Some Very Sad News

[David Heath]

Hi Everyone

As many of you know we had a band Crownd play on the sound track of Titans of Steel Warring Suns. Many of you had asked me about the band and had enjoyed their music. I am sad to tell you that the lead singer from Crownd has past away. Alfred was a good friend and will be greatly missed by all of us at Matrix.


Alfred Batista

27, Perth Amboy, NJ

Alfred Batista, life-long resident of Perth Amboy, passed away at Raritan Bay Medical Center on March 13, 2005. Alfred was born on October 23, 1977. He had many interests and accomplishments. A gifted musician and singer, he was a founding member of the Christian Rock Group CROWND. CROWND received a recording contract in 2003 after winning a nationwide competition in Nashville, TN. Alfred was an active member and beloved worship leader in his church. After completing his Associates Degree at Middlesex Community College, Alfred studied Mechanical Engineering at the New Jersey Institute of Technology. He was enjoying a dynamic career in engineering and sales, while pursuing his passion of full-time music ministry.

Alfred is survived by his loving wife Denise, daughter Anneliesse 4 months, mother Angela Batista, father Marino Batista and stepmother Yolanda Batista, brothers Jaime and Joel, and extended family. The viewing will take place at Mount Carmel Ministries, located at 348 Maple Street in Perth Amboy, on Wednesday March 16 from 2 to 4 PM and 7 to 9 PM. Funeral services will be held at 10 AM on Thursday, March 17 at Mount Carmel Ministries. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to CROWND, Inc. c/o Ariel Munoz, 69 Alwat St., Woodbridge, NJ 07095.

Please visit his website at www.crownd.net

[Rosary_CG]

He created some great music. I did not know him personally, but I enjoyed listening to the 3 extra tracks on the TOS:WS cd while walking the dog. It is sad. But his recordings will allow his voice to carry on. A sweet tribute David. Thank you for letting us know. -ep

[LarkinVB]

Very sad indeed. I really liked his music anf feel sorry for his family.

[Jim H. Moreno]

That is damn terrible news. I exchanged e-mails with him for a good month as I reviewed Titans, talking about the game and contemporary Christian music. [:(]

[David Heath]

Hi Jim

I saw him last before Christmas and took my kids to see the band play. He came over chated wth everyone and let the kids come up and sing with him. I will greatly miss him and to me he truly lived what he believed.


David

[wodin]

Very sad indeed. RIP.

My thoughts are with the family. Especially the little girl and his wife.

At least they have faith.

[wolfh2o]

Sorry to hear. My condolences to family and friends.
I enjoy the music, must have listened to it for hours now making squads etc...never gets old. Some of the best music in a strategy game IMHO.