Two students’ benefit concert aims to make a difference for Haiti
Two CSC students are hosting a benefit dance in the Student Center, 8:30-11 p.m. Saturday to raise money for relief efforts in Haiti. This comes as a response to the devastating 7.0 earthquake that struck the impoverished nation Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2010. Admission is $3 per person or $5 per couple. All proceeds will be given to the American Red Cross.
Bethany Cook, junior of Hot Springs, S.D., decided to do something to help Haiti after seeing a TV news report about a two-year-old who was trapped under rubble for 18 hours.
Cook approached her friend Erin Hanson, senior of Alliance, and proposed putting together an event to get students aware of the destruction in Haiti and involved with relief efforts.
In less than a week, the duo has put together “Be a Hero for Haiti,” a concert featuring live music and free food and refreshments.
Without affiliation to any campus club or group, Cook and Hanson utilized their own contacts around town. Their cause has proved a focal point in the community for providing aid to Haiti. Cook said, “Just because we live in a small town in the Midwest doesn’t mean we can’t make a difference.”
Cook’s neighbor put her in touch with Dave Hockenbary, member of local band The Bahrflies. The band agreed to perform for free once they heard about the benefit.
CSC sophomore Marty Lastovica, front man of band Diamond Lion, offered to support the effort by performing as well.
Outlaw Printers also gave support by donating fliers for the event. The food and refreshments will be donated by CSC’s Food services.
Adding official sanction to the event, Hanson worked with Dr. Randy Rhine, vice president of enrollment, management, and student services, to allow the donations to be deposited in the CSC Foundation’s account. Doing this allows the total to be drafted as a single check on behalf of the student body.
CSC President Janie Park will present the check to a Red Cross representative from Scottsbluff at a date to be determined later.