Okay, an amazing $34,000 was made for the American Cancer Society at last afternoon's concert and once again it was a wonderful few hours of entertainment. fellowship, and just plain joy (laced with a bit of pain). Hearing the music, while each survivor and present fighter against this insidious disease stood up to be counted was heart-wreching for me and the thousand or so audience members who filled St. Paul's in Gurnee to hear the original music of Warren Township High School graduate, Matt Wessel.
Matt who has performed each year lost his father to cancer when he was only 15 years old. It was this tragedy that awakened his passion for music and the rest is history. Through his concerts he has raised over $139,000 to help find a cure. Last fall, the ACS invited Wesel to perform with his group for a 20 minute set in front of the US Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. The event was to bring attention to cancer-related issues. Over 10,000 people attended, the 2006 Celebration on the Hill.
In memory of another Gurnee area native and Warren alumni, Kate Pedersen, who shared in the concert for the first couple of years, a prominent photo of this vibrant woman graced the inside of the program handout. A song by Matt Wessel which he dedicated to her filled the sanctuary as screens specially positioned displayed a photo scrapbook of Kate's life before being struck down by cancer at just 19 years old . Before Kate's Song, a founder of CFL and a good friend, Betsy Barnich, shared a moment with the audience on what made Kate so special to so many. As a parent, it moved me to tears all over again.
Matt and company put on a great show. He now has six CDs to his credit with a mix of new age type instrumentals, spiritual, and uplifting pieces that run the gamut. His brother, Ben, played an original piece on the piano during the second half that also knocked my socks off. The voices of his sisters rival any professional artist and all their music touches the heart. The whole family of Wessels are so talented and such great people. I hope you check out Matt's website at www.mattwesselmusic.com when you have a chance.
FBLA at Warren Township High School under the supervision of Sue Walker was so proactive with each part of the program. The silent auction and raffle prizes were awesome and must have taken a lot of time to gather. The refreshments baked mostly by the FBLA members for the break were delicious also. These are some great kids who really make a difference in this community.
Alex Reese who also is co-chair for the Gurnee/Wadsworth Relay for Life happening in July is definitely a mover and a shaker. What poise for a guy who is still in high school. He will definitely go far with that gung-ho spirit of his. Smart and compassionate are only two characteristics I can name out of the many he owns.
My only complaint- I didn't win a raffle prize. Well, there is always next year. Until next time...
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