We threw the benefit show for Steve Cass and everything went as planned. So well, It was a divine experience.
There are SOOOO many people to thank, I know that I risk missing some names, but, I must do my best.
I'll start with the photographers and videographer. Carrie Alexander and Diana Stathakis (photographers), and Robert Hansen (videographer). They went leaps and bounds beyond the call of duty. BTW, just wait till the DVD comes out, it looks like it's to be awesome. Carrie never stood still. She moved all over the place getting some fantastic shots. In addition to Diana shooting, she and Sabrina formed all the graphical print and digital work. Additionally, Diana did all the sled work getting things to the print shop, picking it up, delivering items and more. Robert video taped the bands, interviews, and even played some monster guitar. When all things were torn down and memories began, he's been like a soldier working to get all video loaded and edited.
The bands. Let's go chronologically. Slick Willie, man these guys were basically raw emotion kicking this thing off. They were so kind and sensitive, but then when the music started, they exploded with energy and kick'n rock-n-roll.
Then, Steve himself got up and rocked the floor for 1 straight hour of amazing CLEAN in your face guitar playing. Accompanied by Dave Porter on drums playing some amazing chops. Then there was the treat with their steel guitar player, fender guitar player, Paul Sisoon. Add to that a female vocalist that was as sassy as you can get with a voice from above that was not only in perfect tune, but, was compelling to listen. And then there was Dale, holding down the groove on that bass.
Chip then led Texas Underground with a full range of southern rock that brought the crowd to a heightened sensation. This was followed by Kat Moore, who has had success on the Texas country charts with some excellent original music.
The Reloaded band took the stage and kept the momentum going. Three guitar players and harmonies that are out of this world. If you haven't seen em, you must. Their music is only surpassed by the quality of human beings that they are.
Larry Ross, Jay Trahan lead Stratakatz and boy did they excite the crowd and bring a tremendous show. They moved about the stage like they were born to do it. Two lovely ladies singing lead and harmonies provided a visual oasis of gorgiosity! Add to that Mark on the other guitar moving with a zeal that makes you bop your head with him.
Finally, Sabrina & Gypsybleu took the stage and requested prayer for Steve. Every person in a chair arose and came to the stage to pray with/for Steve. May the Lord be glorified and hear our prayer and may we be prepared for his will. I can tell you that Sabrina was in her normal AMAZING form and owned it from the beginning to the end of her performance. And may I say a special thank you to Sabrina for her planning assistance and running the silent auction, and never ending friendship to me. Tony provided 1st class bass clinic with the amazing chops he can put together. Robert, after having run a video marathon then played on the stage not having missed a note. Greg, always greg, works tons of hours and still is prepared to give 100% no matter how little rest he gets and I knew that if I needed something, I could go to him and ask, and he would always be ready to help. Finally, Fernando showed up. I was so touched that after having been to Europe, I thought surely he'll need to catch up with his family, but, he sacrificed his time and came. Like a Marine, he simply asked what we wanted/needed him to do. Thank you Fernando!
Rick Stevens, a special shout out. I honestly have to isolate and say, he was a clone of me at the gig. He met with us that morning and whatever I assigned him to do, he passionetly executed it. I honestly could not have gotten through the day without all the things he did.
Kathy and Mason managed the door. This was a key point because all who were to buy raffle tickets or be directed to the silent auction began at the door. They faithfully stood their post and I never had to look twice. I was provided with ticket counts, dollars collected and whatever things I needed from both. Mason helped to pack up at the end as well. NOTE - this is a high school student pitching in!! And in that spirit, may I commend Jeremy (Greg and Carrie's son) for all his help, and Alisha and her daughters for helping out videotaping and other things). They say our youth are struggling... not the youth I got to see that weekend!
I want to isolate Larry, Greg, Sabrina, Diana, Carrie, and Robert once again because, they were in this from the beginning and/or were integral pieces during the day of the event. Planning involved the council and feedback from them all. Without them, I could not have gotten ANYTHING done.
Lonestar Legend provided the hall with NO CHARGE. They provided staff, bartender, waitresses at no cost to us AND they also shared from food and drink revenue!!!!!! Thank you Shan and staff.
John, Kathy, and Vince Villareal, it was as treasure to see you out in the audience. A friend is a rare thing, a true friend, and sir, you are my friend and I thank you and your wonderful family.
Peter and Marino, my sons, you showed up to support. I was and AM honored that you were there. May the Lord bless you in your honoring of your parents.
Robin Valetutto and Willie Martin of KVCE radio, 1160 AM dial. Thank you for coming out and supporting. Willie, thank you for the interview and encouraging words you shared with your personal testimony of yourself and your sister. Robin we thank you for your financial support as well.
In conclusion, if I missed your name, I sincerely apologize. I may add to this if I think of more, and I may have mispelled some as well. Please forgive me. Steve, I pray that the Lord does his perfect will and that whether it's here or there, we will rejoice in him together.
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