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You don't get to be the supreme leader of the world's leading, just-right-of-Stalin media conglomerate by squandering an opportunity to rally the troops during what would otherwise be five wasted minutes spilling saccharine, candy-cane sentiment into a dictophone . Rupert Murdoch pauses during this busy holiday season to steel the Fox troops for next year's challenges:

The coming year will present its own challenges. As successful as our company is, we operate in one of the most competitive industries on the planet and our competitors are constantly looking to knock us off our perch. But this company does not fear competition. It thrives on it.

The entire, heart-warming missive is after the jump.

From: Office of Rupert Murdoch ( Newscorp )

Sent: Monday, December 20, 2004 3:07 PM

Subject: Holiday message from Rupert Murdoch

Importance: High

Dear Colleagues,

As children we were taught to count our blessings. But corporations also do well to count their blessings, and News Corporation has none greater than each of you: the men and women whose talents and hard work have made this Company what it is today.

2004 has been a banner year for us. Virtually all our divisions - from our satellite, broadcast and cable television operations to our film and print media assets - performed superbly in competitive markets and helped contribute to another year of record revenues and profits.

This year was also marked by the overwhelming support we received from our shareholders for our proposal to reincorporate in the United States. While this move has had little or no effect on the work you do or on our business operations, I am certain it will be remembered in years to come as a milestone in News Corporation's development as one of the world's truly great media companies.

The reincorporation puts us in an even better position to do what we do best - deliver quality news and entertainment to millions of people around the world every day of the year.

The coming year will present its own challenges. As successful as our
company is, we operate in one of the most competitive industries on the planet and our competitors are constantly looking to knock us off our perch. But this company does not fear competition. It thrives on it.

The blessings that we share at News Corporation have been earned the
old-fashioned way: through our sweat and effort. At this very special
time of year, I want to thank you all for making this company what it is - and offer you and yours my wishes for a joyous and healthy Holiday and Christmas season.

All best wishes,

Rupert Murdoch