actually see, immediate gratification at watching their favorite players in action. Video Search was added last season, and fans enjoyed the larger (512x288) viewing size and faster bit rate. MLB.com editors tag the clips and make them available for you, and then you decide exactly what is needed in that split-second.
MLB.com At Bat 2009
This was released in the Apple App Store last week and immediately shot up to No. 3 overall and No. 1 in Sports among all apps there. The big new feature for this year is the add-on of MLB.com Gameday Audio for the regular season. Fans will be able to listen to live audio broadcasts of every Major League Baseball game from the Sunday opener through the World Series clincher. It also features a live scoreboard with statistical data from current, previous and future games; MLB.com Gameday's detailed data featuring five interactive screens and exclusive pitch type, location and speed data; and high-quality video highlights quickly after they happen on the field. Just go to the App Store in iTunes and click on Sports, and you will find MLB.com At Bat 2009 there for $9.99.
MLB.com Gameday
Every year this decade it has grown more addictive by incorporating more technology. The same will be true for this popular real-time app as a season is ushered in with the Opening Night game between the Braves and Phillies on Sunday, followed by 13 Opening Day games on Monday. This season Gameday adds exclusive real-time scouting data to the mix, with pitcher and batter tendencies, hot and cold zones and head-to-head stats. These rich new data features complement the existing pitch-by-pitch data, including the Pitch-f/x technology that provides pitch speed, trajectory and location data for every game in every Major League park, along with Game Previews, in-game highlights and other game-specific video from right inside the app.
Registration
Before you do anything at MLB.com this season, create a free account so you are registered here. It's free and easy, and it is the gateway to many things that happen during the course of the year -- including ticketing, Shop offers, contest prizes, All-Star voting, blogging and posting messages, subscription signups and more.
News and opinion
Nowhere is there more comprehensive baseball coverage than at MLB.com. It blankets the game with 30 traveling reporters who are at the source, constantly filing news and features and Inbox replies to your e-mails as well as their regular MLBlogs and more. Fans can consume the information through headlines on MLB.com and the club sites, as well as RSS feeds, on the MLB.com Mobile WAP site and as text alerts.
MLBAM also operates Minor League Baseball's site, and the team of writers provide even further meaningful insight to Major League fans about how their organizations are doing and which prospects to anticipate in the big leagues. Perspectives from such veteran journalists as Hal Bodley, Mike Bauman and Tom Singer help shape the views of many fans and provoke arguments and agreement alike.
Online ticketing
It is hard to say exactly what one facet of the Internet has been most important to baseball fans over this decade, but this is as likely a choice as any. Online ticketing gradually rose in popularity to the point that -- by the middle of the decade -- it was how most MLB game tickets were purchased, and then it became a de facto standard in fan life, with many fans simply printing their tickets out at home and bringing them straight to the gate. Right now, online ticketing further enables you to take advantage of the new MLB.com Fan Value Corner, showcasing the many ways that all 30 clubs are helping spectators get more for their money amid a staggering recession. From the My Team Account Manager to make season ticket payments to StubHub.com for secondary ticketing, this is a key reason many people keep coming back to their favorite MLB sites.
MLB.com Shop
Anyone who might have been jittery about online transactions at the start of the decade is likely well over it by now. The bigger question is more likely when to say enough is enough and just put the shopping cart through checkout. Just as you probably went to the MLB.com Shop to do your last holiday shopping, you probably are browsing through there these days, and maybe you noticed that the new Spring Virtual Catalog has just arrived, offering convenient selection of the baseball fashion of the times. Order one of those Stance II Fashion Jerseys by Majestic Athletic and get a free cap.
Scoreboard, Standings, Stats, Schedule
Those four words are at the top of the homepage, just as they have been for most of this decade. It's hard for baseball fans to imagine life without them.
Blogs and Boards
Everyone seems to be blogging and social networking now. There is a huge increase in player MLBlogs, with a prospect blog for every organization, and blogs by such big leaguers as Torii Hunter, Reed Johnson, Glen Perkins, Andre Ethier and Collin Balester. You probably noticed that MSNBC's Keith Olbermann has an MLBlog where he can talk about his favorite sport instead of politics. All 30 MLB.com team reporters now have MLBlogs, and even the Rangers Captain just started one.
Last year in this space, we mentioned a fan named phillies6phan26, who boldly predicted on the MLB.com Fan Forum message boards that the Phillies would win it all, Evan Longoria would be AL Rookie of the Year, Dodgers, Cubs and Angels would all win divisions, among some other prudent choices. It only makes sense to tip the cap here given what happened.
Every now and then, you see some expert fan opinion like that around the boards and at MLBlogs. And every now and then, you see some stuff that just makes you laugh. But whatever the case, this decade has become a giant snowball of user generated content, with you in control of your own spaces.
Whether uploading ballpark photos of yourself to put on products, customizing a new authentic jersey, bidding on game-used items, watching a live MLB.TV Premium stream, checking scores, commenting on a favorite player's blog or following the action with your new smartphone, you are fully immersed in a way of life that you might have found hard to believe at the dawn of this decade. Now that this decade is about to finish up with another long and fabulous season, it is time to take stock of how far we have all come together, take a deep breath, and start it all over again.
Mark Newman is enterprise editor of MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
This momentous decade began with a January 2000 unanimous vote by Major League Baseball owners to centralize baseball's Internet operations and create MLB Advanced Media, which would manage MLB.com, all 30 club sites and a digital baseball road map. The Yankees beat the Mets in a Subway Series that year, marking the last time that a World Series champion has repeated.
Now it is 2009 and the final season of this first decade in the new millennium is about to get under way. It remains to be seen whether the Phillies can end that long drought and finally give baseball another repeat champion, but one thing we do know is that fans embraced the technology MLBAM went on to introduce, and today you can experience baseball essentially anywhere in the world and in almost every way.
MLB.TV, Video Alerts, online ticketing, All-Star Game voting, MLB.com At Bat 2009 for the iPhone, MLB.com Shop orders, MLB.com Gameday, Fantasy games, MLBlogs and boards, detailed Draft scouting reports, live studio programming, 24/7/365 coverage from a network of 30 traveling beat writers -- those are just some of the advancements that came along this decade. As we welcome the new chase for a World Series title to close this decade of baseball tech, here is a guide to those favorite fan staples today:
MLB.TV Premium
Courtney Heitkamp, 21, of Sioux Falls, S.D., recently posted to Twitter: "Oh my gosh I'm watching the Twins...I love you MLB.TV!"
In case anything actually needs to be said other than that, then just let MLB.TV Premium speak for itself. If you are among the millions who have experienced live baseball over your computer with MLB.TV in the past, then brace yourself because it is more captivating than ever. Developers threw the kitchen sink in for the 2009 model, building a new Flash media player that has received rave reviews throughout public beta testing this spring. Many fans who do not have actual HD televisions at home are seeing what that crystal-clarity looks like on a computer screen. MLB.TV Premium is $109.99 for a year's subscription, a $10 markdown from last year despite numerous enhancements. You'll enjoy the proprietary speed detection; playback controls with DVR and jump-to-inning functionality; home-or-away and TV-or-radio swapping; picture-in-picture; archived games; and much more. Like Heitkamp, you will love MLB.TV.
Video Alerts
Video Alerts were added to the MLB.com Mobile team text menu last season, and that was a smashing success. Fans enjoyed receiving video highlights over their enabled handheld devices, and that will be an important element again this summer. You can be working on a project around the house or walking through an airport on a business trip, and suddenly one of these highlights pops up and your mood changes and you just want to show it to the person closest to you.
Just sign up by texting "GET Club name" to 65246. For example, if you are a Cincinnati fan, you send the text "get reds" to 65246. Once you sign up for the text alerts, MLB.com will send eligible fans a second text message offering the Video Alerts service. The price hasn't changed, so this is the throw-in of all-time. As always, you can manage your Team Alert selections in the "m-dash" (Mobile Dashboard).
Fantasy Games
Remember when someone almost won a million bucks last summer playing MLB.com Beat the Streak? That was close. Maybe you will win that amount by playing the easy-to-manage game this season. Or take your chance at winning $10,000 by entering MLB.com 2009 Fantasy Baseball. Go to MLB.com Fantasy and look through all the opportunities, and dominate your leagues by taking advantage of the wealth of advice from experts. Fantasy has only grown in scope over this decade, to the point that our Player Rankings now are even being used to predict final standings based on aggregate fantasy rankings per team. Unlike 2000, a massive segment of today's baseball fandom get into the game because of fantasy.
"We've learned a lot this decade about the kinds of games fans are looking for, and most importantly, how to get new fans involved and enjoying fantasy baseball," said Gregg Klayman, VP of content development. "Back in 2000, you had a hardcore base of fans playing games online, whereas today you have millions of experts and novices competing in all different levels of games."
Video Search
Want to see B.J. Upton highlights? Looking for examples of why Tim Lincecum won the last NL Cy Young Award? Just go to http://mlb.mlb.com/media/video.jsp and search for their names or any others. Search for anything around Major League Baseball, and there is a strong likelihood you will be satisfied.
As with Video Alerts, this is a demonstration of the penetration that online video has reached in today's world. It's one of the first things many fans look for, something they can actually see, immediate gratification at watching their favorite players in action. Video Search was added last season, and fans enjoyed the larger (512x288) viewing size and faster bit rate. MLB.com editors tag the clips and make them available for you, and then you decide exactly what is needed in that split-second.
MLB.com At Bat 2009
This was released in the Apple App Store last week and immediately shot up to No. 3 overall and No. 1 in Sports among all apps there. The big new feature for this year is the add-on of MLB.com Gameday Audio for the regular season. Fans will be able to listen to live audio broadcasts of every Major League Baseball game from the Sunday opener through the World Series clincher. It also features a live scoreboard with statistical data from current, previous and future games; MLB.com Gameday's detailed data featuring five interactive screens and exclusive pitch type, location and speed data; and high-quality video highlights quickly after they happen on the field. Just go to the App Store in iTunes and click on Sports, and you will find MLB.com At Bat 2009 there for $9.99.
MLB.com Gameday
Every year this decade it has grown more addictive by incorporating more technology. The same will be true for this popular real-time app as a season is ushered in with the Opening Night game between the Braves and Phillies on Sunday, followed by 13 Opening Day games on Monday. This season Gameday adds exclusive real-time scouting data to the mix, with pitcher and batter tendencies, hot and cold zones and head-to-head stats. These rich new data features complement the existing pitch-by-pitch data, including the Pitch-f/x technology that provides pitch speed, trajectory and location data for every game in every Major League park, along with Game Previews, in-game highlights and other game-specific video from right inside the app.
Registration
Before you do anything at MLB.com this season, create a free account so you are registered here. It's free and easy, and it is the gateway to many things that happen during the course of the year -- including ticketing, Shop offers, contest prizes, All-Star voting, blogging and posting messages, subscription signups and more.
News and opinion
Nowhere is there more comprehensive baseball coverage than at MLB.com. It blankets the game with 30 traveling reporters who are at the source, constantly filing news and features and Inbox replies to your e-mails as well as their regular MLBlogs and more. Fans can consume the information through headlines on MLB.com and the club sites, as well as RSS feeds, on the MLB.com Mobile WAP site and as text alerts.
MLBAM also operates Minor League Baseball's site, and the team of writers provide even further meaningful insight to Major League fans about how their organizations are doing and which prospects to anticipate in the big leagues. Perspectives from such veteran journalists as Hal Bodley, Mike Bauman and Tom Singer help shape the views of many fans and provoke arguments and agreement alike.
Online ticketing
It is hard to say exactly what one facet of the Internet has been most important to baseball fans over this decade, but this is as likely a choice as any. Online ticketing gradually rose in popularity to the point that -- by the middle of the decade -- it was how most MLB game tickets were purchased, and then it became a de facto standard in fan life, with many fans simply printing their tickets out at home and bringing them straight to the gate. Right now, online ticketing further enables you to take advantage of the new MLB.com Fan Value Corner, showcasing the many ways that all 30 clubs are helping spectators get more for their money amid a staggering recession. From the My Team Account Manager to make season ticket payments to StubHub.com for secondary ticketing, this is a key reason many people keep coming back to their favorite MLB sites.
MLB.com Shop
Anyone who might have been jittery about online transactions at the start of the decade is likely well over it by now. The bigger question is more likely when to say enough is enough and just put the shopping cart through checkout. Just as you probably went to the MLB.com Shop to do your last holiday shopping, you probably are browsing through there these days, and maybe you noticed that the new Spring Virtual Catalog has just arrived, offering convenient selection of the baseball fashion of the times. Order one of those Stance II Fashion Jerseys by Majestic Athletic and get a free cap.
Scoreboard, Standings, Stats, Schedule
Those four words are at the top of the homepage, just as they have been for most of this decade. It's hard for baseball fans to imagine life without them.
Blogs and Boards
Everyone seems to be blogging and social networking now. There is a huge increase in player MLBlogs, with a prospect blog for every organization, and blogs by such big leaguers as Torii Hunter, Reed Johnson, Glen Perkins, Andre Ethier and Collin Balester. You probably noticed that MSNBC's Keith Olbermann has an MLBlog where he can talk about his favorite sport instead of politics. All 30 MLB.com team reporters now have MLBlogs, and even the Rangers Captain just started one.
Last year in this space, we mentioned a fan named phillies6phan26, who boldly predicted on the MLB.com Fan Forum message boards that the Phillies would win it all, Evan Longoria would be AL Rookie of the Year, Dodgers, Cubs and Angels would all win divisions, among some other prudent choices. It only makes sense to tip the cap here given what happened.
Every now and then, you see some expert fan opinion like that around the boards and at MLBlogs. And every now and then, you see some stuff that just makes you laugh. But whatever the case, this decade has become a giant snowball of user generated content, with you in control of your own spaces.
Whether uploading ballpark photos of yourself to put on products, customizing a new authentic jersey, bidding on game-used items, watching a live MLB.TV Premium stream, checking scores, commenting on a favorite player's blog or following the action with your new smartphone, you are fully immersed in a way of life that you might have found hard to believe at the dawn of this decade. Now that this decade is about to finish up with another long and fabulous season, it is time to take stock of how far we have all come together, take a deep breath, and start it all over again.
Mark Newman is enterprise editor of MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: BOK Center
Is The BOK Center Spurring Downtown Business?
By Ashli Sims, The News On 6
TULSA, OK -- Thousands were drawn to downtown Tulsa to see the Boss. But, are the big shows turning into big business for neighboring restaurants?
Bruce Springsteen, Billy Joel and Elton John, they've all led to a feeding frenzy for downtown restaurants. But the real question is does the interest end, when the concerts do?
The crowds started lining up hours before the arena doors were set to open with one name on their lips.
"We're here for The Boss. Bruce Springsteen. Of Course," said Chris Wilson from Oklahoma City.
"I'm super excited! I'm just gonna scream," said 6-year-old Riley Collett.
Big shows, like Bruce Springsteen, are definitely giving neighboring restaurants something to yell about. The manager at SoChey says if you can see the crowd at the BOK Center from outside the restaurant, you can almost guarantee it's packed inside.
"Absolutely crowded, packed, mad house," said Julie Alumbaugh, SoChey manager. "Every time there is a show, we are sold out. Two weeks in advance, actually."
And the BOK Center isn't the only venue with lines out the door.
"Very busy. Every time there is concert's across the street it's very busy," said Edith Rojas with Casa Laredo.
But, owner Edith Rojas says the crowds disappear when the concerts do.
"The only thing we don't have that often the concerts," said Edith Rojas.
She says more concerts would help.
"Of course. That's what we need. Because in the evening it's so slow here. Because people don't come downtown for dinners," said Edith Rojas with Casa Laredo.
Over at SoChey, they say they're starting to see the arena effect, even without the big-time headliners.
"It's carrying over. Because people come down and see that it's great ambience, the service is great, the food is good. And we have live music on Thursday, Friday, Saturdays. So, it's a great destination spot," said SoChey's Julie Alumbaugh.
Some BOK Center newcomers agree.
"We drove right to it. Traffic was great. No problems getting to it. It was really easy to get to. Course you can see it from all over the city so that helps. I gotta tell you Tulsa is a beautiful city. It's a nicer city than Oklahoma City," said Oklahoma City's Chris Wilson.
Others would like to see more to do and places to dine closer to the concerts.
"But, it's all down there by McNellies it's further away," said Rob Evans. "Some bars and restaurants right by the arena would be great."
And, more restaurants will reportedly be popping up.
The manager at SoChey says investors from Philadelphia have shown interest in developing downtown.
By Ashli Sims, The News On 6
TULSA, OK -- Thousands were drawn to downtown Tulsa to see the Boss. But, are the big shows turning into big business for neighboring restaurants?
Bruce Springsteen, Billy Joel and Elton John, they've all led to a feeding frenzy for downtown restaurants. But the real question is does the interest end, when the concerts do?
The crowds started lining up hours before the arena doors were set to open with one name on their lips.
"We're here for The Boss. Bruce Springsteen. Of Course," said Chris Wilson from Oklahoma City.
"I'm super excited! I'm just gonna scream," said 6-year-old Riley Collett.
Big shows, like Bruce Springsteen, are definitely giving neighboring restaurants something to yell about. The manager at SoChey says if you can see the crowd at the BOK Center from outside the restaurant, you can almost guarantee it's packed inside.
"Absolutely crowded, packed, mad house," said Julie Alumbaugh, SoChey manager. "Every time there is a show, we are sold out. Two weeks in advance, actually."
And the BOK Center isn't the only venue with lines out the door.
"Very busy. Every time there is concert's across the street it's very busy," said Edith Rojas with Casa Laredo.
But, owner Edith Rojas says the crowds disappear when the concerts do.
"The only thing we don't have that often the concerts," said Edith Rojas.
She says more concerts would help.
"Of course. That's what we need. Because in the evening it's so slow here. Because people don't come downtown for dinners," said Edith Rojas with Casa Laredo.
Over at SoChey, they say they're starting to see the arena effect, even without the big-time headliners.
"It's carrying over. Because people come down and see that it's great ambience, the service is great, the food is good. And we have live music on Thursday, Friday, Saturdays. So, it's a great destination spot," said SoChey's Julie Alumbaugh.
Some BOK Center newcomers agree.
"We drove right to it. Traffic was great. No problems getting to it. It was really easy to get to. Course you can see it from all over the city so that helps. I gotta tell you Tulsa is a beautiful city. It's a nicer city than Oklahoma City," said Oklahoma City's Chris Wilson.
Others would like to see more to do and places to dine closer to the concerts.
"But, it's all down there by McNellies it's further away," said Rob Evans. "Some bars and restaurants right by the arena would be great."
And, more restaurants will reportedly be popping up.
The manager at SoChey says investors from Philadelphia have shown interest in developing downtown.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Tickets.com Product Highlight: Tickets@Phone Mobile Tickets
Tickets@Phone™Send paperless, barcoded tickets directly to your customers’ mobile phones. Tickets@Phone are redeemed at your venue directly from their mobile phone display through the use of a barcode scanner.
Learn more about Tickets@Phone mobile tickets >
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Tickets.com Client Spotlight: Hartman Arena
Hartman Arena Cuts The Ribbon On March 25
Hartman Arena in Park City, KS, held an open house on March 25 where the ribbon was cut for the new facility. Festivities included behind the scenes tours, rides by Celebrations!, live music by Blazmo, prize drawings for event tickets and other services as well as fun food provided by Sodexho and Papa John’s Pizza.
“We were very excited to host events in the brand new Hartman Arena,” said Jacque Wedel, sales and marketing manager. “It’s interesting that we were breaking ground exactly one year ago and now we’re hosting our grand opening celebration."
Grand opening events included and will include Alan Jackson, Disturbed, Wichita Wild games and the Monster Truck Nationals.
Find Hartman Arena tickets >
Hartman Arena in Park City, KS, held an open house on March 25 where the ribbon was cut for the new facility. Festivities included behind the scenes tours, rides by Celebrations!, live music by Blazmo, prize drawings for event tickets and other services as well as fun food provided by Sodexho and Papa John’s Pizza.
“We were very excited to host events in the brand new Hartman Arena,” said Jacque Wedel, sales and marketing manager. “It’s interesting that we were breaking ground exactly one year ago and now we’re hosting our grand opening celebration."
Grand opening events included and will include Alan Jackson, Disturbed, Wichita Wild games and the Monster Truck Nationals.
Find Hartman Arena tickets >
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Two Services to Sell Tickets on Cellphones
Wall Street Journal
By SARA SILVER and ETHAN SMITH
Ticketmaster Entertainment Inc. and Tickets.com Inc. are launching services to let customers buy tickets directly from their mobile phones, in an ambitious attempt to extend Internet commerce to cellphone screens.
Starting this month, U.S. and Canadian BlackBerry users will be able to search Ticketmaster's inventory and purchase tickets on their handsets. Tickets.com will let baseball fans buy and receive tickets via cellphone from 13 Major League Baseball teams starting with the April 10 opening home game of the Oakland A's. Tickets.com is a subsidiary of MLB Advanced Media, LP, the interactive media and Internet company of Major League Baseball.
The push for mobile ticketing comes as customers shift to smart phones, whose faster networks and larger screens come closer to the feel of ordering via computer. While the wireless industry has long awaited the time when cellphones would be used for buying, most purchases have so far been for items consumed on the phone itself, such as ringtones, wallpaper and music.
Mobile ticketing will provide an early case to see how customers take to the new platform. Both deals are aimed at audiences -- BlackBerry users and baseball fans -- known as early adopters of new technologies.
Ticketmaster President Eric Korman draws a comparison with online sales, which have grown rapidly in the past decade, from a small sliver of the company's business to the dominant way people buy tickets. "Today Ticketmaster sells 72% of its tickets online," Mr. Korman says. "That started as a small number 10 years ago."
Baseball fans are increasingly using mobile phones to check game scores, and asking that tickets be sent as barcodes to their mobile phones. MLB sold 32 million tickets last year. Noah Garden, an executive vice president at MLB.com, said he expects mobile ticketing to account for 20% to 40% of the total in 2011.
Baseball promoters are especially eager to spur last-minute purchases of seats, since clubs need to move tickets to 81 home games each season, compared with eight home games for National Football League teams. "I think mobile phones will have a tremendous impact on moving distressed inventory," said Larry Witherspoon, chief executive of Tickets.com.
Previous mobile-ticketing efforts have required customers to connect to an operator to complete the purchase and then return to their computer to print out a receipt. That was mostly due to the technical limits of barcode scanners at airports and venues, which have trouble reading off a brightly lit screen.
"The challenge is not all the digital technology in delivering the ticket, it's the physical technology in getting through the gate," said Charles Golvin, principal analyst at Forrester Research.
Tickets.com last year started delivering barcodes to mobile phones, letting holders scan their phones at special turnstiles to enter a venue, and will now let customers complete the entire purchase via phone. "They don't need a computer or a call center," to complete the purchase, said Mr. Witherspoon.
Tickets.com hired UsableNet of New York, which converts Web sites into a format that can be read by 5,000 devices running on different networks. The company has devised sites for Sears.com customers to shop for refrigerators and New York residents to pay utility bills.
Ticketmaster and BlackBerry maker Research In Motion Ltd., which announced their exclusive partnership in September, have been working together to design the software platform. The feature is part of RIM's investment to spread its devices from the hard-core business user to the mass market. "It's bringing e-commerce to your belt," said RIM's co-chief executive, Jim Balsillie.
By SARA SILVER and ETHAN SMITH
Ticketmaster Entertainment Inc. and Tickets.com Inc. are launching services to let customers buy tickets directly from their mobile phones, in an ambitious attempt to extend Internet commerce to cellphone screens.
Starting this month, U.S. and Canadian BlackBerry users will be able to search Ticketmaster's inventory and purchase tickets on their handsets. Tickets.com will let baseball fans buy and receive tickets via cellphone from 13 Major League Baseball teams starting with the April 10 opening home game of the Oakland A's. Tickets.com is a subsidiary of MLB Advanced Media, LP, the interactive media and Internet company of Major League Baseball.
The push for mobile ticketing comes as customers shift to smart phones, whose faster networks and larger screens come closer to the feel of ordering via computer. While the wireless industry has long awaited the time when cellphones would be used for buying, most purchases have so far been for items consumed on the phone itself, such as ringtones, wallpaper and music.
Mobile ticketing will provide an early case to see how customers take to the new platform. Both deals are aimed at audiences -- BlackBerry users and baseball fans -- known as early adopters of new technologies.
Ticketmaster President Eric Korman draws a comparison with online sales, which have grown rapidly in the past decade, from a small sliver of the company's business to the dominant way people buy tickets. "Today Ticketmaster sells 72% of its tickets online," Mr. Korman says. "That started as a small number 10 years ago."
Baseball fans are increasingly using mobile phones to check game scores, and asking that tickets be sent as barcodes to their mobile phones. MLB sold 32 million tickets last year. Noah Garden, an executive vice president at MLB.com, said he expects mobile ticketing to account for 20% to 40% of the total in 2011.
Baseball promoters are especially eager to spur last-minute purchases of seats, since clubs need to move tickets to 81 home games each season, compared with eight home games for National Football League teams. "I think mobile phones will have a tremendous impact on moving distressed inventory," said Larry Witherspoon, chief executive of Tickets.com.
Previous mobile-ticketing efforts have required customers to connect to an operator to complete the purchase and then return to their computer to print out a receipt. That was mostly due to the technical limits of barcode scanners at airports and venues, which have trouble reading off a brightly lit screen.
"The challenge is not all the digital technology in delivering the ticket, it's the physical technology in getting through the gate," said Charles Golvin, principal analyst at Forrester Research.
Tickets.com last year started delivering barcodes to mobile phones, letting holders scan their phones at special turnstiles to enter a venue, and will now let customers complete the entire purchase via phone. "They don't need a computer or a call center," to complete the purchase, said Mr. Witherspoon.
Tickets.com hired UsableNet of New York, which converts Web sites into a format that can be read by 5,000 devices running on different networks. The company has devised sites for Sears.com customers to shop for refrigerators and New York residents to pay utility bills.
Ticketmaster and BlackBerry maker Research In Motion Ltd., which announced their exclusive partnership in September, have been working together to design the software platform. The feature is part of RIM's investment to spread its devices from the hard-core business user to the mass market. "It's bringing e-commerce to your belt," said RIM's co-chief executive, Jim Balsillie.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Mobile Web Addiction Rising, Researchers Say
by John Paczkowski
All Things Digital
Just as the mobile Web and the wired Web are converging, so too are their audiences, which are destined to reach parity in size–and sooner, rather than later. According to the latest metrics from comScore, day-to-day mobile Internet usage in the states doubled over the last year. In January 2008, 10.8 million people visited the mobile Web at least once a day. Now there are some 22.4 million. Most do so looking for news or other basic information, though many are looking for interaction as well. Social networking, for example, saw a massive spike in usage, its audience growing 427 percent year over year.
“Over the course of the past year, we have seen use of mobile Internet evolve from an occasional activity to being a daily part of people’s lives,” said comScore’s Mark Donovan. “This underscores the growing importance of the mobile medium as consumers become more reliant on their mobile devices to access time-sensitive and utilitarian information. Social networking and blogging have emerged as very popular daily uses of the mobile Web and these activities are growing at a torrid pace,” observed Donovan. “We also note that much of the growth in news and information usage is driven by the increased popularity of downloaded applications, such as those offered for the iPhone, and by text-based searches.”
Obviously, the mobile browsing experience hasn’t yet matched its wired counterpart in quality. But clearly it’s getting there. And right now, it’s at the “decent enough” stage to woo the audience that will drive its further and more rapid improvement.
All Things Digital
Just as the mobile Web and the wired Web are converging, so too are their audiences, which are destined to reach parity in size–and sooner, rather than later. According to the latest metrics from comScore, day-to-day mobile Internet usage in the states doubled over the last year. In January 2008, 10.8 million people visited the mobile Web at least once a day. Now there are some 22.4 million. Most do so looking for news or other basic information, though many are looking for interaction as well. Social networking, for example, saw a massive spike in usage, its audience growing 427 percent year over year.
“Over the course of the past year, we have seen use of mobile Internet evolve from an occasional activity to being a daily part of people’s lives,” said comScore’s Mark Donovan. “This underscores the growing importance of the mobile medium as consumers become more reliant on their mobile devices to access time-sensitive and utilitarian information. Social networking and blogging have emerged as very popular daily uses of the mobile Web and these activities are growing at a torrid pace,” observed Donovan. “We also note that much of the growth in news and information usage is driven by the increased popularity of downloaded applications, such as those offered for the iPhone, and by text-based searches.”
Obviously, the mobile browsing experience hasn’t yet matched its wired counterpart in quality. But clearly it’s getting there. And right now, it’s at the “decent enough” stage to woo the audience that will drive its further and more rapid improvement.
Friday, April 3, 2009
Just Announced: The National at Pabst Theater
The indie band stops by Milwaukee July 17
by Steven Hyden
Decider Milwaukee
Of all the bands that have gained a measure of fame in the indie rock world this decade, The National seems like the most unlikely, if only because the Brooklyn band makes music that’s subdued, inward-looking, and not immediately striking. But 2007’s Boxer, like Arcade Fire’s Neon Bible and Animal Collective’s Merriweather Post Pavilion, is one of the indie scene’s great consensus records of recent years, with an appeal that goes beyond the band’s initial cult of listeners. Beautifully muted and understated, Boxer drew its intensity from a slow burn, which seems true for The National in general.
With great success comes the potential for backlash, and last year’s arty band documentary A Skin, A Night gave detractors reason to call The National out for pretension. But the biggest challenge this band faces is following up an album as beloved as Boxer; The National reportedly is heading into the studio next month to do just that, with a release date set for late 2009 or early 2010. Before then, the band will perform July 17 at the Pabst Theater, according to its website.
Find tickets >
by Steven Hyden
Decider Milwaukee
Of all the bands that have gained a measure of fame in the indie rock world this decade, The National seems like the most unlikely, if only because the Brooklyn band makes music that’s subdued, inward-looking, and not immediately striking. But 2007’s Boxer, like Arcade Fire’s Neon Bible and Animal Collective’s Merriweather Post Pavilion, is one of the indie scene’s great consensus records of recent years, with an appeal that goes beyond the band’s initial cult of listeners. Beautifully muted and understated, Boxer drew its intensity from a slow burn, which seems true for The National in general.
With great success comes the potential for backlash, and last year’s arty band documentary A Skin, A Night gave detractors reason to call The National out for pretension. But the biggest challenge this band faces is following up an album as beloved as Boxer; The National reportedly is heading into the studio next month to do just that, with a release date set for late 2009 or early 2010. Before then, the band will perform July 17 at the Pabst Theater, according to its website.
Find tickets >
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Tickets.com Product Highlight: ProVenueInsight
ProVenueInsight™ProVenueInsight from Tickets.com provides venues with an innovative ability to better understand all aspects of their business. From marketing campaign effectiveness, to sales trends, to attendance and order information, now venues can easily analyze and manage their data in a variety of ways to best suit their reporting needs.
Learn more about ProVenueInsight >
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Walking with Dinosaurs at HSBC Arena
Not a movie or an exhibit, a theatrical experience
Melissa Holmes
Posted by: Emily Lenihan
BUFFALO, N.Y (WIVB) - The thunder is already rumbling as they stomp their way into Buffalo.
This is Walking with Dinosaurs. It's not a movie. It's not an exhibit.
"This is a theatrical experience," said Jennifer Van Rysdam, HSBC Arena, Dir. of Event Booking
It's coming to HSBC Arena this summer.
"It's the closest that audience will ever get to experiencing the time when dinosaurs ruled the earth," said Van Rysdam.
Walking with Dinosaurs was originally a television series on the BBC.
It's been transformed into a $20 million stage show seen by 2 million people worldwide.
But actually, it's too big for the stage. These dinosaurs roaming independently throughout the arenas are life size!
"The lifesize bracchiosaurus is 35 feet tall. The lifesize t-rex is 18 feet at the shoulder," said Sonny Tilders, Designer of the dinosaurs.
The show explores 170 million years of dinosaur history, in 100 minutes.
Tilders said, "There's nothing like it in terms of its combination of storytelling, technology, puppetry, and pure entertainment. Combined of course with education."
Tickets range from about $20 to $70. Walking With Dinosaurs comes to HSBC Arena June 24 to 28th.
Buy Walking with Dinosaurs tickets now >
Melissa Holmes
Posted by: Emily Lenihan
BUFFALO, N.Y (WIVB) - The thunder is already rumbling as they stomp their way into Buffalo.
This is Walking with Dinosaurs. It's not a movie. It's not an exhibit.
"This is a theatrical experience," said Jennifer Van Rysdam, HSBC Arena, Dir. of Event Booking
It's coming to HSBC Arena this summer.
"It's the closest that audience will ever get to experiencing the time when dinosaurs ruled the earth," said Van Rysdam.
Walking with Dinosaurs was originally a television series on the BBC.
It's been transformed into a $20 million stage show seen by 2 million people worldwide.
But actually, it's too big for the stage. These dinosaurs roaming independently throughout the arenas are life size!
"The lifesize bracchiosaurus is 35 feet tall. The lifesize t-rex is 18 feet at the shoulder," said Sonny Tilders, Designer of the dinosaurs.
The show explores 170 million years of dinosaur history, in 100 minutes.
Tilders said, "There's nothing like it in terms of its combination of storytelling, technology, puppetry, and pure entertainment. Combined of course with education."
Tickets range from about $20 to $70. Walking With Dinosaurs comes to HSBC Arena June 24 to 28th.
Buy Walking with Dinosaurs tickets now >
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