On the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Irvin Mayfield put together a benefit for “local musicians in need.” That event’s proceeds were distributed to their beneficiaries at an event at Ashé Arts Cultural Center last night, and the musicians’ response was heartwarming. Harmonica player J.D. Hill, who now lives in the Musicians’ Village, was severely beaten and left for dead after already having endured the horrors fo Hurricane Katrina’s aftermath. With tears in his eyes, he said, “This is the first time I really feel that New Orleans cares about me,” he said. “This makes me feel like ‘something.’ You know, when you treat people like trash, they start to think they are trash. This makes me believe I’m important in the community.” Other recipients of checks for $1,000 each  included vocalist “Lady BJ” Crosby, “Big Chief” Bo Dollis, drummer Pupe Mendez, and Marva Wright (her daughter accepted as Marva is still incapacitated). Also in the photo, Irvin Mayfield and also Luther Gray.

Irvin Mayfield, BJ Crosby, Bo Dollis, J.D. Hill, Marva Wright (daughter), Pupe Mendez, Luther Gray at he Ashé Cultural Arts Center on December 17, 2009.