For Immediate Release
Creative Resources
San Jose, California

Artists Sign On to Support the Academy of Country Music/St. Jude Auction

San Jose, California—Several big names in the country music business are jumping in to support St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and a unique fund-raising auction. The online auction will coincide with the 2003 Academy of Country Music Awards and will feature items donated by artists participating in the show and its rehearsals.

In honor of her late father, producer/director Gene Weed, Author Kymberli Brady will again donate a copy of her children's book The Sleepy Little Star along with a "Sleepy" nightlight, signed by celebrities appearing on the show. Last year, the book featured over 40 signatures from country music's finest and sold for just under $300.

Organizers have also received donation confirmations from Tim McGraw, Willie Nelson, Emerson Drive and Sheryl Crow. In addition, Toby Keith has donated a 10-night Caribbean cruise on Celebrity's Summit cruise liner. Members of the group ALABAMA have also donated an autographed Epiphone electric guitar, which commemorates their "American Farewell Tour 2003." Most of the other items for the auction will be used by the artists participating in the ACM Awards show rehearsals or from their appearances on the live broadcast. Items receiving some of the highest bids during last year's auction included a pair of leather pants worn by Randy Owen which went for $3,000 and Martina McBride's designer dress which sold for close to $700.

This year's online auction is scheduled to go live May 22, the day following the ACM Awards broadcast on CBS. Be sure to watch for updates right here on www.countrycares.org.

To schedule an interview with Kymberli Brady or to request more information, call call Kymzinn at 888.806.STAR (888.806.7827).