Helping Haiti From Newtown

By Kendra Bobowick

A rhythmic beat drew guests’ attention away from the coffee, brownies, and cookies served after dinner Saturday, January 23. As amplifiers pushed out the sounds of bass guitar, drums, and lyrics to match singer Rich Treadwell’s stomping feet, the Skanktones played reggae to entertain the more than 40 guests gathered in the Newtown Congregational Church Hall to raise funds for Haitian relief Saturday.

With a fundraiser already in progress to support the Rotary International Haitian Project, efforts quickly refocused on earthquake victims in recent weeks, explained Rich Collins, who meets with the high school students Sunday mornings.

Friends Kayla Buckley, and Liz Anderson sat together Saturday, waiting for music to begin. Liz’s mother Carol Anderson agreed that the fundraiser was “good timing. We already had this [dinner and reggae] planned anyway.”

With the church group’s help in the past, funds have gone to Haitian housing improvements, to purchase animals, or other projects. When this year’s earthquake crumbled Haiti, Mr Collins said, “The wheels were already in motion” to raise funds for the Haitian community. At the same time “people got excited about what the high school students are doing.” For the rest of the school year they will raise money for Haiti, he said.

Skanktones singer Rich Treadwell responded to the church group’s request to play. Even before the earthquake struck, Mr Treadwell said, “We would be pleased to do the benefit.” With him and setting up their instruments were Carlos Diaz, Butch Bochino, Chris Yake, and Chris Gonia.

Sitting up front to listen were high school students Sarah Ferris, Andrew LaMarche, and Nathan Crevier. Across the hall were friends Karen Whippie — her family helped put together the evening’s dinner — and Samantha Harrison. Throughout the church hall were other clusters of friends and families. Before the music began a special thanks went to those who helped prepare and serve that night.