REDMOND, Wash. — April 16, 2009
What:
In an age of increasing social media and online gaming use, kids and parents alike are entering uncharted territory as they feel out the dos and don’ts of the digital world. Today, Microsoft Corp. is highlighting 15 teams of parents and teens who have taken control of their household media use and shared their approach in Microsoft’s Get Game Smart Video Contest.
As a first step in selecting its first Get Game Smart Ambassadors, Microsoft asked parents and teens to team up and create a brief video spotlighting their family’s approach to a responsible digital lifestyle, including rules related to video gaming. Finalists were chosen by a diverse group of judges based on their video’s creativity, concept, information and overall presentation. Now they will compete in a popular vote for prizes and a chance to contribute to a new industry forum for dialogue about video gaming safety with Microsoft, and other influential voices, as Get Game Smart Ambassadors. Viewers can visit http://www.getgamesmart.com now to vote for their favorite video.
Who:
The 15 finalists displayed their enthusiasm for safe video gaming in all sorts of ways, from a mother-son rap about balancing physical activity and video games to a father-daughter video showing the consequences of choosing to play video games rather than study for an exam. Finalists are as follows:
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“Twin Army” (Chicago)
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“Debbie Learns About the Family Timer” (Chicago)
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“Safety on Xbox LIVE” (Indianapolis)
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“Friday Afternoon on Xbox” (Indianapolis)
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“THE LIMITS” (Versailles, Ky.)
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“Joe and Connor’s Video” (Versailles, Ky.)
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“Marcus and Michelle Get Game Smart” (Los Angeles)
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“Plan 2 Play” (Los Angeles)
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“Cody’s Thoughts” (Seattle)
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“Video Game Rap” (Seattle)
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“Will Speak Spanish for Xbox” (Seattle)
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“Thomas and Jason Get Game Smart” (Brentwood, Tenn.)
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“Craig and Adam” (Minneapolis)
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“Martin and Alec” (Minneapolis)
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“Family Ties” (Vancouver, Wash.)
When:
Viewers can vote for their favorite team up to once per day between April 16 and May 15 at http://www.getgamesmart.com. Get Game Smart Video Contest Official Rules are available online. Viewers can also visit the site and join the Family Challenge Sweepstakes for a chance to win prizes before April 30. Family Challenge Sweepstakes Official Rules are available online.
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