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New FUNimation Channel Offers 24-hour Digital Anime Network

FUNimation Ent. a wholly-owned subsidiary of Navarre Corp., launched the FUNimation Channel today (Sept. 29, 2005), a 24-hour, digital network that will feature distinguished anime programming from FUNimation's anime brands. Working with OlympuSAT, one of the leading distributors for independent programming in the U.S., the channel will be available to video service providers throughout the nation. The plan is for the FUNimation Channel to be part of the basic and extended digital packages, so it will be a regular channel in the lineup.

The programming will be an evolving mix and will include programming from top-rated shows in Japan that have not been aired in the United States. The FUNimation Channel website (www.funimationchannel.com)will launch within a few weeks with more information on which shows will be in the lineup, the programming schedule and where to go to contact their local providers so they can request the FUNimation Channel.

"The broadcast success we've experienced with our anime brands proves that solid TV exposure gives fans the chance to see more great anime and it increases sales and licensing opportunities, said Gen Fukunaga, president/ceo of FUNimation Ent. This has driven us to pursue additional avenues to get more of our shows broadcast exposure in the United States." The FUNimation Channel will give us the opportunity to bring more of our proven, high-rated anime titles from Japan to fans throughout the United States and expand awareness of anime to whole new audiences."

"Thanks to engaging content and strong titles, both FUNimation and our network partners have experienced success and we look forward to continuing our relationships going forward," explains Fukunaga. "The FUNimation Channel is the first step in getting more of our top-rated anime shows broadcast and grabbing a larger share of the growing U.S. anime market."

"OlympuSAT is one of the top distributors of independent digital programming in the United States, and coupled with the high quality anime programming from FUNimation, the FUNimation Channel will be an attractive offering for operators across the nation."

"The FUNimation Channel features great programming from some of the most engaging anime brands in the United States," said Colleen Glynn, svp of affiliate sales and distribution for OlympuSAT. "We are confident that U.S. operators will see that the FUNimation Channel is the perfect complement and addition to their digital lineups."

For interested video providers, detailed programming and other exciting network information is available exclusively through OlympuSAT.

OlympuSAT (www.olympustat.com) distributes independently owned and operated digital networks on individual transponder platforms and currently represents more than 20 diverse channels through its Hispanic and Faith & Families Packs. A turnkey service provider, OlympuSAT facilitates technical related services for the transponder and uplink along with affiliate sales services. Additional services provided to networks include, as needed, master control, advertising sales and traffic and billing services. The OlympuSAT suites are distributed via Intelsat Americas 13. An affiliate of Ocean Communications, OlympuSAT is based in, serving homes nationwide.

Fort Worth, Texas-based Funimation (www.funimation.com) is a leading brand management company for anime content and one of the nation's largest independent home video entertainment companies. The company is best known for creating the blockbuster franchise DRAGONBALL Z in the U.S.

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Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
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