Benefit at Mick's Friday, March 30 for Michelle Cathro

[tsedivy]

http://www.micksomaha.com/michelebenefit.html

When I first found the courage to perform music in public, part of the fun and excitement was in working with my then-new-friend David Cathro, a brilliant songwriter whose enthusiasm and free-spiritedness were infectious. I have performed and recorded his songs and hold them as dear as if I had written them, and indeed wish I had. More than any other, he taught me to write from my own experience. We spend three exciting years performing as The Corner Boys, with fellow writer Bunny Geist.
For as long as I've known Dave I've known his sister Michèle. For over fifteen years she has inspired me with her grace, called me an ass when I was one and taught me Spanish. She was a cocktail server and greeter at Mick's until just a few months ago, when she had to quit because working three jobs to provide for her son proved to be too much for her. A middle-school teacher's wage is humble indeed. But I'm certain many of you will remember her. All manner of people found themselves revealing their innermost thoughts to her, seduced by her silky alto voice and her thoroughly genuine, inquisitive interest.
Michèle had been hired by the Omaha Pipes & Drums band on St. Patrick's Day to perform with them at McFly's. (Few people know she has a mesmerising singing voice; fewer know she can dance an authentic Irish jig.) After the performance she was involved in a terrible accident outside, hit by a car as she crossed the street. She has been in a coma ever since, and her outlook is very bleak.
Her wonderful family has gathered around her, constantly at her side. I know there are considerable expenses as everyone needs food and housing. I'm performing at Mick's this Friday, March 30, with Vern Kathol and Jeff Koterba, and we've decided to make it a benefit so those of us who want to offer comfort but aren't sure how can at least contribute to the immediate needs of her family. We'll pass a hat, and our part of the $5 admission to the show will be donated as well.
Her brother David, my musical mentor and inspiration who now lives in Nashville, will be at Mick's that night to perform a few of his songs. This will be a rare treat. (He said he'll pick her favorites.) He has to leave early to care for Dylan, Michèle's son, so be sure to come early so you don't miss him. The show starts at 9:00pm.