Edwards Center Benefit Concert Energizes Crowd

Aloha, August 15^th, 2014. Pioneering smooth jazz pianist Tom Grant, Oregon’s sixth Poet Laureate Paulann Petersen, and platinum-selling singer, songwriter, and composer Gino Vannelli performed at a special benefit concert dinner in Edwards Center’s Lampros-Hedinger Performance Hall. Tammy Beckley, event MC Janet Chvatal, and Portland philanthropist Howard Hedinger pose together during dinner. Presented through the generous support of Portland’s Fournier Group, The Tree of Life Benefit Concert Series brought these outstanding Oregon artists together in an intimate atmosphere for a once-in-a-lifetime musical encounter. Over 80 guests were treated to an evening of music, poetry, and culinary Plates of Passion prepared by renowned local chefs.

Pianist and film-scorer David Goldblatt accompanies pop legend Gino Vannelli at Edward Center’s Tree of Life “Up Close & Personal” concert.

Over 80 guests enjoy pasta and wine on Edwards Center’s lovely garden patio.

Brian Joelson and Natalia Lampros enjoy the Plates of Passion pasta dinner.

Portland’s own smooth jazz pioneer Tom Grant performs with poet Paulann Petersen, Oregon’s sixth poet laureate. 

About Edwards Center

Edwards Center began as a day program serving 6 individuals and in 1975 opened Washington County’s first group home housing developmentally disabled adults in the community. Today they provide homes, jobs, and recreational opportunities in 18 locations serving over 300 Oregonians with disabilities in Washington and Clackamas Counties. Edwards Center’s mission is to enhance the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities by helping them reach their highest potential through training, education, employment, housing and social opportunities in safe, healthy and stimulating environments. http://www.edwardscenter.org/

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