Carrie Cunningham & friends Local musicians throw benefit for Nashville

by Lauree Carlsen

Carrie Cunningham and husband Tim Bishop hosted the Nashville Benefit Concert at The Old Church downtown Portland. The money raised will go toward Nashville musicians who lost their instruments in the flash flood in May. A dinner was provided, the profits also going towards the benefit. Then, a movie of the devastating flood was shown, followed by a fantastic lineup of musicians donating their time for the event.

The Old Church was a great pick with its old fine architecture and character for this event. The dinner was served in a great room with high ceilings and old pictures of Portland adorning the walls. The food was exquisite, barbequed pork and chicken served with cole slaw, beer and pop. Here, musicians, audience and friends had a chance to mingle and talk.

Afterwards, a movie was shown of the devastating flash flood. The pictures showed the true impact of this flood. Cars on the freeway were submerged in water, peoples’ homes swept away and lives lost.

Many great musicians helped with the event donating their time. They put on a superb show. The lineup consisted of Patrick Lamb, Dan Lowe, Travis Dow, Bobby Torres, Tom Mann, Freeman Belmont, Carrie Cunningham, Dan’l McIlhenny, Ellen Whyte and Jean Pierre Garau. Many other fine performers rounded out the evening. Each musician offered two songs, spectacular originals. On the third set, offered their talents as well.

Carrie Cunningham and Tim Bishop did a wonderful job putting this event together. Cunningham is noted for her charitable work and this was another great cause she supported. Thank you Carrie! (See ad and Bandstand for band schedule.)