• PHOTO BY STEVE E. MILLER
• HANDS ON : Shevon Sullivan, owner of Anam-Cré Art Studio, will host a benefit for David Faircourt.

Most victims of the disease succumb before the age of 21. David Faircourt is now 24 years old and intends to complete his associate degree program in broadcasting, become a radio host or TV interviewer, and continue his study of ceramics. Faircourt finds joy and self-expression through creating pottery, performing music, and painting. In a show, supported by his friends at Anam-Cré Art Studio, he will share his passion for art in a sale of ceramic work on Sept. 3.

During the monthly Art After Dark event, the studio, which is located in the Creamery downtown, will host a special presentation of Faircourt’s work and the work of other students who are donating pieces for sale for his benefit. Faircourt will give a short talk on Alström Syndrome. There will be live African-style drumming, belly dancing, food, and wine from a local vintner, besides a silent auction of select sculptures by Faircourt.

“He is a good person, a good potter, and we want to do all we can to help him get that kidney,” said Shevon Sullivan, who owns the studio and is Faircourt’s ceramics instructor. All of the proceeds and donations from the event will go directly toward a $50,000 fund to help Faircourt receive a kidney transplant. Requiring dialysis three times a week and with frequent hospitalizations, he is unable to support himself or study full time.

Though the original purpose of this event was solely to aid his health, Faircourt considers it an opportunity to help encourage research and support for others who are battling the disease. Alström Syndrome International is an organization that supports Faircourt’s cause, conducts research on the disease, and hosts global conferences annually, one of which was held in San Luis Obispo in 1998 hosted by Faircourt and his family.

Anam-Cré Art Studio is located at 570 Higuera St. in San Luis Obispo. Donations in the form of checks should be made out to Alström Syndrome International with a notation that they are in support of Faircourt’s dialysis. All donations at the event or online at alstrom.org are tax-deductible. For more information contact Shevon Sullivan at 544-1850 or [email protected].

Fast facts

The Morro Bay Recreation & Parks Department will host a series of classes in appreciation of classical music led by Ron Tarica, each of which will highlight  a different musical period. The Listening to Music series will be held at the Morro Bay Community Center on Wednesday afternoons from 1-4 p.m. beginning Sept. 1 through Oct. 6. A second series will begin on Oct. 20 and continue through Dec. 1. For more information contact the Morro Bay Recreation & Parks Department at 772-6278 …

On Aug. 28 Access for All, a local organization working to increase awareness and accessibility for all residents with disabilities, will present the Paul Wolff Accessibility Advocacy Awards. The Paul Wolff Award was founded in 2000 by Bryan and Beverly Gingg and the SLO County Community Foundation to honor local architect Paul Wolff for his significant contributions to accessibility. At 7 p.m. at the Clark Center in Arroyo Grande, the ceremony will recognize individuals and groups who have contributed to increasing ease of access for disabled residents in the community. Comedian Josh Blue, 2006 Winner of Last Comic Standing and a cerebral palsy patient, will entertain. Tickets range from $30 to 50. See ClarkCenter.org. to purchase tickets or call Janice at 543-2323 or visit sloccf.org.

Intern Marin Kautz contributed Strokes & Plugs this week. Submit your nonprofit and business information to [email protected]