Fundraiser, jam session to benefit local musician battling cancer

Caitlin Heaney West, The Times-Tribune, Scranton, Pa.
·2 min read

Jul. 6—Who/what: Bill Coleman has spent more than four decades entertaining Northeast Pennsylvania audiences as a musician, and now his peers are stepping up to help him during health troubles.

Coleman, 67, lives in Vandling with his wife, Sue, and is a proud father to Kelly, Lindsey, Kim and Chris. He has played bass in several local groups through the years, including the Jeffrey James Band, Groove Commission, MOJO and the Soul Shakers. He also is a friend to all, a trivia lover, and a history and movie buff, explained lifelong friends A.J. Gallagher and Frank and Kelly Freno of Arlo's Country Store and Tavern in Union Dale.

Coleman has been diagnosed with cancer and started treatment. As he deals with side effects, his medical bills are piling up, his friends said.

Why: To help alleviate that financial pressure, friends have organized a benefit jam session for Coleman on Sunday, July 10, at 3 p.m. at Arlo's, 10340 Route 171. Musicians and music lovers are welcome and will find "some great music, delicious food and good ... libations while supporting Bill," organizers said. The event also will include nearly 100 raffle baskets and 50/50 drawings. Guests will get a meal in exchange for a donation. People who cannot attend but would still like to contribute are encouraged to check the event's Facebook page for more information about how to donate.

Money raised will help cover the cost of Coleman's medical and household bills, as his wife is his primary caregiver and not currently working.

In their own words: "Bill would be so happy to see all of the musicians he had host the blues jams throughout the years at Arlo's, along with all of his musician friends, come out for an afternoon to have a great jam together. Bill is a very humble man, and he wants to let everyone know each donation is greatly appreciated." — A.J. Gallagher and Frank and Kelly Freno, lifelong friends

Contact the writer: cwest@timesshamrock.com; 570-348-9100 x5107; @cheaneywest on Twitter