Karla Hill Benefit features popular island musicians

Celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day and the memory of islander Karla Hill with live music, dancing and food at 8:30 p.m. Friday at the Red Bike.

Most of the musicians performing have a personal connection with the late Hill. Madeleine, Dominick and Stefan Wolczko will celebrate their aunt with musical tributes. The homegrown band Redline, which combines rock with power pop, includes friends of Hill: Doug Weaver (drums); Jerry Lyon and Doug Spencer (guitar) and Bob McCormick (bass).Other guest musicians include Shannon Toomey, Johnny Reidt of “bathtub Gin” and “New American Shame” fame, plus Eric and Melanie Griswold. Island musical legends Loren Sinner &The Saints will also perform.

The evening is also a birthday bash for Hill, who was born on March 17, 1965. She lost her battle with sarcoma 42 years later. Event organizers said, “Hill left a lasting impression. She lives on in memories and by coming together to laugh, love and remember the time we had with a truly remarkable person.”

While there is no cover for Hill’s celebration, TEAM KARLA will collect donations for the Northwest Sarcoma Foundation (NSF). They hope to raise $1,500. Donations can be made before the event at nwsarcoma.org. TEAM KARLA will raise money in Hill’s memory until the annual NSF Dragonslayer Walk on April 22.

The show is open to all ages until 11 p.m., then only ages 21 and older.