Business, Entertainment, Free News Articles

Spymaker Escape Rooms Adds Pandemic-Friendly Entertainment Experience in Genesee County

FLINT, Mich. -- Local businessman, Shane Moore, is excited to announce a new and exciting entertainment experience in the Genesee County region - Escape Quest - a Spymaker Escape Rooms' brainchild. December 27 marks the date for this escape room/treasure hunt challenge that take places in the great outdoors. And, there's big prize money too.

New this holiday season Spymaker escape room has stepped it up to bring people the "Escape Quest Ultimate Challenge." Friends and families will work together to solve riddles that will send their group on an amazing journey to specific outdoor locations and the winning team that unlocks the final riddle rakes in $1,000.

"Spymaker has already run four, highly-successful Escape Quests as a free gift to the community, allowing families and friends to continue gathering to make memories in an easily, socially-distanced setting," Moore says.

This new experience will release on Sunday, December 27 and the challenge includes four riddles; the first three will be released at 9 a.m. sharp. The start of each riddle leads adventurers to a city and location within a 30-mile radius of its Miller Road store. The end of each riddle leads to an answer which needs to be submitted to Spymaker. Once the first three riddles are correctly solved, it's time to unlock the final riddle.

While the grand prize winner will enjoy the greatest monetary reward, Spymaker doesn't want the excitement to end there. Every group that solves the final riddle within 24 hours of the first team will be entered into drawings for more prizes.

There will also be an additional prize for those who document their team adventures via photos along the way. They just request no hints or answers for the other players.

The entry fee to join this adventure is only $59 per group and it's up to the group to decide the best number of people to invite to make it the ideal experience.

"We're dedicated to continuing to provide entertainment for our customers, even as our doors have temporarily closed as required for community safety," Moore says. "This has been a unique challenge to overcome and we've met it head on."

A mobile escape room can also be delivered right to people's doors. All experiences are creative, immersive, fun and challenging.

Past riddles and solutions can be found on the Spymaker website. For more information on this upcoming event or to register a team visit: https://spymakerescape.com/escape-quest-flint/ or call: 810-620-0877.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spymakerescape

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spymakerescaperooms/

MEDIA CONTACT:
Shane Moore
of Spymaker escape rooms
+1-620-0877; +1-810-931-4246
guestservices@spymakerescape.com

Related link: https://spymakerescape.com/

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Business, Entertainment, Free News Articles, Offbeat, Product Launches

TIPZY Releases Satirical Music Video About Safety During a Pandemic

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Performing artist, TIPZY, debuts satirical music video, "COVID Dance," that uses humor to comment on the ways we choose to (or not to) stay safe during the pandemic.

The video features a beat comprised of coughs, Dr. Fauci cameos, grocery store stand-offs and an other-worldly virus depicted by a hot-glued craft poof ball and straws. It takes the viewer on a rhythmic ride fueled by rap-style lyrics while showcasing various pandemic reactions and interactions.

"I was inspired to make this video after a supermarket encounter where I tried avoiding another shopper. The guy said to me, 'Hey, we're doing the COVID dance,'" Bailey says.

The hook exemplifies that interaction to a coordinated beat - "Step left, step right, up hands. Step forward, step back and spin. Looking for an escape plan."

"COVID Dance" was written, directed and produced by Zach Bailey, also known by his stage name, TIPZY.

"When building this song, I was inspired by Megan Thee Stallion's, 'Savage,' and its iconic 2020 TikTok challenge plus my forever role models, Andy Samberg and his comedy group, The Lonely Island," Bailey says. "My ultimate goal for this music video is to promote ways we can stay safe this year, and my way happens to be through humor."

Bailey shares that he's been producing "goofy songs" for as long as he can remember when he first started out in his hometown of Overland Park, Kansas.

Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/OTBm4V0ST-c

About TIPZY

Based in Los Angeles, TIPZY is a musical artist with a comedic twist. This character is inherently a mess and combines creative songwriting with pop culture commentaries for an escape from the mundane. TIPZY has performed around the world with his most recent performances at Akbar in Silverlake and the Upright Citizen's Brigade (UCB) Theatre on Sunset Boulevard.

To learn more, visit: https://www.instagram.com/_tipzy_/ and https://www.facebook.com/tipzyrecords

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-1001s2p-covid-dance-300dpi.jpg
*Photo Caption: "COVID Dance" Promo.

Media Contact:
Zach Bailey
of TIPZY Records, llc.
ztbail3y@gmail.com
+1-310-913-8084

Related link: https://www.facebook.com/tipzyrecords

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved.

Books and Publishing, Business, Entertainment, Free News Articles, Holistic and Spiritual, Product Launches

Five Star Reviews for Real Life Ghostbuster’s First Fiction Foray

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Nifni Press, a Paraphrase, LLC imprint, released "Near Death (A Raney/Daye Investigation Book 1)" (ISBN: 978-1953566003), a paranormal mystery introducing a new team of investigators that has already garnered several 5-star reviews from ReadersFavorite.com and been lauded by noted mediums for its refreshingly real portrayal of the paranormal.

It is no wonder the book makes the unreal seem real. Co-author Loyd Auerbach, a world-renowned parapsychologist, has written several non-fiction books on ghosts, psychic dreaming and other things that go bump in the night. Loyd is a sought-after speaker on the paranormal, especially in the busy Halloween month. Why did he pick October to release Near Death? "Everybody is focused on the spooky and paranormal in October," Auerbach shared, "making the release of 'Near Death' especially relevant."

Near Death, the first book in the Raney/Daye Investigation series, was written by Rich Hosek, Arnold Rudnick and Loyd Auerbach, who worked from Chicago, Los Angeles and San Francisco, respectively, to adapt a script they wrote together into a "Great read," according to Evidential Spirit Medium Sandra O'Hara. "Strong characters, bad guys and ghosts with a killer twist." NY Times bestselling authors have lauded the work, which is Loyd's first fiction book, but surely not his last. "The late Martin Caidin, author of 'Cyborg,' the basis of 'The Six Million Dollar Man,' urged me to get into fiction," Auerbach recalled. "Both before and after he died. I'm very proud to be part of this project, bringing my own paranormal experiences to Raney and Daye Investigations."

"Near Death" is based on an original screenplay the trio wrote in 1992 called "Raney & Daye: Supernormal Sleuths." Before that, it was a television series pitch called "Psi Cops."

"This was before 'The X-Files,'" Arnold recalls. "Nobody was ready for a paranormal television show - and a few people thought it was about fraternity police, so we decided to change the title."

Rich began the task of updating the trio's almost 30-year-old work a year ago. "The process of turning a movie into a novel has always intrigued me. I've enjoyed movies based on novels, but the other way opens up exploration into character that you can't do in a screenplay," Hosek said. "I began writing novels recently, and Raney and Daye came to mind because of all of Nate and Jennifer's untold stories. But it wasn't something I wanted to do without Arnold and Loyd. I reached out to see if they would be interested in this project, and they both responded, 'When do we start?'"

Loyd recently completed the team effort "ESP Wars: East & West" and has written numerous books on the paranormal, including the definitive "ESP, Hauntings and Poltergeists: A Parapsychologist's Handbook." Rich has also written "The Dead Kids Club," which will be released in 2021. Arnold wrote the award-winning paranormal pre-teen book, "ESPete: Sixth Grade Sense" and the inspirational children's book "Little Green." Together, Rich and Arnold have written several feature scripts and for numerous television shows, including "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" and "The New Addams Family."

More information: http://raneyanddaye.com

About "Near Death"

"NEAR DEATH" introduces parapsychologist Dr. Jennifer Daye and police detective Nate Raney in a ghostly mystery. When Nate is shot during a high-stakes robbery, he awakens from the ordeal during which he was clinically dead with the information he needs to track down the men who shot him. However, he remains skeptical that there is anything paranormal about the revelations. Jennifer believes otherwise and tries to convince Nate to share the story of his near-death experience. Nate is reluctant, but she does convince him to team up with her for the investigation of an uninvited ghost in a woman's apartment. "NEAR DEATH" brings this investigative odd couple together in a fast-paced story that takes you on an exciting journey through the paranormal that draws Jennifer and Nate into a decades-old cold case.

About Loyd Auerbach:

Loyd Auerbach, MS, is a world-recognized paranormal expert with thousands of media appearances and the author or coauthor of nine paranormal books and one on publishing and publicity. He is President of the Forever Family Foundation (since 2013, and Director of the Office of Paranormal Investigations (since 1989). He is on faculty at Atlantic University and JFK University (National University) and teaches online Parapsychology courses through the Rhine Education Center. He is on the Board of Directors of the Rhine Research Center and the advisory board of the Windbridge Research Center. He is a past president of the Psychic Entertainers Association, and besides working as a parapsychologist, he performs as professional mentalist Professor Paranormal (and occasional chocolatier). Follow him @profparanormal on Twitter.

About Rich Hosek:

Rich has written for numerous television series with his writing partner Arnold Rudnick including, "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," "Star Trek: Voyager," and "The New Addams Family" for which they won a Leo Award for Best Writing for Comedy or Variety. More recently he has been focusing his efforts on novels and short stories. He is a fan of Legos and Doctor Who now that there is a Doctor Who Lego set, his life is complete. Be sure to check out his other novels, short stories and non-fiction at RichHosek.com, and follow on Twitter @RichHosek and on Facebook @Written by Rich Hosek.

About Arnold Rudnick:

Arnold studied film and accounting at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, then moved to Los Angeles, where he worked in feature development at Paramount Pictures and Gary Lucchesi Productions. Arnold and Rich have collaborated on numerous scripts for film and television, including "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," "Star Trek: Voyager" and "The New Addams Family." He has also written children's books, including "ESPete: Sixth Grade Sense," which won a silver medal in the Moonbeam Children's Book Awards and Reader's Favorite Awards and was a pick in Danny Brassell's Lazy Readers Book Club, and "Little Green." He and his wife live in Los Angeles, California.

*PHOTO links for media:

[1] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-1001s2p-near-death-book-300dpi.jpg

[2] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-1001s2p-near-death-authors-300dpi.jpg

Caption: Photo of authors: From top left to right, Auerbach, Hosek, Rudnick, meeting before release day

Related link: http://www.paraphrasellc.com/

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Business, Entertainment, Free News Articles, Offbeat, Product Launches

Author Paul Orwell Launches an Interactive Voice Experience: CallDonaldTrump.com

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- A new and interactive web experience created by author Paul Orwell, lets users apply for a job with someone who sounds just like Donald Trump. It's CallDonaldTrump.com and its piquing curiosity for people on both sides of the aisle.

This parody site is akin to the infamous Mad Libs game where players randomly select words to fill in story gaps and end up with wildly amusing results. CallDonaldTrump.com gets equally funny and sometimes even terrifying outcomes. It just depends on how the user answers "President Trump's" questions.

During an exhaustive interview of five true or false questions, the faux President Trump will decide whether the user is fit to serve in his administration or not. In less than one minute, he or she will be hired or fired. Be dishonest with him and get the job; honesty will likely end up in a hang up.

Users are encouraged to share their employment results on Twitter via a single click. After all - it's Trump's social media platform of choice, so he'll be glad when people do.

How does it work?

It's free to use and users simply click a button and interview for a job working for "Donald Trump." The site uses Google Chrome's in-browser speech recognition coupled with a Donald Trump voice impersonator to give anyone who clicks the green call button on the website the experience of interacting with Donald Trump. It's responsive and interactive with random elements so no two phone calls are exactly the same.

"It's one thing to hear Trump on the news, but quite another to get him on the phone and talk with him one-on-one," Orwell says. You can also call the Donald Trump experience at: 202-655-2529.

This interactive experience works on phones, tablets, laptops and desktops and Orwell has similar apps in the works. Next up is a Montreal Cognitive Assessment delivered by President Trump to check each user's memory recall and compare it to his own. Other applications in design will have fun with James Comey and Stormy Daniels too.

"Change your words and change the world," Orwell suggests.

Visit https://calldonaldtrump.com/ to find out what fate has in store.

About Paul Orwell

A businessman and writer living in Washington, D.C., Orwell yearns to return to a world where politicians reach across the aisle and engage in healthy debate and bi-partisan compromise.

Orwell has written three books about Trump, including: "Sad! Donald 'Biff' Trump is President," and "Best Library Ever! Worst President Ever." He points out that his namesake, George Orwell, once said, "We know that no one ever seizes power with the intention of relinquishing it. Power is not a means; it is an end."

Learn more: https://paulorwell.com.

Disclaimer: Website is not endorsed, created or managed by Donald Trump, or any company or subsidiary owned by President Trump. It is intended for entertainment purposes only.

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0810s2p-calldtrump-300dpi.jpg

Related link: https://paulorwell.com/

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Business, Entertainment, Free News Articles

Your Chance to Own the Lasso of Truth! Rare Wonder Woman Comics and Iconic Movie Props Up for Auction

NEW YORK, N.Y. -- Wonder Woman, the most popular female superhero, continues her meteoric rise. Her much-anticipated movie sequel, "Wonder Woman 1984," will be released in early fall. But before then, fans and collectors can score a piece of her magic, including original comic books and a one-of-a-kind movie prop, thanks to ComicConnect's August Event Auction. They'll also be able to bid on coveted superhero movie props, which rarely - if ever - come up for auction.

"We've seen again and again that successful superhero movies drive up related comic values-so our winning bidders can expect to see their investments grow," notes Vincent Zurzolo, co-owner of the leading vintage comic book marketplace.

And, he notes, Wonder Woman is special. She's not only as popular as Batman and Superman, she's also an authentic feminist icon.

The creation of Dr. William Moulton Marston, the Amazing Amazon first appeared in comics in 1941. Not surprisingly, her character proved popular with little girls - including feminist activist Gloria Steinem, who, in 1972, put her on the inaugural cover of Ms. magazine, a groundbreaking feminist publication. In 2016, the United Nations named Wonder Woman a UN Honorary Ambassador for the Empowerment of Women and Girls. Her recent movies have brought her even more fans.

Featured Wonder Woman Auction Items

ComicConnect's Event Auction #43 kicks off on August 1 and ends August 24-28. Some of the most anticipated items include:

The Lasso of Truth Movie Prop from "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice" (Warner Bros., 2016)

This incredibly-rare production item was created for Wonder Woman's first movie appearance. It includes a Certificate of Authenticity from Hero Prop, a highly-respected dealer of movie memorabilia.

The lasso, Wonder Woman's signature weapon, compels those in its grasp to tell the truth. (Ironically, her creator, Dr. Marston, also invented the first lie detector.) It's expected to sell for $15-$20,000.

All Star Comics #8, CGC-graded 9.4

Comics featuring a character's first appearance are typically the most valuable. This 1941 comic marked Wonder Woman's first appearance and is the highest-graded copy in existence. In 2017, it sold for $936,223, so this time it may break $1 million.

Sensation Comics #1, CGC 9.6

This issue marked Wonder Woman's second appearance. This is the single-highest graded CGC-certified copy.

Wonder Woman #6, CGC 9.4

Also the highest-graded copy in existence, this comic marked the first appearance of Cheetah, Wonder Woman's archenemy. It's particularly significant because Cheetah, as played by Kristin Wiig, is featured in the upcoming movie.

Featured Movie Props

As superhero movies have triumphed at the box office, movie props have become another sought-after collectible. These storied rarities - all which come with Certificates of Authenticity - will also be up for auction:
* Thor's Hammer, Mjolnir - One of the most recognizable props in movie history, as wielded by Chris Hemsworth in "Thor: The Dark World" (2013). Anticipated sale price: $30-40,000.
* Captain America's Combat Helmet - As worn by Chris Evans in "Captain America: The First Avenger" (2011). Anticipated sale price: $20-30,000.
* Captain America's USO Heater Shield - The heroes signature weapon, also from "The First Avenger." Anticipated sale price: $25-30,000.
* Deadshot's Wrist Gun Gauntlet from "Suicide Squad" - The very one worn by Will Smith in the 2016 blockbuster. Anticipated sale price: $5-7,000.
* Wolverine's Claws - Flaunted by Hugh Jackman in "X-Men" (2000). Wolverine is one of the most popular characters in the Marvel Universe. Anticipated sale price: $10-15,000.

Comics and Collectibles Continue to Increase in Value

According to Zurzolo, despite the COVID-19 crisis, comic and collectibles sales have been brisk, perhaps as collectors find more time to devote to their collections. Because of the heightened interest in Wonder Woman, he expects to see some record-breaking sales.

After all, one 5.0 graded issue of All Star Comics #8 multiplied 450% in value in three years after Wonder Woman's first big-screen appearance, when the sale price increased from $15,000 in 2013 to $67,000 in 2016.

Those who are interested can follow the bidding in real-time at ComicConnect. In addition to vintage comics, original art, and video games, the auction house has recently expanded to offer original movie props, concert posters and pulp fiction.

Learn more: https://www.comicconnect.com/article/wonderwomankeys?tzf=1

About Vincent Zurzolo & Metropolis Comics

Vincent Zurzolo is co-owner of Metropolis Collectibles, the world's largest vintage comic book dealership, and ComicConnect.com, its online auction arm. He is Curator of Metropolis Gallery, a rare comic art gallery in Manhattan. He and his business partner Stephen Fishler hold five Guinness World Records for the most expensive comics and collectibles ever sold. A recognized authority in comics as investments, he appears frequently on television and in print.

* PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0728s2p-ww-lasso-auction-300dpi.jpg
* Caption: Wonder Woman's Lasso.

MEDIA CONTACT
Joanne Levine
Lekas & Levine PR
joannepr@aol.com

Related link: https://www.comicconnect.com/

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Business, Entertainment, Fine Art and Artists, Free News Articles, General Editorial

American Artist Mateo Blanco Creates a Portrayal of the American Flag Made from His Clothing

ORLANDO, Fla. -- As our country faces a pandemic and signs of a nation divided, the need for hope and happiness is greater than ever before. Renowned artist and proud American Mateo Blanco has seen these signs and is making a stand for unity through his art.

Blanco created "July 4, 2020," a portrayal of the American flag made from his clothing. Each of the iconic colors making up the flag not only has meaning to this country, but to Blanco personally. The white fabric was made from a shirt he often wore while studying at Florida Atlantic University as he worked hard to not only gain knowledge but wisdom. The red stripes are created from his lucky interview shirt, something he typically wore while spreading his art and message with others. The blue swatch was from the favorite blue workout shirt he wore when trying to get healthy.

All fabrics and colors used in the piece represent Blanco putting his best foot forward, which is exactly what he's encouraging all other Americans to do.

"As a principle, everything I do is through love and happiness," said Blanco. "But right now, everywhere I look in my beloved country, I see pain - we are separated. In order to overcome our struggles, we must individually put our best selves forward and unite as a nation."

This isn't the first time Blanco has used fabric in his art. He's also created "Coat of Many Colors," a portrait of Dolly Parton; and "Joseph, Coat of Many Colors," a tribute to Jewish history. In fact, Blanco is known for his whimsical use of unusual mediums like Smarties(r), coffee beans and rope.

"Typically, my work is light-hearted and fun. I create my art to spread joy," Blanco said. "However, for 'July 4, 2020,' I knew I needed to use my platform to share a bigger message. We must come together as a united country."

Although "July 4, 2020" was created this year, its inspiration goes all the way back to the 1950s. After admiring Jasper John's Flag painting, Blanco thought that while this was a beautiful representation of America in the past, it wasn't reflective of the society we're currently living in. He immediately got to work to create a modern representation of this famous piece, giving it his own unique twist.

"July 4, 2020," along with other works by Mateo Blanco, including "Hopi Girl," made from rope; "Ellen," a portrait of Ellen DeGeneres made from coffee beans; and "Desire," a series of Madonna portraits which change when viewed from different angles, can be purchased through the Rosenbaum Contemporary gallery in Boca Raton, Florida.

About Rosenbaum Contemporary:

Rosenbaum Contemporary, founded in 1979, is based in Boca Raton, Florida. The gallery caters to international collectors interested in investment-quality works by Postwar, Modern and Contemporary masters and presents nationally recognized museum-level exhibitions throughout the year. The gallery also offers a wide range of free services to collectors worldwide including acquisition advice, art consulting, sourcing of artists, art collection building and management and resale of select works of art.

Learn more at: https://www.rosenbaumcontemporary.com/artists/157-mateo-blanco/works/9997/

Follow Mateo on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mateoblancoart and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mateoblancoart/

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0709s2p-mateo-with-flag-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: Mateo Blanco by Carlos Amoedo.

Related link: https://www.instagram.com/mateoblancoart/

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Business, Education and Schools, Free News Articles, General Editorial

Drag Queen Story Hour Hosts World Pride Party 2020 via Livestream, a Celebration of Diverse Stories for Kids Across the Globe

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- Drag Queen Story Hour announced its inaugural global pride celebration "Drag Queen Story Hour World Pride Party 2020," to be held Saturday, June 27, 2020, at 1 p.m. EDT (10 a.m. PDT / 6 p.m. BST / 7 p.m. CEST) as a livestream. Timed to coincide with the observance of LGBTQ Pride in several cities across the globe, this will be the first time that drag queen and drag king storytellers from across North America, Europe, and Asia will join together in a single event to read children's books, sing songs, and perform kid-friendly drag numbers.

Drag Queen Story Hour has recently shifted its programs online to adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic, hosting several readings via livestream each month in partnership with its 50+ local chapters. As an organization that promotes social justice through cultural literacy, DQSH is committed to anti-racism and uplifting Black queer and trans voices. DQSH board member Black Benatar notes, "Pride commemorates legacies of diverse LGBTQ activism, marked by events like the 1969 Stonewall uprising, led by queer and transgender people of color. We stand in solidarity with the urgent work of the Movement for Black Lives, and are deeply committed to using the tools of storytelling and drag performance to support children in becoming anti-racist leaders and building a more just world."

This year's Drag Queen Story Hour Pride 2020 will feature readings of children's books highlighting diverse characters and themes, as well as lip-sync performances and sing-a-longs to children's songs. Kids and families are also encouraged to dress up in their own fabulous costumes for the event, and post drawings of their own drag characters to social media before the event using the hashtag #drawadragqueen.

Drag Queen Story Hour Pride 2020 will feature drag performers from around the world, including: Miss Shameless and Lady Busty from DQSH Sweden; Kobra D and Jossue from DQSH Mexico; Kaey and Antina from DQSH Berlin; Didi and Dallas King from DQSH Denmark; Bonjour JohnJ from DQSH Tokyo; Black Benatar from DQSH San Francisco Bay Area; Lil Miss Hot Mess from DQSH Los Angeles; and Cholula Lemon from DQSH New York City. The party will be emceed by Harmonica Sunbeam, from the DQSH New York City and New Jersey chapters. The event will primarily be held in English, with some readings also being conducted by DQSH chapters in their local languages.

Tickets begin at $15 per family, via Eventbrite: http://dqshpride2020.eventbrite.com.

About Drag Queen Story Hour:

Drag Queen Story Hour (DQSH) is just what it sounds like - drag queens, drag kings, and other fabulous drag performers reading stories to children in libraries, schools, bookstores, and online. Through local and livestream programming, Drag Queen Story Hour offers a range of glamorous educational programs that encourage kids to read diverse books, express their best selves through the power of dress-up, and become bright lights of change in their communities. Founded in 2015 by Michelle Tea and Radar Productions in San Francisco, California, Drag Queen Story Hour has grown into a worldwide network with events happening in cities big and small, from Anchorage to Atlanta, Miami to Mexico City, and California's Central Valley to Central Hong Kong.

More information: https://www.dragqueenstoryhour.org/

SOCIAL MEDIA:
DQSH Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dragqueenstoryhour/
DQSH Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dragqueenstoryhour/

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0612s2p-harmonica-sunbeam-300dpi.jpg
Caption: Harmonica Sunbeam, Drag Queen Story Hour NYC (credit: Jose Ramon Photography)

Related link: https://www.dragqueenstoryhour.org/

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Business, Entertainment, Fine Art and Artists, Free News Articles

Images of an Artist’s Performance from One Month Before the Pandemic Become Increasingly Relevant as Places Re-open and Fates Unfold

LOS ANGELES, Calif. -- An American artist, Ayzay Ukwuoma, presents new images from an art performance he had done less than one month before the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic. Today's practice of social distancing, currently makes the performance impossible to do. But, the images of his "Idea Sale," performed in France, only weeks before the pandemic began are striking, as they reveal a sentiment of trust needed for us to continue to exchange our ideas.

Just a few short weeks before countries closed their borders, an American artist arrived in France and visited the Biennale de Lyon to perform a sell outdoors. Ayzay Ukwuoma, a Los Angeles-based artist, held an "Idea Sale" outside of the three sites where the biennale was active on that afternoon; Usine Fagor, L'Institut d'art Contemporain, and macLYON.

In front of the large gatherings, the artist carefully retrieved 50 light bulbs of varying sizes from a large suitcase, and laid them atop a pair of blue and red rugs, to form the make-shift composition of a flag with lights as stars. Poignantly, on that weekend, which also featured the city of Lyon's Festival of Lights, he took a light bulb in his hand, raised it in the air in a forwarding motion, gesturing to the passersby. Shortly after, he extended another, and then another. Ayzay Ukwuoma had begun his "Idea Sale."

The artist stated that the materials surrounding him in the performance spoke of the position of someone foreign or outside on many levels, "between two countries, and between two languages, in-between, and between the street and in the building." He further stated that the piece was about trust, needed for dialogue to occur.

Resonating with a wink at the artist David Hammons who did another kind of sale in New York City many decades ago, Ukwuoma placed his lightbulbs on the rugs with care. He would explain that each bulb came with a price tag on which a verb was printed with a translation on each side-one in French, and the other in English, referencing actions exchanged between strangers on both sides of a dialogue.

Now that access to space is limited and stifled out of necessity, the "Idea Sale," performed less than one month before the pandemic alludes to relevant subtleties within negotiations that occur each time strangers meet.

"We all come with baggage," the artist comments. "I may bring the common cold, or I may bring the cure for a cold that is uncommon," he says, poetically addressing the unknown value that we each carry into shared spaces. In the balance, we must stay open to each other, even when places are closed.

To learn more visit: http://www.ayzay.com/ideasale

For more content:
Instagram: @ayzayukwuoma
https://www.instagram.com/ayzayukwuoma

About Ayzay Ukwuoma:

Ayzay Ukwuoma is an American multidisciplinary artist working in paint, text, installations, and performance. Often relating to displacement and connectivity, his works include components of spatial intervention, plays on sign systems, and representations of language in codified forms, such as hand-written Morse or binary code-0's and 1's. He is an MFA graduate of CalArts and has a Master's degree in Information Systems and Technology from George Washington University.

IMAGE LINKS FOR MEDIA:
[1] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0527s2p-Ukwuoma-idea-sale-300dpi.jpg
Photo caption: Ayzay Ukwuoma performing "Idea Sale" in France, one month before the Pandemic.

[2] https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0527s2p-Ukwuoma-patrol-300dpi.jpg

Related link: http://www.ayzay.com/

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Business, Entertainment, Free News Articles, Offbeat, Product Launches

Celebrating International Tea Day, Specialtea Gifts Announces Their New Product to Fight the Quarantine Blues

RALEIGH, N.C. -- The global pandemic has impacted many facets of American life, causing stress and uncertainty. Specialtea Gifts today announced the launch of their new product, the "Dunk A Trump" Tea Infuser. This tea infuser was designed as both a humorous gift and an actual tea infuser. It has an exceptional likeness to Donald Trump, highlighted by his signature yellow hair and red tie. This product is perfect for a product that represents the office of the President of the United States and appeals to both Democrats and Republicans alike.

Specialtea Gifts is an online retailer selling tea infusers and other tea-related products that attract those interested in political and pop culture.

"Our aim is to have our products provide much-needed amusement and bring laughter, especially during hard times," says owner Karen Baumann. Baumann not only owns the company but has a 20-year history as a licensed clinical social worker. "This product helps reduce stress in two important ways. Not only does it encourage tea drinking, which is known to reduce stress by relaxing the body and the mind, but it also provides a good laugh."

In an article entitled, "The Benefits of Laughter," Judy Lemke, MS, LPC, LCSW, states, "Mental health benefits of humor and laughter include the reduction of stress, depression, anxiety, and fear. It elevates mood, and increases energy levels, improves memory and alertness."

In addition, if you are feeling frustrated with President Trump, you can "Dunk A Trump." Or if you are watching a press briefing where President Trump berates a member of the media, you can make some tea and "Dunk A Trump." The Dunk A Trump has stylish retail packaging that is colorful and patriotic. The box is perfect for gift-giving. You can buy this perfect birthday or Father's Day gift online and observe social distancing.

"So, indulging in a soothing cup of chai while dunking Trump may be the cure to all of your emotional needs. And yoga, don't forget yoga," adds Baumann.

You can find the "Dunk A Trump" Tea Infuser at https://specialteagifts.com/ or at Amazon.com.

Media Contact:
Karen Baumann, owner
Specialtea Gifts
(512) 750-3557
karen@specialteagifts.com

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Related link: https://specialteagifts.com/

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Business, Entertainment, Free News Articles

Champions of Southern Queer Visibility Announce Second Virtual Telethon

ATLANTA, Ga. -- Y'all ready for a second helping? Wussy Mag, Queer Appalachia, and Southern Fried Queer Pride, three powerhouse stewards of Southern and Appalachian queer culture, have teamed up again to bring you "The Big Ass Telethon to End Metronormativity: PART TWO." The livestream event celebrating rural queer artists will air on Saturday, May 30 at 5pm PDT/8pm EDT on Twitch at @endmetronormativity.

The first telethon, which aired April 25, was an overwhelming success, bringing in nearly 2,500 views (and counting) and raising nearly $10,000 in donations. The diverse line-up included celebrity guest appearances from Orville Peck, Whitney Cummings, Amanda Lepore, Bob the Drag Queen, Lance Bass, Fortune Feimster, Tammie Brown, Shamir, Lori Petty, Del Shores, CHRISTEENE, Deven Greene, and original Stonewall activist Miss Major.

Viewers can expect "The Big Ass Telethon to End Metronormativity: PART TWO" to offer an equally eclectic mix of southern-fried artistry. The first telethon showcased drag artists, singers, and performers from across the south including Tristan Scroggins, JayBella Banks, Davey Swinton, Ian Aber, The Paisley Fields, Zoe Boekbinder, Libbaloops, Hannah Mayree, Julian Modugno, and Miss He. Atlanta-based drag performers Brigitte Bidet and Ella/Saurus/Rex will return to co-host the livestream event.

Organizers of the telethon aim to not only support southern artists impacted by COVID-19, but also to raise awareness of the problems that metronormativity pose to rural queer visibility. Metronormativity assumes that while rural and urban existences differ, urban queer life represents the "norm", often turning a blind eye to bigoted, stereotypical portrayals of rural culture.

Online applications for micro-grants and the second telethon opened on Friday, May 1. Artists and performers from all LGBTQ+ backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Proceeds from the event will go to performers and other rural community members in need of support. Ongoing donations are encouraged at @endmetronormativity on Venmo/Cash App or endmetronormativity@gmail.com on PayPal.

View application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfjpGcjGRbRtSNHRtn-dt4S3qTHAhmJ7Ij5kuuNL-ucw6FL3Q/viewform

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Jon
jon@wussymag.com

Chelsea
chelsea.queerappalachia@gmail.com

Press photos:
https://drive.google.com/open?id=14zCx0qETOOprMfQurM1sI4zIYeK3GVTM

ABOUT THE ORGANIZERS:

"The Big Ass Telethon to End Metronormativity: PART TWO" is a collaborative mutual aid effort between Wussy Mag (@wussymag), Queer Appalachia (@queerappalachia), and Southern Fried Queer Pride (@sfqp) - Three organizations working to uplift and promote Southern and Appalachian queer artists.

Learn more about Wussy Mag at: https://www.wussymag.com/

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-0504s2p-Brigitte-Bidet-300dpi.jpg
*Photo caption: Atlanta-based drag performers Brigitte Bidet and Ella/Saurus/Rex will return to co-host "The Big Ass Telethon to End Metronormativity: PART TWO."

Twitter tags: @wussymag @queerappalachia @sfqp #bigasstelethon

Related link: https://www.wussymag.com/

This news story was published by the Neotrope® News Network - all rights reserved.