Sonny

A message from Greg Johnson, president of the Cascade Blues association:From The Heart A Benefit for Sonny Hess & Jamie Pemberton Sunday, February 11th – High Rocks Pub – 3 pmIt certainly has been a rough couple months for Sonny “Smokin’” Hess. Diagnosed with breast cancer, the popular local guitarist and band leader underwent mastectomy surgery in late November, which now requires chemotherapy treatment. Sadly, coming home from her first treatment on Monday, January 8th, Sonny and her partner Jamie Pemberton discovered their Troutdale home had been severely damaged by a fire. Many of their possessions were destroyed or badly damaged. Thankfully, Sonny’s instruments and equipment were in the garage and not affected by the fire. But even still, this presents a trying time for Sonny, as if medical expenses and regular home bills were not enough, now she needs to replace the items many of us take for granted just to live on, such as clothing, furniture and household items. Plus, they have now been forced to living in a hotel until they have somewhere to live permanently, which also adds up expenses quickly, too.Sonny is still fulfilling her scheduled gigs, but she is in need of more help than she can provide for herself. Therefore, a group of her friends are gathering to throw a benefit to help raise funds for Sonny. Titled “From The Heart,” the event will be held on Sunday, February 11th, from 3:00 until 11:00 pm, at the High Rocks Restaurant & Lounge (915 E. Arlington St, behind Latus Motors.) in Gladstone (503-656-1111).Scheduled to appear will be many of Portland’s best musicians: Northwest Women Rhythm & Blues, Paul deLay, Duffy Bishop, Linda Hornbuckle, Lisa Mann & Her Really Good Band, Ellen Whyte, Undercover, and more surprise guests to be expected.Donations can be made to Sonny and Jamie at the benefit. But though they may be in need of replacement furnishings to replace those lost in the fire, please do not offer these at this time, as there is no place to keep them. Items of this sort will have to wait until they have a new roof over their heads to call their own.If you cannot make the benefit show, you can still help out by going to any branch of US Bank in Oregon or Washington. Just mention the Sonny Hess Fund and your donations will reach the appropriate destination. Any amount, no matter how small or large will be helpful and is highly appreciated. guitar chick myspace layout