jazzmyne

PUBLIC RELATIONS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                     

JULY 20, 2000                                                

 

SCHOOL ENTERTAINMENT & ACTIVITIES PROGRAM

HONORS THE WORLD CHAMPION LOS ANGELES LAKER WIVES

 AND PAYS SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO ERIKK ALDRIDGE

 

1000 Students to Attend as Recording Artists

 firstlove, Rome, and By Chance  Perform

 

            For 27 years, the School Entertainment & Activities Program (S.E.A.P.), headed by its president and founder, Dion Grant, has been a major source of encouragement, positive energy and pride to thousands, perhaps even millions of Los Angeles area school kids.  Showcasing acts like Boyz II Men, Dru Hill and Brandy, old school artists like Brenton Wood and Charles Wright, and newcomers such as Sammie, S.E.A.P. has consistently hosted mini-concerts and musical events at schools throughout Los Angeles and Orange county, all the while promoting education.  The program is ingenious, and the dividends multi-fold.  Local businesses sponsor the programs, so there is no cost to the schools, the students are motivated and the recording artists get a strong career-inducing boost.

            On Monday, July 31, 2000, S.E.A.P. will host one of their biggest events ever when they honor, The World Champion Los Angeles Laker Wives along with a special salute to Erikk Aldridge, the Director of Community Relations for the Los Angeles Lakers.  A private Hollywood reception, showcase and motivational rally, the occasion’s theme is “Focusing on Achievement,” as 1000 students, parents, teachers, dignitaries and celebrities gather for this unique moment in sports and educational history.   Recording artists firstlove, Rome, By Chance and Shawnita White are slated to perform live.  It all happens at the Palace, 1735 N. Vine in Hollywood from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

            Explains Dion, ”The World Champion Los Angeles Laker Wives, “The Laker Wives Charities, Inc.” and Erikk Aldridge, are being honored for their commitment over the years working in conjunction with S.E.A.P.  Their continual support has provided schools with pro-teacher, pro-student self-development academic attractions.  The academic attractions promote anti-drug, anti-violence activity and reward students that participate in positive activities at their school.  As an added treat, S.E.A.P. has planned this special reception to include the students as we honor their efforts and dedication to our youth.”

            The father of five, Dion’s empathy for the students and their well being is no small matter.  An alumni of Dorsey High, he was initially shocked into action when he returned to visit his school one year, only to be greeted by guards at the doors and drug dealers on the side walk.

“I was so troubled I made it my business to talk to students from Dorsey to Beverly Hills to get to the bottom line issue. I’m a professional disc jockey,” explains Dion, “so I know the power of music. I therefore decided why not use music to influence the kids and keep them motivated.  That is how S.E.A.P.  was born.”

            Indeed, testimonial letters dating back to 1976 from teachers and faculty prove that Dion was right on the mark.  His program is the only of its kind in Los Angeles and the country.  Taking advantage of the fact that Los Angeles is the capital of the music business, Dion tapped right into the industry and struck gold.  His program is utilized by the music industry as an instrumental tool in breaking new recording artists and taking them to the next level. 

            “S.E.A.P. has proven many things to many unbelieving hearts and minds.  Our program has changed lives.  We have increased school attendance, enhanced test scores, and raised self-esteem levels with our certificate program.  In addition, record companies have seen the results.  We have directly affected the careers of artists like Tyrese, Brandy and Boyz II Men.  However, none of it is possible without the support of folks like Erikk Aldridge and organizations like the Lakers Wives Charities, Inc.  This is certainly a momentous occasion for us to be able to honor them in this fashion.  It is an event that will effect the students for the rest of their lives!” cites Dion.

            For more information about the tribute, or to contact S.E.A.P. directly, call (323) 295-3314, or visit their website at www.seap.org.

Media Inquiries:   Contact Makeda