I'm very happy to report that at last count (minus a few still-uncollected pledges), the CAMAJE/emdashes/Feast benefit for the MusiCares Hurricane Relief Fund—which helps displaced New Orleans jazz musicians get back on their feet (and, we hope, onstage)—raised $350 in donations. Thanks, fantastic performers and audience! A few highlights from the evening (click to enlarge):


























Extra thanks to Abby Hitchcock and the rest of the CAMAJE staff, who are sweeter than a roast pear and honey crepe for letting me host Feast there month after month. If you want to kick up the MusiCares donation to $400 or even $500 before I send it off, let me know and I'll see if I can get you a nice treat. As further incentive, here's MusicCares' description of how they use the money:

As our nation struggles to respond to the devastation and displacement wrought by Hurricane Katrina, MusiCares' assistance is even more critical in ensuring that music people whose lives and livelihoods have been destroyed can begin to rebuild. To that end, MusiCares and The Recording Academy have established the MusiCares Hurricane Relief Fund, a $1 Million dollar commitment of charitable funds to be distributed to musicians and other music industry people directly affected by this disaster.

How We Help: Hurricane Relief Assistance may include funds for basic living expenses such as shelter, food, utilities, cell phones and transportation; medical expenses including doctor, dentist, hospital bills and medication; clothing and toiletries; musical instrument and recording equipment replacement; relocation costs; school supplies for students; cell phone service; insurance payments and more. Applicants may also be referred to other resources, as needed.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to the high volume of applications, assistance will be provided on a 'first come, first served' basis. Grant amounts will be determined based upon individual need and available funds.