Michael Stagliano in Concert at the Undergrounds Coffee House on Friday March 23, 2012.
(Story and Photographs by Gabie Cardenas)
“There are 163 Million orphans in the world…we are going after ONE!” was the reason of Michael Stagliano’s “Love Not Lost” concert.
The Undergrounds Coffee House located inside The Real Life Church in Valencia, Calif., hosted this high-energy yet emotion-filled concert. This event, following the model of the venue, had no ticket price, but donations were appreciated and would help reach the goal for the night: raising $5,000 for a cause. “We are practically saving this child’s life”, Stagliano said repeatedly to the audience that filled the room.
Michael Stagliano is leading a campaign to support his dear friends Chris and Julie Faulkner from Columbus, Ohio, through Reece’s Rainbow, fulfill their mission of love. This couple, celebrating eight years of marriage and three daughters, now have a precious son (in their hearts) who they want to bring home; Ryan! Why Ryan? He requires urgent medical care, has many special needs, was ‘aged’ out of his first orphanage in Eastern Europe, which lead to being transferred to a situation that isn’t healthy…and he has completely captivated their hearts! Chris and Julie believe every life- planned or unplanned, typical or with special needs- is created by God, deserves love, and has eternal value”.
“It costs $25,000 to get him home with the Faulkners and without mincing words…to save his life!” said Michael Stagliano.
Joining Michael Stagliano on stage, was talented John Gustaitis, performing in duet and solo.
Supporting family (Michael Stagliano’s father, twin brother and family) and a whole girls valleyball team, which Stagliano is coaching, were present.
In addition to donations for the concert, t-shirts were on sale for the same cause.
The night was sprinkled with donations and they were all welcomed with |
a round of applause. |
“That’s my dad” Michael Stagliano exclaimed proudly, after thanking for the |
donation to Ryan’s jar. And the donations kept coming! |
Michael Stagliano’s (left) twin brother Stephen (middle), their father (right) and family, supporting the performance and Ryan’s cause.
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Michael Stagliano and Jon Gustaitis asked for blue lights to set the mood for some of their more melancholic songs.
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A little girl, together with her mother and 3 other homeless families who benefit from the small family shelter “Family Promise”, enjoying the show.
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“Did you know that Real Life Church has plans to extend?!” he manager in the lobby, there will be a Children’s Center, additional facilities |
of the Music Underground asked me. According to this plan posted and the Underground Coffee House might move… above the ground. |