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Matthew Shepard Benefit Set For October 10 At Birdland

By: Sep. 26, 2005
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On a very special evening in New York City, a group of musicians from all over the country will remember Matthew Shepard, a young college student who lost his life in a vicious anti-gay hate crime in October of 1998.  Members of the Matthew Shepard Foundation, along with his mother, Judy Shepard, will be on hand to honor his memory and celebrate his life with music.  This year's event will be held Monday, October 10th, at Birdland (315 West 44 Street) in New York City, and will feature a performance by singer/songwriter Randi Driscoll with Noah Heldman, Dave Eggar, and David Gurland.  Also performing are pop duo Jason and DeMarco, and some very special surprise guests!  Birdland's own Cast Party emcee, Jim Caruso, will host the event.

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Randi Driscoll, a New York-based singer/songwriter, wrote and recorded the benefit single "What Matters" in 1998, in response to the death of Matthew Shepard.  The song was written to honor his life, his family and the unconditional love they represent. "What Matters" is endorsed by Matthew's parents, the Matthew Shepard Foundation, GLAAD, GLSEN, and several other organizations.  To date, the benefit single has raised over $40,000 for the Matthew Shepard Foundation.  The song has been featured in documentaries, a commercial directed by Spike Lee, and an NBC film, "The Matthew Shepard Story,"  Randi regularly tours the country playing her message-driven acoustic music.  www.randidriscoll.com

Jason and DeMarco are a pop duo from California, recently featured in The Advocate.  Their passionate and hopeful lyrics exemplify a spirit that is reflected in both their lives and music, attracting audiences everywhere, and creating instant fans wherever they go. http://www.jasonanddemarco.com

The Matthew Shepard Foundation, founded in December 1998 by Dennis and Judy Shepard, was established in memory of their 21-year old son, Matthew, who was murdered in an anti-gay hate crime. The Foundation carries out Matthew's legacy by developing educational projects and activities that raise awareness of the issues involving discrimination and diversity. The Foundation's goal is to educate and replace hate with understanding, compassion, and acceptance. http://www.MatthewShepard.org

Tickets are $25, $50, and $100, and the $100 VIP seats include gift bags.  A full dinner menu will be available, and proceeds benefit the Matthew Shepard Foundation.  The evening begins at 7:00 PM, and doors open at 5:30.  Tickets are available online by calling 212-581-3080 or at www.birdlandjazz.com http://www.birdlandjazz.com


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