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Cancer fundraiser hosting world-famous artist

Photos courtesy michaelisrael.com Michael Israel (middle) poses after a charity show at Paps Corps Gala.

CELORON – The Chautauqua Harbor Hotel will be the location of a special night of entertainment, dinner, and fundraising for a cause.

With a ticket, anybody from around the area can have the opportunity to see world-famous artist Michael Israel create some beautiful works. Any proceeds from the event will go toward the efforts of various local charitable organizations that have been leading the fight against cancer for many years now.

The inaugural event will raise money for the Italian American Charity Golf Association, Kallies Krusade, and various local families that have been affected by cancer in some way. Both organizations that will be receiving donations from this event have long-proven their missions to help individuals and families experiencing cancer. Event coordinator Michelle Turner stated that organizations will allocate this money towards different directions that will attempt to help as many people struggling as possible. Turner noted dedicated funding areas for transportation, treatment, medical equipment, and research.

During the event, Israel will be painting multiple pieces of art while on the stage. Following the event, Israel’s painting will be sold off as part of a silent auction. This auction is where a significant amount of funds are expected to be raised. Typically holding numerous paint brushes at once, Israel exhibits an eccentric style that is sure to keep a crowd interested and engaged. Being that Israel is also a black-belt, he also combines various aspects of martial arts into the creation of his works. This ensures explosive colors and movement are present in the paintings, giving a unique and captivating look to each piece.

“Michael’s work is more than performance – it’s a movement of hope, courage, and compassion,” said Kallie’s Krusade co-founder Tara Warren. “Having him join us in Chautauqua County is an incredible honor and an unforgettable way to help families facing unimaginable challenges.”

Israel posing on stage with numerous patriot paintings that he had completed moments before.

While not directly involved with either charity organization, Turner has been responsible for planning charity events and bringing Israel to the area previously. Turner first brought Israel to Chautauqua County about 12 years ago, where he helped to raise money for Hospice. Turner noted that upon initially speaking to Israel and learning more about the charity he runs, the realization came that this charity is unlike any group that Turner had worked with previously.

Turner stated that when approached to organize this event, it seemed Israel would be a perfect performer for the two organizations to collaborate to bring back. Not only is this because of the ecstatic and exciting energy that Israel brings, but also because it had been many years since he had returned to the area, said Turner.

Israel has raised millions of dollars for over 100 different charities since the start of these types of performances. Donations from these events have gone towards organizations such as the Special Olympics, the Susan G. Komen Foundation, Ronald McDonald House Charities, and the All-Star Children’s Foundation for the Prevention of Child Abuse. Israel has performed for various Presidents, celebrities, and CEOs. One such person that Israel performed for was Warren Buffet, whose portrait would go on to be sold for $100,000 to benefit Girls Inc. of Omaha.

The fundraiser will take place on Dec. 4 from 6 to 9 p.m. For more information contact michellemturner@gmail.com, or call 716-640-4055.

Starting at $3.50/week.

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