Following the concerts ending on July 23, Lend a Helping Hand will hold a benefit concert at Depot Park on July 30 starting at 7 p.m. to help out three local individuals dealing with various cancers.
‘All the money raised will go to help people locally pay for their medical bills, including Jean Cavalier with breast cancer, Addison Tong, a 3-year old with leukemia, and Caleb Cale, 9-months-old with Stage 3 neuroblastoma cancer,? said Michelle Phaup, founder and executive director of LAHH. ‘We’re recommending a donation of $10 a person, but any amount is good.?
The concert is performed by local artist Barbara Payton.
‘I got my start because my parents are music teachers,? she said. ‘They instilled the love of music in me.?
Payton started out singing and going to music camps at 7-years-old and picking up different instruments.
‘I grew up in a Salvation Army Church, so they had a Brass band,? she said. ‘I learned how to play the Alto horn, which is equivalent to the French horn, so in high school and college I played the French horn.?
She eventually put down the horn and concentrated on studying voice and performance more. Payton entered the local band scene in Detroit over 20 years ago and eventually formed her own band.
‘In 2006, I got a phone call from Bob Seger’s office, got to go on tour with him and record on his ‘Face the Promise? CD. It turned into a connection with Kid Rock and toured with him as well, sang on ‘Rock N Roll Jesus,?? she said. ‘Now I’m working with a couple of different groups around town.?
After having a year under her belt of being cancer free, Payton said she is looking forward to the event.
‘It’s nice because I’ve pulled in some people who want to volunteer their time. They always appreciate that when I get other musicians who are willing to step out because this is how they make a living as well,? she said. ‘I’m just hopeful we’ll have a good turnout.?
Bottled water and various snacks will be sold at the event, along with people collecting donations. All donations are tax deductible.
Those unable to make the event, but still would like to help financially, can send their donation to 5066 Clarkston Road, Clarkston 48348. For more information visit www.lendahelpinghand.org, contact Michelle@lendahelpinghand.org or call 248-394-1415.
‘I’m very excited about the event and extremely excited that Barbara Payton has been willing to donate her talents,? Phaup said. ‘It will be a great time.?