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Topspin is proud to have a relationship with Lionsgate Films, who have been a great partner in brainstorming the future of our product and running some early but meaningful beta tests. You can download the soundtrack to Repo: The Genetic Opera in CD-quality FLAC format here, for example. Or for fans of slightly different subject matter and music, you can also get the score to Oliver Stone’s new movie W direct from the W site here. It’s an honor to help with such a timely movie release.

We’re all well aware of just how important the 2008 election is and I’d like to take a moment to remind you to vote (duh) and pass along some important information on how to protect your vote and the votes of others. Our friends at ATC (a not-for-profit organization assisting artists who wish to be politically active) tell me in many places election day resources will be over capacity with even a minimal 10% increase in turnout over the last election. For instance, in Norfolk, VA, election experts report estimates it would take 25 hours to accommodate a 10% increase. In addition, there are significant voter caging and suppression reports, many having to do with young voters and swing states. Yikes.

Here is what ATC is suggesting the artists they work with send to their fans. Perhaps you can send this to your fans, friends, family, enemies, whoever today, too:

We want your vote to count. There are a lot of reports of voter misinformation and suppression out there. Here are some ways that you can make sure your vote counts. Please tell your friends.

How to Protect Your Vote:
1.) Vote Early! Many states offer early, in person or absentee voting. If you vote early, and there is a problem, there is more time and likelihood that it can be fixed in time for your vote to count.

Find out if you can vote early here:
http://vote411.org/bystate.php

2.) Poll workers are in high demand and are paid–anyone over 16 years of age can apply. More poll workers means more help the day of and much faster lines.

Here’s how to become a poll worker:
http://act.credoaction.com/pollworkers/

3.) Verify your registration with election offices BEFORE election day.

Look up your state and get information on verifying here:
http://vote411.org/bystate.php

4.) Prepare for long lines. Ask for the day-off from work or class if possible. Bring iPods, lawn chairs, food, books, etc. Make sure to follow through with your vote, don’t believe the polls if they say your candidate is winning or loosing. They have been wrong before.

5.) If you encounter a problem at the polling place now or later, call 1-866-OUR-VOTE.

Happy voting and pass this on!

Get out there and vote in two weeks. See you at the polls.

ian c rogers
Topspin