Also appearing on HeraldDemocrat.com

The Tony Garcia Stroke Benefit is shaping up. One of the organizers, Paul Noel, explained that Garcia, a local musician himself, had a stroke and is in need of financial help paying for his medical and related bills.

The event is to be held Sunday, June 24, at Smitty’s Bar & Grill in Denison.

Garcia has, himself, been involved in many fundraisers for other musicians over time. He has his own band, has fronted No Exit and Exit 51 bands, and hosted open mics at several venues around town, the most recent being at the Steel Rose in Denison. Besides his incredible music talent, Garcia is blessed with a ubiquitous smile.

Bands list is complete. Donations for raffles, silent auction and door prizes are being collected. The musicians performing indicate just how respected Garcia is by his peers. Playing are Mark Allan Davis, Willy Kickit, Oliver White, The Gets, Exit 51, Morris McCann, Black Liquid Halo, Pam Porter & James Carey, and more.

It actually all starts at 10 a.m. with a poker run that starts with 10 a.m. breakfast at the American Legion Post 231 in Pottsboro. After breakfast, at 11 a.m., participants are scheduled to ride off and are due to arrive at Smitty’s at 1 p.m.

And that’s when everything begins at Smitty’s, when the first band kicks off. Music will continue until 9 p.m., with some acoustic singers in between the bands’ sets. The $10 entry fee includes a buffet provided by Smitty’s and a chance for a couple of door prizes, Noel said. Continuing in fundraising mode, there will be raffles and silent auction items held through most of the day, plus a 50-50 cash drawing.

Three contact numbers are Tammy Price, 903-814-0913, who is collecting and coordinating for the raffles and such; and also David Wolfe, himself a musician who frequently plays with Garcia, at 903-375-2684. Those wanting to participate in the poker run can call Shelli at 903-624-2131.