Concert seeks to rock out cancer
SANDPOINT — Positivity and goodwill can go a long way when it comes to overcoming life’s most serious obstacles — even cancer.
That’s the spirit behind the Rock Out Cancer concert. Back for a second year, event planners aim to spread plenty of both in the effort to fight a life-wrecking disease. The concert begins at 4 p.m. on July 14 at Beyond Hope Resort.
“We learned last year that people love this event,” organizer Stefanie Nostahl said. “That’s why we expect it to double in size this year.”
The event is unique among Sandpoint fundraisers for the fact that it teams up four nonprofits in common purpose. Community Cancer Services, Angels Over Sandpoint, Bonner Community Hospice and Celebrate Life all get an equal cut of the event proceeds.
“That’s what so key for us,” organizer Andrea Littlefield said. “This event brings together four nonprofits that share a similar passion.”
Based on last year’s success, event planners Tami Feyen, Nostahl, Nathan Jeffries, Littlefield, Julie Walkington and Tiffany Smith aim to make this year bigger and better.
First of all, the concert may well draw double the number of attendees. Considering that last year brought 500 people to Beyond Hope Resort, the scene promises to be even more energetic this year.
The concert itself has also expanded, with three bands hitting the stage rather than the two last year. To pack all that music into one evening, organizers extended the event to begin at 4 p.m.
Mega Karma starts up the 2012 lineup. A duo comprised of Karla Gallatin and Megan Gran, the Polson, Mont., musicians play a stylistically eclectic catalog ranging in genres like blues, classic country, folk and jazz.
Local indie folk duo Cedar & Boyer is also on this year’s ticket. Jen and Justin Landis combine their North Idaho experiences with musical influences ranging from Ryan Adams to Pedro the Lion, creating a sound entirely their own.
Finally, last year’s veterans the Miah Kohal Band returns to the Rock Out Cancer stage, bringing out a high-energy set to the serene beauty of Beyond Hope Resort.
Of course, plenty of delicious food will be available for hungry music lovers. Ivano’s is handling the catering and will also run a full bar. A strong selection of beer and wine will be available for purchase. The Jupiter Jane mobile food truck will be on hand to hook attendees up with some grub, too.
Even better, attendees can rest assured that their dollars are going to a good cause.
“This year, we have almost all our expenses covered, so almost every dollar of ticket sales will go to the nonprofits,” Nostahl said.
That might not have been possible if not for several generous donations of time, money and services from some key supporters. Ivano’s is handling all the food and catering free of charge, Beyond Hope Resort is offering the scenic venue and Mountain Communications provided some major financial assistance.
It’s all worth it to do a little good and provide residents with a great evening at the same time. People of all professions and backgrounds can come together as one to kick back in a lawn chair, sip a drink and enjoy some great music.
“It’s just great to see people come together for such a unique fundraising opportunity,” Nostahl said.
Tickets are available at Ivano’s, Sandpoint Furniture and Sandpoint Sports and cost $15.