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3rd Annual Red, White & Dead Zombie Walk Dead Set on Reclaiming Guinness Word Record from New Jersey on July 2nd, 2011

Seattle, WA (PRWEB) May 19, 2011

Citizens of Seattle have taken matters into their own hands deciding to celebrate the recent news of the holy rapture and apocalypse due to begin in May with a massive Zombie Walk and Charity Rock concert on Saturday, July 2nd at the 3rd annual Red, White and Dead Zombie Block Party for this once-in-a-lifetime event.

This Fourth of July weekend, thousands of Seattle’s undead return to feed on brains and representing their Emerald City by shuffling their back into the history books to reclaim the Guinness World Record for “Largest Gathering of Zombies.” New Jersey currently holds the official record with 4,093 Zombies set back in October 2010.

This year, Red, White and Dead Zombie Block party returns with a massive Thriller Flash Mob, Fashionably Undead Costume Contest and Guinness World Record Zombie Walk attempt. 2011 also introduces new features and activities from a live music concert series, mobile food challenge and massive beer gardens benefitting the local non-profit charity, Reel Grrls.

Event Producer Ryan Reiter, “This is popular fan culture at it’s best, it’s the ultimate kodak moment celebrating the ever-popular, Zombie that helps raise money and awareness for local charities happening right here in Seattle annually.

Known by as the “populisfanatic culturis” (otherwise known as popular fan culture) virus; this one-day infection has occurred in Seattle the past two Fourth of July weekends; attributed by thousands of moaning, shambling, and dancing Zombies lurking around the artistic community of Fremont for a huge charity event. Symptoms are often include fun, laughter and highly contagious for people of all ages.

Attendees are strongly urged to dress up like the undead to avoid being eaten and ensure fun factor by the fellow Zombies to help Seattle reclaim the Guinness World Record, once and for all.

In 2009, Seattle’s Zombie walk received the Guinness World Record with 3,894 Zombies and although not officially counted and verified by Guinness, Seattle had 4,233 Zombies overall in 2010.

Everyone (Zombie) must meet at the extraction zone located at 3501 Phinney Ave North, home to the Fremont Outdoor Movies on Friday, July 2nd and that everyone should report in costume dressed as Zombies for this historical event to ensure that you are not detected by the walking dead. It’s your only means of survival and we are counting on you to make this possible.

We need 4,094 Zombies to break the world record on Saturday, July 2nd, 2011 starting at 2pm.

FAQ: Who: The Fremont Outdoor Movies & Seattle Zombie Walk

What: Guinness World Record Attempt - “Largest Gathering of Zombies” and Beat New Jersey current world record at 4,093.

When: Saturday, July 2nd, 2011 | Doors Open at 3pm

Where: Fremont Studios Address: 3501 Phinney Ave North Seattle, WA 98103

How: Purchase your tickets online at http://www.strangertickets.com to register, then dress up as a Zombie and head over to join us for the walk.

Why: Charity Fundraiser and be part of world history

How to Purchase Tickets: http://www.strangertickets.com. Pre-sale admission are just $3 or $5 for two people until June 25th. $5 at the door for the event.

Official Websites and Media Sites: Website: http://www.zombcon.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ZomBcon


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UWF Combines Hip Hop Music And Professional Wrestling To Present The Feuds Of The Streets As Unprecedented Entertainment

New York, NY (PRWEB) May 19, 2011

It’s no secret that there’s been an age-old battle for turf domination brewing in America’s urban neighborhoods; a battle that will now be settled inside the ropes. The ring is the new block. On Friday, June 3rd, disputes will boil over and total domination will be the prize, as the latest innovation in sports entertainment, the Urban Wrestling Federation (UWF), debuts live New York City.

The UWF is kicking off with a star-studded battle between the toughest thugs in the hip-hop community. Rappers such as Melle Mel, Red Café, Big Block, Uncle Murda, Brisco, Billy Blue, Gorilla Zoe, Gun Play and Cuban Link have signed onto the UWF. You can expect a variety of these hip-hop bosses to be in the ring for the fight to own their turf. In addition, these hip-hop ‘shot callers’ have teamed up with the most hardcore “no joke” professional wrestling thugs to ensure that top notch talent will hash out their feuds, leaving the toughest, most legit, ‘fam’ to walk away with full UWF domination.

By tapping the newest and freshest top wrestling talent, the UWF is set to debut a level of extreme in-ring warfare that guarantees over the top insanity and a never-before-seen experience. Seasoned wrestling veterans including HOMICIDE, SCORPIO SKY, and RICKY REYES will join a team of high-flying newcomers, who will deliver ground-breaking wrestling and hood-crazy stunts, changing the game, and setting trends for new world entertainment.

‘First Blood’ will go down at the famed NYC Hammerstein Ballroom at 311 West 34th Street in Manhattan. In addition to exploding in front of a packed crowd of thousands, ‘First Blood’ will be filmed for a dynamic national pay-per-view special, which will first air on Sunday, June 26th at 8:00pm edt (5:00pm pdt) with an encore presentation at 11:00pm edt (8pm pdt). Additional airings will occur on national cable and satellite networks including iN DEMAND, DIRECTV, TVN Ent, etc. New episodes of Urban Wrestling Federation will air on Pay Per View in September and November. Tickets for the live event are now available at http://www.TicketMaster.com and at the Hammerstein Box Office.

Developed by television and live events icon, Steve ‘The Hustler’ Karel, his leadership ensures that UWF will be like nothing else ever seen in the music or wrestling arenas. Having honed his wrestling skills during his time with Extreme Championship Wrestling, Karel caused widespread controversy when he first cleared on national broadcast insane stunts that included barbed wire, pyrotechnic weapons and over-the-top in-ring-chaos.

Bob Chiappardi, Concrete Marketing CEO, will be spearheading the music efforts for the federation. He had previously worked with Karel on ECW, which spawned two soundtracks, one of which earned a Grammy nomination. Chiappardi also worked extensively with the WWE as a music supervisor on several soundtracks and music based promotions. “Music, typically heavy metal or rock & roll, has always been a part of wrestling entertainment”, said Chiappardi. “As opposed to matches of the past where music has filled the background, the UWF will bring music to the forefront showcasing established urban stars and rising talent.

“By combining urban music and professional wrestling, we’ve created the ideal opportunity for dynamic and exciting entertainment while opening an avenue that guarantees higher attendance with new marketing and sponsorship opportunities,” said Karel


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Celeb Birthdays For The Week Of May 22-28 (Maxwell, Patti LaBelle, Lauryn Hill, Andre 3000)

May 22: Actor Michael Constantine ("My Big Fat Greek Wedding," "Room 222") is 84. Actor-director Richard Benjamin is 73. Actor Frank Converse is 73. Actress Barbara Parkins ("Peyton Place," "Valley of the Dolls") is 69. Songwriter Bernie Taupin is 61. Singer Morrissey is 52. Actress Ann Cusack ("Jeff Foxworthy Show," "A League of Their Own") is 50. Bassist Dana Williams of Diamond Rio is 50. Guitarist Jesse Valenzuela of Gin Blossoms is 49. Actor Mark Christopher Lawrence ("Chuck") is 47. Singer Johnny Gill is 45. Bassist Dan Roberts of Crash Test Dummies is 44. Model Naomi Campbell is 41. Actress Anna Belknap ("CSI: NY") is 39. Singer Donell Jones is 38. Actor Sean Gunn ("Gilmore Girls") is 37.

May 23: Actress Barbara Barrie is 80. Actress Joan Collins is 78. Actor Charles Kimbrough ("Murphy Brown") is 75. Actress Lauren Chapin ("Father Knows Best") is 66. Country singer Judy Rodman is 60. Comedian Drew Carey is 53. Country singer Shelly West is 53. Actor Linden Ashby ("Melrose Place") is 51. Actress-model Karen Duffy is 50. Drummer Phil Selway of Radiohead is 44. Drummer Matt Flynn of Maroon 5 is 41. Singer Lorenzo is 39. Country singer Brian McComas is 39. Singer Maxwell is 38. Singer Jewel is 37.

May 24: Comedian Tommy Chong is 73. Singer Bob Dylan is 70. Actor Gary Burghoff ("M.A.S.H") is 68. Singer Patti LaBelle is 67. Actress Priscilla Presley is 66. Country singer Mike Reid is 64. Actor Jim Broadbent ("Moulin Rouge," "Iris") is 62. Actor Alfred Molina is 58. Singer Rosanne Cash is 56. Actress Kristin Scott Thomas is 51. Rock musician Jimmy Ashhurst of Buckcherry is 48. Rock musician Vivian Trimble of Luscious Jackson is 48. Actor John C. Reilly ("Chicago," "Gangs of New York") is 46. Actor Eric Close ("Without A Trace") is 44. Rapper-recording executive Heavy D is 44. Rock musician Rich Robinson is 42. Actor Bryan Greenburg ("Bride Wars") is 33. Actor Billy L. Sullivan ("Something So Right") is 31. Actor-rapper Big Tyme is 30. Rock musician Cody Hanson of Hinder is 29. Country singer Billy Gilman is 23. Actor Cayden Boyd is 17.

May 25: Songwriter Hal David is 90. Country singer Tom T. Hall is 75. Actor Ian McKellen ("Lord of the Rings") is 72. Country singer Jessi Colter is 68. Actress-singer Leslie Uggams is 68. Director-Muppetteer Frank Oz is 67. Actress Karen Valentine is 64. Singer Klaus Meine of Scorpions is 63. Actress Patti D'Arbanville ("New York Undercover") is 60. Actress Connie Sellecca is 56. Singer-guitarist Paul Weller of The Jam is 53. Actor-comedian Mike Myers is 48. Actress Anne Heche is 42. Actresses Sidney and Lindsay Greenbush ("Little House on the Prairie") are 41. Actor Jamie Kennedy ("Scream") is 41. Actor Justin Henry ("Kramer Vs. Kramer") is 40. Singer Lauryn Hill is 36. Actor Ethan Suplee ("My Name Is Earl") is 35.

May 26: Actor James Arness is 88. Sportscaster Brent Musburger is 72. Singer-drummer Levon Helm of The Band is 71. Steel guitar player Gates Nichols of Confederate Railroad is 67. Drummer Garry Peterson of The Guess Who is 66. Singer Stevie Nicks is 63. Actor Philip Michael Thomas ("Miami Vice") is 62. Actress Pam Grier is 62. Country singer Hank Williams Junior is 62. Actress Margaret Colin is 54. Singer Dave Robbins (BlackHawk) is 52. Actress Genie Francis ("General Hospital") is 49. Comedian Bobcat Goldthwait is 49. Singer Lenny Kravit


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Atlanta-based authors offer documentary-style relationship insight with new book

Atlanta, GA (PRWEB) May 19, 2011

For centuries we’ve been told men and women speak different languages. While language itself may be a far-fetched concept, its clear men and women interpret relationships differently. Instead of the typical gender-bending discussion, its time for ‘REAL TALK’! On Saturday, May 21st, authors Dr. Lisa Anne Matthews and Dee Derrick will host a book release party to celebrate “REAL TALK: Candid Conversations with Black Men about Black women, “ at the Aurum Lounge, located at 915 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA.

Composed as a sort of literary documentary, “REAL TALK “captures the voice of 8 black men, giving them the freedom and platform to use their voice without boundaries. Matthews and Derrick believe the book will offer women a vantage point when approaching future relationships by allowing them to enter into the male psyche to get a realistic idea of how men process women and relationships.

Dr. Lisa Ann Matthews and Dee Derrick , met years ago on the job and soon realized they both had aspirations of writing a books on relationships. It wasn’t long before the friends realized their strengths would provide the perfect compliment for teaming up on a joint venture. Matthews provided corporate experience in qualitative research, while Derricks had an extensive psychology and social sciences background. Combined Matthews and Derricks strengths offer a fresh spin on the dated self-help relationship manuals decorating bookshelves across the country.

Matthews and Derrick chronicled numerous conversations with eight African American men from varying economical, social and educational backgrounds. The men were encouraged to express their feelings on several subjects as: Black women and their perceptions of dating, marriage, sex, relationships, religion, culture, and everything in between.

“What Black women fail to realize is that we were raised in the same fatherless homes that they were, so it just ends up producing two confused people in relationships. The fact of the matter is that neither of us truly understands the roles that the other should play in marriage.” – Carlton

After several mind boggling conversations, Matthews and Derrick decided upon REAL TALK: Candid Conversations with Black Men about Black Women”, the first of a series of non-fiction books that will highlight a wide range of controversial topics, issues, and experiences.

“Our purpose for writing this book was to ultimately hear the voices of our Black men. Their experiences are intriguing, captivating, real, noteworthy, and complex. When we took the time to sit down and speak to our eight participants they were amazed by this simple gesture and often commented on how no one ever took made the initiative to get to know them. We lent our ears to these men and sentimentally offer their words to you. We pray this book serves as a gift and is purposeful in your journey to understanding the Black man and his journey,” Matthews and Derrick.

Derrick and Matthews are convinced “Real Talk” will be a revelation for women wanting a sneak peek into the psychology of men and can begin a healing process in the divide between women and men especially in relation to African American relationships. The two decided there was no better demographic to start with than Atlanta, GA a city ridiculed for being one of the hardest places for African American couples to connect. Readers of all ages are encouraged to join Matthews and Derrick on Saturday, May 21st at the Aurum Lounge located at 915 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, GA


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Leading Tribute Artists To Portray Music Legends Elvis, Aretha Franklin, Michael Jackson, ABBA and Alan Jackson

Myrtle Beach, SC (PRWEB) May 19, 2011

Legends in Concert® (http://www.LegendsinConcert.com) Myrtle Beach officials have announced the summer lineup for the leading tribute artist show.

The new set of tribute artists—who will perform from May 23 through Sept. 10—will portray Elvis, Aretha Franklin, Michael Jackson, Tom Jones, and Alan Jackson. Tom Jones will have the ladies swooning through June 18 and will be replaced by the 70’s disco icons, ABBA, on June 20. The Michael Jackson tribute artist will be making a special limited appearance through August 13.

Leo Days is one of the most sought-after Elvis tribute artists in the world and has performed overseas in France, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Belgium, Holland and Germany. He was named one of the top ten finalists in the 2008 Elvis Presley Enterprises Ultimate Elvis Contest and is one of the few Elvis tribute artists who performs all three eras of Elvis, from the rock 'n’ roll 50s to the black leather of the 60s to the Vegas years of the 70s. An extremely versatile performer, Days not only sings, but also plays the guitar and piano.

Denita Asberry has a striking resemblance to the young Aretha Franklin and the powerful voice to match. Well-versed in jazz, pop, rock and rhythm and blues, Asberry has electrified audiences across the country for years with her tribute to the Motown diva. She started her career by impersonating several of her favorite singers in the national touring company of the musical, “Beehive,” and quickly discovered that audiences were blown away by her portrayal of Franklin.

Ice—an award-winning tribute artist who has performed throughout the U.S., Europe and Asia—will portray the legendary King of Pop. Catherine Jackson, mother of Michael Jackson, once saw Ice perform and the first words she said to him were, “You look like my baby.” He grew up near Jackson's hometown of Gary, Indiana and once won the grand prize of $50,000 in the talent competition at the Indiana State Fair for his portrayal of Jackson. Since that time, fans all over the world have marveled at the similarity of his appearance, dance moves and vocals to the late legend.

The Swedish pop sensation, ABBA, will be portrayed by a talented Canada-based foursome, Jo-Anne Rooney, Ryan Buckley, Jeff “Scott” Artamonov and Suzanne Ogrinc-Lock Anni-Frid. The group's high energy and extensive background in all aspects of entertainment help to take audiences on a journey back to the thrilling ABBA performances of the late 70s and early 80s.

Doug Brewin will suit up as award-winning American country artist Alan Jackson in the summer lineup. Brewin has performed at the Legends in Concert theaters in Las Vegas, Atlantic City and Branson, Mo., and has captivated audiences across the United States and Canada with his tribute to the singer. Prior to impersonating Jackson full-time, this gifted musician—who plays the guitar, drums, trombone and mandolin—was part of one of the Philadelphia area's most respected country bands.

“We are so excited to have a new outstanding group of A-team tribute artists take the stage this summer at our new theater at Myrtle Beach's Broadway at the Beach,” said Chris Beattie, regional general manager for Legends in Concert. “We pride ourselves on sharing the best of the best and this new lineup of entertainers is just that. The performers are sure to 'wow' people of all ages and backgrounds with their moves, vocal abilities and uncanny resemblances to the legends they portray.”


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May 22: Actor Michael Constantine ("My Big Fat Greek Wedding," "Room 222") is 84. Actor-director Richard Benjamin is 73. Actor Frank Converse is 73. Actress Barbara Parkins ("Peyton Place," "Valley of the Dolls") is 69. Songwriter Bernie Taupin is 61. Singer Morrissey is 52. Actress Ann Cusack ("Jeff Foxworthy Show," "A League of Their Own") is 50. Bassist Dana Williams of Diamond Rio is 50. Guitarist Jesse Valenzuela of Gin Blossoms is 49. Actor Mark Christopher Lawrence ("Chuck") is 47. Singer Johnny Gill is 45. Bassist Dan Roberts of Crash Test Dummies is 44. Model Naomi Campbell is 41. Actress Anna Belknap ("CSI: NY") is 39. Singer Donell Jones is 38. Actor Sean Gunn ("Gilmore Girls") is 37.

May 23: Actress Barbara Barrie is 80. Actress Joan Collins is 78. Actor Charles Kimbrough ("Murphy Brown") is 75. Actress Lauren Chapin ("Father Knows Best") is 66. Country singer Judy Rodman is 60. Comedian Drew Carey is 53. Country singer Shelly West is 53. Actor Linden Ashby ("Melrose Place") is 51. Actress-model Karen Duffy is 50. Drummer Phil Selway of Radiohead is 44. Drummer Matt Flynn of Maroon 5 is 41. Singer Lorenzo is 39. Country singer Brian McComas is 39. Singer Maxwell is 38. Singer Jewel is 37.

May 24: Comedian Tommy Chong is 73. Singer Bob Dylan is 70. Actor Gary Burghoff ("M.A.S.H") is 68. Singer Patti LaBelle is 67. Actress Priscilla Presley is 66. Country singer Mike Reid is 64. Actor Jim Broadbent ("Moulin Rouge," "Iris") is 62. Actor Alfred Molina is 58. Singer Rosanne Cash is 56. Actress Kristin Scott Thomas is 51. Rock musician Jimmy Ashhurst of Buckcherry is 48. Rock musician Vivian Trimble of Luscious Jackson is 48. Actor John C. Reilly ("Chicago," "Gangs of New York") is 46. Actor Eric Close ("Without A Trace") is 44. Rapper-recording executive Heavy D is 44. Rock musician Rich Robinson is 42. Actor Bryan Greenburg ("Bride Wars") is 33. Actor Billy L. Sullivan ("Something So Right") is 31. Actor-rapper Big Tyme is 30. Rock musician Cody Hanson of Hinder is 29. Country singer Billy Gilman is 23. Actor Cayden Boyd is 17.

May 25: Songwriter Hal David is 90. Country singer Tom T. Hall is 75. Actor Ian McKellen ("Lord of the Rings") is 72. Country singer Jessi Colter is 68. Actress-singer Leslie Uggams is 68. Director-Muppetteer Frank Oz is 67. Actress Karen Valentine is 64. Singer Klaus Meine of Scorpions is 63. Actress Patti D'Arbanville ("New York Undercover") is 60. Actress Connie Sellecca is 56. Singer-guitarist Paul Weller of The Jam is 53. Actor-comedian Mike Myers is 48. Actress Anne Heche is 42. Actresses Sidney and Lindsay Greenbush ("Little House on the Prairie") are 41. Actor Jamie Kennedy ("Scream") is 41. Actor Justin Henry ("Kramer Vs. Kramer") is 40. Singer Lauryn Hill is 36. Actor Ethan Suplee ("My Name Is Earl") is 35.

May 26: Actor James Arness is 88. Sportscaster Brent Musburger is 72. Singer-drummer Levon Helm of The Band is 71. Steel guitar player Gates Nichols of Confederate Railroad is 67. Drummer Garry Peterson of The Guess Who is 66. Singer Stevie Nicks is 63. Actor Philip Michael Thomas ("Miami Vice") is 62. Actress Pam Grier is 62. Country singer Hank Williams Junior is 62. Actress Margaret Colin is 54. Singer Dave Robbins (BlackHawk) is 52. Actress Genie Francis ("General Hospital") is 49. Comedian Bobcat Goldthwait is 49. Singer Lenny Kravitz is 47. Actress Helena Bonham Carter is 45. Drummer Phillip Rhodes of The Gin Blossoms is 43. Actor Joseph Fiennes ("Shakespeare in Love") is 41. Singer Joey Kibble of Take 6 is 40. "South Park" co-creator Matt Stone is 40. Bassist Nathan Cochran of MercyMe is 33.

May 27: Actor Christopher Lee is 89. Actress Lee Meriwether is 76. Musician Ramsey Lewis is 76. Actor Louis Gossett Junior is 75. Country singer Don Williams is 72. Actor Bruce Weitz is 68. Singer Cilla Black is 68. Singer Bruce Cockburn is 66. Actor


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WASHINGTON – District of Columbia police records released Wednesday show Bill Gates and rapper Jay-Z are among the celebrities who have received police escorts similar to the one officers provided last month to actor Charlie Sheen, revealing more widespread use of a practice mostly intended for top government officials and foreign dignitaries.

Records obtained by The Associated Press through a Freedom of Information Act request show dozens of escorts have been provided in the last year and a half, including to entertainers, celebrities, college and pro athletes, and sometimes to the teams' owners. The department is routinely reimbursed for the escorts, in amounts ranging from several hundred dollars to, in one case, nearly $80,000, the invoices show.

D.C. Police Chief Cathy Lanier said last month that escorts were generally reserved for the president, vice president and visiting heads of state and the mayor, with exceptions made on a case-by-case basis.

Lanier told The Associated Press on Wednesday that police protocol also allows escorts when there are concerns about public safety or crowd control. She said the celebrity escorts were "all being looked at based on what happened in the Charlie Sheen case," but wouldn't categorically say they were improper and said there's any number of reasons why celebrities or non-dignitaries might be entitled to an escort.

"There are legitimate reasons for many of these escorts," Lanier told the AP, adding, "There may be. I just don't know."

Officers with the special operations division on April 19 provided Sheen an escort, with sirens and lights flashing, from Dulles International Airport — approximately 30 miles from downtown Washington — to a performance at DAR Constitution Hall in the city. The escort attracted attention after Sheen wrote about it excitedly on Twitter, even posting a photograph of a speedometer registering about 80 mph: "In car with Police escort in front and rear! Driving like someone's about to deliver a baby! Cop car lights (hash)Spinning!"

Sheen's concert promoter reimbursed the district $445.68, records show.

Lanier said in an April 22 statement that the Sheen escort appeared to violate department protocol. She also said such escorts weren't intended for celebrities. She said city police escorts weren't supposed to turn on flashing lights and sirens in non-emergency situations and were generally not permitted to travel in other jurisdictions without the assistance of law enforcement agencies in those localities.

Yet records show that several of the celebrity escorts either originated or ended at Dulles or Ronald Reagan National Airport, both in northern Virginia.

An investigation is continuing into whether any of the escorts were inappropriate and how they came to be approved.

"If there isn't a legitimate reason for it, then who made the decision to authorize it and did they follow the proper protocol for authorizing it?" she said.

The escort of Gates — the Microsoft co-founder, billionaire businessman and philanthropist — was provided on Nov. 8, 2010 from the city's convention center to Dulles, according to an invoice for $445.68. He was in Washington that day speaking at a health forum. Gates fully reimbursed the district, said Steve Krystek, director of PFC Safeguards, which coordinates logistics for Gates' travel. He declined to comment on any other aspect of the escort.

D.C. Council member Phil Mendelson, whose committee has oversight of the police department, said he was considering asking for a hearing to hash out the conflicting reports.

"How many conflicting explanation


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WASHINGTON – District of Columbia police records released Wednesday show Bill Gates and rapper Jay-Z are among the celebrities who have received police escorts similar to the one officers provided last month to actor Charlie Sheen, revealing more widespread use of a practice mostly intended for top government officials and foreign dignitaries.

Records obtained by The Associated Press through a Freedom of Information Act request show that dozens of escorts have been provided in the last year or so alone, including to entertainers, celebrities and college and professional sports teams and sometimes their owners. The department is typically reimbursed for the escorts, in amounts ranging from several hundred dollars to, in one case, nearly $80,000, the invoices show.

Police officials said last month that escorts were generally reserved for the president, vice president and visiting heads of state and the mayor, with exceptions made on a case-by-case basis.

D.C. Police Chief Cathy Lanier said Wednesday that police protocol also allows escorts when there are concerns about public safety or crowd control. She said the celebrity escorts were "all being looked at based on what happened in the Charlie Sheen case," but wouldn't categorically say they were improper.

Officers with the special operations division on April 19 provided Sheen an escort, with sirens and lights flashing, from Dulles International Airport — approximately 30 miles from downtown Washington — to a performance at DAR Constitution Hall in the city. The escort attracted attention after Sheen wrote about it excitedly on Twitter, even posting a photograph of a speedometer registering about 80 mph: "In car with Police escort in front and rear! Driving like someone's about to deliver a baby! Cop car lights (hash)Spinning!" His concert promoter reimbursed the district $445.68, records show.

Lanier said last month that the Sheen escort appeared to violate department protocol and that such escorts weren't intended for celebrities.

She said city police escorts weren't supposed to turn on flashing lights and sirens in non-emergency situations and were not permitted to travel in other jurisdictions without the help of law enforcement agencies in those localities. Yet the records show that several of the escorts either originated or ended at Dulles, in northern Virginia.

Lanier said she stood by her statements from last month, but stressed Wednesday that there are any number of situations in which an entertainer might necessitate an escort. She added: "If there isn't a legitimate reason for it, then who made the decision to authorize it and did they follow the proper protocol for authorizing it?"

D.C. Council member Phil Mendelson, whose committee has oversight of the police department, said he was considering asking for a hearing to hash out the conflicting reports from the agency.

"How many conflicting explanations have we gotten from officials regarding what is the truth?" Mendelson asked. "The most damning thing is the stories have been inconsistent."

The escorts are provided at a rate of $55.71 per hour. Many of the escorts cost under $500, but some are substantially more expensive: Escorts provided for a March 2010 meeting of the American Israel Political Affairs Committee totaled more than $79,800. That money has been repaid.

The escort of Gates, the Microsoft co-founder, billionaire businessman and philanthropist, was provided on Nov. 8, 2010 from the city Convention Center to Dulles, according to an invoice provided to the AP. He was in Washington that day as keynote speaker for a health conference. The invoice, approved Nov. 17, reflects an outstandi


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Season begins June 28 with performances Tuesdays through Saturdays starting at 10 a.m.

Vienna, VA (PRWEB) May 18, 2011

The Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts announces its 2011 Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods season featuring 70 family friendly performances, and a new $8 day pass that allows patrons to see two shows for the price of one. Located in the unique enchanted setting of America’s only National Park for the Performing Arts, Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods is nestled in a shady grove amidst 117 rolling acres, where families can bring their own picnics and enjoy performances specially designed for children in kindergarten through sixth grade.

The 2011 schedule features a diverse array of performance genres including ballet, puppetry, folk music, rock, hip hop, captivating storytelling and opera, among others. Long-time returning favorites like Dinorock and Friends, Robbie Schaefer, and SteveSongs, as well as several new artists including Monumental Brass Quintet, Recess Monkey, and Secret Agent 23 Skidoo will have families dancing, laughing, singing and clapping all summer long.

The Wolf Trap Opera Company also returns to Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods the week of August 2 – 6, offering children a hilarious introduction to opera. Stories and characters are created on the spot as audience members participate in a “Mad Libs” style interactive game. Instant Opera is performed by members of the Wolf Trap Opera Company Studio Artists who perform throughout the summer at The Barns at Wolf Trap and for one performance at The Filene Center.

In recognition of Wolf Trap’s 40th anniversary season, a special week of performances has been planned by Wolf Trap Teaching Artists to celebrate 30 years with the Wolf Trap Institute for Early Learning Through the Arts! During the week of August 9 – 13, Wolf Trap Teaching Artists, featuring African drummers, storytellers, musicians, and dancers take the stage each day for this once-in-a-lifetime gathering led by local treasure and nationally recognized artist John “Kinderman” Taylor.

Wolf Trap Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods is perfect for birthday parties, play groups, day camps and family outings. Groups of 10 or more save $1 off each ticket. For group ticket information contact the Wolf Trap Group Sales Office at (703) 255-1851.

Wolf Trap’s 2011 Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods Season

June 28 –July 2 10:00 a.m. – City Dance – The Dreaming Tree 11:00 a.m. – Music with Milkshake – featuring the Milkshake Trio

July 5–9 10:00 a.m. – Hobey Ford’s Golden Rod Puppets – The Ant and the Grasshopper, and more! 11:00 a.m. – Robbie Schaefer – Songs for Kids Like Us

July 12–16 10:00 a.m. – Baba Jamal Koram – Under the Griot’s Tree: Stories of Wonder and Wisdom 11:00 a.m. – Steve Roslonek – SteveSongs

July 19–23 10:00 a.m. – Bob Brown Puppets – Teddy Bear Picnic 11:00 a.m. – Recess Monkey – Flying Kid-driven Dance Songs About Superheroes

July 26–30 10:00 a.m. – Maryland Youth Ballet – Caroline Goes to the Seashore 11:00 a.m. –Monumental Brass Quintet – Textures and Brass

August 2-6 10:00 a.m. – Secret Agent 23 Skidoo 11:00 a.m. – Wolf Trap Opera Company – Instant Opera!

August 10-14 10:00 a.m. – Dinorock and Friends at the Dew Drop Inn 11:15 a.m. – Kinderman and Friends &


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Rhythm & Culture Music, a Washington, D.C. indie record label distributed by ESL Music, releases Second Sky's debut album, which blends global beats and intimate songwriting.

Washington, DC (PRWEB) May 18, 2011

Rhythm & Culture Music, distributed through ESL Music, announced that it will release the debut album of Second Sky , titled The Art of Influence. The trio of Billy Medina, Wes DiIorio and Bill Lascek-Speakman create a sound that blends past with future and organic with electronic.

The Art of Influence is a journey into the mind of songwriter, Billy Medina, as he translates experience and emotion into sonic worlds of introspection and discovery. Bassist, Wes DiIorio, and drummer/producer, Bill Lascek-Speakman, set the scene with lush soundscapes, dusty hip-hop beats and dynamic musical passages.

While rooted in trip-hop and dub, The Art of Influence pulls inspiration from the past, present, future, and a variety of international influences. The opening track, "Dragonfly," begins like the morning sun rising over the river Ganges. "Under the Line" harkens back to 1970s soul, while the instrumental "Sundowner" draws upon strong afrobeat rhythms, suggesting the notion of a crowded street scene or packed dance floor. Deeper into the album, "A Hundred Million Sounds" features sitarist Harry Payuta, whose ability to seamlessly meld Indian classical music with Western sensibility adds a new layer to the band's already eclectic sound.

Featured as the #1 most added album for the week on CMJ’s RPM list last month Second Sky's, The Art of Influence, has already begun to attract curiosity and attention. Available on May 24th by digital download on iTunes and Amazon, the album entices us to travel within and without ourselves, tasting flavors of the world in a way that is equally personal as it is universal. The first release, Too Far, can be previewed here http://soundcloud.com/secondsky/too-far.

Full Track Listing: Dragonfly Under the Line Sundowner Too Far A Hundred Million Sounds Connect Hourglass The Others The Art of Influence You Should Know Messenger

About Rhythm & Culture: Rhythm & Culture Music hails from the vibrant and diverse Washington, D.C. electronic scene, which saw such groundbreaking acts as, Deep Dish, 95 North, and Thievery Corporation amongst others. Rhythm and Culture brings together a powerful roster of artistic talent, and internationally acclaimed producers with a seasoned management and promotion team. This artist owned and run label already has an enviable roster and an impressive release schedule. Brought together by Farid Nouri, resident DJ and one of the founders of The Eighteenth Street Lounge and Club Red, and Thomas Blondet, a DC staple of world class deejaying. Combining this roster with acclaimed productions, the label is poised to redefine the very sound its artist help shape. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or comments: info@rhythmandculture.com.

Twitter: @secondskydotnet @ThomasBlondet @Rhythm_Culture @18thSTLounge

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Gina EstradaRhythm & Culture202.553.1328Email Information


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