The Contribution (Tim Carbone, Phil Ferlino, Jeff Miller) Release Song to Benefit Piedmont Land Conservancy

The Contribution’s Newest Single, “Wilderness And Space” Released on LoHi Records August 18
Benefiting Piedmont Land Conservancy

Available now →  cdbaby.com | iTunes | Amazon

The Contribution is:
Tim Carbone, Phil Ferlino, Jeff Miller, Keith Moseley, Sheryl Renee, Matt Butler, and Duane Trucks

Since this February, The Contribution have been living up to their name and giving back with each song. They have been releasing one single a month, as sort of a mid-month pick-me-up since February 2017 and have partnered with a variety of nonprofits to which 100% of the profits from each single (sold as a digital download) will go to a charity (hand-picked by members of the band) in perpetuity. Nonprofits involved include Rex Foundation, Conscious Alliance, HeadCount, Rock the Earth, The Delaware Riverkeeper Network, BCEF, and Piedmont Land Conservatory.

The Contribution is the brainchild of Tim Carbone of Railroad Earth (violin, guitar, vocals) together with Phil Ferlino (keyboards, vocals) and Jeff Miller (guitar, vocals) of New Monsoon. Keith Moseley (String Cheese Incident), has been the bass player from the band’s inception along with vocalist Sheryl Renee (The Black Swan Singers). The drum chair has been occupied by Jason Hann (String Cheese Incident), Matt Butler (Everyone Orchestra), and currently Duane Trucks (Widespread Panic). Both Matt Butler and Duane Trucks appear on the band’s new record, Wilderness And Space. The full ten song album will be released on vinyl this Fall on LoHi Records and reveals the group’s love of 60s pop and soul coupled with their ability to flat-out shred.

They release their newest single “Wilderness And Space” on Friday, August 18, 2017 and it will benefit Piedmont Land Conservatory. The song is a stream of consciousness tone poem about dealing with life like a compassionate warrior. What a fitting song as Piedmont Land Conservancy protects the region’s natural lands, farms and waters for present and future generations. To date, PLC has protected nearly 23,000 acres of North Carolina’s Piedmont.

Tim Carbone tells Shows I Go To about how the nonprofits were selected, “I put it to the band at large and asked them, ‘What do you feel strongly about?’” LoHi Records labelmate, Jim Brooks, suggested Piedmont Land Conservatory as he has held events to raise money for them in the past.

Brooks says, “When Tim approached me about LoHi releasing The Contribution I loved the idea of combining great music to support great causes. By way of Piedmont Land Conservancy’s annual LandJam concert featuring the very best names in live Americana roots music (this year’s event features Bela Fleck and Abigail Washburn) to further its cause of protecting the Piedmont’s treasured natural spaces, it was a no brainer. I mean, the title, ‘Wilderness and Space,’ couldn’t be a better fit for PLC’s mission and legacy, right? I appreciate Tim inviting PLC to be part of such a unique and worthy musical endeavor.”

Carbone continues about the non-profits involved, “Matt Butler said we should go for the Rex Foundation. Keith wanted Conscious Alliance, who I have also worked with before. Phil suggested Rock the Earth. I thought we would go with HeadCount because I am politically motivated. They don’t choose sides, they just encourage people to register to vote. When you don’t vote, bad things happen. I think we found that out.”

The Delaware Riverkeeper Network is located nearby where Carbone is from and they do wonderful work in protecting the waterways, including the drinking water of nearly 17 Million people, throughout the entire Delaware River Watershed which includes Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and New York.

Tim says, “I wrote the words to ‘This Too Shall Pass’ for our guitar player Jeff after his mother passed away from breast cancer.” He says they did some searching and found BCEF, Breast Cancer Emergency Fund in SF Bay area, to pair up with that song. All songs were written and produced by Tim Carbone, Phil Ferlino, and Jeff Miller.

The song “Wilderness And Space” features Carbone on lead vocals, electric guitar and oramics machine, Miller on electric guitars and background vocals, Ferlino on piano, organ, synthesizers and background vocals,  Sheryl Renee on background vocals, Keith Moseley on bass, and Duane Trucks on drums. The bring in guest additions of Linda Kistler and Christopher Souza on violin, Marsha Cahn on viola, Agnieszka Rybska on cello, and Jay Rattman for the string arrangement and as the conductor. The song was recorded at Silo Sound Studio in Denver, CO and Engineered by Todd Divel. Additional recording by Don Sternaker at Mix-o-Lydian Studios in Delaware Water Gap, PA.

Carbone says, “We feel blessed to be able to make this music and have it help people in need… and we would like to empower those who share our passion and provide a resource for them to take action with us.”

Released Singles Available Here → www.cdbaby.com/Artist/TheContribution

For more information, please visit www.TheContribution.net, www.facebook.com/TheContribution, www.twitter.com/thecontribution, and www.instagram.com/thecontribution.

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Hard Working Americans, Moonalice, Dead Winter Carpenters Play Butte Fire Benefit “HUMANITY RISING” Sat 12/19 at Calaveras County Fairgrounds

Hard Working Americans, Moonalice, Dead Winter Carpenters Play HUMANITY RISING — A Butte Fire Benefit on Sat, Dec 19, 2015 at Calaveras County Fairgrounds, Angels Camp, CA

HUMANITY RISING Share The Spirit
Family Friendly, 3 stages in 3 buildings, Dinner and Silent Auction
1pm to Midnight

Tickets are $25 in advance through Eventbrite or the Sierra Nevada Adventure Company stores in Murphys, Sonora, and Arnold, as well as Outer Aisle in Murphys & The Pickle Patch in San Andreas
$35 at the door. Kids under 12 free. Ages 13-16 $10
101 Frogtown Rd, Angels Camp, CA 95222

RSVP on Facebook and find out more here→
www.facebook.com/HUMANITYRISINGSHARETHESPIRIT

HOMER, AK– The Blue Mountain Community Renewal Council, a 501C3- non-profit, is partnering with HUMANITY RISING – Share the Spirit, A Butte Fire Benefit on December 19th at the Calaveras County Fairgrounds.

Set to perform, and graciously donating their time, are Hard Working Americans (a recently formed ‘Super group’ consisting of Todd Snider, Dave Schools, Neal Casal, Duane Trucks, Chad Staehly, and Jesse Aycock), Moonalice out of San Fransisco, Dead Winter Carpenters from the Tahoe area, Edge of the West from Santa Cruz, Grateful Bluegrass Boys and Dusty Greenbones Band from Mendicino, and many more! Plus the best MC of our time, Wavy Gravy and a psychedelic light show by Liquid Lights.

It’s a family friendly event with three stages in three buildings, dinner, and silent auction and runs from 1pm through Midnight. HUMANITY RISING is looking for donations and volunteers to help make this event as impactful as possible. Proceeds will be distributed promptly and equitably to the most needy families and individuals promptly in order to help provide some degree of holiday comfort.

“Our first show ever was a benefit show for flood victims in Colorado. We understand how these giant natural disasters put hard-working Americans’ backs up against the wall.” say The Hard Working Americans. “We’re in a position to help so let’s all join together and make a difference. It takes a village.”

The Butte Fire started in early September 2015 in the Sierra Nevada Foothills of California and was one of the among the worst in the State’s history, with over 70,000 acres burned, as well as an estimated 500 plus homes.

“If you are thinking the Butte Fire is over, stop assuming someone else is doing the work that needs to be done.” Long time Tuolumne and Calaveras county resident, promoter, philanthropist, and co-producer of Humanity Rising Jim Stearns says, “There’s some perception or rationalization that there is enormous help coming in. It’s the proverbial ‘somebody else is taking care of it’ problem. If those who are still warm, dry and relatively wealthy that live within 25 miles of the devastation would give 10 percent of their time and/or resources the problem would largely be handled already. Unfortunately many are buying useless crap for Christmas, taking vacations and ignoring the tragedy their neighbors are facing right over the hill.”

The mission of this event will be to provide grants to those that have had their homes and lives destroyed by the Butte Fire. Those that are uninsured, well underinsured and haven’t or haven’t the ability to secure major funding from other agencies such as Red Cross and FEMA will be given the highest priority.

Wendy Cox, a “boots on the ground” type of person, posted a comprehensive and accurate write-up about the situation entitled, “Why Is help still needed?.” “Hundreds (if not more than 1,000) of displaced people (more than 500 residences were lost to the fire) are living in inadequate conditions. They are confounded by their situation, and at a loss for what they are going to do. Many do not have potable water, if they have water at all. They are toileting in the sticks that used to be forest. They are sleeping on the bare ground if they are not fortunate to have a tarp. They do not enjoy a hot meal. They are waking up to frost and constant dampness that sleeping outdoors will bring (seniors are especially vulnerable to health problems in this environment.) Basic needs remain unmet.

When a disaster strikes there is an outpour of support which quickly turns to a trickle. Some of the temporary fixes and help have left… Because it has been two months and recovery will take 10-15 years.  Because there are victims still waiting for basic needs to be met.  Because victims are being swallowed by bureaucracy. Because people still feel lost, and confused.  Because it is the right thing to do.

The producers of the Humanity Rising benefit concert are Jim and Alisa Stearns, Linda Sanchez, and Emily West. Jim was owner and operator of Avery Ranch from 1974 until 2011. Alisa was born and raised in Sonora and has partnered with Jim on countless fundraising endeavors. Linda Sanchez, a long time Calaveras activist, was a Butte Fire victim, (lost everything) and Emily is a long time resident of the county as well. Blue Mountain Community Renewal Council is the 501C3 that will be the steward of the event and for providing this administrative service as well as providing insurance, this organization will take 3% of the revenue. BMCRC, located in San Andreas, is listed by the Sierra Health Foundation as one of the five recipients of their community grants as an organization working for the relief of Butte Fire victims.

“We do our best to live up to the mantra: Do all the good you can. By all the means you can. In all the places you can. In all the ways you can. To all the people you can. At all the times you can, for as long as you can.” Jim Stearns says “We have a deep connection to the land and the people that were devastated by the fire. We believe that if people just do what they can to help, in the relief of their neighbors and friends, then we together we can make a huge impact. Maybe it’s a day of work. Maybe it’s five bucks or maybe it’s a hundred. Maybe it’s taking somebody in, loaning somebody your RV or making food.  We all have something we can offer. For us, we happen to be good at bringing people together for a good time as well as a good cause. Like everybody else, we’re just offering to help in the way we know best.”

“We are in the process of contacting individuals and organizations who are working tirelessly on the ground for recommendations and nominations for possible recipients of these funds.” Alisa Stearn says, “We are acutely aware that misuse, misdirection and administrative costs often decimate the effectiveness of these endeavors and remain deeply committed to making sure that this event will be as transparent and efficient as humanly possible.”

More Information and to get involved, please contact Jim Stearns, jim@salmonfestalaska.org or Alisa Mooy alisa@salmonfestalaska.org.

Humanity Rising – A Butte Fire Benefit:
Hard Working Americans
Moonalice
Dead Winter Carpenters
Edge of West
Grateful Bluegrass Boys
Dusty Greenbones Band
Folk Goddess Diane Patterson
Nedra & Julio
Thick Soup
Big Joe Daddy
Felicity Oceansong
Nicole Sass
MC Wavy Gravy
Plus a Psychedelic Light show by Liquid Lights
More tba!

Ticket link → www.eventbrite.com/e/humanity-rising-share-the-spirit-butte-fire-benefit-concert-tickets-19321362716?aff=efbbt

RSVP on Facebook and find out more here→
www.facebook.com/HUMANITYRISINGSHARETHESPIRIT

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Cancer Survivorship Benefit for Sheila Shine at at New Mountain on Tue 7/21 w/ Music & More

Help Sheila Shine On:
A Benefit Extravaganza for Marshall, NC resident Sheila McGuire, aka “Sheila Shine”
at
New Mountain’s Outdoor Courtyard on Tuesday, July 21, 2015
6:30pm doors/ 7pm entertainment; All Ages
Rain or Shine (will be moved indoors if it rains)
Interactive Family Drum Circle with DRUMSTRONG at 7pm
Music, Poetry, Hula Hoops & more!
Silent Auction/ Raffle; $10 Suggested Donation (includes raffle ticket)
Office: 828.785.1701
38 N French Broad Ave • Asheville, NC 28801
www.newmountainavl.com

Schedule of Events
6:30-7:00 Arrival
7:00-8:00 DRUMSTRONG Family Drum Circle
8:00-8:15 Barbie Angell
8:15-9:00 Big F’N Deal Band (Bluegrass)
9:00-9:15 Barbie Angell/David Weber
9:15-10:00 Yess I (Reggae)
10:00-10-15 Barbie Angell – Drawing
10:00-11:30 Risin’ Shiners (Miller, Matulich, Parks, Stack, Martin, Martin, Pruett)
11:30-? Drums / Selector Az-iZ (Adrian Zelski of DubConscious) DJ Set

ASHEVILLE, NC — Life has ways of testing the strength and endurance of us in this world. Last year, Sheila McGuire, or Sheila Shine as most know her, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Although she is now receiving Medicaid, the financial burden of having not been able to work, coupled with other health care and living costs, has put her livelihood in jeopardy. In the midst of her health crisis, Sheila has also been fighting to keep her beloved mountain sanctuary home Spirits Rising, in Little Pine Valley of Marshall where she has lived since 2007, which is facing foreclosure. It is difficult enough to endure a trauma to one’s physical body, let alone have trauma in their sense of security and place of refuge.

New Mountain in Asheville has generously offered their space to host multiple benefits, in which Sheila is actively participating in, throughout the coming months with the first being held on Tuesday, July 21st in the outdoor courtyard. Performers set for the evening include The Risin’ Shiners (ft. Bobby Miller, Taylor Martin, Drew Matulich, Josh Stack, Rob Parks, Griff Martin, and Lyndsay Pruett), Selector Az-iZ (Adrian Zelski of DubConscious), The Big F’N Deal Band, Yess I, Melmac Pink of Asheville Hoops, Kenny the Clown, poetry by Barbie Angell and David Weber.

Doors open at 6:30pm with an Interactive Family Drum Circle with DRUMSTRONG starting at 7pm. Led by Kennon Knight; Dan McDermitt, and Kim Nelson of DRUMSTRONG; Drew Heller & Justin Perkins of Toubab Krewe & of Les Amis; Adama Dembele of Zansa & Les Amis & others! Bring your drum for an opening ceremony to drum in honor of, or in memory of, for your own fortification or just out of the goodness of your heart.

There will also be a silent auction/ raffle and educational materials on site including information from Mission Hospital’s Ladies Night Out program. $10 suggested donation for the event (Includes a raffle ticket).

DRUMSTRONG is a supporting partner in the “Help Sheila Shine On” events where folks will enjoy great music, solid health resources, great art/raffles, fun activities, and a powerful drum circle to BEAT cancer. DrumsForCures produces DRUMSTRONG events raising awareness & funds in support of cancer survivorship, education & research through Rhythm. All cancers, All populations are represented. DRUMSTRONG’s Scott Swimmer writes, “Join DRUMSTRONG Rhythm as we celebrate survivorship and boost our dear friend Sheila to higher ground. Lord knows she needs your support; and in doing so, also benefit thousands of people globally.”

For each benefit, we are seeking donated items such as artwork, music/ art lessons, gift certificates to local businesses & restaurants, and other creative ideas. We are also in the planning phases for the events further out; if you would like to perform, contribute, or have any other creative ideas, please do let us know. There are benefits planned each month up through the end of the year; please stay tuned for details.

Sheila Shine. Photo by Leigh Monson.

Sheila has been a good warrior and has been fighting for life. Since August 19, 2014, she has endured five cancer surgeries including a double mastectomy, along with dealing with chronic back pain from an injury she sustained when hit by a drunk driver in 2005. Her final surgery blessedly came back with positive results of being cancer free as of June 19th, 2015. She still has to be careful, especially with her nutritional needs and stress levels. She’s out of the woods and feeling much better, but she still has a long road paved with more surgeries and medication regimens ahead of her.

Now let’s help her get back on her feet financially. With the support of a wide network of friends and festival family, Sheila has been able to open up and talk about her experience with others and is working toward manifesting her dream of making her home a mountain retreat for musicians and others with cancer to recuperate. She has been receiving much support within her community of friends worldwide.

The Sheila Shine Fund will blossom by your participating in committing to share your pulse and making tax deductible donations through DrumsForCures’ 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Donate via PayPal at scott@drumstrong.org and make sure to note the donation is in honor of in honor of Sheila Shine on the email. This charitable Contribution to DrumStrong will give money to Spirits Rising directly with  10% going to DrumsForCures.

Friends of Sheila Shine have also created a Go Fund Me account for anyone that would like to donate: www.gofundme.com/SheilaShineFund. Stay up to date with more news from Sheila & Friends and about the benefits at her facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/SheilaShineOn.

Stay up to date with more news from Sheila & Friends at her facebook group www.facebook.com/groups/SheilaShineOn.

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1st Annual Swannanoa Invitational Benefit for Child Abuse Prevention Services Sat 6/1 at Native Kitchen and Social Pub

1st Annual Swannanoa Invitational Benefit
for Child Abuse Prevention Services
Sat 6/1 at Native Kitchen and Social Pub

Free & Family Friendly with local music!
Activities include: 1930’s Style croquet tournament
Doors at 2pm
Tournament Registration Ends at 3:30PM
First Match Starts at 4:00PM
Championship Match at Sunset
Tournament Winners will walk aways with the “Prestigous Golden Mallet”
Award also given to Best Dressed
Tournament Registration fee: $10.00 per pair
REGISTER HERE

Beverages provided by Pisgah Brewing Company

“Every child deserves a fair shot at life.” These should be the words of every parent, but sadly, that’s not the case. On Saturday, June 1, 2013 the 1st Annual Swannanoa Invitational Benefit will take place at Native Kitchen and Social Pub in Swannanoa, NC starting at 2 P.M. The event will benefit Child Abuse Prevention Services, Inc. (CAPS).

Combining awareness, education and fun, the free event will feature activities for the whole family including a single-elimination, 1930’s style croquet tournament, local music and more. The tournament will start play at 4 P.M., culminating with a sunset championship match. The winners will walk away with the Prestigious Golden Mallet. An award will also be given for Best Dressed. Registration for the event begins May 9 online and at Native Kitchen and Social Pub.

“As an organization, we are very passionate about helping children and the child abuse issue is growing problem that is relevant across the world,” said Native Kitchen and Social Pub Partner, Brandon Ellison. Ellison and his wife, Meredith, along with business partners, Casey and Sarah Watkins, have been supporters of CAPS. “All our children have a chance to be the future leaders of our community. Each one deserves a chance to grow with love and support in a non-abusive environment.”

Child Abuse Prevention Services director Bill McGuire added that the numbers are staggering, “One in 5 children will experience abuse, half will be under 6 years old and tragically 4 children will die every day from abuse and neglect.”

“In recent years, funding for CAPS has been cut dramatically, over 20%,” said McGuire, “While a variety of funds from the United Way, private foundations, public donations and grants provide funding for our programs, it’s vitally important that we continue to bring in funds during this time.” In an effort to aid the non-profit, a portion of the proceeds from registration fees and beverages, provided by Pisgah Brewing Company, will go directly to CAPS.

When asked why a croquet tournament, Casey Watkins replied, “ Why not?! It’s such a fun and cool way to help raise awareness and funds for CAPS.  It’ll be a day filled with fun, laughs, great memories, topped off with great local food, music and beverages.” As the championship match comes to a close, the event will feature live music inside Native Kitchen and Social Pub. Watkins adds, “It’s a perfect way to break in the summer season in the Swannanoa community.”

Also appearing at the event will be Smart Start of Buncombe County. The local non-profit will be on-site creating activities for younger children and talking with adults about the importance of sending their early-aged children to school healthy and ready to succeed. Other local non-profits will also take part in the event.

Originally founded in 1990 by local pediatrician Andrea Gravatt, CAPS started with child abuse medical evaluations,which are now done at Mission Children’s Center. Quickly growing with support of the community, CAPS serves as the cornerstone in awareness and prevention of child abuse in the area. Prevention/Personal Safety Education which started on a limited basis is now provided to all Asheville and Buncombe County schools K thru 5, using the “Talking About Touching” curriculum, an interactive program that empowers children with the abilities to be more open about uneasy situations and avoid or get out of abusive situations.  As CAPS evolves, it now offers the following training for adults; ”Recognizing and Responding to Abuse,” ”Stewards of Children,” child sexual abuse prevention training, and Parenting Ed (“Becoming A Love and Logic Parent”). The organization also offers Crisis Intervention/Counseling for children and families who have experienced abuse.

Native was started by two NC couples who recognized the need for sustainable food practices, and a responsibility that we all share when it comes to our soil, water and air. Native strongly believes in supporting farming techniques, which are sustainable, organic and regenerative. These local farms restore the fabric of rural communities, decrease water and air pollution, preserve and build topsoil and produce wonderful crops. The foods they deliver to our tables are high in nutritive value and are without chemical residue. Their support to these dedicated farmers yields healthier ingredients that strengthens our sense of local community, builds our local economy and, most importantly, it is a vital step toward protecting these resources for future generations. It’s important to Native that they not only provide local food, but that they strive to support our local breweries, artists, musicians and community.

For more information about registration, CAPS and Native, go to www.nativesocialpub.com.

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Suwannee Valley Flood Jam: August 16-17th ~ Peter Rowan, Donna the Buffalo, The Lee Boys and more!

SUWANNEE VALLEY FLOOD JAM:

A BENEFIT FOR FLOOD VICTIMS IN SUWANNEE,
HAMILTON AND COLUMBIA COUNTIES

AUGUST 17-18 AT SPIRIT OF SUWANNEE MUSIC PARK IN LIVE OAK, FL

LINEUP FEATURES PETER ROWAN, DONNA THE BUFFALO, THE LEE BOYS, THE SWINGIN’ JOHNSONS, JAMIE DAVIS, THE HEAVY PETS,
THE LEGENDARY JC’s AND OTHERS

The Suwannee Music Foundation in partnership with The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park today announce Suwannee Valley Flood Jam: A Benefit For Suwannee, Hamilton & Columbia Counties on August 17 & 18 at The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park in Live Oak, FL.

On June 24, 2012, Tropical Storm Debby settled over north Florida for 4 days, dumping more than 25 inches of rain in some areas of Suwannee, Hamilton and Columbia Counties. The Suwannee River rose to near record flood levels and dozens of sinkholes developed around those counties, destroying many businesses and homes while making roads impassible. 1500 families were flooded out of their homes – many left without shelter, cars, clothes, food or any worldly possessions. The flood affected over 10,000 other people throughout the tri-counties.

More than 25 bands including Music Park favorites Peter Rowan, Donna the Buffalo, The Lee Boys, Jamie Davis, The Swingin Johnsons, The Heavy Pets, The Legendary JC’s and many more will fill up the special Suwannee Valley Flood Jam line-up.  Full lineup below.

Two-Day Tickets are $45 in advance, $65 at the Gate and include primitive camping. Single-Day tickets cost $20 per day and are available only at the gate. Day tickets do not include primitive camping.

An on-line charitable auction will also be available to those not able to attend.  Whether in person or not, folks will have the opportunity to bid on a variety of great items including artist memorabilia, diamond and gold jewelry, music instruments, collectible items and much more.  Stay connected to www.musicliveshere.com for updates, to view the online auction and to purchase tickets.

One hundred percent of net profits from the Suwannee Valley Flood Jam will be donated to locally based charities, Love INC based in Live Oak, FL and The United Way based in Lake City, FL.

Since the flood began, the Suwannee Music Foundation and the Spirit of Suwannee Music Park have partnered with Love INC. to deliver supplies and provide relief to affected households.   These charitable efforts by music lovers everywhere have helped hundreds of people who in this desperate time of their lives have virtually nothing.  Volunteers at both agencies, along with many others throughout the three counties have donated thousands of hours to help family, friends and complete strangers, wading in waist deep, contaminated water to bring out previous personal belongings, prized children’s toys and helping families find suitable temporary homes.

Suwannee Valley Flood Jam Lineup is as follows: Peter Rowan, Donna The Buffalo, The Lee Boys, The Swingin Johnsons, Jamie Davis, The Heavy Pets, The Legendary JC’s, Mercy Mountain Boys, Beebs & Her Money Makers, Flannel Church, Kofi Burbridge, State Of Mind, Shane Pruitt, Down The Hatch, Main Stream, funkUs, Asheville Flood Commission, Stephanie Renee & Wreckless, Randy & Beth, Catfish Alliance, Chroma, Applebutter Express, Aquaphonics, El Groundscoro, The Resolvers, The Funky Seeds, DJ Craig Heneveld, The Funky Nuggets, Flt Rsk, $BIG BUCKS$ CREW, DJ Triclops, Kidd Yzer, DJ Chef Rocc, C-Minus, Vlad The Inhaler, Mason Masters, Jeff Randall, DJ Ginsu, and DJ Natural.

About Love INC
Love INC. (Loveinc-suwanneecounty.org) is a Non-Denominational Christian organization which is a registered 501(C)(3) charity and operates under the tax exempt guidelines as designated by the IRS. Love INC. has been providing food and services to the people of Suwannee County from day one and has demonstrated a commitment to keeping overhead low and keeping all donations here in the immediate area.

About The United Way
The United Way of Suwannee Valley works to assist at risk households recover from natural disasters.  The Suwannee Valley Long Term Recovery Committee assists at-risk households recover from natural disasters through various social services. These agencies include senior care for impacted house households with residents age 60 and over, legal services to assist with legal issues arising in disaster situations, and various agencies that assist affected households with food, water, household items, clothes, rent, and utility assistance.

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Help Raise Funds for Billy Constable to Offset Medical Expenses at Larry Keel and Natural Bridge Shows This December

The following concerts are in conjunction with a benefit Larry Keel and Natural Bridge is hosting for an entire weekend for our good friend Billy Constable. Billy has been diagnosed with a brain tumor and has just had brain surgery and does not have insurance. LKNB will be accepting donations on his behalf, donating their merchandise sales and hosting a 50/50 raffle to raise money for Billy to offset his medical expenses.  
Visit www.billyconstable.com for more info.

Melting Point in Athens, GA 12/8
Legal Grounds in Rutherfordton, NC 12/9
Pour House in Charleston, SC 12/10

Billy has been diagnosed with a lump on the lower portion of his brain which has been causing increasingly frequent seizures. He is currently seeing medical specialists and gathering evaluations. The expense is certain to be high, and Billy is without medical insurance. We are coming together, as friends and fellow musicians, to help offset those costs.

Billy Constable grew up in a very musical family in Avery County, and he has been playing music for most of his life. Billy is part of Avery County’s Wiseman family, which includes a number of professional musicians including Scotty Wiseman, Lawrence Wiseman, David Wiseman, Fiddling Jimmy Wiseman, banjo picker Kent Wiseman, and Billy’s mother, Lois.

Billy began playing guitar professionally as a youngster with bluegrass great Charlie Moore, who had married Billy’s mother. He also played in Douglas Dillard’s newly formed “post Dillards” bluegrass band The Doug Dillard Band from Hollywood, which also featured Byron Berline and occasional guests like Vassar Clements and Sam Bush.

Billy’s approach to the banjo is firmly rooted in Appalachian string music, but it can be deceptively eclectic. His influences begin at home and with his family, but Billy’s repertoire is vast, and he is comfortable in most musical situations. In addition to banjo, Billy is also an accomplished musician on the guitar, mandolin and violin.

Travers Chandler writes in Bluegrass Today, “I was well aware of what a musical giant Billy Constable was. He had spent time with The Doug Dillard Band, toured with Kenny Baker and Josh Graves, and later worked with envelope-pushers like Larry Keel, Leftover Salmon, and String Cheese Incident on both banjo and guitar.  It wasn’t until I had moved to Asheville in 2010, though, that I became aware of what a rare human being he was – both as a friend, and a brother in the order of acoustic music. We had spoken a time or two during my research on Charlie, and I knew of his prowess and ability to play all kinds of acoustic music: jamband, gypsy, rock and roll… The guy is a genius.”

“He was a mentor to all of us,” Jon Jon Davis said [in an interview in the Boone Mountain Times with Frank Ruggiero],“and he’s played with everybody.”

LKNB’s Mark Schimick says in the same interview, “Billy Constable was the main bluegrass teacher for Jon Jon and myself,” he said. “When he first heard us play, he heard a bunch of green musicians, as far as bluegrass is concerned, but he heard how we knew to play the rhythm to it,” Schimick said.

During the next couple years, Constable became their bluegrass mentor, teaching them how to play solos, sing the parts and behave on the road. “In a lot of ways, he helped us all get started on how to become professional musicians,” Schimick said. “Playing with him is like playing with family,” Schimick said. “He’s just as down to earth playing on stage as he is hanging out.”

For more information about Billy Constable and for updates on his medical situation, please visit:  www.billyconstable.com.

If people would prefer to mail a donation, please mail to:
Dave Ruch
155 St James Place
Buffalo NY 14222
dave@daveruch.com
716-884-6855

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Music on the Mountaintop raised $5500 for Appalachian Voices

This is great news! Music on the Mountaintop in Boone, NC raised $5000 for Appalachian Voices this year. Frank Ruggiero with the Mountain Times reports:

Organizers of Boone’s annual Music on the Mountaintop agree this year’s festival was a rousing success.

With attendance between 5,000 and 6,000, it was what founder Jimmy Hunt called “good, successful and exciting.”

Area environmental advocacy group Appalachian Voices would agree, to the tune of $5,500.
With community outreach a key facet of the festival, Hunt has ensured that portions of proceeds benefit a different nonprofit organization each year. This year, Appalachian Voices stood to benefit with a 10 percent increase in donation from last year.

“Even with the economy down, there are still positive events trying to get us back,” Hunt said. “It makes sense. If people can have a good time and dance and, at the end of the day, realize their ticket made a difference, that’s pretty awesome.” . . . .

. . . “But what really blew my mind was the amount of positive response we got from the artists – Larry Keel, Toubab Krewe, Railroad Earth, even Keller (Williams),” he said. “They all tried to come find me, not just to say ‘thank you,’ but a very personal, sincere ‘thank you.’ Toubab has been all over the world and said this was such a breath of fresh air, coming back and playing in front of people who genuinely like music.

“That’s a testament to our town and fans, what Music on the Mountaintop is, and that it’s, hopefully, always going to be here.”

READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE: http://www2.mountaintimes.com/MOTM

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Fun Holiday Benefits with Larry and Jenny Keel!

All year long, Larry and Jenny Keel & friends support lots of great causes including the cause AGAINST mountaintop removal with Appalachian Voices; pick up an “I Love Mountains” sticker at one of their shows!  Last weekend, on Nov 27th, Larry and his brother Gary Keel played the Annual Toys for Tots Party to benefit the Rappahannock Council on Domestic Violence. The Keels are involved in two other music-filled benefits for the holiday season as well -see below for press release details- please join them if you’re in the areas!

The Work’s 9th Annual Christmas Jam Benefit Show Saturday, December 18th

The Greenville based, six-piece band The Work return to The Handlebar again for their 9th Annual Christmas Jam Benefit Show, an Upstate tradition since 2002. This Feature Holiday Event will take place on Saturday, December 18, 2010 at The Handlebar in Greenville, SC and all proceeds raised go to benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Carolinas, a “home away from home for families of critically ill children receiving treatment at area hospitals.”

This year’s Christmas Jam will feature music by The Work, with performances by a veritable treasure trove of guest musicians. And this is part of the allure of the event, the ever changing line-up of musicians. According to Craig Sorrells, “every Christmas Jam brings great memories for me with the completely unusual arrangement of musicians that come and perform with us.” The band is very excited about this year’s line- up as it includes such world renowned musicians as: Larry & Jenny Keel, Curtis Burch (New Grass Revival), Tom Gray (Delta Moon), and many more to be announced. Also joining this year will be several regional & local musicians including, but not limited to the Shane Pruitt Band, Doug Jones (Cravin’ Melon), Jonathan Lloyd, Jeff Holland, Violet & The Beauredarde’s, Tez Sherrard, plus many others. As well, there will be special surprise guest musicians making appearances during Christmas Jam.

In its previous 8 years of operation, The Work’s Christmas Jam has raised $40,000 for local charities.

www.handlebar-online.com

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Keller Williams’10th Annual SPCA Benefit on Sunday December 26th

Before the NYE run kicks-off, Keller Williams brings his three-set extravaganza to his hometown of Fredericksburg, VA for his annual holiday concert to benefit the SPCA. To celebrate the ten year anniversary of the event, which will take place on December 26 at the Fredericksburg Field House, Keller has invited local marching band Elby Brass to join the show for set break music. 100% of the concert’s profits will go to support The Fredericksburg Regional SPCA. Less than 3% of The Fredericksburg Regional SPCA’s budget is received from the City of Fredericksburg, forcing the branch to rely almost solely on individual and corporate donations and fundraising events like this. The Fredericksburg Regional SPCA is a “no-kill” shelter whose mission is to tackle the problem of pet overpopulation through education, adoption, rehabilitation and spay/neuter.

• Set I will be reggae, dub and funk versions of Keller favorites with Jay Starling on keys, Mark D on drums and Keller on bass
• Set II will feature the bluegrass stylings of Larry Keel on guitar and his wife Jenny on bass with Keller playing his mini twelve-string (wanna-be mandolin) guitar.
• And Set III will be old school Keller on acoustic guitar with his trademark looped-out dance grooves. Big screen video visuals will be provided by Scott Sunn.

Find out more about Keller’s holiday tour here.

Show Specifics:
Sunday, Dec. 26th, 2010
Fredericksburg Regional SPCA Benefit
Fredericksburg Field House in Fredericksburg, VA
Doors at 7pm, show at 8pm
$25, All ages
www.fredfieldhouse.com

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Celebrate the Holidays with 3 UNIQUE sets of KELLER WILLIAMS **Featuring Reggae Dub/Funk w/ Jay Starling and Mark D + Keller & The Keels + Keller Solo Acoustic & Loopy Dance Grooves***

Keller Williams Announces “Celebrate the Holidays” NYE Run December 29-31 And 10^th Annual SPCA Holiday Benefit on December 26

Critically Acclaimed Covers Album Thief Sets Stage For Keller To Break Into Children’s Music with New Album, Kids, Due October 26

Keller Touring Theaters Across The Country This Fall

Keller Williams has announced plans for a set of very special East Coast New Year’s Eve concerts. Starting on December 29 in Virginia and concluding on NYE in North Carolina (details below), each show on the “Celebrate the Holidays” run will feature three sets built around a different theme. Set I will be reggae, dub and funk versions of Keller favorites with Jay Starling on keys, Mark D on drums and Keller on bass.  Set II will feature the bluegrass stylings of Larry Keel on guitar and his wife Jenny on bass with Keller playing his mini twelve-string (wanna-be mandolin) guitar.  And Set III will be old school Keller on acoustic guitar with his trademark looped-out dance grooves. Big screen video visuals will be provided by Scott Sunn.

Before the NYE run kicks-off, Keller bring his three-set extravaganza to his hometown of Fredericksburg, VA for his annual holiday concert to benefit the SPCA.  To celebrate the ten year anniversary of the event, which will take place on December 26 at the Fredericksburg Field House, Keller has invited local marching band Elby Brass to join the show for set break music.  100% of the concert’s profits will go to support The Fredericksburg Regional SPCA.  Less than 3% of The Fredericksburg Regional SPCA’s budget is received from the City of Fredericksburg, forcing the branch to rely almost solely on individual and corporate donations and fundraising events like this. The Fredericksburg Regional SPCA is a “no-kill” shelter whose mission is to tackle the problem of pet overpopulation through education, adoption, rehabilitation and spay/neuter.  www.spcafred.com

Keller’s SPCA benefit show and NYE run will cap a very busy year for one of the hardest working men in music.  May saw the release of his acclaimed all covers album Thief featuring Larry and Jenny Keel.  Praised by Blurt as “impressive…. a great effort that’s bound to bring in a few more fans,” the album features completely retooled versions of songs by everyone from Amy Winehouse to Ryan Adams.  Moving from covers to kiddos, Keller’s latest album finds him breaking into the world of children’s music with the appropriately titled Kids. A sure hit for parents and children alike, Kids is due October 26 via SCI Fidelity, this will be Keller Williams’ sixteenth album.

Keller will tour in support of Kids with select November dates in the Pacific Northwest as the “Super Music Friend” on the Yo Gabba Gabba tour.  Keller will also be playing for older kids with evening shows in the same cities.  Prior to the Kids tour Keller will be touring theaters all over the country, details below.

FOR FAN CLUB TICKETS AND INFO CLICK HERE

**TOUR DATES HERE**

NEW YEAR’S EVE RUN & BENEFIT CONCERT DETAILS

Sunday, Dec. 26th, 2010

SPCA Benefit

Location: Fredericksburg Field House in Fredericksburg, VA

Time: Doors at 7pm, show at 8pm

Tickets: $25

Ages: All ages

Website: www.fredfieldhouse.com

Wednesday, Dec. 29th, 2010

Location: The NorVa in Norfolk, VA

Time: Doors at 7pm, show at 8pm

Tickets: ADV $18/DOS $21

Ages: All ages

Website: www.thenorva.com/

Thursday, Dec. 30th, 2010

Location: The National in Richmond, VA

Time: Doors at 7pm, show at 8pm

Tickets: ADV $18/DOS $21

Ages: All ages

Website: www.thenationalva.com/

Friday, Dec. 31st, 2010

Location: Neighborhood Theatre in Charlotte, NC

Time: Doors at 8pm

Tickets: ADV $35/DOS $45

Ages: All ages

Website: www.neighborhoodtheatre.com, including information on hotel deals and transportation packages

www.kellerwilliams.net

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Funk and World Beats at the LAB for the World Cup Kickoff on Saturday, June 12th

Daytime Big Screen airing of the USA v. England game
Late night dance-party with Afromotive and Josh Blake’s Jukebox

It’s time to get excited for the worlds biggest sporting event! Come and celebrate the kickoff of the World Cup at the Lexington Ave Brewery, the LAB, in Asheville on Saturday, June 12th.  There is a full day and night planned with Funk , World Beats, and Soccer!

The folks at the Lexington Avenue Brewery are showing the first USA game (USA Vs. England) on a projector screen in their main room for the soccer community and fans in Asheville! Kick off is at 2:30pm. This year, The World Cup  is being held in South Africa. Get into the spirit with halftime and post game entertainment in by the Asheville Manding. Asheville Manding is Ryan Reardon and Adama Dembele from Afromotive along with Tasana Camara, who is a singer/kora player/balafon player from Guinea. The band is named after the Manding people of West Africa, one of the largest ethnicities and the “keepers of the flame” if you will, of traditional West African music.

The daytime event is a “suggested donation” benefit for former ABASA president and player Jack Brown and his family. Jack recently was admitted to the hospital with flu-like symptoms and ended up having a serious infection. It turned out that he had to battle a life threatening infection which resulted in the loss of his right leg. We are calling out to all soccer fans to come enjoy this game with a great crowd and atmosphere, and to donate what you can to Jack and his family as they begin to tackle a mountain of medical bills. Members of the soccer league will be taking donations at the door. There will also be a raffle following the game with some pretty sweet prizes.

The late-night dance party features music by Afromotive and Josh Blake JukeBox in the back room at the LAB. The doors open at 9pm with JBJB starting around 9:30pm. Afromotive headlines and the music will go til 2am. The cost for the show is $7.

Adama Dembele. Photo by Jon Leidel.

Afromotive:
Afromotive is creating a new wave of high energy dance music fusing West African rhythms and instrumentation with and American funk and pop sensibility for an experience that can only be described as infectious. Proudly born as a multi-ethnic crew in progressive Asheville, NC, the band has earned a formidable reputation over four years of relentless touring and festival appearances. At their core is thirty-third generation djembe player Adama Dembele from Ivory Coast, West Africa. He has performed with many prominent world acts including Oumou Sangare, Salif Keita, and Sogona Djata, to name a few. Adama’s vast knowledge of West African rhythms and intercontinental touring experience combines with his American counterparts’ hook-laden song writing and polished production for a fresh new take on the world beat genre. With positive reviews and sales of their debut full-length studio album and appearances at various national and regional festivals, including Bonnaroo, Joshua Tree Music Festival, and Echo Project, Afromotive continues to share their passion and energy with the masses.

Josh Blake

Josh Blake’s Jukebox:
On route to Jamaica in January 1997, Josh stopped in Asheville, N.C. to visit some of his friends. Soon thereafter he moved to Asheville to help establish the musical force known as GFE. A multidimensional artist, Josh’s musical understanding is based on his 16 years as guitarist and songwriter. With a travelers knowledge of our world, Josh aims to use his talents to bring unity and jubilation, to spread earth consciousness and end social injustice.

Josh Blake’s Jukebox is composed of some of Asheville’s finest musicians. The drummer Patrick Thomas and guitarist Casey Kramer are from the funky Asheville powerhouse Strut. The band also features Kyle Colclasure on bass from the local hip hop band GFE and more recently Super Collider. Affectionately dubbed “The Hot Sauce” female vocalists Carolyn Smith and Marisa Albert spice up the show with beautiful harmonies. Keyboardist Frank Mapstone from Yo Mamma’s Big Fat Booty Band and The Big Old Nasty Get Down has been known to join in on the fun. Multi-instrumentalist, Matt Williams, adds to the diverse sound of Josh Blake’s Jukebox. It is not unusual for Josh to include any number of special guests during his performances. Along with packing local venues, Josh was honored to have a song selected for the 2008 Mooged Out album, and has been chosen to play many of Asheville’s special events and festivals. With songs that range from rock to ragtime, hip-hop to funk, Josh Blake’s shows deliver what most listeners crave…great diverse music with lyrics that emphasize proper intention.

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