Six-time W.C. Handy Blues Award ‘Blues Band of the Year’ nominee Magic Slim and the Teardrops entertained a large crowd at the Cotillion Ballroom July 29, as they performed a benefit concert for the Heartspring CARE Program raising over $3200.

With their latest album, Raising The Bar, hitting #1 on the Blues Chart compiled by the Roots Music Report, Magic Slim and his band brought the Southside of Chicago to Wichita. The set list included some original hits along with other blues favorites including “Sweet Home Chicago”.

“It was an amazing night of music and entertainment,” said Wes Race, concert promoter. “To have such a legendary blues artist like Magic Slim performing right here in Wichita, Kansas, and to be able to share that with a great group of old friends and now new friends for such a great cause – it was an evening I will never forget.”

Proceeds from the concert will benefit the Heartspring CARE Program, which provides resources for children with autism, as well as their families including social skills groups and Camp SSTAR, a summer camp for children with Asperger syndrome or high functioning autism.

"This benefit concert is a great example of how a few passionate people can come together to make great things happen for children with autism spectrum disorders,” said Connie Erbert, director of CARE and autism outreach. “The CARE program is fortunate to have wonderful parents who are the catalysts in seeking out opportunities to raise funds so that other families can benefit from our services."

Heartspring extends a big thank you to Wes Race, who spent countless hours promoting this event, and to the event sponsors: Walt’s East Sports bar and Grill, Cinnamon’s Deli, Flint Hills Spas and Billards and Matt Sheets.

View photos from the event »